The statistics as collated and announced by the Vice-Chancellor of FUTMinna are as follows:
APC - 308,984
PDP - 138184
Cast votes - 486,254
Rejected votes - 36578
Valid votes - 449,676
Monday 25 February 2019
#PresidentialPoll: APC Wins PDP With 170,800 Margin @Kwara
The statistics as collated and announced by the Vice-Chancellor of FUTMinna are as follows:
APC - 308,984
PDP - 138184
Cast votes - 486,254
Rejected votes - 36578
Valid votes - 449,676
#PresidentialPoll: PDP Wins APC With 107,773 Margin @FCT
Statistics of the results as were collated and announced by the Vice -Chancellor of the University of Lafia, are as follows:
APC - 152, 224
PDP - 259,997
Votes rejected - 67,457
Votes cast - 451,408
Votes valid - 383951
#PresidentialPoll APC Wins PDP With 10,257 Margin @Osun
At Osun State the statistics of the results as was collated by the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Lagos (UniLag) are as follows:
APC - 347,634
PDP - 337,377
Total votes cast - 731,882
Total votes rejected - 17,200
Total valid votes - 714682
However, the INEC boss Prof. Mahmood Yakubu has instructed stakeholders to reconvene at 2:30pm on Monday, 25th February 2019.
Stay tuned to Rostrum365 for the bit to bit reportage.
#PresidentialPoll: APC Wins PDP with 68,199 Margin at Ekiti
In the ongoing results collation at the national Result Collation Centre, Abuja, the All Progressives Congress (APC) has won the People's Democratic Party (PDP) at Ekiti State by polling a total votes of 219,231. Find the statistics below:
APC - 219,231
PDP - 151,032
Total Votes cast - 393,709
Total rejected votes - 12,577
Total valid votes - 381,132
Opinon I As The Elections Are Rescheduled, What Next?
By Fred Doc Nwaozor
The last time I checked, Nigerians – Imolites in particular – were apparently unhappy. The said countenance was not unconnected with the bad omen that befell the country over the weekend.
Just exactly as one, who had impatiently waited to participate in a certain ancient cultural festival but later learnt that the scheduled event has been abruptly shifted to another date, would feel, that’s how the teeming Nigerians felt in the early hours of Saturday, 16th February 2019, precisely at about 2:30am.
On the wake of the aforesaid date, the citizenry were unfortunately informed by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) that the scheduled national ritual – otherwise known as elections – had been postponed by one week after the long wait.
It’s no longer news that the Nigeria’s long awaited general elections were initially billed for 16th February and 2nd March, 2019 for the Presidential cum National Assembly (NASS) and Governorship cum States’ Houses of Assembly, respectively. It’s equally not anymore news that the polls were eventually postponed to 23rd February and 9th March, 2019, accordingly.
In his words, the INEC Chairman Prof. Mahmood Yakubu who on the aforementioned time briefly addressed the Nigerian State as regards the postponement, cited problems surrounding “logistics and operational plan” as the reason behind the commission’s abrupt decision.
In his further clarification at the International Conference Centre, Abuja, the INEC boss who disclosed before the election stakeholders, and of course the general public, that the unforeseen postponement was devoid of external influence contrary to the people’s speculations, lamented that the commission was lately faced with tremendous challenges pertaining to logistics.
He revealed the plights to include burning of 13 INEC offices across the federation, numerous ongoing litigation filed by various political parties against the commission, coupled with other related issues. He, however, promised that the authority would address the anomalies prior to the rescheduled dates.
We can’t forget in haste that this latest development, which had been described as unfortunate and bad omen, came barely a few days after the electoral umpire notified Nigerians in strong terms that they were fully ready and prepared to conduct the general elections, hence assured of free, fair and outstanding polls as expected.
I blame the INEC for mentioning litigation as part of the reasons for the so-called postponement. We are not unaware that only names of political parties, not candidates, are inscribed on the ballot papers. So, even if any court judgement regarding substitution eventually comes up after the elections, it won’t stop the commission from adhering to the order.
At such an ugly time like this, what do you expect from those who are eligible to participate in such an awaited national ritual? Being human, Nigerians in various quarters have expressed their disappointment over the unannounced occurrence. In their number, they have variously trooped to the streets to register their displeasure.
According to some of the citizens, the INEC could not come up with any tangible and convincing reason that resulted in such unspeakable circumstance. They opined that, by so doing, the commission had made the electorate to express some doubts over its readiness cum willingness to conduct credible and peaceful elections.
It’s also worth noting that most of the opposition parties who had ‘scolded’ the INEC for not meeting up with the requirement as earlier pledged, had blamed the development on the Federal Government (FG) led by President Muhammadu Buhari who they accused of seeking for avenue to win the presidential election by all means.
The truth of the matter remains that the citizens are at the moment filled with mixed feelings over the unexpected experience. In view of this, one might assume that most of the people have been compelled, by this action, to lose interest in the impending events having ostensibly lost confidence in the INEC.
As a concerned and patriotic Nigerian, I can’t agree less with the above presumption, considering the fact that the INEC’s notice regarding the postponement wasn’t timely. Even if the move was apt and needed, I personally fault the idea of issuing the information on the very day the election was made to take place.
Taking a critical look at what transpired, one might, without equivocations, opine that the polls in question were aborted, not postponed, because the purported postponement occurred at the time of commencement.
It’s unarguable that this isn’t the first time elections would be shifted to fresh dates in the Nigerian society, but it is very unequivocally disgusting and disheartening that this very one took Nigerians unawares. There wasn’t previously any sign of unpreparedness from the INEC, only for the electorate to wake on the day of the election to be rudely greeted with the news of ‘postponement’.
We shouldn’t be told that many had already travelled for the exercise whilst some of them respectively covered tremendous distances, before the news of the postponement filtered in. It’s even more saddening that most of these voters borrowed money to enable them embark on the journey. This is needless to assert that these affected patriotic Nigerians are currently stranded in their various localities or political wards.
If I must not shy away from the truth, I would say the INEC had no good reason to postpone an election of this kind, having in mind that the commission has a whole four years to prepare towards the national consignment.
Be it security, logistics, contingencies, or whatever, four years are enough for any person or entity to have a sound preparation toward any scheduled event let alone a national election that’s usually observed by not just members of the concerned country but the global community. In other words, a development of this kind triggers an international embarrassment.
Notwithstanding, I want Nigerians to acknowledge that it’s better to abort, cancel, or postpone the elections severally than to end up conducting one characterized by several irregularities. We ought to therefore, be well informed that any form or loophole can create room for all forms of malpractice, which will never augur well for the polity.
It’s on this premise I urge the electorate to conduct themselves in such a manner that wouldn’t bring any kind of shame to the country’s name. if the interest of Nigeria truly maters more than our individual interests, then I expect us to variously preach to the people around us the need to remain calm, law abiding, patriotic, resilient, and discerning.
And, on the part of the participating political parties, they needn’t be reminded that the voters are seemingly marred by apathy by this development, hence the need not to involve themselves in any act, inaction or reaction that would further cause more harm to the entire system. It’s our collective responsibility to safeguard the integrity and sanctity of this country, thus we must do so with all our might and exuberance.
Inciting the voters against the government or any constituted authority isn’t the way forward. This is a test Nigerians cannot afford to fail. Mind you, this might be a blessing in disguise. Think about it!
The last time I checked, Nigerians – Imolites in particular – were apparently unhappy. The said countenance was not unconnected with the bad omen that befell the country over the weekend.
Just exactly as one, who had impatiently waited to participate in a certain ancient cultural festival but later learnt that the scheduled event has been abruptly shifted to another date, would feel, that’s how the teeming Nigerians felt in the early hours of Saturday, 16th February 2019, precisely at about 2:30am.
On the wake of the aforesaid date, the citizenry were unfortunately informed by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) that the scheduled national ritual – otherwise known as elections – had been postponed by one week after the long wait.
It’s no longer news that the Nigeria’s long awaited general elections were initially billed for 16th February and 2nd March, 2019 for the Presidential cum National Assembly (NASS) and Governorship cum States’ Houses of Assembly, respectively. It’s equally not anymore news that the polls were eventually postponed to 23rd February and 9th March, 2019, accordingly.
In his words, the INEC Chairman Prof. Mahmood Yakubu who on the aforementioned time briefly addressed the Nigerian State as regards the postponement, cited problems surrounding “logistics and operational plan” as the reason behind the commission’s abrupt decision.
In his further clarification at the International Conference Centre, Abuja, the INEC boss who disclosed before the election stakeholders, and of course the general public, that the unforeseen postponement was devoid of external influence contrary to the people’s speculations, lamented that the commission was lately faced with tremendous challenges pertaining to logistics.
He revealed the plights to include burning of 13 INEC offices across the federation, numerous ongoing litigation filed by various political parties against the commission, coupled with other related issues. He, however, promised that the authority would address the anomalies prior to the rescheduled dates.
We can’t forget in haste that this latest development, which had been described as unfortunate and bad omen, came barely a few days after the electoral umpire notified Nigerians in strong terms that they were fully ready and prepared to conduct the general elections, hence assured of free, fair and outstanding polls as expected.
I blame the INEC for mentioning litigation as part of the reasons for the so-called postponement. We are not unaware that only names of political parties, not candidates, are inscribed on the ballot papers. So, even if any court judgement regarding substitution eventually comes up after the elections, it won’t stop the commission from adhering to the order.
At such an ugly time like this, what do you expect from those who are eligible to participate in such an awaited national ritual? Being human, Nigerians in various quarters have expressed their disappointment over the unannounced occurrence. In their number, they have variously trooped to the streets to register their displeasure.
According to some of the citizens, the INEC could not come up with any tangible and convincing reason that resulted in such unspeakable circumstance. They opined that, by so doing, the commission had made the electorate to express some doubts over its readiness cum willingness to conduct credible and peaceful elections.
It’s also worth noting that most of the opposition parties who had ‘scolded’ the INEC for not meeting up with the requirement as earlier pledged, had blamed the development on the Federal Government (FG) led by President Muhammadu Buhari who they accused of seeking for avenue to win the presidential election by all means.
The truth of the matter remains that the citizens are at the moment filled with mixed feelings over the unexpected experience. In view of this, one might assume that most of the people have been compelled, by this action, to lose interest in the impending events having ostensibly lost confidence in the INEC.
As a concerned and patriotic Nigerian, I can’t agree less with the above presumption, considering the fact that the INEC’s notice regarding the postponement wasn’t timely. Even if the move was apt and needed, I personally fault the idea of issuing the information on the very day the election was made to take place.
Taking a critical look at what transpired, one might, without equivocations, opine that the polls in question were aborted, not postponed, because the purported postponement occurred at the time of commencement.
It’s unarguable that this isn’t the first time elections would be shifted to fresh dates in the Nigerian society, but it is very unequivocally disgusting and disheartening that this very one took Nigerians unawares. There wasn’t previously any sign of unpreparedness from the INEC, only for the electorate to wake on the day of the election to be rudely greeted with the news of ‘postponement’.
We shouldn’t be told that many had already travelled for the exercise whilst some of them respectively covered tremendous distances, before the news of the postponement filtered in. It’s even more saddening that most of these voters borrowed money to enable them embark on the journey. This is needless to assert that these affected patriotic Nigerians are currently stranded in their various localities or political wards.
If I must not shy away from the truth, I would say the INEC had no good reason to postpone an election of this kind, having in mind that the commission has a whole four years to prepare towards the national consignment.
Be it security, logistics, contingencies, or whatever, four years are enough for any person or entity to have a sound preparation toward any scheduled event let alone a national election that’s usually observed by not just members of the concerned country but the global community. In other words, a development of this kind triggers an international embarrassment.
Notwithstanding, I want Nigerians to acknowledge that it’s better to abort, cancel, or postpone the elections severally than to end up conducting one characterized by several irregularities. We ought to therefore, be well informed that any form or loophole can create room for all forms of malpractice, which will never augur well for the polity.
It’s on this premise I urge the electorate to conduct themselves in such a manner that wouldn’t bring any kind of shame to the country’s name. if the interest of Nigeria truly maters more than our individual interests, then I expect us to variously preach to the people around us the need to remain calm, law abiding, patriotic, resilient, and discerning.
And, on the part of the participating political parties, they needn’t be reminded that the voters are seemingly marred by apathy by this development, hence the need not to involve themselves in any act, inaction or reaction that would further cause more harm to the entire system. It’s our collective responsibility to safeguard the integrity and sanctity of this country, thus we must do so with all our might and exuberance.
Inciting the voters against the government or any constituted authority isn’t the way forward. This is a test Nigerians cannot afford to fail. Mind you, this might be a blessing in disguise. Think about it!
Analysis I As INEC Postpones The Polls
By Fred Nwaozor
Just exactly as one, who had doggedly been preparing to participate in a certain ancient cultural festival but later learnt that the scheduled event has been abruptly shifted to another date, would feel, that’s how the teeming Nigerians felt in the early hours of Saturday, 16th February 2019, precisely at about 2:30am.
On the wake of the aforesaid date, the citizenry were unfortunately informed by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) that the scheduled national ritual had been postponed by one week after the long wait.
It’s no longer news that the Nigeria’s long awaited general elections were initially billed for 16th February and 2nd March, 2019 for the Presidential cum National Assembly (NASS) and Governorship cum States’ Houses of Assembly, respectively. It’s equally not anymore news that the polls were eventually postponed to 23rd February and 9th March, 2019, accordingly.
In his words, the INEC Chairman Prof. Mahmood Yakubu who on the aforementioned time briefly addressed the Nigerian State as regards the postponement, cited problems surrounding “logistics and operational plan” as the reason behind the commission’s abrupt decision.
In his further clarification at the International Conference Centre, Abuja, the INEC boss who disclosed before the election stakeholders and of course the general public that the unforeseen postponement was devoid of external influence contrary to the people’s speculations, lamented that the commission was lately faced with tremendous challenges pertaining to logistics.
He revealed the plights to include burning of thirteen INEC offices across the federation, numerous ongoing litigation filed by various political parties against the commission, coupled with other related issues. He, however, promised that the authority would address the anomalies prior to the rescheduled dates.
We can’t forget in haste that this latest development came barely a few days after the electoral umpire notified Nigerians in strong terms that they were fully ready and prepared to conduct the general elections, hence assured of free, fair and outstanding polls as expected.
First, I blame and ‘scold’ the INEC for mentioning litigation as part of the reasons for the so-called postponement. We are aware that only names of political parties, not candidates, are inscribed on the ballot papers. So, even if any court judgement regarding substitution eventually comes up after the elections, it won’t stop the commission from adhering to the order.
It’s noteworthy that most of the opposition parties – particularly the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) – had blamed the development on the Federal Government (FG) led by President Muhammadu Buhari who they accused of seeking for avenue to win the presidential election by all means.
The citizens are presently filled with mixed feelings over the unexpected experience. One might presume that most of the people have been compelled, by this action, to lose interest in the impending events having ostensibly lost confidence in the INEC.
I can’t agree less with the above presumption, considering the fact that the INEC’s notice regarding the postponement wasn’t timely. Even if the move was apt and needed, I personally fault the idea of issuing the information on the very day the election was made to take place.
Taking a critical look at what transpired, someone may, without equivocations, opine that the polls in question were aborted, not postponed, because the purported postponement occurred at the time of commencement.
It’s unarguable that this isn’t the first time elections would be shifted to fresh dates in the Nigerian society, but it’s very unequivocally disgusting and disheartening that this very one took Nigerians unawares. There wasn’t previously any sign of unpreparedness from the INEC, only for the electorate to wake on the day of the election to be rudely greeted with the news of ‘postponement’.
We shouldn’t be told that many had already travelled for the exercise whilst some of them respectively covered tremendous distances, before the news of the postponement filtered in. It’s even more saddening that most of these voters borrowed money to enable them embark on the journey. This is needless to assert that these affected patriotic Nigerians are currently stranded in their various political wards.
The INEC surely had no good reason to postpone an election of this kind, having in mind that the commission has a whole four years to prepare towards the consignment. Be it security, logistics, contingencies, or whatever, four years are enough for any person or entity to have a sound preparation toward any scheduled event let alone a national election that’s usually observed by not just members of the concerned country but the global community. In other words, a development of this kind triggers an international embarrassment.
Notwithstanding, I want Nigerians to acknowledge that it’s better to abort, cancel, or postpone elections severally than to end up conducting one characterized by several irregularities. We ought to, therefore, be well informed that any form of loophole can create room for all forms of malpractice, which will never augur well for the polity.
It’s on this premise I urge the electorate to conduct themselves in such a manner that wouldn’t bring any kind of shame to the country. If the interest of Nigeria truly matters more than our individual interests, then I expect us to variously preach to the people around us the need to remain calm, law abiding, patriotic, resilient, and discerning.
And, on the part of the participating political parties, they needn’t be reminded that the voters are seemingly marred by apathy by this development, hence the need not to involve themselves in any act, inaction or reaction that would further cause more harm to the entire system. It’s our collective responsibility to safeguard the integrity and sanctity of this country, thus we must do so with all our might and exuberance.
So, inciting the voters against the government or any constituted authority has never been the way forward in such a situation like this. Nigeria as a country has once again been put to test, and Nigerians cannot afford to fail this one. Think about it!
