YAShuaib

Category: Profiles

  • May Allah Bless Chancellor Merkel of Germany

    May Allah Bless Chancellor Merkel of Germany

    Chancellor Angela Merkel of Germany
    Chancellor Angela Merkel of Germany

    By Yushau A. Shuaib
    As a Muslim who not only studied Quran at a tender age and attended Islamic institutions in my formative years, I pray to Almighty Allah to bless the great woman of our decade, Chancellor Angela Merkel of Germany for her righteousness in accepting the influx of immigrants, especially Muslims for protection in her country.

    There is this negative and erroneous image of Islam that was created due to the unwholesome activities of some leaders who promote intolerance and extremism for their personal survival selfish interest. This stereotype can easily be removed going by the noble teaching of Islam, which spreads love and tolerance among all people, whatever their race, ethnicity, religion, doctrine, language, tribe and social class system.

    The holy book of Islam, Quran, also teaches us that all humanity is but one great family. It states: “O mankind, fear your Lord, who created you from one soul and created from it its mate and dispersed from both of them countless men and women.” Quran 4 Verse 1.

    While Arab leaders in mostly Muslim countries exacerbate crises and rebellions that result in mass killing and displacements of millions of their citizens, Christian countries, like Germany have become sweet homes for Muslim refugees.

    Born on July 17 1954, Merkel is a German politician who has been the Chancellor of Germany since 2005 and the Leader of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) since 2000. It is not surprising that this conservative Christian politician was recently named Time magazine’s coveted Person of the Year for her work in the Greek debt saga and largely for her unique intervention in Europe’s migrant crises. Merkel has voted against abortion rights and believes that marriage is “the sacred union of a man and a woman.”

    When immigrants from Arab and Muslims countries are threatened by senseless civil wars and terrorism, she generously opened up her country’s borders to a million refugees, providing safety and comfort.

    The Time editors clearly pointed out that Merkel understands the mind-set of many refugees fleeing dictatorship through her experience growing up in East Germany, behind the infamous Iron Curtain.

    While announcing the award, the Editor of Time Magazine observed that at a moment when much of the world is once more engaged in a furious debate about the balance between safety and freedom, the Chancellor is asking a great deal of the German people, and by their example, the rest of the world as well. Merkel is passionately appealing to her citizens “to be welcoming. To be unafraid. To believe that great civilizations build bridges, not walls, and that wars are won both on and off the battlefield. By viewing the refugees as victims to be rescued rather than invaders to be repelled, the woman raised behind the Iron Curtain gambled on freedom.”

    A daughter of a pastor and deeply religious woman rather than atheist, Merkel recently and proudly described her faith to a young theology student that: “I believe in God, and religion is also my constant companion, and actually has been my entire life… one knows there is something higher than just human beings, and that we are also called on to shape the world in responsibility for others. This is a framework for my life, which I consider very important.”

    The exodus of citizens from Arab and Muslim world are triggered by Arab leaders and collaborating Western counterparts who instigate global humanitarian crises through petty vendetta and deceits. In connivance with Arab leaders, the western power destroyed Iraq under false allegation that Saddam Hussein had stockpiled Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD) and they destroyed Libya on the false pretence for entrenchment of democracy. The powerful forces, are largely behind the sponsorship of rebels against legitimate governments in the Arab and Muslim worlds.

    A close examination of those engineered crises, clearly show that they are not religious but rather sectional, tribal and primordial conflicts under the guise of religion. A clear case is the destruction of Iraq, Libya, Syria and Yemen by the same forces that would rather protect undemocratic monarchy system and fuelled conflicts in other seeming democracies.

    It was therefore not surprising when Sunni-Shiite debacle was introduced to justify the wanton destruction of lives and property in some countries. There is a fear that the same scenario could play out in Nigeria if the recent clash between Nigerian military and an Islamic group in Zaria is not contained and controlled.

    Until after the alleged Zaria massacre of members of Islamic Movement of Nigeria, headed by Sheikh Ibraheem El-Zak-Zaky, on the day they were to celebrate Moulud (Birthday) of Prophet Mohammed (SAW), Nigerian Muslims don’t bother about dichotomy of creeds in Islam. It is therefore, unfortunate that while the country is yet to resolve the Boko Haram terrorism, the political elite seems to find ways of dividing the Muslim community along Sunni and Shiite doctrines when majority simply believe in the Quran and Hadith. It is worrisome that politicians have ways of playing politics with everything including innocent life and yet they cunningly seek for the endorsement of voters during campaigns for elections.

    Meanwhile, just like the good hearted Angela Merkel of Germany, top Nigerian Christians and their umbrella organisation, Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) have shown empathy, expressed sympathy and condoled families of Zaria victims who were killed like rats to be freely robbed by miscreants. Surprisingly, some Muslim leaders who should be more concerned, either keep mute or merely engage in blame-game on confused doctrines.

    There is a lot to be learned from leaders like Chancellor Merkel, who as a Christian is providing shelter, food, medication, education and even enabling environment for Muslims to practice their religion in her country. She has clearly demonstrated the Islamic injunction, which states: “O humankind! We created you from a single pair of a male and female, and made you into nations and tribes, that you may know each other. The most honoured of you in the sight of God (Allah) is the most righteous of you.” Quran 49 Verse 13.

    Truly, righteousness is the sole standard value in humanity.

  • Bamidele Aturu: Another Senior Advocate of the Masses

    Bamidele Aturu: Another Senior Advocate of the Masses

    Bamidele Aturu: Another Senior Advocate of  the Masses

    By Yushau A. Shuaib

    “No religion condones injustice as the Holy Scriptures abhor oppressors and condemn injustice. Check your Holy Book for guidance.” – Bamidele Aturu

    That was a direct quotation from the late anti-corruption, anti-impunity and an honest human rights advocate, Barrister Bamidele Aturu while responding to my initial disposition to leaving oppressors to the judgement of Almighty God. To him, powerful elements in the society would rather wish to be taken to the courtyard of God than be sued in the court of law because of their arrogance and power intoxication.

    As a legal practitioner who was familiar with Sharia legal system, even though a Christian and pastor at that, Aturu quoted copiously from the Holy Quran, and some sayings of Prophet Muhammad (SAW), known as Hadith to convince me to go to Court since I am a Muslim.

    In his attempt to persuade me to take the right course, he offered to defend my case free of charge in prosecuting a legal battle against my powerful opponents (individual and institutions) who would later hire Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SAN) to defend them in the case.

    He personally took responsibility for his flight tickets, accommodation and transportation and occasionally that of lawyers that he assigned to attend to my case in Abuja, before he later assigned a dedicated young lawyer to pursue the case on his behalf. Despite his tight schedule, he always took time to call and give me updates on the case.

    It is undeniable the fact that impunity and injustice trigger corrupt practices, nepotism, terrorism, robbery, kidnapping and other criminalities. Those who encourage such negative vices and oppressions should face the legal consequences of their actions which will be lessons in humility and justice.

