6th of April, 2013.
Otunba Gbenga Daniel,
Asoludero Court,
GRA, Sagamu
Ogun State,
Nigeria.
Dear Sir,
Today my heart bleeds for you for so many reasons. I recall with joy and sadness the good old days; the era of your transformational efforts, when the wind of development blew through the 20 Local Government areas of the state. How you touched many lives; how you crossed the much-dreaded Ode-Omi river to take the good tidings of your govt to the almost forgotten folks behind the creek which they hearitly appreciated, saying, 'never in history has any government honoured them that way!'
I also recall how you appeared to have been the only person in the history of Nigeria's democracy to pay unemployment allowance to the unemployed youth through OGUGRADS Scheme. It equally saddens my mind to remember how your immediate past govt emerged best in the survey of 6 SouthWest States conducted by Centre for Constitutional Governance (CCG) and the survey's criteria according to CCG included infrastructural development, improved social services, employment generation..
You started and completed 3 international stadiums; built 4 international markets and 10 housing estates. Your administration established OGROMA to restore roads just as OGRUMED restored health and well-being. You built the best NYSC orientation camp and established the first University of Education in Nigeria. You co-facilitated the establishment of the multi-billion Naira OKLNG project with other stakeholders, and on the basis of which you established Gateway Industrial and Petro-Gas Institute, Oni.
You implemented the multi-campus system of OOU by spreading it across the state. Your administration established 4 ICT polytechnics to bring education closer to the doorsteps of common people.
OGEGEP, OSAMCA, Gateway Saving&Loans Limited, Gateway Nigeria Stock Exchange and OPIC are all products of your administration.
This piece is not intended to eulogize or praise you, rather, it's a wake up call to you to be mindful of 3 facts:
- That it pays to do good,
- That people dislike the truth and
- Not to be too confident when people say they're for you, the real question you should ask is, 'until when? Because frankly speaking, just like seasons, people change!
There are many of us out here who genuinely believe your trial is politically motivated. The solidarity visit to you by the likes of Pa Reuben Fasorani, Lanihun Ajayi, Ayo Adebanjo, Dayo Duyile and other 15 Afenifere leaders is a pointer to this fact. If you had been in good terms with the likes of OBJ,your case wouldn't have reached this level.
You could be globe-trotting in a private jet at common man's expenses and still be relevant politically; engaged in massive oil bunkering and even attack a serving governor in public and still be the anointed son of the power-that-be. Chris Uba's case is still fresh in our memories.
However, you still need to thank God, for Atiku's case was worse than yours, when the power that be decided to fraustrate him because of his presidential ambition:
-EFCC and Presidential Panel summoned him severally for questioning over the PTDF fund after which he was denied party re-registration in his home state in October, 2005. He had earlier been suspended from PDP for 3 months before that time.
-Few months after, some of his aides were sacked for inexplicable reasons, leaving him with only two.
-In June, 2006, EFCC invaded the abuja branch of Bank PHB and confiscated Atiku's banking records, same time, his Turaki Campaign office was raided with files and computers taken away.
-Three months after, September 30, 2006, some policemen shot his security aide, Mr Victor Okonkwo, dead, at Uke, Nasarawa State on a highway patrol, and just before this time, his company, Integrated Logistics, had been sealed off!
I urge you to be strong in this seemingly difficult times, knowing fully well that tough times never last, but tough people do.
This dark cloud is passing away!
Saint-Olawale Jimoh
Observers' Reflections International
©2013
Wednesday 20 February 2013
OTUNBA GBENGA DANIEL, OGUN STATE AND THE NUMEROUS ALLEGATIONS. Written by Saint-Olawale Jimoh
I have tried as much as possible not to do this piece, but the more I try not to write it, the more the urge to write keep flooding my mind. Let me start from the outset that this pieces is not intended to pass judgment on anybody, neither is it put together to praise anyone. In fact, it is not in my brief to say either of these, and I believe no mortal has the judgment of another man in his hands. I'm not a politician and I don’t belong to any political party, I'm only a leader of a civil society group and a curious observer of belligerent posture of things in the Gateway State-my State of Origin.
To begin with, I know Ogun State like the back of my hands and I have also followed Otunba Gbenga Daniel's antecedent from the time Newswatch, the weekly news magazine did a story about in him in its 9th November, Edition 1989 (Page 33). The story was authored by Mr Sam Omatseye, who is currently with the Nations Newspaper. Otunba Gbenga Daniel (OGD) was described in the pieces as a workaholic and an achiever to be noted. I also read about how he became the GM of Shroeder Limited at the age of 31 after receiving four promotions within a year in same company.
In 2003, when OGD came to power, his emergence was widely acknowledged as God's own answer to the prayer of Ogun State folks for visionary, amiable and people focus leadership. The truth of the matter at the time was, since the end of the Second Republic when Chief Olabisi Onabanjo (Aiyekoto) was Governor, Ogun State has never had it so nice in State administration with positive focus and agenda. There was endemic youth unemployment in the State. Services-social, cultural and economic had broken down. People were dying because of the deplorable state of our roads. Health sector was in a mess. In fact, by the order of Nursing & Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NWC), the State Hospital, Ijebu Ode and School of Nursing &Midwifery were ordered to stop to be clinical area for any institutions and persons around the area!
This was why people of Ogun agitated for a true change and OGD was thought to be the desired Messiah. The battle OGD fought and won before he emerged as Governor, which led to the defeat of Chief Segun Osoba was not also an easy one. It was like the confrontation between Isreali's little David and Philistine's Goliath.
OGD began the transformation and the whole nation herald his achievements and within the space of four years, much could be credited to him. But today, many criticisms have trailed his immediate past government. We accused his government of many flaws; we say he's too arrogant and that he tried to inherit everything in the State. Whether these allegations are true or not, I cannot say, I can only talk on what I've seen- his achievements.
We forget easily and when someone offends us, we ignore those days he had been good to us. We have forgotten that we are all human and it's human to make mistake(s). As we are complex as human, so also we are flawed in nature. But what do we make of OGD's landmark achievements? Many of which are first of their kind in the history of the State and even the nation at large.
The amount he paid to unemployed graduates in the State through OGUGRAD scheme (which began in 2007), is a form of unemployment allowance which no government has attempted in the history of Nigerian democracy. OGEGEP created jobs and gave room for knowledge acquisition and thousands of indigent youths can now earn livelihood through the scheme. OGRUMED restored hopes to the dying just as OGROMA restored roads.
