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Tag: Obasanjo

  • Nigerians have no business being poor, says Obasanjo

    Nigerians have no business being poor, says Obasanjo

    Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has said that Nigerians have no business being poor with the country’s vast resources.

    He said that the nation is abundantly blessed but is suffering from the mismanagement of its resources.

    Obasanjo said this at a dinner organised in his honour by Abia Government on Friday at the Government House, Umuahia.

    He said: “Nigerians have no business with poverty because God has given us all that we need.

    “If we are mismanaging what God has given us, we do not have God to blame, we have ourselves to blame.”

    The former president praised the efforts of Gov. Alex Otti of Abia in transforming the state, noting the wide public acclaim of his administration’s performance.

    He affirmed the governor’s impact on governance in the state and urged him to continue to do well.

    Obasanjo added that if Nigeria had 18 governors doing well in their responsibilities as leaders, “we will build the country up”.

    He reiterated his concern in the well-being of Nigerians and the quality of governance they receive.

    “For me, whether you don’t greet me or I greet you and you don’t answer, what is important to me is that the people of this country are getting what they deserve and what they deserve is good governance,” he said.

    Obasanjo recalled an earlier advisory he gave former Minister of Transport, Mr Rotimi Amaechi, during his tenure in office.

    He said that Amaechi was not aware of a pre-existing national railway development plan and had to be directed to the archives to find it.

    “I believe that even if you don’t like me if I have pieces of advice to give you, as I did when you were Minister for Transport, I will give the advice.

    “You didn’t know that we had a national plan for railway for this country, to reach every state capital as we have them now and I told you to go into the archives, it is there.

    “But again, I believe as Minister of Transport, you got a bit of it right, you got a bit of it wrong.”

    In his speech, the governor acknowledged the support he received from the former president.

    He said that the importance of vision and perseverance in leadership could never be overlooked, recounting the challenges he faced over his decade-long political journey.

    “Once you have vision, you have to keep to it. It took us ten years to get here, the two elections we contested from 2015 to 2019, we won clearly but they were all stolen.

    “A lot of people had given up hope and said it wasn’t going to work, but I was sure that I heard clearly from God,” he said.

    He said his administration had embarked on massive reforms in the education sector to improve access to quality education in Abia.

    Also, Amaechi called on political actors in Abia to begin early preparations for the 2027 general elections.

    According to him, the value of a good administration was often only realised after a less competent one takes over.

    He pointed out that this had become the experience with many former leaders, but Obasanjo had continually stood out because of his visionary leadership style.

    “In your case, no matter who becomes president, you have always stood out,” Amaechi said.

    He described quality leadership as crucial for development and in order not to experience its absence, the people of Abia must support capable leaders like Otti in the next elections.

    “APC and other parties are already mobilising, if we don’t prepare now, we may lose out completely.

    “We must not only protect what we have but also ensure that we come back in 2028 to celebrate true democratic success,” he added.

    In separate speeches, the lawmaker representing Isiala Ngwa North and South Federal Constituency, Chief Ginger Onwusibe and the acting National Secretary of Labour Party, Sen. Darlington Nwokocha, expressed delight in being part of Abia’s success story.

    They thanked  Obasanjo for his continued support for the Otti-led administration and commended the governor for the equitable developmental strides across all local government areas. (NAN)

  • Tinubu, Obasanjo, Obi, MTN, others mourn business icon, Paschal Dozie

    Tinubu, Obasanjo, Obi, MTN, others mourn business icon, Paschal Dozie

    PRESIDENT Bola Tinubu has extended his heartfelt condolences to the Dozie family, the business community and all Nigerians, on the passing of Dr. Pascal Gabriel Dozie, an elder statesman, entrepreneur and banker. He was 85.

    Pascal Dozie was a visionary whose contributions to Nigeria’s economic architecture left an enduring legacy. As the founder of Diamond Bank and the pioneer Chairman of MTN Nigeria, he was at the forefront of two of the most transformative sectors in Nigeria’s development journey — banking and telecommunications.

    Dozie, a steadfast believer in Nigeria’s vast potential, was pivotal in shaping the financial services industry and expanding access to mobile connectivity nationwide. His influential leadership extended well beyond corporate boardrooms.

