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Vera Okolo—A forgotten heroine and the Super Falcons’ ongoing struggles

In the history of Nigerian women’s football, Vera Okolo’s name stands out as a symbol of triumph and resilience. As a key player for the Super Falcons, Okolo with injury made history by scoring Nigeria’s only winning goal at the Olympics, a decisive strike against Japan during the Athens 2004 Games at the Karaiskakis Stadium. This moment remains the only victory the Super Falcons have celebrated against Japan, the second-best female team globally at the time, highlighting Okolo’s significant contribution to Nigerian football.

Despite her on-field achievements, Okolo’s post-retirement life has been marked by neglect and hardship. Her career faced a tragic turn during the 2008 Olympic qualifiers in Ghana, where she suffered a severe injury while playing for Nigeria. The injury, sustained while representing her country, led to the termination of her contract with KPV FC Kokkola in Finland, leaving her career in jeopardy. Shockingly, the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) abandoned Okolo at the Airport upon their return to the country and for eight months thereafter, providing no support or assistance during a critical period.

During the period of these 8months, Vera Okolo underwent a minor surgery which she paid for at the University Collage Hospital (UCH), Ibadan from where she was referred for a major surgery in Germany. After much persuasion and media reports, the NFF committed to sponsor the surgery and after surgery therapy in the Vivantis Hospital, Berlin, Germany. After finally receiving surgery in Germany, Okolo found herself stranded and abandoned once more, by the NFF, which left her without the necessary funds for after surgery therapy. Struggling to make ends meet, she resorted to begging at the Nigerian Embassy in Germany to afford after surgery therapy and secure her return to Nigeria. This experience reflects a broader issue of neglect and lack of support for athletes who have dedicated their lives to representing the country.

Upon her return to Nigeria, she continued her after surgery therapy in Lagos for 9 months sponsored by the NFF. This ordeal took her over two years and kept her out of football for the period and technically ended her international football career.
Upon recovery, she joined the Rivers Angel football club and thereafter moved over to Delta Queens and retired from active football in 2014. However, in 2015, she went on a self sponsored 1year coaching program at the National Institute of Sports (NIS), whereas her contemporaries in other states were sponsored by their state governments.
In the same year the Delta State Sports Commission halted Okolo’s salary despite her qualifications and experience, she faced exclusion from the system, while others with less impressive credentials were integrated. Currently she is undergoing a self-sponsored CAF C coaching course, Okolo remains a valuable, yet untapped, resource for Nigerian football.

The recent loss of the Super Falcons to Japan in the 2024 Olympics, with a score of 3-1, underscores the ongoing challenges faced by the team. This defeat brings back memories of Okolo’s historic goal against Japan in 2004, the only win the Falcons have achieved in their Olympic history against Japan. As the national team continues to seek success, Okolo’s story serves as a stark reminder of the sacrifices made by athletes and the need for recognition and support.

Given her vast experience, knowledge, and dedication to the sport, Okolo should be included on the coaching team of the Super Falcons. Her firsthand understanding of the game and her journey through the highs and lows of Nigerian football make her an invaluable asset. Her inclusion would not only provide the team with a seasoned professional but also serve as a significant step towards rectifying the neglect she has faced.

Vera Okolo’s journey is a tale of a talented footballer who brought glory to Nigeria but was abandoned in her time of need. Her experiences highlight the systemic issues within Nigerian sports administration and the urgent need for better treatment and recognition of female athletes who have given so much to the nation. It is time for figures like Okolo to receive the accolades they deserve and for the country to address the neglect that has plagued its sporting heroes. Including Okolo in the coaching team would be a meaningful acknowledgment of her contributions and an opportunity to elevate the Super Falcons’ coaching staff with her rich expertise.

Culled from The Authority

Concerned Lawyer issues a 7-day ultimatum for Odinkalu to write an apology to CJN, CJ FCT, Justice Sylvanus Oriji

THE NEEDLESS FLIPPANCY OF CHIDI ODINKALU: URGENT NEED FOR RESTRAINT, RESPECT FOR JUDICIAL OFFICERS, AND RESPONSIBLE AND SENSIBLE CRITICISM, DEVOID OF POLITICAL UNDERTONES, AN ULTIMATUM TO ISSUE  A WRITTEN APOLOGY TO THE CHIEF JUSTICE OF NIGERIA, CHIEF JUDGE OF THE HIGH COURT OF FCT AND HON JUSTICE SYLVANUS ORIJI, BY PROF CHIDI ODINKALU, WITHIN THE NEXT SEVEN DAYS

In the past weeks, the nation of Nigeria has been engulfed in protests, which in some states turned violent. Most states of the federation foresaw the likelihood of violence, destruction of properties, and massive lootings by miscreants taking advantage of the protest to perpetrate their evil acts. They took remedial steps to curb the spread of vandalism by limiting the protest only to specified locations.

The proactive measures taken by Lagos and Ogun states, which applied to the court to limit the protest within certain locations, underscore the crucial role of the legal process and the rule of law in preventing violence and looting while balancing the rights of protesters in Nigeria.

Given the precedents set by other states, it was not unexpected that the FCT administration would also seek lawful measures, through the High Court of FCT, to restrict the areas for demonstrations or protests to the stadium. This action was a crucial part of maintaining law and order and ensuring the safety of the public by the Minister of the FCT, just as done at the directive of the governors of other states of the Federation.

