Opinion
Minus fuel subsidy, plus wahala, By Dan Agbese
Crude oil has been good to our nation. Very good, indeed. It is easy to rhapsodise our oil wealth and the little village, Oloibiri, where it all began in 1956. Oil wealth rescued Nigeria from the economic pit of hell and transformed it into a modern nation in the eternal time it takes to say Lord Lugard. It made the country famous and numbered it among the rich nations of the earth.
Without the stupendous oil revenue, we most probably would still be clawing our way out of that pit as one of the least developing nations burdened with poverty and diseases. Life here would be more brutish and even shorter. But there would be no thieves in high places or bandits or kidnappers because there would not be much money to steal. No money, no corruption. Millionaires, let alone billionaires, are not minted from peasant agriculture. Because crude oil is, we are where we are as a nation, and we have become what we are as a nation. That is the good news known to every primary school pupil in the land.
The bad news is that there is such thing as oil curse. Michael L. Ross wrote his 2012 book, The Oil Curse, on it. He did not define the curse of oil. He chose instead, to point to its negative effects on the lucky developing nations under whose soil nature deposited the precious oil-bearing hydrocarbon. However, he made the point that more money in the coffers of governments of oil-rich developing nations has not been the blessing it ought to be. Or, to put it another way, it has been a mixed blessing. A combination of forces has turned oil into a curse. When American oil prospectors told King Idris of Libya that they had struck oil in his country, according to a quotation lifted by Ross, he did not jump for joy. Instead, the king told them with a certain degree of royal prescience: “I wish your people had discovered water.”
On page 234 of his book, Ross wrote: “The oil curse is largely caused by the unusual properties of petroleum revenues. Unless countries are already wealthy and have strong institutions at the time that oil production begins – Norway or Canada – they can cause political and economic problems.”
The current social dislocation and the economic woes occasioned by the removal of petroleum subsidy points to how careless we have been in elevating crude oil to the main source of our national wealth. We earn some 80 per cent of our foreign earnings from it. Easy wealth has lulled into unpardonable complacency in the management of our oil wealth.
Crude oil is not a dependable pillar of social and economic development in an oil-producing nation. Crude oil is a depletable source. The oil fields that gush oil today can dry up tomorrow and sink our nation below the globally recognised poverty level. Crude oil is a buyers’s market. When the buyers lower the prices, the treasuries are empty.
It follows that an oil-producing nation that builds its castle of social stability and economic progress on oil revenue is building it all on fine sand. The castle is sooner than later shattered by the winds of volatility in the crude oil market.
Our leaders, in khaki and agbada, never failed to talk of diversifying the economy to cushion it against the inevitable bad attitude of crude oil and save the country from descending from the Olympian heights of oil wealth into the marsh of poverty. Agriculture, even in its peasant stage, is a more dependable pillar of social stability and economic development. No one needed telling. But more lip service was paid to it than the concrete and sustained steps it needed. So, the agriculture land sprawls in all directions in its brown glory. The green revolution was mere bureaucracy.
If you ever had problems with appreciating our precarious position in our near total dependence on crude oil, the current difficulties in managing the national economy post the removal of fuel subsidy from June last year should tell you what hold crude oil has on every aspect of our national life. Its power goes far beyond the earnings from it. No one ever thought that the removal of fuel subsidy would turn out to be such a great social, political, and economic problem.
The fuel subsidy was rightly conceived as part of the welfare system to make fuel relatively cheaper for the citizens of an oil-producing nation. It was turned into an easy money-making venture by men and women who could not even spell crude, as in crude oil. The corruption in its administration became a source of national frustration. It should follow that its removal should rank as a calculated attempt to de-rich the oil importers and save the country what was corruptly stolen through the corrupt administration of the fuel subsidy regime. It has turned out that the removal of the fuel subsidy is much more complicated than lancing the boil on the nation’s economic management nose.
