Dons EzeWHY I WANT REGIONAL GOVT FOR NIGERIA – AKIN FAPOHUNDA
WHY I WANT REGIONAL GOVT FOR NIGERIA – AKIN FAPOHUNDA The 36 states of the federation should be scrapped and Nigeria be returned to regional system, an activist, Dr Akin Fapohunda, has proposed. In a private framework he developed for speedy restructuring of Nigeria’s governance structure, Dr Fapohunda also suggested the scrapping of the presidential system of government, reintroduction of the parliamentary system, return to unicameral legislature, as well as provision for self-determination by any section of the country which desires so. The promoter said Nigeria needs a new governance framework, insisting that the current structure is not working, and that if sustained for a much longer period could even lead to the complete failure of the country. Dr Fapohunda was shedding light on the content of a trending document he authored, in which he proposed the new governance structure. He said it is a memoranda to all Nigerians, which could eventually transmute into a parliamentary bill or even trigger a sort of national discourse in the form of a confab of leaders of thought from across all sections of Nigeria. As a patriotic Nigerian, he said he wanted to elicit serious conversation and positive discussions on how to resolve Nigeria’s existential challenges, insisting that the 1999 Constitution has failed in addressing multiple problems bedevilling Nigeria. Tagged, ‘A Bill for an Act to Substitute the Annexure to Decree 24 of 1999 with a New Governance Model for the Federal Republic of Nigeria’, Dr Fapohunda proposes that Nigeria should return to regional government structure that would be led by a prime minister and his/her cabinet, while allowing individual ethnic groups to aggregate or disaggregate as provinces, divisions and districts while being in control of their affairs. “This Act may be cited as the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria New Governance Model for Nigeria Act 2024,” he said. According to him, “All Nigerians must look into this proposal this year. It should be ahead of the 2027 election frenzy. I am not saying that all the things I proposed must be implemented immediately. What I am saying is that we should start from somewhere by examining and adopting those elements that could work,” he said during the telephone interview. In the said document, he said: “The President of the Nigeria Federation is the head of the nation-state. The prime minister acting through the National Assembly shall nominate the candidate for President. The nominee shall be elected president if the National Assembly approves his candidacy by a two-third-majority vote of all elected members. ad “The term of office of the President shall be six years. No person shall be elected President for more than two terms. “Constituent units of regional territories shall control and retain all resources and revenues falling within its natural jurisdiction but shall only pay both federal and regional taxes according to laws. “For the avoidance of doubt, the entire property in and control of all minerals, mineral oils and natural gas in, under or upon any land in Nigeria or in, under or upon the territorial waters of Nigeria shall vest in the government of the regional territory and the constituent units,” he said. Meanwhile, the House of Representatives has disowned the bill. In an interview, House spokesman, Akin Rotimi, said, “The Committees on Rules and Business and Constitution Review have confirmed that there is no such bill before them.” Similarly, the Chairman, House Committee on Rules and Business, Francis Waive, said that the said bill was not before the committee. He said, “There are two routes to making presentations for constitutional amendments. One is by members proposing an amendment bill during the plenary. The second is by memoranda from individuals and groups to the Constitution Review Committee “Please, note…
POTENTIAL CONSEQUENCES OF REGIONALISM: WHICH REGION SUFFERS MOST?
