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THE REBOUND OF TUNDE IRUKERA
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By Tunde Olusunle
I returned to the *Daily Times* of yore in October 1993, where I was already a columnist and special section editor before I proceeded on a leave-of-absence, in March 1992. Prince Abubakar Audu of blessed memory who was the first civilian Governor of Kogi State had tapped me as his Director of Information and Public Affairs in March 1992. My employers in Lagos obliged me with the permission to honour that call to service. I exited the system voluntarily, however, because the quantum chicanery, debauchery and shenanigans in the public service were alien to me. I had indeed in one instance been accused of deploying my goodwill in the national media to undermine my Principal, Audu! Here was a man who entrusted a 27 year old with a position of state responsibility at that age.
He got used to my principled style of sharing a sofa with him in his living room and savouring wines and lagers, while more senior officials pretentiously squatted on the floor, their gullets covetous of my ice-cold servings. Audu took me like a son until cracks were dug in the wall by third parties, and lizards invited to party in its crevices. Certain fall-outs of this situation were totally at variance with my very strict upbringing, principles and sense of professionalism. I was a child of many mentors and models who had sky high expectations from me. I had to take a stand to save my name and career.
You needed to see the avalanche of congratulatory messages sent to me by post, in the absence of modern day ICT over three decades ago, including my former teachers, Emeritus Professors Olu Obafemi and Niyi Osundare, both worthy recipients of the Nigerian National Order of Merit, (NNOM). Not forgetting the late Alhaji Abubakar Gimba, a former Executive Director in Union Bank, and the United Bank for Africa, (UBA), who I had engaged with at conferences of the Association of Nigerian Authors, (ANA) and interviewed on literature and national development. I was never privileged to meet the charismatic multimillionaire business mogul and later politician, Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola, (MKO), who surprisingly sent me a telegram. I had a long future ahead of me, I cherished the credibility I was cultivating and wouldn’t sacrifice it for a morsel of porridge.
I first reported to our offices at the Times Publications Division, (TPD), Agidingbi, Ikeja, Lagos, where I submitted my letter notifying the Daily Times leadership of my return from leave-of-absence. Among Editors and colleagues, I was very warmly received. A jostle began between the various publications in the Daily Times stable, about which of them wanted me the most. Dapo Aderinola, Editor of the flagship newspaper in the group, the *Daily Times,* badly wanted me. I was a favourite feature writer, who was headhunted, loved and projected by my bosses, notably the inspirational Dr Yemi Ogunbiyi, who as Managing Director of the Daily Times of Nigeria Plc, hired me. Chief Onyema Ugochukwu, who was my Editor and General Manager of TPD once minuted on a memo seeking his approval for my release for an interstate assignment: *I get a feeling that there is only Tunde Olusunle, and also Imoukhuede Ogunleye, (now departed), in that Department. What are the other fellows doing?* The *Sunday Times,* sister publication to *Daily Times* where I was first deployed upon being employed, was also pitching for me.
Ugochukwu was already Executive Director, Publications that October 1993, and he was to approve my reinstatement and deployment. He summoned me to the corporate headquarters of the Daily Times Group at Kakawa Street in Lagos Island. In his trademark baritone, he welcomed me from my assignment in Kogi and commended me for being a good ambassador of the organisation. He told me he was aware I was being sought after by every title Editor *”which is evidence of what you bring to the job.”* Having considered the requests and options, however, Ugochukwu said he had decided to deploy me to the Editorial Board, the intellectual engine room of the organisation: *”You have come back with broad-based insights which should benefit our wide range of newspapers. The Editorial Board is where you should be, so that your experiences can benefit the newspaper group. The Board of the organisation has also approved your promotion commensurate with your new assignment. Congratulations, Tunde,* Ugochukwu said as he offered me his hand.
I give this background inspired by the recent heartening appointment of Tunde Irukera, a former Executive Vice Chairman of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission, (FCCPC), as Chairman of the Board of Directors of Veritas Kapital Assurance Plc. Irukera, an attorney with three and half decades of post-call to bar professional experience, has practiced in Nigeria and the United States of America, in a very rich and eventful career. He was full-time Managing Partner, between 2006 and 2017, of *Simmons Cooper Partners, a Lagos-based law firm, founded by former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN.* He was previously a solicitor with *Partners, Attorneys and Counsellors LLC,* a law concern in Chicago, Illinois, between 2001 and 2006. Irukera’s relationship with Osinbajo culminated in his appointment as Director-General of the now reformed and renamed Consumer Protection Council, (CPC), in 2017.
