This is the concluding part of the Journal’s special report highlighting the major events, issues and occurrences that helped shape 2021 in Nigeria on the political, economic, sporting, entertainment and overall national front. The Part III below provides a recap of key events that occurred within the months of September to December 2021.
We wish all our readers a prosperous new year ahead!
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SEPTEMBER 2021
Buhari sacks Power, Agriculture Ministers
On September 1, Saleh Mamman, the Minister of Power and Sabo Nanono, the Minister of Agriculture were relieved of their duties in what was the first termination of appointment for any serving minister since Buhari came to power in 2015. The President is not known for sacking his ministers or rejigging his cabinet until end of tenure. Presidential spokesperson attributed the sack to normal cabinet restructuring which saw Mohammed Mahmood Abubakar assuming office as Minister of Agriculture and Abubakar Aliyu taking over the Power Ministry until he was eventually replaced by Muazu Sambo.
Buhari receives NDDC forensic audit report
On 2 September, President Muhammadu Buhari received the final report of the forensic audit of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) from Niger Delta Affairs Minister, Godswill Akpabio. The documents conveyed in sacks were received by the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami who represented the President.
In his remarks shortly before handing over the report, Akpabio disclosed that the forensic audit covered a total of 13,777 contracts awarded from 2001 to 2019 at a final contract value of N3, 274,206,032,213.24.
President Buhari in 2019 had ordered a forensic audit of the NDDC’s operations from 2001 to 2019 following persistent criticism of the operations of the commission.
On Tuesday 8 October, Akpabio disclosed that President Buhari is still studying the forensic audit report. According to the minister, Buhari is determined to reposition the NDDC after 19 years of rot. He noted that the board of the commission will be constituted at the appropriate time, upon the recommendation of the president. Since the dissolution of the previous board in January 2020, a new board is yet to be constituted. Over three months since the report’s submission however, nothing significant has been done with regards to prosecution of indicted parties or implementation of the audit report
Jailbreaks continue unabated
On the night of Sunday 13 September, at least 240 inmates escaped the Medium Security Custodial Centre (MSCC) in Kabba, Kogi State following an attack by unidentified gunmen.
The attackers in their numbers arrived at the custodial centre heavily armed and immediately engaged the guards in a fierce gun battle. Kabba MSCC was established in 2008 with a capacity of 200. As of the time of the invasion, 294 inmates were in custody out of which 224 were pre-trial detainees and 70 convicted inmates.
The Kogi jailbreak came a few months after gunmen attacked the Nigerian Correctional Service and the police headquarters in Imo State, freeing 1,844 inmates after which the hoodlums set the facilities ablaze. A similar attack was carried out at the correctional centre in Ubiaja, Edo State; however, the jailbreak was foiled by officers at the facility. This was not the last attack on custodial facilities in 2021. In October, Medium Security Custodial Centre, Abolongo, Oyo State experienced a similar incident, and on Sunday 22 November, gunmen also attack a correctional center in Plateau state, freeing about 262 inmates.
Endless woe of Banditry in Zamfara
On 13 September, gunmen killed 12 security personnel in an attack on a military base in Zamfara State. According to the report, the attackers also stole weapons and set houses on fire.
The base in Mutumji, Dansadau district which is about 80 kilometres (50 miles) from the state capital Gusau is a key site for logistics and reconnaissance in the army’s fight against bandits in the area. The army and other security agencies are currently engaged in operations in Zamfara against armed criminal gangs known as bandits who are blamed for a series of mass abductions.
The attackers stormed the base around 10:30 am and engaged the troops in a fierce gun battle. And that they subdued the troops and killed 12 of them. They included nine navy, a soldier and two policemen.
Similarly on Monday, 9th November, seven policemen were ambushed and killed by bandits along Tofa – Magami Road, Gusau in Zamfara State. On 1, September, bandits also abducted over 100 students when they stormed Government Day Secondary School, Kaya, in Maradun Local Government Area of Zamfara State, which is the home town of the incumbent Governor, Bello Matawalle and on 1st October, hundreds of women in Tsafe Local Government Area of Zamfara State blocked the Gusau-Kaduna Road to protest against persistent attacks by bandits, despite security measures said to be taken by the state government. Gusau-Kaduna Road links the state to several other states both in the North and the South.
APC sets up National Reconciliation Committee, holds chaotic state congresses
On Tuesday 14 September, the All Progressives Congress (APC) announced the composition of a National Reconciliation Committee for the Party. The party further disclosed that State Congresses of the party will hold on October 2, 2021. The party added that sale of nomination forms to interested party members will commence on Wednesday September 15, 2021.
The party held its ward congresses on July 31 and local government congresses on September 4.
On Saturday 2, October, the state congress took place as scheduled with parallel congresses in a number of states with disenchanted party members threatening to leave the party if the top hierarchy fails to ensure justice. The list includes Kano, Bauchi, Ekiti, Osun, Gombe, Delta, Imo, Kwara, Ogun, Oyo, Kwara states among others. On Tuesday, 24 November, Senator Adamu chairman of the nine-member Reconciliation Committee said the committee as so far received 35 petitions from aggrieved members over the last Ward, Local Government and State Congresses.
