₦airaland Forum

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QHYgnicU23M

While President Tinubu promises reforms, insiders allege his own inner circle is undermining everything.

Share! Comment! Expose the corruption!

Welcome to the ultimate guide for presidential aides looking to navigate the murky waters of regulatory relationships! If you’ve ever wondered how to turn those formal meetings with regulatory agencies into opportunities for personal gain, you’re in the right place. Let’s dive into some tips inspired by the alleged antics of a senior government aide in Nigeria.

1. Bribe Your Way to the Top
First and foremost, if you want to truly control regulatory agencies, consider a little “incentive” for key decision-makers. Just bribe them to get your people appointed to sensitive positions—especially at the helm of these agencies. This will put them firmly in your pocket. Your interests will be prioritized, and your directives will be followed without question. If this seems too risky or complicated, don’t worry; there are plenty of other strategies to explore.

2. Build Rapport with a Smile (and a Few Promises)
Charm is your best friend. When meeting with officials from regulatory agencies, greet them with a warm smile and a firm handshake. Compliment their latest initiatives—however questionable they may be. A little flattery can go a long way in building rapport. Remember, it’s all about making them feel important while subtly hinting that you might have some influence over their future projects.

Once you’ve established a friendly connection, it’s time to discuss “mutual benefits.” Casually mention how your position could help them achieve their goals—like securing funding or meeting with the oga at the top, if they’re willing to play by a different set of rules. After all, who wouldn’t want a little extra support from the top?

3. Create an “Us vs. Them” Mentality
To solidify your influence, foster an “us vs. them” mentality between the agency and the companies you wish to intimidate. Frame it as a battle for fairness in the industry—after all, you’re just trying to protect the little guy! This tactic not only distracts from your ulterior motives but also paints you as a champion of justice.

4. Use Regulatory Power as Leverage
Now that you’ve built a solid foundation, it's time to get serious. Use your connections to regulatory agencies as leverage against companies that don’t play ball. A well-timed inspection or an unexpected audit can send a clear message: comply with your demands or face the consequences. Just remember to keep it subtle; overt threats can backfire.

5. Engage in Strategic Partnerships
Consider forming strategic partnerships with key players within these regulatory bodies. By placing allies in influential positions, you can ensure that decisions favor your interests. It’s all about creating a network of support that can be relied upon whenever you need a favor—or when you need to put pressure on those pesky companies.

6. Craft Your Narrative
When things get dicey, make sure to control the narrative. Use your connections in media and public relations to spin any negative press into a story about how you're simply enforcing regulations for the greater good. The more you can paint yourself as the hero in this saga, the less scrutiny you'll face.

7. Stay One Step Ahead
Finally, always be prepared for backlash. Keep an ear to the ground for any whispers of dissent or investigations into your activities. If necessary, use your connections within regulatory agencies to quash any inquiries before they gain traction. Remember, it’s not just about making friends; it’s about staying untouchable.


So there you have it, a foolproof guide to help you navigate the world of colonizing regulatory agencies in Nigeria while keeping ethical considerations at bay (or entirely out of sight).

The integrity of regulatory agencies in Nigeria is under scrutiny, particularly in light of recent high-profile cases involving major corporations and allegations of misconduct by government officials. There is a growing sense amongst stakeholders that regulatory decisions are being influenced by personal or political interests rather than objective assessments.

To highlight this issue, let us examine two separate matters that are currently in the public sphere.


British American Tobacco (BAT) Fine
In December 2023, the FCCPC imposed a record $110 million fine on British American Tobacco Nigeria Limited for abusing its market dominance. The investigation, which began in 2020, revealed that BAT engaged in anti-competitive practices, including penalizing retailers for promoting competitors' products.

There are allegations that the agency's decision to fine BAT was not entirely about regulation but the handiwork of some powerful people in government who want to frustrate and bully major companies until they accede to their unholy requests or in the event that they refuse, the companies get kicked out of the market.


Dangote Refinery Issues
The controversies surrounding Dangote Refinery also contribute to the narrative of compromised regulatory oversight. Following an accusation by Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), Dangote countered by proving that Dangote’s Euro 5 diesel contains less than 10 parts per million (ppm) of sulfur, significantly lower than many imported alternatives. Dangote’s claim was supported by tests conducted during a visit from lawmakers, which revealed lower sulfur levels compared to other locally available fuels.

