All Posts in "Month: October 2024"

AFCON Qualifier:Nigeria Reports Super Eagles’ Maltreatment In Libya To CAF,Others

 

 

 

 

 

 

Nigerian Sports Minister, John Enoh said he has escalated the ill-treatment meted out to the Super Eagles by the Libyan authorities since they landed at the Al Abaq Airport on Sunday, to all concerned authorities,including the Conferedeation of African Football. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A statement by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) Communications Department on Monday,said the team were left unattended to at the Al Abraq Airport.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Eagles left for Libya on Sunday morning, ahead of their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying matchday 4 clash against the Mediterranean Knights.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Libya was to host the three-time African champions at the 10,000-capacity Martyrs of Benina Stadium in Benina, located just 10 kilometres from Benghazi, but reports emerged that they were diverted to another city.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Speaking on the development,Enoh said he had reported the incident to all necessary authorities.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

He also said the attention at the moment was the safety of the senior men’s team.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

He described the current situation of the Super Eagles as an ‘almost hostage’ situation.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

“I strongly condemn the obnoxious treatment meted out to players and officials of the Senior National Team, the Super Eagles who arrived Libya, yesterday the 13th of October for the reverse version of the match played on Friday in Uyo, the AFCON 2025 Group D qualifiers.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

“The National Team was en route Benghazi but was diverted on approach the airport(with very scant attention to their safety), to Al Abaq Airport, which is hours away from Benghazi, where their match is slated to take place.

 

 

 

 

 

 

“All through the night, I have escalated the matter and involved all necessary authorities. From the Foreign Affairs Minister, the National Security Advicer, the DG NIA, Amaju Pinnick, our CAF Executive member.I have also remained in touch with both the president of the NFF, who is on ground with the team and the Chairman of Value Jet, owners of the plane that airlifted the team to Libya.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

“All hands must be on deck to protect our National Team. The Team have succinctly stated that they have been unattended to for upwards of about 15 hrs since arrival, with no food, no accommodation, left in a mosquito-infested environment and cordoned off by Libyan security not to step out of the airport and they have access to nothing.

 

 

 

 

 

 

“To say the least, they face an almost ‘hostage’ situation. These are sportsmen set to compete in an AFCON qualifying match come Tuesday!

 

 

 

 

“For now, our primary concern is the safety of the members of our national team. With the events of the past hours, their safety is not guaranteed and the team insists they’re unable to go ahead with the match not just because of the trauma and consequent psychological torture but also because of fear for their safety.

 

 

 

 

 

“As Sports Minister, I have instructed the NFF president to lay a formal complaint to CAF without prejudice to any actions already taken. This must be on record and thoroughly addressed. This morning i was on a conference call with CAF President and CAF Secretary General.

 

 

 

 

“While the CAF President’s concern seems to be what to do to get the national team participate in tomorrow’s match, I have instead informed CAF that the concern of the Government and people of Nigeria is first, the safety of the team and their safe return, urging that CAF should focus on working with us to achieve this.

 

 

 

“There must be a serious adverse conseqùence to the Libyan football federation for this unspeakable behaviour.

 

 

 

 

“This can not be through insisting that Nigeria still takes part in this match given the very obvious situation.I strongly condemn the obnoxious treatment meted out to players and officials of the Senior National Team, the Super Eagles who arrived Libya, yesterday the 13th of October for the reverse version of the match played on Friday in Uyo, the AFCON 2025 Group D qualifiers.

 

 

 

 

 

“The National Team was en route Benghazi but was diverted on approach the airport(with very scant attention to their safety), to Al Abaq Airport, which is hours away from Benghazi, where their match is slated to take place.

 

 

 

 

 

 

“All through the night, I have escalated the matter and involved all necessary authorities. From the Foreign Affairs Minister, the National Security Adviser, the DG NIA, Amaju Pinnick, our CAF Executive member.

 

 

 

 

 

 

“I have also remained in touch with both the president of the NFF, who is on the ground with the team and the Chairman of Value Jet, owners of the plane that airlifted the team to Libya. All hands must be on deck to protect our National Team.

 

 

 

 

 

 

“The Team have succinctly stated that they have been unattended to for upwards of about 15 hrs since arrival, with no food, no accommodation, left in a mosquito-infested environment and cordoned off by Libyan security not to step out of the airport and they have access to nothing.

