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A Report By The Good Governance Index On How Poor Governance, Lack Of Accountability At State And Local Govt Levels Escalate Insecurity In Nigeria

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4 years ago

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A Report By The Good Governance Index On How Poor Governance, Lack Of Accountability At State And Local Govt Levels Escalate Insecurity In Nigeria

 

Introduction:

The Good Governance Index, a non-profit organization dedicated to the entrenchment of good governance and accountability in governance at all tiers of government in Nigeria undertook systemic research on factors responsible for insecurity in Nigeria with a view to identifying the factors responsible for the escalation of insecurity in Nigeria.

It relied on primary sources of data in interviews, on the spot assessments tours, interactions with key stakeholders at the various tiers of government as well as close review of documents and policy papers on governance in Nigeria.

The Issues:

Every country has her fair share of security challenges, but when the state of insecurity rises by the day, then there is a need for urgent action. This has been the situation in Nigeria in recent years. Thus, the problem of insecurity in Nigeria cannot be overemphasized.

Consequently, insecurity has taken various forms in different parts of the country. In the South-West, armed robbers have taken over, while in the North, cross-border bandits operate with ease. However, in the South-South, there are rampant cases of kidnapping. Also the continuous wave of crime and armed robbery attacks, cult killings etc all point to the fact that insecurity is fast becoming a norm in Nigeria and have somewhat suddenly become attractive to specific individuals in seeking to resolve issues that could have ordinarily been settled through due process. The end-products lead to the decimation of innocent lives, disruption of economic activities, and destruction of properties, among others.

Governance at the Local Government Areas:
Local government in Nigeria have more significant challenges than other tiers of government since they have the responsibility of ensuring equitable social and economic development at the grassroots. Chairmen of the council are expected to prepare programmes of work and related financial implication, manage and supervise the allocation of financial and human resource coupled with appropriate monitoring of project execution.

Unfortunately, apart from lacking the above requirements both the elected and civil service officials at the local government lack the ability to establish excellent working relationships, ability to build the consensus, negotiation skills and the commitment to develop a partnership for improved development effectiveness throughout all the Local Government Areas.

From all indication, it was observed that local government administration as a whole is increasing in scope day to day with resulting increased responsibilities. This means that Local Government administration does not merely require people with academic paper qualification, but people with initiative ability to lead, ability to enthuse and to guide. Unfortunately, the Local Governments have failed in their both their statutory powers and political will to address these issues.

The role of the state governments:
It must be stated that the role of state government as a tier of government in Nigeria cannot be overemphasized. It has been increasingly noted that the various state governments have been notorious in rendering local government areas in the states ineffective and mostly underfunded. It has also been stated in numerous forums that state governors are in the habit of depriving the bulk of the people in the local government areas the dividends of democracy, and this is somewhat responsible for the spate of agitations at the local government levels which gave rise to all sort of anomalies at the grassroots levels.
Insecurity at Local Government Areas:
The people who reside at the grassroots constitute nearly sixty percent of the entire Nigerian population. But the economic wellbeing of the local government area councils is not sound. This means that poverty is more in local areas than it is in urban centres. And this fact has its attendant implication on the security situation in Nigeria.

According to reliable findings in the cause of the research work, it was observed that the bulk of the security challenges emanates from the state and local government levels. For example, kidnappers and other forms of criminal elements are planned in rural areas. Recruitments into terrorist groups are also carried out at the local government areas because of the level of deprivation and poverty.

Poor governance and lack of accountability:
This research indeed revealed that Local governments in Nigeria experience varying levels of interference from politicians and state governments and there have been contending views on whether interference is desirable or not considering the poor performance of local governments.

The revelations indeed portend grave danger because interference is not desirable as it has been the bane of the security challenges in the country.

Conclusion:

The Good Governance Index as a result of the above, concludes the level of insecurity in the country is fueled substantially by the ignoble role of the state and local governments in the governance structure in the country.

There is an apparent lack of accountability which is a bane in the entrenchment of good governance in the country and provided that ready market for the recruitment of willing foot soldiers by criminal elements into the web of crime and criminalities in the country.

Recommendations:

The Good Governance Index as a result of the preceding herby make the following recommendations;

The federal government should begin the process of demanding from the state governor’s accountability and transparency in the administration of local government funds. This, in our considered opinion, would bring about the much need accountability in governance at the state and local government levels.

