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THE ROLE AND IMPORTANCE OF CITIZENS IN UNIFORM IN A DEMOCRATIC SOCIETY

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FORTIFYING TRUST: CATALYSING NATIONAL UNITY FOR A SECURE NIGERIA BY SANI USMAN KUKASHEKA, mni In the intricate tapestry of human interactions, trust is the cornerstone upon which societies are built, nations flourish, and progress thrives. It is a beacon that guides our collective endeavours, shaping the dynamics of national unity and development. In our country Nigeria, a nation rich in diversity and history, trust has played a pivotal role in the past. It possesses the potential to pave the way for a brighter future. As we navigate the complex landscape of the present world, it becomes evident that the implications of eroding trust are profound and far-reaching. The lack of trust casts shadows of conflict, misunderstandings, and insecurity, undermining the essence of societal cohesion among the various components of Nigerian society. However, beyond these ominous clouds lies the promise of enhanced national unity, harmony, and prosperity if we have trust and understanding. Trust, a cornerstone of societal harmony, economic progress, and national solidarity, serves as the adhesive that binds diverse individuals into a cohesive whole. It encompasses the belief in reliability, honesty, and effectiveness, a shared faith that empowers cooperative efforts towards shared goals. Today, Nigeria stands at a crucial juncture, facing both the ravages of mistrust and boundless unity opportunities. In this context, nurturing trust emerges as a solution to the current conflicts and misunderstandings and as a vital catalyst for security, prosperity, and global relevance. A glance into history reveals a Nigeria adorned with interwoven bonds of trust. Tradespeople entrusting their goods and children to business associates across regions has been a hallmark of cross-cultural partnerships and mutual reliance over the past few decades. Communities embraced the values of accommodation and hospitality, fostering an environment where trust was the currency of interaction. However, contemporary times find us on a different path. Amidst rumours, suspicions, and the deluge of misinformation, the erosion of trust has been palpable. The fraying of these essential bonds is evident in the swift resort to religion and ethnicity in national debates, eclipsing the broader perspectives that should unite us. The ramifications of this deficit in trust are dire. Once harmonious under a banner of unity, the discordant chords of ethnicity and religion now resound with disharmony. The aftermath of the EndSARS movement and the last general elections highlighted the fractures within the national fabric, exposing a landscape marred by primordial sentiments, selfish inclinations, and a loss of collective identity. This critical moment demands reevaluating our societal values and an introspective journey towards rebuilding the trust that underpins our progress as a nation. But why has trust waned, and who is responsible? Due to the unchecked spread of false information and fake news on social media, politics, religion, and cultural biases play a part. To navigate our diversity, we must champion the shared values that transcend our differences. Examples abound of countries embracing their diversity to forge national unity. Their successes underscore the state's and its citizens' pivotal role in sculpting a harmonious narrative. The state must not merely govern but also inspire trust through transparent governance, unbiased justice, and inclusive policies. In tandem, citizens are entrusted with nurturing a culture of empathy, openness, and cooperation. To transform our trajectory, concerted efforts are indispensable. National orientation, public education, and enlightenment campaigns will serve as the lodestars that guide our collective ethos. Reviving neglected sports as a binding force is imperative, as is strengthening institutions like the National Orientation Agency (NOA) and the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC). By promoting cultural exchange programmes and inter-ethnic marriages, we lay the foundation for an inclusive Nigeria. Government ministries, departments, and agencies, notably information and culture, youth, sports, the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), civil society organisations, and other professional bodies, are pivotal in spearheading initiatives to engender a sense of belonging and unity. Good governance, complemented by incentives for inter-ethnic marriages, will facilitate a tapestry where diversity is celebrated rather than vilified. Our media should play a transformative role by amplifying cultural practices that foster unity rather than those that divide us. Yet, the path to restored trust is full of obstacles. The communication gap between citizens and authorities needs bridging, requiring timely, truthful, and transparent information dissemination. The government can nurture a culture of responsiveness that fortifies trust by leveraging modern communication channels such as mainstream d social media and credible non-partisan organisations and associations. Although this project may be challenging, the rewards are immeasurable—a united Nigeria built on integrity and trust. In the mosaic of our nation, trust is the luminous thread that stitches hearts and minds together. By embracing the collective heritage bestowed by our founding fathers and the shared values that bind us, Nigeria can transcend its current challenges and emerge as a beacon of unity, strength, and progress on the global stage. With trust as our cornerstone, we can mould a future where national development and security thrive, prosperity is shared, and our collective identity stands resolute against the tides of discord. In the end, trust will unite us, and in unity, we shall thrive. The writer, Sani Usman Kukasheka, is an Abuja-based public analyst, strategic communication expert, and security expert. He can be reached at usmanusk@yahoo.com or on his Twitter handle, @skusman.