It was, therefore, disheartening to read Chidi Odinkalu’s disrespectful and disparaging remarks against the revered Hon. Justice Sylvanus Oriji, particularly in relation to the court orders. This incident underscores the need for respectful criticism based on verifiable facts, procedural rules and law, especially from a legal professional of his stature, a Professor of law, and a human rights activist who once led the National Human Rights Commission in the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

One may wish to forgive the Professor of Law for his inherent and palpable ignorance of judicial processes since the Professor is not a known practising lawyer in Nigeria. However, given Prof Chidi Odinkalu’s now frequent, incessant, and consistent insults and disrespectful comments against judicial officers, it became necessary to put the facts straight.

Not too long ago, before the protest that took place in the nation,  Prof Chidi Odinkalu, wrote on Thisday online publication accessible at THE ROMANCE BETWEEN THE EXECUTIVE AND JUDICIARY – THISDAYLIVE, against the Chief Judge of FCT and Hon Minster of FCT, Nyesom Wike, as follows:

Two years after his inauguration in October 2021 as Chief Judge of the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT High Court), Husseini Baba Yusuf, decided in November 2023 that it was time to indulge in a sport of institutional mating games with the newly installed Minister of the Federal Capital, Ezenwo Nyesom Wike. By a stroke of coincidence, both men are members of the Body of Benchers, which describes itself as “the legal body of practitioners of the highest distinction in the legal profession.”

            To initiate the mating, the Chief Judge relocated to the office of the Minister with the judges of the court where they proudly put their assets on display for the edification of the minister. At the meeting, he reminded the Minister that “as a judiciary we are part of the government and we expect that we should be able to do things that should make government work….”

The Chief Judge was desperate to let the Minister know how ready he was to consummate this relationship. To ensure that he got fullest ministerial attentions, the Chief Judge made it known that he had instructed the Administrative Judges in charge of the various judicial divisions of the FCT High Court that all cases involving the Federal Capital Territory “would only be assigned by the Chief Judge.”

            The following quarter, when the FCT High Court went into the market for judicial appointments, they allocated one out of the 12 new vacancies on offer to the FCT Minister, to which he promptly deputed his sister-in-law. As the new judges got inaugurated in July 2024, the Minister quickly announced that the judges in the FCT the proud beneficiaries of new housing development. The relationship between the Chief Judge and the Minister had moved from intent to intercourse.

Again, after the interim orders, obtained by the Federal Capital Territory Administration, Prof Chidi Odinkalu, was quoted in Premium Times online publication, accessible on In the matter of the yam eating division of the FCT High Court, By Chidi Anselm Odinkalu (premiumtimesng.com), as follows:

With little ado, this yam-eating court quickly granted all the orders sought, including “an order restraining the 1st-5th defendants from gathering or parading themselves along any roadway, street, offices and or public premises/property within the FCT between 1st-10th August 2024 or any other day thereafter pending the hearing and determination of” this case. Instead, the Court required all intending protesters from anywhere within the 7,315 km² of the FCT to converge at the Stadium at the entrance into the city…

It is, therefore, given the above background, that it became expedient to call Prof Chidi Odinkalu to order. Persistently disparaging judicial officers, without any iota of proof, beyond his putative, illusory, and delusive perception of the state of affairs from his warped, pessimistic and jaundiced stance against judicial officers of the government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, is criminal in nature and ought to be investigated, to act as a deterrent.

It is, therefore, incumbent on my person, as a minister in the temple of justice, and indeed every other lawyer in Nigeria, to protect the integrity of the institution of the judiciary in Nigeria. The institution may not be perfect. There may be a few bad eggs, but certainly, not Hon Justice Sylvanus Oriji of the High Court of FCT, the Chief Judge of the FCT High Court or the Chief Justice of the Federation. Every Lawyer in FCT will attest to the sterling and exceptional records of Hon Justice Oriji, in the bench of the High Court of the FCT, Abuja.

It is, expedient to bring to the attention of the general public, misinformed by the disparaging remarks of Prof Chidi Odinkalu, the facts as they pertain to the motion ex parte granted by Hon Justice Sylvanus Oriji.

FILING AND ASSIGNMENT OF CASES DURING THE ANNUAL VACATION OF THE HIGH COURT OF FCT

It is to be noted, and for the information of Prof Chidi Odinkalu, that during the vacations of the High Court of FCT, vacation courts are constituted, with the most senior judge, acting as the administrative head of the vacation court. When cases are filed before the vacation courts, the administrative judge has the discretion to assign the cases to either any of the appointed vacation judges or to himself, depending on the nature and subject matter of the case, and also given the experience, and age of the judges in the bench among several other innumerable factors.

Given the delicate nature of the case at hand, one was therefore not surprised that Hon Justice Oriji, being the most Senior Judge among the vacation judges, assigned the case to himself. Several other factors may have also played roles in the decision of the judge to assign the matter to himself, including the availability of other judges, given the looming protest and its concomitant dangers. Another factor that may have also swayed the decision of the judge to hear the application is the exigency of time and national security, at the moment.

We must also bear in mind that prior to the order of the FCT High Court, about two or three other states had already gotten the same orders from the various High Courts for the safety of lives and properties in those states. So, did Hon Justice Sylvanus Oriji, do any wrong by assigning the matter to himself and hearing it expeditiously? The answer is a definite No.

INJUNCTIONS, ESPECIALLY INTERIM INJUNCTIONS, VIA EX PARTE APPLICATIONS ARE NOT GRANTED AS A MATTER OF CAUSE

While it is true that injunctions, whether interim or interlocutory, are granted at the discretion of the courts, such discretion is applied judicially and judiciously. Over time, the apex court in Nigeria has laid down certain conditions that have to be met before an order of injunction, whether interim or interlocutory, is granted by a court of law. These conditions are guiding criteria for the application of judicial discretion in either granting or refusing an application ex parte for interim injunctions.

