Culture
Read full report by Kano corruption agency recommending removal of Sanusi as Emir of Kano
BY: Oliseama Okwuchukwu
The full Interim Report of investigation by the Kano State Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission has been released.
The document, obtained by NAN Monday night, told Kano Governor, Abdullahi Ganduje to suspend Emir Muhammadu Sanusi for alleged misappropriation of N3.4billion.
The report revealed how companies it said were non-existent got millions of naira.
In one particular case, the commission lamented that the sum of N105million from the Kano Emirate’s account was paid to one Engr. Sunusi Tijani, Technical Officer to the Emirate Council at United Bank for Africa (UBA) between 2014 and 2017.
The agency added that monies for cctv, travels, hotel accommodation, telephone calls, fuel, projects among others were either inflated, mismanaged or diverted.
Highlights of the 19-page document includes the indictment of individuals, amounts involved, obstruction of investigation by suspects and recommendations.
See full text below:
PRELIMINARY REPORT OF INVESTIGATION IN RESPECT OF PETITION OF FINANCIAL MISAPPROPRIATION AGAINST KANO STATE EMIRATE COUNCIL UNDER THE PRESENT EMIR MUHAMMADU SANUSI II
INTRODUCTION
The Commission is in receipt of a complaint filed by Concern Friends of Kano Emirate dated 28th March, 2017 on allegation of Financial Misappropriation by Kano Emirate Council under the Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II.
The petitioners raised some allegations bordering on spending the funds without due regards to due process. They alleged that, the Emir (Muhammadu Sanusi II) engaged in indiscriminate spending without regards to due process and the rule of law.
In the exercise of its powers under the provisions of Section 9 of the Kano State Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission Law 2008 (as amended) the Commission launched an investigation into the allegation and in conformity with the provisions of Section 15(2) and (3) of the Commission’s enabling law wish to forward the preliminary report of the investigation to the Government.
The opinion of the Commission is that disciplinary action be taken before further legal action.
FACTS OF THE CASE
The case was initially filed before the Commission by Concern Friends of Kano Emirate on allegation of Financial Misappropriation by Kano Emirate Council under the Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II.
In their petition they raised some allegations bordering on spending the funds without regards to due process. They alleged that, the Emir (Muhammadu Sanusi II) spent over Three Hundred and Sixty Million (N360,000,000.00) only in the provision of CCTV in the Emir’s Palace. This is in addition to expenditures on hotels, chartered aircraft and many more which petitioners alleged to be well over Four Billion Naira.
INVESTIGATION
The investigation commenced in 2017 through inviting the officers who are directly connected with the maintenance of the Treasury of the Emirate for information and interview and also requested for relevant documents covering the said period of investigation which the Emirate Council complied.
In the same vein, the Commission received an information from Ministry of Planning and Budget and Office of the Auditor General Local Government Audit in respect of:-
(a) Approved budget for the Emirate Council from 2013 to 2017
(b) Audited Financial Account of the Emirate Council from 2013 to 2017.
The Commission also got statements from the Financial Controller of the Emirate who is also the Walin Kano Alh. Mahe Bashir Wali, Sarki Waziri the Deputy Secretary of the Emirate as well as Rufa’I Buhari who is the Treasurer of the Emirate Council.
At the peak of our work during that period an investigation into the activities of Emirate Council was also commenced by State House of Assembly.
The Commission then sent a letter to the speaker of Kano State House of Assembly seeking for clarification as to avoid duplicated investigation as enshrined under Section 16(1 )(a) of the Kano State Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Law 2008 (as amended).
The letter was duly acknowledged but never replied. (Copy attached). The Commission, as a mark of respect to the House and in fairness to the parties under investigation halted and suspended its investigation.
It was after the closure of the Assembly’s investigation that the Commission then decided to re-open and continue with its investigation with a view to ascertain the true position of things.
While the investigation process was going on, another complaint was lodged by Cardinal Architecture Ltd. against the Emirate Council, specifically the Chief of Staff who is the Danburam of Kano.
The company alleged that it was awarded a construction work at Baban Daki and the money was paid to Tri-C Nigeria Ltd. but was never paid to them. The complaint bothered on Eighty Four Million Nine Hundred Thousand and Twenty Three Naira Naira (N84,900,023.00) only which was alleged to have been criminally diverted for personal use.
This prompted the Commission to merge the complaint together and treat it as one.
