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The Case for Kenneth Gbagi: Connecting the Dots for a Greater DeltaBy Godspower Michael-Eyakwaire

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4 years ago

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As the politics of succession takes centre stage across the federation, the People’s Democratic Party in Delta State have a real chance to further cement their position as the preferred party in the state. That opportunity is embodied by Olorogun Kenneth Gbagi, serial entrepreneur and foremost indigenous private employer of labour in the state. But it remains to be seen whether the party leadership will seize the opportunity.


To say Delta State is a PDP stronghold is akin to saying the Pope is catholic. It’s that obvious. However, despite such complete dominance since the inception of the Fourth Republic, the opposition which has existed largely as a mere appendage of a multiparty system in the state has made serious incursions into similar strongholds in other states in more recent years. And that should be a concern to the PDP. 


THE CASE FOR GBAGI’S CANDIDACY
I have followed the 2023 governorship succession array of the PDP, nay Delta Central senatorial zone, with renewed enthusiasm over the past one year. Like every other state of the federation where incumbents would be exhausting the constitutionally allowed maximum of two terms by 2023, the race in Delta has already started heating up. While some people may feel it’s too early for such heat because of the propensity of same to distract an incumbent, the truth is, the politics of succession is a different ball game from that of continuity. Even when the subject of party continuity remains a key factor for all those involved, the battle to win a party’s ticket often assumes gladiatorial dimensions for those involved. But of all the many players, and of course pretenders, involved, of great interest to me is the aspiration of Dr. Kenneth Gbagi, former Federal Minister for Education and foremost indigenous/private employer of labour in the state.
As a matter of urgency, the leadership of the PDP in Delta State must wake up to the reality of the take-the-territory-at-all-cost disposition of the opposition. Their best chance at continuity can no longer be hinged on candidates whose claim to the throne is a mere loyalty to party supremacy. Rather, the priority should be to identify a candidate who is capable of delivering on good governance to the people. It is my sincere belief that with Gbagi’s interest in the party’s ticket, the PDP in the state now has a golden opportunity to ensure that merit thrives over mediocrity. 
Kenneth Gbagi’s quest to become Governor of Delta State is something that should be of great interest and excitement to everyone connected to the state, especially the PDP family. As a Deltan who has always yearned for sustainable economic development in the state, and as an enterprise development enthusiast, Gbagi’s aspiration evokes serious interest for me on several levels. 
While I am well acquainted with the several other players jostling for the PDP ticket in the state, I will not be drawn into the polemics of their credentials as I x-ray the raison d’etre of the subject of real interest to me here, Gbagi. It is pertinent for me to clarify here too that I speak of the ‘other interested aspirants’ beyond party borders whenever I make allusions to how they stand juxtaposed with the subject of my interest in this piece.
I feel compelled to x-ray Gbagi’s aspiration because of his raison d’etre in this race, to wit, the promise of enterprise-driven economic revival in the state. It is an opportunity that the PDP cannot afford to bungle. He’s their best shot. 


A TRACK  RECORD OF SUSTAINABLE WEALTH CREATION
The case for a Kenneth Gbagi candidacy is inspired by a vision for real economic prosperity for Delta State. World over, there is a major leadership shift from career politicians to businessmen providing leadership for nations and states. From Donald Trump to his Asian and Arab counterparts, we have seen the power of politico-economic thinking at its best. The motivations are the same everywhere: people crave for leaders who can create enabling environment for employment and real security which begins with the economy. We cannot expect less from underdeveloped or developing economies. Any candidate search by a serious party in a state like ours must begin with keywords such as ‘wealth creator, enterprise developer, and bridge builder’. You can rest assured that the name Kenneth Gbagi will be the dominant hit for such a search. 
Gbagi boasts an impressive, formidable resume which easily dwarfs those of many other aspirants in the race towards 2023. A serial entrepreneur and distinguished lawyer, his storied expertise in enterprise development, particularly how he turned around the fortunes of the then Delta Development and Property Authority from a zero account balance outfit when he assumed office as its chairman to having over N800 million in its accounts in a matter of years remains a reference point in government agency management circles. It is a story of incorruptible service, doggedness and fierce dedication to high moral codes and personal principles of nobility. His credentials as an economic activator cannot be matched by any of those in the fray for the party’s ticket. We are looking at a man who understands and has a proven track record for creating wealth for many over the years. His decades of experience in tourism, oil, construction, hospitality, industry, publication and education will no doubt provide valuable leverage for the state when he becomes elected. And there’s more. 
In Kenneth Gbagi, the PDP has a man who understands the terrain in terms of socio-political and socio-economic dynamics at both national, regional and grassroot levels. Beyond serving as a Minister of Education under the Goodluck Jonathan presidency, Gbagi’s voice has reverberated through the years in topical issues at both national and state levels. From calls to strengthen the fight against corruption to inputs on social justice, good governance, youth development and socio-economic restoration, he has maintained a consistency that stands him out as a true elder statesman. It would be a shame if the PDP fails to see the opportunity in front of them.