    The satisfaction of going to the court afterward was indeed an eye-opener. It exposes the hypocrisy in the civil service and mediocrity in the public office. In fact from documents tendered and other revelations since made, I now know that those who should protect your interest are the very ones who always work against you. In that process some leaders that should be adequately advised are unconscionably misled to take irrational decisions based on frivolous innuendoes and accusations. There are many stories for another day.

    As one of the beneficiaries of his philanthropic legal service, the death of Bamidel Aturu came to me as a rude shock. Few days before his demise, the gentleman informed me that my case had been further adjourned to October 2014. There was never a premonition he would die soon. The last time we met in his Abuja hotel room, he was so vibrant, energetic and always eloquent in his delivery. A leading authority on labour laws in Nigeria and author of law books, we discussed media and publishing venture which we were both passionate about. In fact while going through my recent initiatives in the publication of Spokesperson’s Digest and Emergency Digest magazines, we mooted the idea of publishing the Lawyer’s Digest focusing on activities of legal practitioners.

    Before his legal representation on my case, I had had memorable encounters with him at several workshops/conferences towards promulgation of laws on transparency and accountability in government, especially those organised by Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) as well as Media Right Agenda (MRA). At such fora, he provided legal insight towards the establishment of some institutions like NEITI, BPP and FOI.

    Since his death on July 9, 2014, many tributes have been written eulogising his uncanny humility, courageous posture, fearless mien, exemplary conducts and above all his excessive generosity as the voice for the voiceless and defender of defenceless across the Niger.

    Born in October 1964, Bamidele Francis Aturu was reported to have abandoned a career in the military to train as a scientist before he became a lawyer. As a brilliant student, he came out in flying colours in all his academic pursuits, carting awards at every stage as best graduating student. He did same at University of Ife and Nigerian Law School. During National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) programme, Aturu refused an award of the best corps member of the NYSC 1987/88 batch because he didn’t want to shake hands of the military administrator of Niger State, Lawan Gwadabe, in protest against military rule.

    He was later to become one of the fearless leaders that mounted campaign against military dictators, Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida and Sani Abacha. He frequently was harassed and detained by security agencies.

    A son of policeman who was regularly transferred around the country, Aturu understood the complexity of Nigeria and therefore, developed a better understanding of various cultures, tribes and religion of the people. Beneficiaries of his benevolence can be found among Nigerians of different backgrounds, religions and tribes. It is no wonder that he was regarded as another Senior Advocate of the Masses (SAM) like the late legal luminary, Chief Gani Fawehinmi.

    It may be surprising for many Nigerians to realise that in a country where eye-service, lips-service and excessive love of money are the order of the day, there are still individuals who will stand by you, fight for you and never expect a dime from such efforts. Their only reward is the smiles and happiness returned to the faces and hearts of fellow human beings in place of despair and despondency. They are determined to ensure equity and justice in our fatherland.

    Bamidele Aturu’s intervention in my life and that of numerous others who suffered immense injustice in a clime beclouded by vainglory through pro bono legal services was a sure sign of a brighter future for Nigeria because no matter how long it takes, the element of goodness will eventually overpower those of darkness.

    It is a sad commentary that a man who devoted his life to fighting for the oppressed in the society did not get a reciprocal gesture in time of need. A public hospital to which he was rushed during a health crisis rejected him because once again, medical doctors had proceeded on another of their never ending strikes.

    This article by Yushau A. Shuaib has also appeared in the print editions of the Vanguard, Nigerian Tribune, Trust, Leadership, Guardian, Blueprint, Sun, People Daily, Thisday and the Economic Confidential in August 2014

  • Sambo Dasuki on Security Media Relations

    Sambo Dasuki on Security Media Relations

    Sambo Dasuki on Security Media Relations
    By Yushau a. Shuaib

    “The National Security Adviser to President Goodluck Jonathan, retired Col. Sambo Dasuki, is a prince of the Sokoto Caliphate… you hardly hear him or see him throw his weight around…”
    -Ochereome Nnanna, Vanguard Columnist.

    Within a week, last week to be precise (March1-7, 2014), the name of the National Security Adviser to President Jonathan suddenly became an item in opinions and features. Most of them actually wanted him to be visible and outspoken on security operations, especially over the barbaric atrocities being committed in a section of the country.

    Some respected columnists also questioned the silence of NSA over recent security challenges.Writing under his weekly column in Thisday, Olusegun Adeniyi asked if Sambo Dasuki has a phone number of any editor in Nigeria, while Steve Osuji in his column in the Nation simply asks: “Boko Haram: Where on earth is the NSA?”

    Since they are not faceless writers, their articles were well-intentioned and wakeup calls on security situation in the country though some of the assumptions on the person of the NSA were on wrong premises.

    This writer has a memorable encounter with Sambo Dasuki by virtue of being a syndicate writer. Sometimes last year I honoured an invitation to speak at a Media Seminar organised by Netherlands Embassy for top security spokespersons, media practitioners and right activists. In attendance were Gen. Chris Olukolade of Defence Headquarters, Frank Mba of the Nigeria Police, Dapo Olorunyomi of Premium Times, Manir Dan Ali of Trust, online bloggers including Tolu Ogunlesi and Japheth Omojuwa among many others. Immediately after, I penned my experience in an article on Debating Government Media Relations which was widely published.

    Surprisingly, a week later, I received an invitation from a top security officer to meet the NSA. Having been careful of avoiding any ‘Wahala’, I am conscious of my writings on security. While I asked for the prayers of my family for safety, I did an online search on Sambo Dasuki.

    What I found out were revealing: The American trained security strategist, Dasuki was Aide-de-camp (ADC) to Military President Ibrahim Babangida. Former Military Governor of Kaduna, Col. Abubakar Dangiwa Umar in an interview with the Punch last year narrated how some forces aborted his attempt with Dasuki to install Chief MKO Abiola, the winner of June 12 election. He also disclosed how they jointly confronted General Sani Abacha from playing hanky-panky with Nigeria’s destiny.

    Along the line, Dasuki escaped from Nigeria and lived in exile when he was hunted for his audacity and refusal to take an offer in the administration of General Sani Abacha. His millionaire father, Ibrahim Dasuki who was the Sultan of Sokoto and the most powerful traditional ruler in Northern Nigeria, was deposed by Abacha and banished to Kaduna for the ‘sin’ of his forthright son. The father, who clocked 90 year last year, is still alive.

    All his life, as a royal prince, Dasuki has never been ambitious and would rather take a bow than playing dirty. He voluntarily resigned his appointment as Managing Director of Nigeria Security, Printing and Minting Company (NSPMC) when he was not comfortable with President Olusegun Obasanjo’s attempt to privatise the firm against security implications.

