Author

Leading Reporters

Headlines

2023: Tinubu May Dump APC For Another Party Over ‘Fear Of Defeat’

by Leading Reporters March 20, 2022

written by Leading Reporters

Reports emerged on Saturday claiming the National leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, is “working on an alternative party” to vie for the 2023 presidency.

Tinubu, who is presently the leading aspirants, is aware of plots by some party stalwart and governors to deny him the party’s ticket.

According to the report, Buhari, who had refused to name his preferred candidate over fear he or she would be killed, is said to be favouring a younger aspirant.

Tinubu, who is refusing to be caught off guard, is not putting all eggs in one basket to avoid being caught unawares by an “unfavourable outcome” of the APC primary.

It was gathered that the former Lagos State governor is planning to use the Ekiti State Governorship election to test the waters.

The APC leader is reportedly aligning with Segun Oni a one-time Ekiti Governor and SDP flagbearer, because he is aware he does not have the backing of Governor Kayode Fayemi, who is also interested in the presidency.

“The President wants a younger person and that’s not Tinubu.

“Fayemi wants to be President if the office is zoned to the South”, a source told Daily Post.

“If he fails, he may get the SGF (Secretary to the Government of the Federation) position as long as the next President or Vice are not from South-West.

“Tinubu is monitoring all that’s happening and he seems to have pitched his tent with the SDP.

“The truth is that civil servants like Oni are ready to vote for him.

“With his cold war with Fayemi and Oni’s popularity, Tinubu has developed a soft spot for the SDP.

“And this isn’t just about Ekiti election, he may contest on the platform if APC denies him a ticket.”

It was gathered that Oni’s running mate, Otunba Ladi Owolabi was picked after consultations with Tinubu’s camp.

“Oni, 67, is from Ifaki while Owolabi, 68, is an Ado Ekiti indigene.

Sources also accused the Fayemi administration of allegedly stopping Tinubu from using the Adetiloye Hall during his visit to Ekiti monarchs a fortnight ago.

“The authorities stopped the use of the venue because Fayemi isn’t working for his political leader’s ambition.

“In fact, by the time Tinubu landed, Fayemi left the state via helicopter.

“They said he had to be in Abuja. He could have briefly showed up at the parley with the Obas but didn’t want to be seen with Tinubu in such a gathering”, another source told Daily Post.

March 20, 2022 0 comments

What Soludo should avoid as Anambra Governor

by Leading Reporters March 20, 2022

written by Leading Reporters

By Tonnie Iredia

Charles Chukwuma Soludo, the new governor of Anambra state is a well-known reformer in Nigeria’s public sector. He had served creditably as governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (2004-9) and only those who refused to renew his appointment after the Obasanjo years know what criteria they used to stop Nigeria from continuing to benefit from the services of pragmatic Soludo.

Each time I met him in those days when we were in government, I always subconsciously imagined that he deservedly possessed what Warren Bennis identified as features of strategic leadership, namely: Vision, Passion and Integrity. Bennis was the man who invented leadership as a business idea and whose legacy has since been honored with a prize for the best articles on leadership every year in the Harvard Business Review. If nothing else, Soludo showed ample visionary leadership in his reformist agenda at the CBN. Will he be able to extend same to Anambra state?

Listening to his inauguration speech last Thursday, it was obvious that Governor Soludo had mastered the strategy for arriving at the location he envisages Anambra ought to be some 4 years ahead. A few minutes after the inauguration, he began an active governance project starting appropriately from Okpoko – a local community empirically determined as the weakest link in the state which had been abandoned over the years.

Part of those who waited to receive the new governor there were: several heaps of refuse along with street traders and sweepers who could not immediately fathom what sanctions their lethargy would attract. The starting point no doubt resonated a number of institutional statements; first, that everywhere will be touched and second that it was time for everyone to work in view of the transparent leadership by example posture of the first 48 hours of Soludo’s tenure.

The governor’s occupational antecedents of executing every project with a commercial mindset would certainly impact greatly on the state. One obvious advantage of the mindset is that just as an increase in revenue generation would be easily quantifiable, many intangible goals would similarly be transparently recorded as profits in the sense of democracy dividends. Under the circumstance, there are a legion of things governor Soludo needs to watch or avoid.

The first is that although the ‘spoils system’ which patronizes party members who played active roles in elections is followed across the globe, Governor Soludo must not allow his party to pressure him to appoint unqualified persons into critical positions in which they can hardly add value to society. The same is true of the awards of contracts for several works which must be channeled to only persons and firms that have cognate experience in each venture. This would encourage first class jobs.

One way of doing this is to sensitize party leaders on the qualifications and competences for each position/project so as to drastically reduce the nomination of misfits for any assignment. An area where party members often agitate to make contributions centres around arrangements for internally generated revenue. Here, the ingenuity of officials at all levels should never be underrated. For example, the existence of receipts for payments does not in our system guarantee the destination of the payments. They may still end up (in the case of markets and parks), in private pockets of individuals and union officials. In today’s world of technology, Soludo is certainly fully aware of the many platforms devoid of bureaucracy that can secure revenue because funding is key to successful project execution

Anambra is one of the states greatly affected by insecurity hence Soludo’s determination to work towards ending senseless killings of his people particularly able-bodied youths. But while his plan to aggregate the efforts of all stakeholders in the attainment of peace is salutary, he should avoid making the mistake of some of his colleagues who converted state security to individual affair.

Government must at all times be seen to be playing the pivotal role because that is its primary purpose. Arguments such as everyone should defend himself does not only validate state abdication from its primary responsibility, it also gives an impression that the state has tacitly emboldened criminal elements to freely operate. In addition, political leaders must stop showing more interest in political meetings and social events while overlooking security breaches that result in fatalities. The life of every citizen should matter.

Most importantly, Soludo should avoid distractions. For example, he should be cautious about the numerous meetings of the Nigerian Governors’ Forum which as a body has long lost its usefulness. Since when Jonathan’s government recognized the governor with 16 followers as the leader of the forum instead of the one with 19 followers, the forum has been distracted from its original goal of serving as a tool for peer review. It has indeed broken into partisan segments. However, the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) to which Soludo belongs, does not have other governors and as such will not be tempted to create an APGA Governors’ Forum for partisan politics. Besides, the governor has no business serving as the leader of the party which would pull him unnecessarily into the unending Nigerian electioneering during governance. As soon as a candidate is elected governor, he translates into a statesman and the father of the entire state and not a leader of his party which in any case is merely a design for channelling government funds into party coffers.

