YAShuaib

Category: Politics

  • Igbo Politics and Hollywood Movie

    Igbo People
    If a new film is produced today with the title “The Saga of Ngige,” or “Anambra in Bondage” or even with subtle title of the “Ibo Godfathers,” the movie would definitely sell large copies on its release especially if the production has full involvement of popular actors, producers and marketers from the Eastern part of the country. The systematic productions of attractive movies that depict the cultures of the Ibos infuse a kind of cultural imperialism in the psyches of the viewers of the home video who cut across tribes and creeds. The actors are the new breed superstars, while their marketers are the emerging millionaires from motion pictures. Most story lines which centred on endemic rivalry due to envy over riches, land disputes, chieftaincy titles and marriages are, at the end, settled or exacerbated through occultism and violence. Since an average Ibo does not have interest in partisan politics apart from full engagement in business ventures, only few films sponsored by emerging political fathers are produced on statecraft.

    While for several years, Yoruba and some Hausa movies dominated local cinemas, the entry of Igbo films in the early 90s, gave raise to the tremendous improvement in home video production that are widely marketed at home and abroad. No matter what they lay their hands on, morally or objectionable, the Ibos always upstage the pioneers. When some undesirable elements from other parts of the country were discreetly defrauding innocent victims of their hard earned treasures in the past, Nigerians suddenly woke up to the dastard acts of advanced fee fraud as perpetrated by some young chaps from a section of the country who enhanced the scam. They not only publicly pronounce their overnight ill-gotten wealth, they acquire chieftaincy titles, state-of-the-art cars and dole out money like Kosai/Akara to their bewildered suffering citizens. The records and list of those in the net from the Ribadu-led 419 Commission are clear testimonies. One may still wonder whether the award winning and charismatic Amazon, fighting against fake drug, is not from that noble tribe.

    The recent event in Anambra State, where the first civilian coup against a civilian administration in the country was foiled, has made those conversant with politics in that part of the country to wonder aloud whether it was just a nightmare or another best-selling Nigerian movie about to upstage the popular foreign films which have the feature of the Italian Mafias, Underworld Godfathers, wicked intelligent agencies and political gangsterism. In fact the substitution of winners of elections to legislative houses with those who never vied for the posts in Anambra, would make foreign script writers struggle to produce a befitting millennium movie from the enigma.

    Generalization of issues and attitudes on the basis of individuals’ misdemeanors within groups, and associating such with particular tribe or race may be seen as grievous exaggeration and contemptible. But once unwholesome activities are consistently perpetrated and associated with individuals or groups within a particular bloodline as identified by tribes, then generalizations may, to some extent be justifiable. The actions of Ibo leaders before the recent Anambra imbroglio are lamentable. It may be recalled that the presidential primaries of most political parties witnessed a large turn out of aspirants from the region, but at the end their enormous numbers were of no substance. Most of their senators selfishly tussled for the single seat of senate president; their several socio-cultural groups are always on loggerheads; while their godfathers appeared to be plotting to overdo one another in the scheme of things. In fact they fought themselves intermittently.

    How did the Ibo tribe reach this political crescendo when they have in their midst the cream of eminent politicians, shrewd businessmen, the intelligentsia of repute, revered traditional rulers and dynamic activists? Is it not from the same region we have individuals who are inspirations to others in every sphere of national endeavour and make indelible marks in the nation’s history? We talk of the first Nigerian President, Chief Nnamdi Azikiwe and the former Vice President, Chief Alex Ekwueme; we like honest publishers in persons of Chief Nwanyawu and Sunny Odogwu; we envy the educated traditional rulers like Professor (Obi) Chike Edozien of Asaba ( a professor in Medicine) and Prof (Obi) Nnemeka Achebe of Onitsa, we learn greatly from their academicians such as Prof Pat Utomi, Professor Chinua Achebe just to mention a few.

    Each region and tribe in the country has expressed the issue of marginalisation in the polity, but that the Ibos are more marginalized after the Civil War is not in dispute. It is obvious and regrettable that they have insufficient and little representation in sensitive posts after the war where they had occupied several top positions in the public service and in the military. It was in view of this ill and in sympathy to their plight that there was advocacy for the emergence of a credible candidate for the presidency from that part of the country. But their regular infightings and the recent movie-like fracas in Anambra, portrayed the Ibo race as the most disorganized in practical politics. This fact has been attributed to an extreme adoration for wealth, where politics is viewed as business enterprises for money making. What could have been the fate of that section if it had succeeded in the battle for the secession from the Federal Republic of Nigeria in the 60s? Many nationalities would have probably evolved from the region, where they could have experienced genocide as the case with smaller countries like the events in Liberia, Sierra Leone and Ivory Coast among several others.

    Today, whether we like it or not, every Nigerian believes that the most mobile, industrious, creative and hardworking Nigerians are the Ibos. A first time traveller or a stranger in any part of the country can consider himself safe if an Ibo person is dwelling in the host environment. As respected and widely traveled traders, the people are recognised as investors who could make profit from decent to dreadful ventures no matter how long it takes. They are the group who could reproduce any new product and equipment within a short while to admiration and bewilderment of manufacturers. Though embarrassing attitudes of chauvinists who call such reproduced goods as Ibo made, force the indigenous manufacturers to inscribe foreign and fictitious labels to their wares at the risk of floating the law of imitation when they deserve our total encouragement and improvement to meet international standards.

    As good as they may be in different field of human endeavour with rich culture, it is unfortunate that Ibos have allowed young gangsters whose sources of wealth are questionable to hijack political parties and by extension overtake the state machinery for the purpose of sharing the national cake to the detriment of their populace. The illegal monetary inducement and subventions to godfathers are probably the reason most states could not pay their workers’ remunerations as when due and execute projects, since the godsons must dedicate chunks of fund from monthly federation account to service the palms of unquenchable and cunning business-politicians. It is incredible that in this democratic dispensation, some groups of people have the gut to negotiated sharing formula of public offices and treasury to individuals before assumption of office.

    If some illiterate young men below the age of forty could be worshiped by elders and conferred with the title of big Daddy and Godfathers, then the clamour for youth empowerment for social re-engineering and transformation of the polity would remain a mirage. In fact the actions of the new breed godfathers, is enough for the political elders to further deny the youth the right to self-recognition and assertiveness in taking up sensitive positions.

    It is beyond imagination that while elder statesmen are denied police escorts and ordinary citizens deprived of minimum state protection, the moneybags and politicians recruit the service of the police as their private security to terrorize and oppress anyone whether in government or in private business. If this privileged service is not controlled and the beneficiaries tamed, a period would come when the rich and gang leaders may recruit the navy, army and air force as private security that they could easily deploy to overthrow a democratic government.

    Surprisingly, weeks after the dastard acts in Anambra State, the major culprits were/are still roaming the streets freely as if there is no law to prosecute them. Were they to come from the opposition parties such as All Nigerian People Party (ANPP), Alliance for Democracy (AD) or even All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA) wouldn’t the culprits be rounded up immediately and prosecuted for treason while their accounts frozen and properties confiscated like other unsuccessful coup plotters in the past?

    The Ibos are highly respected for being industrious, enterprising and cultured people whose impacts are felt across the globe. They need to wake up from their slumber and purge out undesirable elements from their midst. They need to look inward and wage war against fraudsters, ritualists, gangsters and business-politicians who drive their name to disrepute. Let them put their acts together and stop immature politicians from using the enviable tribe to stage a new Hollywood Movie.

    By the way, from where is this judicial actor, Justice Wilson Egbo-Egbo whose intervention in clearing Wabara-Imo Senatorial palaver and the sacking Ngige as Governor?

    This article by Yushau A. Shuaib was originally published in Daily Independent August 7, New Nigeria July29, Thisday July27, Comet July30, Nigerian Tribune August20, Daily Trust August 29,2003

  • Nzeribe for Senate President?