As an indigene of this great State called Ogun State, we can boast of four international markets in such places as Ajilete Owode, Yewa and Sagamu. There are now four international stadiums in all the four ethnic divisions in the State. Gateway University of Agriculture, Aiyetoro- first state-owned in Nigeria and Olusegun Obasanjo College of Engineering, Ibogun, also first state-owned in Nigeria are both products of the implementation of multi-campus system of Olabisi Onabanjo University. It is also interesting to mention that Tai Solarin Unversity of Education (TASUED), Ijebu Ode, remains the first in Nigeria and second in black Africa. The 4 ICT polytechnics in such places as Ijebu-Igbo, Igbesa, Sapade and Ibogun are all achievements of OGD administration.
Southwest Resources Centre, a wonder to behold, is a reference point for researchers and ICT compliant people in the State. The new NYSC orientation camp he built in Sagamu is one of the best in the nation. We can boast of 10 housing estates in Ogun State now as a result of OGD-led government. Nigeria Stock Exchange is in Ogun State and if my memory serves me right, I think Gateway Saving & Loans Limited now has another outlet in Ota. OSACA and OSAMCA aided the farmers and small-scale entrepreneurs in no small measure.
In the heat of the transformation, former President Obasanjo was quoted to have said his dream for Ogun State has been turned into reality. The then former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar openly admitted that OGD has demonstrated outstanding resourcefulness, foresight and dogged determination! Prof. Wole Soyinka confirmed 'the various project embarked upon by Governor Daniel are too laudable and practical!' HID Awolowo said OGD has actualized her late husband's plans!
We have had sizeable number of our indigent students who studied in Northubria University, Coventry University, Queen Mary University in London, University of Central Lancashire and University of Birmingham, all on the State-sponsored Human Capital Development Scheme that OGD started. The first batch of which were about 30 students.
The question is, why sudden change of some Ogun leaders' view about OGD-led government? In spite of the several allegations against same man, the internet, especially the social media is awashed with his praise everyday. If a public office holder leaves office and 2 years after, he is still being celebrated, it means he had made a positive impact!
To me, his name would be mentioned when the history of this great State shall be written for he left it far better than he met it. Still, we must all be united to work together (both the leaders and followers) and be one again, for we have no place to call our own than the great Gateway State.
Long live Ogun State!
Long live Nigeria!!
To begin with, I know Ogun State like the back of my hands and I have also followed Otunba Gbenga Daniel's antecedent from the time Newswatch, the weekly news magazine did a story about in him in its 9th November, Edition 1989 (Page 33). The story was authored by Mr Sam Omatseye, who is currently with the Nations Newspaper. Otunba Gbenga Daniel (OGD) was described in the pieces as a workaholic and an achiever to be noted. I also read about how he became the GM of Shroeder Limited at the age of 31 after receiving four promotions within a year in same company.
In 2003, when OGD came to power, his emergence was widely acknowledged as God's own answer to the prayer of Ogun State folks for visionary, amiable and people focus leadership. The truth of the matter at the time was, since the end of the Second Republic when Chief Olabisi Onabanjo (Aiyekoto) was Governor, Ogun State has never had it so nice in State administration with positive focus and agenda. There was endemic youth unemployment in the State. Services-social, cultural and economic had broken down. People were dying because of the deplorable state of our roads. Health sector was in a mess. In fact, by the order of Nursing & Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NWC), the State Hospital, Ijebu Ode and School of Nursing &Midwifery were ordered to stop to be clinical area for any institutions and persons around the area!
This was why people of Ogun agitated for a true change and OGD was thought to be the desired Messiah. The battle OGD fought and won before he emerged as Governor, which led to the defeat of Chief Segun Osoba was not also an easy one. It was like the confrontation between Isreali's little David and Philistine's Goliath.
OGD began the transformation and the whole nation herald his achievements and within the space of four years, much could be credited to him. But today, many criticisms have trailed his immediate past government. We accused his government of many flaws; we say he's too arrogant and that he tried to inherit everything in the State. Whether these allegations are true or not, I cannot say, I can only talk on what I've seen- his achievements.
We forget easily and when someone offends us, we ignore those days he had been good to us. We have forgotten that we are all human and it's human to make mistake(s). As we are complex as human, so also we are flawed in nature. But what do we make of OGD's landmark achievements? Many of which are first of their kind in the history of the State and even the nation at large.
The amount he paid to unemployed graduates in the State through OGUGRAD scheme (which began in 2007), is a form of unemployment allowance which no government has attempted in the history of Nigerian democracy. OGEGEP created jobs and gave room for knowledge acquisition and thousands of indigent youths can now earn livelihood through the scheme. OGRUMED restored hopes to the dying just as OGROMA restored roads.
As an indigene of this great State called Ogun State, we can boast of four international markets in such places as Ajilete Owode, Yewa and Sagamu. There are now four international stadiums in all the four ethnic divisions in the State. Gateway University of Agriculture, Aiyetoro- first state-owned in Nigeria and Olusegun Obasanjo College of Engineering, Ibogun, also first state-owned in Nigeria are both products of the implementation of multi-campus system of Olabisi Onabanjo University. It is also interesting to mention that Tai Solarin Unversity of Education (TASUED), Ijebu Ode, remains the first in Nigeria and second in black Africa. The 4 ICT polytechnics in such places as Ijebu-Igbo, Igbesa, Sapade and Ibogun are all achievements of OGD administration.
Southwest Resources Centre, a wonder to behold, is a reference point for researchers and ICT compliant people in the State. The new NYSC orientation camp he built in Sagamu is one of the best in the nation. We can boast of 10 housing estates in Ogun State now as a result of OGD-led government. Nigeria Stock Exchange is in Ogun State and if my memory serves me right, I think Gateway Saving & Loans Limited now has another outlet in Ota. OSACA and OSAMCA aided the farmers and small-scale entrepreneurs in no small measure.
In the heat of the transformation, former President Obasanjo was quoted to have said his dream for Ogun State has been turned into reality. The then former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar openly admitted that OGD has demonstrated outstanding resourcefulness, foresight and dogged determination! Prof. Wole Soyinka confirmed 'the various project embarked upon by Governor Daniel are too laudable and practical!' HID Awolowo said OGD has actualized her late husband's plans!
We have had sizeable number of our indigent students who studied in Northubria University, Coventry University, Queen Mary University in London, University of Central Lancashire and University of Birmingham, all on the State-sponsored Human Capital Development Scheme that OGD started. The first batch of which were about 30 students.
