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Tag: #Inyali Peter

Four Years After, UNICAL Staff Employed By Past Admin Remain At Home BY INYALI PETER

Four years after, majority of the people that were legitimately employed one year to the end of the past administration at the University of Calabar (UNICAL) are still at home as the current management has blatantly refused to allow them work or complete documentation. This is despite the fact that the same administration is being investigated for allegedly inputting names into the payroll.

It’s sad to see the level of vindictiveness displayed by the current administration, which seems to be targeting the former Vice Chancellor, Prof. Zana Akpagu. But 99.9% of the affected staff are not related to the former VC and are innocent victims. Why not wear a human face and allow them complete documentation and commence work? These people will be paid with government funds not anybody’s personal resources.

Besides, this administration is winding down already. A new Vice Chancellor will be appointed in the next ten months. Why not bring them now to work after all, if you consider them liabilities, your administration have escaped the liabilities for four years?

Till date, UNICAL remains the only university in Nigeria with this problem. For those of us who understand the context of the recruitment when the federal government insisted on IPPIS, we will never understand the explanation on why they were stopped from working even though their appointment letters are valid.

Nevertheless, despite the efforts of the management to get the former governing council to invalidate the appointment letters, the Chairman insisted that such recruitment happened across all universities including Northern universities. Therefore, he couldn’t in good conscience, preside over a session that would take such wicked decision against innocent people. Yet, the management has maintained its stance that these people must remain at home!

What level of inhumanity is this? It is really unfortunate that this iniquitous action is being meted on innocent Cross Riverians by a fellow Cross Riverian.

I appeal to the Vice Chancellor or those who have her ears to persuade her to end on a more positive note than she started by inviting these innocent people who are only victims of vendetta to complete their documentation and resume work. Even if payment will be delayed till the end of her tenure, let it be that government’s owing them.

Similarly, because the majority of those affected are Cross Riverians, I urge Governor Bassey Otu to invite the Vice Chancellor for a discussion with a view to resolving this issue. This is what we see happening n other states. Our leaders should not turn a blind eye to this situation since it is a federal institution. If there’s a breakdown in law and order from this situation now, it’s the state that’ll be the most affected.

The VC needs all the help now to end her administration in a way that posterity will judge her aright.

Inyali Peter, Ph.D.

Disclaimer: The opinion expressed in this article is strictly that of the author, Inyali Peter, and does not represent TheLumineNews, its agent or the organization the author works for.

January 10, 2025
UNICROSS Alumni Demands For Permanent Solution To Leadership Uncertainty In Versity

The University of Cross River State Alumni Association commends Governor Bassey Otu, the Visitor to the University, for his consistent commitment and support to the institution since taking office. Notably, despite the nation’s challenging times, the Governor has prioritized the university’s needs, including ensuring steady salary payments, approving the establishment of the Faculty of Medicine, and successfully relocating the Obubra Campus to the Okuku satellite campus, thereby streamlining campus operations.

Despite remarkable efforts, the University has been embroiled in a crisis surrounding the legitimacy of its leadership. A contentious issue has been the tenure of the current governing council, with internal members having exceeded their statutory four-year term, as stipulated in the University Establishment Law, by over a year and getting to two years. This protracted tenure has created a logjam, preventing the congregation, Senate and Convocation from holding elections to replace or re-elect outgoing members, as their terms are tied to that of the governing council.

While the governing tenure remains a contentious issue, the alumni Association is also deeply concerned about the legitimacy of the current management, particularly in light of Section 3(3) of the First Schedule of the University’s Establishment Law. This provision stipulates that in the event of a vacancy in the Vice Chancellor position due to death, incapacitation, or removal from office, the Visitor to the University shall appoint an Acting Vice Chancellor to serve for a period not exceeding six months.

However, the current Acting Vice Chancellor, Prof. David Abua Ogar having served a six- month tenure in Acting capacity as stipulated by law, initially from November 17, 2019, to May 6, 2020, one would have expected that he should have been re-appointed in a substantive capacity as he has all the credentials to lead the institution as its substantive Chief Executive Officer. His reappointment in an acting capacity on August 31, 2024, raises questions about the governing council vis-a-vis the government’/ adherence to the institution’s laws.