 

 

 

 

 

“To say the least, they face an almost ‘hostage’ situation. These are sportsmen set to compete in an AFCON qualifying match come Tuesday! For now, our primary concern is the safety of the members of our national team”.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Online Editor by — October 14, 2024 in Sports 0
Attah Congratulates Ugolor On New UN Job

             Mohammed Shosanya
The National Coordinator of Procurement Observation and Advocacy Initiative, PRADIN,Comrade Mohammed Bougei Attah,has congratulated Rev. David Ugolor on his new appointment as Co-Chair of UNCAC Coalition Board,a global network dedicated to advancing the implementation of the UN Convention against Corruption.
Rev. Ugolor,an anti-corruption and human rights activist is the Executive Director of Africa Network for Environment and Economic Justice, ANEEJ, a partner with PRADIN in good standing.
His election follows his successful tenure as a two-time Vice Chair of the Coalition’s Board, a position he held since September 2022.
Announcing the election on Friday October 11, Mathias Huter, Managing Director of the UNCAC Coalition Board congratulated him alongside the newly elected leadership team.
 “Congratulations to the new board leadership on their election. I look forward to working with them,”Huter stated.
In his announcement,Huter revealed the full leadership lineup,which includes Gillian Dell, who will serve as co-chair alongside Ugolor, Naomi Roht-Arriaza, and Wajdi Balloumi as Vice Chairs, Wana Alamsyah as Treasurer, and Mukhtar Ahmad Ali as Secretary.
In a statement on Monday,Attah recognized Ugolor’s over two decades of experience in anti-corruption advocacy,making him a valuable asset to the Coalition.
Online Editor by — October 14, 2024 in News 0
Nigeria Threatens To Disconnect Togo, Benin,Others Over N9.4bn Electricity Debt

 

 

 

 

Mohammed Shosanya

 

 

Nigeria has threatened to disconnect Niger,Togo,the Republic of Benin and others on account of unpaid $5.9million(N9.41 billion) electricity bills. 

 

 

 

Specifically,the country’s power regulatory body,the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC),lamented that the international customers failed to settle the electricity debt in the second quarter of 2024.

 

 

 

According to NERC,the action of the international debtors could lead to a complete disconnection from the electricity grid.

 

 

 

 

The regulator’s data earlier showed that these international electricity customers owed the Nigerian government over $51 million in power debt in the first quarter of 2024, but is currently struggling with N9.41bn bill.

 

 

 

 

Market operators (MO) sent an invoice of $15.60 million to four companies across three countries,the report said, adding that,of this amount, only $9.81 million has been paid.

 

 

 

 

NERC disclosed that,the  companies involved include Paras-SBEE and Transcorp-SBEE from Benin Republic, Mainstream-NIGELEC from Niger, and Odukpani-CEET from Togo.

 

 

 

 

According to NERC,domestic bilateral customers had not paid N695.4 million out of a total of N1.99 billion during the same period.

 

 

 

 

The report added: “In 2024/Q2, the four (4) international bilateral customers serviced by the MO made a cumulative payment of $9.81 million against the $15.60 million invoice issued to them by the MO for services rendered in 2024/Q2.

 

 

 

“Similarly, the domestic bilateral customers made a cumulative payment of N1,295.90 million against the cumulative invoice of N1,991.30 million issued to them by the MO for services rendered in 2024/Q2.”

 

 

 

 

The Commission further disclosed that some bilateral customers, both domestic and international, made payments in the second quarter of 2024 to settle outstanding Market Operator (MO) invoices from previous periods.

 

 

 

 

 

Online Editor by — October 14, 2024 in Power 0
Sahara Group Unveils Strategies For Net Zero Plan

 

 

 

 

Mohammed Shosanya

 

 

 

Strategic investment in gas assets and infrastructure,Integration of Renewable Energy and Emissions Reduction through Nature-Based Solutions are strategies that will drive Sahara Group’s net zero plan, Ejiro Gray, Director, Governance and Sustainability has said.

 

 

 

 

She spoke at the launch of the energy conglomerate’s 2023 Sustainability Report, titled, “Dimensioning the Energy Transition: Path to Net Zero”.

 

 

 

 

She said the three-pronged strategy reinforces Sahara’s commitment towards a more sustainable future, with 2060 as the net zero target for Sahara’s operations across Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Middle East.

 

 

 

“This sustainability report underscores our steadfast commitment to addressing environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors across our diverse operations along the energy value chain. As a business, we showcase a multifaceted strategy to minimise our environmental impact. This includes various initiatives to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, optimise energy efficiency, and responsibly manage resources,”she said.

 

 

 

 

According to her,Sahara Group acknowledges the role of natural gas as a crucial bridge fuel and is already expanding investments in gas to ensure energy security while taking tangible steps towards reducing reliance on fossil fuels and contributing to a cleaner energy mix by launching pilot solar projects.