THE ROLE AND IMPORTANCE OF CITIZENS IN UNIFORM IN A DEMOCRATIC SOCIETY

By
Brigadier General Sani Kukasheka Usman (rtd) mni fnipr

 

“People sleep peaceably in their beds at night only because rough men stand ready to do violence on their behalf.” — George Orwell.

In every democratic society, the principles of liberty, justice, and the rule of law form the bedrock upon which the nation stands. Democracies are inherently designed to reflect the people’s will, with elected representatives tasked with governance. However, a critical component often overlooked in this equation is the role of citizens in uniform—individuals who serve in the military, law enforcement, and emergency services. These dedicated professionals are not only the guardians of national security, but also the enforcers of law and order, integral to the functioning of a democratic state, safeguarding liberty, and guaranteeing our collective peace and security. Imagine a society where the cornerstones of liberty, justice, and the rule of law crumble. The chilling reality could unfold if we fail to understand, support, and most importantly, respect the citizens who wear the uniforms, otherwise known as “citizens in uniform.” These individuals, from soldiers to police officers, and firefighters, are the bedrock of a functioning democracy.

The world over, democratic societies are built on the notion that power resides with the people. Yet, ensuring the safety and security that allows this power to be exercised freely requires a climacteric partnership, an irrevocable pact between the citizenry and those who stand guard. Therefore, citizens in uniform the military, law enforcement, and emergency responders – are entrusted with upholding the very foundation of democracy: the rule of law. They defend us from external threats, maintain law and order within our borders, and safeguard our territorial integrity. They are also the first line of defence in times of crisis, rushing towards danger while others flee, at the expense of their comfort and liberty. In the aftermath of disasters, they become the helping hands, clearing debris and aiding in recovery and most instances using meagre resources to assist with infrastructural projects. It is for this reason that a former US President, Ulysses S. Grant, famously stated “The citizen soldier is the champion of the liberties of his country. He is always ready to defend them against foreign or domestic violence, and his history is a record of patriotism.”

Citizens in uniform in Nigeria are a diverse group, encompassing soldiers, police officers, customs, immigration officials, road safety personnel, civil defenders, firefighters, and emergency medical personnel, just to mention a few. Their duties are also multitudinous and essential. Similarly, their commitment, sacrifices and service ensure that the democratic fabric of our great nation remains intact, providing a secure environment where citizens can exercise their rights and freedoms. The importance of these unique men and women and their critical roles in our society, therefore, cannot be overstated. The military safeguards the nation’s territorial integrity, whether on land, sea, or air, deterring and defending against external aggressions. Law enforcement agencies are vital in upholding the rule of law, preventing and investigating crimes, and maintaining public order. They ensure road safety and protect critical infrastructure, as well as emergency services provide critical support during disasters, offering lifesaving assistance and aiding in recovery efforts. They endure hardship and deprivation to ensure our safety and security sometimes at the expense of their precious lives. Despite the essential nature of their roles, citizens in uniform often face significant challenges and unwarranted aggression.