The alumni had initially perceived his reappointment in acting capacity as a misstep or the activation of the doctrine of necessity by the governing council because of the leadership crisis in the university at the time therefore opted to remain silent to avoid exacerbating the already tense atmosphere. However, with the former substantive Vice Chancellor’s suspension exceeding six months and the current Vice Chancellor’s re-appointment also exceeding three months (nine months all together), the government’s silence has become increasingly concerning. The association had anticipated a clear directive from the government regarding the former Vice Chancellor’s fate or an advertisement for a substantive replacement at least from the date the current VC clocked three months, but the prolonged silence has only added to the uncertainty.

Unequivocally, the interpretation of section 3(3) of the UniCross Establishment law is simple; on no condition should a particular person serve for more than six months. But it can be less but not more. For instance, Prof. Emmanuel Ingwu was appointed Acting VC of UniCross for just one day before. Both Professors Joshua Akon and Prof. Augustine Angba were appointed Acting VCs for initial period of three months. Although they were both eventually reappointed after finishing their initial three months, on announcement, the governor stated clearly that their appointments were for three months. This lay credence to the fact that one can act for less than six months but no more on no account.

Given the foregoing, it has therefore become imperative for the association to remind the governor about the uncertain leadership situation at the university. As we’ve previously stated, stability is important for the university’s growth, particularly in aligning with the Governor’s People’s First agenda. However, the lingering question mark over the leadership’s legitimacy hinders this stability. While some argue that the appointment of a substantive Vice Chancellor in between can justify the reappointment of an Acting Vice Chancellor who previously exceeded the legally allowed term, the facts remains that this reasoning contradicts the University Establishment Law and the Nigerian Universities Miscellaneous Act (1993).

This argument is fundamentally flawed, suggesting that a former governor or president who has served the maximum eight-year term can recontest if there have been intervening administrations. For instance, it implies that His Excellency Mr. Donald Duke, who previously served as Governor of Cross River State, could run again simply because two governors have held office since his tenure. This reasoning not only defies logic but also contravenes the explicit provisions and underlying principles of the institution’s founding laws. There’s also the question of the reasoning behind considering Prof. Ogar only good enough for acting appointment and not substantive.

Nevertheless, it is the alumni’s considered opinion that the governor should scrutinize the records to determine if the current council is legally qualified to oversee the appointment of a new substantive Vice Chancellor, having also exceeded the legally allowed four-year term without extension or reconstitution. If found to be qualified, in line with the law establishing the institution, he should direct the council to advertise for a new VC immediately, where Prof. Ogar can be confirmed as substantive VC or another qualified person appointed for the stability of the institution. However, if the council’s tenure is deemed illegitimate, the association urges the governor to constitute a new council promptly, ensuring the university’s progress through the appointment of a new Vice Chancellor.

We equally urge the Attorney General of the State and Commissioner for Justice to provide a clear interpretation of the university laws to the Governor, ensuring that all decisions align with the existing laws. Specifically, we request guidance on the suspension and appointment of an acting Vice Chancellor, which we believe exceeded the legal authority of a governing council, or was ultra vires, tenure of office of an acting Vice chancellor and other principal officers, etc. A citadel of learning like UniCross cannot afford to perpetuate errors, as the consequences would be dire for the institution. The alumni association particularly fears that if the legitimacy of the university’s leadership were challenged in court, key decisions, including promotions and the validity of certificates could come under serious scrutiny, jeopardizing the university’s reputation and the future of its students.

As concerned stakeholders, we hereby put the government on notice that, despite numerous private and public letters urging them to take action, our efforts have been met with silence. In light of this, we are calling for an immediate action from the government to provide clear direction to the university. Failure to do so will leave us with no choice but to escalate our actions, including seeking intervention from the regulatory body overseeing Nigerian universities.

e-Signed:
Comrade Inyali Peter, Ph.D.
National President/Member of Council

December 11, 2024
Wayas: In Praise Of Gov Otu, Cross River North Leaders BY INYALI PETER

The repatriation of former Senate President, Sen. Joseph Wayas remains to Nigeria on July 10th, after almost three years, was a momentous occasion. Wayas had passed away thirty-three months prior in a London hospital, following a protracted illness. The prolonged stay of his body in the United Kingdom had become an embarrassment to the state, sparking discussions both within and outside the state.