Just exactly as one, who had doggedly been preparing to participate in a certain ancient cultural festival but later learnt that the scheduled event has been abruptly shifted to another date, would feel, that’s how the teeming Nigerians felt in the early hours of Saturday, 16th February 2019, precisely at about 2:30am.
On the wake of the aforesaid date, the citizenry were unfortunately informed by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) that the scheduled national ritual had been postponed by one week after the long wait.
It’s no longer news that the Nigeria’s long awaited general elections were initially billed for 16th February and 2nd March, 2019 for the Presidential cum National Assembly (NASS) and Governorship cum States’ Houses of Assembly, respectively. It’s equally not anymore news that the polls were eventually postponed to 23rd February and 9th March, 2019, accordingly.
In his words, the INEC Chairman Prof. Mahmood Yakubu who on the aforementioned time briefly addressed the Nigerian State as regards the postponement, cited problems surrounding “logistics and operational plan” as the reason behind the commission’s abrupt decision.
In his further clarification at the International Conference Centre, Abuja, the INEC boss who disclosed before the election stakeholders and of course the general public that the unforeseen postponement was devoid of external influence contrary to the people’s speculations, lamented that the commission was lately faced with tremendous challenges pertaining to logistics.
He revealed the plights to include burning of thirteen INEC offices across the federation, numerous ongoing litigation filed by various political parties against the commission, coupled with other related issues. He, however, promised that the authority would address the anomalies prior to the rescheduled dates.
We can’t forget in haste that this latest development came barely a few days after the electoral umpire notified Nigerians in strong terms that they were fully ready and prepared to conduct the general elections, hence assured of free, fair and outstanding polls as expected.
First, I blame and ‘scold’ the INEC for mentioning litigation as part of the reasons for the so-called postponement. We are aware that only names of political parties, not candidates, are inscribed on the ballot papers. So, even if any court judgement regarding substitution eventually comes up after the elections, it won’t stop the commission from adhering to the order.
It’s noteworthy that most of the opposition parties – particularly the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) – had blamed the development on the Federal Government (FG) led by President Muhammadu Buhari who they accused of seeking for avenue to win the presidential election by all means.
The citizens are presently filled with mixed feelings over the unexpected experience. One might presume that most of the people have been compelled, by this action, to lose interest in the impending events having ostensibly lost confidence in the INEC.
I can’t agree less with the above presumption, considering the fact that the INEC’s notice regarding the postponement wasn’t timely. Even if the move was apt and needed, I personally fault the idea of issuing the information on the very day the election was made to take place.
Taking a critical look at what transpired, someone may, without equivocations, opine that the polls in question were aborted, not postponed, because the purported postponement occurred at the time of commencement.
It’s unarguable that this isn’t the first time elections would be shifted to fresh dates in the Nigerian society, but it’s very unequivocally disgusting and disheartening that this very one took Nigerians unawares. There wasn’t previously any sign of unpreparedness from the INEC, only for the electorate to wake on the day of the election to be rudely greeted with the news of ‘postponement’.
We shouldn’t be told that many had already travelled for the exercise whilst some of them respectively covered tremendous distances, before the news of the postponement filtered in. It’s even more saddening that most of these voters borrowed money to enable them embark on the journey. This is needless to assert that these affected patriotic Nigerians are currently stranded in their various political wards.
The INEC surely had no good reason to postpone an election of this kind, having in mind that the commission has a whole four years to prepare towards the consignment. Be it security, logistics, contingencies, or whatever, four years are enough for any person or entity to have a sound preparation toward any scheduled event let alone a national election that’s usually observed by not just members of the concerned country but the global community. In other words, a development of this kind triggers an international embarrassment.
Notwithstanding, I want Nigerians to acknowledge that it’s better to abort, cancel, or postpone elections severally than to end up conducting one characterized by several irregularities. We ought to, therefore, be well informed that any form of loophole can create room for all forms of malpractice, which will never augur well for the polity.
It’s on this premise I urge the electorate to conduct themselves in such a manner that wouldn’t bring any kind of shame to the country. If the interest of Nigeria truly matters more than our individual interests, then I expect us to variously preach to the people around us the need to remain calm, law abiding, patriotic, resilient, and discerning.
And, on the part of the participating political parties, they needn’t be reminded that the voters are seemingly marred by apathy by this development, hence the need not to involve themselves in any act, inaction or reaction that would further cause more harm to the entire system. It’s our collective responsibility to safeguard the integrity and sanctity of this country, thus we must do so with all our might and exuberance.
So, inciting the voters against the government or any constituted authority has never been the way forward in such a situation like this. Nigeria as a country has once again been put to test, and Nigerians cannot afford to fail this one. Think about it!
Opinion I How Safe Are The Card Readers?
By Fred Nwaozor
Nigerians woke up in the early hours of Saturday, 16th February 2019 to shockingly learn that conducting the Presidential and National Assembly (NASS) elections billed for that very day was no longer feasible, hence was outrightly postponed by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to a fresh day, precisely on 23rd February 2019.
We are not unaware that prior to the unannounced decision taken by the INEC led by Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, virtually every sensitive material cum gadget had already been distributed to the various localities across the federation where they are meant to be used for the scheduled polls.
At the moment, concerned, discerning and patriotic Nigerians are baffled over the safety of these sensitive materials to be used for the national ritual, knowing full well that they deserve tremendous technical and physical security watch at this trial period.
The INEC can currently boast of the use of Electronic Card Reader otherwise known as ‘Smart card reader’ during elections in Nigeria. Since the inception of the INEC in the Nigeria’s political terrain, the leadership of the institution had been working assiduously toward ensuring that the country could boast of free, fair and credible elections. This may be the reason the former Chairman of the commission, Prof. Attahiru Jega thought it wise to initiate the said device prior to the last general elections, which has been in use till date.
Though Prof. Jega may have succeeded in coming up with a novel idea by introducing the aforementioned gadget, it’s worth noting that the current boss of the body, Prof. Yakubu has an enormous task ahead of him towards ensuring that the laudable invention wouldn’t end up being a curse in disguise.
It’s not anymore news that the ongoing use of the device in question has been bedeviled by several shortcomings to include malfunctioning, inadequate power supply and what have you. The INEC, inaugurated in 1998, has since inception encountered too many controversies and predicaments in the run up to elections in the country, most notably the April 2007 and 2015 general elections respectively. The ongoing challenges faced by the use of card readers seem to have added to the numerous plights of the commission.
A Smart card reader is an electronic device that reads smart cards such as the Automated Teller Machine (ATM) card and Voter’s card, as the case may be. There are so many forms of smart card readers used for different purposes. In the banking industry, we have smart card readers that read the ATM cards. But here, we’re concerned about the electoral smart card reader. The electoral smart card reader is a portable electronic voter authentication gadget, configured to read only the Permanent Voter’s Cards (PVCs) issued by the INEC.
The device, which displays the authentic information of the prospective voter via the use of fingerprint, was designed specifically for the accreditation process or authentication of eligible voters before voting. The machine is usually configured or programmed to only read the PVCs of a particular polling unit as well as work only on election day(s). The card reader has obviously helped in confirming the eligibility of the prospective voters. It has equally assisted in checking excesses as regards double/multiple registration.
Among all, it enables the electoral exercise to be carried out faster since it can accredit as many intending voters as possible within a shortest interval; suffice it to say that it saves time. In addition, it enables the officials of the INEC to conduct the election easily or at ease unlike the manual system whereby the personnel would be required to put in or exhaust all their energies, thereby creating room for effectiveness and efficiency.
This implies that, if properly utilized, it warrants the electoral umpire to engage fewer individuals or ad-hoc staff for any impending election thereby saving reasonable funds. Hence, the card reader isn’t just labour effective, but equally cost effective.
Although the benefits inherent in the use of the smart card reader cannot be overemphasized, it’s worthy to acknowledge that the challenges that accompany it cannot be overlooked if truly we are concerned about embracing a society that can wholly boast of credible polls.
It’s not anymore news that, while in use, the card reader has reportedly malfunctioned in various quarters across the Nigerian State ever since it came into existence in the country, thereby making the INEC officials in charge of the concerned polling units to resort to manual voting.
To this end, there’s need for creation of a special technically-inclined unit within the INEC quarters. Such unit/department to be manned by an expert must contain all it takes as regards servicing or sustenance of the said gadget. The unit would go a long way to eradicate ‘fire brigade’ approach, which isn’t unusual in the Nigerian society.
It would as well help to create a mobile technical committee that would monitor the functionality of the card readers throughout any election as well as ensure that the various polling units involved are well equipped with the needed materials including electricity supply gadgets prior to the election.
There would also be need for the unit to be more concerned about providing special electronic chargers or charging devices at the various voting centres so that the card readers wouldn’t need to depend on power supply as long as the voting lasts.
Above all, there is need for the device to be manufactured in the country henceforth. There are capable hands that can actualize it; all the government needs to do is to empower them via the proposed technical unit.
We can’t continue to import what we can produce, especially at this moment we are concerned about diversification. I therefore call on INEC to embrace the fullness of technology so that the awaited society would be embraced soonest.
Most importantly, as these card readers are already sent to various locations across Nigeria, there’s compelling need for the management of the electoral umpire to ensure their adequate safety before they would eventually be used on the rescheduled date being February 23, 2019.
It’s on this premise I urge the INEC to ensure that each of the sensitive materials such the ballot papers and card readers are sent to the branches of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) at the respective states where they are currently domiciled.
Similarly, since the gadgets have equally been configured against the original date for the Presidential cum NASS election, apt and well experienced hands ought to be involved in re-configuring them towards ensuring that lapses aren’t created in the process. Nigerians need nothing less than safe card readers for credible and peaceful polls as expected come February 23 and March 9, 2019, respectively.
So, as we ‘scold’ the INEC for coming up with this untimely but apt postponement, it shouldn’t be reminded that it’s expected to do everything humanly possible to guarantee this required safety. Think about it!
Nigerians woke up in the early hours of Saturday, 16th February 2019 to shockingly learn that conducting the Presidential and National Assembly (NASS) elections billed for that very day was no longer feasible, hence was outrightly postponed by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to a fresh day, precisely on 23rd February 2019.
We are not unaware that prior to the unannounced decision taken by the INEC led by Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, virtually every sensitive material cum gadget had already been distributed to the various localities across the federation where they are meant to be used for the scheduled polls.
At the moment, concerned, discerning and patriotic Nigerians are baffled over the safety of these sensitive materials to be used for the national ritual, knowing full well that they deserve tremendous technical and physical security watch at this trial period.
The INEC can currently boast of the use of Electronic Card Reader otherwise known as ‘Smart card reader’ during elections in Nigeria. Since the inception of the INEC in the Nigeria’s political terrain, the leadership of the institution had been working assiduously toward ensuring that the country could boast of free, fair and credible elections. This may be the reason the former Chairman of the commission, Prof. Attahiru Jega thought it wise to initiate the said device prior to the last general elections, which has been in use till date.
Though Prof. Jega may have succeeded in coming up with a novel idea by introducing the aforementioned gadget, it’s worth noting that the current boss of the body, Prof. Yakubu has an enormous task ahead of him towards ensuring that the laudable invention wouldn’t end up being a curse in disguise.
It’s not anymore news that the ongoing use of the device in question has been bedeviled by several shortcomings to include malfunctioning, inadequate power supply and what have you. The INEC, inaugurated in 1998, has since inception encountered too many controversies and predicaments in the run up to elections in the country, most notably the April 2007 and 2015 general elections respectively. The ongoing challenges faced by the use of card readers seem to have added to the numerous plights of the commission.
A Smart card reader is an electronic device that reads smart cards such as the Automated Teller Machine (ATM) card and Voter’s card, as the case may be. There are so many forms of smart card readers used for different purposes. In the banking industry, we have smart card readers that read the ATM cards. But here, we’re concerned about the electoral smart card reader. The electoral smart card reader is a portable electronic voter authentication gadget, configured to read only the Permanent Voter’s Cards (PVCs) issued by the INEC.
The device, which displays the authentic information of the prospective voter via the use of fingerprint, was designed specifically for the accreditation process or authentication of eligible voters before voting. The machine is usually configured or programmed to only read the PVCs of a particular polling unit as well as work only on election day(s). The card reader has obviously helped in confirming the eligibility of the prospective voters. It has equally assisted in checking excesses as regards double/multiple registration.
Among all, it enables the electoral exercise to be carried out faster since it can accredit as many intending voters as possible within a shortest interval; suffice it to say that it saves time. In addition, it enables the officials of the INEC to conduct the election easily or at ease unlike the manual system whereby the personnel would be required to put in or exhaust all their energies, thereby creating room for effectiveness and efficiency.
This implies that, if properly utilized, it warrants the electoral umpire to engage fewer individuals or ad-hoc staff for any impending election thereby saving reasonable funds. Hence, the card reader isn’t just labour effective, but equally cost effective.
Although the benefits inherent in the use of the smart card reader cannot be overemphasized, it’s worthy to acknowledge that the challenges that accompany it cannot be overlooked if truly we are concerned about embracing a society that can wholly boast of credible polls.
It’s not anymore news that, while in use, the card reader has reportedly malfunctioned in various quarters across the Nigerian State ever since it came into existence in the country, thereby making the INEC officials in charge of the concerned polling units to resort to manual voting.
To this end, there’s need for creation of a special technically-inclined unit within the INEC quarters. Such unit/department to be manned by an expert must contain all it takes as regards servicing or sustenance of the said gadget. The unit would go a long way to eradicate ‘fire brigade’ approach, which isn’t unusual in the Nigerian society.
It would as well help to create a mobile technical committee that would monitor the functionality of the card readers throughout any election as well as ensure that the various polling units involved are well equipped with the needed materials including electricity supply gadgets prior to the election.
There would also be need for the unit to be more concerned about providing special electronic chargers or charging devices at the various voting centres so that the card readers wouldn’t need to depend on power supply as long as the voting lasts.
Above all, there is need for the device to be manufactured in the country henceforth. There are capable hands that can actualize it; all the government needs to do is to empower them via the proposed technical unit.
We can’t continue to import what we can produce, especially at this moment we are concerned about diversification. I therefore call on INEC to embrace the fullness of technology so that the awaited society would be embraced soonest.
Most importantly, as these card readers are already sent to various locations across Nigeria, there’s compelling need for the management of the electoral umpire to ensure their adequate safety before they would eventually be used on the rescheduled date being February 23, 2019.
It’s on this premise I urge the INEC to ensure that each of the sensitive materials such the ballot papers and card readers are sent to the branches of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) at the respective states where they are currently domiciled.
Similarly, since the gadgets have equally been configured against the original date for the Presidential cum NASS election, apt and well experienced hands ought to be involved in re-configuring them towards ensuring that lapses aren’t created in the process. Nigerians need nothing less than safe card readers for credible and peaceful polls as expected come February 23 and March 9, 2019, respectively.
So, as we ‘scold’ the INEC for coming up with this untimely but apt postponement, it shouldn’t be reminded that it’s expected to do everything humanly possible to guarantee this required safety. Think about it!
Saturday 23 February 2019
Analysis I Averting Technical Hitches At The Polls
By Fred Doc Nwaozor
Before now, we used to say “the elections are by the corner”. But at the moment, I can boldly assert that the polls in question are already here.
The elections are truly here with us, because in just less than seventy-two hours time, Nigerians in their number would be trooping into their various polling booths to cast their votes for whosoever they would like to see as the next President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria come May 29, 2019 as well as who to represent their respective constituencies in the both chambers of the National Assembly (NASS).
Every sane and discerning Nigerian, domiciled either at home and abroad, wouldn’t hesitate to publicly say that he/she desires for something not less than free, fair, credible and peaceful polls come February 16 and March 2, 2019, respectively.
As we variously clamour or canvass for well transparent and worthwhile polls that would stand the test of time, the electoral umpire –otherwise known as the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) – is expected to take into cognizance some key inevitable factors as regards the anticipated credibility of the elections.
As today’s world has become conspicuously tech-driven and acknowledging that the current Nigeria’s political processes and activities are powered by various technologies, the INEC must ensure that the needful are done towards averting both usual and unusual technical hitches at the polls during the two separately scheduled national rituals.
It’s now obvious that the Card Reader is relatively the engine room of the voting process in the Nigeria’s electoral terrain. Against this backdrop, the INEC presently led by Prof. Mahmood Yakubu is required to do everything humanly possible with a view to ensuring that the said electronic device functioned effectively and efficiently as expected by all concerned.
Survey indicates that the use of the card reader has in recent times proven to be one of the main avenues to witness an election free from all forms of pranks and malpractices. This is the reason every right thinking person who means well for the country he belongs dispassionately advocates for its unending use in the country’s electoral activity.
Since inception in the electoral process of the acclaimed giant of Africa, the card reader has hitherto been faced by myriad of technical challenges that ordinarily ought to have been avoided if some pertinent factors were keenly considered by the concerned authorities.
It’s on this premise I deeply urge the INEC to implement various outstanding measures that would guarantee hitch-free elections as regards the expected deployment of a few tech-driven gadgets at the long awaited polls.