However, from that investigation we also learnt about the alleged unregulated issuance of licenses and the lack of internationally accredited laboratories for testing fuel quality in the country by Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA).

Now the question is if NMDPRA does not have the capacity to test fuel quality in Nigeria, how then did they arrive at the conclusion that Dangote Refinery’s quality of products is "significantly inferior" to imported alternatives?

Your guess is as good as mine. Little wonder why some stakeholders say that it was all a witch hunt by NMDPRA.


Implications for The Business Community

The perceived compromise of regulatory agencies has significant implications.

First, if investors believe that regulatory bodies are ineffective or corrupt, they may be hesitant to invest in Nigeria's markets, stunting economic growth.

Secondly, it negatively impacts market integrity. Companies engaging in unethical practices may gain an unfair advantage over compliant businesses, leading to a distorted market environment.

Another challenge is with consumer protection. A weakened regulatory framework can jeopardize consumer rights, exposing them to substandard products and services.

To conclude, the integrity of Nigeria's regulatory agencies is indeed at a crossroads. While recent actions like the hefty fine against BAT signal a commitment to enforcing laws, ongoing allegations of corruption and mismanagement raise serious concerns about their ability to operate impartially.

Restoring public trust will require robust reforms aimed at enhancing transparency, accountability, and independence within these institutions. Only through such measures can Nigeria hope to foster a fair business environment conducive to growth and consumer protection.

Want to learn how to effectively drive away foreign investors and systematically destabilize your economy? Look no further than Nigeria. Here's your step-by-step guide to achieving economic chaos with remarkable efficiency.

Step 1: Create a Currency Crisis
First, ensure your currency becomes increasingly unpredictable. The naira's free fall from ₦350 to nearly ₦1,740 against the dollar shows impressive commitment to this goal. Bonus points for maintaining multiple exchange rates that confuse even seasoned forex traders.

Step 2: Perfect the Art of Policy Somersaults
Make sure to announce major economic policies without warning. Remember Nigeria's sudden currency redesign? Nothing says "we're unpredictable" quite like forcing businesses to scramble overnight. For extra impact, reverse these policies just as companies start adapting.

Step 3: Master the Multiple Taxation Technique
Why have one tax when you can have dozens? Follow Nigeria's example by ensuring businesses face a delightful maze of federal, state, and local government levies. Watch multinational companies squirm as they navigate through different taxes and levies.
Sprinkle a little spice on that by appointing friends and family into key offices as ministers and aides, and allowing them to play tinko tinko with economic sectors and employers of labour. Bullying them for personal gain.

Step 4: Regulatory Roulette
Create a thrilling environment where regulators compete to outdo each other in fining companies. Take inspiration from Nigeria's telecommunications sector, where a single company can receive multiple fines and petitions from different regulators for same or related BOGUS “offense”.

Step 5: Infrastructure? Who Needs It!
Ensure businesses spend fortunes on basic utilities. Let them buy generators, drill boreholes, and build roads to their factories. Let them spend billions on infrastructure and then allow disputes with local regulators to cripple them while you allow your aides to grind them for a piece of the already made pie. Nothing says "unwelcome" quite like making companies build their own infrastructure while still paying taxes for nonexistent public service.

Step 6: The Waiting Game
Perfect the art of bureaucratic delays. Need a permit? That's a 6-12 month wait. Want to repatriate profits? Join the queue. The earlier case of Nigeria's foreign airlines' trapped funds situation provides an excellent case study in how to keep investor money hostage.

The Results
If you've followed these steps correctly, you should see:

• Major employers threatening to exit your market
• A dramatic drop in foreign investment
• Rising unemployment
• Skyrocketing inflation
• A massive exodus of workforce - afterall anywhere is better than home

Remember, the key to success is consistency. Keep these actions in place long enough, and you'll successfully turn economic potential into economic paralysis.

Ask an average young person in Nigeria and they will tell you it’s time for young Nigerians to take over leadership. They will ask why we have a President that is close to 80. And complain about his predecessor being a septuagenarian too. Or has Aso Rock become an old people’s home?

They will say the old guys are old and corrupt so they should make way for the youth.

Ah, the youth! The bright, ambitious leaders of tomorrow, ready to usher in a new era of governance.