In the course of investigation, an invitation letter was served on four personnel of the Emirate Council for discussion and clarification on some expenditures incurred and the Commission believed they are at the right position to clarify but three persons refused to honour the invitation on the instructions of the Emir.
By way of substantiating the assertion, Munnir Sanusi (one of the invitees) honoured the invitation of the Commission barely a week before the subsequent matter on a separate case.
The Commission also got necessary information from the hotels, Airline companies, travelling agencies and telecommunication companies. To expedite action, the investigation officers also travelled to some of theaffected companies in Abuja and Lagos in order to receive more information and clarification on some documents in furtherance of the
investigation.
FINDINGS
The fund in question is regulated by the provisions of Kano State Emirate Council Special Fund Law 2004. The law provides under Section 4 that:
4.(1) “Every Local Government Council in the State shall in respect of each calendar month contribute three percent (3%) of the amount of its monthly statutory allocation into the fund
(2) The State Government shall in respect of each calendar month contribute an amount equal to ten percent (10%) of the total contribution of the Local Government Councils in the State made pursuant to sub-section (1) into the Fund Section 8 Kano State Emirate Council Special Fund Law 2004 which deals with the utilization of the funds provides that:
8. The Fund shall be utilized:-
(a) For the payment of salaries, remuneration, allowances and other fringe benefits of the persons described in the schedule,·
(b) To defray all expenses of working and managing the affairs of the Council and its properties;
(c) To defray the cost of such works of a capital nature as the Council may deem necessary from time to time;
(d) To grant loans and make advances to the persons on such termsand conditions as the council may approve; and
(e) To defray operational expenses that may be incurred in the course of the general administration of the funds.
The schedule to which the above section relates provides inter alia that
1. Emirate Councils and their staff;
2. Other employees of the Emirate Council;
3. Royal Guard (Dogara!);
4. Palace Staff (Yaran sarki);
5. Persons employed for the administration of the Fund
The Law also mandates the preparation of the budget by the Emirate Council which is required to be transmitted to the Governor for necessary action apparently in conformity with Section 11 of the Kano State Emirate Council Special Fund Law 2004.
Investigation revealed that the Emirate Council failed to forward their estimate to the appropriate authorities as required by Law establishing the fund for consideration.
❖ From 2013 to 2017 Fifteen Million Naira (N 15,000,000.00) only was approved as budget for the Emirate annually based on the submission of the Ministry of Planning and Budget vide communication No. MPB/PLN/S/309/V.l/62 dated 26th April, 2017. (Copy attached).
This suggest that, in the first place there was no budgetary provision to authorize all the alleged expenditures.
❖ The Commission also got a statement from Financial Controller who confirmed that the Emirate Council approves its budget which indicated a gross violation of Section 120 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended), Section 11 of the Kano State Emirate Council Special Fund Law 2004 as well as Section 26 of the Kano State Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Law 2008 (as amended).
❖ In the cause of the Commission’s investigation some expenditures that were incurred without following due process or appears to be suspicious were uncovered. Huge sums of money were transferred to some banks accounts which were claimed to be companies’ accounts.
However, the companies appears to be either unregistered with the Corporate Affairs Commission or dormant that cannot appear in the public search of the companies register. Investigations also shows that those unregistered companies are linked to some of the identified suspects in the emirate council. Investigation will later reveal the beneficial owners of those entities.
The suspicious transactions are as follows:-
1. MASPHAL ASSOCIATE:
The company was paid the sum of N100,000,000.00 in 2014 and N39,565,475.00 in 2015.
2. PROJECT PLANNER AND DEVELOPER COMP. LTD:
The company was paid the total sum of N24,163,776.17 in 2014.
3. MODERN SOCIETY CONST. COMPANY
The company received the sum of N749,107.00 in 2014 as payment for work.
4. WAVES STUDIO:
The sum of N9,484,500.00 was paid to the company in 2014, the sum of N 1,977,900.00 in 2015, the sum of N4,678,500.00 in 2016 and the sum ofN616, 730.00 in 2017.
5. CHOSEN ONE GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES LIMITED:
The sum of N4,666,950.00 was paid to Chosen One Global Technologies Limited in 2015
6. FLOORS ARCHO CONSULTANTS:
The sum of N22,691,280.00 was paid to the company in 2014, N32,586,333.00 in 2015 and the sum of N1,343,903.00 in 2017.