POTENTIAL CONSEQUENCES OF RESTRUCTURING NIGERIA: WHICH REGION SUFFERS MOST? Nigeria, a country with a complex political and economic landscape, has been grappling with the idea of restructuring for several years. Proponents argue that it will promote economic growth, reduce inequality, and address grievances among the country’s diverse regions. However, there are concerns about the potential consequences of restructuring, particularly for one region that may suffer most: the North. The North, comprising 19 states, is the most populous region in Nigeria, with a significant majority of the country’s landmass. Historically, the North has relied heavily on the federal government for economic support, and its economy is largely dependent on agriculture and solid minerals. If restructuring takes place, the North may face significant challenges, including: 1. Loss of Federal Allocations: A restructured Nigeria may lead to a reduction in federal allocations to states, which could disproportionately affect the North, given its reliance on federal support. 2. Economic Disruption: The North’s economy is largely informal, with many small-scale farmers and traders. Restructuring could lead to economic disruption, making it difficult for these individuals to adapt to new economic realities. 3. Limited Economic Diversification: The North has limited economic diversification, with a focus on agriculture and solid minerals. If restructuring leads to a decline in federal support, the region may struggle to diversify its economy and attract investment. 4. Brain Drain: The North has already experienced a brain drain, with many of its best and brightest minds migrating to other regions or abroad in search of better opportunities. Restructuring could exacerbate this trend, leading to a loss of skilled workforce and intellectuals. 5. Social Unrest: The North has experienced periods of social unrest, including the Boko Haram insurgency. Restructuring could lead to increased tensions and conflict, particularly if the region feels marginalized or excluded from the restructuring process. In conclusion, while restructuring may bring benefits to Nigeria as a whole, the North may suffer most due to its economic and political vulnerabilities.It is crucial for policymakers to consider the potential consequences of restructuring and develop strategies to mitigate its impact on the North, ensuring that the region is not left behind in the process.
NIGERIA HAS COLLAPSED UNDER TINUBU – BABACHIR LAWAL
NIGERIA HAS COLLAPSED UNDER TINUBU – BABACHIR LAWAL Former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Engr Babachir Lawal, has said Nigeria collapsed after the swearing of President Bola Tinubu on May 29, 2023. Lawal said the shocking announcement of fuel subsidy removal by Tinubu on the day of inauguration plunged the country into economic malady, stating that the policy was launched before the cabinet was assembled. According to Lawal, the announcement of fuel subsidy removal led to increase in the transportation which is basically the engine of business for both the rich and common man in Nigeria. Describing the action taken on May 29, Lawal said the non-existence of the cabinet and the Federal Executive Council to address the consequences of such a harsh policy was the undoing of Tinubu, leading to a total collapse of the country. “I can only repeat what I said before. I’ve spoken on this before. First of all, I did say one time you came into government on the day you were inaugurated,” he said. “After swearing in you embark on the first major policies that are very impactful on the lives of the society. It is like a cowboy, or macho man removing subsidy. At that time, he didn’t have a minister of planning, that should plan the outcome, the consequences to take care. “You don’t have a minister of finance who will calculate the impact of this society. You did not even have the federal executive council that will approve that, you have nothing. As at that time, nobody to advise, nobody to break out ‘what ifs’”. Speaking further, he said, “So immediately after that inauguration, Nigeria collapsed. It is like a balloon. Nigeria fell down. It deflated completely. Immediately transportation (fare) tripled,” he noted. “That week! I used to buy animal feed for my cows from Zaria, I used to pay N270,000 per truck. Immediately that week, I couldn’t buy anymore, because transportation alone was going to cost me N1 million,” he explained from his personal experience as a farmer.“I couldn’t afford it because the cost of fuel just jumped up. Everything. Last week I bought some equipment for my farm. I wanted to transport it from Kano, they were asking me to pay N3 million to transport three tractors and only to be put in a trailer. One trailer carrying three tractors!. Everything has gone up. So that policy alone crashed everything.”