It is logical to assume that having served as CBN governor, the quest by Soludo to become a state governor was altruistically to make his state – Anambra, greater than it has been. He is therefore in a different position from many politicians who struggle to become senators after having served as governors or ministers. Thus, Soludo has no business distracting himself. As Anambra governor, it would be a tragedy if Soludo later defects to another party so as to win a second term election or to get any corrupt practices covered for him as we see of many defectors who proffer absurd reasons for such conduct. A governor who performs brilliantly in his first term, hardly needs a second term to put his name in gold; his salary is free for him, so is his feeding and accommodation. He therefore has no need to run from pillar to post for reelection because with a sincere performance, a second term is virtually guaranteed.

The nation certainly looks forward to standards to be set in Anambra during Soludo’s tenure. Unlike many political leaders, he needs to abide by the letter and spirit of the constitution. He should avoid the practice of frustrating the existence of a local government system of government. Accordingly, it is wrong to do as many others have done to constitute party loyalists into the state’s “independent” electoral commission to conduct fake elections just as it is immoral to use whatever strategy to divert local government funds. Anambra state legislature as a distinct arm of government should be allowed to function freely. Consequently, there would be no need to bribe the legislators to pass any bills. If these are followed and Anambra becomes a reference point in our clime, credit would go to governor Soludo.

It is also important to draw attention to the need for the governor to be on top of state issues. Many officials would bring up very articulate narratives which if not properly interrogated could turn out to be incorrect. For instance, on a lighter note, last Thursday, two over-grown girls virtually marred Soludo’s inauguration through fisticuffs. The narrative to the whole world was that one of them, the immediate governor’s wife slapped the wife of the former warlord. When a video coverage later showed that it was the reverse, the narrative changed to ‘the slap was due to provocation.’ The lesson here is that our narratives are usually never detailed and are always affected by prejudice. A last minute disruption to great efforts introduced by someone close can take the shine off great achievements. So Chukwuma Soludo must beware.

March 20, 2022 0 comments

Headlines

Plateau Speaker Decamps from PDP to APC

by Leading Reporters March 19, 2022

written by Leading Reporters

Plateau State House of Assembly’s former speaker, Honourable Abok Nuhu Ayuba has decamped from the All Progressives Congress (APC) to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

A statement signed by his Media Assistant, Itse Samuel Kaze, disclosed that Abok on Friday, officially tendered his letter of membership withdrawal to the ruling All Progressive Congress (APC), while presenting a letter of intent, seeking to return to his earlier party, the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), at the party’s Local Government Secretariat in Angware, Jos East.

He added that his action became necessary in other to save the Local Government and the State from failed leadership that will lead to a state of total collapse if allowed.

Appreciating the party for considering and accepting his intention in a warm welcome, Abok said, “Chairman and your EXCO, elders and party faithful, ladies and gentlemen,

“I stand before you, deeply touched and inspired by your generous words of acceptance and encouragement. With boundless gratitude for the confidence you placed in me — I here, wish to extend my deepest respect and appreciation to all the leaders, faithful, and the people all together for your strong support.”

“Thank you, Chairman, for graciously preparing and guiding the meeting today. I greatly look forward to supporting you and working with you, as you have wisely steered the party in Jos East towards a progressive state and on a part of a very successful mission.”

“Distinguish comrades, weldone! For you did astutely guide this great party into the 21st. century standard as expected.”

You have defined an ambitious agenda that has formed the PDP truly indispensable to winning elections, and to attaining the set level of peace, prosperity and human dignity within our Local Government, State, and the nation, of which the common Plateau man daily yearns for. My debt to your courage and mission is immeasurable. I hereby resolve to work along in line with your pure refined vision.”

“In earnest, I hope that the youth of Jos East, Plateau, and Nigeria will realize that the PDP is working hard to build a better future for us. As a loyal returnee — I pledge to wholly embrace the party’s ideals, hopes, and appeals. I am an optimist — and I am full of hope about the future of our great party. Let’s work together for a PDP that can deliver more, and better, and win all elections.”

Reacting on its part, Honorable Izang Ishaya Adamu, Chairman, PDP Jos East said, “Rt Honourable Abok is the best person we have expected. His unwavering dedication to justice, principle, and leadership experience are crucial to the party’s organizational unity and progress towards winning elections not only in Jos East but in Plateau and Nigeria. We are delighted he is back to our team.”

“The PDP family welcomes Abok as a leader in Jos East. He comes with extensive experience and strategic leadership skills. We are delighted he is bringing his expertise and energy to the table for our party’s important mission ahead, he will be a critical part of the party’s leadership team and will bring tremendous experience to our efforts in raising our voices in support of freedom and democracy in Nigeria.”

“Abok has proven his worth in the State House of Assembly as a unified, progressive, all-inclusive and visionary leader who holds his people’s aspirations and conditions dearly. A defender of democratic principle and Plateau heritage, even as it cost him his exalted office. We are happy to receive him today.” He ended.

March 19, 2022 0 comments

Headlines

Seek God for your salaries to be paid this month, IGP tells police officers

by Leading Reporters March 19, 2022

written by Leading Reporters

Mr. Baba suggested that prayers by police officers may fast track the implementation of the new salary structure by March ending.

The Inspector-General of Police Usman Baba, has urged police officers to pray for their salaries to be paid at the end of the month.

While delivering a lecture at the Force Headquarters in Abuja on Thursday, Mr. Baba suggested that prayers by police officers may fast track the implementation of the new salary structure by March ending.

“He also informed members that the new salary may be paid at the end of this month, (March 22) everyone should exercise patience and pray,” partly reads the document titled “Outcome of the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) lecture”.

This is coming amid reports of a planned protest and strike by junior officers of the force, scheduled for March 26.

Although the acting force public relations officer Muyiwa Adejobi, had debunked the report describing it as “fake news”, there are strong indications that the junior officers would embark on strike on the said date.

The officers listed unpaid emoluments, outdated weapons, poor working conditions among other reasons for the planned protest.

In a desperately veiled attempt to placate the disgruntled officers and quell strike agitations, IGP offered to waive tax for all serving officers effective April 2022.