VALIDATED BY CONFLICTS
Gbagi’s aspiration was initially greeted with some level of opposition within and outside the PDP from the moment he signaled interest for the party ticket. From allegations of anti-party politics to conflicts connected to his Oginibu heritage, he has had his hands full. Ironically, these attacks and challenges have also given his quest a competitive edge over his assailants and opponents for the party’s ticket as they have placed him at the epicenter of all conversations regarding the road to 2023. As they say, a smooth sea never made a great sailor. The man has weathered the storms well, making the most of the visibility and showing critics the true depth of his character and strength. Unfazed and determined, he has been validated by the same conflicts he has had to deal with in such a short time, rising from them all as a more formidable force to reckon with.
THE ONLY SMART PLAY
Having nursed this vision to lead the state for the past twenty years, it’s clear the PDP and Urhobo nation are looking at a very patient and passionate guber prospect in Kenneth Gbagi. We have for the first time in a long while a leader without the usual porkmarks of godfatherism, profligacy, and very critically, a poor understanding of the economics of wealth creation. 
A break from the norm, Gbagi comes as a man who can galvanize the best brains and intentions to move Delta state forward. His pedigree shows he is not the type who will be overwhelmed by the administration of state resources or fall into primitive capital accumulation. We are looking at a man who has done it before, with excellence, at the highest level. As they say in our local parlance, he is not a learner.
Gbagi’s 2019 Christmas and New Year message to all Deltans captures the heart his heart as a leader and what a future with him as governor holds: “We, as a people must define our destiny, direct our destiny and use our God-given talents to turn around our state to compare with any state in the world.” In my opinion, it should be a no-brainer to see that pitching tent with a man of this caliber should be the focal point of the PDP’s 2023 succession plan. It is the only smart play. 

Godspower Michael-Eyakwaire is a content creator and business development consultant based in Lagos, Nigeria.

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

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Politics

Suspended Alimosho LG boss, vice clash over control of office

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2 days ago

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October 9, 2024

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Suspended Alimosho LG boss, vice clash over control of office

Suspended Alimosho LG boss, vice clash over control of office

 

Reportedly, there was tension at the Alimosho Local Government Area secretariat as the council’s suspended Chairman and his Vice Chairman, Messrs Jelili Sulaimon and Akinpelu Johnson, yesterday, clashed over the control of the office.

The Lagos State House of Assembly, on Monday, suspended Sulaimon from office following alleged misconduct.

The lawmakers further instructed the Manager and Treasurer of the council to recognise the Vice Chairman and accord him all the support to make him work effectively.

But the embattled LG chairman, yesterday, defied the suspension order by the Lagos State House of Assembly.

The Vice Chairman had received an appointment letter to take over from the embattled council boss.

The council boss in a video was seen resuming at the council secretariat in Alimosho and being welcomed by a crowd in a show of solidarity.

According to a source, Suleiman and Johnson could not have access to the office of the chairman as it was locked.

 

It was gathered that a few minutes later the two left the premises to an undisclosed destination.

 

4 out of 7 councillors deny VC’s suspension

Meanwhile, four out of the seven councillors in the council have denounced the purported suspension of Johnson by their three colleagues.

The councillors, in a statement by the Deputy Leader, Mojisola Ayeni (Ward D), Saheed Adejoke (Ward C), Rasheed Semiu (Ward E) and Elizabeth Fashina (Ward F), commended the House of Assembly for intervening, while urging stakeholders in the council to go about their activities.

The statement, titled ‘Illegal Suspension of  Akinpelu Ibrahim Johnson, Vice Chairman Alimosho Local Government,’ reads in part: “We, the undersigned legislators from Alimosho Local Government, officially dissociate ourselves from the staged managed and illegal suspension of Mr Akinpelu Johnson, the Vice Chairman of Alimosho Local Government.

 

“We condemn the purported suspension of the Vice Chairman by minority legislators, who acted on instructions of the validly suspended Chairman.

“We would like to emphasize that at no time was the Vice Chairman suspended hence our readiness to support him going forward with the administration of the Local Government.”

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Politics

Breaking: Alimosho LG Vice Chairman Gets Appointment Letter To Take Over Office

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2 days ago

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October 8, 2024

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Suspended Alimosho LG boss, vice clash over control of office

Breaking: Alimosho LG Vice Chairman Gets Appointment Letter To Take Over Office

 

 

The Vice Chairman of Alimosho Local Government Area, Mr. Akinpelu Johnson has officially received an appointment letter to take over from the suspended Chairman, Jelili Sulaimon.