 

 

 

 

She noted that in pursuit of emissions reduction, Sahara Group embraced nature-based solutions through investments and partnerships in reforestation and conservation projects. “Our partnership with Treedom exemplifies this commitment, with the planting of 2,000 trees in Cameroon and Kenya expected to absorb a substantial 900,000 tonnes of CO2 over the next decade,” she added.

 

 

 

 

Sahara Group’s path to net-zero emissions has been tiered into distinct phases. In the short term (2022-2030), the focus will be on reducing carbon footprint through initiatives like fleet electrification, cycling programs, and energy efficiency measures,a statement said.

 

 

 

In the medium term (2031-2040), Sahara will look to further diversify its energy portfolio and increase investments in renewable energy projects. Ultimately, the goal is to achieve net-zero emissions by 2060 through offsetting any remaining emissions through nature-based solutions and other carbon reduction initiatives.

 

 

 

 

Bethel Obioma,Head,Corporate Communications, said the report’s comprehensive scope encompasses various affiliates within the Sahara Group, including Asharami Energy, Sahara Trade, Asharami Synergy, Egbin Power, First Independent Power Limited, Ikeja Electric, and the Sahara Group Foundation.

 

 

 

 

 

Obioma said Sahara’s upstream operations recorded reduction in carbon footprint and exceptional host community relations which led to the implementation of impactful projects focused on enhancing livelihoods, education, and healthcare.

 

 

 

 

“Launching our Gas -to -Power project, providing 24-hour electricity to the Ajoki Community in Edo State—a first-of-its-kind initiative, achieving ISO 20400 certification for sustainable procurement and recording a remarkable 3 million Lost Time Injury (LTI) free man-hours, underscores our dedication to both social impact and operational safety,” he said.

 

 

 

 

He said Sahara also achieved successful outcomes from its midstream,downstream, and power businesses through substantial reductions in carbon emissions, focus on operational efficiency, and implementation of renewable energy sources and energy efficiency measures.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Online Editor by — October 14, 2024 in Oil&Gas 0
Super Eagles Withdraw From AFCON Qualifier After Airport Hiccup In Libya

 

Mohammed Shosanya

 

 

 

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF),has withdrawn the Super Eagles from Tuesday’s 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against Libya,after a harrowing 12-hour ordeal at Al Abraq International Airport in Libya.

 

 

The Nigerian delegation, which arrived on Sunday,faced a frustrating delay when their chartered aircraft was abruptly diverted mid-flight from Benghazi to Al Abraq, a small airport mainly used for hajj operations.

 

 

 

The diversion left players and officials stranded without any support from the Libyan Football Federation, which failed to provide transportation or any form of assistance.

 

 

 

In a statement on Monday,the NFF detailed the chaotic situation, revealing that the team remained stuck at the airport for more than 12 hours, unable to proceed to their hotel in Benghazi, which is a three-hour drive away.

 

 

 

 

“The Super Eagles have been at Al Abraq Airport for over 12 hours since landing in Libya,” the NFF statement read.

 

 

“The aircraft was dangerously diverted from Benghazi just as the pilot was preparing to land.

 

 

 

The players and officials are fatigued, and there was no reception or transportation provided by the hosts.”

 

 

 

Team captain William Troost-Ekong, expressed concerns over safety,stated that the players were not willing to undertake the three-hour road journey to Benina, where the match was to be played.

 

 

“Let them have the points. We will not travel by road here, even with security; it’s not safe. We can only imagine the conditions at the hotel or the quality of the food if we proceeded,” he posted on social media platform X.

 

 

 

The NFF is now making arrangements to fly the team back to Nigeria, as the Super Eagles stand firm in their decision not to participate in the match.

 

 

 

Libyan officials, meanwhile,had earlier claimed that their team experienced subpar treatment during their visit to Nigeria for the first leg of the qualifier in Uyo, which Nigeria won 1-0.

Online Editor by — October 14, 2024 in Sports 0
Expect Cheaper Prices Of Cooking Gas Soon,NIPCO Boss Tells Nigerians

 

 

Mohammed Shosanya

 

 

 

The Managing Director of NIPCO Plc,Suresh Kumar,has has expressed optimism that Nigerians would buy cheaper cooking gas as domestic production improves in the country. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

He disclosed this at the National Conference of the Nigerian Association of Liquefied Petroleum Gas Marketers (NALPGAM) 2024,held in Lagos.

 

 

 

 

 

Mr, Suresh expressed optimism for more growth opportunities in the cooking gas market with the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu giant,strides especially with the current fiscal measures aimed at addressing final product  cost in the sector 

 

 

 

 

 

He said:“With the Dangote Refinery and other refineries now sourcing crude oil in local currency, the volume of LPG produced locally is expected to increase, which will, in turn, drive down the price of the commodity. 