The question is, why sudden change of some Ogun leaders' view about OGD-led government? In spite of the several allegations against same man, the internet, especially the social media is awashed with his praise everyday. If a public office holder leaves office and 2 years after, he is still being celebrated, it means he had made a positive impact!
To me, his name would be mentioned when the history of this great State shall be written for he left it far better than he met it. Still, we must all be united to work together (both the leaders and followers) and be one again, for we have no place to call our own than the great Gateway State.
Long live Ogun State!
Long live Nigeria!!
CORRUPTION: AFRICA'S TRADITION OR GLOBAL PROBLEM? Written by Saint-Olawale Jimoh
Some sins are clear and too noticeable and the world at large are quick to condemn both the offence and the offender(s). Yet, corruption is a sin, not readily recognized at formative stage, like virus, until it’s fully grown and even re-producing. Right now, corruption is not still acknowledged as a global problem, instead, the international community, especially America is quick to point to Africa as fertile land for corruption, where it thrives inhibitedly. With recent events being unfolded today, one begins to wonder if the case isn’t the same everywhere.
Few years ago, China’s head of State Food and Drug Administration, Zheng Xianyu, was convicted taking 6.5m yuan (about $ 850,000) in bribes. The bribe made him close his eyes to the sub-standard medicines and tainted goods that caused many deaths in China. But China isn’t an African nation!
140 governments signed a 2003 United Nations Convention against corruption! In fact, around same time, there were more than 100 foreign bribery investigations being treated worldwide, according to Angel Gurria, the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development Secretary-General. One of the cases with the highest profile involved the huge German firm, Siemens, which was investigated for allegedly, paying bribes to win telecommunications contracts. The company lamented that, on checking for the past seven years, it has found $550million in payments it could not clearly identify!
In Britain, the anti-corruption investigations over bribes for aero defence contracts’ with Saudi Arabia was dropped by the British Serious Fraud Office at the order of the former British Prime Minister Mr. Tony Blair. Why? For Blair, British’s ties with the Saudis are paramount. He was quoted to have said the investigation would do enormous damages to British’s relationship with Saudi Arabia. Blair also said that ending the contract could cause “thousands of British jobs to be lost!” But Article 5 of the OECD Convention specifically states that neither national economic interests nor foreign relations priorities should influence bribery investigations. But the question is, ‘if Britain, an important signatory to the anti-corruption convention, get away with ignoring the convention’s terms, wouldn’t the whole crusade be futile?
How about America? Former Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria , Victor Attah paid one Mr Richard T. Hines, an American lobbyist $1.2m on the theory that the dude would help persuade American government to invest in Akwa Ibom State. Mr Hines was also to solicit aid for Attah’s government. The contract was signed in September 2005 and Mr Hines had one year to work his magic. But nobody in United States was propelled into action by Mr Hines pitch! Attah expected Hines to make Akwa Ibom State a honey pot but what he got was a barrel of castor oil.
The $1.2million Attah paid Mr Hines for a year contract was said to be extremely generous. The generosity was almost on Warren Buffet scale, Buffet and Mr. Bill Gates only help the ill and the needy, the unfortunates of the developing world!
Mr. Hines again appeared in Nigeria with a man called C. Edward Creed. Mr Creed’s greed, his creed of crookedness, led to his ruin after an airline company he and others had set up performed more poorly than the Wright brothers’ aircraft during its maiden flight. Mr Hines told Mr Creed that Attah was a soft touch and that he should ask Attah to give him a contract. Creed, hired by Attah to get some privatization project going, had used money he had been trusted with to start the airline that had no airliner.
Another American named Barry Witz was brought in on the Akwa Ibom project by Hines. Mr Witz is a whizz at dishonesty: ‘he pleaded guilty in 2007 to his role in a conspiracy to defraud investor..
Again, after the same governor had built a world class golf course in Uyo, he desperately sought for the presence of some top world professional golfers at the inauguration. He gave another Mr Thomas Ondeck the contract to fly in top golfers for the inauguration. Ondeck has offices on the firm land of New York City and he boasted he was an experienced lawyer as highlighted on Global Options websites. Ondeck and the golfers flew in from Florida on a chartered plane. It is not known how much Attah paid Ondeck, but Attah had told one American that he had paid $1.5million, a sum that would have covered the golfers’ appearance fee.
All the American representatives Attah had dealings with were called crooks, with proof by Mr Barry Meier in his article, ‘Teed Up: Golf, K Street and Nigeria’ published in The New York Times of April 29, 2007.
John Grisham’s book, The Pelican Brief, contains a legal drama on corruption. It was widely acknowledged to be a true picture of American politics! In the book, Mattice was a rich oil magnate who contributed millions of dollars for the presidential campaign fund-raising. He masterminded the assassination of two Supreme Court justices because of the pending Pelican case upon envisaging the two justices could be obstacles to his winning the lawsuit.
It would be recalled that last year, former French President was convicted for corruption. A judge found Chirac guilty of embezzling public funds. His 2-year sentence in the landmark case was suspended though.
Around same period, there was also a case of 4 New Scotland Yard Detectives that were alleged to have received bribe to the tune of £20,000 over Nigerian James Ibori's case.
The global campaign against corruption may undoubtedly face serious institutional and cultural difficulties. Corruption simply has become a way of life both in developed and developing economies. There is always an excuse for corruption lapses especially when it involves the developed countries. Whichever way it’s viewed, it shouldn’t be seen as only Africa or Nigerian factor, but a global disease that requires serious war that must be jointly fought!
Few years ago, China’s head of State Food and Drug Administration, Zheng Xianyu, was convicted taking 6.5m yuan (about $ 850,000) in bribes. The bribe made him close his eyes to the sub-standard medicines and tainted goods that caused many deaths in China. But China isn’t an African nation!
140 governments signed a 2003 United Nations Convention against corruption! In fact, around same time, there were more than 100 foreign bribery investigations being treated worldwide, according to Angel Gurria, the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development Secretary-General. One of the cases with the highest profile involved the huge German firm, Siemens, which was investigated for allegedly, paying bribes to win telecommunications contracts. The company lamented that, on checking for the past seven years, it has found $550million in payments it could not clearly identify!