    In addition to his business acumen, Dozie served as a former director at the Central Bank of Nigeria, President of the Nigerian Stock Exchange, and Chairman of the Nigerian Economic Summit Group, dedicating decades of service to national policy formulation, private sector development, and youth empowerment.

    President Tinubu in a statement by his spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, lauded Dozie as “a rare breed business leader whose wisdom, humility, and pioneering efforts laid a foundation upon which many continue to build. His passing is a profound loss to the private sector and Nigeria.”

    The President prayed for the peaceful repose of Dozie’s soul and extends his condolences to his wife, children, and extended family.

    Obasanjo mourns, as Pascal Dozie dies at 85

    Former President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo has described the late Padcal Dozie as one of the nation’s most intrepid entrepreneurs.

    Late Paschal Dozie died, early yesterday, the passing Obasanjo said was received with mixed feelings of sadness and gratitude to God.

    In a statement by his Special Assistant on Media, Kehinde Akinyemi, the former President said he was “sad because we will miss his contribution to the building of a new Nigeria of his dream but I am grateful to God for such a life well spent in the service of our fatherland.

    “We thank God for his life. He lived to the ripe age of 85 and in the course of this, he was able to make impact, not just at the family level but also within the community and his profession.

    In his tribute, Obasanjo said the late Dozie was “a serial entrepreneur who rose to become one of the major figures and icons in the Nigerian business and entrepreneurial community in the 20th and 21st centuries in Nigeria. He was former Chairman of the MTN Foundation, former Board Member of the African Capital Alliance, founder and the main inspiration behind the defunct Diamond Bank, former President of the Nigerian Stock Exchange, among others. I am impressed by his humility and his humanism. He was a great man!

    “My thoughts and prayers are with his family at this time as they mourn the passing of this illustrious son of Africa.

    “On behalf of my family and on my own behalf, I express sincere condolences and pray God to grant them all the grace to bear this great loss.

    “May the gentle soul of the dear departed rest in perfect peace.

    Obi mourns Diamond Bank founder, Dozie

    In his remark, Mr Peter Obi, Labour Party Presidential candidate in the 2023 general elections, on Tuesday mourned Dr Pascal Dozie, Founder of Diamond Bank and a renowned Nigerian entrepreneur and business morgul.

    Obi a former governor of Anambra, in his condolence message posted on his X handle, expressed his sadness over the demise of the business mogul.

    The elder statesman, entrepreneur, and banker died at the age of 85.

    According to Obi, I am deeply saddened this morning by the news of the passing of Dr Pascal Dozie, a man I held in high esteem.

    “I met him during the formation of Diamond Bank and later MTN Nigeria, and throughout our collaboration, I came to know him as a true gentleman and a teacher who always sought the good of all.

    “His legacy as a banker and an entrepreneur stands as a testament to his vision, leadership and commitment to excellence which inspired countless individuals and businesses.”

    Obi prayed that God Almighty, who called him home, grant him eternal rest and grant his family and all who mourn him the fortitude to bear his irreplaceable loss.

    ”May God Almighty bless his family always,” he added.

    A business icon and technocrat par excellence —Former CIS President

    Olatunde Amolegbe, former President, Chartered Institute of Stockbrokers, CIS, said: “His footprint will remain in the business landscape in Nigeria for a long time to come. His most enduring legacy will probably be the mentorship of other people that have gone on do great things or head great institutions. May his soul rest in peace.”

    Pascal Dozie wasn’t just a businessman

    Commenting, Clifford Egbomeade, economic analysts and Communication expert, said: “Dr. Pascal Dozie wasn’t just a businessman — he was a builder of dreams, of institutions, and of people.

    “From founding Diamond Bank to laying the foundation for what MTN Nigeria has become today, he showed us what it means to lead with vision, courage, and grace. The impact of his life’s work continues to shape Nigeria’s financial and telecom sectors in profound ways. But beyond the boardroom, those who knew him speak of his humility, wisdom, and deep love for Nigeria.Losing someone like Dr. Dozie is more than the passing of an icon; it’s the loss of a national treasure. Yet, in our grief, we are comforted by the incredible legacy he leaves behind. A legacy that will continue to light the path for generations of leaders and innovators.”

