₦airaland Forum

Restructuring/Secession: Oduduwa Coalition disagrees with activists, says its time for right leadership to move NIGERIA forward

The Coalition of Oduduwa Descendants (COD) believes that what the country needs is attitudinal change, truthful and purposeful leadership and not secession being clamoured for by some activists. 

The group said it is morally wrong for any true son and daughter of Oduduwa to mute the idea of secession from Nigeria.

Speaking at a press conference on Wednesday, President-General, 

Otunba Arokoyo Olumide said the call is not "only uncharitable, it is an affront to the sensibilities of Oduduwa the progenitor of the Yoruba race". 

According to Olumide, the group's position is that of "One Nigeria because from time immemorial we have been critical stakeholders, and we have remained so". 

The Coalition of Oduduwa Descendants, however, commended President Muhammadu Buhari for his leadership strides in keeping the country together and giving its people a fair share in his government. 

While urging all to join hands together to support the president, the COD warned certain individuals and groups to avoid being used to destabilise the government. 

Read full address below:

You all must admit that indeed this calls for great concern given the fact that the call is not only uncharitable; it is an affront to the sensibilities of Oduduwa, the progenitor of the Yoruba race.

As a background, Oduduwa was a Yoruba divine king. His name, phonetically written by Yoruba language-speakers as Odùduwà and sometimes contracted as Ooduwa, Odudua or Oòdua is today venerated as "the hero, the warrior, the leader and father of the Yoruba race." 

Upon the ending of Oduduwa's time on Earth, there was a dispersal of his children and grandchildren from Ife to the outposts that they had previously founded or gained influence over, for them to establish effective control over these places. Each is said to have made his or her mark in the subsequent urbanization and consolidation of the Yoruba confederacy of kingdoms, with each child and grandchild fashioning his or her state after Ile-Ife. 

It, therefore, suffices to state that indeed the true sons and daughters have been instrumental to the formation and independence of Nigeria from time immemorial. Therefore it makes no sense when there are perceived agitations from a segment of who claim to be descendants of Oduduwa, calling for the secession of Oduduwa from Nigeria. 

The call by the group under the nomenclature Oduduwa Secessionist Agenda is indeed a misplaced one that is laced with ulterior motives buoyed by pecuniary gains rather than a genuine intent.   

It is thus the considered opinion of the Coalition of Oduduwa Descendants that indeed the Nigerian project is sacrosanct and not a topic of discussion given the efforts of the Muhammadu Buhari administration in ensuring that Nigeria remains united and prosperous for all regardless of our ethnic or religious affiliations. 

This undeniable fact has been echoed in various forays, and it is consequently morally wrong for any group or association to preach the gospel of disunity in Nigeria. This is on the heels that the reverse ought to be the case given the peculiarities of times in Nigeria and the need for strength in our diversity as we march towards sustainable growth and development in Nigeria. 

The Coalition of Oduduwa Descendants is using this medium to reecho the stance of revered Yoruba leader, Chief Bisi Akande wherein he stated that the Yoruba race would be at war for 100 years if they leave Nigeria. 

In his words, “the Yoruba breaking away from Nigeria may lead to bloodshed and an avoidable civil war that would further decimate the people. Those agitating for the Yoruba nation should have a rethink. This country must remain united to save it from war."

The import of the message of the elder statesman is apt and in conformity with the position of the Coalition of Oduduwa Descendants which sees the call for secession as a disservice to Nigeria and the efforts of great sons and daughters of Oduduwa who were instrumental to the independence of Nigeria through their great sacrifices and invaluable contributions.

This is also on the heels that in contemporary Nigeria, sons and daughters of Oduduwa have been critical stakeholders as evident in the positions of authorities that have been placed on their shoulders. It is instructive to state that they have not failed in this regard. Therefore it defeats commonsense as to why some group of monetary induced individuals would now want to constitute themselves as clogs in the wheel of progress of Nigeria. 

The Coalition of Oduduwa Descendants wishes to inform Nigerians that indeed the position of the true sons and daughters of Oduduwa remains One Nigeria because from time immemorial we have been critical stakeholders, and we have remained so in Nigeria.  

It is also morally wrong for any true son and daughter of Oduduwa to mute the idea of secession from Nigeria. It is also nothing but sheer mischief aimed towards the disintegration of Nigeria, which would be resisted by true sons and daughters of Oduduwa that dots the nook and crannies of the socio-political landscape in Nigeria. 

The Coalition of Oduduwa Descendants wishes to state that the leadership strides of President Muhammadu Buhari in keeping Nigeria united is indeed phenomenal and a justification for why all hands should be on deck towards ensuring that Nigeria remains a strong and indivisible entity. 

If this is indeed the case, it is our considered opinion that those individuals and organizations preaching secession needs a mental evaluation for them to realize that the Yorubas are better under a united Nigeria than anywhere else. And under no circumstances should the chances of sons and daughters Oduduwa be ruined in the buildup to the 2023 general elections through this needless and ill-fated agitation.  

This position of ours is indeed justified when an evaluation of the giant strides of the Muhammadu Buhari administration indicates that there have been concerted efforts at the fight against corruption and other anomalies capable of distorting growth and development in Nigeria. 

The Nigerian Military is also worthy of our commendation in their efforts in addressing the various security challenges in the country despite the avalanche of conspiracies against it. They have done more than enough especially in the Southwest where bandits and other criminal elements have been on the run after the Army and other organizations took over the strategic control of the security situation in the country. 

The Coalition of Oduduwa Descendants are more than grateful to President Muhammadu Buhari for giving Oduduwa sons and daughters a fair share in his administration and under no circumstances should any Yoruba person be used anywhere to destabilize the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari.

The focus is should therefore be Attitudinal Change, Truthful Leadership Not Secession”

Aromogege

Aromogege

Oji ni kutukutu mokun ola dani

Olomo siju pee wole Aye loruko IFA

Eni ti o ba siju rere re wo nii lowo

IFA kio siju rere re woo mi ki nlowo… 

He who robes the child to befit the child

He who robes the child with the utmost of care

The one who wakes early in the morning, holding the robes of prosperity

The one who looks after the Earth is the name of IFA.

Whomever you look to with your eye of compassion is blessed with prosperity

IFA, please look at Nigeria with compassion and let Nigeria be blessed with riches…

IFA, please look at us with your compassion and let us be blessed with riches! Ase Ase Ase O!

Ire O.

Public Interest Lawyers Writes AGF, Wants Prosecution Of Journalist, Ahmad Salkida



A group of public interest lawyers under the umbrella body of International Human Rights Protection Forum (IHRPF) has written the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Mr. Abubakar Malami, SAN, calling for the prosecution of a journalist, Mr. Ahmad Salkida, over alleged acts of terrorism.


In the letter signed Eze Njokwu, Esq., Advocacy Officer of the group
said available statistics show that 14.8 million people in the North-Eastern part of Nigeria covering Adamawa, Gombe, Borno and Yobe States have been affected by activities of the outlawed Boko Haram terrorist group since 2009.

The lawyers in the letter dated October 3, 2020 called for the investigation of Salkida, alleging that there are instances in the past where Ahmad Salkida himself admitted that Abubakar Shekau usually shares video footages with him for scrutiny and editing before posting same to YouTube.

The group said in the petition, ''We submit that the actions of Ahmad Salkida so far coupled with the kind of inciting words he continually utters regarding national security issues are treasonable enough to warrant your office to advise the appropriate security agencies, especially Department of State Services (DSS) to jumpstart criminal proceedings against him for attempting to dislodge the legitimate government of Nigeria contrary to Section 5 of the Terrorism (Prevention) (Amendment) Act, 2013.


''In a similar vein, there is a legal duty upon the Nigerian State to protect the right to life and dignity of the over 400 displaced persons as guaranteed under Sections 33 and 34 respectively of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), Articles 4 and 5 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples Rights (Ratification and Enforcement) Act, Cap A9 LFN 2004 and under Articles 6 and 7 of the International Convention on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR).


''The anguish of those displaced persons must not be allowed to continue, as the Federal Government of Nigeria is supposed to make adequate arrangements for their safe return to their original homes especially in this planting season being that majority of them are farmers.

''We maintain that unless you advise the DSS which has been excelling in leaps and bounds to urgently arrest, arraign and prosecute Ahmad Salkida in an open court Nigerians will begin to feel that he is a sacred cow who exists above the laws of our land''.

The lawyers said they are of the firm beliwf that nonone who flouts the law of the land should be spared, if the present government must succeed in leaving behind a safe country upon his exit from office in 2023.

The group urged the government to commit itself to transparency, accountability and good governance to create within citizens a sense of belonging to a nation that provides for their welfare and security as stipulated under the Constitution.

''The State is effective in leadership, if it has legitimacy and such legitimacy itself is a function of the government showing capacity to carry out its responsibility of providing for the public good. This letter gives Honourable Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice yet another opportunity to rekindle the hope of Nigerians that President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, in his Next Level Agenda is truly ready to guarantee maximum security for the entire country.

''We demand therefore, that your office should within the next 7 working days from the date hereof initiate necessary communication with the DSS and other relevant security agencies saddled with the responsibility of handling terrorism issues pursuant to Sections 1, 4 and 5 of the Terrorism (Prevention) (Amendment) Act, 2013. Our expectation is that you will not leave us and other Nigerians in the dark but make public statement before expiration of the above ultimatum about the arrest of Ahmad Salkida as well as his subsequent arraignment and prosecution in open court like other Boko Haram suspects'', the group said.

Security expert and public affairs analyst, Dr. Abubakar Gana has described President Muhammadu Buhari as the messiah of Northeast, Nigeria.

Dr. Gana said he drew the conclusion based on what the current  administration of President Buhari has done to secure the lives of citizens in the Northeast and to assure them that they're part of Nigeria.

In the statement issued in Abuja as part of reports of the tour undertaken by Dr. Gana and 20 others to the Northeast recently, the public affairs analyst said no other word captures the depth of the President's interventions and the success recorded than to refer to him as a messiah of the Northeast. 

He said,"In fact, I'm not the one that described him as such but the people of the Northeast themselves who are so full of praises for Mr. President in tbe light of what he has done to secure their lives.

Dr. Gana who gave a brief background to the tour said it took him and many others to several communities in Bauchi, Gombe, Adamawa, Borno and Yobe states.

He said it was to verify claims of successes being recorded in the fight against insurgency and terrorism to ensure that people are not deceived by unnecessary propaganda. 

Dr. Gana said it was only Taraba State that he did not go as part of the tour since the activities of the terrorists was more concentrated in the five aforementioned states.

The security expert said from the first hand interaction he has had with the people of the Northeast in the last two months, he was convinced that the Boko Haram terrorists group has thoroughly been defeated and it would appear that there's nothing more the people appreciate than the current administration, which they say has liberated them from terrorists and insurgents and enabled them return to normal lives.

He said since 2015, when the current administration came on board, the people have felt the impact of the technical defeat of the insurgents through reopening of schools and markets, reopening of major roads for travelling and the constant repelling of attacks.

Speaking on specifics, Dr. Gana said it is on record that the lives of over 8 million people in the Northeast has been affected positively by the intervention of the current government through sustained efforts to clear the Northeast of terrorists. 

He said the depth of the operation include military action on the insurgents, rebuilding of infrastructural facilities as well as securing retaken territories for peaceful habitation. 

Dr. Gana said the current government deserves commendation in the combat operation in the Northeast because it came with new strategies and tactics that have overwhelmed the insurgents.

The Security Expert said the people confirmed to him that the fight turned against the insurgents the moment the current administration came on board and appointed new service chiefs.

"Most of the people I spoke with testified to the fact that there was a time the morale of Nigerian troops was so low owing to lack of sophisticated weapons and that they witnessed when many troops were running from the battlefield. 

"They told me that they at a time had given up on ever coming back to their communities because of the way soldiers were quitting and running away but that since the current administration, they have seen confident troops raring to go to the battlefield  while the insurgents began to flee.

The security expert said it is heartwarming for the people of the Northeast that the government did not leave them to their plight even after subduing the terrorists but went ahead to assist them in the rebuilding of infrastructure through the military. 

"This has exposed them to the humane side of the military whom they thought are only good in fighting wars alone but they now see soldiers helping to building bridges and reconstruct roads and this has touched them," he stated.

Dr. Gana said it is the effort of the current administration in retaking 20 local governments  that has made it possible for persons displaced by insurgents to to back to their ancestral homes.

He said President  Buhari  has created a conducive environment for return of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) and refugees to their homes of origin.

He said from his observation, some of the communities have since resettled and have forgotten about the agonies of the past and are always praying for President Buhari to succeed.

He said, "Some of the families recall that there was a time they had to be sleeping in the bushes to avert  being atacked in the night but  now say they've gone back to farming and other commercial activities while their children have gone back to school," he said.

Dr. Gana said it is to the credit of the current administration that the military was able to engage in non combat operations leading to the surrender of several insurgents and terrorists further reducing the threats of terrorists.

He concluded by saying that terrorists have been pushed to a hell hole in the northern fringes and emptied of any capacity to operate as they wish adding that that is why they've been trying to launch themsleves through attacks on soft targets.
"They typically want to give the impression that they're intact but I've confirmed that they've been subdued," he stated.

By Richard Murphy


Nigeria is a bizarre country. When I read the leaked letter from a small group of 18 MPs in the United Kingdom’s (UK) House of Lords Parliament under the aegis of All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for International Freedom of Religion or Belief led by MP, Baroness Cox, I wept for my beloved country. Does it mean, we are still further enslaved in the new millennium by former colonial masters?

The distasteful letter was written by UK MPs who have affinities with some Christian organizations ‘and international NGOs. They directed it to the Secretary -General of the Commonwealth, Patricia Scotland, voicing concerns on internal security matters in Nigeria.

In the UK-APPG’s one-sided letter titled, “Nigeria: Unfolding Genocide?,” dated September 14, 2020, the British MPs who signed it unfairly upbraided the failure of the Federal Government of Nigeria (FGN) under President Muhammadu Buhari to halt insurgency and farmers/herders crisis in Nigeria. It propped the action as a breach of its obligations under the Commonwealth Charter. It sounds nicely and at the same time, very blackmailing.

UK- APPG bemoaned the killings in Nigeria from the violence perpetrated by insurgents and herdsmen/clashes, which is perfectly alright. But the request that the matter be raised before the Commonwealth Ministerial Action Group is most offensive. We appreciate their concern because lives matter in any part of the world, but not on such glaringly lured, with misdirected and predetermined motives.

I was miffed to further read in the media that without formal investigation, the UK-APPG hastily concluded that “elements of the Nigerian Government may be complicit in violence.” Nothing can be so confounding as revealed by the contents of this leaked mail to the Commonwealth, and the orders contained therein. Nigerians must know these are subtle attempts to undermine our sovereignty by foreign powers and deprivation of our fundamental democratic liberties to govern ourselves.

Insignificantly, the UK-APPG is an informal inter-party association of all political parties, comprising the House of Commons and the House of Lords in the UK. Both chambers of the UK Parliament have 650 MPs. And just 18 MPs appended signatures of the mail or more appropriately, the petition to the Commonwealth Secretary-General and, exclusively from the House of Lords, the British upper legislative chamber.

Are Nigerians still in slumber? UK-APPG is like a pressure group in the UK parliament/ government. In Nigeria, we have many them, peopled by idle or disenchanted politicians who are willing to do a hatchet job, using the badge of the public offices they occupy for a fee. Now, for a small number of MPs to congregate under an informal group and in their warped wisdom, think they can decide the destiny and fate of Nigerians and Nigeria, a sovereign nation is what baffles me endlessly.

I would have excused UK-APPG for this arrogance! But I find it inexcusable that the UK pressure group partially verified their comments from Nigeria’s former Chief of Army Staff (COAS) and later, the Defence Minister under Nigeria’s Obasanjo’s administration, Gen. Theophilus Yakubu Danjuma (rtd) and drew damning conclusions before asking for further probe by Commonwealth Ministerial Action Group. It contradicts logic and no enlightened citizenry behaves this disgracefully.

