NDDC Audit: Women rally acting-MD, Nunieh

A group of well-meaning Nigerian women, under the aegis of Greater Nigeria Ambassador Forum (GNAF), has thrown its weight behind Acting Managing Director of Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Dr. Joi Nunieh, to accomplish her presidential mandate.

On resumption of office in October last year, President Muhammadu Buhari handed Dr. Nunieh the mammoth task of flushing an utterly messy oil-drunk commission, sunk in corruption since creation two decades ago through a forensic audit.

As expected, Dr. Nunieh’s quest hasn’t been anywhere near hitch-free, with different levels of calumny campaigns targeted at her and the board.

At a press conference on Monday in Abuja, GNAF backed the interim acting MD to rid the commission of corruption no matter who is affected.

In a statement by the President, Magdalene Ogwiji, the group of women made bold of the statement “What a man can do, a woman can do and is doing better in NDDC.”, adding that a “ fearless woman is more dangerous than a 100 brave men”.

Mrs Ogwiji said the recent allegations that Dr. Nunieh doesn’t possess a valid National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) discharge certificate is “deliberate, wicked, distractive, manipulative, destructive and borne out of malicious intent”.

The Greater Nigeria Ambassador Forum believes the acting MD is being hunted not only for being upright and uncompromising, but because she’s not a man.

The group, however, urged Dr. Nunieh not to be deterred by the campaign against her and rather concentrate on accomplishing her mandate.

The GNAF, therefore, called on First Lady, Aisha Buhari and all women across the country to support one of their own.

Read full statement below:

We welcome you all to this important press conference by the Greater Nigeria Ambassador Forum (GNAF) given the prevailing circumstances that has occasioned the smearing of the personality and character of a strong woman that has dared to do what some men who have had the opportunity could not do either by omission or commission.

We wish to state in unequivocal terms that the recent allegations against the acting Managing Director of the NDDC, Dr. Joi Nunieh is a deliberate attempt by some paid mischief makers to distract her from the wonderful and patriotic job she has embarked upon at the NDDC since her appointment by President Muhammadu Buhari as the head of the Interim Management Committee.

The Greater Nigeria Ambassador Forum wishes to inform members of the general public that the hawks that had stripped the NDDC naked since the year 2000 when it was created are indeed those behind the spurious allegations against Dr. Joi Nunieh, not because she has erred in any way, but for the fact that has vowed to clean the Augean stable at the NDDC.

These same sets of people are also after Dr. Joy Nunieh because she is a woman. As such, it is considered an affront to their ego for her to head such a sensitive agency that has been their source of livelihood and with the realization that it would not be business as usual.

The Greater Nigeria Ambassador Forum views this campaign of calumny as also the handiwork of some staffers of the NDDC that have also benefited from the heist that has been perpetuated in the NDDC that has seen the misappropriation of trillions of Naira since the year 2000.

These insiders have been heavily compromised to the extent that they have vowed to do everything possible to make the governance of the NDDC difficult for the acting MD, all in a bid to frustrate her efforts at sanitizing the agency.

The Greater Nigeria Ambassador Forum wishes to inform members of the unsuspecting general public that the spurious allegations of Dr. Joi Nunieh not possessing a valid discharge certificate of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) is deliberate, wicked, distractive, manipulative, destructive and borne out of malicious intent.

The Greater Nigeria Ambassador Forum herby encourages Dr. Joy Nunieh not to be deterred by this campaign of calumny against her because it would not stand the test of time due to the emptiness of the allegations against her.

Dr. Joy Nunieh has dared to do what some men who have had the same opportunities in time past could not do out of fear and also for the fact that they were also beneficiaries of the infractions at the NDDC.

She is being haunted because she is a woman that has dared to be bold and courageous amid sharks with mouths wide open to devour whoever stands their way in the pilfering of the resources of the NDDC.

The Greater Nigeria Ambassador Forum consequently wishes to state that Nigerians and indeed Nigerian women must rise in defense of this indefatigable stallion that has been tireless in her efforts of ridding the NDDC of corrupt practices and the entrenchment of a new regime of transparency and accountability.

All Nigerian women will rise for her as a worthy ambassador and pride of the girl child in Nigeria. She has committed no offense, and no Jupiter should think he can rubbish her to take her position at the NDDC.

The Greater Nigeria Ambassadors Forum is using this medium to appeal to President Muhammadu Buhari to give this woman of great character and substance all the support she needs in carrying out the daunting task of cleansing the NDDC of corruption.

We are also calling on Her Excellency, the First Lady, Hajia Aisha Buhari, to lend her support to this great woman of Nigeria who has indeed exhibited an enviable level of courage in service to our fatherland.

We are also soliciting that given her sterling performance, she is deserving of full confirmation as the substantive Managing Director of the Niger-Delta Development Commission in a bid to encourage her and to sustain the anti-corruption drive of the present administration.

The Greater Nigeria Ambassador Forum is also calling on the security agencies to tighten security around her as these agents of darkness will go as far as attempting to assassinate her person if the attempt on her character continues to fail.

The Greater Nigeria Ambassador Forum is indeed solidly behind Dr. Joy Nunieh in her efforts at sanitizing the operations of the Niger-Delta Development Commission. This campaign of calumny would not stand.

Terrorism: It is uncharitable to diminish the sacrifices of military leadership, troops – Group

The Progressive Yoruba Youth Congress (PYYC) has reasoned that it is uncharitable for any individual or group to diminish the Nigerian Armed Forces’ leadership as well as the enormous sacrifices of officers and soldiers in the war against terrorism.

According to the Southwest socio-political group, the Nigerian Military has turned the tide against the Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorist since 2016 hence deserve maximum support from Nigerians.

PYYC made this known at a press conference on Monday, condemning the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) for heating the polity through unguarded utterances laced with ulterior motives.

In a statement jointly signed by Elder Kola Salawu and Majekodunmi Omolola, President and Secretary respectively, PYYC commended President Muhammadu Buhari for providing the necessary succour to the military’s top shots, visible in troops’ morale.

However, the Yoruba youths were critical of some groups, CAN in particular, engaged in acts to divide the nation and demoralise the gallant troops.

PYYC accused the Christian umbrella body of partisanship, making unguided claims counter-productive in the fight against terrorism and capable pitching the Christians against the Muslims.

The Yoruba group, therefore, concluded that CAN and its likes who have failed to recognise the remarkable sacrifices of the military’s leadership and troops in the frontline does not have the interest of the country at heart.

Read full statement below:

The Progressive Yoruba Youth Congress , a socio-cultural organization, consisting of youth from southwest Nigeria, put together this press conference to shed light on some of the challenges facing the country with regards to the fight against terrorism.

We wish to state that the issue of terrorism in Nigeria has taken centre stage since the advent of the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari in 2015. This much is evident in the level of commitment exhibited by the quality of appointments in the critical security sector.

As we are all aware, the Boko Haram/ISWAP agenda is indeed a politically motivated one in the sense that it has been established that there are willing collaborators that have continued to provide them with logistical support to aid their nefarious activities.

There is also another grouping that have elected to serve the interest of Boko Haram/ISWAP through the propagation of propaganda aimed towards giving the Boko Haram/ISWAP group the needed psychological support through their actions manifest in unguarded utterances in the public space.

The Progressive Yoruba Youth Congress wishes to state that despite the level of commitment displayed by the political leadership in Nigeria in the fight against terrorism, the Boko Haram/ISWAP group has continued to be emboldened to confront the Nigerian Military in the theatre of war in North-East Nigeria because of the activities of some groups.

The war against terrorism in Nigeria has received wide commendation from numerous quarters. However, some groups that ideally ought to be engaged in acts that would promote peace have been engaged in acts that divide us rather than unite us.

One of such organization is the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), whose leadership has elected to be on the other side of the divide, in defiance of its mandate of serving as the uniting organization for adherents of the Christian faith in Nigeria.

Their utterances in recent times have been counter-productive in the fight against terrorism, and concerned stakeholders in Nigeria have highlighted this much. Despite overwhelming evidence of political coloration and the involvement of the leadership of CAN in partisan politics, they have carried out with reckless abandon and bringing the Christian faith into disrepute.

The leadership of CAN have continued with their agenda of pitching the Christians against the Muslims by painting the Boko Haram/ISWAP activities as an agenda against the Christian faith in Nigeria.