“The Inspector General of Police in his magnanimity has also ensured that all serving personnel be exempted from the payment of tax, with effect from April 2022,” reads the outcome of Mr Baba’s lecture.

Similarly, the IGP assured officers he was “working tirelessly” to ensure that ,”both serving and retired members of the Force are removed from the contributory pension scheme.”

Despite these promises, the new salary structure remains a huge probability with the IGP asking officers to pray for its implementation.

March 19, 2022 0 comments

Headlines

House Of Ohanaeze President General Bombed

by Leading Reporters March 19, 2022

written by Leading Reporters

Gunmen, today, bombed the house of the President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo George Obiozor, in Awo-Omamma in Oru East Local Government Area of Imo State.

It was learnt that the gunmen used Improvised Explosives Devices (IED), and petrol bombs.

An eyewitness said that the unknown gunmen drove into the compound about 6:15 am, shot indiscriminately for over 15 minutes before they set the house ablaze.

It was also learnt that Obiozor’s brother’s houses were also burnt with several valuables destroyed.

According to a villager, “They used Ohanaez and petrol gallons to put fire in the building. We entered the building some parts of the building were still burning, the properties were burnt to ashes.

“The roof of the buildings were blown off and scattered around the compound. Those living in the compound are now in fear that the unknown gunmen will likely come to cause more damage.”

“The most painful aspect of it was that the houses to Obiozor’s brother were set ablaze by these hoodlums. It was not as much compared to that of Obiozor house.”

Spokesman of the Police in Imo State, Micheal Abattam, confirmed the incident saying that “There was an attack on Obiozor’s house early this morning.”

He however said that no life was lost in the incident.

March 19, 2022 0 comments

Africa & World

Ukraine: what will end the war? Here’s what research says

by Leading Reporters March 15, 2022

written by Leading Reporters

In a matter of days, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has escalated to one of the biggest military conflicts in Europe since the second world war. The fog of war can obscure our view of who is winning, who is losing, and how long all of this will last. While no one can provide definitive answers, academic research on war gives us some insights into how the conflict in Ukraine might unfold.

Research suggests that the path to war resembles a bargaining game, where countries compete over issues like territory and resources to patriotism or the style of governance. Rather than going to war, which is very costly, competing states prefer to settle these disagreements peacefully. Ideally, the two sides do this based upon their relative probabilities of winning a hypothetical war. Sometimes this is not possible and war occurs.

War is, usually, the result of one of three problems. First, states might not have enough information to assess their relative probabilities of success.

Second, the two sides might not trust that an agreement made today will be honoured tomorrow. Finally, countries might not be able to settle the contentious issue, especially when ethnic, religious or ideological tensions are involved.

According to this approach, wars will end when the problem that caused the war is resolved by fighting on the battlefield. How long the fighting will last and the form it takes depends on the extent and type of the problem.

In the case of Ukraine, it seems that the two sides did not have accurate information about their relative probabilities of success. Success in war is a product of two critical factors: the ability to fight and the willingness to suffer costs.

It was largely apparent that Russia’s army was and is far superior to Ukraine’s in terms of stockpiles of weapons and number of personnel. However, what was not apparent to Russia until the fighting began is that the Ukrainian people are far more willing to fight than they anticipated.

Russia now knows that they miscalculated the willingness of the Ukrainian people, but to what extent is still unknown. The problem is that it is difficult for Ukraine to demonstrate the extent of its willingness to bear costs, and Russia is likely to mistrust any attempts to communicate this, anticipating that Ukraine will overstate in order to obtain a more favourable agreement.

This suggests that the two sides will have difficulty ever resolving the information problem. When this happens, countries often end up fighting wars of attrition that last until one side gives up.

Wars require the tacit approval and support of those on the home front. Regardless of a country’s government style, a leader is still dependent upon the support of a group of people, or coalition, to stay in power. Vladimir Putin depends on oligarchs, the Russian mafia and the military for his survival. Although Putin attempted to build up a financial bulwark that would allow him to protect the interests of the oligarchs, the sanctions imposed by the west have undercut most of his efforts.

The war has already become very costly for the oligarchs and these costs will only increase with time. When a sufficient number of Putin’s coalition privately turn against the war, this will pressure Putin to end the war or risk his position of power. However, where this line is and if there are any viable alternatives that would better serve the interests of this coalition is questionable.

Costs of war

To a lesser extent, Putin is dependent on the support of the general population. The public is bearing the costs of war in the form of inflation, economic decline and battlefield deaths.

Putin has so far protected himself from these costs in three ways: First, he employs a selective system of conscription, which shields him from the full costs of battlefield deaths.

Second, he controls the state media apparatus and has censored other media organisations, limiting the information available to the general public. Third, since there are not free and fair elections, there is no way other than mass mobilisation and revolution for the Russian people to overthrow Putin.

Volodymyr Zelensky in a military green t-shirt standing at a podium with an expression of resolve on his face — Putin underestimated the willingness of Volodymyr Zelensky and the Ukrainian military. Ukraine Presidential Press Service / EPA-EFE

The calculation for Ukraine is much more straightforward. Ukraine is a democratic country aggressively pursuing European integration. This means that the willingness of the general population to suffer in the face of high costs is of the utmost importance.

Without a critical mass of support, resistance to the Russian military will fall apart and Ukraine will lose the war. The fierce determination of the Ukrainian people up to this point suggests that this will not occur any time soon.

As Russian tactics become more aggressive, the Ukrainian people are paying ever higher costs. If we see the average Ukrainian’s willingness to suffer and fight lagging, it should give us cause for concern. To this end, western governments have stepped up humanitarian and defensive aid to Ukraine, in order to ensure that Ukrainian support for the war endures.

Ultimately, it appears that this war will not end quickly, as it will take a considerable amount of time for either side to make the other give up. Either the Russian military’s transition to indiscriminate bombing of civilian targets succeeds in eroding Ukrainian resistance, or battlefield casualties and domestic economic woes succeed in defeating Russia’s will to fight. Neither outcome is likely in the coming weeks and months, meaning people around the world are left to watch the horrors of war unfold, and wait.

