Editorial
MDAs: Cutting Cost Of Governance
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Indications are rife that the Federal Government will soon cut down personnel cost and merge Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) following persistent low revenue. The Minister of Finance, Budget and National Planning, Zainab Ahmed, hinted at the “National Policy Dialogue on Corruption and Cost of Governance in Nigeria’’ organised in Abuja this month by the Independent Corrupt Practices and other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).
In this era of disastrous economic hardship, the Federal Government’s move to cut cost is most acceptable. This is a route that will be beneficial and long overdue, moreso as the country’s current system of democratic governance is very expansive and expensive. Besides scrapping or merging redundant MDAs, the constitutional provision mandating the President to appoint a Minister from at least each of the 36 States, should be amended to reduce the number of federal cabinet members.
The initiative to reduce cost of governance is an appropriate step towards the realisation that large federal structure is a driver of the high governance cost, engendering public outcry that government spending is largely on recurrent activities at the expense of capital or developmental projects. The subsisting fiscal policy is simply unsustainable and negatively impacts on the government’s fiscal situation.
In some countries, the general cost of administration is less than 10 per cent of the total annual budgets. For instance, the United States, with a higher population than Nigeria, has only 15 secretaries and executive departments as against Nigeria, which has 27 ministers, 16 ministers of state and 27 ministries. At the moment, the Federal Government is maintaining about 943 MDAs with many of them having duplicated functions.
Personnel cost alone was N1.87 trillion in 2016 while currently, the same cost has spiralled to over N3 trillion. With this revelation, it is apparent that the aftermath of the rising cost of running the government is the reason only 30 per cent of the budget is available for capital projects and the cause behind numerous abandoned projects nationwide.
Despite the administration’s unruly spending spree, federal agencies have similarly been accused of using “security votes” to siphon the public treasury. In a presentation at a virtual webinar to mark the 2021 World Press Freedom Day organised by the US Mission in Nigeria, BudgIT, a civic-tech non-profit organisation, said its inquiry exposed “over 316 capital projects worth N39.5 billion, among other loopholes for corruption.”
It disclosed that N1.9 trillion was allocated to the security sector in the 2021 budget, a 14 per cent increase from N1.78 trillion allotted in 2020. Notwithstanding the increase in the funds budgeted and Buhari’s promises to crush insurgents, arbitrary killings and kidnappings at the hands of Boko Haram, bandits, and killer herdsmen remain a regular experience of Nigerians.
BudgIT further revealed that other non-security agencies now receive massive allocations for “security votes”, and described the spending as “an opaque feature of the Nigerian security ecosystem devoid of accountability.” In the 2021 budget, a total of 117 federal agencies received allocations for “security votes” worth N24.3 billion, even though many of the agencies already have allotments for “security charges” to cover each agency’s security needs.
Investigations into the 2021 budget revealed at least 316 duplicated capital projects worth N39.5 billion, with 115 of those duplicate projects occurring in the Federal Ministry of Health. This is very disturbing and unacceptable, especially considering the immeasurable health infrastructure deficit and the raging Covid-19 pandemic affecting Nigeria.
We are miffed by the disclosures of fraud in the MDAs. Urgent steps must be taken to block the leakages. It is tragic that the Buhari’s government that chanted the familiar anti-corruption mantra in 2015 is shamefully unable to fulfill its promise of curbing corruption and grand theft with the budget riddled with gaping loopholes. A staggering N3.31trillion debt servicing burden which will wipe out nearly 41.63% of the projected N7.99 trillion 2021 revenue has become the spectre severely haunting the country.
One of the measures to reduce governance cost in the face of plummeting revenue is for the current administration to revisit the White Paper on Steve Oronsaye Panel’s Report on the Rationalisation of Ministries, Agencies and Parastatals, submitted in 2014. The committee, set up by the administration of former President Goodluck Jonathan, recommended among other measures, the reduction of statutory agencies of government from 263 to 161.
Nigerian leadership must task themselves on good governance. They have to be reminded that the success story of the Asian Tigers many years ago was a product of sound leadership and determination. Since it has been established that corruption is one of the viable drivers of high governance cost in Nigeria, the need to rectify the anomalies to boost revenue as projected by the Federal Government is more obvious.