Leaking the said letter to the media before communication/ formal action of the Nigerian Government is an unpardonable slight that could even cause a diplomatic row between the two countries. I think by now, some Britons should rise above local petty sentiments and politics in Nigeria. UK should refrain itself from undue interference into the internal affairs of Nigeria and or, cease to nurse the slightest thought that it can still determine how Nigerians administer their country.

How has Britain assisted its former colony Nigeria to genuinely overcome its foibles as a nation? It was just recently, during the 2019 general elections in Nigeria, Rivers state Gov. Nyesom Wike was accused of bribing oficials of the British Consulate in Nigeria on election duty in Port Harcourt with over $2 million to doctor election observer report in favour of his party-the PDP. It sparked protests in the UK by a group, which petitioned the Queen. The matter was swept under the carpet and Nigerians are aware.

Can Britain claim it has effectively ended the reign of terrorism or arrested/ prosecuted every terrorist in the UK now? Such claims would amount to fat lies. So, why is Nigeria and President Buhari their latest focus, instead of concentrating on their own internal insecurity problems.?

As former colonial masters of Nigeria, Britain is responsible for the tribulations the country faces today because it laid a faulty foundation and handed over to Nigerians, a thoroughly fractured nation. Britain sowed the initial seeds of corruption, poverty and discrimination from the outset and these national malaises which have continued to trail and torment Nigerians to date.

Erudite scholar of global fame, Prof. Chinua Achebe has succinctly documented these facts in one of his latest books- “There Was A Country: A Personal History A Biafra,” before death snatched him away from us. Nigeria just celebrated 60 years of independence; but millions of us believe it is merely flag independence and Britain is the principal suspect of our national woes.

Let me quickly ask the UK-APPG’s delegation which claimed meeting Gen. Danjuma (rtd) whether they ever bothered to inquire from him the actions he took when Boko Haram started in Borno in 2002 and he was the Defence minister under Obasanjo administration to stop it? Danjuma, from Taraba in Northern Nigeria is now a prominent member of Northern Elders Christian Forum (NECF) and has continued to fan the embers of hatred between Christians and Muslims in Nigeria.

I don’t know what he hopes to achieve. But why would Danjuma falsely classify Boko Haram insurgency/killings as extermination of Christians? Are Muslims not killed by the same incensed insurgents? Some elders of Nigeria are creating problems for every Nigerian.

Nigeria has internal security problems, no doubt; but it does not mean elder statesmen like Danjuma should inject religious biasness into it, intent on aggravating tensions in the country and heightening the existing crises. What is obvious is that years of imposed poverty on Nigerians, especially in the North and the struggle for supremacy of economic resources among ethnic groups are responsible for the remonstrative bloodshed by insurgents and herdsmen/farmers in Nigeria. Its uncharitable for anyone to classify these crises as religious!

President Buhari is doing his best to curb the violence and killings; but personally, disgruntled Nigerians like Danjuma still finds the strength to mouth inanities. Did UK-APPG care to ask Gen. Danjuma (rtd) why he has maintained suspicious silence over the ethnic cleansing agenda of his Jukun tribes’ men against the Tiv people ancestral to Taraba state and the near two years of genocidal killings in his home state or they also herdsmen/farmers crisis? Who is fooling who?

I challenge Gen. Danjuma (rtd) to show one evidence of his public condemnation of the Jukun genocide against Tiv people in Taraba. Others even allege, Danjuma is bankrolling his kinsmen for the genocidal killings through his protégé, Gov. Dairus Ishaku.

Danjuma is quoted as insisting that villagers must defend themselves because ‘depending on the armed forces will result in them dying ‘one by one. The ethnic cleansing must stop.” He made such inciting statement some two years back at the convocation ceremony of the Taraba State University. But Danjuma should first call his Jukun kinsmen to order by stopping the genocide at his doorstep. Even the Holy Bible says it loudly about removing the speck in your eye first.

Shockingly, the lawmakers demanded a probe into the killings and to their narrowed and predisposed perspectives claimed, it is to ensure “adequate protection and aid for those suffering the loss of family members and the destruction of their homes and livelihoods.” But these same UK lawmakers have never demanded to know from UK parliament how and through which route sophisticated weapons sneak to land in the hands of Boko Haram terrorists to torment Nigerians.

The UK-APPG wrote; “And to end impunity by ensuring that complaints related to human rights violations are promptly, independently, and impartially investigated and those responsible are held to account after fair trials.” What a shameful display of imposing international neo-colonialism on Nigeria by the British MPs!

Sometimes, I prefer to sound raw! Do the UK MPs intend to seat over the probe panels themselves in Nigeria? Why this thoughtless level of interference in the internal affairs of Nigeria? Meanwhile, they are housing and shielding from lawful prosecution, an escapee terrorist from Nigeria, Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the proscribed IPOB.

The Nigerian Government has set up various probe panels over Amnesty International’s (AI) falsified allegations of human rights abuses on the Nigerian Military’s prosecution of Internal Security (IS) operations in the country. Each time the accusers are called upon to testify or substantiate their claims before various official probe panels, they shirk. And these are the positions supposedly venerated UK MPs are backing against Nigeria.

It is now clear-cut to Nigerians and quite glaring that the so- called UK- APPG on Religion and Belief has decided its tainted mission to strengthen Amnesty International’s campaign of calumny in Nigeria. They are out to escalate conflict in the West African sub-region with Nigeria in mind. One is no longer at a lost as its publicized agenda is to destabilize the peace of Nigeria and her innocent citizens by backing forces fixedly against the interests, peace, security and progress of Nigeria.

But UK cannot bewitch Nigeria again, by thinking disgruntled elements can use them as planks to further destroy Nigeria. We shall resist it with all our might as echoed by our national anthems. The recent letter by UK-APPG group to the Commonwealth Secretary -General, leaked to the press betrays their satanic motives and a clear illustration of these foreign desperadoes or how certain destructive interests are bent on setting the country up in flames.

We shall resist it with all the strength in us. We welcome genuine foreign assistance, but not an influenced one as the tenor of the UK-APPG letter indicates in this circumstance. Those behind this ugly idea in the UK Parliament’s APPG should better drop the idea because its not workable and Nigerians stand by President Buhari’s focused leadership in the redemption of Nigeria.

The world is too civilized for such further jokes on an independent nation’s sovereignty, like Nigeria. We have been silent for too long a time; but it should not translate into playing baby games with Nigeria. It’s demeaning for a handful UK MPs to ludicrously pose as champions of international politics, prodded by disgruntled elements’ and characters in Nigeria to stretch the campaigns of calumny against the Buhari -led administration in Nigeria this far.

Murphy is a security expert based in Calabar.

By: Mohammed Basah

Youth unemployment in Nigeria has been a worrisome trend in recent times. The government has initiated quite a several initiatives towards addressing this challenge. However, there seems to be a current trend in addressing the unemployment challenge in the country, and it is coming from the unlikely of places.

The Nigerian Army in recent times has provided that platform where Nigerians from all walks of life have expressed considerable interest in being a part of the national development of the country.

The Nigerian Army of today has been transformed into a force to reckon with in addressing the various security challenges in the country. These feats have endeared it to most Nigerians that quake at the opportunity to be a part of the success story of the Nigerian Army during its various recruitment processes. This is despite the insinuations in certain quarters that officers and soldiers of the Nigerian Army are disillusioned and leaving the force in droves.

Investigations indicate that the reverse is the case as the various recruitment process of the Nigerian Army has been oversubscribed to the extent that some scholars have attributed the interest in the Nigerian Army to a couple of factors which includes but not limited to improved welfare, professionalism and accountability and transparency.

According to insider sources, in the history of the Nigerian Army there hasn’t been a time where the Nigerian Army has witnessed massive recruitment rate as seen in the past five years. They attributed this happening to the leadership strides of the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai who since assumption of office has led the Nigerian Army into reclaiming its place as the pride of the nation.

In a recent survey conducted, it was realized that interest in the enlistment into the Nigerian rose astronomically in the last three years. The various indices attributed to it indicated that the Nigerian Army had become a chosen occupation for most young people in Nigeria because of its numerous efforts in addressing the security challenges in the country.

Despite the number of casualty or cases of voluntary disengagement experienced in the Nigerian Army, many Nigerians still see the Nigerian Army as the choice destination. It has been estimated that the enrolment rate into the Nigerian Army rose by 45% for recruits, 40% for Direct Short Service Commission, 35% for Short Service Commission and 65% for direct regular. The stated figure implies that there have been considerable improvements in the condition of service in the Nigerian Army.

In one of the recent interviews conducted for intake into the Nigerian Army, one of the prospective candidates stated that joining the Nigerian Army would be a dream come true because as an army officer, he would give his all in service to fatherland. This indeed sums the sentiment of the bulk of those that that have indicated interest to join the Nigerian Army. It must be stated that the draw-in factor is the transformation witnessed in the Nigerian Army in recent years.

From available findings in the training and doctrine command of the Nigerian Army, it was identified that the Nigerian Army recently introduced training programmes that address some of the psychological challenges experienced by officers and soldiers engaged in its various operations.

A professor of human psychology from the University of Nigeria Nssuka, Dubem Okonkwo stated that what the Nigerian Army has introduced in some of its training programmes is capable of transforming it into one of the best forces in the world.

"There is a need to ensure that the various cadres of the Nigerian Army are geared up for the challenges ahead, especially with the issues associated with asymmetric warfare. We have had issues where some individuals get overwhelmed with their involvement in warfare, and they go berserk. These are normal occurrences, and so far, there hasn't been any pronounced case in the Nigerian Army."

The leadership of the Nigerian Army has indeed lived up to expectations through the leadership by example approach example introduced by the Chief of Army Staff, especially in the prosecution of the Boko Haram insurgency. According to Tunde Lawal, a top recruitment expert, he stated that the rush for enlistment into the Nigerian Army is a function of the fact the leadership of the Nigerian Army has made the operations of the Army fashionable and with a human face.

“In situations where you find officers and soldiers of the Nigerian Army engaged in CSR initiatives such as conducting medical outreaches, assisting in the relocation of Internally Displaced Persons back to their communities and a host of other charitable ventures sends a very strong message. It says loud that aside tanks and guns, there is also a human face to the Nigerian Army and this on its own is a driver hence the rush for enlistment into the Nigerian Army."

The Nigerian Army might also have been experiencing a facelift because the Chief of Army Staff has prioritized the welfare and capacity of officers and soldiers to do exploit. And this must also have endeared him to the hearts of young Nigerians that have in recent times indicated serious interest to join the Nigerian Army.

This fact was corroborated by Yemi Sanya, a military historian, who alluded to the fact that the numerous innovations he has introduced in the Nigerian Army since he assumed leadership has caused a turnaround in the fortunes of the Nigerian Army and made it indeed the pride of the nation in line with its slogan.

It is therefore not surprising that the Nigerian Army has become the preferred choice for young Nigerians wishing to contribute their quota to national development. The onus, therefore, rests on the Chief of Army Staff to create that enabling environment for those that have been deemed qualified to be enlisted into the prestigious force to maximize their full potentials. In this case, the issue of low morale and deserting the Nigerian Army does not arise; instead, the reverse is the case.

One NIGERIA: Oduduwa descendants troop out en mass in one million man march for unity


The Coalition of Oduduwa Descendants (COD), on Friday, held a one million-man march for the unity of Nigeria, expressing firm belief and unalloyed commitment to peace and prosperity of the country. 

The rally, which was held in Abuja, was attended by 20 chapters of the group from the Federal Capital Territory and the 19 northern states.

In his address, Coordinating President, Comrade Dauda Owolabi said the country's unity remains sacrosanct and non-negotiable. 

Owolabi pledged solidarity with the Federal Government in "her various efforts at translating the hopes and aspirations of all Nigerians into tangible reality". 

According to him, those "canvassing for the Oduduwa Republic are not one of us and shall never be because their agitations are borne out of absolute mischief intended to truncate our nascent democracy". 

He, however, warned that his members and other true descendants of Oduduwa would not watch the enemies of Nigeria have their way, hiding under whatever nomenclature that would lead to chaos and disunity. 

Read the full address below:

My brothers and sisters the occasion of Nigeria’s 60th Independence anniversary celebration is indeed worthy of rolling out the drums. That we have remained united as One Nigeria for the past 60 years is an indication that the labours of our heroes past are not in vain despite the evil plots hatched by those that have elected to constitute themselves as clogs in the wheels of our progress as a country.  

We have weathered the storms, and we have come out unscathed. We have experienced one of the most deadly insurrections in the world, yet we remain unshaken. What the enemies of Nigeria do not know is the fact that our strength lies in our diversity.

On this auspicious occasion, the message of the Coalition of Oduduwa Descendants in the federal capital territory and the northern states in Nigeria is unequivocal, and it is One Nigeria for all regardless of our ethnic or religious affiliations.    

This message of ours is not a function of time and chance, but a product of our collective resolve to see to the strength and unity of Nigeria in all aspects of our daily lives. And that today we are re-echoing the same message to send a strong signal to those that are propagating ethnic sentiments with the overarching objective to see to the disintegration of Nigeria. 

As members of the Coalition of Oduduwa Descendants in the FCT and Northern states, we stand in solidarity with the government in her various efforts at translating the hopes and aspirations of all Nigerians into tangible reality. 

As such, the message is strong, and the carriers of the message are resolute in the endeavour to see that Nigeria remains united as one strong entity as we journey towards the ultimate goal of the Nigeria of our dreams and a nation bound in freedom, peace and unity.

My dear brothers and sisters, this One Million Rally is a child of necessity because we shall not sit and watch the enemies of Nigeria have their way hiding under whatever nomenclature that would lead to chaos and disunity. 

As we can all see with our numbers, the commitment to One Nigeria is infectious. It is also a clarion call to all compatriots when Nigeria calls we must obey. We have elected to serve our fathers land, with love and strength and faith, to build a nation where peace and justice shall reign supreme. 

This much must be understood from all the nook and crannies of Nigeria that indeed the coinage Oduduwa Republic, as well as its agitations, does not hold a pride place in the lives of all descendants of Oduduwa because we are not known to be hostile or known to be engaged in acts that are inimical to the interest of One Nigeria. 

North or west we do not know. South or East we also do not know, but One Nigeria, we know and where our loyalty lies. And this One Million Rally Match is a manifestation of that firm belief and unalloyed commitment to peace and prosperity in Nigeria. 

We are also using this One Million Rally Match to send a strong message to the rest of the country that the sons and daughters of Oduduwa are in full support of Nigeria as an indivisible entity. Anyone against this declaration is an enemy of the country.

We also wish to state in unequivocal terms that all those planning to break up Nigeria are not sons and daughters of Oduduwa because all sons and daughters of Oduduwa are aware of the invaluable role played by great sons of Oduduwa towards the independence of Nigeria in 1960. As such, we shall never be involved in such misadventure. 

It would therefore be against all that Oduduwa represents if we go against the unity of Nigeria. This and many more reasons are our sources of inspiration and firm belief in One Nigeria. And it should therefore be on notice that no true son or daughter of Oduduwa would identify with acts or actions that would lead to the breakup of Nigeria. We are stakeholders in One Nigeria, and as such, we shall not allow any individual or group to constitute themselves as clogs in the wheels of progress of Nigeria. 

Those canvassing for the Oduduwa Republic are not one of us and shall never be because their agitations are borne out of absolute mischief intended to truncate our nascent democracy, which in our considered opinion is dead on arrival as their nefarious motives have been exposed.

We are descendants of Oduduwa in the federal capital territory and all the northern states in Nigeria embarking on the One Million Rally Match not just in commemoration of the 60th Anniversary celebration of Nigeria, but also to reassure our brothers and sisters from other parts of the country that we stand in solidarity with them in our quest for a united and prosperous Nigeria. 

We hope that our message gets to the enemies of Yoruba Sons and Daughters that again, this plot has failed and they should desist from heating the polity unnecessarily. 

Nigeria is home to all and under no circumstance should any individual or group no matter how highly placed should take us for granted. 

