By Uche Aguoru

In an alarming show of high-handedness, insecurity, and utter disdain for democratic values, the administration of Governor Alex Otti has unleashed a new wave of repression on traditional rulers in Abia State. Under the guise of a so-called “code of conduct,” Otti’s government has issued directives that amount to nothing less than the caging of these custodians of culture and tradition.

The new guidelines dictate that no traditional ruler may receive or host visitors in their palaces without express approval from the governor. Even more shockingly, they are forbidden from traveling outside the state or convening meetings beyond state boundaries, host or award chieftaincy titles to deserving individuals without government permission. Such draconian measures are characteristic of a despotic regime, not a democracy.

To compound the outrage, credible reports indicate that some monarchs who paid a courtesy visit to Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, have been summoned like errant schoolboys to the office of the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs. Their offense? Expressing support for the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. They now face the grotesque threat of disciplinary action, including possible suspension or withdrawal of their staff of office for exercising their fundamental rights to freedom of association and speech.

What crime have these royal fathers committed that warrants such medieval punishment? It is clear: Governor Otti, having breached the promises he made to these leaders before the 2023 elections, promises that included ensuring their rightful 5% allocation from the federation account now seeks to muzzle and intimidate them into silence for fear that might work against him in the coming election and expose his duplicity to the public.

The traditional rulers, who were instrumental in mobilizing support for Otti’s election, have been abandoned, disrespected, and now subjugated. The governor who once courted their goodwill with lofty promises has now turned against them, revealing an administration rooted not in partnership and respect, but in fear, suspicion, and authoritarian control.

It is imperative for the world to know the indignities being suffered by the royal fathers of Abia State. These respected custodians of our heritage are being treated like subjects under colonial rule, stripped of their dignity, caged within their own palaces, and threatened into political servitude.

Governor Otti must be reminded that democracy thrives on dialogue, mutual respect, and adherence to the rule of law, not intimidation, coercion, and suppression.

Traditional rulers are not political appointees; they are the living symbols of our communities’ history, values, and identity. Attempting to gag and control them is not only an assault on their persons but an attack on the soul of Abia State itself.

This travesty must not stand. Every well-meaning Abian, every lover of freedom, and every advocate of democracy must rise to condemn this cowardly, undemocratic, and autocratic assault. Governor Otti must immediately withdraw these shameful directives, respect the autonomy and dignity of traditional institutions, and remember that leadership is about service, not subjugation.

History will not be kind to those who, when given the sacred trust to lead, chose instead to oppress.

Aguoru

Is a public affairs analyst

By Arome Audu

From the sun-kissed savannas of Kebbi State to the corridors of power in Abuja, His Excellency Abubakar Atiku Bagudu’s rise is a masterclass in visionary leadership. With a career spanning over a decade of impactful governance, Bagudu’s remarkable journey has been marked by a string of groundbreaking achievements that have left an indelible mark on the lives of Nigerians, particularly his people in Kebbi. As the current Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, he continues to soar to new heights, leveraging his expertise and vision to drive economic growth, development, and prosperity for the nation.

From senator to governor, and now minister, Abubakar Atiku Bagudu’s career trajectory has been a masterstroke of visionary leadership. Born on December 26th, 1961, Bagudu’s impact on Kebbi State as senator and governor continues to resonate deeply with its people. His legacy of monumental achievements remains unmatched, with the Zuru Emirate Road standing as a giant symbol of his transformative leadership – a marvel of engineering that has redefined the state’s landscape. 

Under Bagudu’s visionary leadership, Kebbi’s landscape underwent a dramatic transformation. The gleaming New Secretariat Complex in Gwandangaji, Birnin-Kebbi, an N949 million masterpiece crafted by Rockwell Nigeria Limited, attests to his commitment to infrastructural excellence. The state-of-the-art complex has become a landmark, symbolizing the state’s progress and potential.

Meanwhile, the FIFA-standard mini stadium in Birnin-Kebbi, built for $1.189 million, has become a hub for sporting activities and community bonding, fostering a sense of unity and healthy competition among the youth. Furthermore, the Matawallen Gwandu initiative revolutionized Kebbi’s agricultural sector, catapulting the state to the forefront of rice production and making it a major revenue earner for the nation. Today, Kebbi’s rice pyramid is a symbol of its agricultural prowess, setting a benchmark for other states to follow.

Bagudu’s impact on healthcare was nothing short of transformative. He breathed new life into Kebbi’s medical facilities, renovating and rehabilitating hospitals, healthcare centers, and clinics, including the Kebbi Medical Centre in Kalgo and the Sir Yahaya Memorial Hospital. These once-aging institutions were transformed into ultra-modern facilities, providing top-notch medical care to the people. His commitment to people-oriented leadership also extended to education, where he invested heavily in building and upgrading schools across the state.