    “Nzeribe to become a Muslim!”
    That was the headline of the lead story in the Triumph, a Kano-based newspaper sometime in the early 90s, when the maverick politician hoodwinked the people that he had received inspiration from God that Islam is the religion that could lead him to posterity. The paper at that time was edited by the former President of Nigerian Guild of Editors and presently a General Manager with ALSCON, Mallam Garba Shehu. The Muslim community was agog over the big catch, even though few were skeptical on the motives of the new convert. Unfortunately as the Muslims thronged in a large number to the Emir’s Palace on that Friday, they received the rude shock that the radical businessman could not turn up for the spiritual conversion where flimsy excuses were given.

    This is just a brief of numerous melodrama scripted and executed by Senator Francis Arthur Nzeribe, a Senator representing Orlu (Imo West) Senatorial District, since he ventured into national limelight few decades ago. The same man whose name reminds one of mercenary by his exploits in some African countries, is being widely publicized in recent time as gunning for the exalted position of senate president of Federal Republic of Nigeria.

    One may wonder his credentials and experiences to deserve the topmost position in the legislative arm of the most populous black country in the world. For long, before now, he was associated with the popular FAN Milk, the company had to disclaim the notion. There was also the impression of him being an Engineer by qualification, until when the recent security report, published in a national daily recently (Thisday May 10, 2003) stated that he only possesses WAEC Certificate. Interestingly few days after the disclosure he admitted not possessing any academic qualification apart from the School Cert. The same Security report also indicated that he was found guilty by the Lagos Zone 2 of the Failed Bank Tribunal on charges of fraud and dishonesty on his role in the liquidation of ALFA Merchant Bank Plc.

    On the political scene, the Senator from the industrious Ibo tribe, plunged the nation into its worst political experience, when he used his infamous Association for Better Nigeria (ABN) to abort one of the acclaimed freest and fairest election on June 12, 1993. The aftermath effect was the battered image of Nigeria and the loss of lives including the death of prominent Nigerians like Chief MKO Abiola who died in pursuit of his mandate.

    The school leaver Senator, who was claimed to have become a millionaire at the age of 29, was also active during the Abacha regime. After scheming himself to be elected a Senator, invited elected legislators to a meeting where they intended to collectively endorsed General Sani Abacha as a consensus President, through a draft resolution.

    At the emergence of the present democratic government, the Oshiji of Oguta has continued to exhibit his fluid character, like the chameleon, by the way he exhibits and performs in the legislative house. For example, he was the first lawmaker to nurse the idea of sacking elected officers at National Assembly through a threat of impeachment against the first Senate President, Chief Evan Enwerem who also hails from South-Eastern Nigeria for an allegation of being subservient to the Executive arm. He also played prominent roles in the impeachment of another Ibo Senate President, Dr. Chuba Okadigbo and attempted the impeachment of President Olusegun Obasanjo, before he was strongly cautioned by the Yoruba leaders who were quick to declare him persona non-grata in their domain, before he was finally tamed and subdued from the reckless rampage.

    But surprising as if to lend credence to the notion that Nigeria is a country that anything goes, the Federal High Court, Abuja recently quashed the suspension placed on him by the members of the upper house for acts considered anti-democratic and anti-senatorial tendencies after his explosive confession that he bribed some of them with huge amount of money for a cause. To add to the bewilderment, the Code of Conduct Bureau, which had early preferred charges of false asset declaration against the Chief withdrew the charges without bothering to disclose the reason for the change of mind.

    Senator Nzeribe for those conversant with his antecedents is a man who enjoys any good thing at any moment but can rock the boat when he is dissatisfied. He had, during the military eras, either called for the continuation of a military regime or campaign for the transformation of military dictatorship to civilian leadership.

    Apart from active participation in the public fora, the same “distinguished” senator was recently in the news when he took as a wife a woman whose husband claimed he never divorce her. The marriage which was shown on a network programme was fully reported by a human-angle tabloid, the Glitterati, a weekly insertion in Sunday Thisday Newspaper. The publication narrated the story of a dejected and lonely man, Mr. Harry Mosco who swore that his wife and mother of his children was never divorced but couldn’t know how to get her back. This brought to the fore the saying that when a rich man snatches your wife, you can at best retreat to sanctuary for spiritual contentment since you do not have the means to win her back.

    Though the seat of the Senate Presidency may be zoned to the South East, most of the aspirants to the exalted seat are found to be very controversial. For example what can one say of Senator Adolphus Wabara, who was defeated at the PDP Senatorial Primaries by a young lawyer and a federal commissioner in RMAFC, Barrister Emeka Wogu, in the morning only for his name to be presented as Senatorial candidate in the evening. What about the admirable political propagandist, Chief Uche Chukwumerije, who played a leading role in the past military era or Senator Ifeanyi Ararume, who is said to be mentioned in Kuta’s Report on Contract Award and was once suspended for taking the Senate to Court.

    Though the Ibo-Speaking Zone has the right to bring anybody it wishes to hold forth as the next Senate President, it should however, be cautious and wary of those that would make the seat embarrassingly the repeat of the ‘turn-by-turn syndrome’ where more Senate President may emerge within a short while. They should also be careful not to nominate a character who may wish to take over the Aso Rock by attempting to remove the President and the Vice President simultaneously to pave way for easy ascension to the First Office.

    Though each constituency in Nigeria has a right to nominate and elect any character befitting their demeanor and mannerism to represent it at the National Assembly, but Nigerians from all constituencies have the right to know and make a choice through their representatives, of a credible and principle personality to represent our good image and the whole federating units.

    This article by Yushau A. Shuaib was originally published in Nigerian Tribune May21, New Nigeria May22, Daily Independent May22, ThisDay May25, The Monitor May28, 2003

  • SHARIA: Between Civilization and Belief

    Sharia: Between Civilisation and Belief- By Yushau A. Shuaib

    “And those who launch a charge against chaste women, and produce not four witnesses(to support their allegation), flog them with eighty stripes; and reject their evidence ever after; for such men are wicked transgressors.” (Quran 24: Verse4)

    The above is a quotation from the Holy Quran. The commentary on the verse is on the people who put forward slanders or scandalous suggestions about women without adequate evidence. Evidence bordering on immorality against women must be supported by evidence twice as strongly as would ordinarily be required for business transaction, or even in murder cases. Four sane witnesses are required in Islamic law. Failing such preponderating evidence, the slanderer should himself be treated as a wicked transgressor or punished with eighty stripes.

    Before the stoning of the adulterous woman, there is indeed the urgent need for our religious and political leaders, and even the followers, some of whom I suspect have little knowledge about the spirit of punishment in the noble religion of Islam to ponder briefly on the deterrent nature and its application in legitimate environment.

    All the Hadd offences so categorized in Islam are also seen by other rational human beings as abominable and condemnable in the civilized world. The medical profession, for instance supports the Islamic restraint on intoxicants, which make human beings lose their senses of reasoning and rationality. Stealing and robbery are first class world offences outside Sharia and many victims have been maimed or killed as a result, while some offenders have been hackled, executed and arbitrarily burnt alive in some cultures and customs.

    Adultery and fornication as felonious sexual escapades, are worst forms of cheating, betrayal and unfaithfulness, especially when one’s spouse commits the act outside the matrimony. This promiscuity encourages the breeding of bastards who are eventually rejected and end up being criminals in the society.

    Infidelity is ignominious and incompatible with any self-respect as it annihilates the foundation of the family values. The Quran therefore provides the following: ” The man and the woman guilty of illegal sexual intercourse, flog each of them with a hundred stripes . . . ” Q24 V2. There are also stiffer penalties in other cultures and religions.