Crude oil and the easy flow of petro-dollar from it has made the easy life a virtue in our country. Whatever threatens this life of somnolence is resisted by the primary beneficiaries of a social and economic system that protects itself from radical reforms. Oil glut resulted in lower prices paid for our crude oil in 1982. President Shehu Shagari imposed austerity measures to rein in our spending on non-essential goods such as champagne and Argentine steak and stabilise the system.
An instant reaction by our young people was exemplified by the Andrew syndrome. They could not take it. And there began the steady stream of the Andrews checking out known as brain drain. The whiff of the current economic difficulties gave us a Yoruba word, japa. Our young people are jumping out of the leaking boat in search of greener pastures in countries built, not without some difficulties by their citizens. Their citizens stayed home and salvaged their countries. We choose not to remember the exhortation by Major-General Muhammadu Buhari, to remain here and salvage the country together. When he came as a military ruler, there was Andrew; by the time he left office as president, there was/is japa.
If poverty is the root cause of social and political problems and instability, it should then follow that wealth will be a solution to, and a stabilising factor, in all countries whose revenues largely depend on oil wealth. It is not so. One reason is that oil wealth parades paradoxes exemplified by our history in the management of our oil wealth. We are a rich but poor nation. Our country is the officially crowned poverty capital of the world. Because of oil, we are rich and yet, because of oil, we are poor. We have more poor people in our country, 158 million of them by the last count, than the combined population of the countries of the West African sub-region.
We should not be where we are today. Four oil refineries are enough to meet all our domestic fuel needs. But they have been dead since the death of dodo. We have lived all these years through the contradiction of a major world oil-producing nation exporting its crude and licensing independent oil importers to import the refined products home at prices subsidised by our taxes.
These times tax our economic managers in how best to respond, not just to the public protests in some of our major towns and cities, but more importantly to the present and the future of our national oil economy. When the public space is poisoned as it is now with social protests over the difficulties blamed on the fuel subsidy removal, the choices are made more difficult. The immediate choice is to find a short-term plan to address the people’s grievances and end the protests. One option is to roll back the removal of fuel to appease the people. It is not an option, really. It will only be our national shuffle: one step forward, two steps backward. The government must show courage and determination to pull the nation through this. It must grit its teeth and commit itself to a radical paradigm shift in the management of our economy that will replace our crude oil economy with a sustainable agricultural economy.
BY BOLAJI AFOLABI
Poring over countless title-ideas for this article, the above emerged from the blues. Further checks about the subject confirmed the title as fit and proper. Describing Tunde Olusunle as a “prodigious wordsmith” is no exaggeration. In every of his work, he comes across as one who has vocabulary virtuosity, and endowed with narrative mastery. He displays unimaginable linguistic dexterity which is intertwined with rhetorical flair, and imbued with creative vision. He carves the right words, and descriptive styles to paint beautiful scenery of complex and cumbersome situations. He crafts, engages, and suspends readers till the last words are happily soaked in. So, the title is both deliberate and intentional.
Dr. Tunde Olusunle, an Adjunct Professor of Creative Writing at the University of Abuja; which was recently re-named Yakubu Gowon University, is a man of many parts. He is a celebrated journalist; author; poet; communicator; and public speaker. Thus, he fits into all the fields where intellect, elucidation, and erudition coalesce. As a Columnist and Editor, he rose to the top of Journalism. In Literature, aside from having degrees, he has many published (and yet to be published) poems. He has written, co-written, edited, and co-edited over a dozen books; earning the Fellowship of the Association of Nigerian Authors, (FANA). In the last few years in academia, he is making exceptional accomplishments as a scholar, teacher, and researcher nurturing and mentoring a new generation of creative writers.