The Adamu Augie College of Education Argungu, the Kebbi State College of Nursing Sciences and Midwifery, and the College of Health Technology in Jega were among the institutions elevated to degree-awarding status, opening up new opportunities for students. His leadership and charisma also drew thousands of opposition politicians to the All Progressives Congress (APC). Perhaps most remarkable, however, is the unprecedented N40 billion he left in the state treasury for his successor, a rare feat that speaks volumes about his integrity and commitment to transparency and accountability.

Bagudu’s leadership has been marked by a deep sense of empathy and thoughtfulness, earning him a special place in the hearts of his people. One notable gesture that still resonates with civil servants is the payment of over N3 billion in gratuities to retired state, local government, and local government education authority workers. Similarly, legislators who worked with him recall the N2 billion released for constituency projects across the state, a move that brought development closer to the people.

As a senator, Bagudu’s empowerment programs were trailblazing, particularly the Rice Academy initiative in Dakingari, which trained farmers and provided subsidized fertilizers, tractors, and buyback programs worth N3.5 billion. He also supported agricultural extension workers with 100 motorcycles, enhancing their efficiency. His partnership with OXFAM to distribute one million, three hundred thousand tree seedlings to communities statewide showcased his commitment to environmental sustainability. Now, as Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Bagudu’s innovative approach focuses on job creation, poverty reduction, and wealth generation, driving prosperity for all Nigerians.

Through strategic collaboration with the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC), he successfully concessioned the Cassava Bio-Ethanol Value Chain project across six geographical zones. This groundbreaking initiative aims to revolutionize biotechnology, establishing industrial parks on 20-hectare plots across 20 universities and research institutions, and creating over 8,000 jobs. The project’s impact is expected to be profound, doubling cassava production from 62 million tons to 120 million tons, and fostering robust partnerships and resource mobilization.

By prioritizing renewable biomass, Bagudu aims to create wealth, generate jobs, reduce poverty, and improve food security, all while promoting sustainable energy and reducing carbon footprint. Furthermore, his commitment to timely release of monthly inflation figures has been a game-changer, enabling data-driven policy decisions that inform budget allocation, expenditure control, and economic planning. This proactive approach has helped mitigate inflationary trends, ultimately enhancing citizens’ welfare and driving economic growth.

Under Bagudu’s leadership, budgetary policy adjustments have been fine-tuned to drive economic stability and growth. By prioritizing strategic spending, introducing price control measures, and ensuring transparency and accountability, the Renewed Hope Mandate of the present administration has been brought to life. A key milestone has been the reinvention of the National Bureau of Statistics, which has overhauled data collection and analysis, enabling more accurate GDP calculations and cementing Nigeria’s position as a leading economic powerhouse in Africa.

Furthermore, the launch of the revised National Social Protection Policy promises to revolutionize social welfare, while digital project monitoring, geospatial analysis, and collaboration with development partners like the World Bank are ensuring more effective resource allocation and sustainable development. These reforms are paving the way for a more prosperous future for Nigerian citizens.

As a champion of economic diversification and national development, Bagudu has consistently showcased a unique blend of visionary leadership and innovative thinking. With a strong academic foundation in Economics from Usman Danfodio University, Sokoto, and a Master’s Degree in Money and Banking from the University of Jos, Bagudu’s expertise has been recognised nationally and internationally. He is a recipient of Nigeria’s prestigious Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON) and the Order of Merit of Niger Republic, for his outstanding contributions to public service and economic development.

As Nigeria’s economic landscape evolves, Bagudu’s impact will remain a defining chapter in the nation’s story. His leadership has set a new standard for visionary governance, and his influence will continue to shape the country’s future. Today, as Nigeria charts its course towards a brighter future, Bagudu’s impact on the nation’s economic landscape will be felt for years to come. His story is a reminder that with determination and hard work, even the most ambitious dreams can become a reality.

Audu is a public affairs analyst writing from Kaduna.

By Philip Agbese

In the corridors of power, where loyalty is tested and dedication is forged, one name stands out – Rt. Hon. James Faleke, the unsung hero behind the stability of President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration. Like a maestro conducting a symphony, Faleke works tirelessly behind the scenes, orchestrating every move with precision and passion, his unwavering commitment to his principal and mentor a beacon of hope for a brighter Nigeria.

With a heart that beats for the people and a spirit that drives him to serve, Faleke is the steady hand that steers the ship of state towards a formidable harbour, where the dreams of Nigerians can become a reality. His is a story of purposeful followership, of a man who has dedicated his life to making his leader’s vision a reality, and in doing so, has become a leader in his own right.