    At the time of his appointment in June 2012 by President Goodluck Jonathan, the Boko Haram insurgency was very active in Abuja, Kano, Kaduna, Niger, Plateau, Kogi and most states in the North-East with attempted incursion towards Southern parts of the country. With emergence of Dasuki, the activities of the insurgents have been restricted to a few states in the North-East. An active advocate of constructive dialogue and engagement with different groups towards peaceful resolution of crises, Dasuki nevertheless believes decisive and aggressive confrontations are inevitable against rampaging and brutal undesirable elements.

    After the online search, I sought the advice of members of Media and Information Committee on Emergency Management (MICEM) where I was once the Secretary. The verdict was similar: Sambo Dasuki doesn’t believe in cheap publicity; he will rather expand resources in facilitating positive public perception on other security arms who are expected to be active and visible on the field. He hosts occasional interactions with critical stakeholders including civil societies, media and politicians for better understanding on security issues. In such encounters, he sincerely expresses his positions on realities on the ground, while charging his audience to be responsible and responsive in their information against undermining national security and national interest. A stickler to time, he can never be late to any assignment. In fact most time, I learnt, he arrived long before the commencement of events.

    With those information, I had the courage to honour the invitation. To my comfort I wasn’t the only person invited to the meeting. There were some activists and members of NGOs too. When he looked at me, he asked: “Why are you very critical in your write-ups?”

    I responded that writing is my hobby and PR is my profession. I am therefore conscious of whatever I write. At the end, he appealed to us to be fair and kind in our comments and writings and that we should always consider the nation first. He urged us to always channel our grievances and recommendations on national issues to appropriate authorities including his office whenever necessary.

    Dasuki is polished and eloquent as he talks passionately about the Office of the President which he believes “deserves the respect of every Nigerian as the symbol of our nation and integrity.” He holds the view that there is nothing wrong with opposition politics if it is geared towards the sustenance of democracy and devoid of destructive antics that may create confusion and security breaches in the land.

    Since then I have interfaced with some of the NGOs and the media towards a better understanding of security operations in the country. The recent inauguration of Forum of Spokespersons in Security and Response Agencies (FOSSRA) under his office has so far reduced to the barest minimum the inter-agency rivalry in information management and encouraged designated security spokespersons to be proactive and timely in providing updates on security situations.

    Professional security strategists do not need to be garrulous to prove that they are working but must work behind the scene to facilitate accomplishment of tasks. In fact respected Intelligence chiefs all over the world do not make much noise in the public because of the sensitive nature of their assignments. Even in this country, only a few Nigerians know the intelligent Director General of the Department of State Security (DSS/SSS), Ekpenyong Ita who delegates a professional Public Relations expert, Marilyn Ogar to do the necessary talking with timely updates.

    In this challenging period of our life, we should encourage our security officers to do their job maturely and professionally while the designated spokespersons and political office holders do the talking.

    This article by Yushau A. Shuaib was published in the print edition of  Economic Confidential, Thisday, the Nation, Nigerian Tribune, Daily Trust, National Mirror, Blueprint, People’s Daily, The Sun, Leadership and Vanguard in March 2014

  • The Incorruptible Civil Servant and National Honours

    Muhammad Tahir Zakari

    By Yushau A. Shuaib
    In a country where everybody is perceived as corrupt, especially in the public service, Mr. Muhammad Tahir Zakari has distinguished himself as an incorruptible civil servant. He was among the 148 individuals who were conferred with Nigeria’s National Honours Awards by President Goodluck Jonathan on September 17, 2012.

    Recently the online economic journal, the Economic Confidential in an investigation reveals that of those that got the National Honours Awards for 2012, he was the only person who was nominated on the basis of honesty by returning N6.2 million, which was overpaid into his salary account back into treasury.

    The report also indicates that about 75 percent of the 148 recipients actually occupy public offices either as appointed or elected figures in the executive, judiciary and legislative arms of government. Some categories of the awards seemed to be reserved for particular groups of officers. For instance Supreme Court Judges are beneficiaries of CFR; CON are conferred on Governors, Ministers and Senators; OFR are bestowed on Members of House of Representatives, Deputy Governors, Diplomats and Legal Practitioners; OON are given to top management staffs in the public and the private sectors; while MFR is meant for security personnel, civil servants, local traditional rulers, community and religious leaders. Most of the nomination or final recommendations are done by the power-that-be. In fact one of the listed beneficiaries, a deputy governor was removed from the list by the order of the boss. In the face of all these, there are also allegations that in Nigeria some individuals and groups could pay anything to get any kind of awards even for doing nothing.

    Muhammad Zakari, who is recognized for his incorruptibility, got decoration in one of the least categories as Member of the Federal Republic (MFR). He is a Grade Level 10 officer with the Federal Ministry of Information, on secondment to the Federal Ministry of Agriculture.

    The story of Zakari’s emergence as most deserving of the national award started in November 2011, when he received a credit alert on his mobile phone of the sum of N6,241,469 instead of his usual monthly pay of N62,000. He thought he was having a sweet dream not nightmare. At the time he got the alert he actually had N400 as his credit balance.

    A dazed Tahir immediately rushed to the bank where it was indeed confirmed that he had the millions deposited in his account. Back home, he then narrated his discovery to both his mother and his wife about what could be considered as “Manna from Heaven.” A deeply religious family, the two women in his life all encouraged him to report and return the millions and not spend what did not belong to him.

    He admitted that as a human being, something was telling him that “God has many ways of blessing and enriching individuals. I initially thought probably that was the way God wanted to intervene in my life by mysteriously depositing money in my bank account. But long years of religious and moral education reinforced by admonishment from the females in my life prompted me to immediately report and return the money which was N6.5 million.”

    When friends learnt about the refund of the whopping amount of money, some withdrew their friendship while others taunted him as “a typical of the remaining few Nigerian Mumus (fool) that could get free money and return it when he earns a meagre salary.”

    “I could feel others jeering at my resolve. As a human being, the temptation was high, considering the kind of environment we live in. But sometimes you just need to take a most dignifying action and take joy in that which I did sincerely.”

    Blessed with eight children comprising of seven boys and a girl, Tahir further admitted: “I was also afraid to tarnish my family name if I spent the money and the error was later discovered by the authority. That could be very shameful too!”

    His action was reported to the Independent Corrupt Practice Commission (ICPC), Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Head of Service and the Office of the Secretary General of the Federation.
    Subsequently he received a letter from Office of the Accountant General of the Federation commending him for his “show of honesty by returning an error payment to the tune of N6.2 million.” It was on August 27, 2012 that the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator Pius Anyim sent him a letter to inform him that the Federal Government had approved the conferment of the National Honours in the rank of MFR on him. In honouring him, President Goodluck Jonathan said the award was in recognition of Zakari’s outstanding virtues and in appreciation of his service to the country, Nigeria, without adding “where many are presumed to be corrupt.”

