Opinion
Kaduna Before, During And After El’Rufai
By Sulaiman Abdul
Before Nasir Ahmed El-Rufai became governor, Kaduna State enjoyed a sense of peace and unity among its various communities. The people had learned to live together, respecting each other’s rights and boundaries.
Kaduna State has a long history of peaceful coexistence among its various communities, from the highlands of Makarfi to the plains of Kagoro. The farmers and herdsmen lived side by side, sharing the land and its treasures. While disputes over land have occurred in the past, the communities have managed to live together and prosper, showcasing their ability to accommodate differences and maintain harmony.
However, during El-Rufai’s tenure as governor, the state faced increased conflicts and tensions among different groups. During Elrufa’s tenure, longstanding misunderstandings that were ordinarily resolved at the community level were manipulated and escalated into violent conflicts fueled by tribal and religious jealousies. These conflicts have resulted in heavy loss of lives and valuable resources, creating a climate of fear and unrest in the state.
One of the main issues that has been exacerbated under Elrufai’s leadership is the age-old clash between herdsmen and farmers. This conflict, which has been a recurring problem for centuries, has escalated into deadly confrontations resulting in loss of lives and destruction of property.
The current state of killings and unrest in the region cannot be viewed as isolated incidents, but rather as part of a larger agenda of misgovernance that has divided communities along ethnic and religious lines. Elrufai’s administration has exploited internal weaknesses and cleavages in society, perpetuating a cycle of violence and discord.
El-Rufai’s eight-year tenure was marked by division, weakness, and confusion within the state. His policies exploited ethnic and religious differences, leading to a grand misgovernance that fueled the current spate of killings and unrest. It is clear that Kaduna State needs a more inclusive and proactive approach to address the challenges it faces and restore the peace and unity that once defined the state.
Allegations of human rights abuses, unguarded public utterances, and a flood of petitions have characterized the political career of Nasir El-Rufai, particularly during his eight-year tenure as the governor of Kaduna State. These issues have raised significant concerns both within Nigeria and internationally, highlighting the controversial nature of his leadership style and decision-making.
One of the key issues surrounding El-Rufai’s tenure is the broad and specific allegations of human rights abuses. Perhaps the most prominent case is the killing of over 300 followers of the Shiite leader, Ibraheem El-Zakzaky, in Zaria, Kaduna State, in 2015. Instead of holding the military accountable for the massacre, the El-Rufai-led government chose to prosecute El-Zakzaky and his wife, leading to a lengthy and controversial legal process that ultimately ended in dismissal by the Kaduna State High Court in July 2021. This case has brought El-Rufai under intense scrutiny from both domestic and international human rights bodies, with investigations ongoing at the International Criminal Court and the United Nations.
Furthermore, El-Rufai’s tenure was marked by arbitrary arrests of political enemies, seizure of properties, and wanton demolition of perceived opponents’ properties. Reports of extrajudicial killings and the use of force and intimidation to suppress protests have further tarnished his human rights record. Some court cases against him have alleged embezzlement of public funds and abuse of trust, involving cronies, allies, and family members for corrupt purposes during his time as head of the Bureau of Public Enterprises, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, and governor of Kaduna State.
In addition to human rights abuses, El-Rufai’s unguarded public utterances have also generated controversy and backlash. He has made divisive statements that inflamed mistrust among citizens, particularly between Muslims and Christians in Kaduna State. His comment about Muslims ruling Kaduna for a long period while doing justice to Christians was widely criticized for its potential to stoke religious and ethnic tensions, leading to bloody clashes. The derogatory remarks he made towards political adversaries and respected groups like the Northern Elders Forum have further solidified his reputation for making inflammatory comments.
Moreover, a flood of petitions and legal challenges have followed El-Rufai throughout his political career. His nomination as a ministerial candidate attracted widespread rejections and petitions, leading to protests during the screening exercise at the National Assembly. Several pending cases in Nigerian and international courts, including the ECOWAS and the ICC, highlight the extent of the legal challenges facing El-Rufai. Allegations of genocide, crimes against humanity, and corruption have been leveled against him, reflecting the depths of public distrust and dissatisfaction with his leadership.
The tenure of Governor Elrufai in Kaduna State will be remembered as a dark period in the history of the state. The administration, characterized by a lack of transparency, accountability, and empathy, left a trail of suffering and despair in its wake. As Elrufai’s eight-year reign came to an end, the people of Kaduna State were left grappling with the harsh realities of hunger, inflation, job losses, and a deteriorating healthcare system.