Faleke’s political journey began like a spark, ignited in 2003 when he took on the role of Executive Secretary of Ojodu Local Council Development Area in Lagos State. From that moment on, the flame of service and leadership grew, guiding him through the halls of governance. Almost 15 years in the National Assembly, and Faleke’s reputation as a leader of exceptional caliber had been forged.

But there’s one thread that weaves through every chapter of his story: his devotion to President Bola Tinubu. Like a trusted partner, Faleke has stood by the President’s side, working tirelessly to bring his vision to life. Through the triumphs and challenges, Faleke has remained a steadfast ally, his heart beating in sync with the President’s.

For Rt. Hon. Faleke, effective governance is more than just a concept – it’s a calling. He knows that for a government to truly serve its people, its leaders must have the courage of their convictions and the resolve to drive meaningful change. Faleke has long abandoned the politics of appeasement, instead charting a bold new course for the ship of state to sail towards a brighter future. With an unwavering commitment to his principal, mentor, and political father, President Tinubu, Faleke navigates the complexities of governance with precision and purpose.

He knows exactly what the President wants – nothing short of total fulfillment for the Nigerian people. Faleke’s leadership style is a breath of fresh air, driven by a passion to empower citizens and unleash their potential. To him, governance is not just about policy-making, but about people – giving Nigerians what they deserve, and empowering each individual to become a dream maker, not just a dreamer. With calculated risk-taking and strong political will, Faleke is determined to steer Nigeria towards a formidable harbor, where every citizen can thrive.

Like a loyal companion, he has chosen to walk in the President’s footsteps, prioritizing the welfare of Nigerians above all else. Faleke’s love for people is contagious, earning him a reputation as a champion of the masses rather than just a name. His selflessness is inspiring, as he seeks the well-being of others with a sacrificial and respectful heart.

With a dexterity that is second to none, Faleke navigates complex situations with ease, influencing others and commanding respect without effort. His creativity, self-confidence, and boldness in the face of adversity have cemented his status as a leader of exceptional caliber. Faleke is a man with a lion’s heart, conquering challenges and breaking boundaries with courage and determination.

Faleke’s secret to building a devoted team lies in two powerful principles: teamwork and inclusivity. With tireless effort, he has brought together a diverse group of men and women who share a passion for President Tinubu’s vision. Through humility and a keen eye for talent, Faleke has fostered a sense of community and purpose among his squad, creating a lasting impact that extends far beyond mere numbers.

His leadership style is built on four core principles: careful selection, association, delegation, and supervision. By empowering others and giving them the autonomy to shine, Faleke has not only grown President Tinubu’s followership but also freed himself to explore new frontiers.

But Faleke’s impact goes beyond mere recruitment – he is a maker of men. Through his empowerment programs and interventions, he builds independent individuals who stand tall, equipped with the skills and resources they need to succeed. His commitment to nurturing entrepreneurial spirit in Nigerian youths is unwavering, and his initiatives have inspired a new generation of leaders. By refusing to accept mediocrity, Faleke is shaping the future, one empowered individual at a time.

With a keen eye for talent and a heart that beats for purpose, Faleke scours the landscape for the best minds to join President Tinubu’s team. When he finds them, his enthusiasm is palpable, and he works tirelessly to harness their potential with endurance and optimism. As an extraordinary administrator, Faleke invests his time, energy, and resources with precision, building a legacy of strength and quality relationships that will outlast generations.

Every step he takes, every decision he makes, is guided by a singular focus: to bring President Tinubu’s vision for a Renewed Hope Agenda to life. With dedication, Faleke is illuminating the path forward, tapping into the transformative power of innovative policies to bring light to a nation that was once shrouded in darkness. As the brightness grows, so does the promise of a better tomorrow, and Faleke stands at the forefront, leading the charge with courage and conviction.

Focused   on delivering results, he has become a linchpin in President Tinubu’s administration. A man of quiet strength, he eschews self-promotion and instead channels his energy towards ensuring the success of the Asiwaju administration. His ultimate goal is clear: to help President Tinubu build on his achievements and repeat his success after 2027. With a selfless spirit and a steadfast commitment to the cause, Faleke is a true partner in the journey towards a brighter future for Nigeria.

As the horizon of tomorrow beckons, Faleke’s footprints on the sands of time will continue to guide generations yet unborn, illuminating the path to a brighter Nigeria, where hope and prosperity bloom like a garden tended with love, and the seeds of progress sown today yield a harvest of greatness for all.

Agbese is the Deputy Spokesman, 10th House of Representatives.