    A graduate of Mass Communication from the reputable Bayero University Kano, Zakari was born on March 20, 1971 in Garun-Mallam, Kano State. He did his National Youth Service in Enugu before he was offered appointment into Federal Civil Service as Information Officer. He was then seconded variously to the National Films and Video Censors Board, Ministry of Water Resources and now in Ministry of Agriculture, Abuja.

    While we celebrate a young civil servant as incorruptible, we only hope some of our leaders who are mostly disdained for their excessive wealth from sophisticated corruption would not be laughing at poor Zakari, who believes an honour in the face of his unrealistic wages is adequate compensations for incorruptibility.

    As we are encouraged by the exemplary conduct of Zakari, which should be emulated, it is doubtful if many poor Nigerians would accept the typical Nigeria’s National Honours if they have the option of a million Naira gift. I believe there are many Nigerians out there setting records and good examples but would never ever make it to the seeming National Honours for top public figures and title holders.

    This article by Yushau A. Shuaib has been published in the print edition of the the Economic Confidentia October 2012, National Mirror October 8, New Nigerian October 8, People Daily October 9, Leadership October 9, 2012, The Guardian October 16, and Daily Sun October 24, 2012

  • Namadi Sambo: Between Loyalty and Humility

    Vice President Namadi Sambo

    By Yushau A. Shuaib
    The Nigeria’s Vice President, Arc. Muhammad Namadi Sambo is a man with a strong conviction and unique character. At 60 year on August 2, 2012, he has come a long way as an architect, businessman, commissioner, governor and presently the second most powerful person in the most populous country in Africa.

    This writer has never seen, not to talk of meeting Sambo face-to-face, except on the media, like most Nigerians. Nevertheless, this writer has a clear perspective on the person of the Vice President since his period as the Governor of Kaduna State between May 2007 and May 2010.

    Working on a project that promote developmental journalism and economic development, with a special focus on the North, the writer was introduced to the then commissioner of Finance in Namadi’s administration, Mukhtar Ramalan Yero by Former Managing Director Bank of the North, Alhaji Yakubu Shehu. Within a short period, Yero made a case on the project to Gov. Namadi who in turn instructed his Principal Private Secretary Mallam Zakari Aliyu to provide all the necessary supports for its success. During the three years of his administration in Kaduna, the project received tremendous supports from the government. In fact Sambo’s spokesperson Mallam Sani Umar, was always on the phone reminding our team of the annually gesture.

    The point from the above was to demonstrate the personality of Sambo who is generous to worthy projects from any quarters.

    The politics of his nomination as Vice President in 2010 by President Goodluck Jonathan was a shocker to most political groups and factions that were engaged in supremacy battles to control the new administration after the death of President Yar’Adua. There were indeed pressures from various groups including the so-called Obasanjo’s faction, IBB Boys, Governors’ forum, Legislators camp, Danjuma team and other regional groupings. Pressures were so tensed that almost created divisions in the ruling party PDP, before Jonathan decided to pick a neutral and non-controversial candidate that was not in the contention.

    Since his appointment as the Vice President, looking at Sambo from a distance, especially in the print and electronic media, one could see a person who has demonstrated ‘excessive’ loyalty to his boss in utterances, acts and deeds. His humility is unparalleled even among cabinet members whom he relates with seamlessly, unperturbed with his ever-smiling trademarks on his face.

    He had encountered and surmounted some challenges, especially during the 2011 elections, where, not only was he defeated in his constituency in Kaduna, some groups and individuals were alleged to have booed and jeered at him. Surprisingly with well-armed security guards, he never allowed anyone to use force to fight back in retaliation. While some saw his defeat at the home front as humiliation to his person as a vice president, afterall almost every top elected public figure, governors inclusive used every trick, cohesion, intimidation and harassment to deliver their constituencies, Namadi believes in the will of God and the voice of the people.

    Inspite of all that happened in the past, Sambo does not begrudge those that antagonize him but reestablishes and sustains mutual relationship with their leaders. He accords opposition leaders their due respects and attends social gatherings where loyalists and adversaries do converge in the spirit of exceptional statesmanship.

    Going by his personality traits, he display no aura of arrogance and desperation for public office as the Vice President. His public outings and statements are devoid of ulterior motives. His position on various issues, whether as representations of his Boss, the President, or personal remarks, are done maturely, responsibly and sometimes eloquently delivered in tune with the public sensitivity and reality on the ground.

    Unlike dichotomies that exist among some past Presidents and their deputies as well as governors and their lieutenants in ambitious cat-and-mouse games, President Goodluck is truly lucky to have Sambo as a humble, loyal and unambitious Vice President. Even while sometimes one could read some handwritings on the wall by fifth columnists and political sycophants, the situations are usually maturely controlled with the help of Sambo’s office before damages could be done.

    Born on the 2nd of August 1954 in Zaria, Kaduna State, Sambo had his early education at Baptist Primary School, Kaduna in 1959 before moving to Kobi Primary School in Bauchi. He later attended Government Secondary School now Alhuda-Huda College in Zaria Between 1967 and 1971. He gained admission to study Architecture at the Ahmadu Bello university where he graduated with Bachelor of Science Degree in 1976 and Masters Degree (M.Sc.) Architecture in 1978. He was among the first set of architects in Bauchi State after its creation in 1976 where he was involved in the design of various offices and staff housing schemes to accommodate the influx of new government officials. He was the Architect responsible for the upgrade of the Yankari Games Reserve Holiday Resort during the period. He is also remembered for development of master plans for Bauchi Town and environs.

    Between 1986 and 1990, he was appointed Commissioner in various ministries including Agriculture, Works, Transport and Housing in Kaduna State. He later left the government to continue with his career in private architectural practice. His firm was involved in the developments of the National Olympic Sports Complex and and other infrastructural facilities at the Games Village, Abuja.

    Arc. Sambo currently chairs the councils of National Boundary Commission (NBC), National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and National Economic Council (NEC). He is a Fellow of the Nigerian Institute of Architects, Institute of Corporate Administrators of Nigeria among others.

    This unassuming and loyal Vice President has shown some qualities that are disparaged by a few and emulated by many who have clear glimpse of his humility and simplicity to life.

    This article by Yushau A. Shuaib has been published in the print edition of New Nigerian July 31, Daily Champion July 31, Blueprint August 1, Thisday August 2, Nigerian Tribune August 2, National Mirror August 3, People Daily August 5,  and Leadership, 2012

  • Sarah Jibril: When Women Betray A Woman

    Sarah Jibril
    “Because I am a woman, I must make unusual efforts to succeed. If I fail, no one will say, ‘She doesn’t have what it takes.’ They will say, ‘Women don’t have what it takes.” – Clare Boothe Luce

    The above quotation by Clare Boothe, a US Congresswoman aptly captured what happened at the last Presidential Primary of the ruling People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Abuja. There were three presidential aspirants: President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and a respected Nigerian woman politician Mrs. Sarah Jibril.

