Politics
Osun guber and Oyetola’s fulfilled mandate
Osun Guber and Oyetola’s fulfilled mandate
By Abiodun Komolafe
“You (Governor Oyetola) are doing well. You will complete this term and do another term.’
– HRM Oba Munirudeen Lawal, Timi of Ede
As a young boy growing up, back then in the village, under the tutelage of his paternal grandmother, yours sincerely was treated to the fact that ‘promises are sacred obligations, which must be fulfilled.’ Grandma taught me that ‘failure to make good one’s promises always end up impugning the character profile of the defaulter’; and that ‘promises made good confer on the promisor the Omoluabi integrity.’ After all,‘a ri se la ri ka; a ri ka baba iregun’ (what you do today could be the ‘game changer’ in the nearest future). Much later in life, especially, with my appointment as the pioneer Administrative Secretary of one of Nigeria’s foremost sociocultural organisations, the Afenifere Renewal Group (ARG), my eyes opened to the fact that ‘iyan ogun odun a maa jo ni lowo’ (what goes around comes around).
Well, while my little contributions to Nigeria’s sociocultural emancipation are already being documented for future use, the general belief is that people can do something and get away with it. But it is not so with the society! Why? There is a way the society chronicles events; then tells those that follow. And the cycle continues!
A promise fulfilled is a psychological attribute and it is inborn. It is a habit, not something you do fortuitously. Most importantly, it is a standard measure of the quality of character. While the reliability or otherwise of a promise is testable, based on antecedents, the psychology of the followership is also something that builds trust through precedents and antecedents of events and social happenings. The other loud truth is that the people reckon with the ‘now’ more than what has happened. Yes, it doesn’t have to be in the management of a government’s affairs because a man like Gboyega Oyetola, the incumbent governor and the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate in the July 16, 2022 Osun governorship poll, already has an edge in that area. For the records, the Obafemi Awolowos of this world also started that way! But then, this is a disadvantage to the opposition. For instance, though the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP) has a dearth of good things that could be established, what has added to its despair is that the now-drained and docile opposition has no sellable products with which to woo the electorate again, having been out of power for 12 years.
Beyond the pall of politics, the last four years as Osun governor has shown Oyetola as a leader who understands the complexity of the issues at stake and how to confront all the stubborn situations that have hitherto resisted remedy. On assumption of office, one of his first tasks was the review of the education policy which, as we all know, affects not only the present but also the future of the State. It is about the children! Prior to his inauguration, parents were unhappy about certain policies enacted by the immediate past administration; as such, were groaning. But the governor courageously spoke to those things which, from all indications, had the propensity to become a monumental embarrassment to the elite.
Never a frivolous manager of men and materials, Oyetola initiated a move that recognised the backlog of the pending welfare packages for the State workers and took care of them. Now, a situation whereby civil servants got promoted without cash-backing, thereby leaving them on the same salary scales for years, has become a thing of the past. Good to learn that he has also keyed into the melodious tune of the minimum wage payment. Quite interestingly, not every state is paying it, even as we speak! Still, the governor is paying full salaries! Unarguably, things would have been terrible, had workers’ monthly salaries not been paid, or paid in half. Of course, that Oyetola has succeeded in building integrity profile is a political capital! That the workers believe in the governor as a promise fulfiller is a testament to dream! That he has been able to weather the storm of paucity of funds to provide basic amenities for the people, even employed more hands into the State’s civil service attests to the character of this indefatigable administrator. That is why the civil servants, for example, will remain with him. Despite all efforts by some people to pull them away, they have refused.
Typical of him, Oyetola has in the last four years stayed focused, taking his time to proffer solutions to problems as they come. Instead of running upandan, banking on the ravenous culture of uncertainty, or embracing the theatrics of a disappointing search for disinterested international investors, this sure and better candidate opted to stay back at home, defining concrete objectives, raising the vision, and showing to the world that a sustainable pathway to development is possible. During the period under review, more than 2000 kilometres of roads have either been constructed or reconstructed; with a promise to do more, if re-elected. For most of these roads like the 13.15km Ada-Igbajo and the 20km Ejigbo–Ara-Oje-Ede, even the 16.55km Osogbo-Kelebe-Iragbiji, it has been a case of ‘governments come, governments go, but these roads remained unattended to’; until he came in and got them fixed! Impliedly, those who are yet to get their share of the goodies are sure candidates for ‘awa lo kan’ slogan.
