₦airaland Forum

Which study centre is close to Ojodu-Berger, Lagos?

Away from politics and electioneering campaigns for the fast approaching 2019 general elections. The recent onslaughts by the Boko Haram terrorists in the North-East of Nigeria calls for concerns. You will recall that Buhari-led administration claimed to have technically defeated the dreadful sect, sometime in December, 2015. Unfortunately, the group that was said to have been defeated, has once again transformed to a formidable force, with capacity of attacking military base successful, leaving behind a large number of casualties on the part of the Military.


Condolences to the families of all the falling heroes and quick recovery to the injured gallant men. And to all the peace loving people of North-East that have lost their love ones, homes and properties, may the Almighty God console you all and make you recover all what you have lost. Our prayer is with Leah Shuaibu, the Chibok girls and others that are still in the terrorists captivity, may God undertake for you.


Nigerians are tempted to ask, how is it possible for the sect that was claimed to have been defeated, to be able to carry out successful attacks on military formations with heavy casualties? Where have we missed it as a nation? Or what are we not doing right? It is now a known fact that the insurgents are gradually becoming what they used to be prior to 2015.


Lack of intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) has been one of the bane of complete defeat of Boko Haram sect. While it may be argued that Nigeria lack the technological capacity for the required ISR, the nation has not been able to sustain a working relationship with foreign allies that have such technical know-how, and for reasons bordering on human rights abuse and other related issues, the developed world tend not to be forthcoming with such confidential information to Nigeria. There is therefore need for the nation to show a strong commitment to human rights issues, so as to have access to classified information of ISR. Also, the government should develop domestic intelligence gathering capacity, to obtain useful information from the locals. The ISR will give a detail image information of the position and the structure of the insurgents, which will be of great help for the Military for necessary actions.


Another prominent point that can’t be wave aside is the inadequacy of arms and ammunitions to prosecute this war. Despite billions of naira voted for security, it is an open secret that Military high command have been unable to provide soldiers at the war front with weapons and adequate welfare. Recall that gallant men of 21 Brigade in Sambisa forest went on rampage last year for this same reason. As a matter of fact, there is tension within the rank and file of the Military, for possible revolts by soldiers against their superiors, over outdated and inadequate weapon to combat the monster group and good welfare package.


Absence of effective working synergy between the ground troops and the Air Force is another challenge militating against degradation of the dreadful sect, in the North-East. There is what seems like disunity between the ground troops and their Air Force counterparts. One of the obvious reasons for this is that the personnel take instructions from different Commanders. Both Forces ought to work together in a way  to complement each other and carry out coordinated operations against the insurgents.


Owing to weapon inadequacy, lack of ISR and poor synergy between the concerned Land and Air forces, the Military resulted to defensive strategy, as against offensive strategy used prior to 2015 technical defeat claim. Unfortunately, the insurgents have increased their capacity and had lunched successful attacks on military formations of recent. And with heavy number of casualties recorded on the part of the Nigerian Armed Forces, it is expedient that the troops change from defensive to offensive strategy. According to a common saying, the best form of defence is to attack. It is incumbent on the Armed Forces to take the fight to the abode of the dreadful elements.


We do understand that this war is not a conventional war, and that makes it very difficult to fight. But we can only assure the Military of the support of the generality of Nigerians. We hope to see the very end of this insurgency soon. The Federal Republic is greater than Boko Haram insurgency.


https://www.olamilite.com/2018/12/still-on-fight-against-insurgency.html

Ordinarily, the internal affairs of political parties shouldn’t be the business of the generality of the people but that of the card carrying members of such political parties. However, some concerned political gladiators sometimes play victims, thereby appealing to emotions of the populace, and more often than not, a larger fraction of the people are overtaken by the wind of sympathy for such individual/group of individuals. Wherefore, the internal politics of political parties (most especially the major political parties) affects the larger society, directly or otherwise.

It is on this premise that the post primaries rumbles of the ruling All Progressives Party (APC), becomes our concern, so as to be guided appropriate.

What is tearing them apart? Is it the zeal to serve humanity or personal aggrandizement? Recall that some heavy weights within APC fold have been locked in a running battle with the party’s National Chairman, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, who recently took over the mantle of leadership of the party few months ago. He came in with a clamour for party supremacy and discipline. This has alienated him from some APC governors who called all the shots in the party before his emergence.

The APC boss has been fighting hard to stamp his authority on the party, this has put him in the bad book of many party faithful. Some have called for pulling the rug under the formal Labour leader's feet. His encounter with operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) over bribe for ticket allegation and other allegations of financial impropriety raised the stakes. As it stands now, the future of the Edo born politician as the APC boss is clouded with uncertainty, despite the fact that he still enjoys the support of the party’s National Leader, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu and that of the President, Muhammadu Buhari.

Ironically, the arrow heads of anti-Oshiomhole are wrestling for the safety of their individual political investment. They are engrossed in the fight solely to protect their self-centred interest and enthrone themselves as the godfathers of their respective States. The case of Senator Ibikunle Amosun of Ogun State and that of Rochas Okorocha of Imo State come to mind.

Prior to APC primaries, it was reported that Ibikunle Amosun had single-handedly anointed Adekunle Akinlade as his successor and consequently filled all legislative slots for the State. However, his anointed candidate lost to the Oil magnate, Dapo Abiodun in the National Working Committee (NWC) backed primary elections. This development set Amosun on collision course with Oshiomhole-led NWC. On the other hand, Rochas Okorocha's inability to make his son-in-law, Uche Nwosu the flag bearer in Imo State in place of Senator Hope Uzodimma, staged him against APC National Leadership. Also, the crisis in Bauchi, Zamfara, Rivers and Ondo chapters of APC are self interest quest that has noting to do with the masses.

It is therefore expedient that the citizenry should be careful not to be drawn to the battles of emperors, power drunk gladiators and self-centered individuals struggling to out smart one another at any price.


http://www.olamilite.com/2018/11/what-is-tearing-them-apart.html?m=0#more

The stage is almost made ready for the fast approaching 2019 general elections. A good number of political parties would be fielding candidates for the next year Presidential election. But the fight for the Office of the President of Federal Republic of Nigeria will most likely be between two leading contestants: Candidate Muhammadu Buhari of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Candidate Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Who then are Muhammadu Buhari of APC and Atiku Abubakar of PDP?

Muhammadu Buhari was born to a Muslim-Fulani family in December, 1942. He hailed from Daura, the present day Kastina State. While Atiku Abubakar was born to a Muslim-Fulani family in November, 1946. Abubakar hails from Jada in the present day Adamawa State. Both men are in their 70s.