In Nigeria, it’s a deeply ingrained tradition to ensure that deceased are buried in their homeland. Except for military personnel who die in active service, burying someone outside their home is considered shameful and even abominable in many cultures. For a national icon like Wayas, who remains the only Senate President in the history of Nigeria to have acted as President for 16 days, allowing his body to be interred in the UK would have been a big shame to the people of Cross River State, Northern Cross Riverians, and the institution of the senate.

But it is worrhy if note that the delay in bringing his body home was not due to a lack of commitment from the people of Cross River or the government. Rather, it was caused by internal issues beyond the leadership’s control. Even the successful effort was not without its challenges, requiring more than just diplomacy to achieve.

As it is said, after the storm, comes the rains. Indeed, following the long and arduous journey, our beloved leader, Sen. Wayas, was not only brought home to be buried with dignity but also accorded one of the most colourful state burials imaginable. This emotional but heroic celebration the late leader has received
was made possible by the collective efforts of distinguished personalities who deeply respect and value our culture and tradition.

Top on the list is the state Governor, Sen. Bassey Otu. His leadership and commitment to not only ensure the successful repatriation of the remains of our late icon but honouring his memory with state burial is humbling. His support, which included significant funding, has been critical in ensuring that the late leader receives a fitting tribute. The people of Cross River North are grateful for his efforts, which will be remembered for years to come.

Also, I commend the persistence enthusiasm of the ‘Who is Who’ in Northern Cross River sociopolitical group, led by Sir Dorcklaimz Enamhe, Ph.D, and the entire leadership structure of the senatorial district. Their efforts and resources committed to bringing our leader home for a befitting farewell are truly appreciated.

Special thanks also go to Sen. Ben Ayade who sets the first state burial committee as Governor, Sen. Kano Agabi, SAN, Goddy Jedy-Agba, OFR, Sen. Jarigbe Agom, Hon. Peter Akpanke, Hon. Godwin Offiono and many others for their contributions to the success of the event. On this, the people of the North should be proud of the dexterity and unity of purpose demonstrated by these leaders to ensure our leader is brought home like a king that he was.

Thanks also to the leadership of the national assembly particularly, the Senate President, Sen. Godswill Akpabio for the respect and honour accorded the deceased even in death. To other members of the National Assembly from the state, thank you.

May his soul continue to rest in peace.

Inyali Peter, Ph.D.

Disclaimer: The opinion expressed in this article is strictly that of the author, Inyali Peter, and does not represent TheLumineNews, or the organization the author works for.

November 30, 2024
Calabar-Itu Road: Long Awaited Solution In Sight? BY INYALI PETER

In 2016, I wrote an article titled “A Good Friend is Better Than A Bad Brother,” where I commended President Muhammadu Buhari for his swift remedial work on the dilapidated Calabar-Itu road, just eighteen months into his administration. I aptly described him as a good friend, drawing a contrast with former President Jonathan, whom I labeled a bad brother due to his administration’s lack of meaningful infrastructure development in the state, including the neglect of the same road during his six-year presidency.

The remedial work, undertaken by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) at the time which earned President Buhari my commendation, unfortunately, did not yield lasting results. Like many roads in Southern Nigeria, it deteriorated rapidly, becoming worse than its original state within a year or even less. Although the administration subsequently awarded contracts for the road’s total reconstitution and expansion, progress has been slow, giving the impression that the project was neglected.

Contractors had all but abandoned the site and the people who were supposed to put pressure on government to ensure work continues seemd distracted by the high-profile Lagos-Calabar coastal highway project. A senior citizen recently joked during interaction that it appeared the coastal highway has diverted attention and resources away from the Calabar-Itu road. However, this is changing after Sen. Asuquo Ekpenyong, representing Cross River South, moved a motion of urgent national importance, urging the Senate to investigate the project’s slow progress. This audacious motion is gradually bringing the much-needed attention back to the road.

Yesterday’s investigative hearing by the Senate’s special committee was truly satisfying to watch. The attention given to the deplorable condition of the major road which connects Nigeria’s paradise city, Calabar, to other southern parts of the country is unprecedented, except perhaps when the Buhari administration initiated remedial work and mobilized contractors to commence reconstruction.