7. ICX SOLUTION LTD:
The company was paid the sum of N10,445,820.00 in 2015 and another N6,298,680.00 in 2016
8. HIKIMA VENTURES/S. HIKIMA & SON:
The sum of N4,041,165.76 was paid to this unregistered company in 2014, N27,947,201.90 was also paid in 2015, N19,162,163.50 in 2016 and lastly N5,759,825.75 was paid in 2017.
9. ABUSAIBA INVESTMENT:
The sum of N24,184,151.75 was paid to the company in 2014 despite been not registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission.
10. PHILKO LIMITED:
In 2014 the sum of N50,000,000.00 was paid to the PHILKO Limited.
11. CEM NIG. LTD:
The sum of N3,880,000.00 was paid to the company in 2014 and N372,141.00 in 2015 was paid to the company.
12. MOFHAN ENTERPRISES LTD:
The sum of N1,312,500.00 was paid to MOFHAN Enterprises Ltd. in 2014 by the Kano Emirate Council.
13. MODI INVESTMENT LTD:
The sum of N38,953,552.00 was paid to the company by the Emirate Council in 2014.
14. DABO GATE IDEAL RESOURCES:
The payment of N175,175,560.00 was effected to Dabo Gate Ideal Resources in 2014.
15. LUGO SUPPLIERS:
The sum of N14,854,500.00 was paid to the Company in 2014 by the Emirate Council.
16. JUBAILI BROS ENG. NIG. LTD:
The payment of N3,230,829.00 was made to Jubaili Bros Eng. Nig. Ltd. in 2016.
17. CARDINAL ARCHITECTURE:
In 2015 the sum N30,000,000.00 were paid by Emirate Council to the company.
18. SHUNT ENGINEERING CO:
The sum of N48,057,747.50 was paid to Shunt Engineering Co. in 2014 and also the sum of N22,478,491.27 was paid in 2015 and another N29,261,949.93 was paid in 2016.
19. OCHOR MECHPLANT ENGR. LTD:
The sum of N1,570,000.00 was paid to the company in 2014 by the Emirate Council.
20. CONTINENTAL OFFSHOW LTD:
The sum of N38,750,000.00 was paid by Emirate Council to the company in 2014.
21. MAWUD Nig. Ltd:
The sum of N583,000.00 was paid to MAWUD Nig. Ltd. in 2014 by the Emirate Council.
❖ All the purported companies listed above allegedly carried out contracts with the Emirate Council. These companies are not in existence, as search for their corporate status came out negative and virtually all the purposes for the expenditures, the amount involved and the legal status of the companies revealed prima facie case of fraud in the management of the Emirate Council funds as there were no budgetary provisions to justify the expenditure.
❖ In 2014, the sum of Fourty Three Million, Two Hundred and Sixty Eighty Thousand Five Hundred Naira (N43,268,500.00) were expended in the fueling of Generator. Thirty Nine Million Six Hundred and Ninety Thousand (N39,690,000.00) only were expended on fueling in 2015, Twenty Two Million Three Hundred and Seventeen Thousand One Hundred and Seventy Four Naira (N22,317,174.00) only in 2016 and Twelve Million Four Hundred and Ninety Six Thousand Eight Hundred Naira (N12,496,800.00) only were expended in 2017 all in fueling.
To sum it all One hundred and Seventeen Million Seven Hundred and Seventy Two Thousand Four Hundred and Seventy Four Naira (N117,772,474.00) only were expended on fueling from 2014- 2017 by the Emirate Council, the disparity in the amount so involved, the ratio at which the fuel was consumed from 43 to 22 Million called for suspicion and indicated acts of misappropriation and fraud.
❖ Also in the cause of investigation an observation was made on a transfer of One Hundred and Five Million, Five Hundred and Ninety Five Thousand Seven Hundred and Fifty Five Thousand (N105,595,755.00) from the Emirate Council’s account to an individual account bearing the name of one Engr. Sunusi Tijani who happened to be the Technical Officer to the Emirate Council at United Bank for Africa (UBA) during the period of 2014-2017 at different occasions.
The largest which is Twenty Two Million Seven Hundred and Seventy Eight Thousand Two Hundred and Thirty Three Naira Ninety Two Kobo (N22,778,233.92) only was transferred on 22nd September, 2015. It was observed going by the record of expenditures from the said account that virtually all the money were withdrawn personally (self-withdrawal). This is a red flag for corruption and there is no way an individual not a corporate entity will attract such payments from Government at different interval in a legitimate transaction. This is also another trace of alleged corrupt practices and final investigation will reveal all the facts of the case.