Sometime in the ’90s; during the Late General Sani Abacha regime, the writer went to the Saka Tinubu, Victoria Island, Lagos office of an elder brother; Ade-Ralph Olamife. After late lunch at the classy canteen within the precincts of the Nigeria Telecommunications Limited, (NITEL) offices, the host extended an invitation. He said, “I want you to join me later today to meet a friend coming from Ikeja.” About 7 pm, we (Olamife, two other friends, and the writer) drove into Bishop Oluwole Street in Victoria Island, Lagos. The building was the Kogi state Liaison Office at that time. Surprisingly, the august friend, who came with another person was already seated. After the exchange of pleasantries, the subject of this article was introduced by Olamife. Olusunle, who came with Alhaji Hakeem Bello; later Media Adviser to Babatunde Raji Fashola, (SAN), interacted freely with everyone. During the over two hours sit-out, Olusunle came across as a witty, lively, intelligent, and brilliant personality.
After this first meeting, the writer; through Olamife had subsequent interactions with Olusunle in Ikeja, Maryland, Ikoyi, and Victoria Island areas of Lagos. On every occasion, he exudes confidence and accessibility just as his humble and humane attributes come alive. After over a year of gap, largely due to the analogue communication state, and his relocation out of Lagos, Olamife broke the cheering news of Olusunle’s appointment as the Chief Press Secretary to the Kogi state Military Administrator; Col. Paul Omeruo. A few months later, the writer accompanied (as usual) Olamife; to visit Omeruo in Lokoja. By the way, both Olusunle and Olamife are mutual friends to the Administrator, fondly referred to as PUNO; initials of his names. During the two-week visit, Olusunle was the perfect host; he made every evening eventful and memorable. From discussions, many civil servants spoke glowingly about him. In and around the Lugard House; Administrator’s residence and office, as well as Ministries, Departments, and Agencies, (MDAs), his interpersonal relationships were eulogized. Succinctly, he could be described as a people’s man.
With the birth of democracy in May 1999, and the inauguration of Chief Olusegun Obasanjo as the President and Commander in Chief of Nigeria, the writer partially relocated to Abuja, hoping to explore opportunities in the new government. Watching the Nigerian Television Authority’s flagship news, the advert inviting people to the official launch of the new administration’s “Campaign for National Rebirth” sounded interesting. The writer made his way to the purposely-built Eagle Square venue of the event. As the programme progressed, the presence and importance of Olusunle was very evident. Events over, the writer swiftly moved from the stands down the platform to offer salutations to him. Pushed, shoved aside by over-zealous security operatives, it was a herculean task. At the point of giving up, an incident happened which diverted the attention of almost everyone. Leveraging on this, the writer made his way to the dais. Standing before Olusunle, he called the writer’s name, hugged, and exchanged pleasantries. Quickly, he said, “I’ll be out of Abuja for one week, meet me at Sheraton Hotels next week please.”
The writer’s visit to Sheraton Hotels marked the beginning of a relationship that has grown in leaps and bounds. Either at the Hotel’s Papillon Restaurant or the Poolside Bar, and Nicon Noga (now Transcorp) Hilton Hotel, the compassionate, empathetic, and accommodating attributes of Olusunle always come to the fore. They were unmistakable and unequivocal. During one of the numerous visits, he requested for the writer’s curriculum vitae; without saying what he wanted to do with it? It was discovered, early that he loves working behind the scenes. Beneficiaries of his advocacy, and benevolence only get to know when “food don done for eating.” One recalls on a visit to his 7th floor, Sheraton Hotels “temporary official residence” he beckoned on the writer to accompany him to somewhere. In a few minutes, we were in one of the suites at the Hilton Hotel, only to see Chief Onyema Ugochukwu, emeritus journalist, and public administrator walked in. With shock, suspense, and excitement written on one’s face, Olusunle introduced the writer saying, “Oga, this is one of our younger but silent supporters.”