Oyetola’s passion for the Health sector is such that, at the rural areas, residents should have the best of medical services. Equally, his approach to the Ilesa water project is like bringing water out of the rock for which the ancient town and its environs will never remain the same. Added to these is his promise to improve on the security situation of the State which, in any case, is not doing badly, presently. The rise in the number, and monthly stipends of OYES cadets are also worthy of mention, because it takes money to take care of all that. With the zeal which the governor is approaching the needs of the Agriculture sector, what stops ‘Cocoa House’ from being erected in Osun before the expiration of his second term in office? Is it any wonder Oyetola is the man to beat, any day?
The hallmark of a good leader is his ability to realize that change begins with selflessness and sacrifice; that discipline is very germane to effective leadership; and that political process gets corrupted when unfettered pursuit of money becomes a way of life. Had the Oyetola-led Administration left the Flyover Bridge at Olaiya in Osogbo undone, another government would, someday, have done it, by which time the cost and allied implications will have increased. It will also affect its quality. In other words, that the governor has done one within his first tenure means he is able to do another.
Osun governorship election is just days away! Won’t reelecting Gboyega Oyetola to pilot the affairs of Osun for the next four years be the best thing to happen to the State? Or, will cutting the nose to spite the face as a way of resolving political differences be found to work wonders? From all indications, hasn’t Osun State gone too far to look back?
May the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world, grant us peace in Osun State!
KOMOLAFE wrote in from Ijebu-Jesa, Osun State (ijebujesa@yahoo.co.uk)
Rivers Crisis: PDP Governors Challenge Emergency Rule at Supreme Court
By George O. Sylvester
The political climate in Nigeria has taken a dramatic turn as governors of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have filed a lawsuit at the Supreme Court, challenging President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State. The emergency proclamation, made on March 18, saw Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and all members of the state House of Assembly suspended for six months. In their place, the president appointed retired Vice-Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas as the sole administrator of the state.
This move has sparked nationwide debate, with the PDP governors contending that it constitutes a flagrant violation of constitutional provisions. The plaintiffs—governors of Bauchi, Adamawa, Bayelsa, Enugu, Osun, Plateau, and Zamfara states—assert that the president lacks the authority to unilaterally suspend a democratically elected governor and deputy governor. In their submission, they argue that the appointment of a sole administrator is not only unconstitutional but also sets a dangerous precedent for Nigeria’s democracy.
A Legal and Constitutional Showdown
According to court documents filed by the PDP governors, the emergency proclamation contravenes several sections of the Nigerian Constitution, particularly Sections 1(2), 5(2), and 305 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended). Section 1(2) of the Constitution explicitly states that “the Federal Republic of Nigeria shall not be governed, nor shall any person or group of persons take control of the government of Nigeria or any part thereof, except in accordance with the provisions of this Constitution.” The plaintiffs argue that by suspending the duly elected governor and deputy governor, the president has usurped powers that the Constitution does not grant him.
Furthermore, the governors maintain that Section 305, which outlines the conditions under which a state of emergency can be declared, does not empower the president to suspend elected officials. The section provides that a state of emergency may be declared in the case of war, natural disasters, public disorder, or breakdown of law and order. However, the plaintiffs argue that the situation in Rivers State did not meet these stringent conditions.
The Eleven Flaws of President Tinubu: A Critical Analysis
By George O Sylvester
President Tinubu’s administration has been marred by several controversies and criticisms since its inception. This article provides an in-depth examination of eleven flaws that have been identified in his leadership style and policies, which may potentially impact the effectiveness of his administration.