There was a lot of controversy surrounding Candidate Buhari's academic qualification. It is on record that he went to Provincial Secondary School, Kastina. Critics argued that Buhari never sit for School Certificate Examinations, due to his inability to present a certified copy of his certificate. However, in a twist of event, the West African Examination Council (WAEC) presented him Attestation Certificate and Confirmation of his 1961 School Certificate result. He also underwent some Military training home and abroad, of which the US Army War College stands out.

Atiku Abubakar graduated from Adamawa Provincial Secondary School in Yola, where he came out with Grade three WASSCE/GCE certificate in 1965. He gained admission to the School of Hygiene in Kano in 1966 and graduated with a Diploma in 1967. He equally obtained Law Diploma from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria in 1969.

Buhari started his Military career at the age of 19 in 1961, he became a commissioned Officer in 1963, he rose to the rank of Major General before he was forced to step aside by 1985 coup. Candidate Abubakar had a prosperous career in the Nigeria Customs Service for two decades, and rose to the position of Deputy Director ( the then second highest position in the Service). After a successful Military career, candidate Buhari became a farmer while Abubakar went into business after his active service in Nigeria Customs Service.

Candidate Buhari ruled as the Military Governor of the North-Eastern State from August 1, 1975 to February 3, 1976. He was thereafter appointed as the Federal Commissioner (now Minister) for Petroleum and Natural Resources by General Olusegun Obasanjo administration in March 1976. He was a member of the Supreme Military Council from 1978 - 1979. From December 31, 1983 – August 27, 1985, he reigned as the 7th Head of State of Nigeria. During Sani Abacha's reign, Muhammadu Buhari served as the Chairman of the Petroleum Trust Fund.

In 2003, Buhari ran for the Office of the President as the Candidate of the All Nigeria People’s Party (ANPP), and lost to Olusegun Obasanjo of PDP. He tested his popularity again under the platform of ANPP but lost to Umaru Yar'Adua of PDP in 2007. In 2011, he contested against Goodluck Jonathan of PDP under the then newly formed Congress for Progressive Change (CPC), but lost once again at the poll to the Candidate of PDP. However, in 2015 when he took another shot at Presidential bid, after his emergence as the flag bearer of APC, the narrative changed. Candidate Buhari defeated the then incumbent President and Candidate of PDP, Goodluck Jonathan at the poll, as declared by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). Buhari was subsequently sworn-in on May 29, 2015 as the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

On the other hand, Abubakar's first foray into politics was in the early 1980s, he was elected a National Vice-Chairman of the Peoples Front of Nigeria. He equally won a seat to represent his constituency at the 1989 Constituent Assembly, set up to decide a new Constitution for Nigeria. Atiku Abubabar made public his intention to contest for Gongola State governorship election in September, 1990, but shortly after his declaration, Gongola State was broken into two – Adamawa and Taraba States. He won the 1991 Social Democratic Party (SDP) governorship primary election for Adamawa but his candidacy was disqualified by the then Military government. His first shot at Presidency was his 1992 bid for the Presidential primary of the SDP. He came third in the SDP convention primary, he eventually joined force with MKO Abiola to pick the Presidential ticket of the party at the second ballot/run-off.

In 1988, Abubakar contested and won Adamawa State governorship election on the platform of PDP. However, before he could be sworn-in, he was picked as running mate to Olusegun Obasanjo, the then Presidential Candidate of PDP. As fate will have it, Obasanjo-Abubakar ticket won the Presidential election. Atiku Abubakar was thereafter sworn-in as the Vice-President in May, 1999, the position he held till 2007. Abubakar participated in 2007 Presidential election as the Candidate of Action Congress (AC) and came third, behind Umaru Yar'Adua of PDP and Muhammadu Buhari of ANPP. In 2010, Abubakar contested for presidential ticket of PDP alongside with Goodluck Jonathan and Sarah Jubril, but lost the primary to Jonathan. Also, in 2014, he vied for APC presidential ticket with Buhari and three other aspirants but came third at the end of the exercise.

Despite Buhari's self acclaimed integrity and suppose disdain for corruption, 2.8 billion Dollars was allegedly went missing from the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) account under the watch of Buhari as the Chairman. Though the Crude Oil Sales Tribunal of Inquiry commissioned to investigate the missing fund reported that there was no truth in the allegations but acknowledged lapses in the account of NNPC. Some of Buhari's cabinet members equally have unresolved burden of corruption hanging on their respective necks.

Also, Atiku Abubakar has been fingered in a good number of high profile corruption cases such as Jefferson William bribery and money laundering case, Halliburton scam, the Malabu, the Siemens fraud, privatization scandal, power scam etc. A school of thought believes that Abubakar is the face of modern corruption in Nigeria, despite the fact that he has never been convicted by any court of the land.

While Buhari is perceived to be less corrupt, he has been accused of nepotism, indulging corruption and having poor knowledge of economy. Apart from the alleged corruption image of Abubakar, many are of the opinion that, he possesses a better sense of economy, more liberal and more of a nationalist.

Good luck to both Candidates.

http://www.olamilite.com/2018/10/different-sides-of-same-coin.html?m=0

Although the Nigerian Muslim population is predominantly Sunni, there is a fraction of Shia minority, particularly in the Northern Nigeria. The Shia Muslim population is also known as Shiite sect (an abbreviation of “Shiatu Ali” or “followers of Ali”). The Shiites believe in Quran just like the Sunni, but they have differences in religious traditions, customs and practice.

Ibrahim El-Zakzaky, a muslim cleric born in Zaria (who was reported to have been so impressed with the 1979 Iranian Revolution that he travelled to Iran to become a Shia cleric), has been the spiritual leader of Shiite movement in Nigeria. His charismatic sermons drew followers, which prompted the formation of the popular Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN).

The Shiites, under the leadership of Ibrahim El-Zakzaky are synonymous with elaborate processions and festivals, of which no one dared to disturb. They sometimes mount illegal roadblocks and obstruct free flow of traffic. However, on July 25, 2014, the group had a confrontation with the Military, during one of their Pro-Palestinian procession. About 35 followers of El-Zakzaky were shot dead, including three of his sons. The Military claimed soldiers acted in self-defence.

Again, on December 12, 2015, IMN members and convoy of the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant-General Tukur Buratai had what seems to be a confrontation. While IMN claimed that the Military attached unarmed worshipers, the Army accused the sect of blocking the path of the Army Chief, an action interpreted by the Army as an assassination attempt. Over 300 sect members lost their lives, the group’s religious centre known as “Husseiniya” was destroyed and the home of the spiritual leader was also demolished. Unfortunately, three of El-Zakzaky sons were among hundreds of followers that lost their lives in the incident.