But what happens when those young leaders turn out to be just as corrupt as their predecessors? ALLEGEDLY o.

From what we have seen so far, it’s looking like the arrival of young Nigerians in government might not be the breath of fresh air we were hoping for.

Instead, we find ourselves grappling with a new generation of leaders who are proving to be just as adept at corruption and abuse of power as the old guard.

You don’t believe me, well I come bearing good tidings.


Kogi State’s Former Governor: A Case Study in ALLEGED Youthful Corruption.

Take, for instance, the former governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello. This young leader was once hailed as a beacon of hope for the youth but has since become a poster child for corruption. Alleged corruption please.

The EFCC has filed fresh corruption charges against him, accusing him of dishonestly diverting over N110 billion from the Kogi State treasury during his eight years in office.

By the way, Bello’s legal troubles have been nothing short of dramatic. Remember when He shunned court summons and the failed arrest attempt by EFCC operatives at the Kogi State Government Lodge? Nigeria is a “season film”…LOL

The saga (or series) continues as Yahaya continues his battle against EFCC.



The Ousted Ministers: Humanitarian Affairs Gone Awry

Let’s not forget the ousted ministers of humanitarian affairs, Sadiya Farouq and Dr. Betta Edu (who just turned 38—happy birthday!). I believe there is one more but I can’t remember her name now.

Anyways, these two ladies were supposed to be champions of social welfare but ended up embroiled in scandals that would make even seasoned politicians blush.

Can you imagine being accused of stealing (sorry misappropriating) the money you received to care for the most vulnerable people in our society?

Instead of uplifting the vulnerable, these two women seemed more interested in lining their own pockets. ALLEGEDLY.



A Presidential Aide: Networking 101

And then there’s an infamous presidential aide I’ve been hearing rumors about, whose networking skills could rival those of a seasoned con artist. This individual has ALLEGEDLY been accused of using regulatory agencies not to foster fair business practices but to intimidate companies into submission. Bad guy!

If there’s one thing this aide has proven, it’s that youth doesn’t necessarily equate to integrity or ethical governance. Instead, it appears to be an opportunity to exploit power for personal gain.

Anyways, I hope I have been able to convince and not to confuse you that being young does not mean people have the integrity to govern or lead. While we may have hoped that young people in government would bring about positive change, it appears that many are merely there to use their positions for personal gain rather than public service. ALLEGEDLY!

The recent video of Honorable Alex Ikwechegh slapping an Uber driver isn't just about one politician losing his temper. It's a symptom of a deeper problem that plagues Nigeria's leadership - the abuse of power, whether on the streets or in the corridors of power.

Consider two recent stories that show how power corrupts at different levels:

In one instance, we have a young parliamentarian, Alex Ikwechegh, who couldn't handle a simple request from an Uber driver to collect his delivery, responding with physical violence and threats.

In another, we see allegations of a high-ranking government officials reportedly using government agencies to bully private companies out of the market for personal gain.

Different scales, same story.

 

The pattern is troublingly similar:

- Position of authority? Check.

- Abuse of that authority? Check.

- Intimidation of ordinary citizens or businesses? Check.

- Personal gain over public service? Check.

 

While Ikwechegh flexed his muscles on the streets of Abuja, we have seen recent reports of a presidential aide allegedly flexing his regulatory muscle behind the scenes at the highest levels of power.

The Uber driver faced physical intimidation; companies face government harassment.

Different tactics, same playbook.

 

The presidential aide reportedly uses multiple government agencies - from consumer protection to telecommunications regulators - to pressure companies like BAT, MultiChoice, and others. Similarly, Ikwechegh used his position as a federal lawmaker to intimidate a service worker.

Both cases show how power meant for public service becomes a tool for personal agenda.

 

What's particularly concerning is the pattern of intimidation. Just as the Uber driver was reportedly threatened for doing his job, companies are allegedly being pressured to either pay up or make way for competitors connected to those in power.

The scale might be different - one involves a single citizen, the other involves billion-dollar corporations - but the principle remains the same: abuse of power for personal benefit.

This creates a dangerous precedent. When a member of parliament can openly assault a citizen, and a presidential aide can allegedly manipulate entire markets without consequences, it sends a clear message: in Nigeria, power trumps law.

