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World Exclusive: How Cabal, Corruption Stalled Mambilla Hydropower Project …The Abba Kyari, Fashola and Malami Connection Plus FG May Lose $2bn

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By Michael Effiong

The Boss can now reveal exclusively that the reason the Mambilla HydroPower Project, has not taken off for years, laid idle and gathered dust, is because of high wire power play, selfishness and in some cases bare-faced corruption.
 

Our investigation has shown that government after government, Minister after Minister even President after President, all efforts to bring the project, which was conceived in 1972 to improve electricity supply in Nigeria, back to life and meet its set objectives of power generation and job creation, has always been frustrated by a myriad of forces.

Therefore, when in November 2017, the Minister of Power, Works & Housing, Mr. Babatunde Raji Fashola, announced that President Buhari has approved  $5.792 billion (About N1.1trillion) for the construction of the 3,050 megawatts Mambilla Hydro-Power Project at Gembu in Taraba, many heaved a sigh of relief. At last, they believed, Nigeria would finally break the jinx of perennial power failure.
 

According to Fashola: “Several efforts had been made to bring it to reality but I’m happy to announce that this government approved the contract today to joint ventures of Chinese Civil and Engineering company for the engineering and turn-key contract, including civil and electro-mechanical works for $5.792 billion.

He noted that the scope of works of the project will include construction of four dams and 700kilometres of transmission, adding that it will unleash the nation’s potentials in agriculture, tourism and energy.
 

Six months after that cheerful statement, it seems however, that it is not yet uhuru. The Federal Government is yet to pay its 15% counterpart funds to the Chinese Exim Bank, and nothing has so far happened.

Knowing full well the importance of this project to the Nigerian people and the overall economy, we were agitated by this state of inertia and that was when we began digging, and our investigation has now revealed that Mr. Fashola did not present the full story.
 

We gathered that one of the main reasons for the latest delay of the project is actually a long-standing dispute that may have been overlooked when the President and Members of the Federal Executive Council (FEC) gave approval on August 30, 2017.

We also discovered an interesting twist where the Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, Mr. Abubakar Malami (SAN) gave sound legal advice which was ignored by the Chief of Staff to the President, Mallam Abba Kyari before the contract was awarded.
 

Furthermore, we discovered that after earlier aligning with the Attorney-General, curiously, the Minister of Power, Works and Housing, Mr. Babatunde Raji Fashola, SAN, backtracked, and switched to the advice of the COS, a move that would definitely do more harm than good to this project.

It is a riveting story of power play at the very highest level, the kind of intrigues that many thought would never occur in the Buhari Presidency.
 

BACKGROUND

 

To clearly understand this knotty matter, we have to take you through the whole gamut of hard facts spanning 18 years.

Documents in the possession of The Boss indicate that a Nigerian company, Sunrise Power Transmission Co. Limited had been in the forefront of promoting this Project from the outset. 
 

Prior to the official tender process, Sunrise started promoting the Mambilla Project as early as year 2000. It reportedly engaged the offices of former President Olusegun Obasanjo and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar as well as the Nigerian Embassy in China.

Its successful promotion of the project led to the first state visit of then President Obasanjo to China in 2001 and Vice President Atiku in 2002.
 

It was thereafter, that a bidding process was opened for the project and the Ad-Hoc Inter-Ministerial Committee recommended Sunrise and its Chinese Partners. On April 7, 2003, the Committee wrote the President for approval to officially issue an award letter.

Therefore, on May 22, 2003, the then Federal Ministry of Power and Steel (Now Part of the new Ministry of Power, Works and Housing) issued a letter of Award to Sunrise Power and Transmission Company Limited in consortium with North China Power Group as Technical Partners. The contract was for the construction of a 3, 960MW Hydroelectric Power Project in Mambilla on a Build, Operate and Transfer (BOT) arrangement for a provisional six billion dollars. Sunrise accepted the offer.
 

 In August 20, 2003, Sinohydro, which has its principal place of business at no.1 Ertao Biaguang Road, Xuanwu District, Beijing, PR China, North China Power Engineering Co. Ltd with its business address as 24a Huangsi District, Beijing and Sunrise located at Oluwa (Fowler) Road, Ikoyi, Lagos Nigeria, signed a contract to work together on what was then the 3, 960MW project.  Sunrise engaged Sinohydro to construct the project on an Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) basis.

After it has begun work, it got a shocking letter on September 3, 2003 from the Ministry of Energy (FMOE) claiming that the Federal Executive Council did not approve the memo recommending Sunrise for the project and directing Sunrise to tender for the project when it is advertised.
 

Sunrise sought a resolution without success. Sunrise and North China engaged Chief Afe Babalola, (SAN) to demand compensation.

A letter written by Chief Babalola dated February 4, 2005, read in part: “Your ministry cannot seek to repudiate the contract as it has attempted to do in the Ministry’s letter ….not after our clients have incurred expenses on the preparation incidental to the execution of the project.
 

“Consequent upon the preliminary steps towards execution of the contract, our clients have incurred well over Three Million Pounds while there are commitments to several consultants local and international in excess of Thirty Million British Pounds.”

While the dispute was on, Sunrise and it partners were still at work. An indication of this was a letter of intent written on April 15, 2005 by Dai Chunning, General Manager, Banking Department oF China Export-Import Bank to Sinohydro Corporation indicating its interest to provide $5.5 Billion for the Mambilla Project; the bank further stated that “We perused the information provided on the issue and are pleased to show interest and support in the proposed project by way of this Letter of Interest”. 
 

Nothing was heard on the project until May 29, 2007 when, allegedly influenced by a Senior Government official, the Government awarded a part of the SUNRISE contract (Lot I, Civil/Hydraulic Steel Structures) of the (2,600MW Mambilla Hydroelectric) First Phase of the project to Messrs CGGC/CGC Ltd, in the sum of US$1.46billion.

The source of funding envisaged at the time of award was a combination of an Exim Bank of China loan of US$1 billion and funds from the Excess Crude Savings Account.
 

Of course, Sunrise did not take this lying down. It took the matter to the Federal High Court, Abuja suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/384/2007. The defendants in the case were The Minister of Energy, The Attorney-General of the Federation, China Gezhouba Group Corporation (CGGC) and China Geo-Engineering Corporation (CGC).

Late President Umaru Musa Yar ‘Adua directed the Federal Ministry of Justice to investigate the Breach of Contract and USD 960 Million (Nine Hundred and Sixty Million United States Dollars) damage claim filed by Sunrise, and a Report (a copy of which is in our possession) from the Federal Ministry of Justice Indicted the Federal Ministry of Energy and CGGC/CGC of Gross Violation of Sunrise’s BOT Contract.
 

Furthermore, Mr. Michael Kaase Aondoakaa noted that Sunrise was not duly disengaged as Contractor on the project before government went ahead in May 2007 to engage CGGC/CGC for the same project.

He therefore, opined that Sunrise was in strong legal position to pursue a successful claim against the Federal Government; stating that “The best interest of the country can only be served by an amicable settlement of the parties so as to avoid the embarrassment that litigation would bring (to) the image of the country.” He sought Presidential approval to explore efforts of settlement of the matter.

Abba Kyari

 

Following a Presidential Visit to China in 2008, word reached late President Yar’Adua about an alleged $15m bribery that led to the award of the $1.46 billion contract to CGGC/CGC on May 29, 2007.

Late President YarAdua, we gathered then invited Sunrise, then Minister of State, Power (Late Hajiya Fatima Balaraba Usman), Minister of State and the accused Presidential official for a meeting.

After the meeting, President Yar Adua instructed then Attorney-General, Mr. Michael Aondoaka, SAN, to cancel the CGGC/CGC contract and restore the BOT Contracts to Sunrise immediately which was done at the Vice President’s Conference room in the presence of all Directors and Permanent Secretaries of both the Ministry of Power and the Ministry of Justice.
 
After this unfortunate episode, Sunrise agreed to resolve its legal dispute against the Federal Government and CGGC/CGC Consortium amicably, by proposing that Sinohydro Corporation in partnership with Sunrise, on the one hand, should form a Consortium at a cost to be determined by the final project design to be undertaken.
 