 

 

 

 

 

“There is hope that the reliance on imported LPG will decrease, which will positively influence the prices at which the product is sold domestically. Greater local production will make LPG more affordable since it reduces exposure to foreign exchange fluctuations and international pricing dynamics.”

 

 

 

He acknowledged that demand for LPG in Nigeria has been relatively stagnant due to the high cost of the product. 

 

 

 

 

“The current high prices have limited consumption growth, but this situation is only temporary. With more players entering the gas processing sector, we anticipate a market correction soon,” he stated.

 

 

 

 

He expressed confidence that the market would stabilize. “We believe that with increased competition and expanded production, the market will find a balance,” he said.

 

 

 

He implored the federal government to support local refineries,including the Dangote Refinery,to boost domestic gas production. 

 

 

 

 

 

“It is crucial for the government to back these refineries in their efforts to significantly increase LPG output. This will drive down retail prices and make the product more accessible to Nigerians,” he added.

 

 

 

 

He reaffirmed the company’s commitment to driving sustainable energy growth through Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) and Compressed Natural Gas (CNG). 

 

 

 

 

He outlined NIPCO’s operations and future strategies in the downstream petroleum sector.

 

 

 

 

He emphasised that the company’s long-term vision has always been to become a leader in the marketing and distribution of LPG.

 

 

 

 

 He added:“Our strategy was driven by the fact that Nigeria has over 200 trillion cubic feet of gas reserves. We believe that the country’s gas consumption must be optimized through the promotion of both LPG for domestic use and CNG for industrial and transportation sectors,” the NIPCO MD said. 

 

 

 

 

NIPCO,he said,has expanded its Liquefied Petroleum Gas operations significantly over the years.

 

 

 

 

He added:“In 2008,we invested in an LPG facility in Apapa with a capacity of 5,000 metric tons. Today, that same facility has grown to over 20,000 metric tons,thanks to strategic partnerships with our subsidiaries.

 

 

 

 

 “We have also deployed LPG tankers and established multiple stations across Nigeria to ensure easy access to cooking gas for households nationwide,” Kumar revealed.

 

 

 

 

 He further explained that while LPG is essential for homes, CNG will play a key role in powering industries and transforming the transportation sector.

 

 

 

 

“We are committed to aligning with Nigeria’s energy goals by promoting sustainable fuel options that leverage our vast natural gas resources,” he said

 

 

 

 

At the time NIPCO entered the market,he said, Nigeria’s domestic LPG consumption was around 50,000 metric tonnes (MT) annually.

 

 

 

 

 

“However, the past 16 to 17 years have been a remarkable journey. Today, the market has grown from 50,000 MT to approximately 1.5 million MT per year.”  

 

 

 

 

 

Despite the growth, the MD pointed out that significant potential remains untapped. 

 

 

“We believe that less than 60 percent of Nigeria’s 200 million population has embraced the use of LPG. This highlights the immense opportunities within the market and underscores the need for more investments in gas processing, storage, and marketing to serve this large population. 

 

 

 

He said:“Our vision is to harness these opportunities and grow the country’s LPG consumption from 1.5 million MT to levels more appropriate for a population of over 200 million people. 

 

 

 

 

“We must work with the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) and other stakeholders to end gas flaring in the country. 

 

 

 

 

 

“Substantial investments are needed to capture and process flared gas to increase domestic supply beyond the current 1.5 million MT to at least 5 million MT annually.”  

 

 

 

He lamented that local production of LPG remains inadequate.

 

 

”Currently, less than 40 percent of the 1.5 million MT consumed domestically is produced locally.This is why the government must encourage companies like Chevron to convert more of their propane output into butane, which is more suitable for domestic use,”he said.

 

 

 

 

 

According to him, boosting local production would attract further investments in pipelines, storage, and bottling facilities, as well as expand retail outlets and LPG depots across Nigeria.  

 

 

 

 

“Our latest assessments show that the existing downstream infrastructure is capable of handling up to 5 million MT annually. This means we are ready to accommodate increased production from both associated and non-associated gas fields within the country,” the MD said.

Online Editor by — October 14, 2024 in Oil&Gas 0
Former Nigeria Goalie,Peter Fregene Dies 

 

Mohammed Shosanya

 

 

Former Nigeria Green Eagles goal keeper Peter Fregene,is dead.

 

 

 

Ex-international and his close friend,Segun Odegbami,confirmed the death of Fregene on Sunday.

 

 

 

According to him,the Nigerian football icon died after a prolonged illness,with his wife Tina and two of his children by his side.