    It is crystal clear that our tupsy-turvy world has taken an alarming dimension with some preachers, especially in the developed world, have been indicted of sodomy and officiated on marriages between gays and lesbians. As a result some Nigerian religious leaders have now turned missionaries in developed countries, labouring to restore them from backslided states of apostasy. That does not exonerate some Nigerian preachers too, who have been caught red handed committing atrocities contrary to the tenets of their faiths.

    It is no gainsaying that Islam is a peaceful and beneficial religion which emphasizes on the forgiveness and mercifulness of Almighty God. The Prophet of Allah (peace be Upon Him) is known to promote leniency in the application of justice. It takes 100% perfect witnesses of not less than three people for the conviction of some offences. Even if a suspect admitted on his volition, of performing such unwholesome acts, in several (Hadith) narrations, the Prophet hardly listened to them. In cases where the offenders ask for the punishment to be carried out after self confession, the narrations provide a long process and consideration in determining the sanity of the self-confessed offenders before the punishment is meted out. Allah states in the Holy Quran that “He is the one that accepts repentance from His servant and forgives sins: and He knows all that ye do”.

    Though human rights activists and NGOs rely on free-civilization to criticize religious practices and beliefs as archaic, but unbridled freedom in an unchecked society results in the seeming competition between Man and God(Subhanallah). Freedom and liberty taking to the extreme level, makes man to play God. There are some sinful inventions based on the scientific advancement in the modern civilization, which include the cloning of animals, sexual transformation of men to women and vice-versa and to the recent breaking news of a man who is purported to have been mysteriously impregnated through scientific maneuvers to take over childbearing when he could easily marry a woman to give him a child.

    Modernism and civilization have other ills considering the proliferation of nuclear and chemical weapons, which have the capacity to wipe off the human race. No one prays that these deadly weapons should ever be used, but it appears modernization has accepted the proliferation of the armament and promoted them.

    Islam is never against the aspects of civilization and modernization that are beneficial to humanity. In fact, some aspects of civilization have facilitated the ease in religious practices. I can say that Muslims have benefitted more from the invention of the airplane which has made easier the spiritual task of performing the holy pilgrimages to Mecca; the timer and alarm watch for responding to the regular daily prayers and the loud speakers for hearing of large believers gathered for congregational prayers. Modernization and civilization are compatible with Islam if they are pursued within reasonable and religious limit. There are different verses that predicted the emergence of this generation and some of its features. In fact Quran proffers human race many ideas in the science and arts of aeronautics when it says “Do they not observe the birds above them, spreading their wings and folding them in?

    While not trying to prevent the cause of justice to be meted to the adulterous, I would want to implore our political leaders who agree with the stoning of the adulterous, to honestly consider whether the application is only meant to deal with the poor and the downtrodden since so far most of the victims are the impoverished and wretched of the society.

    One may ask whether adultery is now perpetuated exclusively by the illiterate and poverty-stricken who may even be ignorant of the introduction of the Sharia and its contents or does it mean our elected officers have stopped or are no more involved in sexual escapades even after the introduction of Sharia in their domains? At least it is on record, though unfortunate, that some of the proponents of the codes stay in luxury hotel rooms when residential accommodations are available.The poor masses may wonder the moral justification for this kind of extravagance and even be suspicious of such acts as a cover-up for clandestine engagement in illicit affairs. Has the government provided an enabling environment for people not to have cause to steal by providing jobs, food and social welfare? This is to also examine whether our public officers truly and honestly rely on their salaries to take care of their families and immediate needs, including personal properties without dipping their hands into the public treasury compared to the unemployed who may be stealing to meet basic needs. I am not justifying stealing whether due to greed or actual need. Have they ever weigh the Islamic implications of deceit and hypocrisy through lying and cheating while trying to win public support and failure to fulfill the promise made to improve the living standards of the followers?

    But could our leaders live by example so that the poor may not cite their action as endorsement or inducement to commit sins? Or how can they participate in Owambe parties and social engagements where beer and alcoholic drinks are freely served and expect the hoi polloi to be sacrificial lambs? At least we see them daily on television(though may be teetotalers) surrounded by bottles of beer. Let our Ulamas tell them too that they deserve commensurate punishment. Our Ulamas should also rise to the occasion and recommend judicial opinions from Quran, Hadith and other legislation (IJMA) in properly interpreting the various juristic views of the Four Imams ( i.e., Maliki, Shafii, Hambali and Hanafi) Schools of Thought for uniform codes of judgement which promote the uniqueness and benevolence of Islam against the erroneous belief in some quarters. With a Foreign Citizenship right given to one of the victim recently, it would not be a surprise if those prostitutes from a particular part of the country, invade the Sharia states so that after some noises, they would secure automatic foreign visas too.

    We should be honest with ourselves without making Islamic codes unnecessarily harsh, which is not intended to be. Afterall Sharia is not only about punishment but is total ways of happy life. If properly applied in the right environment, Sharia is a beautiful bride that will attract even the non-Muslims to its principles and teachings.

    This article was published in Nigerian Tribune September 11, New Nigeria September 17, Thisday September 22, Post Express September 28, Daily Trust November 13, 2002, The Monitor April 8, 2003 p9

  • Between Obasanjo, Buhari, Gani and Others

    “The Nigerian opposition party ANPP has elected another Military General as its presidential candidate. General Buhari, a Northern Muslim will confront General Obasanjo, a Southern Christian in the next presidential election in a country divided by religious and ethnic conflicts.”
    -CNN International News January 8, 2003

    That was the breaking news from the world news leader, CNN International immediately after the confirmation of Buhari candidature as the flag-bearer of the All Nigerian People Party, a day after General Obasanjo received his own ticket to run with Abubakar Atiku for the presidency on the platform of the People’s Democratic Party. To any person used to foreign media coverage of third world countries, the CNN breaking news is not unusual considering the way and manner African countries are reported. They distort positive reports and make mockery of our advancement and pass uncomplimentary commentaries on our economic prosperity and expansive developmental infrastructure. War, disaster, poverty and disease are their major preoccupation while covering the continent. Meanwhile, a very flimsy and inconsequential engagements of their glorified leaders are beamed to the world repeatedly. At least we have seen, on several occasions, President Bush kissing his pet dogs, Tony Blair hugging his wife and sometimes their personalities shown swaggering in the farm as newsworthy events.

    While the West and their media are pessimistic about the ongoing electoral process in the country, the emergence of flag-bearers for the forthcoming April’s election has made it necessary for all those interested in the development, peace and unity of the country to ignore the antics and ignoble activities of the political class who may play the dirty politics of the past just to be relevant and which may confirm the unfortunate fears being branded by the foreign media.

    Already, the campaigns of some of the supporters have taken new dimensions by the way they shameful elevate religion, ethnicity and sectionalism to intimidate opponents. There are insinuations already that some candidates are sponsored by Sharia proponents, CAN Secretariat, and Sectional leaders. Some sections of the media and columnists too, known at defending regional interest, though a legitimate exercise, are not left out in aggressive articles and highly sensational and volatile headlines that cast doubt on the possibility of a fruitful and peaceful election.

    Apart from diverse sentiments, monetary incentive is another factor being deployed by politicians as was the case at some of the party conventions where money changed hands, and security personnel were assigned to escort GMGs (Ghana Must Go). The Dollar was in high demand and consequently became a scarce commodity in Abuja. At some of the party conventions at the state level, puppet Local Governments’ Chairmen, who had been handpicked and appointed by governors were asked to decide the fates of their benefactors for renomination through voice vote or queuing up behind their oga.

    Another gory tale is the way the politicians encamp, decamp and then redecamp from political parties. Unlike other countries where politicians proudly spend decades in one party and take years of contribution before one becomes an aspirant, in Nigeria, one could join a party a day before the convention and win an election. But if he fails and loses in a contest, he mobilizes his supporters out of the party and prays for its downfall. If at this stage of primaries, we are witnessing this amazing degree of unwholesome behavior by politicians, what should we expect in the April 2003 Presidential Election?