Editorial
Ugochinyere’s Allegation, Time For PDP To Act
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Some opposition lawmakers, under the aegis of the Coalition for United Political Parties (CUPP), recently raised an alarm over a renewed plot by the 27 lawmakers of the Rivers State House of Assembly to impeach Governor Siminalayi Fubara. The legislators had defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC) from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) last December.
The spokesman of the coalition, Hon. Ikenga Ugochinyere, made this claim during a press briefing held in the National Assembly, Abuja. He revealed some leaked court documents signed by the PDP Acting Chairman, Illiya Umar Damagun, and the PDP Secretary, Senator Samuel Anyanwu, to aid the pro-Wike APC interest against a party in Rivers State and to assist in their attempt to remove Governor Fubara from office.
Speaking during the media chat, Hon. Ugochinyere said: “The opposition lawmakers coalition under the main opposition coalition umbrella, the CUPP, today raised serious allegations against the party’s Acting National Chairman, Mr Umar Damagum, and National Secretary, Senator Samuel Anyanwu.
“The lawmakers accused the two party leaders of a covert plot to sabotage the PDP’s interests in an ongoing legal battle involving defected former members of the Rivers State House of Assembly which is part of a desperate and shameful effort to betray their party, destroy all legal efforts and aid the pro-Wike APC elements have the legal backing to attempt their impossible plot of removing the PDP government led by Gov. Fubara out of office.”
He further claimed that the national chairman of the PDP, along with the secretary, shamefully opposed the national legal adviser’s effort to neutralise and prevent the pro-Wike dismissed APC lawmakers from jeopardising the interests of the PDP. The chairman and secretary sought to support the pro-Wike APC lawmakers who were dismissed, hoping to help them regain their lost legitimacy and make another attempt to remove their party’s governor.
No doubt, Ugochinyere’s accusation carries significant weight and raises serious concerns that warrant a thorough investigation to determine its truthfulness. It is particularly disheartening and unfortunate that such assertions are directed at the individuals holding the two highest offices in the party, as this tarnishes the integrity of the institutions they represent. The gravity of the troubling situation cannot be overstated.
We unequivocally denounce the actions of the Chairman and Secretary of the main opposition party in their purported involvement in a plot to impeach the Rivers State governor. It is shocking to witness such a betrayal of trust and blatant disregard for a dedicated party member. The governor has been tirelessly working to uplift the lives of his people and promote development in the state, only to face opposition from within his political party.
It is deeply disappointing to witness the leadership of a major political party prioritise the interests of a single individual over the well-being of the people they were elected to serve. Governor Fubara has been a beacon of hope for the PDP and residents of Rivers State, and his dedication to good governance should be celebrated and supported, not undermined by those within his party. The move to impeach him reeks of political opportunism and a lack of regard for party commitment and loyalty.
Though the PDP Governors Forum and the Board of Trustees (BOT) have condemned the move to unseat Fubara, however, to truly safeguard democracy and party dignity, they must do more than offer solidarity. They must proactively mobilise their party machinery and thwart the nefarious plans of those seeking to subvert the party’s interests. They should move against the defected 27 lawmakers and the machinations of the APC. By denying these individuals a platform within the PDP, both organs can effectively neutralise their ability to disrupt the affairs of the once formidable PDP.
Other organs of the party should collaborate and resist the chairman and the secretary. These two officers have caused enough problems for the opposition party and do not deserve to continue in their offices. The current crisis in the PDP is attributable to them and their cohort, former Governor Nyesom Wike. The constant power struggles, lack of respect for party laws, and questionable decision-making have led to a loss of trust and support from party members and the general public. The PDP must take swift action to remove these individuals from their positions to restore unity and credibility within the party.
Stakeholders must take immediate action to prevent the potential demise of the PDP. Allowing the current crisis, fueled by the self-serving actions of the implicated officials, to continue unchecked could lead to irreparable damage. These leaders must prioritise the party’s unity over personal interests. Every member must work to safeguard the PDP’s future and reinforce its role as a vital opposition force. The time for decisive intervention is now; complacency could ultimately seal the party’s fate.
Ugochinyere’s allegations demand a prompt and transparent response from those implicated; silence may be interpreted as tacit admission of guilt. The party organs must act decisively to reclaim their party. It is disheartening to witness a once awe-inspiring political party struggle to present a cohesive front, particularly with the 2027 elections looming. This fragmentation signals a troubling departure from the PDP that Nigerians once revered, raising concerns about its future viability and relevance in a rapidly evolving political landscape. Unity, discipline, and internal democracy are essential for the party’s revival.