Conditions for the grant of interim injunction

Interim injunction is a preservatory measure taken quite early before the Court has had an opportunity to hear and weigh fully the evidence on both sides, and it is intended to preserve matters. The principles governing the grant of an interim injunction are –

  1. The Applicant must show that there is a serious question to be tried, and that there is a real urgency.
  • He must show that the balance of convenience is on his side; that is, that more justice will result in granting the application than in refusing it.
  • He must show that his conduct is not reprehensible for example that he is not guilty of any delay.
  • No order for an interim injunction should be made unless the Applicant gives a satisfactory undertaking as to damages. see Akinpelu V. Adegbore (2008) 10 NWLR (Pt. 1096) 531 SC; Obeya Memorial Specialist Hospital V. A-G., Fed. & Anor. (1987) 3 NWLR (Pt. 60) 325 SC at 238,  Ita V. Nyong (1994) 1 NWLR (Pt.318) 56.

I am certain that the Claimants/Applicants demonstrated by the affidavit in support of the motion on ex parte that there was real urgency, that damages would be inadequate, and that the balance of convenience was in their favour before Hon Justice Sylvanus Oriji exercised his discretion in granting the application. Balance of convenience means the disadvantage to one side or the other, which damages cannot compensate. It is also defined as – “A balancing test that courts use to decide whether to issue a preliminary (i.e. interlocutory) injunction stopping the Defendant’s allegedly infringing or unfair practices, weighing the benefit to the Plaintiff and the public against the burden on the Defendant“. – see Black’s Law Dictionary, 9th Ed.

It is to be further noted that the balance of convenience is predicated and presumed actively on the existence of “competing legal rights” to the res. “In the absence of such competition of rights, there is nothing for the Court to balance” – see Leasing Co. (Nig.) Ltd. v. Tiger Ind. Ltd. (2007) 14 NWLR (Pt.1054) 346. In the case under reference, the legal rights in issue are the constitutional rights of the public in FCT to the safety of their lives and properties and the constitutional rights of the protesters to express themselves and move freely. Weighed on the imaginary scale of justice, every right-thinking or reasonable individual will naturally come to the conclusion that the balance of convenience was in favour of granting the application rather than refusing it.

The determination of where the balance of convenience lies is a question of fact and not law. The Court is expected to deduce the answer from the facts before it- see Agbogu v. Okoye (2008) All FWLR (Pt.414) 1524, where Nzeako, JCA, added that “it is a question of justice”. Consequently, if no steps were taken actively by the Court, as already done in a few other states of the federation, while the suit is pending before the court, lives and properties will be destroyed in the FCT.  

Nnaemeka-Agu JSC in Kotoye v. C.B.N. (1989) 1 NWLR (Pt.98) 419, said thus, while considering the issue of balance of convenience:

“It means that more justice will result in granting the application than in refusing it.”

In the face of national security, in the face of palpable threats to the lives and properties of the majority of the citizens of this great country Nigeria, resident in Abuja, was more justice served by the granting of the application? The answer is a definite yes.

UNRESTRAINED AND PERSISTENT INSULTS ON JUDICIAL OFFICERS, NOW A PART-TIME HUBBY OF PROF CHIDI ODINKALU

Section 287(3) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, provides as follows:

The decisions of the Federal High Court, National Industrial Court, a High Court and of all other courts established by this Constitution shall enforced in any part of the Federation by all authorities and persons, and by other courts of law with subordinate jurisdiction to that of the Federal High Court, National Industrial Court, a

Reference is also made to the case of AG ANAMBRA STATE v. AG FRN & ORS(2005) LPELR-13(SC) where the Supreme Court held as follows:

“The law in this instance is clear that it is settled that it is the unqualified obligation of every person against or in respect of whom an order is made by a court of competent jurisdiction to obey it unless and until that order is discharged and this the moreso, where the person affected by the order believes it to be irregular or void. In so far as the order exists, it must be obeyed to the letter. See Military Govemor of Lagos State v. Ojukwu & Anor. (1986) 1 NWLR (Pt. 18) 621 SC. An order of court, no matter the fundamental vice attaching thereto, remains legally binding and valid until set aside by due process of law.”Per TOBI ,J.S.C ( P. 54, paras. C-F )

Further reference is made to the case of PEOPLES DEMOCRATIC PARTY v. AJANG ALFRED ILIYA & ORS (2023) LPELR-61537(CA); where it was held as follows:

When a Court of law makes an order that affects the status of a party or group of persons, it no longer lies within the discretion of that party to elect how to obey that Order or whether to obey it. Compliance to Court Order must be total and not partial. Judgments of Court must be obeyed to the latter or in full. The effect of noncompliance with subsisting Court’s order will be devastatingly earth-shaking, equivalent to an earthquake. A Court of law must not only bark but must bark and bite and if situation warrants, break the bones not for anything but to teach a party in disobedience that it was a joke taken too far to overlook a subsisting order of Court and pretends as if the order does not exist. Democracy is anchored on the rule of law, not on rule of might. Where a person makes an attempt to disparage an Order of Court, the Court that made the Order or another Court of competent jurisdiction that is seised of the proceedings where the alleged disobedience is raised should do everything possible to ensure that the order is not treated with disdain. This is to maintain the integrity and sanctity of the Court of law.”