March 15, 2022 0 comments

Opinion Headlines

Police Salary Increase: How IGP Alkali Struck A Gold, Why He Should Be Commended

by Leading Reporters March 15, 2022

written by Leading Reporters

•Why Police Should Jettison The Call For Strike
…His Other Major Milestones In The Nigerian Police

Prior to the time Baba Alkali Usman was made the Inspector General of Police, President Muhammadu Buhari has given the directive for the upward review of police salary; however, when IGP Baba came on board, among the major things in his agenda is the Police Salary upward review. The IGP has left no one in doubt that it was a major priority for him as the nation’s number one police officer.

On so many occasions, IGP Baba has urged Police officers to keep hope alive over salary increment, what this implies is that the issue of salary increase is on the front burner in the IGP’s agenda. He took that demand and pressure to the National Assembly and has pursued it with success.

When he went to Benin, the Edo state Capital last year, the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Baba Alkali Usman told officers and men of the Nigeria Police Force to keep their hope alive over the proposed review of salaries, saying though delayed but it would be materialized.

He assured: “I want you to take your job very seriously because we are going to work hard to improve on our welfare.

“We are living witness that the Commander in Chief of Armed Forces has graciously asked the salary of the police be reviewed even though it is taking time, it will certainly come.”

The Inspector-General advised policemen not to be discouraged as the pay rise will surely happen.

The issue of salary increase for the men and officers of the force, as he continue to admonish the personnel while working round the clock and behind the scene to see that it was done.

Again while talking while reeling out the his achievements to journalists at the Presidential Villa last, the IGP reiterated the effort of the President, Muhammadu Buhari in seeing that Police Salary is increase as the IGP reechoed again to them that the Salaries and Wages Commission is working out a new salary structure for the NPF as directed by the President, His Excellency Mohammadu Buhari, GCFR.

Yet in another remarks, while addressing the Delta State Police Command, on a visit, there said; the IGP assured officers and men of the command that the police under his leadership is doing all within its powers to boost the morale of the men in terms of better welfare and also assured all that a better insurance scheme is on top gear, adding that the welfare of officers is a priority to his administration.

Indeed all through the while, the issue of Police Salary increase has been a top burner before IGP Alkali, his effort in lobbying the National Assembly and the Presidency which culminated in its subsequent approval by the Federal Executive Council, shows that he is not resting, as he is working hard to make sure that the Police rank and file receives their new salary increase as soon as possible.

Even as it is, one may say that he is not the one causing the delay of the payment of the new salary increase , but the truth is that he at the moment working round the clock and working behind the scene to make sure that those concerned have finish all their official formalities and releases the money for the payment of the new salaries to Police Officers. The IGP it should be noted has no power over official processes that is needed and being done at the moment to ensure the increase takes effect.

However, after much lobbying by IGP Akali, his effort paid off, as in December 2021, the Federal Executive Council approved the Police Salary increase by 20 percent and which will take effect from January this year 2022. It is the delay in effecting the payment that others wants to take advantage to sabotage the peace and security of the nation. If IGP Alkali had been reluctant and failed to pursue it the manner he vigorously did, the good story of the approval of the salary increase and even expectations of commencement of payment of the new package wouldn’t have arisen.

Just like Femi Adesina, the Special Adviser to President Buhari on Media and Publicity, said in his article which he titled: ‘Buhari’s Christmas Bonus for Police,’ it was indeed a Christmas Bonus for the Police, which the IGP Alkali was behind it.

The Minister of Police Affairs, Maigari Dingyadi, made this known to State House correspondents at the end of the Council meeting presided over by President Muhammadu Buhari.

According to him, major highlight of the increase is the provision of a 20 per cent peculiar allowance for the police.

He said: “I am particularly very happy today to inform Nigerians that the Federal Executive Council has approved the review and upgrading of the take home pay of police personnel in this country.

“You recall that in Oct. 2020 this country was rocked with End SARS protests and the president addressed the nation appealing for calm, after which he promised that the salary of the police will be reviewed in recognition of the services they have been rendering to the country – maintaining peace and tranquility.

“So, FEC has today approved a proposal for the review of their salaries, which will take effect from January 2022.

“We have tried to create a situation where their take home pay will be enhanced through the improvement of issues such as duty tour allowance, which has been reviewed to six per cent of their new take home pay,” he stated.

The minister also revealed that the Council approved N1.1billion for the payment of outstanding uninsured benefits of the police.

“Council has also approved the payment of N1,120, 172,150.00 as outstanding benefits of personnel for uninsured period of 2013-2020.

“It has also approved N127,972,269.20 for payment as outstanding death benefits of 5,472 personnel for the uninsured period of 2013-August 2021, not covered under the group life assurance.

“Council has also approved N1.2 billion as outstanding burial expenses of personnel for a period of January 2012-2021,’’ he said.

According to the minister, the Council also approved the annual insurance premiums of N750 million as well as the payment of N4, 812,500,000 for repairs and replacement of damaged Police infrastructure in future budgets, starting from 2022.

He said the Council also approved a tax waver in the sum of N18.6 billion for junior officers of the Police in order to increase their take home pay with effect from Oct. 2021.

“Similarly government has approved an increase of the current rent subsidy, which is currently between 15-20 percent, amounting to N61 billion.

“With the increase, it is now 40 percent of the Consolidate Police Salary Structure (CONPOSS), in the sum of N78.3 billion.

“It has also approved payment of an additional six per cent shift duty allowance for officers on Grade Level 01-14 and supervisors allowances for officers on Grade Level 15 and above, totalling about N10.038 billion with effect from 2022.

“Most importantly, government has also approved payment of 20 per cent of CONPOSS as a peculiar allowance to boost morale and take home pay of the Nigeria Police personnel,” he said.

The minister stated that the Auditor General of the Federation had been directed to cross check the template and claims approved by Council, after which a clean salary structure would be computed and introduced by the Salaries and Wages Commission, which would be adopted as soon as possible.

He said with the new development, government would expect the police to redouble their efforts to justify the confidence reposed in them.

Minister of Finance, Budget and National Planning, Dr Zainab Ahmed, who fielded questions on the salary increase, revealed that the increment was not captured in the 2022 budget. Perhaps that explains the little delay behind the commencement of full implementation.

She, however, stated that after computations and approval, a supplementary budget would be sent to the National Assembly to that effect, to pave way for the payment of arrears and full implementation of the new salary.

With the approval for the salary increase, indeed the IGP struck gold, made available by his strong efforts.