Editorial
APP Secretariat Explosion: One Too Many
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Port Harcourt’s tranquility was shattered recently as a deafening blast ripped through the Action People’s Party (APP) secretariat. Dynamite, the suspected explosive, left behind a scene of utter devastation. The once vibrant building lay in ruins, with shattered windows, and debris scattered across the environ. The explosion sent shockwaves, leaving behind a cloud of fear.
While no casualties were immediately reported, the incident has ignited concerns about escalating political violence in the state. The timing of the attack has heightened tensions and raised questions about the motives behind the act. Security agencies are reportedly investigating the incident to bring the perpetrators to justice. The blast occurred amid rumours of a potential defection by Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his supporters to the APP.
This attack underscores the alarming threat to the safety and security of political institutions. The incident demands immediate action to safeguard these vital pillars of democracy. Political parties are essential for the healthy functioning of any society. They provide avenues for citizens to participate in decision-making, represent diverse viewpoints, and hold governments accountable. However, when they are targeted with violence and intimidation, their ability to fulfil these critical functions is severely compromised.
Assaulting political parties not only poses a physical threat to politicians and party members but also undermines public confidence in the electoral process itself. It creates an atmosphere of fear and insecurity that can dissuade individuals from participating in politics and expressing their opinions freely.
The Rivers State Commissioner of Police, Tunji Disu, has a fundamental responsibility to protect and uphold the rule of law. In light of this attack, the authorities must prioritise the safety of political parties by implementing comprehensive security measures. These include enhanced surveillance, increased police presence, and prompt investigations to deter and apprehend any potential attackers.
Despite the alarming incident, the absence of arrests or prosecutions is deeply concerning. The state police command must assume accountability and enhance its efforts to uphold law and order. Law enforcement capabilities and intelligence gathering should be intensified to pinpoint the whereabouts of the perpetrators. This proactive approach will not only deter future crimes but also restore public confidence in the police’s ability to protect citizens.
Moreover, the police should collaborate with individuals to foster information sharing and strengthen surveillance. Establishing a hotline or anonymous reporting system can facilitate the reporting of suspicious activities, providing vital leads to apprehend the criminals. Community policing initiatives can bridge the gap between residents and law enforcement, promoting a sense of shared responsibility for public safety.
By addressing the shortcomings in law enforcement and implementing proactive measures, the state police command can effectively contain the incident and prevent similar occurrences in the future. The safety of citizens depends on a vigilant and responsive police force that is committed to apprehending criminals. There might be more attacks if the police remain docile.
Those who make inflammatory statements should be invited and interrogated. The silence of the police in the face of a recent inciting statement made by the former Ikwerre Local Government Area Chairman, Mr Samuel Nwanosike, has raised concerns about their impartiality. Nwanosike’s threat to destroy the property of Governor Siminalayi Fubara has gone unaddressed by the police, despite the potential for it to incite violence and destabilise the state.
The failure of the police to prosecute the perpetrator of the bombing at the Hotel Presidential in Port Harcourt during a protest march by former Governor Nyesom Wike’s supporters has cast a shadow over their impartiality in the ongoing political crisis in the state. This has encouraged the attack on the party secretariat.
A neutral police force is essential for maintaining peace in a democratic society. Citizens must trust that the police will act without bias, regardless of political affiliations or personal interests. However, the failure to hold accountable those responsible for such a blatant act of aggression undermines public confidence in the force.
We must not tolerate the use of savagery in the pursuit of political goals. Any attempt to silence or intimidate political opponents through fury is a direct assault on the principles of democratic governance. The state has a duty to protect its citizens and ensure that all political activities are conducted in a safe and peaceful manner.
The dynamite attack on the APP secretariat is a wake-up call for all Rivers people and Nigerians. We must recommit ourselves to building a society where political racketeering is unthinkable. If we work together, we can safeguard our democracy and ensure that all citizens can participate in the political process without fear or intimidation.
Editorial
As Rivers LG Election Aproaches…
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Barring any inhibiting circumstances, the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) will conduct the state local government election on October 5. Charged with this onerous task, RSIEC must engage in a meticulous orchestration of events, strategies, and implementations to ensure the polls pass off without a hitch. Regrettably, the conspicuous silence and apparent inertia of the electoral body have become sources of consternation for the people.