The federal government must also do all within its powers to ensure the entrenchment of transparency and accountability at the state and local government levels in a bid to ensure that terrorist and other criminal gangs do not find the local government areas as veritable grounds for the escalation of violence in the country. I

*This report was put together by Dr. Thomas Uzah, a special rapporteur and made available to National Association of Online Security Reporters, NAOSRE.*

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Sahara weekly online is published by First Sahara weekly international. contact [email protected]

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Lagos Police Rescue 27 Foreigners from Alleged Kidnap, Arrest Couple for Online Vendor Abduction

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44 minutes ago

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March 11, 2025

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Lagos Police Rescue 27 Foreigners from Alleged Kidnap, Arrest Couple for Online Vendor Abduction

Lagos Police Rescue 27 Foreigners from Alleged Kidnap, Arrest Couple for Online Vendor Abduction

 

Operatives of the Lagos State Police Command have successfully rescued 27 foreigners who were allegedly kidnapped and confined in an apartment in the Isheri Oshun area of the state.

 

The command’s spokesperson, Benjamin Hundeyin, disclosed this during a press briefing on Monday, revealing that the rescue operation was initiated following a distress call received by the Complaint Response Unit from one of the victims.

 

According to Hundeyin, the victim reported that she and several others were being held against their will and were not allowed to leave the apartment. Upon receiving the report, the Divisional Police Officer in charge of the area was promptly contacted, leading to the swift intervention of the police.

 

“Somebody reached out to the Complaint Response Unit of the Lagos Police Command and complained that she had been kidnapped in an apartment and not allowed to leave. The CRU contacted the Divisional Police Officer covering the area, and upon getting to the apartment and breaking into it, a total number of 27 foreigners were found,” Hundeyin stated.

 

The rescued individuals comprised 18 males and nine females, with nationalities spanning Ghana and the Republic of Benin.

 

Preliminary investigations revealed that the victims had been lured into Nigeria under the false pretense of securing jobs. The police are currently investigating whether Lagos was their intended final destination or if they were being trafficked to another country.

 

“They are now safe and in our custody, while investigations continue to determine the full extent of the situation,” Hundeyin assured.

Couple Arrested for Kidnapping Online Vendor

In a related development, the Lagos State Police Command arrested a couple for allegedly kidnapping an online vendor who had gone to deliver a product in the Iyana Ishashi area of the state.

The incident was reported on Sunday by the victim, who recounted that she had been abducted upon attempting to make a delivery to a supposed customer.

“The victim received a request for a product and proceeded to the customer’s house in Iyana Ishashi. Upon arrival, the door was opened, and she was forcibly dragged inside by a man and a woman. The suspects were later identified as Emmanuel and Mazioma Okafor,” Hundeyin explained.

According to the police spokesperson, the suspects allegedly stripped the victim naked, assaulted her, and took explicit photographs. They then demanded a ransom of N2 million, threatening to leak the images if she failed to comply.

“She managed to pay N300,000 that day, which allowed her to regain her freedom. However, she was warned that if she did not pay the balance, her pictures would be released. The victim subsequently reported the incident to the police, leading to an immediate investigation,” Hundeyin said.

The couple was swiftly apprehended by the police, and an investigation is ongoing to ensure justice is served.

The Lagos State Police Command has reiterated its commitment to safeguarding residents and urged members of the public to be vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the authorities.

 

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Ariya Extra : Celebrating The Pioneering Voices of The Elite Women Musicians Club of Nigeria

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55 minutes ago

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March 11, 2025

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Ariya Extra : Celebrating The Pioneering Voices of The Elite Women Musicians Club of Nigeria

Ariya Extra : Celebrating The Pioneering Voices of The Elite Women Musicians Club of Nigeria

The Elite Women Musicians Club of Nigeria is proud to showcase some of its most outstanding members—talented artists who are redefining Nigeria’s musical landscape with passion and creativity.

Leading in Gospel music is Oluwayemisi Afonja Gbajoba, whose soul-stirring performances blend traditional Nigerian rhythms with modern gospel harmonies to inspire and uplift her audience.

 

In the realm of Islamic music, two remarkable voices stand out. Alhaja Raheemot Arike captivates with her spiritually uplifting vocals, while Alhaja Seidat Fatimo Aljafariyah brings a distinctive touch to her performances, resonating deeply with listeners and uniting communities through song.