    MTN Nigeria mourns Dozie, says he’s a steady hand with enduring legacy

    MTN Nigeria yesterday regretted the passing of its founding Chairman Dr. Pascal Dozie, saying he brought insight, experience, and leadership to the company at a time when bold vision was essential.

    In a statement signed by the CEO, Mr Karl Toriola, MTN described Dozie as a steady hand, with and enduring legacy.

    The company said Dozie was a quiet revolutionary, who could ease tensions with grace and consistently led with clarity and conviction, even as he was warm, principled, and deeply respected by all who encountered him.

    Part of the statement read: “We are saddened by the passing of our founding Chairman, Dr Paschal Gabriel Dozie. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing and working with him.

    “A pioneer, statesman, and titan of industry, Dr. Dozie played a pivotal role in the emergence of mobile telephony in Nigeria and in shaping the MTN Nigeria story. He brought insight, experience, and leadership at a time when bold vision was essential. He was instrumental in securing the early support and investment that brought the Y’ello dream to life. On May 16, 2001, he made the first call on the MTN network, a historic moment in Nigeria’s telecommunications journey.”

    “For 18 years, from 2001 to 2019, Dr. Dozie served as Chairman, leading with strength and conviction. His presence on the Board was unifying. He championed good governance, corporate responsibility, and long-term value, deeply committed to the greater good. In challenging times, he remained a stabilising force.

    “His unwavering belief in Nigeria’s potential and his dedication to its development were truly inspiring. His leadership at MTN Nigeria laid the foundation for our success, and his legacy will continue to guide us in the years to come”.

    The company listed part of his landmark contributions to the company, to include, incorporation of the MTN Nigeria Foundation in 2004 and commitment to dedicating a percentage of profit after tax to social investments.

    He was also credited to spearheading the launch of one of Africa’s largest switching centres in 2010; playing significant role in 2015 during critical conversations around the regulatory fine and its resolution; introduction of Africa’s first 3G feature phone in 2018; as well as MTN Nigeria’s listing in 2019 on the premium board of the Nigerian Exchange.

    President & CEO, MTN Group, Ralph Mupita also added that “Dr. Dozie was instrumental in MTN Group’s expansion into Nigeria, providing visionary leadership that has left an indelible mark on our company’s history. His commitment to excellence and integrity set a standard that we continue to uphold”.

  • Democracy not working in Nigeria — Obasanjo, Obi, Tambuwal, Kukah

    Democracy not working in Nigeria — Obasanjo, Obi, Tambuwal, Kukah

    ABUJA—Former President Olusegun Obasanjo, Peter Obi, the Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 election, Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah, and Aminu Tambuwal, the former governor of Sokoto State, yesterday expressed concerns that democracy was not working in Nigeria.

    The leaders, who spoke at the 60th birthday celebration of former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives of Nigeria, Emeka Ihedioha, at the Ladi Kwali Hall, Abuja Intercontinental Hotel, yesterday, stressed the need for urgent reforms to address the country’s challenges.

    Speaking at the event also attended by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, Emeka Anyaoku and immediate past governor of katsina State, Aminu Masari, Obasanjo noted that democracy, as currently practised in Nigeria and much of Africa, has failed to meet the need of the people.

    According to him, western model of democracy does not align with African values and needs, and “democracy in Africa has failed because it is not African.”

    Obasanjo, who called for a redefinition of democracy to better reflect the continent’s cultural realities and serve the people more effectively, said: “Is democracy failing in Africa? Are we talking of democracy or western liberal democracy?

    “We should remember that in Africa, we had a form of government which attended to the needs of the people. That is democracy.

    “Abraham Lincoln describes it as a government of the people, by the people, and for the people. But what do we have today? The Greek democracy affects everyone but democracy has now become representative democracy and it hasn’t taken care of everyone.

    “Democracy in Africa has failed because it’s not African, it didn’t have our culture and way of life. You will say, go to court when you know that you can’t get justice. Democracy is dying in Africa and to save it, it should be made in the context of Africa.”

