News
HOW FAR CAN WIKE GO?
BY GILBERT BWANSHAK
As active participants in Nigeria’s unfortunate and needless civil war that spanned three years between 1967 and 1970, and major players in the General Yakubu Gowon administration in the early to mid-70s, the duo of Generals Murtala Mohammed and Olusegun Obasanjo when they assumed leadership of Nigeria in 1975, reasoned the need for decisive and deliberate actions to unify the country. From inception, the Murtala/Obasanjo government resolved to build on the mileage covered by Gowon who was overthrown by the new crop of military rulers.
Their passion for true nationhood and commitment to patriotism and nation building led to the carving of Abuja as the new Federal Capital Territory of Nigeria. In doing this, the Murtala/Obasanjo government envisioned a federal capital that will be home to every Nigerian no matter your ethnicity, tribe, religion and any other persuasion. In their projection, Abuja should be a place where every Nigerian would have sense of belonging, inclusivity and true brotherhood among all citizens. The capital territory went through different stages and assumed various nomenclature; from proposed to emerging and substantive capital of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. In like manner, it witnessed many stages of development from raw state to infancy and what it is today. During the military regimes of Ibrahim Babaginda, Sani Abacha and Abdulsalami Abubakar the capital territory was given varied degrees of concentration by respective leadership. Given their orientation, background and experiences in the military profession, there were conscious efforts to maintain the status of Abuja as the unifying capital city of Nigeria and for Nigerians. In every way possible, they tried to toe the line of their superiors who birth the new capital city.
With Nigeria’s return to civilian governance in 1999 which saw the emergence of a retired military general, Olusegun Obasanjo as the new democratic president of Nigeria, many envisaged the further enforcement of Abuja as home for all. Being the other leg of the duo that carved and created the new federal capital, residents and Nigerians were expectant with deliberate enthusiasm. In his own way, the Obasanjo government endeavoured to meet the aspiration of Nigerians. Though much was not achieved in the first term (1999-2003) but the story changed in the second term (2003-2007), as considerable mileage were covered in few areas, particularly restoring the original plan of the federal capital territory.
According to opinions and comments of many long term residents of Abuja, it was obvious that though past ministers of the Federal Capital Territory tried in their respective tenures to ensure the all-inclusivity vision of the founders of Abuja, in some ways the bureaucracy favoured a particular section of the country. Perhaps this may not be their making considering the evolution of Abuja particularly as it relates to personnel recruitment at it’s formative years. This trend continued from one administration to the other. Somehow, it was only during the tenure of Mallam Nasir El-Rufai that attempts were made to correct the skewed bureaucracy. Even at that, some people argued that the former Kaduna state governor was calculative and strategic in appointing and posting of those carefully selected to juicy positions and departments.
However it became worse in the last administration. Previously laid down guidelines and rules for some appointments were flagrantly abused. Adherence to federal character were deliberately jettisoned. For instance, while previous administrations ensured that one Mandate Secretary was picked to represent each of the six geo-political zones, this well-thought principle was shoved aside. In virtually all departments and units, the depth of skewed bureaucracy was glaring. In many ways, it affected the morale of workers such that service delivery took the backseat.
When Nyesom Wike assumed office as the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory in the third quarter of 2023, many workers wondered if he would have the nerve to address these anomalies. Many staff secretly wish that Wike would have the political will to right the wrong in the ministry’s bureaucracy which was eroding trust, believe, and cohesion. Many agreed that if the trend persists it will lead to widespread failure in service delivery which may impact negatively on the development of the territory.
In almost a year in office, Wike (and his junior Minister) have made significant landmarks in many sectors. From building of bridges, roads, and Infrastructures in other sectors to the improvement and upgrade of facilities, Wike has recorded achievements that dwarfs that of his predecessors. Fact is, of all the past ministers, only El-Rufai posted achievements that are close to what is happening in Abuja now. A visit round the city and across the six Area Councils will convince everyone that Wike is working.
Over the past couple of months, some profound and transformational policies have been introduced in the governance structure of the federal capital territory. Perhaps unknown to him, in a quiet, meticulous, and deliberate approach to leadership and governance, Wike has been taking decisions which are in total conformity with the ideals and visions of the founder fathers and creators of Abuja as the federal capital of Nigeria. For a start, with the endorsement of President Bola Tinubu, the minister has succeeded in the restructuring of the entity from a ministry-focal to full-state structure with all the compliments of necessary appurtenances. With this singular and successful step, the scope of the vision of governance in the federal capital has swiftly expanded.