The senate investigation won’t magically fix the road overnight, but it will uncover the reasons behind the project’s delay and pave the way for solutions. Given the caliber of the person leading the federal ministry of works and with the support of the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio who hails from Akwa Ibom State, it’s likely that the committee’s recommendations will be swiftly implemented to ensure the project’s speedy completion.

I commend Sen. Ekpenyong for his zeal, enthusiasm and passion for the development of the state. His drive has not only yielded tangible results in attraction of projects and empowerment programmes for Cross RiverSouth, he has been a strong advocate for the people, effectively drawing the federal government’s attention to critical development issues in the state through impactful motions and bills

It’s also worth acknowledging the vital roles played by the state’s other two senators, Sen. Eteng Jones and Sen. Jarigbe Agom. Their collective efforts have ensured that the Senate and indeed the government is giving attention to this road and other deplorable federal roads infrastructure the state. The desire of most Cross Riverians have always been to see our leaders collaborate beyond partisan politics in the interests of the masses and there couldn’t be a better example than what’s happening with this project.

Similarly, the efforts of the Senators is coming on the hills of the news that Governor Bassey Otu has approved N400 million for compensation payments to Cross Riverians affected by the reconstruction process. Contrary to longstanding rumour that a previous administration had rejected a request from neighbouring Akwa Ibom state to reconstruct the road and seek reimbursement from the state, this development shows the Otu administration’s commitment to supporting the project’s successful completion.

As we await the outcome of the Senate’s investigation and the subsequent implementation of the recommended solutions, I fervently pray that the collective efforts of our leaders at all levels will yield a better result this time around. It is my heartfelt desire that the notorious road, which has become death trap, will finally be fixed to unlock the state’s economic potential and bringing relief to commuters.

Also, I prepare this efforts will also extended to the almost impassable Calabar-Ikom-Ogoja road. Undoubtedly, a functional road network will not only boost trade and commerce within and outside the state but also improve the overall quality of life for the people of Cross River State.

Inyali Peter, Ph.D.

Disclaimer: The opinion expressed in this article is strictly that of the author, Inyali Peter, and does not represent TheLumineNews, its agent or the organization the author works for.

November 29, 2024
Alumni Urges Gov Otu To End Uncertainty, Appoint Substantive VC For UniCross

The University of Cross River State (UniCross) Alumni Association commends Governor Bassey Otu’s giant strides since assuming office, notably the transformation Calabar as well as enhanced security across the state. The association also expresses its eternal gratitude to the Governor over his past support to the university, particularly in facilitating the construction of our administrative block.

However, the Association is deeply disappointed that our beloved university failed to secure a spot in the top ten universities in Nigeria, according to the latest Times Higher Education Ranking. This is a significant drop from our previous ranking of seventh in the country and 37th in Sub-Saharan Africa. We are concerned that this decline is a direct result of the leadership instability that has plagued our institution.

Consequently, we appeal to Governor Otu to appoint a substantive Vice Chancellor, rather than continuing with the current Acting Vice Chancellor arrangement at the end of the tenure of the current Acting VC. The constant changes in leadership have created uncertainty and hindered progress. In the past three months alone, we have had three different Vice Chancellors, which is unacceptable. Our university needs stability to grow and thrive.

The Alumni wonders why UniCross is treated differently as the Governor has set a standard of swiftly replacing other suspended government officials in the past to bring stability and avoid derailing the focus of his administration. Five months have passed since the Vice Chancellor’s suspension, with no official communication from the government on the investigation’s outcome. This silence suggests a lack of interest in the former Vice Chancellor’s return. Therefore, we urge the Governor and Visitor to the University to boldly and firmly address this issue to bring the much-needed stability to UniCross. The prolonged uncertainty is undermining the institution’s focus and progress.

This call became necessary as the constant uncertainty surrounding the leadership of the institution is not only stifling progress but significantly contributing to our institution’s decline, as evidenced in the latest ranking. As critical stakeholders, we’re very worried that our institution’s reputation hangs in the balance, with far-reaching consequences for students, staff, and alumni who hold the university certificates.

Considering the standard the Governor has set for himself as a ‘People’s First Leader’, it would be disappointing to see our institution continue to regress under his watch. With over fifteen months in office, we believe he has had enough time to complete his restructuring process for the University to move forward. We appeal to the Governor to extend the attention he is giving to other sectors to UniCrosss which is one of the most significant assets of the state.