PROBLEMS OF OFFICERS AND MEN PREDATES THE APPOINTMENT OF IGP ALKALI

Majority of things stated in the report published by some national dallies and online medium which include morale of police officers said to be at a low ebb, with many grumbling about poor salaries, a lack of genuine welfare benefits and outdated weapons, are things that are already being taken care of by the IGP, or/and currently being given necessary attention by IGP Alkali. Nigerians are very much aware about the kind of leadership offered in the past that has failed to address critical issues related to police welfare and provision of arms and facilities. Unknown to many, under IGP Alkali and for the first time in many years the Police is now being supplied with armoury and other latest policing devices. This milestone will soon be demonstrated to Nigerians to appreciate the President for supporting the IGP to perform.

Take on the issue of welfare benefits for instance, the Inspector General of Police has since assumption of office made the welfare of the Police his paramount and key issue.

The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Usman Alkali Baba, recently ordered the immediate distribution of Police Uniforms, Kits and accoutrements which the Force recently procured, to various Zones, Commands and Formations in the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) for onward issuance to personnel of the Force. Before now, Police officers are very much aware that they used to buy their uniforms themselves even as there is supposed to be provisions for them.

According to the Acting Force Spokesperson, CSP Olumuyiwa Adejobi in a press release, the resuscitation of the quarterly issuance of uniforms and other accoutrements to members of the Inspectorate, Non-Commissioned Officers (NCOs) and Constable Cadres in the Police Force is in furtherance of the ongoing efforts by the IGP to engender reforms and evolve a new people-friendly Police Force.

The issuance of the new uniforms and accoutrements, which is a continuous exercise, is free of charge to all Inspectors and members of the Rank-and-File of the Force as provisions have been made for the continuous procurement in the Police budget.

A nationwide distribution on police uniforms, shoes, belts, berets, and other accessories was ordered by the inspector General of Police. In a move last seen during the 1990s, Zones, Commands and Formations in the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) have since the 4th of March 2022 have issued out hundreds of thousands of camouflage, blue and black uniforms to police officers across the country.

In the same vein, the IGP has approved the creation of First Aid Unit to be domiciled under the Nigeria Police Medical Service (NPMS), Force Headquarters, Abuja, and the inclusion of advanced First Aid Training to substitute the basic training available in the Nigeria Police Force Training Curriculum.

The Police, in partnership with the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), held a train-the-trainers workshop that started from the 23rd through Friday 25th February, 2022, for personnel of the newly created unit, who would be deployed to all Commands and Formations across the nation, and in turn train cadets and recruits at the various Police training institutions.

The IGP equally noted that the establishment of the First Aid Unit would enhance the capacity of the Police Emergency Response System, reiterated the unwavering commitment of the Force leadership to bequeathing to the nation a professional, dependable and responsive policing system.

Furthermore, an Echo Cardio Machine was installed and inaugurated at the Muhammadu Buhari Medical Centre in Garki Abuja while an integrated First Aid Unit was added to the Force Medical Services for training and easy deployment on the field at the Nigeria Police Medical Service (NPMS), Force Headquarters, Abuja, and the inclusion of advanced First Aid Training to substitute the basic training available in the Nigeria Police Force Training Curriculum.

On this, he emphasized the premium value he places on the welfare and general wellbeing of officers and men of the Nigeria Police Force. He noted that it is boondoggle, emphasizing the hazardous conditions Police officers are exposed to on a daily basis.

To alleviate the effect of such hazards on officers and men, the IGP observed that it is imperative to establish a First Aid Unit that will be the first responder to personnel in need of emergency and less complicated medical care.

The IGP equally noted that the establishment of the First Aid Unit would enhance the capacity of the Police Emergency Response System.

According to the IGP, during a recent visit to the Federal Capital Territory Command, Abuja, the IGP restated his commitment towards an improved welfare for officers and men across board. The IGP noted that the issuance of uniforms and accoutrements, which will cut across the Inspectorate and Rank-and-File cadre, will be a continuous quarterly exercise free of charge, as provisions have been made for the continuous procurement in the Police budget.

This, he said is in furtherance of his ongoing efforts to engender reforms and evolve a new people-friendly Police Force.

IGP Alkali declared that the commitment of the Force to constantly providing NPF personnel with better welfare will go a long way to boosting their morale.

While he reiterated the unwavering commitment of the Force leadership towards bequeathing to the nation a professional, dependable and responsive policing system, the IGP enjoined the citizens to never give up on the Force. He urged every individual to make it a point of duty to help the Police by providing accurate and timely information about crime and criminalities to their local Police, so as to help the Force secure the public space in a more proactive manner.

Aside the issue of Welfare, the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Usman Alkali Baba, has revised the Housing SCHEME of the Nigeria Police Force.

A significant amendment to the Housing Policy is the slashing of Equity payments or deposits by Police Officers before acquiring houses financed by the Nigeria Police Cooperative and Multipurpose Society.

Hitherto, officers of the rank of Assistant Superintendent of Police to the rank of Inspector General of Police were required to pay 20 percent of the property value while officers below the rank of ASP were required to pay 10 percent.

The revised equity now requires officers from the rank of ASP to IGP to pay 10 percent as equity while junior Officers pay 5 percent. Other revisions include a downward review of the life of the payment schedule from five (5) to seven (7) years on all properties. A Police Wireless Signal to that effect was issued and circulated in 2021 announcing the change.

It is on note, the IGP’s Policy on Housing has revived the housing scheme as more Police officers are now rushing to the Cooperative to enjoy the opportunities that is abound there now.

The Executive Secretary of the Nigeria Police Cooperative, AIG Adamu Usman told this paper “that the IGP believes that housing is more important to the lives of Police Officers than any other thing.”

“He wants it to be affordable and acquirable through a seamless process.”

The report shows that several housing estates relevant to the achievement of this policy are being completed on the orders of the Inspector-General of Police, while new ones are being developed. Houses range from one-bedroom, to duplex; there are detached and semi-detached and are available in all the geo-political zones of the country.

As it is the welfare of Police Officers is a cardinal policy of the Inspector-General of Police. IGP Usman Alkali Baba which reechoed and reassured Officers during his recent familiarization tour to Akwa Ibom and Cross River States, that his administration will put the welfare of Police Officers first while working hard to ensure that working tools and equipment are available to provide professional and quality policing services to Nigerians while protecting officers and their families.