    Though there were allegations of manipulation of the electoral processes and the intimidation of some delegates to the convention, the insolent solitary (one) vote for Mrs. Jibril out about 4000 delegates comprising males and females, means that Sarah Jibril was the only person that voted for the womenfolk in Nigeria; invariably she was the only person that voted for herself.

    The question that continues to disturb me and which will continue to haunt Nigerian women is; where are the women activists, the feminists and the women politicians who were lousily disturbing the airwave with their so-called women liberation when they could have influenced their husbands, fathers, brothers, man-friends and boyfriends to vote for the woman?

    The Nigerian First Lady Dame Patience Goodluck Jonathan, the Minister of women Affairs, Josephine Anenih, were obviously visible, before the PDP’s primary, calling for women empowerment and the need to support women in the next elections. It could be recalled that while launching one of the state chapters of her Pet Project; Women For change Initiative (W4CI) in Yola, the First Lady challenged Nigerians to believe in the immense capacity and capability of the women folk in nation building in order to bring about the much needed positive change the country is yearning for. She said her initiative was created to bring about a change in the lives of women through giving women soft loans for small scale businesses, provide support for those seeking political offices and generally changing the lives of women for the better.

    On her part, the Minister of women Affairs, Mrs. Josephine Anenih was reported to have endorsed two- time Presidential aspirant Mrs. Sarah Jibril for elections at a Ministerial Press Conference in Abuja. She said the endorsement was to achieve the 35 per cent affirmative action come 2011 general elections and beyond provided for in the national gender policy so as to increase the number of women in appointive and elective positions come 2011. She added that the political empowerment of women is one of the ministry’s highest priorities.

    They made promises of providing logistics and material supports, but the awful outing of a woman aiming for the highest political level with one-single vote calls to question the sincerity and commitment of feminine campaigners for gender equality in the polity.

    Could there be some conspiracy by women against women or did they just demonstrate sheer jealousy against a woman of courage and determination who has courage to have consistently come forward to prove that a woman has a right to aspire to any position of authority.

    Sarah Jibril herself asked a rhetoric question she put forward to womenfolk when she said: “What offence have I committed against the women of Nigeria? They should tell me so that I will know? They should check my records right from when I was a commissioner right from when I was chairman governing council and all other positions I have held in the past.” She added that: “Nigerian women should tell me what I have done wrong and how I have misrepresented them that made them afraid to vote for me.”

    While only the Nigerian women should respond to her emotional outburst, it is necessary to point out that it seems they are not ready for real socio-political challenges as exemplified by this singular act of selfishness and selfishness against their own.

    Why should men for instance, who have noticed how women politicians betrayed a female aspirant at the last PDP primary, have trust in voting for female candidates in the next elections when womenfolk themselves are in conspiracy against themselves?

    I wonder what could befall other women seeking top public offices like governors of states. I just imagine the miracle Senator Gbemisola Saraki, a gubernatorial aspirant under Allied Congress Party of Nigeria (ACPN) in Kwara State can deploy to defeat formidable male opponents like Barrister Muhammad Dele Belgore, a philanthropic lawyer dearly loved by the masses under Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) and Alhaji Fatai Ahmed an unassuming former Commissioner of Finance who is supported by the governor of the state under People Democratic Party.

    Going by this action against the only respected and recognisable woman politician of substance in the country, Nigerian men must have seen the writing on the wall and take appropriate actions accordingly by advising their wives, sisters, mothers and daughters to be wary of politics or they might embarrass the entire family through woeful defeats in elections.

    By the way, has Sarah Jubril’s failure at the PDP Primary gone to further reiterate the old adage that a woman’s role ends in the kitchen and at home to take good care of the family while the men take charge of external forces? Where are all the money and other resources set aside to support women’s cause in politics go to? It is appropriate to constitute a panel, excluding women in membership, to prove how those resources voted to champion the cause of women were utilised or diverted for other purposes. Exclusion of women in the committee is to guard against their conspiratorial antics against themselves.

    This article by Yushau A. Shuaib originally appeared in February 2011 in some print media including Daily trust, People’s Daily, Thisday, Vanguard, Sunday Tribune and National Mirror.

  • Riches: Face to Face with Alamieyeseigha

    Ex-Governor Diepreye Alamieyeseigha of Bayelsa State
    Ex-Governor Diepreye Alamieyeseigha of Bayelsa State

    It is an experience this writer will not forget in a hurry. It is such an experience that makes one to wonder about life, its pleasure, its vanity and what forms inner contentment and fulfilment.

    It was on a trip to Bayelsa state, considering the risk and hazards of travelling by road to an area considered volatile in Nigeria going by the frequent reports of militancy, armed robbery, sea piracy, abduction and kidnapping, the writer opted to travel by air from Abuja to Port-Harcourt from where he would take a vehicle to Yenegoa, the capital of Bayelsa state which is about two hours journey by road.Everything was normal at the Abuja International Airport: travellers were either checking in or arriving from various destinations. Some VIPs were seen going and coming with retinues of aides as well as officials doing what they know best; they appeared serious even when they are not actually doing anything serious.

    Then the moment came, when people turned to have a glance at a particular individual who clutched a small humble bag. He looked lone, very ordinary but he was not just an ordinary personage because of the attention he attracted.

    He looked seemingly humble, simple and walked in measured gait. The clothe he put on where devoid of any attraction, just a shirt and trouser.He is Diepreye Alamieyeseigha, former governor of Bayelsa State who had been arrested and convicted for stealing.

    As the airline announced the boarding for passengers leaving for Port-Harcourt, this writer joined others to a bus on the tarmac that would take us to the step of the aircraft. It was while waiting for other passengers in the bus that Alamieyeseigha sauntered in, again alone without a single bodyguard or an aide. There was this feeling of excitement that could not be described. It was neither of joy nor of sadness: it was a mixed feeling standing face to face with a man that is alleged to still be among the richest people in Nigeria, whether through corrupt enrichment or clean business. He didn’t look different from other mortals rather some bystanders or some poor citizens look healthier than he did.

    There was a smile on his face while nobody seemed ready to vacate a seat for him and the bus was jam-packed. Two young men, though they didn’t look like militants, stood up for him but he politely declined their offer even when they insisted.

    At that moment past memories flashed through this writer’s mind. The image of a pot-bellied and huge governor of oil rich-state waving to his people in a campaign podium; travelling in a convoy of state- of- the-art automobiles with body guards; blaring siren ceaselessly to clear the road for his passage; accumulating chieftaincy titles and honorary doctorate degrees from different institutions at home and abroad; surrounding himself with the prettiest ladies money and power could bring; using his constitutional powers and state revenue to enrich himself and pauperise his subjects; receiving solidarity visits by traditional rulers, religious leaders and pressure groups to demonstrate their love for him. That was first elected Governor of smallest state in Nigeria between May 1999 to 2005 before his impeachment engineered by former President Olusegun Obasanjo through the Nuhu Ribadu-led Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

    Then horrific pictures set in: A man in an expensive hospital abroad undergoing plastic surgery to reduce his big tummy; the foreign media announcement about the arrest of a Nigerian who stocked millions of foreign currencies in his house in London; then sneaking into the country with his masculine visage in women attires; the breaking news from Nigerian Television of a man in handcuff alighting from an helicopter. From a grace to grass, the former governor Alamieyeseigha was found guilty of money laundering, convicted and sentenced to two years in prison after the court had tried him of the offences. He is the first ex-governor to be convicted for graft.

