The Trumpet Newspaper Issue 635 (October 30 - November 12 2024)

TheTrumpet
Africans now have a voice... Founded in 1995
V O L 30 N O 635 O C T O B E R 30 - NOVEMBER 12 2024
Police offer
£20k in
search of
2004
murderer
Murdered - Camille Gordon
Plastic recycling (Photo - Raw Pixels CCO 1.0 Universal)
Nigeria is the
world’s 2nd biggest
plastic polluter:
expert insights
into the crisis
By Wale Fatade, The Conversation
Continued on Page 3>
London’s Metropolitan Police
Detectives are offering a
reward of up to £20,000 for
information that leads to the
conviction of the person responsible
for brutally stabbing a student to
death at the club she worked at in
Soho.
23-year-old Camille Gordon who
was training to be a nursery assistant,
was brutally murdered on the
doorstep of her workplace on 1
March 2004.
Despite extensive enquiries by the
Met over the past 20 years, her killer
has not yet been brought to justice.
Recently, detectives appeared on
the BBC’s Crimewatch Live with a
renewed appeal to catch Camille’s
murderer.
Detective Inspector Amanda
Greig from the Met’s Specialist
Casework Team, who is leading the
investigation, said: “It may have been
more than 20 years since Camille was
brutally murdered, but her family
remain just as heartbroken today.
They want answers and they want the
person responsible for Camille’s
death brought to justice – this is
something we want too and we have
not given up trying to get that for
them. This is why we are now
offering a reward of up to £20,000 for
information that leads to the
successful charge and conviction of
the person responsible.
“A lot can happen in 20 years,
allegiances can change. Maybe you
felt unable to talk to us at the time, for
whatever reason, but you are now in
a position to do so. Maybe you saw
the attack or you were at the club or
in the area at the time of the murder?
Maybe the person responsible has
since confided in you? I would urge
you to share whatever information
you have with us – it will be treated
in the strictest confidence and could
bring much needed closure to
Camille’s family.”
Camille was born in Jamaica and
Continued on Page 4<

Page2 TheTrumpet OCTOBER 30 - NOVEMBER 12 2024
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News
OCTOBER 30 - NOVEMBER 12 2024
TheTrumpet
Page3
Nigeria is the world’s 2nd biggest
plastic polluter: expert insights
into the crisis
Continued from Page 1<
Plastic pollution is a major
problem in Nigeria.
Recent research identified the
country as a plastic pollution hotspot,
second to India. India emits 9.3
million tonnes of plastic into the
environment each year – one fifth of
the global total. Nigeria emits 3.5
million tonnes annually.
Just how big is the issue and what
can be done about it?
The Conversation Africa has
published various articles by
academics on the country’s plastic
pollution problem and how it should
be tackled.
Plastic pollution in Nigeria
Temitope Sogbamu warns that
plastic pollution is a serious problem
in Nigeria and can be found wherever
there is any human activity.
The pollution comes in a range of
sizes from macroplastic (pieces larger
than 25 millimetres in diameter) to
nanoplastic (less than 1,000
nanometers).
It takes various forms, such as
polyethylene terephthalate (used for
food packaging, beverages, and
personal care products), polyvinyl
chloride (used in plumbing pipes,
flooring, and clothing) and
polystyrene (used for food packaging,
laboratory materials, toys and
computer housing).
These plastics are making their
ways into various environments,
including Nigeria’s waterways.
A study led by Gideon Idowu
found alarmingly high levels of
microplastics in the Osun River. This
major river in southern Nigeria is an
important source of water for the
communities that live around it,
whether for irrigation or for personal
use.
The study found as many as 22,079
pieces of microplastic in just one litre
of water. These levels exceeded those
reported in 267 global studies of
microplastics in river water conducted
since 1994.
Even recreation areas, like
Nigeria’s beaches, are not spared.
Ifenna Ilechukwu studied the
surface sediments from four beaches
in Lagos. Plastic fragments and
microplastics were found in all the
sediment samples collected from the
beaches.
He explains that a high number of
fragments suggests the breakdown of
larger plastic items from littering and
poor waste management.
When microplastics enter
ecosystems, it affects everything that
lives in them.
Emmanuel Akindele’s research
into microplastic pollution in the Osun
River system discovered that the tiny
pieces of plastics were even present in
snails.
The study – the first chemical
identification of polymer types in
African freshwater invertebrates –
found various types of plastic were
present, including polyethylene, nylon
and polypropylene, commonly used
as shopping bags and bottle caps.
Another study by Akindele, which
covered two important rivers and Gulf
of Guinea tributaries, found the
presence of microplastics in aquatic
insects.
The insects are a key part of the
food chain and so the microplastic
pollution is expected to affect other
animals.
Steps to address it
What can be done about this
problem?
Early in 2024, the Federal Ministry
of Environment and the Lagos State
Government both announced bans on
single-use plastics. Temitope
Sogbamu, however, warns that the
success of the ban will depend on
provisions made for enforcement.
Nigeria has had a law in the pipeline
banning single-use plastics since
2013. It has still not been promulgated
at the national level.
Kehinde Allen-Taylor wants others
to be involved in solving the problem
too. The researcher explored how
companies can reduce plastic waste in
Nigeria if they accept all the elements
of corporate social responsibility.
Sustainable practices benefit business
too.
Wale Fatade is Commissioning
Editor: Nigeria at The Conversation.
This article is republished from
The Conversation under a Creative
Commons license. Read the original
article at
https://theconversation.com/nigeriais-the-worlds-2nd-biggest-plasticpolluter-expert-insights-into-the-crisi
s-238799

Page4
TheTrumpet
TheTrumpet Group
OCTOBER 30 - NOVEMBER 12 2024
News
Police offer £20k in
search of 2004 murderer
Field: 07956 385 604
E-mail:
info@the-trumpet.com
TheTrumpetTeam
PUBLISHER / EDITOR-IN-CHIEF:
’Femi Okutubo
CONTRIBUTORS:
Moji Idowu, Ayo Odumade,
Steve Mulindwa
SPECIAL PROJECTS:
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CHAIRMAN:
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MEMBERS:
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Continued from Page 1<
came to the UK in 2001 to study as a
nursery assistant in Birmingham. She
moved to London in August 2003 to find
better career prospects and at the time of
her death she was living in South
Norwood.
She started working part-time as a
hostess at the Blue Bunny Club in Archer
Street, Soho, to help fund her training.
The club offered female company for a
short period of time, but no sexual
activity took place.
At about 18:30hrs on 1 March 2004,
Camille was working on the door of the
club when a man approached her.
He entered the club, paying an admission
fee of £5, and went to a private area with
Camille.
After a short while, another member
of staff presented the male customer with
a bill for £375. He was unable to pay the
full amount, so he paid £80 and was
escorted to the exit by the other member
of staff.