❖ The sum of Fifty Four Million One Hundred and Eleven Thousand Fifty Five Naira (N54, 111,055.00) were expended by the Emirate Council from 2014 to 2017 on payment of airtime/data to Airtel Network Ltd. mostly on personal phone numbers.
In his statement, Isah Bayero denied using his line to incur expenditure worth N25.6 Million while the remaining N29Million was incurred by the Emir, his wives and Mannir Sanusi.
Failure of the appearance of the invited suspects made it impossible for the Commission to conclude on this matter.
❖ Another area of concern which revealed a prima facie case of criminal breach of trust by servant is where the sum of One Hundred and Fourty Four Million Three Hundred and Sixty Two Thousand Three Hundred and Eighty One Naira (N144,362,381.00) only was spent on Hotel Accommodation, payment of chartered Aircraft and payment of Air ticket by the Kano State Emirate Council from 2014 to 2017.
Out of this sum Thirty Million Seven Hundred and Sixty Two Thousand Naira (N30,762,000.00) only was spent on Chartered flights while the sum of One Hundred and Thirteen Million Six Hundred Thousand Three Hundred and Eighty One Naira (N113,600,381.00) only was spent for hotel accommodation and air ticket for the Emir’s travels.
Investigation revealed that the purpose of the expenditure which was never budgeted for is unknown and all efforts by the Commission in requesting the Council to provide evidence to justify the travels as being official proved abortive.
Another complaint was filed before the Commission by Cardinal Architecture Ltd. against the Emirate Council. Specifically against the Chief of Staff who is the Danburam of Kano on alleged nonpayment of construction work at Babban Daki.
The complainant alleged the diversion of the payment to a company called Tri-C Nigeria Limited. The complaint involved the sum of Eighty Four Million Nine Hundred Thousand and Twenty Three Naira Naira (N84,900,023.00) only alleged to have been diverted for personal use.
In order to avoid duplication in the investigation, the Commission decided to merge the complaints together and treat them as one.
It was discovered that, initially the contract was awarded to Tri-C for the renovation of Babban Daki, Kofar Kudu and Gidan Sarki at Dorayi which the company sub-contracted the contract to another company (Cardinal Architecture Limited) for the Babban Daki. A payment was made in respect of the renovation of Babban Daki but Tri-c Nig. Ltd. failed to settle the sub-contractor (Cardinal Architecture Limited).
SUMMARY
It is the opinion of this Commission that Kano Emirate Council under the Chairmanship of the Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II has expended the sum of One Billion Four Hundred and Fifty Million Six Hundred and Fourty One Thousand Fourty Eight Naira Fifty Three Kobo (N1,450,641,048.53) only in various expenditures that is believed to be fraudulent and unappropriated.
In addition to One Billion Nine Hundred and Eighty One Million Four Hundred Fourty Nine Thousand Seven Hundred and Fourty Nine Naira
Fourty One Kobo (N1,981,449,749.41) unappropriated but seemingly personal expenditures, making the total sum of questionable expenditures uncovered by this investigation to the tune of Three Billion Four Hundred and Thirty Two Million Ninety Thousand Seven Hundred and Ninety Seven Naira Ninety Four Kobo (N3,432,090,797.94) only between 2014 and 2017.
This expenditures contravene the provisions of Section 120 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended), Section 8 of the Kano State Emirate Council Special Fund Law 2004, Section 314 of Penal Code as well as provisions of Section 26 of the Kano State Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission Law 2008 (as amended).
It is also the opinion of this Commission, based on the available evidence that Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II continued to undermine the investigation through various means which include giving instruction to all officers invited for clarification to shun the Commission’s invitation. An act which is seriously affecting the process of our statutory responsibility and offends the provisions of Section 25 of the Commission’s enabling Law 2008 (as amended).
RECOMMENDATIONS
Based on the aforementioned findings and pursuant to the provisions of Section 18 (4) of the Kano State Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Law 2008 (as amended), the Commission hereby recommends as follows:-
(a) In view of the prima facie cases of criminal breach of trust by servant, official corruption and other related offences contrary to the Penal Code Law, Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission Law 2008 (as amended) and other existing Laws, the Commission recommends that the principal suspect in the person of Muhammad Sunusi II (the Emir of Kano) and all other suspects connected to this case or serving in the Kano State Emirate Council should be suspended pending the final outcome of the investigations.