The letter, dated 8th October, 2024, was signed by Kikelomo Bolarinwa, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs and Rural Development.

Titled: ‘Re: Suspension of Mr. Sulaimon Jelili, Chairman, Alimosho Local Government Area Resolution of the House’, the appointment letter read: “I write to refer to the resolution of the House of Assembly in respect of the above
subject which states that Mr. Sulaimon Jelili has been suspended indefinitely from
Office as the Chairman, Alimosho Local Government in accordance with Section 24
(1,2,3,4) of the Local Government Administration Law (Amendment) Law, 2016. (Copy attached for ease of reference).

“In view of the above, you are to assume duty IMMEDIATELY as the Acting Chairman, Alimosho Local Government.”

Recall that the Lagos State House of Assembly on Monday suspended Jelili Sulaimon from office following various allegations by the lawmakers.

The lawmakers resolved at the sitting that Johnson should take over the running of the affairs of the council.

The lawmakers further instructed the management of the council, including the manager and treasurer, to recognise Johnson and accord him all the support to make him work effectively.

Meanwhile, four out of the seven councillors in the council have denounced the purported suspension of Johnson by their three colleagues.

In a press release signed by the four councillors including Deputy Leader Mojisola Fabusuyi Ayeni (Ward D), Saheed Adejoke (Ward C), Rasheed Semiu (Ward E), Elizabeth Fashina (Ward F), they commended the House of Assembly for intervening while urging stakeholders’ in the council to go about their activities peacefully.

Read the full statement below:

Illegal Suspension of Hon. Akinpelu Ibrahim Johnson,Vice Chairman Alimosho Local Government

We, the undersigned legislators from Alimosho Local Government, officially dissociate ourselves from the staged managed, and illegal suspension of Mr. Akinpelu Ibrahim Johnson, The Vice Chairman of Alimosho Local Government.

We condemn in totality the purported suspension of the Vice Chairman by minority legislators who acted on instructions of the validly suspended Chairman.

As representatives of our people from different wards in Alimosho, we remain committed to supporting the state and federal government’s efforts to improve the lives and well-being of our people, most especially at the grassroots.

We commend the State House of Assembly for their intervention in the mismanagement of the local government over the years. We urge all stakeholders to remain peaceful as there’s no cause for alarm.

The Renewed Hope (RH) Agenda of our Dear President, H.E Asiwaju Bola Tinubu GCFR, and Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s THEMES + Agenda, deserve every attention and support at this critical stage of our state and nationhood and by extension at the local government.

We would like to emphasize that at no time was the Vice Chairman suspended hence our readiness to support him going forward with the administration of the Local Government.

As a man of the people, we have no doubt in our minds that Hon Akinpelu Johnson will deliver beyond the expectations.

We shall keep the public posted should there be any information of interest to the public.

Signed:

1. Councillor. Mojisola Fabusuyi Ayeni (Ward D), Alimosho LGA, Deputy Leader

2. Councillor Saheed Adejoke (Ward C), Alimosho LGA, Chief Whip

3. Councillor Rasheed Semiu (Ward E), Alimosho LGA, Member.

4. Councillor Elizabeth Fashina (Ward F), Alimosho LGA, member.

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Politics

Don’t Be Ignorant Of The Law, Lagos Assembly Hits Back At Suspended Chairman, Lawyer

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2 days ago

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October 8, 2024

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Don’t Be Ignorant Of The Law, Lagos Assembly Hits Back At Suspended Chairman, Lawyer

– says law does not recognise sentiment, emotions

 

The Lagos State House of Assembly has asked suspended chairman of Alimosho Local Government Area, Jelili Sulaimon, and his lawyer, Dr. Abdul Mahmud, to recognise the place of law rather than sentiments and emotions as guiding principles of legislative practices in Lagos State.

 

The advice by the Assembly on Tuesday was in response to the purported reaction of the duo to the suspension of the council chairman by the House on Monday at plenary.

The House, in the reaction signed by Hon. Stephen Ogundipe,
chairman, Committee on Information, Strategy and Security, further advised Jelili against ascribing self-made meanings to the laws empowering the lawmakers act where necessary in the interest of the people.

Read the full reaction below:

JELILI SULAIMAN’S SUSPENSION BACKED BY LAW

The attention of the Lagos State House of Assembly has been drawn to a statement supposedly signed by Dr. Abdul Mahmud, counsel to the embattled Alimosho local government chairman, Mr. Jelili Sulaimon, claiming to condemn the unanimous agreement of the Assembly to suspend his client on Monday, October 7, 2024.

Beyond the sensational rhetoric and half-baked details in the statement that is replete with emotions rather than deep-thoughts, it is pertinent to break down the real situation and puncture arguments as to the powers of the House to suspend Mr. Jelili.