Fani-Kayode eats his words, dumps PDP for APC
On Thursday 16 September, erstwhile ardent critic of President Muhammadu Buhari and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and former Minister of Aviation, Femi Fani-Kayode finally dumped the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) for the APC.
Fani-Kayode had many times in the past vowed that he can never be associated with APC as long as he lives; declaring it as an evil party. He was however presented to President Muhammadu Buhari by the Chairman of APC’s Caretaker Committee Mai Mala Buni and the Governor of Zamfara State, Bello Matawale, at the Presidential Villa.
In a chat with State House Correspondents after the meeting, Fani-Kayode disclosed that he decamped from the PDP in the interest of national unity, saying he has friends across party lines. He credited the defection of three PDP Governors – Dave Umahi of Ebonyi State, Ben Ayade of Cross River State and Bello Matawale of Zamfara State to himself, adding that he was wooing the Governors of Enugu State, Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi; Oyo State, Seyi Makinde and the Governor of Bauchi State, Bala Mohammed to join the APC.
Three months down the line, he is yet to add any significant value to the APC as no known politician have jumped the political aisle in association or solidarity with his cause. Instead, he has been enmeshed in financial misconduct allegations with EFCC and a divorce litigation with his estranged wife.
Obadiah Mailafia, Presidential Candidate and Ex-CBN Deputy Governor dies
On Sunday 19 September, 64-year-old former deputy Governor of Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Dr Obadiah Mailafia was reported dead. He died at the National Hospital Abuja.
Until his death, he was very vocal on public affairs and was the presidential candidate on the platform of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in the 2019 general elections. He was buried on Friday, 5 November at the Mambilla Barracks in Abuja.
Northern governors meet, condemn calls for unconditional Power shift to Southern Nigeria
On Monday, 28, September, Governors of Nigeria’s 19 Northern states opposed the call by their southern counterparts that the Presidency should be zoned unconditionally to the South in 2023.
The opposition was part of the resolutions reached in Kaduna when the governors held an emergency meeting with traditional rulers in the region. According to the governors, zoning the office of the President as being agitated by southern governors is against the provisions of the 1999 Constitution. They stated that any president elected must meet the constitutional requirements which include scoring the majority votes, and polling at least 25 per cent of the votes cast in two-thirds of Nigeria’s 36 states.
The southern governors had at three different meetings in 2021; in Asaba (May 11), Lagos (July 5) and Enugu (September 16) maintained that the next president of the country must emerge from the South upon the expiration of President Muhammadu Buhari’s second term in 2023.
COVID – 19: PSC bans over 2,000 Nigerians from travelling abroad
On Monday, 28 September, the Presidential Steering Committee (PSC) on COVID-19 banned over 2,000 Nigerians and foreigners from traveling abroad and into the country for one year, for evading the Coronavirus Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test at the country’s international airports. According to the National Incident Manager (NIM) of the Presidential Steering Committee (PSC), Mukhtar Muhammad, the names of over 2,000 citizens’ and foreigners’ had been pasted at all the major federal medical facilities where medical experts were assigned to give care to Nigerians and foreigners that had travelled into the country during the COVID-19 third wave. He said government had insisted that passengers, who arrived into the country, especially from high-risk countries, must be quarantined in a government provided facility, and that the passports of those who failed to comply with the protocol had been suspended for one year.
Husband Of Late Dora Akunyili murdered by Unknown Gunmen
On the evening of Tuesday 29 September, Chike Akunyili the husband of the late ex-DG of NAFDAC Dora Akunyili, was shot dead by unknown gunmen in Anambra State. The deceased who was a medical doctor was killed alongside his driver and Police orderly. He was said to be returning to Enugu after attending an event in Onitsha in honour of his late wife when he was ambushed by the gunmen in Umuoji, Idemili North Local Government Area of Anambra State. He died later from gunshot wounds.
His murder sparked widespread outrage from stakeholders across the socio-political arena, including President Muhammadu Buhari, Southeast Governors, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, with Governor Willie Obiano placing a N20 million bounty for the killers.
Dr Akunyili was buried on Thursday, 25 November at his Agulu country home in the Anaocha Local Government Area of Anambra State
National Assembly Asks FG To Declare Bandits as Terrorists
On Thursday 30 September, the House of Representatives joined the Senate in urging President Muhammadu Buhari to declare bandits as terrorists in order to check their activities. According to the House, when this is done, bandits can be tried under the nation’s anti-terrorism laws.
Just a day before, the Senate had asked President Muhammadu Buhari to urgently declare bandits as terrorists and apply maximum force against them. The Senators also urged Buhari to arrest and prosecute all leaders of bandits, especially those operating in Sokoto and Zamfara.
VAT Controversy
In September, River States Government made and actualized attempts to domesticate a law mandating VAT payments from economic and business transactions in the state to be remitted to the state’s internal revenue agency instead of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), this led to a legal battle with the FIRS after which Lagos State also attempted and actualized same. The issue generated substantial ripples in the nation especially between the Northern and Southern divide.