For the first time since it’s creation over four decade ago, the bureaucracy of the federal capital has weaned itself from the control of the Federal Civil Service by having its own; FCT Civil Service Commission. As a follow-up, the pioneer FCT’s Head of Service was appointed. In addition, ten(10) Permanent Secretaries were subsequently appointed and deployed to fit into the new governance and organisational structure of the federal capital territory. Similarly, to encourage gender equality and deepen inclusivity, which was the main reason for creating the federal capital territory the Women Affairs Secretariat was empaneled thereby increasing the Mandate Secretariats to seven.
It is instructive that Wike has been adhering to the principles of federal character in appointments, deployment of staff and every bureaucracy in the federal capital territory. From observation and comments by staff and residents there are empirical proofs to confirm that Wike is meticulously maintaining and sustaining the visions and principles of the federal capital territory which are also in sync with the agenda of Tinubu. Just as he ensured that the positions of the six Mandate Secretaries were given to people from the six geo-political zones, the ten Permanent Secretaries were evenly distributed, same with Directors of key Agencies and Departments.
Wike’s courageous actions has emplaced equity, fairness and justice in the federal capital territory. Though it has elicited minor hush-hush murmurings among few people but the vast majority of staff are excited. With adherence to competence, track record and experience many have witnessed rightful placements and long over-due promotions. Suddenly, a new culture of inclusivity, belonginess and unity is now in the federal capital territory. Unlike in the past when your career progression is solely anchored on where you come from, the reverse is the case. Workers are now encouraged to put in their best knowing that they would be appropriately appreciated through career growth when the need arises.
Though a huge percentage of federal capital territory’s over 7,000 work force are extremely happy with Wike’s commitment to all inclusivity, some are worried if he can sustain it till the end of his tenure. Few are also concerned that he may be victim of intense pressure and sustained blackmail orchestrated by few people who believe that every juicy positions in the federal capital territory is their birthright. Given Wike’s commitment to equity, fairness and justice as eloquently exemplified during his political fight with the People’s Democratic Party presidential candidate during the last general election, it is certain that he will not bow to any intimidation and subterfuge. As a firm believer in “agreement na agreement” Wike is expected to enforce and ingrain the principles of law, order, justice, fairness and equity in the federal capital territory under his watch.
* GILBERT BWANSHAK is an Abuja based public affairs analyst
Coalition throws weight behind Gov Otu’s CoS, says allegations against him are tissues of lies
A Coalition for the Protection of Democracy in Nigeria has thrown its weight behind Dr Emmanuel Ironbar declaring that the allegations against him are all tissues of lies.
This was contained in a statement issued and signed by Dr Gabriel Nwambu on behalf Coalition for the Protection of Democracy in Nigeria stating that:
“The Unwavering Loyalty of Dr. Emmanuel Ironbar and the Futility of Opposition Smear
Campaigns.
“It has become absolutely necessary to address the recent barrage of false, politically motivated,
and malicious allegations directed at the Chief of Staff to the Cross River State Governor, Dr.
Emmanuel Ironbar.
” As the Convener of the Coalition for the Protection of Democracy in Nigeria,
I stand to categorically set the record straight regarding the impeccable character and
undisputed loyalty of a man who has given his all to the success of Governor Prince Otu’s
administration.
“Recently, certain opposition figures and clandestine elements have orchestrated a campaign of
calumny, falsely claiming that Dr. Ironbar controls government appointments and unduly
influences the administration.
“Let it be known that these spurious allegations, designed to mutilate his impeccable integrity
and subject him to public ridicule, are baseless, dead on arrival, and ill-fated.
“A Track Record of Proven Loyalty
Dr. Emmanuel Ironbar is a leader whose dedication and loyalty to His Excellency, Governor
Prince Otu, are not just absolute, but historically proven. When Governor Otu faced immense
political challenges and fair-weather allies turned their backs, Dr. Ironbar stood firmly by his
side. He offered his unwavering support when it mattered most.