Most recently, a disturbing trend has emerged. The very people these professionals risk their lives to protect have become perpetrators of violent crimes against them and in most instances with devastating consequences. Militants, robbers, and even ordinary citizens have engaged in unprovoked attacks on security personnel.

In recent months, the harrowing plight of citizens in uniform has escalated dramatically, shedding light on the critical challenges they face in our society. The series of violent incidents against officers and soldiers not only underscores a disturbing trend but also highlights the magnitude of hostility towards those sworn to protect our democratic society. On 14th March 2024, no fewer than 16 officers and soldiers of the 181 Battalion, including their commanding officer, were brutally murdered by youths in Delta State. This gruesome event marked a significant and tragic loss for their families, the military and the nation at large. The violence continued unabated on 30th May 2024, when suspected members of the outlawed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) coldly executed five soldiers at Obikabia junction in Aba City, Abia State. This heinous act further exemplifies the perilous environment in which our citizens in uniform operate.

Another alarming incident took place in May 2024 at Abuja’s Banex Plaza, where some unruly individuals viciously attacked unarmed soldiers. The brazen assault is one of the latest instances of unwarranted aggression against citizens in uniform, highlighting the pervasive nature of such violence. Tragically, the list of assaults continues, just a few days ago, Lieutenant IM Umar of the Nigerian Army was brutally murdered by robbers in Unguwar Sarki, Kaduna, simply over a phone. This senseless killing points to the constant dangers faced by our citizens in uniform, even off-duty. The hostility and violence extend beyond Nigeria’s borders. On 5th June 2024, gunmen in Pendjari National Park, Benin Republic, killed seven soldiers, demonstrating that this issue is not confined to Nigeria alone but is a regional concern.

These heartbreaking events paint a grim picture of the risks and sacrifices made by citizens in uniform. They face not only the dangers inherent in the discharge of their constitutional duties but also targeted attacks from within the communities they serve. This alarming trend calls for urgent attention and collective action to ensure the safety and protection of those who dedicate their lives to safeguarding our democratic society. The blatant disrespect for citizens in uniform, who embody the ideals of a democratic society, is a cause for serious alarm. Such attacks are not only detrimental to the individuals involved, their families and respective organisations but also undermine the peace, stability and security of the nation. The violence is not only unjust, despicable and condemnable but also counterproductive, as it weakens the very institutions that ensure public safety and national security. Consequently, Nigerians must recognize that these uniformed professionals are allies, not adversaries, and their presence is essential for maintaining peace and order. When citizens in uniform are disrespected and assaulted such as it erodes the rule of law and threatens the democratic order. Therefore, it is imperative for Nigerian society to recognize the noble duties and sacrifices made by these individuals and to foster a culture of respect and support for our citizens in uniform.

Therefore, how can we bridge this gap and foster a sense of appreciation for our citizens in uniform? Firstly, education is key. We must cultivate a culture of respect for these professionals in uniform from a young age. The government has an important and leading role to play in this regard. Schools and communities can play a vital role in highlighting the sacrifices made by these individuals and the importance of their service in their curriculum. Associated with this is the need for continuous civic education of all Nigerians by the National Orientation Agency (NOA).

Similarly, the government has the additional responsibility of finding alternative solutions to conflict resolution and minimizing situations that necessitate troop deployment as a means of conflict resolution. There is also the need for improved good governance which will focus more on tackling the root causes of some of these conflicts and social unrest in our societies. To further cultivate respect and appreciation for citizens in uniform, it is also essential to understand the magnitude of their sacrifices. These individuals often risk their lives, endure long separations from their families, and face physical and psychological challenges. Their dedication and service are driven by a commitment to protect and serve their fellow citizens, often under arduous and dangerous conditions. Condemning unwarranted attacks on troops and security personnel is an important step towards fostering respect, especially by the government, traditional and religious leaders, and all well-meaning people. It is quite commendable to see the national assembly and other entities condemning such acts and making efforts to find a lasting solution to this disturbing trend.

