Opinion

Scandal Probe:What Is Good For The Goose Must Be Good For The Gander

Published

4 years ago

May 8, 2021

By Bala Ibrahim.

From all indications, the suspension of the Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Hadiza Bala Usman, is likely to open a Pandora’s box, that could generate more complicated problems for the government in particular, and the system in general.

Pursuant to her suspension, which came without any official explanation, the suspended Hadiza seems ready to take everyone involved to the cleaners. To this effect, official memos that under normal circumstances should be kept secret, have begun circulating freely on the social media.

Documents, including one carrying the approval of Mr. President, have gone viral, showing the prominent role played by the Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi in the suspension saga. This is unclean, for a government that is claiming to uphold the policy of discipline and the philosophy of sanity.

Kano Plans To Generate 200 Million Naira Monthly From Waste

In one of the leaked memos, titled, Re: Request for the record of remittance of operating surplus to the consolidated revenue funds account by Nigerian Port Authority, where, in response to the allegation of failing to remit a large sum of money to the federation account, Hadiza countered the allegation, by giving a detailed breakdown of how much was remitted by NPA from 2017 to 2020.

This crisis is likely going to put to test, the government’s credibility on reputation, and whether or not the President is going to treat the goose and the gander equally. It is an integrity test that would determine public opinion about the President, and his resolve to cleanse the system of double standards, as well as unwelcome and unpleasant activities in service.

In an article by the Cable, titled, ‘How Amaechi Got Buhari To Suspend Hadiza Bala Usman Amid Cold War, the following poser was put:

All members of the panel were appointed by Rotimi Amaechi, the minister of transportation who supervises NPA.

Curiously, only Bala Usman, who had been having a cold battle with Amaechi, was asked to step aside, effectively suggesting that she, and not the management, is the target of the investigation.
To act as MD is Mohammed Koko, who was the Zenith Bank accounts officer to Rivers state government when Amaechi was governor.

Koko was appointed executive director of NPA in 2016 when Amaechi became minister. He is in charge of finance and admin, a logical target for the probe, given that the allegations to be investigated fall directly under his department.

Two members on the administrative panel named so far are from the ministry.
Incidentally, the chairman of the panel, who is the director of marine services, is on the NPA board.
This has raised several questions about the ultimate game plan.

If the probe at the NPA by the minister of Transport is adjudged appropriate, then in the interest of equity, the same should be done to all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDA’s) of the federal government.

We are all aware of the corruption related scandal rocking the Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, in which the Minister of Niger Delta. Mr. Godswill Akpobi has been enmeshed.

It may be recalled that last year, the Senate and the House of Representatives resolved to investigate members of the Interim Management Committee of the NDDC, over allegations of mismanaging N40 billion, resulting in the two chambers setting up an ad-hoc probe panels to look into the financial transactions of the IMC.

In the course of such investigation, Ms. Joi Nunieh, the former Acting Managing Director of the Interim Management Committee of the NDDC, exposed the scandal that is now referred to as the worst wretchedness of governance in the history of Nigeria.

Ms. Joi Nunieh reeled out criminal allegations against the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Mr. Godwill Akpabio, in the magnitude that ridicules the principal purpose of setting up the commission. Yet he remains in office till this day.

This made the President to appoint a sole administrator to run the affairs of the Commission, wherein Mr. Effiong Akwa, who was the acting executive director, finance and administration assumed headship, pending the completion of a forensic audit. Thereafter, the game of changes, at the minister’s discretion began.

Not long ago, the Niger Delta Minister, Chief Godswill Akpabio, informed the nation that, the forensic audit of the Commission, which he had earlier said would be concluded and the report submitted before April 2021, has now been changed to July. This means the Governing Board cannot be put in place as planned.

As a result of such delay in the absence of a Governing Board, as provided for in its Establishment Act, minister Akpabio is believed to be manipulating the commission to his benefit.

According to a source, “Akpabio has turned the whole forensic audit exercise into a circus, where the process is not only being micromanaged, but that the NDDC is being run by the minister’s handpicked proxies. Akpabio has used the excuse of the forensic audit to stop the Governing Board from being put in place. Now, he shifts the termination date of the forensic audit under spurious excuses to justify running the agency like his personal fiefdom. When he dubiously sold the idea of an Interim Management for the NDDC in October 2019, even after the names of the Governing Board had been sent by the President to the Senate for statutory screening, Akpabio said his illegal Interim Management Committee will only stay in office for six months to supervise the audit, after which the Board will be inaugurated”.