    Though there are many political parties registered by INEC, probably to minimize criticisms from activists, the national parties to beat are at present touted on the line of ethnicity, religion and radicalism. For instance, President Obasanjo a devoted Christian who built the first Church (Chapel) in the Villa was publicly congratulated by Governors of Alliance for Democracy for winning PDP’s ticket even before the governors of the ruling party, thus sending a signal of likely secret alliance where the Yoruba Governors would not fill in a Presidential candidate in the next election. General Obasanjo’s legacies during the military regime were numerous to be mentioned and he is the first military officer to hand over to civilian administration. But his successes as a military junta is not comparable to what we have witnessed in the current democratic dispensation as a result of the frequent clashes with legislators which have overshadowed some of his unique and laudable achievements.

    General Buhari who was once alleged and credited to have asked particular faithfuls to only cast their vote to those who will protect their religion, and having supporters from Sharia advocates, is branded in some quarters as an extremist. However, General Mohammed Buhari is a leader reputed to be brutal on corruption and has no mercy on perpetrators of ills in the society during his military regime, where the non-smiling late General Idiagbon served as the deputy. As the most dictatorial though, disciplined regime in the country, some big shots including present crops of politician and public officers were mercilessly incarcerated for allegation bordering on misappropriation of fund and endemic corruption.

    Chief Gani Fawehinmi, a detribalized and non-fanatical on religious issues, who recently threatened to make the nation ungovernable if his party is not registered, is a presidential candidate mobilizing the downtrodden, activists and radical youth to National Conscience Party for electoral revolution. If the electorates would consider his struggle for the emancipation of the downtrodden, his defence of the less privilege and his award of scholarship for students cutting across tribes and religion, then he is surely to win. But Nigerian politics is a different ball game as he cannot afford the cost of mobilizing funds for his campaign from the downtrodden masses who are largely poverty stricken. Though a non-military apologist and never participated in governance, Chief Gani has this dictatorial tendencies which could be seen from his emergence as the financier, founder, Chairman and Presidential candidate of NCP all at the same time. In fact he was a sole aspirant during the primaries he chaired at his enclave-Lagos where Okada riders, agberos and area-boys were the unscreen delegates.

    With regards to other Presidential candidates, one can determine from their antecedents and pronouncements where they are heading to. There are other clownish politicians who have never made positive impact in our national politics or economy but are jostling for the presidency. At the last count, the presidential race has seen the emergence of various odd candidates including a female activist, a tribal warlord, a youngster, and few ex-prisoners/convicts. But unfortunately, the array of successful presidential candidates was not complete, when a religious man who claimed to have received inspiration from God could not get a ticket to move further.

    Though personalities of the contestants varied, the fear of the gloomy future is perpetual in our mind as the stratagems usually used by the selfish politicians are to raise the ember of tribalism to its peak, instigate religious sentiments to its height and play the sectional cards to our collective detriment. We should be careful once these politicians start the game of hypocrisy. Even though religion, tribes and section should not be the determinants of the best presidential material for a nation, the Nigerian factor, has injected this consideration into our psyche, But it is gratifying to note that the presidential flag-bearers have running mates that come from other religions, regions and tribes.

    As we cautiously march towards the April election, it is necessary to admonish the electorate, most especially the youth not to allow themselves to be used for selfish reasons. It seems from what we read, hear and view so far, the country is going for the final trial of its oneness and coexistence. They should understand the antics of the political class, their wicked derisive strategies to hoodwink the gullible public. The electorate should be cautious of monetary inducement which mortgages voters’ conscience and promote thuggery, intimidation and harassment which propel savagery. We should examine the past records of the contestants and determine their dedication, patriotism and honesty in choosing the person who will address the problems of deplorable roads, poverty level, unemployment rates, insecurity of life and properties and true fiscal federalism. God Save Nigeria.

    This article by Yushau A. Shuaib was originally published in New Nigeria Jan17, Daily Times Jan20, Post Express Jan20, Tribune Jan22, Daily Trust Thursday Feb13, Monitor January 21, 2003

  • In Defence Of Obasanjo’s Foreign Trips

    Obasanjo
    President Olusegun Obasanjo
    Probably from this heading (if the editor permits) the readers may have run to a conclusion that it is another mischievous or patriotic piece. It may be neither frolicsome nor public-spirited if only the message is clearly understood away from predetermined sentiments.
    For some times what dominated the public discourse amongst Nigerians are issues bordering on the alleged puzzles bedeviling the nation from political face-off, economic logjam, social malaise and security instability, but now a new challenge has taken a frontal stage of public debate which was necessitated by publications in editorials and columns of national newspapers. It was the allegation that the frequent presidential foreign trips are wasteful and are of no importance to the nation and the common man.
    President Obasanjo may have travelled out, sometimes against the political and social reality on the ground, but it must be appreciated that at least the Nigerian image has been enhanced and promoted, to some extent, by the trips. It is easy to recall that in no distant past Nigerian officials were rarely allowed into some countries, while the ordinary citizens hardly got visas to travel out, but today in the spirit of democracy, almost on daily basis the citizens are jetting out.
    What can one feel, as a Nigerian, when just recently in far away Canada during the World Summit of powerful nations, our own president, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo received the honour of being the only African Leader at that occasion, and probably the first in history to have addressed the leaders of advanced countries standing behind him with arms in akimbo. Some of the powerful world leaders who stood behind him during the address by our own president included the Presidents of United States of America, United Kingdoms, Russia, Germany, China, Japan, France amongst others. As an African, especially a Nigerian I remain very proud of that significant event where President Obasanjo voiced out the plight of the people of the developing nations and called for further cooperation and improved assistance to ameliorate the sufferings.
    I should think the President want to re-link Nigeria with the outside world by reassuring them of our potentials and natural endowments for the benefits of country. Most developed nations today could not have got to the level they have reach presently if they isolate themselves from the outside world. What can one say about resolution of crises in neighboring countries through ECOMOG, even though Abacha to did the same, the rebirth of the continental unity through African Union, the introduction of New Partnership for African Development NEPAD, the Geeseem revolution, the participation in Common Wealth Games and several other development?
    We should take more pride in Nigeria’s participation in global issues and in solidarity with other nations. Even at that we still maintain our dignity and African brotherhood by refusing to be the stooge of the big brothers. It must be noted that even the superpowers believe that a word from Nigeria to Zimbabwe would make a difference and bring succour to the white farmers. But our president maintains impeccable neutrality, knowing that the argument of Mr. Robert Mugabe is to emancipate the downtrodden black farmers whose farm lands have been colonised, even after independent, and are left with no fertile land to eke a living.
    Though much cannot be seen in form of physical foreign investments, but from other indices a lot might have been achieved. They said figures don’t lie. During the military era, the highest amount of money generated and distributed from the Federation Account in any given month had never exceeded N27 billion but today more than N120billion is realised and disbursed accordingly to all the tiers of government even with some states receiving no less than a billion Naira in a month. These verifiable figures exclude higher return from Valued Added Tax and other sources of income to the national pool. Though the ways and manners some of the fund managers at the tiers misappropriate the allocations, which compel many to ask where are the dividends of democracy, Obasanjo administration has attracted more funds to the economy.
    One may not be more religious than our learned Imams and Reverend Fathers to observe that some foreign investments are morally objectionable like the hosting of World Beauty Pageant which is claimed, in some quarters, would improve tourism fortunes of the country. The beauty pageant as it is known globally comes in different names. There are the Miss Universe, Miss World, Miss Intercontinental, Miss Globe and I learnt more are being discovered and run by companies and families unlike other popular pastimes which have standard regulation and officiating. Probably if we succeeded in hosting the forthcoming Miss World we may end up hosting others annually, while the foreign lovers take away our brides which may be in short demand since polygamy is acceptable in the Nigerian culture. It is believed that an investment in exploitation and exposition of womanhood through half-naked parades of young girls in our soil with our korokoro eyes is anti-Africa and total abuse of feminine dignity and nobility. I think if there is any investment so far from the Miss World’s craze is millions of Naira being generated by Nigerian Television Authority from the daily commercial from SilverBird Promotion. That is if the air times are fully paid by the beauty pageant company
    It is not easy to be a leader of a big country like Nigeria, where even a breadwinner cannot control a small family, the president may not therefore be blame for most problems within the systems since he has appointed several people to give him honest and truthful advice. He may be very closefisted and stingy in the release of funds to curtail inflation and minimize wasteful public funds, Chief Obasanjo has not been accused of personal aggrandizements and private enrichment from the public funds. We should appreciate some of his achievements and encourage him to do better for our country.
    By the way, I am only seriously distressed by the recent American ranking of Nigeria as a high risk country on account of crimes and other violent behaviours allegedly perpetrated by ordinary criminals as well as persons in police and military uniforms. Even if the allegation is true, is it timely?