    On his part, Obi also noted that the democracy practiced in the country is not working as it should.
    Recalling his experience, where he had to fight for his mandate after being impeached as governor of Anambra State, Obi maintained that he did not resort to bribery.

    He said: “Democracy is not working in Nigeria. Everything has been knocked down. I didn’t pay a dime to retrieve my mandate. When I was impeached, Obasanjo called to ask about my welfare. Nigeria should imbibe the Indonesian democracy, proportional representation.’’

    Speaking further, Obi said Nigeria’s democracy, which had been progressing since 1999, is now being “knocked down” by the current administration.

    “Some people came and knocked everything down. That is the situation we are in now. Everything has been knocked down. Nothing works.

    “I became a governor through the court when President Obasanjo and Atiku were in government.
    “I did not pay the court one naira. I was sitting in my office, and the court declared me the winner. It can’t happen in Nigeria today.

    “When I was being impeached, the president sent people to come and intervene on my behalf. Ken Nnamani came, begging the House (House of Assembly) not to impeach me.

    “Today, the president is impeaching a person. They were in PDP; I was in APGA. The president was calling and saying, ‘Peter, are you okay? Even when I was impeached, President Obasanjo called and said, ‘Are you okay? Are you safe?

    “When the court eventually declared me (the winner) under Andy Uba (as governor), President Yar’Adua called my phone in London and said, ‘come back. I said, President, I can’t come back.

    “When I came back, the military people came and received me at the airport. I couldn’t believe it. And took me straight to him. Now, the president would ask me not to come back. Democracy is collapsing.”

    Delivering the keynote address, titled “Is Democracy Failing in Africa?’’ Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Matthew Kukah, faulted the weaponization of religion in Nigeria, which he described as one of the major hindrances to the country’s democratic development.

    Kukah also described the relationship between Obasanjo and Atiku as being like a Catholic marriage, where they quarrel frequently but never broke up.

    The cleric, who, however, called for a more honest and inclusive approach to addressing the country’s challenges, said further: “Democracy is working for different people as you can see in their outlook. There is the belief that citizens are free to rebel. There has been debate whether the Nigerian constitution is perfect or not.

    “No constitution will be better than the Bible and Koran. Yet, we are still living in sin. The problem is that in Nigeria, the issue of Christian and Muslim prayer is not the best. The weaponisation of religion is a big problem in Nigeria.

    “Democracy is work in progress. God doesn’t discriminate between Christian or Muslim prayers. There is no discrimination. We are children of one God. If we are not treating each other rightly, one of them must be a bastard.

    “Democracy and its principles are endless contests. There are certain things God has given us which people can’t control.

    “We, as Africans, inherited a system that’s not ours, but we can’t say it’s not relevant to us. There are differences between democracy in Asia and that of Africa. Singapore, for example. What do we make of the tenets of democracy in Africa?

    “I feel sorry for the judges. At the last election, even small me, I had people calling me, complaining, talk to this, talk to that. Pressure on judges to deliver justice. I agree that there’s an urgent need to clean up the mess.

    “Democracy is about everything, it’s about justice. How do we know if democracy is working in Nigeria? Do we measure democracy based on the things we wish ourselves?”

    In his remarks, former governor of Sokoto State, Aminu Tambuwal, said democracy in Nigeria is still work in progress but noted that its success depends on the commitment of political leaders to abide by the rules.
    Weighing on the emergency rule declared in Rivers State by President Bola Tinubu, Tambuwal recalled that there was cooperation of the National Assembly during a state of emergency under Obasanjo’s administration, saying democracy could work when political actors act responsibly.

    “Democracy will work if the actors play by the rules. It’s work in progress. Under Obasanjo, a state of emergency was declared. The NASS worked together to ensure that 2/3 majority passed the emergency. “Each member had to vote. In this same NASS, we have the same constitution. What happened in the last one? We need to chase out the bad operators of democracy”, he stated.

    Speaking at the event, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar said Ihedioha has remained loyal, even when they found themselves on different political platforms.

    “Emeka and I have kept this relationship and till today I have found him extremely loyal, dedicated and focused, even though sometimes we found ourselves on different political divides but we kept our relationship and I think that testifies with the kind of person Emeka is,” he said.