In October 2012, the Federal Government decided it wanted to own the Mambilla HydroPower Project and wanted an urgent settlement. This led to the signing of the Settlement and General Project Execution Agreement (GPEA) between the Federal Ministry of Finance, then Honourable Minister of State, Power, Architect Darius Ishaku now Governor of Taraba State signed, and then Solicitor-General of Federation, Mr. Abduallahi Yola signed for the Federal Government. 

Sunrise and Sinohydro also signed but CGGC and CGC refused to sign because the Ministry of Power/Federal Government had allotted only 30% of Engineering Procurement and Construction (EPC) works to them.

Darius Ishaku

 

When the Federal Government filed the Settlement Agreement in Court at the Federal High Court, Abuja, the Court rejected it because CGGC/CGC did not sign the Settlement and GPEA Agreements.

Thereafter a Stakeholders’ Meeting was convened at the Ministry of Power on November 23, 2012 and over 40 Stakeholders reportedly attended.
 

It was at this meeting that Mrs. Zainab Kuchi, new Minister of Power and the Solicitor-General of the Federation signed a new Out of Court Settlement Agreement with Sunrise (Its Chairman, Mr. Leno Adesanya signed) and also a new GPEA with Sunrise and Sinohydro (Its Technical and Financial Partners) was affirmed with a mandate to execute 100% of the EPC Contract.

In 2013, then President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan during a State Visit to China was called upon by the Chinese President “To please consider both Sinohydro and CGHC as EPC Contractors.”
 

The new Minister, Professor Chinedu Nebo then appealed to Sunrise to vote CGGC (Not CGC) as Co-contractor, a position that was accepted by Sunrise so that the project will be up and running.

As a result  of that parley, On January 14,  2015,  the Federal Ministry of Power, issued an Award Letter (No FMP/6145/S.11.1.185 of January 14, 2015) to Messrs CGCC and Sinohydro, specifically informing both Chinese companies that “Please note that based on the General Project Execution Agreement and Terms of Settlement agreed on the 23rd November, 2012 between the Federal Government on one hand and Sunrise/Synohydro on the other hand, Sunrise Power and Transmission Co. Ltd will serve as  local content Partner on the Mambilla Project
 

The Present:

When President Muhammadu Buhari assumed Power, like all past Presidents, the issue of power was key on his agenda. In fact during one of his very first interviews on Channels Television in 2015, he stated that “The 3050MW Mambilla Hydropower Projectis stalled because FGN refused to pay 15% counterpart funds to Chinese Contractors; Just 15 per cent”.
 

It was not therefore, a surprise that on June 29, 2015, President Buhari reportedly hosted Alhaji Lawal Idris for over an hour at the Presidential Villa. He was in the company of Mr. Leno Adesanya, the Chairman/CEO of Sunrise.

We gathered that Adesanya presented a comprehensive briefing on the history of his company’s involvement with the Mambilla Power Project and how Sunrise, his company already has subsisting contractual agreements with the Federal Government as regards its execution.
 

There was an indication that since there was another Sheriff in town, the project will start revving again. When it didn’t, Sunrise wrote Mr. Babatunde Raji Fashola, (SAN)  on February 26, 2016, notifying him that it had held joint meetings with the two companies (SINOHYDRO and CGGC) in Beijing, and they have agreed to split the EPC Contract on a 50/50 basis; The Minister notified his Permanent Secretary, Mr. Louis Edozien in the letter.

A month later, on March 8, 2016, Engr. E.O. Ajayi, Director (Energy Resources) on behalf of the Minister, wrote to Mambilla project Consultants, Coyne et Bellier/Decrown, urging the company to send a reminder to Messrs Sinohydro and Messrs CGGC to submit the cooperation agreement detailing the division responsibility/section of works of the parties, noting that the consortium is jointly and severally responsible for the full implementation of the project. The Consortium was directed to submit the said agreement not later than March 31, 2016.
 

That was not all, many people involved in the project were now more enthusiastic when it was announced that President Buhari was preparing his first official visit to China.

He eventually embarked on the 4-day visit on April 10, 2016 but for some inexplicable reasons, this all important Mambilla project was not on the agenda.
 

We gathered from the delegation, that with pressure from Mr. Leno Adesanya, Governor Nasir El Rufai of Kaduna State, Governor Mohammed Badaru Abubakar of Jigawa State and Chief Audu Ogbe, decided to bring the situation  to the attention of a very angry President Buhari, who was upset that the Taraba Governor was not invited on the trip by the Minister of Power Works and Housing. In any case, that was how Mambilla hit the front burner and became one of the key issues of the Presidential visit.

On his return later that month, President Buhari sent his Chief of Staff back to Beijing to conclude the negotiations, which resulted in the agreed price of $5.79 billion.
 

In addition, on April 25, 2016, Mr. President wrote through his Chief of Staff (Letter No. SH/COS/05/A/1847) to the Honourable  Attorney-General, Mr. Abubakar Malami, SAN, copying the Minister of Power Works and Housing (HMOPWH), to propose a strategy for resolving all the legal issues and disputes relating to the Mambilla Power Project including the matter of the “warring parties”.

As per the directive given by Mr. President, The Boss learnt that the Attorney-General held series of meetings with the parties involved, and on May 20, 2016 in a letter addressed to Mr. Babatunde Fashola SAN, the Attorney-General made the following recommendations:
 

1)  Government should engage Sinohydro Corpration and CGGC jointly for the purpose of executing the Mambilla Project in line with the Spirit of the Letter of Award dated January 14, 2015, on a 50-50 basis or based on other technical parameters to be determined by the Project Consultants

2)  Engage the Chinese Embassy in Nigeria/Chinese Government to ensure the success of the plan to award the job to two companies
 

3)  Sunrise Power & Transmission Company Limited should be engaged as Local Content Partner on the Mambilla Project as a means of accommodating its prior contractual interests on the project

4)  A joint meeting of the Federal Ministry of Justice and the Ministry of Power, Works and Housing for the purpose of streamlining the above positions and advising Mr. President through the Chief of Staff accordingly should be convened.
 

Curiously, six days after this legal advice, the Chief of Staff allegedly invited a Kaduna-based Chinese Company (CGC Nigeria Limited) to a meeting at the Presidency.

Present at the meeting were Sinohydro, CGC, CGGC, Mr. Fashola and some top Ministry officials. It was at this meeting that Mallam Kyari urged these three companies to cooperate and form a Joint Venture.
 

Despite being told by the Chairman of Sinohydro, and Fashola about the existing agreements with Sunrise, the CoS insisted that they should go ahead with the new arrangement, and instructed the Chinese to deal directly with the Presidency and the Ministry; not their local partners.

Not still satisfied with that move, on January 23, 2017, the Attorney General, wrote the Minister of Power, Works and Housing. The letter, HAGF/SH/2017/Vol.1/14 was titled: Request To Convene A Meeting On Procurement Process For The 3020MW Mambilla HydroElectric Power Project in Light of Outstanding Legal Issues.
 

Fashola replied three days later in a letter: FMP/6145/S.11/Vol.11/517, noting that his ministry welcomes the meeting requested that aims to resolve all issues raised.

The Minister also wrote a letter to Mr. Leno Adesanya on May 3, 2017 in response to a letter that the former had written him on March 31, 2017. He asked Mr. Adesanya to present his observations at a Stakeholders Meeting to be scheduled by the Chief of Staff to the President as proposed by the Attorney-General.
 

While everyone involved was looking forward to that meeting, Mallam Abba Kyari fired a letter he personally signed to The Honourable Minister of Power, Works and Housing on May 22, 2017 with the title: Re: Letter Referenced FMP/6145/S.II/569 In Respect of Mambilla HydroProject

The two paragraph letter stated:
 

 “Further to our discussion, kindly note that Messrs Sunrise Power and Transmission Company Limited is not party to the existing arrangements on this project.

“The Contractor engaged is Messrs CGGC-Sinohydro-CGCOC Joint Venture”.
 

Interestingly this letter was written when Mr. President was having his medical vacation abroad.

Messrs Sunrise must have been enraged by this unilateral decision of the Chief of Staff and consequently wrote the Vice President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo, who was Acting President at the time to intervene.
 

