Category: General News

Change

By Oluwafunke Ishola 

Lagos, June 12, 2024 (NAN) A Non-Governmental Organisation, the Benjamin Olowojebutu Foundation (BOF) on Wednesday urged Nigerians to be the change they desired in their sphere of influence to birth a better and prosperous country.

Dr Benjamin Olowojebutu, the Founder of BOF and also the first Vice-President, NMA, made the appeal in a message in commemoration of Nigeria’s Democracy Day Celebration.

Olowojebutu said that growing needs and urgent demands made it imperative for citizens to become the change they sought.

“Can we genuinely itemise the changes we seek in the various constituencies of human endeavours we currently represent – academia, medicine, technology, military, sport, religion, business, politics.

“We have a long list of changes compiled in our minds, with strong expectations that someday the government and other revered people will make those changes and correct the aged errors.

“Pathetically, we have lived in the cocoon of such expectations for decades; hoping, trusting, assuming, and waiting, sadly wasting our precious time in anticipation of a nonexistent saviour to calm our frayed nerves and turn the tide of things,” he said. 

According to him, mere prayer and faith for a better society without a corresponding work will produce futile and inept results. 

The NGO founder said: “I had a foretaste of this in the most profound and life-changing manner. 

“For years, I have dutifully dispensed my medical expertise to people of all ages and classes. I have diligently observed certain lacuna and inefficiencies that I expected the government to address in our healthcare system.

“But a single event changed my paradigm. One fateful day in 2016, a drunk driver recklessly hit my car. This head-on collision resulted in a fatal accident. 

“I broke my right femur and was assisted to the hospital by some good Samaritans. I was not attended to for hours at the hospital – my vital signs were not taken, nor was I assigned a bed. 

“Gradually, life was seeping out of me. Strangely, the doctors were ready to refer me to another medical facility until my wife and colleagues intervened by wielding their influence and connections.

“This swung the CMD into action, and graciously, I was attended to. 

“However, this encounter spurred an unanswered question, “What would have happened if I was just a peasant farmer?” 

Olowojebutu noted that the experience made him reevaluate his expectations and contributions to humanity, leading to the birth of the Benjamin Olowojebutu Foundation (BOF).

“As a non-profit organisation, BOF has conducted over 10,000 surgeries for indigent people free of charge. Giving hope to helpless people across the six geo-political zones of our nation.

“Previously, I never thought that was possible. Until I dared to start it alone. As an individual, we are more powerful and capable than we thought.

“However, to harness this inherent power, we must see things differently – seeing ourselves as the change we seek is a game changer while seeing ourselves as victims or mere commentators is a ship-sinker,” he said. 

Olowojebutu emphasised that to become nation-builders, citizens must improve their thought patterns, level of participation and commitment to achieve a better and prosperous Nigeria and Africa.

BOF is a NGO which gives the less- privileged in Africa access to healthcare.

It intervenes in fibroid treatment and removal; breast lump screening and removal; lipoma treatment and removal, hernia screening and removal, among others. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

AIO/CHOM/COF

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Edited by Chioma Ugboma/Christiana Fadare

Democracy Day: Troupe unveils world largest painting portrait of Tinubu

Portrait

By Sumaila Ogbaje

Abuja, June 12, 2024 (NAN) The National Troupe of Nigeria on Wednesday unveiled a large painting portrait of President Bola Tinubu, during the Democracy Day Celebration at Eagle Square, Abuja.

As announced, the portrait project was initiated by the Artifact Gallery, Best Theatre Company and the National Council for Arts and Culture.

The portrait of the President is said to be the world’s largest painting portrait on canvas.

The unveiling of the portrait is one of the thrilling activities to celebrate the nation’s democratic journey in the last 25 years.

The event had a massive turnout of top government functionaries, security chiefs, members of diplomatic corps, among other dignitaries. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

OYS/FON/AMM

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Edited by Florence Onuegbu and Abiemwense Moru

Ogun’ll continue to uphold MKO Abiola’s vision – Abiodun

June 12

By Abiodun Lawal

Abeokuta, June 12, 2024 (NAN) Gov. Dapo Abiodun of Ogun says the state government will continue to uphold the vision and desires of late Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (MKO) Abiola.