While the confrontation last, El-Zakzaky and his wife Zeenah were arrested and kept in secret custody. Despite a Court order by Justice Gabriel Kolawole of Federal High Court, Abuja, demanding his release in December, 2016, the IMN leader remained in secret detention until when the Department of State Security (DSS) was pressured to parade him in January, 2018. About 5 months after his first public appearance since he was arrested, he was arraigned before a Kaduna High Court. The Shia leader was charged with unlawful gathering, criminal conspiracy and culpable homicide.

Members of the IMN have held regular protests to demand for the release of their leader, since December 2015, but recent protests/clashes with the Military calls for concern. One of such incidents occurred at Zuba bridge in Abuja on Saturday, October 27 and another at Karu, a suburb of Abuja on Monday, October 29, 2018. On both encounters, the Military claimed that Shiite protesters waylaid personnel conveying Military equipment and attempted to hijack it before opening fire on the protesters. Regrettably, scores of Shiite protesters lost their lives in the two encounters.

It is hence imperative that the government should be very careful in handling/addressing the issues related to IMN members and their spiritual leader, who is currently in detention; so as not to groom another indigenous terror group, the same way the government turned Boko Haram to a world-class terrorist group.

Recall that the Islamic State of West Africa (ISWA), formally known as Jama'at Ahl as-Sunnah Lid-Da'wah Wa'l-Jihad, and popularly known as Boko Haram, founded by Mohammed Yusuf in 2002, was initially a non violent group. Boko Haram, a Sunni sect increasing radicalization only led to a violent uprising in July, 2009, 7 years after the sect was founded. The arrest of the founder of the group, elevated him to a hero status. And the subsequent extra-judicial killing of Mohammed Yusuf gave way for a more radical leadership of Abubakar Shekau, who transformed the sect to a global terrorist group within a short period of time. Peradventure, if Yusuf was not killed in a questionable circumstance, maybe Boko Haram will still remain an harmless local radical sect.

With the increasing radicalization of the members of IMN, it is expedient that the government tread with caution in handling this fragile issue, to avert a repeat of the creation of another global monster group.

http://www.olamilite.com/2018/11/the-making-of-another-monster-group.html?m=0

semasir:
So sorry... I didn't read through your message. Not sure of anywhere called Coconut house in Badagry but I feel you either mean Agbalata market where its usually shipped from.

From Ojodu-Berger, get Mile 2 bus and then from Mile 2, you'll find the bus going to Badagry and if you're fortunate, you can get one going to Badagry Market but rare. Nonetheless, from Badagry roundabout (the usual last bus stop), get a bike or keke going to Badagry Market.

Many thanks

semasir:
What volume are you looking at?

I am going to Coconut house from Ojodu-Berger

semasir:
Just in case you need to know more or connect to Badagry, please sign up at www.badagryforum.com

Thanks

Please, how can I get to coconut house in badagry from Ojodu-Berger

Recall that the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamadi Kanu was granted bail after 18 months in detention by Justice Binta Nyako. Kanu had flouted all the terms of the bail before Officers and men of Nigerian Military had an encounter with IPOB members in Aba, on September 14, 2017 in what appeared to be military invasion. Several IPOB youths lost their lives in the said incident. However, the whereabouts of the supreme leader of IPOB after the invasion of his residence in Aba remained unknown,e until when he was sighted in Jerusalem on October 19, 2018, after more than 13 months of his disappearance.

While Kanu was away, a lot of controversies surrounded his whereabouts. A school of thought argued that the Nigerian Military kept him in a secret detention, some were of the opinion that he may have been killed, while others opted that he mighty have escape through our porous border to one of our neighboring countries. Kanu’s reappearance in Jerusalem put a stop to long term rumours about his whereabouts.

Now that Nnamdi Kanu is back and Radio Biafra is back online, what is the political consequence of Kanu’s re-emergence for the fast approaching 2019 general elections, specifically the Presidential election?

While a good number of candidates are vying for number one seat of power in Nigeria, the contest is between two leading candidates: Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Muhammadu Buhari of the All Progressives Congress (APC). In the opinion of many political analysts, Candidate Buhari might have block votes in North-East and North-West, Candidate Atiku may mostly have block votes in South-South and South-East, while the North-Central and South-West might be free for all.

However, with the return of Aba born secessionist, the coast is no more clear for blockd votes for Candidate Atiku in the South-East and some parts of South-South. This is because Nnamdi Kanu will awaken the consciousness of the Igbo youths to ‘no referendum, no election’. This will eventually leave the people of the region in a state of indecision and confusion towards 2019 presidential election. This may most likely narrow down the chances of Candidate Atiku. In other word, the secessionists may be playing to the hand of Candidate Buhari of APC unconsciously, thereby indirectly working for his victory at the poll come 2019.

I'm just thinking aloud.

http://www.olamilite.com/2018/10/reappearance-of-nnamdi-kanu-and-its.html?m=0

Akinwumi Ambode was born on June 14, 1963 in Epe, into the family of Mr Festus Akinwale and Mrs Christianah Oluleye Ambode. He attended St. Juda's Primary School, Ebutte Meta, from 1969 – 1974, Federal Government College, Warrior, from 1974-1981, University of Lagos, from 1981-1984, where he studied Accounting. He had Master's degree in Accounting from the same University. He further attended Wharton School of University of Pennsylvania and other world class Institutions.

Ambode became the Assistant Treasurer in Badagry Local Government in 1988. He moved to Shomolu Local Government in 1991 as an Auditor. He later served as Council Treasurer in Alimosho and Shomolu Local Governments. In 2001, he became Auditor General for Local Government, Lagos State, first in acting capacity, before he was subsequently confirmed by the State House of Assembly. In 2005, the Chartered Accountant rose to the position of Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Finance. He eventually became the Accountant General of Lagos State in 2006. His reign as Accountant General made remarkable financial performance.

At the age of 49, and after 27 years in active service, the Epe born Accountant voluntarily retired in 2012. He thereafter founded Brandsmiths Consulting Limited to provide public finance and management consulting service to government at all levels, including agencies and parastatals.

Against the run of play, Akinwumi Ambode won the All Progressives Congress (APC) ticket for Lagos State 2015 governorship election. He eventually defeated his close rival, Jimi Agbaje of Peoples Demcratic Party (PDP), with about 150,000 votes to succeed Babatunde Fashola, as the Executive Governor of the State of Excellence.