Per ABANG ,JCA (Pp. 22-23, paras. A-C)

Prof Odinkalu, a human rights activist, should know better that all courts of record in Nigeria exercise their powers by virtue of the powers as donated to them, by section 6 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Reference is made to section 6(6a&b) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 as amended which provides as follows:

(6) The judicial powers vested in accordance with the foregoing provisions of this section –

(a) shall extend, notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Constitution, to all inherent powers and sanctions of a court of law;

(b) shall extend, to all matters between persons, or between government or authority and to any persons in Nigeria, and to all actions and proceedings relating thereto, for the determination of any question as to the civil rights and obligations of that person;

From the provisions of the Constitution above, the discretionary exercise of powers by courts draws its legitimacy from the Constitution, which is the grundnorm. The Constitution equally gave a right of appeal to any individual dissatisfied with the decision of court. See sections 241 and 242 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

As a renown human rights activist, one expects that Prof Chidi Odinkalu, should be conversant with the provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, as it pertains to:

  1. Obedience to orders of court.
  2. Appeal against judgments of court.

If Prof Chidi Odinkalu is aggrieved by the decision of the High Court of FCT, Abuja, presided over by Hon Justice Sulvanus Oriji, why did he not appeal against the decision.

The conducts of Professor Chidi Odinkalu, by posting false, and ,malicious allegations against not just Hon Justice Sylvanus Oriji, the Chief Judge of FCT, and the Chief Justice of the Federation, offend the provisions of sections 24 and 26 of the CYBERCRIMES (PROHIBITION, PREVENTION, ETC) AMENDMENT ACT, 2024.

DEMAND FOR APOLOGY TO THE HON CHIEF JUSTICE OF NIGERIA, HON CHIEF JUDGE OF FCT HIGH COURT, HON JUSTICE SYLVANUS ORJI, AND INDEED TO THE NIGERIAN JUDICIARY BY PROF CHIDI ODINKALU

It is, therefore, given the foregoing, that I call on Prof Chidi Odinkalu to publish a written apology to the Nigerian Judiciary, to the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Chief Judge of the FCT, and Hon Justice Sylvanus Oriji, for his mendacious, malicious and disrespectful statements against them. If he fails or neglects to apologize for his conduct, we will petition the state security services, the Nigeria Police Force and all other relevant security agencies for his investigation, arrest and prosecution before a court of law for his conduct which offend sections 24 and 26 of the CYBERCRIMES (PROHIBITION, PREVENTION, ETC) AMENDMENT ACT, 2024.

Sir, Nkem Okoro Esq (LL.M)

For and on behalf of concerned Lawyers

In the Federal Capital Territory of Abuja, Nigeria

The call for “Ndi Igbo” to leave Lagos is a treasonable offence

Press Statement

Otu Oka-Iwu Abuja vehemently condemn the renewed call for Igbos to leave Lagos, along with all associated threats that jeopardize the existence of Ndi Igbo in Nigeria. Such statements and threats should be considered treasonable offences, and those responsible must be arrested and prosecuted for threatening the peace and unity of the country.

This is not the first time such dangerous rhetoric has surfaced, and it is time to put an end to it once and for all. During the 2023 elections, similar calls were made in Lagos and were met with a lackluster response. It is, therefore, unsurprising that some individuals now feel emboldened to threaten an entire section of the country. We must remember that this very trend led to the civil war, yet the security agencies have taken little to no action against those inciting such dangerous sentiments.

Otu Oka-Iwu wishes to remind those responsible for these threats that the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended), is clear in its provisions. Specifically, Section 41 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended) provides that: Every citizen of Nigeria is entitled to move freely throughout Nigeria and to reside in any part thereof, and no citizen of Nigeria shall be expelled from Nigeria or refused entry thereby or exit therefrom.

Similarly, Section 43 provides that: “Subject to the provisions of this Constitution, every citizen of Nigeria shall have the right to acquire and own immovable property anywhere in Nigeria.”

The Igbo community has long been subjected to negative stereotyping, often portrayed as secessionists or criminals in both government-controlled and independent media. Such false narratives have fueled resentment and further marginalized the Igbo people. Moreover, there have been instances of censorship and suppression of pro-Igbo voices, further silencing the region in national discourse.

The insinuation that the recent #Endbadgovernance protest was masterminded by Igbos is particularly unfortunate and was clearly a tactic to scapegoat the Igbo community once again. We commend the calls by Ohanaeze Ndigbo and other well-meaning Igbo leaders who urged restraint and advised the Igbo community to stay away from the protests. It is noteworthy that there were no reports of protests in any of the Southeastern states.

Otu Oka-Iwu earnestly expects the Inspector General of Police to take action before the expiration of the 14-days ultimatum issued by Dr. Sam Amadi to act or an action will be instituted for an order of mandamus. Indeed, this call for the Inspector General’s action is long overdue. All well-meaning Igbo Associations should rise to the occasion and demand caution from those who threaten the unity of this country.

It is on record that the Igbos have always been at the forefront of Nigeria’s progress and unity, from the time of Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe to the demands of Dim Odimegwu Ojukwu (Ikemba). Consequently, the collective sensibility of the entire Igbo Nation cannot be undermined by political opportunists or social media provocateurs seeking attention or traffic to their platforms.

We however, appreciate President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, the Commander in Chief of the armed forces for condeming such alterances in his #endbadgovernance speech to the Nation and commend all individuals and organizations that have stood in solidarity with the Igbos across the country and have condemned these uncultured and provocative pronouncements.

Chidi Udekwe, Esq.
President
Otu Oka-Iwu (Igbo Lawyers)
Abuja

#EndBadGovernance: High Court of FCT extends restraining order on Abuja protests

FCT high court extends the order restraining protesters from gathering at Eagle Square or parading themselves along any roadway, within the FCT save for the Moshood Abiola Stadium in Abuja.

A high court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) sitting in Maitama presided by Hon. Justice Sylvanus Oriji has extended the order he granted on 31st July restraining protesters from gathering at Eagle Square or parading themselves along any roadway, within the FCT save for the Moshood Abiola Stadium in Abuja till the hearing of the motion on notice in the suit filed by the FCT Minister.

