Okorocha and His Fascinating Amnesty Committee

OKOROCHA AND HIS FASCINATING AMNESTY COMMITTEE

       The last time I checked, peace remained the key factor towards attaining every developmental stride in any society. This is the reason every rational leader invariably makes a frantic effort to sustain peace. Sure, a peaceful atmosphere brings absolute unity among the citizenry, and it is only formidable oneness that yields the anticipated societal uplift.

       It was against this backdrop that the Imo State governor, Chief Rochas Okorocha thought it wise to ensure that the various militant activities ravaging the state’s socio-economic status were put to a stop. And, his giant stride in that regard saw the light of the day few weeks ago when hundreds of members of the said group jettisoned their weapons and ammunitions before the governor, among other security chiefs in the ancient state, at the Government House Owerri.

       The aforementioned gesture was obviously greeted by series of commendations by not just Imolites, but every well meaning individual across the country. In the piece I did in respect to the accomplishment titled “Imo, the militants and Okorocha’s stride”, which was published on this column, I categorically made it clear that, by that achievement, other leaders in the country wouldn’t hesitate to consult Gov. Okorocha on how best to handle cases pertaining to insurgency coupled with other security issues. I equally advised the governor to hasten up toward ensuring that the grievances of the repentant militants were addressed in earnest.

       This could be the reason the governor thought it wise to set up an amnesty committee penultimate week, precisely on Monday 26^th September 2016. It’s very fascinating to acknowledge that the number one citizen appointed his amiable wife, Mrs. Nkechi Okorocha to chair the said committee. This singular action was widely greeted by mixed feelings and counter reactions among the citizens of the state and its environs.

       Undoubtedly, it is mind-boggling, perhaps interesting to note that the governor made his wife the boss of that very sensitive and critical committee. Personally, I was shock when I got the news while in Lagos State. First, I asked myself what could have propelled the governor to act in such direction. We are not unaware that the office of the first lady of any state or country, as might be the case, is loaded with enormous responsibilities concerning governance, and that of Imo isn’t exceptional. Hence, appointing a first lady to man such essential committee is, to say the least, not unlike causing more harm than good to the office in question.

       We have thousands of Imolites who can go extra mile to ensure that they get the best if given the chance to serve in such capacity. So, why weren’t suchlike persons called to fit in, rather than complicating the First Lady’s office? It’s high time our leaders started learning how to fish out good heads amidst the hidden. There are several trustworthy and competent citizens who are eagerly willing and ready to contribute their quota, even if they stand to gain nothing while in the position.

       However, lest I forget, it’s worth noting that the governor’s action was solely informed by the motive to ensure that the committee served effectively and efficiently so that at the end of the day, only success would be recorded, and not for any selfish interest as being presumed in most quarters. From my point of view as an analyst, the governor wanted someone that wouldn’t tender excuses in the long run; hence, he decided to appoint his bedmate so that he would continually, even at night, remind her how crucial the committee is, thus ought to be treated as such.

       Having acknowledged the above assertion, let’s go straight to the business of the day. First and foremost, we must understand that the governor meant well for the state; that’s why he apparently had sleepless nights during the era the militants were ravaging every facet of the state’s wellbeing. Someone who possesses such intent or political will wouldn’t like to disappoint the insurgents having surrendered their arms as demanded. In other words, he would ostensibly stop at nothing towards ensuring that the needful is done headlong. This is equally the reason he dissolved the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) existing between the various communities and the oil firms operating in the state, so that, a more viable one would be reestablished.

       To this end, I wish to make it very clear that the amnesty committee means well for the aggrieved faction of the state, and Imolites in general; suffice it to say that it requires the contribution of all and sundry toward recording nothing but complete success prior to the end of its assignment. The ad-hoc committee is requested to submit its comprehensive report in three months time. Ninety days could be long, but it’s indeed a very short interval considering the terms of reference of the committee. In view of this, its members are not expected to embrace a moment of rest till they are done with the concernment. This is why I didn’t find it conducive and ideal involving the First lady, let alone making her the Chairperson.

       Notwithstanding, the deed has already been done, thus all we look forward to, right now, is the way forward. The committee members needn’t be told that all eyes are currently on them, and that people’s expectations are very high, thus are expected to sacrifice anything with a view to coming up with the best result. They should take time to visit each of the affected communities, and endeavour to have one-on-one interactions with their residents. They mustn’t depend on assumptions. This measure would go a long way to ensuring that their findings are holistic and candid. 