O jẹ orilẹ-ede Naijiria kan ti an mọ ati pe o jẹ orilẹ-ede Naijiria kan ti a nifẹ si.

Long Live the Federal Republic of Nigeria. 

Thank you all, and God bless.

Some activists in the United Kingdom have urged the Commonwealth Secretary-General, Rt Hon Patricia Scotland, to disregard a report by the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Nigeria. 

The group, known as Commonwealth Activists (CA), made the call in a peaceful procession to the Commonwealth House, London on Thursday, demanding an end to external interference on Nigeria's sovereignty. 

Recall that the APPG had alleged genocide in Nigeria, adding that failure of the Federal Government to protect its citizens is a breach of its obligations under the Commonwealth Character. 

Speaking on behalf of other activists, CA's president, Hameed Williams challenged the Commonwealth to rise in defence of Nigeria at this critical time of its history. 

While admitting the security threats confronting the African nation and the efforts of the government, Williams said the Commonwealth, like other stakeholders, have a huge role to play. 

According to the activists, APPG's intent is to cause chaos that would ultimately lead to the country's disintegration. 

The group, however, expressed solidarity with Nigerians and its government, urging the Commonwealth to do likewise. 

It also asked the Commonwealth to act in the best interest of Nigeria and not rely on postulations by individuals and groups that have elected to stand against the truth.

Read full statement below:

As you all know, these are indeed trying times for Nigeria due to the activities of non-state actors that have constituted themselves into impediments to the sustenance of peace and progress in the country. More worrisome is the fact that some externalities have joined the fray, thereby making things the more difficult for the people and government of Nigeria. 

We are concerned because Nigeria remains a strategic partner amongst the Commonwealth Nations and it consequently behoves on the Commonwealth Secretariat to rise in its defence by providing that critical rope as a support base for it to navigate the strong tidal waves it is running against.  

We have seen, and we have read all sorts concerning the efforts of the Nigerian government in addressing the various security threats in the country. Yes, we know, these threats are politically motivated, but it is not enough to dwell on that alone. There is a need for collective action from all stakeholders concerned, and that is why the Commonwealth Activists is embarking on this procession to the Common Wealth House to solicit that support for the people and government of Nigeria from the Commonwealth Nations of the world. 

The threat is real and palpable. Nigeria cannot afford to be left alone in this trying period as that would be most insensitive and counterproductive. Its sovereignty is also under threat posed by some external forces bent on seeing to the disintegration of the country in fulfilment of doomsday prophecies.

We are in solidarity with Nigeria, and our stance is hinged on exposing the half-truths and the conspiracy against its existence that has recently assumed a dangerous dimension with the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) in the United Kingdom attempting to bring about a sectarian crisis in the country through a report released wherein it was alleged that genocidal acts against Nigerian Christians were ongoing and rampant.

It is our considered opinion that the report by the APPG was meant to further interests that means no good for the people and government of Nigeria. This same interest has evolved over the years and to think that it has birthed in the United Kingdom is most worrisome. 

The affinity Nigeria shares with the United Kingdom predates contemporary era, and this is the more reason why acts of sabotage against the country should not be traced or domiciled in the United Kingdom of any of the Common Wealth Nations.

This procession is to call for action from the Common Wealth Secretariat to safeguard the sovereignty of Nigeria as a Commonwealth nation. As an organization, we have done our bit by looking at the issues raised in the APPG report and coming out with the facts and the figure with regards to the actual state of affairs in Nigeria.

We have documented this information in a report titled “An x-ray of the report by the All-Party Parliamentary Group U.K. on acts of genocide in Nigeria to ascertain the underlining issues as well as the credibility of the sources of the report by the Common Wealth Activists."

I have to mention that painstaking efforts were deployed in this report with the overarching aim of putting issues in proper perspectives to aid positive action towards Nigeria in her quest for sustainable growth and development. 

The various perspectives highlighted in the report were drawn from primary sources in Nigeria and this, to a large extent, eliminates second-guessing and illogical conclusions, but rather a reflection of the realities on the ground. 

This report we shall be availing the Commonwealth Secretary-General for his kind perusal to understand the conspiracies against Nigeria and why the exigencies of time require urgent action in the overall interest of the people and government of Nigeria.  

The Commonwealth Activists remains in solidarity with the people and government of Nigeria in this critical point of their existence and why we are in procession to the Commonwealth Secretariat to deliver this report to the Commonwealth Secretary-General for urgent action.  

We are not here for lengthy speeches. We are here to canvass for urgent steps to be taken in addressing the various conspiracies against Nigeria. We are also here to ensure that the Commonwealth acts with the best of intentions and interest towards Nigeria and not rely on postulations by individuals and groups that have elected to stand the truth on its head. 

We have consequently come out in our numbers to drive home our point for the Commonwealth Secretariat to act and act now before these agents of darkness plunge Nigeria into a crisis of immeasurable proportion. 

We believe that our report on Nigeria and the various underlying issues are well captured and would aid the Secretary-General in making an informed decision towards safeguarding the sovereignty of Nigeria. 

Thanks and please accept our warm assurances, as, always.

The Mai Mala Buni led APC National Caretaker Committee inaugurated by President Muhammadu Buhari, have rekindled the mistakes in the ruling party just after the led caretaker committee fails to win the just concluded Edo election.

Mr Buni's appointment, as well as others, was announced at the height of the party's internal crisis in June.

That was shortly after the incumbent Edo Governor, Mr, Godwin Obaseki was disqualified from participating in the June 22 APC Governorship primary election in Edo state by the Party’s screening committee and as well the suspension of Mr. Oshiomhole as APC party chairman by Abuja High Court.

Buni’s appointment came as a hope to the dying ruling party which many supporters felt will put end to the lingering crises in the party.

However, hope thwarts away as Buni led party leadership upheld Obaseki’s disqualification from participating in the APC Gubernatorial primary election in Edo state as many thought his leadership will mend the party’s crises in the state but ended up walking the state party to the darkness orchestrated by the suspended party leadership.

His decision to uphold Obaseki’s disqualification tactically reduced the numbers of APC ruling state in Nigeria and the beginning of the party’s failure in the south-south region as Obaseki defected to PDP.

Recall that a member of the APC caretaker committee representing the youth, Ismail Ahmed blamed the defeat suffered by the party in the Edo poll on the controversial party primaries. He pointed out that the APC Edo governorship primary was marred by a lot of circumstances that could not be explained.

Ahmed said: Remember we ran against an incumbent governor and everybody knows the history of Edo governorship primary and there were a lot of circumstances we could not explain. The APC chieftain.

Interestingly, the issues at stake at this time are somewhat akin to the ones that caused the party to lose Zamfara and Rivers States to the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2019 elections.


The Failure of Buni led administration to mend the continuous crisis that orchestrated the emergence of PDP in Rivers, Benue as well as Zamfara has shown that his no way better than the previous party leadership, hence there’s an urgent need for the party to put heads together towards rebuilding the party with refined heads who will rebrand and work towards the party ideology and help to put the party in order before 2021 and ahead of 2023 General election.

Ondo maybe the next phase of the new wine in old bottle if Party stakeholders fails to learn from both Zamfara, Rivers and Edo state by settling all crisis within the party and looking ahead to putting up capable heads into the affairs of the party ahead of November 2020 APC National Convention.
Muhammad Abbas

Nearly four years after leaving office as the Executive Governor of Ondo State, the memories of his leadership remains as evergreen as it were, during his reign as the Chief executive of the State, not when ever the people remember that he once led their prosperity, but also, when they are confronted with the realities of what governance as been reduced to, in a state, we once described, as a place of pride, under the great Iroko.

Since his exit, our people no longer wake to cheering news of government's landmark achievements, such as out famous Mega Schools, an unprecedented innovation of the great Iroko, which had each of the schools with capacity for over 500 pupils providing conducive learning environment with contemporary facilities for the learners. The facilities include among others: computer laboratories, modern library, sick bay, and recreational facilities with magnetic boards. It was a period when school children clad in uniforms freely provided by government and are seen working dexterously with the computer. The aesthetic beauty of the architectural design and landscape of the Mega Schools were food for the eyes!

Nelson Mandela tells us that education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world. It is education that could and would make the child of a ‘nobody’ to compete and most times outclass the children of somebody.



In the light of the greatness and power attached to education, Dr. Olusegun Mimiko's administration invested massively in the sector for the eight years he was Governor and that is why he refined and redefined the parameters of education in Ondo state. His mantra has always been service to motherland, and there can be no better service than to ensure that your motherland has a better future. This is what has informed his administration’s unparalleled investment in education, the provision of several primary school blocks, secondary schools, outstanding world class 50 mega schools, the refurbishment, expansion and reinvigoration of the Adekunle Ajasin University at Akungba, and the first of its kind the University of Medical Sciences at Ondo City, the first in West Africa and second in the whole of Africa among several others.

Going by the massive investment by Mimiko in education, history has recorded it as one of his imperishable legacy.

Some critics were quick to query the need for mega schools arguing that most towns where these mega schools are being established do not have sufficient population in their catchment areas to fill up the spaces in such schools. This line of thought is of course either myopic or deliberately mischievous. Nigeria today is one of the fastest growing countries in the world. She is currently the seventh most populous country in the world with her 186,879,760 million people (Source: Internet World Stats) and believed to jump to 225 million in less than 10 years, it is only reasonable that a man with foresight should plan ahead. Besides, mega schools operate on the economics of scale and they are a win-win situation for the people and the state.

Furthermore, the greatest attraction for history is Mimiko’s extraordinary investments in health care delivery facilities making Ondo state first among equals in Nigeria under his administration. This gave birth to the globally recognised Mother and Child Specialist Hospital and the Trauma Centre in Ondo, first of their kinds, in our country.

The environment and surroundings of these hospitals were striking, clean and devoid of the typical hospital smell. It is adorned with well maintained lawns and general aesthetics that can make a visitor feel like being a patient. Dr Mimiko's administration, brought in committed professional caregivers across medical fields that are full of energy and drive to deliver excellence at all times. The hospitals have state of the art equipment, instruments, gadgets and hospital furniture for efficient service delivery and it is remarkable that these were well maintained and the necessary supplies needed for functionality of the equipment were never been lacking, during his time unlike what is now obtainable in these hospitals under the regime of his successor, Mr Rotimi Akeredolu, who have now nearly turned them into a showdow of what they were, as equipments are getting out of use due to lack of maintenance or consumables.

Unpublished data in the hospitals under Dr Mimiko puts the reduction in Morbidity and Mortality at more than 50% as compared to other healthcare centres in the country. The trauma centre for instance, had the record time for carrying out emergency surgical intervention which implies that all the preliminary preparations before surgery are done in a record time. It’s also noteworthy as an objective measure of these feats that the hospital was granted accreditation to train post graduate doctors in surgical specialties, in an unprecedented record time of less than one year after its commencement by the National Postgraduate Medical College, the West African College of Surgeons after a year and later by the West African College of Surgeons and National Post Graduate Medical College.

History will certainly look kindly, on the great Iroko, wherever our people visit the Mother and Child Hospital. The Mother and Child Hospital, performed thousands of major Obstetrics and Gynaecological surgeries free of charge. The hospital is a major battle axe in the Ondo State , World-acclaimed “ABIYE Safe Motherhood Initiative”, a lethal bullet against maternal death and under-5 morbidity and mortality. This was instrumental to the success of Ondo State being the only state in Nigeria to achieve MDG 5, under Mimiko as the Governor. The hospital was recognised by World Health Organisation (WHO) as a research-friendly institution and participated in her researches including the BOLD study, Growth study etc. Mother and child hospital was listed as a Research Centre for several multinational studies including the corticosteroid study, Kangaroo care study etc. Several local studies are ongoing.

The Kidney Care Centre Ondo completes the picture of the One-Stop Centre for health care delivery facilities in the Hospital Complex . According to reports Ondo State Kidney Care Centre surpassed all other public institutions that receive supplies of dialysis consumables from them within one year of commencing operation.

The Centre is the only full-fledged Renal Hospital in Nigeria . The first of its kind. This is because other renal units are sub-units of a medical department of a teaching hospital or medical centre.

It is also the only Renal facility with dedicated Resident Renal dietitians (BSc Dietetics and Nutrition), Clinical Psychologists (MSc Clinical Psychology), Medical Social Worker and Biomedical Engineers ( Ghana trained) working with the Nephrologists and dialysis nurses. This is unprecedented in Nigeria. The centre carries out capacity building for staff of the centre such as international experience and training of the Head of Nursing Services at the Dubai Fresenius Conference for renal nurses in 2014 and review update course for the Consultant Nephrologist at the Hamburg Fresenius sponsored conference in 2014. Continuing Medical Education training for medical doctors within and outside Ondo State holds annually at the Kidney Care Centre while the centre collaborates with Mother and Child Hospital Ondo to reduce maternal mortality. More than a dozen women who developed kidney failure have been saved by such an arrangement in collaboration with the Trauma and Surgical Centre Ondo to care for acute renal failure patients and reduce mortality in the Intensive Care Unit.

Space may not permit enumeration of all his achievements and contributions such as human capital development, urban renewal efforts exemplified by recreational centres, world class event centre ‘tagged the Dome’, modern super markets and modern neighbourhood markets with auxiliary complements built all over the 18 LGs, lush parks which have transformed the state especially the capital city to the cynosure of all eyes. The community development efforts is also unique and highly commendable where over 664 projects emerging from a need assessment process according to the dictates of the people themselves in a bottom up approach and top down support by government were executed in over 360 communities of the state, housing development policy and other inexhaustible life enriching programmes and policies.

No doubt there is a significant place for Mimiko in the annals of history and all the futile attempts at rewriting history, especially by agents of the incumbent regime in Ondo state, amounts to vain efforts. Our people remain one of the most sophisticated groups of people, you can find in any part of the world amd can never be deceived, by the antics of the detractors.

We desire a greater Ondo State, the one that seeks to consolidate on the revolutionary leadership left behind by Iroko in 2016, the one that can salvage the ruins of the past four years under this grossly incompetent leadership of Mr Akeredolu. This demands our collective action and the time is now.



Ondo State is our place of pride.

*Amnesty International, IPOB leading disruptive campaign against Nigeria’s image abroad, CALSER tells Commonwealth Sec-Gen, UK Parliament*
 
Some 'discredited' groups, including Amnesty International and the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), are steering a campaign to dent Nigeria's image abroad.
 
This is according to the Centre for Africa Liberation and Socio-Economic Rights (CALSER) in its address to Rt Hon Patricia Scotland QC, Commonwealth Secretary-General and the United Kingdom Parliament.    
 
Speaking at a press conference on Monday in Abuja, Executive Director, Abubakar Gana brought the attention of the Commonwealth and UK to the deliberate attempt by these groups to paint Nigeria negatively in the international community. 
 
CALSER said it will be dangerous to depend on AI, IPOB and other organisations with ill-intents to judge the situation in Nigeria. 
 
According to the group,  the UK All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) have also been covertly aiding and abetting non-state actors in the festering conflict towards an overarching aim of destabilizing Nigeria.
 
CALSER said AI lacks the moral right to condemn the Nigerian government especially as it has ignored the numerous crimes perpetrated by proscribed IPOB and the Islamic Movement in Nigeria. 
 
The centre, therefore, warned Amnesty International and the UK All-Party Parliamentary Group to desist from their despicable campaign against Nigeria.
 
It added that Nigerians will not tolerate any further attempts at undermining the efforts of the government towards the preservation of peace and stability. 
 
CALSER, however, warned that should there be an escalation of conflict in any part of Nigeria, Amnesty International and the UK All-Party Parliamentary Group should be held responsible.
 
Read the full statement below:
 
The exigencies of time demand that urgent and proactive steps are taken towards enlightening members of the unsuspecting general public as well as organizations the ignoble role some foreign organizations playing in the perpetuation of violence and instability in Nigeria.
 
CASLER as a key stakeholder in the entrenchment of sustainable development in Nigeria is alarmed that some organizations such as Amnesty International and recently the UK All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) have been covertly aiding and abetting non-state actors in Nigeria in the festering conflict towards an overarching aim of destabilizing Nigeria.
 