As I have earlier strongly advocated for a separate special unit for the continual usage and maintenance of the electronic equipment and allied sensitive materials, I still maintain my stance. Such a unit would ensure that apt and timely attention is granted to the use of the devices.
It would equally ensure that only qualified and experienced personnel are in charge of the regular deployment of the instruments. Believe it or not, the truth remains that it would only take well tested tech experts to ensure a reliable and credible use of the ‘almighty’ card reader.
Then, at the various polling units across the federation where the machines would be duly deployed for the electorate to get in touch with them, acknowledging that nowhere in Nigeria could currently boast of uninterruptible power supply, there’s a compelling need for the unit or department in charge of the functionality of the equipment to make adequate provisions for alternative electricity source as long as each of the exercises lasts.
The only known alternative means of electrification in this part of the world, particularly Nigeria, is the power generating set. Hence, the aforementioned gadget must be made available at each of the polling booths where votes would be cast by the teeming voters domiciled in the recognized political wards nationwide.
Similarly, sufficient Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), otherwise known as petrol, must equally be made available. Insufficient provision of this very material or substance would go a long way in jeopardizing the overall anticipation of the electorate and the accredited observers.
Even though the card readers may have been fully charged prior to the D-day, there’s a tendency that in the long run the boosted cells would discharge, thereby making the batteries in need of further charging or boost at the polls. This is the sole reason we cannot avoid providing electricity at the booths.
It would be ideal to also inform us that the INEC cannot handle this part of the national consignment without involving some other relevant stakeholders. In view of this assertion, the various community leaders cum traditional rulers need to be duly engaged or contracted to assist the electoral umpire. It would be the duty of these stakeholders to ensure that the needed power generators are provided at their respective jurisdictions.
I want to warn decisively that such a task shouldn’t be carried out by any political party or contestant, or even a party ally, to avert any sort of partisanship by the INEC ad-hoc officials posted to the polling units. Allowing any vote seeker, either individual or group, to assist the conduct of the elections in any way would definitely create room for derailment or loophole among the electoral personnel. So, the INEC must be extra careful and extremely guided in respect of this.
Inter alia, the card readers need to be thoroughly tested and retested to really guarantee adequacy when they are eventually being used at the polls. Same measure ought to be employed in the case of the vehicular tracking devices to be used by the electoral umpire.
Since the INEC, having earlier declared to deploy electronic collation pattern, has reportedly made a u-turn in order not to violate the extant Electoral Act, it’s then conspicuous that the major tech-driven approach to be utilized in the process is the use of the electronic card reader and tracking devices.
The INEC, therefore, needn’t be reminded that the anticipated credibility of the awaited polls lies mainly on the adequacy of the two tech security instruments, hence the urgent need to ensure their accuracy before the D-day. Think about it!
Comrade Nwaozor, tech expert, policy analyst & rights activist,
is the National Coordinator of Right Thinkers Movement
___________________________________
frednwaozor@gmail.com
+2348028608056
Twitter: @mediambassador
Before now, we used to say “the elections are by the corner”. But at the moment, I can boldly assert that the polls in question are already here.
The elections are truly here with us, because in just less than seventy-two hours time, Nigerians in their number would be trooping into their various polling booths to cast their votes for whosoever they would like to see as the next President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria come May 29, 2019 as well as who to represent their respective constituencies in the both chambers of the National Assembly (NASS).
Every sane and discerning Nigerian, domiciled either at home and abroad, wouldn’t hesitate to publicly say that he/she desires for something not less than free, fair, credible and peaceful polls come February 16 and March 2, 2019, respectively.
As we variously clamour or canvass for well transparent and worthwhile polls that would stand the test of time, the electoral umpire –otherwise known as the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) – is expected to take into cognizance some key inevitable factors as regards the anticipated credibility of the elections.
As today’s world has become conspicuously tech-driven and acknowledging that the current Nigeria’s political processes and activities are powered by various technologies, the INEC must ensure that the needful are done towards averting both usual and unusual technical hitches at the polls during the two separately scheduled national rituals.
It’s now obvious that the Card Reader is relatively the engine room of the voting process in the Nigeria’s electoral terrain. Against this backdrop, the INEC presently led by Prof. Mahmood Yakubu is required to do everything humanly possible with a view to ensuring that the said electronic device functioned effectively and efficiently as expected by all concerned.
Survey indicates that the use of the card reader has in recent times proven to be one of the main avenues to witness an election free from all forms of pranks and malpractices. This is the reason every right thinking person who means well for the country he belongs dispassionately advocates for its unending use in the country’s electoral activity.
Since inception in the electoral process of the acclaimed giant of Africa, the card reader has hitherto been faced by myriad of technical challenges that ordinarily ought to have been avoided if some pertinent factors were keenly considered by the concerned authorities.
It’s on this premise I deeply urge the INEC to implement various outstanding measures that would guarantee hitch-free elections as regards the expected deployment of a few tech-driven gadgets at the long awaited polls.
As I have earlier strongly advocated for a separate special unit for the continual usage and maintenance of the electronic equipment and allied sensitive materials, I still maintain my stance. Such a unit would ensure that apt and timely attention is granted to the use of the devices.
It would equally ensure that only qualified and experienced personnel are in charge of the regular deployment of the instruments. Believe it or not, the truth remains that it would only take well tested tech experts to ensure a reliable and credible use of the ‘almighty’ card reader.
Then, at the various polling units across the federation where the machines would be duly deployed for the electorate to get in touch with them, acknowledging that nowhere in Nigeria could currently boast of uninterruptible power supply, there’s a compelling need for the unit or department in charge of the functionality of the equipment to make adequate provisions for alternative electricity source as long as each of the exercises lasts.
The only known alternative means of electrification in this part of the world, particularly Nigeria, is the power generating set. Hence, the aforementioned gadget must be made available at each of the polling booths where votes would be cast by the teeming voters domiciled in the recognized political wards nationwide.
Similarly, sufficient Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), otherwise known as petrol, must equally be made available. Insufficient provision of this very material or substance would go a long way in jeopardizing the overall anticipation of the electorate and the accredited observers.
Even though the card readers may have been fully charged prior to the D-day, there’s a tendency that in the long run the boosted cells would discharge, thereby making the batteries in need of further charging or boost at the polls. This is the sole reason we cannot avoid providing electricity at the booths.
It would be ideal to also inform us that the INEC cannot handle this part of the national consignment without involving some other relevant stakeholders. In view of this assertion, the various community leaders cum traditional rulers need to be duly engaged or contracted to assist the electoral umpire. It would be the duty of these stakeholders to ensure that the needed power generators are provided at their respective jurisdictions.
I want to warn decisively that such a task shouldn’t be carried out by any political party or contestant, or even a party ally, to avert any sort of partisanship by the INEC ad-hoc officials posted to the polling units. Allowing any vote seeker, either individual or group, to assist the conduct of the elections in any way would definitely create room for derailment or loophole among the electoral personnel. So, the INEC must be extra careful and extremely guided in respect of this.
Inter alia, the card readers need to be thoroughly tested and retested to really guarantee adequacy when they are eventually being used at the polls. Same measure ought to be employed in the case of the vehicular tracking devices to be used by the electoral umpire.
Since the INEC, having earlier declared to deploy electronic collation pattern, has reportedly made a u-turn in order not to violate the extant Electoral Act, it’s then conspicuous that the major tech-driven approach to be utilized in the process is the use of the electronic card reader and tracking devices.
The INEC, therefore, needn’t be reminded that the anticipated credibility of the awaited polls lies mainly on the adequacy of the two tech security instruments, hence the urgent need to ensure their accuracy before the D-day. Think about it!
Comrade Nwaozor, tech expert, policy analyst & rights activist,
is the National Coordinator of Right Thinkers Movement
___________________________________
frednwaozor@gmail.com
+2348028608056
Twitter: @mediambassador
Tuesday 12 February 2019
Analysis I It's Time To Make Another Choice
By Fred Nwaozor
The last time I checked, May 29 annually remained a very remarkable and memorable day in the political history of the acclaimed giant of Africa.
The aforementioned day remains a moment every sane and rational individual or entity domiciled in the country wouldn’t like to miss, because it refreshes the mindset of the good memories of the past.
It’s, however, noteworthy that the interregnum in question can never come to past if elections aren’t aptly conducted by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). It’s only through such national ritual, the overall people can duly elect who to be sworn in by the country’s Chief Judge, particularly in the case of the Presidency.
It’s equally worth noting that the elections that would herald yet another transition or interregnum in the Nigeria’s leadership sphere are to be held in just ninety-six hours from now, precisely on Saturday, 16th February 2019, as scheduled by the INEC who has the sole statutory right to conduct the awaited polls as enshrined in the country’s Constitution.
As Nigerians in their number swiftly and impatiently ride to the D-day towards making another choice, it’s understandable that a choice can only be made when options are readily available.
Hence, the electorate are meant to choose among many who they believe could effectively and efficiently govern the Nigerian State for the next dispensation. It ought to be extremely noted that this can only be done when they are aware of how best to differentiate the chaff from the grain.
This phenomenon is synonymous with those days while in the school when we usually find ourselves in the examination hall and were presented with an ‘Objective’ question paper where each of us was separately expected to make a choice among the given options for the entire numbers ranging from one to fifty or thereabouts.
Aside institutional exams, virtually on a daily basis, we are all faced with life examination whereby we would be required to decisively make a choice among the available options nature often brings in our day-to-day activity in a particular field of endeavour.
It suffices to assert that making a choice is invariably expected of us from time-to-time wherever we may individually find ourselves. In other words, it’s not solely in the political sphere or during electioneering era we are meant to choose between two or more things or persons, as might be the case.
Since we are already well experienced concerning choice making and what it entirely entails, no sane individual ought to be referred to as a novice whenever such a term is mentioned or being debated. This is the reason we are all seen as experts in any event that concerns elections.
In view of the above facts, as we are all variously prepared to make another choice at the polls in a matter of few hours, we do not need anyone to tutor us on the severe consequences that await any person or group that makes a wrong choice in life irrespective of his/its status.
One pertinent and key factor to consider when making any choice is the essence of doing so. We must fully take into cognizance the core reason we are making the choice. So, in summary, you can’t make a choice without telling yourself what you stand to gain from the choice to make among the provided options.
The truth of the matter is that, it pays to make a good and sound choice. One who made an apt choice will surely live to enjoy its dividend. Just like someone who intends to settle down, if he/she ends up making a wrong choice in choosing a life partner, they would definitely live to regret it the rest of their lives. This is why proper thinking is needed when it calls for choice making.
The teeming Nigerians – both home and abroad – are conspicuously here and ready once again to make another choice with a view to choosing who would be in charge of the country’s helm of affairs for the coming four years.
It’s boldly enshrined in the Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution, as amended, that only those who have attained the age of eighteen are eligible to vote or be voted for. This implies that only Nigerians from 18 and above are constitutionally allowed to make this long awaited choice. This is so, to enable only those who are mature in mind and otherwise to participate in such a national ritual.
Hence, since only adults are permitted to be involved in this choice making, it’s presumed that they already know what they really want. These recognized participants or choice makers, therefore, are required to conduct themselves in such a manner that the outcome of the exercise would be unanimously applauded by all and sundry. They mustn’t display any habit or attitude that’s detrimental to the country’s wellbeing.
Most importantly, as this choice is being made, we are urged to have the interest of the country at heart. Thus, the country’s desire ought to be allowed to override our individual wishes. This would enable us to make a choice that could stand the test of time.
So, as it’s obviously time to collectively make another choice, Nigerians are enjoined to do so with a true sense of maturity, so that, they won’t live to regret it. Think about it!
Comrade Nwaozor, National Coordinator of
Right Thinkers Movement, writes via
frednwaozor@gmail.com
+2348028608056
The last time I checked, May 29 annually remained a very remarkable and memorable day in the political history of the acclaimed giant of Africa.
The aforementioned day remains a moment every sane and rational individual or entity domiciled in the country wouldn’t like to miss, because it refreshes the mindset of the good memories of the past.
It’s, however, noteworthy that the interregnum in question can never come to past if elections aren’t aptly conducted by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). It’s only through such national ritual, the overall people can duly elect who to be sworn in by the country’s Chief Judge, particularly in the case of the Presidency.
It’s equally worth noting that the elections that would herald yet another transition or interregnum in the Nigeria’s leadership sphere are to be held in just ninety-six hours from now, precisely on Saturday, 16th February 2019, as scheduled by the INEC who has the sole statutory right to conduct the awaited polls as enshrined in the country’s Constitution.
As Nigerians in their number swiftly and impatiently ride to the D-day towards making another choice, it’s understandable that a choice can only be made when options are readily available.
Hence, the electorate are meant to choose among many who they believe could effectively and efficiently govern the Nigerian State for the next dispensation. It ought to be extremely noted that this can only be done when they are aware of how best to differentiate the chaff from the grain.
This phenomenon is synonymous with those days while in the school when we usually find ourselves in the examination hall and were presented with an ‘Objective’ question paper where each of us was separately expected to make a choice among the given options for the entire numbers ranging from one to fifty or thereabouts.
Aside institutional exams, virtually on a daily basis, we are all faced with life examination whereby we would be required to decisively make a choice among the available options nature often brings in our day-to-day activity in a particular field of endeavour.
It suffices to assert that making a choice is invariably expected of us from time-to-time wherever we may individually find ourselves. In other words, it’s not solely in the political sphere or during electioneering era we are meant to choose between two or more things or persons, as might be the case.
Since we are already well experienced concerning choice making and what it entirely entails, no sane individual ought to be referred to as a novice whenever such a term is mentioned or being debated. This is the reason we are all seen as experts in any event that concerns elections.
In view of the above facts, as we are all variously prepared to make another choice at the polls in a matter of few hours, we do not need anyone to tutor us on the severe consequences that await any person or group that makes a wrong choice in life irrespective of his/its status.
One pertinent and key factor to consider when making any choice is the essence of doing so. We must fully take into cognizance the core reason we are making the choice. So, in summary, you can’t make a choice without telling yourself what you stand to gain from the choice to make among the provided options.
The truth of the matter is that, it pays to make a good and sound choice. One who made an apt choice will surely live to enjoy its dividend. Just like someone who intends to settle down, if he/she ends up making a wrong choice in choosing a life partner, they would definitely live to regret it the rest of their lives. This is why proper thinking is needed when it calls for choice making.
The teeming Nigerians – both home and abroad – are conspicuously here and ready once again to make another choice with a view to choosing who would be in charge of the country’s helm of affairs for the coming four years.
It’s boldly enshrined in the Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution, as amended, that only those who have attained the age of eighteen are eligible to vote or be voted for. This implies that only Nigerians from 18 and above are constitutionally allowed to make this long awaited choice. This is so, to enable only those who are mature in mind and otherwise to participate in such a national ritual.
Hence, since only adults are permitted to be involved in this choice making, it’s presumed that they already know what they really want. These recognized participants or choice makers, therefore, are required to conduct themselves in such a manner that the outcome of the exercise would be unanimously applauded by all and sundry. They mustn’t display any habit or attitude that’s detrimental to the country’s wellbeing.
Most importantly, as this choice is being made, we are urged to have the interest of the country at heart. Thus, the country’s desire ought to be allowed to override our individual wishes. This would enable us to make a choice that could stand the test of time.
So, as it’s obviously time to collectively make another choice, Nigerians are enjoined to do so with a true sense of maturity, so that, they won’t live to regret it. Think about it!
Comrade Nwaozor, National Coordinator of
Right Thinkers Movement, writes via
frednwaozor@gmail.com
+2348028608056
Feature I Allegations On Gratification For Issuance Of PVC
By Comrade Fred Nwaozor
The last time I checked, some uncalled intrigues were allegedly transpiring under the nose of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), still the leadership of the said authority was seemingly yet to take note of the ugly trending.
It is only a dead person that could claim ignorance of the conspicuous fact that the long awaited general elections are already here with us, hence the compelling need to strengthen any weak wall required to be deployed at the polls.
In view of the above assertion, any loophole as regards the impending elections that’s discovered by any individual or entity shouldn’t be swept under the carpet by anybody that truly means well for Nigeria, Imo in particular. Thus, everyone is expected to be deeply concerned over the fast approaching political outings.
It has come to my notice that in the INEC offices situated in various Local Government Areas (LGAs) across the State, the officials of the commission have resorted to taking gratifications from people who came to collect their Permanent Voter’s Card (PVC). Such complaints have been trooping into the headquarters of the Right Thinkers Movement, a pro-democracy and good governance initiative whose head office is domiciled in Owerri, the Imo State capital.
In my capacity as the National Coordinator of the aforementioned NGO, I was shocked to my bone marrow the first time the information filtered into my senses. I couldn’t believe it at the time. But subsequently, the report kept coming intensely from different affected individuals and groups, thereby making me lose my sense of scepticism.
In one of the LGAs, it was reported that the persons in charge asked the complainant to give them what they would use to purchase sachet water, “pure water” as it’s popularly called, stating it was the only thing that could grant him access to his PVC. Initially, as a true patriotic Nigerian, he refused to comply not until he observed the seriousness boldly written on the faces of the so-called personnel.