Mr. Leno Adesanya, who signed the letter as Chairman/CEO, updated the Acting President on the project, alerting him that it was the Chinese that informed them of the sad news.

He went on to make an appeal: “Your Excellency, permit me to say that over the years, we have pleaded with our financial partners to be patient with the FGN as various developments that delayed the project played out.
 

“We are however constrained to observe that the latest developments, if not rectified in line with the legal recommendations of the HAGF, prior to seeking FEC approval, shall leave us with no choice but seek legal redress where appropriate including against the Chinese government. We are however, confident that with your expected intervention, this reluctant prospect can be avoided.

“We trust your sense of justice and your commitment to the early realization of this project…”
 

The Attorney-General certainly was also unhappy with this development, little wonder that on July 24, 2017 he also wrote the Acting President.

Titled “Re: Correspondence In Respect Of The Procurement Process For The 3050MW Mambilla Hydro-Electric Power Project In Light Of Outstanding Issues”, he noted that following Mr. President’s directive of April 2016, he had developed a legal opinion, and had forwarded same to the Minister of Power, Works and Housing.
 

He re-affirmed his recommendation insisting that he informed the Chief of Staff to the President and Minister about this and he wanted the Acting President to give appropriate directive.

Well, it seemed the letters from these two men did not carry much weight because just like he had promised in the meeting in 2016, and his letter of 2017, Mallam Abba Kyari had his way and the Nigerian Company was kicked out. There was no word from the Vice President or his office on the matter.
 
We were told that many moves were made for a meeting, even President Buhari’s main man, Alhaji Mamman Daura, reportedly tried to arrange one of such meetings on September 30, 2017, but the Chief of Staff will have none of it.
 

He advised Mr. Leno Adesanya, whose company, Sunrise, had been short-changed to “go to court”.

Of course following the November announcement by Fashola, there was a chain reaction. Sunrise activated the Arbitration Clause of its November 23, 2012 GPEA Agreement, and approached the International Chambers of Commerce, International Court of Arbitration in Paris, France to take charge; and it is claiming $2.3 billion in damages and profit loss.
 

The ICC Case No. 23211/TO is between Sunrise, Federal Government of Nigeria and Sinohydro Corporation Limited.

Already the legal fireworks have begun: While Mr. Jeremie Chouraqui is lead Counsel for Sunrise, Mr. Richard Smellie is representing Sinohydro while Supo Shashore, SAN is representing the Federal Government of Nigeria.
 

Despite this move at arbitration, Sunrise, through its Lawyer, Mr. Femi Falana, SAN has written to the Attorney-General (copied to Minister of Power, Works and Housing and Presidency) still seeking ways of an amicable settlement; because Sunrise wants to execute the EPC contract based on the full compliance of the July 24, 2017 recommendations of the learned Attorney-General, Mr. Abubakar Malami, SAN, to the Federal Government.

The February 2018 letter was a last ditch request and appeal to the nation’s Chief Law Officer to intervene and midwife the resolution in line with his earlier recommendations which will save Nigeria over $2 billion, as well as stem the negative publicity that the trial will generate, especially now that Nigeria is trying to project itself as an investment-friendly destination.
 

In a bid to get a clearer picture of this drama, we decided to speak directly to the Vice President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo  (Through his Senior Special Assistant, Media, Laolu Akande), Mallam Abba Kyari, Mr. Louis Edozien, the Permanent Secretary as well as Mr. Leno Adesanya.

We wanted to know exactly why Sunrise was disqualified, which company has taken its place as Local Content Partner, and since the Chinese had committed to paying $millions of dollars to Sunrise, who will be receiving this payment? We also wanted to enquire if there was a tender and under which circumstances did Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) issue these Chinese firms Due Process Certificates?
 

As at the time of filing this report, only the Minister of Power, Works and Housing, Mr. Babatunde Fashola, SAN, has reached out to us. He said he was not authorised to discuss Federal Executive Council meetings and decisions with the media.

He spoke three times informally to our Publisher, but declined to comment specifically on the issues raised. He stated that if there were any clarifications or observations to our story, they will be conveyed to us through the official channel.
 

The other dramatis personae have not responded. For sure, we have not heard the last of this extremely complicated saga.


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Boss Picks

Goodnight Bamofin Abimbola Ogunbanjo

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By Eric Elezuo

On Friday, March 1, 2024, the remains of former Chairman of Nigeria Exchange Group, were committed to mother earth in his hometown, Ijebu-Ife in Ogun State amid wailing by friends, colleagues, associates and members of the immediate and extended families.

Till date, words are not yet enough to describe the emotional trauma caused by the tragic death of Mr Ogunbanjo since that fateful evening on February 9, 2024 in faraway California, United States of America. He was traveling in an helicopter in company of his friend, Herbert Wigwe, his wife and son, who also lost their lives.

Delivering his sermon at the funeral service, the Diocesan Bishop of Lagos, Church of Nativity, Right Reverend, who officiated the funeral, Ifedola Senasu Gabriel Okupevi, said the Holy Bible makes it clear that there was time for everything on the earth.

The clergy, reading from the book of Ecclesiastes Chapter 3 verses 1 and 2, noted that the passages made everyone know that death was imminent.

He said, “This time we are mourning, sad, and weeping because our dear brother Abimbola is no more; we believe that we will meet again at the resurrection in paradise. His time is up and that is why he is gone. He is no more concerned about the economic woes of this world and travelling up and down.”

Admonishing the congregation, the clergy urged everybody to emulate Ogunbanjo’s virtues in using his resources to help others.

According to him, “Watching a documentary about him yesterday (Thursday), late Ogunbanjo used his resources to touch lives leaving a legacy for others to emulate.

“He has done his bit, let everyone use your influence to do good; it’s the legacy left behind by Ogunbanjo. Look at Nigeria, palliatives are not going round. Let us try to help those around us we can help.”

For the family he left behind, the clergy drew their attention to the Book of I Thessalonians Chapter 4 verse 13, which states that, “they must see him asleep and not dead.”

The late Ogunbanjo’s daughter, Ladun, who struggled with emotions and tears to take the Bible reading from Psalm Chapter 128 verse one to eight, described her late father as someone who would be sorely missed.

In his vote of thanks, his son, Timi Ogunbanjo, thanked the Lagos and Ogun state governments and various groups for their immense support.

The funeral service attracted the late Ogunbanjo’s friends, associates from across the country, which included the President of Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote; Chairman and Editor-in-Chief of the THISDAY and ARISE Media Group, Prince Nduka Obaigbena; Senator Gbenga Daniels, Former Governor of Cross River State, Donald Duke,  Segun Awolowo and members of Igbobi Old Boys Association.

THE MAN BAMOFIN ABIMBOLA OLUROTIMI OGUNBANJO, OFR

Born 11th July 1962, he was the youngest child born to Chief Christopher and chief Mrs. Hilda Ogunbanjo both of blessed memory. Young Abimbola attended Corona School, Apapa, Lagos; Claremont School, UK and the University of Lagos Staff School for his elementary education between 1967 and 1973. Abimbola was admitted into Igbobi College, Yaba, Lagos in 1974 where he started his secondary school education. He completed his studies, acquiring his GCE “O’Levels at Millfield School, England in 1977. In 1980, he was accepted at the American College of Switzerland, where he graduated in 1985 with a Bachelor of Science (Hons) Degree in Business Administration.

Abimbola commenced his professional career in banking as a Credit Analyst with Chase Merchant Bank, Nigeria where he served meritoriously under the pupilage of late Mr. Tayo Aderinokun, the Co-founder and former managing Director of Guaranty Trust Bank Plc. After this, Abimbola qualified as a Solicitor after attending the University of Buckingham School of Law in 1987, and was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1990. He joined the prestigious and renowned Law Firm of Chris Ogunbanjo & Co. where he grew through the ranks to close out as the Firm’s Managing Partner. He had vast knowledge of and experience in commercial law, especially of the Capital and Financial Markets, and Corporate Mergers and acquisitions. Abimbola Ogunbanjo attended the New York Institute of Finance, where he obtained a Certificate in International Capital Markets. He has garnered considerable Corporate Finance transactional experience working with public and private institutions, this included rendering advice to a host of multinational corporations.

