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The Civil War in the Ruling APC

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By Eric Elezuo

The new found love between the presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and the Kaduna State governor, Mallam Nasir el-Rufai, could best be described as a wedding of strange fellows as their trajectory in political relationship has churn up only a no love lost status. However, events have taken a dramatic turn since the June, 2022 Presidential Primary where Tinubu emerged victorious and mandated to fly the party’s flag in the February 25, 2023 election.

But ever since the primary election, things have never remained the same as the centre could no longer hold together the slim fabrics that birthed the APC in 2013 in readiness to oust a sitting president. An uncommon civil war, which many describe as internal wranglings, is presently being fought full scale, and may likely affect the chances of the party in the general elections just three weeks away.

While fielding questions during a live interview on Channels Television, el-Rufai made a categorical allegation, accusing those in Aso Rock of conspiring to truncate Tinubu’s ambition of becoming the president of Nigeria via the party platform. He said because their candidate failed to win in the election, the Aso Rock has remained aloof to Tinubu’s campaign, and most cases flirted with one of his opponents, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Alhaji Atiku Abubakar.

The Kaduna State governor’s claim came barely a week after Tinubu alleged that the petrol queues and scarcity of Naira notes due to the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) cash swap initiatives were plots against his ambition. Political pundits believe Tinubu was stylishly throwing a jab at President Muhammadu Buahri

“I believe there are elements in the villa that want us to lose the election because they didn’t get their way. They had their candidate but their candidate didn’t win the primary election,” El-Rufai noted, adding that “I think they are still trying to get us to lose the election and they are hiding behind the president’s desire to do what he thinks is right.”

He insisted that the ‘elements’ are behind the non-removal of petrol subsidy after he had a conversation with Buhari where it was agreed that subsidy should be removed, noting that the same Aso Rock ‘elements’ are allegedly behind the faulty implementation of Naira notes swap introduced by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

“They are trying to get us to lose the election, and they are hiding behind the president’s desire to do what he thinks is right. I will give two examples: this petroleum subsidy, which is costing the country trillions of Naira, was something that we all agreed would be removed.

“In fact, I had a discussion with the president and showed him why it had to go. Because how can you have a capital budget of N200b for federal roads and then spend N2 Trillion on petroleum subsidy? This was a conversation I had with the president in 2021 when the subsidy thing started rising. He was convinced. We left. It changed. Everyone in the government agreed, and it changed.

“The second example I will give is this currency redesign. You have to understand the president. People are blaming the Governor of the Central Bank for the currency redesign, but No. You have to go back and look at the first outing of Buhari as president. He did this; the Buhari, Idiagbon regime changed our currency and did it in secrecy with a view to catching those that are stashing away illicit funds.

“It is a very good intention. The president has his right. But doing it at this time within the allotted time does not make any political or economic sense.”

It will be recalled that El-Rufai had in the not too distant past remained one of the many vocal voices against Tinubu, using his supposed godfatherism attributes to attack his ambition.

In 2019, while the party was in the middle of plans to return Tinubu to power, El-Rufai attacked Tinubu in a speech he titled Ending Godfatherism in Lagos and many other verbal abuses. The attack drew the ilk of many political watches including Senator Shehu Sani and a pan-Yoruba socio-cultural organisation, Omoluwabi Movement.

In their reaction, the group, in a statement issued to journalists in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital, by the Publicity Secretary of the state chapter, Miss Idowu Ogundola, described El-rufai’s comment as a mere “idle talk of a frustrated political expansionist.”

They said El-Rufai should not be taken seriously as he is a well-known “genuflecting opportunist, who will do anything, especially his renowned genuflecting prowess, to achieve his ulterior motive, and who will abandon his benefactor immediately he achieves his pecuniary aim.

“Our attention has been drawn to the reported remarks of the governor of Kaduna State on ‘ending godfatherism in Lagos’. We therefore urge all well-meaning Omoluwabi to disregard the comment as a “circumstantial idle talk at a dinner by an evasive governor, who realising his inability to give good account of his crisis-ridden governance of his state, chose to launch an indirect and uncultured attack on an iconic Omoluwabi and pillar of democracy and progressive politics in Africa. It is a divisive and diversionary attempt to escape from giving account on his turbulent and most controversial administration in the annals of Kaduna State.

“It is on record that El-rufai has moved from one god-father to the other; from Chief Olusegun Obasanjo to Alhaji Atiku Abubakar and now President Muhammadu Buhari. As soon as he gets what he wants, he moves on to the next milk-shop. He succeeded in his renowned opportunism because only a stone-hearted man will not want to listen to a genuflecting-midget.”