Additionally, all those involved in such attacks should be fished out and made to face the full wrath of the law. Governments at various levels should also ensure that conflicts are resolved through dialogue and diplomacy, rather than relying on military deployments as a first resort. This approach will not only preserve the integrity and morale of the armed forces but also align with the democratic values of peace and justice. Moreover, improving governance is fundamental to addressing the root causes of unrest and violence as it also entails transparency, accountability, and inclusive policies that address the needs and grievances of all citizens.

By fostering economic opportunities, ensuring equitable distribution of resources, and upholding human rights, the government can mitigate the factors that often lead to conflict and violence in our society. The citizens in uniform should also understand that respect is a two-way street. Therefore, those who don the uniform must equally honour the rights of others, conducting themselves with decorum and professionalism at all times. They should steadfastly eschew acts of indiscipline or unprofessional behaviour, both in and out of uniform.

It is important to state that citizens in uniform are governed by stringent command and control regulations. This is particularly true for members of the armed forces, who are subject to both civil and military laws. Each branch of the military has statutory procedures for addressing misconduct among its ranks. Those found guilty of infractions are often punished severely, with some facing death sentences or long-term imprisonment. Given these rigorous checks and balances, it is imperative that we, as citizens, do not take the law into our own hands when confronting perceived misconduct by uniformed personnel. Instead, any acts of misdemeanour should be promptly reported to the appropriate authorities. By doing so, we uphold the rule of law and ensure that justice is served through the proper channels, maintaining respect for those who serve and the system that governs them.

Therefore, it must be reiterated that citizens in uniform are indispensable to the health, growth and stability of any democratic society. Their roles in protecting national security, enforcing the law, and responding to emergencies are critical. In this regard, it is incumbent upon us, as a society, to recognize, respect, and support these individuals for their selfless service. Moreover, showing public disdain for the deplorable and unwarranted attacks by political, traditional, religious and civil society leaders whenever and wherever they occur and fostering a culture of appreciation for the men and women in uniform is essential. Citizens in uniform deserve better from us all. They deserve our unwavering support, our understanding of the challenges they face, and most importantly, our respect. Just as in established democracies like the USA and UK, where these professionals are revered for their service, it’s time we, as a society, recognize the invaluable role they play. We should all rally around and create an environment where our citizens in uniform are celebrated for their courage and dedication, not ostracized for their duty. The future of our democracy hinges on this collective effort. Let’s stand together, citizens and guardians alike, to safeguard the ideals that define our nation.

The writer, Brigadier General Sani Kukasheka Usman (rtd) mni fnipr, is a seasoned public affairs commentator, public relations consultant, and security expert. He can be reached on his Facebook and X handle, @skusman.

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Family Pleads With FG to save brother in South African prison

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Family Pleads With FG to save brother in South African prison

Family Pleads With FG to save brother in South African prison

 

The family of a Nigerian businessman, Olatunji Abdul, imprisoned in South Africa, has called on the Nigerian government and the Chairperson of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, Mrs Abike Dabiri-Erewa, to intervene and save his life urgently.

The family, at a press conference on Thursday at Ikeja, alleged that Olatunji, a businessman and humanitarian, who has been held in a South African prison since 2019, is a victim of false charges allegedly orchestrated by state agents and xenophobic business rivals and that he is facing imminent danger.

PUNCH Metro gathered that through a petition submitted by the founder of Zarephath Aid, Ben Abraham, an international criminal justice organisation, the family narrated the ordeal of the Osun State-born entrepreneur.

 

Abdul, who relocated to South Africa in 2009, established himself as a prominent figure in the hospitality and tourism sectors.

According to the family, as the founder and CEO of Hydro Club, a leading hospitality consultancy in Johannesburg, he provided employment opportunities for Nigerians and supported businesses, students, and tourists in the diaspora.

However, his family believes his success made him a target for xenophobic competitors and corrupt officials.