In an extensive interaction with police officers in Cross River State, the IGP commended them for their dedication and professionalism and assured them of improved welfare and working conditions.

He reiterated the importance of training and retraining as a key strategy of his administration to ensure policing in contemporary Nigeria is propped up to manage effectively the ever dilating and dynamic nature of crimes and criminality in the country.

For instance, Vehicles, equipment and accommodation were provided in January 2022 by the Police Trust Fund, Akwa Ibom and Cross Rivers states’ governments.

The IGP’s Legacy on Police Housing reforms, has continued to soar high as the Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of NPF Cooperative Society, AIG Usman Adamu has driven IGP Usman Alkali Baba’s legacy to an enviable height which has been seen in the way the NPF Cooperative Society is providing improved facilities, equipped, cutting-edge and modern Police Post (with patrol van) in one of its estates at Karasana, off Gwarinpa Estate, Abuja. It is pertinent to note that provision of standard, habitable and affordable houses for Officers of the Force is one of the key mandates of the IGP.

In line with the IGP’s mandate, the NPF Cooperative Society under the leadership of AIG Adamu has undertaken viable projects to ensuring adequate housing in the NPF.

The new phase of the organization is headed by the Chairman – Board of NPF Cooperative Society, DIG Folawiyo (rtd), mni and the Executive Secretary, AIG Usman Adamu.

The leadership of the Board has further promised that in addition to the existing facilities in all its estates, it will extend the cutting-edge security system and improved facilities to other police estates to boost the standard therein.

Now the average Police officer, can breathe a sign of relieve as Police officers are advised to key into the scheme and secure their dream houses.

The housing section is an off-shoot of Nigeria Police Cooperative Multi-Purpose Society Limited which provide housing scheme to her Cooperators. This section derived her establishment as contained in part 11; section 6 of the Society’s Bye-law 2014 as amended. It provides that the Society shall “undertake Housing Projects either by developing new estates and constructing new houses or buy over existing estate or houses for allocation to its members.”

Part of the IGP Alkali’s act of reform within the Nigerian Police includes the passage of the Police Act, 2020, his sure protocol is to identify, elevate and position professionally competent officers to strategic positions, general and specialized trainings for officers, which many of those trainings has been ongoing while some have been concluded.

Again, the Inspector-General of Police recently in line with international best practices while addresses the growing concern for gender mainstreaming and respect for culture and diversity, approved a new and improved dress code for Women Officers which permits them to wear stud earrings, and headscarf under their berets or peak caps as the case may be while in uniform. The dress code was unveiled at the IGP’s meeting with Strategic Police Managers on March 3, 2022.

The IGP noted that the Nigeria Police workforce has officers from every local government in the country with a variety of ethnic and religious backgrounds, and an increased inclusion of female folks. This therefore brings the need to guarantee inclusion, gender mainstreaming, ethnic and religious diversity in the work place for optimum output and professionalism. This has informed the improvement for effective global workforce diversity management. Other countries that have adopted same dress code include Canada, the United States of America, Sweden, Turkey, Australia and the United Kingdom amongst others.

The dress code is optional and Senior Women Police Officers have been tasked by the IGP to ensure compliance with the approved standard for women police officers who have opted to adopt the dress code.

With all the enumerated key issues handled by IGP Alkali including the case of Salary increase for the officers and men, it is noteworthy to state that the IGP is working hard to achieve a 21st century policing for the Nigerian Police officers where issues such as their Salaries, Housing, Welfare, safety and others are top of his agenda for an effective 2ist Century Police officer.

By: Adebayo Mashood

March 15, 2022 0 comments

Headlines Opinion

Sacking Defecting Governors Deserves Supreme Court’s Support

by Leading Reporters March 13, 2022

written by Leading Reporters

By Tonnie Iredia

On March 08, 2022, a federal High Court sitting in Abuja sacked the governor of Ebonyi state and his deputy as well as a number of state legislators for defecting from the party on whose platform they were elected. Reactions to the judgment have been overwhelming.

While most people found no fault with removing the law makers from office because it tallies with the express provisions of the Constitution, opinions are divided as to the legality of the judgment concerning the governor and his deputy whose defection the same Constitution is silent on. In 2018, when the governors of Benue, Sokoto and Kwara states similarly defected, what carried the day was the argument that the Constitution did not include defection among the factors for which governors can leave office. The implication of this is that how to handle a defecting governor will for some time to come remain an unresolved issue in Nigeria’s democracy. But bearing in mind that the occurrence is patently repugnant, one would have thought that steps would have since been taken to resolve the issue, but that has not happened.

A critical objective of this piece is to draw attention to the need to punish the wrong of defection by those who appear to be inadvertently protected by the law when they are in the wrong. Perhaps an appropriate take off point is to establish that political defection is a wrong which is not a difficult task to handle because as stated earlier, there is a consensus that it is a wrong on the part of law makers. But is it not curious to describe the act of transferring votes by some actors from one political party to another as a wrong and pretend that the same act is probably not a wrong when perpetuated by another set of actors? Luckily, most people deprecate the act of political defection which short-changes a particular set of voters irrespective of who the wrong-doers are. Unfortunately, whereas the law prescribes punishment for law makers involved in the act, it does not similarly do so for governors. But considering that the failure to punish a wrong does not cure the wrong of its defects, the best way to go seems to be to seek to punish every wrong doer on the basis that under the rule of law, everyone is supposedly equal before the law.

Against this backdrop, there are several issues calling for attention. The first of such issues is ownership of votes cast in a Nigerian election; is it the property of a candidate or his/her political party or both? The Constitution has left no one in doubt that political parties are the most important actors in the nation’s electoral process. To start with, the Constitution provides that only aspirants sponsored by political parties can be candidates in an election. Put differently, no one can dispense with political parties which is why it is impossible to be an independent candidate in any Nigerian election. Besides, the Judiciary has consistently held that votes at an election belong to political parties notwithstanding that the charisma of individual candidates may have helped a party to secure victory. In recent contests (Imo North Senatorial and local elections in Abaji-FCT) INEC declared specific political parties as winners pending the determination of their authentic candidates.