The alumni also passionately appeals to all stakeholders and well meaning Cross Riverians to join us in advocating for a better future for our university. The Association remains committed to supporting the government and our dear institution to regain its place as one of the top ivory towers in Nigeria and Sub-Saharan Africa.

Inyali Peter, Ph.D
National President
UniCross Alumni

October 9, 2024
President Tinubu, Let The Poor Breathe BY INYALI PETER

Nigeria, blessed with an abundance of mineral resources, stands as one of the richest nations in the world. Yet, in a cruel twist of fate, it seems that when destiny endowed the country with these gifts, it overlooked the crucial element of commensurate leadership, leaving Nigeria to struggle in harnessing its vast human and mineral resources to achieve its rightful place as a great nation and giant of Africa.

Since Nigeria’s return to democratic rule in 1999, each successive administration has brought its own unique set of frustrations. Rather than building upon the progress of their predecessors, each president’s performance has been marked by a decline from the previous administration, with every government leaving the country in a more precarious state than when they took office.

When President Bola Tinubu campaigned on ‘Renewed Hope’ in 2023, Nigerians expected a leader who would revitalize their faith in the country. Given his successful tenure as Lagos governor from 1999-2007, many anticipated similar success nationwide. However, just over a year into his presidency, he has led Nigeria into one of its worst periods of hardship since the civil war, contradicting the lofty expectations that followed his inauguration.

The economic crisis has become suffocating, leaving citizens gasping for air despite the President’s promise to let the poor ‘breathe’. Hunger, anger, and hopelessness are strangling the nation, as everything that brings discomfort continues to rise. Workers can no longer feed their families, and unemployment is skyrocketing. The National Bureau of Statistics last Labour Force Survey shows a surge in unemployment, from 4.2% to 5.0% in just one quarter. With businesses collapsing and jobs being lost daily due to harsh economic policies, this is projected to continue to rise.

The private sector has however tried to bridge the gap but it’s not been enough as a large chunk of people are still struggling to survive because of unemployment or underemployment. The cultural reliance on relatives for support is also being stretched to the limit due to inflationary economy. Today, the concept of social class that assumes three general economic categories is utupia as the middle class is going extinct. The powerful rich upper class and the helpless lower class are the two categories that exist now in Nigeria.

Besides, before the enactment of the new national minimum wage act of N70,000, about fifteen states failed to implement the old one of N30,000. It is unlikely that these states that could not pay N30,000 would be willing to pay the new one which represents a 134% increase. Workers at all levels have become vulnerable because prices of goods and services keep rising while their pay remain largely stagnant.

The recent fuel price hike would only exacerbate the situation, with prices of building materials, rents, transport fares, food, and other essentials increasing overnight. It’s hard to see how workers as well as people without a steady income or viable business can survive in this environment. Even when the new minimum wage is fully implemented, it value will be limited; already a bag of rice, for example, is heading towards N100,000, a loaf of bread is over N2,000 while a basin of Garri costs around N50,000. How can Nigerians afford these basic necessities?

According to Statista 2022 report released a few months ago, 88.4 million Nigerians are living in extreme poverty. These numbers have not improved since the last report, and the government’s policies seem to be making things worse as the poverty level have deepened in the last one year. Rather than finding solutions, government seems to be interested only in raising revenue that are likely to be mismanaged or revolve around the pockets of a few greedy individuals.

However, as some people have said, there’s still enough time for the President to turn things around as he’s just a year and few months into his four-year term. But the decisions to drastically improve things must be taken urgently. For instance , there’s an urgent need to reduce the price of petroleum products, lower taxes on individuals and food items, reduce cost of the unavailable electricity, suspend Covid-19 loan recovery, defend the naira against foreign currencies, amongst others.

The psychological, emotional, social, and mental pressure on the poor masses have become unbearable. If more effort is not put into addressing the crisis and urgently too, the country may completely collapse. Section 14 (b) of the 1999 constitution says government exists purposely for the security and the welfare of the people, not the other way round, therefore, President Tinubu must allow the poor masses breathe.

-Inyali Peter, Ph.D.

September 6, 2024
Why Tinubu’s 2023 Magic May Not Replay In 2027 BY INYALI PETER

President Bola Tinubu’s emergence as the APC presidential candidate and subsequent victory has been interpreted in various ways. Many believe his success despite opposition and gang-up by presidential cabal makes him immune to defeat now that he’s in power. However, this assumption may be inaccurate, as the circumstances that led to his victory in 2023 may not be replicated in 2027.