In Britain, the anti-corruption investigations over bribes for aero defence contracts’ with Saudi Arabia was dropped by the British Serious Fraud Office at the order of the former British Prime Minister Mr. Tony Blair. Why? For Blair, British’s ties with the Saudis are paramount. He was quoted to have said the investigation would do enormous damages to British’s relationship with Saudi Arabia. Blair also said that ending the contract could cause “thousands of British jobs to be lost!” But Article 5 of the OECD Convention specifically states that neither national economic interests nor foreign relations priorities should influence bribery investigations. But the question is, ‘if Britain, an important signatory to the anti-corruption convention, get away with ignoring the convention’s terms, wouldn’t the whole crusade be futile?
How about America? Former Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria , Victor Attah paid one Mr Richard T. Hines, an American lobbyist $1.2m on the theory that the dude would help persuade American government to invest in Akwa Ibom State. Mr Hines was also to solicit aid for Attah’s government. The contract was signed in September 2005 and Mr Hines had one year to work his magic. But nobody in United States was propelled into action by Mr Hines pitch! Attah expected Hines to make Akwa Ibom State a honey pot but what he got was a barrel of castor oil.
The $1.2million Attah paid Mr Hines for a year contract was said to be extremely generous. The generosity was almost on Warren Buffet scale, Buffet and Mr. Bill Gates only help the ill and the needy, the unfortunates of the developing world!
Mr. Hines again appeared in Nigeria with a man called C. Edward Creed. Mr Creed’s greed, his creed of crookedness, led to his ruin after an airline company he and others had set up performed more poorly than the Wright brothers’ aircraft during its maiden flight. Mr Hines told Mr Creed that Attah was a soft touch and that he should ask Attah to give him a contract. Creed, hired by Attah to get some privatization project going, had used money he had been trusted with to start the airline that had no airliner.
Another American named Barry Witz was brought in on the Akwa Ibom project by Hines. Mr Witz is a whizz at dishonesty: ‘he pleaded guilty in 2007 to his role in a conspiracy to defraud investor..
Again, after the same governor had built a world class golf course in Uyo, he desperately sought for the presence of some top world professional golfers at the inauguration. He gave another Mr Thomas Ondeck the contract to fly in top golfers for the inauguration. Ondeck has offices on the firm land of New York City and he boasted he was an experienced lawyer as highlighted on Global Options websites. Ondeck and the golfers flew in from Florida on a chartered plane. It is not known how much Attah paid Ondeck, but Attah had told one American that he had paid $1.5million, a sum that would have covered the golfers’ appearance fee.
All the American representatives Attah had dealings with were called crooks, with proof by Mr Barry Meier in his article, ‘Teed Up: Golf, K Street and Nigeria’ published in The New York Times of April 29, 2007.
John Grisham’s book, The Pelican Brief, contains a legal drama on corruption. It was widely acknowledged to be a true picture of American politics! In the book, Mattice was a rich oil magnate who contributed millions of dollars for the presidential campaign fund-raising. He masterminded the assassination of two Supreme Court justices because of the pending Pelican case upon envisaging the two justices could be obstacles to his winning the lawsuit.
It would be recalled that last year, former French President was convicted for corruption. A judge found Chirac guilty of embezzling public funds. His 2-year sentence in the landmark case was suspended though.
Around same period, there was also a case of 4 New Scotland Yard Detectives that were alleged to have received bribe to the tune of £20,000 over Nigerian James Ibori's case.
The global campaign against corruption may undoubtedly face serious institutional and cultural difficulties. Corruption simply has become a way of life both in developed and developing economies. There is always an excuse for corruption lapses especially when it involves the developed countries. Whichever way it’s viewed, it shouldn’t be seen as only Africa or Nigerian factor, but a global disease that requires serious war that must be jointly fought!
NIGERIA'S EXECUTIVES' RECKLESSNESS. Written by Saint-Olawale Jimoh
Late last year, following the death of late Andrew Azazi, the whole of Ikoyi area of Lagos, Nigeria, was blocked to traffic for about 5 hours. Reports at the time has it that President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan(GEJ) was to visit the family of late Gen Azazi who died in the plane crash hence the whole of Ikoyi, where the family of the deceased lived was taken over by the military and security personnels.
After shutting down Lagos for over 5 hours, GEJ didn't show up. His Chief of Staff came on his behalf.
This was the third time Jonathan has caused problem with his visit in addition to the one caused by the firstlady, Mrs Dame Patience Jonathan when she visited Lagos.
When shall we overcome this tradition? The advance nations we emulate don't do such.
Prof Adesanmi once narrated the story in Ottawa of a Nigerian, who went to the Cinema and when the lights came on after the film was over, he was shocked to discover that the man sitting right next to him, munching pop corn in the dark, was no other person than Stephen Harper, Canadian Prime Minister. He also told the story of how his humble self had sat side by side with members of British Parliament in the Jubilee line London, travelling towards Westminster station and how he stood side by side with Diane Abbot, the member of Parliament representing Hackney, while waiting for a Taxi!
Even in Africa here, a story was once told of a Prime Minister, who was knocked down by a vehicle while trekking by the roadside to keep an appointment. Why? He evidently didn't have a convoy and his only car had developed fault, so he had to trek. This cannot happen in Nigeria!
President Jonathan, David Mark even Tambowall will not step out of Aso Villa without at least 20 vehicles and dozens of aides in tow. This has got to stop. Our leaders need to change their mindsets. Unfortunately, same leaders send their children abroad to learn the civic awareness they deny our people in Nigeria.
Our leaders want to produce a citizentry who feels it's improper to have access to their leaders and they have succeded. What a nation!
Saint-Olawale Jimoh
Observers' Reflections International
©2013
After shutting down Lagos for over 5 hours, GEJ didn't show up. His Chief of Staff came on his behalf.
This was the third time Jonathan has caused problem with his visit in addition to the one caused by the firstlady, Mrs Dame Patience Jonathan when she visited Lagos.
When shall we overcome this tradition? The advance nations we emulate don't do such.
Prof Adesanmi once narrated the story in Ottawa of a Nigerian, who went to the Cinema and when the lights came on after the film was over, he was shocked to discover that the man sitting right next to him, munching pop corn in the dark, was no other person than Stephen Harper, Canadian Prime Minister. He also told the story of how his humble self had sat side by side with members of British Parliament in the Jubilee line London, travelling towards Westminster station and how he stood side by side with Diane Abbot, the member of Parliament representing Hackney, while waiting for a Taxi!