The second issue of importance is the power to transfer votes from one party/candidate to another. Here, it is obvious that in view of the strategic position of political parties as owners of votes cast in elections, a candidate who has been declared winner of an election cannot later transfer his votes to another party/candidate. Anyone who does so, is involved in the wrong of defection which can hurt the interests of some persons or groups. Based on this reasoning, the logical necessary follow-up question would take this form. Is it in order for the relevant societal institution – the Judiciary to overlook the wrong of such transfer of votes which a defection of an elected office-holder may have caused? If not, how best can the subject be handled?

For long, very many senior lawyers have continued to argue that removing a defecting governor from office is unconstitutional. However, they have all been silent on the propriety of leaving a wrong without a remedy. Here, it is apt to recall the Latin maxim ‘ubi jus ibi remedium’ which is an age-long philosophy meaning “for every wrong the law provides a remedy.” It is therefore not enough to lament the failure of the Nigerian Constitution to provide a remedy for the wrong of political defection by a governor because it is not only a Constitution that has the duty to provide every remedy; in what is known as judge-made law, a Court can also interpretatively prescribe a remedy to a wrong. Surprisingly, no effort has been made in recent years to follow the clear path identified by the greatest Nigerian judges of all times on what the nation should do when confronted by the issue of lack of provisions for an inevitable cause of action. In other words, Nigerian Courts ought to inventively dispense substantive justice instead of allowing a wrong to persist without sanctions because of over-reliance on technicalities.

As Karibi-Whyte a one-time famous justice of Nigeria’s Supreme Court once explained, “… it is erroneous to assume that the maxim ubi jus ibi remedium is only an English Common Law principle. It is a principle of justice of universal validity couched in Latin and available to all legal systems involved in the impartial administration of justice. It enjoins the courts to provide a remedy whenever the Plaintiff has established a right…” Although some analysts have criticised the decision of the Supreme Court in the famous Rotimi Amaechi’s case, it is quite hard to disagree with the proactive posture of the Justices that if a court is satisfied that a person has suffered a legal injury it ought to do justice by providing “a remedy irrespective of the fact that no remedy is provided either at common law or by statute.” Indeed, a court needs to do this so as to be able to follow the persuasive dictum of another legal luminary: Justice Katsina-Alu who opined that “the law is an equal dispenser of justice which leaves no one without a remedy for his right.”

With this clear line of thought provided by judges of old, no one can defend the
current conservative approach which gives an impression that the judiciary in Nigeria has been subdued by the other arms of government. The situation is more worrisome because defecting governors have never proffered any rational motivation for their behaviour other than personal materialistic interests. For example, Governor Ben Ayade of Cross River State defected because he reportedly wanted to support the President to provide good governance. Dave Umahi of Ebonyi State on his part defected to the ruling party because he doubted if his original party would zone the presidency to the South East. In the case of Zamfara State, Governor Bello Matawalle defected to a political party which the judiciary ruled was not in existence in the eyes of the law. These bizarre defections ought not to be protected through judicial over-reliance on technicalities which can encourage other actors into seeking extra-judicial means of ventilating political grievances.

As if to reiterate the definition of law by the legendary English jurist, Lord Denning which sees law as what the Judge says it is, Justice Inyang Ekwo has taken the first crucial step in bringing to an end, the notorious wrong of Nigeria’s political defections. All Higher Courts should support him by disallowing the perpetrators from using the protection offered them by the Constitution to hide behind fraudulent activities. Any defector-governor should not be seen as someone removed from office; but one who worked away from a mandate. He should thus not be allowed to transfer the same mandate elsewhere because its owners – the electorate had instinctively determined where the mandate should be.

……..Professor Iredia, a former Director-General of the NTA, media law teacher, communication expert and broadcast manager wrote from Abuja.

March 13, 2022 0 comments

Opinion

Air Peace, Kano Emir and Unwarranted Attacks

by Leading Reporters March 4, 2022

written by Leading Reporters

By Yushau A. Shuaib

Beyond theory, strategic communication doesn’t seek publicity in whatever ways through the media. It considers the dynamics of the environment, the target audiences, their behaviours, and trending issues for effective messaging.

Creative thinking is crucial in strategic communication, towards offering better ideas, and sound judgment in responding to issues in the most responsible manner.

Sometime in 2021, my mother was denied boarding on an Air Peace plane going from Ilorin to Abuja, even though she was among the first set of passengers who arrived at the airport very early that morning. Apart from frustrating her attempt to board the aircraft, the airline further charged her exorbitantly for the use of the same ticket for the next day’s flight.

I was so bitter that I posted her plight on Facebook. As usual, while some friends expressed concern about the situation, others had contrary views. Meanwhile, the notorious social media hecklers and agents provocateur descended on the issue on the platform, spewing their routine ethnic chauvinism and religious bigotry, while misinterpreting a simple case that could be effectively addressed by the customer care service of the airline.

Meanwhile, a few hours after my post, one Mrs Olubunmi Korede, who I later learnt was the Air Peace Manager at the airport, reached out to my siblings and later called me privately and narrated what had really transpired that day.

“We discovered that Mama came early but was on the wrong queue at a counter of another airline. By the time she realised the mistake, the Air Peace Counter had been closed. We deeply regret what happened, especially to an innocent aged mother.”

Not only that, the Manager also personally received Mama the following day at the airport and courteously processed her travel, while still offering the airline’s apologies for the incident of the previous day. That single episode influenced my loyalty to Air Peace, which then became my preferred airline on some select routes.

I also developed an interest in the business model of the owner of the airline, Allen Onyema, a Nigerian to the core, who strongly believes in a united and prosperous nation devoid of the divisive sentiments that are unfortunately attendant upon a prejudicial national outlook. During the inaugural Spokesperson’s Communication award, Air Peace, as a corporate citizen, was honoured for its nationalistic no-city-left-behind initiative, which interconnects various Nigerian cities by air, and its various citizen engagement efforts and conversations.

The expansion of its different routes across diverse national and international spaces has equally been a big relief to its teeming users, in a manner that has favourably coupled with the airline’s huge reductions of its fares to make them highly affordable. The activities of Air Peace also strengthen and enhance the economy of many of its beneficiary cities/states in the North and South, as it truly connects Nigerians in Nigeria, giving access to safe and best-in-class air connectivity.