 

Olatunji’s brother, Sesan, revealed that in 2019, these forces allegedly initiated a scheme, called “#DestroyAbdul,” aimed at destroying his reputation and business ventures.

Sesan claimed that this led to his wrongful arrest, denial of bail, and coercion into providing false confessions.

“In 2020, Olatunji was convicted on charges of theft and sentenced to 15 years in prison, a sentence his supporters insist was based on fabricated evidence.’

“Despite being granted leave to appeal his sentence in November 2024, Abdul is said to be facing further challenges as his efforts to secure legal representation for his appeal have been thwarted.

 

“Several lawyers have reportedly withdrawn from his case due to threats and intimidation, leaving him to represent himself in court,” he said.

His family further stated that his situation is worsening, with fears of poisoning in prison and the confiscation of his laptop, which he needed for legal preparation.

The family, along with Zarephath Aid, appealed to the FG to act swiftly to prevent Olatunji’s death.

 

“If nothing is done, we risk losing a man who has brought pride to Nigeria and significantly contributed to the Nigerian diaspora.”

The petition reads. “Abdul is not a criminal; he is a victim of a malicious plot to destroy him.”

Olatunji’s physical and emotional health has reportedly deteriorated.

His family added that without intervention, his life remains in grave danger.

“This is not just about Abdul,” said Ben Abraham of Zarephath Aid. “It is about protecting Nigerians abroad who face unjust persecution despite their positive contributions.

 

“Abdul is an example of what Nigerians can achieve, and he deserves the protection of his country,” he said.

“Abdul is not just a businessman; he is a father, a son, and a role model for Nigerians in the diaspora. Nigeria must act now to bring him home,” the family stated.

 

 

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How Visiting US-based Nigerian bought nine drugs before death 

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How Visiting US-based Nigerian bought nine drugs before death 

How Visiting US-based Nigerian bought nine drugs before death

 

The Ogun State Police Command on Thursday said it found nine different drugs and medications in the hotel room of the visiting US-based 51-year-old Sunday Abidoye whose lifeless body was discovered at the Creestar Hotel room, GRA, Sagamu, on Wednesday.

The command’s spokesperson, SP Omolola Odutola, disclosed this in a statement on Thursday to confirm Abidoye’s death.

Odutola explained that the Chief Security Officer of the hotel, one Mr Oluwole, reported the incident regarding the discovery of the deceased customer to the police, five days after his arrival from the United States of America.

She said on receiving the report, a team of detectives visited the scene and on arrival, found the body of the deceased already placed inside a car outside the hotel, being prepared to be taken to the morgue by his family.

 

Odutola said that the deceased’s brother, Jimoh Godday, residing in Imota, Lagos State, informed the police team that his brother had arrived in Nigeria from the USA on Saturday, November 16, 2024.

 

She explained further that Godday said he had called at the hotel on Monday and knocked on Room 109, where his brother was staying, but got no response after which he requested a spare key from the manager to enter the room, where they discovered his brother’s lifeless body.

Odutola said, “Photos were taken, and various drugs and traditional medicines were recovered from the room.

 

“The centre of the bed was soaked with a liquid-like substance. A friend of the deceased, Ogunmonti Ogunwole, confirmed that he accompanied his friend, Sunday, to purchase nine different types of medication the previous day due to his complaints of illness.

“The body has since been evacuated to OOUTH morgue in Sagamu for an autopsy.

“No known cause of death yet, and the case will be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department for discreet investigation.”

 

 

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Tinubu Has Plans To Change Nigeria — Doyin Okupe

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Tinubu Has Plans To Change Nigeria — Doyin Okupe

It Will Take Two Years For Reforms To Bear Fruits
…Says Atiku, Obi Had Nothing To Offer

…2023 Election Was Not Rigged

For Doyin Okupe, sitting on the fence is not an option. He prides himself as a rare politician who speaks without minding whose ox is gored. Mostly misunderstood, he has been around for a long time but has refused to exit the stage.