We are aware that these groups have been in the vanguard of providing intellectual assistance to militant and terrorist groups in Nigeria by engaging in acts that undermine National Security in Nigeria.
 
These discredited groups recently took their trade too far by releasing a report alleging government-aided genocidal acts against Christians in Nigeria. While we wish to state that this remains a figment of their imagination, there is a danger in allowing this narrative to go unaddressed at the risk of igniting sectarian conflict in Nigeria.
 
The case of Amnesty International presents that of an organization whose mission in Nigeria have on numerous occasions attempted to distract the Nigerian security agencies while bolstering the activities of terrorist and militant groups such as the Boko Haram, Independent People of Biafra, and the Islamic Movement in Nigeria.
 
Amnesty International has, on numerous occasions, led the recruitment of young Nigerians into the ranks of these militant organizations under the guise of training programmes targeted at youth development. This much has been exposed and necessitated the call for the expulsion of Amnesty International from Nigeria by Nigerians who took to the streets in protest. Amnesty International has also been using its network across the globe to receive funds from terrorist networks around the world on behalf of terrorist and militant organizations in Nigeria.
 
It is also on record that Amnesty International has been receiving funding from some questionable sources in Europe as a result of a strategic partnership it entered to undermine the efforts of the Nigerian Military in the war against terrorism and other forms of criminalities in Nigeria.
 
The Centre for Africa Liberation and Socio-Economic Rights consequently wishes to use this medium to draw the attention of the Secretary-General of the Common Wealth that groups such as Amnesty International, IMN and IPOB are pursuing narrowing interests that are against the collective existence of the country.
 
We also wish to state despite the avalanche of crimes instigated by IPOB that has led to countless deaths in the country; Amnesty International has continued to come to their defence while criticizing the efforts of the Nigerian security agencies towards the restoration of peace in the country.
 
IPOB, as an organization has been in the vanguard of instigating violence in Nigeria. On numerous occasions, their members have burnt down police stations and attacked police officers going about their lawful duties. The activities of IPOB has also deprived innocent people their sources of livelihood by disrupting commercial activities by attempting to impose a forceful sit at home order in parts of South-East Nigeria.
 
CASLER wishes to put it on record that IPOB has continued to harass and intimidate innocent people through their nefarious activities and the likes of Amnesty International still supports their activities at the detriment of peace and stability in Nigeria.
 
It consequently defeats common sense that any organization would rely on reports and statements issued by Amnesty International and their affiliates in APPG in interfering in the affairs of Nigeria.
It is thus our considered position that the relying on these organizations to make categorical statements on Nigeria is most uncharitable and a case of giving a dog a bad name to hang it.
 
CASLER in pursuance of peace and stability in Nigeria wishes to send a note of warning to Amnesty International and the UK All-Party Parliamentary Group to desist from their despicable campaign against Nigeria.
 
We shall not tolerate any further attempts at undermining the efforts of the government of Nigeria towards the preservation of peace and stability in Nigeria. We also wish to advise them to do well to take their trade elsewhere as Nigerians are aware of their plot to see to the disintegration of the country in fulfilment of the mandate given to them by their paymasters.
 
CASLER also wishes to warn these organizations to take their trade outside the shores of Africa as every attempt at destabilization and disintegration would be resisted in the overall interest of political and Socio-Economic Development of Nigeria and the African continent.
 
It is our considered opinion that interfering in the affairs of sovereign nations, mainly when such is hinged on outright falsehood and an insatiable quest for the escalation of conflict is tantamount to a crime against humanity.e Common Wealth must also be circumspect in their conduct at the expense of ignorantly giving a voice to the activities of terrorist organizations.
 
CASLER is as a result of this putting it on record that should there be an escalation of conflict in any part of Nigeria, Amnesty International and the UK All-Party Parliamentary Group should be held responsible.
 
I thank you all for your time and attention, and it is our prayers that as worthy partners in the Nigerian project, we shall join hands to defeat the enemies of Nigeria.
 
God Bless Nigeria

*Zulum Convoy Attack: Borno Elders Charged to Lead Calls on Boko Haram Terrorists to Surrender*
 
The Patriotic Elders Council (PEC) has charged fellow elders from the north-east to lead the call for Boko Haram terrorists to surrender. 
 
In a statement signed by its Secretary-General, Chief Simon Shango and made available to newsmen on Monday, the PEC challenged leaders and stakeholders from the region to rise up against the terrorists. 
 
The PEC's call follows the recent attack on the convoy of Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum. 
 
According to the group, some leaders in the Northeast and members of the communities where resurgent insurgency rages have overtime failed to complement the efforts of the Nigerian Military in fighting Boko Haram.
 
It noted that synergy between the Military in warfare and traditional or political leadership is crucial in ending the war against insurgents. 
 
"We must unequivocally state that we are extremely unhappy that some leaders in the Northeast axis and even some members of the communities where resurgent insurgency rages have overtime failed to complement the efforts of the Nigerian Military in fighting Boko Haram," the statement reads. 
 
"International and local security experts have conceded in various analysis available in and outside the country and from the experiences of other countries similarly afflicted with terrorism like Nigeria that synergy between the Military in warfare and traditional or political leadership is crucial and a strong weapon of defeating terrorists anywhere.
 
"Unfortunately, it is lacking in Nigeria. There is an unbridged gulf on this in Nigeria. While the Nigerian forces have quenched the fires of Boko Haram on the battlefield, leaders and some members of local communities have failed to support or sustain these efforts.
 
"Let us remind ourselves again that our colleagues, the Northeast leaders, elders and stakeholders must rise up now to complement the Military’s efforts by calling on the insurgents, their own children to surrender and embrace peace in Northern Borno now. There is no better time to do that than NOW!
 
"We make this public statement knowing well that everyone is sad at the seeming pleasure of some leaders and stakeholders from the northeast to see their people afflicted for years and Nigerians suffer massively under the scourge of Boko Haram without intervention. All they do is silence or at best, scolding the military each time, insurgents hide in the villages, and communities, shielded by locals to bloodily strike at them. It's extremely unfair for any reason whatsoever.
 
"Today, our patriotic political leader, President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, has committedly battled the Boko Haram insurgency to a standstill. He has assembled the best Military experts in warfare as Service Chiefs and funding the counter-insurgency operations devotedly, despite meagre national resources.
 
While saluting troops on the frontlines for their "courage, sacrifices and patriotism", the group, however, urged the leaders, elders and stakeholders in the Northeast to stop the leisure in the comfort of their houses in Abuja or elsewhere outside their troubled region, waiting only to come out to condemn the Military when there is any casualty from an attack by insurgents is condemnable.
 
Read full statement below:
 
The Patriotic Elders Council (PEC) commiserates with the Federal
Government of Nigeria , led by President Muhammadu Buhari; the executive Governor of Borno state, Prof. Babagana Zulum and the leaderships of Nigeria’s security agencies, pointedly, the Nigerian Army, the Nigerian Police Force and everyone over the sad event in Baga a few days ago.
 
We also condole with families of all the security personnel and the Civilian Joint Task Force, (C-JTF) members and indeed, all Nigerians over the sad incident of Boko Haram ambush and killing of security agents and civilians on a convoy to Baga town to receive returnee IDPs on Saturday, September 26, 2020.
 
The sad incident has again thrown our nation, Nigeria and particularly Borno State into another state of mourning. We mourn all our beloved ones lost in the course of fighting the Boko Haram insurgency and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists and associated cross border armed gangs and criminals who have illegally infiltrated our lands with bloodshed.
 
The agenda of these satanic agents , actively backed by foreign interests is clear to all Nigerians. However, what they have failed to understand is the unalterable reality and knowledge by these criminals that forceful campaigns to re-conquer any territory within Nigeria under the leadership of President Muhammadu Buhari is no longer possible.
 
We deeply appreciate the priceless sacrifices of all Nigerians, especially, security personnel who have paid the supreme price (past and present) for peace and security for Nigerians. PEC is also appreciative of our gallant troops in the frontlines, despite the deliberate frustrations of their efforts, energies and sacrifices for a peaceful and united Nigeria.
 
Our slain heroes, heroines and volunteers are martyrs of this struggle, and we believe, their resolve never to relent in the warfront until Boko Haram and its allied forces are conquered is a true reflection of our resilience, courage to overcome the impossible and enviable spirit of patriotism. They will forever be remembered for their unquantifiable sacrifices to safe guard and preserve the nation , with their names inscribed in gold in Nigeria’s Hall of Fame. Rest in perfect peace heroic compatriots!
 
Let us remind all compatriots again, that our nation faces the most difficult and turbulent times today in our 60 years of existence as a nation by deliberate acts of sabotage and mischief. However we urge everyone never to shudder, but have an abiding faith in the power of God behind us to overcome these tribulations.
 
What we are experiencing today and the touchy sacrifices are not peculiar to Nigeria alone. Other nations also paid the costly prices to have true freedom and liberation. Our determination and support to security agencies should never waver until we conquer the foes against the country.
 
Nigerian troops at the battle front have been given their hearts and minds to the counter-insurgency operations. We must unequivocally state that we are extremely unhappy that some leaders in the Northeast axis and even some members of the communities where resurgent insurgency rages have overtime failed to complement the efforts of the Nigerian Military in fighting Boko Haram.
 
International and local security experts have conceded in various analysis available in and outside the country and from the experiences of other countries similarly afflicted with terrorism like Nigeria that synergy between the Military in warfare and traditional or political leadership is crucial and a strong weapon of defeating terrorists anywhere.
 
Unfortunately, it is lacking in Nigeria. There is an unbridged gulf on this in Nigeria. While the Nigerian forces have quenched the fires of Boko Haram on the battle field, leaders and some members of local communities have failed to support or sustain these efforts.
 
Let us remind ourselves again that our colleagues, the Northeast leaders, elders and stakeholders must rise up now to complement the Military’s efforts by calling on the insurgents, their own children to surrender and embrace peace in Northern Borno now. There is no better time to do that than NOW!
 
We make this public statement knowing well that everyone is sad at the seeming pleasure of some leaders and stakeholders from the north east to see their people afflicted for years and Nigerians suffer massively under the scourge of Boko Haram without intervention. All they do is silence or at best, scolding the military each time, insurgents hide in the villages, and communities, shielded by locals to bloodily strike at them. Its extremely unfair for any reason whatsoever.
 
Today, our patriotic political leader, President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, has committedly battled the Boko Haram insurgency to a standstill. He has assembled the best Military experts in warfare as Service Chiefs and funding the counter-insurgency operations devotedly, despite meagre national resources.
 
The Military have also justified the spirit of nationhood by putting in their best in the battles to liberate Nigeria. Can we imagine that it is the same Nigerian Military which recovered the over 17 LGAs in the Northeast under Boko Haram control; dislodged the insurgents Caliphate in Gwoza/Baga; freed most of the 276 abducted Chibok and Dapchi schoolgirls; neutralized numerous Boko Haram top commanders; demystified the dreaded Sambisa forest; freed over 20,000 hostages of Boko Haram in secret camps and elicited the voluntary surrender of Boko Haram foot soldiers and top commanders?
 
It is therefore unimaginable today, that only in Northern Borno that this has refused to give way for peace to reign. Every Nigerian must be worried at this and silence is no longer Golden.
 
Regardless of anything or the conspiracy of anybody involved in the persisting heist of insurgency, we are strongly prodded to glowingly commend Mr. President and his Service Chiefs, some of whom have narrowly escaped death in the warzone for doing all to restore peace to the Northeast. This is despite the actions/inactions, distractions and frustrations of veiled actors and fifth columnist in festering terrorism. But the imperative of leaders and stakeholders of this region to pair up with Gov, Zulum in calling on insurgents to surrender is very pertinent now.
 
Again, from the bottom of our hearts, we salute the courage, sacrifices and patriotism of the Military and Nigerian troops in all ramifications. They have fared well in the counter-insurgency operations. The recent Boko Haram ambush on the convoy of Government officials on their way to a restored Baga to resettle IDPs returnees after more than three years of deserting their communities and scores of security personnel on escort duty lost their irreplaceable lives should prick the leaders, as we mourn.
 
But a situation where the leaders, elders and stakeholders in the Northeast leisure in the comfort of their houses in Abuja or elsewhere outside their troubled region, waiting only to come out to condemn the Military when there is any casualty from an attack by insurgents is condemnable! It smacks of the worse insensitivity and advertised severance from the counter-insurgency.


It is therefore our considered opinion that all stakeholders in Borno State and beyond come together to prevail on their children to stop this high scale atrocious against innocent Nigerians in the north east without further delay.
 
Enough is enough! Nigeria and Nigerians deserve their peace.

By Adam Bulama

The Boko Haram insurgency in North-East Nigeria had indeed festered since 2009 when the group began its violent campaign against Nigeria. Successive governments introduced various initiatives aimed at addressing the scourge but to no avail. Instead of the Boko Haram group losing steam, it gathered momentum and continued to wreak havoc of unimaginable proportion.

I believe there is one hard truth we are not telling ourselves why the activities of Boko Haram have continued to fester in Northern Borno despite the efforts of the Nigerian Military. We might wish to recall that there was a time the six states in North-East Nigeria were once under the constant threat of the Boko Haram insurgents. So much so that over 16 local government areas was under their control. But the efforts of the Military as well as the political authorities at the federal and state levels saw to the dislodging of the Boko Haram group from these local government areas including their operational base in Sambisa forest.

The Nigerian Military toiled day and night, in ensuring that the Boko Haram insurgents were decimated and indeed gains were recorded that five out of the six states in North-East Nigeria were utterly rid of Boko Haram insurgents. However, the case of Borno still presents a mystery as to why the Boko Haram insurgents always find Northern Borno a haven for their nefarious activities.

Today, Northern Borno is the only region experiencing pockets of Boko Haram attacks. The several instances where the convoy of the Governor of Borno State was attacked is in Northern Borno. It is on this premise that the governor has made several attempts at galvanizing the support of the political leaders and stakeholders in Northern Borno in bringing to an end the activities of Boko Haram in Northern Borno.

The governor in doing this has never failed to acknowledge the efforts of the Nigerian Military in restoring normalcy in other parts of the state and wishes for same to be replicated in Northern Borno which would ultimately signal the end of the Boko Haram insurgency in Nigeria.

There is a famous saying that politics is local as well as happiness is local. And for peace to return to Northern Borno, the actors must come to a consensus because these insurgents are not spirits. They are domiciled with the people, and they are somewhat known, I believe. I say this because strangers cannot come to a foreign land and dominate the people. There must be some level of cooperation with the people in the case of this or it is the people themselves that are perpetuating the dastardly act.

I stand to be corrected, the case of Northern Borno is that of arms struggle, smuggling, criminality and with lots of political undertones. This much has been highlighted in numerous forums, and the question is what has the stakeholders in Borno done in this regard. It is not on record that they have disputed this position and it is on record that they have not been forthcoming in addressing the threats in their region.

This indeed calls for concern and the time for all the stakeholders in Northern Borno to heed to the call of the governor of Borno state for peace in Northern Borno. Like I stated earlier, these insurgents are not spirits. Abubakar Shekau, Abu Musab al-Barnawi and all other Boko Haram commanders are Nigerians, this much we all know and as such it should not be rocket science for these individuals to lay their arms and embrace peace. The Nigerian Military has been playing its role and as such other stakeholders must step into the fray to play their parts in bringing the Boko Haram insurgency to an end.

Aside from the deployment of Military might, there is also a place for other mediums with which these insurgents can be prevailed upon to give up their arms struggle and embrace peace. And this has been the missing link towards ending the Boko Haram insurgency, especially in Northern Borno. I must not fail to commend the Governor of Borno State, Babagana Zulum. He has indeed demonstrated an unalloyed commitment towards ending the Boko Haram insurgency in the state even at significant risk to his life.

Let us make no mistakes, what is indeed needed now is a call for the remnants of the Boko Haram insurgents to embrace peace, and the governor has been leading this charge calling on all stakeholders to join hands with him in the arduous but surmountable task of bringing long-lasting peace to Borno State. All hands are required to be on deck in support of the efforts of the Nigerian Military that have been exceptional, especially in the past five years.