The Progressive Yoruba Youth Congress is dismayed at such despicable actions despite the unfortunate fact that the leadership of CAN have sold their birthright in exchange for a plate of porridge. This is sad.

The Christian Association of Nigeria has fallen below expectations because it has instead elected to play politics at the detriment of providing sound counsel to the Christian adherents in Nigeria. If this is not the case, then one wonders how and why such an organization would label the threat posed by the Boko Haram/ISWAP group as a religious war.

The Christian Association of Nigeria has continued to disregard the efforts of President Muhammadu Buhari led administration in the war against terrorism in Nigeria. They have continued to push the country to the brinks by misleading members of the unsuspecting general public with claims that cannot be substantiated.

The Progressive Yoruba Youth Congress wishes to state that anyone/group that fails to appreciate the efforts of the Muhammadu Buhari led administration in the war against terrorism is playing politics and, as such, should not be taken seriously.

Anyone/group that does not recognize the dexterity of the leadership of the Nigerian Armed Forces, as well as the enormous sacrifices of officers and soldiers in the war against terrorism, clearly do not have the interest of the country at heart.

This is cognizant of the fact that since 2016, the Nigerian Military had indeed turned the tide against the Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorist group with a sustained military bombardment that has seen them confined to the fringes of the Lake Chad Basin Region.

The position of the Progressive Yoruba Youth Forum is that terrorism is not a function or an attribute of any religion as no religion preaches killing of fellow humans. This much must be stated in unequivocal terms in a bid to put issues in proper perspective.

The Progressive Yoruba Youth Congress wishes to advise groups and individuals to be guarded by public decorum in their conduct on national issues. The task of defeating terrorism is a collective one, and as such, we must all be guided accordingly.

The sacrifices of our Armed Forces must be commended and appreciated by all in the quest for a secure and united Nigeria.

NDDC: Nunieh and her gritty fight for the soul of Nigeria

By Philip Agbese

President Muhammadu Buhari has a huge burden as leader of Nigeria. Buhari, a globally acclaimed upright leader with impeccable credentials consciously courted trouble when he defined the operational character of his administration tethered to the tenets of integrity, honesty and incorruptibility.

Right from his first tenure in 2015, President Buhari’s uncompromising stand on these virtues attracted the ire of Nigeria’s powerful and influential thieving elite, who have a sustained history of plundering public commonwealth. Therefore, they employ all manner of antics and blackmail to taint his leadership persona or discredit his government.

They angle to portray President Buhari as a leader who is paying lip-service to sermons of anti-corruption campaigns or he is selective or partisan. Mr. President is aware of such outings, but has remained unperturbed, as he expected it from an elite whose body and soul are irretrievably steeped in the vinegar of evil against their country and Nigerians. It is the reason which, compelled Buhari’s philosophical expression in 2016 that “When you fight corruption, it fights back.”

After failing to nail President Buhari on corruption or pin his government to it several years running, the opponents of the Buhari Presidency have resorted to targeting and raising spurious, unsubstantiated and flawed allegations of corruption on some Buhari’s key appointees. An Africa proverb says; “ When you pull the ear, the head would certainly bow.” It is the underlying force of those eager to persecute his upright, trusted and incorruptible appointees.

Anywhere an inquest is declared or a forensic audit is declared on any government establishment, appointees of the Buhari government who refuse to bend the rules, favour certain personalities or refuse to compromise face very poisonous arrows from the opposition or haters of the Buhari Presidency. They throw meaningless darts at such an appointee for failure to dubiously influence him or her to cover-up their corrupt deals.

Known victims of these vicious attacks or persecutions includes, but not restricted to the Chief of Staff to the President, Alhaji Abba Kyari; the Managing Director, Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) Hajiya, Hadiza Bala Usman among others. The latest fish in the net of these debased and heartless Nigerians is the Acting Managing Director, Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Dr. Mrs. Joi Nunieh.

The annual budget of the NDDC is mouthwatering and every administration continues to fund the commission with huge allocations. It is the conviction of the federal government that a functional and performing NDDC will change the face of the impoverished people of the Niger Delta region. Ironically, NDDC is an embodiment of everything corrupt to elites of the region, except discharging its core mandate to the people.

Today, President Buhari is told, the NDDC is indebted to contractors to the whooping sum of N3 trillion. It reminds of the dubious oil subsidy claims under the Jonathan Presidency. Even the oil dealers had a conscience in thievery or plundering of public resources because NDDC claims by contractors outshines them.

Undeniably, the Interim Payment Certificates (IPCs) being claimed by contractors as debts in NDDC are suspicious. The reality on the ground in the oil-rich Niger Delta does not support such bogus claims.

How much has President Buhari’s government spent on capital projects to impact on every part of Nigeria that contractors at NDDC are flaunting N3 trillion contractual debts? It’s amazing! Therefore, President Buhari sought to get to the roots of the matter by ordering a forensic audit of NDDC accounts. And the Dr. Nunieh’s NDDC’s Interim Management Committee provoked the league of looters in the region by inaugurating a 50-Member Verification Committee (VC).

The committee chaired by Dr. Cairo Ojougboh has two weeks to submit a report on the projects/contracts awarded by the NDDC as well as the status of the claims of the Interim Payment Certificates (IPCs). The report of the VC is a preliminary step that would snowball into the concrete forensic audit as ordered by Mr. President. And the looters and plunderers of the resources of the NDDC are understandably scared to the marrow.

Unarguably, Dr. Nunieh is the stubborn fly that has refused to kowtow to their powwow. She has refused to backdown or craftily frustrate the Presidential probe of NDDC finances as a baddie. The plot is to spare nothing to pull her down or discredit her to pave way for the appointment of a pliant fellow who would either mess-up or bury the forensic audit of NDDC enmeshed in fraud and mismanagement.

Those with soiled hands and haunted by the looming danger have contracted emergency activists, who are aplenty in Nigeria’s fake Civil Society Organizations’ (CSOs). Their duty is to trumpet Dr.Nunieh’s alleged forged or fake or non-possession of NYSC discharge or exemption certificates. May be, it has just dawned on the traducers of the NDDC boss that it is daybreak since she was appointed to head the commission.

But what is the core mandate of the NDDC established in 2000? It was to develop the Niger Delta region of Nigeria through the training and education of youths of the region to curb hostilities and militancy; while developing key infrastructures to promote diversification and productivity to arrest restiveness in Niger Delta.

Within few years after its establishment, there were serious allegations of fraud and mismanagement in the magnitude of the defunct OMPADEC. The signposts of NDDC is paid, but unexecuted or abandoned projects dotting every nook and cranny of the region.

It has been reported that in the year 2015 for instance, that the NDDC started three months twin certification programme for fiber optics and oil spill management. It engulfed billions of naira, but the training sessions were abandoned two months into the programme and the 200 trainees who were camped at various hotels in Owerri were left to personally pay for their expenses.

Many past management staff of the commission have been indicted for corruption. Many more are still being tried for various financial crimes in the NDDC running into billions of naira. A certain past chief executive of the commission is for example is being tried for a N3.6 billion fraud while another has been investigated for transferring millions of dollars into his wife’s account.

It is obvious from these cases and other similar ones that the intended beneficiaries of programme and initiatives of the NDDC, mostly youths and the less privileged are being shortchanged. NDDC funds are channeled into private pockets, instead of funding its programmes. It motivated President Buhari to shop for a credible person to arrest the rot and Dr. Nunieh was anointed to clean the mess.

She introduced reforms and innovations which have reactivated the Commission. Rural communities neglected for years are also beginning to witness transformation with the provision of basic infrastructures.

And since Mrs. Nunieh assumed duty at the commission, she has her mind fixated on bringing all those who have stolen from the commission to book. So, corruption must fight Dr. Nunieh back to a standstill, by engaging hirelings to conjure all sorts of allegations against her, using the plank of phantom and non- existent CSOs.

But Nunieh has left no one in doubt that she’s an apostle of the kind of change that President Buharu promised Nigerians. The NDDC boss made good her promise to deliver by working closely with the minister of Niger Delta affairs to bring accountability and transparency to the commission.

Initially, those who had skeletons in their cupboards tried to use base sentiments by alleging that she’s being used by President Buhari to witch-hunt her fellow Niger Deltans. But it is now obvious that she is only determined to expose corruption and she is staidly committed to it in order to realize the mandate of the NDDC.