Even in Africa here, a story was once told of a Prime Minister, who was knocked down by a vehicle while trekking by the roadside to keep an appointment. Why? He evidently didn't have a convoy and his only car had developed fault, so he had to trek. This cannot happen in Nigeria!
President Jonathan, David Mark even Tambowall will not step out of Aso Villa without at least 20 vehicles and dozens of aides in tow. This has got to stop. Our leaders need to change their mindsets. Unfortunately, same leaders send their children abroad to learn the civic awareness they deny our people in Nigeria.
Our leaders want to produce a citizentry who feels it's improper to have access to their leaders and they have succeded. What a nation!
Saint-Olawale Jimoh
Observers' Reflections International
©2013
OTUNBA GBENGA DANIEL, OGUN STATE AND THE NUMEROUS ACCUSATIONS. Written by Saint-Olawale Jimoh
I have tried as much as possible not to do this piece, but the more I try not to write it, the more the urge to write keep flooding my mind. Let me start from the outset that this pieces is not intended to pass judgment on anybody, neither is it put together to praise anyone. In fact, it is not in my brief to say either of these, and I believe no mortal has the judgment of another man in his hands. I'm not a politician and I don’t belong to any political party, I'm only a leader of a civil society group and a curious observer of belligerent posture of things in the Gateway State-my State of Origin.
To begin with, I know Ogun State like the back of my hands and I have also followed Otunba Gbenga Daniel's antecedent from the time Newswatch, the weekly news magazine did a story about in him in its 9th November, Edition 1989 (Page 33). The story was authored by Mr Sam Omatseye, who is currently with the Nations Newspaper. Otunba Gbenga Daniel (OGD) was described in the pieces as a workaholic and an achiever to be noted. I also read about how he became the GM of Shroeder Limited at the age of 31 after receiving four promotions within a year in same company.
In 2003, when OGD came to power, his emergence was widely acknowledged as God's own answer to the prayer of Ogun State folks for visionary, amiable and people focus leadership. The truth of the matter at the time was, since the end of the Second Republic when Chief Olabisi Onabanjo (Aiyekoto) was Governor, Ogun State has never had it so nice in State administration with positive focus and agenda. There was endemic youth unemployment in the State. Services-social, cultural and economic had broken down. People were dying because of the deplorable state of our roads. Health sector was in a mess. In fact, by the order of Nursing & Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NWC), the State Hospital, Ijebu Ode and School of Nursing &Midwifery were ordered to stop to be clinical area for any institutions and persons around the area!
This was why people of Ogun agitated for a true change and OGD was thought to be the desired Messiah. The battle OGD fought and won before he emerged as Governor, which led to the defeat of Chief Segun Osoba was not also an easy one. It was like the confrontation between Isreali's little David and Philistine's Goliath.
OGD began the transformation and the whole nation herald his achievements and within the space of four years, much could be credited to him. But today, many criticisms have trailed his immediate past government. We accused his government of many flaws; we say he's too arrogant and that he tried to inherit everything in the State. Whether these allegations are true or not, I cannot say, I can only talk on what I've seen- his achievements.
We forget easily and when someone offends us, we ignore those days he had been good to us. We have forgotten that we are all human and it's human to make mistake(s). As we are complex as human, so also we are flawed in nature. But what do we make of OGD's landmark achievements? Many of which are first of their kind in the history of the State and even the nation at large.
The amount he paid to unemployed graduates in the State through OGUGRAD scheme (which began in 2007), is a form of unemployment allowance which no government has attempted in the history of Nigerian democracy. OGEGEP created jobs and gave room for knowledge acquisition and thousands of indigent youths can now earn livelihood through the scheme. OGRUMED restored hopes to the dying just as OGROMA restored roads.
As an indigene of this great State called Ogun State, we can boast of four international markets in such places as Ajilete Owode, Yewa and Sagamu. There are now four international stadiums in all the four ethnic divisions in the State. Gateway University of Agriculture, Aiyetoro- first state-owned in Nigeria and Olusegun Obasanjo College of Engineering, Ibogun, also first state-owned in Nigeria are both products of the implementation of multi-campus system of Olabisi Onabanjo University. It is also interesting to mention that Tai Solarin Unversity of Education (TASUED), Ijebu Ode, remains the first in Nigeria and second in black Africa. The 4 ICT polytechnics in such places as Ijebu-Igbo, Igbesa, Sapade and Ibogun are all achievements of OGD administration.
Southwest Resources Centre, a wonder to behold, is a reference point for researchers and ICT compliant people in the State. The new NYSC orientation camp he built in Sagamu is one of the best in the nation. We can boast of 10 housing estates in Ogun State now as a result of OGD led government. Nigeria Stock Exchange is in Ogun State and if my memory serves me right, I think Gateway Saving & Loans Limited now has another outlet in Ota. OSACA and OSAMCA aided the farmers and small-scale entrepreneurs in no small measure.
In the heat of the transformation, former President Obasanjo was quoted to have said his dream for Ogun State has been turned into reality. The then former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar openly admitted that OGD has demonstrated outstanding resourcefulness, foresight and dogged determination! Prof. Wole Soyinka confirmed 'the various project embarked upon by Governor Daniel are too laudable and practical!' HID Awolowo said OGD has actualized her late husband's plans!
We have had sizeable number of our indigent students who studied in Northubria University, Coventry University, Queen Mary University in London, University of Central Lancashire and University of Birmingham, all on the State-sponsored Human Capital Development Scheme that OGD started. The first batch of which were about 30 students.
The question is, why sudden change of some Ogun leaders' view about OGD-led government? In spite of the several allegations against same man, the internet, especially the social media is awashed with his praise everyday. If a public office holder leaves office and 2 years after, he is still being celebrated, it means he had made a positive impact!
To me, his name would be mentioned when the history of this great State shall be written for he left it far better than he met it. Still, we must all be united to work together (both the leaders and followers) and be one again, for we have no place to call our own than the great Gateway State.
Long live Ogun Gateway State!
Long live Nigeria!!
Saint-Olawale Jimoh
Observers' Reflections International
©2013
To begin with, I know Ogun State like the back of my hands and I have also followed Otunba Gbenga Daniel's antecedent from the time Newswatch, the weekly news magazine did a story about in him in its 9th November, Edition 1989 (Page 33). The story was authored by Mr Sam Omatseye, who is currently with the Nations Newspaper. Otunba Gbenga Daniel (OGD) was described in the pieces as a workaholic and an achiever to be noted. I also read about how he became the GM of Shroeder Limited at the age of 31 after receiving four promotions within a year in same company.