Abiodun said this on Wednesday, during a special memorial prayer held at the Abiolas’ family house, in Oja Agbo, Gbagura, Abeokuta, in honour of the late politician and business mogul.

Abiola was the presumed winner of the June 12, 1993, presidential election, annulled by the then military government.

The election, despite its annulment, has been described as the freest and fairest in Nigeria’s history.

Abiola, unhappy with the annulment, later declared himself president, which led to his arrest and subsequent detention by the then military government.

He died in detention on July 7, 1998.

Former President Muhammadu Buhari, in 2018, decided to change the celebration of Democracy Day from May 29 to June 12 in recognition of the 1993 election, adjudged freest and fairest in the nation’s history.

He also conferred on Abiola, posthumously, the highest national award.

Abiodun, represented by his Deputy, Noimot Salako-Oyedele, at Wednesday’s prayer session, said that the late MKO wanted the best for everybody, when he was alive, regardless of ethnicity or religion .

“We are here to honour late MKO and pray for his soul and also celebrate 25 years of unbroken democracy in the country,” he said.

Abiodun explained that democracy had continued to thrive in Nigeria, as it had accorded the people the best leadership.

“We will continue to uphold what MKO believed in; democracy has continue to thrive.

“Democracy is what will give our people the best leadership,” he said.

The governor appreciated President Bola Tinubu for what he had done to better the lots of Nigerians, urging citizens to pray for the progress of the country.

Speaking on behalf of the Abiola family, one of his sons, Ameen Abiola, appreciated the state and the federal government for always celebrating his father, after his death.

He appreciated Ogun government for preserving the heritage of Abiola’s family.

In his sermon at the memorial prayer, Alhaji Daud Toriola, Mufasir Egba Agura, described the late MKO Abiola as one of the greatest philanthropists the nation had ever produced.

Toriola prayed for the late business mogul, the state and Nigeria.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng).

LKA/FON/SOA

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Edited by Florence Onuegbu/Oluwole Sogunle

Democracy

By Alex Enebeli

Enugu, June 12, 2024 ( NAN) Gov. Peter Mbah of Enugu State says democracy remains the best form of government in spite of the teething challenges the country is currently facing.

Mbah stated this in his Democracy Day message to the people of the state on Wednesday in Enugu.

While congratulating the Enugu people and Nigerians in general, the governor said democracy still remained the best form of government globally.

Mbah, who described June 12 as a watershed in the nation’s democratic struggles, also paid tributes to notable Nigerians, including Chief Moshood Abiola and President Bola Tinubu, for their contributions to the enthronement of the current democratic dispensation.

“As our nation celebrates Democracy Day today, I felicitate with Enugu people and all Nigerians on this momentous milestone in Nigeria’s history.

“June 12 is a watershed moment for our democracy, the protracted struggle for it and ultimately, the democratic freedoms that we take for granted today.

“So, today is an occasion for us to call to mind the sacrifices of everyone, living or dead, who played diverse roles in ensuring that democracy blossoms in Nigeria,” he said.

He, however, paid a special tribute to Chief MKO Abiola, Chief Gani Fawehinmi, Rear Admiral Ndubuisi Kanu, and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, among a host of others, for their heroic contributions in the struggle.

“I enjoin everyone to let our commitment to upholding the democratic culture be renewed by the memory of the price we paid for democracy.

“There is no doubt that our democracy may be experiencing some floundering steps and challenges but it, nonetheless, remains the best form of government that guarantees prosperity for all.

“Indeed, today is also a fitting occasion to restate my commitment to improving the lives of Enugu people and to set the state on a firm path of progress,” he promised. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

AAE/CHOM/MNA

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Edited by Chioma Ugboma/Maureen Atuonwu

Democracy: Commissioner, others laud uninterrupted process, suggest reorientation on patriotism

Democracy

By Polycarp Auta/Martins Abochol/Zainab Oyekan

Mr Musa Ashoms, the Commissioner for Information and Communication in Plateau, says periodic elections and smooth change of democratic system have remained top positive sides of Nigeria’s democratic journey since 1999.

Ashoms told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), on Wednesday in Jos, that the transition from military to civilian rule had been a major achievement for Nigeria in the last 25 years.