Other complainants explained that they were kept in the queue without anybody responding to them when they told the INEC officials that they had no money on them. They thought they would be pitied but ironically, no one gave them a listening ear. They were marvelled when they noticed that those who came after their arrival received their PVCs having openly “bribed” the desk officers. It was at this point they understood they were in “big shit”, or apparently standing alone.
We were informed that these officials usually mention the particular or exact amount to be given to them by the visitor(s). In some LGAs, it was learnt they were boldly collecting N400 whilst some were busy asking for N500. It’s noteworthy that these monies were demanded from the visitors as if they were statutory fees or levies to be paid before anyone could be entitled to receive his/her PVC.
I’m of the notion that such an absurd practice would equally be occurring in other states across the federation, but the INEC leadership in these climes are yet to acknowledge the situation. Or perhaps in some cases, the authority may have heard about the nauseous act but refused to take decisive actions in respect of it. If the latter is the case, then I’m afraid, this smacks of danger.
I’m baffled why the supposed respected INEC staff would be acting as mere beggars or tax collectors, as the case might be, while carrying out their statutory obligations. Does it imply that they are hungry or were lawfully mandated to receive the gratification? This is a question that needs to urgently be attended to by any well meaning individual or entity.
As one who does not throw facts to the waste bin, coupled with the title of this column, I want to believe that these reports are still allegations, hence the compelling need for the INEC to painstakingly swing into action with a view to unravelling the real truth behind the accusations.
As it is widely stated and believed that “there is no smoke without fire”, the authority must not take this as a mere joke if they are genuinely determined to conduct all-inclusive and credible elections come February 16 and March 2, 2019, respectively.
I, therefore, challenge the INEC in Imo to henceforth endeavour to do the needful by sending out spies or monitoring team on its staff serving in various quarters in the state. Such an alarm ought to also be sent to its counterparts in other states across the country. The bad eggs must be duly fished out without much ado.
If an INEC personnel could have the zeal to forcefully collect gratification over issuance of PVC, I wonder what such persons would do during the elections proper. Without mincing words, such staff are the ones that would easily be bought over by the desperate political parties or aspirants.
It’s so appalling, and a paradox too, that while the INEC is deeply involved in the ongoing crusade targeted to conscientize the electorate to go and collect their PVCs, some bad eggs in their midst on other side are reportedly asking for gratifications before giving out the said device. This indeed unequivocally smacks of sabotage, thus such saboteurs need to be shown the way out or outrightly suspended indefinitely.
Similarly, in the spirit of collection of PVCs, the INEC in the respective states should ensure that the devices in question are made available to people in their various polling units or political wards to enable them assess the items with ease. This measure is unavoidably needed, particularly for the sake of the less-privileged such as the sick, physically challenged and the downtrodden.
As Nigerians, Imolites in particular, earnestly await the general elections, we are appealing to the INEC to do everything humanly possible to ensure that the polls eventually become thoroughly successful and credible as anticipated.
Against this backdrop, the INEC should see itself as the Moses expected to lead us to the Promised Land. Think about it!
The last time I checked, some uncalled intrigues were allegedly transpiring under the nose of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), still the leadership of the said authority was seemingly yet to take note of the ugly trending.
It is only a dead person that could claim ignorance of the conspicuous fact that the long awaited general elections are already here with us, hence the compelling need to strengthen any weak wall required to be deployed at the polls.
In view of the above assertion, any loophole as regards the impending elections that’s discovered by any individual or entity shouldn’t be swept under the carpet by anybody that truly means well for Nigeria, Imo in particular. Thus, everyone is expected to be deeply concerned over the fast approaching political outings.
It has come to my notice that in the INEC offices situated in various Local Government Areas (LGAs) across the State, the officials of the commission have resorted to taking gratifications from people who came to collect their Permanent Voter’s Card (PVC). Such complaints have been trooping into the headquarters of the Right Thinkers Movement, a pro-democracy and good governance initiative whose head office is domiciled in Owerri, the Imo State capital.
In my capacity as the National Coordinator of the aforementioned NGO, I was shocked to my bone marrow the first time the information filtered into my senses. I couldn’t believe it at the time. But subsequently, the report kept coming intensely from different affected individuals and groups, thereby making me lose my sense of scepticism.
In one of the LGAs, it was reported that the persons in charge asked the complainant to give them what they would use to purchase sachet water, “pure water” as it’s popularly called, stating it was the only thing that could grant him access to his PVC. Initially, as a true patriotic Nigerian, he refused to comply not until he observed the seriousness boldly written on the faces of the so-called personnel.
Other complainants explained that they were kept in the queue without anybody responding to them when they told the INEC officials that they had no money on them. They thought they would be pitied but ironically, no one gave them a listening ear. They were marvelled when they noticed that those who came after their arrival received their PVCs having openly “bribed” the desk officers. It was at this point they understood they were in “big shit”, or apparently standing alone.
We were informed that these officials usually mention the particular or exact amount to be given to them by the visitor(s). In some LGAs, it was learnt they were boldly collecting N400 whilst some were busy asking for N500. It’s noteworthy that these monies were demanded from the visitors as if they were statutory fees or levies to be paid before anyone could be entitled to receive his/her PVC.
I’m of the notion that such an absurd practice would equally be occurring in other states across the federation, but the INEC leadership in these climes are yet to acknowledge the situation. Or perhaps in some cases, the authority may have heard about the nauseous act but refused to take decisive actions in respect of it. If the latter is the case, then I’m afraid, this smacks of danger.
I’m baffled why the supposed respected INEC staff would be acting as mere beggars or tax collectors, as the case might be, while carrying out their statutory obligations. Does it imply that they are hungry or were lawfully mandated to receive the gratification? This is a question that needs to urgently be attended to by any well meaning individual or entity.
As one who does not throw facts to the waste bin, coupled with the title of this column, I want to believe that these reports are still allegations, hence the compelling need for the INEC to painstakingly swing into action with a view to unravelling the real truth behind the accusations.
As it is widely stated and believed that “there is no smoke without fire”, the authority must not take this as a mere joke if they are genuinely determined to conduct all-inclusive and credible elections come February 16 and March 2, 2019, respectively.
I, therefore, challenge the INEC in Imo to henceforth endeavour to do the needful by sending out spies or monitoring team on its staff serving in various quarters in the state. Such an alarm ought to also be sent to its counterparts in other states across the country. The bad eggs must be duly fished out without much ado.
If an INEC personnel could have the zeal to forcefully collect gratification over issuance of PVC, I wonder what such persons would do during the elections proper. Without mincing words, such staff are the ones that would easily be bought over by the desperate political parties or aspirants.
It’s so appalling, and a paradox too, that while the INEC is deeply involved in the ongoing crusade targeted to conscientize the electorate to go and collect their PVCs, some bad eggs in their midst on other side are reportedly asking for gratifications before giving out the said device. This indeed unequivocally smacks of sabotage, thus such saboteurs need to be shown the way out or outrightly suspended indefinitely.
Similarly, in the spirit of collection of PVCs, the INEC in the respective states should ensure that the devices in question are made available to people in their various polling units or political wards to enable them assess the items with ease. This measure is unavoidably needed, particularly for the sake of the less-privileged such as the sick, physically challenged and the downtrodden.
As Nigerians, Imolites in particular, earnestly await the general elections, we are appealing to the INEC to do everything humanly possible to ensure that the polls eventually become thoroughly successful and credible as anticipated.
Against this backdrop, the INEC should see itself as the Moses expected to lead us to the Promised Land. Think about it!
Opinion I As Election Approaches, Before We Go To The Polls
By Comrade Fred Nwaozor
The last time I checked, even a dummy across Nigeria – Imo in particular – could attest to the conspicuous fact that the long awaited general elections are already by the corner.
The aforementioned situation is obvious that any living creature can easily take note of the circumstance as well as the intrigues and intricacies surrounding it. It could arguably be noticed by not just a dummy but an epileptic patient.
It suffices to assert that every right thinking Nigerian – particularly Imolite – is at the moment filled with mixed feelings as regards what the outcome or endpoint of the impending exercise would entail.
Since prediction is not unconnected with mankind, in various quarters, many have already predicted who becomes the next Executive Governor of the Eastern Heartland or the President of the country as the case may be. The predictions have continued unabated that it has in some cases resulted in arguments.
Whatever the case might be, what matters most is the need for Imolites and Nigerians in general to fully prepare their mindsets for the fast approaching events; the need for the electorate to acknowledge that the anticipated output of the elections can only come into reality if the expected input is duly tendered.
The ‘input’ as stated above is the voting aspect expected to be carried out by the prospective voters. It is only through voting the country or state can boast of an election results. In other words, results cannot be manufactured by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). Results, which would determine the output or outcome of the civic exercise, can only be gotten and counted if the electorate do the needful.
The needful as stated in the last paragraph is to ensure that they cast their votes aptly and equally ensure that the votes are duly counted by the electoral officers or collation officials assigned to the various polling booths.
As the elections are fast approaching, I want to in my capacity as an analyst and activist deeply advise the three key actors of the political outing namely: the political parties alongside the aspirants, the electoral umpire and the electorate.
The various political parties and their respective flag bearers must endeavour to stick to the rules at all times as they undergo the ongoing campaign process as well as at the polls come February 16 and March 2, 2019, respectively.
The parties need to genuinely conscientize their teeming followers to eschew violence at all cost as they collectively throw their support for them. They need to be meant to note that they are not expected to go about posing muscles and fists to their perceived opponents. They are rather required to comport themselves in any occasion they find each other in regard to the ongoing political era.
The parties cum aspirants in their own accord are equally expected to remain civil and disciplined. They shouldn’t see the incoming contest as a ‘do or die affair’. A good and decent politician who truly means well for the people is ready to contest for a particular position as many times as possible provided the election is free and fair. But one who doesn’t mean well for the people would want to acquire the post by all means; this practice is unequivocally an aberration.
The aspirants, therefore, must distance their mindsets from any thought concerning rigging or allied matters. They ought to solely concentrate on how to gain the people’s votes at the polls, and nothing more. Hence, they shouldn’t indulge themselves in any form of thought or action targeted to go contrary to the accepted norms or electoral rules.
The electoral umpire, INEC, on their part, must be willing to carry out their statutory obligations without violating the extant laws or Acts. Thus, its officials shouldn’t intend involving themselves in anything that has undertones of pranks or misdeed. They must take into cognizance that the people at large coupled with various concerned entities are keenly looking up to them, hence wouldn’t welcome any excuses from them.
The INEC is required to be neutral, patriotic and unbiased no matter whose ox is gored. ‘Neutral’, in the sense that, they are required to be at the centre stage. One who is at the centre stage is the person who ensures that the activity in question is carried out peacefully and successfully. Among all, he mediates between competing or disagreeing parties, hence is expected to ensure that the contest doesn’t result in any form of crisis.
‘Patriotic’, in the sense that, they must have the interest of the country or state at heart. A patriotic citizen is one who loves his or her country/state and strongly supports the progress of such society. If you really love a certain locality, you must do everything humanly possible to encourage or promote its activities and dreams. So, the INEC is required to be patriotic at all cost.
‘Unbiased’, in the sense that, they are meant to remain fair and truthful at all times, thus mustn’t show any act of prejudice or favouritism. The INEC is expected to be objective in its judgement over the polls. Its officials are, therefore, required to free themselves from all emotions and one-sided calculations irrespective of the circumstance.
Inter alia, the electorate must be sure of what they actually want. It is only by acknowledging what they want, they can ascertain the candidate that has what it takes to do the needful. They shouldn’t allow uncalled issues to becloud their sense of reasoning. They are the only ones that can determine the outcome of the polls.
If any aspirant informed them that he is damn determine to fix the economy of the state or nation, as might be the case, they should ask the person to show them the processes through which he/she intends fixing the economy or system. They shouldn’t depend on mere pledges; rather, they ought to rely on the practical-oriented avowal that accompanies the promises.
Above all, those who are yet to collect their Permanent Voter’s Card (PVC), should do so without further ado. Like I stated earlier, only the electorate are expected to tender the input that would determine the output of the awaited elections. So, they must note that without their PVCs, no input would be recorded at the polls, and this smacks of danger for the entire system. It’s appalling to acknowledge that over 650,000 PVCs are reportedly yet to be collected in Imo alone.
All in all, every party involved, either institution or individual, shouldn’t allow frivolities to override priorities. Think about it!
The last time I checked, even a dummy across Nigeria – Imo in particular – could attest to the conspicuous fact that the long awaited general elections are already by the corner.
The aforementioned situation is obvious that any living creature can easily take note of the circumstance as well as the intrigues and intricacies surrounding it. It could arguably be noticed by not just a dummy but an epileptic patient.
It suffices to assert that every right thinking Nigerian – particularly Imolite – is at the moment filled with mixed feelings as regards what the outcome or endpoint of the impending exercise would entail.
Since prediction is not unconnected with mankind, in various quarters, many have already predicted who becomes the next Executive Governor of the Eastern Heartland or the President of the country as the case may be. The predictions have continued unabated that it has in some cases resulted in arguments.
Whatever the case might be, what matters most is the need for Imolites and Nigerians in general to fully prepare their mindsets for the fast approaching events; the need for the electorate to acknowledge that the anticipated output of the elections can only come into reality if the expected input is duly tendered.
The ‘input’ as stated above is the voting aspect expected to be carried out by the prospective voters. It is only through voting the country or state can boast of an election results. In other words, results cannot be manufactured by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). Results, which would determine the output or outcome of the civic exercise, can only be gotten and counted if the electorate do the needful.
The needful as stated in the last paragraph is to ensure that they cast their votes aptly and equally ensure that the votes are duly counted by the electoral officers or collation officials assigned to the various polling booths.
As the elections are fast approaching, I want to in my capacity as an analyst and activist deeply advise the three key actors of the political outing namely: the political parties alongside the aspirants, the electoral umpire and the electorate.
The various political parties and their respective flag bearers must endeavour to stick to the rules at all times as they undergo the ongoing campaign process as well as at the polls come February 16 and March 2, 2019, respectively.
The parties need to genuinely conscientize their teeming followers to eschew violence at all cost as they collectively throw their support for them. They need to be meant to note that they are not expected to go about posing muscles and fists to their perceived opponents. They are rather required to comport themselves in any occasion they find each other in regard to the ongoing political era.
The parties cum aspirants in their own accord are equally expected to remain civil and disciplined. They shouldn’t see the incoming contest as a ‘do or die affair’. A good and decent politician who truly means well for the people is ready to contest for a particular position as many times as possible provided the election is free and fair. But one who doesn’t mean well for the people would want to acquire the post by all means; this practice is unequivocally an aberration.
The aspirants, therefore, must distance their mindsets from any thought concerning rigging or allied matters. They ought to solely concentrate on how to gain the people’s votes at the polls, and nothing more. Hence, they shouldn’t indulge themselves in any form of thought or action targeted to go contrary to the accepted norms or electoral rules.
The electoral umpire, INEC, on their part, must be willing to carry out their statutory obligations without violating the extant laws or Acts. Thus, its officials shouldn’t intend involving themselves in anything that has undertones of pranks or misdeed. They must take into cognizance that the people at large coupled with various concerned entities are keenly looking up to them, hence wouldn’t welcome any excuses from them.
The INEC is required to be neutral, patriotic and unbiased no matter whose ox is gored. ‘Neutral’, in the sense that, they are required to be at the centre stage. One who is at the centre stage is the person who ensures that the activity in question is carried out peacefully and successfully. Among all, he mediates between competing or disagreeing parties, hence is expected to ensure that the contest doesn’t result in any form of crisis.
‘Patriotic’, in the sense that, they must have the interest of the country or state at heart. A patriotic citizen is one who loves his or her country/state and strongly supports the progress of such society. If you really love a certain locality, you must do everything humanly possible to encourage or promote its activities and dreams. So, the INEC is required to be patriotic at all cost.
‘Unbiased’, in the sense that, they are meant to remain fair and truthful at all times, thus mustn’t show any act of prejudice or favouritism. The INEC is expected to be objective in its judgement over the polls. Its officials are, therefore, required to free themselves from all emotions and one-sided calculations irrespective of the circumstance.
Inter alia, the electorate must be sure of what they actually want. It is only by acknowledging what they want, they can ascertain the candidate that has what it takes to do the needful. They shouldn’t allow uncalled issues to becloud their sense of reasoning. They are the only ones that can determine the outcome of the polls.
If any aspirant informed them that he is damn determine to fix the economy of the state or nation, as might be the case, they should ask the person to show them the processes through which he/she intends fixing the economy or system. They shouldn’t depend on mere pledges; rather, they ought to rely on the practical-oriented avowal that accompanies the promises.
Above all, those who are yet to collect their Permanent Voter’s Card (PVC), should do so without further ado. Like I stated earlier, only the electorate are expected to tender the input that would determine the output of the awaited elections. So, they must note that without their PVCs, no input would be recorded at the polls, and this smacks of danger for the entire system. It’s appalling to acknowledge that over 650,000 PVCs are reportedly yet to be collected in Imo alone.
All in all, every party involved, either institution or individual, shouldn’t allow frivolities to override priorities. Think about it!
Tech I Release Of N100bn For Road Construction
By Fred Doc Nwaozor
In any given clime across the global community, capital projects are invariably what well meaning citizens clamour for whenever a call to usher in good governance is raised in the public sphere.