The order was extended at the instance of the counsel representing the Minister of the FCT, Dr. Ogwu James Onoja who is the plaintiff in the matter.

Dr. Onoja had prayed for an extension of the order to afford the defendants in the matter to enter an appearance.

He noted that in the letter written to the FCT minister, the protesters had submitted that their protest may extend beyond 10th August hence the reason for the application for an extension of the order.

In a short ruling, Justice Oriji ordered that the defendants be served with the interlocutory applications and the motion on notice.

His Lordship also took a swipe at the former Executive Secretary of the National Human Rights Commission Chidi Odinkalu for the derogatory comments he made against him due to his displeasure over the order he granted.

He noted that whoever is aggrieved has the right to appeal.

Ifa’s message for our president

By Suyi Ayodele

At the very beginning of time when the deities lived among human beings, Òrúnmìlà, the father of Divination, occupied a prominent space. He attracted many people to himself, friends and foes alike. He assisted many people to achieve their ambitions. Òrúnmìlà was instrumental to many becoming wealthy. He made nobles of not a few. He crowned and assisted in dethroning kings. He was powerful, influential and generous. But he has hubris. He was always ruthless whenever he saw any obstacle to his ambition.

A time came when Òrúnmìlà wanted to take the highest title among the deities. Of course, many rose in his support; those who wanted to repay his past good deeds. Likewise, some others who had felt cheated or ill-treated by Òrúnmìlà, also lined up against him. To these people, it was payback time. Two Òrúnmìlà’s partners in divination were ferocious in their opposition to Òrúnmìlà’s aspiration. What went wrong between them, only the gods could tell. But Òtúrúpòn and Òkàràn swore that Òrúnmìlà would not attain the position he sought. While Òkàràn was ready to shift ground if certain conditions were met, Òtúrúpòn was so determined, and nothing would persuade him to be soft on his erstwhile friend. The duo approached Èsù (the trickster deity) to assist them in their mission against the great diviner. Èsù kept them in his shrine, waiting to see what Òrúnmìlà would do.

At his wits end, Òrúnmìlà summoned his diviners to find a solution. Ifa revealed to Òrúnmìlà that his two enemies were waiting in ambush for him at the shrine of Èsù. Òpèlè equally told him that it was only Èsù that could save him and get him to the position he so desired. Sacrifices were prescribed. Among them was that Òrúnmìlà must carry 700 empty gourds and 4,000 cowry shells to the shrine of Èsù. How would one man carry those items at once? Ifa simply asked Òrúnmìlà to make the poor in the town to be happy. He was asked to attend to the needs of the masses reasonably.

For seven days, Òrúnmìlà took care of the needy. He fed them, divined for them pro bono, attended to every of their needs and asked the king to initiate policies that would make life bearable for the poor. The people were happy. On the eighth day, Òrúnmìlà brought out the sacrificial items and began to carry them. The people who came to thank him for the way he had treated them in the past one week saw his struggles with the items. They offered to assist Òrúnmìlà. The masses shared the items among themselves and Òrúnmìlà led the way to the shrine of Èsù, otherwise known as Elégbáa.

The noise from the items as the empty gourds and cowry shells knocked one another was terrifying. The noise produced a music, which according to the Odù, says: A ó pa Òtúrúpòn/A ó kan Òkàràn lésè (We will kill Òtúrúpòn. We will break the legs of Òkàràn). On hearing the music, which was just coincidental, the duo thought that it was a battle cry, and took to flight. Òrúnmìlà and his party arrived at the shrine, offered the items to Èsù. He was instantly proclaimed the head of all deities. Òrúnmìlà defeated his enemies without shooting a single arrow. The masses who made up his team were his strength. When a dog has the people behind it, even the monkey on a high tree becomes a meal!

Today is barely three days after the Annual Convention of my church, The Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), with the theme, “Heaven”, ended. For those my fellow heaven-bound brothers and sisters, who may be wondering why I chose the path of divination early this New Year in the RCCG, I refer you to my new position in the cabinet of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as Senior Special Adviser, Culture and Tradition (See “Dangote Refinery: Blind man and his yam scrapers”, published on July 30, 2024). It is in pursuant of that new office that I offer this ‘advice’ free of charge! But like the deity, Olúa, in my town is wont to say: I wish Tinubu not to accede to my divination so that at the fullness of time, he would say the Oracle warned!

The year 2027 is going to be a decisive year for Nigeria, Nigerians, and particularly for President Tinubu. It is the year that Tinubu will be seeking his second term in office, no doubt. Many will support him, just as many will be up in arms against him. The battle will be fierce, mean and bloody. The opposition camps will give all it takes for the president not to realise his second term ambition. President Tinubu should have no doubt in his mind that the Òtúrúpòns and Òkàràns of the nation’s political firmament will assemble all arsenals at their disposals to see the end of his political career. We will be on the fringes to observe events and lend our voices here and there, and from time to time, by God’s grace. However, the battle will rage most fiercely, in Tinubu’s camp. What should the president do? We shall come to that.

But first, let us establish this fact. With the way the #EndBadGovernance ‘protest’ was prosecuted and ended in the North, it is clear, even to the blind, that the Òtúrúpòns and Òkàràns of the North have parted ways with Tinubu’s Òrúnmìlà. What happened between President Tinubu and his old friends and allies from the North is left at the imagination of the deities as it happened in the divination above. The North, we all have come to realise, did not ‘protest’ hunger, inflation and the general pains in the land during the August1-10, 2024 EndBadGovernance ‘protest’. What ails the North most in the last 15 months of President Tinubu’s administration is the loss of power to the South.