Another source said, “All along, minister Akpabio was only engaging in delay tactics and deceit to perpetuate corruption, because, by the time the expected deadline of March 2020 for the submission of the audit report was near, he sacked the first IMC Acting Managing Director, Ms Joi Nunieh, and appointed a new Acting Managing Director, Prof Pondei, who was his classmate at FGC Port Harcourt, and extended the stay of this IMC to December 2020.By which time, he said the audit will be concluded and the Board put in place. Just when that was drawing near, he sacked the Interim Management Committee and appointed his personal aide, Mr Effiong Okon Akwa, as Interim Sole Administrator with a promised forensic audit completion date of March 2021”.

The challenge now before the President and the Presidency is, how not to treat the goose and the gander differently. If Hadiza can be asked to step aside on the basis of an allegation, why can’t Amaechi also be asked to step aside, pending the outcome of investigation? Especially with the stories making round, that he ignored official advise from the office of the AGF, and went ahead to mislead the President.

Also, if the President can heed the request of minister Amaechi, to suspend Hadiza for alleged financial mismanagement, he should also heed the request of the people of the Niger Delta, against the excesses of another minister of his, in the person of Godswill Akpabio, accused of violating the law and common sense. That is the simple way to prove, “I am for all, I am for none”.

Yes, What is good for the goose, must be good for the gander.

Opinion

Why Governor Abba Yusuf deserves more recognitions for leadership resilience

Published

6 hours ago

April 22, 2025

Nigerian Tracker

National Forum of Kano Indigene Lawyers has canvassed for additional profound decorations of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, in recognition of his leadership style that resonate resilience and dedication to quality governance.

Satisfied with the unwavering commitment and doggedness of the state government, towards transformative administration, the group affirmed that Governor Yusuf stands out in the crowd.

The forum rejoiced over recent flurry of encomiums on Governor Yusuf over series of awards from reputable corporate organizations, who accorded him the honors for his meaningfully impact on the socio-economic well being of Kano citizens.

However, the group, in a statement by it’s national coordinator posited that Governor Yusuf deserves more recognition for demonstrating exceptional disposition during the tense situations that played out around Sallah festivities in Kano.

The group said when the plot to take advantage of recent Sallah Durbar tussle to unleash provocation, and subsequently declare state of emergency, Governor Yusuf was never saturated with overwhelming endurance and resilience, which eventually triumphed over the evil plot.

He said for that alone, Governor Yusuf deserves another gold medal for exhibiting high level of wisdom and emotional resilience, which enabled him to overcome the tribulation.

“It was a week of glamour for Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf whose unwavering dedication to human and social economic development in Kano state were noticed and rewarded by array of meritorious awards.

“From Leadership newspapers, Abuja; Vanguard newspapers, Lagos and African Heritage Concept, Marrakech in Morocco, Governor Yusuf received distinguished accolades and applause for redefining governance in Kano.

“The shinning week began on Tuesday 9th, April, with the prestigious Leadership Governor of the Year 2024 named after Governor Yusuf in recognition of his outstanding contributions to education sector in Kano.

“No doubt, the leadership award was a validation of Governor Yusuf’s bold reforms in education and repositioning of the sector after years of neglect by the immediate past administration.

“Besides, Governor Yusuf was particularly commended by the Leadership newspaper for going extra miles with allocation of 31% of the state’s annual budget to education, surpassing the UNESCO benchmark”.

The statement further reads : “The celebration of the peoples Governor returned to Eko Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos, where Yusuf earned another encomium as Governor of the year 2024 “Good Governance” category on the stable of Vanguard Newspapers.

“In Lagos, the man of the moment was recognized for his administration’s transformative achievements in the education and healthcare sectors.

” 24 hours later, the out pour of admiration moved to the city of Marrakesh, Morocco, where African Heritage Concept Magazine bestowed Governor Yusuf with another honor where distinguished African leaders and policy influencers were celebrated.

“Yusuf, was recognized on the continental stage with the prestigious African Good Governance Award 2025, in honour of his visionary leadership and commitment to people-centered governance and excellence in leadership, and public service.

” More over, we are of the firm conviction that Governor Yusuf deserves another award of excellence for distinctive emotional intelligence and purposeful leadership he displayed at the heat of Eid-il-Fitr Sallah Festivities in the state.