The customer left the venue and
walked along Archer Street towards the
junction with Rupert Street. He returned
to the venue shortly after, but upon seeing
a different member of staff he raised both
hands in a submissive manner and went
off towards Rupert Street.
At about 19:10hrs Camille returned to
the door of the club when a man was seen
to enter the doorway before very quickly
leaving, walking at pace along Archer
Street towards Great Windmill Street.
Camille screamed and staggered
down the stairs into the club where she
told colleagues she had been stabbed in
the chest.
Despite the best efforts of the
emergency services, she died from her
injuries about an hour later.
A post-mortem examination revealed
Blue Bunny's Club
The suspect - finger in mouth
The suspect - on train platform
that she had died from a single stab
wound to the heart.
Detectives are keen to speak to the
unknown customer in relation to
Camille’s murder
Police have released enhanced CCTV
footage and images of this unknown
customer, whom officers believe to be
responsible for Camille’s murder,
entering Piccadilly Circus Tube station
Suspect was wearing a dark jacket with a large
'Cleveland Indians’ logo on the front
The suspect on escalator
shortly after the murder. He is described
as black, aged 20-25 and 5’5”-5’8”. He
was wearing a dark jacket with a large
‘Cleveland Indians’ logo on the front,
dark jeans, white trainers and a hat
believed to be a baseball cap.
Two days after the murder, on 3 March
2024, a man attended Kennington Police
Station and asked to speak to a CID
officer about a murder at the Blue Bunny
Club. However, he left before CID got
there and he never returned.
Detectives are urging this man to get
in touch so he can share the information
he has. He is described as white, about 35
years old, about 5’8”, of skinny build
with defined cheek bones and light brown
hair.
Anyone with information is asked to
call the incident room on 020 8785 8267.
Information can also be submitted online
here Public Portal (mipp.police.uk)
Alternatively, you can contact the
independent charity - Crimestoppers
anonymously on 0800 555 111 or visit
crimestoppers-uk.org.

OCTOBER 30 - NOVEMBER 12 2024 TheTrumpet
Page5

Page6 TheTrumpet OCTOBER 30 - NOVEMBER 12 2024
News
Eulogies as Bishop JOK Olowokure
is laid to rest
By Abiodun Komolafe
The Cathedral of Saint Matthew,
Ijebu-Jesa in Osun State, was
filled to capacity as friends,
family, and dignitaries gathered to bid
farewell to the late Bishop Jacob
Olabode Kehinde Olowokure, the
retired Bishop of Akoko Diocese,
Anglican Communion.
In a heartfelt sermon, the
Archbishop Emeritus and former Dean
of the Church of Nigeria, The Most
Revd. Ephraim Adebola Ademowo,
eulogized Bishop Olowokure as a
builder of men of God. Ademowo
described the departed clergyman as an
encourager and a man of meek
character who positively impacted
everyone he met.
“Bishop Olowokure’s life spoke
volumes,” Ademowo said. “He made
the church relevant to society and
humanity, always ready to listen, never
complaining, and was a true Field
Marshal in the House of God.”
Ademowo highlighted Bishop
Olowokure’s remarkable qualities,
including his love for the Church,
nation and community, commitment to
fasting and prayers, and unwavering
integrity.
“The late Bishop Olowokure was an
enigma who loved the Church and
country. He dedicated himself to the
Bishop Olowokure
work of God, Ijebu-Jesa, and Akoko
Diocese.” Ademowo described him as
“a man of fasting and prayers, very
firm and accommodating, broadminded,
and with a mind full of grace”,
one who “single-handedly built
numerous churches, earning him
legendary status.”
Dignitaries at the Church Service
included Retired Archbishops Segun
Okubadejo, Christopher Omotunde,
Michael O. Akinyemi and Matthew
Owadayo.
Among others were The Most Revd.
Dr. Williams O. Aladekugbe
(Archbishop of Ibadan Province), The
Rt. Revd. Professor O. Ó. Obijole, The
Rt. Revd. Dr. Babatunde Ogunbanwo,
and The Rt. Revd. Samuel Egbebunmi.
Other notable guests included The
Rt. Revd. Dr. Cornelius Adagbada, The
Rt. Revd. Rufus Adepoju, The Rt.
Revd. F. O. Babatunji, The Revd. Dr.
Oluwagbenro Fabuluje, Senator Duro
Faseyi and Barrister Olaniyi Adeleke
Agbola, SAN (Diocesan Chancellor).
The Burial Service, led by The Rt.
Revd. Isaac Oluyamo, Bishop of Ijesa
North Anglican Diocese, honoured
Bishop Olowokure’s life, legacy and
contributions to the Anglican
Communion, recognizing his lasting
impact on those he touched.
Equiom appoints Head of Middle East
Equiom - a leading provider of
private client, family office, and
corporate services, has appointed
Jonathan Wheeler as Head of Middle
East. In this role, Jonathan will lead the
strategic direction and operations across
Equiom’s Middle East businesses,
overseeing offices in Dubai, Abu Dhabi,
Qatar, and Saudi Arabia, and ensuring
alignment with Equiom’s global vision
and strategy.
With over 28 years of international
experience across the UK, USA, Western
Europe, the Middle East, and Africa,
Jonathan has held various senior
leadership positions, including Group
Director for Strategy & Strategic
Partnerships and Regional Director for
the Middle East & Africa at TMF Group.
His extensive expertise in corporate
governance, risk management, financial
services, and corporate structuring makes
him a valuable addition to Equiom’s
leadership team.
As the regional lead for Equiom in the
Jonathan Wheeler
Middle East, Jonathan is responsible for
driving the company’s growth across key
markets, developing innovative solutions
to support Equiom’s corporate and
private clients, and solidifying Equiom’s
market-leading position. His proven track
record of building strong relationships
with international businesses and
providing expert guidance on market
entry strategies, corporate governance,
and compliance will play a key role in
achieving Equiom’s strategic objectives
in the region. “We are pleased to
welcome Jonathan to Equiom as we
embark on this new phase, building on
Equiom’s position as a market leader in
the region” said Jon Jennings. “His
wealth of experience and leadership in
the financial services sector, combined
with his deep understanding of the
Middle East market, will strengthen our
ability to provide exceptional service to
our clients and expand our footprint in the
region.”
Commenting on his appointment,
Jonathan said: “I am delighted to join
Equiom and lead the Middle East team.
Equiom has a strong reputation for
delivering tailored solutions to its clients,
and I look forward to working with the
team to build on that success and drive
the business forward in this key region.”
In addition to his leadership
responsibilities, Jonathan has served as
an active Director on various boards
across Europe and the Middle East,
engaging with regulated entities in
Mauritius, Switzerland, Qatar, and Abu
Dhabi. His experience with diverse
securitisation and capital market
structures, including Shariah-compliant
options, further strengthens Equiom’s
ability to offer solution focused services
to both private and sovereign investors.
