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‘We are opposed to youth confab, regionalism’ – MBF President, Bitrus

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President of the Middle Belt Forum, MBF, Dr Pogu Bitrus has dismissed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s proposed 30 days conference with the youth contained in his Independence Day speech as a political jamboree only meant to win the support of the youth for the president’s political ambition.

Bitrus, in an interview with DAILY POST, also spoke on returning the country to regionalism, the move to strip the Nigeria Ports Authority, NPA, Nigeria Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, NIMASA, and Nigeria Customs Service, NCS of the revenue collection powers, the effect of the hike in electricity bill on minimum wage earners’ income and the role of the police in the recently held local government election in Rivers State, among others.

Proposed National Confab:

According to the MBF president, “It will amount to nothing. We have had national conferences in the past. The last one was the 2014 confab which gave us a blueprint on the way forward on how to achieve a better Nigeria for all Nigerians.

“Things have been addressed across board, including even things that have to do with the youths. Rather than creating another bureaucracy for political reasons, I think the government needs to look at the 2014 confab report as it affects our youths and other areas to ensure that constitutional amendment gets to a level where a lot of the problems that Nigerians are facing can be addressed. But as far as I am concerned, the proposed 30 days youth conference is a political jamboree.

“Mr President is just trying to appeal to the youths for political support otherwise things pertaining to the youths have been spelt out. Let those things be implemented so that we can have a better Nigeria where our youths can be tutored to take over from the older generation, so that there will be some mentoring along the line.

“But to just go and have a conference with the youths, to me, is a political gimmick to gain support and have a support base from the youths for the government rather than improving governance in Nigeria.”

Federal Government’s plan for FIRS, NPA, NIMASA and NCS:

Bitrus had this to say: “Although I have not studied the nitty-gritty of the government’s intentions, anything or any process that will improve the revenue collection system is a welcome development in Nigeria.

If you look at the report that has not been implemented, with regard to streamlining activities of the government agencies, ministries and others, the intention is to reduce the cost and ensure effectiveness of governance. So, anything that will improve the performance of the government and reduce bureaucracy is a welcome thing in this country.

The question we should be asking is: how will it be implemented? Will the implementation result in achieving the objectives of reducing the cost of governance, improving efficiency in governance, and increasing the revenue collections?

“These are the key factors. So, if it will reduce the cost of doing government business, then it is welcome. If it will reduce the bureaucracy in governance, it is equally welcome.

 

“But if while doing this, it only creates or multiplies the bureaucracy, because it may be taken from one hand and given out on the other hand, then there is a problem.

“This is because when it is streamlined, what happens to the agencies that have been stripped of their responsibilities? Will they just be there doing nothing?

“Will they be given other responsibilities or will the bureaucracies in those organisations be reduced since a big chunk of their work has been given to somebody else?

“These are some of the things that we have to study very carefully before making a comment about what the government has done.”

The President’s proposal for a return to regionalism:

While noting that nobody is opposed to regionalism, Bitrus noted that, “today, we have something which is not in the constitution but we follow it.

“We have the six geopolitical zones that are not in the constitution, but we base the sharing of appointments and infrastructure on that arrangement, which is not a constitutional provision.

“If regionalism will help us, it doesn’t mean that the states will be abrogated; that’s not what it means. It means that within a particular region, those states will exist.

“But as a region being a larger component, together with the states can perform better in terms of amenities and other infrastructure as a collective. Now, some of us are saying that we have a cumbersome system of government.

“With the presidential system, the government is too costly to run and some people are even talking about parliamentary system. All these are debates that have advantages and disadvantages, looking at whichever one you want to consider.

“But certainly, no system is perfect, and we in the Middle Belt zone are not opposed to having regionalism reintroduced in Nigeria. What we are saying is that if it is going to be reintroduced, we don’t want to be with our far northern brothers.

“Let them stay where they are and let us stay where we are. In the 2014 confab report, we advocated for a Middle Belt East, Middle Belt West, North East and North West and also four regions in the South.

“So, all these are possibilities that can take place. Some people are afraid because they feel that when a collection of persons in one region has so many commonalities, it can lead to secession.

“But whether there is regionalism or not, if people want to secede they will secede. We have had a civil war in this country because of secession; if Nigeria doesn’t work, it will fail.

“So, the important thing is whatever that will improve and take Nigeria to the Promised Land of development is welcomed by us. Some people are even talking of rotational presidency; yes if that is going to address our plurality, it is welcomed.

“Anything that will move us forward is welcomed. The problem in this country is that we have not yet become a nation. Every part is just thinking about its own people and all that and it doesn’t help anybody. So, we are not opposed to regionalism.