Tinubu’s famous ‘Emi Lo Kan’ speech in Ogun state was a turning point as it forced President Muhammadu Buhari to steer clear of endorsing anyone. The then President was boxed into a corner where the only option was to endorse Tinubu or no one at all. Tinubu knew that Buhari’s endorsement of another candidate would have ended his ambition as well as, without it, no one was going to defeat him, and so it was. But there may be no room for this scenario in 2027.

Similarly, after clinching the ticket, another factor that worked for him in the main election was the balkanization of the main opposition People’s Democratic party into four factions; Atiku Abubakar’s faction (main PDP), Peter Obi faction (LP), Rabiu Kwankwaso (NNPP) and Nysom Wike (G-5). This development smoothened Tinubu’s path to victory. However, like the ‘Emi Lo Kan’, this factor may not repeat itself in 2027, as the opposition is likely to regroup and present a united front.

Moreover, the 2023 election results show that Tinubu garnered only 36.6% of the 25,586, 616 total votes, meaning 53.4% of voters did not support him. This implies that he has a significant task to convince the major who didn’t vote for him. But not only this number, also the over 50 million eligible Nigerian voters who didn’t participate in the election. This is a daunting task, especially considering the current state of the nation.

But has his performances so far achieved the task of convincing the majority who didn’t vote him? The answer is obviously in the negative. In fact, if anything, it has justified their position than convince anybody. And if things don’t change, his support base will continue to deplete, thereby strengthening the opposition and making the impression that he would always find a way to win like in 2023 utupia.

To give him any chance in 2027, the President must stop listening to the hallelujah people around deceiving him that if he could win despite the challenges in 2023, he can’t lose in 2027, and rather find ways to turn things around quickly. The hunger and anger in the land are real and these would raise more army against him than anything. Government have been realising figures to show improved revenue. But that’s not what Nigerians want, they want improvement in their standards of living, not just revenue figures.

The President must also convince Nigerians that his administration is not prioritizing regional interests. So far, his appointments have clearly defined it to be a “government of the Yorubas, by the Yorubas, and for the Yorubas.” For a complex diverse country like ours, this pattern can only lead to doom.

Besides, the call for ex-president Goodluck Jonathan to join the 2027 presidential election is gaining momentum and rattling the APC. If things don’t improve and Jonathan agrees to run, Tinubu’s chances of winning would require unprecedented political wizardry.

GEJ’s reputation as a liberal and detribalized leader, combined with the prospect of a single term that would return power to the North, makes him an appealing candidate. The South South and South East, feeling marginalized by Tinubu’s administration, are Jonathan’s strongholds. Meanwhile, the North is growing increasingly hostile towards the current President, making Jonathan a more likely choice.

Based on today’s reality, Tinubu’s fate in 2027 hangs in the balance, as his Renewed Hope policies have yet to deliver tangible relief to Nigerians. If his administration can turn things around and make a meaningful impact, the current permutations may shift in his favour. However, until then, there’s little indication that his 2023 success will be replicated. In fact, even his own actions suggest he’s more interested in his current term, rather than laying the groundwork for a second term.

Disclaimer: The opinion expressed in this article is strictly that of the author, Inyali Peter, and does not represent TheLumineNews, its agent or the organization the author works for.

August 22, 2024
Agriculture, Nigeria’s Solution To Economic Woes BY INYALI PETER

Nigeria is currently facing a severe economic crisis, characterized by soaring inflation and rampant food insecurity. Despite governments’ efforts through various policies aimed at mitigating this crisis, the desired results have yet to materialize. The consequences are far-reaching, with widespread hunger and anger pervading the nation as citizens struggle to afford even the most basic necessities.

But where lies the solution? In my opinion, beyond the necessary calls for reducing the cost of governance, curbing procurement fraud, and reforming the legislative arm of government, the immediate and long-term solution lies in our rich soil and fertile land. We must return to our agricultural roots, for it holds the key to our prosperity. To achieve this, the federal government should enact a national policy, backed by law, requiring each state to allocate 30-35% of their annual budget to agriculture within a well defined period of time.