 

The solution? Nigeria needs leaders should view power as a responsibility, not a privilege. We need:

- Stronger accountability systems

- Public oversight of regulatory decisions

- Protection for whistleblowers

- Regular audits of regulatory actions

- Transparent investigation of power abuse claims


Whether it's a slap on the street or market manipulation in boardrooms, abuse of power threatens Nigeria's development.

Until we address this culture of impunity, we'll keep seeing different versions of the same story - those with power using it to bully those without it.

As Nigerians, we need to pay attention to what is going on with this Dangote refinery.

We may think it does not concern us but it does.

You don't even have to like him but he's the largest private employer of labour in this country. He employs more people than all the state govts.

And e be like say no be only Dangote dey feel the pressure from these Abuja boys.

Last year december, British American Tobacco was fined $110 million over very flimsy accusations.

Just this July Meta was fined $220 million.

There is also the Binance matter. What came out of it? Nothing. After all the drama and embarassment.

Many of the big companies are facing the same issue, allegedly, and they just can’t speak out like Dangote and his friend Otedola.

It's looking like Some people in this government are frustrating private companies for their personal gains and no one is talking

Companies are cutting jobs and sending staff home; small businesses are dying and everyone dey feel am.

Should our government not be looking for how to support these companies instead of to dey harass dem?

By the time these Abuja boys are done with this country, nothing will be left.

We can't continue like this.

https://punchng.com/full-list-firms-that-left-nigeria-from-2020-to-2024-over-economic-challenges/

Dear Honorable Minister Bosun Tijani,

I hope this letter finds you well. As the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, your leadership has been instrumental in advancing Nigeria’s digital landscape through various initiatives aimed at enhancing connectivity and fostering innovation.

Your ambitious goal of achieving 70% digital literacy by 2027, along with projects like the $2 billion Fiber Fund, the Broadband Alliance, and the 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) program — a critical part of the Renewed Hope agenda — are commendable steps toward bridging the connectivity gap across urban and rural areas.


However, I must bring to your attention a pressing issue that threatens to undermine these efforts.


Recent reports in the media indicate that certain high-ranking people in this government are allegedly manipulating and forcing regulatory agencies like the ones in charge of communications, information technology development, and data protection to intimidate and harass companies in telecommunications, technology, and related services.

If this is true, and such an act continues, this behavior not only jeopardizes the integrity of your ministry but also poses a significant risk to the stability of Nigeria’s economy.

In this context, protecting companies from undue harassment is essential for fostering economic resilience and ensuring that investments translate into jobs and opportunities for Nigerians.


The telecommunications sector is particularly vital for driving innovation and connectivity across all sectors of the economy.

Minister Tijani, your leadership is crucial in safeguarding the integrity of regulatory agencies. I urge you to take a firm stance against these practices. Ensuring that these agencies operate free from political interference will not only protect businesses but also restore trust among stakeholders in the telecommunications sector.

Moreover, your initiatives—such as expanding broadband access through the Fiber Fund and enhancing existing infrastructure via the Broadband Alliance—are critical for creating an environment where innovation can thrive. By reinforcing these efforts with a commitment to ethical governance, you can help ensure that Nigeria’s digital economy flourishes without being hindered by internal sabotage.

The stakes are high, and your role is pivotal in shaping a conducive environment for innovation and growth. By standing firm against misuse of power within your ministry, you can help ensure that Nigeria’s economic recovery is both robust and sustainable.

I trust that you will rise to this challenge with integrity and determination.


Adeola Adepoju


credit: https://pmexpressng.com/opinion-open-letter-to-bosun-tijani-hon-minister-of-communications-innovation-and-digital-economy/

Every administration has a key power broker.

Abba Kyari was the most powerful man during Buhari's tenure.

Now the question is who is the Abba Kyari of President Tinubu's administration. See the top six power brokers in the video.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-wckdUGauD0?si=Ab7yeflq9M4hWqgM

Dear Dr. Jumoke Oduwole,

Congratulations on your nomination as Nigeria’s Minister of Industry, Trade and Investments.

Your impressive background as an academic, advisor, and former Special Adviser on Ease of Doing Business as well as your recent stint as Senior Special Assistant to the President on Industry, Trade & Investment in the Office of the Vice President undoubtedly equips you with valuable insights for this crucial role.