“We wish to join in warning President Buhari to be wary of the man with a gargantuan ambition and to call him to order. His outburst is understandable as his political expansionist voyage of imposing his bookkeeper on the people of Ogun State was checkmated by the members of the APC in Ogun State at the party governorship primary held last year.”

In another development, Senator representing Kaduna Central, Comrade Shehu Sani said El-Rufai’s comment was on how to unhorse Bola Ahmed Tinubu as godfather of Lagos politics was for three reasons. One is to provoke the Asiwaju to a new phase of internal war within the APC, which will eliminate him from the sphere of President Muhammadu Buhari and turn him into an adversary. The second reason for the act of provocation against Asiwaju is that there is a calculated plot to deny the Southwest or even the Southern part of the country rotation of power in 2023. And the best way to ensure that that materialize is, by getting into fisticuffs, into political combat between the Northern top ranks of the APC and the Southwestern top ranks of the party. There is a school of thought in the North among the ruling political elites that are close to President, that even without the votes of the Southwest, that the North can still produce the president in 2023. And as such, the attack on Tinubu is a trigger to begin realization of that.

While the third reason for the attack on Tinubu was simply to send a message that they are prepared to fight anybody for this 2023 and for his own personal ambition.

Sani added: “I told Asiwaju and Oshiomhole that el-Rufai would fight three people when he gets re elected. He will fight Asiwju, Adams Oshiomhole and Buhari; and now by being elected, he has got what he wants. The time he will go after Buhari that will be when he is clear he doesn’t have a case in court again. When he is out of the litigation challenging his election, then that will be the time he is going to go after the three of them. He is not known to be a person with permanent loyalty. His attachment to Buhari is for political survival and Self-preservation. It is about protecting himself. It is about consolidating himself because he has come to understand Buhari’s popularity, his footprint and Buhari’s inroads into the hearts of the Northern masses.”

Today, El-Rufai has reunited with Tinubu, and joined in the fight against Buhari, who is categorised among the Aso Rock cabal. Stakeholders said with the political hegemony of Buhari coming to an end, El-Rufai is desirous of clutching another tree to remain politically relevant, and so the civil war in the ruling party continues to heighten

A source, who spoke to The Boss via anonymous opined “Please ask for us why is ELRUFAI so afraid of ATIKU becoming president. Is he afraid of the Shiites killing he did on the head of PMB? When did ASIWAJU suddenly become so important to ELRUFAI than ATIKU who brought him into the limelight. Is he afraid of ATIKU, because of like revenge. Please tell him ATIKU is not like them in APC. ATIKU will use all good people in his Govt. Internet does not forget all the bad things ELRUFAI and RIBADU said about ASIWAJU in the past. But today ASIWAJU is their horse to…”

The battle line in the APC was drawn, according to analysts, in Abeokuta, Ogun State, when in a speech by Tinubu, x-rayed the journey of Buhari, punctuated every statement with how he singlehandedly brought him out of retirement and made him president after failing in the quest on three different occasions, including crying on national television.

“If not for me that stood solidly behind Buhari and encouraged him to go ahead, he could not have become president,” he said.

“Since his assumption of power, I never took ministerial position,  begged him for any contract or  loan.

“All I am saying is that it is the turn of the Yoruba speaking people to become president and within the yoruba people, it is my turn.

“I have adopted and protected many political children, but in the face of danger, one has to first protect himself.

“I have served enough. I do not want to become history. It is my turn to become president. It is a matter of right for me.

“Bring it on,” he said.

An APC faction had frowned at Tinubu’s entitlement mentality, and the manner at which he eventually won the presidential primary, claiming that a lot of money exchanged hands. Consequently, some of the losers of the primary election has distanced themselves from the presidential campaign including the runner up,, Rotimi Amaechi, Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, Senate President, Ahmad Lawan, who was originally nominated by the party as its flag bearer. Ever since, the civil war raged, and Tinubu and his foot soldiers have ignited the fire unendingly’.

In his quest for revenge, Tinubu settled for a Muslim, former governor of Borno State, Kashim Shettima, as running mate, and used the failures of the Buhari administration as campaign strength thereby putting a division between Buhari’s administration and the campaign. In the same way, key officers of the party including former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara, and former Secretary to the Federal Government, Babachir Lawal, left for the PDP and Labour Party respectively.

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Tony Elumelu Dazzles at 61, Unleashes More Wealth Creators

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By Eric Elezuo
It wasn’t a coincidence that leading empowerment vessel for African entrepreneurs, The Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF), chose March 22, 2024 to announce 1,200 African entrepreneurs across 54 African countries as beneficiaries of its flagship Entrepreneurship Programme. The new beneficiaries became the 10th cohort of the 10-year-long TEF Entrepreneurship Programme of the entrepreneurial legend, Tony Onyemaechi Elumelu, who turned 61 on the same day.