In 2003, when OGD came to power, his emergence was widely acknowledged as God's own answer to the prayer of Ogun State folks for visionary, amiable and people focus leadership. The truth of the matter at the time was, since the end of the Second Republic when Chief Olabisi Onabanjo (Aiyekoto) was Governor, Ogun State has never had it so nice in State administration with positive focus and agenda. There was endemic youth unemployment in the State. Services-social, cultural and economic had broken down. People were dying because of the deplorable state of our roads. Health sector was in a mess. In fact, by the order of Nursing & Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NWC), the State Hospital, Ijebu Ode and School of Nursing &Midwifery were ordered to stop to be clinical area for any institutions and persons around the area!
This was why people of Ogun agitated for a true change and OGD was thought to be the desired Messiah. The battle OGD fought and won before he emerged as Governor, which led to the defeat of Chief Segun Osoba was not also an easy one. It was like the confrontation between Isreali's little David and Philistine's Goliath.
OGD began the transformation and the whole nation herald his achievements and within the space of four years, much could be credited to him. But today, many criticisms have trailed his immediate past government. We accused his government of many flaws; we say he's too arrogant and that he tried to inherit everything in the State. Whether these allegations are true or not, I cannot say, I can only talk on what I've seen- his achievements.
We forget easily and when someone offends us, we ignore those days he had been good to us. We have forgotten that we are all human and it's human to make mistake(s). As we are complex as human, so also we are flawed in nature. But what do we make of OGD's landmark achievements? Many of which are first of their kind in the history of the State and even the nation at large.
The amount he paid to unemployed graduates in the State through OGUGRAD scheme (which began in 2007), is a form of unemployment allowance which no government has attempted in the history of Nigerian democracy. OGEGEP created jobs and gave room for knowledge acquisition and thousands of indigent youths can now earn livelihood through the scheme. OGRUMED restored hopes to the dying just as OGROMA restored roads.
As an indigene of this great State called Ogun State, we can boast of four international markets in such places as Ajilete Owode, Yewa and Sagamu. There are now four international stadiums in all the four ethnic divisions in the State. Gateway University of Agriculture, Aiyetoro- first state-owned in Nigeria and Olusegun Obasanjo College of Engineering, Ibogun, also first state-owned in Nigeria are both products of the implementation of multi-campus system of Olabisi Onabanjo University. It is also interesting to mention that Tai Solarin Unversity of Education (TASUED), Ijebu Ode, remains the first in Nigeria and second in black Africa. The 4 ICT polytechnics in such places as Ijebu-Igbo, Igbesa, Sapade and Ibogun are all achievements of OGD administration.
Southwest Resources Centre, a wonder to behold, is a reference point for researchers and ICT compliant people in the State. The new NYSC orientation camp he built in Sagamu is one of the best in the nation. We can boast of 10 housing estates in Ogun State now as a result of OGD led government. Nigeria Stock Exchange is in Ogun State and if my memory serves me right, I think Gateway Saving & Loans Limited now has another outlet in Ota. OSACA and OSAMCA aided the farmers and small-scale entrepreneurs in no small measure.
In the heat of the transformation, former President Obasanjo was quoted to have said his dream for Ogun State has been turned into reality. The then former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar openly admitted that OGD has demonstrated outstanding resourcefulness, foresight and dogged determination! Prof. Wole Soyinka confirmed 'the various project embarked upon by Governor Daniel are too laudable and practical!' HID Awolowo said OGD has actualized her late husband's plans!
We have had sizeable number of our indigent students who studied in Northubria University, Coventry University, Queen Mary University in London, University of Central Lancashire and University of Birmingham, all on the State-sponsored Human Capital Development Scheme that OGD started. The first batch of which were about 30 students.
The question is, why sudden change of some Ogun leaders' view about OGD-led government? In spite of the several allegations against same man, the internet, especially the social media is awashed with his praise everyday. If a public office holder leaves office and 2 years after, he is still being celebrated, it means he had made a positive impact!
To me, his name would be mentioned when the history of this great State shall be written for he left it far better than he met it. Still, we must all be united to work together (both the leaders and followers) and be one again, for we have no place to call our own than the great Gateway State.
Long live Ogun Gateway State!
Long live Nigeria!!
Saint-Olawale Jimoh
Observers' Reflections International
©2013
Tuesday 19 February 2013
CORRUPTION: AFRICA'S TRADITION OR GLOBAL PROBLEM? Written by Saint-Olawale Jimoh
Some sins are clear and too noticeable and the world at large are quick to condemn both the offence and the offender(s). Yet, corruption is a sin, not readily recognized at formative stage, like virus, until it’s fully grown and even re-producing. Right now, corruption is not still acknowledged as a global problem, instead, the international community, especially America is quick to point to Africa as fertile land for corruption, where it thrives inhibitedly. With recent events being unfolded today, one begins to wonder if the case isn’t the same everywhere.
Few years ago, China’s head of State Food and Drug Administration, Zheng Xianyu, was convicted taking 6.5m yuan (about $ 850,000) in bribes. The bribe made him close his eyes to the sub-standard medicines and tainted goods that caused many deaths in China. But China isn’t an African nation!
140 governments signed a 2003 United Nations Convention against corruption! In fact, around same time, there were more than 100 foreign bribery investigations being treated worldwide, according to Angel Gurria, the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development Secretary-General. One of the cases with the highest profile involved the huge German firm, Siemens, which was investigated for allegedly, paying bribes to win telecommunications contracts. The company lamented that, on checking for the past seven years, it has found $550million in payments it could not clearly identify!
In Britain, the anti-corruption investigations over bribes for aero defence contracts’ with Saudi Arabia was dropped by the British Serious Fraud Office at the order of the former British Prime Minister Mr. Tony Blair. Why? For Blair, British’s ties with the Saudis are paramount. He was quoted to have said the investigation would do enormous damages to British’s relationship with Saudi Arabia. Blair also said that ending the contract could cause “thousands of British jobs to be lost!” But Article 5 of the OECD Convention specifically states that neither national economic interests nor foreign relations priorities should influence bribery investigations. But the question is, ‘if Britain, an important signatory to the anti-corruption convention, get away with ignoring the convention’s terms, wouldn’t the whole crusade be futile?