    Though he pleaded guilty to embezzlement and money laundering he is alleged to still own multi-million dollar mansions and huge investments in Nigeria and abroad. He is one of the major campaigners for Goodluck Jonathan for 2011.

    At this juncture, this writer’s mind came to life as they entered the same plane that Monday evening to port-Harcourt. The plane could not takeoff immediately, as the pilot announced that all airlines had been barred from taking off because there was a presidential movement. This is a practice in Nigeria where everything must wait because the Presidential Jet conveying President Goodluck Jonathan was in the air and approaching the airport. From our windows, we could see the policy and other secret service personnel in the airport tightening the security expecting President Jonathan who was the former deputy Governor to Alamieyeseigha and beneficiary of the latter’s arrest as he became the governor and later Vice President before becoming the President after the death of President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua.

    As usual drama ensued outside. Some overzealous bodyguards harassed people that attempted to be funny as well as those who looked suspicious. About 20 vehicles with officials were at the airport to receive President Goodluck Jonathan on arrival, only God knew what could have been going through the mind of his former boss who was waiting and watching from a commercial aircraft that was delayed for 40 minutes.

    On arrival at the Port-Harcourt Airport everyone went his way.

    Curious of the brief encounter at the airport, this writer summoned courage to unsuspectingly seek the view of people about Alamieyeseigha. Although he stole their money, he is still adored and respected mostly because, according to some of them, he performed well and executed some gargantuan projects as well as doled out money to people including various community leaders and religious bodies. Their belief is that once one can give out money and execute some projects nobody cares how much one stole. This accounts for the heroic reception accorded him by the same citizens whose treasury he was convicted of looting, after his release few years ago.

    A trip to his community in Amayasabo also shows his palatial mansions as well as the roads that were constructed with interlocked stones instead of asphalt during his reign as the governor.

    The face-to-face brief encounter with a man of power and riches makes one wonder; what is in this life after all? No matter one’s mundane accumulations, it does not change one’s physical being and I doubt if such individuals have peace of mind compare to the poor or ordinary citizens that eke-out a living through decent endeavours.

    This article by Yushau A. Shuaib has apppeared in several online media including Economic Confidential, Nigeria Villagesquare and NigeriaPlus in November 2010

  • Prof. Gambari: A Global Diplomat from Nigeria-

    Prof. Gambari: A Global Diplomat from Nigeria-

    Professor Ibrahim Gambari of United Nations

    Prof. Gambari: A Global Diplomat from Nigeria-

    By Yushau A. Shuaib

    He is an African whose name is everywhere on international diplomacy: shuttling between tough terrains; mediating in crises; resolving conflicts as well as preaching the gospel of global peace. He is not only a black African but a global diplomat from Nigeria.

    Professor Ibrahim Gambari is one of the longest serving Africans at the top managerial positions at the United Nations (UN). He had successfully led Special Missions of the UN to trouble spots. Recently while addressing the Security Council in July 2010, he announced the safe release of some foreigners who were kidnapped in June 2010 after leading African Union-United Nations Mission in Darfur (UNAMID) as the Joint Special Representative (JSR). In the same period he was honoured with the ‘Umurinzi’, Rwanda’s Campaign Against Genocide Medal by the country’s president, Paul Kagame.

    Gambari is currently the most senior Nigerian in the United Nations and represents the rising profile of Nigerian at the United Nations. He has, in different capacities, work with four successive United Nations Secretaries- General (Pérez de Cuéllar, Boutros-Ghali, Kofi Annan and presently Ban Ki-moon), including as Under Secretary General for Political Affairs, Special Advisor and Envoy to the Secretary General on Mymmar and the Iraq Compacts Programme.

    Born in Ilorin Emirate of Kwara State, Nigeria, on November 24, 1944, Prof. Gambari attended Kings College, Lagos, as well as the London School of Economics where he obtained a B.Sc. (Economics) degree in Political Science with a specialty in International Relations, Professor Gambari received M.A. and Ph.D. in 1970 and 1974 respectively both in Political Science/International Relations from New York’s Columbia University.

    He had a brief stint lecturing at the City University of New York and the State University of New York (Albany) in 1969-74. He returned to Nigeria where he taught at the Ahmadu Bello University in Zaria and rose to the rank of Professor in 1983. He was Head of the Department of Political Science in 1982-1983, where he founded the first undergraduate Programme in International Studies in Nigeria.

    Professor Gambari was appointed Director-General of the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs in October 1983, a position he held until his appointment as the youngest ever Minister of External Affairs during Buhari/Idiagbon administration after the change of government in December 1983.

    He had served in various academic capacities: He was Visiting Professor at the John Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies, in Baltimore; lecturer at both Georgetown University and Howard University in Washington, D.C.; a Research Fellow at Brookings Institution, Washington, D.C and a Resident Scholar at Rockefeller Foundation Bellagio Study and Conference Centre, Italy.

    Prior to joining the UN Secretariat in December 1999, Professor Ibrahim Gambari holds the record of being the longest serving Ambassador/Permanent Representative of Nigeria to the United Nations (January 1990 to October 1999). As Nigeria’s Ambassador to the UN, he was a senior member of the Nigerian Delegation to ten consecutive sessions of the General Assembly (44th to 54th); he also served as President of the Security Council on two occasions (May 1994 and October 1995).

    Apart from chairing the UN Special Committee on PeaceKeeping Operations from 1990-1999, he led several United Nations missions, including the Special Committee against Apartheid and the Security Council missions to South Africa, Burundi, Rwanda and Mozambique. He served as member of the Board of Trustees of the United Nations Institute of Training and Research (UNITAR) from 1993 to 1999 and also as President of the Executive Board of UNICEF (January to December, 1999).

    Professor Gambari apart from publishing articles in national and international scholarly journals, he has authored globally acclaimed books which include: Theory and Reality in Foreign Policy Decision Making, Comparative Study of Regional Economic Integration; the Case of ECOWAS and The Domestic Politics of Nigeria’s Foreign Policy. Some of his forthcoming books include Africa’s Security Questions at the End of the 20th Century into the New Millennium and The United Nations in a Changing World Order: An African Perspective.