This is a necessary administrative disciplinary action aimed at preventing the suspects from further interfering with the Commission’s investigations.
(b) The Commission further recommends that the contract awarded Tri-C Nigeria Limited for the renovation of Babban Daki, Kofar Kudu and Gidan Sarki Dorayi should be revoked as the company belongs to one of the suspects in person of Alh. Mannir Sanusi (The Chief of Staff in the Emirate).
The company failed to settle the sub-contractor (Cardinal Architecture Limited) after been duly paid. Cardinal Architecture Limited should be paid for the work carried out in the contract.
(c) The appropriate authority should be put in place to oversee the affairs of the Kano Emirate Council in line with established statutes and policies pending the final outcome of the Commission’s investigations.
(d) The Commission’s further recommends for further legal action to be taken against all the suspects as soon as the final outcome of investigations is concluded and a legal advice accordingly issued out.
CONCLUSION
In conclusion, the above recommendations are hereby forwarded to your esteem office for further necessary action, please.
Signed.
MUHUYI MAGAJI RIMINGADO
EXECUTIVE CHAIRMAN
Culture
Synergising Tradition and Innovation: The Role of Ooni and Alaafin in Nigeria’s Economic Renaissance
By Professor Ojo Emmanuel Ademola
In the digital age, Nigeria is at a critical juncture where tradition must definitively converge with innovation.
The Ooni of Ife and the Alaafin of Oyo, two of the most esteemed monarchs in Yorubaland, hold essential keys to unlocking a transformative era of economic development and sustainability.
Their historical significance and contemporary influence unequivocally position them as vital figures in shaping Nigeria’s future.
Historical Significance of Ooni and Alaafin
The Alaafin of Oyo and the Ooni of Ife are unequivocally prominent custodians of Yoruba heritage, each holding vital historical and cultural significance in the region. The Alaafin, as the sovereign of the Oyo Empire, presided over one of the most formidable and influential empires in West Africa, enforcing a sophisticated and well-organized administrative system. This robust system incorporated various local chiefs and councils, which facilitated the effective management of resources, trade, and law enforcement throughout the vast empire.
In contrast to other leadership roles within the Yoruba community, the Ooni of Ife stands as the unequivocal spiritual leader of the Yoruba people, a position imbued with immense historical significance and cultural heritage. The Ooni’s lineage is firmly rooted in the mythical origins of the Yoruba civilization, tracing directly back to the legendary figure of Oduduwa, acknowledged as the progenitor of the Yoruba race. This role is far more than a mere title; it entails profound responsibilities that transcend religious duties.
The influence of the Ooni permeates every facet of Yoruba life, playing a vital role in the preservation and promotion of cherished cultural practices and rituals that have endured through generations. As a steadfast custodian of Yoruba traditions, the Ooni actively engages in ceremonies and festivals that celebrate the vibrant tapestry of Yoruba history and identity, reinforcing the strong communal bonds among the people.
Moreover, the Ooni’s role includes vigorous advocacy for the Yoruba language and customs, highlighting their essential importance in an increasingly globalized world. This leadership position is crucial for fostering unity among the Yoruba people, encouraging collaboration across the diverse communities within the Yoruba nation, and promoting a collective identity that honours their shared heritage. Through these efforts, the Ooni ensures that the legacies of the Yoruba people are not only preserved but celebrated, reaffirming their significance in both local and global contexts.
The Alaafin and the Ooni have played significant roles in the governance and cultural preservation of the Yoruba people. Together, they symbolize the intricate balance between political leadership and spiritual guidance, ensuring the ongoing commitment to Yoruba values and the well-being of their community throughout history. Their collaboration has been essential in upholding the rich heritage of Yoruba culture.
Current Clash and Its Implications
Recent events have sparked a significant dispute between two influential Yoruba leaders: the Ooni of Ife and the Alaafin of Oyo. This conflict centres around the granting of a prestigious chieftaincy title that represents the entire Yoruba region. The Alaafin has firmly asserted his position, invoking historical and legal precedents, and has issued a 48-hour ultimatum for the revocation of the title conferred by the Ooni. This clash highlights not only the traditional rivalries and roles within Yoruba leadership but also raises important questions about the need for unity and collaborative governance among these leaders.