How about America? Former Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria , Victor Attah paid one Mr Richard T. Hines, an American lobbyist $1.2m on the theory that the dude would help persuade American government to invest in Akwa Ibom State. Mr Hines was also to solicit aid for Attah’s government. The contract was signed in September 2005 and Mr Hines had one year to work his magic. But nobody in United States was propelled into action by Mr Hines pitch! Attah expected Hines to make Akwa Ibom State a honey pot but what he got was a barrel of castor oil.
The $1.2million Attah paid Mr Hines for a year contract was said to be extremely generous. The generosity was almost on Warren Buffet scale, Buffet and Mr. Bill Gates only help the ill and the needy, the unfortunates of the developing world!
Mr. Hines again appeared in Nigeria with a man called C. Edward Creed. Mr Creed’s greed, his creed of crookedness, led to his ruin after an airline company he and others had set up performed more poorly than the Wright brothers’ aircraft during its maiden flight. Mr Hines told Mr Creed that Attah was a soft touch and that he should ask Attah to give him a contract. Creed, hired by Attah to get some privatization project going, had used money he had been trusted with to start the airline that had no airliner.
Another American named Barry Witz was brought in on the Akwa Ibom project by Hines. Mr Witz is a whizz at dishonesty: ‘he pleaded guilty in 2007 to his role in a conspiracy to defraud investor..
Again, after the same governor had built a world class golf course in Uyo, he desperately sought for the presence of some top world professional golfers at the inauguration. He gave another Mr Thomas Ondeck the contract to fly in top golfers for the inauguration. Ondeck has offices on the firm land of New York City and he boasted he was an experienced lawyer as highlighted on Global Options websites. Ondeck and the golfers flew in from Florida on a chartered plane. It is not known how much Attah paid Ondeck, but Attah had told one American that he had paid $1.5million, a sum that would have covered the golfers’ appearance fee.
All the American representatives Attah had dealings with were called crooks, with proof by Mr Barry Meier in his article, ‘Teed Up: Golf, K Street and Nigeria’ published in The New York Times of April 29, 2007.
John Grisham’s book, The Pelican Brief, contains a legal drama on corruption. It was widely acknowledged to be a true picture of American politics! In the book, Mattice was a rich oil magnate who contributed millions of dollars for the presidential campaign fund-raising. He masterminded the assassination of two Supreme Court justices because of the pending Pelican case upon envisaging the two justices could be obstacles to his winning the lawsuit.
It would be recalled that last year, former French President was convicted for corruption. A judge found Chirac guilty of embezzling public funds. His 2-year sentence in the landmark case was suspended though.
Around same period, there was also a case of 4 New Scotland Yard Detectives that were alleged to have received bribe to the tune of £20,000 over Nigerian James Ibori's case.
The global campaign against corruption may undoubtedly face serious institutional and cultural difficulties. Corruption simply has become a way of life both in developed and developing economies. There is always an excuse for corruption lapses especially when it involves the developed countries. Whichever way it’s viewed, it shouldn’t be seen as only Africa or Nigerian factor, but a global disease that requires serious war that must be jointly fought!
Saint-Olawale Jimoh
Observers Reflections Int'l
©2013
Few years ago, China’s head of State Food and Drug Administration, Zheng Xianyu, was convicted taking 6.5m yuan (about $ 850,000) in bribes. The bribe made him close his eyes to the sub-standard medicines and tainted goods that caused many deaths in China. But China isn’t an African nation!
140 governments signed a 2003 United Nations Convention against corruption! In fact, around same time, there were more than 100 foreign bribery investigations being treated worldwide, according to Angel Gurria, the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development Secretary-General. One of the cases with the highest profile involved the huge German firm, Siemens, which was investigated for allegedly, paying bribes to win telecommunications contracts. The company lamented that, on checking for the past seven years, it has found $550million in payments it could not clearly identify!
In Britain, the anti-corruption investigations over bribes for aero defence contracts’ with Saudi Arabia was dropped by the British Serious Fraud Office at the order of the former British Prime Minister Mr. Tony Blair. Why? For Blair, British’s ties with the Saudis are paramount. He was quoted to have said the investigation would do enormous damages to British’s relationship with Saudi Arabia. Blair also said that ending the contract could cause “thousands of British jobs to be lost!” But Article 5 of the OECD Convention specifically states that neither national economic interests nor foreign relations priorities should influence bribery investigations. But the question is, ‘if Britain, an important signatory to the anti-corruption convention, get away with ignoring the convention’s terms, wouldn’t the whole crusade be futile?
How about America? Former Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria , Victor Attah paid one Mr Richard T. Hines, an American lobbyist $1.2m on the theory that the dude would help persuade American government to invest in Akwa Ibom State. Mr Hines was also to solicit aid for Attah’s government. The contract was signed in September 2005 and Mr Hines had one year to work his magic. But nobody in United States was propelled into action by Mr Hines pitch! Attah expected Hines to make Akwa Ibom State a honey pot but what he got was a barrel of castor oil.
The $1.2million Attah paid Mr Hines for a year contract was said to be extremely generous. The generosity was almost on Warren Buffet scale, Buffet and Mr. Bill Gates only help the ill and the needy, the unfortunates of the developing world!
Mr. Hines again appeared in Nigeria with a man called C. Edward Creed. Mr Creed’s greed, his creed of crookedness, led to his ruin after an airline company he and others had set up performed more poorly than the Wright brothers’ aircraft during its maiden flight. Mr Hines told Mr Creed that Attah was a soft touch and that he should ask Attah to give him a contract. Creed, hired by Attah to get some privatization project going, had used money he had been trusted with to start the airline that had no airliner.
Another American named Barry Witz was brought in on the Akwa Ibom project by Hines. Mr Witz is a whizz at dishonesty: ‘he pleaded guilty in 2007 to his role in a conspiracy to defraud investor..
Again, after the same governor had built a world class golf course in Uyo, he desperately sought for the presence of some top world professional golfers at the inauguration. He gave another Mr Thomas Ondeck the contract to fly in top golfers for the inauguration. Ondeck has offices on the firm land of New York City and he boasted he was an experienced lawyer as highlighted on Global Options websites. Ondeck and the golfers flew in from Florida on a chartered plane. It is not known how much Attah paid Ondeck, but Attah had told one American that he had paid $1.5million, a sum that would have covered the golfers’ appearance fee.
All the American representatives Attah had dealings with were called crooks, with proof by Mr Barry Meier in his article, ‘Teed Up: Golf, K Street and Nigeria’ published in The New York Times of April 29, 2007.