    This article by Yushau A. Shuaib was originally published in Businessday August 26, Nigerian Tribune August 27, Post Express October 5, New Nigerian November 3, Thisday August 25 and Daily Trust Nov27, 2002

  • Haba Governor Lawal!

    Every human being, at one time or the other develops interest in some personalities, who may be their sources of inspiration either through special attributes or accomplishment in different fields of endeavor. Even when most Nigerians are presently disenchanted by traits of some politicians, there are some that are still respected for their selfless service and exemplary leadership qualities. Such is one’s admiration for Governor Muhammad Lawal of Kwara State despite some of his obvious weakness in terms of respect for elders and traditional institutions, has performed well in youth development and economic empowerment in the state through some of the social infrastructure he has put in place, like in transportation, road networks, provision of drinking water and development of housing estates etc.

    But the recent development in the state, especially with regards the traditional institution and by extension, his aides’ reported molestation of political opponents, leaves much to be desired. The state government capped these with announcement of governor’s father, Alhaji Busari Alabi Alasa, as the successor to the late Mogaji Are of Ilorin, Alhaji Adisa Zubair. It came as rude shock to many observers who have been following the melodrama and unfolding political events in the state.

    It may be recalled that late Zubair was the most senior Yoruba chief in Ilorin Emirate before his death on Thursday, October 31, this year after a reported brief (some say protracted) illness. Unofficially the Mogaji Aare is seen as the Oba of the Yoruba elements in the ancient town. According to the statement signed by the state’s Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Alhaji Abdulrahman Iliasu in Ilorin, Alasa’s appointment was in consonance with the Chiefs Appointment and Disposition Law, Cap 20 of the Applicable Law of Kwara State. The statement stated that “the Kwara State government had in the exercise of the power conferred by the Chiefs Appointment and Disposition Law Cap 20 of the Applicable Law of Kwara State and on the advice of the traditional selection committee hereby approved the appointment of Alhaji Busari Alabi Alasa as the Mogaji Aare of Ilorin.” In other dailies’ reports (Guardian November 10, 2002 p3) stated that the appointment was sequel to the admonition by the state’s chapter of Oodua People’s Congress (OPC) that only a prompt announcement of Zubair’s successor could guarantee true representation of Yoruba interest in the town. According to OPC Coordinator in Kwara, Mr. Bayo Ifabiyi “the OPC members in Kwara urge the government not to waste time in the installation and crowning of the new Oba elect as soon as possible for the sake of posterity.”

    The turbaning of Seventy eight-year-old Magaji Aare was made immediately the day following the announcement at the Idi-Ape family compound of the chief and performed by a local Imam in the area in the presence of his son and aides. (Tribune and Post Express November 11, 2002) It may be recalled that on August 2, 2002, the state government announced the upgrading of the stool of the Mogaji Aare as well as the Etsu Tsonga and Etsu Tsaragi to the first class status, while the Baloguns were promoted honorary first class chiefs.

    By Ilorin Emirate tradition, the Mogaji is the direct descendent of Afonja family or the Yoruba dynasty in the ancient city. By virtue of the first class status bestowed on traditional title holders, it would go into record as the first time in a given Nigerian city when more than one customary chiefs have the same high position. Since there is no other enviable status after First Class except zero class which is failure. Unfortunately a day to the official announcement of the new Mogaji Aare, three mobile policemen attached as security escort to the Kwara State Governor, Alhaji Muhammad Lawal as well as civilian driver lost their lives in a ghastly motor accident near Offa in Asa Local Government area of the state on their way from Lagos after escorting the governor to an official assignment. It may be pertinent to note that this was not the first of such gory accidents probably due to reckless driving or otherwise of the governor convoy. It would be recalled that at the height of the fuel crises in 2000, ten mobile policemen also on security attachment with the governor lost their lives on Bida-Mokwa Road, when their reserved fuel in Jerry-can exploded and burnt them beyond recognition. Another two were said to have died on their way from Abuja on the Lokoja-Ilorin road a year after(Thisday November 10, 2002 p3.)

    The announcement by the Governor’s aide on the appointment of Alhaji Busari Alabi Alasa, as the 11th Mogaji Aare of Ilorin, automatically gives His Excellency the title of the Crown Prince. Coincidentally or deliberately, the new appointment came just a week after the death of the former title holder. In contrast, the government announced appointment of Alhaji Bamidele Malai Adegbite as the 10th Ohoro of Shao in Moro Local Government Area of the State years after the stool became vacant. The question here is why the rush in announcing the governor’s father’s appointment within the short time of the death of the former Aare when the government and the people of the state should be mourning the loss of former Mogaji and that of government House staff? If it took the government years to announce the name of new Ohoro of Shao, why wouldn’t the announcement wait at least a few months, probably after the holy Muslim month of Ramadan.

    Though traditional rulers have useful roles to play in a given society, they lack constitutional responsibility. The hurried announcement and turbaning thus have no meaningful effect since there is no defined statutory function for the new chief apart from being a glorified title. The new scenario also points to a new dimension in politics where diversionary stratagems are employed daily to hoodwink and divert electorates’ attention to frivolous issues that are of no significance to their livelihood and economic well-being. Though it is said that he was amongst the eleven contestants for the exalted stool in 1983 where he was defeated by the late Adisa Zubair, the new Magaji Aare is the eleventh in the hierarchy in his domain just as the Emir of Ilorin Justice Zulu Gambari is the 11th monarch in the Emirate. Does it mean there is going to be stiff competition of supremacy between the established traditional ruler and the status enhanced Magaji Aare? In addition, does it mean other rightful contestants to the stool would remain mute or is it possible for all of them including the children, to have unanimously accepted and approved the conferment of the title to the governor’s father or are they afraid to confront the powers that be? One may also ask that when did the OPC become so credible to the extent of advising the government on chieftaincy matters and on policy direction. This trend is indeed very scary from every perspective. When an outlawed organisation, with little positive impact, widely associated with violent crimes such as abduction and killing of innocent souls in other part of the country at that become advisers to government, then the situation has called for immense prayers for God to save our souls.

    The unwholesome political mockery has further created division and disharmony amongst peaceful natives of the city. These poor souls had almost forgotten the lamentable history of the past between the Afonja, the alleged earlier settlers, and the Alimis the jihadist conquerors. The children of the old warring parties have now started digging out historical facts for blackmail, vendetta and battle of wits which would take no one anywhere. How one wishes that the Governor would listen to the clarion calls from every quarter to redirect his energy and attention to developmental effort, minimise his interest in traditional institution and give respect to whom it is due. Some of the government policies so far as regarding the emirate do not only have negative effect on the cultural lives of the people but have impacted on their faith. Opposing sides are now cautious of the mosques where they pray. It is quite disappointing that the three most senior Imams of Ilorin ie that of Fulani, Imale and Gambari were conspicuously absent at his father’s turbaning. It is necessary to plead with the governor not to allow hungry advisers to mislead him into sacrificing his humble and respected father in the muddy waters of political intricacies in the state. It is not late to retrace his steps in this regard. He is sure to win more admirers and get popular supports if he ignored mischievous advice and praise-singing of political prostitutes and hypocrites whose tool in trade is destructive speculations.