We must admit that this wasn’t the situation five years ago. And who would have thought that in five states North-East Nigeria would be free from the Boko Haram scourge. And even in Borno state, the Military has been able to confine their activities to Northern Borno alone. This is indeed a remarkable feat that must be commended and as well supported in the overarching aim of bringing to an end the Boko Haram insurgency in Nigeria.

I very much support the call for peace in Northern Borno. And this would only happen if the relevant stakeholders agree to complement the efforts of the Nigerian Military in this regard. The principle of structural functionalism suffices, which is a framework for building theory that sees society as a complex system whose parts work together to promote solidarity and stability.

I can go on nonstop in this regard, but I must, however, warn that all the gains recorded in the past five years would go down the drain if the call for peace in northern Borno is not heeded. Those that can speak should speak. Those that can reach out should reach out. Those that can negotiate should negotiate, and those that can calm frayed nerves should do so in the overarching objective of retuning Borno State to the Home of Peace. This is my two cents.

Bulama wrote from Maiduguri, Borno State.

By Richard Murphy

“We write to highlight urgent concerns about escalating violence in Nigeria, where attacks led by Boko Haram, Fulani herders, and other Islamist militia continues in northern and central-belt states, with reports of increasing violence in the South-East. The state’s failure to protect its citizens is a clear breach of its obligations under the Commonwealth Charter in respect of human rights.”
This is not a Hollywood script even though there is a semblance. It is a part statement in the letter written by some members of the United Kingdom’s House of Lords, the British upper legislative chamber to the Secretary-General of the Commonwealth Patricia Scotland. This was apparently about the report by the UK All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for International Freedom of Religion or Belief wherein very hasty conclusions were inferred from an illogical standpoint.

Indeed these are trying times in Nigeria with the international dimension the threat to Nigeria’s sovereignty has assumed. The activities of the Boko Haram terror group no doubt assumed a regional dimension with support from some foreign interest. “Untold Story of Boko Haram Insurgency: The Lake Chad Oil and Gas Connection” published in the Cambridge University Journal on Politics and Religion (https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/politics-and-religion/article/untold-story-of-boko-haram-insurgency-the-lake-chad-oil-and-gas-connection/79E48CDC869C9A8A9DA4989C50B58A1A) would make an excellent read to probably bring about some enlightenment on the story of Boko Haram in Nigeria and why these foreign interests would not allow for peace to reign.
I have read the referenced report by the APPG. That was indeed one that lacked objectivity on several fronts. The methodology was faulty, and the intention was for mischief. And this brings me to the earlier stated issue of foreign interest bent on destabilizing Nigeria. As a first, the APPG report on Nigeria was meant to paint a picture of genocidal killings aided by the government against Christians.
And curiously, the report didn't state or highlight where the government of Nigeria was indeed found culpable. Instead, it relied on conjectures and hearsays, which is the same strategy used by those against the interest of Nigeria in fanning the embers of war.
To put it simply, the APPG is on an international campaign of calumny against Nigeria in furtherance of the plot against Nigeria. I make bold to state that majority of the members of the APPG, if not all, have not visited Nigeria in the past five years. And if that is the case, one wonders on what authority they wrote their report and how objective could such a report be when it is evident that the APPG relied on questionable sources and gleaned outdated reports from online sources that probably hadn't updated their sites in donkey years.
I have a strong suspicion, which is the fact that APPG might have joined ranks with the likes of Amnesty International in the fulfilment of their plot to cause the disintegration of Nigeria. As incredible as this might sound, I am also of the suspicion that Amnesty International supplied the bulk of what was contained in the APPG report because there was a semblance in style with the various Amnesty International’s reports on Nigeria.
This is my opinion calls for critical questions from concerned stakeholders. I am sure some must have been surprised at how Nigeria has remained a country despite the avalanche of conspiracies against it. From the activities of International NGOs operating in North-East Nigeria to the agitations from militant groups across the country as well as others too numerous to mention.
What the international community must come to terms is the fact that the Nigerian authorities have been most remarkable in their efforts towards addressing the various security challenges in the country, including those perpetrated by organizations such as Amnesty International and their latest recruit the APPG. But for this, I am sure Nigeria would have erupted in flames.
This also calls for caution from concerned stakeholders in making categorical statements about Nigeria, especially when such is hinged in half-truths and illogical conclusions and with the propensity to escalate conflict in the country. I am not sure that most of the representations on Nigeria with regards to the security situation in Nigeria is a reflection of what is on the ground. Some of us resident in Nigeria have had reasons to task our consciousness if it was ever possible that we would be in Nigeria and not aware of what is happening until a foreign group or association issues a report.
The APPG report is one of such instances that were more baffling to most Nigerians. So much so that we wondered where such genocidal killings were happening that the vibrant Nigerian press missed in its reportage. Even though I have my reservations about the credibility of the APPG as an organization from what I have garnered so far, it still behoves on the leadership of the group to thread with caution.
No doubt there must have been some monetary inducement somewhere. However, I am not sure any amount of money is worth the blood of innocent people. The APPG and its sponsors must come back to consciousness and right their wrongs. Attempting to ignite a sectarian crisis in Nigeria is not a charitable endeavour because we would all be victims in one way or the other.
I would state this again for the umpteenth time; the state has not failed to protect its citizens in Nigeria. That is, at best, a figment of the imagination. It is not reality, and it is not a statement of the fact. However, what is the truth is that there is a grand conspiracy against Nigeria, and this is coming from outside the shores of the country. Sadly after Amnesty International was exposed, the APPG stepped in the fray in furtherance of the plot against Nigeria. This is the starkness of reality on the ground in Nigeria. And it is hoped that institutions such as the Common Wealth of Nations would do well to ask critical questions and extend its support to Nigeria in addressing the various security threats in the country.

Murphy is a security expert based in Calabar.

Ahead of the just concluded Sept 19th governorship election in Edo state, there were a lot of political permutations, expectations, events and plot twists particularly because of the key political actors involved and strategic location of the state to the survival of Apc.

The All progressive Congress under the leadership of the then chairman Adams Oshiomole, ravaged by internal crisis failed to reconcile its internal crisis culminating to the sack of Oshiomole by the party's national executive committee (NEC).

Due to the crisis within the party and coming elections in Edo and Ondo one would have wished that the party hierachy nominated a leader with political presence and personality but all that was not going to happen as APC further gaffed by entrusting the interim leadership of the party to not only an incompetent Governor Buni of Yobe state but shot itself further by allowing Buni to run down the party further by promoting selfish interest against the collective interest of the party.

Buni and his co-conspirators maintained a dangerous status quo which he should have known will be counter productive in the interest of the party. He maintained the evil silence of allowing the APC political actors to sustain a fight which was fast diminishing the chances of the party at the polls without a clear attempt to bring the actors to a negotiation table.

A leader they say leads by example, only Buni knows the reason why barely hours after the election results from Edo was announced, sent out a congratulatory message to Gov Obaseki of PDP, an action which puts question mark on the credibility of Buni and his committee.

Suffice to say that this singular attitude of Buni is enough to showcase what disaster awaits the party should he be allowed to stay beyond the expiration of his interim chairmanship in November.

To further show his evil agenda, Buni as a seating Governor made no effort to persuade his colleagues to attend the grand finale of the APC campaign in Edo. An event which was a veritable opportunity to build bridges across interest and make emphatic statements to the Edo electorates on why Pastor Ize Iyanmu was the man for the job, but he rather joined forces within the party to rubbish all efforts made by Asiwaju and Oshiomole to market the candidate of the party to the electorates.

There is no further prove to show the leadership inadequacies of Buni than his management of the Edo guber election. It was not only an indictment on his competence but an urgent call to rejig the party and position it into the trusted hands of leaders who can lead it into victory and not battles especially as political scheming for 2023 sets tune.

The party hierarchy must realise that if Buni couldn't manage the interests of political gladiators in Edo state then he wont be able to manage the various interests going into 2023 general election.

The All Progressive Congress has to purge itself of leaders like Buni and set its path on the way of unity by setting merchinaries in motion to conduct a credible election to elect leaders that can drive the agenda of the party and not their selfish interest because millions look for war to APC as the hope of the nation.

The Buni led caretaker committee must be shown the way out immediately if the party must be able to move forward or else we all watch it fade away.

The party must convene an extraordinary convention to pick new leaders who will unite the party and place party supremacy above personal interests. The Buni led caretaker committee do not deserve an elongation on its tenure else the party will be in a deeper mess going into 2023. Time is thickening.

Muhammad Abbas

*Convoy Attack: Group urges Borno Gov, Military to remain focused on the fight against insurgency* 

The North-East Peace Assembly (N-EPA) has urged Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum and the Nigerian Military to remain focused in its fight against terrorism in the state.

The group's plea is in response to Friday’s attack by the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), which resulted in the death of some  persons including soldiers, policemen and members of the Civilian JTF. 

According to the North-East Peace Assembly, the latest attack is a growing desperation of the terrorists and their supporters to reclaim relevance when they no longer have any. 

"We commiserate with the Borno state government, the Military, Police, Civilian JTF and families of the deceased and pray that those that continue to fuel terrorism in parts of the north-east will one day account for their crimes," National President, Musa Babangida, said in a statement on Saturday. 

"We condemn the attack in the strongest terms, it is despicable, repulsive and is a confirmation that none of the terrorists is deserving of any sympathy by any segment of the Nigerian state or within the international community. This attack should attract the harshest response possible from the forces fighting the terrorists.

"Security experts had postulated that newly defected terrorists from Abubakar Shekau’s Jamā'at Ahl as-Sunnah lid-Da'wah wa'l-Jihād faction would try to impress the ISWAP faction they recently joined by carrying out extreme attacks. But it is pertinent not to ascribe any undue capabilities to the bloodthirsty terrorists behind Friday’s attack since that is what they crave.   

"Considering that the governor was on an inspection tour of Baga area when his convoy was attacked, it is apparent that the terrorists want to create the impression that people cannot return to their homes even when the military has successfully ejected them from these areas". 

"Analysis of the attack has confirmed the growing desperation of the terrorists and their supporters to reclaim relevance where they no longer have any. The use of landmines and lone wolf attacks in parts of northern Borno just targeted at creating unnecessary noise by the terrorists in efforts to show that they are still active whereas in real sense they have been fully defeated". 

The group, however, urged the military and the Borno state government to handle the aftermath of the attack in a manner that does not give Boko Haram/ISWAP propagandists and cyber agents the opportunity to exploit it for terrorists’ media manipulation.

It said, "There are already ongoing efforts by terrorists’ propagandists to give dubious slants to the attack on the Governor’s convoy in order to strain relations between the Borno State chief executive and the military. This must not be allowed to happen. 

"The military should repeat the clearance operation it carried out the day before the attack on the convoy during which it successfully neutralized several top Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists’ commanders like Abu Usman, Alhaji Shettima, Modu Mainok, Bukar Gana, Abu Summayya, Amir Taam and Amir Kuraish, among others. It should invade and totally lay waste to the islets on Lake Chad from where the terrorists are staging their last stand.  

"The Borno State government should on its part sustain its pressure on willing terrorists to surrender to be rehabilitated and reintegrated into the society. Governor Zulum should lead the state’s stakeholders to get the terrorists and their commanders to surrender before it is too late for them.

"We urge the people of the state to support the military and the state government to succeed. Displaced persons should not be discouraged by this attack since part of the intention of the terrorists is to create the impression that people cannot return to their homestead to resume a life of normalcy. The true defeat of terrorism in the north-east will be achieved when the people are able to send a strong message to these killers that they can never win against the Nigerian state".

In furtherance of his operational tour to theater of operation in the North East, the Chief of Army Staff Lt Gen TY Buratai was at the Army Special Super Camp Chabbal in Konduga Local Government Area of Borno State on Friday the 25th of September 2020.

While at the camp, he jointly addressed officers and men, after which he had durbar with troops where operational, logistics and administrative issues were discussed. He earlier on Thursday, the 24th of September 2020, visited Army Super Camp Ngamdu where he inspected the construction and renovation works as well as facilities at the camp. During the visit to the Super Camp Ngamdu, General Buratai was represented by the Chief of Training and Operations Army in company of the Commander Engineer Corps and Theatre Commander Operation LAFIYA DOLE Major Generals NE Angbazo, JS Malu and F Yahaiya among other senior army officers respectively.

This was contained in a statement Signed by the Acting Director Army public relations Colonel Sagir Musa and made available to the Press

In all the camps, Gen Buratai applauded the troops for their resilience, patriotism and commitment in the war on terror in Nigeria. He directed them to be more courageous and bold to end the war so soon. He said that – “The whole country is hopeful that you should achieve results, you must bring this war to an end very soon”. “You are better trainned, equipped and motivated to do the nation proud, and so you must be more courageous and bold to end terrorism in Nigeria”.

While gingering the troops further, He reminded them that – “Nigerian Army is not in the North East Theatre of Operation for Crowd Dispersal or Peace keeping Missions, we are here for war and so you must be perpetually in war mood if you want to succeed”.

In a related development, the Chief of Army Staff has also commissioned 40 bed capacity accommodation for soldiers on escorts and guards duty at the flag staff house annex in Maiduguri today.

General Buratai also inspected ongoing construction works at the Nigerian Army Reference Hospital Maiduguri where he expressed satisfaction on the speed and level of the work so far and urged the Engineer on site to remain focused and committed to completing the job in good time.

The Igbos in Nigeria Movement (INM) has condemned the killing of soldiers and the growing spate of violence associated with the Indigenous Peoples of Biafra (IPOB). 

In a statement signed by its President, Mazi Ifeanyi Igwe, on Thursday, the INM said the escalation of violence by IPOB is unacceptable. 

Recall that members of the proscribed group attacked unsuspecting soldiers of the 144 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, Asa, Abia State, on Wednesday, killing two and injuring many. 

This comes barely two weeks after similar assault on Police officers in Enugu. 

In reaction, the INM distanced itself from these attacks and urged other Igbos to do likewise. 

According to the group, this act of terror is a dangerous acceleration of the reversal of the fortunes of Igboland, which is currently the most peaceful geo-political zone of Nigeria. 

"Igbos in Nigeria Movement (INM) strongly condemns the attack by gunmen, which lead to the death of two soldiers of the 144 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, Asa, Abia state. The attack, which also injured other soldiers, is an unwarranted provocation by the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). The escalation of violence by IPOB is unacceptable," the statement said.

"It is on record that IPOB vowed revenge against law enforcement agencies in the aftermath of its August 24, 2020 bloody clash with the DSS and the Police. Even though the group has cowardly not come out to claim responsibility, It is repulsive that they decided to launch their attack first in a state that is not the scene of their previous clash and secondly against the personnel of an institution that is not responsible for whatever these terrorists are angry about. 

"This attack, masterminded by IPOB, should be condemned by all peace loving Igbo and entire Nigerians, especially since it is coming after an attack on Policemen at checkpoint by fifteen gunmen from the same group in Abia State. 

"Nigerians should especially be concerned by IPOB’s quest to increase its arsenal as confirmed by the theft of the deceased soldiers’ weapons. The modus operandi is consistent with the threats made from pro-IPOB social media accounts online where IPOB members vowed to build their war arsenal from the weapons they will take from government forces".

The Igbos in Nigeria Movement urged "elders and leaders to call IPOB, Nnamdi Kanu, Emma Powerful and their terrorist members to order before the group’s growing violence turns into a conflagration". 

It, however, appealed to the Nigerian Army not to abandon the region in spite of this recent provocations as that will translate into falling for the trick of IPOB. 

"We therefore call on our elders and leaders to call IPOB, Nnamdi Kanu, Emma Powerful and their terrorist members to order before the group’s growing violence turns into a conflagration in the south east. Our region, owing to its dense population and highly built up nature cannot survive the kind attacks that those in the desert, creeks and forests unleash on their own homelands in the name of being terrorist," the statement added. 

