society

Fashola’s eureka moment at Lekki tollgate By Tunde Odesola

Published

5 years ago

November 9, 2020

STEALING PUBLIC TRUST . Premium Times’ Low Premium Reporting

Fashola’s eureka moment at Lekki tollgate By Tunde Odesola

Donkey’s years ago, before greed overtook leadership and snatched the reins of governance, Lagos was a free society without a tollgate.

Doubtlessly, the tollgate was a taboo in Lagos ages ago. This was in the days when history took culture under its wings together with language and tradition, forming a formidable foursome.

This was before government calamitously embarked on the journey to remove history from school curricula, deify foreign cultures, denigrate Nigerian languages and scorn tradition.

Nowadays, the four-pronged society preservers – history, culture, language and tradition – have been rendered as gaping as the four missing incisors in a mouth sentenced to pronouncing, “Surely, every thief stealing seashells by the Lagos seashore shall die by the sword at Tinubu Square.”

This pronunciation task is an impossibility for anyone without the incisors because the incisors, what the Yoruba call ‘eyin faari’, are needed to pronounce dental sounds.

If you know Lagos very well, you will know its history, culture, language and tradition. You will know the Eyo. If you know the Eyo, you should know the opambata, the aro and the agbada.

The opambata is the long, fearsome stalk of the palm tree wielded by the Eyo masquerader. The agbada is the white, overflowing regalia and the aro are the panegyrics of the Eyo.

Born at the Lagos Island Maternity Hospital and raised in Mushin, I memorised the ‘omo alagbada tolonga, tolonga’ Eyo panegyrics, a must-know chant among fellow youngsters back in the day.

That was a season when Lagos was sane, bold and unconquered. It was a time when Lagosians boastfully chanted the Eyo praisesong, recalling how their forebears’, in these tuneful lines, vowed never to pay toll at the boundary: “Eyo baba n’tawa, to nfi goolu se’re, awa o ni sanwo onibode, o di’le.”

But Lagosians now pay toll, to and fro, at the Lekki profit gate everyday. Even the Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, a true Lagosian, can’t mobilise fellow Lagosians not to pay at the Lekki bondage, sorry, boundary gate. Iyen ma lewu. Odikwa risky. Baba-Baba mustn’t hear that.

I understand the encumbrances of serving and past Lagos governors. I know how gingerly former Lagos governor and incumbent Minister of Works and Housing, Babatunde Fashola, carries the burden of loyalty. But millions of Nigerians don’t. I’ll jog their memory.

When asked at a senate ministerial screening in 2015 about his view on loyalty, Fashola responded, “The concept of loyalty is a strange one. The real answer is that may our loyalties never be tested. I always pray that may my loyalty never be tested.”

He went ahead to narrate the story of two daughters who were unwilling to donate a kidney to their sick mom after the Lagos State government promised to send their mom abroad for transplant, stressing that he never wished his loyalty to be tested because no one knows the cost.

Fashola, at the intense screening, insisted that he had never been disloyal to any cause he has ever ‘signed on to’, stressing that, ‘no one can accuse me fairly of giving my word and going back on it’.

Fashola is fervently loyal, I know. He’s an unfrivolous Lagos poster boy who minds his business, plays his table tennis and smokes his cigarettes.

Fashola was loyal to his godfather, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, first – as chief of staff and later as first term governor. During his second term as governor, his loyalty was seriously tested, and Fashola doesn’t like his loyalty to be tested.

Several days after Nigerian soldiers murdered many youth protesters at the Lekki tollgate plaza last month, Fashola visited the scene after it had been washed clean of innocent blood.

As he stepped out of his vehicle and made a solitary and determinable peregrination at the scene of the public execution, Fashola’s loyalty was on trial. But remember, he had warned that he doesn’t like his loyalty to be tested.

Fashola wore brown plain clothes underscoring the prevailing sombre mood. The plain clothes were also a foretaste of the breakthrough about to happen. He folded his hands behind his back like a wise man while his roving eyes scanned the drainage, road and tollgate pillars.

Like a prophet who takes the cue when his hour has come, Fashola looked up at the tollgate beacon and continued on his solitary mission…then his eureka moment unraveled in broad daylight when he suddenly discovered the crime-scene camcorder!

