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Sanusi Lamido Sanusi: An unlikely activist

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Dr. Osmund Agbo

By Osy Agbo


When on February 7, 2015 Sanusi Lamido Sanusi was crowned the 14th Emir of the ancient city of Kano, no one could have predicted that a little known talakawa would someday become his nemesis. But that talakawa later became governor and with it came enormous power and overbearing influence. It was however, unprece​​dented that the former CBN governor would be so foolhardy to ignore the rich lessons of history. Not especially when he took on the regnal name, Muhammad Sanusi ll.

How could he claim to be unaware of the fate that befell his once powerful grandfather and the 11th Emir,Muhammadu Sanusi I.

He has been around long enough to realize that ours is a society trapped in primitive civilization. The rulers of our country run a shameless authoritarian regime that makes no pretension about the hatred for contrary views. Your choice is to either queue behind a long line of yesmen or face isolation and total annihilation. 


The older Sanusi was the first to learn this lesson the hard way. When he fell out with the late Saduana of Sokoto, the political colossus of his time, the later was not afraid to show who wore the pants. The result was the dethronement of his royal highness in 1963 and subsequent confinement in Azare. It didn’t even matter that both the Emir and Ahmadu Bello belonged to the same ruling house of the Sullubawa clan and that they were in fact cousins.

Former emir of Kano, His Royal Highness, Sanusi Lamido Sanusi


Anyone who had paid a close attention to Kano politics probably saw this coming. There has been no love lost between the royal father and Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, the state Governor. A battle for the soul of Kano was at the epicenter of this crisis.

The fight was squarely between Gov. Ganduje on one hand and his former boss and political heavy weight, former Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso. In this war, you can either be for or against. Even the second most powerful Islamic leader in Nigeria got sucked in. Problem was SLS is not the type to sit on the fence and not share his thought. And his thoughts often ruffle feathers.
Gov.Ganduje was seriously rattled during his recent campaign for re-election. Even when he was finally declared the winner, his victory was challenged all the way to the Supreme Court by his main rival and Kwankwaso’s son-in-law, Abba Kabir Yusuf. But as you would expect, no weapon fashioned against the anointed shall prosper.

Together with Gov. Yahaya Bello of Kogi state, the duo belong in the exclusive club of Baba’s anointed sons. They operate under a different set of rules or no rules at all and like Ceasers’s wife are above board. In the end he still made it even with all the irregularities reported in that election. It is now his turn to show all who the real boss is.


On March 9, Emir Sanusi woke up like every normal day in his private residence of Gidan Rumfa. With no papers served,he would later hear the news of his summary dismissal like everyone else. Before long however, a contingent of police, military, and other security operatives dressed in full combat gears stormed the palace and whisked him away. As would be expected, Nigerians were evenly divided in their opinion of what happened. To his teeming supporters, he is a hero. A rare blue blood determined to use his privileged position to better his society, our society. 


There were also peddlers of the theory that he is being groomed for the presidency after Buhari and that his current travail is  just a small script in that grand design.

In other words, they suggested he was willing to relinquish his coveted position in pursuit of what would be at best a wild political gamble. How arsinine! But this is the level that ethno-tribal and religious distrust in Nigeria has degenerated to. It’s almost impossible not to view every action or event through the prism of conspiracy.


There was also a sizeable group of people who were fiercely critical of his actions. To them he should have been wise enough to keep his mouth shut and continued to enjoy the spoils of his highly priveledged status. 
A friend once told me that Africans especially Nigeria are incapable of replicating the Arab spring.

He argued that whereas in African we are not afraid to risk our lives in pursuit of personal goals and success, we as a people are most unwilling to comit to any form of personal sacrifice for the common good.

Our people are least likely to take to the street to protest bad government than any other group in the world. The argument appears to be ,why loose the day’s earning or risk facing the wrath of law enforcement for the sake of everybody? Someone else gotta do it instead! But that’s a topic for another day.
This was not the first time Sanusi got in trouble for breaking with tradition or not keeping quiet. He was so hated by the powers that be (and later booted out of CBN) when he blew the whistle on the $20B alleged NNPC scandal during Jonathan same way as when he criticized Buhari’s foreign exchange policy and anti-corruption war. He has also used every opportunity to demand and reiterate that northern leaders invest in education and training of northern youths, reminding them on one occasion that quota system will one day have a sunset clause. I remember listening to a Tedx lecture where he talked about how Nigeria’s progress was daily being sacrificed in the alter of vested interests. Throughout his reign, he was not afraid of speaking truth to powers and often cautioned against misplacing priorities.