"INM warns that Igbos should not be misled by the utopic dream of sending the Nigerian Army out of the south-east since this would be suicidal. It is the series of the military operations put up by the Army that freed the south-east from the grip of kidnappers. This is even as the military operations were bundled with free medical outreaches that have brought succor to communities.  

"We appeal to the Nigerian Army not to abandon the south-east in spite of this recent provocations since that will translate into falling for the trick of IPOB, which wants the military to leave the geo-political zone so that it can again resume terrorizing the people. The last quarter of the year that used to be characterized by the kidnapping of Igbo sons and daughters is here and the presence of the Army is key to keeping people safe.

"The international community, including NGOs like Amnesty International and InterSociety are urged to note the terrorist acts being committed by IPOB so that they will not accuse security and law enforcement agencies of being high handed when they conduct clearance operations to rid Igboland of terrorists".

....dismisses fake report on nation’s terrorism index

The Centre for International and Strategic Studies (CISS) has applauded Nigeria's progress on peace as indicated by the Global Peace Index. 

The centre also dismissed reports which ranked Nigeria as one of the most terrorised countries in the world.

Based on this year's rating by the Institute for Economics and Peace, Nigeria climbed one spot to 147 ahead of some supposed peaceful nations like Russia, Ukraine and Turkey. 

And according to CISS, this is a welcomed development that must be commended despite the barrage of challenges confronting the country. 

The centre made this known in a report unveiled by its Programme Officer Dr. Jude Okunebo at Top Rank Hotel, Abuja on Wednesday. 

In attendance were renowned scholars, Professor Ahmed Danfulani, Dr. Abubakar Gana, Dr. Ifure Ataifure, Brig. Gen Rabe Abubakar and Prof. Peter Maidoki of the University of Abuja as well as presidents and heads of various non-governmental organisations and civil society groups. 

Contrary to speculations, the centre said that Nigeria is not ranked third in the Global Terrorism Index, as this year's ranking is yet to be released. 

While reviewing the report, Dr. Okunebo said the fact that Nigeria wasn't classified amongst the top five least peaceful and top five ongoing conflict domains in the world negate the supposition that Nigeria was amongst the most terrorized countries. 

Okunebo disclosed that President Muhammadu Buhari's uncompromising stance, commitment and dedication turned the table around for the country. 

He also noted that the president's emergence birthed an all-new approach that has rubbed off on the troops and their counter-terrorism operations. 

"Nigeria, as a sovereign state, has witnessed several plethoras of challenges emanating from her internal political environment. The country has been under siege for some years mainly due to militancy, and the act of terrorism perpetrated by some individuals against the state. However, the most severe security challenges witnessed in Nigeria between 2001-2019 include; Niger Delta crises, kidnapping, armed banditry, cattle rustling, Boko Haram crises and the Farmers –Herders conflict," the report said in part. 

"The Government began to out in measures towards addressing the various internal security threats in the country from 2016. Between 2016 and 2019, substantial progress was made in the management of the internal security crisis in Nigeria with the involvement of the Nigerian Army in internal security operations. 

" The Nigerian Army has also been credited to have liberated communities in North-East Nigeria that were hitherto under the control of the Boko Haram insurgents. Five of the six northeastern states have been fully liberated, but for Borno State still experiencing pockets of Boko Haram activities, which have mainly been attributed to the lack of cooperation by the political authorities in the state with the Nigerian Military. The Nigerian Army has launched over 40 different operations and exercises in the last five years to contain various security challenges across the country". 

The CISS report, however, concluded that the current administration has lived up to expectations in ensuring that the issues of security take centre stage. 

It disclosed that the involvement and commitment of the Nigerian Army in addressing the various security challenges cannot be overemphasized. 

"Consequently, there has been relative peace and tranquillity in Nigeria, and this is against the insinuation in some quarters that Nigeria is amongst the most terrorized countries in the world.   It is indeed a statement of the fact there that cannot be the case in Nigeria with the commitment of the Muhammadu Buhari Administration towards the security of lives and properties," the report noted. 

"A careful look at the Global indexes for countries experiencing forms of conflict; Nigeria was not listed amongst the top five least peaceful countries and countries undergoing conflict. It this suffices to state that Nigeria has made substantial gains in the fight against terrorism and other forms of criminal activities and these campaigns can be adjudged successful and responsible for peace and tranquillity in Nigeria". 

In reaction, Brig.- Gen Abubakar from the National Defence College applauded the CISS for putting up a report that clarifies the issues of peace and security in Nigeria.

"I am indeed very glad that a very important centre of international repute dismissed the insinuations making the rounds by some individuals and groups both locally and internationally to paint Nigeria as the most terrorised and unpeaceful nations of the world," he said. 

Brig.- Gen Abubakar, however, assured that the troops are not resting on their oars.

He added, "They are not there sleeping but to ensure the peace and security of lives and properties of citizens. We have no doubt seen some achievements and changes between 2015 and now when General Buratai took over the mantle of leadership of the Nigerian Army as the Chief of Army Staff. This momentum, I believe we are able to sustain. – peace and security despite other challenges".

A former Commissioner representing Edo Central on the Board of Edopadec
Prince Emmanuel Odigie,
Has lauded the victory of Governor Godwin Obaseki and his deputy, Comrade Philip Shaibu in the just concluded governorship election.

Ecclesiastes 3 A Time for Everything.

There is a time for everything,
and a season for every activity under the heavens:

The time for campaigns and elections are over. It is time to work and build a more prosperous Edo.

I congratulate you on your election victory. I sincerely salute your steadfastness, courage and doggedness.

Your excellency, I pray God Almighty grants you divine wisdom, more grace and strength to lead Edo to greater heights in Jesus Mighty name, Amen.

Congratulations sir.

Prince Emmanuel Odigie

Ahead of Nigeria's 60th independence anniversary, the National Inter-Faith and Religious Organization for Peace (NIFROP) has commenced prayer and fasting for President Muhammadu Buhari and the entire country. 

At its meeting on Tuesday at the Unity Fountain, Abuja, the group described October 1st as a "day of convenant" which marked the end of colonial rule.

Speaking on behalf of the group, National President, Bishop Sunday Garuba said now is the best time to intercede for Nigeria as the country has remained united despite the plans of the devil and cohorts. 

"We are gathered here for a very important and serious business as usual, where we shall in one accord intercede for our dear country on the occasion of her 60th-anniversary celebrations.  The occasion of Nigeria's 60th anniversary is a great day not just in Nigeria's history but the rest of the world as the day of the covenant for the freedom of our nation from colonial rule. For 60 years, Nigeria has been through the good, bad and the ugly experiences in our collective quest for growth and sustainable development," he said. 

"My beloved in Christ, the occasion of the 60th Anniversary celebration of Nigeria is indeed a big one for us in the Unity Church and the Unity Masjid because, over the years, we have taken the success of the Nigerian project to God in our various prayers and fasting programmes.  

"We have been steadfast in our request to God for divine intervention in the affairs of Nigeria, and God has indeed been faithful to us. The book of 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 reminds us of the need to pray without ceasing. And that is why we are all gathered here again to continue our divine routine of praying and interceding on behalf of our dear country. 

"My brothers and sisters, you all would agree with me that there is no better time than now to pray for Nigeria on this auspicious occasion of her 60th anniversary. This is because, despite the plans of the devil and cohorts, Nigeria has remained united and indivisible even under significant threats to our peace and progress as a people as a country. That Nigeria has continued to wax stronger is not by our might or power, but by the grace of God that he has availed to be sufficient for us". 

Garuba recalled how " children of God" went to sleep during the country's 50th anniversary in 2010 and the "devil struck" with a bomb blast in the nation's capital. 

To avoid a repeat, the clergyman urged Nigerians to come together and pray. 

"Our memories are still fresh to Independence Day bombing in Abuja on the occasion of the 50th-anniversary celebration of Nigeria.  The children of God went to sleep, and the devil struck. My brothers and sisters, as I mentioned earlier, For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities and powers in high places," he added. 

" Let me use this medium to announce to you all that never in the history of Nigeria would God allow such to happen. Listen to me; this is not because God loves Nigeria. It is not also because our security agencies have been up and doing. It is simply the children of God have been fervent in their prayers and supplications to God for his mercies and grace in Nigeria.

"We are buoyed with the fact that as members of the Unity Church and the Unity Masjid, we have played positive roles in ensuring that the forces of evil that ganged up against Nigeria were put to shame because the Bible tells us that the effectual fervent prayer of the righteous avail much. Jesus Christ also stressed its necessity in the book of Luke 18:1, when He says ‘Men ought always to pray, and not to faint'". 

Garuba, however, assured that Nigeria's diamond jubilee will usher an era of greatness like never before. 

"My brothers and sisters, I see economic boom ahead in the country after the era of COVID 19. Mark my words, the world would indeed marvel at the good news that would come out from Nigeria in no distant time," he prophesied. 

"My brothers and sisters, I have good news for you. President Muhammadu Buhari is on the seat when Nigeria is attaining this feat is an indication that God indeed loves Nigeria. As a result of this, we have the divine mandate to pray for him and his family.

"We shall pray for our beloved President for God to continue to protect him and grant him good health and a sound mind as he pilots the affairs of the country. We shall also pray for God to expose all those that have been fueling acts of terrorism across the country all in the efforts to undermine the efforts of President Muhammadu Buhari. Through our prayers, we shall cause a torrent of curses on those that have been conspiring against the peace and progress of Nigeria". 

The preacher added that with prayers, Nigeria would be free from every gang-up of hell aimed at destroying this nation.

By Thomas Uzah PhD

Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai came like a dunce on the hottest seat of battle some five years ago. Many were under the faulty illusion that he sneaked his way unto the path of death on the plains, forests, and mountains of the Northeast in the hands of the merciless and militant extremist Boko Haram sect. At incipience, the odd Islamist sect voiced to the world about their vicious mission to conquer Nigeria and restore an oppressive and alien Islamic Caliphate on the people.

But a patent snag with such discretionary action was that Boko Haram had an identity only its religious cannibals and proponents of the ideology discerned in precise terms and understood by themselves alone; and no one else. Boko Haram quaked meaningless noises to the undiscerning, and loudly, blew the trumpets war with might and energetic boastfulness.

For years, the entire Northeast terrains “were a dragons field”, enclaves dreaded by natives, strangers and even, the security agents. Boko Haram damnably invaded the communities and villages of a helpless people, captured and enforced cruel, ferocious and unorthodox cannons alien to the Islamic world and practices.

The people reaped bountifully in blood, gruesome murders, abductions and arsons. The fire of hell had less fury than the rampaging blades, swords and bombs of insurgents. The people groaned; while the state gazed effeminately at flames ignited by serial detonating bombs of insurgents; more horrified than victims of the butcheries.

But a nemesis awaited in the offing for insurgents unknowingly! By a stroke of misfortune for Boko Haram, it was the emergence of President Muhammadu Buhari as the democratic leader of Nigeria. And insurgents’ greatest regret was the enthronement of an anti-terrorism wizard, Gen. Buratai as the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) and leader of the counter-insurgency operations as well as other Internal Security upheavals in Nigeria.

With decades of resourceful military training and enriching experiences as Infantry Combatant; Gen. Buratai, who last served as the Field Commander, Multi-National Joint Task Force (M-NJTF) rendered himself to this national assignment with all godly determination; while the Pharaohs of Nigeria erroneously perceived him a naivete of the trenches. His facial looks and even physique never betrayed his inside toughness, warfare astuteness and leadership treasures embedded in his tiny physiognomy. His looks are very receptively harmless to both enemies and friends.

And insurgents mistook him for some wishy-washy Army Chief and leader of the unconventional and complex insurgency war. Boko Haram in precise terms proudly underrated the capacity of Gen. Buratai, which was bolstered by their past experiences with Nigeria’s former Military Chiefs who prosecuted the counter-insurgency years unending.

Full of arrogance of fake might, like some characters in one of Nollywood’s thrilling titles “Fatal Mistake,” produced by Mr. Nwafor Anayo, Boko Haram insurgents never realized the warfare expertise in the new leader of the counter-insurgency operations. But beneath Gen. Buratai’s amiable looks, lies the strength of a roaring and devouring lion of the jungles.

Without a second thought, Gen. Buratai knew a formidable, responsible, responsive and adequately equipped Nigerian Army was the indispensable panacea to the Boko Haram challenge, which at that time, appeared to defy all solutions. By his calculations, a voyage of transformation with the overall objective to catapult the Nigerian Army into a modern people’s Army, versatile in fighting Nigeria’s enemies and also, contributing to the security and economic agenda of the government.
Therefore, Gen. Buratai fetched from his deep reservoir of knowledge to introduce resounding reforms and innovations in the Nigerian Army. It did not take long before these reforms begun to trickle in, bearing eatable fruits. There is no bargaining that the transformation has elevated the Nigerian Army into a strong, virile and modern institution worthy of reckoning in Africa.

First, with the approval of Mr. President, Gen. Buratai's unsatisfactory method of salaries and allowances to troops on the frontlines, erased the culture of delayed or sometimes, denied payments. With this done, troops whose spirit was dampened in the warfront became automatically animated. Added to it were special incentives to embolden hard working soldiers at the battlefield in form of accelerated promotions, among others, Nigerian troops began to massively defeat insurgents on the warfront and seized territories reclaimed.

The Army Chief trained and retrained soldiers in batches. The training platforms provided them with the opportunity to refresh their knowledge on modern warfare trends with emphasis on combating terrorism. Gen. Buratai invigorated forsaken and dysfunctional Nigerian Army training institutions to facilitate the internal training of soldiers. The Army which is often described as an independent island anywhere, but which unfortunately lost its prestige in Nigeria for decades because of neglect, regained it smugly, with shiny performance outcomes in the frontlines.

So, the Army’s former institutions like the Nigerian Army Command Engineering Depot (CED) in Kaduna, with a vehicle-manufacturing unit was revitalized. Today, Nigerian Army is producing Nigeria’s indigenous and tropicalized war vehicle nicknamed MRAP – the EZUGWU MRAP from materials sourced locally.

The Nigerian Army School of Engineering, and Nigerian Army School of Artillery have come on stream, with capacities sourced locally to provide internal training to soldiers and also, manufacturing of some of the weapons used in the counter-insurgency operations in Nigeria. Through these efforts, Nigeria is saved vital and scarce foreign exchange troubles and exemplified all hands-on deck leadership of the Army.

Similarly, actively backed by President Buhari; himself, a leader very sensitive to the issue of security in Nigeria, Gen. Buratai engineered the establishment of special Army schools like the Nigerian Army Aviation School and the Nigerian Army University Biu (NAUB). With the Army Aviation school already training pilots and crew technicians, the Nigerian Army has sparked national attention as it looks forward to the launching of the Nigerian Army Aviation wing to battle Boko Haram insurgency and ISWAP terrorism; while NAUB is spearheading the training of soldiers on modern technological warfare.

Under Gen. Buratai’s leadership, gone are the days soldiers who served their country meritoriously agonize about shelter with their families after retirement. In partnership with some private organizations, the Nigerian Army is investing in the NA Post Service Housing Development Limited for soldiers, with first and special emphasis on soldiers who served in the counter-insurgency operations.

What’s more, even soldiers still in service are no longer constrained to inhabit ramshackle and dilapidated Barracks with their families. Almost all Army Barracks have undergone a facelift, with equipped schools, hospitals, water and other amenities for convenience of soldiers. The same awe attracted by improvements in Army facilities across the nation have also displayed imprints in office accommodation for soldiers in all Army Divisions, with modern state-of-art facilities.

The provision of tertiary or referral health centers have been the obsession of Gen. Buratai. Just within five years, the Nigerian Army is now the proud owners of two new and additional referral hospitals-one in Ebonyi and another in Maiduguri which have the mandate to serve both the Military and civilians.

But more interestingly and in tandem with global trends, the NA is developing its capacity to contribute to the economic development agenda of the present political leadership in Nigeria. Army investments have marketable identities such as the Nigeria Army Farm and Ranches, Command Engineering Depot, as well as NA Property Limited and NA Welfare Limited by Guarantee; which also offer some of its products and services to the Nigerian public.These Army agro-investments chain are contributing enormously to the challenge of food insecurity in the nation.