In light of Nigeria’s pressing socio-economic challenges, the ongoing feud highlights the urgent need for influential leaders to cultivate cooperative relationships. Such collaboration is essential for fostering progress and solidarity within the community. The situation underscores the importance of dialogue that goes beyond personal ambitions, advocating for a unified approach to effectively address the collective needs and aspirations of the Yoruba people.
The Need for Collaborative Leadership
To foster a more progressive leadership style, the Ooni and the Alaafin must set aside their outdated rivalries and collaborate effectively. They can harness their collective influence to encourage peace, unity, and sustainable development across Yorubaland and Nigeria by joining forces.
Imagine the exciting partnership that would result from their collaboration! They can drive significant change by focusing on agricultural innovation, youth empowerment, and cultural tourism. Supporting local farmers and adopting advanced techniques will enhance food security and stimulate economic growth. Let’s tap into this potential and watch the excitement flourish!
Initiatives focused on empowering the younger generation through education, skill acquisition, and entrepreneurship are vital for unlocking their potential and driving innovation. By equipping them with the tools they need, we are preparing them to confidently take on leadership roles in the future.
By leveraging the rich cultural heritage and traditions of the Yoruba people, it is possible to create cultural tourism programs that attract visitors and enhance local economies. These initiatives can play a crucial role in preserving significant historical sites while promoting the unique cultural identity of the region.
The collaboration between the Ooni and Alaafin acts as a driving force for positive transformation, fostering a stronger and more unified community that thrives together.
Traditional Institutions in the Digital Economy
Traditional institutions play a crucial role in Nigeria’s ongoing digital transformation. These organizations, often rooted in local communities, possess a unique ability to connect with grassroots populations, making them instrumental in bridging the digital divide. By fostering digital literacy, they empower individuals with the skills necessary to navigate the digital landscape, ensuring that more citizens can participate in the digital economy.
In addition, traditional institutions have the potential to foster entrepreneurship by offering training, mentorship, and essential resources to emerging entrepreneurs. By backing small businesses and startups, these institutions play a crucial role in driving economic growth and creating jobs, which are key to Nigeria’s development.
These entities can enhance sustainable governance through transparent communication and community engagement. By involving local voices in decision-making, they foster resilience and enable communities to adapt to challenges and leverage opportunities from digital transformation.
Bringing traditional institutions into Nigeria’s digital strategy is not just important—it’s vital for driving inclusive growth, sparking innovation, and weaving a stronger social fabric throughout our communities. By blending the old with the new, we can empower every citizen and build a brighter future for all.
Path Ahead: Uniting for a Sustainable Future
The Ooni and Alaafin are crucial in bridging tradition and innovation in their leadership. By harnessing their cultural influence alongside modern governance principles, they can spark a cultural renaissance that benefits the Yoruba people and sets an inspiring example for other regions.
What the Ooni and Alaafin Should Be Doing Now in the National Interest—For the Omoluabis
In light of pressing national challenges and the need for digital transformation, the Ooni and Alaafin should set aside rivalries and advocate for the collective interests of Nigerians, particularly the Omoluabis, who embody integrity, respect, and communal responsibility.
Their focus should shift to fostering unity among traditional institutions, empowering youth through digital literacy and entrepreneurship, and preserving cultural heritage in modern ways. By leveraging their influence, they can create programs that blend traditional wisdom with technology, ensuring the Omoluabis thrive in the global digital economy.
Both monarchs should act decisively to create cultural and economic think tanks, promote inclusive policies, and serve as moral guides in national discourse. Their collaboration can inspire a new generation of leaders who honour tradition while adeptly facing the future.
Conclusion
Nigeria’s journey toward economic sustainability requires visionary leadership rooted in cultural heritage. As symbols of tradition, the Ooni and Alaafin must unite to champion development, peace, and progress. Their synergy can transform Nigeria into a beacon of hope and prosperity in the digital age.
Culture
Ifá Divinity, Omoluabi Ethos, and Artificial Intelligence in the Digital Age: A Contemporary Synthesis
By Professor Ojo Emmanuel Ademola
In an era marked by rapid digital advancement and algorithmic governance, the merging of indigenous epistemologies with emerging technologies is not just an ideal; it is a critical necessity for our future. As the leading Professor in the core field of Cybersecurity and Information Technology Management, I assert my position at the intersection of ancestral wisdom and computational intelligence. I advocate for a powerful synthesis that respects both sacred heritage and scientific innovation.