It was, therefore, not surprising that during the faceoff between the airline and the government of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) over the discriminatory international airport slot and frequency allocation to it, the Federal Government of Nigeria stood firmly behind the Onyema-led business organisation, in supporting one’s own against injustice.

While retaliating the ill-treatment of Air Peace in Dubai, the Buhari administration also cut down on the frequency and slots allocated to Emirate Airlines in Nigeria, to mirror the stringent measures meted out to the Nigerian carrier in the Arab country. The UAE eventually capitulated to the demands of the government and rescinded its decision to deny Air Peace the stipulated number of slots and frequencies for reciprocity and fairness in the bilateral air service agreement between the two countries.

Therefore, it was quite shocking when the same airline was reported to have treated the Emir of Kano, Alhaji Aminu Ado Bayero, unfairly by not enabling him and his entourage the opportunity of taking a connecting local flight from Lagos to Kano, after having initially created a situation that led to the delay of his international flight, on another Air Peace aircraft, from Banjul to Lagos.

The Chief Protocol Officer to the Emir Isa Bayero thereafter wrote a letter of complaint to the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), seeking punitive actions against Air Peace Airline for missing their connecting flight.

The leaked letter subsequently attracted needless attacks and counterattacks between the admirers of the Emir of Kano and supporters of Air peace’s stance on the ensuing imbroglio.

It is unfortunate that many are not aware of the enviable qualities and personality of the Emir of Kano. A graduate of Mass Communication from Bayero University, the Emir had worked in the aviation sector as a spokesperson and a Flight Officer, where he earned respect as a customer-friendly, empathetic, and cultured official.

An urbane and cosmopolitan personality, whose mother was a princess of Ilorin Emirate in Kwara State, Aminu had held top traditional titles in Kano, the most populous and heterogeneous city in Nigeria, before ascending to the throne of his forebears. With friends from different backgrounds and classes, the unassuming and humble Emir has consistently demonstrated great awareness of and sensitivity in dealing with people of sundry multicultural identities and religious beliefs, which have earned him tremendous respect for his capacity to engage with diversity in a positive manner.

The so-called leaked memo from the Palace to the NCAA, which has attracted all the unnecessary bickering and unwarranted attacks, ought to have been handled more professionally and strategically from the outset of the situation.

Traditional institutions deserve respect and aides of revered personages like Emirs need to be a lot more mindful of the statements they make on behalf of their principals, particularly the tone and language of communications that could ultimately become public documents, which can either enhance or tar reputations.

On the other hand, Air Peace needs to be aware of the position it has attained as a respected national brand and not a regional enterprise that could yield to egocentric displays and stoke unnecessary controversy. The airline has grown to become a Nigerian business for Nigerians and not a parochial powerhouse that can engage in some form of chest-beating.

Sometimes silence can be golden in strategic communication. Weighing a situation very carefully before venturing a statement is essential, rather than the haste for justification that can unnecessarily escalate a crisis. Spokespersons should realise that PR is not about issuing boisterous and confrontational releases but the creation of channels of mutual understanding, in a way that strengthens and further builds relationships.

Yushau A. Shuaib
Author of “Award-Winning Crisis Communication Strategies”
www.YAShuaib.com

March 4, 2022 0 comments

Headlines

Nigeria’s Military Strength Under PMB Government

by Leading Reporters March 4, 2022

written by Leading Reporters

Nigeria’s military is ranked the fourth in Africa and thirty-fifth in the world with respect to strength.

This is according to data from Global Firepower. According to the data, Nigeria has had constant military growth since the beginning of the Buhari administration.

According to the Global Firepower ranking, the lower the power index of a country, the higher the military capability of such a country. 0.000 is considered a perfect power index.

The country’s military strength index currently stands at 0.5745, which is a slight improvement compared to 2021 when the power index was 0.62.

The power index is determined by several factors which are grouped under 8 indicators. They include manpower, land system, airpower, naval power, resources, logistical, financial, and geographic.

In the last 7 years, Nigeria has maintained fourth and fifth position in Africa in terms of military strength out of the 54 countries. Egypt on the other hand has maintained the first position, making it the country with the strongest military strength in the period under review.

Other countries that rank high on the list are Algeria, Ethiopia, South Africa, Kenya, Libya, and Morocco.

**Ranking of Military Strength of selected African Countries**

Egypt ranks 12th globally in the 2022 ranking of military strength, while South Africa, Algeria, and Ethiopia, rank 26th, 31st, and 65th respectively.

Nigeria’s Military Strength Power Index Under the Buhari Administration

Global Firepower data shows that in 2015, Nigeria’s power index stood at 1.526, the worst in the period under review. However, in 2016, it reduced by a great deal when 0.786 was recorded. 0.575 is the latest power index recorded for Nigeria.

Current data also reveals that Nigeria has a total military personnel of 215,000 out of which 135,000 are active and 80,000 make up the paramilitary.

So far under the Buhari Administration, the Nigerian Air force has acquired a total of 38 aircraft, the Nigerian navy acquired close to 400 new platforms since 2015 which includes 14 houseboats, 4 helicopters, 4 capital ships, 12 manta class/inshore patrol craft, and 22 fast attack boats among others.

The president also gave a directive to the Nigerian Navy to establish a naval base in Baga, Borno State, an area prone to criminal activities near the nation’s coast.

The President also mobilised international support for the fight against Boko Haram from countries like the United States of America, United Kingdom, France, Germany, ECOWAS, UN, and AU, which led to the United States agreeing to sell 12 Super Tucano aircrafts to Nigeria in 2017

March 4, 2022 0 comments

Newer Posts

Older Posts

Leading Reporters

Reports emerged on Saturday claiming the National leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, is “working on an alternative party” to vie for the 2023 presidency.

Plateau State House of Assembly’s former speaker, Honourable Abok Nuhu Ayuba has decamped from the All Progressives Congress (APC) to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Gunmen, today, bombed the house of the President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo George Obiozor, in Awo-Omamma in Oru East Local Government Area of Imo State.

Costs of war

•Why Police Should Jettison The Call For Strike…His Other Major Milestones In The Nigerian Police

PROBLEMS OF OFFICERS AND MEN PREDATES THE APPOINTMENT OF IGP ALKALI

Nigeria’s Military Strength Power Index Under the Buhari Administration

•Why Police Should Jettison The Call For Strike
…His Other Major Milestones In The Nigerian Police