As a spokesman to two former presidents, he courted controversies and was once dubbed the attack dog to a sitting president. From seeing satire to innuendoes thrown at him, Okupe has waxed stronger brushing aside criticisms, he said he has grown accustomed to and fears no one. To him, eliciting criticisms is the price for being principled, and it amounts to anathema to stay under the radar for fear of being criticised.

In this interview with Isuma Mark of THE WHISTLER, Okupe took on long time political colossus, Atiku Abubakar and 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, dismissing them as having nothing better to offer Nigeria. He lambasted them for daring to propagate what he claimed was a fallacy that the 2023 election was rigged.

He dubbed President Bola Tinubu a reformer in Aso Rock whose policies would begin to yield results from two years of the administration.

Except…

You’ve been in the news lately with critics and supporters saying that you’re looking for a job. What’s happening?
I am 72 years old. I have been a spokesman for two former presidents in Nigeria. I’ve been the spokesman of a major political party, NRC (National Republican Convention). I was also the spokesman of the Liberal Convention.

I have had my bit. Do you understand? I have had my bit. Those who say I’m looking for a job; if you checked that demographic, they are people in their 20s who do not know to us

I have always gone for and spoken strongly about whatever I felt compelled to comment on. That has been my lifestyle. When I supported Obi (Peter), what was I looking for? Obi was not even in the country then. He never lobbied me. He never spoke to me. He never asked for my support.

I went to Abeokuta (Ogun State) and I had a press conference, and I said I am stepping down from running for president and that I will be supporting Peter Obi. What was I looking for then? Because I believed at that time in regional equity and justice for us. Because we believed that the presidency should come to the South.

After a Northerner had been there for eight years, there is an existing understanding in the polity of this country among the political elites that the presidency would rotate between the North — not only between the zones but between the North and the South. So, if the presidency is coming to the South, there are three zones in the South—South-West, South-South and South-East.

It was only the South-East that had not had a shot at it. Nobody lobbied me, no human being on earth came to me, and pleaded for my support.

I personally, having conferred with Chief Ayo Adebanjo, who advisedly decided that I should support the South East. The best candidate at that time in the South-East, in PDP, was Peter Obi.

So, that’s why I went to support him. So, what was I looking for? That is my style. That is how I am.

When I was in the NRC, I was one of the campaign directors for Bashir Tofar. We campaigned vigorously around the country, but we lost the election. The military tried to play a game, tried to recruit us, and they did, they finally recruited us (the NRC) to support the annulment.

I left and resigned from my membership of NRC and joined NADECO (National Democratic Coalition) at the time when my colleagues in the NRC — I was in the top bracket of NRC — were being made ministers, I left it and I joined NADECO.

Abiola (MKO) did not call me, nobody called me, but that was what was just, and that was what was fair. That has always been the underlying theme in our philosophy in all my political engagements.

When I supported Obasanjo in 1998, Obasanjo never, ever called me. I didn’t know him closely. We were not friends, we were not colleagues, we were not anything. But I believed that this was a general who had strength and capacity, and he would do well, better than any other candidates, including Falae, who I had been very close to because of NADECO.

I held a press conference, and I announced that I was going to support Obasanjo. Obasanjo did not know anything about it, and on the first of December 1998, I drove to Ota Farm to meet Obasanjo and declared support for him.

That’s how my journey with him started. So, those who see what I’m doing with Bola Tinubu today and thinking that it was some personal dream, I told you, they can only be young people who do not know. They don’t have the history; they don’t know what my pedigree is. I am a man that supports what I consider to be fair and just even if it is to my detriment.

I met the president, Tinubu, about a week ago. I’ve not seen him for seven or eight years. I have not spoken to him on the phone. He didn’t talk to me. But he’s somebody I know very well politically. We have never been on the same side before in politics but we’ve always shared a camaraderie since our NADECO days. We came very, very close. When you’re in the trenches and you’re fighting a liberation war or another, you tend to be bonded more than just ordinarily when there are no issues.