The Court of Appeal on September 10 ordered the parties in the VAT dispute to maintain status quo pending the hearing and determination of the application for stay of execution by the FIRS. The FIRS had rushed to the Appeal Court challenging the decision of the Federal High Court Port Harcourt which had on August 9 declared that it was the Rivers State Government and not FIRS that should collect VAT and Personal Income Tax in the state. Following the order to maintain status quo, the Rivers State Government approached the Supreme court praying to set aside the order of the Appeal Court. The matter is still laying before the Court.
OCTOBER 2021
Buhari lays 2022 Budget before National Assembly
On October 7,President Muhammadu Buhari presented the 2022 budget estimate to a joint session of the National Assembly. The proposed total expenditure for 2022 was put at N16.39 trillion with a crude oil benchmark price of $57 per barrel and daily oil production estimate of 1.88 million barrels (inclusive of condensates of 300,000 to 400,000 barrels per day).
The exchange rate is projected at N410.15 per dollar and projected GDP growth rate of 4.2% with 13% inflation rate.
Both chambers eventually passed the budget in December before proceeding on their yuletide recess; jerking the total appropriation up to N17.13 trillion and raising oil benchmark from the proposed $57 per barrel to $62.
Anambra Deputy Governor Defects to APC, Visits Buhari
On Wednesday 13 October, Dr. Nkem Okeke, Deputy Governor of Anambra State officially joined the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), from his former party, the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) ahead of the state’s governorship election. The Deputy Governor was received into the APC fold by President Muhammadu Buhari, in the Aso Rock Villa, Abuja. Dr. Okeke was accompanied to the presidential villa by the APC Caretaker Committee Chairman Mai Mala Buni, and Governor of neighbouring Imo State, Senator Hope Uzodimma.
FG takes delivery of final batch of Super Tucano fighter jets
On October 18, The Federal Government took delivery of the final batch of the A-29 Super Tucano fighter jets expected from the United States.
The Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, disclosed the information when he featured on a programme of TV Continental, “This Morning”. The Nigerian Air Force had on July 22 took delivery of the first batch of six of the Super Tucano aircraft from the United States.
Recall that the FG has initiated the transaction close to 3 years ago; an arms sale in the region of $500 million said to be the largest ever by the US Department of Defense to a sub-Saharan country
Erdogan visits Buhari, alleges active presence of Turkish coupists in Nigeria
On October 20, President Buhari hosted Turkish President Reccep Tayyip Erdogan and his wife, Emine Erdogan during a two-day visit to Nigeria. Buhari described the visit as a reflection of the robust, warm and cordial bilateral relationship between Nigeria and Turkey.
During the visit, very useful discussions on a number of bilateral issues aimed at strengthening the cordial relationship between Nigeria and Turkey were held. The key issues addressed included a Series of Bilateral Agreements and Memoranda of Understanding that had been finalised. As a positive outcome, eight majors Agreements/MoUs on a number of the key sectors including Energy, Defense Industry, Mining and HydroCarbons among others were signed
Tayyip Erdogan while thanking Buhari for his warm welcome among other things alleged that persons involved in the July 15, 2016 failed coup attempt in Turkey are very active in Nigeria.
“The perpetrators of the heinous failed coup of July the 15th 2016 FETO are still very active in Nigeria, and we are continuously sharing our intelligence with Nigerian interlocutors and authorities,” the Turkish leader said
Pandora Papers Exposé
In early October, the Pandora Papers scandal hit the World, it was an investigation which was the world’s largest-ever journalistic collaboration, involving more than 600 journalists from 150 media outlets in 117 countries. It exposed the convoluted entanglement of political power and secretive offshore finance. Based upon the most expansive leak of tax haven files in history, the investigation revealed the secret deals and hidden assets of more than 330 politicians and high-level public officials, big political donors, renowned business tycoons, people from the organised criminal underworld, spy chiefs, religious leaders, royal families, music and showbiz celebrities, sports personalities and so on in more than 90 countries and territories. The International Consortium of Investigative Journalists (ICIJ), a nonprofit newsroom and network of journalists centered in Washington, USA, obtained more than 11.9 million financial records, containing 2.94 terabytes of confidential information from 14 offshore service providers.
Many Nigerian politicians, businessmen, clerics, traditional rulers were implicated in the scandal and a handful of them were invited for questioning by the EFCC but just like the Panama Papers scandal of 2018, nothing significant in form of prosecution or indictment has so far been heard.
End SARS Memorial: Falz, Mr. Macaroni, Other Celebrities Lead Car Procession at Lekki Toll Gate
On Wednesday 20, October, rapper and actor, Folarin Falana, popularly known as Falz, and Comedian Debo Adebayo, popularly known as Mr Macaroni, joined the car procession at the End SARS Memorial protest at Lekki tollgate in Lagos. This was despite a ban on protests in Lagos and the heavy presence of armed police personnel at the tollgate.
The celebrities and others who turned up at the tollgate with their cars were seen waving Nigerian flags from inside the vehicles and honking the horns while singing solidarity songs. Some of the activists who spoke to newsmen stated that they will continue going to and fro the tollgate as their own way of protesting against the alleged killing of protesters at the tollgate on October 20, 2020.