A few months later, the import of that visit came to light. Through the persistent advocacy, and resilient prodding of Ugochukwu and Olusunle, President Obasanjo gave approval for major recruitments to strengthen the rebirth campaign, and public affairs management of the new government. So, the writer and other people benefitted from a forward-thinking proposal that was primarily targeted at media professionals who were part of the Obasanjo presidential campaign organization. Pastor Tumo Ojelabi, a retired Federal Director who was one of the beneficiaries declared that, “Oga, is a fastidious personality, a determined helper who can be positively stubborn, and dogged when pursuing a course that he has strong conviction about.” Continuing, Ojelabi, who was the official Photographer to Obasanjo during the presidential campaign said, “but for his resilience, courage, and never-quiver spirit; and Oga Ugochukwu, many of us who toiled during the campaigns would have been left dry.” For Mr. Taiwo Akinyemi, who was Obasanjo’s campaign Official Videographer, “Olusunle is a fighter; a dynamic fighter for other people. When he realized that politicians who did not contribute much to Baba’s electoral success were getting their loyalists into the new government, he fought relentlessly for us all. God used him to get me employed in the federal civil service, I remain eternally grateful.”
Olusunle is a pan-Nigerian, totally detribalized, and not given to ethnicity, religious segregation and similar stereotype. Described by close friends as diligent, dedicated, and devoted to friendship, Olusunle remains a restless and tireless quester for knowledge and new challenges. Given his multi-dimensional, and multi-tasking skills and proficiencies, he can excel in whatever profession, assignment, and position. Energized by his voracious search for new ideas, he is almost, always thinking out of the box. Very ingenious, creative, and imaginative, one recalls few initiatives that came from his fertile mind during the Obasanjo presidency. Persistent encouraging words about Nigeria’s sports which led to the inclusion of the “sports brief” to his schedules. Advocacy for the hosting of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting, (CHOGM) at any of the nation’s resorts; which informed him leading a team of journalists, tourism experts, and bureaucrats to the Yankari Games Reserves in Bauchi. What about the National Media Tour, though initiated by him but hijacked by a few top government officials who at the end muddled the entire programme?
Corroborating, Mr. Vincent Oyefeso, a retired Federal Director, and another beneficiary of the Obasanjo appointments approval, said, “he is an illustrious Nigerian and a patriot per excellence, who bestrides many walks of life as an intellectual collossus, a humanist of no mean hue, and an advocate of the finest social ethos. At the realms of public communications, the academia, and public service, he exudes the best practices worthy of emulation by right-thinking compatriots.” For Mr. Ukadike Uwabor, a media communications consultant, “since I’ve known him, he has remained consistent with the core values of excellence, versatility, and intellect. He relates perfectly with different people no matter the age, religion, tribe, or social status. Little wonder his friends cut across different strata of the society. That the people of Umukabia autonomous community in Abia state conferred on him a chieftaincy title; which is outside his geographical, ethnic, and linguistic zone speaks volumes about his personality.” Olusunle by the way, has few other titles bestowed on him in different parts of the country.
Agreed, no human being is perfect but the writer has personal experiences about Olusunle that remains nostalgic. Indeed, the over two decades relationships have grown from one stage to the other. From boss to teacher, mentor, and motivator. He has played (and continues to play) different roles in one’s professional development, and career progression. Perhaps, he may not realize this; while working with him, Olusunle doesn’t attend meetings alone. The writer, Late Alhaji Wasiu Anjous, and (on few occasions) Akinyemi accompanied him to any meeting, particularly with MDAs. Another striking feature was that he introduced you as a “colleague.” With that, one’s stock, respect, and recognition increases. One of the fall-out of such remarkable style happened at the 2004 Olympics Games in Greece, when Late Mr. Solomon Matankari, Nigeria’s Chef de Mission, and Sports Ministry’s Permanent Secretary insisted on the participation of Anjous and the writer in high-level meetings.