It is glaring that Gen. Buratai’s transformational leadership is so far yielding beautiful fruits, which are already consummated throughout the country. One good thing about it is that the Army Chief’s voyage to transform the Nigerian Army has positively rubbed on both Army personnel and the Nigerian public. It’s a reality of excitement that the Nigerian Army under the leadership of Gen. Buratai is no longer famed as the womanish, cowardly dependent and hopelessness institution which relied on outsiders to fight its battles or serve its needs.

Uzah PhD is head of mass communication department, Kwararafa University Wukari

*Re: Lt. Gen. Akinrinade (rtd): A stakeholder who missed the path!*

By Simon Shango

The Nigerian media buzzed with news of the visit of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt. Gen. TY Buratai on Monday 14th September 2020 to the home State of his senior and retired colleague, Gen. Gen. Alani Akinrinade, Osun.

The former COAS had a privilege, courtesy of the invitation extended to him by the Osun State Governor, to speak at a banquet dinner in honour of his visiting predecessor to Osun State, which took place at the Osun State Govt House Banquet Hall.

My heart gladdened at this development in the sense that while overtly, the visit to the State was to commission projects executed by the Nigerian Army under its plank of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR); underneath that chanced meeting, lied the window of the COAS interacting with his senior colleague to tap from his rich treasure of experience as the former COAS and later Chief of Defence Staff under the Shagari Presidency in the 1980s.

However, media accounts of the speech of Gen. Akinirinade (rtd) reported verbatim left me with a sour taste in the mouth. It contained somewhat “abominable” utterances which undermined his status as an elder statesman, the office of the President of Nigeria, and even his guest, Gen. Buratai. I found his remarks and message to Mr. President extremely distasteful by the sheer misrepresentations and misplacements of existing facts.

Let me admit ab initio that as peers and people within the same age, who are now regarded as elders, I will be unfair to discuss such sensitive issues publicly. But when it becomes a public document like his speech, it is only wise that I respond to Gen. Akinrinade in the same manner and fashion he ventilated his opinions because he politicized the issues by my judgment.

It was my utmost conviction that Gen. Akinrinade (rtd) having climbed steadily through the ranks in the military to become a Lieutenant General, one expected him to have acted better while commenting on a sensitive matter as the security challenges facing the country. He, however, disappointed me and I believe many other Nigerians. First, the retired General should have sought to discuss these issues in private, rather than making it public.

As an elder, a former colleague of Mr. President in the Nigerian Army and stakeholder in the Nigerian project, there is no way President Buhari wouldn’t have granted Gen. Akinrinade a private audience. President Buhari is a listening President, who respects every elder in the country and even the ordinary Nigerian knows this. The outcome of a private visit would have gone a long way in complementing the enormous successes Buhari has recorded in the fight against insecurities in the country. His assertions on the security situation in the country are misleading and they do not portray him as someone very knowledgeable on the subject matter.

It is unfortunate that Gen. Akinrinade easily bought into the cheap propaganda that the President is a sectional leader who promotes the agenda for a takeover of Nigeria by his Fulani tribe as disseminated by the opposition and his detractors. As an elder statesman, Akinrinade should be at the forefront of championing for a Nigeria that is devoid of division. His age and experience should play a part to convince the younger generation that no President can put his immediate tribe above the collective good of the nation. It is rather unfortunate that he has enlisted into the league of those spreading hate against the President’s tribe.

The former Defence Chief has forgotten that the issue of herdsmen and farmers predates the Buhari administration. As the President and Commander-in-Chief, Buhari has accorded appropriate priority in this regard by putting measures in place to curtail the excesses of the herdsmen on farmers.

For instance, in 2018, the Defence Headquarters kicked off “Exercise Ayem A Akpatema” (cat race) phases I, II and now III; which is operating alongside “Operation Whirl Stroke” (OPWS) in the Middle Belt. It features a Joint Military Intervention Force (JMIF), comprising Regular and Special Forces personnel from the Army, Air Force and Navy, and working in collaboration with the Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Security (DSS), and Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC).

The main aim of these Military operations is to counter armed herdsmen and militia groups operating especially around Benue, Nasarawa, Taraba and Plateau States and environs. These operations have been very successful in restoring calm to its areas of coverage. The Governors of these states have testified to its workability at different times. And with the successes recorded by these operations, it will be unfair for anyone to say the President does not interfere in curbing the brigandage of the Fulani herdsmen.

Again, Gen. Akinrinade said that the President has performed woefully in the fight against Boko Haram insurgency. But we all were aware when Boko Haram was infiltrating all the nook and crannies of this country prior to Buhari’s emergence as the President and even making ingress into Southern Nigeria. Markets were not safe, neither were schools and churches. As the Centre of attraction, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Abuja, was not safe also for anyone. It is a statement of fact that bombs were exploding everywhere in this country prior to President Buhari’s emergence as Nigeria’s democratic leader.

The fight against Boko Haram and other forms of criminalities have received priority attention under the Buhari administration and the men and women of the Armed Forces of Nigeria have considerably downgraded similar threats across all geo-political zones. In fact, all the Local Governments and territories that were hitherto taken over by the Boko Haram insurgents in Borno, Yobe and Adamawa states have long been recovered and are now occupied by displaced indigenes of these areas who were hitherto forced to seek a living in areas far from their ancestral homes.

More than a million displaced persons have returned to their homes and communities across the Northeast, since 2016. Thousands of hostages have been freed from Boko Haram captivity, including the majority of the Chibok schoolgirls abducted in April 2014, and 105 of the Dapchi Girls abducted in February 2018.

I think, with these efforts, history will always smile on President Buhari. And people like Gen. Akinrinade, who have chosen to be economical with the truth need to rather support the President to do more, since securing the nation is a collective effort and does not rest with one man.

Gen. Akinrinade also raised the issue of the President’s appointments not reflecting the heterogeneous composition of our country, Nigeria. What the General fails to comprehend is that President Buhari has never refused to honour the constitutional requirement to appoint people across the country in his government. But be that as it may, every President would prefer to appoint people that he/she would work closely with based on their competence, loyalty and trustworthiness, and not their ethnicity or religion. And the president has not hidden this fact. Moreover, all the actions and inactions of the administration will be solely placed on him after his tenure.

Gen. Akinrinade sounded sarcastic as if much is not done on the welfare of the security personnel. But credit must also be given to President Buhari for taking the interest of the military and other security agencies seriously. We are all aware of how the previous government diverted monies meant for the purchase of arms and the welfare of our security for personal use.
The Buhari administration has not only made sure that our security agencies have enough arms to fight terrorism and other forms of criminality, the government has approved and implemented new salary packages for the Military and Police. It has similarly, established a Nigerian Police Trust Fund as a public-private sector vehicle for alternative sources of funding security activities. This has gone a long way to motivate our security personnel to put in their best.

Above all, though, the request by Gen. Akinrinade to the COAS for more projects in Osun states is most baffling. May I kindly remind him that the Nigerian Army is not a projects development and execution agency. It is only Gen. Buratai’s leadership foresight and feeling for humanity that has introduced CSR projects from the Army’s meagre resources.

Again, agitations for succession as alleged by the retired General, have been with us in this country for a long time and this cannot be placed on the doorsteps of President Buhari. I am sure that Gen. Akninrinade knows this. As far as I am concerned, the President has done his best to keep the country as one.

Looking at the motley of problems he inherited, there are obvious signs that the country is heading towards the right direction. Statesmen like Gen. Akinrinade needs to seek the private attention of the President and offer genuine suggestions and advise; not by playing to the gallery or swimming in currents of politics like others.

Again, with all the noise and allegations that the President does not support the restructuring of the country, people like Gen. Akinrinade have suddenly forgotten that President Buhari and his party, the APC included devolution of power, true federalism in their manifesto. The party constituted a restructuring committee in 2019, headed by the Governor of Kaduna state, Nasir El-Rufai. That committee has submitted its report to the party caucus which the President is a member. The President too endorsed the outcome.

But one thing people have failed to understand is that restructuring lies with the National Assembly. The President is not a military dictator; he cannot change anything by decree. Sovereignty in Nigeria now is vested in the National Assembly. Before restructuring can take place, there must be an act of the National Assembly to create that referendum. It is not the President that would do it by fiat or by Executive Order. It must go through the National Assembly. But already some Southerners like former President Olusegun Obasanjo are already kicking against the idea of the proposed constitutional amendment.

Let me again touch on the issue of herders/farmers clashes. The allegations that farmers have been forced to abandon their farms as a result of insecurity and as such famine is imminent is totally false because most of our displaced people have returned to their farms as a result of the stability in the security of the country.
More Nigerians have taken advantage of the opportunity in the agri-business sector initiative put in place by the government through the food security initiative, where the government is promoting “Grow What We Eat" and “Eat What We Grow." The CBN Anchor Borrowers Programme and other similar schemes have rather attracted more farmers. With these initiatives and bumper harvests that we have experienced from the previous years, Nigeria cannot be borrowing grains from neighbouring ECOWAS countries as the retired General alleged. Akinrinade should know better.

Chief Shango is a veteran journalist and wrote from Abuja.

Edo Election: Read Captain Hosa Okunbo Statement after the outcome of the Election

In the past three months, pitched battles have raved In the airwaves, In the streets, in villages and in every hamlet across Edo State for the governorship seat at Dennis Osadebey Avenue, G.R.A Benin City,

Edo State and also the period I have witnessed the most orchestrated attacks on my person where I was continuously in defense because of my beliefs.

The Candidates presented their manifestos to the great people of Edo State.

Thankfully, the elections have been free and fair and peaceful.

The people have spoken in no uncertain terms.

It is incumbent upon me as a protagonist for the candidate of the APC, Pastor Osagie lze-lyamu, to now issue a statement in my personal capacity as a private citizen as I did at various times during the campaign.

First of all, I congratulate the people of Edo State who took their civic responsibility with a sense of urgency and trooped out to express themselves.

I also wish to congratulate His Excellency, the Incumbent Governor, Godwin Obaseki for winning the mandate to continue for another four years. Congratulations.

May the next four years take the state to the promised land under your leadership.

As a loyal citizen of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and an lndigene of Edo State, I urge all of the people at home and abroad to join hands with the governor to build a vibrant democracy, and also to build a vibrant economy where the youths can find gainful employment in an atmosphere of peace and security.
God bless the people of Edo State and may God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Abu Duniya

In the last few weeks, Nigerians have been inundated with cries of condemnations from the members of the proscribed Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN) about the behind-the-scenes photos and a 12-minute-clip from the set of Nollywood movie titled, ‘Fatal Arrogance,’ still in the oven or production room. The movie which is produced by Anosike Kingsley Orji, was shot in Enugu, the Coal City and has a veteran Nollywood actor, Pete Edochie, playing the lead role.

Predictably, the movie title is derived from the book written by a security analyst cum activist, Mr. Terrence Kuanum. What many are confused is why the Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN) would be jittery over a movie that is still under production and has not yet been released to the public?

Already, the group has started pointing accusing fingers at some highly respected security institutions and its leadership, claiming those they consider as their enemies are responsible for sponsorship of the movie production. An evil man is perpetually under the illusion that he is being haunted. So, the IMN have also accused the lead actor, Pete Edochie of lending credibility to the movie as well as depicting and portraying the terrorist group and its arrow-head of terror , Ibraheem El-Zakzaky, in a demeaning manner.

But this is a movie whose official trailer is yet to be released, and the name of the IMN leader is not mentioned. How come IMN is already agitated and making allegations? That’s the “Fatal Mistake” in the whole sordid drama by the outlaws in IMN, which best illustrates the efficacy of the axiom that evildoers perpetually dread their shadows, even when they are nowhere near anyone’s target. Are the outlawed IMN members afraid of their own shadows. That’s the power of retributive justice.

The IMN has no right of attacking and condemning Pete Edochie for taking a role in any movie. He is a professional actor and provided his services to the hirer for a fee and it is legitimate. Why are IMN member bothered about the credibility of Edochie? Has their leader, El-Zakzaky any credible credibility, outside lies, incitement to breach of public peace, violence and bloodshed, killings and terrorism ?

Film acting is a trade Edochie has been known for all his life. In the countless movies in which he has featured in the past, some of which he has played the role of a wicked King, from a setting depicting a particular people or culture, did those concerned took arms against him or hurled threats at him or why didn’t the IMN complain then? The IMN has no veto powers to pass judgment on the person of Pete Edochie and his professional career.

The IMN and their violent activities are not new to anyone, hence the people and Government of Nigeria have always been critical of them. First, the movement fundamentally believes and proclaims that there is no government except the tin god they profess allegiance in some foreign country.

The same leader and founder of the group, Ibraheem El-Zakzaky, whom they are claiming has been portrayed in a demeaning manner in the movie, has since the early 1980s, called for an Islamic revolution to create an Islamic state in Nigeria, an end to Western influence in the country and the stringent adoption of Islamic legal codes, principles and systems violently. This same group is very critical of Northern Nigeria’s traditional, religious and political elite.

The IMN has a history of violence even though they claim they have a reputation for upholding peace even at the peak of unprovoked attacks. The group has a history of clashes with the Nigerian security forces and other Muslim groups.

In 1991, El-Zakzaky and his followers clashed with security forces in Katsina.
In 1996, his followers seized and decapitated a Christian on the allegation that his wife used pages torn from the Quran to clean their infant baby. What a shame to humanity! Precisely in June 2005, this same group clashed with the emirate authorities in Sokoto, over access to the city’s central mosque. In July 2007, the sect masterminded the murder of a Sunni cleric in Sokoto, Umar Dan Maishiya, who had been highly critical of the IMN and its activities . It sparked reprisal attacks that killed at least five persons and destroyed many of their homes.


Members of the IMN and supporters of El-Zakzaky had in September 2009, clashed with police in Zaria, leading to injuries and deaths on both sides. The group had another major clash with the military, during a pro-Palestinian procession in Zaria on 25 July 2014, and three sons of El-Zakzaky, all undergraduates at the time lost their lives.

Are these imaginary images of the outlawed IMN? Why are they questioning the contents of “Fatal Mistake,” even if directed at them? Normal human beings protest what is falsehoods; but truth cannot be blurred and IMN should not place itself in a position to continue to intimidate and harass other Nigerians with their foolery.

Indeed, the relationship between IMN and the Government has always been characterized by antagonisms and recurrent hostilities. The Government views IMN as an extremist group building up the critical mass it needs to eventually turn incontrollable like the Boko Haram sect, while they (IMN) claim the Government want to wipe it out. No one quarrels with it; but the outlawed IMN must necessarily create its own country to operate by a different set of rules or laws, but not in Nigeria.

Their aberration are serial. In 2015, this same group blocked the road in Kaduna state, denying the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Tukur Buratai and his convoy passage, while on official duty, when he was en-route to a military ceremony in the city of Zaria. Hundreds of armed members of the group barricaded General Buratai’s way, brandishing clubs and chanting Allahu Akbar (God is great), on the flimsy excuse that their leader was to use the same public road at about that time. What impunity! Even at this incident, the incensed IMN members cracked the trouble first.

They ignored warnings to disperse, then started pelting the convoy of the Chief of Army Staff with dangerous objects. The troops responsible for the Army Chief’s safety had to protect him by clearing the barricades forcefully, but did so in accordance with the Army’s rules of engagement and code of conduct. If a group who claims to be a peaceful religious can go to the extent of blocking and attacking the convoy of COAS of the country, then there is absolutely nobody that the group will be afraid of.

Again the death of a Deputy Police Commissioner, Usman Umar, who was fatally shot, and the many others that were injured in the violent protest by the IMN in Abuja in 2019 is still fresh in our minds. If not for the aggressive and intolerant nature of this group, Precious Owolabi, a youth Corps Member and Channels Television reporter would still be alive. This intolerant group has left a hole in the hearts of the deceased parents and relatives and they will grieve for a lifetime. Nigerians have not forgotten it.