Equiom remains committed to
delivering excellence in trust and
corporate services and Jonathan’s
appointment further highlights the
company’s dedication to expanding its
service offering and capabilities in the
Middle East.

Gab Awards
OCTOBER 30 - NOVEMBER 12 2024
TheTrumpet
First shortlist of 26 t h GAB Awards
Finalists released
Page7
The first shortlist of Finalists for the
26 th Annual Gathering of Africa’s
Best (GAB) Awards taking place
in London in December has been
released. A second shortlist is due to be
released by next month.
The Awards ceremony takes place at
the Hilton London Kensington on Sunday
December 1 2024.
Founder of the GAB Awards – ‘Femi
Okutubo stated that: “The quality of
nominations for the highly coveted GAB
Awards continues to rise – which is a
reflection of the vast number of African
and Friends of Africa who are excelling
and at the top of their game in various
spheres of influence around the globe.”
The GAB Awards was established by
The Trumpet Newspaper in 1999 to
reward excellence among those who are
promoting the positive image of Africa
and Africans, and is open to Africans and
Friends of Africa.
Tickets to the event are available at
gabawards.com
GAB Future Gems
Ms Ruth Agbolade -
Photography
Mr Omotoyosi Clement
- International Relations
GO Youth MK
- Youth Development
J Spot’s Suya Hut & Grill
- Food
Ms Adenike Idowu Ogundeji (Big
OAI)
– Beauty Services
GAB Excellence
Mr Marc Adebesin
– The Arts
Mrs Anna Somuyiwa Adedeji
– Regulatory Science
Mr Oluwaseun Emitomo
(EmPrince)
- Entertainment
Mr Adetomiwa Fadipe
(Phaddyblaza)
- Entertainment
Mrs Dorcas Wuraola Falode
– Immigration Law
Mr Julius Imabeh
– Philanthropy
Ms Ursula Jallow
– Fraud Prevention
Ms Rugiatu Kanu
– Women Empowerment
Nina Kristofferson
– Entertainment
Mrs Joy Wanjiru Machugu-Zenz
- Entertainment
Mr Jefta Madzingo
- Insurance
Ms Taiwo Iyabosola Odebode
(TIYA)
– The Arts
Ireti Oba-Okojie
- Intimacy Coaching
Evang. Blessing Urowoli Olubanjo
- Gospel Music
Dr Tewa Onasanya
– Women Empowerment
Glory Onwuegbuchi
- Community Development
Dr Hubert Emeka Onyekwelu
- Health
Mr Dele Oyekanmi
- Surveying
Vicky Remmie
– Youth Empowerment
Rita Roberts
– Business
Oluwatosin Sandra Salimon
(Cassie Hair)
– Hair Merchandising
Ms Griselda Kumordzie Togobo
– Diversity and Inclusion
Ms Jacqueline Victor-Mazeli
– Immigration Law
VIN Club
- Philanthropy
GAB Platinum
Judge Owusu Emanuel Abebrese
– Public Law
Sir David Adjaye OBE
- Architecture
Ms. Hilda Ephraim-Adejumo
– Commercial Law
Engr. Dr. Emmanuel Aderemi
Awode
– Business
Prof. Daniel Kolawole Olukoya
– Philanthropy
Mr Demola Adewakun
– Pharmaceutical Services
Mrs Olutola Animashaun
- Women Empowerment
Dr Jacob Kunle Ajomale
– Gospel Music
Mrs Bebe Clement
– Business Education
Ayan De First (Mr Culture)
- Entertainment
Amb. Joseph Ehigiamusoe
- Culture
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Page8 TheTrumpet OCTOBER 30 - NOVEMBER 12 2024
Food & Drink
Tilda fuses with Madhu’s to
celebrate Diwali
The United Kingdom’s leading
rice brand - Tilda, and topranking
South Asian catering
company - Madhu’s, joined forces
recently to host a spectacular event
celebrating Diwali in the heart of
Central London.
Set against the backdrop of Madhu’s
at Mayfair, a prestigious venue known
for its opulent decor and refined
ambiance, the event exuded luxury and
elegance. The event brought together an
exclusive guest list featuring prominent
food and lifestyle content creators,
longstanding customers, as well as toptier
media houses, who enjoyed a
memorable evening of incredible
flavours, entertainment, and
community spirit. With a specially
curated menu and vibrant atmosphere,
the celebration was a perfect blend of
tradition, innovation, and culture.
The evening began with a warm
welcome, as guests were greeted with
fragrant jasmine garlands, setting the
tone for the celebration ahead. Guests
were immersed in an evening of
cultural richness, starting with a
heartfelt speech from Tilda’s Managing
Director - Jean-Philippe Laborde. He
reflected on the brand’s evolution,
highlighting its impressive growth in
recent years and its unwavering
commitment to sustainability and
community engagement.
Jean-Philippe remarked, “Tonight,
we’re not just celebrating a festival;
we’re honouring relationships with key
partners and customers we’ve known
not just for weeks or months, but for
decades. At Tilda, we take pride in
bringing people together through food
and tradition, especially during special
occasions like Diwali.”
The event also welcomed Sanjay
Anand MBE, Founder and Chairman of
Madhu’s, who captivated the audience
with the story of his family’s culinary
Madhu's & Tilda's Diwali Banquet
Tilda and Madhu's Diwali event
Madhu's & Tilda's Diwali Banquet
journey and the brand’s impressive
growth. Sanjay stated that: “Partnership
is at the heart of Madhu’s, and we have
ambitious plans for the future of
catering. Rice holds such significance
in our culture. It has been a staple part
of our South Asian communities’ diet
and has both religious and cultural
relevance. A special thanks to my team
and the team at Tilda for making
tonight possible.”
After the speeches, Chef Amardeep
Anand, Group Executive Chef at
Madhu’s and a MasterChef semifinalist,
took the stage to share the
inspiration behind the menu. He
highlighted the versatility of Tilda rice
in South Asian cuisine, combining
traditional Diwali dishes with modern
flavours. The menu was primarily
created by Poonam Ball, Creative Chef
& Marketing Director. Together with
Chef Amar, they brought the menu to
life on the day. The highlights of the
evening included two showstopping
biryanis made with Tilda Grand Extra
Long Basmati and a decadent mango
kheer featuring Tilda’s Fragrant
Jasmine rice.
The special menu was a hit among
the food and lifestyle content creators
and media attendees, who were treated
to an exclusive tasting experience.
The evening culminated in a
dazzling performance by worldrenowned
magician Oliver B, who left
the audience in awe with his unique
blend of mentalism, illusion, and
showmanship. Adding to the festive
spirit, a live band filled the air with
lively Bollywood music, lighting up the
evening with energetic performances
that captivated the audience.
To round off the evening, each guest
received a beautifully curated hamper
as a takeaway, which perfectly
encapsulated the spirit of Diwali and
the evening’s focus on heritage, food,
and meaningful connections. The night
encapsulated the essence of Diwali - a
celebration of unity, light, and shared
heritage. Tilda and Madhu’s brought
together the best of tradition and
innovation, creating a memorable
evening that honoured the spirit of the
festival and the joy of coming together
over great food.