Abimbola acted as Counsel to ConocoPhillips in the $1.5bn landmark transaction where it sold ts oil assets to Oando Exploration Resources. In addition, he acted for the Nigerian National etroleum Corporation in the establishment of the $5bn Brass LNG project.

In September 2017, Abimbola was elected the 19th President of the Council of the Nigerian Stock Exchange having served on the Council for the prior 5 years; and chairing the Demutualization Advisory Committee and the Governance and Renumeration Committee respectively. It is to Abimbola’s credit that it was under his tenure and diligent supervision as President of the Exchange that the members of the Exchange voted unanimously in favour of its demutualization, after over 15 years of trying. After a name change, he was elected as the inaugural Chairman of the Nigerian Exchange Group in 2020; he retired from the Board after his statutory tenure expired in September 2022.

He was a governing council member and the Legal Adviser of the Nigerian Chamber of Shipping where he provided pro bono legal advice. Abimbola was recently the Vice- Chairman of the Commercial Law and Taxation Committee of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry as well as Country Legal Adviser and Director of ConocoPhillips and AIICO Insurance Plc – a subsidiary of the Insurance giant AIG, the US Insurance behemoth.

Abimbola was a member of several professional advocacy bodies including the Institute of Petroleum (U.K.), the International Bar Association and the International Trademark Association. As a result of his deep understanding of the corporate landscape, he sat on the Boards and Chairs several blue-chip companies including Beta Glass Plc, V&O Communications Ltd. and Investment Securities Ltd. He was recently invited to chair the Board of the largest quarry company in Nigeria. Abimbola’s enduring relationships with leading C-Suite executives in Nigeria and throughout the African continent made him a highly sought-after adviser and international negotiator.

On 11th October 2022, the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency, Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR conferred the National Honour of Officer of the Order of the Federal Republic (OFR), on Abimbola Ogunbanjo for his sterling contributions to the development of the Capital Markets, Corporate Law and in recognition of his outstanding virtues and in appreciation of his services to Nigeria. Abimbola was decorated with the traditional title of “Bamofin of Erunwon” part of the Ijebu Kingdom.Bamofin Abimbola Ogunbanjo was a Member of the Metropolitan Club, Lagos; the Oriental Club (U.K.) and the Lagos Motor Boat Club – where he had the honour of serving as its Commodore. He was a Director of The Chris Ogunbanjo Foundation, a Not- for- Profit Organization established by his father and distinguished Igbobian, Olotu Chief (Dr.) Christopher Oladipo Ogunbanjo OFR, CON. The Chris Ogunbanjo Foundation was set up to promote the achievement of a stable society by analyzing the causes of conflicts and resolution of the same. He was happily married to Titi Ogunbanjo (nee Kuku), and blessed with two children; Ladun and Timi.

PERSONALITIES PAY TRIBUTES TO LATE OGUNBANJO 

So far, a torrent of tributes has poured in and continues to pour in from prominent Nigerians before, during and after the funeral service of the fiscal policy expert, who died in the helicopter.

The Governor of Ogun State, Mr. Dapo Abiodun, who was among the special dignitaries that graced the event, described the late Ogunbanjo as a dependable and loyal associate who led a life of impact.

The governor, while speaking at the funeral service held at the Church of Nativity, Parkview Estate, Ikoyi, Lagos, urged the deceased’s family to hold on to God.

According to him, only God knows why He called him home at this period.

“Our God is a God of different seasons and only him knows why he allowed this sudden and painful event to happen. This is a painful event to us, but it’s for us to know we are travelers on earth.

“Bimbo was intentional about the things he did, he was a good, loyal, dependable associate and consistent friend to me. He was a mentor and had an infectious deep smile on his face as he lived a life of impact.

“If tears could bring back the dead, Bimbo will be here today; if God calls you home today what will be said of you?” he asked.

OUR HEARTS ARE SHATTERED – 

Abimbola
How did we get here!!!!!
My heart is shattered!!!!!
Didn’t even know you were out of the country.
Bimbo it’s all sooo surreal
No one will call me Lapsy like you use to !!!!
My heart is bleeding.
How do I eulogise you when your story is still being written ? You are meant to be here,you had so many plans.
Egbon you were only at the beginning ki lo se Le?????
How can life be so cruel? It just didn’t seem like it was your time yet.
I have so many questions but who will answer them?
Craigo you were a good man, a fineeeeee gentleman, a solid achiever, a kind hearted soul.(can’t believe I’m writing in the past tense)
There are so many wonderful things I can say about you.
You were smart, hard-working, responsible, funny and determined.
You were the glue in the family and would always scold me not to hold grudges. You hated strife,
and continually advocated peace and unity. You were full of divine wisdom.
On the day the news broke Timi was completely crushed and kept saying “it’s not fair”…..I must say
I feel the same way.. Father in Heaven you could have averted this …..I just submit to God’s will.
Who are we to question God.
Bimbo you were a special breed. One of a kind! I’ll miss seeing you turned out in your dapper outfits. You loved your pink shirts , pink trousers that I use to tease you about.
You were the fashionista per excellence!!
I will miss our banters, your smiles and jokes. Never a dull moment with you.
“Chairman of the chop life gang” I use to call you. You were accustomed to the finer things of life. “Igbadu”master My dear Egbon, you were an unusual mix. Never used your Pedigree as a source of influence.
You cut across different classes, ages and cultures. If we took you to Buckingham place you would fit in like a glove, just as you would if you were taken to the interiors of our rural villages. No airs or graces, you were humble, down-to-earth, no fuss and no pretences.
Why, why, why, did you have to go , I keep asking myself …. especially at a time when things were really looking up for you, you had so many plans … that was just about to start unfolding.
My daddy Ladun hmmmmm ko yemi o!!!
This was not the plan!!!! I keep praying it’s a bad dream and I’ll wake up.
You were not just a brother you were a friend.
In your short sojourn in this earthly world you amassed incredible and laudable achievements. I guess it’s not how long but how well.. you came, you saw and conquered. You ran a good race.
You left indelible marks in the sands of time.
I am so proud of you my dear brother.
Your friendship and absence will be greatly missed.
Titi is completely broken and shattered, Ladun and Timi inconsolable !!! I pray the Almighty God will console, keep and nurture your beautiful wife and lovely children till the end.
They will fulfil their destinies in the name of Jesus.
I am comforted that you are in a better place resting in the bosom of our dear Father.
ABIMBOLA, Craigo, baba legba, meron, daddy Ladun … you live on in our hearts and minds. We will miss you and family reunions will never quite be the same without you.
Goodnight Bims
Love you deep
Lape Adebayo

A MAN OF IMMEASURABLE JOY AND PEACE

There can be no better tribute from me to Otunba, Bamofin, than to commend his memory to parts unknown, and to those who do not know, and eulogize him in his native tongue as “Aburo bi egbon” – Amoye, Ojogbon, Omoluabi, Olola,Eniayo, Eni’re, Ayanfe Oluwa, Akanda eda… Each name carrying the weight of its true meaning to the well tutored as he. A man of immeasurable joy and peace, appeared as a star, lived with a heart of innocence, and departed with a bang so loud, we could hear here from 7,777 miles away, the sound of the rushing wind of God’s Holy Spirit carrying him away, as Elijah, laid on the wings of angels of God, singing welcome to the pilgrim of that night. From the depths of love to the height of peace, Otunba lived a life of contentment, with the caution of a legend, and quiet of a grand master, who boasts not in his achievements but credits all his laurels to the grace of God, He served. The Almighty, All Knowing, with His Son, Most Wise, endowed Bamofin with counsel and wisdom from the womb. So, as Proverbs 8:12– 21 says, prudence dwelt with him, and knowledge and discretion came from him; enduring riches and honor were with him; his fruit was better than gold; he traversed the way of righteousness; and in the midst of his path of justice, he caused many to inherit wealth.