Ambode's achievements in the office in the past three and half years as compiled by “The Explains Lagos Initiative” are as follow: backlog payment of #11billion as arrears to retirees of the State government, safety Arena in Oshodi, completion or close to completion of 300 Local Government road projects, reposition of Lagos State Emergency Agency (LASEMA), launched amnesty period for land/property owners to obtain/regularize building permits, commenced construction of 10-lane Oshodi-Murtala Muhammad int'l Airport road, competed palliative repair work on section of Lagos-Badagry Expressway between Eric Moore and Okokomiko.

Also, his administration established Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency (LASCOPA), acquired equipment worth more than #5 billion for State Police Command and Rapid Response Squad, launched the Bus Reform Initiative, launched the “Lagos to the World (#L2W)” global campaign, employed 1300 teachers into Primary education system and free medical services to 700 survivors of domestic and sexual violence, presented #500 million in Grants to 257 Community Development Association, Installed Skywalk Bridge to link Terminal 1 & 2 at Oshodi Bus Terminal, upgraded Alfred Rewane Garden in Ikoyi, established #25 billion Lagos State Employment Trust Fund, commenced development of #49 billion public private partnership Medical Park in Ikoyi, redesigned Lekki-Epe Expressway, and launched Ready-Set-Work.

Others are the launched Lagos State Traffic Information System (LATIS), launched Code Lagos, annual hosting of Lagos City Marathon, received Presidential approval for handover of National Stadium to the Lagos State, upgraded 14 flagship Primary Healthcare centres (PHCs), constructed Flyover Bridges for Ajah and Abule-Egba areas and multiple lay-by, established special Taskforce to clear Apapa-Oshodi expressway of Trucks, rebranded and expanded the Lagos Countdown into the One Lagos Fiesta, established three new fire service stations, completed Ojodu-Berger Flyover Intersection; 21 roads & two bridges, established Relief Resettlement Camps, established Office of Overseas Affairs & Investment, developed the Strategic Plan for Accelerated Agricultural Growth (SPAAG), collaborated with Kebbi State to produce LAKE (Lagos-Kebbi) Rice, launched in partnership with private sector, the Cleaner Lagos Initiative (CLI), and signed into law the landmark Lagos State Electric Power Sector Reform law.

Despite many achievement of his government in the past three and half years, Akinwumi Ambode struggled in vain to secure second term ticket from his party. The ticket was however handed over to the former Commissioner for Establishment and Pension, Mr. Jide Sanwo-Olu.

In the built up to APC primaries in Lagos, the National Leader of APC, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu in one of his posts on his twitter handle, as reported by PM News on September 30, 2018, Asiwaju accused Ambode of being selfish and deviating from the development of Lagos State.

Below are list of 21 sins alleged committed by Ambode against APC leaders as compiled by “Star Connect Media” and published on September 19, 2018. They include: refusal to receive CAN protesting against Fulani herdsmen, sack of PSP operators, slashing of approval limit for Commissioners, conversion of government property into office for Visionscape, refusal to fund APC, arrogance & refusal to honour elders of the party and stoppage of Badagery expressway.

Others are sack of Deux project, abandonment of LAGBUS BRT, abandonment of Fashola projects, refusal to pay debts owed contractors by his predecessor, refusal to pay political appointees who worked for Fashola but brought into government by Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu, refusal to receive protesters, keeping government house away from commoners by extending the gate beyond Lagos House of Assembly, refusal to patronise the media, non-receptive commissioners and special advisers, refusal to heed advice of the Oba of Lagos to refrain from vendetta, increment of Land Use Charge, flooding resulting from blockade of drainage channels and consequent emergence of bad roads, scrapping of LAWMA, lack of respect for LASTMA, and lawlessness on Lagos roads.

In addition to the above presumed sins of Ambode, the controversial sack of Chaplain of Chapel of Christ the Light, over anointing service drama stands out.

Though, Ambode might have lost out of the struggle of renewing his mandate for second term, come 2019, the Chartered Accountant turned Politician has won the hearts of many Lagosians. His courage to fight to the very end against all odd is enviable. The governor has written his name boldly in gold with some of his achievement in office. History will not forget him in hurry. Indeed, Akinwumi Ambode is a once and future king of Lagos State.

http://www.olamilite.com/2018/10/akinwumi-ambode-once-and-future-king-of.html?m=0#more

Prior to 1960, our founding fathers fought tirelessly for the emancipation of the most populous black nation, from the rule of our colonial master, the Great Britain. However, the dream of our veterans eventually came to pass on October 1st, 1960. The nation Nigeria gained her independence on this self same day. Nigerians home and abroad were elevated and full of expectations of the goodies tomorrow holds for this Federation unit. They hoped to see in no distant time, the dividends of the government of the people, by the people and for the people.

Alas, the journey of our nationhood that commenced at Independence in 1960 has been filled with mixed experiences. We have experienced times of surplus and lack, raining and dry season, time of peace, relative political stability, insecurity and civil war, successive democratic rule and military rule, oil boom and economy downturn, to mention but a few. It has never been a bed of roses.

Shortly after our Independence, the men in khaki made their way to the seat of power and forced themselves on Nigerians. The government of the people was cut short by the people that don't have any business in governance, save to protect our land against internal and external forces. The gains of Independence seems to have been eroded in a short while. The constitution was subsequently suspended. No thanks to coup and canter-coup of 1966.

United Nigeria was plunged into civil war in 1967, as a result of some unresolved issues. Fortunately, the war ended with “no victor, no vanquished” in 1970. The post civil war healing was miraculous. In the year 1979, democratic rule was restored, until 1983, when the uniform men made their way back to the corridor of power. Having tasted the sweetness of power, the men in Khaki deposed the third republic barely 3 months after stepping aside. However, the re-birth of democracy in 1999 remain historic.

Lack of foresight on the part of the leadership of the country, poor saving culture, corruption and mismanagement of scarce resources are responsible for our present predicament. Insecurity, militancy, quest for succession, division along religion lines, tribalism and of recent terrorism are some of many challenges that have been threatening united Nigeria.

The suppose giant of Africa still wallows in the league of developing nations, despite being blessed with human and natural resources. Ours is a country that can barely feed her citizens, regular power supply is a dream in the pipe, water supply is becoming a rocket science, standard of education is declining exponentially, healthcare is not affordable for common man, above all, the deterioration of the few available infrastructures. Nothing seems working in our dear country at the moment.