The 2023 elections marked a turning point for the state, as voters overwhelmingly chose a new vision for the future. Senator Uba Sani emerged as the people’s choice to lead Kaduna State out of its current predicament and towards a brighter tomorrow. The jubilations that followed the election were not just about a change in leadership, but about the hope and possibility of a better future for all residents of the state.
Governor Uba Sani faces a daunting task ahead, as he must navigate the challenges left behind by his predecessor and chart a new course for the state. It is imperative that he surround himself with a team of competent and compassionate individuals who share his vision for a prosperous and united Kaduna State. The mention of leaders like Honorable Sani Mohammed Shaaban, with his impeccable credentials and commitment to the welfare of the people, highlights the importance of selecting the right individuals to support the governor in his quest for positive change.
Shaaban is a passionate believer in the organic links between generations, particularly when it comes to mentorship in northern Nigeria. At a very young age, he had the privilege of being exposed to political masters such as Ibrahim Tahir, Umaru Dikko, Joseph Tarka, and Aminu Kano. These individuals are living history and embodiments of all the exemplary qualities that young Northerners should strive to achieve.
Mentorship is a crucial aspect of personal and professional growth, and Shaaban understands the importance of learning from those who have come before him. The political masters he was fortunate enough to be mentored by not only imparted knowledge and wisdom but also instilled in him a sense of responsibility and dedication to serving his community and country.
Ibrahim Tahir, Umaru Dikko, Joseph Tarka, and Aminu Kano are all respected figures in northern Nigeria, known for their leadership, integrity, and commitment to social change. Shaaban sees them as role models and strives to follow in their footsteps by upholding the values they stood for.
In a society where traditional values and customs play a significant role, mentorship from esteemed individuals like Ibrahim Tahir, Umaru Dikko, Joseph Tarka, and Aminu Kano is invaluable. These mentors not only provide guidance and support but also serve as a living example of what can be achieved through hard work, dedication, and a commitment to serving others.
Shaaban’s belief in the organic links between generations is a testament to the power of mentorship and the importance of learning from those who have come before us. Thanks to the guidance and guardianship he received from northern political masters, Shaaban is well-equipped to carry on their legacy and make a positive impact in his community and beyond.
Umaru Dikko, known for his iron will and determination, inspired many with his unwavering commitment to his principles. Shaaban has been Dikko’s close tutelage since his school days in the United Kingdom and shares this steadfastness and commitment to his goals, demonstrating a resilience that mirrors that of Dikko.
Dr. Ibrahim Tahir, with his political sagacity, paved the way for future leaders like Shaaban whom he guided and mentored rigorously in the days of the second republic National Party of Nigeria (NPN). His intellect and foresight in navigating the complexities of Nigerian politics set a standard for Shaaban. As such, Shaaban exemplifies a similar level of acumen and strategic thinking in his own political endeavors.
Aminu Kano, a political maverick dedicated to social justice, has influenced Shaaban in his quest for a fair and equitable society. Shaaban’s dedication to the people and his passion for uplifting the marginalized echo the ideals that Kano championed during his lifetime.
Tarka, renowned for his courage and boldness, serves as a role model for Shaaban with whom he served as the national youth leader of the NPN. Shaaban’s fearless approach to tackling tough issues reflects the same courage that Tarka exhibited during his political career.
Shehu Shagari’s impetus and vision for a prosperous Nigeria continue to inspire leaders like Shaaban. Shaaban shares Shagari’s commitment to national unity and economic development, striving to build a better future for all Nigerians.
It is difficult in this age and time for any political in Kaduna State to compare with Shaaban who carries the legacy of these esteemed leaders with grace and determination.
His leadership, sacrifice, and dedication to the common people make him an invaluable asset to any government seeking to improve the lives of its citizens and to the North generally. In a diverse state like Kaduna, leaders like Shaaban who have enjoyed such rare opportunity for training by masters of the northern power play are crucial in bridging divides and fostering unity among all communities.
Shaaban’s inspiring presence and untiring efforts to serve the interests of the people of Kaduna State should be appreciated by all. Governor Uba Sani must heed the calls of the people for competent and compassionate individuals like Shaaban to support him in his mission to transform Kaduna State.
With leaders like Sani Shaaban by his side, Governor Uba Sani can guide the state towards prosperity and unity. The people of Kaduna deserve a government that works for their benefit and well-being, and with Shaaban’s leadership, a brighter tomorrow is possible for all residents of the state. It is time for a new era of governance that prioritizes the well-being and prosperity of all.
Abdul writes from Kaduna
BY ABUBAKAR YUSUF
In line with the decade of action , realizing SDGs 2020-2030 agenda, the mission and vision of government agencies, parastatals and departments must be in tandem with the present realities.