    This article by Yushau A. Shuaib was originally published in Nigerian Tribune Nov 19, Daily Trust November 21, Post Express November 20, 2002

  • A Letter To Local Government Councils in Nigeria

    Nigeria's Constitution
    Since the emergence of this democratic experience I have attempted to write each and every one of you there at the grassroots but it may take me all the days in the year to accomplish that. This is because there are 774 elected Local Government Executive Chairmen, excluding their deputies. In addition there is the legislative arm, represented by multiple councillors and the employees. When we now consider the motley of traditional rulers and the inhabitants over there, you are in a great multitude.

    It is as a result of this enormous logistic problem and the man-hour to be involved that I find it most convenient to use this widely read medium to express my sympathy over the alarming pace at which the councils, which are the foundation of the democracy, are being shabbily treated. I also commiserate with your elected representatives who were recently booted out in typical coup-d’etat. Though I may belong to constitutional body, I am nevertheless expressing my personal opinion which in no way is a representation of my working place and may not also be reflective of the organisation’s position. That is the reason I chose the pain of my study leave to share my views with you.

    It is no more news that since the inception of this administration, some of your elected political office holders, especially the Chairmen have been removed by Executive fiat for very flimsy excuse; your chosen councillors were tagged illiterate and area boys and that they do not deserve commensurate remunerations. And to add to the injury some of your councils’ allocations, from the federation account, were arbitrarily deducted in the name of joint account.

    Add to all these are the manner communities, who have existed peacefully with one another, are being estranged in the name of new local governments. Some of the newly created local government areas are mere Business Districts where no residency is allowed. Some of the makeshift councils are no less than the community-centres where a child can easily count the entire inhabitants within an hour.

    The story is endless but the most inciting is the recent contravention of the constitution, abuse of legal procedure and betrayal of democratic process by the way and manner military . . . sorry, civilian administrators were recently installed to rule the third tier of government as if the councils are parastatals of government. Haba!

    Let us examine the constitutional provisions and laws which have been systematically manipulated to serve some selfish interests of the perpetrators.

    Probably you may be disturbed on the recurrent issue of State Joint Local Government Account. The 1999 Constitution provides for the establishment by each state of the said account into which shall be paid all revenues due to local governments of that state from the Federation Account and from the state government. Further more, there are enabling laws, Revenue Act of 1982 and Decree 106 of 1992 (now an Act), which stipulates the composition of the Committee and recommends 10% of State Internally Generated Revenue IGR to be contributed to the account which is to be shared in accordance with a formula prescribed by the House of Assembly of that State. It is therefore, illegal and unconstitutional to deduct LGC’s allocations from Federation Account to finance newly created community centres in the name of LGC or to finance state programmes and projects.

    For the purpose of uniformity, accountability and transparency, members from Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission who have representatives from every state of the federation were recommended, as umpires and arbiters of the Federation Account, to play prominent roles during the meeting of the State Joint Local Government Accounts Allocation Committee.

    On the funding of Primary Education, you may further be mystified to realise that the Local Government Councils only play participatory roles going by the recent Supreme Court Verdict which states that ‘In so far as primary education is concerned, a Local Government Council only participates with the States Government in its provision and maintenance. The function obviously remains with the State Government.’ Please check your Constitution especially Section 7(5) which provides that “the function to be conferred by law upon local government councils shall include those set out in the Fourth Schedule of the constitution.” The Paragraph 2 of the Fourth Schedule explains further that “the functions of a Local Government Council shall include participation of each Council in the Government of a State as respects of the following matters: – the provision and maintenance of primary, adult and vocational education.” Therefore, the Supreme Court verdict on the issue makes the distinctiveness clear. You can therefore see that indiscriminate deduction from Local Government allocations for funding primary education by any tier is illegal. This may be the reason the FG stopped the payments of teachers’ salaries through such deductions.

    It would be unconstitutional for States to make legislation outside the Federal Law on the Federation Account, as such state laws cannot override National law in this exceptional situation. Political interests should not also be the yardstick for breaking the rule on the joint account and usurping the functions of local governments by depriving them of their due share from central pool.

    The Transitional Committees being imposed on the people in the most tyrannic and undemocratic fashion, negates the spirit and tenets of democracy and against the Constitution. A clear evidence to this is Section 7 of the Constitution which states that “The system of local Government by democratically elected Local Government Councils is under this constitution guaranteed, and accordingly the government of every State shall, subject to section 8 of this Constitution, ensure their existence under a law which provides for the establishment, structure, composition, finance and function of such Councils.”

    In addition to the above, was the recent Supreme Court Verdict on the tenure of local government officials which advised for the elongation of Local Government Councils through the enactment of law by the State Houses of Assembly but which never gave any endorsement for establishment of halfway juntas. In your local government you may ask who do the transitional committees represent and report to. It is neither the constituency which is recognized in the constitution nor the electorate who has the right to exercise his/her franchise. This surely reminds you of the gloomy period of dictatorship where military governors were accountable to the Head of State while the councils’ Chairmen reported to the Governors who planted them for egocentric purposes.

    It is commendable that the Chairman of the Revenue Commission, Engr. Hamman Tukur listened to the emotional and touchy plight of Local Government Councils when the National President of NULGE, Chief Deji Akinwalere appealed to the Commission not to withhold the local government funds because some of the employees have not received their salaries for more than a year. He also informed the Commission that most of the state governors have continuously abused the Joint Account Committee as it is now the forum at which the state governments just dish out whatever amount catch their fancy to the local councils. He added that Local government representatives are not told how much accrues to the third tier before sharing. The concealment, he added definitely has a sinister motive.

    The political class would do the country good if they would not make unnecessary bickering with our laws by using political might and instruments for selfish purposes which may truncate the existing democracy. The local government Council should be respected and recognised as been entirely independent and autonomous, just like other tiers in its operation and administration.

    It is noteworthy to be careful in setting bad precedents which may be capitalized upon for the destabilization of our nascent democracy. What will ensue in 2003 if what occurred to the local government councils befell the state in the event of the recurrence of the intricacies associated with the avoidable crisis? If a state executive connives with its legislative arm to pick appointees at the lower tier, and get away with it, what is the lesson to be learnt by the Federal Executive and National Assembly when another crisis erupts next year?

    I hope you are now well informed on this political and fiscal logjams. Remember this may not be the reflection of the thinking in my working environment. Two Thousand and Three here we come.

    This article by Yushau A. Shuaib was originally published in Nigerian Tribune, July 3, Thisday July 14, Daily Times July 18, Anchor July 18, New Nigerian Aug 10&17, 2002

  • A PR Dilemma: Executive-Legislative Face-Off

    National Assembly Nigeria
    In Public Relations practice, crises and issues management, which is often neglected, is an inevitable tool to curtail and control the escalation of emergent crises. Indeed, it is the moment of truth which needs to be addressed squarely when there is a mechanism to monitor trends as they unfold.

    The recent executive-legislative face-off on the remunerations of political office holders, is surely not a crisis but an issue which can be politically controlled because of the caliber of the parties involved. It may be seen as a battle of wits between the most powerful arms at the highest level. Some effective communication techniques were employed by the two parties to make a point through their respective representatives. Each party made effective use of the media which is the last resort in democratic systems, to win the support and understanding of the public which includes the electorate. Several new stories and commentaries have captured different angles of the arguments, while credible editorials too made sterling observations. But one central point is the recognition and reference made by both parties to the fact that a particular body is central to the imbroglio.