Failure to prod her conscience on the plank of reginal sentiments, they changed tactics. That was when all manners of allegations against her began to surface and the latest about the frivolous and unsubstantiated claims of her lack of an NYSC discharge or exemption certificates.

But the strongest argument of the CSO hired for the undertaker job is centered on hearsay evidence. Nigerians demand more than such peripheral outbursts from anybody or group contracted to defame a public servant.

The detractors think by so doing, Dr. Nunieh would be detracted. But they got entirely wrong. She is more determined now than ever before to clean the mess, expose corruption in the commission and reposition it to excellently discharge its core mandate to the people. Her courage stems from the fact that she has no skeleton in her cupboard and has nothing to hide.

She considers the task of bringing rapid development to the Niger Delta and helping youths in the area to rediscover themselves sacrosanct. And the NDDC boss is ready to break every barrier on her path to achieve this target. Her enemies should bury their heads in shame that at last, a focused administrator is trying to clean up the mess they created and left behind or do what they could not do.

Those sponsoring the CSOs to disparage the person of Nunieh are the same cult of Niger Deltans who have shown a lack of capacity to think beyond self and family. They have brought shame to the Niger Delta through greed and self-centeredness. The clique of kleptomaniac elites should bury their heads in shame that instead of thinking of the general or public good of the region, all that obsess them is their bellies and personal enrichment.

They are worse than thieves and betrayers. Its unimaginable that they have sold their birthright for a pot of soup and mortgaged the prosperity of their people for ages. Their cowardly acts have been exposed as the current NDDC management is set to achieve the mandate of the commission. Dr. Nunieh is urged never to relent or scared, as like President Buhari has always said; If Nigerians do not kill corruption; corruption will kill Nigeria.”

Agbese is an author, publisher and human rights activist based in London.

Gen Buratai’s leadership ingenuity and Nigeria’s silent achievements

By Andrew Granit

I have had over three decades experiences as a conflict manager and preventive researcher. In the course of my job, I have traversed most parts of the world. But my experiences are more grounded in my former country, the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia.

And until its disintegration, Yugoslavian six republics were enmeshed in virulent economic crises and political unrests since the 1980s. And it eventually transmuted into a break-up of this previously unified amalgam of disparate ethnic, religious and historical entities under a single federation. With the upheavals over, I am a citizen of the Republic of Kosovo. But I have seen and experienced a lot about crises or its management far and near.

The path to Kosovo’s independence was long and strewn with thorns, expressed in hate, animosities and violent conflicts. But let me not bore you with details. However, let me quickly say, in the life of every nation in the world, there comes a time minor disagreement are ballooned to major conflicts with its toll on lives, peace and progress of nations. Equally, there comes a time that nature also enthrones the right leadership to right the wrongs, and uproot the deep-seated incendiaries from national psyche.

Nigeria, the most populous nation amongst the black race on earth has found itself in this quagmire ignited by the vicious and brutal campaigns of Boko Haram insurgents. And I have confirmed the incursion of extremists terrorism from the Middle East into Nigeria and other countries in the West African sub-region.

These religious extremists or terrorists, to be precise, under the identity of Islamic State West African Province (ISWAP) accentuated their bloody campaigns on the state of Nigeria at the turn of partisan campaigns for the 2019 general elections.

From observable manifest aggressions, I have sensed the eagerness and hastiness of ISWAP terrorists to quickly subdue and re-conquer Nigeria. But ISWAP elements have encountered a hard nut to crack in Nigerian military forces, particularly Nigerian soldiers in the frontlines.

The increasing sophistication of ISWAP’s weaponry and the lackluster attitude of the local population whose preference seems to tilt in the direction of shielding terrorists are problematic. And hoarding critical information from the military have been great assets to the vicious terrorism campaigners.

But I must admit that the vigilance, hard work, commitment and the undisguised patriotism of the Nigerian Chief of Army Staff, General TY Buratai have consistently frustrated the agenda of the ISWAP terrorists. Of course, flashes of terror attacks on communities, ambushes of troops in the battlefields and casualties on both sides would continue to occur because of the drowsy and aberrant character of managing terrorism combats and conflicts to its conclusive end.

However, I am impressed with the courage, bravery and tenacity of the Nigerian Army. Troops in the frontlines have displayed determination, rather than fatigue. And the counter-insurgency leaders have displayed ideal and focused leadership; it has not flinched from support to troops, which are the greatest psychological weapon a soldier needs in war.

At least, it was my experience and pulse during my recent visit to parts of the Northeast Nigeria after the country’s current leader, President Muhammadu Buhari was elected a second time in 2019. The first time I came to Nigeria for firsthand information on the rampaging and raging Boko Haram insurgency was in February 2015. Three terrorism incidents fascinated my enthusiasm. I really felt visiting the country, scenes of attacks, interacting with troops in the warfront and government’s counter measures would enrich my knowledge on conflict management and understanding towards helping the world prevent crisis and overcome existing ones.

The night of April 14-15 2014 Boko Haram’s abduction of about 276 teenage Chibok schoolgirls, in Borno state. Earlier on same April 14, 2014, terrorists exploded multiple bombs at a busy bus station in Abuja, Nigeria’s national capital, gruesomely murdering an estimated 200 persons and causing destructions.

And the tereorists’ three days serial raids and unmolested siege on Baga, a town in the Northeast Northern Borno province between January 3-7, 2015. Reports monitored on local and foreign media outlets revealed that at least 2,000 people were feared dead and insurgents captured the town, neighboring villages and a multinational military Base.

I was again in Nigeria, early January 2020, after the Sallah, Christmas and New Year festivities. I understood from my contacts that these are the most auspicious times Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists prefer to brandish their self-acclaimed might in braggadocio. They would outlandishly unleash heinous atrocities on civilian and military targets to spur international attention.
I flew into Nigeria, landed in the capital city, Abuja and rested for two days to plan my itinerary, enliven conversations with my contacts and get security cover. In war situations, no one undermines personal safety and security. I monitored local TV channels, I watched again reports of troops confrontations with ISWAP terrorists.

I proceeded to Maiduguri from Abuja on road in company of two security details and Mallam Aliyu , my driver who is also from the Northeast. At Maiduguri, we went straight to the headquarters of the Command Theatre, Operation Lafiya Dole, and met with some top commanders of the Army. I introduced myself and mission. He was receptive and hospitable. I interacted with some Nigerian soldiers in Maiduguri and spent the night in the ancient city.

The next day. my contact got me a list containing locations of Army Battalions, Military Forward Bases and Special Strike Teams as guide. We were able to get a few soldiers who provided additional security to me and everywhere I decided to visit.

I spent four days visiting military formations in the Northeast. I was at Baga, Pulka, Bama, the once dreaded Sambisa forest, Monguno, Gwoza and hordes of other locations. The places were liberated and natives returned to forlorn enclaves. I was quite excited that Gwoza, which was once captured and occupied by Boko Haram as their Islamic Caliphate administrative headquarters was also liberated. I couldn’t hide my joy and had to share pictures each day with Francois and Young who all wanted to embark on the trip with me.

In Biu, I also visited the Nigerian Army University, Biu (NAUB). The edifice was a masterpiece to behold. At each destination, I interacted with the natives and troops at the frontlines and got their heartbeat. I left Borno for a return journey to Abuja, but diverted into Postiskum in Yobe state, where I also encountered some troops. While I engaged them in mutual talks, some of them whispered to me about the presence of General Buratai whom the troops fondly refer to as ” the Chief.
” I learnt he was paying one of his usually silent, but routine personal trips to the Nigerian troops.

He was at another end of the camp, also exchanging views with some troops over recent developments in the theatre of war. I walked up to him; exchanged pleasantries and introduced myself. I was meeting Gen. Buratai personally for the first time.

Pleasantly, my first impression of him was that of a warm personality, amiable soldier and determined leader, who is optimistic in succeeding on his assignment. A good Army General constantly disguises to be in touch and brief his troops to bolster their ego of performance. It’s a rare leadership ingenuity in Gen. Buratai.

Meanwhile, soldiers I met in Borno earlier told me the Chief visits constantly. But I never believed, thinking it’s just a smart answer to shield their boss, until I ran into him personally on the field. Soldiers in the battlefield are always busy people. So, I had a few minutes with Gen. Buratai, who was very detailed on the actions and plans of President Buhari to terminate the reign of terror in Nigeria.