HIGHLIGHTS OF FEC MEETING HELD ON MONDAY AND TUESDAY, MAY 13, 14, 2024
HIGHLIGHTS OF FEC MEETING HELD ON MONDAY AND TUESDAY, MAY 13 & 14, 2024 After exhaustive deliberations, the council approved a number of policies and projects that will further boost the economy, facilitate investments and promote the ease of doing business in the country. The under-listed are the major highlights: 1. Council supported a series of initiatives set to be launched that will revolutionize Nigeria’s Infrastructure and Housing sector through Public-Private Partnerships The initiatives which can unlock about N2 trillion are aimed at transforming the nation’s infrastructure and housing mortgage sector, meet the urgent demand for critical infrastructure and affordable homeownership, fostering job creation, inclusive growth, and long-term productivity enhancement. Inspired by the 1970s era, the government envisions a future where ordinary Nigerians can access 25-year mortgages at low-interest rates to realise their dream of owning a home. By collaborating with private institutional investors, the government seeks to replicate past successes and address current challenges effectively. This strategic partnership aims to leverage the expertise and capital of private investors to accelerate the delivery of vital projects, driving sustainable development and economic progress for all Nigerians. 2. FEC approved that all users of Federal airports all over the country must now pay tolls at the gates. No one is excluded. The President and Vice President of Nigeria will also pay the toll. 3. The council announced a ban on sand dredging 10 kms from all Federal bridges throughout the country. 4. Council annouced a 4-week deadline for review of visa policy to enable tourists, business people, and creative professionals visit Nigeria. The ease of doing business, the council agreed cannot materialise if prospective visitors face a herculean problem getting our country’s visa. Part of the review envisaged is that visa applicants can apply for the visa online and get one within 48 hours. Also visas may be waived for holders of visas of some countries. 5. The council granted approval for the supply, installation and training of operators of disabled aircraft recovery system at Murtala Muhammed Airport in Lagos. The contract will cost N4.2 billion. Similar contract was awarded in 2021 for Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in 2021. 6. Council approved Special Purpose Vehicle to be created on a PPP basis to develop 90,000 kilometres of fibre optic cable to increase Nigeria’s internet connectivity by 60-70 percent. The SPV intends to copy the NLNG model. 7. Council approved a consultancy service for the reconciliation and expansion of the remittances to NITDA. 8. Council approved the request of the Ministry of Communications to convert the property at 324 Jackson Street, San Francisco, USA into a Nigerian Digital Technology Exchange Programme Hub. Property owned by the Nigerian government is valued at close to $7million. 9. The Federal Executive Council also approved the award of contract for the building of bus terminals and other transport facilities in the Federal Capital, Abuja. Terminals will be built within 15 months at Kugbo, Abuja Central Business District and Mabushi. The whole project will cost N51 billion and will be executed by Planet Projects Nigeria Limited, which did similar contracts in Lagos and Oyo states. 10. Council approved the award of contract to Messrs El & Matt Nigeria Limited to upgrade Kwaita-Yebu Road in Kuala Area Council of Abuja at a cost of N7.6 billion. Completion time is 18 months. 11. Council approved contract for the building of the Court of Appeal Abuja Division at a cost of N37.2 billion. Project will be executed by Messrs Visible Construction Limited. 12. The Council awarded contract at a cost of N412million for street lights on Bill Clinton Drive, Airport Expressway. The job includes the procurement of 8 back-up generators, which will be powered by Compressed Natural Gas( CNG) or Solar, in line with…
A COASTAL HIGHWAY OF MISPLACED PRIORITY & ABUSE OF DUE PROCESS – PREMIUM TIMES