    In recognition of his distinguished diplomatic and scholarly careers, he was in 1985 became the first African to be conferred with the title of ‘Honorary Professor by Chugsan University’ which was founded by and named after Dr. Sun Yat Sen, leader of the 1911 Peasant Revolution and first President of Nationalist China. The University of Bridgeport (USA) awarded him the Doctor of Humane Letters degree (honoris causa) in 2002; the prestigious Johns Hopkins University elected him to membership of the University’s Society of Scholars in 2002 and the Government of Nigeria awarded him the national honour of Commander of the Federal Republic (CFR) in 2003. He was also honoured by various associations including the Nigerian Lawyer Association, New York in 2006.

    Professor Gambari is the founder of the Savannah Centre for Diplomacy, Democracy and Development, a non-governmental “think-tank” in Abuja, which is devoted to critical analyses of – and solutions to – the problems of conflict prevention, management and resolution, as well as democratization and sustainable development in Africa.

    This article by Yushau A. Shuaib was originally published in August 2010 on the websites of the Economic Confidential and Nigeria Village Square.

  • Golden Casket: Between Gani Fawehinmi and Wacko Jacko

    Golden Casket
    Gani in Golden Casket! I still wonder!

    Every living being, animal must taste death. It is the ultimate end to every soul as it picks the strong and the weak at will. Its arrival brings painful and emotional moments for the loved ones of the departed souls. Death is only a departure from this earth as all religious faiths believe it is not the end of our existence as there is life hereafter.

    Everyone enters this world virtually innocent, naked and empty of worldly possessions should our return to the Almighty be marked with glamorous garbs and expensive makeup?

    When a loved one dies, the bereaved families are usually under great emotional distress. Meetings are held, decisions taken, on various issues concerning the deceased. These may include: should the remains be cremated, buried, or donated for research purposes as well as the cost implications.

    There were media frenzy recently on the death international pop star, Michael Jackson of the United States of America and more recently that of the late legal icon and human rights activist, Chief Gani Fawehinmi of Nigeria. Due to their large followership cutting across different faiths, languages, culture and class, their burials were as controversial as when they were alive. Apart from their elaborate burial arrangements there were unconfirmed speculations on their wills and instructions on how they should be buried. In fact their religious faiths at the point of death were speculative based on unfolding events.

    Some online media claimed that Michael Jackson, popularly known as Wacko Jacko, died as a Muslim due to the influence of his Muslim-brother, Jermaine Jackson and his close association with Arabian Sheiks. Chief fawehinmi’s delayed burial arrangement too which his family claimed was at his instance made some to wonder if he died as a Muslim because Islamic religion he professed while alive mandates that a Muslim must be buried within 24hours unless there are instance when authorities require post-mortem autopsy to determine the cause of death or transportation from overseas. The circumstances of Jackson’s death like former Nigerian billionaire, MKO Abiola were contentious where the state intervened to unravel the mystery behind their untimely death, not Gani who died from ill-health as a result of cancer.

    A very interesting similarity between Gani Fawehinmi and Wacko Jacko was that they were buried in most expensive and glittering golden caskets compared to other caskets used by some celebrities across the globe. A Golden casket is specifically designed and customised to the taste of the customer who gives the order. Most political and business icons are interned in caskets that come with a 5-inch Allen wrench which is turned counter-clockwise to open, though expensive too but not as the golden. The brands largely come with velvet interior and in full couch and are in different makes. There are those in gauge steel, mahogany veneer, oak veneer wood, solid Paulowina, copper, bronze and stainless caskets.

    While Michael Jackson as a showbiz personality who lived a highly ostentatious and extravagant lifestyle, might deserve nothing less than golden casket or even diamond coffin, Gani Fawehinmi’s like of simplicity and humility deserve a modest burial arrangement instead of the way and manner his body was parade in streets in designer’s transparent/glass coffin, daily attired in different costumes before he was finally buried in a costly golden casket after ten days.

    Michael Jackson was a super star and supermodel whose lifestyle revolved around extravagance display of opulence and glamour in the spirit of showbiz but Gani Fawehinmi was a lawyer that associated and mingled with the downtrodden masses to set an example and provided free legal services to the poor and defenceless citizens from various cultures and faiths including pagans without discriminations.

    While Michael Jackson could count many awards in his career as Musical icon and model, Gani Fawehinmi could only count his honour by his scholarship, legal achievements and title of Senior Advocate of the Masses and many chieftaincy titles including highest Islamic honor of Baba Adini of Ondo State.

    Though Michael Jackson parents are staunch Jehovah Witness religious followers, not all members of that family followed that Christian denomination. In fact his immediate brother, Jermaine Jackson is a devoted Muslim. In the case of Gani Fawehinmi, he ensured all members of his households, wives and children bear Islamic names like his first wife, Mrs. Ganiyat, first son, Barrister Mohammed and last daughter, Aishat but yet not all of them are Muslims.

    Unlike Michael Jackson family who from the outset welcomed contributions towards his burial arrangement including government’s participation and funding, Gani’s family claimed that their patriarch instructed them to organise elaborate burial ceremony for him after his demise and that he warned them not to accept the use of public funds. Events endorsed by the family of Gani afterwards contradicted his philosophy and disposition on flamboyant and pretentious lifestyle as we witnessed active participations of government at all level to the ceremony where invariably public funds were deployed especially on hosting, venues, security, motorcade and facilities in the ten days of activities during the Muslim month of Ramadan.

    There was clear reason for contentious actions during Michael’s burial due to the controversial circumstances of his death that warranted participation of various service providers, Gani’s case showed a family trying to prove a message by employing the service of funeral home for the embalmment, preparation of body, cosmetology, refrigeration, viewing session, hearse and chauffeured Limousine, the Procession and the use of glass coffin and eventual golden casket among others.

    Therefore the leader of the masses and protector of minority groups and Talakawas does not require the glaring ostentatious and profligate burial engagement that contradicts his strong religious belief of Islam. As much as Gani Fawehinmi was recognised as a Muslim before his death, the family should have accorded him the respect of being accorded his Islamic rite which forbids unnecessary delay in funeral and the corpse should have been wrapped in a simple plain cloth and buried in a modest- rather than gaudy manner.

    If the essence of burying Gani was to portray him as a superstar like Michael Jackson, they should be reminded that he was already one before his death due to his services to humanity which have been celebrated even before his death by the annual celebration of his birthdays organised by Nigerians, sometimes in his absence and witnessed by notable personalities that include respected General Muhammad Buhari, Balarabe Musa, Wole Soyinka, Nuhu Ribadu among others. To testify to that, the kind of encomiums showered on him immediately after his death surpassed that witnessed on some past Nigerian leaders. Amazingly even leaders that persecuted and prosecuted him were among the mourners with words of tribute over his demise. They included Chief Olusegun Obasanjo and General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida.

    Even if he was not a Muslim whose religion promotes simplicity and humility in characters while alive and manner after death, as a leader of masses, Gani Fawehinmi deserved a simple, humble and honourable exit from this sinful world that does not encourage profligacy and wasteful spending in the name of befitting burial.