Opinion
Between the States and
EFCC & Ors.
OCTOBER 30 - NOVEMBER 12 2024
TheTrumpet
Page9
Today, October 22, is the day that
has been set aside by the Supreme
Court of Nigeria for the hearing
and the consolidation of the suit brought
before the Court in the matter between 16
States of the Federation and the Attorney
General of the Federation to determine
the legality or otherwise, to wit the
constitutionality or otherwise also, of the
Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission (EFCC), the Nigerian
Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU), the
Independent Corrupt Practices and Other
Related Offences Commission (ICPC)
and the Proceeds of Crimes Act. The suit
originally filed by the AG Kogi State -
SC/CV/178/2023 - has now been joined
by 15 other States. Out of these, 13 are
expressly questioning the legality of the
EFCC and similar anti-graft agencies,
and they are asking the Supreme Court to
nullify all such Commissions created
outside the province of Constitutional
provisions. Two States – Ogun and Cross
River States are challenging the assumed
powers of the NFIU to dictate how much
States can withdraw or control with
regard to funds appropriated by the
House of Assembly. The co-plaintiffs and
those who seek consolidation will appear
today before a seven-member panel of
the apex court led by Justice Uwani
Abba-Aji. This is an interesting
development, with regard to the public
interest law dimension of the case, and
the response from the public and
stakeholders have been robust, plus the
fact that the enabling framework for
public institutions and the Constitution
itself end up being strengthened when
they are tested and interpreted in the
courts.
The issues in this case can be easily
summarized as follows. One, the
plaintiffs argue that the EFCC Act is
unconstitutional. It is a product of a
United Nations Convention against
corruption, and was not ratified in
accordance with Section 12 of the 1999
Constitution (as amended). Section 12 of
the Constitution says no treaty can have
the force of law in Nigeria until it is
ratified by a majority of all the Houses of
Assembly in the Federation. The States
argue that the EFCC Act cannot be
applied to them because they were not
party to it. They argue that the agencies
lack the powers and the authority to
investigate and prosecute matters related
to the misappropriation of public funds.
They cite Joseph Nwobike vs FRN as the
authority to back up their claim. The
Defendant, the Attorney General of the
Federation argues that the concurrence of
the States as stakeholders was not
necessary to make the EFCC Act valid.
Two, at least three States argue that the
NFIU cannot investigate, requisition
documents, arrest, or invite anyone with
regard to how the States manage funds.
Three, the States insist that they have the
right to establish their own anti-graft
agencies and not be answerable to any
federal agency since this is a Federation.
The case has generated considerable
interest from both lawyers and nonlawyers
alike with everyone trying not to
pre-empt the Supreme Court. But the
point has been well made that this is not
the first time that the legality of the
EFCC, and the NFIU et al. has been
raised and that there are precedents.
Analysts have cited the cases of
Olafisoye v. FRN (2004) where the court
upheld the powers of the anti-corruption
agencies to do their work; and AG Ondo
State v. AG Federation (2002) where the
court ruled that the National Assembly
has the powers to legislate on corruption
related matters with regard to Section
15(5) of the 1999 Constitution, and
Section 4(2). In Olafisoye’s case, the
Supreme Court ruled that the National
Assembly has the exclusive powers to
legislate over corruption matters which
would seem to nullify the claim by the
States that they would rather establish
their own anti-graft agencies. The
objection to the NFIU is rooted in the
desperate attempts by the States to
control Local Government funds and
defeat the goals of financial autonomy for
local councils. In 2019, the State
governments had a running battle with
the NFIU which had given a directive
that no State government must touch
funds meant for the local councils. The
NFIU gave specific guidelines that the
States should transfer funds meant for the
councils accordingly and that withdrawal
from the same account by the local
councils must not exceed N500,000 per
day. Withdrawals must also be duly
reported to the NFIU. The Governors
insisted that the States-Local Councils
joint account is a creation of the
constitution and it was wrong to describe
the local government system as a third
tier of government. The Nigerian
Governors Forum sued the FG and NFIU.
In 2022, Justice Inyang Ekwo of the
Federal High Court, Abuja ruled in
favour of the defendants. Again in 2024,
the Supreme Court further affirmed the
financial autonomy of the country’s 774
Local Governments. It is therefore not
Femi Falana SAN (Photo - Wayamo
Foundation, CC BY-SA 2.0)
surprising that the States and the
Governors who have turned the local
councils into mere appendages are now
also approaching the Supreme Court. In
both major issues, the plaintiffs seem to
have found a loophole in the enabling
acts of the anti-graft agencies which they
hope to put through the furnace of
judicial test.
Two legal luminaries, both Senior
Advocates of Nigeria – Dr. Olisa
Agbakoba and Mr. Femi Falana have
offered their perspectives on the subject.
BY REUBEN ABATI
Agbakoba, in separate letters titled “Re:
Urgent Legislative Attention on
Constitutional Reforms Relating to Law
Enforcement Agencies and Anti-
Corruption Efforts” written to the Senate
and the House of Representatives,
without holding brief for the State
Governments, submitted that the EFCC
was “unconstitutionally established” and
hence, “an unlawful organization”. He
said the National Assembly acted ultra
vires, simply exceeded its authority under
Section 4 of the Constitution, and that is
why the States are challenging the
validity of the EFCC. Agbakoba SAN
made specific demands: (a) that the
enabling framework setting up the EFCC
has to be reviewed because the EFCC
appears to be working at cross-purposes
with the Nigeria Police Force; (b) that the
National Assembly should organize a
public hearing to consider constitutional
issues to discuss needed reforms in line
with section 13 of the Constitution; (c)
that the National Assembly should reform
the EFCC by clearly defining its mandate
to prevent future abuses. When he
appeared on Arise News flagship
programme, The Morning Show,
Agbakoba went a step further, by
reminding everyone that the EFCC
legislation was passed in two days in
2003- the fastest legislation ever passed
in Nigeria (!), and many mistakes were
made. He wants the mistakes in the
EFCC Act reviewed. But the high point
of the interview was when Dr. Agbakoba,
saying the EFCC has not been effective,
railed: “These guys are terrorists; in my
view they terrorize us; they use their
might in their red coats to terrorize us.
Once you say EFCC, you are scared. That
is not what a law enforcement agency
should be. They ought to be better.”
Femi Falana SAN, disagrees with
some of the points raised by his brother
Silk. He has also written his own separate
letters to the Senate and the House of
Representatives to counter Agbakoba’s
submissions. He said that contrary to
Agbakoba’s claim, the Supreme Court
has consistently supported the ICPC and
the EFCC (Nyame vs. FRN; AG Ondo
vs. AG Federation); and that no illegality
can be established with regard to claims
about violations of the principles of
Federalism (Olafisoye vs FRN). Falana
further contends that it is the duty of the
State to “abolish all corrupt practices and
Continued on Page 10<

Opinion
Page10 TheTrumpet OCTOBER 30 - NOVEMBER 12 2024
Between the States and EFCC & Ors.