This is so, because, it is only by establishment of such projects as good road network, creation of portable water, sound health and education systems, that the governed could feel the impact of the government.
This is the sole reason the ratio between the capital and recurrent expenditures of the annual budget of a particular nation for a certain fiscal year often tends to favour the former to the detriment of the latter. It suffices to enthuse that it has become unarguable that capital expenditures usually benefit virtually the entire occupants of the concerned clime compared to recurrent expenditures.
In view of these facts, successive governments all over the world that truly mean well for the governed have overtime made frantic and genuine efforts to initiate capital projects that would stand the test of time. Those who actualize this quest invariably succeed in writing their names in bold and gold.
In this part of the world, particularly Nigeria, issues pertaining to governance seem to be given a different attention and interpretation by the relevant authorities. We have hitherto observed a prevalent situation whereby a certain prospective government would rigorously embark on election campaigns with the mantra to treat capital projects as priority, but would abruptly sound differently the moment it assumed duty.
This uncalled nonchalant attitude of governments at all levels has continued unabated under our nose as if the people are a set of imbeciles. Sometimes when asked for clarification by the affected citizens, the enquiry would be regarded as unimportant by the failing government.
The President Muhammadu Buhari administration is perhaps poised to address these anomalies. This assertion is not unconnected with the gesture made by the government penultimate month, precisely Thursday, 10th January 2019.
The Federal Government (FG), on the aforesaid date, approved the sum of N100 billion for the Federal Ministry of Works, out of the proceeds of the Sovereign Sukuk fund, to finance critical road infrastructure across the country. The fund would reportedly be for the construction and rehabilitation of twenty-eight (28) key economic road networks as earlier captured in the 2018 budget.
The FG disclosed that the road projects are located in the six geo-political zones of the country with each zone having a total allocation of N16.67bn. This signifies that the capital projects are evenly distributed among the entire regions.
Speaking at the presentation of symbolic cheque to the concerned ministry, the Minister of Finance, Mrs. Zainab Ahmed noted that “the funds will be released to the Federal Ministry of Power, Works and Housing based on the framework agreed with the Trustees in order to ensure transparency and accountability in the use of proceeds.”
She added that “the Sukuk funding option is part of the initiatives of the government to diversify government funding sources, while also deepening the Nigerian capital market, mobilizing more savings and promoting financial inclusion.” The roads to be funded “will ease commuting, spur economic activities across the country and further close our infrastructural gap.”
In his response, the Minister of Power, Works and Housing, Mr. Babatunde Fashola stated thus, “roads are coming, those are assets that would enable business that would enable transport, movement of goods and services and assets that will last 25, 30 to 40 years. “This is a good investment to make. So, for those who asked why are we borrowing, we are borrowing to build at today’s prices assets that will last us for another 30 years.”
He further stated “it will be more expensive to build but more importantly where is the money going. As soon as I collect this cheque, I am going to give it to the contractors. But even, they can’t keep it; they have to give it to their suppliers because they need aggregates, they need materials and labourers but they first need suppliers.”
This administration he said “is committed to follow the part of greatness, build the foundation for tomorrow by investing in infrastructure. It means that for example, we have to raise money and I am very happy to learn that over 1,876 investors are already doing business because Buhari government decides to build. That is how to build an economy.”
As Nigerians rejoice over this development, it’s imperative to bring some pertinent factors to the knowledge of the Works Ministry. Considering that initiating a certain project is quite different from completing it, the said authority needs to take into cognizance the key steps needed to be followed towards arriving at the anticipated destination.
The contracts are required to be awarded to corporate bodies of proven background and antecedents. Hence, no compromise should be reached for whatever reason. The contracts ought to be implemented in line with the country’s Public Procurement Act, thus a levelling playing ground should be provided among the prospective construction companies. The memo for the proposed contracts should be made public to enable any interested firm apply for the job.
When eventually awarded, the benefitting residents or communities should be properly made to comprehend the profile of the firms handling the respective projects with a view to making them able to alert/contact the relevant agencies whenever they observe any prank or foul play. The beneficiaries must be a stakeholder in the overall implementation of the projects.
As regards adequate monitoring, viable mobile teams comprising reliable personnel ought to be constituted by the concerned authority. This would enable a regular supervision as the work progresses. Similarly, the contractors must be mandated to complete the projects within a given time frame, else, should be made to face sanctions.
Inter alia, the ministry should endeavour to award virtually all the contracts to indigenous firms towards boosting our local content. So, they are expected to be awarded in accordance with the Executive Order 5 recently signed by President Buhari. This measure would equally enable us to ascertain the actual history of each of the companies involved.
We are meant to acknowledge that initiating a capital project by the government is the wish of the governed, but ensuring their completion remains their greatest desire. Think about it!
Comrade Nwaozor, Tech Expert, Policy Analyst & Rights Activist
and National Coordinator of Right Thinkers Movement, writes via
frednwaozor@gmail.com
In any given clime across the global community, capital projects are invariably what well meaning citizens clamour for whenever a call to usher in good governance is raised in the public sphere.
This is so, because, it is only by establishment of such projects as good road network, creation of portable water, sound health and education systems, that the governed could feel the impact of the government.
This is the sole reason the ratio between the capital and recurrent expenditures of the annual budget of a particular nation for a certain fiscal year often tends to favour the former to the detriment of the latter. It suffices to enthuse that it has become unarguable that capital expenditures usually benefit virtually the entire occupants of the concerned clime compared to recurrent expenditures.
In view of these facts, successive governments all over the world that truly mean well for the governed have overtime made frantic and genuine efforts to initiate capital projects that would stand the test of time. Those who actualize this quest invariably succeed in writing their names in bold and gold.
In this part of the world, particularly Nigeria, issues pertaining to governance seem to be given a different attention and interpretation by the relevant authorities. We have hitherto observed a prevalent situation whereby a certain prospective government would rigorously embark on election campaigns with the mantra to treat capital projects as priority, but would abruptly sound differently the moment it assumed duty.
This uncalled nonchalant attitude of governments at all levels has continued unabated under our nose as if the people are a set of imbeciles. Sometimes when asked for clarification by the affected citizens, the enquiry would be regarded as unimportant by the failing government.
The President Muhammadu Buhari administration is perhaps poised to address these anomalies. This assertion is not unconnected with the gesture made by the government penultimate month, precisely Thursday, 10th January 2019.
The Federal Government (FG), on the aforesaid date, approved the sum of N100 billion for the Federal Ministry of Works, out of the proceeds of the Sovereign Sukuk fund, to finance critical road infrastructure across the country. The fund would reportedly be for the construction and rehabilitation of twenty-eight (28) key economic road networks as earlier captured in the 2018 budget.
The FG disclosed that the road projects are located in the six geo-political zones of the country with each zone having a total allocation of N16.67bn. This signifies that the capital projects are evenly distributed among the entire regions.
Speaking at the presentation of symbolic cheque to the concerned ministry, the Minister of Finance, Mrs. Zainab Ahmed noted that “the funds will be released to the Federal Ministry of Power, Works and Housing based on the framework agreed with the Trustees in order to ensure transparency and accountability in the use of proceeds.”
She added that “the Sukuk funding option is part of the initiatives of the government to diversify government funding sources, while also deepening the Nigerian capital market, mobilizing more savings and promoting financial inclusion.” The roads to be funded “will ease commuting, spur economic activities across the country and further close our infrastructural gap.”
In his response, the Minister of Power, Works and Housing, Mr. Babatunde Fashola stated thus, “roads are coming, those are assets that would enable business that would enable transport, movement of goods and services and assets that will last 25, 30 to 40 years. “This is a good investment to make. So, for those who asked why are we borrowing, we are borrowing to build at today’s prices assets that will last us for another 30 years.”
He further stated “it will be more expensive to build but more importantly where is the money going. As soon as I collect this cheque, I am going to give it to the contractors. But even, they can’t keep it; they have to give it to their suppliers because they need aggregates, they need materials and labourers but they first need suppliers.”
This administration he said “is committed to follow the part of greatness, build the foundation for tomorrow by investing in infrastructure. It means that for example, we have to raise money and I am very happy to learn that over 1,876 investors are already doing business because Buhari government decides to build. That is how to build an economy.”
As Nigerians rejoice over this development, it’s imperative to bring some pertinent factors to the knowledge of the Works Ministry. Considering that initiating a certain project is quite different from completing it, the said authority needs to take into cognizance the key steps needed to be followed towards arriving at the anticipated destination.
The contracts are required to be awarded to corporate bodies of proven background and antecedents. Hence, no compromise should be reached for whatever reason. The contracts ought to be implemented in line with the country’s Public Procurement Act, thus a levelling playing ground should be provided among the prospective construction companies. The memo for the proposed contracts should be made public to enable any interested firm apply for the job.
When eventually awarded, the benefitting residents or communities should be properly made to comprehend the profile of the firms handling the respective projects with a view to making them able to alert/contact the relevant agencies whenever they observe any prank or foul play. The beneficiaries must be a stakeholder in the overall implementation of the projects.
As regards adequate monitoring, viable mobile teams comprising reliable personnel ought to be constituted by the concerned authority. This would enable a regular supervision as the work progresses. Similarly, the contractors must be mandated to complete the projects within a given time frame, else, should be made to face sanctions.
Inter alia, the ministry should endeavour to award virtually all the contracts to indigenous firms towards boosting our local content. So, they are expected to be awarded in accordance with the Executive Order 5 recently signed by President Buhari. This measure would equally enable us to ascertain the actual history of each of the companies involved.
We are meant to acknowledge that initiating a capital project by the government is the wish of the governed, but ensuring their completion remains their greatest desire. Think about it!
Comrade Nwaozor, Tech Expert, Policy Analyst & Rights Activist
and National Coordinator of Right Thinkers Movement, writes via
frednwaozor@gmail.com
Tech I Dissecting JAMB's Tech-Driven Innovations
By Fred Doc Nwaozor
I do not hesitate to tender an extensive and exclusive commentary each time I take note of any issue or policy pertaining to education. This feature of mine might not be unconnected with my explicit love for impaction of knowledge.
In various quarters, it is being opined and echoed that education is the key to any success room hence ought to be regarded as an inevitable pathway towards attaining one’s anticipated height. But I see it as the success itself, because anyone who acquires it is already ostensibly inside the said room.
The above assertions are the reason in advanced societies educational institutions are handled with absolute care, thus given every attention they deserve. In such part of the world, funding of the institution by the concerned authorities is never compromised. It suffices to say that such a gesture is invariably seen as a priority.
This is why developing countries like Nigeria that are apparently following the footsteps of these climes as mentioned above in regard to learning don’t seem to overlook establishments such as the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB).
JAMB, which remains a household name in the Nigerian polity as regards education, has in recent times been making great waves in terms of innovations and enhancement driven by technology. The rebranding mechanism has continued unabated till date.
Its introduction of the ongoing Computer-Based Test (CBT) four years ago under the watch of Prof. Dibu Ojerinde – the then Registrar – was not unlike a mere concept that would never be physically felt. It was to the onlookers’ utmost amazement when the initiative fully metamorphosed into obvious reality.
Initially, the CBT was meant to be optional or elective whereby the prospective candidates were permitted to freely choose between it and the then usual Paper-Based Test (PBT). In other words, the CBT mode was being test-run or put to the test during that era, precisely in 2015.
At the time, having commended the tech-driven innovation without much ado, I critically and extensively recommended therein the possible ways the JAMB could advance in the initiative. Other concerned Nigerians who were equally keen to educational matters, also followed suit.
I was so impressed when I realized that the newly introduced mode of testing had eventually become non-elective or compulsory among the admission seekers. Every well-meaning education stakeholder welcomed the idea which was aimed at ushering in a zero-malpractice and marking-with-ease era.
Since the full emergence of the CBT, all forms of examination malpractice have seemingly been a thing of the past. Similarly, contrary to the manual pattern of marking formerly in vogue, the activity is now done with great ease thereby making it a labour effective scheme. Among all, results could at the moment be released by the board as soon as possible, even within a few hours after the exams.
Several improvements regarding the CBT have hitherto been recorded under the current leadership of Prof. Ishaq Oloyede. In spite of a few technical hitches observed in the process, the e-mode testing has thus far made significant impacts to the delight of most Nigerians.
In the same vein, it’s equally worthy of note that an electronic registration method has fully been implemented by the JAMB. By this routine, e-mode materials are issued to the prospective candidates having purchased the e-form (e-PIN) as well as successfully registered.
For instance, only digital devices such as Compact Disc (CD) containing e-Syllabus and e-Brochure are given to the applicants, not manual booklets as done in the past. And, the payments can be made via various channels including banks, the Point of Sale (POS) machine, Automated Teller Machine (ATM), JAMB’s online portal, or the mobile phones.
In the ongoing e-registration for the 2018/2019 exams, that’s meant to last between 10th January and 21st February, 2019, all applicants would be entitled to electronic Personal Identification Numbers simply known as e-PINs the moment they made their payments. Each e-PIN, which is sent to the person’s personal phone number and grants him/her access to the registration portal, is reportedly tied to individual profile, hence not transferable.
This implies that any e-PIN is to be delivered electronically to the applicant, and not to be handwritten. Before going for the e-PIN, the applicant must have obtained his/her profile code via the cell phone number used for the preliminary exercise.
Prospective candidates are, therefore, warned to keep their respective e-PINs secret and safe toward averting any form of hacking by unscrupulous and unpatriotic elements who do not mean well for the exercise and the country at large. They are in this regard advised to see the e-PINs as strictly personal.
It’s noteworthy that only JAMB approved CBT centres nationwide are eligible to carry out the e-registration process. Each applicant is consequently required to proceed to any of these accredited centres. They have to present the e-PIN for completion of their respective registrations.
The full name of the prospective candidate as entered/typed towards acquiring the profile code, or during the preliminary stage of the e-registration, would automatically be displayed on the input of the e-PIN by the CBT centre staff.
It’s equally worth noting that anyone can also register in any of the eight JAMB recognized foreign countries, which include Ivory Coast, Ghana, Ethiopia, Benin Republic, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, England, and Beau in U.S.A.
The rigorous e-security processes to be undergone by the applicants will no doubt go a long way in curtailing different kinds of frauds and malpractices that have ab initio been in existence. It would ensure that only the persons who applied for the exams are granted the access to the e-mode question scripts.
The overall tech-driven innovations recently introduced by the JAMB will guarantee a high level of credibility and transparency in respect of the conduct of the entrance examination in its entirety. The institution is therefore encouraged to sustain the enhancements.
The JAMB, however, needs to be mindful of some key technical factors. The board must employ strict strategic approach with a view to ensuring that uninterrupted power supply is made available by the various approved CBT centres. They should also be directed to contract reliable and well experienced Information Technology (IT) experts to ensure deployment of standard and tested softwares on their computers.
Inter alia, adequate human security must be put in place to safeguard the electronic gadgets in the centres. The JAMB needs to equally inculcate these strategic measures in its headquarters towards averting any challenge either during the e-registration or the CBT.
It’s invariably great to make any innovation but far greater to painstakingly consider its apt sustenance afterwards. Think about it!
Comrade Nwaozor, Tech Expert, Policy Analyst
& Rights Activist writes via
frednwaozor@gmail.com
I do not hesitate to tender an extensive and exclusive commentary each time I take note of any issue or policy pertaining to education. This feature of mine might not be unconnected with my explicit love for impaction of knowledge.
In various quarters, it is being opined and echoed that education is the key to any success room hence ought to be regarded as an inevitable pathway towards attaining one’s anticipated height. But I see it as the success itself, because anyone who acquires it is already ostensibly inside the said room.
The above assertions are the reason in advanced societies educational institutions are handled with absolute care, thus given every attention they deserve. In such part of the world, funding of the institution by the concerned authorities is never compromised. It suffices to say that such a gesture is invariably seen as a priority.
This is why developing countries like Nigeria that are apparently following the footsteps of these climes as mentioned above in regard to learning don’t seem to overlook establishments such as the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB).
JAMB, which remains a household name in the Nigerian polity as regards education, has in recent times been making great waves in terms of innovations and enhancement driven by technology. The rebranding mechanism has continued unabated till date.
Its introduction of the ongoing Computer-Based Test (CBT) four years ago under the watch of Prof. Dibu Ojerinde – the then Registrar – was not unlike a mere concept that would never be physically felt. It was to the onlookers’ utmost amazement when the initiative fully metamorphosed into obvious reality.
Initially, the CBT was meant to be optional or elective whereby the prospective candidates were permitted to freely choose between it and the then usual Paper-Based Test (PBT). In other words, the CBT mode was being test-run or put to the test during that era, precisely in 2015.
At the time, having commended the tech-driven innovation without much ado, I critically and extensively recommended therein the possible ways the JAMB could advance in the initiative. Other concerned Nigerians who were equally keen to educational matters, also followed suit.
I was so impressed when I realized that the newly introduced mode of testing had eventually become non-elective or compulsory among the admission seekers. Every well-meaning education stakeholder welcomed the idea which was aimed at ushering in a zero-malpractice and marking-with-ease era.