It is not in my position to divulge what we discussed. It was not a planned interview and might be giving out too much to the terrorists. But as I conversed with him TV images i watched on a local station, where the Minister of Defence, Gen. Bashi Magashi and Gen. Buratai who led a delegation of the European Commission to Mr. President, where both parties had talks on the counter-insurgency operations flashed my mind. I blended its veracity from what I heard from the Army Chief.

Back to Abuja in my hotel room, I reflected over my experiences on the trip. I could not help but nod in satisfaction that Nigeria has recoded unique milestones in combating Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorism. There is a lot of difference in the success of counter-insurgency operations in the country now.

Those far from the theatre of war may not understand. But it’s not easy reclaiming territories under the control of terrorists anywhere, and sustaining the victory like Nigerian soldiers have accomplished in retaking the 18 LGAS in the Northeast. Terrorists pride is usually bruised and they fight back ferociously. One should expect to see desperation by terrorists to retake reclaimed lands to lead to intermittent strikes, which is normal in terrorism combat wars.

Until I came and saw the reality before I believed the press particularly fed the world outside and Nigerians with inaccurate information about the war against terrorism in Nigeria. Each time I read the alarming and sensational news on terrorism war in Nigeria, one is tempted to believe the whole country is on inferno. And it was grave risk to visit the Northeast even with security escorts. But the reality is excitedly different.

But let me caution that most Nigerians are selling out their country to terrorists and their foreign sponsors through sensational and discreditable news on social media platforms or even traditional media. There should be patriotism and moderation for the sake of national interest. Combating terrorism is beyond politics. It is pointless churning lies that may compromise the security of your whole country.

Unfortunately, it seems all categories of Nigerians have indulged in this disservice and resentful conduct, including some highly placed leaders. They must be mindful or else, these actions can easily shatter the coherence and unity of the country. But even one day in an IDPs camp, in a foreign land is like hell on earth.

Granit is the President, Preventive Diplomacy, United Kingdom.

NDDC: Allegation against Nunieh attempt to derail recovery of looted funds – Coalition

The Coalition of Civil Societies for Good Governance and Change Initiative (CCSGGC) believes there is a deliberate attempt to frustrate the ongoing recovery of looted funds by Acting Managing Director, Niger-Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Dr. Joi Nunieh.

This utter desperation, the group revealed, prompted some disgruntled elements in the guise of civil society groups to blackmail Dr. Nunieh, accusing her of parading fake NYSC certificate.

The coalition made this known at a press conference on Monday tagged “NDDC: Nunieh and her defiant fight for the soul of Nigeria”, to address the “ infantile attempts by nebulously dubious characters to drag the MD’s personage and reputation”.

In his statement, Convener, Comrade Ogenyi Okpokwu described the accusation as “sickening mendacity and hearsay even in its most sophisticated scrutiny”.

According to Mr Okpokwu, Dr. Nunieh is a respected woman of virtue and such conclusion is based on no empirical or verifiable evidence.

The coalition was particularly irked by the fact that the “traducers and antagonists could not grab a copy of Nunieh’s alleged fake NYSC discharge certificate to convince the doubting public”.

The Acting MD’s persecution isn’t surprising, Mr Okpokwo added, especially after President Muhammadu Buhari handed the acting MD the uphill task of sanitizing the agency by ordering a forensic audit of the NDDC.

So far so good, the coalition believes Dr. Nunieh has so far altered the status quo by diligently and boldly flushing the rot in the system, which hasn’t quite gone too well with many.

It is on this ground, however, that CCSGGC warned these disgruntled persons or groups to steer clear the acting MD’s case or get ready to be disgraced by Nigerians.

Read full statement below:

We want to profoundly welcome and thank all of you for the prompt response to our invitation for a press conference. May God Almighty continue to bless the fruits of your labour for a better and prosperous Nigeria.

The Coalition of Civil Societies for Good Governance and Change Initiative (CCSGGI) is baffled at the eagerness some Nigerians housed under Nigeria’s reigning modern camps for idlers parading as CSOs/activists. They easily render themselves as personality attack dogs and weapons of blackmail for equally dubious characters for peanuts.

They flaunt the emblem of disgusting, unscrupulous and unconscionable characters. Outside their overt partisan proclivities is the tendency of unbated exhibition of unrestrained hatred against the anti-corruption campaigns of President Muhammadu Buhari and any of his appointee who toes this path.

It struck us with extreme consternation news from apparently odious emergency activists and worthless hirelings, which fertilely attempted to blackmail/degrade the Acting Managing Director, Niger Delta Development Commission (MD-NDDC), Dr. Mrs. Joi Nunieh over an infantile accusation of lack of an NYSC discharge or exemption certificate. But the allegation insistently bowed to sickening mendacity and hearsay even in its most sophisticated scrutiny.

Its illogical, incoherent, patently inchoate, and offending to understand an assemblage of matured men could anchor such a fluid allegation on a respected woman of virtue and leader. They based their conclusions on no empirical or verifiable evidence.

Rather, the accusers of Dr. Nunieh relied on a disjointed and hazy narrative of faint circumstantial shadows about its possibility. It belittles the senses of supposedly sound minds and the self-worth of these pawns contracted for the hatchet job in irremediable ludicrousness.

In a public statement, the CSO, with an irritatingly queer nomenclature, goofed. It claimed when Dr. Nunieh as nominee for the NDDC Interim Management Committee appeared at the FIB Headquarters in Abuja for vetting of her credentials, she pleaded to be permitted to rush home to bring her documents; together with the NYSC discharge certificate inclusive for vetting, but never turned up.

CCSGGI wonders whether members of the CSO were also part of the FIB vetting panel. In any case, they recoiled from presenting a concrete evidence to the public to support their claims.

Quite annoyingly, the CSO strangely moderated its earlier tone of vexation, and rather patronizingly flinched by effeminately pleading with her to present her discharge or exemption certificate of the NYSC, to the general public, if she is not parading a ‘fake and forged’ certificate.”

Whatever was the intendment of the hirelings, this strategy fell flat on every nuance of wisdom and sensibleness. In the syndicated public statement, one of the media houses was persuaded to add or insinuate that; “investigation has revealed that she has been parading a fake/forged NYSC discharge certificate over the years and is now afraid of providing the document now for scrutiny.” This is certainly exaggerated foolery in public nudity.

What motivations on earth, propel some Nigerians to conscript into the clan of demeaning blackmailers and cheap slayers? Dr. Nunieh has worked and held several public offices, including serving at the Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project, (HYPREP).

But her traducers and antagonists could not grab a copy of her “fake” NYSC discharge certificate to convince the doubting public. He who alleges, proves his allegations. Let the accusers prove the claim.

The CSO was more interested in pointing accusing fingers to some imaginary “powerful collaborators within the presidency,” aligning “to sweep this NYSC forged certificate saga of Joy Nunieh under the carpet. “

Therefore, having staged a bad outing, the group consoled itself by boasting of nationwide protests to press for her sack, if Mr. President fails to direct the Inspector General of Police, Director -General, Department of State Services, the ICPC to commence investigation and prosecution of Dr. Nunieh for alleged forgery.

The CSO didn’t even know that someone must be reasonably and evidentially suspected of committing an offence before he/she is prosecuted. But they lumped the two together, an indication of acting a prepared script, with predetermined results. But the famished urchins failed to realize that neither the Presidency nor the other top government officials it invited into their dilemma do not accord dignity to vague allegations.

But let truth be told. We are all aware that the NDDC, an agency created by the FGN to fast-track the development of the Niger Delta region has become a cesspool of corruption for decades. And President Buhari’s action to sanitize the agency by ordering a forensic audit of the NDDC, the main mandate of the Dr. Nunieh-led NDDC Interim Management Committee attracted eulogies to the President.

It commendable that the NDDC boss has her eyes fixated on sanitizing and repositioning the NDDC for optimal performance beneficial to the region. So, any attempt to distract her focus will not be condoned or tolerated.

As a bona fide son of the Niger region who knows exactly what transpired in the commission before now and fully aware of Dr. Nunieh’s courageous efforts, I felt it imperative to mobilize my colleagues to stand up in defence of an apostle of a great Nigeria.