To date, the Foundation has disbursed US$100,000,000 directly into the hands of young African entrepreneurs, who have, in turn, created over 400,000 direct and indirect jobs, contributing significantly to Africa’s economic growth and development. The Foundation has also provided capacity building support, advisory services, and market linkages to over 1.5 million Africans through its digital entrepreneurship-support platform, TEFConnect.

In addition to unleashing more entrepreneurial giants and weath creators into the competitive global market, the enigma celebrated another year of positive impact on the surface of the earth. He is also the influential name associated with the great United Bank for Africa and Heirs Holdings Limited. Here is a man who will never cease to create firsts. That is what he was created to do, and has never disappointed. As such, his accolades resonate not just in the Africa sub-regions, but across the globe.
Vintage Tony Elumelu, the Chairman of Heirs Holdings, the United Bank for Africa, Transcorp and founder of The Tony Elumelu Foundation, is a Nigerian national honours holder, the Commander of the Order of Nigeria (CON), and Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR). It is worth noting that Tony has successfully held various editions of his annual Tony Elumelu Foundation Entrepreneurial Forum with not less than 54 African countries participating each time. The 2024 edition was no exception as 1200 beneficiaries emerged. He has not ceased to inform the young ones that the future of Africa is in their hands, and always go a step further to walk the talk
Adding another glorious feather to his retinue of feathers, Elumelu and his team of dedicated achievers, also operate new group insurance companies, namely Heirs Insurance and Heirs Life.
For a man, whose only concern is affecting humanity, it is not surprising that encomiums trail every of his step. In faraway Belgium on November 15, 2020, the man many referred to as chairman of chairmen was conferred with Belgium’s oldest and most important national honour titled: “The honorary distinction of Officer in the Order of Leopold.”
The award is said to be in recognition of his commitment to the eradication of poverty and the economic empowerment of young Africans. That’s vintage Tony, and it is no wonder he has been able to coin a new lexicon in the dictionary of entrepreneurial intelligence; Africapitalism!

“…the Kingdom of Belgium conferred on me with the honorary distinction of Officer in the Order of Leopold, the country’s oldest and most important National Honour.

“I am humbled by this recognition of the work @TonyElumeluFDN in catalysing entrepreneurs across Africa and will continue to drive the economic empowerment of our brilliant young #Africanentrepreneurs to propel development in Africa,” the distinguished entrepreneur had reported.

In commemoration of of his diamond jubilee event, a symposium was held in his honour at the Tony Elumelu Amphitheatre in UBA House.

The symposium tagged ’60 for 60’ was attended by 60 young beneficiaries of the Tony Elumelu Foundation Entrepreneurship Programme, friends and colleagues. He has never left the young people behind in his scheme of things.

 