Not persuaded by the hierarchical structure of the civil service, Olusunle places premium on availability, delivery, and consistency. Just a few months after being deployed to his office, the writer had a baptism of fire. Barely 48 hours after one of the regular presidential chats, Olusunle passed the recorded tape, and declared, “do transcribe and deliver in three days.” Sensing shock, and surprise, he encouraged, “you can do it, go at your pace.” On another occasion, a few days after commending the writer on a piece, “From Saw Dust To The Skies,” he said, “write a speech for Dr. Mrs. Kema Chikwe, the Aviation Minister, for a programme this Saturday to be held in Garki, Abuja.” Though tough but exciting, it marked my entry into the exclusive class of speech writers; till this moment. Sometime in 2023; after long hiatus from opinion writing, due to a new assignment at the National Assembly, the writer did a piece. Impressed, Olusunle called immediately, “BJ, I’ve just read your brilliant article. I encourage you to make this more regular, please. I’m available to offer any support where and when necessary.” Truly, he has kept faith to his promise in the over thirty articles written between December 2023 and now.
This is the man we are celebrating today, and always. Olusunle is an extremely organized personality, whose writings and interventions are laced with irrefutable data, educative instances, and inspiring suggestions. When occasions demands, you can’t help but applaud his depth of knowledge, information reservoir, deep vistas, and un-ending capacity. Oyefeso prays that, “the Lord grants him peace as he steps into the sixth floor. The Father of Lights will continually uphold and uplift him from Glory to Glory in Jesus Name.” Mr. Jacob Zwings, aide to Director-General, National Orientation Agency added that, “Oga Tunde, in his own way has impacted positively on the lives of people. On the occasion of his Diamond jubilee, I pray that God will perfect everything that concerns him and his family.” Akinyemi declared that, “just as he has been a blessing to other people’s children, God will bless him, his wife, and children.” Uwabor believes that, “Enyi Oha has become a reference point to many people. The good Lord will grant him more years in good health as he age gracefully with abundance of all-round blessings.” Ojelabi affirmed that, “Olusunle is who he is today; an accomplished man who stands tall among his peers because of his commitment towards extending helping hands to those who needs it.”
* BOLAJI AFOLABI, a Development Communications specialist was with the Office of Public Affairs, The Presidency, Abuja.
Written by Dr. Nwambu Gabriel,Director General, Centre for Credible Leadership and Citizens Awareness
Introduction
The journey to democratic governance in Nigeria has been fraught with challenges, conflicts, and untold sacrifices. Among the gallant figures who stood resilient in the face of adversity was Professor Humphrey Nwosu. As we mourn the loss of a remarkable leader and an indomitable champion of democracy, we reflect on his contributions and unwavering commitment to the electoral process, which laid a foundational path for Nigeria’s democratic practice.
A Visionary Electoral Leader
Professor Nwosu’s tenure as Chairman of Nigeria’s National Electoral Commission (NEC) from 1989 to 1993 marked a pivotal era in the nation’s electoral history. Unlike many of his contemporaries, Nwosu approached his responsibilities with an unwavering resolve to uphold the sanctity of the electoral process. He successfully organized several elections, including Local Government Chairmanship, Governorship, and State and National Assembly elections, which were lauded for their transparency and fairness. His most significant achievement came with the conduct of the June 12, 1993, presidential elections, widely regarded as one of the freest and fairest elections in Nigeria’s history.
Courageous Stand Against Adversity
In an environment characterized by military interference and political manipulation, Nwosu exemplified courage. He boldly overturned a court order issued on June 10, 1993, that sought to halt the presidential elections. Despite facing intense pressure from the military establishment led by Ibrahim Babangida (IBB), he remained resolute, emphasizing his commitment to ensuring that the elections were conducted as planned. His insistence on completing his mandate, even when his commission was dissolved midway through the electoral process, is a testament to his integrity and dedication.
His unyielding stance culminated in the announcement of results from 29 out of 30 states in the June 12 elections. Although General Ibrahim Babangida annulled the elections before Nwosu could declare the final results, his steadfastness demonstrated his belief in the democratic process and the necessity of honoring the voice of the Nigerian electorate.