Dr. Nunieh’ has already empaneled the Dr. Cairo Ojougboh-led 50-member Verification Committee to audit and document projects /contracts awarded in the nine Niger Delta states to ascertain the authenticity of the quantum of suspicious Interim Payment Certificates (IPCs) claims by contractors which have piled a debt burden of N3 trillion on the commission. It’s a potent nightmare to these fraudulent contractors.

And Verification Committee is designed to clean the Augean stable for the proper forensic audit of the commission as ordered by President Muhammadu Buhari in 2019. The committee has a two-week duration to submit its report.

But news filtering from the commission is unpleasant with startling revelations of mega frauds in the commission. We still remember the popular case of a serving Senator. He was single-handedly awarded about 300 contracts by the NDDC; out of which 120 of the contracts have been fully paid, but none executed. The hired CSOs failed to stage a protest on the matter.

It is incontestable that the so -called or non-existing CSO peddling the hogwash against Dr, Nunieh is the typical expression of “madness.” It is instigated by those who mindlessly looted the resources of the Niger Delta region.

It is unfortunate that these very enemies of the people are out to ruin the integrity and reputation of a woman whose only sin is accepting Mr. President’s charge to rid the NDDC of corruption and mal-administration. We have no doubt that the NDDC boss has maintained a firm level of integrity anywhere she is assigned to perform a national duty.

And their failure to corruptly influence her to bow to dubious deals or soft pedal has raised a clan of enemies angling for her removal from office. It explains why months after she was screened and assumed office, no one raised the fake NYSC discharge certificate until she inaugurated a Verification Committee.

These infantile antics are familiar and cannot constitute a stumbling block to her determination to restore sanity in the commission. They have barked at the wrong person. Dr. Nunieh is woman has no skeletons in the cupboard and the enemies should think of another plot to frustrate her administration.

Let us put it in clear terms to the leeches that the NDDC boss is carrying out a very tasking job and, inevitably, she must trample on lions and lionesses that once defaced humanity at the NDDC. These are the veiled angry contractors and their collaborators who are out against a woman ever ready to catch the fraudulent contractors in their tracks.

Those chasing her shadows to stab should ask their conscience what the NDDC boss has done apart from preferring to serve her country in the patriotic posturing, which President Buhari has continued to govern the country in the last few years? The allegations against her are not just unfounded, but totally baseless and should be discountenanced by all Nigerians as the handiwork of Nigeria’s desperate “Esaus.”

The CCSGGI recognizes the laudable and manifest initiatives, reforms/ innovations Dr. Nunieh has impinged on the administration of NDDC now. Those scared have genuine reasons to be afraid. We encourage you to remain courageous and undaunted in the discharge of your duties bearing in mind that patriotic service to your nation elevates and etches your name on marbles colored with gold.

Finally, may we warn the detractors to change their style of business or be ready to be disgraced by Nigerians, as any attempt to tarnish the image of the interim management committee Chairman at NDDC will be rejected. It will be stiffly resisted by the Nigerian people on whose behalf Dr. Nunieh is working hard day and night to make life more meaningful for Niger Deltans in particular and all Nigerians in general.

Thank you for your patience and audience

Group accuses CAN, PDP of helping insurgents destabilise Nigeria

Some Christian elders, under the aegis of United Christian Forum of Nigeria (UCFN) has accused the leadership of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) of aiding Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists to destabilize the country.

UCFN made this strong allegation at a state of the nation press conference by its Secretary-General, Rev Oyekanmi Rafael, in Lagos on Monday, following the murder of an Adamawa-based preacher.

In his address, while condemning the killing of the clergyman, Rev Rafael expressed disgust at the manner both groups reacted, accusing the pair of interpreting with sentiments which would have escalated the tension.

Rev Rafael singled out the Christian umbrella body for slack, saying they manifested “partisan toga by freely canvasing for the sack of Service and Security Chiefs”, calling it a “destructive campaign against the Presidency and Nigerians”.

CAN were further advised to quit playing the religious card, aimed to sow the seed of discord, disunity and inflame passions of hate in the hearts of Nigerians.

Such agenda, the clergyman disclosed, is only aimed at painting President Muhammadu Buhari black, hence promoting the opposition and assisting Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists destabilize Nigeria.

Instead of towing this path, UCFN, however, urged CAN to support and pray for the president and the military, who on the verge of flushing out the terrorists.

Read full statement below:

I wish to welcome all of you on behalf of the United Christian Forum of Nigeria (UCFN) to this press conference. I extend same felicitations to the church in Nigeria, Christian leaders, brothers and sisters in the Lord and indeed, to every Nigerian in the New Year. May the good Lord we worship unbundle His abundant blessings and protection on us.

May I also seize this special privilege to appreciate our political and community leaders in Nigeria, particularly, President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR. Similarly, I pray Almighty God to continue to imbue them with Solomonic wisdom, strength and good health to sustain the progressive leadership of Nigeria.

The UCFN has decided to interface with Nigerians on what we have branded the “State of the Nation” engagement. Our standpoint is gingered by the rejuvenation of insecurity threats in some parts of the country.

We can attest to the revived and troubling incidents of Boko Haram and Islamic State West African Province (ISWAP) terrorism; kidnappings, abductions, armed robberies, armed banditry, herdsmen/ farmers clashes and other communal skirmishes assailing our land.

We proclaim that these ugly, sad, condemnable and unacceptable flashes of armed criminalities in our nation are assuming dimensions of polarizing us along ethnic and religious lines, based on reckless sentiments applied to their interpretations.

UCFN is most astounded with the recent reaction of the national secretariat of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), the umbrella body of all Christians in Nigeria in a public statement over the unfortunate abduction and murder of the CAN chairman of Michika LGA in Adamawa State, Pastor Lawan Andimi by Boko Haram/ISWAP; the cold-blooded killing of a Lutheran clergy, Pastor Denis Bagauri by unknown assassins and the December 2019 abduction and beheading of 11 Christians captured in Northern Nigeria by terrorists.

These tragic incidents are regrettable and places our once peaceful country on the precipice of implosion. We commiserate with Mr. President, the families of all Christian martyrs, Muslims and Nigerians over the irreparable losses. May Almighty God grant them peaceful rest in his bosom and eternal damnation to the devil-incensed killers.

But as much as these incidents are painful and near inconsolable especially to the families, there is cause for us as leaders at whatever level or as individuals to observe restraint in the sentimental interpretations we colour the killings or the resurrected acts of insecurity. This is the time our leaders and the nation need our supportive prayers and perpetually, as against vilification.

This is the time we need to handover the tribulations in our land to the omnipotent God. The evil forces which have besieged us and feasting on our blood cannot overpower the invincible God, whose armors are greater than any other weapon manufactured by man.

It is completely inexcusable for us to abandon the divine path in this circumstance, and rather resort to hurling tantrums at ourselves and leaders. It is only capable of escalating the tensions and railroading us into a deeper mess by our utterances.

We all can confess that issues of religion are quite delicate and explosive matters in Nigeria, where the population of the dominant religions, Christianity and Islam peg neck to neck. Sponsors and funders of Boko Haram and ISWAP terrorists tormenting us are not targeting Christians or Muslims alone. Everybody prone to their presence when they come on such satanic missions becomes a victim.

To this end, UCFN finds the latest statement by CAN, which its Director of Legal and Public Affairs, Kwamkur Samuel Vondip signed on behalf of CAN National President, Rev. Samson Ayokunle and indeed, previous such public statements on the menace of insecurity in Nigeria, very nauseating, inciting and illogical in the strictest terms of it.

In the reported CAN statement, the leadership gave an undisguised and sentimentally religious interpretations to the terrorists actions, imputing President Buhari’s consent to the religious persecution of Christians in Nigeria by insurgents and herdsmen mercenaries. This is unquestionably a faulty assumption that deserves an apology to the FGN from the apex Christian’ body.

We found it extremely unreasonable and repulsive for CAN to have manifested its partisan toga by freely canvasing for the sack of Service and Security Chief. This odd crusading was laced in the pedestrian argument that its composition is steeped in ethnic and religious lopsidedness. It is shameful to argue issues of insecurity in this manner as postulated by the CAN leadership.

It sadly lands us to the unconcealed politicization and partisanship of CAN, which UCFN believes is not a healthy or progressive disposition. Why would CAN seek to vacate the prerogative of Mr. President in appointing or retaining Security Chiefs of his choice? Has CAN mutated into an opposition political party?