It is very unfortunate that after about 6 decades of our nationhood, we are several thousands of miles away from the “Dream Nigeria”. The Nigeria project that our founding fathers fought for, of which some of them paid supreme sacrifice, is still largely a failed project, due to high-handedness of the crop of our opportunistic leaders. While the leaders are largely to be blame for our predicaments, bad followership is one of the salient cause of our leadership problem. Leaders are said to be the mirror of the society.

Arise O compatriots! Let us get to work for the success of Nigeria project. If there is any time to get it right as a nation, the time is now.

The future is now

http://www.olamilite.com/2018/10/the-journey-of-our-nationhood.html?m=0#more

Osun 2108 governorship election had been contested and won. Congratulations to the Governor-elect of Osun, Alhaji Gboyega Oyetola of the All Progressives Congress (APC), and to the first runner-up, Senator Ademola Adeleke of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who was leading the contest at the end of first ballot, with 353 votes. Though Adeleke lost the battle at the second ballot, he has won the hearts of many Osun people and Nigerians in general. I foresee the Ede born Senator becoming the governor of the South-West State in no distant time, owning to his brilliant performance and popularity, in the just concluded election in Osun State.

Recall that Osun governorship election was held on September 22, 2018. While announcing the outcome of the election at the end of the first ballot, the Returning Officer and Vice-Chancellor of Federal University of Technology, Akure, Prof Joseph Fuwape stated that, the two leading candidates Ademola Adeleke of PDP and Gboyega Oyetola of APC polled 254,698 and 254,345 respectively. Leaving the margin between them at 353 votes, at first ballot. Unfortunately, there were records of irregularities that led to cancellation of votes in 7 polling units spread across 4 local governments. The total number of registered voters in the affected polling units amount to 3498 voters.

In accordance with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC)’s Election Guidelines, the Returning Officer declared the election inconclusive at first ballot, because the number of registered voters in the affected polling units is higher than the margin between the two leading candidates. INEC thereafter fixed September 27 for the re-run election. Though the re-run election had been held and won, it memory will remain fresh in our head, even as we approach 2019 general elections.

The magnitude of the security lapses and harassment experienced on the day of the re-run raise serious concern. There were allegations of harassment of voters by some people believed to be political thugs in Orolu local government. Images of thugs checking the electorates before allowing them to gain access to the polling station flooded the social media. It was alleged that a political party used white handkerchief to identity their supporters, and those without such identity were at the mercy of the thugs. Inducement of the voters was another monster that discredit the exercise. Accredited observers, journalists and party agents were equally rough handled by security personnel. It took the intervention of the electoral umpire before some arrested observers were released.

Ironically, when the governorship election took place in over 3000 polling units across the State, the exercise was relatively peaceful, free and fair, but when the same election took place in just seven units, there were records of violence, harassment and intimidation. The fact that these harassment and intimidation took place before the very eyes of the security operatives, while they either look the other way or join in the act, complicates the matter.

If Osun re-run could be this unfair, Nigerians are worried of what would become of 2019 general elections. Is this the promised change?

The future is now.

http://www.olamilite.com/2018/09/osun-2018-re-run-election-distasteful.html?m=0#more

Elections have been contested and won in Nigeria. But the Osun 2018 stands out among every other governorship elections conducted in recent time. Apart from having the highest number of contestants (48 candidates), the election is one of the most keenly contested elections in the history of Nigeria’s young democracy. Interestingly, it was relatively peaceful with less irregularities on the part of the umpire, security personnel involved and the electorates.

However, the said election was declared inconclusive at first ballot. While announcing the outcome of the election at Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) headquarters in Osogbo on Sunday, the Returning Officer and Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University of Technology, Akure, Prof Joseph Fuwape stated that the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Ademola Adeleke, polled 254,698 votes as against 254,345 votes polled by the candidate of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Gboyega Oyetola. Leaving the margin between the two leading contestants at 353 votes.

Unfortunately, there were records of irregularities that led to cancellation of votes in few polling units. The total number of registered voters in the affected polling units amount to 3498 voters. The Returning Officer hinged the decision of the electoral umpire to declare the election inconclusive on INEC's Election Guidelines and Manual, as the number of registered voters in the affected polling units is higher than the margin between the two leading candidates. INEC thereafter fixed September 27 for the re-run election, in the affected polling units. The re-run will be holding in seven polling units across four local government areas — Orolu, Ife north, Ife south and Osogbo.

INEC should be commended for early arrival of election materials & personnel to the polling stations, and timely commencement of accreditation and voting proper. The conduct of the security personnel involved in the election and that of the Osun electorates are largely commendable. Though the exercise was a success, there were few records of irregularities. There is still room for improvement on the parts of all the stakeholders.

Just as the Ekiti voting populace rejected the candidate of the ruling party in the State and godson of the incumbent governor in the July gubernatorial election in the State, the Osun voters have equally made nonsense the power of incumbency. Osun electorates made a bold statement that, the power of the people is stronger than the people in power. Ordinarily, one would thought that the contest will be a free ride for Oyetola, been the candidate of the ruling party, APC. However, the contest ended to be the most keenly contested election in recent time. Hence, the power of incumbency without good governance is nothing but a weightless paper.

Again, lack of effective conflict resolution mechanism and robust internal democracy within the two leading political parties affected the outcome of the first ballot. In case of Ekiti, APC was able to manage her post primary election crisis, and that gave the party an edge in the main election. But in the case of Osun, the two leading political parties were unable to manage their post primary elections crisis. Both APC and PDP faced the election with divided houses. Imagine a combination of votes polled by APC and ADP, that would have given Gboyega Oyetola of APC, a landslide victory. And on the other hand, the sum of the votes polled by PDP and SDP would have given Ademola Adeleke of PDP, a desirable winning with clear margin.

By and large, the good people of Osun are the biggest winners. The message was well coded by the masses, and we hope that the political gladiators decode the message. Whosoever emerge as the winner at the second ballot should learn never to toy with the people's mandate. Also, second term in office is a privilege and never a right.

The future is now.
http://www.olamilite.com/2018/09/take-home-from-osun-decides-2018.html?m=0

Very early on Friday, 13th September, 2018, the news of Mrs. Kemi Adeosun's resignation as the Minister of Finance of the Federal Republic, filtered in as a rumour. Recall that Adeosun was linked to NYSC certificate scandal, by a popular online medium. The authenticity of the news was not immediately ascertained, due to porosity of online media. However, in the afternoon of the same day, the resignation saga was carried by reliable media platforms. Even at that, conspiracy of silence by the Presidency and the Ministry of Finance put many in doubt of the truthfulness of the news.