Therefore, efforts by the Financial Reporting Council, FRC to implement the already reviewed annual fee due for over two years cannot be over emphasized.
The challenges posed and identified by Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), as the umbrella body of companies operating in Nigeria may be normal and usual resistance to positive changes, posed by such bodies in the development, improvement and payment of dues across board.
But , irrespective of that , FRC under the leadership of Dr Rabiu Onaolapo Olowo has developed a new template, innovations and initiatives to drive the new council in line with not only the economic indices and realities in the country, but global requirements.
This is in accordance with the zeal to generate more revenues, increased revenue generation for remittances into the federation account to enable government meet up it’s obligations, through internal mechanism and revenue drive .
With the global standards and realities, FRC cannot be operating under the cocoon of archaic policies and programs, leaving behind the modern and modest standards of International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), among others requirements.
Penultimate, the experience of the council towards payment of dues and remittances had been lackadaisical and laced with various resistances , litigations and sharp practices, particularly before the new fee reviewed under the guise of many anomalies, which MAN had overlooked .
Therefore, as the administrative head charged with controls and regulations, The Financial Reporting Council, FRC cannot be seen to be underpinned between new evolution and old order , as a government agency under an act amended , the singular decisions to review its activities is encumbered as an independent entity.
Experience have showed that some publicly traded companies, listed on the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE), continue to underreport the claims and litigation section of their annual reports, This is despite the Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria (FRC)’s pledge to curb this before now.
The companies, published their 2023 audited financial reports at various times in 2024. However, each report contained figures lower than what was earlier revealed in a 2023 report.
According to the reports, the companies claimed cases against them in court amounted to huge amount .
“There are certain lawsuits pending against the companies in various courts of law. The total contingent liabilities in respect of pending litigations as at 31 December 2023 is ₦7.42 billion.”
“Some companies had the highest reported figure for claims and litigation of some companies in 2023. They stated that the cases against them amounted to N1.008 trillion claims. However, by June 30, 2024, the figure had become zero.”
This is at variance with FRC position, were many companies were underreporting their claims.
Since litigations may not stand the taste of time as adopted by previous leadership, the best solution is to effect an administrative decision beyond stagnating the activities of the new council and effect a new lease of life into the organization, through the enactment of the new regulations, reviews and controls.
“Not disclosing these claims in their annual reports for over a decade violates the International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), hence the new leadership envisaged in its new position and decision.”
“Despite the FRC’s vocal commitment to addressing inaccurate financial reporting, it was revealed that partial compliance two years later.”
“The International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) are a set of accounting standards introduced to govern how particular types of transactions and events should be reported in financial statements. They were developed by the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB).”
“This IASB has a set of accounting standards that guide certain aspects of financial reporting.”
“IAS 37 is a standard for accounting for and disclosing provisions, contingent liabilities and assets.”
It describes contingent liabilities as “possible obligations whose existence will be confirmed by uncertain future events that are not wholly within the control of the entity”.
“An example is litigation against the entity when it is uncertain whether the entity has committed an act of wrongdoing and when it is not probable that settlement will be needed,” it states.
“A contingent liability is not recognised in the statement of financial position. However, unless the possibility of an outflow of economic resources is remote (distant), a contingent liability is disclosed in the notes.”
“Going by this provision, all defendants in the suit had contingent liabilities of at least N1.2 trillion each.”
“It is important to highlight that companies in business either have assets or liabilities. Assets add to the financial health of the company while liabilities are losses. ‘Contingent’ is a term that refers to something that is subject to probability or chance, and just as there are contingent liabilities, there are contingent assets.”
“Some companies were taking advantage of an exploitable gap in the IAS37 to operate .”
Interestingly, Council generally observed an exploitable gap in disclosure requirements as per IAS 37: ”
Provisions, Contingent Liabilities and Contingent Assets, especially as it relates to Contingent Liabilities. Paragraph 92 of IAS 37 which states that ‘In extremely rare cases, disclosures of some or all of the information required by paragraph 84-89 can be expected to prejudice seriously the position of the entity in a dispute with other parties on the subject matter of the provision, contingent liability or contingent asset.”
” In such cases, an entity need not disclose the information, but shall disclose the general nature of the dispute, together with the fact that, and reason why, the information has not been disclosed’ is instructive in this regard. This implies that entities are not compelled to disclose number of claims and financial implications thereon as such information has the potential to prejudice their position in disputes with other parties.”
“In the course of the reports, some companies declared huge amount of N11.3 trillion in contingent liabilities in its 2023 annual report; the highest it had ever declared since 2014.”