Born Tony Onyemaechi Elumelu on March 22, 1963, in Jos, Nigeria, the economist by training, visionary entrepreneur and philanthropist, acquired and turned Standard Trust Bank into a top-five player in Nigeria. In 2005, his corporate reputation as an African business leader was sealed when he led the largest merger in the banking sector in Sub-Saharan Africa to acquire United Bank for Africa (UBA). In five years, he transformed it from a single-country bank to a pan-African institution with over seven million customers in nineteen African countries.
In 2011, New African magazine listed him as one of the 100 most influential people in Africa, and a year later (2012), he was recognised as one of “Africa’s 20 Most Powerful People” by Forbes Magazine.
Following his retirement from UBA in 2010, Elumelu founded Heirs Holdings, which invests in the financial services, energy, real estate and hospitality, agribusiness, and healthcare sectors. In the same year, he established the Tony Elumelu Foundation, an Africa-based and African-funded philanthropic organisation dedicated to the promotion of excellence in business leadership and entrepreneurship, and to enhancing the competitiveness of the private sector across Africa.
His stated objective at the formation of Tony Elumelu Foundation was to “prove that the African private sector can itself be the primary generator of economic development.” The Foundation is charged with the mission of driving Africa’s economic development by enhancing the competitiveness of the African private sector. As a premier pan-African-focused not-for-profit institution, the Tony Elumelu Foundation is dedicated to the promotion and celebration of entrepreneurship and excellence in business leadership across the continent, with initiatives like The Tony Elumelu Entrepreneurship Programme (TEEP)
In a bid to expand his conglomerate as well as his business horizon, in 2011, through Heirs Holdings, he acquired a controlling interest in the Transnational Corporation of Nigeria Plc (Transcorp), a publicly quoted conglomerate that has business interests in the agribusiness, energy, and hospitality sectors. Elumelu was subsequently appointed chairman of the corporation.
His enterprise is not limited to self financed enterprises as he serves as an advisor to the USAID’s Private Capital Group for Africa (PCGA) Partners Forum. He also sits on the Nigerian President’s Agricultural Transformation Implementation Council (ATIC). He is also vice-chairman of the National Competitiveness Council of Nigeria (NCCN) whose formation he was a key driver in, and serves as Co-Chair of the Aspen Institute Dialogue Series on Global Food Security.
Elumelu additionally chairs the Ministerial Committee to establish world-class hospitals and diagnostic centres across Nigeria, at the invitation of the Federal Government and the Presidential Jobs Board, engineered to create 3 million jobs in one year. He also serves as a member of the Global Advisory Board of the United Nations Sustainable Energy for All Initiative (SE4ALL) and USAID’s Private Capital Group for Africa Partners Forum.
One will not be wrong to address him as a philosopher as well as he is the originator of the term Africapitalism. According to him, Africapitalism is an economic philosophy that embodies the private sector’s commitment to the economic transformation of Africa through long-term investments that create both economic prosperity and social wealth. Elumelu sees Africans taking charge of the value-adding sectors and ensuring that those value-added processes happen in Africa, not through nationalisation or government policies, but because there is a generation of private sector entrepreneurs who have the vision, the tools and the opportunity to shape the destiny of the continent. He insists that Africapitalism is not capitalism with an African twist; it is a rallying cry for empowering the private sector to drive Africa’s economic and social growth.
Having studied under Professor Porter at Harvard Business School, Elumelu subscribes to Michael Porter’s concept of Creating Shared Value (CSV). Professor Porter is the Founding Patron of The Tony Elumelu Foundation. In the same vein, CSV refers to the idea that “companies must take the lead in bringing business and society back together.” It asserts that “businesses acting as businesses, not as charitable donors, are the most powerful force for addressing the pressing issues (society) face(s).”
In 2003, the Federal Government of Nigeria granted Tony Elumelu the title of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR), a national honour, and in 2006, he was voted African Business Leader of The Year by the Africa Investor magazine and was also recognised as  African Banker of the Year in 2008 by the African Banker magazine. In 2009, the Nigerian President Umaru Musa Yar’adua honoured him with a place on the Presidential Committee on the Global Financial Crisis.
In 2012, he was awarded the prestigious National Honour of Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON) for his service in promoting private enterprise. Apart from being recognised as one of “Africa’s 20 Most Powerful People in 2012” by Forbes Magazine as well as being featured in the New African Magazine’s list of the “100 Most Influential Africans in Business”. He was awarded an honorary Doctorate of Science degree from the Benue State University and an honorary Doctorate of Business Administration from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka.
In 2013, Elumelu received the Leadership Award in Business and Philanthropy from the Africa-America Institute (AAI) Awards. He was also named African Business Icon at the 2013 African Business Awards.
In addition, ESI-Africa, frequently described as “Africa’s power journal”, named Elumelu in its 2015 ‘ESI Most Influential Figures in African Power’ list, in January 2015.
Elumelu is not just a financial wizard; he also writes as well as provides incredible inspiration to writers. Some works that involves him include: How to Excel at Work – Proven strategies for achieving superior work performance by Bili A. Odum – a book inspired by Elumelu’s work ethics.
Elumelu has contributed to the Nigeria Leadership Initiative White Papers, writing on Leveraging private sector approaches in transforming government delivery.
The Power of Vision: Insights on Tony Elumelu is a testimonial compiled on the occasion of his retirement as Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer at the United Bank for Africa. It contains messages from Aliko Dangote, former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo, Professor Michael Porter, former World Bank managing director and Nigeria’s Minister of Finance, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, President of Sierra Leone; Ernest Bai Koroma, former United States Comptroller of the Currency, Eugene Ludwig and Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria.
He has written about his philosophy and the economic development of Africa for several publications around the world including The Economist, the Wall Street Journal and Financial Times.
The TOE Way: A handbook that offers insights into Elumelu’s philosophies, business practices, values and secrets of success, written by the man himself.
Tony Elumelu is happily married to Awele Vivian Elumelu, who he married in 1993, and they are blessed with five wonderful girls; Nneka, Ugo, Ogor, Oge and Onyinye.
It will not be worthwhile to end this article without stating the humble philanthropist’s one of most important quotes:
“Everything I have today is because of Africa, I was born here, went to school here, I work here and I’m achieving some level of financial comfort here.”
Sir, for your steadfastness in business and transformation of lives as well as unleashing the Midas touch on anything you are involved in, you deserve once again to be celebrated.
Congratulations sir and happy 61st birthday!

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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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Boss Picks

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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