Continued from Page 9<
abuse of power” and that the EFCC is a
common agency with constitutional
authority. He deplores the attempt by the
State governments to frustrate the
prosecution of public officers. Falana’s
main conclusion is that the National
Assembly should entrench the legality of
the EFCC and ICPC in the Constitution
as part of the ongoing Constitution
amendment process – a point to which
Agbakoba says he concurs.
Having thus raised the facts of the
case, the issues involved, rules as
established in precedents, and expert
opinions of senior counsel, it remains for
us to await the ruling of the Supreme
Court exercising its original and inherent
jurisdictions in what is clearly a matter of
public policy. Despite the precedents that
have been quoted, it is up to the Justices
of the apex court to either affirm or
reverse themselves. Nonetheless, certain
conclusions can be reached.
It must be remembered that in 2003,
Nigeria was heavily in debt to the tune of
about US$35.9 billion. The Obasanjo
administration embarked on the historic
and important mission of getting debt
relief for the country. The country was
spending more on interest payments for
its debt, with debt to GDP ratio at about
58%. Nigeria needed help and President
Obasanjo was committed to getting help
to rescue the country. In October 2000,
the Obasanjo administration established
the Debt Management Office (DMO).
The country’s efforts to secure debt relief
soon met a brick wall, when the Parisbased
Financial Action Task Force
(FATF) grey-listed Nigeria along with 22
other countries, that is countries that
could not combat financial crimes like
corruption and money laundering as well
as terrorism financing. To make progress
the Nigerian government had to set up
anti-corruption agencies - the EFCC and
the ICPC. Both bodies were products of
expediency, but the outcomes were
pleasant. In October 2005, Nigeria and
the Paris Club reached a final agreement
of $18 billon debt relief and reduction of
Nigeria’s debt stock by $30 billion. About
18 years later, it is most unfortunate that
Nigeria’s external debt has since crossed
the $41 billion mark! The country is back
in the debt trap. In the intervening years,
the EFCC traced about N776 billion
fraud cases, stolen only by public
officials. In 2024 alone, this year, the
EFCC has secured 3,175 convictions and
recovered N156 billion.
So, is this a case of corruption
fighting back? Dele Oyewale, EFCC
spokesperson claims that there is a pushback
against the EFCC because it has
been so effective. We must note the
concern that has been expressed however
that the EFCC has been too histrionic in
its efforts and selective in its operations
creating the impression that it can be used
as a tool of political witch-hunt by
Olisa Agbakoba
SAN (Photo - Olisa
Agbakoba Legal)
whoever is in power at the centre. Some
past Governors are shielded from
prosecution while some others are
specially targeted. What the EFCC
requires is to be seen to be fair to all
parties concerned and be above board.
Fairness is at the heart of any justice
administration process. This is what
Agbakoba SAN alludes to when he
dismisses the EFCC as a terror
organization. The National Assembly has
been accused of not following due
process in establishing the EFCC, but
even if that were established, would that
render all acts by the EFCC and other
anti-graft agencies a nullity? Under the
doctrine of covering the field, the validity
of the exercise of the National
Assembly’s powers under Section 4 of
the 1999 Constitution can be upheld. The
State has a responsibility to check
corruption, and over the years, we have
seen the ingenuity of Nigerians in both
public and private places to take what is
not theirs. The closer many Nigerians get
to the proverbial national cake, the more
covetous they become. Agbakoba says
“once you say EFCC, you are scared”.
Well, the situation is so bad, somebody
needs to scare Nigerians. Even with the
best efforts of the various anti-graft
agencies, Nigeria has consistently ranked
poorly on the Global Transparency Index.
The country grapples with a worsening
reputational damage.
We should therefore not throw the
baby away with the bath water. Nigeria
needs the anti-graft agencies now more
than the country did in 2003. Indeed, in
February 2023, the FATF added Nigeria
again to the list of countries that have
been grey-listed. The country is required
to implement an action plan comprising
19 items before May 2025 to avoid the
certain prospect of moving from “the
Grey List” to the “Black List.” This
certainly is not the best of times for
Nigeria to start talking about nullifying
its anti-graft agencies. Perhaps, the better
option lies in the middle ground between
Agbakoba and Falana.
Agbakoba is right when he says the
EFCC is in urgent need of reform. The
agency must be seen to be acting always
within the ambits of the law. In recent
times, EFCC officials showed too much
overzealousness, exposing the institution
to public ridicule and the derision of the
persons they had declared wanted. For
example, the former Kogi Governor
Yahaya Bello who had been declared
wanted by the EFCC showed up at the
EFCC headquarters only to be told by the
people who had declared him wanted
locally and internationally to go back
home. Then, in the evening of the same
day, they went hunting for him, shooting
in the air, and terrorizing the public. Just
in case there are too many people in the
EFCC who are addicts of Hollywood and
Nollywood films, they should be redirected
to where they can make the best
use of their talents. Such persons tend to
turn EFCC operations into movie-like
engagements. Nollywood is a fastgrowing
industry that can accommodate
more talents. The EFCC should stay
firmly on the path of professionalism.
Both Falana and Agbakoba agree that
there is a need to “constitutionalize” the
EFCC. This is important. Whatever grey
areas may exist in the enabling acts of the
anti-graft agencies can be corrected
through amendments to constitutional
provisions and the acts. The EFCC,
ICPC, NFIU should see the latest
development not as evidence that they are
working so that is why they are being
resisted. This should be an opportunity
for soul-searching and reflection, and a
re-dedication to core organizational goals
and objectives. Nigerians are calling for
the abolition of the agencies because of
shortcomings that they have observed.
EFCC officials are known, for example,
for engaging in all kinds of tactics. At a
point, the EFCC Chairman himself had to
complain that there are corrupt elements
in the EFCC. Going forward, EFCC
officials must be made to declare their
assets. People fighting corruption must
not be seen to be living above their
means. Many Nigerians wonder why
anti-corruption agents become so rich.
This was how the police lost the trust of
the public. EFCC officials must focus on
their core task of fighting financial and
economic crimes. They should not allow
themselves to be used as debt recovery
agents looking for commissions. They
must stop media trial. They must stop
supporting politicians as they were
accused of doing in the last general
elections. There is a Manual on
operational guidelines for the EFCC
prepared by the Office of the Attorney
General of the Federation and Minister of
Justice. They must abide by those
guidelines, and resist the temptation to
become an organization where anything
goes. The EFCC needs its own
ombudsman to make it more
professional, ethical and law-abiding.