In his race to the public to ‘garner’ sentiments, Jelili’s lawyer forgot to remember that there are no local government areas that created themselves. In other words, the creation of a local government follows strict processes of the law and Section 7 of the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria (as amended) creates the path to knowledge about this.

“The system of local government by democratically elected local government councils is under this Constitution guaranteed; and accordingly, the Government of every State shall, subject to Section 8 of this Constitution, ensure their existence under a Law which provides for the establishment, structure, composition, finance and functions of such councils.” Does this answer a question from the arguments of Jelili’s lawyer as to who has the power to create laws that regulate the activities of local government councils and their administration?

For better understanding, that section provides for the existence of: democratically elected system of Local Government to be guaranteed by a law of the State House of Assembly.

The same section provides that the House of Assembly is required to make provisions for statutory allocation of public revenue to Local Government Councils in a State. Section 8(3) highlights the procedure to be undertaken by a State House of Assembly in the creation of a new Local Government Area(s) in a State while Section 8(4) highlights the procedure to be undertaken by a State House of Assembly, through law, in the boundary adjustment of existing Local Government Areas.

Now, Section 162 (8) of the Constitution stipulates that a Law of the State House of Assembly shall provide for the distribution of monies standing to the credit of Local Government councils in a State.

Maybe we should remind him, his client and those travelling with him that Section 128 of the same Constitution further gives clarity to the powers of the House of Assembly.

“Subject to the provisions of this Constitution, a House of Assembly shall have power
by resolution published in its journal or in the
office Gazette of the Government of the State
to direct or cause to be directed an inquiry or
investigation into –
(a) any matter or thing with respect to which it
has power to make laws.

Here and based on the above constitutional provision, we are moved to ask again: who is legally guaranteed to make the law that creates the running of the local government? It is definitely not the National Assembly which is granted the constitutional powers to create states and not local governments.

This brings us to the Lagos State Local Government Administration Law (as amended) upon which the creation, administration and related activities of the local government system of Lagos State are based.

For better public information and effective knowledge, Section 24(a) of the amended law gives powers to the Lagos State House of Assembly to pass a resolution for the removal or suspension of any chairman, vice chairman, or official of any local government area (LGA) or local council development area (LCDA) after conducting an investigation. It states further that all that is needed for this resolution is a simple majority of the Assembly members. This emphasis is further highlighted in Section 5 of the law.

The amendment aims to ensure accountability and maintain order within the local government structure in Lagos State.

With this level of enlightenment as to the position of the laws guiding the administration of local government councils, it is further important to avoid misinformation or misrepresentation of the recent Supreme Court judgement concerning local governments in Nigeria. There is a marked difference between financial autonomy (upon which the lawyer’s argument rests) and administrative powers of the House. The rush to churn out a defence armed, albeit, with inferior understanding of the Supreme Court judgement does not give a sufficient case against the action of the House of Assembly.

The Local Government Administration law from which the council chairman and other elected officials of the local government system derive their powers is a product of the House of Assembly. The office of the Auditor-General for Local Governments that monitors the financial activities of this third tier of government is created by the law made by the Lagos State House of Assembly.
The Local Government Service Commission which handles issues relating to the officials of local governments is a creation of the House of Assembly. The Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC) that conducts elections into elective offices at the local government level is a creation of the House of Assembly. Therefore, jettisoning these facts will amount to a poor knowledge of the legislature. If you say the Lagos State House of Assembly does not have the power over local governments, it means all these laws created by the House should not be in place. If the laws should not be in place, then why would local governments exist?

We learnt that in a bid to protect the chairman, the councillors of the Alimosho Local Government Area hurriedly suspended the Vice Chairman, Akinpelu Johnson. To show how laughable this is, it is good to note that the law guiding them does not have a provision for suspension. The Local Government Administration law gives them the opportunity to remove a chairman or vice chairman but this also comes with a process. Thus, the suspension of Johnson is simply invalid. It is therefore necessary to remind the council leader that he can also be removed in line with the Local Government Administration law of Lagos State. If he does not know this, then, it is a pity.

For the few trying to juxtapose the functions of the National Assembly with those of the House of Assembly in this case, they should take a chill pill and request to be tutored. The National Assembly cannot interfere with the runnings of a State. It is not a part of its duty. On the other hand, the constitution grants the State House of Assembly powers over the local governments.

It is to be noted that this is not the first time the Lagos State House of Assembly would be suspending the same council chairman. In May 2021, he was suspended with two others by the House for their total disregard for the local government guidelines created by the State Legislature.

While we urge against mawkishness, we would also like to task residents of the council and members of the public not to allow themselves be swayed by positions and opinions that are opposite the law in this regard.

Hon. Stephen Ogundipe
Chairman, Committee on Information
Lagos State House of Assembly.

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