The folks up the Niger River have not been able to reconcile themselves with the fact that they are no longer in charge. They find the prospect of a Tinubu second term too difficult to bear. So, when the opportunity came for them to ‘protest’ hunger, the North sent their youths to do it peculiarly. That region is ready to do anything, ready to give anything and ready to allow anything, for power to return to it. They canvassed for military intervention. But it is understandable, anyway. When a region has no other business apart from the government, the loss of power, no matter how temporary, can never be palatable.

During the build-up to the 2023 general election that produced the Tinubu presidency, many of us warned Tinubu then that it was fatal for the dog to make the tiger its best man. Such a relationship comes with a huge price. But when a man sets his eyes on the throne of his forebears, it is useless to caution him to tread softly. In the course of realising his ambition, everything, no matter how deadly, got a warm embrace from Tinubu. While one is tempted to salute his dexterity at executing all his political battles, one cannot but shrug at the tendency of Tinubu to throw caution to the winds. He befriended his most arch enemies. One of them was Nasir El-Rufai, the immediate past governor of Kaduna State. The public insults El-Rufai heaped on Tinubu prior to the 2023 race paled into insignificance as the same diminutive governor became the arrowhead of Tinubu’s campaign. That is what our politics is all about; no clear-cut ideology.

In power, Tinubu has made so many concessions to his ‘friends’ in the North. He has done everything he could to pacify them. With numerous appointments, to even creating a full ministry for the cows of the North, President Tinubu has demonstrated that he is a man ready to give in anything for his own personal comfort and ambition. But despite what he has done for the North, the same people came out during the EndBadGovernance ‘protest’ to show that they are implacable. The only thing that will pacify the North is a return of power to the zone.

President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan did the same. Rather than establish a Ministry of Cows for the North, Jonathan established nomadic schools for the ambulant pastoralist populace of the region. But that did not pacify them. They ensured he was practically chased out of power! Anything short of power is nothing for the region. It doesn’t matter the huge difference between the number of years the North has been in power and the alarming backwardness of the region, the zone still wants power and nothing more. Those children on the streets during the ‘protest’ are products of the wickedness of the elite class up there! That should get any rational mind worried. And this is why nobody up there appears to appreciate Tinubu’s rapprochement with the North! Come 2027, the North will queue behind any northerner that stands against Tinubu at the election. The only bragging right they have is the population. That itself is a ruse! In all this, Tinubu can change the narrative. He can do something that will make 2027 an easy ride. What do I think President Tinubu should do?

I refer the president back to Ifa’s counsel to Òrúnmìlà in the above divination. Nigerians, I have come to realise, don’t really bother about who rules them as long as life is more abundant. We demonstrate that in sports. Nobody cares if our National Team is populated by the Okechuckwus of this world or by the descendants of Ahmed Musa, or the offspring of Segun Odegbami. All they want is the gold medal!

So, if I were President Tinubu, I would, like Òrúnmìlà did, make food available for the masses by ensuring that farmers are no more molested by herders and bandits. I would ensure that Nigerians can travel on the highways without any fear of being kidnapped. As the president, I would take a look at the power sector and ask questions as to why the Power Generating Companies (GENCOs) generate so much but the Transmission Companies (TMs) could not transmit the megawatts generated for the Distribution Companies (DISCOs) to sell to the populace.

I would address the issue of over-bloated cost of governance by cutting down on the number of political appointees and stem other profligacies. I would also not forget to look at the NNPC and its moribund refineries and do a decisive surgical operation there. In all the juicy pies where my family members, cronies and I have our hands, I will become more transparent and be above board. If indeed I were him, I would devote more time to good governance and leave politics for a while.

I take a bet, if President Tinubu makes the welfare of the people the cornerstone of his administration today, when 2027 comes and the Òtúrúpòns and Òkàràns all gather, the masses will carry his sacrificial items to the shrine of Èsù with the battle cry: A ó pa Òtúrúpòn/a ó kan Òkàràn lésè (We with kill Òtúrúpón. We will break the leg of Òkàràn)! May the president hear and understand what the Oracle says!

Amazing Nigerian boy creates glasses for blind people

A Nigerian teenager has designed glasses that could revolutionise life for blind people.

The glasses have sensors that bleep to warn the wearer of nearby obstacles. It’s a simple idea that’s been brought to life by 17-year-old Khalifa Aminu, from Kano.

He’s now looking for funding to get them manufactured.

Will he get support?

Bank directors say 70% windfall tax excessive, ill-timed

The Bank Directors Association of Nigeria has termed the proposed 70 per cent windfall tax on profits generated from foreign exchange transactions by banks as not only excessive but also ill-timed.

A press statement from the association after its board meeting on Monday said that while they respect the intentions of the government in making the decision, it had concerns about the magnitude of the levy, its timing and the ambiguities surrounding its implementation.

The chairman of the Board of Directors of the association, Mustafa Chike-Obi, who signed the statement said, “While the imposition of this windfall tax appears to be a response to the current economic climate, we suggest that a 70 per cent tax rate is excessively burdensome and ill-timed, particularly considering the ongoing bank recapitalisation efforts. Such a high levy has the potential to stifle growth and innovation within the banking sector, ultimately affecting the quality of services we provide to our customers and the broader economy.

“Moreover, we believe that it is vital for all stakeholders in the banking sector to have been consulted prior to the enactment of such significant changes in the Finance Act 2023. Open dialogue and negotiation are essential to ensure that policies are both equitable and effective.”

The association said that its primary concern lies in the ambiguities of the language in this amendment which leaves critical questions unanswered, “such as, whether the windfall tax will be implemented as a Total Tax charge on banks, incorporating other taxes already levied such as Company Income tax, Tertiary Education Tax, National Information Development Levy etc We also request clarification on what constitutes ‘FX transactions’ to be taxed and the treatment of banks that may incur losses rather than gains during this period. We urge the government to provide clear guidelines on this matter to avoid further uncertainty.”