Irukera approached his job with the kind of dedication and creativity uncommon in Nigeria’s typically self-serving public service. He desired that Nigerian consumers were genuinely truly shielded from the criminal antics and murderous mischief of shylocks, cheats and laggards masquerading as service providers, across board. He regularly and rigorously engaged with stakeholders across the country and admonished Nigerians to report infractions against their rights. These were promptly taken up by the FCCPC to the highest levels of jurisprudence. He took pride in appearing in the courts, fully robed as an attorney, to fight for the people. Sundays were work days for Irukera. You saw him personally leading law enforcement agencies to seal up erring institutions, not in corporate gear, but tee-shirts, jeans trousers and sneakers. Elsewhere, defaulting service providers were penalised in accordance with the provisions of the law. Applicable penalties were paid to designated government coffers, and not cannibalised between erring organisations and pliable public servants, who collaborated to undermine the people and the state. He rebuilt the erstwhile CPC from a wholly dependent department, to a financially independent parastatal, in the new FCCPC.
In 2023, the FCCPC under Irukera generated a historic N56 Billion. This was much more than the annual internally generated revenue raked up by many states especially in the North of Nigeria. He expanded the operations of the organisation for greater effectiveness and recruited many young graduates through very competitive test processes. He took off dozens of qualified and competent youths from despairing streets. New employees covered the enlarged operations of the reinvigorated FCCPC. After covering its salary bills and overhead expenditures, the FCCPC in 2023, still remitted a handsome N22Billion to the coffers of government. Unsolicited trophies and recognitions poured in for Irukera and FCCPC, especially those acknowledging the new regime of transparency in corporate governance, as well as innovation and creativity in the transformed government’s ombudsman.
It was a flustered populace therefore which woke up to the news of the removal of Irukera and the former Minister for Humanitarian Affairs, Betta Edu, same day early January 2024. While no reason was adduced for Irukera’s ouster, Edu was pointedly accused of corrupt enrichment. It took the Bola Tinubu administration about seven weeks before the Senate was able to ratify the concoction that Irukera was “inefficient” at his job! Which was the painful part for a man who poured his all into his job. My revulsion at this development informed my piece *Irukera: How not to Reward Altruism* published February 28, 2024. This explains my specific excitement at Tunde Irukera’s appointment on Thursday July 31, 2025, as Chairman of Veritas Kapital Assurance Plc, a private sector outfit which prioritises merit, competence, experience and vision. Irukera never went lounging in the waiting rooms of political godfathers hustling for recognition and absorption in the new scheme. That was totally beneath him. What are his well-earned gown and wig for?
I’m not in the business of self-adulation when I share my own experience during my first excursion to the corridors of power in Kogi State, like I’ve done here. I see a congruence in my experience and Irukera’s within the context of the fact that the truth and competence will speak for the just. After the ouster of the Ibrahim Babangida Third Republic project by Sani Abacha late 1993, Audu’s successor, Paul Omeruo recalled me and passed me on to his successor Bzigu Afakirya who retained me for well over a year. I have also been privileged to serve in Nigeria’s Presidency, under a President who was more concerned about what value I could offer, than the location of my father’s house in my community. And here is Irukera also rediscovered for the gem he is and promptly hoisted to the chair of the boardroom of one of the nation’s foremost non-life, general insurance companies. Irukera did well in chambers and courtrooms in Lagos, Abuja, Illinois and elsewhere; he acquitted himself in the sleaze-strewn entrails of the public service, he can only be trusted to distinguish himself in the boardroom of his new corporate brief. I congratulate this humble, fine, cultivated gentleman whose *Yagba* remains unaffected through times and tides, I celebrate this unobtrusive exemplar of finesse and commitment.
*Tunde Olusunle, PhD, Fellow of the Association of Nigerian Authors, (FANA), is an Adjunct Professor of Creative Writing at the University of Abuja
The Federal Government has demanded urgent action from South Africa to end recurring attacks on Nigerians and other African nationals, disclosing that 98 Nigerians have been killed in mob and hate-related incidents in the country since 2022.
The Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye, made the demand in Abuja on Monday while receiving South Africa’s Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola.
Lamola was sent to Nigeria as a special envoy by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa amid growing diplomatic tension over repeated attacks on foreign nationals.