       The point remains that, the fascinating amnesty committee would determine the fate of the state in areas of peace, security and conflict resolution, thus its members mustn’t take it for granted, considering the fact that no state/society can strive successfully if it lacks the aforementioned factors. Think about it!

Comr Fred Doc Nwaozor

(TheMediaAmbassador)

-Researcher, Blogger, Public Affairs analyst & Civil Rights activist-

Chief Executive Director, Centre for Counselling, Research

& Career Development - Owerri

_____________________________________

frednwaozor@gmail.com

Twitter: @mediambassador  

Nigeria @56: Let's Reflect Soberly While We Celebrate!

SOBER REFLECTION AMIDST THE INDEPENDENCE CELEBRATION

       The last time I checked, Nigeria was still filled with ecstasy which isn’t unconnected with the country’s 56^th Independence Day anniversary. It’s pertinent to acknowledge that, at such a time like this, every well meaning individual is required to be equally occupied with sober reflection. Every commemoration calls for thorough analysis and reexamination with a view to addressing some anomalies, if need be, and that of Nigeria’s Independence wouldn’t be an exception.

       It’s not anymore news that this very anniversary is taking place under the President Muhammadu Buhari-led administration, thus everyone beckons to the said leader towards doing the needful. Many would want to know the distance the country had been able to cover ab initio, and the way forward concerning the awaited change. Whilst, some others would be interested in telling Nigerians that the administration hasn’t lived up to the expectations as they presume. The fact is that, whichever way we look at it, a moment of this kind calls for a holistic crosscheck. 

       After several futile attempts to become the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria – the acclaimed giant of Africa, in April 2015, that lofty ambition of General Mohammadu Buhari saw the light of the day to everyone’s greatest amazement. Consequently, on 29^th May 2015, the man in question who was seen as the ‘awaited messiah’ by his numerous fans and friends was sworn in as the fourth democratically elected President in the Fourth Republic.

       Prior to his assumption of office, he stated that his priority agenda, which was centered on ‘Change’, was standing on a tripod comprising anti-corruption, security, and economy. Suffice it to say that, his administration would fight corruption, eradicate various ongoing security threats, particularly the Boko-Haram terrorism, as well as resuscitate the nation’s dying economy.

      So far, President Buhari’s terrorism war has obviously recorded a success. The moment he assumed duty, he ordered the relocation of Army Headquarters from Abuja, the nation’s Capital Territory to Maiduguri, Bornu State – where the Boko-Haram terrorism was on the rampage. This singular measure among others has helped greatly to tackle the said menace. At the moment, the Nigerian Army has recaptured virtually all the territories that were held hostage by the terrorists, including the famous Sambisa Forest which was reckoned to be the terrorists’ den.

       Though the fight against the Boko-Haram sect has recorded tremendous success, it’s pertinent to note that other forms of insecurity have lately emanated in other parts of the country such as the renewed Niger Delta militancy, Biafran agitation, and the Fulani herdsmen scourge. These newly emerged security threats have really succeeded in creating a state of unrest among the entire citizens.

       Regarding corruption, the administration has equally made frantic effort towards ensuring that corruption is reduced to the barest minimum. First, the President initiated the Treasury Single Account (TSA) to curtail leakages witnessed in most quarters, especially in federal Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs). He also succeeded in streamlining the number of federal ministries, with the aim of cutting down bureaucracy which has been the bane of the nation’s democracy, thereby reducing excesses.

       In addition, Mr. President has reawaken the various anti-graft agencies in the country that were almost moribund including the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Independent Corrupt Practices and other related offences Commission (ICPC), Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB), among others. In view of this, various politicians who served in the immediate past administration had been thoroughly investigated, arrested, as well as arraigned, over one alleged corrupt offence or the other. Presently, several prosecutions are taking place in this regard. This step has made most serving public officers across the federation to detest any form of corrupt attitude in order not to fall prey.

       As regards the proposed quest to resuscitate the nation’s economy, the administration has suffered a great setback. Currently, the country is faced with recession, which was apparently occasioned by the various recently implemented inappropriate policies of the administration, although the crisis has been blamed on the past administration led by Dr. Goodluck Jonathan. The ongoing threat to human life as a result of the deteriorating economy has made several critics and commentators to see the ‘change’ mantra as something that needs to be changed in earnest.