    On his part, former Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, Chief Emeka Anyaoku, traced the origin of democracy and what he and his team at the commonwealth did to promote its cause across the globe.

    Anyaoku said: “As Commonwealth Secretary-General, I helped members to transit to multi-party democracy. Also the collapse of apartheid administration in South Africa. Review of 1999 constitution
    “We need a new constitution to address many challenges. True federalism is the answer to the management of national issues.

    “The recent coup in Mali, Niger tend to take us back. The nature of our politics and the conduct of our politicians is another problem of our democracy.

    “They have become instruments of capturing political power. It’s only true, stable democratic governance that can rid our country of the crises which impede development.

    “I believe Nigeria can change this Eurocentric narrative. We in Africa and Nigeria have a responsibility to get a stable democracy and change the Eurocentric narrative.”

    While expressing gratitude to all who attended the event, the celebrant, Emeka Ihedioha, said: “My father told me the most expensive habit is having friends. I have lived my life pursuing the cause for democracy. We should all rise to defend democracy.

    “I urge all men to always speak truth to power and protect democracy. There’s life after money. I will remain who I am. For me and democracy, it is till God do us apart.”

  • OBJ @ 88: Obasanjo is a leader of all seasons – David Mark

    OBJ @ 88: Obasanjo is a leader of all seasons – David Mark

    ABUJA – Former President of the Senate, Senator David Mark, has described former President Olusegun Obasanjo as a leader of all seasons, recognizing his unwavering patriotism, dedication, and service to the nation.

    In a goodwill message celebrating Obasanjo’s 88th birthday, Mark commended the elder statesman’s hard work and commitment to nation-building, stating that Obasanjo laid a solid foundation for Nigeria’s growth and development.

    In a statement issued in Abuja by his Special Adviser on Media, Paul Mumeh, Mark praised Obasanjo as:

    “An uncommon administrator and a symbol of unity, equity, and justice. He is a true statesman who has made selfless contributions to the peace, unity, and development of Nigeria.”

    Mark extended warm felicitations on behalf of his family, praying that God grants Obasanjo good health as he continues to share his vast experience and wisdom with younger generations.

    “It is my prayer that the Almighty God keeps him in good health as he continues to serve our fatherland and guide the next generation with his wealth of experience.”

    He wished Obasanjo many more fruitful years, filled with peace, wisdom, and good health.

  • Obasanjo, Kenyatta, Desalegn to lead Democratic Republic of Congo peace process

    Obasanjo, Kenyatta, Desalegn to lead Democratic Republic of Congo peace process

    Eastern and southern African regional blocs have appointed former leaders from Ethiopia, Kenya and Nigeria to oversee their peace process for the Democratic Republic of Congo where fighting has intensified in the east of the country.

    The East African Community (EAC) and Southern African Development Community (SADC) have come together in recent weeks in an attempt to bring peace to eastern DRC, where the Rwanda-backed M23 armed group has seized large swathes of territory, triggering a humanitarian crisis.

    The two blocs agreed in a summit on February 8 to merge two separate peace processes — based in Luanda and Nairobi — that were operating before the latest escalation of violence.

    Late Monday, they issued a statement that they had appointed ex-Kenya president Uhuru Kenyatta, ex-Ethiopia prime minister Hailemariam Desalegn and ex-Nigeria president Olusegun Obasanjo as “facilitators” of this new peace process.

    It said the key goals included an “immediate and unconditional ceasefire” as well as humanitarian supplies and securitisation of the airport at Goma, one of the key cities taken by M23.

    The statement said the EAC and SADC would hold a ministerial meeting on Friday to “work on the details of the ceasefire”.

    Their summit on February 8 also called for a ceasefire, but this failed to take hold.

  • Google Maps: Obasanjo’s Library, Abia Tower, Emir’s Palace among Nigeria’s top reviewed places

    Google Maps: Obasanjo’s Library, Abia Tower, Emir’s Palace among Nigeria’s top reviewed places

    The Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library (OOPL), Abia Tower Roundabout in Umuahia, and Emir’s Palace in Kano have emerged as some of the most reviewed places in Nigeria, according to a recent report by Google commemorating the 20th anniversary of Google Maps.