 

 

 

 

“Just a few minutes ago,Peter ‘Apo’ Fregene, OLY, former goalkeeper for Nigeria’s Green Eagles, who had been on life support for the past week, passed on to meet his creator.

 

 

 

“He passed peacefully in the presence of two of his children and his devoted wife, Tina,” Odegbami added.

 

 

 

Fregene,who represented Nigeria at the 1968 Olympics in Mexico and was a prominent figure in the national team throughout the 1960s and 70s, was celebrated for his remarkable reflexes and resilience as a goalkeeper.

 

 

 

 

Odegbami also expressed gratitude to those who supported the football icon during his illness.

 

 

 

“On behalf of all generations of Nigerian footballers, Olympians, sportspeople, his family, friends, fans, and the incredible Nigerians who quietly rallied around with their support, prayers, and the will of the creator, I say a big ‘thank you,’” Odegbami stated.

 

 

 

 

Peter Fregene, born in Sapele, Delta State, Nigeria, played for two football clubs during his career.

 

 

 

He represented Stationery Stores FC and ECN, both Lagos State-based clubs. Fregene won the FA Cup trophy with both teams, despite being rivals.

 

 

 

He was one of the foremost players of the Federation Cup, formerly known as the Challenge Cup, during his playing days for Stationery Stores and ECN.

 

 

 

 

He was part of the 13 former stars of the Federation Cup players Lagos state government honoured in 2014.

 

 

 

He represented the Green Eagles, now the Super Eagles, in the 1960s, 1970s and 1980s.

 

 

 

Despite playing for just two professional clubs, Fregene remains one of Nigeria’s longest-serving players, playing for the three-time African champions between the 160s to 80s Fregene was part of Nigeria’s squad between 1966 to 1983.

 

 

 

Fregene was Nigeria’s number one shot-stopper between 1968-1971.

 

 

 

He represented Nigeria at the 1968 Olympics, playing in the country’s three games. However, Fregene failed to keep a clean sheet in any of the games, conceding nine goals as Nigeria left with just a point which came in a 3-3 draw against Brazil.

 

 

 

He was also in goal for Nigeria’s World Cup qualifying campaign between 1968 and 1969, keeping one clean sheet in eight matches.

 

 

He lost his number one spot after 1971, but he was back in goal at the 1982 Africa Cup of Nations, two years after the country won its first African title. The 77-year-old kept a clean sheet as Nigeria won one and lost two of their matches.

 

 

 

 

 

Online Editor by — October 14, 2024 in Sports 0
Did A Ring Kill Ayinla Omowura?

 

Festus Adedayo 

 

 

Obviously,because I am the unauthorised biographer of Ayinla Omowura, the musical enfant terrible of Yorubaland of the 1970s, I have been inundated by requests to lend a voice to an ongoing debate which has spiralled in Omowura’s hometown of Abeokuta, the capital of Ogun state. The debate stemmed from a claim by a man who said that, for four years, he investigated the “mysterious” death of the Yoruba Apala music lord and “unearthed startling revelations” therefrom.

 

 

 

Rather than the popular and legal affirmation that Omowura was murdered in a barroom brawl in May, 1980 in Abeokuta by his erstwhile Manager, Fatai Baiyewumi, the “investigation” by the man claimed that Omowura died as a result of a metaphysical ring prepared for him by a man called Ilelabewe Adisa.

 

 

 

 

The man said that in the course of his 4-year investigation, during which he had to interview the said Ilelabewe and some members of the Omowura family, as he dug, the orthodox claim of Ayinla’s murder by Baiyewumi didn’t add up, leaving him to believe the claim that herbalist Ilelabewe was actually the architect of Ayinla’s death.

 

 

 

 

 

 

The lead towards this herbalist, said the “investigator’” was provided by Kabiru, one of Ayinla’s sons, given birth to after the musician’s murder, who claimed that rather than Baiyewumi, a ring the musician wore on his finger, led to his death.

 

 

 

 

 

In the explanation of both Ilelabewe and Kabiru, the musician had been given a ring soaked in a magical potion which, if worn and used to hit an adversary, would lead to the adversary’s fall. The antidote lay in the ring wearer’s leg which, once they struck the unconscious adversary with it, they would regain their consciousness.

 

 

 

 

 

Tragedy claimed the duo,however,struck when,in the final showdown between Ayinla and his Manager in Ago Ika on May 6, 1980, the musician allegedly unknowingly hit his chest with the ring. It led to his fall and death. In one of the videos released by the “investigator,” Ilelabewe remorselessly said in Yoruba, “I killed Ayinla Omowura.”