These are not the kind of things that earn you a national honor in a country like Nigeria. Truth is, even if you do not agree with some of his actions, fact remains that SLS has remained one of the most relentless voices of reason and a great proponent of futuristic institutional reform in Nigeria. It was Emerson that once said:
“What it takes for the evil men to come into the society and poison it is for the good ones to sit back and watch”.


SLS may not be a saint or your hero but we ought to salute his consistent display of uncommon courage. The courage to speak up time and time again even at a great personal risk. Africa doesn’t need those of us who sit in the confines of our homes and murmur without end our displeasure with the system.


Osmund Agbo MD, FCCP writes from Houston, Texas3/17/20

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Atiku Abubakar’s Coalition on a Path to Failure after Struggles

By: Prof. Ojo Emmanuel Ademola

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Atiku Abubakar

In Nigeria’s political landscape, Atiku Abubakar’s coalition stands as a significant challenger to the status quo but faces challenges like internal disputes, regional divides, and distrust among stakeholders. To succeed, the coalition must present a clear economic vision resonating with an informed electorate. Fostering unity, transparency, and inclusivity while addressing internal conflicts and regional disparities will enhance trust and strengthen its position in Nigerian politics.

Atiku Abubakar is leading a coalition of major political parties, including the APC, PDP, and Labour Party, to challenge President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 elections. The coalition aims to tackle regional insecurity and economic issues, which Atiku believes the current government is mishandling. In response, President Tinubu is employing a carefully crafted strategy, termed a divide-and-rule approach by some analysts, to weaken this coalition. However, analysts suggest that Nigerians are increasingly focused on economic solutions rather than divisive politics.

Political analysts assert that Atiku Abubakar’s coalition faces immense challenges, indicating it is “dead on arrival.” Atiku Abubakar’s coalition is plagued by internal conflicts, particularly between him and Peter Obi over leadership and the presidential candidacy. Regional divisions have weakened the coalition, with the PDP losing influence in the South-South and South-East to Obi’s Labour Party. Trust issues persist as members question Atiku’s motives and whether the coalition serves a collective purpose. Amid Nigeria’s economic and political instability, the coalition struggles to gain support and maintain unity, highlighting the need for cohesion to navigate upcoming challenges, especially ahead of the 2027 elections.

Public opinion plays a crucial role in the success of political coalitions like Atiku Abubakar’s, influencing political dynamics significantly. Support from the public can enhance a coalition’s credibility and momentum, making it a stronger alternative to the current government. As politicians are attuned to public sentiment, aligning coalition goals with public concerns can motivate them to join or support the coalition. Positive public opinion leads to greater media coverage and supporters while mobilising essential resources for campaign efforts. Ultimately, electoral success depends on the coalition’s ability to connect with voters, making it imperative for Atiku’s coalition to engage with and address public concerns effectively.

Prioritising youth engagement, economic growth, and sustainability is essential for any administration aiming for progress. With Nigeria’s large youthful population, active involvement can enhance political participation, spark innovation, and build a strong workforce. Addressing the youth’s needs through targeted policies on education, job creation, and inclusivity is crucial.

Additionally, focusing on economic development is vital to tackle unemployment, poverty, and regional disparities, requiring policies that promote entrepreneurship and attract foreign investment. Emphasizing sustainability ensures economic progress while protecting the environment; this includes investing in renewable energy and eco-friendly technologies. President Tinubu’s commitment to these areas is key to fostering a more inclusive, prosperous, and sustainable Nigeria.

It’s an interesting perspective that Atiku Abubakar’s coalition might be seen as a distraction rather than a genuine attempt to address Nigeria’s challenges. In the digital age, where information flows rapidly and citizens are more informed, such strategies can indeed face significant hurdles. Here’s an expanded view on why this approach might struggle and what could be more effective:

Challenges of Distraction Politics in the Digital Age:

In today’s digital age, Nigerians have greater access to information through social media and online news, making traditional political diversion tactics less effective. This increased transparency allows citizens to monitor government actions closely and hold officials accountable. The youth, who are active online, prefer practical solutions over distractions, highlighting the need for meaningful policies to drive genuine progress and change.

Effective Strategies for Democratic Development:

Focusing on economic empowerment through sustainable initiatives such as job creation, small business support, and investment in technology can significantly improve citizens’ well-being. Enhancing education and skills for youth prepares them for the job market and strengthens the economy. Inclusive governance that addresses regional disparities fosters national unity and stability. Additionally, promoting environmental sustainability through green technologies and renewable energy ensures long-term prosperity and a healthier future for everyone.