From that time, till when he was governor and left as governor, I’ve had opportunities to sit with Bola Tinubu for three hours unending. And he has impressed me, not only as a politician, but as a technocrat, a man that was capable of deep thinking.

He has developmental ideologies and policies at his fingertips. This thing, you don’t learn it. It’s a gift.

The last time we had anybody close to him was Awolowo (Obafemi). Awolowo was a very serious-minded politician, but who had ideas of public policies that would benefit the masses. That is what Bola Tinubu is today.

Bola Tinubu, you know, in the villa, we have a reformer, a president who is a reformer.

I’ve heard some people saying that Bola Tinubu came to the office without a plan, he has no clue, that is balderdash, that is total nonsense.

I have worked with two past presidents. I have studied other presidents closely from a very close point. I don’t know any Nigerian president from 1960 to date who has come more armed, better prepared for governance than this gentleman.

Unfortunately for him, he has come into government at a very terrible and awful time. And when I met him, I told him, ‘are you out of your mind?’How would you want to succeed a Buhari (Muhammadu) administration, eight years of total abandonment, decadence and retrogression?

He said that is his passion. He was driven by that passion to help Nigeria. Having been part and parcel of those who brought Buhari, you can’t blame somebody for bringing a leader. If the leader does not perform, it’s unfortunate. But if you are brave enough to say, yes, you know, whatever you have done wrong, let us put our necks out and correct it. And this is what this guy is doing.

How can you ask him, how can you ask a president, Bola Tinubu, how can you hold him accountable for the ills of 30, 40 years? And for the two-terms of national abandonment of the last eight years, it’s unfair, it’s unrealistic.

And go and check it, being a reformer, you know, he didn’t ask me to say this, but I’m telling you from my own common sense and understanding of how government works, Bola Tinubu will need a minimum of two years for some of his policies to be properly grounded, established and to begin to produce results.

I have gone to read history, I read about Lin Kuan Yew. Lin Kuan Yew had, you know, Singapore, and at that point in time, the other country next to it, Malaysia, before they pulled out. He had those 31 years to rule that country, to ground that country, to transform that nation from third world to first world. 31 years, I read his book.

He said, I did certain things that were not okay. He was even almost draconian at some points, but, you know, he was focused on what he wanted to do, Just like Bola Tinubu today appears to be very strong-minded, very focused, and determined to pull this through.

It’s going to be a couple of years of pain and hardship, but he’s doing what other presidents for the last 10, 20 years have refused to do. The choice he had was to run and was to come into governance and just continue business as usual. By the time he came to the government, 98% of our revenue generated was being used to pay debt

Arbitrage on the foreign exchange was at an alarming rate. We were subsidising power, subsidising hype, subsidising virtually everything. We have over-borrowed and we are now going back to the nefarious and condemnable, financially undisciplined act of printing currency. We printed more than 21 trillion. Nobody can continue like that. If we continue like that, we will become a totally devastating, failed state by now.

So, we should commend him, support him, pray for him, cooperate with him, and endure the hardship for this short period and wait for the results. The opposition is running helter-skelter, talking about all sorts of things.

The real opposition are Abubakar Atiku and maybe Peter Obi. In the first instance, the opposition appears to be unrealistic, saying the presidency was stolen. There’s nothing like that. No presidency was stolen. I’m not saying there was no rigging.

There was no election that we have done in Nigeria since 1960 to date that was not rigged, not one maybe Abiola’s election because of the unique nature of the voting pattern. You know it was Option A4 people were counted, apart from that every other election was rigged.

We were in this country when a sitting president (Umar Yar’adua) said the process that brought him into power was flawed. That was when he put up that Alias committee.

He confessed that it was flawed. I was involved in the process that brought Obasanjo. I was involved in the process that brought Yaradua

I was involved in the process that brought G.E.J. I knew about what brought in Buhari. All without exception were flawed. All.

