In today’s Nigeria, it’s no longer news that excellence and competence are sacrificed on the altar of mediocrity. Nepotism, favoritism, and godfatherism are the order of the day. It’s safe to say that if you don’t know someone in high places, forget about getting a job on merit.
Nepotism is one of the worst forms in this country. People typically are appointed to positions, get contracts, and obtain job placements by virtue of personal loyalty, family ties, and friendship, or based on their religion and tribal affiliation.
In a sane climate, no one cares about your connections, party affiliation, or religion. What matters is the value you can offer: your competence, capacity, talent, and skills.
Advertisem*nt
The current Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak, is of Indian descent and a Hindu devotee. He practices Hinduism. People voted for him, not because of his race or religion.
A few days ago, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) laid siege to the residence of the former governor in a highbrow area of Abuja. The former governor of Kogi state, Yahaya Bello, was allegedly taking refuge at the government house to evade arrest by the EFCC. He had been on the commission’s radar for months.
Bello is accused of imposing the current governor, and his loyalty is not to the state but to his godfather. He further faces charges of embezzlement and stealing public funds to the tune of ₦84 billion.
Advertisem*nt
The former governor, who brazenly hurled insults and silenced critics, has suddenly become silent. It seems to have dawned on him that power is transient.
The governor of Kogi state prevented the EFCC from arresting Yahaya Bello at his residence. The constitution is clear on willful obstruction: “Any person who willfully obstructs or resists any person lawfully charged with the execution of an order or warrant of any court is guilty of a misdemeanor and is liable to imprisonment for one year or to a fine of two hundred naira.” It is alleged that the present Governor stormed the residence of Yahya Bello and sneaked him out in his motorcade. During his time in office, Yahya Bello faced accusations of abuse of power, such as cutting off a road to frustrate a senatorial candidate, Natasha Hadiza Akpoti. Many attribute his current trials to karmic retribution. He has no regard for anyone and operates with absolute impunity.
Some governors behave like demigods and operate with impunity because they enjoy immunity. However, it is just a matter of time; they will leave office. If the former governor has nothing to hide, why did he fail to honor the EFCC’s invitation and take refuge at the Government House? Your guess is as good as mine.
Advertisem*nt
Now, the embattled former governor is running headlong for cover. He has rushed to the Abuja court, requesting them to set aside the arrest warrant issued against him. However, the court is likely to dismiss the appeal by the embattled former governor because it lacks merit.
I commend the Ministry of Justice for its warning to politicians against obstructing the anti-graft agency in performing its duties. The constitution compels them to do so.
To the best of my knowledge, the only governor in Nigeria who did not impose his successor is the former governor of Katsina State, Aminu Bello Masari. Governors often select their successors to cover up their looting and mismanagement of public funds. This deprives the electorate of their right to choose who will succeed their governor.
Advertisem*nt
Another case of favoritism and nepotism involves the immediate past Minister of Aviation, Hadi Sirika, and his younger brother, Abubakar Ahmed Sirika. During his tenure in office, Sirika is accused of abusing his office, diverting public funds, and inflating contracts. According to the anti-graft commission, Hadi Sirika awarded a contract to his brother’s company, where Abubakar is listed as the Managing Director and sole signatory to two company accounts domiciled in Zenith and Union Bank. This demonstrates how deeply rooted nepotism and corruption are in Nigeria.
The 700km Lagos-Calabar Highway project is a much-needed initiative that would not only open up a new corridor but also boost commercial activities between the South-West and South-South regions. However, the highly publicized project is currently embroiled in controversy surrounding the contract award.
Some have described the project as a sham because there was no competitive bidding process.The entire project is shrouded in secrecy. Each kilometer costs N4.5 billion. One of the requirements to get approval is to obtain EFCC clearance. Did they obtain it? There are a lot of questions begging for answers.
Advertisem*nt
The contract was also awarded to Gilbert Chagoury’s Hi-Tech Company, a close business associate of the President.
Another point of contention is the cost – a staggering 15 trillion naira – and the Ministry’s inconsistent pronouncements.
While Minister of Works, Umahi, is a civil engineer of exceptional skill and competence, it appears the project award may have been an order from above.
Advertisem*nt
Gilbert Chagoury’s then-company, RCC (involved in construction and oil and gas), was operational during the late Sani Abacha’s regime. Chagoury is a well-connected businessman around the world, not only in his native Lebanon but also in Nigeria. After Abacha’s death, he fled Nigeria due to hostility from the then-President Olusegun Obasanjo. He is also the mastermind behind Eko Atlantic City in Lagos.
Gilbert Chagoury’s predatory behavior is a cause for concern. He is close to many presidents and funds the campaigns of presidential candidates.
Indeed, Gilbert Chagoury’s Hi-Tech company has a track record, but it did not follow the proper bidding process, involving the Ministerial Tender Board and BPE.
Advertisem*nt
Although the company has completed first kilometre of the rigid road pavement, the contract award process should be investigated. Consider allowing the contract to go through a competitive bidding process to ensure accountability and transparency. This would create a level playing field.
The road features rigid pavement with 16mm iron rod reinforced concrete, culverts, a railroad track in the middle, and streetlights. Rigid pavement is more durable and expensive than flexible pavement. A practicing Quantity Surveyor can provide an estimate of the project’s actual cost. However, when comparing costs vis-à-vis in the same climate, road construction is significantly more expensive in Nigeria.
In conclusion, if Nigeria is truly serious about fighting corruption and joining the league of developed nations, it must ensure equality, transparency, and hold no one above the law.
Advertisem*nt
Arc Aliyu Tanimu
+2347033399363
Kaduna, Nigeria.
Freelance architect with many years experience, skilled writer, activist, columnist with passion for designing and communicating innovative and functional spaces
Advertisem*nt
Post Views: 481