Inspiring Examples:

Digital innovation has transformed governance and public services in Estonia, highlighting transparency and efficiency. Nigeria should adopt similar strategies to enhance its performance. Youth-led initiatives are crucial for economic growth and support young entrepreneurs. The tech industry in Nigeria is booming, with start-ups gaining global recognition.

Community engagement is vital for effective political movements, requiring grassroots involvement to address diverse needs. Leaders who connect with communities foster strong support, essential for successful governance. Nigeria can build a brighter future by embracing innovation, empowering youth, and engaging communities.

Distraction politics may have worked in the past, but the digital age requires more transparency. By focusing on real solutions and engaging with an informed electorate, leaders can foster democratic development and a brighter future for Nigeria.

Atiku Abubakar and his coalition have faced challenges in developing winning strategies. Let’s examine some democratic perspectives on the reasons behind this and potential alternatives.

Challenges Faced by Atiku Abubakar and His Coalition:

Progress in Nigeria’s political landscape hinges on overcoming formidable hurdles such as the lack of a unified vision, deep-rooted trust deficits, and intricate regional and ethnic divides. The coalition must navigate complex agendas and historical disappointments to present a cohesive front and inspire confidence among voters. Addressing Nigeria’s diverse societal scope requires inclusive strategies that bridge demographic disparities and deliver tangible solutions to pressing economic and social woes. By forging a unified vision, rebuilding trust, and fostering cohesion among varied communities, the coalition can chart a path towards transformative change and sustainable development in the nation.

Engaging Democratic Views:

To succeed, a coalition must first establish a unified vision that transcends individual ambitions and resonates with the broader public. Rebuilding trust is key, requiring transparency, accountability, and consistent communication to demonstrate a commitment to democratic principles. Inclusivity in policymaking is vital, necessitating engagement with diverse groups to address regional and ethnic needs effectively. A strong focus on the economy, with clear and practical plans for job creation and infrastructure investment, is essential for garnering voter support. Additionally, prioritizing youth engagement through education, skills development, and political participation initiatives can ensure a more inclusive and sustainable political strategy.

Inspiring Examples:

Building grassroots movements is essential for a coalition’s success, as local networks create strong support. Digital campaigns via social media and online platforms can broaden the coalition’s reach. Collaborative leadership fosters voter confidence, as united leaders convey solidarity and commitment.

Atiku Abubakar and his coalition have struggled to meet essential foundational criteria. Despite the challenges they face, there are effective strategies they could implement to enhance their prospects. However, various reasons limit their ability to adopt these strategies. Instead, they should foster unity, trust, inclusivity, and economic development. By doing so, they can craft a compelling vision that truly resonates with the Nigerian public.

In conclusion, Atiku Abubakar’s coalition is at a pivotal moment, with the potential to either reshape Nigerian politics or struggle with its challenges. To succeed, the coalition must present a unified vision that resonates with all Nigerians. It needs to rebuild trust through transparency and accountability while addressing the diverse needs of the country’s various regions and demographics. By focusing on economic empowerment, youth engagement, and sustainable development, the coalition can provide a compelling alternative to the current administration. In a time when voters seek genuine solutions and meaningful change, the path to success lies in tackling the real issues facing Nigeria and engaging the public in a transparent and inclusive manner.

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Insecurity In Zamfara – Hold Lawal Accountable, Not Matawalle

Writes Nasiru Aliyu, Media Advisor to the Hon. Minister

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Zamfara and Bandits

The recent protest organized by the All Progressives Congress (APC) Akida Forum raises significant questions about political motivations and accountability.

Led by Musa Mahmoud the APC AKIDA group staged a demonstration at the Abuja headquarters of the Department of State Services (DSS), demanding an investigation into the Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Mohammed Matawalle, amid allegations linking him to banditry in the state.

The protest, predominantly featuring hired women and youths from Abuja, was framed as a response to escalating security concerns in Zamfara.

However, the underlying motives appear to be rooted in political rivalry rather than genuine concern for public safety.

The leader of the APC Akida Forum Tijjani Ramallan claims that Governor Dauda Lawal has accused Matawalle of collusion with bandits, suggesting that such ties have perpetuated the insecurity plaguing the region.

A critical point overlooked by Mahmoud and his supporters is that Matawalle is no longer the executive governor of Zamfara.

The current governor, Dauda Lawal, now holds the title of the state’s chief security officer, and therefore, he bears the primary responsibility for addressing the security crisis.

Instead of engaging in a blame game, Lawal should focus on implementing effective strategies to combat the rampant insecurity and provide the dividends of democracy to the people of Zamfara state.

The animosity towards Matawalle seems to stem from his previous role as the Director General of Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s campaign in the Northwest, where he played a pivotal role in securing significant electoral support for the current president.