The envoy delivered a message from Ramaphosa to President Bola Tinubu before holding talks with senior Nigerian officials led by Enikanolaiye.Executive Branch
Enikanolaiye said Tinubu directed the meeting to allow both countries to frankly discuss what he described as persistent “Afrophobic attacks” against Nigerians and other African migrants in South Africa.
“We have seen a pattern that has become a concern to the Nigerian government,” he said.
The minister cited outbreaks of anti-migrant violence dating back to 1995 and said official records showed that 98 Nigerians had been killed in mob attacks and hate-related violence in South Africa since 2022.
He warned that the continued attacks could damage the long-standing strategic relationship between Africa’s two largest economies.
Enikanolaiye urged Pretoria to take immediate and concrete measures to protect Nigerians and other foreign nationals legally residing in the country.Politics
The minister disclosed that the Federal Government had evacuated more than 1,500 Nigerians from South Africa following previous attacks.
He described receiving some of the evacuees as an emotional experience, noting that many returned home without their possessions.
“I shed tears when I received the first batch of evacuees. I saw children, women and the elderly returning home with almost nothing after their properties had been looted and destroyed. That is not the Africa we want,” he said.
Enikanolaiye said several victims were lawful residents and raised concerns over the alleged failure of South African security personnel to intervene during some attacks.
He argued that such incidents raised questions about state responsibility and the safety of foreigners living in South Africa.
The minister stressed that Nigeria would not defend citizens involved in drug trafficking or other criminal activities.
He, however, insisted that suspects must be arrested and prosecuted through the legal system rather than subjected to mob violence.
“Nigeria will not support drug traffickers or any criminal activity, but those accused of crimes must be treated in accordance with the rule of law, South Africa’s Constitution and international human rights standards,” Enikanolaiye said.
He maintained that criminal allegations should not be used to justify attacks on Nigerians and other migrants.
Enikanolaiye reminded the South African delegation of Nigeria’s role in the struggle against apartheid and the subsequent cooperation between both countries.
He recalled their collaboration in transforming the Organisation of African Unity into the African Union and promoting the New Partnership for Africa’s Development.
Despite the current tension, the minister reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to maintaining cordial relations with South Africa.
He expressed hope that continued dialogue would rebuild confidence, strengthen bilateral relations and protect the principle of African solidarity.
Responding, Lamola said his visit was aimed at reaffirming the historic friendship between Nigeria and South Africa while addressing concerns over violence against foreign nationals.
He acknowledged Nigeria’s contribution to the struggle against apartheid, saying South Africans remained grateful for the sacrifices made.
“We remain deeply indebted to the people of Nigeria for their sacrifice,” Lamola said.
He added that Ramaphosa and the South African government remained opposed to xenophobia, racism, discrimination, homophobia and other forms of intolerance.
The envoy, however, maintained that South Africa had a sovereign responsibility to enforce its immigration laws and combat irregular migration and criminal activities.
He identified drug trafficking, internet fraud and other offences as challenges the government was determined to address.
Lamola described migration as a continental challenge requiring cooperation among African countries under the African Union’s framework on orderly and regular migration.
“We believe that Nigeria and South Africa have a shared responsibility to respond to these challenges within the African continent,” he said.
He added that further details of Ramaphosa’s message to Tinubu would be discussed during a closed-door session.
Alleged masterminds of the failed plot to overthrow President Bola Tinubu’s administration had reportedly drawn up a three-point programme for implementation after taking control of government.
The proposed measures included a review of the removal of petrol subsidy, an adjustment of salaries and wages for members of the Armed Forces and other security agencies, and national honours for military personnel killed in active service.
According to Premium Times, details of the plan were reportedly contained in a handwritten note recovered from the residence of the alleged leader of the plot, an Army colonel, Mohammed Ma’aji.
Ma’aji and some of the alleged conspirators are currently facing proceedings before military and civil courts over the purported attempt to remove the democratically elected government.
The allegations against them have not been established by the courts.
Premium Times revealed that the document was among confidential materials gathered by investigators examining the alleged conspiracy.Government
A page of the note, titled “Immediate Actions,” reportedly listed the steps the alleged plotters intended to take after seizing power.
It read, “Set up a committee to review fuel subsidy removal.
“Set up a committee to review salaries and wages of all members of the Armed Forces and all security agencies.
“Set up a committee to recommend all fallen heroes for national award.”