“However, in regionalism, we are opposed to the four regions which were there before the military coup of January 15, 1966.

“And we are saying that we, in the Middle Belt, don’t want to remain in the same bloc with our northern brothers because staying with them has been counterproductive and we would want to develop on our own.”

He emphasized that “We are saying that those of us in the Middle Belt want to remain separate from the far north. That is what we are saying in the regionalism arrangement.

“The geopolitical zones were a creation of the late Sani Abacha’s regime and it is serving some purpose. However, it doesn’t solve the problems which we are facing.

“For instance, in the Southern part of Borno State where I come from, there is so much disparity. Right from the time when our Vice President was Borno State Governor, people in the local governments of Southern Borno have been receiving different salaries from the people of Central and Northern Borno.

“You can investigate that because you are a journalist. As we speak, there are people receiving N9000 per month in Southern Borno as salaries in the local government system, different from Kanuri areas of Central and Northern Borno.

“Why should we stay together with such people? There are so many atrocities being committed in this country because some people think they have to lord it over others.

“So, why do we want to stay with such people? If today, a region is going to be formed, we in Southern Borno will say, no we are not joining with these people.

“Let them be on their own and let us be on our own so that everybody will work for the development of their area and not to be exploited by others. So, we are for regionalism, however, we don’t want to be with the far north.

“Benue and Plateau are in the North Central geopolitical zone. The Middle Belt is beyond North Central.

“The Middle Belt comprises peoples who were independent of the Caliphate and the Sultanate of Borno when the British came to colonise Nigeria, and we are found in the Middle Belt zone of Nigeria. Southern Borno, Gombe, Taraba, Adamawa, Benue, Plateau and Southern Kaduna as well as Southern Kebbi were all part of the Niger Province.

“They were taken to North West only because of the recommendation of a panel report which said that Sokoto State which was to be created then was devoid of manpower and those people should be shifted to North West, in this case, Sokoto, so that they would provide the necessary manpower.

“That was why they left Niger Province into that place; they are not part of it. They are part of the Middle Belt. So, those of us in the Northern part of this country that were independent of the Caliphate and the Sultanate of Borno when the British came are the Middle Belters and we cut across all the three Northern geopolitical zones, North East, North West and North Central.

“So, we are the Middle Belters. That is why someone like me from Chibok, who in 1902 when the British came to negotiate us into the protectorate just like any other person can now say I am a Middle Belter.

“When the British came to that side of the country, they went to Biu and from Biu to Chibok; unfortunately our forebears refused and challenged the British, leading to a protracted engagement that lasted from 1906 to early 1907 before our people were conquered.

“The Indirect Rule then took us to be under Borno Province and under Borno Emirate. So, but for Indirect Rule, we have nothing to do with them.

“Majority of the people within the Middle Belt are people who were subdued and subjugated through the Indirect Rule under the system of the Caliphate and the Sultanate of Borno. So, we are Middle Belters; we are who we are.”

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Eke Hit Tells Court: “I’m a Content Creator, Not a Traditional Healer”

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Eke Hit, a popular content creator, recently appeared in court and stated that his online posts are merely comedic skits intended for entertainment purposes.

He clarified that his content does not involve actual shrines or sacrifices, but rather is created to garner views and likes.

Eke content creator emphasized that his online presence is for entertainment purposes only.

Eke Hit’s court appearance has garnered significant attention, with many awaiting the outcome of the case.

By highlighting the comedic nature of their content, Eke Hit and other creators aim to distinguish their work from any potentially misleading or harmful activities.

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Tinubu, Obasanjo, Makinde mourn as ex-Oyo gov Olunloyo dies at 89

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Elder statesman and former governor of old Oyo State, Dr Omololu Olunloyo,
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The death of the former Governor of Oyo State, Dr Victor Omololu Olunloyo, has sparked an outpouring of grief from eminent Nigerians, including President Bola Tinubu, former President Olusegun Obasanjo, Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, and many others.

Olunloyo, a renowned mathematician and technocrat, passed away on Sunday at the age of 89, just days before his 90th birthday on April 14, 2025.

He passed on around 1.40 am on Sunday, with his remains deposited at a private mortuary in Ibadan.

The deceased became a commissioner in the old Western Region at age 27, before he served as the Governor of Oyo State from  October 1, 1983, to December 31, 1983, before the military regime of Gen Muhammadu Buhari seized power and truncated the democracy of the Second Republic.

His legacy as a brilliant scholar and dedicated public servant left an indelible mark on the educational and political landscape of Nigeria.

In his tribute, Tinubu extended condolences, praising Olunloyo for his pioneering work in mathematics and education, as well as his commitment to national development.