Such was the time of Otunba: quietly redefining the law firm that established corporate law practice in Nigeria; giving back to worthy causes at home and at abroad; and like his famous father, becoming himself a corporate guru; and by dint of his hardwork and excellence, rising to the enviable position of being the Group Chairman of the Nigerian Exchange Group Plc. Here we must sing his praise for the many monuments he left behind – chief of which will be the role he played in the transformation of our capital market – leaving, as it is said, an indelible mark on the country’s financial landscape. No wonder he was preferred as an officer of the federal republic, and a distinguished awardee of his alma mater: Igbobi College, Yaba. Abimbola did not, as the scriptures say, grow weary while doing good, nor did he lose heart in seasons of disappointment – so the Lord filled his treasury with pleasure, and now by the same measure, he is now God’s treasure.
Konyin Ajayi

YOU WILL ALWAYS BE REMEMBERED FOR GOOD

Uncle Bims!!! This is so unbelievable, I have never been impacted by death like this, I can’t imagine the family without you in it.
So many ifs, so many why’s? All I know is that this one is hard to write. I remember my last joke with you about the picture you sent to me in January….

You will always be remembered for good…I made requests for referrals from you. It was never a hard thing for you to do. I got the emails immediately, My niece keji Odeyemi would like…. Good men never die….you came, you saw, you impacted.
Rest in perfect peace, Uncle Bims!!!!
Keji Odeyemi

YOU HAVE TOUCHED COUNTLESS LIVES 

I can never deny the pain that I carry, but I would like us to remember him as a blessing and a lesson.

Abimbola my dearest brother, How do I write this tribute to you. How words fail me Bims, This is such a tragic loss, How do I say RIPP to you my brother, am still in shock, you left us too soon!

May you be safe in heaven now. Sometimes, only one person is missing, and the world seems depopulated. There’s no buddy like you. I wish R.I.P. meant Return If Possible. I miss you, my brother. Not a day goes by that I don’t think of you., I miss you so much, Bims. Losing you, is so bad. I will remember you always for your great charm and wit-I look up to the sky and talk to you. What wouldn’t I give to hear your voice again. I miss your voice. I miss your laugh, and I miss everything about you. Kai Bimbo, ELEYI DUN MI O!!! You will always be in my heart and on my mind. I promise to always look out for Titi, Ladun and Rotimi. Without you, it’s almost like the whole world has changed. You are in my thoughts daily and always in my heart, my brother.

You were a special person.! I miss you terribly! You are alive through my prayers and wishes, so rest peacefully, my brother. You have touched countless lives and lived through your good deeds.
SUN RE O, EGBON MI ATATA,
SUN RE BAMOFIN
ABIMBOLA OLUROTIMI
OGUNBANJO….
Love & Miss You
Omoba Adeolayimika Benson

YOU WERE THROUGH AND THROUGH A FAMILY MAN 

My dear Uncle B, thank you for all that you were. I will miss you, dearly. I will cherish all our moments of gisting and gisting. Thank you for being that uncle I could always count on. I thank you for the home you built. You were through and through a family man. Always there for everyone and at every occasion. I will hold dear all our fun memories. Thank you for living a good life and finishing strong. Good night, Uncle Bimbola.
Bunmi Idowu

MAY GOD GRANT YOU ETERNAL REST

How could I have known that our conversation on that fateful day in December would be the last……
Words fail me!
Uncle Abimbola, you were larger than life. A devoted family man, loving brother-in-law, an exemplary achiever we were all proud to call our own.
You live forever in our hearts, unforgettable, irreplaceable!
May God grant you eternal rest in His bosom.
Sleep well brother!
Sola Kuku

SLEEP WELL

Dear Bimbostic, as you would always call me Enostic. You would be deeply missed . Sleep well in the bosom of the Lord.
Eno Udoh

YOUR LIGHT WILL NEVER DIM

In loving memory of egbon Abimbola (Abi) Ogunbanjo, a beacon of wisdom and leadership. I first crossed paths with him during his tenure as Commodore of the Lagos Motor Club, where he exuded grace and passion for community. However, it was during his time as President of the Council at the Nigerian Stock Exchange that I truly came to know him.

During his visit to Chicago with senior management and the Council of the Nigerian Stock Exchange to study the operations of the CBOE and CME, I had the honor of hosting a reception for leading business figures keen on learning about the Nigerian capital market. Abi’s instrumental role ensured great attendance and participation, laying a solid foundation for my transition into the financial services industry in the States after working in Nigeria.

Despite his demanding schedule, Abi always made time for his aburos. I cherish the memories of our dinners in London, New York, Atlanta, Chicago, and Lagos, where amidst his busy schedule, he shared wisdom, laughter, and camaraderie. These moments were a testament to Abi’s character, showcasing his genuine care and commitment to nurturing the next generation of leaders.

Abi’s impact on my professional journey was profound. He not only provided guidance but also opened doors to new opportunities. One such pivotal moment was when he introduced me to the Nigerian American Business Forum held in Tampa. Through his introduction, I forged invaluable connections.

Although he was extremely accomplished, Abi remained remarkably humble. His humility was a testament to his character, serving as a guiding light for all who knew him. Though he may have left this world too soon, his spirit of leadership, humility, and generosity will forever resonate in our hearts.

Rest in perfect peace sir. Your light will never dim
Ayodeji Ayodele

REST IN PERFECT PEACE

Uncle B aka AO, Words fail me. I miss you and I love you so much.
Forever in my heart.
Rest in perfect peace.
Love always,
Your darling niece Funke “A Funkysho”
Funke Shonekan

THANK YOU FOR BEING AN INCREDIBLY GREAT BOSS

It’s still very difficult to grasp that you are gone my Group Chairman… Otunba. This is an awfully hard pill to swallow. I worked closely with you as the Group Chairman at the Nigeria Exchange (NGX). You would always reach out to me to task me with something. Each time I was elated to take on this task to ensure you were pleased. I remember deliberately not wanting to tell you or Sis Titi that I had interviewed for the job and had been offered the job. I wanted it to be a surprise to everyone.

I recall my onboarding as the Head of Government Relations at NGX when I had just joined the exchange. I had a virtual meeting with you and my CEO of NGX limited. You cracked me up so hard when the meeting commenced. Thankfully I could mute my mic and cackle. You started by saying “Good morning Chalya. I’ve heard so much about you…” I called Sis Titi soon after the meeting saying “uncle Bimbo denied me today.” She explained and we had a laugh.

Thank you for being an incredibly great boss and an awesome egbon. I pray that the Good Lord continues to comfort and strengthen Sis Titi, Ladun and Timi. And indeed the entire family.
Farewell Otunba.
Highest regards always,
Chalya Shagaya
Director General
NIAMS

YOUR SPIRIT WILL CONTINUE TO BRIGHTEN OUR LIVES 

Uncle Bimbola, your fun-loving spirit brought light to every gathering. You had a remarkable ability to infuse every moment with joy, whether it was through your playful behaviour or your willingness to lend a listening ear.

You were always ready to offer a helping hand or a word of encouragement to those in need. Your legacy of love and laughter will forever echo in our hearts, a reminder to cherish each moment and spread kindness wherever we go.

I’m glad for the opportunity I had to interact with you. I keep having flashbacks of all the times we spoke while I was managing your account with the bank I was working then.
Farewell, dear uncle, your spirit will continue to brighten our lives in ways both big and small.
Rest in peace, your memory will live on in our hearts forever.
Oladunni Arije

A BRIDGE BUILDER ACROSS CLASS AND DIVISION 

Salam. With total submission to the Will of Almighty God, the Gentle giant departs . Abimbola Ogunbanjo . I am really struggling to say anymore . In between the imagination of the event that took you away or coming to terms with the reality of it . Events like this remind us that we are more than the flesh, and the spirituality of man is real . You were special in every sense of the human definition . Relationships of every kind meant a lot to you and handled them admirably.

You were regularly in touch with people in various ways, consciously and cautiously. Ever so proud and protective of the great name you inherited and the determination to build on it. You carried yourself with dignity at all times and remained a pillar in the Ogunbanjo family as a whole and asserted yourself therein as a reference point throughout. A bridge builder you were across class and division. You made current affairs and the trend of the Nigerian economy/ political challenges your concern. You bring them up for scrutiny, almost on a daily basis. Now. What can we offer beyond our prayers , consolation, or possible support. Only God can heal the wounds of your exit, particularly on your dear loving wife, children, brothers, and sisters and extended family all the way to Eruwon and far beyond. May the kindness and mercy of Almighty God never depart from all you have left behind May Almighty Allah bless you with Aljanah firdaus eternally. Ameen
bijaikun fayakun.