However , to achieve the global SDGs 2020-2030 agenda with Nigeria playing a leading position, the ongoing sharp practices, inactions, anti government and anti council policies by companies in the area of declaration of transparent and accountable financial reports , that is in tandem with the global standards and practices must be adhered to, in line with the intention of the new management and leadership under Dr Rabiu Onaolapo Olowo as the Executive Secretary, Chief Executive Officer ES CEO of Financial Reporting Council, FRC.
Written BY ABUBAKAR YUSUF on yus.abubakar3@gmail.com.
There is something common in politics and with Politicians in this clime, it stems from the arrogance of power, it stinks to high heavens, it is shit in its worst form; that a few men and women play God, they assume that their egocentric predilections represent the collective will, and they undermine the Law as well as the mindset of the electorate. They move to Party B with the mandate given to Party A by the People. And they Cross-carpet or decamp to another Party without deference to the provisions of the Law.
Just yesterday the entire Political Structure in my home State of Delta was led by the State Governor Mr. Sheriff Oborevwori from the Peoples Democratic Party PDP to the All Progressive Congress APC, that tsunami of sorts happened without firm reasons but the usual refrain that ‘they want to align with the centre for more democratic dividends to come to the State’. I wouldn’t have opted to do this piece had the All Progressive Congress APC made great feats of the States under its watch, alas President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (PBAT) and his followers are masters of deceit, subterfuge and perfidy. They spew soulless propaganda, having no soul they lack moral margins, they lie about everything and they destroy the moral fabrics of our nation. They are shameless, spineless and have no scruples.
Where is the Soul of the men of power who dumped the PDP just yesterday for the APC in Delta State? They have chosen to stand on a Blood Stained Mandate. They have elected a Hunger ridden mandate. They have chosen a corruption riddled mandate. They laud an insecurity enabling mandate. They salute a nepotistic mandate. And they dance to a frustration festering mandate. Had the PBAT led APC at the Centre made Nigeria better than it met her, I would applaud Governor Sheriff and his fellow travelers, but the truth is what consistently the APC, including Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and his men have chosen to trample upon, nay the Truth is that under the PBAT led APC Government, Nigeria is today worse than it was yesterday.
What logic situates the movement of the Delta State Political Structures from the PDP to the APC at a time when Nigerians feel the most unsafe in their homeland? When the States of Plateau, Benue and Bornu have become theatres of human barbecues. Is it not stupidity to elect a blood stained and a blood soaked mandate over being in a Party in the opposition?
Is it not a show of shame to elect a mandate that has left the masses of the people in poverty, despondency and want over fueling the fervour of an opposition seeking a new deal and a new Republic of hope for the people? Which sincere and people oriented leader would dump the opposition for a Party that is absolutely rudderless and progressively multiplying poverty? Only the soulless and the shameless, surely.
The fulminating shenanigans that undermine the monstrous corruption of the APC Government, the unending Infrastructural decay, the unhinged failure of the energy and the power sector, the pervasive hunger, disease and pain in the land, and the murderous gangs killing and maiming citizens with reckless abandon defines the Olympic soullessness of the Delta State Political Merchants who have elected a Blood Stained Mandate over matching for the redemption of Nigeria.
I believe that it is manifest stupidity to desert the opposition at a time that our nation is in dire straits and badly craving vibrant opposition. I believe that it is a show of shame to decamp to a Party and a Government that has failed to protect lives and property.
And I hereby lampoon with unbridled vehemence all those who have chosen to stand on the blood stained and blood soaked mandate that PBAT epitomizes.
Hmmm, so suddenly my home State is now APC, interesting. A class of less than 300 people nay ‘leaders’ met at the Government House in Asaba, and in one fell swoop changed the political colour, temperature and identity of the State, interesting. My People, this One-Party State wey APC and PBAT dey push and pursue na to what end? PBAT and his Party the APC through this manifest antics of State capture have tied democracy to the stake, and are daily through acts of impunity, lawlessness, and braggadocio shooting violently at democracy, I pray they do not shoot this jingleover democracy to death. I pray that they understand that One Party State is the precursor to Authoritarian Rule and Dictatorship. And I pray that they are not oblivious of the politico-social tendencies of the Nigerian State, a State that cannot and has never been captured by any one tendency. In any case, before they completely murder democracy, it must be on record that someone warned against the Stupidity, against the Show of Shame and against the Shenanigans of our Political Operators.