 

The dynamic Fuji genre is brilliantly represented by Adepeju Aweni and Abebi Ayala. Both artists infuse their performances with vibrant energy and a deep commitment to preserving Fuji’s rich heritage, earning accolades from fans both locally and internationally.

 

Adding another unique sound to the mix is Queen Alimot Omowura, a standout in Apala music. Her expressive voice and engaging stage presence honor traditional Nigerian sounds while pushing creative boundaries.

Rounding out this impressive roster is Alhaja Azeezat Otibiya Reign, an Islamic singer whose harmonious blend of melody and spiritual depth continues to inspire audiences and elevate the art form.

This celebration would be incomplete without recognizing Alhaja Queen Isimot Abake Abiola (PQ1st), Omo Opeki, the esteemed President of the Elite Women Musicians Club of Nigeria. Her unwavering leadership and dedication have been instrumental in fostering unity and empowerment among female musicians.

 

We also acknowledge the contributions of Queen Ayotunde Balogun who is the life grand matron of the Elite Women Musicians Club of Nigeria, is another remarkable force in the industry, whose influence continues to elevate the status of women in Nigerian music.

 

Together, these artists embody the spirit of innovation and cultural pride that defines the Elite Women Musicians Club of Nigeria. Their diverse talents not only enrich their individual genres but also serve as a powerful testament to the club’s commitment to empowering female musicians and promoting Nigeria’s rich musical traditions on the global stage.

 

Stay tuned as we continue to share the inspiring journeys and groundbreaking performances of these pioneering voices.

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TM Foundation Launches Major Food and Welfare Distribution Drive in Nigeria

Published

11 hours ago

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March 10, 2025

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TM Foundation Launches Major Food and Welfare Distribution Drive in Nigeria

TM Foundation Launches Major Food and Welfare Distribution Drive in Nigeria

 

 

 

 

In a powerful demonstration of humanitarian commitment, TM Foundation has embarked on a large-scale food distribution drive across Nigeria, alongside a crucial welfare initiative targeting young girls and students in Ogun State.

 

 

TM Foundation Launches Major Food and Welfare Distribution Drive in Nigeria

 

This transformative outreach took place at Igbore High School, Ilugun High School, Unity High School, and Salai Abiola Comprehensive High School from March 5th to 9th, 2025, in Abeokuta, Ogun State. The initiative brought much-needed relief to hundreds of individuals facing economic hardship, reinforcing TM Foundation’s mission of compassion and community support.

 

 

 

Fighting Hunger: A Lifeline for Communities

 

TM Foundation Launches Major Food and Welfare Distribution Drive in Nigeria

 

With Nigeria grappling with rising food insecurity, TM Foundation’s intervention comes at a critical time. The foundation is distributing essential food items to underprivileged families, ensuring that vulnerable communities receive vital nourishment. This initiative aims to alleviate hunger, bringing hope and sustenance to struggling households across the region.

 

 

Empowering Young Girls: Sanitary Pad Distribution

 

TM Foundation Launches Major Food and Welfare Distribution Drive in Nigeria

 

Recognizing the urgent need to address menstrual hygiene challenges, TM Foundation has also launched a large-scale sanitary pad distribution campaign. Many young girls face difficulties accessing menstrual hygiene products, which can negatively impact their health, confidence, and education. By tackling period poverty, the foundation is fostering an environment where girls can focus on their studies without unnecessary obstacles.

 

 

Education for a Brighter Future: School Bag Donations

 

Furthering its commitment to empowering the next generation, TM Foundation has distributed school bags across four schools in Abeokuta. These essential supplies will provide students with the necessary resources to carry their educational materials, reinforcing the foundation’s dedication to fostering academic success and a brighter future for Nigerian youth.

 

 

A Call for Support and Solidarity

 

TM Foundation Launches Major Food and Welfare Distribution Drive in Nigeria

 

As TM Foundation continues its impactful initiatives, it calls on individuals, organizations, and stakeholders to support this noble cause. The foundation’s unwavering dedication to humanitarian service is transforming lives, and this latest drive stands as a testament to its mission of spreading hope and relief.

 

 

 

According to the Founder and CEO, Olatunde Mukaila Lawal, “TM Foundation is committed to bringing relief and support to communities in Nigeria. Through food distribution, sanitary pad donations, and educational support, we aim to make a lasting difference.”

 

 

 

Stay tuned as TM Foundation continues to change lives—one meal, one school bag, and one act of kindness at a time.

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