Such drab from the CAN’s statement is damp incitement of members of rival faiths through partisan weapons which should be avoided.

However, is CAN honest in making such a generalized and inciting statements. It lacks plausibility and betrays the deadly motives of this assemblage of Christian leaders.

Perhaps, CAN is not aware that a Christian/Pastor, Gen. Gabriel Abayomi Olonisakin is the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS). By the demands of his office, the CDS supervises other Security Chiefs. There is also the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Ibok Ekwe-Ibas also a Christian. Could they have possibly conspired with Security Chiefs of rival religious sects to kill their brethren, without raising a voice?

And to our knowledge, most of the Commanders’ of the Operation Lafiya Dole headquartered in Maiduguri co-ordinating the prosecution of the counter-insurgency operations in the Northeast against Boko Haram/ISWAP elements have been Christians, including the incumbent Commander, Gen. Olusegun Adeniyi. Are Nigerians to believe they are part of the agenda to persecute Christians?

In the North Central, Operation Whirl Stroke (OWS) fighting the herdsmen/farmers clashes and the Jukun/ Tiv internecine is also headed by a Christian, Maj.Gen. Adeyemi Yekini. Has CAN any concrete evidence that troops deployed to the frontlines to battle insurgencies and insurrections comprise only Muslims, without Christians?

The CAN campaign is very destructive against the Presidency and Nigerians. And it is only serving the purpose of goading incitement and provocation of both Christians and Muslims to take up arms against themselves; entrenching tensions in the polity to cause an explosion in total breakdown of public law and order.

And nobody is prosecuting the agenda of persecution of Nigerian Christians’ as frequently stated or inferred by CAN. It’s a figment of a fluid imagination. And let us recount some experiences with terrorism to put CAN’s position on the test scale to ascertain the veracity of the claims.

UCFN wishes to precisely state that the tenor of these abductions and killings have no semblance of anyone specifically targeting Christians for persecution in Nigeria. There are documentary evidences that Muslims have also suffered the devilry and atrocities of Boko Haram terrorists’ who indiscriminately unleash mayhem on any community within their reach.

Under former President Goodluck Jonathan, Boko Haram festered more ferociously with attacks on churches than we are experiencing under the Buhari Presidency. So, was it convenient to claim, Dr. Jonathan, a Nigerian leader of Christian extraction at the time was sponsoring the mass extermination of Christians in a country he led and had absolute powers?

Of course, such religious sentiments were not promoted under the Jonathan Presidency. So, its misguided thoughts and sheer wickedness to flaunt and promote such narratives today. Let us draw your attention to a one or two incidents of Boko Haram onslaughts on churches under the Jonathan era.

On December 25, 2011 Boko Haram terrorists bombed St Theresa’s Catholic Church in Madala, a satellite town near Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The Boko Haram car-bomb explosion in the premises of the catholic church during Holy Mass murdered at least 44 people. In fact, barely hours apart, terrorists bomb blasts were reported at the Mountain of Fire and Miracles Church in the central, ethnic and religiously mixed town of Jos on same day.

And on February 19, 2012, at least five people were wounded when terrorists attacked Christ Embassy Church also in Suleja. In all instances, lives were lost and properties destroyed. We could have been dishonest to say a Christian President was sponsoring terrorists’ attacks on the Nigerian church intent on persecution of Christians.

Nothing underscored the indiscriminate disposition of terrorists than the Islamic State’s released video on December 26, 2019 of the execution of the 11 Christian hostages Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists abducted in Northern Nigeria. ISWAP) explained the “beheading” of the hostages as its campaign to “avenge” the killing of IS leader, Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi in a US military raid in Syria in October 2019. This in every sense is a spontaneous incident of vengeance which has no Presidential conniving connotations as CAN has preached.

It may interest us to know in further enriching our knowledge that ISWAP is a 2016 breakaway faction of the Nigerian-based Boko Haram terrorist sect with roots in Iran. The splinter faction of Boko Haram was headed in Nigeria by Musab Al-Barnawi, the son of Boko Haram’s founder, Mohammed Yusuf.

But today, ISWAP Commanders have assumed the leadership and added weight to its brutal campaigns in the West African sub- region. ISWAP terrorists now operates in Nigeria, Cameroon, Chad, Niger Mali and even in East Africa in countries like Kenya.

And UCFN’s fact check through Encyclopedia Britannica unveils that most of these countries where ISWAP operates are predominantly Muslim countries, an indication that they are not necessarily targeting Christians, but are just cursed minds excited in bloodletting. It does not matter whether you are a Christian, Muslim, traditionalist or atheist.

For instance, ISWAP is also active in neigbouring Niger Republic. But the country’s population comprises 90% Muslims, (Sunni 85% and Shi’ite Muslims 5%). Christians constitutes a mere 5% of the population and the rest are other religions. Could be it be the insignificant Christian population in Niger that ISWAP terrorists are targeting?

And in the Republic of Mali also under ISWAP terrorists blight, Muslims constitute Muslims 94.8% of the population; while Christians’ are a paltry just 2.4%. Is it plausible argument to claim the terrorists are targeting the insignificant Christian population in that country?

In Cameroun, Christians constitute over 65% of the population, with Muslims (Sunni) just 20% and the rest belongs to non-religious groups. President Paul Biya, a Christian has been President of Cameroun since 1982, yet the country is troubled by terrorists. By the wisdom of CAN, it implies that President Biya is also consenting to the persecution of Christians?

The same narrative is applicable to Kenya, which is predominantly a Christian nation, estimated at 84.8% of her total population. And Islam is just about 11.1 percent of Kenyans. But they are tormented by terrorists and President Jomo Kenyatta is a Christian. Could he have permitted the persecution of members of his faith as democratic leader of Kenya?

The desperation to colour or dress the Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorism operations in Nigeria with the garments of Christian persecution does not blend. The fixation of CAN to politicize every national issue or embalm it with the toga of religious sentiments is becoming intolerable and preposterous for the peace and progress of Nigeria.

Last year ending, CAN through a public statement by the Special Assistant on Media and Communications to CAN President, Rev. Adebayo Oladeji dabbled into the alleged feud between Mr. President and the Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo who is a Pastor of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG). CAN queried while 35 special aides of the Vice President were dropped; the severance of the National Social Investment Programme from his office and the dissolution of Economic Advisory Council (EAC) Osinbajo chaired.

But the VP never complained to CAN the existence of a sour relationship with his boss. This is unnecessary political and partisan interference into the running of government which has no connection with CAN. But CAN publicly vomited religious insinuations.

But President Buhari is not relaxed on ending terrorism in Nigeria. While condoling the Christian community all over Nigeria over the callous murder of Pastor Andimi, he assured that “terrorists will continue to pay a heavy price for their actions and would comprehensively be defeated by our determined armed forces. But CAN disparaged his statement. UCFN cannot discern whether it was crafted to dampen the morale of the President or encourage him.

But the President also appealed to world powers to “end all support provided to Boko Haram and ISWAP terrorist groups whose only goal is to sow death, violence and destruction in the sub-region.”

Thereafter, President Buhari sent a high-powered delegation led by the SGF Mr. Boss Mustapha to condole the Government and Christian community in Adamawa state.

The National body of CAN should emulate the Adamawa state CAN chairman, Bishop Stephen Dami Mamza, who said, President Buhari has softened their hearts with the “high powered delegation to commiserate with the Christian community in the state,” promising that the Christian community would pair up with its Muslim counterpart to flush out armed characters causing bad blood between the two major faiths. It is an expression of an honest perspective on the problem, reflective of a burden for both Christians and Muslims.

It is our candid opinion that other leaderships of CAN playing the religious card to sow the seed of discord, disunity and inflame passions of hate and violence should seek deliverance from the spirit of Mammon. That’s if the ghost of 2019 elections is still chasing them, lest they are consumed.

There is no need for CAN to continue to posture as haunting Mr. President. Even those that lost the election have congratulated President Buhari and moved on with business. UCFN is shocked that CAN has refused to accept the reality and rather regaled in portraying itself like an association at war with the nation.

We suspect that a guilty conscience is tormenting those who benefited from the arms deal scandal and they think that by incessantly attacking the administration, the government would have been bullied enough into giving them choice lands all over the FCT as compensation. This is unthinkable and unrealistic. We cannot subscribe to the agenda of destroying our nation.