The Lagos State Judicial Panel of Inquiry on Restitution for Victims of SARS-related Abuses and Other Matters had on November 15, 2021, submitted its report after which Sanwo-Olu set up a White Paper committee. On Tuesday 30, November, the Lagos State government released a White Paper on the report of the panel, rejecting key recommendations of the report. Of the 32 recommendations made by the panel, the government accepted only 11.
On the same day the Lagos State white paper was made public, Governor Sanwo-Olu invited Folarin Falana, the entertainer better known as Falz; Debo Adebayo, popularly known as Mr Marcaroni; Dele Farotimi, an activist and lawyer; Temitope Majekodunmi, Segun Awosanya, Seun Kuti, among others, to join him in the (peace walk) ‘historic march for our dear Lagos’. The entertainments however reject the invitation, while some youths and students’ groups expressed their support for the government. The event which was planned for December was subsequently called amid the Omicron COVID – 19 resurgence.
Railway Corporation Halts Abuja-Kaduna Train Service After Attack with Explosives
On Thursday, 21 October, the Nigeria Railway Corporation (NRC) stopped services on the Abuja-Kaduna route following a bomb and gun attack on the train by bandits. Officials of the corporation confirmed that the incident occurred on Wednesday October 20, 2021.
The NRC said that services on the route had been halted in a message to its passengers on the service’s app. It added that investigations were ongoing to determine if the facility was actually bombed as widely speculated.
However, two days later the NRC announced the resumption of the Abuja-Kaduna Train Services. Prior to NRC’s statement, the Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi said the damaged portion of the rail track has been repaired by Nigerian engineers
Buhari Launches Digital Currency eNaira
On Monday 25 October, President Muhammadu Buhari launched Nigeria’s digital currency, eNaira. The event was held at the State House in Abuja, with the Vice President, Yemi Osinbajo; governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Godwin Emefiele, and other dignitaries in attendance. During the launch, President Buhari said the adoption of new CBN digital currency is estimated to increase Nigeria’s GDP by $29 billion over the next 10 years.
The digital currency has two applications – eNaira speed wallet and eNaira merchant wallet, which were launched on the Google Playstore and Apple Store on Monday at the State House, Abuja. On 27 November, Emefiele said in less than four weeks, the eNaira app had witnessed almost 600,000 downloads since its launch in October.
Many Nigerians are however still indifferent to adopting the new innovation; citing non-clarity of purpose and advantages of the digital currency as the main reasons for their lackadaisical disposition
Plateau State House of Assembly Crisis
Plateau State House of Assembly was in disarray on October 29, 2021 as 7 of the 24 members impeached the Speaker, Abok Ayuba, and installed Yakubu Sanda in his place. Only 9 out of the 24 Members were at the Chamber when the impeachment was done but 2 of the 9 members declined to participate in what they termed as a coup and an illegality. To this end, 17 out of the 24 members of the House initially rejected the impeachment which was based on allegations of misappropriation and mismanagement of resources. Sanda later claimed he was able to get 16 members which formed a two-third majority to back his ascension to Speaker but the matter generated huge controversies which led to the closure of the assembly as an amicable solution was being sought.
The House has since been under lock and key as solution to the crisis remains amiss 2 months after.
Iyorchia Ayu emerges new PDP Chairman
On Sunday 31 October, Dr. Iyorchia Ayu, a former president of the Senate emerged as the Chairman of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) at the party’s national convention which took place between 30 and 31 of October at the Eagle Square, Abuja. Senator Samuel Anyanwu was declared the new Secretary of the party. 19 other officials also earned positions in the National Working Committee (NWC) of the party, either through election or consensus arrangement. They were sworn in and assumed duties on 9December 2021.
NOVEMBER 2021
Tragedy of Ikoyi Building Collapse
On 1 November, a high-rise block of luxury flats under construction in the neighbourhood of Ikoyi in Lagos collapsed. At least 42 people died. A rescue effort went on for days after the collapse and the government of Lagos State opened an investigation into the disaster.
Fourscore Homes Limited based in the neighbourhood of Ikoyi in Lagos financed and was undertaking the construction of a trio of highrise buildings at Gerrard Road in Ikoyi, known as the 360 Degrees Towers. The company was headed by the Nigerian developer Femi Osibona.
As of 6 November, 42 people have been confirmed dead. An early official estimate stated that up to 40 workers were on the construction site at the time. Osibona was also at the site and died in the collapse.
Gunmen storm University of Abuja, abduct Professor, others
On the morning of Tuesday 2 November, gunmen stormed the staff quarters of the University of Abuja (UNIABUJA) and abducted a Professor of Economics, Obansa Joseph, two of his children, and other people. The gunmen invaded the senior staff quarters at Giri in Gwagwalada Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) at 1a.m and operated for about an hour.
The university’s spokesman, Habib Yakoob, confirmed the development, saying the victims were about six in number. All six abducted persons including the professor were later rescued by the FCT police command on Friday 5 November.
Court convicts Maina of money laundering, sentences him to 8 years imprisonment
On 8 November, Abdulrasheed Maina, the former chairman of the now-defunct Pension Reformed Task Team was found guilty of money laundering and sentenced to an 8-year jail term. Justice Okon Abang of the Federal High Court held that the prosecutor, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has produced essential evidence through witnesses to prove beyond reasonable doubt that Maina was guilty of money laundering in the sum of N171,099,000.