A COASTAL HIGHWAY OF MISPLACED PRIORITY & ABUSE OF DUE PROCESS – PREMIUM TIMES Construction of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway has begun amid a myriad of fiscal and due process concerns. But indifference is the response of President Bola Tinubu’s administration to the challenges. The 700-kilometre stretch of road infrastructure, which will span eight years to complete, will gulp a staggering N15 trillion. This figure is tentative, given the country’s inflationary spiral. The project might well have significant economic benefits for the country but there are real questions involved, especially as regime spokespersons have repeatedly reiterated the fact that our economy is bankrupt, of which there is no question. The pilot phase of the construction has started at the Eko Atlantic City and it will terminate at Lekki Deep Seaport, for which N1.06 trillion has already been released. It is a highway of 10 lanes, which will cost N4 billion per kilometre, and would be the first of its kind in Africa, says the Minister of Works, David Umahi. His zealousness in its implementation brooks no dissent, and sometimes it gets spiteful. The first set of victims, whose properties were demolished to pave the way for the construction, were paid N2.75 billion in compensation last week. There are similar road networks in the offing, in the Sokoto-Badagry Coastal Highway and the Enugu-Abakaliki-Ogoja-Cameroon Highway, in what seems like a geo-political balancing act. As a spur, the latter will course through Oturkpo in Benue State, to Nasarawa State and end at Apo, in Abuja. On the second project, Mr Umahi said, “We have started the design and I’m sure that as soon as the Federal Executive Council approves it, we will be starting at the Sokoto side.” Given its 1,000-kilometre length, it will surely gulp over N20 trillion. The political ecosystem is already astir on the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, with the circumstances surrounding its award. Adherence to due process has been raised by some critics, causing waffling in official quarters. The point has to be made: the project did not go through a competitive bidding process, which is imperative for such a huge venture, in line with the 2007 Public Procurement Act, as enunciated in Section 16 (1) (1) and (d), to create transparency, accountability and value for money. As the minister admitted, the award sidestepped the public tender competitive bidding process. This raises the question of how the cost was arrived at. -Was it a favour to a friend of the administration? -Or is the government bidding farewell to the transparency and accountability of public tender and the competitive bidding process? -In addition, why was the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) phase of the project not done before work began? We know this through a letter dated 18th April that emanated from the Ministry of Works, soliciting residents living in the Section 1 and 11 areas of the highway in Lagos, to attend a workshop organised for a scoping study that will generate this all-important data, after the project implementation had commenced. This action, the letter reads in part, will “ensure that the project is developed in a responsible and sustainable manner, in line with regulations in Nigeria as well as international standards and frameworks.” No, this is sophistry! The country’s statute and global best practices do not uphold putting the cart before the horse in the award of a contract, as the ministry’s letter exemplifies. The ESIA precedes any contract. How the project will be financed is still mired in obfuscation. On 23 September 2023, Umahi disclosed that Hitech – the construction company for the work, would fund the project, precisely under the Public Private Partnership (PPP) scheme. However, in a volte-face recently, he said that the government will provide 50 per…
TINUBU IN FRANCE FOR ‘MEDICAL REASONS’ PRESIDENCY KEEPS MUTE ON WHEREABOUTS
TINUBU IN FRANCE ‘FOR MEDICAL REASONS’, PRESIDENCY KEEPS MUTE ON WHEREABOUTS Nigeria’s President, Bola Tinubu has gone to France, SaharaReporters has gathered. The President’s trip to France came a few days after his trip to Saudi Arabia officially ended following the conclusion of the World Economic Forum in Riyadh on Monday. Investigation by SaharaReporters showed that the President first went to London, England from Saudi Arabia on Tuesday, and then left the UK for France on Thursday. While the Presidency has been silent on the trip to the UK from Saudi Arabia and later to France, SaharaReporters was told that the President’s unreported trip to France was for medical reasons. “The President is in France to see his doctors,” a source said. An investigation by SaharaReporters revealed that a Nigerian presidential aircraft, a Gulfstream Aerospace GV-SP (G550) with registration number 5N-FGW and serial number 5310 (Mode-S 0640F2) with Tinubu onboard arrived at Paris Airport-Le Bourget, France around 04:00pm on Thursday from an airport in London. The President on Tuesday morning left Saudi Arabia – where he attended the World Economic Forum – for London. A statement issued last week by the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale said the special WEF meeting in Riyadh would end