Opinion
OCTOBER 30 - NOVEMBER 12 2024
TheTrumpet
Page11
Still on Tinubu’s
economic tax reform
Nigeria’s tax reform is
underway with four
Executive Bills currently
before the National Assembly.
These bills are the ‘Nigeria Tax
Bill’, which replaces existing tax
law with a modern framework; the
‘Nigeria Tax Administration Act
Amendment Bill’, which seeks to
strengthen the enforcement powers
of the Federal Inland Revenue
Service (FIRS); the ‘Nigeria
Revenue Service Bill’, establishing
an independent revenue service; and
the ‘Joint Revenue Board
Establishment Bill’, for the purpose
of fostering inter-agency
collaboration.
According to Zacch Adedeji, the
FIRS Executive Chairman, the
reform focuses on reducing the
number of taxes paid by Nigerians.
This significant transformation
under President Bola Tinubu’s
administration also seeks to promote
transparency and accountability,
aligning with international tax
standards and encouraging
voluntary compliance. The ultimate
goal is to increase simplicity and
efficiency in tax administration,
broadening the tax base and
improving government savings.
The FIRS Chairman emphasized
that the reform is designed to “tax
fruits, not seeds, returns, not
investments.” It is meant to focus on
prosperity rather than poverty. Its
mission is to prioritize economic
growth, job creation and poverty
reduction. The implementation
timeline for this reform includes the
passage of Executive Bills and the
rollout of digital tax filing systems
in the short term (2023-2024),
streamlining tax regulations and
broadening the tax base in the
medium term (2025-2026), and
evaluation and refinement of tax
reform policies in the long term
(2027-2030). The success of the
reform hinges on effective
implementation, stakeholder
engagement and continuous
monitoring.
Nigeria’s
economic
diversification and industrialization
efforts include key initiatives like
the Nigerian Industrial Revolution
Plan (2014), Economic Recovery
and Growth Plan (2017-2020) and
Presidential Enabling Business
Environment Council (PEBEC).
Sector-specific programmes include
Nigerian Content Development and
Monitoring Board (oil and gas),
Bank of Industry (SME financing)
and Nigerian Export Promotion
Council (non-oil exports),
collectively driving growth,
diversification and sustainability.
The Nigerian government is also
said to be proposing a 5% tax on
telecommunications as part of a
broader bill to overhaul the
country’s tax framework and boost
non-oil revenue. According to
sources, this tax will apply to
postpaid and prepaid services
regulated by the Nigerian
Communications Commission, as
well as gaming, gambling, betting
and lottery services. The goal is to
widen the revenue base, especially
considering the rapid growth in the
telecoms and betting sectors.
As Nigeria seeks to diversify its
revenue streams and address fiscal
challenges, the tax implications for
telecom companies and consumers
remain a concern. Already, telecom
operators have been complaining
about multiple taxes and levies,
which they claim are affecting their
profitability. So, the additional 5%
Zaccheus Adedeji
tax may lead to higher tariffs for
consumers and reduce investment in
infrastructure expansion and
modernization. As a matter of fact,
telecom companies like MTN have
been seeking approval for a tariff
increase to offset costs.
BY ABIODUN
KOMOLAFE
In all, Tinubu’s latest reform
aligns with the principle of
progressive taxation which has
become the norm globally. To this
end, the position should be
supported. Unfortunately in Nigeria,
the least enabled have always borne
the burden of taxation; and we
cannot build a competitive economy
on that basis, for it only means that
the least enabled will not have the
disposable income to purchase
goods and services which is a
serious disadvantage. It has nothing
to do with morality. Taxation must
be progressive. By good fortune,
this reform is being handled by the
All Progressives Congress-led
government.
From time immemorial, those
who earn more pay more because,
after paying, they still ‘enjoy’
proportionately. After all, it is they
who need more services like
security and infrastructural
networks than the less well-off. So,
we have to take a holistic view of
the entire tax framework in Nigeria.
The taxation burden on the mass of
the people is proportionately high.
Very dangerous! It’s going to non-
State revenue collectors, which
reflects the fact that Nigeria’s not
just a weak but also a fragile State.
As Nigeria embarks on this
transformative journey, it is crucial
that all stakeholders – policymakers,
businesses and citizens - work
together to ensure the tax reform
policies achieve their intended
objectives and propel the country
towards sustainable economic
growth and development. In
contrast with Nigeria’s tax-centric
approach, countries like South
Korea and Singapore achieved rapid
industrialization through targeted
investments. Successful progressive
tax systems, like Sweden’s, also
combine high tax rates with robust
Continued on Page 13<

Page12 TheTrumpet OCTOBER 30 - NOVEMBER 12 2024

Opinion
OCTOBER 16 - 29 2024
Still on Tinubu’s economic tax
reform
TheTrumpet
Page13
Continued from Page 11<
social welfare and infrastructure
investments. Ghana is following suit
with its ‘Ghana Beyond Aid’
agenda. The country is transitioning
to production-driven growth to
boost expansion, reduce tax reliance
and create jobs, mirroring successes
in innovation, export-led growth
and manufacturing. Rwanda’s
transformation from taxation to
production-driven growth also
offers valuable lessons.
Tinubu’s economic tax reform
requires strategic communication,
incentives, expanded social services
and clear assurances to succeed.
Effective public relations will
mitigate resistance. To overcome
opposition, the administration must
build trust through transparency,
stakeholder engagement and
consistent messaging. This will
address concerns, foster support and
minimize resistance. FIRS should
address corruption and loopholes
via the Anti-Corruption and
Transparency Unit (ACTU).
Coincidentally, the President’s
tax reform is coming within the
backdrop of the award of the 2024
Nobel Prize for Economics to James
Robinson, Simon Johnson and
Daron Acemoglu. Obviously, it is
the most important Nobel Prize
awarded in decades. Robinson,
Johnson and Acemoglu’s research
shows that no country can develop
without strong institutions. Nigeria
has very weak institutions and that’s
the key source of its underachievement.
The taxation system is
a revelation of its fragile state. Even
by the time of the birth of Jesus
Christ centuries ago, the issue of tax
was a critical factor throughout the
Roman Empire. There were tax
disputes, inducing revolutionary
fervour in Judea. Any modern State
must have a strong tax framework to
keep the trajectory of the social
contract.
The trio, whose diligent research
won them the Nobel Prize,
conclusively showed that a strong
tax collecting system, enabled by
strong institutions such as the
Judiciary as well as a vibrant Civil
Society is the ingredient for success
in the race for development. They
also showed that most of Nigeria’s
institutions such as the Independent
National Electoral Commission
(INEC) are just pantomimes. Most
importantly, they argued that
democracy is a better model for
achieving sustainable development
than autocracy. India, for example,
may eventually outperform China
because of this; and, in many ways,
it’s already doing so! What are we
saying? Democracy makes a
country more innovative and vibrant
but we must have strong,
independent institutions of the State
in order to sustain and deepen the
democracy.