The court added that the defendant (Maina), called only one witness to his defense when he had the opportunity to call as many as he could. While further delivering his judgement, Justice Okon Abang found Maina guilty of concealing his true identity as a signatory to accounts opened in two banks – UBA and Fidelity bank – by using the identity of his family members without their knowledge. These accounts had cash deposits of N300million, N500million, and N1.5billion.
The court held that Maina stole monies meant for pensioners as he could not prove where he got them from. Justice Abang also held that through Maina’s service as a civil servant, his salary and emoluments will not amount to the monies in these accounts. The court also found Maina guilty for the purchase of a property in Abuja paid in cash in the sum of $1.4million, which is above the statutory threshold of N5million and without passing through a financial institution, describing it as a criminal offense.
NASS passes Electoral Act Amendment Bill 2021
On November 10, the National Assembly passed the much anticipated Electoral Act Amendment Bill 2021 after both the Senate and the House of Representatives deliberated extensively on the report of the Conference Committee on the bill. On November 19, the bill was forwarded to the President for Executive Assent.
Soludo wins Anambra Governorship Poll
On Wednesday 10 November, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) declared Chukwuma Soludo of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) the winner of the November 6 governorship election in Anambra State.
Soludo polled a total of 112,229 votes to defeat his closest rival, Valentine Ozigbo of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) who scored 53, 807 to emerge second. Andy Uba of the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate got a total of 43,285 votes to emerge the third position and Ifeanyi Ubah of the Young Progressive Party (YPP) came fourth with 21,261 votes. Ubah also won in one local government, same as Ozigbo, with Soludo winning in the remaining 19 local governments.
On 12 November, he was presented with the certificate of return by INEC
Missing Vanguard reporter, Tordue Salem found dead
On Thursday 12 November, Tordue Salem, the missing Vanguard newspaper reporter was found dead in Abuja. Salem, a house of representatives’ correspondent was declared missing after he was last seen on October 13.
The newspaper said one Prince Enyenihi aged 25 has been arrested for attempting to extort the reporter’s family. The suspect reportedly sent text messages to Salem’s wife with a concealed number demanding N100 million as ransom.
The Police later said Tordue, was killed by a hit-and-run driver at the Mabushi District Highway in Abuja. The driver of Toyota Camry car with registration number BWR 243 BK, was later paraded by the Nigerian police. The news of the death of the reporter came about two days after the green chamber passed a resolution mandating all the security agencies to immediately investigate the whereabouts of the missing journalist.
Both Senate President Ahmed Lawan and Speaker Femi Gbajabiamila condoled with the family of the deceased and vowed to do all within their powers to ensure justice is dispensed on the matter.
US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken visits Nigeria
On 18 November, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken was received by top Nigerian officials during the second stop on his multinational Africa tour. After arriving in Abuja, Blinken held a meeting with President Muhammadu Buhari and Vice President Yemi Osinbajo at the Presidential Villa.
Blinken and Osinbajo signed a series of agreements between the US and Nigeria during their meeting. Speaking at a joint press conference with Nigerian Foreign Minister Geoffrey Onyeama who joined the talks, Blinken said the US would work closely with Nigeria to provide support in the areas of coronavirus vaccines, as well as military affairs and trade. The visit marked the first physical interaction between top government officials of Nigeria and the US since Joe Biden took over power in January 2021.
Igbo Leaders visit Buhari over Nnamdi Kanu’s travails
On 19 November, Notable leaders from the Southeast geopolitical zone met with President Muhammadu Buhari at the Presidential Villa, Abuja. The delegation was led by the Nonagenarian, Hon. Mbazulike Amaechi and had in attendance a former governor of Anambra State, Dr. Chukwuemeka Ezeife, the Co-Chair, Interfaith Dialogue Forum for Peace, Bishop Sunday Onuoha, Mr. Tagbo Amaechi, and Chief Barr. Goddy Uwazurike. Also present were the Minister of Labour and Employment, Senator Chris Ngige, the Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Geoffrey Onyeama and Minister of State for Education, Chukwuemeka Nwajuiba. Buhari told his guests that their demand for the unconditional release of the leader of the Indigenous people of Biafra, IPOB, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu was extremely difficult and heavy for him, but assured them that he will consider the demand.
Popular Yoruba thespian Baba Suwe, dies at 63
On Monday 22 November, veteran Yoruba comic actor, Babatunde Omidina, widely known as Baba Suwe was reported dead after a long battle with an undisclosed illness. The news of his demise was disclosed by the son of the actor, Adesola Morenikeji Omidina, on his Instagram page. He was buried on Thursday, 25 November, at his Ikorodu, Lagos home.
APC Governors meet President Buhari, fix date for National Convention
On Sunday 22 November, Governors elected on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC) met with President Muhammadu Buhari to discuss the way forward for the party’s upcoming national convention.
President Buhari later approved February 2022 for the conduct of the much anticipated national convention of the ruling APC. This was disclosed by the National Caretaker Committee Chairman and Governor of Yobe State, Mala Buni, after a closed-door meeting with President Muhammadu Buhari, on Monday, 23 November, in Abuja. The meeting was also attended by Governors Atiku Bagudu of Kebbi and Abubakar Badaru of Jigawa.