 

 

 

 

 

Immediately after this widespread claim which the family felt cast aspersion on their departed father and grandfather musician, they all came out to denounce Kabiru and the said Ilelabewe. Ayinla’s first child, Kuburat who he variously serenaded in his albums, attaching her alias, “Kubure” to himself as the suffix – “Baba Kubure” – literally disowned Kabiru. She even cheekily almost disowned his paternity with the Yoruba saying that a home that is at peace will lose this precious commodity the moment its bastard offspring comes of age.

 

 

 

 

In my biography of the musician with the title Ayinla Omowura: Life And Times of an Apala Legend (2020) I had a chapter which I entitled “The Day Oloburo was murdered”. It articulates my research findings on the events leading to, the death and post-death matters that concerned the musician.

 

 

 

 

I interviewed consequential informants and living witnesses to his death which ranged from his surviving wives, children, two children of his spiritual advisor, Agbejapa Oba, one of whom saw Ayinla on the said morning of his death; his lead drummer who is late now (Adewole Oniluola) and Alhaji Ayinla Kollington, among many others. I also affixed an appendix to the book which was a verbatim Abeokuta High Court judgment which sentenced Baiyewumi to death by hanging on September 30, 1980.

 

 

 

 

 

Charged with murder contrary to s. 25(2) of the Criminal Code, Baiyewumi the accused (as the criminal justice system knew such people then), said the court, struck Ayinla with a beer jug on the head. Baiyewumi, through his counsel, Chief Sotayo, denied the charge but claimed that, upon seizing him (Baiyewumi) to demand the key of the motorcycle Omowura gave to him, “the deceased had begun to shake all over and then collapsed”

 

 

 

Upon autopsy,the cause of death,as given by Dr Majekodunmi, who conducted an autopsy on the late musician, was: “cerebral shock resulting from a fracture of the skull associated with contusion and a large intercranial haemorrhage, consistent with the deceased having been struck in the head with a heavy object.”

 

 

 

 

The doctor also told the court that there was noticed on the deceased’s head “a comminuted depressed fracture about 2 ins. X 1 ¼ ins. in the left temporal region.” He even told the court that the injury noticed on the head of the deceased “are associated with being hit on the head with a heavy object… could not have been self-inflicted.” The court agreed.

 

 

 

Under cross-examination, Dr. Majekodunmi was asked whether the vomiting that Omowura suffered on the spot immediately the heavy object hit him could have led to suffocation and death on its own. The doctor admitted the claim by the defence that Omowura was probably suffering from hypertension and that the sickness was what gripped him and led to his death.

 

 

 

 

However, it remained in the realm of probability as the only factual, scientific cause of his death was the heavy object that hit him on the left side of his head.

 

 

 

The missing link which many analysts of Ayinla’s death have not reckoned with but which I stumbled upon in the course of my research was that, either immediately he slumped in Ago-Ika area of Abeokuta, outside the beer parlour of one Sikiratu Adekola, or after being taken first to Akin-Olugbade Hospital, but certainly before he was taken to the last point of call – Abeokuta General Hospital – Ayinla’s almost lifeless body was taken to his Itoko home in Abeokuta. Why, is difficult to reason out.

 

 

 

 

However,when it is considered that the musician was dreaded for his heavy steep in metaphysics, it may be clear that he was probably taken home from the scene of attack to administer unorthodox revival intervention on him.

 

 

 

One of his wives,Kehinde,who claimed he saw his body in a car, brought to his home said in an interview during the course of my research that, “Yes, it is true that they brought Alhaji (Omowura) home to Itoko. When they brought him home, he was still breathing. He was in the car. His brother, Alhaji Dauda, sat at one end in the back seat of the car.Alhaji’s body was in the middle.

 

 

 

“Someone else who I cannot remember now, sat n the other edge of the car. They held him and were shouting, ‘Alhaji! Alhaji!’ His clothes had been pulled off from his body. You could see his heart running up and down (apparently gasping for breath). His tongue had jutted out. Some people started shouting that th house they brought him was not the best thing for them to do; that they ought to have taken him to the hospital. So they heeded this call and took him to Dr. Maje(kodunmi’s) hospital.”

 

 

Indeed, the theory that Omowura’s death was more metaphysical than physical gained traction in Abeokuta immediately after his death. When I spoke to his lead drummer, Oniluola, he trod the same path. He said he had always wondered what the musician was doing with several rings on his hands and that he probably died from one of them which he claimed must never touch human blood. Omowura’s wife with the nickname, Iya Agba, also told me that he could not in good conscience say that Baiyewumi killed the musician.

 

 

 

In a Yorubaland of the time that was highly embroiled in metaphysics,where it was believed that nothing in the physical happens without a metaphysical underlining, this reading of the death of such a controversial man was expected.