The success of any election hinges on the groundwork layed before actual polling. Hence, RSIEC must undertake a comprehensive planning. A fastidious approach to voter registration and the maintenance of a credible voter register are fundamental. The commission must ensure that eligible voters are not disenfranchised following administrative oversights or technical glitches. In a healthy democracy, voter engagement is not merely a suggestion but a necessity. It is the lifeblood that sustains the very fabric of a political system.
Central to this engagement is a profound sense of security among voters that their voices will be heard and their choices will be respected. When voters feel secure in their right to vote, they are more likely to participate in the electoral process. Therefore, in the forthcoming local government election, RSIEC must prevent voter suppression and make voters believe that they will not be prevented from casting their ballots.
Additionally, the state electoral commission ought to ramp up voter education programmes. An electorate that is well-educated about the procedural aspects of the voting process is less likely to encounter disenfranchisement because of ignorance or misinformation. Furthermore, the commission must emphasise the importance of non-violence and peaceful conduct during the election period.
Recruitment and thorough training of electoral officers are essential for ensuring a successful election. RSIEC must instil integrity and professionalism in its ad hoc staff, as these individuals play an essential role in upholding the election’s credibility. Equipping them with the necessary skills and ethical guidelines can foster a transparent electoral environment.
The logistical aspect cannot be understated. Proper preparation would involve ensuring the timely distribution of voting materials, functional voting equipment, and the optimal location of polling units. The accessibility of these units for people with disabilities must also be a consideration to enhance inclusiveness in the democratic process.
Election periods are notoriously fraught with tension and Rivers State is no exception, especially in light of the current political crisis. It is non-negotiable that adequate security measures are put in place to forestall any form of electoral violence or malpractice that could jeopardise the probity of the exercise. Collaboration with various security agencies will be momentous. RSIEC must work in concert with the police force, civil defence, and possibly the military, especially in areas identified as hotspots for electoral unrest.
Security personnel deployed for election duties must discharge their responsibilities impartially, without succumbing to the whims and caprices of political actors. Ensuring the sanctity of the ballot must be RSIEC’s cardinal goal. As such, protecting the vote from manipulation – both digitally and physically – becomes imperative. Measures including but not limited to the use of secure ballot boxes, tamper-evident seals, and transparent vote tallying processes should be a part of the commission’s strategy.
Upon the conclusion of voting and counting, the prompt announcement of results will assist in maintaining calm and order. The state electoral body must commit to transparency throughout the entire electoral process. Transparent handling of the election outcomes will boost confidence in the electoral body and decrease the likelihood of disputes. Civil society groups and election monitors could be engaged to ensure credibility.
Nevertheless, it is plausible that disagreements will arise. Thus, the state judicial authorities should begin to set protocols for handling election grievances. Clear guidelines that detail the pathways for legal redress and a commitment to honouring the outcomes of any judicial processes will enhance the plausibility of the electoral process.
Compliance with the state electoral law is obligatory in maintaining the legitimacy of the process. Any deviations from the prescribed procedures and regulations can undermine the validity of the results. Therefore, it is incumbent upon all parties involved to familiarise themselves with the legal framework governing the electoral process and to ensure strict adherence to its provisions to promote an election that truly reflects the will of the people.
All political parties must be treated equally. This could foster an environment of inclusivity. Equal access to information should be guaranteed. This is not merely a procedural necessity; it is a fundamental principle that upholds the integrity of elections. When all political parties are properly informed and engaged, the electoral process becomes more robust, reducing the potential for disputes and fostering a healthier political climate. Ultimately, equitable treatment by the umpire is vital for genuine democratic participation.
The Rivers State Government must give precedence to the adequate allocation of funds necessary for the elections for a smooth and transparent electoral process. Proper financing is necessary not only for logistics support, such as polling station setup and staff training but also for maintaining the integrity of the electoral system and the payment of adhoc staff. Investing in these resources can foster civic participation. Moreover, a well-funded election can help mitigate potential conflicts and irregularities.
Citizens and observers are keeping a careful eye on the polls preparations as they progress. The success of the election could set a positive example for electoral integrity not only in the state but in the country as a whole. RSIEC’s actions will determine if it is merely an administrative body or a true protector of democracy. If the commission focuses on meticulous planning and unwavering dedication, it can make certain that the election sets the bar for future polls and demonstrates the resilience of Nigeria’s democratic system.
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