Adesegun Muhammed Muru’f Ajibola

If Bimbo’s friends were asked to describe him, there would undoubtedly be a convergence of adjectives that speak to his sincerity, reliability, consistency and generosity of spirit. His ever readiness to dispense frank and wise counsel was an additional hallmark and his hearty laugh was endearing. He will be greatly missed. May Bimbo’s soul rest in perfect peace and may God comfort and encourage Titi, their children, their entire family and the many lives he touched. Amen.

Victor Olusegun Adeniji

There are special people in our lives who never leave us, even after they are gone. Bimbo rest where the Lord has prepared for you. You are in a better place in Paradise, to rise in glory. May your gentle soul rest in perfect peace. Amen.

Mrs Irene Ladebo

Great Bimbo, forever the affable character. Bimbo was a few years ahead of me at Millfield School. He told me that our attending the same school made us brothers for life. I am sure that most of us will attest to the fact that Bimbo was big on his old-boy networks. He never failed to invite me to anything he was doing, or an old boy network function. My lasting memory of Bimbo was him puffing on a very big cigar during his marriage ceremony to his beautiful wife, Titi. That was the only time I traveled to Ijebu Ode. At the Met Club we sat on the same table, whilst at the Boat Club we served in the same committee. He always had a word of wisdom on issues. Typical Bimbo for you, larger than life. He will surely be missed. May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace.

Hewett Benson

Dear Bimbo,

The news of your passing has left a void in so many hearts—a space that can never be filled. You were more than a friend; a confidante to so many people. You touched so many lives.

Your absence leaves a silence—a quiet ache that reminds us of the precious gift of friendship. But even as we mourn and we prepare to say Goodbye, It is not the end. It simply means till we meet again.

We celebrate the impact you had on so many lives. The warmth of your smile, your wisdom and your gentle calm nature. The world may have lost an incredible soul, but heaven has gained an Angel.
We pray that you Wife, Children and Family take comfort from all the testaments to your qualities, the life you led and the number of lives you touched along your journey on earth.

We, your friends, will continue to honor your legacy by spreading kindness, laughter, and love.

With heartfelt sincere condolences,

Ade & Sumbo Odunsi

In life one often meets and walks the path with Titans who though themselves may not have been on a journey to disrupt end up doing just that. Craig was to me one of such persons. His professional life saw him rise through the capital market of Nigeria to become the President of the Nigeria Stock Exchange and later earn the right to be the Chairman of what is now the NGX. What a feat!

I had the pleasure of serving under him on the Committee of the Lagos Motor Boat Club where he served as Commodore. There I witnessed the dexterity with which he handled controversial issues which often plague private clubs that have members with huge and unforgiving egos. Craig was always at his best marshalling principles of fair hearing and differing opinions but maintaining a stern and decisive leadership.
I had the privilege and now treasure having had what could be described as a last supper with him, when on the 6th of February just before he travelled he had requested I join him at the Metropolitan Club to have lunch with a Deji Adeogun-Phillips in support of his application for membership. I had initially turned down the invite as I had a previous engagement to travel but once that was postponed, I hurriedly joined him and Deji. Speaking in fluent Yoruba as he often did he warned that things must be done speedily, as he would go away soon. He was his ‘natural Craig self’, as we spoke at lunch with him throwing jabs of Yoruba proverbs and words which I would then ask him the meaning in English.

Service to community, friends and family is one of the greatest achievements in life and Craig achieved and surpassed all of these with perfect dedication. For that I say his journey was purposeful.

I am certain Heaven’s Angels shall receive him with all the glory and song that befits such a lovely soul… and as a fellow Seaman, I pray, “May the waves of the seas lie smooth before you, may a gentle breeze forever fill your sails, may sunshine warm your face; and kindness warm your soul’’.

Afolabi Balogun

I was about to board my flight from Doha to Lagos when I heard the devastating news. It was the most anxious and gruelling flight I ever embarked on.

My dearest Egbon, Ever since meeting you approximately age 7 in London when you came to visit my brother Femi at 50 Bryanston square, in your dark brown leather trousers, flowing silk shirt and gold medallion, you always remained a constant in my life.

To now refer to you in the past tense is ever so calamitous. I ask myself, with your demise where shall I now seek structured, measured, pragmatic analytical advice? You were habitually solution driven, always carefully and diligently seeking the answer to the problem at hand.

I will miss your spirit of optimism and that infectious positive energy that you were able to so effortlessly transmit to your fellow man.

I will miss our constant banter , your jovial presence , your laughter and your persistent attempts to cheat in order for your team to emerge victorious at our annual family games nights.

I had always envisaged that you would grow old with a cane at hand, serving out wisdom to those in need , beginning your sentence with your trademark “hmmmmmm….Shomo” but alas heaven beckoned and called upon your counsel.

My dearest Egbon I will miss you ever so much, the pain is real and too much to bear.
Till we meet again . Rest in perfect peace.
One love always

Abi Kuku

My dearest Egbon, Bimbo.

It still remains a complete shock that you’re gone! I never could have phantom that with all the banter we had seated together during the Ògbéni Ọja Installation Festivities held Feb 3rd 2024, that it would be the last seeing or talking to you. Since you passed, I have had time to severally revisit our posts, messages and discussions we shared together which were of poignant interest. Those sessions are no more!

You were a complete Gentleman, a loving Kinsman and a kind brother to me. You stood by me during my maternal Grandmother’s funeral in 2007, likewise my Mother in 2022. Your Dad’s birthday never passed without a note from you to me seeking I please witness the day with you at Papa’s Ikoyi home. You were indeed a good Man!!!

Though you’ve left us, our memories of you and legacies you left behind will linger on and never be forgotten. May the Lord grant you eternal rest and guide, protect all the loved ones you left behind.
Sun re o. Egbon mi to sure.

‘Folu Aderibigbe

Bimbo dear, it is hard to believe that you are gone, in the twinkle of an eye. The world is devoid without your infectious smile and wicked sense of humor. No more Tutsie roll my nickname from you. I am forever grateful for knowing you.

I pray that Titi, Ladun, and Timi will continue to abide in our Lords graces.
Bye to my dear friend and brother
Tutu

 

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How Governor Fubara Got Trapped

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By Eric Elezuo

“On his part, the Executive Governor of Rivers State, Siminialayi Fubara, who has the mandate of the people of Rivers State to govern them for the next four years, has shown feebleness of character, by agreeing and appending his signature on a document containing such absurdity.

“He has betrayed the people who elected him as Governor and those who stood behind him in this cause. Mr Fubara has shown naivety in his actions; by signing that document, he has signed his death warrant, believing that the President will show him some sort of favours. Mr. Fubara’s mandate is Constitutional and so, he cannot surrender it in the face of intimidation from any quarter. And it is quite unfortunate. Did he go to that meeting to speak and justify his actions, or he went there to take directives from an equally elected President?

“As Governor of a State and as the Chief Security Officer of the State, he has shown tremendous lack of courage and competence. It will be in his best interest to resign if he cannot govern the State as constitutionally provided, or he may as well decamp and join APC, and be taking directives from Nyesom Wike and President Tinubu on the governance and leadership of the State,” – Chief Edwin Clark

This is not the best times for the Governor of Rivers State, Siminialayi Fubara, as he continues to battle for his political life even as he remained the constitutionally elected number one citizen of the state.

In the light of the above, the governor of Osun State, Ademola Adeleke, was recently quoted as describing Fubara as being in government but not in power.

Fubara’s travails started barely five months into his administration, when he reported fell out with his godfather and political benefactor, Nyesom Wike, the immediate past Governor of the state, and currently the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory. By October 2023, all hell was already let lose in the oil rich state.

Observers have said that Fubara’s refusal to be continually humiliated and have his executive authority undermined drew the irk of Wike. Consequently, a plot was hatched to impeach the governor with the majority of the members of the House of Assembly, who have unequivocally pledged loyalty to Wike. And so, Fubara’s political battle ensued.

The governor, according sources, was unperturbed as he had a majority of Rivers people behind him.