However, as you prepare to take office upon confirmation, I feel compelled to bring to your attention some pressing concerns that could significantly impact your ability to fulfil your mandate.

Dr. Oduwole, you are stepping into this ministry at a critical juncture. Nigeria desperately needs increased investment, industrial growth, and expanded trade to drive economic development. Yet, the path ahead is fraught with challenges that extend beyond mere policy implementation.

Of particular concern are the allegations surrounding the misuse of regulatory agencies for personal gain. Reports suggest that certain government officials have been exploiting bodies like the main consumer protection agency in the country, the regulator in charge of information technology development, the regulator for telecommunications, the data protection agency, and the anti-corruption agency among others to harass and frustrate companies operating in Nigeria.

This behavior not only undermines the ease of doing business but also erodes investor confidence – the very things you’ve worked so hard to improve in your previous roles.

I urge you to remain vigilant against attempts to manipulate regulatory frameworks for personal benefit. There are troubling claims of a high-ranking government aide, closely connected to the presidency, using their influence to:

- Push businesses out of the market to create opportunities for personal ventures
- Rewrite regulations to target specific companies
- Install allies in key positions within regulatory bodies

These actions, if true, represent a form of state capture that could severely hamper your efforts to attract investment and boost industry. The exit of multinational corporations, the shuttering of local businesses, and a decline in foreign direct investment have already created a precarious economic environment. Systemic corruption, cronyism, and nepotism only serve to exacerbate these issues.

Dr. Oduwole, your success in this role will depend on your ability to navigate this complex web of political and economic interests. You must establish clear boundaries between regulatory agencies and political influence, implement transparent processes for regulatory decisions and enforcement actions, and collaborate with stakeholders to create a more predictable and fair business environment.

Reining in regulatory over-reach, particularly from agencies like the consumer protection agency, the regulator in charge of information technology development, the regulator for telecommunications, the data protection agency, and the anti-corruption agency among others, will be crucial. These bodies must be redirected to serve their intended purpose of fostering fair competition and protecting consumers, rather than being used as tools for personal or political agendas.

The task ahead is monumental, but with your experience and expertise, you have the potential to make a significant positive impact on Nigeria’s economic landscape. Your ability to address these deep-rooted issues while promoting industry, trade, and investment will be closely watched by both domestic and international observers.

Dr. Oduwole, as you take on this new role, I implore you to stand firm against the forces that would seek to undermine Nigeria’s economic progress for personal gain. Your success could mark a turning point for our nation’s economic future.

Wishing you strength, wisdom, and courage in your new role. Sincerely.

*Zacheous Arelu writes from Abuja

The U.S. on Thursday deployed a plane outfitted with medical supplies to retrieve Tigran Gambaryan, an executive of Binance Holdings Limited, from Nigeria.

According to The New York Times, Gambaryan left the country after the Federal Government dropped money laundering charges against him.

The FG on Wednesday withdrew the money laundering charge filed against the detained Binance Holdings Limited’s executive, Tigran Gambaryan, due to his ill health and diplomatic intervention.

Gambaryan has been detained since February due to a government crackdown on the exchange for alleged manipulation of the naira. Alongside him, Binance regional manager Nadeem Anjarwalla was also detained.

In March, Anjarwalla managed to flee from the custody of the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), leaving Gambaryan to deal with the charges alone.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken stated that Gambaryan’s release reflects the commitment of both countries to collaborate effectively.

The statement reads: “The United States thanks the Government of Nigeria for releasing U.S. citizen Tigran Gambaryan on medical grounds, allowing him to return to the United States to receive the specialized medical care he requires.

“This positive outcome demonstrates the strength of the U.S.-Nigeria partnership and highlights our shared commitment to working together to advance our common interests. Our close law enforcement cooperation remains a cornerstone of our bilateral relationship, and the United States is committed to working closely with the Government of Nigeria to address mutual concerns and prioritize the safety and well-being of our citizens.”

Similarly, Jake Sullivan, the national security advisor at The White House, expressed that they were “pleased” to have facilitated Gambaryan’s release.

“I am pleased that American citizen and former U.S. law enforcement official Tigran Gambaryan has been released on humanitarian grounds by the Nigerian Government and is on his way back to the United States so that he can receive needed medical attention,” the statement reads.