BDAN also argued that Nigerian banks were amongst the most heavily taxed in the world due to the burden of the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria levy which is imposed on the total assets of banks.

It went on to call on the National Assembly to revisit this amendment and engage in constructive discussions with stakeholders in the banking sector.

“By collaborating, we can develop a framework that effectively balances the need for revenue generation with the imperative of fostering a thriving banking environment that supports sustainable economic growth,” BDAN concluded.

Earlier in the month, BDAN distanced itself from the personal views of some bank chairmen on the proposed foreign exchange windfall tax, who expressed support for the move.

PUNCH

Meet Nigerians who won medals for other countries at Paris 2024 Olympics

It is no longer news that Nigeria made a poor showing at the Paris 2024 Olympics despite the N9 Billion spent on the exercise. N12 billion was said to have been invested on the entire venture, a sum reportedly almost twice the amount budgeted for the entire Ministry of Science and Technology this year.

Nigeria’s scant treatment of its athletes has been an issue over the years and it was demonstrated right at the commencement of the games when Nigeria’s senior women’s basketball team, D’Tigress was not allowed to board the delegation’s boat for the opening ceremony.

When the team made it to the area where it was supposed to board the boat for the ceremony, they were denied entry and turned back by a Nigerian official who told the players and coaches there were too many people on board. They went on to win their first game and another despite the discouraging treatment.

The Ese Ukpeseraye Nigeria’s first ever Olympic cyclist had to borrow a bike from the German team to compete with after she was unable to source one of her own.

Indeed the athletes allege that they have been let down by the nation’s sports officials. 

Posting on X, formerly Twitter, Nigerian sprinter and one of the fastest women this year, Favour Ofili, said the country’s athletics federation and Olympic organising committee failed to register her for the event.

Ofili said this was not the first time she was being let down. At the Tokyo Games four years ago, she was one of 10 Nigerian athletes who were not able to compete because Nigerian Olympics officials failed to organize doping tests or the tests they organized did not meet international standards.

But what Nigeria fails to appreciate other countries are grabbling with both hands. Several athletes of Nigerian descent made significant contributions while representing other nations.

These athletes, though born or connected to Nigeria, chose to compete under the flags of countries such as Germany, Bahrain, the United States, France, Great Britain and Spain.

Their performances not only earned them individual glory but also highlighted the diverse and global nature of talent originating from Nigeria.

From winning gold in shot put to securing silver in the 400m and hammer throw, and men’s football these athletes demonstrated exceptional skill and determination on the world stage, continuing the legacy of Nigerian excellence in international sports.

Nigeria went ‘medal-less’

Meanwhile, Nigeria’s contingent left the tournament without securing a single medal, marking it one of the country’s most disappointing Olympic outings in recent times.

Despite having a strong roster of athletes, the closest Nigeria came to winning a medal was in athletics, where a few athletes made it to the finals but failed to finish on the podium.

This result contrasts sharply with Nigeria’s best Olympic performance, which occurred at the Atlanta 1996 Games, where the nation won six medals, including gold in men’s football and women’s long jump.

On the other hand, the 2024 outing could be considered among Nigeria’s worst, paralleling the 2012 London Olympics, where the country also failed to win any medals, underscoring the ongoing challenges in Nigeria’s sports development and international competition performance

The Paris 2024 Olympics concluded on August 11, 2024, with the United States leading the medal table with 126 medals (40 gold, 44 silver, and 42 bronze). China followed closely with 91 medals, and Japan rounded out the top three with 45 medals.

Notably, the host nation, France, finished fifth with 64 medals. Other standout nations included Australia, Great Britain, and the Netherlands, all of which placed in the top ten. N9bn budget

Sports development minister, Senator John Owan-Enoh, said that President Bola Tinubu approved over N12bn for Team Nigeria’s preparation and participation at the forthcoming 2024 Paris Olympics and Paralympics in Paris, France. This comes with N9bn for Olympics and N3bn for Paralympics.

Here’s an overview of eight athletes of Nigerian descent who won medals representing other nations at the Paris 2024 Olympics:

  • Yemisi Ogunleye (Germany)

Event: Women’s Shot Put
Medal: Gold
Yemisi Ogunleye, born in Germany to a Nigerian father, made history by winning the gold medal in the women’s shot put at the Paris 2024 Olympics. This victory marked Germany’s first gold in the event since 1996.

Watch video of joyful Yemisi singing praises after her win.

@latoshabranch1

German athlete Olympic Gold winner with Nigeria heritage, Yemisi Ogunleye sang Kurt Carr’s “I Almost Let Go” with tears in her eyes during her press conference after winning. I love how these athletes are so BOLD with their faith at this ongoing Paris Olympics. #worship #christian #staymotivated #bible #gospelmusic #ghana #jesuschrist #preach #inspiring #believertamilstyle

♬ original sound – Latosha Branch
  • Salwa Eid Naser (Bahrain)

Event: Women’s 400m
Medal: Silver
Salwa Eid Naser, originally born as Ebelechukwu Agbapuonwu in Nigeria, claimed the silver medal in the 400m for Bahrain. Naser, who switched allegiance to Bahrain in 2014, continues to be a dominant force in track and field, adding to her collection of international medals.

  • Annette Echikunwoke (USA)

Event: Women’s Hammer Throw
Medal: Silver
Annette Echikunwoke, who was born in Ohio to Nigerian parents, won a silver medal in the hammer throw for the United States. Her performance at the Paris 2024 Olympics added to her growing reputation in field events.