However in a statement released later in the day by the special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Mr Femi Adesina, he said the President had accepted the resignation of Adeosun on Friday and subsequently approved that, the Minister of State for Budget and National Planning, Mrs. Zaniab Ahmed, should oversees the Ministry of Finance with effect from Friday (14th September, 2018).

In her resignation letter which was later leaked to the public on Friday. She first thanked Mr. President for the honour and privilege of serving under his inspirational leadership, she thereafter went ahead to state the reason for her resignation. The letter read in part, “I have today, become privy to the findings of the investigation into the allegation made in an online medium that the Certificate of Exemption from National Youth Service Corp (NYSC), that I had presented was not genuine. This has come as a shock to me and I believe that in line with this administration’s focus on integrity, I must do the honourable thing and resign.”

She further outlined some of the background to the matter. She queried that, she was born and raised in United Kingdom and that, she only obtained her first Nigerian Passport at the age of 34, when she relocated to Nigeria. She argued that, she received the Certificate in question, after approaching NYSC for documentary proof of status, based on guidance and assistance of those she thought were trusted associates. And having never worked in NYSC, visited the premises, been privy to nor familiar with NYSC's operations, she had no reason to suspect that the certificate is anything but genuine.

While ignorance is never an excuse in the court of law, the courage of British born woman to step aside amidst forgery allegation is indeed, an humble and honourable development and a boost to the acclaimed integrity of the present administration.

Having admitted that the Exception certificate is not genuine, a school of thought argued that, Adeosun should be charge to court for forgery. We await the actions of appropriate institutions in the coming days to do the needful. And if she is found guilty of presenting a forged certificate, she should be made to face the full wrath of the law. But if peradventure, she was a victim of the system, a Presidential pardon will be appropriate. This will go along way to encourage others in such situation, to follow the part of honour. Also, the National Assembly should work on the amendment of NYSC Act, to take care of Nigerians raised outside the country.

http://www.olamilite.com/2018/09/resignation-of-kemi-adeosun-honourable.html?m=0

It will be recalled that this week Tuesday, Abuja residence of an elder statesman and leading figure of Ijaw nation, Chief Edwin Clark was raided by some officers of the Nigeria Police Force. The South-south leader was accused of hiding guns and ammunition in his house. However, nothing incriminating was found in the residence of the former Federal Commissioner of Information.

But in a swift reaction, the Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Jimoh Moshood said the Inspector General of Police(IGP) was not in the known of the said raid. It was reported that the IGP consequently ordered the arrest and detention of the officers involved in the raid, alongside their informant. Also, the Police boss ordered full investigation of the circumstances surrounding the raid, by the IGP Monitoring Unit.

A 45 year old indigene of the Federal Capital Territory, Ismail Yakubu was the informant that instigated the 2 hours search of the residence of the Niger Delta leader. When he was paraded by the Police on Wednesday, Ismail Yakubu claimed that a taxi driver informed him that a sealed Toyota Hilux was conveyed arms and ammunition into the residence of the elder statesman. Of which he thereafter obliged the IGP Tactical Force Squad of the development. The Police stated that the suspect would be arraigned in court for giving false information and misleading the Police Force.

While raising a misleading alert is unbecoming of a good citizen, the circumstances surrounding the alert raised by the informant in question should be fully investigated. What was the motive behind the action of the informant? Was it a calculated attempt to mislead the Police Force? Or an harmless information from the informant, to help the Police's mandate of securing the society.

Again, if the Police Force receives any information from the public, the effective management of such information is the sole responsibility of the Police. This writer is of the opinion that the informant did an honourable thing by obliging the Police with information that could improve the operations of the Force, but the inability of the Police to carryout detailed and comprehensive intelligence gathering should not be shifted to the peace loving informant.

On the other hand, the arrest of the personnel involved is an internal issue of Police. The officers involved in what was termed unauthorized operation, by the Police Public Relations Officer were ASP David Dominic, Inspector Godwin Musa, Inspector Sara Abubakar and Inspector Yabo Paul. The Police spokesman added that the named officers would face Force disciplinary action, after which the Police Service Commission would determine their fate.

However, a high power Police delegates led by Deputy Inspector General of Police, Habila Joshak visited the Ijaw leader on Tuesday night and apologized on behalf of the Police Force and the IGP for the misconduct of the Policemen. The apology was accepted by Chief Edwin Clark.

In another twist, the IGP ordered the immediate disbandment of the IGP Special Tactical squad and approved the dismissal of three junior officers who took part in the unauthorized raid. Though, the Police spokesman claimed that the senior officer, ASP Dominic is still being queried, and did not rule out dismissal of the officer, if found guilty. But the big question is, why will the junior officers be sacked while the leader of the team is still under investigation, as claimed by the Police.

Just like the Military setting, junior officers take instruction from superior officer. And from the information available to the public, the 3 sacked Inspectors would not have carryout the home search without the consent of a superior officer, which in this case is ASP David Dominic. Apart from that, before a search warrant must be executed, such warrant must either be granted by a court of competent jurisdiction or signed by a senior Police Officer. In this case, who signed the search warrant or which court granted the search warrant?

Why will junior officers be punished for mere obeying an instruction coming from a superior officer, while the said superior officer would be given a soft landing? Why must junior officers' career be sacrificed on the alter of politics, for the illegality of a senior officer? If the Nigeria Police Force do not address this issue as appropriate, it would become a precarious precedent.

I'm just thinking aloud.

http://www.olamilite.com/2018/09/dismissal-of-junior-police-officers.html?m=0

ozento:
pls wats the impotance of dat road?

A lot of companies are in Agbara, and this road is one of the major access to the industrial area

Sunday, 26th August, 2018 was the last day of 2018 Camp meeting convention of Apostolic Faith Church, held at Igbesa area, and this self same day was a raining day in Lagos and environs. In order to reach the camp ground in good time, my co-travellers and I set up from Lagos, off to Igbesa as early as possible, on that faithful day. Despite the rain, the journey was palatable until we reached Atan, this is because, the road leading to Atan from Lagos is relatively motorable.

However, the narrative changed as we journeyed towards Agbara. Apostolic Faith Camp ground is along Atan – Agbara corridor. The dilapidated condition of Atan/Agbara road calls for a state of emergency. The road is characterized with gully like potholes. The route is of a truth, a death trap and accident waiting to happen. Commuters plying this road are always faced with perpetual fear of expected unknown.