Championing Democracy Through Documentation
Professor Nwosu did not allow the annulment of the June 12 elections to silence his voice. In his book, *Laying the Foundation of Nigeria’s Democracy: My Account of June 12, 1993 Presidential Election and Its Annulment*, he chronicled the events leading to the election and its aftermath. By publishing the results of the June 12 elections, he presented irrefutable evidence of MKO Abiola’s victory, reinforcing the notion that the people’s will should prevail over political machinations. This documentation serves as a historical account of a significant moment in Nigeria’s struggle for democracy and a rallying cry for future generations.
Legacy of Integrity
As we reflect on Professor Nwosu’s life and contributions, it is essential to recognize his legacy of integrity, bravery, and unwavering commitment to democratic principles. He stood as a beacon of hope during a tumultuous period in Nigerian history, proving that one individual’s resolute stand could indeed lead to monumental change. His story serves as an inspiration to current and future leaders to prioritize the will of the people over personal or political gain.
Conclusion
The passing of Professor Humphrey Nwosu is not just a loss to his family and friends but to a nation that desperately needs champions of democracy. His actions during the critical moments of June 12, 1993, solidified his place in history as a true man of democracy. As we commemorate his life, we are reminded that democracy thrives through the courage and integrity of individuals like Professor Nwosu—those who are willing to stand firm against oppression and ensure that the voice of the people is heard.
May his soul rest in peace, and may his legacy continue to inspire generations to uphold the values of democracy, transparency, and justice in Nigeria.
In an era where effective leadership is more crucial than ever, Hon. (Dr.) Saheed Mosadoluwa stands out as a beacon of visionary leadership. His approach transcends traditional governance, embodying a blend of innovation, empathy, and strategic foresight that inspires those around him and fosters community growth.
Pioneering Change Through Vision
Dr. Mosadoluwa’s leadership is characterized by a clear, forward-thinking vision. His ability to foresee challenges and opportunities allows him to craft policies that not only address current issues but also lay the groundwork for a prosperous future. He understands that visionary leadership is not just about having a great idea; it is about mobilizing resources, people, and initiatives to turn ideas into reality.
Empathy and Inclusivity at the Core
At the heart of his leadership philosophy is a deep sense of empathy. Dr. Mosadoluwa believes that true leadership involves listening to the voices of the people and prioritizing their needs. He fosters an inclusive environment where diverse perspectives are valued, ensuring that every stakeholder feels heard and respected. This commitment to inclusivity not only strengthens community ties but also enhances the effectiveness of governance.
Innovative Solutions for Sustainable Development
Dr. Mosadoluwa recognizes the complexities of today’s challenges and approaches them with innovative, sustainable solutions. He champions initiatives that leverage technology, education, and sustainable practices to drive development. His focus on smart, sustainable urban planning and community-driven projects demonstrates his commitment to fostering resilient communities that can thrive in the face of adversity.
Empowering Future Leaders
As a visionary leader, Dr. Mosadoluwa is dedicated to empowerment. He actively mentors the next generation of leaders, believing that true leadership involves creating opportunities for others to grow. Through workshops, seminars, and community engagement initiatives, he inspires young minds to develop their leadership potential and become active participants in shaping their futures.
Commitment to Transparency and Accountability
Honesty and integrity are cornerstones of Dr. Mosadoluwa’s leadership. He believes that transparent governance builds trust within the community. By promoting open communication and accountability, he sets a standard for ethical leadership, ensuring that decisions are made in the best interest of the community.
Conclusion
Hon. (Dr.) Saheed Mosadoluwa is more than just a leader—he is a visionary. Through his innovative strategies, empathetic approach, and commitment to inclusivity, he is redefining the true definition of what Leadership. As he continues to inspire and enact positive change, Dr. Mosadoluwa remains dedicated to building a better future for all, proving that with visionary leadership, anything is possible.
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