Again, Tinubu’s tax reform
should be supported because it’ll not
only deepen the country’s
democracy but also deepen the
awareness about the social contract.
Since it’s a progressive taxation, it’d
lead to a better social cohesion and
stability of the sort that’d attract
long-term investments at home and
abroad which will lead to
sustainable development and ‘life
more abundant for all’, as the
Action Group (AG) stated in its
1951 Manifesto.
AG’s achievements are best
illustrated by the tax revolt of 1961
when scores of people were arrested
in the Western Region for protesting
against an attempt by the regional
government to reduce taxes. Instead
of cheering the respective reduction
in taxes as was to be expected, they
saw it as inadvertently leading to a
limitation on their access to health
and education, which shows that
they understood the ethos of the
social contract. It should have built
upon such enlightened self-interest
and ‘better late than never’. Tinubu
should reignite this framework. If he
does, the verdict history will portray
him as the fulcrum of a pathbreaking,
game-changing
administration.
May the Lamb of God, who takes
away the sin of the world, grant us
peace in Nigeria!
Komolafe wrote in from Ijebu-
Jesa, Osun State, Nigeria
(ijebujesa@yahoo.co.uk)

Page14 TheTrumpet OCTOBER 16 - 29 2024
Opinion
Tinubu’s Cabinet reshuffle and
other stories
By Reuben Abati
“Bros how you dey oh”
“Omo, body still dey inside cloth.
We dey push am.”
How for do? Man no die, man no
leave one place, all of us just dey.”
“God works in mysterious ways.”
“But how you come take this their
cabinet reshuffle?”
“Underwhelming. An anti-climax.
What is all the noise about? I can’t see
it.”
“Which noise?”
“The President had announced the
cabinet reshuffle a month ago. Then he
travelled abroad and we were told he
didn’t want to be put under pressure by
anybody. Then he returns from England
and France and he says, he is
announcing eight key actions to boost
efficiency. I don’t see what he has done
that will increase any efficiency.”
“The Ministry of the Niger Delta is
now a Ministry of Regional
Development. That is something in
case you are looking for something.”
“Just a bloated bureaucracy. The
Ministry of Niger Delta caters to the
interest of the oil producing States
which stretch beyond the South South.
It includes States like Imo, Abia and
Ondo. How about the people of the
North Central. They have HYPADEC
but that is a Development Commission
focusing on hydro power. The North
East Development Commission is
targeted at banditry. I don’t see a
convergence. What I see is confusion.
I can’t see light or sense in the
decision.”
“Maybe you will see sense then in
the merger of the Ministry of Tourism
with the Ministry of Arts, Culture and
the Creative Economy.”
“No. I do not either. The Ministry of
Tourism is so important. It should stand
on its own. We may have had a Minister
who could not rise to the occasion, but
what is the point, subordinating the
Ministry to another Ministry that
already has its hands full.”
“Come off it. Tourism is not that
strategic.”
“You say? Oh my. Oh my. Can you
just listen to yourself? Are you aware
that some countries depend on tourism
for revenue? People visit countries like
France, Spain, United States, Italy,
Turkey, Morocco, the UK, Greece,
Kenya, South Africa, Egypt, Japan,
China, Maldives, United Arab Emirates
because those countries have something
to offer. The number of people who
visit your country is a measure of how
welcoming, attractive, risk-averse your
country is. In Spain, tourism is such a
major part of the local economy that the
locals in cities like San Sebastian are
even protesting that tourists should stay
away from their city. They are
complaining about over-tourism. The
people of Canary Islands are also
protesting. They say tourists are
pushing up rentals, pricing out locals.
Residents in Italy and Greece have also
taken to the streets. In a year, about 90
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (Photo - Asiwaju Bola
Ahmed Tinubu Facebook page)
million people visit Spain. Over a 100
million visit France. The potential in
that industry is so huge, there was no
point merging the Ministry with
another one. The President doesn’t get
it. I wonder who advised him on that
course of action.”
“The statement that they issued was
signed by the Presidency. No name. No
date. Who is the Presidency? Too many
flip flops.”
“Imagine that.”
“They have also gone back to the
old days of the National Sports
Commission by scrapping the Ministry
of Sports.”
Now, I don’t get it. I don’t get it
because I thought John Enoh was doing
a good job as Minister of Sports. He
came across as a very enthusiastic man.
Now they have demoted him, making
him the Minister of State, Industry,
Trade and Investment.”
“He would be working with
someone that I think knows her subject
though. Dr Jumoke Oduwole has a
significant and relevant experience
having served previously as a Special
Adviser to the President on PEBEC,
ease of doing business and Investment
Law. Her experience and expertise
combined with Enoh’s energy and
enthusiasm, if they can forge a good
working relationship, may help.”
“But as for the man in the Sports
Commission, Shehu Dikko, he is
basically a football person. We need to
grow the sports sector beyond football,
and develop other sports. Does he have
a broad view of the
assignment? Already his colleagues in
Football House are already saying the
appointment is for them, not just one
man. My view is that there is so much
potential in sports that Nigeria can
develop, beyond the obsession with
football.”
“By the way, your friend Sunday
Dare is back. He is now Special
Adviser to the President on Public
Communication and Orientation.”
“Meaning what? They say he is
going to be in the Ministry of
Information, not the Presidency. To do
what exactly in the Ministry? The
Ministry already has a Director-General
of the National Orientation Agency.
There is a Minister. It would have been
best to name Dare Minister of State, to
give him leverage instead of hanging
him afloat between the Ministry and the
Presidency”.
“I want to think the President knows
what he is doing. It is his prerogative to
hire and fire. The discretion is his. He
can delegate as he wishes.”
“Is that why he has Yorubas all over
the place in all the important positions?
It is his right to run a government as he
Continued on Page 15>

Opinion
OCTOBER 16 - 29 2024
Tinubu’s Cabinet reshuffle and
other stories
TheTrumpet
Page15
Continued from Page 14<
deems fit. But it is also our right to talk.
Nobody can stop us from talking.”
“Yes. You have been talking and
talking. What difference has your talk,
talk ever made? Talk. Keep talking. Are
you aware that this cabinet reshuffle
was based on a review of performance
of the Ministers by the Central Delivery
Co-ordination Unit led by Ms. Hadiza
Bala-Usman? The reshuffle is based on
empirical facts and findings”
“That is a lie. Have you seen the
report by Hadiza Bala-Usman?”
“No.”
“So, why would you or anyone
jump to the conclusion that the
President followed her
recommendations? I don’t think so. The
President sacks five Ministers, appoints
seven new ones, and redeploys 10
Ministers. He used to have 45
Ministers, now he has ended up with
48, with four from Ogun State alone!”
“His prerogative sir!”