“Much as the elites of the state, who had had one form of connection or allegiance with Wike, were backing the FCT Minister, the man on the street stood solidly behind Fubara. And so, when the impeachment plot was noise about, the Rivers people came out enmasse, and quashed the attempt.

Fubara had vowed that he will resist any unjustified impeachment attempt against his government.

The remarks came on the heels of the crises that engulf the state when rumors of impeachment of the governor began to make the rounds.

Addressing a crowd of supporters at the government house, Fubara narrated how he was ‘shot at’ by OC operations on his way to ascertain the extent of damage resulting from a Sunday night fire incident at the Assembly complex.

“If I am impeached, I will not be the first person nor the last one. But any attempt that is not justified will be resisted,” the governor vowed.

But he was later to be ambushed, trapped and subjected to sign an eight point agenda, presented by the president and the men of Wike. Not a point of the agenda was to his advantage, stakeholders have reasoned.

They also reasoned that by his act, he had frustrated the backings given to him by the Rivers people and notable stakeholders like Chief Edwin Clark and Chief Ayo Adebanjo among many other men and women, who have stuck out their necks to protect both the constitution and democracy at play in the state.

However, the political crisis in the State, suddenly assumed a new dimension as President Bola Tinubu is accused of flagrantly desecrating the same provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, which he swore to protect. His actions through the peace meeting he supposedly brokered, was dismissed by not a few Nigerians as extra constitutional, and without respect for the law of the land.

BACKGROUND OF THE CRISES

The crisis, which erupted as a result of the perceived desire of the former Governor of State, who is now the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, to control the mechanism of the state government to the detriment of the incumbent governor, Siminialayi Fubara, witnessed the massive decamping of 27 lawmakers to the All Progressives Congress (APC) from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and resignation of nine commissioners, including the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice.

The long list of commotion, and the bid to stop the lawmakers loyal to Wike from possible impeachment of the governor, Fubara hastily demolished the State House of Assembly Complex, and in its wake obtained a court order, preventing the sitting of the decamped lawmakers at any place.

TINUBU’S INTERVENTION AND THE EIGHT POINT COMMUNIQUE

But the president, seeking to restore peace, invited the contending duo to Abuja for settlement. Reports say that while the loyalist of Wike were represented in their numbers, only Fubara attended from his own camp, leaving his people out of the negotiation. Fubara, according sources, was at this point trapped.

An eight Communique was subsequently drawn and signed to after the the meeting. The terms of settlement as recorded in the document, were dismissed as one-sided, and counterproductive both to Governor Fubara and the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. This therefore, begs the question as to the reason behind Tinubu’s desire to jettison the constitution, replacing it with his own drafted resolutions.

Reacting, Elder statesman and Leader of the Ijaw Ethnic Nationality, Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark, expressed disgust at the 8 point Communique released after the meeting.

The elder statesman, who could not hold his anger, while addressing the media, said they will resist any of such draconic, arbitrary and unconstitutional action of the president and Wike.

Clark accused the president of being bias, resolving the matter to the benefit of the loyalists of Wike, and leaving Fubara to hang in the wing.

He said, “However, the terms of settlement as contained in the Communique issued at the end of the reconciliatory meeting is what is baffling, appalling and unacceptable to the people, especially, the Ijaw ethnic nationality. From the terms of settlement, it is obvious that President Tinubu sees his role as a mediator, to once again, show gratitude to the current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), for “delivering” Rivers State to him during the past Presidential elections, having first of gratified him by making him the Minister of FCT.
First Observation:
The composition of the attendees of the meeting was one sided in favour of Nyesome Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), because while Martins Amaewhule, a former Speaker, (because he has automatically lost his seat the very moment he decamped to another political party), was present at the meeting, it would have only been equitable and expedient, for Edison Ehie, the Speaker as affirmed by constitutional provisions and by the granting of the court, to be in the meeting, if there were sincerity of purpose.

The 8 resolutions reached, are the most unconstitutional, absurd and obnoxious resolutions at settling feuding parties that I have ever witnessed in my life. As a matter of fact, some medias captured it very well when they described it as Directives. And for the fact that such thing was done at the Villa, the seat of the Federal Government of Nigeria, is sacrilegious, because any place housing or is a custodian of symbol of authority, ought to be sacred.

It is obvious that Governor Siminialayi Fubara was ambushed and intimidated into submission. President Tinubu should know that with all the powers he possesses, he cannot override the Constitution. From all that transpired at the meeting, the laws of the land have not been obeyed. President Tinubu simply sat over a meeting where the Constitution, which is the fulcrum of his office as President and which he swore to uphold and abide by, was truncated and desecrated.

27 or so members (because the figure is not certain), of the Rivers State House of Assembly left the political party on which platform they were elected. The Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria is very clear on that. Section 109 is quite clear on that and it says:
A member of a House of Assembly shall vacate his seat in the House if
Being a person whose election to the House of Assembly was sponsored by a political party, he becomes a member of another political party before the expiration of the period for which that House was elected:
Provided that his membership of the later political party is not as a result of a division in the political party of which he was previously a member or of a merger of two or more political parties or factions by one of which he was previously sponsored;
The Speaker of the House of Assembly shall give effect to subsection (1) of this section, so however that the Speaker or a member shall first present evidence satisfactory to the House that any of the provisions of that subsection has become applicable in respect of the member.

“Nyesom Wike is quite abreast of these constitutional provisions. He shouted his voice hoarse calling for the removal of persons like David Umahi as Governor of Ebonyi State, Ben Ayade as Governor of Cross River State and Bello Matawalle as Governor of Zamafara State, when they decamped from the PDP on which platform they were elected into office, to the APC, citing the above constitutional provisions. What has changed?

“A Court of competent jurisdiction has pronounced Edison Ehie as the Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly. That Ruling has not been vacated, and based on that he exercised the duties conferred on him by Section 109 (2) as quoted above, when the 27 or so members openly defected to APC, waving the flags of the party and singing President Tinubu’s campaign songs, from the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP). As at today and going by the Constitution, the Rivers State House of Assembly has four members who are recognised by the laws of the land Therefore, on what premise is Mr. President saying that the 27 decamped members should go back to the House? Under what political party, the PDP or the APC. The directives of Mr. President is absurd and cannot hold water. Mr. President should be aware that Siminialayi Fubara, today, is the elected Governor of Rivers State in the same manner Bola Ahmed Tinubu is the elected President of the country. And as a Governor, Mr. Fubara possesses all the powers as conferred on him by the Constitution.
2. Re-Submission of the names of Commissioners who have resigned their Appointments:
Another “directive” of Mr. President that the names of the Commissioners who were nominated by Nyesom Wike and who resigned on their own volition, and who have lost their trust in Governor Fubara, should be represented to the Rivers State House of Assembly for clearance to become Commissioners again, is ridiculous. Who is nominating them to become Commissioners again? Is it Mr. President? Was Mr. President thinking that he was mediating in a matter between Nyesom Wike and employees in Nyesom Wike’s private company? Is it what Nyesom Wike means when he talks about “structure”, referring to Rivers State as his personal holdings or enterprise?

3. Re-Presentation of a Budget already signed and passed into Law:
Another unthinkable “directive” of Mr. President is that a Budget which has been passed into Law, should be represented. It is absolutely ridiculous and unconstitutional.

“By President Tinubu’s actions and directives, he has overruled the Constitution of the country; he has shaken the foundation of the country’s democracy. People lost their lives fighting for democracy in this country. Today, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has made of no effect the blood of the freedom fighters shed to salvage this country. He has thrown the country’s democracy fifty years backwards; this is unacceptable. Rather than building a strong system and society, we are building strong, invidious characters, with our national patrimony through corruption and avarice.

“By the actions of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, he has really shown his dislike and disdain for the Ijaw people. and confirms his hatred for them. And as the leader of the Ijaws, we will resist it.