John Grisham’s book, The Pelican Brief, contains a legal drama on corruption. It was widely acknowledged to be a true picture of American politics! In the book, Mattice was a rich oil magnate who contributed millions of dollars for the presidential campaign fund-raising. He masterminded the assassination of two Supreme Court justices because of the pending Pelican case upon envisaging the two justices could be obstacles to his winning the lawsuit.
It would be recalled that last year, former French President was convicted for corruption. A judge found Chirac guilty of embezzling public funds. His 2-year sentence in the landmark case was suspended though.
Around same period, there was also a case of 4 New Scotland Yard Detectives that were alleged to have received bribe to the tune of £20,000 over Nigerian James Ibori's case.
The global campaign against corruption may undoubtedly face serious institutional and cultural difficulties. Corruption simply has become a way of life both in developed and developing economies. There is always an excuse for corruption lapses especially when it involves the developed countries. Whichever way it’s viewed, it shouldn’t be seen as only Africa or Nigerian factor, but a global disease that requires serious war that must be jointly fought!
Saint-Olawale Jimoh
Observers Reflections Int'l
©2013
Nigeria's Executives Recklessness
Late last year, following the death of late Andrew Azazi, the whole of Ikoyi area of Lagos, Nigeria, was blocked to traffic for about 5 hours. Reports at the time has it that President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan(GEJ) was to visit the family of late Gen Azazi who died in the plane crash hence the whole of Ikoyi was taken over by the military and security personnels.
After shutting down Lagos for over 5 hours, GEJ didn't show up but sent his Chief of Staff.
This was the third time Jonathan has caused problem with his visit in addition to the one caused by the firstlady, Mrs Jonathan when she visited Lagos.
When shall we overcome this tradition? The advance nations we emulate don't do such.
Prof Adesanmi once narrated the story in Ottawa of a Nigerian, who went to the Cinema and when the lights came on after the film was over, he was shocked to discover that the man sitting right next to him, munching pop corn in the dark, was no other person than Stephen Harper, Canadian Prime Minister. He also told the story of how his humble self had sat side by side with members of British Parliament in the Jubilee line London, travelling towards Westminster station and how he stood side by side with Diane Abbot, the member of Parliament representing Hackney, while waiting for a Taxi!
Even in Africa here, a story was once told of a Prime Minister, who was knocked down by a vehicle while trekking by the roadside to keep an appointment. Why? He evidently didn't have a convoy and his only car had developed fault, so he had to trek. This cannot happen in Nigeria!
President Jonathan, David Mark even Tambowall will not step out of Aso Villa without at least 20 vehicles and dozens of aides in tow. This has got to stop. Our leaders need to change their mindsets. Unfortunately, same leaders send their children abroad to learn the civic awareness they deny our people in Nigeria.
Our leaders want to produce a citizentry who feels it's improper to have access to their leaders and they have succeded. What a nation!
Saint-Olawale Jimoh
Observers Reflections Int'l
©2013
After shutting down Lagos for over 5 hours, GEJ didn't show up but sent his Chief of Staff.
This was the third time Jonathan has caused problem with his visit in addition to the one caused by the firstlady, Mrs Jonathan when she visited Lagos.
When shall we overcome this tradition? The advance nations we emulate don't do such.
Prof Adesanmi once narrated the story in Ottawa of a Nigerian, who went to the Cinema and when the lights came on after the film was over, he was shocked to discover that the man sitting right next to him, munching pop corn in the dark, was no other person than Stephen Harper, Canadian Prime Minister. He also told the story of how his humble self had sat side by side with members of British Parliament in the Jubilee line London, travelling towards Westminster station and how he stood side by side with Diane Abbot, the member of Parliament representing Hackney, while waiting for a Taxi!
Even in Africa here, a story was once told of a Prime Minister, who was knocked down by a vehicle while trekking by the roadside to keep an appointment. Why? He evidently didn't have a convoy and his only car had developed fault, so he had to trek. This cannot happen in Nigeria!
President Jonathan, David Mark even Tambowall will not step out of Aso Villa without at least 20 vehicles and dozens of aides in tow. This has got to stop. Our leaders need to change their mindsets. Unfortunately, same leaders send their children abroad to learn the civic awareness they deny our people in Nigeria.
Our leaders want to produce a citizentry who feels it's improper to have access to their leaders and they have succeded. What a nation!
Saint-Olawale Jimoh
Observers Reflections Int'l
©2013
LESSON FROM POPE BENEDICT XVI RESIGNATION. Written by Saint-Olawale Jimoh
The other day, the pictures of a frail and moron-looking Governor of Taraba State, Danfulani Suntai, was being released by a cabal in his administration with one of his new babies almost tucked in between his armpit while being supported with two arms at the back. D reason at d time was to prevent his deputy from being sworn in. Suntai was alleged to have suffered severe brain damage after the plane crash, yet d cabal in his govt had to "package" him in photographs to convince people all was well with d ailing governor. They wanted a brain-damaged man be allowed to continue to "govern" a state in proxy!
It would be recalled same thing happened in Yar'dua days.
Sillivan Chime of Enugu State left d pple of his State for more than 3months while battling illness abroad not until d people decided to stage a protest demanding d whereabout of their governor that his whereabout was made public. Liyel had same problem with his people..
Question is, why do Nigerian leaders always resort to this desperate measures to cling to power endlessly even when they're unfit healthwise?
I believe the resignation story of Pope Benedict XVI would make them have a re-think. Here is man, a former professor of theology at d University of Tuebingen, Germany, who felt his health was deteriorating, yet he needed to carry out his duties of being d leaders of more than a billion Roman Catholics worldwide. The only option he considered appropriate was to resign.
Fact is, many of our leaders have weak bodies but greedy minds!
It would be recalled same thing happened in Yar'dua days.
Sillivan Chime of Enugu State left d pple of his State for more than 3months while battling illness abroad not until d people decided to stage a protest demanding d whereabout of their governor that his whereabout was made public. Liyel had same problem with his people..
Question is, why do Nigerian leaders always resort to this desperate measures to cling to power endlessly even when they're unfit healthwise?
I believe the resignation story of Pope Benedict XVI would make them have a re-think. Here is man, a former professor of theology at d University of Tuebingen, Germany, who felt his health was deteriorating, yet he needed to carry out his duties of being d leaders of more than a billion Roman Catholics worldwide. The only option he considered appropriate was to resign.
Fact is, many of our leaders have weak bodies but greedy minds!
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