       With a view to letting the teeming Nigerians understand their individual roles in the change mantra, recently, on Thursday 8^th September 2016 to be precise, the president launched a reorientation campaign tagged ‘Change begins with me’. The campaign is aimed at making the citizenry comprehend that they must change their respective uncalled attitudes if they truly anticipate positive change in the country. Against this backdrop, many have begged to disagree that change must begin with the electorate; rather, they were of the view that the change is expected to begin from the top, or the leaders.

       One major setback the present administration has suffered from is the various rent-seekers scattered all over the nooks and crannies. It’s very important to acknowledge that many look forward to seeing the downfall of this administration that seemingly means well for the citizens, by intending to reap without sowing. To this end, President Buhari must caution himself very well towards ensuring that he wouldn’t fall victim of betrayal, sabotage, and other related ungodly acts.

       He must ensure that all those in his cabinet, are genuinely ready to bring the desired change. In order words, the president needs to go back to the drawing board toward fishing out the bad eggs within the Presidency. Indeed, there bad eggs, and they must be separated from those who truly mean business; the chaffs must be separated from the grains for us to get it right. He must fish out the rots from the head, if he truly intends to make the overall body/system function appropriately.

       It’s saddening to realize that some so-called stakeholders or statesmen are in support of the quest to sell the national assets. Anyone who supports such intent of insensitivity does not in any way mean well for Nigeria, thus needs to be shown the way out, or be seen as an enemy to the country, as the case may be. We can’t continue to indulge in retrogressive or frivolous issues when we are expected to face the reality squarely. We need to be practical in all our approaches at a critical time like this.

       I beg to disagree that we need the foreigners in order to excel. It’s high time we began to realize that everything required of this country towards the anticipated growth lies within us. All we need to do is to look inwards and know who to work with. This isn’t a time to draw a bold line between political parties. I’m earnestly looking at a situation where anyone could be given the opportunity to serve regardless of his/her political or social affiliations.

       Let’s stop this brain drain that is ravaging the country, and channel the manpower aptly. We have all it takes, so let’s use it. We can’t wait till thy kingdom comes before we start utilizing our available resources. A lot has been said; let a lot be done. Think about it!

      

Comr Fred Doc Nwaozor

(TheMediaAmbassador)

-Researcher, Blogger, Public Affairs analyst & Civil Rights activist-

Chief Executive Director, Centre for Counselling, Research

& Career Development - Owerri

_____________________________________

frednwaozor@gmail.com

Twitter: @mediambassador 

    

As Jonathan's Patience Dances Makossa with EFCC

AS JONATHAN’S PATIENCE DANCES MAKOSSA WITH EFCC

      The last time I checked, the erstwhile Nigerian first lady, Mrs. Dame Patience Jonathan was seriously dancing makossa with the country’s famous anti-graft agency Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), in such a manner that everyone earnestly looks forward to seeing how the fascinating music would end.  

      It’s not anymore news that on 18^th April 2016, upon request by the EFCC, the former Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to ex-President Goodluck Jonathan on Domestic Affairs in the person of Mr. Waripamowei Dudafa was arrested at the Murtala Mohammed International Airport Lagos State by the Nigerian Security Operatives – DSS, over alleged Money Laundering, while attempting to travel out of the country, having evaded arrest on several occasions.

       It was gathered that the aide was on the anti-graft agency’s wanted-list for his alleged involvement in the sharing of #10 billion to delegates during the December 2014 presidential primaries of the then ruling People’s Democratic Party (PDP). Mr. Dudafa allegedly converted the money into US dollars, amounting to $47 million, and distributed it among delegates from the 36 states alongside the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). Investigations revealed that the fund was part of the alleged $2 billion meant for the purchase of arms but which authorities said was shared as slush funds by politicians via the office of the former National Security Adviser (NSA), Sambo Dasuki. It’s noteworthy that the case in question is currently being entertained by the Federal High Court in Lagos State.

      Thereafter, in July, some discovered alleged fraudulent bank accounts worth $31.4 million, linked to the defendant, were frozen by the EFCC, upon court’s directive as claimed by the commission. However, the former First lady Mrs. Patience Jonathan claimed ownership of the frozen accounts, stating that she was the sole signatory to the affected accounts. On 6^th September, she consequently, through her counsel, demanded a court declaration that the respondents have breached her fundamental human rights as a citizen of the Federal Republic of Nigeria by placing a No Debit/Freezing Order on the accounts ‘without any court order’, or ‘serving any prior notice’ to her, thus prayed for #200 million compensation.