The President’s condolence message was contained in a statement by his spokesman, Mr Bayo Onanuga.

“Olunloyo, renowned for his mathematical prowess, obtained a PhD in Applied Mathematics and Number Theory from St. Andrews University in Scotland at 25 years.

“In 1962, at just 27, he became a commissioner in the old Western Region. He served multiple times as commissioner in the Western State, which succeeded the Western Region.

“Dr Olunloyo will be celebrated in academic circles for his brilliance and foundational contributions to applied mathematics and number theory.

“As an educator, he profoundly influenced future leaders and fortified educational institutions,” Tinubu said.

Reflecting on Olunloyo’s tenure as governor of the old Oyo State, Tinubu remarked: “Although his time in office was brief, his tenure was marked by exceptional vision and leadership.

“The abrupt end to his administration due to military intervention did not deter him from continuing to serve the nation.”

Obasanjo described Olunloyo as a patriotic Nigerian who stood for justice, peace and progress of the country till his last days on earth.

He said Olunloyo remained one of the notable Nigerians with deep blood of patriotism running in their veins.

In a statement by this Special Assistant on Media, Kehinde Akinyemi, on Sunday, the former President said “It was shocking and worrisome because we had lost Chief Ayo Adebanjo, Chief Edwin Clark, and now Dr Olunloyo just in weeks.

“Indeed, the ranks of the nation’s leadership are fast depleting by the loss of our dedicated and resourceful patriots who served the nation in various capacities, particularly at this crucial state in our nation’s history when their wise counsel and rich experience are greatly needed.”

Obasanjo commiserated with Makinde, the government and the good people of Oyo State and consoled them with the facts that Dr Olunloyo lived a life worthy of communal emulation, touched the soul of his community and mourned by all.

Makinde, in his tribute, expressed pride in having honoured Olunloyo during his lifetime, by naming significant landmarks after him.

He described Olunloyo as one of the state’s most cerebral leaders, whose contributions to education and governance would continue to inspire future generations.

Makinde, in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Sulaimon Olanrewaju, described Olunloyo’s death as the exit of one of Oyo State’s and Nigeria’s most cerebral former administrators.

“My joy is that our government immortalised and honoured Pa Olunloyo in his lifetime and he was present to witness it, as we named the Ibadan Airport Road and the Leisure Park on the axis after him, in recognition of his service to the state,” the governor stated.

“In Olunloyo, we have lost another icon. This time, we lost a highly cerebral and patriotic leader, who served our great state at its early stages.

“This death hits differently because I was looking forward to Baba’s 90th birthday, which would have come up on April 14, 2025,” he added.

The Southern Governors Forum described Olunloyo’s death, a few days before his 90th birthday, as a great loss to Nigeria and intellectuals around the world.

The chairman of the forum and Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, in a statement on Sunday, expressed the forum’s condolences to Makinde, and the government and people of Oyo State.

The forum described Olunloyo as a titan who left legacies that every Nigerian should be proud of, adding that he was a highly accomplished scholar and a genius even among geniuses.

The governor added that Olunloyo’s achievements as a prodigious scholar with reputable papers, and as an octogenarian with a sharp memory and wit, not to mention a lifelong dedication to books and the quest for knowledge in various fields, were well known.

He said: “Alas, like many giants before him, Dr Omololu Olunloyo has gone to rest.

“Although a scientist, Baba loved reciting poetry, particularly those by William Shakespeare, and, remarkably, did not read with glasses even in his old age.”

The former governor of Oyo State and the Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, described the passing of a renowned mathematician, engineer and technocrat as the exit of a titan.

The senator representing Oyo South Senatorial District, Sharafadeen Alli, expressed sorrow over the passing of Olunloyo.

A statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Akeem Abas, in Ibadan, described Olunloyo’s death as the end of a golden era of wisdom, scholarship, and statesmanship in Nigeria.

He described Olunloyo as a towering intellectual and one of the brightest minds to ever serve in public office in Nigeria.

“The death of Olunloyo is a monumental loss to the state and Nigeria at large. He was a symbol of brilliance, simplicity, and unwavering commitment to public service.

“His contributions to governance, academia, and the development of our dear state remain unmatched,” he said.

The Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Mr Adebo Ogundoyin, described the late Olunloyo as a man of extraordinary intellect and dedication.

The speaker, expressing deep sorrow in a statement on Sunday, said Olunloyo’s contributions to the development of Oyo State and Nigeria remained unparalleled.

Ogundoyin said it was unfortunate that the state had lost a walking encyclopaedia and a pillar of wisdom in Nigerian politics.

Olunloyo was not just a leader; he was a beacon of knowledge and a source of inspiration to many. I read a lot about Olunloyo and marvelled at his level of knowledge.