“Common sense and history dictate that a man who believed in you and fought for your mandate
when nothing was happening cannot and will not undermine you when success arrives. Dr.
Ironbar’s loyalty is rare, tested, and ranks among the strongest in our modern political
leadership. He remains an unrepentant loyalist and a deeply focused aide.
“A Disciplined Public Servant
To suggest that the headline Chief of Staff operates independently or usurps the Governor’s authority is a
deliberate attempt to mislead the public and distract this administration.
“The facts are clear:
● Total Subordination: Dr. Ironbar is a man who acts strictly at the instructions of Governor
Otu. Every action he takes is a reflection of the Governor’s mandate.
● Unfeigned Humility: In every interaction and execution of his duties, he consistently
directs all credit, recognition, and respect to His Excellency.
● Administrative Focus: His primary objective is the seamless operation of the
government, ensuring that the Governor’s vision is executed efficiently.
“A Call for Constructive Engagement
We urge these opposition critics to immediately cease dragging the office and person of the
Chief of Staff into unnecessary, fabricated political controversies.
“You cannot distract a
government that has its eyes firmly set on the prize.
“Governor Otu’s administration remains united, fundamentally stable, and aggressively committed to delivering good governance through its “People-First” agenda. The Coalition for
the Protection of Democracy in Nigeria will continue to stand against any orchestrated attempts
by detractors to derail democratic progress and vilify dedicated public servants.
“Dr. Emmanuel Ironbar’s integrity remains intact, his loyalty remains unquestionable, and the
desperate plots of his detractors remain doomed to fail.
President Bola Tinubu has directed the immediate and permanent reinforcement of security at the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru, Plateau State, following a recent attack on the institution’s perimeter that claimed the lives of two soldiers and a police officer.
The directive was conveyed on Friday by Vice President Kashim Shettima during a visit to the institute, where he addressed participants of the Senior Executive Course (SEC) 48 on behalf of the President.
According to the Vice President, the attack has strengthened the Federal Government’s resolve to protect critical national institutions, support security personnel and ensure that similar incidents do not occur in the future.
Expressing the condolences of the Federal Government, Shettima sympathised with the families of the fallen security personnel and assured them of government support.
“I come to you with a heavy heart and a firm spirit. A banditry attack on the perimeter of NIPSS claimed the lives of two gallant soldiers and one courageous policeman. To their families, to the Nigerian Armed Forces, and to the Nigeria Police Force, I extend, on behalf of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, and the entire Federal Government, our deepest condolences.
“We mourn with you. We share your pain. And we honour their sacrifice,” he was quoted as saying.
The Vice President announced that President Tinubu had ordered the activation of emergency security measures at the institute, directing the Director-General of NIPSS to work closely with the Armed Forces, the Nigeria Police Force and the Department of State Services (DSS) to strengthen security around the facility.
“His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, has directed that emergency security measures be activated at once, with the DG to coordinate with the Armed Forces, the Police, and the DSS to fortify the perimeter without delay.
“On the President’s order, a comprehensive action plan and timeline for permanent reinforcement, covering surveillance, personnel, access control, and emergency systems, must be submitted to the Office of the Vice President within seventy-two hours. Weekly progress reports will follow until full completion. No future attack must find us unprepared,” he added.
Shettima described NIPSS as Nigeria’s strategic intellectual nerve centre and a vital national asset whose protection must remain a top national security priority.
He noted that although the attackers intended to create fear and disrupt the training of future leaders, the incident instead demonstrated the courage, resilience and discipline of participants, management and security personnel at the institute.
Addressing staff and participants, the Vice President assured them that their safety remained a priority for the Federal Government.
“Your safety is non-negotiable. The President has directed the immediate reinforcement of security around NIPSS and all strategic institutions. The sacrifice of those three brave men will not be in vain. Their children will be our children. Their welfare will be our responsibility,” he said.
He further stressed that those responsible for the attack would not succeed in undermining the purpose and mission of the institute.
Commending the participants of SEC 48 for their conduct during the incident, Shettima said they had demonstrated qualities befitting future national leaders.
“When darkness came to the gates of this Institute, it expected to find people who would scatter into the night. It found instead men and women who stood their ground.
“You did not flee. You did not abandon your colleagues. You faced the worst that cruelty could send, and you answered it with composure, with courage, and with the steady discipline of people who understand exactly why they were summoned to this place,” he noted.