As he fetched a handy piece of cloth from inside his plain clothes, headlines for the next day’s newspapers probably flirted around his mind, “#ENDSARS: Fashola unearths secret camera,” “Fashola discovers breakthrough lead at Lekki,” “Detective Fashola!”

Brilliant people are gifted with anticipatory thinking. It’s possible that Fashola envisioned himself being swarmed by reporters after his earthquaking finding, falling over themselves in the bid to ask questions while he basked in smiles of triumphal accomplishment.

But killjoy Nigerians felt Fashola was acting a comedy. They weren’t grateful that Fashola didn’t act like the Greek polymath and inventor, Archimedes, who reportedly ran home naked from a public bath, shouting eureka! upon discovering an insight into volumetric displacement.

Shame on fault-finding Nigerians! They descended on Fashola and smeared his reputation on social media. If Nigerians accuse Fashola of owing his allegiance to the President, Major General Muhammadu Buhari (retd.), rather than to the Federal Republic of Nigeria, I’m sure they won’t be mistaken as to where the allegiance of the members of the Lagos State House of Assembly lies.

Perpetually in the news for wrong reasons such as staggering corruption allegations, the Lagos legislature is tethered to Tinubu, to whom members of the House publicly pledge their allegiance, always.

By now, former Nollywood actor-turned-lawmaker in Lagos, Desmond Elliot, must’ve seen how his foreign surname has been turned into a rhyme scheme of unprintable adjectives signifying stupidity.

Employing dishonest reasoning, Elliot drew the ire of Nigerians when he called the Lekki protesters ‘children’, warning the Speaker, Mudashiru Obasa, about the need for an urgent clampdown on Nigerians using social media users to demand better governance.

Elliot wasn’t outraged about the merciless killings of innocent youths by Nigerian soldiers at the Lekki tollgate, but was scandalised that protesters, in reaction to the killings, could storm the palace of the Oba of Lagos, Rilwan Akiolu, and seize the fleeing king’s staff of office.

Because Elliot must please the gods, he boomed, “When I went through the comments I could not believe it (sic); the curses, the abuses from children, and I asked myself, ‘Is this Nigeria? What is going on?’ Culture is gone!.., Mr Speaker, in the next five years, there will be no Nigeria if we don’t start now!

Start what kwanu? Start a fresh orgy of killings? Elliot’s statement was one of the most horrendous vituperations against the memory of those who lost their lives in the Lekki peaceful protest. The way he feigned annoyance and laboured to string passable sentences in the weirdest accent was dishonorable.

Without living in the Tabon-Tabon area of Agege, the phonetics-speaking Elliot even fired a couple of Chief Zebrudaya bullets, among others. Hear him, “The youth is (sic) not only those who do the peaceful protest!”

Reacting to the fallout of the state-induced riots that greeted the Lekki killings, a colleague of Elliot in the legislature, Mojisola Alli-Macaulay, said most Nigerian youths are on drugs, most of the time. What!?

Alli-Macaulay is a member of the current ninth Assembly that pardoned former Lagos Deputy governor, Femi Pedro, and restored all his outrageous privileges to him while Pedro’s predecessor, Kofoworola Akerele-Bucknor, who committed no offence as Pedro never got her privileges restored.

Shamefully, Alli-Macaulay is a member of a House whose Speaker has a yoke of corruption allegation hanging at his neck.

Which one is it better to be, a drug addict or a chained Assembly?

Email: [email protected]

Facebook: @tunde odesola

Twitter: @tunde_odesola

Related Topics:Babatunde fashola Featured toll gate

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society

Gov. Peter Mbah @54: From Campaign Vision to Transformational Leadership in Enugu State

Published

3 hours ago

March 16, 2026

Sahara Weekly

Gov. Peter Mbah @54: From Campaign Vision to Transformational Leadership in Enugu State

By George Omagbemi Sylvester

“From Campaign Promises to Measurable Impact: How Gov. Peter Mbah is Transforming Enugu State Ahead of His 54th Birthday”

Governor Peter Mbah is being celebrated on March 16, 2026, ahead of his 54th birthday tomorrow, March 17, 2026, for his visionary leadership, developmental initiatives, and enduring impact on Enugu State.