    In fact, the two arms were in agreement as to the constitutional mandate of the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission in fixing the remuneration packages for all political and public office holders in the country. There are two sides to the media reports. Some claimed that the executive is annoyed that the National Assembly is not complying with the recommendations of the Commission on their pay. Others stated that they have complied but that the former doesn’t want them to enjoy the monetized benefits.

    The Commission may be said to be in a state of flux and finds itself between the devil and the deep sea. One cannot but pity the Chairman of the Commission, Engr. Hamman A. Tukur, and the federal commissioners whose institution is undoubtedly at the centre of the imbroglio. But the problem is that, the commission has successfully addressed those issues in the past through the timely issuance of press releases, feature articles, press-briefings and media interviews. But how can it intervene in this unfolding drama when it should remain nonpartisan and independent?

    Specifically, issues management is the way and manner sensitive matters of public concern are controlled and addressed. Some of the questions may be temperamental, delicate and emotional through debates, arguments, outcries and all elements that bring about outbursts from spoken words, printed words and display of images.

    Though negotiations and media relations are acceptable PR tools, every crisis manager knows that there is nothing more worrisome than to be entangled between powerful and influential coalitions of different forces and be asked to mediate when each plays constitutional roles to one’s accomplishments in statutory responsibilities.

    The dilemma of the commission stems from the fact that it is constitutionally and legally empowered to recommend packages for all categories of political officers, from federal down to state levels which it has successfully accomplished between August and September 2000, by submitting the reports to appropriate authorities at the federal and state levels based on constitutional provisions. Of more relevance are Sections 70, 84, 111 and 124 of the Constitution.

    While defending the package, Engr. Hamman Tukur had declared then that there was wide-range consultation with various classes of officers affected, which involved political office holders. A reasonable measure of public participation through interviews, memoranda, consultation with experts, intellectuals, elders and media reviews were also considered, apart from the experience of a few other countries for the purpose of comparative analysis. The submission received wide publicity.

    The way and manner it has triumphantly carried out its other tasks, including the new revenue formula, verification of disputed oil wells, monitoring of all sources of revenue to the Federation Account, verification exercises on developmental efforts in the grass-roots and its advisory roles on fiscal efficiency, have further endeared it to the two powerful arms of government, who see it as a reliable umpire.

    Furthermore, the humility of president Olusegun Obasanjo was seen when he led other members of the federal government, including members of National Assembly, to lobby the commission on the need for a better revenue share to the Federal Government. This political lobbying, which is an acceptable norm in a democratic dispensation, as well as an effective public relations tool, was not done covertly but publicly, as even the press covered the session. States and local government executives followed this commendable example of Mr. President’s when they made their physical representation too. Some may have expected the president, as the Head of State, to just phone the Commission’s leadership and intimate it with the figure he required. This reemphasized the essence of executive transparency and honesty in the national polity.

    On the other hand, the National Assembly has always abided by constitutional provisions, which stipulates the independence and autonomy of the commission without interfering in its national responsibilities. It holds members of the Commission who have representations from each state of the federation, in high esteem. The cordial and mutual relationships between the two are commendable and exemplify an excellent intergovernmental relationship.

    But in a situation as the one on salaries of legislators, which has become a serious public debate, how can the Chairman respond to the crises without drawing the ire of either of the parties? How can he come out and explain that the reports of all the packages were submitted a long time ago without offending any of the parties? How could he state that the approved monthly emoluments for the lawmakers are basic salaries, utility, entertainment, maintenance of vehicles and quarters, newspapers, wardrobe and recess allowance, while accommodation and constituency allowance are paid only once yearly?

    How could the Chairman inform the public that the allowances for Personal Assistants, Special Assistants and Domestic Staff are not part of the take-home pay for public officers, but for the personal aides duly designated and for whom there must be evidence of employment before such pay is effected? Or, how could he reemphasize that some pays are terminal, which is once in tenure? Such pay includes transportation, which is a loan to be repaid, a furniture allowance and severance gratuity which is given after a successful full tenure.

    Another riddle would be, deciding an effective way to reemphasize that the monetisation of transportation and accommodation implies that the beneficiaries must either use government amenities and forfeit their respective monetary benefits or keep their benefits and forget government provisions.

    The public perception will also come to play. Even though there were a lot of supportive commentaries and editorials immediately after the submission of the report in 2000, what will be their fresh reaction? Would they see it as truly jumbo or that it will truly create employment opportunities for the teeming youth, eradicate wasteful government spending and minimize high level of corruption in governance? Would they agree as they initially did that, to some extent, the benefits of the monetisation outweigh the likely negative effects? Wouldn’t either of the two powerful parties think that the commission wants to be confrontational and one-sided if it refuses to consult them before going public?

    In fact, the dilemma of the Public Relations practitioner on issues management, can give someone a nightmare, in the face of allegations and counter allegations on the misuse of public funds. What this impasse portends is the fact that public relations is all about studying public perception and responding to them appropriately, logically without being seen in a bad light.

    Therefore, the decision of Engr. Hamman Tukur, Chairman of the Commission, to react through a press briefing, after studying the trend, and fully digesting the main bone of contention, is timely, courageous and a better way of resolving public discourses. That is using appropriate public relations technique. Early response may have been harmful.

    It is hoped that, with the facts and figures presented by the Commission recently, the public is better informed, the media well-equipped as the watchdog of civilized society, while anticipating that the face- off of the giants must have come to an end.

    This article by Yushau A. Shuaib was originally published in Daily Independent March 18, Thisday March 24, Post Express March 23, Tribune March 19, Anchor March 25, Daily Trust March 23, New Nigerian (NNN ) March 29, 2002

  • Oba Abdulraheem: In Search of an Academic as a Governor

    There is nothing more disheartening than to see politicians and elected public officers wrangle unnecessarily for supremacy while ignoring the basic tenets expected of them to uphold, as well as failing to address the yearnings and aspirations of the electorate. Some are advocating for academics, probably professors, to contest for higher posts in the next election, while a few is disposed to traditional rulers and religious leaders contesting.

    My write-up is compelled by the desire to see that more outstanding academics whose experience and leadership qualities have endeared them to the citizenry is encouraged to seek elective positions in future elections, to better the lot of their people and practically apply their theoretical knowledge on governance. Examples abound everywhere where politicians and political office holders, in their desperation to hold on or to grab power, have discreetly patronized outlawed groups or introduced diversionary tactics to win supports from the gullible public. It is not a surprise, therefore, that we have to face this startling reality of the existence of so-called OPC states, MASSOB Region, Sharia environment and the resources control communities whose philosophies are promoted and financed by some political bigwigs, for selfish reasons.

    What is more worrisome is that some states, which do not belong, have similar ugly scenes within their localities. A vivid example is Kwara State where there are accusations and counter accusations of politicians who are said to be nursing the desire to foment trouble by introducing Afonja -Alimi dichotomy into the polity and persistently calling for the introduction of a millennium monarch from the blues. What is very clear to any watcher of the unfolding events is that there is no love lost between one of the leaders of one of the political parties, Dr. Olusola Saraki, and the younger executive governor of the state, Governor Muhammed Lawal.

    Dr. Saraki, the acclaimed godfather and strongman of Kwara politics, is seen as the Mr. Installer, whose singular effort and support were said to be instrumental to the success of several administrators in the electoral process of the state. The executive governors include Alhaji Adamu Atta of National Party of Nigeria (NPN), Chief Cornelius Adebayo of Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN), Alhaji Shaaba Lafiagi of Social Democratic Party (SDP), and the incumbent retired Rear Admiral Muhammed Lawal of All Peoples’ Party (APP). How he manipulates the electorate to vote en masse in his direction remains a mystery and an incredible tactical puzzle which none can fathom.