Let us handover this great nation to God Almighty, as we continue to pray for His intervention, healing and protection of the land from evil forces with His mighty powers.

Thank you all and May God bless Nigeria.

NDDC: Who is afraid of Nunieh?

By David Onmeje

There is a new campaign in town, and it is hinged on bringing down a high profile target at all costs. The strategy is that if the target is not brought down, there would indeed be trouble, and the consequences might be severe.

I have watched closely as the events are unfolding, and I dare say that this campaign, if successful, would be a great disservice to the deprived people of the Niger-Delta region. And if unsuccessful, it would be a great victory for the people of the Niger-Delta region as a first and to Nigerians. But I am optimistic that this time around, the plot will fail because of the level of awareness in the polity that would defeat mischief. Nigerians are now wiser.

This is indeed an interesting story in the operations of the Niger-Delta Development Commission (NDDC) that was established since 2000 with the mission of facilitating the rapid, even, and sustainable development of the Niger-Delta into a region that is economically prosperous, socially stable, ecologically regenerative and politically peaceful. Quite a laudable objective. But the irony is that over the years, these objectives have been implemented upside down.

The irony is that some supposed leaders and advocates for the development of the Niger-Delta region are those that have turned this interventionist agency into their fiefdom where they continue to exploit the people of the Niger-Delta region with reckless abandon.

I dare say the problem of the Niger-Delta region is localized. I say this for the fact that with the revelation coming out from the operations of the agency, one would be tempted to state that the principal actors would go any length to ensure that they cover their tracks, not minding whose ox is gored.

This brings me to the vicious campaign launched against the person of the head of the interim management committee of the Niger-Delta Development Commission, Dr. Yimebe Joy Nunieh, for daring the cartel that once held the NDDC to the jugular. She has dared their gods to ask questions on accountability and transparency in the operations of the commission.

To put in simple terms, I must add that I saw this coming, especially when the presidency decided to undertake a forensic audit of the operations of the commission. I knew heads would roll, and the consequences would be too much for some of them who have carried on like apostles for the emancipation of the Niger-Delta people, while in truth, they are the ones behind the deprivation of the people in the region.

As a first, I salute the courage of Dr. Yimebe Joy Nunieh for making herself available for this daunting task that many men will take to their heels if given to execute. I salute her for taking this bold step in cleaning the Augean stable in the Niger-Delta Development Commission, for it takes an enviable level of courage to be able to do such in an environment where hawks manifest in traditional rulers, community leaders, political leaders as well as youths have all been slicing the cow with sharp and in some instances double-edged swords.

If this is not the case, how would one possibly explain a situation where a monthly payment of N1 billion is made to a consultant that collects money from international oil companies (IOCs), on its behalf. How can an individual have 87 companies waiting for payment? What about a situation where a sitting senator from the region is handling 300 of the commissions’ projects and 120 of the contracts fully paid for? What about the fact that the NDDC owes contractors to the tune of N3 trillion?

Wonders shall indeed never end. You will agree with me that with all of these revelations, we should not expect that these individuals would not seek the head of the interim management committee chairperson of the commission and, if possible, see to the fact that she is ousted from office by all means necessary.

One thing stands sure, which is the fact that with Dr. Yimebe Joy Nunieh as the head of the NDDC, heads would indeed roll, and sanity would return to the commission. What is also certain is the fact that these folks would castigate, intimidate, blackmail and slander her person to cover their tracks. And the recent news making the rounds as regards her not been qualified to lead the agency is one of such examples.

Make no mistakes; this is just the tip of the iceberg because the country would be awash with more mischievous slander against her person all in an attempt to make her lose focus and backtrack on some of the actions that she has embarked on in an attempt to clean up the mess in the agency.

In my opinion, those calling for her sack for failing to possess the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) discharge certificate are the most ignorant set of people I have come across because what they are alleging is not true, but a figment of the imagination. This is aside from the fact that every discerning mind knows that the campaign is not a credible one, but one borne out of malicious intent aimed at defaming her character.

I dare say that they have failed in this attempt this time around because the forensic audit would go on, and those that have stolen from the commonwealth of the people would be made to atone for their sins. This much I know and this much I believe because as it stands, it is no longer business as usual since Dr. Yimebe Joy Nunieh came on board as the acting Managing Director of the NDDC.
I salute her courage and encourage her not to be distracted by the antics of the desperate ones whose hands have been soiled with their nefarious activities. If I am not sure of anything, one thing I am sure of is the fact that this campaign of calumny against this apostle of transparency at the NDDC shall indeed fail.

Onmeje wrote this piece from the United Kingdom

Boko Haram/ISWAP: Group lauds military, Service Chiefs commitment to end terrorism in Nigeria

The Coalition against Terrorism and Extremism (CATE) has applauded Nigeria’s military and Service Chiefs for displaying unwavering commitment to end insurgency.

The coalition made this known at a press conference on Monday on “the war against terrorism and the laudable efforts of the Nigerian military in the preservation of the territorial integrity against Boko Haram and other militant groups”.

In a statement signed by National Coordinator, Gabriel Onoja, CATE commended President Muhammadu Buhari under whose leadership the military recorded tremendous gains in the fight against terrorism.

The troops’ doggedness and high fighting sprit, committed with the onerous task of keeping Nigeria safe and secured within the ambit particularly impressed the group.

CATE, therefore, said it is “proud of the great exploits of the Nigerian troops for the numerous sacrifices they have made in the pursuant of peace all over the country”.

The coalition further hailed the Service Chiefs for the provision of sound strategic and policy direction for implementation in the war against terrorism.

CATE, thus, expressed “unalloyed confidence in the President Buhari, the Service Chiefs, as well as the officers and soldiers of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria”.

Read full statement below:

I bring warm greetings from the leadership of the Coalition against Terrorism and Extremism, a group of civil society organizations at the forefront of winning the war against terrorism and extremism in Nigeria through the instrument of advocacy and intellectual engagement with the relevant stakeholders in Nigeria.

We stand on all existing protocol and warmly appreciate the presence of our dependable partners, the media, with whom we have been able to take the message of countering violent extremism to the nook and cranny of Nigeria. We thank you.

We also recognize the presence of other distinguished stakeholders, as well as members of civil society organizations that have indeed distinguished themselves as worth partners.

This press conference is deemed necessary in a bid to bring to public notice the efforts of the leadership of the country in the fight against terrorism in North-East Nigeria, as well as the activities of other militant groups in Nigeria.

As a first, the Coalition against Terrorism and Extremism in Nigeria wishes to use this medium to commend President Muhammadu Buhari, under whose leadership the Nigerian Military has been able to record tremendous gains in the fight against terrorism.

This fact was evident in the quality of appointments in this critical sector that has seen to the injection of renewed vigor and commitment in the quest towards preserving the territorial integrity of Nigeria.

The Coalition against terrorism and extremism must not fail to appreciate the doggedness and high fighting sprits of our loyal and gallant troops in the theater of operations in North-East Nigeria with the way and manner they have carried on with the war against terrorism even though the Boko Haram group have been receiving external support from countries and individuals against the interest of Nigeria.

Our fighting troops have remained committed and have carried on with the onerous task of keeping Nigeria safe and secured within the ambits of the rules of engagement in warfare.

We wish to state that there are abounding examples of how our fighting troops have come to the rescue of unarmed women and children, as well as elderly Nigerians, who have been affected in one way or the other by the crisis in North-East Nigeria.

A good example is the foiling of an attempt by the Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorist group to carry out a suicide bombing attack in an Internally Displaced Peoples (IDP) camp in Gwoza, Borno State, which would have left no fewer than 10,000 women and children dead.

This example is indeed one out of the numerous foiled suicide bombing attempts of the Boko Haram/ISWAP group by the proactive Nigerian troops at the battlefront in North-East Nigeria.

The Coalition against terrorism and extremism is ever proud of the great exploits of the Nigerian troops for the numerous sacrifices they have made in the pursuant of peace all over the country. At this point, our vote of confidence in the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari, as well as the leadership of the Armed Forces, is revered and unflinching.

This is also cognizant of the ability of the Muhammadu Buhari’s administration to halt the vain seeking glory of decimated members of the Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorist group who are out to cause pandemonium in the polity through the instrument of propaganda.