“As soon as we secured Mr. Gambaryan’s release, I called his wife Yuki to share this good news. I am grateful to my Nigerian colleagues and partners for the productive discussions that have resulted in this step and look forward to working closely with them on the many areas of cooperation and collaboration critical to the bilateral partnership between our two countries.”

credit: https://www.vanguardngr.com/2024/10/how-us-sent-aircraft-with-medical-equipment-to-evacuate-binance-executive-gambaryan-from-nigeria-report/

Before Abba Kyari died on 17th April 2020 after suffering from covid-19, he was the most powerful man in Buhari’s government.


He was Chief of Staff, trusted adviser and close friend of President Buhari. He was so feared and influential that everyone believed he was the most powerful person around the president and that most of the decisions Nigerians were seeing required Kyari’s approval.


No one took his place fully after he died and it has been said it was even impossible to fill his shoes or play the role he played for the president.


Now that President Tinubu’s government is nearing two years, it is already being speculated that even though the government is in factions and seeing many power blocs at play, there are a few people who have power and influence and are using it to the maximum.



FEMI GBAJABIAMILA

Femi Gbajabiamila, the Chief of Staff to the president who was elected a sixth time as federal lawmaker after having served as Speaker of the Federal House of Representatives from 2019, but chose to accept the invitation of his mentor to become CoS.

It is being said that ministers, CEOs, foreign government representatives, state governors etc have to be in his good books if they want to get everything done.

Ministers have been alleged to get undesirable portfolios because they wronged him for example while some are blocked from getting anything done or accessing the president because Gbajabiamila does not want it to happen.



IDRIS ALUBANKUDI SALIU

Idris Alubankudi Saliu a special adviser to the president who joined the government from the private sector has become so powerful that there are strong but yet-to-be-verified allegations that he single-handedly secured the position of many of the key heads of agencies and parastatals.

And it is possible, as is being alleged, that he is clear about how to use his influence and power; and how to channel those he puts in positions to do what he and his associates want. Whether this is in the interest of Nigeria, or that of individuals is another matter entirely.



SEYI TINUBU


Seyi Tinubu, the president’s son has his own office, and unrestricted access, and has become a crucial power broker, intermediary and influencer for anyone interested in getting anything done in Abuja.

Before his father became president he ran an out of home advertising company, did a lot of charity, and socialised with celebrities and pop culture figures.

These days he is working behind the scenes to support his father (who trusts him enormously), to weed out disloyal associates, and to build a fortress that protects and defends the president and his activities.

It is possible that others who wield massive power and influence in this government would go out of favour if the president’s son stops picking their calls.



OLUREMI TINUBU

Oluremi Tinubu, the president's devoted and loyal wife has been a 3-term senator, is rumoured to have eyed the governorship of Lagos, and has expectedly settled into her role as the fixer of fixers. Using a modus operandi totally different from Aisha Buhari, the Dubai-loving wife of the immediate past president, Oluremi is working from Lagos and Abuja, and helping unknot difficult issues while building out her own base of loyalists and supporters.



CARBI B

Cardi B might be to you an American stripper turned Grammy-winning rapper, but to many Nigerians who are fond of nicknaming their leaders, it is Olayemi Cardoso, the governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria who took over a system that had been poorly managed and abused for almost 10 years.

It is so bad that his predecessor, the Aboki-FX-banning Godwin Emefiele has been kept behind bars on and off since June 2023, after he was fired by the President, arrested by the anti-corruption agency, and charged to court.

Whilst Nigerians are yet to make up their minds whether he has their interest at heart or not, given that most matters of the CBN, be it monetary or fiscal, are technical and difficult to communicate or understand, Cardoso is believed to retain the trust and confidence of the president and his right hand people; has been given a general free hand to run his affairs, is is enormously respected by his peers home and abroad.



HAKEEM MURI-OKUNOLA

Hakeem Muri-Okunola, a potential future governor of Lagos state, and a bonafide student and ‘son’ of president Tinubu, those within public and private sector senior circles understand that HMO, as he is widely known, has access, has trust, and respect of the president’s immediate family and circle and has a perspective that they have come to trust.

He is largely withdrawn from public affairs, being the President’s Principal Secretary, but it will be impossible for any strategy that will have an impact on the government or Nigerians to be adopted without his buy-in.


Who do you think is the most powerful person in this government?