    Other notable mentions include popular restaurants such as Farmcity Lekki Lounge, Crush Cafe, Hard Rock Cafe, and Domino’s Pizza in Wuse and Yaba. Highly rated cafés include Flowershop Cafe, Oliver’s Café, Salamander Cafe, Café de Vie, and Wood House Cafe.

    Visitor attractions such as Dimplediva_scent, Oniru Private Beach, The Good Beach, and New Berger Roundabout in Ojodu Ikeja also stood out for their growing popularity.

    Leading the rankings for parks are City Park Abuja, Muri Okunola Park, Tinubu Square, Ndubuisi Kanu Park, and Freedom Park Lagos. Among museums, the National Museum Benin City, Kalakuta Museum, National Museum Lagos, and Open Heavens International Centre topped the charts.

    Commenting on the milestone, Google West Africa’s Communications and Public Affairs Manager, Mr. Taiwo Kola-Ogunlade, said:

    “Google Maps has evolved from a basic navigation tool to a dynamic platform that helps people explore, discover, and share their experiences. The most reviewed places in Nigeria highlight the locations that matter most to our users, showcasing the country’s vibrant social and cultural landscape.”

    Since its launch in 2005, Google Maps has transformed how people navigate and explore the world. Kola-Ogunlade noted key features that continue to drive user engagement, such as:

    Gemini-Powered Recommendations: AI-driven suggestions for places to visit

    Augmented Reality (Live View): Real-time navigation cues

    Airport Navigation: The “Directory” tab for exploring airport amenities

    Fuel Station Finder: Helps users locate the cheapest petrol stations

    Street View Time Travel: Offers historical imagery of locations

    Group Planning & Reservations: Simplifies travel coordination

    AI-Powered Route Previews: Explore routes before travel

    Fuel-Efficient Routes: Environmentally friendly travel options

    Highlighting the global impact of Google Maps, Kola-Ogunlade shared key statistics:

    Over 1 trillion kilometers of directions provided

    250 million businesses and locations listed worldwide

    500 million user contributions annually

    100 million daily updates for fresh and accurate information

    As Google Maps continues to innovate, these most-reviewed locations showcase Nigeria’s vibrant cultural and social landscape through the lens of its diverse users.

  • How Obasanjo and Buhari embarrased Nigeria in Paris

    How Obasanjo and Buhari embarrased Nigeria in Paris

    “$6bn Mambilla power contract deal: Obasanjo, Bubari testify in Paris court”. Weekend Trust, January 25, 2025.

    “In every community there is a class of people profoundly dangerous to the rest. I don’t mean the criminals. For those we have punitive sanctions. I mean the leaders. Invariably, the most dangerous people seek power.” Saul Bellow, 1915-2005. VANGUARD BOOK OF QUOTATIONS, VBQ p 124.

    Nigeria must have set another undesirable record at the International Chamber of Commerce, ICC, Paris, France, “in connection with the $2.3 billion arbitration proceedings filed against Nigeria by Sunrise Power over an alleged breach of contract by the federal government.”

    The panel of arbitrators must have been embarrassed for Nigeria; because, it is quite possible that they have never had testifying before them one former President on account of a nation’s alleged breach of contract. Here was Nigeria dragging in two old men, former Presidents, who got their poor country into $2.3 billion hot water.

    The first question obviously is: did Obasanjo and Buhari, individually and collectively, feel embarrassed to be sitting in front of the panel of arbitrators?

    Let’s face it. There are some situations in which a honourable person, not to talk of a former President, should not find himself in public. For God’s sake, this is N3.68 trillion contingent liability to which Nigeria is exposed by the two former Presidents. And, they returned, without briefing the people whose funds they were about to throw away; as if nothing happened. The truth is; a lot might have happened. If the panel delivers a verdict against Nigeria, up to $2.3 billion, Nigerian assets everywhere in the world can be seized –

    including the Presidential jet.

    “Every country has the government it deserves”. John de Maistre, 1753-1821.