The Coalition against terrorism and extremism lauds the resilience of the fighting troops in this onerous task. It wishes to encourage them to continue to give their best in the final push for the defeat of terrorism in Nigeria.

The various efforts of the Service Chiefs (Army, Navy, and Air force) are also commendable for the provision of sound strategic and policy direction for implementation in the war against terrorism.

The Coalition against terrorism and extremism wishes to use this medium to encourage well-meaning Nigerians to extend their support to our loyal and gallant troops as they continue their push for the total decimation of the Boko Haram/ISWAP group.

This is indeed necessary as winning the war against terrorism in Nigeria is a common cause that requires all hands to be on deck. Consequently, all well-meaning Nigerians are duty-bound to continue to extend their support to our gallant troops now, and always.

It must also be stated that in a matter of time, Nigerians shall indeed celebrate the end of the terrorist activities of Boko Haram/ISWAP. We must arise as compatriots for when Nigeria calls; we must obey.

The Coalition against Terrorism and Extremism herby expresses its unalloyed confidence in the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the Service Chiefs, as well as the officers and soldiers of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Long Live the Federal Republic of Nigeria
Long Live the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria

Thank you all, and God bless.

CALSER warns int’l NGOs against aiding terrorism in order to halt attacks on humanitarian workers, clergymen

The Centre for Africa Liberation and Socio-Economic Rights (CALSER) has called on the European Union Commission and all International NGOs in the north east providing food and drugs for the terrorists to stop in order to put an end to the continuous attacks on humanitarian workers and clergymen in the region.

CALSER made this known during a state of the nation press conference on Sunday in Abuja to address what it described as “the senseless Boko Haram/ISWAP attack on clergymen and humanitarian workers”.

According to the convener, Princess Ajibola, certain INGOs have continued to breach international protocol on their operations by aiding and abetting the supply and delivery of sophisticated weaponry, food and drugs to the Boko Haram/ISWAP group under the guise of rendering humanitarian services.

In its periodic assessment for the month of January, CALSER further warned political and religious organisations in the country not to expand the frontiers of Boko Haram by overheating the polity with unfounded allegations that are capable of undermining the ongoing efforts by the government to tame terrorism.

The centre, therefore, called on the European Union and the representatives of the United Nations in Nigeria to audit and caution international NGOs in operation in the northeast to stop the supply of arms and ammunitions and other essential items to the terrorist group.

Read full statement below:

The leadership of the Centre for Africa Liberation and Socio-Economic Rights (CASLER) welcomes you all to the State of the Nation Press Conference to address some of the issues of national importance in the country with regards to the senseless and barbaric attack on Clergies and Humanitarian workers in North East Nigeria by the Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorist group.

The Centre for Africa Liberation and Socio-Economic Rights is alarmed by the way and manner the Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorist group has intensified attacks on unarmed and innocent clergies and humanitarian workers rendering services in North-East Nigeria.

All must condemn this callous act. It should serve as a wakeup call for all concerned stakeholders to put heads together towards ending the unscrupulous activities of the Boko Haram/ISWAP in North-East Nigeria.

It is indeed unfortunate that despite the efforts of the Nigerian Military in the fight against terrorism in Nigeria, some groups/individuals are not happy with the gains made and have consequently constituted themselves as clogs in the wheels of progress by providing the Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorist group with logistical support in furtherance of their evil agenda against Nigeria.

Ironically, The Centre for Africa Liberation and Socio-Economic Rights has it on competent authority that some local political organizations, as well as religious bodies, are covertly providing tactic support to the Boko Haram/ISWAP group all in a bid to undermine the efforts of the government.

The International Non-Governmental Organizations, as well as some local Non-Governmental Organizations, have continued to breach international protocol on their operations in North-East Nigeria by aiding and abetting the supply and delivery of sophisticated weaponry to the Boko Haram/ISWAP group under the guise of rendering humanitarian services.

The Centre for Africa Liberation and Socio-Economic Rights in times past have raised the alarm in the complicity of international NGOs in operation in North-East Nigeria in fueling the Boko Haram war by supplying them food, drugs, and other essential items that they need.

This trend is unacceptable, and it is advised that urgent steps are taken to arrest this decline before things get out of control because as it stands, the Boko Haram/ISWAP have been emboldened to carry out attacks on soft targets in women and children, students, clergies, as well as humanitarian workers because of the tactic support it has been receiving from both internal and external sources.

The Centre for Africa Liberation and Socio-Economic Rights also wishes to use this medium to call on the European Union and the representatives of the United Nations in Nigeria to audit and caution international NGOs in operation in North-East Nigeria to stop the supply of arms and ammunitions and other essential items to the Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorist group with immediate effect. It must be stated that if this is done, we would witness a drastic reduction in the merciless killings and maiming carried out by the Boko Haram/ISWAP group in North-East Nigeria.

The Centre for Africa Liberation and Socio-Economic Rights also states that as a matter of necessity and urgency, the European Union must investigate the supply of sophisticated arms and ammunitions from her member countries to impose the needed sanctions on these countries. This is on the heels that many pieces of evidence indicate that some EU countries have been covertly selling arms and ammunitions to the Boko Haram/ISWAP group using fronts.

The European Union, in the interest of fairness, must act and deal decisively with its member countries that have been providing support to the Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorist group. If this is not done, the Centre for Africa Liberation and Socio-Economic Rights might be indeed convinced that the European Union as a body might be aiding and abetting the propagation of terrorism in Nigeria.

The Centre for Africa Liberation and Socio-Economic Rights condemns these despicable acts and it is hopeful that the end of the Boko Haram/ISWAP threat to peace and tranquility in Nigeria would manifest soon if all concerned stakeholders indeed join hands with sincerity of mind and purpose to fight the common enemy of humanity.

The Centre for Africa Liberation also calls on all genuine stakeholders to encourage dialogue and strategic engagements in the best possible ways to bring about peace and not to destabilize the peace of the whole nation for their selfish agenda.

Religious and political bodies must exercise restraint in ensuring that selfish politicians do not take advantage of them to paint the activities of Boko Haram/ISWAP as religious or targeted at certain religions or ethnicity.

The Centre for Africa Liberation and Socio-Economic Rights wishes to state that Nigeria must be ridden of terrorism,4 and it behooves on all well-meaning countries, groups, and individuals to extend their support to Nigeria by doing what is right at all times.

With 150,000 weddings MFM debunks ‘Church with highest single ladies’ allegation

Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries (MFM) Sunday debunked an online newspaper report that claimed it has the highest number of single ladies among churches in Nigeria.
The church in a statement by Collins Edomaruse, says that the MFM, through its singles ministry, GEN 218, in the last decade, “Has to its credit, over 150,000 weddings that have occured as a result of Gen218 forums.‎”
Quoting the pastor‎ in charge of the programme, Pastor Popoola,
GEN 218 offers training, teaching and guidance for bachelors and spinsters within the fold.
He said: “Here at the Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries, our singles ministry, Gen218, is based on the scripture in Genesis 2:18 which states “It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper who is just right for him”(NLT).
“It is an exciting and vibrant minstry, attracting singles from all other denominations since its inception. It was established by our Role models, Dr Daniel and Pastor Mrs Shade Olukoya.
“In the last decade, Gen 218 has provided training, teaching and guidance to thousands of single men and women across Nigeria, Africa and all around the world.
“To its credit, over 150,000 weddings have occured as a result of Gen218 forums.
“The false assumption that the Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries has the largest number of female singles is baseless, erroneous and very misleading.
“The Mountain of Fire and Miracles ministry has a distinctive and well structured youth movement. The youths and young adults of this minstry, under the leadership of the General Overseer, have distinguished themselves as leaders in the fields of academia, music and sports with laurels to back this up. This fervency spills over into the Gen218 ministry, attracting large numbers of singles to our forums and events. It is therefore fallacious to assume the Mountain of Fire and Miracles ministries has the largest number of single females. Thousands of weddings hold on a weekly basis, both at regional and branch levels.
“Dr Olukoya and the Mountain of Fire and Miracles ministries have never stated that single men and women within this minstry should only marry within the minstry.
“We encourage and actively support all spinsters and bachelors, regardless of denomination, to build their relationships on biblical standards. We strongly advise all our single men and women to marry fellow believers within the Christian faith who equally believe in Christ’s redemption plan.
“We believe this is God’s will for marriage and is the best foundation for a successful and a Godly marriage.”