Since the full emergence of the CBT, all forms of examination malpractice have seemingly been a thing of the past. Similarly, contrary to the manual pattern of marking formerly in vogue, the activity is now done with great ease thereby making it a labour effective scheme. Among all, results could at the moment be released by the board as soon as possible, even within a few hours after the exams.
Several improvements regarding the CBT have hitherto been recorded under the current leadership of Prof. Ishaq Oloyede. In spite of a few technical hitches observed in the process, the e-mode testing has thus far made significant impacts to the delight of most Nigerians.
In the same vein, it’s equally worthy of note that an electronic registration method has fully been implemented by the JAMB. By this routine, e-mode materials are issued to the prospective candidates having purchased the e-form (e-PIN) as well as successfully registered.
For instance, only digital devices such as Compact Disc (CD) containing e-Syllabus and e-Brochure are given to the applicants, not manual booklets as done in the past. And, the payments can be made via various channels including banks, the Point of Sale (POS) machine, Automated Teller Machine (ATM), JAMB’s online portal, or the mobile phones.
In the ongoing e-registration for the 2018/2019 exams, that’s meant to last between 10th January and 21st February, 2019, all applicants would be entitled to electronic Personal Identification Numbers simply known as e-PINs the moment they made their payments. Each e-PIN, which is sent to the person’s personal phone number and grants him/her access to the registration portal, is reportedly tied to individual profile, hence not transferable.
This implies that any e-PIN is to be delivered electronically to the applicant, and not to be handwritten. Before going for the e-PIN, the applicant must have obtained his/her profile code via the cell phone number used for the preliminary exercise.
Prospective candidates are, therefore, warned to keep their respective e-PINs secret and safe toward averting any form of hacking by unscrupulous and unpatriotic elements who do not mean well for the exercise and the country at large. They are in this regard advised to see the e-PINs as strictly personal.
It’s noteworthy that only JAMB approved CBT centres nationwide are eligible to carry out the e-registration process. Each applicant is consequently required to proceed to any of these accredited centres. They have to present the e-PIN for completion of their respective registrations.
The full name of the prospective candidate as entered/typed towards acquiring the profile code, or during the preliminary stage of the e-registration, would automatically be displayed on the input of the e-PIN by the CBT centre staff.
It’s equally worth noting that anyone can also register in any of the eight JAMB recognized foreign countries, which include Ivory Coast, Ghana, Ethiopia, Benin Republic, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, England, and Beau in U.S.A.
The rigorous e-security processes to be undergone by the applicants will no doubt go a long way in curtailing different kinds of frauds and malpractices that have ab initio been in existence. It would ensure that only the persons who applied for the exams are granted the access to the e-mode question scripts.
The overall tech-driven innovations recently introduced by the JAMB will guarantee a high level of credibility and transparency in respect of the conduct of the entrance examination in its entirety. The institution is therefore encouraged to sustain the enhancements.
The JAMB, however, needs to be mindful of some key technical factors. The board must employ strict strategic approach with a view to ensuring that uninterrupted power supply is made available by the various approved CBT centres. They should also be directed to contract reliable and well experienced Information Technology (IT) experts to ensure deployment of standard and tested softwares on their computers.
Inter alia, adequate human security must be put in place to safeguard the electronic gadgets in the centres. The JAMB needs to equally inculcate these strategic measures in its headquarters towards averting any challenge either during the e-registration or the CBT.
It’s invariably great to make any innovation but far greater to painstakingly consider its apt sustenance afterwards. Think about it!
Comrade Nwaozor, Tech Expert, Policy Analyst
& Rights Activist writes via
frednwaozor@gmail.com
Tech I NASS' $1bn Nod On Ajaokuta Project
By Fred Doc Nwaozor
The name Ajaokuta has hitherto remained a household name in Nigeria, perhaps owing to how much or often it’s being cited by must Nigerians in positions of authority.
It’s noteworthy that the famous Ajaokuta is a Local Government Area (LGA) in Kogi State – the North Central part of Nigeria – where the country’s one of the most significant, if not most, tech-driven hub(s) is situated.
The Ajaokuta Steel Company Limited (ASCL) alongside Delta Steel Company (DSC) in Delta State, among others, was established in 1979 under the reign of the Late Alhaji Shehu Shagari during the Second Republic in accordance with Section 2 of the National Steel Council Decree No.60 of September 19, 1979 and they were incorporated as Limited Liability Companies.
It was reportedly expected to commence production in 1984. Amusingly, and pathetically too, 34 years after it was designed to kick-start Nigeria’s industrialization, the multi-billion naira Ajaokuta complex is yet to produce steel despite attaining about 98% completion since 1994, having sunk about $10bn into the project. It was recently reported that about $2bn was additionally needed to complete the remaining 2% of the entire project.
It would interest us to note that the ASCL, which is reckoned to be the country’s biggest industrial project, is located on 24,000 hectares of sprawling Greenfield landmass. The steel plant itself is built on 800 hectares of land. The chosen technology for steel production is the time tested Blast-Furnace, a basic oxygen furnace route.
It was rumoured sometime last year that the President Muhammadu Buhari–led administration was planning to privatize the ASCL whose slogan remains “the bedrock of Nigeria’s industrialization” in its bid to finance the 2018 deficit budget, but the government frantically refuted the insinuation.
As regards the renewed vigour and quest to complete the remaining phase of the ASCL, on 13th December 2018, the Red Chamber of the National Assembly (NASS) graciously gave its approval for one billion dollar ($1bn) to be withdrawn from the Federal Government’s (FG’s) share of the country’s Excess Crude Account (ECA).
The Senate who acted in line with the consent of the Green Chamber, equally instructed that all monies, loans, grants, and what have you that may from time-to-time be appropriated and authorized by any tier of government or entity, either local or foreign, should be part of the funding for the completion of the project.
It’s worth noting that the resolution followed the passage of the Ajaokuta Steel Company Completion Fund Bill 2018. The bill slated for concurrence, was presented by the Senate Leader, Ahmed Lawan.
The legislation, however, stated that the monies in the fund shall be applied by the minister subject to appropriation by the NASS only for the construction, improvement, extension, enlargement and replacement of infrastructure and works, including the provision, acquisition, improvement and replacement of other capital assets required in respect of or in connection with the completion of the project.
I want to bring to our notice that the Ajaokuta integrated steel complex was born out of the then government’s quest for a diversified economy. It was conceived and steadily developed with the vision of erecting a metallurgical process plant cum engineering complex with other auxiliaries and facilities that would help to stimulate the diversified economy.
It was meant to be used to generate important upstream and downstream industrial and economic activities that were critical to the diversification of the Nigeria’s economy into an industrial one. It’s, therefore, appalling that several decades down the line, the country is still faced with the old song regarding diversification that ought to have been a thing of the past.
Even though the latest development in regard to the long awaited completion of the abandoned ASCL is coming so late or not timely, we should find joy in the fact that at last, the government has remembered the once forgotten national project. But the candid question that’s yearning for answer is: how sincere and determined are the concerned authorities towards doing the needful henceforth?
It’s not anymore news that aside the steel industry, other moribund sectors, such as the petroleum, have equally been granted similar attention in recent times under the watch of President Buhari who’s apparently keen to diversify the country’s mono-economy, yet till date, rather than getting tangible positive results, we keep receiving myriad of excuses. Is it then a function of ineptitude or lack of will?
These impediments witnessed overtime have made most concerned Nigerians to feel impelled to express grave doubts about the determination of any authority, or officer-in-charge, to aptly initiate, carry out as well as complete any project entrusted upon them.
It’s on this premise I challenge the Ministry of Mines and Steel to prove to teeming Nigerians that it is ever-ready to do as expected by presenting to the citizenry the modalities worked out towards the completion of the ASCL. It’s imperative to acknowledge that a befitting framework cannot be actualized if the authority acted without reference to the original blueprint of the project.
Similarly, considering that the project was abandoned for many years, some of the completed phases may have broken down, hence there must be cross-examination in this regard towards averting any possible future breakdown when the company becomes practically in use.
It is not arguable that $1bn is a whole lot of money, but considering the market survey concerning the completion of the ASCL, it’s understandable that more funds are urgently required for the project. Against this backdrop, the government is required to borrow from any individual or entity, particularly indigenous. It’s arguably a capital project of this kind, that would effect tremendous economic growth if completed, that requires borrowing towards its completion.
Then if eventually completed in the long run, having run the company within a reasonable period, the government may decide to sell the shares to the general public, investors in particular, with a view to servicing all the debts incurred in the process. Making the public shareholders, while the government remains the stakeholder, would equally enable the latter sustain the ASCL with ease.
As we greatly appreciate the NASS for approving this lofty move as engineered by President Buhari, it ought to also note that it’s required to use its oversight function to ensure the successful and timely completion of the laudable project. This mustn’t be taken for granted or juxtaposed with politics.
The executive on its part needn’t be reminded that consulting the cognoscenti in the process cannot be compromised for whatever reason. Think about it!
Comrade Nwaozor, National Coordinator of
Right Thinkers Movement writes via
frednwaozor@gmail.com
The name Ajaokuta has hitherto remained a household name in Nigeria, perhaps owing to how much or often it’s being cited by must Nigerians in positions of authority.
It’s noteworthy that the famous Ajaokuta is a Local Government Area (LGA) in Kogi State – the North Central part of Nigeria – where the country’s one of the most significant, if not most, tech-driven hub(s) is situated.
The Ajaokuta Steel Company Limited (ASCL) alongside Delta Steel Company (DSC) in Delta State, among others, was established in 1979 under the reign of the Late Alhaji Shehu Shagari during the Second Republic in accordance with Section 2 of the National Steel Council Decree No.60 of September 19, 1979 and they were incorporated as Limited Liability Companies.
It was reportedly expected to commence production in 1984. Amusingly, and pathetically too, 34 years after it was designed to kick-start Nigeria’s industrialization, the multi-billion naira Ajaokuta complex is yet to produce steel despite attaining about 98% completion since 1994, having sunk about $10bn into the project. It was recently reported that about $2bn was additionally needed to complete the remaining 2% of the entire project.
It would interest us to note that the ASCL, which is reckoned to be the country’s biggest industrial project, is located on 24,000 hectares of sprawling Greenfield landmass. The steel plant itself is built on 800 hectares of land. The chosen technology for steel production is the time tested Blast-Furnace, a basic oxygen furnace route.
It was rumoured sometime last year that the President Muhammadu Buhari–led administration was planning to privatize the ASCL whose slogan remains “the bedrock of Nigeria’s industrialization” in its bid to finance the 2018 deficit budget, but the government frantically refuted the insinuation.
As regards the renewed vigour and quest to complete the remaining phase of the ASCL, on 13th December 2018, the Red Chamber of the National Assembly (NASS) graciously gave its approval for one billion dollar ($1bn) to be withdrawn from the Federal Government’s (FG’s) share of the country’s Excess Crude Account (ECA).
The Senate who acted in line with the consent of the Green Chamber, equally instructed that all monies, loans, grants, and what have you that may from time-to-time be appropriated and authorized by any tier of government or entity, either local or foreign, should be part of the funding for the completion of the project.
It’s worth noting that the resolution followed the passage of the Ajaokuta Steel Company Completion Fund Bill 2018. The bill slated for concurrence, was presented by the Senate Leader, Ahmed Lawan.
The legislation, however, stated that the monies in the fund shall be applied by the minister subject to appropriation by the NASS only for the construction, improvement, extension, enlargement and replacement of infrastructure and works, including the provision, acquisition, improvement and replacement of other capital assets required in respect of or in connection with the completion of the project.
I want to bring to our notice that the Ajaokuta integrated steel complex was born out of the then government’s quest for a diversified economy. It was conceived and steadily developed with the vision of erecting a metallurgical process plant cum engineering complex with other auxiliaries and facilities that would help to stimulate the diversified economy.
It was meant to be used to generate important upstream and downstream industrial and economic activities that were critical to the diversification of the Nigeria’s economy into an industrial one. It’s, therefore, appalling that several decades down the line, the country is still faced with the old song regarding diversification that ought to have been a thing of the past.
Even though the latest development in regard to the long awaited completion of the abandoned ASCL is coming so late or not timely, we should find joy in the fact that at last, the government has remembered the once forgotten national project. But the candid question that’s yearning for answer is: how sincere and determined are the concerned authorities towards doing the needful henceforth?
It’s not anymore news that aside the steel industry, other moribund sectors, such as the petroleum, have equally been granted similar attention in recent times under the watch of President Buhari who’s apparently keen to diversify the country’s mono-economy, yet till date, rather than getting tangible positive results, we keep receiving myriad of excuses. Is it then a function of ineptitude or lack of will?
These impediments witnessed overtime have made most concerned Nigerians to feel impelled to express grave doubts about the determination of any authority, or officer-in-charge, to aptly initiate, carry out as well as complete any project entrusted upon them.
It’s on this premise I challenge the Ministry of Mines and Steel to prove to teeming Nigerians that it is ever-ready to do as expected by presenting to the citizenry the modalities worked out towards the completion of the ASCL. It’s imperative to acknowledge that a befitting framework cannot be actualized if the authority acted without reference to the original blueprint of the project.
Similarly, considering that the project was abandoned for many years, some of the completed phases may have broken down, hence there must be cross-examination in this regard towards averting any possible future breakdown when the company becomes practically in use.
It is not arguable that $1bn is a whole lot of money, but considering the market survey concerning the completion of the ASCL, it’s understandable that more funds are urgently required for the project. Against this backdrop, the government is required to borrow from any individual or entity, particularly indigenous. It’s arguably a capital project of this kind, that would effect tremendous economic growth if completed, that requires borrowing towards its completion.
Then if eventually completed in the long run, having run the company within a reasonable period, the government may decide to sell the shares to the general public, investors in particular, with a view to servicing all the debts incurred in the process. Making the public shareholders, while the government remains the stakeholder, would equally enable the latter sustain the ASCL with ease.
As we greatly appreciate the NASS for approving this lofty move as engineered by President Buhari, it ought to also note that it’s required to use its oversight function to ensure the successful and timely completion of the laudable project. This mustn’t be taken for granted or juxtaposed with politics.
The executive on its part needn’t be reminded that consulting the cognoscenti in the process cannot be compromised for whatever reason. Think about it!
Comrade Nwaozor, National Coordinator of
Right Thinkers Movement writes via
frednwaozor@gmail.com
Tech I That Osinbajo's Notice On Modular Refineries
By Fred Doc Nwaozor
Even an imbecile in Nigeria can boldly attest to the lingering fact that the country’s major and highest revenue base – the petroleum sector – has over the decades been clamouring for rescue as its pathetic situation lingers.
This perhaps could be what informed the ongoing seeming efforts of the present administration led by President Muhammadu Buhari towards ensuring that the said sector wears a new look in all ramifications, hence probably understood that only a tech-driven mechanism can fix the unending mayhem.
In his keynote address during the first-ever Nigeria Diaspora Investment Summit, which held in Abuja between 27-29 November, 2018, the Vice-President Prof. Yemi Osinbajo graciously notified the participants that the first set of the privately-owned modular refineries “being developed as part of the private-sector component of the vision” were currently being completed in Delta and Rivers States.
The number two citizen said amidst the gathering, which comprised more than 300 Nigerians living outside the country, that “One of them is a Brownfield Project that is being expanded from 1,000 barrels per day (bpd) capacity to 10,000 bpd, while the other is a Greenfield Investment”, as he further disclosed “As at yesterday, another of such modular refinery was coming on stream”.
The 3-day epochal summit, which sought to mobilize the Diaspora to invest in Nigeria as part of the current government’s thrive to reposition the national economy, equally saw the vice-president informing the prospective investors that in each of the efforts, the communities were equity holders and stakeholders in the modular refineries.
According to him, such a gesture was crucial as the government was ensuring that the various communities were economic stakeholders in the development and economic opportunities in the Niger Delta in its quest for a rebranded oil and gas sector.
In the conference and exhibition attended by other top government functionaries such as Ministers of Foreign Affairs – Geoffrey Onyema, Agric – Audu Ogbe, and Power, Works and Housing – Babatunde Fashola, among others, Prof. Osinbajo reminded that “For those who may recall some of the engagements we had with the Niger-Delta, we promised we would ensure we are able to put in place some of the modular refineries that are actively engaged with the local communities.”
It suffices to assert that the remarkable event, which ensured that the diaspora investors have the opportunity to meet potential local partners as well as interact with government institutions, came to an end with wonderful notices and assurances to the people’s delight.
It’s only a dummy that’s yet to comprehend that the bane of the Nigeria’s petroleum sector has conspicuously been lack of refineries and allied matters. It’s a shame, to assert the least, that the world’s six most oil producing country cannot at the moment boast of a single refinery in any part across the federation.
In the past, the Nigeria’s indigenous company, the Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) could proudly boast of at least three standard world-class refineries situated in different localities namely: Port-Harcourt, Warri and Kaduna in Rivers, Delta and Kaduna States, respectively. But it’s pathetic that presently the aforementioned investments are mere monuments, and nothing more.
It is ridiculous and absurd that, rather than export petroleum products to other countries, Nigeria is deeply involved in their importation. When the crude oil is extracted from the earth crust, they are transported to foreign nations, thereby refining them over there.