“Nyesom Wike is not an emperor. For the eight years he was in power as Governor of the Rivers State, he ruled with an iron fist. As Governor, he will not accept such treatment from anyone, as he is spear heading to be meted out to the current Governor of the State, Siminialayi Fubara. Barr. Wike destroyed his opponent’s houses and even threatened to kill them as cried out by Senator Lee Maiba from Ogoni, and Dr. Abiye Sekibo from Okrika
It is still fresh in our memory, how Nyesom Wike, as Minister of State, Education, used federal might to fight the then Governor of Rivers State, Chibuike Amaechi that almost led to the grinding to a halt of governance in Rivers State when the Judiciary was closed down and the House of Assembly was shut down by the then Governor, Rotimi Chibuike Amaechi. President Jonathan did not interfere in his action because if he did, he will definitely be breaching Section 5(2) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal republic of Nigeria, which President Tinubu has deliberately breached, despite his oath of office to uphold and promote the Constitution. Nyesom Wike is Minister now, and again, he is using the federal government to truncate the wishes of the people of Rivers State. The rule of law in the country is completely truncated by President Tinubu. While it will be noted that presently, the National Assembly is discussing on the Bill of Local Government Autonomy, President Bola Tinubu is directing Governor Fubara to put into effect, a Bill passed by people who are no longer law makers.

4. The members of the House of Assembly choosing where they will sit to carry out their legislative duties:
It is the duty of the executive to provide legislative accommodation for the Houses of Assembly including the National Assembly, and not the members of the House of Assembly to choose a place to meet. It is in this vein that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in presenting his Budget to the National Assembly, recognised the FCT Minister, Nyesome Nwike, as the land lord, because he is of the executive arm of government. It is the FCT that owns the National Assembly complex and maintains it. It is, therefore, ridiculous and unconstitutional for President Tinubu to direct, in his settlement, that the members of the Rivers State House of Assembly, should meet wherever they want to meet.

“We will resist such draconic, arbitrary and unconstitutional action by Mr. President and his customer Nyesom Wike. We will go to court to challenge this so-called one-sided and oppressive action of Mr. President.

Holding that ‘Enough is Enough’, Clark vowed to go court to seek redress on the ambushment of Governor Fubara

Also responding, a former Minister of Work, and two terms governor of Lagos State, Babatunde Fashola, constitutional lawyer, Femi Falana and other prominent lawyers in the country, mostly from the Niger Delta region, came out boldly to condemn the actions of Tinubu, saying his intervention is not required as the constitution doesn’t give room for such.

Meanwhile, a cross section of respondents have faulted the outcomes of the reconciliatory meetings with Tinubu, which they agreed that Fubara ‘erroneously’ signed.

They maintained that while he has fulfilled all the terms of the agreement to his own detriment, the camp of Wike has refused to live up to theirs, and continued to rattle the governor. They further accused Fubara of leaving behind the people who have stood solidly with to unilaterally sign a document that betrayed all the efforts put in place to checkmate godfatherism in the state.

A Rivers elder, who craved anonymity, said that for Fubara to get back on his feet, he needs to get back on the good books of the people.

“The governor must apologize to his people for taking the stand he took; for allowing himself to be armtwisted and trapped in such a manner that 27 already resigned lawmakers are back to their seats and threatening his administration. The same way nine resigned commissioners are also recalled,” he said.

Stakeholders have also berated those governors frolicking around the presidency seeking to curry his favour as men and women without adequate sense of history, saying that they are playing into his hands to interfere in every aspect of their administration including judicial pronouncements. They recall that it is this same Tinubu that stood up against former President Olusegun Obasanjo, and was applauded by Nigerians.

They see it as highly ironical that it is the same Tinubu that is today armtwisting governors to dance to his tune.

It would be recalled that most governors prior to their cases in the Supreme Court were regular visitors at the Aso Rock Villa, and after the judgments, were heard thanking the president for their victory.

“Are they giving the president kudos for what happened in the judiciary? Is the president the judicial officer. Are they not invariably giving the president the power of interference even in court matters. These Governors should think again,” a stakeholder queried.

The way it stands, if Fubara fails to rise to occasion, take his stand and fight for what rightly belongs to him, he will remain a stooge of Wike and his handpicked lawmakers.

The governor, as matter of urgency, must begin to regain the trust of the people, whose concern he jettisoned when he signed Tinubu’s eight point document, for any form of restitution to take take place.

Today, he is trapped in the political quagmire and lockjam, but there may hope in the coming days if he retraces his steps, but would he?

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‘How MTN Use Interconnectivity Rates to Stifle Other Telcos in Ghana, Nigeria’

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By Eric Elezuo

A study conducted by a former aide to former President Goodluck Jonathan, Mr. Reno Omokri, has described how telecommunications giant, MTN, is stifling other companies in the industry, preventing them from engaging in healthy rivalry through high interconnectivity rates. The former Presidential spokesperson use a case study of Ghana and Nigeria to buttress his point.

In a documentary titled ‘How MTN’s Monopoly Destroyed The Ghanaian Economy. And Nigeria Is Next!’, which he produced after a painstaking investigation spanning several months and covering three African countries including Ghana, Nigeria and Kenya, Omokri expised the “practices of telecommunications giant, MTN and their effect on the economies of multiple sub-Saharan countries.”

The politician, who was in the camp of Atiku Abubakar during the last presidential election, declared that “the exposé traced the economic malaise now afflicting the Ghanaian economy partly to the monopolistic policies of MTN, which had led to an unprecedented capital flight from that beleaguered West African nation.”

He noted further: “Last year, Ghana was forced to label MTN a monopoly and slammed heavy fines of $773 million on them for damaging the Ghanaian business environment. MTN went to court, but in October, it was defeated at the Appeals Court, which ruled that the Ghanaian government was right in its classification of MTN.”

Omokri’s report is a consequence of researches to Ghana, where he interviewed government officials, chambers of commerce operatives, and labour union activists, as well as market women and ordinary Ghanaians; Kenya,  where he was told that the shenanigans that happen with MTN in Ghana and Nigeria cannothappen there because the government live up to expectation,  and are alive to their duties to the people; and Nigeria.

Some of the takeaways from his interviews in Ghana are that “ordinary Ghanaians were observed lamenting the erosion of their personal economy, with a market woman saying, ‘All of us in this country now work for MTN’.”

Also, “Labour leaders complained about MTN’s use of interconnectivity rates to stifle other telcos” and that “whereas all the large and medium-sized African nations where MTN is operating have struggling economies, the fastest growing large economies in Africa, such as Ethiopia and Tanzania, both with an average 6% GDP growth rates, do not have MTN operating in their countries.”

He reasoned that available data has proved that the situation could not be coincidental.

“The documentary also quoted Kevin Ekow Taylor, a prominent journalist in Ghana, as saying that: “MTN is basically monopolising the system. They have taken advantage of the market too much. It is all because government upon government have given MTN too much room.

“Every day, an estimated $2 million leaves the Ghanaian economy to South Africa, MTN’s home country. That is disastrous for a country with a GDP of less than $80 billion.”

Juxyaposing Taylor’s assessment, Omokri also quoted also a well-known Kenyan activist, Bishop Wycliffe Khaemba, who said: “The type of things that are happening in Nigeria and Ghana in the telecoms sector can’t happen in Kenya, because our government is alive to its responsibilities.”

He was referring to Kenya’s Information and Communications Act (Interconnection). This legislation is light years ahead of similar legislation in other African nations.

The Kenyan legislation specifically targets preventing a monopoly in the telecommunications industry by requiring “dominant providers to adhere to the principle of non-discrimination. A dominant interconnection provider is obligated to determine the interconnection charges based on objective criteria and to observe the principles of transparency and cost orientation. Failure to comply will result in the CA requesting the interconnection provider to adjust the charges or risk the imposition of a default interconnection charge by the CA.”

The documentary, now making the rounds on social media, also featured a prominent U.S. Mayor, Mike Arnold, the elected mayor of Blanco, Texas, who advised Nigeria and Ghana to look inwards, rather than outward to foreign goods and services, especially in the telecommunications sector.

It would be recalled not long ago,  MTN Nigeria has been involved in an imbroglio with Nigeria’s indigenous telecoms company, GLOBACOM, owned by Dr. Michael Adenuga Jr. It threatened to disconnect Glo users from calling MTN numbers, over a supposed N6 billion debt, until the Nigeria Communications Commission (NCC) brokered peace, giving a 21-day period to restore parity.

It is also on record that Omokri has consistently advocated a delisting of MTN in Nigeria while Glo is prioritized as it is a wholely-owned Nigerian product.

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