 

 

 

However, facts do not support the claims that the musician died as a result of Ilelabewe’s ring. The law also sniggers at the claim. Kabiru has always had very outlandish views about his father that were inconsistent with reality, something in the realm of the nightmarish. He manifested same when being interviewed for the biography of his father.

Online Editor by — October 14, 2024 in Opinion 0
Who The Cap Fits!  

 

        Who The Cap Fits!
In 1705, Daniel Defoe published a poem critical of the British parliament in which he wrote, “Gentlemen, and if the Cap fits any Body let ’em wear it.” In Britain, “if the cap fits” is still the norm; but in North America, by the late 18th century, the expression morphed into “if the shoe fits. The shift from cap to shoe might have been influenced by the Cinderalla story, as versions of the story including the lost slipper were well known in the USA and Europe by 1773.
“If the cap fits” was an advertorial line employed by the British Parliamentary Recruiting Committee in 1915 to enlist people into the force. Like many advertisements both then and now, it played with a carefully calibrated set of meanings. On one level, the familiar idiom of ‘if the cap fits, wear it’ raises questions of identity and individual affirmation.
In another breath, this idiom was targeted via a specific type of cap and the diction of direct address. As the image confirms, the metaphorical ‘cap’ is now to be seen in terms of the khaki service cap, while the obligation to ‘wear it’ is re-interpreted via the action of ‘joining- up’, and the identity politics of active service.
The situation in Nigeria further reinforced my choice of title for this piece inspired by the popular hit song of the late Jamaican Ragge icon – Bob Marley. The music was recorded in September 1975 and released to the market in April of the following year.  In 1976, this single album by Bob Marley and The Wailers group ruled the air waves in Nigeria and beyond.
In this philosophical music composition, one may not have seen through the gaze ball to foretell what would become our fate today in Nigeria. We have seen evolving over the years, a political culture that creates particularism identity around political leaders – who adopt unique dress codes to register their brands in the minds of admirers and followers.
To register himself in the subconsciousness of the people, the leader strives to carve an image for himself with a seeming ideological bent as his identity.  The great leader of the India political dynasty late Mahatma Gandhi, who in 1930 led the famous Salt marchin Dandi, has become synonymous with the famous round-rimmed spectacles. His admirers easily identify with this symbolic object.
The late sage, Obafemi Awolowo identified with Gandhi’s type of cap and glasses, which has successfully etched his image in the mind of his admirers as an ethical leader who bore the traits and leadership qualities of Gandhi. Festus Okotieboh, an Urohobo/ itshekiri man, the first Nigerian Minister of Finance under the late Tafawa Balewa government in the First Republic, was reputed for his flowing flamboyant dressing.
He established the Central Bank of Nigeria. Till date, Nigeria has not produced such flamboyant personality again. The oratory skill of Zik of Africa – Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe our first ceremonial President was unparalled.
Substantially, Obafemi Awolowo patterned his political life after his mentor, Mahatma Gandhi who was also a lawyer. His commitment to good governance and brick-laying for an egalitarian society which was the hallmark of his governance in the Old Western Region, is uncommon.
The first Republic political class created a niche for themselves.Unfortunately, their faint footprints did not outlast except the few who successfully etched their image on people’s minds.  In the second Republic, Alhaji Shehu Shagari’s sky-scrapper cap was popularized by the National Party of Nigeria stalwarts.  No sooner had he left the stage, when his identitarian brand left in his trail.
Ibrahim Badamosi Babangida IBB, the most enigmatic evil-genius the country has ever produced, emerged his period marks the beginning of brain-drain with exodus of University lecturers leaving the country in search of a greener pastures with the slogan “Andrew” and Andrew what was he imprinted on the nation’s governance. Humongous national resources disappeared under his watch without trace. He instituted money politics and enthroned lootocracy in Nigeria.
The dark – goggle man, ‘Emperor’ Sani Abacha followed in this “Maradona” footsteps. He also carved an identity for himself via a brooch which every loyalist must adorn. To be bereft of the symbol is to be regarded as an adversarial force.  Interestingly! the brooch disappeared with his exit from the stage.
The train again moved from the military to the democratic station. Obasanjo mounted the saddle, as a musician with no record label for his new found gospel song – my life time, I’ll give up my life”, he indeed gave up his life time to water the garden of corruption planted by his predecessors.
“Ghana – must – go” bags became synonymous with the Ota farmer enamored with the ‘ambition’ to salvage Nigeria.
As Tinubu with the clandestine support of three retired Army Generals- OBJ, IBB and Tripple A – strives to help Baba Buhari recapture the political space, the shout of Sai – Baba rented the air.  Tinubu and his co-strategists repackaged the stone-faced “repentant pseudo-democrat”, and wooed Nigerians with their change mantra. Their propaganda machineries were ferocious and encapsulating.
Nigerians were regaled with tales of lies. Even those in government engaged in subterfuge to bring down Goodluck Ebele Jonathan’s government. Interestingly, Buhari’s change mantra soon transmuted into “chain” dirge all through the 4+4 – 8 years of his government. “Sai Baba  turned to Kai Baba”.
Now the Ebilokan Renewed Hope peddler has borrowed an image bigger than himself. Some have acquired what I call “ways and means” and therefore think they are qualified to identify with great progressives such as Mahatma Gandhi and Obafemi Awolowo; Bola Ige; Arthur Nwanko; S.G. Ikoku Aminu Kano – the Seriki Talakawas; Abubakar Rimi to mention but a few.
I fear that some may be living in an imaginary world and wearing an oversized shoe. Someone putting on an air of a progressive in the mould of these iconic round-rimmed- spectacles personalities, may indeed be a progress-thief, who operates on stolen identity to ‘rob’ his people.
Any discerning political observer, would notice that the once endearing – figured 8 embroidery cap, whose bearer would wish to promote as a national symbol, is no longer captivating. Rather, it is fast disappearing from the political landscape.
This symbolic cap has become an irritant to even those who previously identify with the powers that be in the country. The figure 8 embroidery was once described by the owner at a parley in Abeokuta that the cap represents a broken shackles of chains into freedom. The expression of a broken chain – Chains of what?
The underlay betrays the cravings and power mongering of a deft power player, whose ambition beat the most resilient  anti- progressives. Interestingly, none of those who pride themselves as power brokers could decipher the signals emitting from Bourdillon until a neighbor urged for patient with the cap as it would fly for another four years.
Why would he not crush the crush-ables to actualize an age – long ambition? Why should anyone tolerate dissent voices to threaten an ambition finally realized, even if doubly impoverished citizens must endure excruciating pains and hardship to water the ambition? Citizens gagged, press freedom tactically suppressed and protest against hunger untolerated? While profligacy is promoted and celebrated by the powers that be?
The cap has indeed become an albatross, loathsome to identify with. It has become a symbol of subterfuge, misery and dashed hope. The cap seems no longer fanciful, fitting or fascinating. What then has become of our cap, our symbol, our identity? Does the cap no longer fit?
Man to man is so unjust,children you don’t know who to trust..
Lanre Ogundipe
Former President
Nigeria Union of Journalists
and African Union of Journalists  writes from Abuja
Online Editor by — October 14, 2024 in Opinion 0
Embrace Backyard Farming To Boost Food Production,Oyo Tells Residents