” When it was evident the plot to take advantage of Sallah Durbar around the prolong emirship, tussle to unleash violent provocation in Kano. It was a well calculated plot to give undue opportunity to declare state of emergency. Yet, Governor Yusuf was never saturated with overwhelming endurance and resilience which eventually overwhelmed the evil plan”.

Usman Imam Tudun Wizirchi Esq
Chairman

Opinion

Inside My Conversation With A Kwankwasiyya Disciple -Hamisu Hadejia

Published

14 hours ago

April 22, 2025

Nigerian Tracker

Last week, I rang my friend who is a Kano-based Kwankwasiyya disciple to know more about the rumour I heard about RMK joining APC. Though not in the inner sanctum of the Kwankwasiyya Movement himself, I knew my friend would know something I didn’t.

I rang because I could not, on my own, see any sincere, Talakawa-centric, Arewa-benefitting or pan-Nigerian justification for Madugu to make such a move.

For I know, at the popular level, which is what matter most to me, it is indisputable that all PBAT’s neoliberal, IMF-inspired economic policies have succeeded in are plunging the poor and middle class deeper and deeper into unprecedented hunger and poverty—so Kwankwaso’s justification cannot be framed as pro-poor or Talakwa-centric.

At the regional level, everyone knows that after Arewa contributed at least 60% of the votes that brought him to power, PBAT has turned around to not only bite the fingers that fed him but also actually cut off those fingers in a manner that defies all logic, commonsense, and rationality— so Kwankwaso’s justification can neither be generally framed as Arewa-centric nor particularly pro-Kano.

My contact (who I am sure will read this) minced no word in confirming to me that yes the rumour I had heard wasn’t groundless before going further to educate me about Kwankwaso’s or Kwankwasiyya’s calculations (aka justifications) for such a consideration (if not a decison).

“Hamisu, I have no doubt about the sincerity of your interventions which I’ve been following closely, however, I’ll tell you this: while ordinary folks like you and I have our eyes on 2027, politicians like Kwankwaso and others have their eyes on 2031”, he kicked off as I listened with rapt attention.

“Kwankwaso”, he argues, “sees this moment as the opportunity to build the bridges which he would require to actualise his presidential ambition in 2031.” Put in simpler terms, Kwankwaso wants to help PBAT today in anticipation of PBAT paying him back tomorrow in 2031 “ when it will be the north’s turn” to produce Nigeria’s president.

“By hook or by crook,” he added, “Tinubu will bring himself back to power in 2031”. This, according to him, is the reality that Kwankwaso sees and wants to tailor his moves to fit in.

Unable to challenge my friend’s analysis of the Realpolitik behind RMK’s imminent political moves, I now asked about where the poor and Arewa stand in all of this. Here my friend bursts out laughing hilariously before bringing the example back home to me:

“Hamisu, Aminu Ringim (NNPP’s 2023 guber candidate in Jigawa) with his red cap went up and down towns and villages in Jigawa pulling impressive crowds across the state. But what did we end up with? Just one state House of Assembly member!”.

“The reality is,” he continued, “in today’s Nigeria, a politician needs that elite connection to actualise his ambitions. Look at Buhari as an example.”

So I was thoroughly lectured by Sidi.

My take from the chat is: While RMK is grass-rooted and genuinely cares for the poor as seen in many of his pro-poor initiatives, he seems to have now—for public good or ill—found out that there is a point up to which Takawa’s love and support can take a politician. Beyond this point, what matters most significantly, RMK appears to have now discovered, is intra and inter elite alliances. Call it the eliticization of Kwankwaso. Call it Realpolitik. Call it what you may!

Later I thought about other people such as the current NSA who also allegedly has ambitions for the presidency and is no doubt a close PBAT’s ally. What of Nasir Ahmad El Rufa’i’ and his hitherto cosy relationship with PBAT and how it all ended up in tears and regrets. Isn’t RMK taking the risks of squandering his goodwill to join a bandwagon under which he might be thrown the El-Rufai style?

Hamisu Hadejia Wrote From London

Opinion

From Vision To Impact: How Comrade Waiya is Redefining Information and Internal Affairs in Kano

Published

2 days ago

April 20, 2025

Nigerian Tracker

By Tijjani Sarki

On the 7th of January,
2025, His Excellency the Executive Governor of Kano State made a decisive appointment—Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya was entrusted with the leadership of the Ministry of Information and Internal Affairs.