1. The Insignificant Vice President:
The role of Vice President Kashim Shettima in the administration has been rendered insignificant, with many questioning his continued relevance. The Muslim-Muslim ticket that was used to woo Northern votes has been exposed as a mere gimmick, leaving the North East region feeling betrayed. According to Senator Ibrahim Shekarau, “The Vice President’s role has been reduced to mere ceremonial functions, a far cry from the robust engagement we expected.”
2. The Weak National Chairman:
APC National Chairman Abdullahi Umar Ganduje’s corruption allegations have continued to plague his tenure, despite his denials. The opposition has capitalized on these allegations, using them to attack the Federal Government. Governor Samuel Ortom noted, “Ganduje’s corruption allegations have damaged the APC’s reputation, and his continued stay as National Chairman is a liability.” Furthermore, Ganduje’s home state of Kano is now controlled by the opposition NNPP, led by Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso.
3. The Liability Senate President:
Senate President Godswill Akpabio has lost credibility due to his handling of the Senate, which has been criticized for being chaotic. His corruption allegations and sexual harassment charges have become synonymous with his name, leading many to question his character and humility. Senator Ovie Omo-Agege stated, “Akpabio’s leadership style has been divisive, and his handling of the Senate has been chaotic.”
4. The National Security Adviser’s Questionable Integrity:
National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu’s threat to sue Najaatu Mohammad over corruption allegations against President Tinubu ended in embarrassment. His failure to follow through on his threat and subsequent denial of ever accusing the President of corruption have tarnished his integrity. Hon. Yusuf Gagdi noted, “Ribadu’s failure to take action against corruption allegations has raised questions about his credibility and integrity.”
5. The Minister of FCT’s Divisive Politics:
Minister of FCT Nwesome Wike’s appointment has been marked by controversy, with many questioning his suitability for the role. Wike, a former PDP member, played anti-party politics in Rivers State to support President Tinubu’s candidacy. Senator Ali Ndume stated, “Wike’s appointment has been a disaster, and his actions have further polarized the polity.”
6. The Buhari Camp’s Growing Discontent:
The politicians who supported President Tinubu’s candidacy, known as the Buhari camp, feel sidelined and are quietly regrouping to challenge the President. Former governor Nasir El-Rufai warned, “The Buhari camp feels betrayed, and their discontent may boil over into a full-blown crisis.”
7. Political Mercenaries:
Reno Omokri and Senator Shehu Sani, once vocal critics of President Tinubu, are now his vocal supporters. Their accusations against the President, ranging from Chicago controversies to drug trafficking allegations, have been conveniently forgotten. Senator Dino Melaye said, “Reno Omokri and Shehu Sani’s sudden U-turn is a classic case of political opportunism, driven by self-interest rather than principle.”
8. The Muslim-Muslim Ticket Mantra:
The Muslim-Muslim ticket mantra used to woo Northern votes has been exposed as a ruse. Northerners are poised to make fresh demands come 2027, which may not bode well for the APC-led government. Hon. Mohammed Monguno predicted, “The Muslim-Muslim ticket was a gimmick that has backfired, and the APC will pay the price in 2027.”
9. Nepotism in Appointments:
President Tinubu’s appointments have been criticized for favoring Yoruba elites, creating a perception that the President is building the Yoruba people above all other tribes in Nigeria. Forner Governor Ifeanyi Okowa noted, “The President’s appointments have been lopsided, favoring Yoruba elites at the expense of other regions.”
10. Seyi Tinubu’s Involvement in Underground Campaigns:
Seyi Tinubu’s involvement in underground campaigns is unlikely to yield positive results for the APC. This move exposes the President’s parental weakness, drawing parallels with the Abacha era. Seyi’s actions are disrupting Lagos’ political landscape, relying on financial influence rather than integrity. Senator Kabiru Gaya stated, “Seyi Tinubu’s actions are a reflection of the President’s weakness, and his reliance on financial influence rather than integrity will ultimately harm the APC.”
11. President Tinubu’s Shift in Leadership Style:
President Tinubu has transformed from a wise leader to a powerful one since taking office. He no longer values consultations, lobbying, and persuasions.”The President’s maiden speech was a clear indication of his disregard for democratic principles, and his unilateral decision-making style will lead to chaos.” – Hon. Kingsley Chinda
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