Buni, whose elongated tenure on the seat has continued to attract criticism from members, dismissed the speculation of planning another extension.
Proposed Petrol Subsidy Removal unsettles Polity
On Wednesday 25 November, some economic experts and labour groups including NLC & TUC vehemently rejected the planned petrol price hike in the country and the Federal Government’s proposal to pay the sum of N5,000 monthly to 40 million Nigerians as palliative.
NLC President, Ayuba Wabba in a statement described the plan of the Federal Government as a “penny wise, pound foolish” gamble. TUC described the proposal as a “policy of economic bondage and an invitation to national anarchy”
Earlier, the Group Managing Director, Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), Mele Kyari announced that petrol could cost as much as N340 from February 2022 and Finance Minister Zainab Ahmed disclosed that the FG will earmark monthly cash transfer of N5,000 as transport grant to about 40 million vulnerable Nigerians to cushion the adverse effects of the subsidy removal.
On 6 December, NLC said it has commenced mobilisation against the FG’s proposed increment in petroleum pump price, and on Friday 17th December, as part of the resolutions of the National Executive Council meeting of the NLC which was held at the Labour House, Abuja; they averred that plans to remove the fuel subsidy in 2022 will be met with nationwide protests. They said the planned rallies would commence without warning should the FG announce new fuel prices ahead of scheduled protest rallies in all the states of the federation. The protest is slated for January 27, 2022, and would culminate in the submission of protest letters to all the 36 state governors. Subsequently, the NLC said a national protest would also hold in Abuja on February 1.
Court declares Bandits as Terrorists
On 26 November, a Federal High Court sitting in Abuja declared the activities of some groups linked to banditry as acts of terrorism. Justice Taiwo Taiwo gave the order while ruling on an ex-parte motion filed by the Federal Government.
Mohammed Abubakar, Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) at the Federal Ministry of Justice, who filed the motion ex-parte, said President Muhammadu Buhari gave approval for the action, of which objective is the proscription of “Yan Bindiga” and “Yan Ta’adda” groups and other terrorist groups in the country. In its supporting affidavits, the Federal Government said security reports have confirmed that the bandit groups were responsible for the killings, abductions, rapes, kidnappings and related acts of criminality in the north-east, north-central and other parts of the country. Justice Taiwo then directed the Federal Government to publish the proscription order in the official gazette and two national dailies.
FG bans Private Jets over unpaid duties
On 29 November, The Federal Government directed the Nigeria Customs Service to ground 91 private jets belonging to some wealthy Nigerians over their alleged refusal to pay import duties running to over N30 billion.
As such, the Comptroller-General of Customs, Col Hameed Ali, (retd.) following a directive from the Presidency wrote a letter to the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, and the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency asking the agencies to ground the affected private jets with immediate effect.
Court declares Sanusi’s banishment illegal, awards N10m fine against Kano govt, DSS, Police
On 30 November, an Abuja High Court declared the banishment of the deposed Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, from Kano State unlawful and unconstitutional. It also slammed N10 million damages against the Kano State Government, the Nigeria Police and the Department of State Services.
Sanusi, a former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor, was ejected from the Emir of Kano Palace in March 2020 after his dethronement by the Governor of Kano State, Abdullahi Ganduje. He was thereafter forcefully relocated to Awe in Nasarawa State by operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigeria Police Force.
Delivering the judgment, Justice Anwuli Chikere declared that Sanusi’s forceful removal on the order of the Kano State government against his will was a violation of his rights to personal liberty and freedom of movement. She also proclaimed the Emirate Council Law 2019 under which the Kano State government acted a nullity, arguing that as a citizen of Nigeria who has committed no offence, Sanusi was entitled to reside in any part of the country of his choice.
The Inspector General of Police and the Department of State Services, including addition to the N10m fine, were also ordered them to tender a public apology to the former Emir in at least two national dailies.
DECEMBER 2021
NCDC announces discovery of Omicron variant in Nigeria
On December 1, The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control, NCDC confirmed the first 3 cases of Omicron variant of COVID-19 in Nigeria. The Omicron variant also known as the B.1.1.529 lineage, was confirmed in travellers from South Africa who arrived in Nigeria on a day the South African President, Cyril Ramaphosa, arrived the country on an official visit.
Tragic Death of Sylvester Oromoni Jnr
The death of a 12-year-old schoolboy, in Dowen College Lagos sparked plenty reactions across the country in early December. Sylvester Oromoni Jnr, a Junior Secondary School (JSS) 2 student of Dowen College died under controversial circumstances. The school authorities claimed Sylvester sustained injuries while playing football, but his family says he was instead tortured by school bullies. According to them, Oromoni Jnr. died of complications as a result of injuries sustained from an attack by a group of five senior colleagues for allegedly refusing to join a cult group in the school. The Lagos State government shut down the school, while the police also commenced investigation into the matter and 5 students were later charged with conspiracy and homicide. A Yaba Chief Magistrates’ Court in Lagos later admitted the five Dowen College students, charged with the alleged murder of their 12-year-old schoolmate to bail in the sum of N1 million each. The family of the deceased boy kicked and protested the bail.