  • Michael Olise (France)

Event: Men’s Football
Medal: Silver
Michael Olise, born to a Nigerian father, was a key player for France in the men’s football competition at the Paris 2024 Olympics. The team won the silver medal, with Olise’s contributions being crucial to their success​.

  • Samu Omorodion (Spain)

Event: Men’s Football
Medal: Gold
Samu Omorodion, who represented Spain, won a gold medal in men’s football at the Paris 2024 Olympics. Although he is still eligible to represent Nigeria, Omorodion has been making his mark with Spain​.

  • Barthelemy Chinenyeze (France)

Event: Men’s Volleyball
Medal: Gold
Chinenyeze is a French volleyball player who gained prominence by leading the French national team to a gold medal in men’s volleyball. His outstanding performance has established him as a key player in the sport.

  • Victoria Ohuruogu (Great Britain)

Event: 4x400m Relay
Medal: Bronze
Victoria Ohuruogu, representing Great Britain, won a bronze medal in the women’s 4x400m relay at the Paris 2024 Olympics. She is the younger sister of Christine Ohuruogu, a former Olympic gold medalist, and has followed in her footsteps by contributing to Britain’s success in the relay.

  • Femi “Bam” Adebayo (USA)

Event: Men’s Basketball
Medal: Gold
Femi Bam Adebayo, often referred to simply as Bam Adebayo, played a crucial role in the USA men’s basketball team winning the gold medal at the Paris 2024 Olympics. Born to a Nigerian father, Adebayo is a prominent NBA player known for his defensive prowess and versatility on the court.

Paralympics to the rescue?

Over the years Nigeria’s physically-challenged athletes have been the ones redeeming the much needed Olympic gold despite never having been properly honoured by the government.

In 2016 after another dismal and embarrassing performance of Nigeria’s athletes at the Olympic Games in Rio, Brazil, Nigerians had cause to cheer and celebrate, courtesy of the outstanding performance of Team Nigeria to the Paralympic Games.

While the country’s able-bodied athletes had a crisis and controversy-riddled preparation and only a bronze medal to show for the huge expectations on the Olympic contingent, the physically-challenged athletes of Team Nigeria to the Paralympics finished commendably with eight gold, two silver and two bronze medals.

PUNCH Online reports that the next Summer Olympics will be held in Los Angeles, USA, in 2028, offering Nigeria another opportunity to improve on its performance and regain its standing on the global sports stage.

Additional reports and photo by PUNCH.

Photos Speak: UNEC Law ‘84 endow prizes to outstanding students at 40th anniversary

  • Late Justice Agbakoba’s law library donated to faculty library

The 1984 graduating class of faculty of law, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Enugu Campus at the weekend marked the 40th year anniversary of graduation with pomp.

The event which saw Hon. Justice Anthony Ogakwu JCA, a member of the class deliver a lecture to students of the Faculty on Admissibility of Electronically-generated Evidence, witnessed the presentation of the entire law library of the late Hon. Justice Nneka Edith Noelita Agbakoba of the National Industrial Court to the faculty.

It turned out that just before she passed on, Her Lordship, a member of the UNEC class of ‘84 donated her entire law library to the faculty library. It was presented during the ceremony.

Chief Emeka Ngige SAN, who eaqually delivered a paper also donated law books. Dele Aloko a Business Executive and member of the Rule of Law (RoL) group delivered a paper too.

The following prizes were endowed by the UNN Class of ‘84:

  1. Most Outstanding Female Student: – Endowed by Mrs. Miannaya Essien, SAN (of the class of ‘84).
  2. ⁠Most Outstanding Male Student: – Endowed by Sylvester Elema, SAN (of the class of ‘84).
  3. ⁠Best Student in Industrial Law – Endowed by Dele Aloko (of the Class of ’84).
  4. ⁠Best Student in Company Law – Endowed by Alex Ugwuanyi (of the Class of ’84).
  5. ⁠Best Student in Equity and Trusts – Endowed by Chief Chuma Oguejiofor (of the Class of ’84).

Judges from the UNN class of ‘84 who were present included:

  1. Hon. Justice Urhomwen Ogbomo of the Edo State Judiciary.
  2. ⁠Hon. Justice CCT Adiele of the Abia State Judiciary.
  3. ⁠Hon. Justice Lynda Okibe of the Enugu State Judiciary.
  4. ⁠Hon. Justice Ngozika Oji of the Enugu State Judiciary.
  5. ⁠Hon. Justice Anthony Ogakwu, JCA of the Court of Appeals.

Class Leader: Emeka Ngige, SAN, OFR.


Class Captain: Ikeazor Akaraiwe, SAN.


Class Secretary: Dele Aloko.

SANS present included:

  1. Chief Emeka Ngige, SAN, OFR.
  2. ⁠Anthony Anaenugwu, SAN.
  3. ⁠James Ikeyi, SAN.
  4. ⁠Johnny Asoluka, SAN.
  5. Ikeazor Akaraiwe, SAN.

Members of the LOC included

  1. James Ikeyi, SAN – Chair.
  2. ⁠Anthony Anaenugwu, SAN – Alternate Chair.
  3. ⁠Chief PMB Onyia – Secretary
  4. Hon. Justice Ngozika Oji.
  5. ⁠Hon. Lynda Okibe.
  6. ⁠Paschal Aku Okoloagu, Esq
  7. ⁠Chuma Oguejiofor, Esq.
  8. ⁠ ⁠Ikeazor Akaraiwe, SAN.

Below are some of the events’ photos.

Amuchie inducted as Doctoral Fellow, Chartered Institute of Human Resource Management

The Publisher/CEO of Sundiata Post Media Ltd, Max Amuchie was at the weekend inducted as a chartered human resource consultant and Doctoral Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Human Resource Management.

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