    This article by Yushau A. Shuaib was originally published in Economic Confidential October, New Nigerian October 6, Thisday October 10, Vanguard October Daily Champion October 12, Leadership October 14, Daily Independent October 24, 2009

  • Saraki: the father, the Son and the only Daughter?

    Sarakis of Ilorin, Kwara State
    I have special admiration for three present governors in Nigeria: Raji Fashola for his amazing transformation and modernisation of some ghettos in Lagos State within his first tenure; Mallam Ibrahim Shekarau for his unassuming disposition in making Kano, the most populous state in Nigeria a peace haven to every Nigerian no matter their backgrounds after the past notoriety of Almajiris and Bukola Saraki one of the youngest governors for his uncanny initiatives and efforts especially in the rapid industrialisation of once rustic Ilorin.

    I must admit that while Lagos has the concentration of operational bases of most media in Nigeria by which it receives more news mentions, I frequent the other two states by virtue of my dual identities. My Parents were born in Ilorin, while I was born and brought up in Kano city.

    Of all the governors in Nigeria who were elected under the platforms of godfathers, not related by family affinity, Governor Bukola Saraki was singlehandedly nominated and sponsored by his own father, Dr. Olushola Saraki to occupy his present office.

    In Nigeria’s politics, the senior Saraki who holds one of the highest traditional titles, the Waziri of Ilorin, is truly a godfather and political tacticians that has remained relevant in every political era in the country. He is a professional political businessman, so skilful in ensuring that his candidates always have a place in every administration since his emergence in 1979 as the most powerful Senate Leader ever in the history of Nigeria.

    Saraki, the father who is presently the leader of the powerful Northern Union (NU), an elitist club championing the cause of Northern Nigeria by also consulting other sectional leaders, is credited to have successfully influenced the elections of past previous elected governors in Kwara State from Adamu Attah of National Party of Nigeria (NPN), Shaba lafiaji of Social Democratic Part (SDP), Cornelius Adebayo of United Party of Nigeria (UPN) and Mohammed Lawal of All Nigerians Peoples Party (ANPP) before pushing his son to Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to emerge the governor in 2003.

    To prove to his opponents and other Nigerians that he is an undisputed political leader in the state, he nominated his daughter to be elected as a member of the Federal House of Representatives in 1999 under the platform of ANPP before moving her to PDP as a Senator representing the state. He even has another son, Adeolu Saraki appointed Special Assistant to President Umaru Musa YarÁdua, a promotion for the young chap who was Adviser to a former Minister of Housing and Environment.

    In politics, once he makes up his mind on candidates, he always has his way not that he had not had some setbacks. In the past apart from the turn-of events and no-love-lost relationship with godsons in the state, he had embarrassing encounters at national level especially with the Bafarawas when they were together in ANPP and unpronounced disagreement with some retired Generals from his hometown who were influential in previous administrations. They were late General Tunde Idiagbon, Late General Abdulkarim Adisa and the third was defacto assistant to OBJ in Presidential Villa retired General Abdullahi Mohammed Adangba. Most of them denied him some privileges and recognition on issues affecting the state.

    Many had expected that his past experiences with his sponsored governors in the state, who later turned against him or attempted to undermine his power of influence, would be repeated with his son on the saddle. Most of them might have been disappointed because the relationship of a father-and-son has continued to be strengthened and very cordial which makes one to wonder the possibility that they had an accord on each boundary limitations in the affairs of the state.

    Sentiments apart, Governor Bukola Saraki has impacted positively on the state and lives of the people by providing enabling environment for businesses. From turning some areas to agrarian communities through mechanized farming under the skilful eyes of competent foreigners, and infrastructural development in the areas of housing, road networks and aggressive pursuits of independent power generation in the state. He has never gotten carried away like a pampered child to mess up because of his daddy-godfather and never attempt to engage the all-powerful daddy in altercation that could have drawn public attention. He nevertheless seems to be a man of his own and independent in his resolve to make the state great by creating enough job opportunities unlike his fathers whose generosity is in doling out money free to old people and youths who do nothing but praise him.

    Trailing his father’s skilful art of networking, Governor Saraki has highly effective relationship with various political and social groups which influenced his unanimous nomination and election as the chairman of Governors’ Forum, an endorsement by other governors.

    Though not much may be heard of the daughter of the godfather in the Senate, Senator Gbemisola Saraki who chaired a committee of the Senate on Transportation, her good diction and foreign accent when she joined other senators during Obasanjo era to defeat the Third Term Agenda, made many, since then to believe that she is not just daddy’s pikin but an intelligent and responsible Nigerian. She was also billed for the position of Senate President which was zone to North-Central region but for the high wire politics, where David Mark was unanimously chosen.

    Recently, I had an opportunity to visit Ilorin, the capital of Kwara State and gauge the tempo of the ordinary people on speculated desire of the Saraki Family to ensure that after the tenure of the son-governor, the political equation on who gets what in the next dispensation for top offices would be purely Saraki Family Affairs.

    The game-plan, the opposition claims is simple: The political godfather would influence the election of the senate-daughter to be Governor in 2011, the young son who is presently Presidential Adviser to be moved to the Federal House of Representatives as a legislator while the present Governor would move to the Senate where he could likely emerge the Senate President, a position zoned to the North-Central.

    There is a big BUT in this simple arithmetic if truly that is the intention of the Saraki family.

    Politics apart, from a moral pedestal, propelling his children to high offices on behalf of the state in top executive and legislative arms, (I doubt if any of his other children read law to have been nominated in judicial arm as Chief Judge), is inappropriate as it looks as if governance in the state is entirely Saraki’s family affairs.

    As much as every Nigerian has the right to aspire to any position in the country, even though the success of such moves in our present politics is determined, to a large extent by influence of godfathers, the senior Saraki should by now, after being so blessed in having fanatical supporters even among our guardians and in and out of the state, soft-pedal in giving undue advantages to his children. A political godfather is not only a father of his children but a guardian of the entire people in his constituency including the so-called outsiders who have dwelt or contributed to the development of the society.

    Therefore, in his retirement age, though I learn politicians don’t retire, he should provide enabling environment for all aspirants and candidates to prove their worth through their records and be judged accordingly at the polling booths. Any attempt to force candidates, including those that are not related to him may not be appreciated by the larger society that believes in transparent democratisation devoid of systematic disenfranchisement of electorates.

    Therefore, since we are not practising monarchy or political dynasty associated with the Arab world where royal families control the resources and have the destiny of the citizens in their palms, political godfathers in Nigeria should encourage other citizens to aspire to public offices without exertive influence and coercion … a kind of generosity that will be remembered after they finally leave the stage.

    This article by Yushau A. Shuaib was originally published in Daily Trust August 11, Daily Independent August 13, Leadership August 13, National Life August 15, Triumph August 17, Vanguard September 3-4, 2009