Mbah began his journey to the governorship under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) during the 2022 primaries, running on a platform of economic revitalisation, security enhancement, education reform, healthcare expansion, and youth empowerment. His campaign emphasized making Enugu State a business-friendly, investment-ready, and socially inclusive environment, promising policies to raise the state’s economy significantly while improving living standards for citizens.

Elected governor on March 18, 2023, and sworn in on May 29, 2023, Mbah immediately began translating campaign promises into action. Within months, his administration launched strategic initiatives across multiple sectors, reflecting a commitment to governance that is both pragmatic and people-focused.

Security and Public Safety

One of Mbah’s first priorities was enhancing security. He established AI-powered command centers, modern surveillance systems, and rapid response squads, reducing crime rates and making Enugu a model for safety in the region. Citizens and investors alike have praised these measures for creating a secure environment that encourages commerce and tourism.

Education and Healthcare

Mbah has made education and healthcare cornerstones of his administration. The state now boasts 260 Smart Green Schools equipped with ICT labs and digital learning tools. In healthcare, he constructed 260 Primary Healthcare Centres, ensuring that communities across the state have access to essential medical services. His policies reflect a vision of equitable development and human capital empowerment.

Infrastructure and Urban Renewal

Under his leadership, nearly 1,000 km of roads have been completed or rehabilitated, while urban centers have undergone significant renewal. Water schemes long neglected were revitalized to provide reliable supply, and waste management initiatives have improved public sanitation across the state. Mbah’s administration also prioritizes long-term city planning, with projects like the International Conference Centre and future smart city developments underway.

Economic Reform and Revenue Generation

Digitization has been central to Mbah’s economic reforms. Land and tax systems were modernized, broadening the revenue base and improving transparency, all without imposing new taxes. These measures have attracted investors and strengthened the state’s economy, demonstrating that governance can be efficient, accountable, and growth-oriented.

Transport and Aviation

Mbah launched Enugu Air and upgraded urban transport infrastructure, including modern bus terminals and a fleet of CNG-powered buses, easing mobility for residents and creating new employment opportunities.

Leadership Style and Legacy

Described by analysts as a “talk and do” leader, Mbah combines strategic planning with direct engagement at the grassroots level. His cabinet has been restructured to align with developmental goals, including the creation of a Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources to harness local potential. These steps demonstrate a focus on long-term, sustainable governance.

As he celebrates his 54th birthday on March 17, 2026, stakeholders and citizens honor a leader whose tenure has consistently prioritized progress, inclusivity, and citizen welfare. Supporters have even suggested endorsing him as a sole candidate in the 2027 elections, reflecting confidence in his leadership and track record.

Governor Mbah’s journey from campaign promises to tangible achievements illustrates a governance model grounded in vision, action, and accountability; an enduring legacy for Enugu State and a benchmark for Nigerian leadership.

society

SUPERSTAR7EVEN RELEASES ‘OMO TO SHUN / SORRY’, A POWERFUL TWO-TRACK PROJECT INTRODUCING A LIFESTYLE-LED ERA

Published

5 hours ago

March 16, 2026

Sahara Weekly

SUPERSTAR7EVEN RELEASES ‘OMO TO SHUN / SORRY’, A POWERFUL TWO-TRACK PROJECT INTRODUCING A LIFESTYLE-LED ERA

Lagos, Nigeria – Superstar7even, the rising Lagos-based artist, has dropped her latest project, ‘Omo to Shun / Sorry’, a two-track release that marks the beginning of her journey as a force to be reckoned with in the music industry. This release is the first phase of a larger body of work scheduled for later this year, setting the stage for a trailblazing career.

‘Omo to Shun / Sorry’ is more than just a music release – it’s a narrative experience. The two tracks are designed to be experienced together, telling a story of confidence, ambition, and personal independence. ‘Omo to Shun’ is an anthem of self-assurance, capturing the essence of everyday moments where confidence is expressed through presence, not performance. ‘Sorry’ shifts the focus to the importance of hard work, financial autonomy, and long-term vision, creating a cohesive storyline that showcases Superstar7even’s artistic depth.