Nigeria-UAE Aviation Row
On November 27, the federal government revealed it has lifted restrictions on Emirates flights ten months after the diplomatic strains around COVID-19 travel requirements on Nigerian passengers halted the operations of the airline in the country. 2 weeks after the restriction was lifted, the Federal Government however withdrew its approval for Emirates Airlines winter schedule, cutting down the carrier’s daily flights to Abuja to just once a week. A day after, Emirates Airline announced the total suspension of its flights to Nigeria. The cause of the impasse was leader understood to be airport slot allocations. Nigerian authorities had approved Emirate’s schedule consisting of 21 weekly passenger flight frequencies to Nigeria, comprising two daily flights to Murtala Mohammed Airport, Lagos and one daily flight to Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja. But when Air Peace Airlines, the only Nigerian airline that operated passenger flights to Sharjah International Airport in UAE requested three weekly passenger flight frequencies, it was granted only one weekly passenger flight frequency by UAE authorities. The matter was eventually settled when Nigerian authorities stood its ground and ensured appropriate slots was allotted to Air Peace in its preferred destinations in UAE
Political Heavyweights gather for Bisi Akande’s autobiography launch in Lagos
On December 9, President Muhammadu Buhari was in Lagos as he led other dignitaries in attending the public presentation of “My Participations,” the autobiography of former Osun State Governor and former chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Chief Bisi Akande. The President was the Special Guest of Honour, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State was the Chief Host while Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, former Governor of Lagos State and Akande’s longtime political ally, was Guest of Honour. The chairman of the occasion was Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu, the Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation. The Chief Presenter was Alhaji Kashim Ibrahim-Imam, one of the pivotal figures in the negotiations that gave birth to the APC. The book reviewer was Segun Ayobolu, a well-known journalist and columnist. Other personalities at the occasion were, Senate President Ahmad Lawan, Governor of Osun state, Adegboyega Oyetola and Speaker Lagos State House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa. Also, former Ogun state governor, Gbenga Daniel, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, minister of interior, represented by his son, governor of Kano state, Abdullahi Ganduje, represented by his deputy, Gawuna, governor of Kwara state Abdulraham Abdulrasak Abdulrahman, Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Ogunwusi, among other dignitaries.
The book has generated some controversies especially concerning certain assertions of Akande with regards to Pa Ayo Adebanjo, the leader of Afenifere which led to some stern rebuttal from the nonagenarian’s camp, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s camp also slighted certain statements made in the book regarding the former VP. Another Yoruba leader Chief Bode George similarly critiqued Akande and his book, describing it as an attempt to destabilise Yorubaland.
MTN, MAFAB win 5G licenses at $273.6m
On 13 December, a telecom underdog, MAFAB Communications emerged from nowhere to become one of the winners of 3.5GHz Spectrum licenses. The licenses are necessary to deploy 5G services in Nigeria. The other winner was MTN Nigeria. The third bidder, Airtel Nigeria, dropped out at $270m. The winning price was $273, 600,000 million and the winners are expected to pay on or before February 24, 2022.
National Security Advisor identify promoters of terror organisations
On Tuesday 14 December, three religious organisations, Jama’at Nasr al-Islam Wal Muslimin (JNIM), Islamic, Muslim Support Group (GSIM) and ISGS were named by the Federal government as groups promoting terror activities in Nigeria and other Sahel countries.
The National Security Adviser (NSA), Babagana Monguno, made the disclosure in Abuja while speaking at the 14th Workshop of the League of Ulamas, Preachers and Imams of Sahel countries in Abuja, he urged Islamic preachers and Imams to collaborate with the government in its fight against terrorism by using their positions to promote support for ongoing counter-terrorism operations.
Customs Intercept Container Load Of Guns, Ammunition at Lagos Port
On 18 December, officers of the Nigeria Customs Service attached to Tin Can Island Command on intercepted a container loaded with arms and ammunition. Public Relations Officer of the Tin Can Customs, Uche Ejesieme confirmed the development. Owner of the container reportedly said the consignment contained electronics but the customs officials upon close examination of the cartons discovered that they were filled with guns.
The official stated “We are going to do a comprehensive investigation into this with a view to unravelling the criminal gang behind this and continue to decimate and degrade them.”
IGP submits report on Abba Kyari, Hushpuppi
On 19 December, the Inspector-General of Police, Alkali Usman submitted the probe panel report on suspended Head of the Intelligence Response Team Abba Kyari, to the Police Service Commission (PSC).
Kyari was investigated over his alleged role in a $1.1m internet scam by an Instagram influencer, Abbas Ramon, aka Hushpuppi, and four others.
The probe followed Kyari’s indictment by the United States Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI), which recommended that he be extradited to the US for trial. It was gathered that the commission would deliberate on the issue as soon as possible.
The Dubai Police in the United Arab Emirates had in June 2020 arrested Hushpuppi and others. They were later extradited to the US for prosecution by the FBI. The FBI Special Agent, Andrew Innocenti, had alleged that Hushpuppi contracted Kyari after a “co-conspirator,” Chibuzo Vincent, allegedly threatened to expose the alleged $1.1m fraud committed against a Qatari businessman.