“Nigeria has made significant strides in transitioning from military rule to civilian governance, with regular elections being held since the return to democratic rule in 1999.

“The country has seen peaceful transitions of power from one civilian government to another, which is a positive sign for democracy,” he said.

The commissioner however, said that the country had no doubt witnessed some setbacks in the period under review.

He listed some of the challenges to include electoral malpractices, insecurity and corruption, among others.

“There are also notable challenges that Nigeria has faced; issues such as political corruption, electoral irregularities, insecurity, and a lack of accountability, have all posed significant threats to the democratic process.

“These challenges have often impeded the country’s overall democratic development and undermined the trust of the Nigerian people in their government institutions.

“It is important to acknowledge that building a strong and vibrant democracy is a continuous process that requires commitment, transparency, and active participation from all stakeholders.

“While Nigeria has made progress in some areas, there is still work to be done to address the systemic issues that hinder the full realisation of a robust democratic system in the country,” he said.

Ashoms, however, noted that through sustained efforts to strengthen democratic institutions promote the rule of law, fight corruption, and ensure the inclusion of all citizens in the political process, Nigeria could further improve its democratic credentials in the coming years.

Meanwhile in Jalingo, Dr Yakubu Tor-Agbidye, a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), said Nigerians would need a total a reorientation towards patriotism.

Tor-Agbidye, the senatorial candidate of APC in the 2019 election, said that patriotism would address a lot of ills ranging from corruption, indiscipline, adherence to the rule of law, amongst others.

According to him however, Nigeria has grown, as 25 years of uninterrupted democracy was a landmark in the country’s democratic journey.

He also called on Nigerians to contribute their quota towards making Nigeria great again, as good governance was not the sole business of the leaders, adding that every citizen had a duty to contribute to good governance and the country’s growth.

He recommended the strengthening of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), and the appointment of right people to sensitise the citizens on values and patriotism.

“We must thank God for keeping us as one people from independence till date; and we appreciate God for a sustainable democracy for 25 years.

“It is common knowledge that a child of 25 years attains maturity and therefore, our democracy is a matured one.

“We need to change our attitude towards governance, and the psychosocial requirement needed is a reorientation towards patriotism.

“If you are a patriot, you must shun corruption, adhere to the rule of law and have respect for human dignity.

“We as citizens have our duty to shape governance and not by thinking government should do everything alone.

“Let us rededicate our vision for a prosperous nation as such can enhance our democratic system,” Tor-Agbidye said.

Also speaking, Mr Gambo Usman, State Coordinator, Congress for Democratic Advancement (CDA), a Taraba-based prodemocracy group said that Nigeria needed a good leadership to turn around its fortunes.

Usman said that the essence of leadership, which was ensuring the wellbeing of the people, had however, been jettisoned, giving room for agitations.

“Nigerians were complaining about Buhari and are still complaining about Tinubu today.

“This shows that our major problem is leadership, and we must team up to get the right leadership,” he said.

Mr Ben Adaji, a veteran journalist, said that most sectors were not performing up to their expectations.

Adaji said that the judiciary and the anti corruption agencies were not effective in the discharge of their duties.

He however, said that a 25-year-old democracy was expected to be strong enough to address poverty and underdevelopment. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

AZA/MK/OIZ/DOR

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Edited by Nyisom Fiyigon Dore

Democracy: Nigerians call for 6 yrs rotational system of govt.

Democracy

By Blessing Odega/Onyeje Joel-Abutu/Nicholas Dechi

Jos, June 12, 2024 (NAN) A cross section of Nigerians from the civil society, media and civil service, have called for a single tenure of six years and rotational system of government to improve Nigeria’s democracy.

The respondents, who spoke in separate interviews with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), on Wednesday, said unless the country reviewed its system of governance, dividends of democracy would continue to elude Nigerians.

Mr Uche Nnorom, a Makurdi-based Journalist, said wrong leadership and bad governance had continued to the bane of Nigeria’s underdevelopment.

According to Nnorom, leaders would be challenged to provide good leadership within six years and leave the stage for others because their for a second term tenure often leads to compromise and corrupt tendencies.

He said they would have enough time to concentrate on the business of governance and would not be forced to dance to the tune of hungry politicians who they would be trusting to help realise their second term ambition.