This project is supported by a three-month rollout strategy that prioritizes community engagement and fan participation. The campaign spans digital platforms, campus networks, radio appearances, and offline touchpoints in student-led environments, encouraging fans to interpret, share, and connect with the music on a deeper level.

“We wanted to create a release that would spark a conversation, not just about the music, but about the lifestyle and values that Superstar7even represents,” said the artist. “This is just the beginning, and we’re excited to share our journey with our fans.”

‘Omo to Shun / Sorry’ is available on all major streaming platforms. Join the movement and experience the sound of confidence, ambition, and modern independence.

*About Superstar7even*

Superstar7even is a Lagos-based artist whose work explores themes of confidence, ambition, and personal independence. Her releases are structured as long-form narratives, emphasizing continuity, audience participation, and cultural relevance.

*Connect with Superstar7even:*

Instagram: @Superstar7even

TikTok: @Superstar7even

X: @thatgirl7even

society

Coalition urges IGP to rebuild public confidence on Nigerian police

Published

8 hours ago

March 16, 2026

Sahara Weekly

Coalition urges IGP to rebuild public confidence on Nigerian police

…Seeks investigation of AIG Moshood time in Lagos

The Coalition of Civil Society Organisations in collaboration with the Centre for Citizens’ Rights has urged the Inspector General of Police to rebuild public confidence in the Nigeria Police Force.

Speaking at a press conference in Lagos, the President of the Coalition, Adeyemi Olorunsogo and its Secretary, Kolawole Abe Emmanuel, said Nigerians expect professionalism, impartiality, and accountability from the leadership of the Force.

The Coalition expressed concern over consistent and clear repeated interference of the Lagos police command in matters that are purely civil in nature, and actions that suggest a troubling pattern of bias in the handling of sensitive disputes.

It said: “Over the past few weeks, our coalition has repeatedly drawn the attention of the public to the disturbing conduct of the Nigeria Police Force in Lagos State, particularly under the leadership of the immediate past Commissioner of Police, Mr. Olorundare Jimoh Moshood.

“We, therefore, call on the newly appointed Inspector-General of Police to exercise utmost caution in the deployment and assignment of senior officers, particularly in situations where their previous conduct has generated serious public concern.

“We note that Mr. Moshood has now been posted away from Lagos. We also acknowledge the appointment of the new Inspector-General of Police, Mr. Tunji Disu, whose professional reputation in intelligence-led policing, crime management and strategic leadership has earned him public respect.

“In view of this new leadership and in the hope that professionalism and accountability will define the next phase of policing in Nigeria, this coalition has resolved to suspend its earlier planned protest until further notice.

“In situations where the police ought to remain neutral and professional, the conduct of the former Commissioner appeared to tilt the scale in favour of certain interests, thereby undermining public confidence in the impartiality of law enforcement.

“In February 2026, without a valid court order, without a formal invitation, and without a lawful warrant of arrest, the former Commissioner reportedly declared Alhaji Hammed Tajudeen Akanbi wanted for murder.

“This declaration arose in the context of a family and community land dispute involving factions within the Ajiran community. Allegations bordering on murder is a very sensitive one as it does not only speak to law but sanctity of life and one accused of such if not cleared carries a life time burden.

“Following that declaration, the property of Alhaji Akanbi was reportedly destroyed by individuals who allegedly operated under the protection and watch of officers of the Lagos State Police Command.

“The Nigeria Police Force must never be seen as taking sides in private civil disputes. The integrity of law enforcement depends on neutrality, professionalism, and respect for the rule of law.

“Declaring a citizen wanted without a lawful warrant, proper investigation, or court order raises serious concerns about abuse of police authority and must never become a precedent in a democratic society.

“While promotions within the Police Force fall under the authority of the Police Service Commission, we believe that officers whose actions have generated significant public concern should be carefully scrutinized before being entrusted with greater responsibility.

“The appointment of the new Inspector-General of Police presents an opportunity to rebuild public confidence in the Nigeria Police Force. Nigerians expect professionalism, impartiality, and accountability from the leadership of the Force.

“Civil society exists to hold power accountable. Our intervention is not political; it is a duty to protect the rule of law and defend the rights of citizens. We wish the new Inspector-General of Police success in his assignment and urge him to live up to the expectations of millions of Nigerians who desire a police force that is professional, impartial, and accountable.”