      In response to her fascinating claim, the EFCC stated thus, ‘We did not know that the accounts belonged to Patience Jonathan at the time we froze them. The accounts do not bear her name neither do they carry her Bank Verification Number (BVN). So, how can she accuse us of harassment?’ It would interest, perhaps shock you to acknowledge that the four accounts in question, lodged with Skye Bank Plc, are reportedly in the name of four different companies namely, Pluto Property and Investment Company Ltd.; Seagate Property Development and Investment Company Ltd.; Trans Ocean Property and Investment Company Ltd.; as well as Avalon Global Integrated Service Ltd.

      Intriguingly, Mrs. Jonathan had since 2010 been reportedly using the credit cards of the accounts and operating them without any hitch. According to the report, even in May, June and July 2016 respectively, she travelled abroad for medical treatment and was using the cards over there, up till July 7 or thereabouts when the cards cease to function, probably owing to the No Debit Order issued on the accounts. Nevertheless, we reliably learnt that the claimer has written the EFCC amidst the ongoing court proceedings, precisely on 14^th September 2016, ‘begging’ for the ban to be lifted, saying that $15 million out of the $31.4 million in the controversial accounts were for the medical bills she incurred in London, UK in 2013. It’s worthy to note that she have refuted the report, saying that she never wrote the EFCC let alone tendering a plea. Amazing; isn’t it?

      During the last court sitting held in Lagos State by the Federal High Court, the woman in question accused the EFCC of hiring mercenaries to testify against her – a claim which was outrightly rebutted by the latter. In various quarters, many Nigerians were left with no option than to speculate that there must be something very fishy taking place, considering how things are going.

      Well, it’s worth noting that there are fundamental matters arising from the ongoing melodrama scripted by the EFCC and the ex-first lady. First; why were the accounts opened in those companies’ names? Since it is claimed that the accounts possess a sole signatory, why then were they opened with misleading names? Funnily enough, we have learnt that the aforementioned firms lacked addresses; suffice it to say that their localities were not tendered to the bank. We are not unaware that on no ground would a domiciliary corporate account be opened without tendering tangible addresses. So, how do we reconcile this?

       Another pertinent inquiry is: why did the claimer wait for over one month before filing a claim in the law court? According to records, the accounts were frozen in the first week of July, but she filed the claim in the Lagos High Court on September 6; the interval was almost two months, or more, if I’m not mistaken. No matter the degree of the consultations that were made prior to putting up the claim, the duration ought not to have lasted so long, because such issue involving finance required an urgent attention.

       Among all, why would the claimer plead with the EFCC to lift the ban/order while the court is still hearing her appeal, thereby contradicting the ongoing prosecution? Considering that she has refuted the reports, one may ask; did the press just fabricate the purported news? Besides, what kind of medical treatment(s) would result to such amount of money? Though I’m just thinking aloud, all the parties involved really need to look into this complicating angle critically.

      We equally learnt that the EFCC went further to freeze the personal account worth $5 million in Skye Bank belonging to the former first lady, due to its questionable features. It was gathered that the account’s name was ‘Patience Ibifaka Jonathan’. Against this backdrop, some Niger-Delta youths under the auspices of Ijaw Nations Worldwide recently took a protest to the EFCC’s Port-Harcourt office ordering the anti-graft body to, with immediate effect, defreeze the frozen accounts, claiming that the victim acquired her wealth via gifts, gratifications, and what have you.

       As much as I owe the ex-first lady (Jonathan’s Patience) an explicit respect, I would as well like her to comprehend fully that all eyes are on her person as long as this energetic dance lingers. I am strongly convinced that she’s surrounded by many astute legal luminaries, hence I expect her to realize the best comment to make, or action to take, at any given time, and how best to present it. That is one of the rudimentary obligations of one’s lawyer, and not just filing cases at the court of law on his/her behalf and awaiting a victory.

      The EFCC, on its part, must equally be very careful on how it handles the issue. Any sensitive matter in the public domain requires not only experienced hands, but tactical and convincing approach. We must note that Nigerians are keenly and dispassionately watching the makossa dance; and I bet you, they are willing to observe till the end. Think about it!  

           

Comr Fred Doc Nwaozor

(TheMediaAmbassador)

-Public Affairs analyst & Civil Rights activist-

Chief Executive Director, Centre for Counselling, Research

& Career Development - Owerri

_____________________________________

frednwaozor@gmail.com

Twitter: @mediambassador