This discourse—Ifá Divinity, Omoluabi Ethos, and Artificial Intelligence in the Digital Age—urges a revaluation of digital ethics and our interactions with technology. By exploring Yoruba metaphysics and moral philosophy, we gain valuable insights for today’s complexities. Ifá provides a profound perspective, while the Omoluabi ethos emphasizes integrity and communal responsibility, offering a moral framework for AI development that transcends Western utilitarianism. This fosters a deeper connection between humanity and technology, highlighting our shared responsibilities in creating a just digital future.
In this synthesis, we go beyond simply digitising tradition; we elevate it. We don’t just welcome AI into our world; we shape it to embody the principles of prophetic stewardship, communal resilience, and ethical foresight. This is a rallying cry for scholars, technologists, and spiritual guardians to create a transformative new paradigm. Imagine a world where cybersecurity transcends mere technical protection to become a means of cultural preservation. Picture information management evolving from simple data governance into a powerful vessel for transmitting wisdom. In this vision, artificial intelligence becomes not just a tool but a conduit for divine intelligence, guiding us toward a brighter future.
Contextual Foundation: Ifá and the Omoluabi Ethos
The Ifá divination system is an essential pillar within Yoruba cosmology, embodying a rich and intricate framework that weaves together profound wisdom, ethical principles, and metaphysical insights. Central to this venerable tradition is the Omoluabi ideal, a guiding principle emphasising the importance of integrity, humility, and a strong sense of community responsibility. This ideal serves as a moral compass for individuals and a framework for harmonious living within society.
In addition to its spiritual and cultural significance, the Ifá system functions as a crucial repository of indigenous logic and ethical reasoning. Through its intricate rituals and interpretations, Ifá offers deep insights that resonate with contemporary discourses, particularly in our increasingly digital world. By engaging with the teachings of Ifá, individuals today can find valuable perspectives that enrich their understanding of ethics and foster a more meaningful connection to their cultural heritage.
Professor Olu Longe’s Legacy: Ifá as Computational Logic
Professor Olu Longe, the first Nigerian Professor of Computer Science, was a pioneering figure in African computer science and a respected academic renowned for his innovative thinking. He notably contributed to the integration of traditional African practices with modern technological concepts. His groundbreaking work focused on exploring the similarities between Ifá divination and algorithmic reasoning, highlighting a unique intersection of culture and technology. Professor Longe’s legacy continues to inspire many in the field.
Professor Longe conducted extensive research on the intricate mechanics of Ifá, a system deeply embedded in Yoruba culture that is traditionally used for guidance and decision-making. His work emphasised the systematic and data-driven nature of Ifá, framing it not just as a religious or spiritual practice, but as a sophisticated methodology for analysing information and deriving insights.
By establishing these connections, he decisively opened new avenues for understanding how ancient wisdom directly informs contemporary artificial intelligence principles. His contributions significantly advanced the discourse on the coexistence of traditional knowledge systems with modern computational theories, firmly positioning Ifá as a relevant model in the study of algorithms and decision support systems. Professor Longe’s legacy undeniably inspires new generations of scholars and practitioners eager to explore the powerful intersections of culture, technology, and intelligence.
Professor Ojo Emmanuel Ademola: A Visionary Pioneer of the Digital Age
Dive into the world of Professor Ojo Emmanuel Ademola, a standout thought leader who’s shaping the future in the fast-paced realm of digital innovation. With his cutting-edge insights and transformative ideas, he’s not just keeping pace with the digital revolution—he’s leading the charge!
Professor Ojo Emmanuel Ademola, the first Nigerian Professor of Cybersecurity and Information Technology Management, offers a contemporary and globally relevant viewpoint on the subject. While he does not adhere to Ifá divinity, his contributions have significant implications for the field. He is actively involved in developing cyber-ethical frameworks that align with the Omoluabi values of integrity and responsibility.
His work transcends mere digital transformation; it actively integrates strategies that honour cultural heritage while fully embracing cutting-edge technological advancements. Through his thought leadership, he masterfully bridges African intellectual traditions with global digital trends, igniting a transformative dialogue that resonates powerfully across cultures.
He asserts with conviction that we can fully embrace the profound cultural significance of Ifá within the Omoluabi framework, while confidently moving beyond its spiritual boundaries. This bold approach paves the way for vibrant, inclusive dialogues that flourish in our dynamic digital age. It’s a remarkable opportunity to celebrate diversity and forge unprecedented connections!