on Monday, April 29. “After his engagements in the Netherlands, President Tinubu will proceed to attend a special World Economic Forum (WEF) meeting scheduled for April 28-29 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia,” the statement had read. Meanwhile, in the statement, the Presidency carefully left out information about when Tinubu was expected back in Nigeria after the international forum or that he would visit the UK and France after leaving Saudi Arabia. Also, the Presidency has been silent on President Tinubu’s whereabouts since the international summit ended on Monday, April 29. Efforts to reach Mr Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information & Strategy, for comments and clarification failed as he did not answer calls from our correspondent. He also did not reply to messages sent to his mobile phone. However, SaharaReporters learnt that the 5N-FGW (Gulfstream Aerospace) which was operated as Nigerian Air Force 1 – meaning the President was on board – left Riyadh International Airport on Tuesday, April 30 at 12:05 am (02:05 am Saudi Arabian time) and arrived at Stansted Airport, London at 06:35 am, UK time. The jet was used to replace the Boeing Business Jet (Boeing 737-700) 5N-FGT that is still in Germany for repairs. “Nigerian Air Force 1 isn’t technically the plane, it’s simply the radio call name for any Nigerian Air Force jet carrying the President of Nigeria. “As soon as the president steps aboard an Air Force jet, either the Boeing Business Jet (Boeing 737-700) 5N-FGT or Gulfstream Aerospace GV-SP (G550) with registration number 5N-FGW or the Falcon 7X jet (5N-FGV), that aircraft is referred to as Nigeria Air Force 1 by the crew and all air traffic controllers, in order to avoid confusion with any other planes in the area and give him special treatment. “No plane can operate as Nigerian Air Force 1 without the President onboard, it’s an illegal and treasonable offence. So for it to be operated as NAF 01 to London as you stated clearly showed President Tinubu was onboard. “If you check the flight history of the current plane in London, you would realise it was operated recently as Nigerian Air Force 2, meaning that Vice President Shettima was the one onboard,” a senior Nigerian Air Force officer had told SaharaReporters. Before the 2023 general elections, Tinubu’s health was a source of concern for many Nigerians. SaharaReporters had reported how the former Lagos governor spent over four months patronising hospitals in France, the United States and the…
ONLY SIX NIGERIANS SIGNED 1914 AMALGAMATION DOCUMENT, IGBOS NOT REPRESENTED
ONLY SIX NIGERIANS SIGNED 1914 AMALGAMATION DOCUMENT; IGBOS NOT REPRESENTED Many Nigerians have asked if there were parties from the southern and northern Protectorate that partook in the declaration of Nigeria, or did the British on their own sign the document in the absence of the people involved? Southern and Northern Protectorates were joined to form Nigeria in 1914. By then the nationalists we know of now were still little to know what happened. Nnamdi Azikiwe was only 10 years old, Ahmadu Bello was 4 years, Obafemi Awolowo was 5 years then. This forces concerned individuals to ask – Which Nigerian signed the Amalgamation document? It has been revealed that there were only 28 individuals involved in the Amalgamation of the South and the North Protectorates. Out of the 28, only 6 were Nigerians. The rest were all British citizens. Lord lugard, the first governor general led the Amalgamation (he was the one who proposed it first) and the final signature was his. The six Nigerians are; 1. HRH Maiturare Sarkin Mussulumi and Sultan of Sokoto 2. Usuman Dan Maje who later became Emir of Kano 3. Sir Kitoyi Ajasa a lawyer 4. HRH Oladugbolu Alaafin of Oyo 5. HRH R Henshaw (Obong of Calabar) 6. Abubakar Shehu of Borno These were the Nigerians present at the amalgamation. They were there ceremoniously. No Igbo man was present in the amalgamation of Nigeria, even though the Igbos had powerful Kings like the Obi Okosi of Onitsha, Eze Nri òbalíke among others. The reason is not far-fetched, It’s thought that the Igbos fought strongly against the British rule and they were never in support of their systems. Lagos colony was also against the amalgamation as at then. The British were more comfortable and had better relationship with Fulani/Northerners. The British perhaps handed over leadership roles to the Northerners. So, the saying that Northerners want to always rule Nigeria did not just start today. It was positioned so by the British.The location of the amalgamation was was in Zungeru, Niger State. That was the Capital of the British Protectorate of Northern Nigeria from 1902 until 1916.