Unfortunately, the said road is a federal road with no visible trace of Federal government presence. Ironically, the Minister of Power, Works and Housing is a two terms governor of the neighbouring Lagos State. The honourable Minister can’t claim ignorance of the economic importance of the road in question. But the government at the centre has turned blind eye to the road that serves as the major access to the industrial area of Agbara.

The purported construction of 12kilometres six-lane and 600metres bridge in Atan/Agbara by Ogun State government seems to be a mere politically motivated project, as evidence on ground proved contrary to the State government’s claim. The only work undertaking along this corridor is a snail like evacuation that look like construction of a flyover bridge.

It is expedient for both Ogun State government and the Federal government to as a matter of urgency, take definite action towards complete overhaul of the road, so has to reduce the hardship faced by the commuters along Atan/Agbara road.

http://www.olamilite.com/2018/09/deteriorating-state-of-atanagbara-road.html?m=0#more

It will be recalled that President Muhammadu Buhari joined other Muslim faithful on Tuesday to observe the Eid prayers in the ancient town of Daura, Kastina State. After the prayers, it was reported that Mr President shunned protocol and opted to trek a distance of about 800 metres from the prayer ground to his private residence. Buhari was seen acknowledging cheers from hundreds of Muslim faithful who came for the Eid prayers and the people of his hometown.

But the innocent act of Mr President generated mixed reactions from Nigerians, as a result of statement credited to the Presidency. The Senior Special Adviser to the President, Mallam Garba Shehu stated that, the President carried out the action to prove to his critics that he is able and capable of running for second term in office. However, the President on Friday, distance himself from the stand of the presidency, through his twitter handle @MBuhari, that he decided to embark on the work, to see the people of his constituency.
It is expedient to state that, while 800 metres may be an extraordinary distance for 75year old Buhari, Olusegun Obasanjo @78 was seen in action on football pitch. Also, 71 year old Atiku Abubarkar does regular exercise of 1 mile on a treadmill.

While it is the constitutional right of Mr President to seek a second term in office, one will think that his handers should know better, that the responsibilities of the Office of the President are far greater than the ability of a 75 year old to cover just 800 metres in a blue moon. Again, the physical health of a sitting President is essential, the mental fitness of the occupant of the highly esteemed office to initiates, organizes, administers, controls and coordinates the affairs of government is more important.

The handlers of Buhari should be careful not to play on the intelligence of the citizenry, in a bid to score cheap political point. The electorates are wiser now and they are in the best position to decide the fate of all contestants. The power of the people is stronger than the people in power.

I'm just thinking aloud.

http://www.olamilite.com/2018/08/re-walk-in-daura.html?m=0#more

Saturday, 11th August, 2018 was Apostolic Faith 2018 Camp Meeting Musical Concert, which was held at Igbesa, Ogun State. The Concert is one of the strategic events of Apostolic Faith Church annual Camp Meeting. The theme for this year Camp Meeting is ‘A Life without Blemish'. The spiritual gathering started since 5th August and will last till 26th of the same month.

Exactly 3:00pm, the organ was struck, to signify the commencement of the musical concert titled ‘From Grace to Glory'. The District Superintendent of Apostolic Faith work in West and Central Africa, Rev. ‘Bayo Adeniran opened the event with a congregational song titled ‘Wither Pilgrims are you going'. The congregational hymn was followed by opening prayer by Rev. Saviour Nnodim. Thereafter, the affairs of the programme was handed over to the Music Director.

Harmonious orchestration of ‘Wonderful grace of Jesus' arranged by Jeff Cranfill reassured the lovers of classical music and indeed all attendees that they were in for a drill. ‘Every time I feel the Spirit (Negro Spiritual)’ by William L. Dawson was sang by close to a thousand members of the Choir. Melodious voices of male choir did justice to ‘The Hallelujah side' by Alfred B. Smith & J. Howard Entwistle. ‘God's time is the best (Cantata No. 106)’ by J. S. Bach was thereafter aired by members of Choir and Orchestra, just before the intermission that signified the end of first half of the Concert.

While the members of Choir and Orchestra took a sip, thousands of attendees collectively sang a Congregational song titled ‘We are marching to Zion', conducted by a Choir member. Orchestration of ‘Symphony No. 5 in Bb Major (Mov. 1)’ by Franz Schubert welcomed the congregants to the second half. This was followed by Organ recital of ‘Fugue in G major' by J. S. Bach. Voice production and orchestration of ‘Gloria’ by Antonio Vivaldi was then aired.

‘It's shouting time in heaven' by J. Hart and Hither G. Presley was performed by selected female voices while male octet voiced ‘Oh, My Lord, What a time’ by Lucy Matthews. To the admiration of all the attendees, the Choir members rendered ‘I want to be ready' by William L. Dawson and ‘Down by the river side' by John Rutter to close the glorious presentation.

In his remark, Prof. Peter Okebukola thanked the members of Choir and Orchestra for the wonderful performance and admonished the congregants to embrace a life without blemish, which is full of benefits, here on earth and above all in heaven. Also, the District Superintendent further admonished the attendees on how to live a life without blemish, through the grace of God, and many benefits of living a life without blemish, in this sin sick world. The programme was brought to a close with a closing prayer.

http://www.olamilite.com/2018/08/2018-camp-meeting-musical-concert.html?m=0

In a chess game, the most important piece is the king. As much as possible, other pieces on the chessboard are for the protection of the king and for possible attach of the opponent’s king, in a way to put the opponent's king in check. And when the king's escape is not possible, the king is said to be checkmated.

It will be recalled that Dr Bukola saraki became the Senate President and Chairman of National Assembly, with the help of PDP’s Senators, on the day the 8th Senate was inaugurated. He vied for the Office of Senate President and won, against the wish of APC (his former party). Some heavy weights within APC government saw the development as outright betrayal, on the part of the two terms governor of Kwara State.

And for what seems like conceding the Office of Deputy Senate President to the opposition party, APC and some members of executive were angered the more. Impeachment would have been the best option to right what was believed to be wrong in some quarters, but APC could not muster the required number of Senators for such task, as required by the constitution of the land. This was because Senator Saraki enjoyed and still enjoys the support of the opposition’s Senators and a fraction of APC's Senators.

However, in an attempt to check the Senate king, he was charged with false asset declaration at Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT). But in a show of solidarity, just as other pieces on the chessboard protect the king, a good number of Senators accompanied their leader to the tribunal and stood firm with him while the trial last.

The Kwara political genius struggled with the false asset declaration case for about 3 years before he was eventually cleared, by the apex court of the land. However, just before his victory at the Supreme court, confessional statements of the arrested armed robbery suspects linked the Senate lord to Offa banks robbery, that left more than 30 people dead.