    On the other hand, the present governor’s projects are said to be enormous with supporters increasing day by day by the innovation and tangibility of work which are inscribed with Up Lawal in almost all the nooks and crannies of the state. The acrimony between the political tactician and military strategist is tearing the state apart, as every discussion in the state is no more on welfare and developmental efforts but on the lingering loggerhead between the individuals. The politics of the state also greatly affects the direction of their party at the national level. This rancour, if allowed to continue, would be terrible for the next gubernatorial election as neither the political father nor the political scion intends to sheath the sword. An alternative arrangement may therefore be put in place before the D-day to avoid confrontation at the polls. Another politician or retired military man may not be feasible due to the foregoing, neither would traditional rulers nor religious leaders be preferred because of their inherent sentimentality. But an academic may, however, be called upon to contest.

    Surprisingly, academics are at present elected to the legislative arm and appointed into executive positions at all tiers of government and they are performing exceedingly well but not as a governor of a state. The Kwara populace may consider this and break a record in the next dispensation by voting wisely for a university professor as the governor. Afterall, the new jumbo pay recommended by the Revenue Mobilization Allocation and Fiscal Commission can attract the best brains to all levels of governance. The new man would surely be contented with the introduced remuneration package.

    The state doesn’t need to go far to search for a credible academic that commands respect. The present Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, in the person of Professor Oba Abdulrahaman, an indigene of the State, is an example. Even though the man may not be interested but since his tenure at the university is soon coming to an end, Kwarans should see him as a messiah and interventionist to the rising political instability in the state and urge and plead with him to contest.

    I was moved recently when, in a paid announcement, groups and unions in the university – ASUU, NASU and NANS inclusive, came out to commend the Federal Government for giving them Professor Abdularahim who is capable of transforming the institution to a good example of a citadel of knowledge where lecturers don’t go on unnecessary strikes because they have what it takes to be lecturing where students have no justification to protest or demonstrate since all facilities for conducive study are provided; where more hostels and classrooms have been constructed; where parents watch with admiration, at the graduation of their children within the stipulated academic period while academic excellence and discipline have been the watchwords.

    Professor Oba is said to be respected within and beyond the state, especially by the youths who form the bulk of the beneficiaries of his stable academic calendar, and envied by students of other institutions that have been on compulsory long holidays, courtesy of incessant lecturers’ strikes.

    If Professor Oba can maintain law and order and improve peaceful coexistence in the dynamic and sensitive academic environment, Kwarans can be better for it, if they consider this humble, responsible and indefatigable man as the next governor of the State. Unless the war between the powerful elderly and strong young politician is curbed, the electorates have no choice but to make the better choice. At least, let the state set the record as the first to elect an academic, a Professor for that matter, as executive governor in the next dispensation.

    This article by Yushau A. Shuaib was originally published in Thisday January 27, National Interest Jan. 28 and Tribune January 31, 2002

  • Bola Ige: A Northerner’s Perception

    The death of Chief Bola Ige, like the death of any Nigerian leader, especially as it came through a gruesome assassination, was received by many with rude shock. His last service to his fatherland has proved to chauvinists and enthusiasts that he was a distinguished personality, an enigma in the Nigerian contemporary politics.

    I have to admit that I never had any close contact with him, but I almost had the opportunity of working with him when I received a message from Mallam Sani Zoro, the detribalized former National President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists. The message to meet Mr. Zoro was conveyed to me by the President of the Students union, University of Abuja, Comrade Mohammed Kari.

    Mr. Zoro asked me a simple question when I met him. He asked what I could say about Chief Bola Ige. It was a few months after the latter’s appointment as the Minister of Power and Steel. As one born and brought up in the North, with the knowledge of the different derogatory remarks made by the Chief against the North, it did not take me time to respond that Chief Ige was a tribalist, sectionalist and a leader of anti-north sentiments. As a respected columnist, his campaigns went further in his weekly column in the Sunday Tribune, which was seen largely as the page for merciless bashing of northern leaders.

    Mr. Zoro could not take further vituperations on the man who was seen as the reincarnation of Chief Awolowo on an enviable political standing, as he abruptly asked me what the practice of most leaders were when they claim to have a constituency. He also asked about yardsticks by which tribal and sectional groupings judge their leaders and what earned such leaders more followers? I was a little dumbfounded. To cut the story short, I was asked if I could be recommended to work with the late Senior Advocate of Nigeria. I asked for some time, which was used judiciously to read and study the late legal luminary through some of his articles and interviews. In fact, I had to meet some officers and journalists covering his then ministry (Power and Steel), like Mallam Shuaib of News Agency of Nigeria. It was afterwards I discovered a different Ige from the views and little study I conducted which rubbished some of my earlier wrong perceptions.

    From the little I gathered, I can say that Ige had accomplished his dream as a legend in his political life. He was an erudite and distinguished lawyer; courageous and active politician; fearless and principled columnist; a teacher’s teacher and a good disciplinarian to the core, who called a spade a spade.

    There were those rumours that he wouldn’t last with President Obasanjo because they would disagree on many issues and that he might lash out at the President in public and that he would fight against the interest of the North and make it worse off. But what did we see at the end of the day? Knowing his weakness that he couldn’t see evil and keep mute, he must state it point blank in his column, he suspended contributions to his Tribune column. That and his other silence on sensitive state matters were no sign of weakness, but a political strategy, which made him more receptive to all and sundry.

    He was a friend to many northerners and open to criticisms. Many were surprised at the kind of grand reception accorded him by the government and people of Zamfara State during an official visit when the so-called imbroglio on Sharia was still raging.

    As a nationalist, a lover of the youth, he fought to make sure that his party, the Alliance for Democracy, was not seen further as the party of the Yoruba race, but an all-embracing national party that would accommodate others from different parts of the country. This singular act earned him many enemies in his region. It was most unfortunate that some young thugs in the palace of the Monarch of Odua, in the presence of Yoruba politicians and leaders, embarrassed and humiliated the statesman, their very own, in their midst. Such shameless acts would neither be condoned nor allowed to happen in the North, especially when the victim was a septuagenarian.

    While he was fighting to see a more united cohesive Nigeria, tribal warlords would not give him a breathing space. But he remained calm, and resolute and yet he was killed in their midst by the same bigots who would have wished he was murdered in places like Zamfara, Kano or even Abuja so that they would have waged another campaign of calumny. Were El-Mustapha and Bamaiyi released, a new conspiracy theory would have been prominent in their analysis. Even with the sequences of gory events of attack on this humble orator, which were widely believed and confirmed as politically motivated, cacophonous singsongs would have rent the air. If not that Nigerians are more matured and understand their antics, the country would have been hot with the so-called list of assassin targets in their circulation.

    Even though some may still have their reservation about the person of the chief law officer of the federation, it is a taboo in the North to pass uncomplimentary remarks on the dead. The northerners are among the teeming populace who condemned the nature of his demise and pay condolence visits to the family. The most senior political officer from the North, Vice President Atiku Abubakar, is said to have wept, while the most respected northern icon and social critic, Alhaji Wada Nas, has extolled the quality of the man who has contributed the best he could to promote the unity of this great nation.

    We should strive to appreciate those values and action that unite and promote our oneness instead of engaging in diversionary and trivialized sentiments that create a sense of vendetta and acrimony in the polity.

    Cicero of Esa-Oke is gone and is at present highly missed but he left behind a legacy, which is adored by many. I pray he would be immortalized by naming the University of Ibadan or the Airport or both after him.

    This article by Yushau A. Shuaib was originally published in National Interest January4, New Nigerian Jan 5, Thisday Jan 6, Nigerian Tribune January 9, 2002, Daily Trust January 7, 2002

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