The policy should mandate every state to focus on at least three crops, determined by soil fertility tests, to maximize yields and promote efficiency. For immediate impact, these crops should be selected based on their ability to guarantee two harvests per year or at least, once annually, ensuring a steady supply and reducing reliance on imports. A clear target should be set for each state to become an exporter of the crops they cultivate within a two years, thereby boosting local economies and contributing to national food security.

For instance, if I were in a position of authority in my state, Cross River, I would prioritize investments in yam, rice, and cassava farming for short-term gains within the next year, while also investing heavily in rubber, cocoa, and palm for long-term benefits. Given their high yields and growth rates, cassava and rice can be cultivated and harvested twice a year, while yam can be harvested annually. With proper management, these crops have the potential to generate significant revenue for the state and create a substantial number of jobs for our people, thereby stimulating local economic growth and development.

Vietnam, a country with a population of about 100 million, has successfully established agriculture as the backbone of its economy. In contrast, Nigeria, a country founded on agricultural produce before the discovery of oil, with a population of over 200 million, has struggled to achieve food security. While I understand the government’s desperation to address food shortages leading to the recent policy to open border for food importation, I still believe it’s an embarrassment that we’re resorting to this solution at this time. What’s even more striking is that we’ll be importing food from countries with smaller populations and landmasses than ours.

To move forward, we must return to our roots. The government should establish credit facilities through banks and financial institutions for individuals willing to venture into farming. However, these funds should not be disbursed without strings attached. A robust monitoring and evaluation system must be put in place to ensure that the funds are utilized exclusively for agricultural purposes. Any diversion of funds for non-agricultural purposes should be met with swift prosecution, to deter abuse and ensure accountability.

Many young people are now recognizing the potential and value of agriculture, dispelling the notion that it’s an outdated or uneducated people’s venture. Some are enthusiastic about returning to farming, but accessing the necessary funds to establish and grow their agricultural businesses remains a significant hurdle. Even when the government claims to provide funding, the amounts are often meager and insufficient for the ordinary Nigerians, making it difficult for young farmers to get started or scale up their operations.

The federal government currently allocates approximately N30 billion annually to subsidize meals for the 112 unity schools across the country. This translates to a monthly disbursement of N2,487,056,400 to the Ministry of Education. However, it’s important to assess the effectiveness of this policy since its inception under the Muhammadu Buhari’s administration. Despite the substantial investment, there appears to be little tangible impact.

Consider an alternative scenario: if these funds were channeled towards empowering 112 Nigerian farmers, each focusing on a single crop, the outcomes could be transformative. This investment would not only create numerous jobs but also significantly enhance food security and generate foreign exchange through exports, ultimately benefiting the country’s economy. The federal government should reevaluate this policy and explore more reasonable alternative to achieve sustainable impact.

As a country, we must be deliberate about finding solutions to our economic woes. Like John Maxwell said, everything rises and falls on leadership. Our leaders must suspend non-essential spending and invest in agriculture. This will boost the economy through exports, generating significant foreign exchange, creating jobs, and improving food security.

Inyali Peter, Ph.D

Disclaimer: The opinion expressed in this article is strictly that of the author, Inyali Peter, and does not represent TheLumineNews, its agent or the organization the author works for

August 6, 2024
Nigerians: Redirect Your Protest, Hold Governors Accountable BY INYALI PETER

As Nigerians prepare to protest the widespread hardship in the land, it’s important to reassess the focus of their grievances. Although President Tinubu announced the tough but necessary decisions on subsidy removal and exchange rate floating, the real obstacles hindering Nigeria’s progress and causing the hardship are the state governors, who have mismanaged resources and prioritised corruption over development.

While the President and federal government can undoubtedly improve in many areas, their efforts will be hindered if state governors remain unaccountable. The federal government’s initiatives to alleviate hardship are often implemented through the states, but governors continue to shirk their responsibilities.

Ironically, the governors are the biggest beneficiaries of the subsidy removal, receiving a substantial increase of over 100% in federal allocation. Besides, they have also benefited from other initiatives, such as the NG-CARES programme, which has allocated significant funds to 34 states (as detailed in the attached newspaper publication). Despite this considerable windfall, there has been no corresponding improvement in their performance, development, or enhancement of the standard of living for Nigerians.