This success has reportedly fueled envy among some political figures like Tijjani Ramallan, including Musa Mahmoud and others who may feel threatened by Matawalle’s rising profile.

It is noteworthy that allegations against Matawalle have been investigated by the National Security Adviser’s office, which found no evidence to support claims of his involvement in banditry.

This investigation contributed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s decision to retain Matawalle in his ministerial position, where he has reportedly managed security matters in the Northwest with professionalism.

Adding to the complexity of this situation, a Kano High Court recently issued a restraining order against Governor Lawal and others, prohibiting them from continuing their smear campaign against Matawalle. This legal development underscores the court’s recognition of the potential harm caused by unfounded allegations and the need for accountability in political discourse and the state government has found an ally in APC AKIDA led by Tijjani Ramallan.

Despite the court’s intervention, Governor Lawal continues to leverage media platforms to tarnish Matawalle’s reputation, linking him to banditry and corruption without substantiating evidence.

Such tactics appear to be desperate attempts to undermine Matawalle’s credibility, likely motivated by Lawal’s desire to solidify his political standing.

The ongoing campaign against Matawalle by Lawal and his associates raises serious concerns about the integrity of political discourse in Zamfara.

It is imperative for the public to remain vigilant against misleading narratives and to recognize the broader implications of such political maneuvers.

The Kano High Court’s ruling serves as a reminder of the importance of due process and the need for responsible governance.

In conclusion, the focus of accountability in Zamfara should shift towards Governor Dauda Lawal, who now holds the reins of security in the state.

Instead of casting blame on former officials, Lawal must take ownership of the security situation and work towards tangible solutions that prioritize the safety and well-being of the people of Zamfara.

Furthermore, since Matawalle operational visit to sokoto led to the elimination of Bandit leader Halilu Sububu who is alleged to have died with the treasure of the sponsors of banditry in zamfara state, the pain propelled them to further embark on campaign of calumny.

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Exposing the Malicious Sabotage of MoMo PSB Project in Enugu Ezike

By: Cyprian Nwodo

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MoMo Payment Service

The recent activities of some individuals with one Davids Iyida attempting to sabotage the MoMo Payment Service Bank project intended to benefit, especially  Enugu Ezike people, have raised significant concern and outrage within the community.

Davids Iyida
Davids Iyida

Such actions aimed at undermining a project with immense potential to uplift and empower the people of Enugu Ezike can only be described as malicious.

The MoMo PSB project is designed to bring financial services closer to the people of Enugu Ezike, facilitating easier access to banking and financial transactions.

This project is expected to create jobs, stimulate local businesses, and provide a much-needed boost to the local economy. In a region where such opportunities are rare, the MoMo PSB project represents a beacon of hope for many residents.

It is particularly baffling and disheartening to witness a member of the community collaborate with outsiders to hinder the progress of their own people.

The reasons behind such alliances remain unclear, but the impact of these actions is evident and deeply troubling. Working to obstruct the project is not only delaying progress but also actively working against the welfare and advancement of Enugu Ezike.

The efforts to destroy Kingsley Ifeanyi Adonu’s good intention, despite all the positive contributions he has made, are nothing short of wickedness.

Adonu, a visionary entrepreneur and the leading MTN Partner in the South East, has dedicated significant resources and efforts to bring the MoMo Payment Service Bank project to fruition.

His vision for the community includes economic growth, financial inclusion, and overall development. Attacking his vision is an attack on the progress and future of Enugu Ezike.

The question that lingers in the minds of many is: Why sabotaging our own benefits? In a time when unity and collective effort are paramount for the community’s advancement, such actions of sabotage are counterproductive and harmful. The community needs all hands on deck to drive development and improve the quality of life for its residents. Internal conflicts and malicious actions only serve to set back these efforts.

Despite the challenges and the malicious attempts to derail the project, it is important to reaffirm that S Mobile Group vision for establishing a MoMo Payment Service Bank in Enugu Ezike will prevail.

The community stands behind this vision, recognizing the immense benefits it promises to bring. Efforts to hinder progress will ultimately fail in the face of collective determination and support.

The actions of these ungrateful individuals, aimed at sabotaging the MoMo PSB project, are grave disservice to the community of Enugu Ezike.

In a time when progress and development are desperately needed, such malicious activities are deeply regrettable.

However, the vision and determination of Kingsley Ifeanyi Adonu and the community’s support ensure that the project will succeed, bringing much-needed growth and prosperity to Enugu Ezike.

Let it be known that no amount of sabotage can dim the light of progress and unity.

Nwodo, a public commentator writes from Enugu State

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