AI, Ethics, and Indigenous Knowledge Systems
The intersection of artificial intelligence and indigenous systems, particularly Ifá, raises important questions about incorporating human-centred values from African traditions. A key consideration is whether the Omoluabi ethos can serve as a moral foundation for governing AI.
The engagement of individuals beyond conventional systems, like Professor Ademola, is essential for defining the ethical framework of AI. Addressing these challenges requires the creation of collaborative knowledge ecosystems where scholars, technologists, and cultural custodians unite to develop frameworks that are both technically robust and deeply informed by ethical considerations and cultural sensitivities.
Solutions and Forward Pathways
The initiative confidently emphasizes the integration of Afrocentric principles into AI development and ethics, highlighting the virtues of Omoluabi as essential ethical guidelines for AI models. It advocates for employing Ifá’s symbolic logic as a powerful cognitive framework that significantly enhances the context-awareness of AI systems.
This initiative goes beyond mere preservation; it’s a vibrant effort to digitize Ifá texts and the rich oral traditions of the Yoruba people. Crucially, this process is conducted with the full consent of the community and under the watchful eye of dedicated scholars. A key aspect of the project is to boost AI literacy among traditional custodians, creating a strong partnership and mutual understanding that bridges the gap between ancient wisdom and modern technology.
Get ready for a groundbreaking initiative that dares to blend Afrocentric ethics into the realms of cybersecurity and AI education! This dynamic movement not only champions innovative interdisciplinary research but also embraces an inspiring dialogue that celebrates both spiritual and secular viewpoints. It’s a thrilling opportunity to enrich the tech landscape with diverse voices and contributions, igniting a vibrant cultural exchange that transforms the way we think about technology. Excitement is in the air as we open the door to a more inclusive future!
Conclusion: Harmony Without Homogenization
In our fast-evolving digital landscape, Ifá maintains its vital role within the Omoluabi framework. Visionary thinkers like Professor Ojo Emmanuel Ademola show us how we can meaningfully engage with indigenous knowledge, respecting its essence while advancing ethical technology, even if we don’t practice its spiritual aspects. Rather than viewing this as a clash between tradition and modernity, we can embrace it as a beautiful fusion of ancestral wisdom and technological progress. This collaboration has the potential to enrich both domains, fostering a brighter, more inclusive future for all.
The Gold City Event Centre in Ilesa will on Tuesday, 21 October 2025, become the epicentre of history as Ijesaland gathers to honour Asiwaju Olayinka Fasuyi (AOF) at 70.
Beyond a milestone birthday, the celebration will unveil a bold vision-the official launch of the Ijesa Development Fund (IDF)-under the royal seal of His Imperial Majesty, Owa Obokun Adimula, Paramount Ruler of Ijesaland, Owa Clement Adesuyi Haastrup, Ajimoko III.
At exactly 10:00 a.m., the day will open with a symposium themed “IDF Project Operations and Management,” with Asiwaju Fasuyi himself stepping beyond the role of celebrant to deliver a keynote lecture. His discourse will unravel the operational framework of IDF, highlighting mechanisms for transparency, accountability, and community-driven impact. More than a lecture, it is expected to serve as a masterclass in sustainable development and a clarion call to Ijesa sons and daughters to align with a collective vision.
The high point remains the presentation of ICDA-IDF cheques to ward executives across the six Local Government Areas of Ijesaland. This inaugural disbursement marks a practical leap from promise to action, setting in motion a framework for funding grassroots growth initiatives. With the royal endorsement of Owa Haastrup and the presence of eminent community leaders, the launch is positioned as a binding social contract-one that redefines how communal wealth will be harnessed for infrastructure, education, health, and economic empowerment.
Sir Folu Olamiti, Chairman of the Planning Committee on Media and Publicity, described the event as “a convergence of honour, vision, and action-where ideas meet implementation and leadership meets legacy.”
For many, this is more than the fifth day of a birthday fiesta; it is a generational turning point. AOF @70 will be remembered not only for its glamour but for institutionalising a community-driven development model. The celebrations will culminate in a vibrant social evening, with music by the Ijesa Juju Music Queen, Sola Testimony Band.
What makes this occasion deeply compelling is the blend of compassion and vision-the rare fusion of royalty, intellect, and community aspiration. As Ijesaland embraces this new chapter, Tuesday’s gathering is not merely a party; it is history in motion.
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