He said it was unfortunate that Nigerian leaders over the years had continued to be insensitive to the needs and yearnings of their people.

“They contest with selfish motives, and to achieve their goals, they always have to collude with INEC (Independent National Electoral Commission) and the judiciary,’’ he said.

Nnorom therefore, urged leaders to ensure transparency, fairness and justice in leadership, as well as put measures in place to cushion the effects of any economic policies they might formulate in the overall interest of the citizens.

On his part, civil society activist, Mr Steve Aluko, called on the government at all levels to strengthen democracy in Nigeria by prioritising good governance, transparency and accountability, tackle corruption and also promote the rule of law at all levels.

Aluko, the Director, Civil Liberties Organisation (CLO), told NAN in Jos, that the legislature, judiciary and executive arms of government had all failed Nigerians.

According to him, the legislature, since 1999, has not passed any bill that will benefit the common man, such as the bill to make Local Governments (LGs) autonomous.

He further said that most of the bills passed by the legislators rather fell short of the expectations of the masses.

He also berated the governors for failing to conduct LG elections in their states, an act he described as contrary to democratic principles.

Aluko also accused INEC, which he said should serve as a critical instrument in ensuring an unbiased democratic process, of being compromised repeatedly.

“If the process is already compromised, then the product cannot be better off than the process itself,’’ he said.

The activist, also in the same vein, said the judiciary had also done more harm than dispensing justice as most of the progressive judgments judges passed were reversed.

He urged the judiciary to as a matter of urgency work towards redeeming its image, as Nigerians had lost confidence in the courts because the culture of impunity had taken over the justice process.

On the part of the executive, Aluko called on the government to ensure citizens were provided with basic social needs, particularly in the area of protection of lives and properties as insecurity in the country had heightened in the last 25 years.

Others who aired their views on Nigeria’s 25 years of democracy had been marred by the decisions of INEC and the judiciary.

They blamed the two bodies for government failures in delivering dividends of democracy to Nigerians.

Mr Attah Edeh said INEC and the judiciary had not managed Nigeria’s nascent democracy well with its controversial results and judgments which had brought in some bad leaders and had led to untold hardships on Nigerians.

Edeh said: “INEC always clears unqualified candidates to contest election, and when the electorate exercise their power by voting qualified persons, INEC will still declare the unqualified ones as winners and ask the aggrieved parties to go to court.

“It is a vicious circle that has stagnated democracy in Nigeria for 25 good years”, Edeh said.

Also, some civil servants expressed dissatisfaction with Nigeria’s democratic journey so far, especially as it concerned workers.

According to Mr Stephen Yohol, year after year, the emoluments of civil servants have remained stagnant, while those of politicians or public office holders keep increasing.

Yohol said that the economy of the country also kept depreciating on a daily basis for the past 25 years.

Mrs Veronica Ayoosu and Mr Joseph Bagu, on their part, said that Nigerians had not derived any benefits since the return of the country to democracy in the last 25 years, instead they had continued to face many challenges.

Ayoosu and Bagu said most civil servants across the country were currently finding it difficult to feed their families and the government did not appear to be doing something about it. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

UBO/ONA/DND/DOR

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Edited by Nyisom Fiyigon Dore

The future of Nigeria’s democracy is bright – Kano Speaker

Democracy

By Muhammad Nur Tijani

Kano, June 12, 2024 (NAN) The Speaker, Kano State House of Assembly, Mr Jibril Falgore has declared that the future of democracy in Nigeria is very bright.

Falgore stated this on Wednesday in a statement by his media aide, Kamaluddeen Shawai, to mark the 2024 Democracy Day.

According to Falgore, the future of Kano State and Nigeria shines brightly, considering the progress made from 1999 to date.

“We have much to celebrate as we have come a long way since 1999, despite significant challenges, we have leveraged our indigenous strengths to achieve worthy milestones, particularly in the areas of quality legislation and good governance.

“We assure the good people of Kano State of our commitment and dedication to enacting quality legislation that enhances the living standards of our populace, notably in areas impacting youth and women,” he said.

While acknowledging the economic hardship being experienced by Nigerians, Falgore enjoined the people to show more resilience and pray for peace, stability and prosperity in the country. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

MNT/RSA

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Edited by Rabiu Sani-Ali