Buhari declines assent to Electoral Act Amendment Bill
On 21 December, President Muhammadu Buhari officially wrote the National Assembly, rejecting the Electoral Act Amendment Bill. The rejection was conveyed in letters read in the two chambers of the National Assembly by the Senate President, Ahmad Lawan and the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila. The bill was transmitted to the president on November 19.
In a lengthy letter read by Speaker Gbajabiamila, Buhari explained his reasons for the declining assent to the bill. He said he got relevant advice from all concerned ministries, departments and agencies. Buhari cited financial, security and legal consequences for rejecting the bill. He further added that it would infringe on the rights of Nigerians to participate in governance and democracy.
In his end of the year speech, Gbajabiamila said the parliament will decide the way forward on the bill next year. The Senate similarly postponed all actions on the matter to 2022 as it could not proceed with the threat by many Senators to immediately override the veto.
FG introduces digital tokens to replace NIN slip
On 22 December, The Federal Government introduced a suite of digital Tokens to replace the aging NIN slip and polycarbonate card. The Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Isa Pantami made this known at a stakeholder’s workshop on the National Identification Number (NIN) Tokenization Solution organised by National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) in Abuja. He said government adopted the solution to ensure privacy of personal identifiable information of individuals during verification transactions and to reduce incidences of illegal retrieval, usage, transfer, and storage of NIN.
According to the Minister, full implementation will begin on Jan. 1, 2022. He said the tokenisation solution was customised to protect personal identifiable information and to protect the sanctity as well as sensitivity of the NIN issued by NIMC to registered individuals.
Titan Trust Bank Acquires Union Bank
Little known Titan Trust Bank Limited (TTB) on December 23 acquired one of Nigeria’s oldest financial institutions; Union Bank of Nigeria PLC
The acquisition followed an agreement by Union Global Partners Limited, Atlas Mara Limited and other majority shareholders of Union bank to divest 88.39% shareholding in Union Bank to Titan Trust Bank. According to the chairman, Titan Trust Bank, Tunde Lemo, “The Board of Titan Trust Bank and our key stakeholders are delighted as this transaction marks a key step for Titan Trust in its strategic growth journey and propels the institution to the next level in the Nigerian banking sector”.
Police Arrest Okorocha’s Son In-law During Church Service
On Sunday 26 December, armed police officers invaded and whisked away Uche Nwosu, son-in-law to former Imo State governor, Rochas Okorocha from a church in the state.
The police officers stormed the Saint Peter’s Anglican Church, Nkwerre, venue of a Thanksgiving service where Nwosu was worshipping; after burying his mother three days earlier
The security men who came in three different vehicles allegedly assaulted Nwosu, his wife Nkechi, and their daughter.
A video which has gone viral on various platforms showed pandemonium in the church as sporadic gunshots rent the air and people scampered for safety. The Police later said Nwosu was picked up due to his involvement and sponsorship in activities of anti-state rebels.
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) subsequently condemned the invasion of a “holy sanctuary” vowing strong action. The Imo state government tendered an apology to the church for the incident.
The current governor of Imo State, Hope Uzodinma and his predecessor, Rochas Okorocha who is now a senator have been engaged in a prolonged political battle. Nwosu alleged that the arrest was midwifed by the Imo State Government who responded that it had nothing to do with the Police investigation.
NFF appoints Portuguese Jose Peseiro as Super Eagles Head Coach
On December 29, Nigeria Football Federation, NFF appointed Jose Peseiro as the new Head Coach of the Super Eagles ahead of AFCON 2022 billed to kick off on January 9. The NFF made it clear that former Super Eagles Defender, Augustine Eguavoen who was named the interim Head Coach earlier in November following the sack of Gernot Rohr, will continue his role as Coach of the team and will lead the Super Eagles to the AFCON 2022 in Cameroon with Jose Peseiro only playing the role of Observer. The Federation noted that the AFCON is a good avenue for Peseiro to launch a working relationship with Eguavoen who will return to his role as NFF Technical Director after the AFCON.
Buhari signs 2022 Budget into Law
On December 31, President Muhammadu Buhari signed the 2022 Appropriations Bill of N17.13 trillion into law. The signing ceremony took place at the Council Chambers in the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
He was however displeased with some changes as well as major additions and reductions made by the National Assembly in critical projects ‘without justification’. The President was also concerned about the changes to the original Executive proposal in the form of new insertions, outright removals, reductions and/or increases in the amounts allocated to projects, as well as reduction of the provisions made for as many as 10,733 projects and the introduction of 6,576 new projects into the budget. Buhari said he would revert to the National Assembly with a request for an amendment as soon as the lawmakers return from their recess to ensure that critical ongoing projects cardinal to his administration do not suffer a setback as a result of reduced funding.
Present at Council Chamber to witness the ceremony are the President of Senate, Dr Ahmad Lawan, the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, and the Minister of Finance, Budget and National Planning, Mrs. Zainab Ahmed.
Others are the Secretary to the government of the Federation, SGF, Boss Mustapha, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on National Assembly Matters (Senate) Senator Babajide Omoworari and some staff of the President.