Having made the raw materials available for consumption, the oil marketers who have been contracted or licensed by the Federal Government (FG) would import the finished products towards distributing them among the dealers domiciled in the country. Then the dealers would ensure the commodities are sold to the final consumers. This recurring decimal is what the citizens have been experiencing herein ever since the country’s refineries went into moribund.
This unfortunate occurrence was apparently what triggered the quest for total removal of fuel subsidy in the country by the Buhari-led reign on its emergence in 2015. Having perceived the oil subsidy as an avenue to ‘unfairly’ enriched the marketers who were seen as racketeers, the government was damn determined to completely stop the payment of subsidy on petrol otherwise known as Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), and its agitation was reportedly actualized in the long run after series of counter reactions from the teeming Nigerians.
It’s noteworthy that the government’s total removal of the fuel subsidy, as was reported, was primarily informed by its motive to ensure that the downstream sector was thoroughly revived and boosted. But till date, despite all the earlier promises to resuscitate the incapacitated refineries, none is currently wearing a new look. This seeming inaction has signalled a great worry to the concerned citizenry.
It was barely few weeks ago Nigerians realized that the subsidy, contrary to the initial report, wasn’t actually totally removed. This implies some intriguing politics had been taking place underground without the knowledge of the masses. This smacks of pranks.
Taking a painstaking study of the Nigeria’s worrying situation as regards the oil and gas industry, it is only until the government addresses the unwholesome policies therein, the country can boast of a reputable tech-driven economy in respect of the sector in question.
Even as the government is frantically carrying out crusade on random establishment of modular refineries, its sustenance will definitely meet a downfall if it fails to critically consider and implement a set of strict required policies that would guarantee the healthy functionality of the initiative.
Aside the sustenance aspect, failure to set up adequate modus operandi would pose a great threat to further establishment of such refineries in the nearest future. Suffice it to say that such practice might be hijacked by unscrupulous and unpatriotic elements.
This, therefore, is the reason the Petroleum Industry Governance Bill (PIGB) recently passed by the National Assembly (NASS) needs to, henceforth, be further reviewed with a view to amending it where need be. And if passed, its considerations must equally be taken as serious by the Executive Arm if it’s really and genuinely willing to revamp the downstream sector.
Similarly, as we ostensibly make move to support setting up of modular refineries across the country, particularly in the Niger Delta region, we must equally not hesitate to do the needful towards reviving the forgotten standard ones.
Summarily, a lofty tech-driven concept requires a candid political will for apt plan and implementation. And if eventually implemented, sound relevant policies are needed for its onward sustenance. Think about it!
Comrade Nwaozor, National Coordinator of
Right Thinkers Movement writes via
frednwaozor@gmail.com
Even an imbecile in Nigeria can boldly attest to the lingering fact that the country’s major and highest revenue base – the petroleum sector – has over the decades been clamouring for rescue as its pathetic situation lingers.
This perhaps could be what informed the ongoing seeming efforts of the present administration led by President Muhammadu Buhari towards ensuring that the said sector wears a new look in all ramifications, hence probably understood that only a tech-driven mechanism can fix the unending mayhem.
In his keynote address during the first-ever Nigeria Diaspora Investment Summit, which held in Abuja between 27-29 November, 2018, the Vice-President Prof. Yemi Osinbajo graciously notified the participants that the first set of the privately-owned modular refineries “being developed as part of the private-sector component of the vision” were currently being completed in Delta and Rivers States.
The number two citizen said amidst the gathering, which comprised more than 300 Nigerians living outside the country, that “One of them is a Brownfield Project that is being expanded from 1,000 barrels per day (bpd) capacity to 10,000 bpd, while the other is a Greenfield Investment”, as he further disclosed “As at yesterday, another of such modular refinery was coming on stream”.
The 3-day epochal summit, which sought to mobilize the Diaspora to invest in Nigeria as part of the current government’s thrive to reposition the national economy, equally saw the vice-president informing the prospective investors that in each of the efforts, the communities were equity holders and stakeholders in the modular refineries.
According to him, such a gesture was crucial as the government was ensuring that the various communities were economic stakeholders in the development and economic opportunities in the Niger Delta in its quest for a rebranded oil and gas sector.
In the conference and exhibition attended by other top government functionaries such as Ministers of Foreign Affairs – Geoffrey Onyema, Agric – Audu Ogbe, and Power, Works and Housing – Babatunde Fashola, among others, Prof. Osinbajo reminded that “For those who may recall some of the engagements we had with the Niger-Delta, we promised we would ensure we are able to put in place some of the modular refineries that are actively engaged with the local communities.”
It suffices to assert that the remarkable event, which ensured that the diaspora investors have the opportunity to meet potential local partners as well as interact with government institutions, came to an end with wonderful notices and assurances to the people’s delight.
It’s only a dummy that’s yet to comprehend that the bane of the Nigeria’s petroleum sector has conspicuously been lack of refineries and allied matters. It’s a shame, to assert the least, that the world’s six most oil producing country cannot at the moment boast of a single refinery in any part across the federation.
In the past, the Nigeria’s indigenous company, the Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) could proudly boast of at least three standard world-class refineries situated in different localities namely: Port-Harcourt, Warri and Kaduna in Rivers, Delta and Kaduna States, respectively. But it’s pathetic that presently the aforementioned investments are mere monuments, and nothing more.
It is ridiculous and absurd that, rather than export petroleum products to other countries, Nigeria is deeply involved in their importation. When the crude oil is extracted from the earth crust, they are transported to foreign nations, thereby refining them over there.
Having made the raw materials available for consumption, the oil marketers who have been contracted or licensed by the Federal Government (FG) would import the finished products towards distributing them among the dealers domiciled in the country. Then the dealers would ensure the commodities are sold to the final consumers. This recurring decimal is what the citizens have been experiencing herein ever since the country’s refineries went into moribund.
This unfortunate occurrence was apparently what triggered the quest for total removal of fuel subsidy in the country by the Buhari-led reign on its emergence in 2015. Having perceived the oil subsidy as an avenue to ‘unfairly’ enriched the marketers who were seen as racketeers, the government was damn determined to completely stop the payment of subsidy on petrol otherwise known as Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), and its agitation was reportedly actualized in the long run after series of counter reactions from the teeming Nigerians.
It’s noteworthy that the government’s total removal of the fuel subsidy, as was reported, was primarily informed by its motive to ensure that the downstream sector was thoroughly revived and boosted. But till date, despite all the earlier promises to resuscitate the incapacitated refineries, none is currently wearing a new look. This seeming inaction has signalled a great worry to the concerned citizenry.
It was barely few weeks ago Nigerians realized that the subsidy, contrary to the initial report, wasn’t actually totally removed. This implies some intriguing politics had been taking place underground without the knowledge of the masses. This smacks of pranks.
Taking a painstaking study of the Nigeria’s worrying situation as regards the oil and gas industry, it is only until the government addresses the unwholesome policies therein, the country can boast of a reputable tech-driven economy in respect of the sector in question.
Even as the government is frantically carrying out crusade on random establishment of modular refineries, its sustenance will definitely meet a downfall if it fails to critically consider and implement a set of strict required policies that would guarantee the healthy functionality of the initiative.
Aside the sustenance aspect, failure to set up adequate modus operandi would pose a great threat to further establishment of such refineries in the nearest future. Suffice it to say that such practice might be hijacked by unscrupulous and unpatriotic elements.
This, therefore, is the reason the Petroleum Industry Governance Bill (PIGB) recently passed by the National Assembly (NASS) needs to, henceforth, be further reviewed with a view to amending it where need be. And if passed, its considerations must equally be taken as serious by the Executive Arm if it’s really and genuinely willing to revamp the downstream sector.
Similarly, as we ostensibly make move to support setting up of modular refineries across the country, particularly in the Niger Delta region, we must equally not hesitate to do the needful towards reviving the forgotten standard ones.
Summarily, a lofty tech-driven concept requires a candid political will for apt plan and implementation. And if eventually implemented, sound relevant policies are needed for its onward sustenance. Think about it!
Comrade Nwaozor, National Coordinator of
Right Thinkers Movement writes via
frednwaozor@gmail.com
Feature I As Uzodinma Romances nPDP, Others
By Fred Nwaozor
Who is yet to hear or come across the name ‘Senator Hope Uzodinma’ in the Nigeria’s political terrain? If I’m to answer the question, I would boldly say; nobody or only a dummy. The name could be said to be synonymous with Prince Eze Madumere.
The said names have in recent times abruptly become household names across the Nigerian State, particularly Imo – the Eastern Heartland – where the bearers hail from. And till date, a discerning political analyst in the aforementioned clime cannot do without the names or forget them in haste.
Though he’s currently serving his second term in the Red Chamber of the National Assembly (NASS) as he represents the Imo-West Senatorial District, Sen. Uzodinma apparently became more relevant to the people of Imo the very moment he succeeded in acquiring the ticket of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to vie for the governorship position in the state amidst all odds.
It’s noteworthy that after all intrigues and intricacies that consequently surrounded the outcome of the Imo guber primaries of the APC, the National Working Committee (NWC) of the party led by Comrade Adams Oshiomhole eventually confirmed Sen. Uzodinma as the authentic and suitable candidate for the gubernatorial race come March 2, 2019.
It’s not anymore news that the lawmaker’s emergence as the Imo guber flag-bearer of the APC was against the wish of the sitting governor, Chief Rochas Okorocha who made frantic effort to ensure that his ‘anointed’ son-in-law Mr. Uche Nwosu clinched the gubernatorial ticket.
Owing to the grievances that ensued afterwards, Mr. Nwosu was reportedly instructed by his godfather, Chief Okorocha to defect to another political party for continuity’s sake, not minding the fact that he (Okorocha) is a senatorial candidate of the APC. This implies that the latter is hell bent to make the former his successor come May 29, 2019.
The amazing part of the overall melodrama thus far is that Sen. Uzodinma, who is conspicuously working hand-in-hand with the famous Imo Deputy Governor Prince Madumere, has never been deterred by the distractions emanating from the sitting governor’s camp. Rather, he has gone extra mile to showcase to his teeming allies that he possesses all it takes to be the next Executive Governor of the revered Imo.
By so doing, the federal legislator has ostensibly succeeded in gaining more momentum or popularity in the state compared to his rivals, particularly those holding the tickets of the major political parties for the awaited race.
This could be attested to penultimate week, precisely on Sunday, 27th January 2019, when the leadership of the new People’s Democratic Party (nPDP) in the state proudly collapsed its structure into the camp of the Chief Marcellinus Nlemigbo – led APC in their bid to throw unalloyed support for the Imo-West Senator.
The nPDP led by Dr. Fabian Ihekweme publicly disclosed that their decision was rightly informed by the conviction that Sen. Uzodinma was the right man for the governorship seat, as he further strongly asserted that the lawmaker who he described as ‘pleasant’ would emerge convincingly victorious at the polls because “he has the majority behind him”.
It would be recalled that the nPDP’s emergence sometimes in November last year being 2018 was as a result of the differences that ensued between the two main guber aspirants Sen. Samuel Anyanwu and Hon. Emeka Ihedioha in the Imo PDP after the party held her governorship primary in Owerri, the state’s capital in which the latter secured the party’s ticket.
Sen. Anyanwu who is presently representing the Imo-East Senatorial District in the Senate alleged that the primary, which produced the immediate past Deputy Speaker of the Federal House of Representatives Chief Ihedioha as the Imo PDP’s flag-bearer, was marred by irregularities, hence headed for the court to seek for justice. It was amid this trending that the nPDP, which was in support of the aggrieved candidate, emerged.
Aside the nPDP’s unannounced support for Sen. Uzodinma’s guber aspiration, penultimate Tuesday being 29th January 2019 when the APC held her Presidential rally in the state – precisely Owerri – which saw the presence of the presidential candidate of the party, Muhammadu Buhari, a bigwig of the All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA) and a national leader of the party, Chief Martin Agbaso alongside his teeming followers was in attendance to equally throw his support behind the senator’s aspiration.
It’s worthy of note that the APGA is currently having Sen. Ifeanyi Araraume, who had twice represented the Imo-North Senatorial District in the Upper Chamber of the NASS and has hitherto relentlessly been in the race, as its guber flag-bearer in the Eastern Heartland.
This intriguing gesture of Chief Agbaso who had once been the guber flag-bearer of the APGA, might perhaps not be unconnected with the controversial way the Imo-North senator clinched the ticket of the party. The rest is history.
As Sen. Uzodinma publicly romances with the nPDP and other political gladiators, many onlookers in various quarters have opined that the Oru-East born dogged politician, who refused to throw in the towel even when all hopes seemed to have been lost, is far closer to the state’s Douglas House than his fellow contenders.
So, as Imolites watch the drama and impatiently wait to see the D-day, could it be that the APC’s guber flag-bearer – who obviously acquired the party’s ticket with the keen support of Prince Madumere – is already calling himself Chief Okorocha’s successor? Think about it!
Comrade Nwaozor, the National Coordinator of
Right Thinkers Movement writes via
frednwaozor@gmail.com
Who is yet to hear or come across the name ‘Senator Hope Uzodinma’ in the Nigeria’s political terrain? If I’m to answer the question, I would boldly say; nobody or only a dummy. The name could be said to be synonymous with Prince Eze Madumere.
The said names have in recent times abruptly become household names across the Nigerian State, particularly Imo – the Eastern Heartland – where the bearers hail from. And till date, a discerning political analyst in the aforementioned clime cannot do without the names or forget them in haste.
Though he’s currently serving his second term in the Red Chamber of the National Assembly (NASS) as he represents the Imo-West Senatorial District, Sen. Uzodinma apparently became more relevant to the people of Imo the very moment he succeeded in acquiring the ticket of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to vie for the governorship position in the state amidst all odds.
It’s noteworthy that after all intrigues and intricacies that consequently surrounded the outcome of the Imo guber primaries of the APC, the National Working Committee (NWC) of the party led by Comrade Adams Oshiomhole eventually confirmed Sen. Uzodinma as the authentic and suitable candidate for the gubernatorial race come March 2, 2019.
It’s not anymore news that the lawmaker’s emergence as the Imo guber flag-bearer of the APC was against the wish of the sitting governor, Chief Rochas Okorocha who made frantic effort to ensure that his ‘anointed’ son-in-law Mr. Uche Nwosu clinched the gubernatorial ticket.
Owing to the grievances that ensued afterwards, Mr. Nwosu was reportedly instructed by his godfather, Chief Okorocha to defect to another political party for continuity’s sake, not minding the fact that he (Okorocha) is a senatorial candidate of the APC. This implies that the latter is hell bent to make the former his successor come May 29, 2019.
The amazing part of the overall melodrama thus far is that Sen. Uzodinma, who is conspicuously working hand-in-hand with the famous Imo Deputy Governor Prince Madumere, has never been deterred by the distractions emanating from the sitting governor’s camp. Rather, he has gone extra mile to showcase to his teeming allies that he possesses all it takes to be the next Executive Governor of the revered Imo.
By so doing, the federal legislator has ostensibly succeeded in gaining more momentum or popularity in the state compared to his rivals, particularly those holding the tickets of the major political parties for the awaited race.
This could be attested to penultimate week, precisely on Sunday, 27th January 2019, when the leadership of the new People’s Democratic Party (nPDP) in the state proudly collapsed its structure into the camp of the Chief Marcellinus Nlemigbo – led APC in their bid to throw unalloyed support for the Imo-West Senator.
The nPDP led by Dr. Fabian Ihekweme publicly disclosed that their decision was rightly informed by the conviction that Sen. Uzodinma was the right man for the governorship seat, as he further strongly asserted that the lawmaker who he described as ‘pleasant’ would emerge convincingly victorious at the polls because “he has the majority behind him”.
It would be recalled that the nPDP’s emergence sometimes in November last year being 2018 was as a result of the differences that ensued between the two main guber aspirants Sen. Samuel Anyanwu and Hon. Emeka Ihedioha in the Imo PDP after the party held her governorship primary in Owerri, the state’s capital in which the latter secured the party’s ticket.
Sen. Anyanwu who is presently representing the Imo-East Senatorial District in the Senate alleged that the primary, which produced the immediate past Deputy Speaker of the Federal House of Representatives Chief Ihedioha as the Imo PDP’s flag-bearer, was marred by irregularities, hence headed for the court to seek for justice. It was amid this trending that the nPDP, which was in support of the aggrieved candidate, emerged.
Aside the nPDP’s unannounced support for Sen. Uzodinma’s guber aspiration, penultimate Tuesday being 29th January 2019 when the APC held her Presidential rally in the state – precisely Owerri – which saw the presence of the presidential candidate of the party, Muhammadu Buhari, a bigwig of the All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA) and a national leader of the party, Chief Martin Agbaso alongside his teeming followers was in attendance to equally throw his support behind the senator’s aspiration.
It’s worthy of note that the APGA is currently having Sen. Ifeanyi Araraume, who had twice represented the Imo-North Senatorial District in the Upper Chamber of the NASS and has hitherto relentlessly been in the race, as its guber flag-bearer in the Eastern Heartland.
This intriguing gesture of Chief Agbaso who had once been the guber flag-bearer of the APGA, might perhaps not be unconnected with the controversial way the Imo-North senator clinched the ticket of the party. The rest is history.