Call me names, but let it be on record that when the elders and the hoard of egotistic political merchants that predominate our political kaleidoscope fiddled with the poisoned chalice of sycophancy and hypocrisy, I wasn’t quiet. Let it be on record that when they ate poisoned bread baked with blood stained and blood soaked mandate, and when they chose to dance on the tombs of the dead across our space who were unlived because government failed to protect them, that someone called out the discerning, and warned against the omnious times that they make certain.
The sequel to this patriotic effort shall most certainly tell more, reveal more and foretell the pitfalls that a most arrogant and self-seeking political class weave in the path of our ‘democracy’. We have got some difficult days and difficult times ahead.
Call me the Wailer, that’s ok, for I Wail that Nigeria may become Great.
Prof Chris Mustapha Nwaokobia Jnr
Convener COUNTRYFIRST MOVT. A Good Governance Advocacy Group.
It was the famous American former President, Abraham Lincoln who noted that the people when rightly and fully trusted will return the trust.
Thus, when the trust level gets high enough, people exceed apparent limits, discovering new and awesome abilities of which they were formerly unaware.
When trust is placed on those who occupy public office, they need to work had to continue to justify the trust in the people they preside over.Appointment into office is premised on the facts that the appointee is capable and will be of immense values to the realization of the aspirations of the government in power.
Thus, with the coming of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu into office, series of strategic appointment of respected and credible niger9ians were made thereafter.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had the qualities of appointing the right people in the right position, having judged their qualification and capabilities. This is a unique ability which good leaders to possess in abundance.
It was this sense of judgement that made him to appoint Chief Adegboyega Isiaka Oyetola CON as the current minister of Marine and Blue Economy.He was the former chief of Staff to the former Governor of Osun State and later became the governor of the state.
Whereby he displayed integrity, self-awareness, courage, respect, compassion, and resilience. This role allowed him to exhibit his administrative shrewdness and dedication to the advancement of the state.
During this time, he played a critical role in implementing policies and initiatives aimed at improving education, healthcare, and infrastructure.He was later appointed minister of transportation by President Bola Tinubu on 16 August 2023, but redeployed four days later to the newly created Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy.
Despite the newness of the ministry, his leadership abilities and acumen as well as his professional qualification eminently qualifies him for the arduous job, for he pursued his education with diligence, earning a degree in Applied Accounting from the prestigious University of Lagos.
With a passion for learning and a keen eye for effective management, he embarked on a career that would see him excel in various sectors.
According to the World Bank, the blue economy is the “sustainable use of ocean resources for economic growth, improved livelihoods, and jobs while preserving the health of ocean ecosystem.”
European Commission defines it as “All economic activities related to oceans, seas and coasts, the realization that Nigeria has vast ocean ecosystem justifies the creation of the ministry.
The ministry’s four action pillars for its first four years (2023–2027) are: promoting sustainable blue economy investments; transforming port operations; enhancing port infrastructure; and strengthening blue governance.
Under Oyetola’s leadership, the ministry targets attracting $2 billion in investments in offshore renewable energy by 2025; establishing at least five new fish processing plants by 2025 and at least two new coastal tourism sites by 2026; and creating three million marine and blue economy-related jobs by 2027.
The importance of this ministry lies in the fact that the life of the planet and correct functioning of ecosystem services are sustained by marine ecosystems.
The blue economy thus has the potential to achieve a sustainable development which does not compromise life on Earth tomorrow.
Thus, his appointment eminently justifies and in line with the aspiration s to make Nigeria a great nation.His achievements in office are attributed to maritime security and safety, port operational efficiency, infrastructure rehabilitation, connectivity and blue economy development.
The Minister, who unfolds the strategic plans of the Ministry and the Agencies which would focus on maritime security, safety, ship building & maintenance, maritime governance, port infrastructure rehabilitation, capacity building, among others.
Under his leadership, the Nigeria’s territorial waters became safer especially in the Gulf of Guinea (GoG) in the past one year, with the maritime sector recorded zero incidence of piracy and maritime terrorism for more than one year.
Ports were upgraded and his ministry worked assiduously to actualize the implementation of the National Single Window at the nation’s ports to facilitate trade and competitiveness of country’s port system.
The value his outstanding leadership will also impact on the acceptability and reelection of the present administration in 2027.
We Commend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on the confidence reposed in and the subsequent Appointment of Chief Gboyega Oyetola as the Minister of the Marine and Blue Economy.
He is honest and transparent in his stronger determination to reposition the sector as the leading source of revenue to the country and will surely do more based on his past robust antecedents. We thus call on all Nigerians to support his vision and pragmatic leadership in the office, so as to enable impact the lives of many more citizens of the country.
Dr K.M.Tugga is an Abuja resident and public affairs commentator