The IMN has no face saving because Nigerians know them as a violent group. What the group fails to understand is that, the movie which they are so much afraid of, has just a fraction of their atrocities to tell Nigerians. The whole world knows about their activities and penchant for violence. Their condemnation and aspersions on the producers and entire cast of the yet-to-be released movie has rather helped to give it the needed publicity. In fact, we are now looking forward to the release date. We are all waiting to watch this movie.

Duniya is a public affairs commentator and wrote from Kaduna.

The National Peace Committee, headed by former Head of State General Abdulsalami Abubakar and Bishop Mathew Hassan Kukah, had yesterday ensured that the candidates of the APC and PDP came together to sign the traditional peace pact in order to ensure peaceful conduct of the governorship election in Edo state come Saturday September 19, 2020.

While the two frontline candidates came together to sign and even hugged themselves to the glare of the watching public, the reality on the ground does not seem to reflect that the election will be peaceful, based on intelligence reports gathered so far from various local government areas and flashpoints in the state it shows that politicians from both parties have armed and contracted political thugs that will carry out violence on the day of the election.

Even though we have noticed the heavy presence of armed policemen across the state I am certain that they will definitely compromise and let politicians have their way because there has been inadequate preparedness for these policemen that have been left to sleep on the streets, buses, trucks or in some cases begging to sleep on corridors of some residents.

A University lecturer at the Kwararafa University, Dr Uzah Thomas, has observed the prevailing security situation in Northeast Nigeria and what has been reported in the media and concluded that efforts of the President Muhammadu Buhari administration and that of the military in dealing with security situation in the region is grossly underreported.

Dr.Thomas who is also the head of Mass Communication Department of the University, said the percentage of progress by the Nigerian military in the fight against terrorism, insurgency and banditry far exceeds what the public has been made aware of.

"What I've seen has opened my eyes to so many things and I must say that President Buhari has lived up to his promise of tackling the security situation in the Northeast," said Dr.Thomas who is on a tour of the Northeast east organized by an international NGO  with some local CSOs to ascertain the return of peace to Northeast Nigeria. 

He said, "Before embarking on this tour, I am one of those who have expressed reservations about any claim to victory by our troops.

"This is because the reports and comments on both the mainstream and social media on the fight against terrorism and banditry, have not been sufficient to convince me that the progress is being made."

He said the under reportage could be as a result of two things: "either the military has not been blowing its horns enough or the press has refused to do the needful by putting the right and sufficient information across to the general public." 

Dr. Thomas said either way, the low level media coverage is not fair to the military which have given everything including their lives to secure and defend the country. 

"These are men and officers who have given up everything; their comfort, families and even lives to be at the battlefield, yet we have not shown appreciation by projecting the right image of what they are doing at the battlefield," he said.

The University Don said going by what he has seen in the tour of the Northeast, media houses should have in addition to on the spot reports,  written copious editorials and commentaries to commend the military.

He said in saner climes, apart from reporting what happens at the battlefield, media houses make it a point of duty to support patriotic causes and actions by adopting editorial policies that promotes their troops.

Dr. Uzah said he expects no less from the Nigerian press who are aware of the level of destruction by the Boko Haram in the Northeast before they were defeated by the Nigerian military.

He said the fact that no less than 20 number of local governments across three states of the federation have been recaptured by the military should have inspired copious verses eulogising the military. 

He added that from the point of view of a mass communication expert, it would appear that the terrorists are faring better in the media with their cheoa lies and propaganda. 

"Almost every day you hear that Shekau has either done this or that or that he has released a video clip on YouTube either claiming victory or threatening people.

"But reports about military conquests are done without follow-ups and accompanying features and editorials that would put the stories in their right perspectives.

"This is why many are of the opinion that not much has been achieved by the military despite the huge success recorded in the regard," he said.

Dr. Uzah said he can confirm from the tour that peace has returned to most parts of the Northeast and that majority of the communities hitherto living under the threat of terrorists are now living in peace. 

The Don pleaded with pressmen and online journalists to shed more light on the President’s achievements in the six states in the Northeast. 

"I encourage to embark on similar tours to see things for themselves and confirm how roads, markets, worship centres and schools have been reopened," he stated .

He said despite pockets of attacks on soft targets in some parts of Borno State, there are overwhelming evidence that President Buhari has done tremendously well in securing the Northeast. 

Dr. Thomas said if the people of the Northeast want the military to consolidate on its feat so far, they also need to contribute.

He said, "Boko Haram will be a thing of the past if the stakeholders in that area avail themselves of the strategies in other areas.

"These include cooperating with the military and giving the necessary information as well as encouraging the political leaders to engage the youths in productive ventures."

He was full of commendation to the NGOs for initiating the tour saying they have set an agenda for the media.

*CSOs commend FG, for resettlement of IDPs after Boko Haram crisis*

Following an end to Boko Haram hostilities and restoration of peace in Gombe State, the Federal Government and the state government have been applauded for resettling Internal Displaced Persons (IDPs) back to their communities. 

The Global Amnesty Watch (GAW) gave this commendation in a communique at the end of its assessment tour round the state alongside local civil society groups. 

In the communique signed by its team leader, Terrence Kuanum and released on Monday, GAW rated the state government high in its efforts to complement the successful clearance operation of the military. 

Gombe was at the thick of things during the peak of the Boko Haram crisis between 2013 and 2014, with hundreds killed and thousands rendered homeless.

In December 2014, a bus station bombing in Gombe city left more than 27 persons dead and over 60 injured. 

However, the state has witnessed a new lease of life in the last five years. 

The GAW said after transversing the entire state in 14 days, it observed that peace has returned and IDPs are now back to their communities, living normal lives. 

It added that the military through combat operations and surveillance effectively chased away the insurgents and secured the liberated communities. 

The group also showered praises on the state government for swiftly resettling IDPs. 

According to the GAW, the recent donation of land by the state government for the building of army barracks and others such gestures are welcomed. 

The GAW also commended President Muhammadu Buhari's administration for "freeing millions of people from the hands of terrorists and restoring their hope in Nigeria by returning them to their communities".

It added that the " Buhari administration has been a source of blessing to thousands of communities in Gombe State and the media and CSO's should not fail to mention that as a way of encouraging the administration to do more.

GAW, however, suggested the need for global vigilance across the state to sustain the peace. 

It further called on other state governments having similar security challenges to learn from the Gombe.

#Edo2020: You Are Not in the plans of Politicians So Don't Be a Tool in Their Hands.

As the Edo state September 19 Governorship election draws closer politicians have begun to run around the nooks and crannies in other to secure the votes of the people, they are not just going around to solicit for votes alone they are also recruiting those who they may want to use to cause violence on that day while they have completely tucked away their kids.

However, it seems that we never get to learn from our past that we are never in the plans of these politicians as soon as they get into office, in the last few weeks we have heard of incidences of violence in the state that has either led to the loss of lives and properties all because our politicians want to win elections.

The people they use to cause this violence around the states are not ghost they are in our communities they live and eat with us.

Therefore it will be wise to exercise your rights and vote your choice of candidates without any form of inducement or contribution to subvert the will of the people or attempt to cause violence on behalf of politicians that do not have you in their equation.

Benedict Aguele is a new media strategists and wrote this piece from the ancient city of Benin. #EdoDecides2020

*Edo 2020: Flash Polls scores Obaseki 76.3%, Ize-Iyamu 23.7% on CHANNELS TV Guber Debate*

*_…respondents rank Obaseki higher on elocution, firm grasp of development issues rubrics_*

Shortly after the CHANNELS Television Governorship Debate which featured candidates of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Mr. Godwin Obaseki and Osagie Ize-Iyamu of the All Progressives Congress (APC), on Sunday night, the result just received from Flash Poller, an international pollster, shows Obaseki garnered 76.3 per cent of the positive votes while APC’s Ize-Iyamu scored 23.7 per cent.

The viewers who were sampled randomly by Flash Poller, noted that the Edo State Governor and standard bearer of the PDP, demonstrated a firm understanding of development issues, namely; resource mobilisation, partnership with development actors such as the World Bank and his high premium on due process, transparency and the rule of law.

Some participants linked Obaseki’s outstanding performance in the area highlighted above, to his vast experience in the corporate world, his finance background, his eight-year job as head of the Economic Management Team in the state and his four years as governor of the state.

“From Obaseki’s presentation, it is glaring that he understands modern tools of development and governance, such as the effective deployment of Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) and strategic partnership with the private sector, traditional institution and other development actors,” a viewer of the CHANNELS TV Debate, and poll respondent, told Flash Poller.

However, Ize-Iyamu’s 23.7 per cent votes came on the back of his perceived ability to galvanise the political class, given his longer history in partisan politics. But the viewers surveyed said they wouldn’t know how this affinity with the political class would translate to enhanced socio-economic status for majority of Edo people.

Specifically, the sampled population for the poll scored Obaseki higher than the APC candidate in elocution, presentation, comportment, appreciation of issues, use of rebuttal, use of argument, factuality and comportment, amongst other rubrics, with an average score of 7 to 3, in favour of the PDP candidate.

Ize-Iyamu lost points when the viewers surveyed expressed higher readiness to entrust the state’s resources in the hands of the PDP candidate, as according to them “Ize-Iyamu failed to acknowledge some achievements of the Obaseki-led administration, such as education reforms; projects like the Ossiomo Independent Power Plant and the Edo Modular Refinery, which are on ground in the state.”

The respondents added: “In a debate of this nature, debaters score higher when they are honest. Ize-Iyamu should have acknowledged those achievements of Obaseki. Failure to do that means he is not truthful and cannot be trusted by viewers. You must be seen to be trustworthy. He was in a hurry to outshine and outdo Obaseki, so he thought debate is about plenty talk to discredit or rubbish your opponent.”

The debate grading or scoring rubrics used in the survey, included; presentation, comportment, appreciation of issues, use of rebuttal, use of argument, factuality, mutual respect, questions for opponent; elocution and use of time.

Flash Polls, according to Barometr.com, “are a type of survey designed to quickly reach a target audience with a time-sensitive goal. They can take on a variety of forms and are popular in many sectors. Although used frequently during political campaigns, flash polls are common across all sectors.
“Most flash polls are based on pre-built templates. This allows them to be deployed rapidly in response to an event or major topic. Due to their limited time-frame, they rely heavily on statistical inference to make up for a limited sample size.”

The population of the surveyed group comprised people located in Edo State and other parts of the world, who watched the CHANNELS TV Governorship Debate, and are very familiar with the issues surrounding the Edo gubernatorial election.

By: Michael Ovienmhada

We have seven days to go until elections are held in my beloved Edo State, home to a long history of a great people and great Kings who by sheer brute strength and wisdom grew a small city into a large empire stretching through the entire present day Yoruba land, except for Ijebu kingdom through Dahomey and Togo to present day Southern Ghana. Think about this for a moment— where did the name Osagyefoh Nkrumah —- come from? —- Osagie. Where did Dahomey come from?—— Isidahomen. Our peoples have never bowed down to any Empire—- at least, they never did, until the British Empire appeared in the horizon with gunpowder, Bayonets and huge canons with capacity to inflict much casualty. A people are a microcosm of their past and present and future. The core of the character of a people never really changes. It is inscribed in the DNA of its people.

It is in this light we must see the recent award given to Captain Hosa by Forbes Africa. It is instructive to note that there are over 1.3 billion people on the African continent stretching from Cape Coast to Algiers. To be singled out as worthy of honor is a great feat worthy of celebration by one’s own people. Instead, what do we have?

How true resonates the timeless words of the all time Lion of the Tribe of Judah, King of glory, when He said —- a prophet is never without honor except in his own country and among his own people.

As Captain Hosa Okunbo is being honored by foreigners who have seen and have evaluated him to be the kind of man who needed to be allowed to shine that he may shine the light on the coming generations —that they too can do it—- we have his home State government actually maligning him and pulling down industrial structures he has built over thirty years in business on the altar of political expediency.

This brings my mind to a larger Nigerian problem where individuals who are not schooled in the intricacies and complexities of power over a State or country are handed the task of governing a people. In Edo State, according to the last population census, there are 4.2 million inhabitants. What this means is that a man charged with the responsibility over such a great number of people must first of all recognize that there are 4.2 million individual opinions that will be expressed everyday and all of these 4.2 million opinions are guaranteed by the Constitution of the Federal Republic. These opinions are expressed not because any of these individuals hate the governor but because they are breathing and moving entities each of whom is a Stakeholder in the overall well-being of the State. Only a man who is not prepared for power would say over and over—- As the Executive Governor of Edo State—- as the Chief Security officer of the State—- as the number one citizen of the State—- (who dey follow you strungle)?

Let the imposition of Obaseki as Governor in 2016, be a lesson to all of us in how not to choose a successor. We must have a process that allows people come forward to speak freely to a man’s character before we give such a man responsibility over millions of lives.

It beats my mind why anyone who is already governor would still feel so small-minded enough to want to remind us that he is governor. As the governor makes one unforced error after another every single day, I just wonder. The other day at the Palace, as the world watched in real time, Obaseki had a chance to seize the moment but clearly, as the saying goes—- if you don’t ‘garrit,’ you don’t ‘garrit.’ Governor Godwin Obaseki simply does not ‘garrit.’ As he took that microphone, he could have spoken differently—like—- Your Royal Majesty, May the God of heaven establish you on the throne of your fathers and establish your generations forever. You have spoken well. I have heard your admonition very clearly. This matter ends today. Oshiomhole is my political father. Osagie Ize-Iyamu is my younger brother———-and there would have been no further contestation for Osadebey House. Godwin. Nogheghase Obaseki does not ‘garrit.’

There is a stuff, a cloth from which great men are cut. When you look at the list of things Captain Hosa has been involved in and the number of successes he has recorded, you must doff your hat for this ‘Okunrin meta.’ I should know. I started business in 1978 long before he made his first investment in anything. He is older by one year and three days. We share a common history of evolution. Most of all, we share a certain level of courage that you only find in men who have walked where Lions fear to tread. I am talking about real ‘Elephant’ men. Hosa is an Elephant man. He creates a road in the forest. We have a saying in Esan—- (Egie Eni mu uhomo ee olè odé). I have great admiration for men of courage. This is why it would be an honor for me to meet him. I congratulate you, Captain Hosa on the occasion of this award from Forbes.

As Governor, a man like that should be your friend. You need him. He does not need you. As Governor, Hosa should be at your Sunday lunch at Osadebey House every Sunday. Imagine if Hosa brings ten billionaires to Edo State in the course of your 4-year administration, you would have started an industrial revolution in Edo State.

It is sad that as the world honors Captain Hosa, the Governor of his State works up a frenzy to sponsor a new article to demand that Okunbo should disclose identities of 3000 Niger Delta militants who work for him as security personnel for Pipeline protection in the creeks of the Niger Delta. Captain Hosa is not a candidate for election in Edo State. Oshiomhole is not a candidate for election in Edo State. The Obaseki propaganda machine has run its course. The day of reckoning is a mere 8 days away. One thing is clear. When the smoke clears and the thunder abates, only one man will be standing next week Saturday.

Only the man who ‘garrit’ will be standing for only one big reason. The man who ‘garrit’ knows one thing. You don’t fight City Hall.

Michael Ovienmhada.
Farmer, Author, Playwright, Poet and Public Affairs Commentator. I write because I am involved.
Email: omeekey@hotmail.com.

Prince Emmanuel Odigie has congratulated the chairman and Chief Executive Officer Ocean Marine Solutions Ltd Captain Hosa Wells, Okunbo on the occasion of his Forbes best of Africa award for his work in connecting Africa to the world.

Prince Emmanuel Odigie in a statement in Benin City, said the award on the business mogul and philanthropist is a testament to his immense contribution to the society, and one that is well deserved he encouraged other well meaning Nigerians and Edolite to follow in the footsteps of Captain Hosaosa Wells Okunbo so as to make our society, nation a better place.

He also commended the organizers of the award for finding Captain Hosa Wells Okunbo worthy of the award saying there are still organization who can recognize those who truly are contributing their quota even at a time the world is facing great challenges.

Sir. You are a shining star, Edo's finest and pride. May God Almighty continue to strengthen you, perfect your health, favour and bless you richly.
Congratulations sir.