Investigators reportedly said the note was recovered from Ma’aji’s home and subjected to forensic examination by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission.
The forensic report, dated January 26, was said to have been forwarded to the Defence Headquarters.
Colonel Admits Writing Note
Ma’aji reportedly admitted ownership of the document in a handwritten statement made during interrogation.
He was said to have told investigators that he personally wrote the proposed “action plans,” motivational statements and other entries in preparation for an alleged takeover of government.
Although the document was written in a jotter distributed as a souvenir at a social event, investigators reportedly considered its contents significant to understanding the alleged plot and the thinking of those involved.
The note was also said to contain about 20 motivational statements, which investigators believed reflected Ma’aji’s state of mind during the planning.
One of the entries read, “Money is the great way to lubricate the wheels of a coup d’état.”
Another stated, “All our dreams can come true if we have the courage to pursue them.”
The collection also included the statement, “Try not to become a man of success but a man of value,” which Ma’aji attributed to scientist Albert Einstein.
Other entries encouraged courage, persistence and the pursuit of long-term ambitions.
Plotters Allegedly Targeted Subsidy Policy
The reported proposal to review the removal of petrol subsidy appeared designed to address the economic hardship experienced by Nigerians since the policy was announced.Geographic Reference
Tinubu declared an end to fuel subsidy payments during his inauguration on May 29, 2023.
The decision led to a sharp rise in petrol prices and contributed to increases in transportation, food and other living costs.
Investigators reportedly believed the alleged conspirators hoped that reversing or reviewing the policy would attract public support for their planned government.
The proposed subsidy review was seen as the alleged plotters’ offer to Nigerians outside the military, while the other two measures focused on the welfare and recognition of security personnel.
Documents reviewed during the investigation reportedly showed that Ma’aji identified the salaries, allowances and living conditions of military personnel as a major reason for the alleged conspiracy.
In his statement, the colonel claimed there was widespread dissatisfaction among officers and soldiers over the treatment of their welfare.
“If you interact with officers and soldiers, 80 per cent are disgruntled already. And it was a voluntary thing. Nobody was coerced,” he reportedly wrote.
Ma’aji further claimed that he had abandoned the idea at one point but was encouraged to continue by other officers.
“In this recent effort, I had given up the motive, but some officers kept texting and calling for my intervention.
“There were none who, after I spoke to them, drew back after sharing the plan with them. The desire for change is genuine, and that has been what has kept the plan alive for a long time,” he added.
Military Welfare Remains Contentious
The remuneration and welfare of Nigerian military personnel have remained subjects of public concern for several years.Geographic Reference
Serving and retired personnel have repeatedly complained that their salaries and allowances do not adequately reflect the risks and demands associated with military service.
Families of personnel killed in active duty have also called for improved compensation, housing, education and long-term support.
Although the Federal Government has periodically introduced welfare measures and reviewed some allowances, military personnel and veterans have maintained that the interventions have not kept pace with inflation and the rising cost of living.
Investigators reportedly believed that the proposed national honours for fallen personnel and the review of security agencies’ salaries were intended to present the alleged takeover as an effort to improve conditions within the Armed Forces
Kebbi State Governor, Nasir Idris, on Monday conducted a mass wedding for 600 couples drawn from less privileged backgrounds in Birnin Kebbi, the state capital.
The ceremony was attended by the daughter of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Dr.
Mujidat Folashade Tinubu, alongside Islamic scholars and other dignitaries from across the state.
Speaking at the event, Governor Idris said the mass wedding was facilitated through his wife, Dr. Nafisa Nasir Idris’ NANA Foundation, in collaboration with the state government, in line with Islamic injunctions. He pledged that the initiative would continue for as long as he remains governor of the state.
According to the governor, the programme sponsored 300 women and another 300 beneficiaries, including widows and persons with disabilities.
The government, through the foundation, also paid an Islamic dowry of ₦250,000 for each couple.
Governor Idris congratulated the newly married couples and urged them to uphold the values and responsibilities of marriage in accordance with the teachings of Islam.
He also expressed appreciation to everyone who attended the ceremony, especially Dr. Mujidat Folashade Tinubu, Islamic clerics, and other dignitaries who graced the occasion.
Xenophobic Attacks: Details of What Nigeria, South Africa Discussed
Details Of Alleged Coup Leader’s Agenda Note Emerge
Kebbi Weds 600 Couples, Pays ₦250k Dowry Each
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