So, talking about rigging, that’s not the issue. But you see, you only rig where you are strong. So, if you look at it properly, when three major candidates emerged for that election, it was obvious that we will have a minority administration.

Obi was substantially supported by the Southeast. And if the Labour Party or Obi, think that people rigged, APC rigged, how did Obi win the heartland of Bola Tinbubu? Why didn’t Bola Tinubu rig Lagos for himself? Why? If Obi said or the Labour Party said APC rigged the election, how come Obi was able to win the home base of Bola Tinubu? How come APC lost the election in the home base of a sitting president? How come APC lost the election in the home base of the Secretary to that government? The accusation about rigging does not hold water at all. It doesn’t hold water.

The truth of the matter is that under the best of conditions, the results we got may not have been the exact results but they will have that ratio. I was in a Labour party. We couldn’t have done better than we did. I knew that for other reasons, but that’s a discussion for another day.

And in any case, you know, when you look at it today, critically, Bola Tinubu has come into this government with better policy documentation than any of these two rivals by far.

Atiku is a magnificent, experienced, knowledgeable, and thoroughbred politician. I am telling you that I knew that for a fact. He also came with a testament, all right, that, you know, could hold sway, a testament which would have been, if he won, would have been binding on him to Nigeria.

But when we put the testament side by side, which is the correct reality we have on the ground today, it’s not applicable. The testament, the documents, and his preparation were hinged mainly on obtaining some funds, $10 billion and $15 billion or so.

They had that $15 billion and $5 billion, you know, loans, which they intend to inject into the economy and they sort a couple of things out.

That was theoretical. Because by the time Buhari was leaving, nobody was going to borrow Nigeria money Again. If people were ready to borrow Nigerian money, Buhari would not have had to go and print money. We were no longer credit worthy by the majority of the international financial institutions.

The premises and the pillars which Atiku placed this testament on are what you call sinking sand, they can’t work.

As for Peter Obi, Peter Obi has not given any documents to Nigerians as to what he was going to do. I can tell you for a fact.

I’ve admitted Atiku’s own but in the Labour Party, we did not have a document that we could adopt as our panacea for what was going on. All we were saying was that we want to take Nigeria from consumption to production. Good rhetorics but it’s not grounded either in policy development or in principle application.

I never supported Bola Tinubu, he’s not my person. He’s not; we’re not in the same party.

But in retrospect now, his reform, I mean, his agenda, his agenda that he brought, the Renewable Hope Agenda is the most credible document that can address and is addressing the current situation. And as you can see, it is being meticulously applied.

First of all, when he came, he came and removed the subsidy, and not removed the subsidy, but announced that the subsidy was removed because Buhari had already removed the subsidy. From June 1st, there was no subsidy provision in the project. So, the statement that the subsidy was gone was just an acceptable confirmation of an event that had happened. This was superfluous, but the subsidy was actually removed.

Next, he attacked the arbitrage in the foreign exchange section. And this is what I bring Bola Tinubu and his government for. Unknown to many Nigerians, I mean, people were feeding fat on foreign exchange earnings.

There were people who didn’t do any job. They just used contacts in the CBN, and collected one million dollars every week and got the difference, and made stupendous wealth. All that has gone, this man has stopped it.

After that, I mean, see, he has now implemented the student loan program. After that, he implemented this consumer protection thing, providing money for low-income earners and all that, in a systematic manner.

Monies that were being owed over seven billion dollars, that were being owed and were going to cripple so many things, the criminal activities in the country, they paid them off. The ways and means of 21 trillion naira that was a deficit have also been neutralised.

And you say that the man does not have a plan! Now, you know, two months after coming to government, he put up a committee to look into the tax reforms for the country, which was in his agenda before he came. So, this man has the systematic, reliable, focused, applicable agenda that can take Nigeria out of the woods.

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