    Somebody else had warned that the people must be prepared for the punishment that results from choosing bad leaders. That, notwithstanding, is this leadership?

    What have Nigerians done to deserve this sort of thing? The worst part of the whole thing lies in the fact that the two of them will get away with this act against the poor people of Nigeria.

    Both of them being unrepentantly self-righteous will still continue to condemn corruption; as if what brought the nation to this dangerous situation was not ultimate corruption of administrative and legal processes under their governments. Like a lot of the problems facing us now in Nigeria, this one also had its origins in Obasanjo’s government, 1999-2007. Those old enough, as well as those with any sort of memory, would recollect that Obasanjo collected $13-16 billion with the stated intention to increase the nation’s power supply to 10,000MW per day by the time he left office in 2007.

    His Minister of Power was Engineer Lyel Imoke. How and why a major contract, – worth $6 billion and expected to generate 3,050MW from a hydropower station situated at the Manbilla Plateau, Taraba State, was assigned to the Minister of State, our brother, Dr Olu Agunlove remains a mystery. Today, that behemoth is perhaps the biggest abandoned project in Nigeria; and it might soon set Nigeria back by N3.68 trillion. It has already sent us retro walking into the dark ages.

    The original mess-up started between Obasanjo and Agunloye. After initially approving the contract, the ex-President, for reasons known to him, changed his mind and wanted the contract voided. Agunlove has since then been claiming that he received no instructions to stop it and went ahead to authorise Sunrise to proceed, only for the FG to stop it. You don’t have to be an authority on office procedures to realise that something must be fundamentally wrong and questionable in the way the President and Minister handled the matter. In my 52 years working in various organisations, 36 as staff reporting to superiors and sixteen as the Chief Executive Officer, CEO, I have been involved in situations in which instructions and approvals to commit organisation’s funds had later been rescinded by my superior officer.

    Thank God, in my MBA course in Boston, it was drilled into our heads that whether issuing or receiving instructions to commit funds, a written memorandum must be sent and received. And, if the original decision is voided or altered, another memo must follow. Obasanjo, in an interview with The Cable in 2023, reportedly said that, “If a commission of inquiry is set up today to investigate the matter, I am ready to testify.” That, to me, is a classic case of medicine after death. All he needed to do all along to exonerate himself was to produce the written authority to proceed with the project and the second one asking Agunlove to stop it.

    In one case during my career, my supervisor had instructed me, on phone, to raise a Local Purchase Order, LPO, to be issued to a company. I countered by requesting for the instruction in writing. He called to ask if I was questioning his authority. I sent another memo apologising; while stressing that I will carry out his instructions to the fullest. Six months later, the External Auditors pounced on the LPO; discovered that not only were the prices highly inflated, but, the LPO was issued to an unregistered company. As the originator of the LPO, I was the first person issued a query. A panel had been set up to look into all the questionable expenditures. My session lasted less than five minutes. I just presented the two memos between my boss and me. That was the end of the story, as far as I was concerned. My boss faced the music alone.

    Given Obasanjo’s lengthy experience in government, starting with being appointed a Federal Commissioner (Minister) under Gowon to becoming Chief of General Staff, CGS, under Murtala, to Military Head of State and finally civilian President, it is shocking that orders issued on vital matters that must be obeyed by subordinates were not issued in writing. By the same token, it is alarming that Dr Agunlove could not also support his claims with written evidence.

    Presidents Yar’Adua and Jonathan and their Attorney Generals and Ministers of Power committed unforgivable blunders by allowing the hot potato which Obasanjo and Agunlove left on the stove to remain there. Nigeria’s liabilities would not have been up to 25 per cent what it is now – if it was settled during those eight years.

    Buhari, whose government eventually terminated the contract, had no choice over the matter. His only mistake was procrastination which escalated the possible penalty. To be quite candid, the panel of arbitrators must be shaking their heads; wondering how a nation with Nigeria’s abundant manpower could have been governed by such leaders.

    Obasanjo once described late Chief Bola Ige, SAN, who served as his first Minister of Power and Steel; and failed as somebody who did not know his right hand from his left. It is doubtful if Obasanjo knew that he had hands at all and what to do with them.