“Stop saying it is his prerogative. Is
that a new word you just learnt? We are
all in this together. This is a democracy,
and the last time I checked we have the
right to talk. The President removed the
Minister of Women Affairs. Okay, I
agree, the woman was very
controversial, but very loyal. She must
be grateful she was made a Minister in
the first place. Lola Ade-John, Jamila
Bio Ibrahim, and Abdullahi Gwarzo –
those ones left the same way they came
quietly. But why would the President
remove a man like Tahir Mamman,
former Vice Chancellor, former DG of
the Nigerian Law School and replace
him with a medical doctor from Lagos
State. I know they say Dr. Alausa is also
a university person, but what is
Professor Tahir Mamman’s offence”
“I can only think of two things. He
was Vice Chancellor of a university
belonging to the Vice-Presidential
candidate of the Labour Party in the
2023 general elections. He has also
been very controversial with all this
talk about age eligibility for university
admissions. That is one policy that will
be scrapped, you will see, because it
only hurts people from the South.”
“There are many other Ministers
that Nigerians would have preferred to
be turned adrift from the cabinet. The
Ministers in critical positions should
have been sent away. You are talking
about controversy. Wike is the most
controversial person in that cabinet.
The President could have scored a goal
by going for the big ones to signal a
change of direction. He sacks the easy
ones, and tells us about “eight key
actions”. I beg.”
“Mr. Bayo Onanuga has said in one
television interview that the cabinet
reshuffle reflects the feelings and
opinions of Nigerians.”
“That is, again, a lie. I don’t know
anybody who thinks this goes far
enough or that it is any important
message. No. I insist. No”
“I think the President is going
somewhere. For all you know, he may
be testing waters. If he wakes up two
months down the line and he says he
wants to change the cabinet again, can
anyone query him? The answer is No.”
“The Senate can reject his
nominees.”
“Which Senate? This 10 th National
Assembly will rubber stamp anything
President Bola Tinubu brings to them. I
can bet on that.”
“There you are!”
“But I am still convinced that this
President is going somewhere that we
may not know yet. He has just for
example said no Minister should go
about with more than three official
vehicles and five security details.”
“That is like saying nothing. In
2003, the Obasanjo administration
introduced a monetization policy to
cover vehicle loans, domestic staff,
accommodation – the whole range. I
am not aware that the policy has been
abrogated. Under President Jonathan,
no Minister used more than three cars
by the way. How? Why? But today,
Ministers use sirens and fly flags in
what is clearly a break-down of law and
order.”
“One by one, President Tinubu will
get there”
“Oh yes, by the time we have all lost
flesh. The government keeps getting
fatter, we are asked to make sacrifices
and be patient. What stops the President
from reducing his cabinet to a team of
just 16 persons? I don’t even know the
names of most of the Ministers because
they have done nothing, said nothing,
and yet they enjoy privileges. I even
hear that some people are saying a new
aircraft should be bought for the Vice
President.”
“Poor fellow. I heard he could not
go to the Commonwealth Summit
because his aircraft had an incident in
JFK Airport in New York. The
President has bought an aircraft for
himself. The Navy has bought a
yacht. They should buy something for
the VP too.”
“Now you are talking from both
sides of the mouth. And you know I do
not like hypocrisy.”
“So, what do you want me to say?
The Speaker of the Borno House of
Assembly says the life of the VP is at
risk, because his aircraft is bad. Why
should the VP travel about in a faulty
aircraft?”
“He can travel commercial.”
“Hen hen. Just don’t play Ngbati
politics with me. Your Yoruba brother
can enjoy luxury, but the Borno man
should manage. This is the problem
with us in this country.”
“The problem with all Nigerians is
that we tend to see everything form an
ethnic or personal angle. This is why an
Asari Dokubo would have the guts to
say that President Tinubu has
disappointed him. What does he want?
Him too wan be Minister?”
“I am sorry, you are losing me. I
don’t want to talk about Asari Dokubo,
Bobrisky, Very Dark Man or this
musician, what do they call him?
Portable.”
“It pains me though that Nigeria was
not at the Commonwealth Summit in
Samoa. I know we sent the Minister of
Environment but the VP would have
been a better fit to speak on the key
issues of climate change and
reparations.”
“Your Minister of Environment is
one of those persons that I think are
sleep-walking through this
administration. I have seen the Vice
President in action before. He is
smarter, far more intelligent than most
of the Ministers. Well read. Suave.
Good choice. But as for the Ministers, I
beg”
“What a world we live in? Who
would have thought the subject of
reparation would come back on the
table? I recall that this was Chief MKO
Abiola’s project, he wanted the
injustice of the British Empire to be
addressed. Now the Caribbean
countries are saying yes, this is the way
to go.”
“Don’t mind the British. They have
forgotten that in 1833, the same Britain
paid reparations for the slave trade
between the 15 th and 19 th Centuries, but
now in 2024, the Prime Minister, Keir
Starmer and King Charles III are now
saying we should talk about the past,
but we should focus on the future. No
reparations. No apologies. And Rachel
Reeves, the Chancellor, says there is no
money to give anybody but Britain can
offer reparatory justice. Justice as they
would define it.”
“Can you blame them? The Labour
Party in Britain is at this moment trying
to prevent austerity, by seeking ways to
plug a black hole of about 22 billion
pounds, cut public sector spending,
raise taxes including National
Insurance, and reform the NHS. Not
the right time to pay reparations and
they won’t. Tomorrow, Rachel Reeves
will unveil the Starmer administration’s
budget. I miss MKO”
“MKO is our man oh. He fought for
reparation. It is good to see that his idea
lives. All the former British colonies in
the South Pacific, Australia and
CARICOM are calling for reparations.
Last week in Canberra, Australia, the
King was booed at the House of
Parliament by Senator Linda Thorpe,
an indigenous, First Nation lawmaker
who screamed - You are not my
King!”
“I am sure we will hear more,
particularly now that an African is the
new Secretary General of the
Commonwealth. Shirley Botchwey,
Ghana’s Minister of Foreign Affairs
and Regional Integration. She follows
in the footsteps of Nigeria’s Chief
Emeka Anyaoku.”
“Great man. Great. Unfortunately,
the Tinubu administration is not
grooming or appointing new diplomats.
It has been more than a year since
Nigeria recalled its ambassadors from
all over the world. They are yet to be
replaced. Why? A government that says
it is interested in global investments
should have ambassadors all over the
world. Why not? The world is
changing, re-aligning, look at BRICS.
India, Russia, China. Where is
Nigeria?”
“I think our President will get round
to things.”
“Let him buckle up. Your man
should wake up.”
“You know I am more optimistic
than you. What if the President wakes
up tomorrow and he decides to shake
up the Departments and Agencies.
These are the real drivers of
government. He can shake things up, so
radically you would almost apologize
for all your critical words.”
“Forget apology. We are just saying
the President should learn to do what is
right at the right time, the right way and
manner. That is the way forward.”
“I see. I see. I get it. But we will
see”.

Page16 TheTrumpet OCTOBER 16 - 29 2024
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