The Vice President also praised the Director-General of NIPSS, Ayo Omotayo, for his leadership and swift coordination with security agencies, which ensured the prompt deployment of reinforcements and the safety of participants and staff.
He similarly commended the Director of Studies, Barrister Nima Salman Mann, for maintaining order and coordinating the safety of staff and participants during the crisis.
Earlier, Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang expressed appreciation to the Federal Government for its support and the Vice President’s visit, describing it as a demonstration of empathy and solidarity following the attack.
The governor approved NIPSS management’s request for the establishment of a buffer zone around the institution, as well as the installation of security lights and other measures to enhance security in the area.
He also paid tribute to the fallen security personnel and praised the bravery of staff and course participants who helped repel the attackers and prevent further incursion into the institute.
In his remarks, the Director-General of NIPSS, Omotayo, presented an incident report to the Vice President and appealed for additional security support, including the deployment of more personnel and the installation of surveillance infrastructure such as CCTV cameras around the institution.
He noted that the attack underscored the vulnerability of critical government institutions across the country and highlighted the need for improved security measures.
As Ekiti State prepares for Saturday’s governorship election, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has assured voters of its readiness to conduct a free, fair, and credible poll.
The Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) in Ekiti State, Bunmi Omoseyindemi, urged eligible voters to participate confidently in the electoral process, stressing that the commission remains committed to delivering a transparent and impartial election.
Speaking with Channels Television, during preparations for the exercise, Omoseyindemi said INEC had resolved all logistical challenges and put adequate measures in place to ensure the timely deployment of personnel and election materials across the state.
He also highlighted the close collaboration between INEC and security agencies through the Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security (ICCES), noting that the partnership is aimed at guaranteeing a peaceful and secure voting environment.
The REC further disclosed that the INEC Result Viewing Portal (IReV) would be deployed during the election to enhance transparency by enabling real-time upload and public viewing of polling unit results.
Meanwhile, a coalition of civil society organisations monitoring the election under the European Union Support to democratic governance in Nigeria (EU-SDGN) Election Observation Hub has expressed concern over reports of voter inducement, political intimidation and disinformation ahead of the poll.
At a pre-election press conference, the group alleged that incidents of vote-buying involving cash, food items, and the collection of Permanent Voter Card (PVC) and National Identification Number (NIN) details through pre-funded bank accounts had been reported in parts of Irepodun/Ifelodun, Ikole, Ikere, Ekiti East and Ekiti West Local Government Areas.
The observers also raised concerns over the spread of misinformation on social media, including unverified claims regarding the use of cloned PVCs to manipulate election outcomes.
While describing the overall security situation in the state as largely peaceful, the coalition urged political parties, candidates and their supporters to refrain from vote-buying, intimidation and the dissemination of false information.
The group also called on security agencies to remain professional and neutral throughout the electoral process, while encouraging voters to exercise their democratic rights freely and without fear, coercion or inducement.
The 2026 Ekiti State governorship election will hold on Saturday, June 20, across the state’s 16 local government areas, with more than 1 million registered voters expected to decide whether Governor Biodun Oyebanji secures a second term or a new leader emerges.
According to INEC, a total of 1,059,360 registered voters are eligible to participate in the election, which will be conducted across 2,445 polling units located in 177 wards. Voting is scheduled to commence at 8:30 a.m.
Authorities have also announced a statewide restriction on vehicular movement from midnight until 6:00 p.m. on election day to facilitate the smooth conduct of the exercise.
Although 14 candidates are contesting the election, with Governor Biodun Oyebanji of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Oluwole Oluyede of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and Dare Bejide of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as the leading contenders.
INEC has confirmed the distribution of sensitive election materials to local government areas and assured voters of the readiness of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS).
Security agencies have also deployed personnel and operational assets across the state, particularly in border communities and other strategic locations, to maintain law and order throughout the electoral process.
Civil society organisations monitoring the election have urged residents to participate peacefully and responsibly, emphasising the importance of safeguarding the integrity of the democratic process.
Statement by the Coalition for the Protection of Democracy in Nigeria
Tinubu Orders Security Reinforcement At NIPSS
Ekiti Gov’ship Election: INEC Assures Voters Of Credible Poll As CSOs Raise Concerns
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