The current revenue sharing formula is allocated as follows: 52.68% to the federal government, 26.72% to states, and 20.60% to local governments. Beyond the federal allocation, the states also receive a substantial share of Value Added Tax (VAT) revenue, with 50% allocated to states, 15% to the federal government, and 35% to local governments.

In Nigeria, prior to the landmark Supreme Court judgment, states had total control over local government funds. This means that when you combine the percentage of FAAC allocation to states and local governments, states effectively receive 48.32% of the country’s total revenue; while for VAT they receive 85%.
This clearly highlight governors significant financial leverage.

However, instead of utilizing these resources to benefit the Nigerian people, governors have crippled the local government system, denying local areas essential services and development, and prioritizing corruption and mismanagement over tangible development. This entrenched culture of neglect and poor performances by most governors has exacerbated the suffering of the people, perpetuating a cycle of underdevelopment and hardship.

See what Chief Nysom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory has achieved in Abuja within one year. Apart from Lagos, which state governor can show similar evidence of performance? He did same as Governor of Rivers State and is showing it in Abuja.

The resources available to governors are more than sufficient to stimulate the economy, but they choose not to act. Unfortunately, they are hardly held accountable for their inaction. Nigerians have always directed their protests solely at the federal government, overlooking governors maladministration and impunity. If the hardship must be addressed, then Nigerians must demand accountability from all levels of government, particularly the governors.

Ideally, the protest should be directed towards the real problem – the governors excesses, impunity, and maladministration not the President and federal government always. Let’s demand transparency, accountability, and tangible development from our state governments, too.

As a nation , we must acknowledge that the federal government alone cannot solve Nigeria’s problems. The states must take responsibility and act as partners in progress, not just beneficiaries of federal allocation.

Those planning the protest should redirect their grievances and hold the governors accountable.

Inyali Peter, Ph.D

Disclaimer: The opinion expressed in this article is strictly that of the author, Inyali Peter, and does not represent TheLumineNews, its agent or the organization the author works for.

July 23, 2024
Christ Not A Christian BY INYALI PETER

Yesterday, I watched a thought-provoking YouTube video shared by my friend, Dr. Aruku Kalita, featuring Prof. Patrick Lumumba addressing theologians in Kenya. Prof. Lumumba boldly stated that Christ is not a Christian, a view I wholeheartedly agree with.

As I’ve always believed, Christianity is a human construct that emerged many years after Christ’s time. It is not ‘Jesus’ religion as most people want the world to believe but it can well fit into the description as religion about Jesus Christ. But to understand this perspective, let’s delve into brief history.

Jesus Christ was born approximately 2,000 years ago, and his ministry spanned about three years before his crucifixion. The Bible accounts for his life, death, and resurrection, but there’s a significant gap between his departure and the establishment of Christianity as a religion.

The early Christian Church began to take shape around 50-100 AD, with the writings of the apostles and the spread of their teachings. However, it wasn’t until the 4th century that Christianity became a dominant force in the Roman Empire under Constantine’s rule. This means that there’s a substantial gap of several centuries between Christ’s life and the formation of the Christian religion.

Given this historical context, it’s logical to conclude that Christ couldn’t have been a Christian, as the religion didn’t exist during his lifetime. This disparity highlights the human construct aspect of Christianity, which developed over time through interpretations and cultural influences.

It’s essential to acknowledge that Christianity wasn’t the first religion; many others predated it. For instance, ancient religions like Judaism, Hinduism, and Buddhism had existed before Christianity. This emphasizes that faith is a personal choice, often influenced by upbringing and cultural background.

Personally, I was born into a Christian family, making me a Christian by default. If my parents belonged to a different religion, I would have likely followed suit. This realization reminds me that faith is a matter of perspective and presumption, lacking scientific proof. It’s crucial to respect and celebrate diverse beliefs without feeling superior or inferior.

Prof. Lumumba’s statement resonates with me, and I believe it’s essential to understand the historical context and human construct aspect of religion. This can help us foster greater tolerance, acceptance, and coexistence among people of different faiths, recognizing the shared human values that unite us all.

Thank you Dr. Aruku for the video!

Inyali Peter, Ph.D

Disclaimer: The opinion expressed in this article is strictly that of the author, Inyali Peter, and does not represent TheLumineNews, its agent or the organization the author works for.

June 24, 2024