Amidst the travails of the Senate king and in a calculated attempt to safeguard the king on the Senate chessboard, members of nPDP (one of the associations that fused into the APC, of which Saraki is a principal member), registered their dissatisfaction and threatened to pull out of APC, if the party refuse to address their dissatisfaction.

While APC was at the middle of resolving the issues raised by nPDP, a sister group was formed by aggrieved members of APC, called Reformed APC (R-APC). However, the newly formed R-APC was a proper set of nPDP. Both associations have similar promoters and were instruments to negotiate a safe landing and compensations, as the case may be, for some aggrieved, Saraki inclusive.

But when it was discovered that the Senate lord and his co-travellers were determined to jump ship, the clever opponents from within tried to laid seize on the two royal lords of the Senate, for a possible checkmate. However, having master the act of Knights, the Senator king escaped to the National Assembly on the D-day and presided over the defection of about 14 Senators from the ruling party. On the self same day, 37 Honourables defected from the ruling party on the floor of the House of Representatives.

While the Police Force is busy with the investigation of Saraki's involvement in the said Offa banks robbery, the APC national working committee dissolved Kwara APC Exco, in an attempt to push the Senate lord to the wall. This singular act of the APC national working committee served as a catalyst that hastened the much anticipated defection of Saraki dynasty, led by Bukola Saraki, from the ruling party, APC to the opposition party, PDP.

With the latest move of the king on the Senate chessboard, and a call by the organic APC Senators for the Senate lord to step aside, will there be a checkmate in the coming days or the game will end in stalemate? Time will tell.

http://www.olamilite.com/2018/08/the-move-of-king.html?m=0

Defection seems to be the latest trend in the political space of Federal Republic of Nigeria, even as the nation prepares for the forthcoming 2019 general elections. Alignment and realignment of federal lawmakers, state governors, state lawmakers, and local government officials envelop the political atmosphere.

The question that comes to mind is, what exactly is the reason for the gale of defections in such a time like this? National, State or personal interest?

Of course, our political gladiators are not defecting as a result of government’s inability to pay salaries, poor infrastructure, bad railway network, collapse of the nation's economy, high rate of unemployment, high inflation, falling standard of education, collapse of healthcare services, to mention a few.

But the defection from one political party to another presently going on within the ruling class is mainly for personal aggrandizement. Most of the recent defectors have falling out of favour with their respective home party structure, and as the saying goes, all politics are local. Also, a fraction of the nomadic politicians felt betrayed for their inability to have access to the national cake, as it was the usual practice in the time past. Others have ambition. While it is not a bad thing to be ambitious, element of desperation in any ambition makes it turned sour. Lack of clear cut ideologies on the part of political parties is also a factor for incessant defection.

Unfortunately, some of the young at heart blindly follow such self centred politicians for a mere morsel of bread, while the politicians trade with the citizens’ future. Nigerian youths have consistently played to the hands of the ruling cabal, who impose themselves on the populace against the peoples’ will. They have over the time played on the intelligence of the masses, by creating non existing division along religion affiliation, ethnicity, and sometimes play sentiment game, just to achieve their selfish desires.

However the power of the people combined is stronger and greater than the people in power. Only if all could put aside their differences, and speak with one voice against their common enemies. The political gladiators are conscious of this undisputable fact. That explains the reason while they consistently draw division lines that never exist between the people.

It is therefore expedient that the electorates wakeup from their sleep, hold their collective power in high esteem and say no to the manipulation of the enemies pretending to be friends of the nation, even as another general election draws near. Again, the power of the people is greater than the people in power.

http://www.olamilite.com/2018/07/gale-of-defections-and-power-of-people.html?m=0

Ekiti State gubernatorial election had been contested and won. Prof. Kolapo Olusola Eleka of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), strongly backed by Ayodele Fayose (incumbent governor), put up a good fight. But in every contest, there must be a winner and runners-up. Congratulations to Dr John Kayode Fayemi of All Progressives Congress (APC), for his victory at the poll, as declared by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

Recall that Kayode Fayemi was once a governor of Ekiti State between 2010 - 2014, after a prolonged but successful legal battle. The supreme court in 2010 held that, Segun Oni of then PDP was declared the winner of the 2007 governorship election by INEC in error. Four years after Fayemi's mandate was restored by the apex court, the people of Ekiti rejected his candidature at the poll in 2014, rather opted for Ayodele Fayose of PDP.

However, the electorates, despite their previous rejection of 2014, identified with Kayode Fayemi, by giving him simple majority of the vote cast last Saturday, in a keenly contested election. Though, the Candidate of PDP and his party had rejected the declared result, only the court of competent jurisdiction can say otherwise.

In his electioneering campaign, the governor-elect promised to revive the Social Investment Programme (a welfare scheme for aged and less privileged) in the state. The programme was initiated by Fayemi during his first term in office, but was discontinued by his successor. Also, he promised to clear backlog of workers' salary and that of pensioners within the first 6 months in office. Note that workers' salary and pension for pensioners are their rights. Apart from the above mentioned promises, what will Isan-Ekiti born politician do better than his predecessors in office?

While addressing a State House correspondents in Abuja, last Thursday, after a closed-door meeting with President Buhari at the Presidential Villa, the governor-elect said it will be irresponsible on his part not to probe the administration of Fayose led-government. But of what use is a probe that will not affect the populace positively. You will recall that Ayodele Fayose led government wasted tax payers' money on similar probing. Note that recommendations of Judicial Commission of Inquiry have no legal consequence, unless court of competent jurisdiction says so.

Will the incoming governor concentrate more on capital projects? Ekiti State is one of the states of the federation that depend solely on allocation from the centre, for day to day running of government. Unfortunately, the money from the federation purse is barely enough to pay workers salary. How then will money for capital projects be sourced? Except the incoming government will be creative and improve internally generated revenue, through tourism, effective tax collection scheme, promotion of agriculture, to mention a few.

Maybe the governor-elect will outlaw motorcycle popularly known as ‘Okada’ within Ado-Ekiti metropolis and introduce modern ‘taxi'. Will there be total overhaul of transportation system, infrastructural development and improvement in the standard of education? Will he make healthcare accessible and affordable for all and sundry? Obviously, Fayemi is not a fan of stomach infrastructure, like his successor turning predecessor, will he initiate a better programme in lieu of the popular stomach infrastructure?

And above all, will Isan-Ekiti son head a government that will truly be a government of the people, by the people and for the people? Time will tell.

http://www.olamilite.com/2018/07/what-will-fayemi-led-government-do.html?m=0

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