In just 100 days, the Honourable Commissioner has not only embraced his role with remarkable energy and clarity of purpose, but he has also redefined what it means to serve with passion, strategy, and a deep sense of responsibility.

At his inaugural meeting, the Commissioner outlined a forward-looking vision for the state’s media landscape, emphasizing his commitment to implementing innovative strategies that will enhance the performance, credibility, and reach of state-owned media outlets. He highlighted the importance of strengthening staff welfare and investing in professional capacity building as key priorities, noting that these efforts are essential to ensuring the delivery of high-quality, impactful services to the public.

From the outset, Comrade Waiya hit the ground running, embarking on a comprehensive familiarization tour across key parastatals under his ministry—ARTV, Triump publishing company,Kano Printing Press, and Radio Kano. The goal was clear to foster unity, establish cordial working relationships, and lay the groundwork for a collaborative, performance-driven ecosystem.

EMPOWERING THE INFORMATION MACHINERY:

Recognizing the vital role information officers play in governance and grassroots communication, the Commissioner organized a three-day capacity-building training for information officers across the 44 local government areas of the state. This unprecedented step has reinvigorated the public information machinery, ensuring that the government’s developmental strides are effectively communicated and well understood by citizens.

Furthermore, Comrade Waiya engaged with Senior and Special Reporters (SR & SSR) in a strategic dialogue to enhance the amplification of the Kano state Governor’s developmental agenda—an initiative that underscores his commitment to transparency and proactive media engagement.

He also breathed new life into the once-dormant Gauta Club, creating a vibrant platform for cultural and social exchange among ministry staff and stakeholders.

DRIVING DIGITAL ADVOCACY:

Understanding the evolving media landscape, the Commissioner inaugurated the H.E Project Promotion Advocates, a team dedicated to projecting the achievements of His Excellency via platforms like Facebook, TikTok, X (formerly Twitter), and Instagram. This has significantly improved the state’s digital visibility and public engagement.

He also held sensitization meetings with online media operators, ensuring a responsible and credible media presence in the digital space.

PROMOTING DECENCY AND DIALOGUE:

In a time when political discourse often falls prey to toxicity, Comrade Waiya’s leadership stands out. He has held meetings with political programme presenters to encourage the use of decent language, as well as engaged political activists on the need for clean and constructive engagement.

Further, he extended a hand of partnership to Friday mosque Imams, seeking their support in promoting peace, unity, and progressive messaging within the communities.

BRIDGING MEDIA AND GOVERMENT:

In a bid to strengthen relationships between the media and the state, the Commissioner organized strategic meetings with media executives and held an interactive session with members of the Correspondents’ Chapel. These engagements have fostered mutual understanding and streamlined communication between the government and the media.

He also facilitated a productive meeting with the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) aimed at sanitizing the media space and ensuring that content shared with the public adheres to ethical and professional standards.

WELFARE AND INNOVATION:

To tackle the growing trend of misinformation among journalists in the state, the Honourable Commissioner has underscored the urgent need to restore accuracy, integrity, and professionalism within the media space. As a strategic response to this challenge, he established the Kano State Ministry of Information Advisory Council—an initiative designed to elevate the standards of information management and public communication in the state. The Council, initially composed of seven distinguished members and chaired by veteran broadcaster Alhaji Ahmed Aminu, is expected to play a crucial role in guiding media practices and improving the overall quality of information dissemination. Beyond curbing misinformation, the initiative aims to foster a more informed and engaged public, strengthen the credibility of media institutions, and promote a culture of responsible and ethical journalism in Kano State.

One of the hallmark achievements within these first 100 days is the establishment and inauguration of a cooperative society for staff of the Ministry. This not only reflects the Commissioner’s concern for staff welfare but also his vision for long-term economic empowerment.

LOOKING AHEAD:

One of the most impactful events during his early tenure was the Iftar lecture, where veteran journalists and NUJ members gathered to reflect on the way forward for journalism in Kano and beyond. It was a moment of unity, introspection, and shared purpose.

As Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya marks his first 100 days in office, his tenure is already a blueprint for what visionary, people-centered, and media-savvy leadership looks like. With a firm foundation now in place, expectations are high and justifiably so. If the last 100 days are any indication, the future of the Ministry of Information and Internal Affairs is bright and promising.

The journey has only just begun, but the impact is already being felt—loud and clear.

Tijjani Sarki
Wrote from Zawaciki,Kano
18th April, 2025