As Sen. Uzodinma publicly romances with the nPDP and other political gladiators, many onlookers in various quarters have opined that the Oru-East born dogged politician, who refused to throw in the towel even when all hopes seemed to have been lost, is far closer to the state’s Douglas House than his fellow contenders.
So, as Imolites watch the drama and impatiently wait to see the D-day, could it be that the APC’s guber flag-bearer – who obviously acquired the party’s ticket with the keen support of Prince Madumere – is already calling himself Chief Okorocha’s successor? Think about it!
Comrade Nwaozor, the National Coordinator of
Right Thinkers Movement writes via
frednwaozor@gmail.com
Analysis I Before Nigerians Embrace The Polls
By Fred Nwaozor
The last time I checked, Nigerians in their entirety could not wait to embrace the 2019 general elections which are already by the corner. Before now, they waited patiently to witness this epochal moment.
As Nigerians in their number are basked in the ecstasy that accompanies the long awaited national ritual, before they eventually embrace the D-day, there are prime inevitable factors that mustn’t be swept under the carpet by the key actors of the impending exercise.
In any political clime across the globe, the major actors remain the political parties, electoral umpire and the electorate, hence that of Nigeria wouldn’t be exceptional. These three groups are mainly the reason for this piece, though the stance of the security outfits cannot be possibly overlooked.
We have been reliably informed by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) that about ninety one registered political parties would be participating in the elections scheduled to take place on February 16 and March 2, 2019, respectively.
These parties alongside their respective flag-bearers need to take into cognizance that their activities before, during and after the polls will go a long way in communicating to the electorate what they are really made up of and their real intentions.
The various parties are the main players in the pitch, hence the way and manner they play the ball as well as dribble their rivals would determine the amount of followers to be attracted to them. It suffices to enthuse that if they refused to play well or reasonably, they are liable to lose millions of fans among the spectators.
On the ballot papers meant for the contest, what is legibly written are the names/acronyms of the various political parties vying for the available positions, not the names of the recognized contestants. Thus, political wise, the electorate cast their respective votes in support of the parties as disclosed on the ballot papers, not the politicians or flag-bearers.
Acknowledging the above indisputable fact, each of the parties are expected to conduct itself in a manner where people would see it as the most suitable party for the posts being contested for. It’s noteworthy that the way they dress would surely determine how the viewers would address them.
It is primarily the duty of the parties to market or advertise the aspirants in a mature pattern, to enable them attract large and good number of prospective buyers to their shops. If the shops or products are not looking attractive and sound, no reasonable buyer will walk up to them or be moved by the wares let alone making a purchase. There are no two ways about it.
On their part, the electorate must be mindful of the product they intend to purchase. They must note that “all that glitters is not gold”. That a certain shop or ware is very attractive doesn’t actually mean the content is good or sound enough for consumption. This implies that the electorate must not only be watchful, but equally careful and cautious.
As the parties go about marketing their various flag-bearers, the electorate need to be prepared to get very close to the aspirants with a view to assessing them thoroughly and carefully towards ascertaining the qualities they truly possess.
So, don’t be deceived. And, in order not to be carried away by deceit, you need to know what you really want or desire. One who doesn’t know what he/she actually desires would be easily cajoled into purchasing the wrong product or brand. You must, therefore, discover your desire and stick to it.
Inter alia, the electorate are also urged to realize their needs. There is a great dichotomy between want and need. What a certain set of people want might only quench their personal/individual thirsts, but their need will surely satisfy the urge of the entire constituency, state, or country, as the case may be. Hence, one’s need supersedes his/her want. You are by this exegesis enjoined to go only for your needs at all cost.
The electoral umpire, the INEC, is not left out. You are the referee in this pitch, thus shouldn’t be reminded that all eyes are on you. You are, therefore, required to settle any score without sentiments. Your neutrality must not be compromised or in doubt. You must remain neutral, impartial and strict, no matter whose ox is gored.
Do not mortgage the future of our constituencies, states, or country for a mere pot of porridge yam. Posterity will undoubtedly judge you if you walk on the wrong path, and sooner and later, you would be disgraced in the public sphere. Be duly notified that no one will ever escape from the Law of Karma. It’s a law that has come to stay, hence absolutely nothing will truncate its existence.
Like I hinted earlier, the security outfits are equally part of this ritual. You have been contracted by the Nigerian people to ensure absolute calmness and peace as long as the exercise lasts, thus the citizenry aren’t expecting any excuses from you irrespective of the circumstance. If you ceased to be patriotic in carrying out the consignment, then you aren’t good or needed for the job.
Before we embrace the long awaited polls, we mustn’t be reminded that Nigeria as a country doesn’t need second best, but second to none. Think about it!
Comrade Nwaozor, National Coordinator of
Right Thinkers Movement writes via
frednwaozor@gmail.com
The last time I checked, Nigerians in their entirety could not wait to embrace the 2019 general elections which are already by the corner. Before now, they waited patiently to witness this epochal moment.
As Nigerians in their number are basked in the ecstasy that accompanies the long awaited national ritual, before they eventually embrace the D-day, there are prime inevitable factors that mustn’t be swept under the carpet by the key actors of the impending exercise.
In any political clime across the globe, the major actors remain the political parties, electoral umpire and the electorate, hence that of Nigeria wouldn’t be exceptional. These three groups are mainly the reason for this piece, though the stance of the security outfits cannot be possibly overlooked.
We have been reliably informed by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) that about ninety one registered political parties would be participating in the elections scheduled to take place on February 16 and March 2, 2019, respectively.
These parties alongside their respective flag-bearers need to take into cognizance that their activities before, during and after the polls will go a long way in communicating to the electorate what they are really made up of and their real intentions.
The various parties are the main players in the pitch, hence the way and manner they play the ball as well as dribble their rivals would determine the amount of followers to be attracted to them. It suffices to enthuse that if they refused to play well or reasonably, they are liable to lose millions of fans among the spectators.
On the ballot papers meant for the contest, what is legibly written are the names/acronyms of the various political parties vying for the available positions, not the names of the recognized contestants. Thus, political wise, the electorate cast their respective votes in support of the parties as disclosed on the ballot papers, not the politicians or flag-bearers.
Acknowledging the above indisputable fact, each of the parties are expected to conduct itself in a manner where people would see it as the most suitable party for the posts being contested for. It’s noteworthy that the way they dress would surely determine how the viewers would address them.
It is primarily the duty of the parties to market or advertise the aspirants in a mature pattern, to enable them attract large and good number of prospective buyers to their shops. If the shops or products are not looking attractive and sound, no reasonable buyer will walk up to them or be moved by the wares let alone making a purchase. There are no two ways about it.
On their part, the electorate must be mindful of the product they intend to purchase. They must note that “all that glitters is not gold”. That a certain shop or ware is very attractive doesn’t actually mean the content is good or sound enough for consumption. This implies that the electorate must not only be watchful, but equally careful and cautious.
As the parties go about marketing their various flag-bearers, the electorate need to be prepared to get very close to the aspirants with a view to assessing them thoroughly and carefully towards ascertaining the qualities they truly possess.
So, don’t be deceived. And, in order not to be carried away by deceit, you need to know what you really want or desire. One who doesn’t know what he/she actually desires would be easily cajoled into purchasing the wrong product or brand. You must, therefore, discover your desire and stick to it.
Inter alia, the electorate are also urged to realize their needs. There is a great dichotomy between want and need. What a certain set of people want might only quench their personal/individual thirsts, but their need will surely satisfy the urge of the entire constituency, state, or country, as the case may be. Hence, one’s need supersedes his/her want. You are by this exegesis enjoined to go only for your needs at all cost.
The electoral umpire, the INEC, is not left out. You are the referee in this pitch, thus shouldn’t be reminded that all eyes are on you. You are, therefore, required to settle any score without sentiments. Your neutrality must not be compromised or in doubt. You must remain neutral, impartial and strict, no matter whose ox is gored.
Do not mortgage the future of our constituencies, states, or country for a mere pot of porridge yam. Posterity will undoubtedly judge you if you walk on the wrong path, and sooner and later, you would be disgraced in the public sphere. Be duly notified that no one will ever escape from the Law of Karma. It’s a law that has come to stay, hence absolutely nothing will truncate its existence.
Like I hinted earlier, the security outfits are equally part of this ritual. You have been contracted by the Nigerian people to ensure absolute calmness and peace as long as the exercise lasts, thus the citizenry aren’t expecting any excuses from you irrespective of the circumstance. If you ceased to be patriotic in carrying out the consignment, then you aren’t good or needed for the job.
Before we embrace the long awaited polls, we mustn’t be reminded that Nigeria as a country doesn’t need second best, but second to none. Think about it!
Comrade Nwaozor, National Coordinator of
Right Thinkers Movement writes via
frednwaozor@gmail.com
Opinion I Senate As Retirement Hub For Governors
By Fred Nwaozor
As a growing child, I strongly nurtured the concept that if I eventually joined politics in future, I would like to serve in the Senate whereby I would be involved in making national laws and opportune to be addressed as Senator.
But it seems currently, I’m gradually losing that dream, which I once nurtured with great passion and vigour. The loss of interest might not be unconnected with the ongoing trending across the federation I’ve taken time to observe.
With all due respect, the continued melodrama being displayed by our serving governors has ostensibly made the revered Red Chamber of the National Assembly (NASS) to inadvertently lose its honour by the day. My choice of words ought to be considered apt if you make a bit effort to be in my humble shoes.
I wouldn’t be informing us if I say our various serving governors have made the Senate to be seen as their retirement hub. Virtually all wants to land in the NASS’ upper chamber having handed over as the Executive Governor of his State. This glaring situation is pathetically fast becoming a norm.
It has amusingly continued unabated that any governor who’s serving his second term and almost completing the tenure wouldn’t hesitate to start dreaming how he would be addressed as a senator the moment he left office. They continually think in this direction as if it has become statutory for them to vacate the Government House for the Senate upon the expiration of their tenures.
The question remains: how did we get here or who actually initiated this? Aside ascertaining the brain behind the initiative, there’s equally need to realize the reason the electorate are yet to question – in its entirety – this practice, which has succeeded in truncating the chances of ‘virgin’ Nigerians securing a senatorial seat.
As the purported political tradition lingers, most concerned analysts are engulfed in uncertainties as they ceaselessly argue that there’s no good side of the unending practice. According to this set of thinkers, the system is unwittingly throwing normalcy to the dust by allowing a few gladiators to hijack what belongs to all. I concur wholly with this school of thought, hence deeply perturbed about the existence of the uncalled act.
As I keenly observe the intrigues and intricacies surrounding the perverted political system, I can’t help but remain sober. The unfriendly ripples emanating from the anomaly is enough reason to worry over the future of our nascent democracy. This, therefore, calls for an alarm from any well meaning onlooker.
It becomes more worrisome when realized that any of the said politicians who intends to retire to his country home, or outside the Senate, after serving as a governor is strongly ‘scolded’ by his teeming followers for nurturing such interest let alone disclosing it. This implies that the followers are partly, if not mainly, the reason the leaders have apparently chosen to remain the bidders while the former continue to clap with their teeth widely open.
It’s so sad, to assert the least, that no Nigerian politician – on the average – wishes to retire having served ‘successfully’ in a certain position of authority; rather, he would want to taste virtually every other political post as he leaves office. This has abruptly become a recurring decimal among these politicos. One could boldly opine that this is an aberration.
Retirement is a good thing that every right thinking person should yearn for. It is a time when an individual is required to take a resounding rest having meritoriously served in a particular position within a given duration. Such a period in one’s life deserves to be celebrated by all and sundry. But it’s absurd that in this part of the world, people fear to go for such rest.
On the part of the civil servants, particularly the state employees, their fear is understandable. They are invariably afraid to embrace retirement owing to the fact that receiving their pensions, and even gratuities, would be far-fetched. So, in this case, we are moved to sympathize with this class of persons.
But in the case of the politicians who may have acquired ‘all’ while in office, such fear of the unknown is laughable, thus not in any way acceptable. Funnily enough, these past governors would gladly collect pensions while serving as senators. How do we reconcile this?
My prime worry and furry is that the country’s revered Senate is fast becoming a retirement ground for our various politicians. Lawmaking which is a very critical and sensitive activity, hence supposed to be reserved strictly for only ‘fresh bloods’, is now seen as a duty meant for retirees. This ugly development is mischievously implying that our young ones cannot handle the said portfolio as expected. What a nation!
We cannot continue to mortgage our collective future for a mere pot of porridge yam. It’s conspicuously high time the youth rose up from this slumber that has already unequivocally consumed their fortune. This arrant apathy, or perhaps ignorance, that smacks of cowardice, ought to be wholly terminated headlong.
As I weep on this rostrum, I don’t seek for one that would wipe the tears but someone who would truly and fully comprehend the real essence of the sobriety. Think about it!
Comrade Nwaozor, National Coordinator of
Right Thinkers Movement, writes via
frednwaozor@gmail.com
As a growing child, I strongly nurtured the concept that if I eventually joined politics in future, I would like to serve in the Senate whereby I would be involved in making national laws and opportune to be addressed as Senator.
But it seems currently, I’m gradually losing that dream, which I once nurtured with great passion and vigour. The loss of interest might not be unconnected with the ongoing trending across the federation I’ve taken time to observe.
With all due respect, the continued melodrama being displayed by our serving governors has ostensibly made the revered Red Chamber of the National Assembly (NASS) to inadvertently lose its honour by the day. My choice of words ought to be considered apt if you make a bit effort to be in my humble shoes.
I wouldn’t be informing us if I say our various serving governors have made the Senate to be seen as their retirement hub. Virtually all wants to land in the NASS’ upper chamber having handed over as the Executive Governor of his State. This glaring situation is pathetically fast becoming a norm.
It has amusingly continued unabated that any governor who’s serving his second term and almost completing the tenure wouldn’t hesitate to start dreaming how he would be addressed as a senator the moment he left office. They continually think in this direction as if it has become statutory for them to vacate the Government House for the Senate upon the expiration of their tenures.
The question remains: how did we get here or who actually initiated this? Aside ascertaining the brain behind the initiative, there’s equally need to realize the reason the electorate are yet to question – in its entirety – this practice, which has succeeded in truncating the chances of ‘virgin’ Nigerians securing a senatorial seat.
As the purported political tradition lingers, most concerned analysts are engulfed in uncertainties as they ceaselessly argue that there’s no good side of the unending practice. According to this set of thinkers, the system is unwittingly throwing normalcy to the dust by allowing a few gladiators to hijack what belongs to all. I concur wholly with this school of thought, hence deeply perturbed about the existence of the uncalled act.
As I keenly observe the intrigues and intricacies surrounding the perverted political system, I can’t help but remain sober. The unfriendly ripples emanating from the anomaly is enough reason to worry over the future of our nascent democracy. This, therefore, calls for an alarm from any well meaning onlooker.
It becomes more worrisome when realized that any of the said politicians who intends to retire to his country home, or outside the Senate, after serving as a governor is strongly ‘scolded’ by his teeming followers for nurturing such interest let alone disclosing it. This implies that the followers are partly, if not mainly, the reason the leaders have apparently chosen to remain the bidders while the former continue to clap with their teeth widely open.
It’s so sad, to assert the least, that no Nigerian politician – on the average – wishes to retire having served ‘successfully’ in a certain position of authority; rather, he would want to taste virtually every other political post as he leaves office. This has abruptly become a recurring decimal among these politicos. One could boldly opine that this is an aberration.
Retirement is a good thing that every right thinking person should yearn for. It is a time when an individual is required to take a resounding rest having meritoriously served in a particular position within a given duration. Such a period in one’s life deserves to be celebrated by all and sundry. But it’s absurd that in this part of the world, people fear to go for such rest.
On the part of the civil servants, particularly the state employees, their fear is understandable. They are invariably afraid to embrace retirement owing to the fact that receiving their pensions, and even gratuities, would be far-fetched. So, in this case, we are moved to sympathize with this class of persons.
But in the case of the politicians who may have acquired ‘all’ while in office, such fear of the unknown is laughable, thus not in any way acceptable. Funnily enough, these past governors would gladly collect pensions while serving as senators. How do we reconcile this?
My prime worry and furry is that the country’s revered Senate is fast becoming a retirement ground for our various politicians. Lawmaking which is a very critical and sensitive activity, hence supposed to be reserved strictly for only ‘fresh bloods’, is now seen as a duty meant for retirees. This ugly development is mischievously implying that our young ones cannot handle the said portfolio as expected. What a nation!
We cannot continue to mortgage our collective future for a mere pot of porridge yam. It’s conspicuously high time the youth rose up from this slumber that has already unequivocally consumed their fortune. This arrant apathy, or perhaps ignorance, that smacks of cowardice, ought to be wholly terminated headlong.
As I weep on this rostrum, I don’t seek for one that would wipe the tears but someone who would truly and fully comprehend the real essence of the sobriety. Think about it!
Comrade Nwaozor, National Coordinator of
Right Thinkers Movement, writes via
frednwaozor@gmail.com
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UZODINMA AND BUHARI’S ‘WORKING VISIT’ TO IMO
by Fred Nwaozor The last time I checked, Imo was conspicuously at it again, hence needs to be re-examined by all-concerned for the good ...