 

 

 

         Mohammed Shosanya

 

 

The Oyo State Government,through the ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development on Sunday, has called on residents to embrace Backyard Farming to boost food production in the state.

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Barr. Olasunkanmi Olaleye, stated this at a special service programme to celebrate, World Food Day with the theme ” Right to Foods for Better life, and a Better Future” held at St. Peter’s Cathedral.

 

 

 

He explained that a better future can only be visible if everybody embraces farming, adding that starting with backyard farming, we can ensure food security and mitigate the impact of climate change on our food systems.

 

 

 

He maintained that oyo state government under the leadership of Engr Makinde will continue to support farmers and encourage individuals to contribute to food security.

 

 

He emphasized that collective action is necessary to address hunger, malnutrition, and poverty.

 

 

 

 

Speaking on various ways in which the government had provided support to farmers, Olaleye explained that about
5,160 acres of farm land have been ploughed under 50% Tractorisation subsidy.

 

 

 

He added that farmers have received inputs in various capacity from Oyo state government, such as free distribution of maize to poultry farmers, arable farmers and many more.

 

 

 

He hinted that going by the support received by the farmers in the state coupled with this year’s World Food Day, there is a need for us as government and farmers to give thanks to God and offer prayers to farmers, government, most especially our dear nation.

 

 

 

Unfolding the programme slated for this year World Food Day, the Commissioner revealed that the long week programme started with Jumat service on Friday 11th October, while today being Day 2 Special church Service, Monday 13th October, there will be Agbeloba fitness walk which all farmers will participate from the state secretariat to Oje market back to Secretariat, while Tuesday 15th, inauguration of Oyo State Seed Coordinating Committee- OYSSCC at House of Chiefs, Secretariat.

 

 

He added that on 16th October there will be a grand finale in which a paper presentation and official opening of exhibition of agricultural products by the Governor.

 

 

 

He urged farmers across the state to participate actively in the global event.

 

Online Editor by — October 13, 2024 in Agriculture 0