“His legacy as a mathematician, engineer, and technocrat will forever be etched in the annals of history,” the speaker remarked.

Ladoja, in a statement by his media aide, Adeola Oloko, in Ibadan, said the late Olunloyo was a man of many parts who left his footprints on the sands of time.

Olunloyo shone and sparkled like a star right from his Government College, Ibadan days all through his university days in Scotland, which culminated in his becoming one of the youngest PhD holders in his days.

“He gave a good account of himself as one of the most officed persons with a long public service record in Nigeria,” Ladoja said.

The former governor said the greatest legacy of Olunloyo’s long service record was his incorruptibility.

Ladoja recalled that Olunloyo visited him in his Bodija, Ibadan residence only two weeks ago, adding that “He was in the wheelchair. I was surprised to see him.

“We discussed for an hour before he left. Whenever my elder brother came around, you can be sure there would be no dull moment. But then, I did not have a premonition that his visit was his way of bidding us farewell.”

The Executive Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service, Zacch Adedeji, described the death of Olunloyo as the dropping of one the finest stars from Nigeria’s sky.

Adedeji, in a statement by his Special Adviser (Media), Dare Adekanmbi, in Ibadan, said the deceased was a genius of a rare breed, adding that he marvelled at Olunloyo’s intellectual depth and native intelligence.

“Papa Olunloyo could rightly be described as Nigeria’s Albert Einstein. He graduated with first-class honours and proceeded to bag a PhD in Applied Mathematics at the age of 26 at the University of St Andrews, Scotland.

“Every moment I shared with Papa while he was with us was an opportunity to pick lifelong lessons. He was very deep and his intellect was not just in Mathematics, but also in Classical Music with a bias for W.A Mozart’s works as well as in Literature.

“He would recite paragraphs and even lengthier dialogues from Shakespeare’s works and show how the lessons therein can be applied to life and living,” he said.

Adedeji lamented that a library of encyclopaedic collections had been set ablaze with the departure of Olunloyo.

The pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation, Afenifere, commiserated with the people and governor of Oyo State over the death of Olunloyo.

In a statement by the National Leader of Afenifere, Pa Reuben Fasoranti, on Sunday, the group said the late Olunloyo left an indelible mark on Oyo State’s history through his tireless contributions to education, governance, and public service.

The statement read, “Afenifere is deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Dr Victor Omololu Olunloyo, the former governor of old Oyo State.

“As a brilliant scholar, mathematician, and engineer, Dr Olunloyo left an indelible mark on Oyo State’s history through his tireless contributions to education, governance, and public service.

“His vision for a better future, leadership, and commitment to the people of Oyo State will forever be remembered. We extend our heartfelt condolences to you, the people of Oyo State, and all who knew him.”

A

former Postmaster General of the Federation, Ismail Adewusi, on Sunday, described Olunloyo as a rare gift that Nigeria never appreciated.

In a statement in Ibadan, Adewusi described Olunloyo as an abundant gift to humanity, whose full opportunities Nigerians never tapped.

He said Olunloyo was a genius who, in other climes, could have been allowed a massive space to bring to bear on the country his rare mental capacity.

“The late Olunloyo was a global phenomenon in Applied Mathematics and Number Theory. At a time when such areas of studies remained in the realm of esoteric academic pursuits, Olunloyo had emerged as a master of the Numbers.

“But his depth of knowledge transcended the numbers game. He was deeply knowledgeable in history, literature, and to a very appreciable reach, law, and philosophy,” he said.

Speaking of Olunloyo’s aversion to mediocrity, Adewusi recalled that he was a man who championed the course of merit in all spheres of life.

Expressing sympathy with the immediate Olunloyo family, Adewusi also commiserated with the entire people of Ibadan and the state in general, noting that Olunloyo’s place in history was assured.

He urged the government to look for a more befitting way to immortalise the late academic and political icon.

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Suspected kidnappers terrorizing Otukpo LGA apprehended

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Three notorious kidnappers have been apprehended in Ogoli-Ugboju of Otukpo Local Government Area of Benue State.

In a post on his official Facebook page, the Chairman of Otukpo Local Government Area, Hon. Maxwell Ogiri, announced the arrest of the three members of the notorious five-man kidnapping gang that has been terrorizing Otukpo and nearby communities.

The suspects—identified as Ibrahim Salleh, Ashimu, and Abuh Umaru—were apprehended on Sunday, 6th April 2025, during a coordinated security operation in Ogoli-Ugboju.

Hon. Ogiri praised the efforts of the security operatives involved and assured the public that investigations are ongoing to apprehend the remaining gang members and their local collaborators.

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