Connect with us

Latest

Akpabio’s Eulogy For Buhari: “He Never Looted Nigeria’s Treasury” — But What Legacy Did He Truly Leave Behind?

Published

on

Akpabio’s Eulogy For Buhari: “He Never Looted Nigeria’s Treasury” — But What Legacy Did He Truly Leave Behind?

As the nation continues to mourn the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari, tributes are pouring in from across the political spectrum. But one tribute stood out this past week—not just for its emotion, but for its bold assertions.

Speaking at an expanded Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting in Abuja, Senate President Godswill Akpabio hailed Buhari as a patriot of rare discipline and integrity. Amid tears, memories, and formalities, Akpabio made a striking claim: Buhari did not loot Nigeria’s treasury.

For a nation battered by decades of endemic corruption, that’s no small praise. But does it hold up under the weight of Buhari’s complex legacy?


A Soldier’s Reputation, A Civilian’s Burden

Muhammadu Buhari’s life was the stuff of Nigerian political folklore. A soldier who seized power in a 1983 coup and then returned over three decades later as a democratically elected president in 2015, he embodied the story of redemption that many Nigerians were yearning for: a no-nonsense leader who would cleanse the system, rebuild institutions, and restore dignity.

Akpabio echoed this sentiment when he said:

“He was a soldier who did not flinch under fire, a leader who did not flee from responsibility… Even his fiercest critics will admit that he did not pilfer the nation’s purse.”

It’s a statement that resonates with many Nigerians who, despite dissatisfaction with his administration’s performance in some areas, still believe Buhari never sought personal enrichment. The image of a frugal, austere leader—one who wore the same wristwatch for decades and who reportedly turned down lavish privileges—helped burnish his reputation as a leader above greed.


A Legacy Defined by Integrity or Inertia?

Akpabio’s tribute paints Buhari as a man of duty over glory, someone who chose the harder path of national service over political convenience. But while his personal integrity may be largely undisputed, critics argue that his inability—or unwillingness—to hold his inner circle to the same standard severely undermined his presidency.

During his time in office (2015–2023), numerous scandals emerged involving top officials: the Maina pension scandal, the alleged billions missing from NNPC accounts, and accusations of selective anti-corruption prosecution. While Buhari himself was never directly implicated, he was often criticized for shielding key allies or failing to act decisively when allegations surfaced.

That paradox remains at the heart of his legacy: a leader of high personal ethics presiding over a system still steeped in corruption.


The Discipline Doctrine: A Strength or a Shortcoming?

Akpabio noted that Buhari “left his boots and imprints” in the corridors of power, suggesting that his leadership style was marked by military discipline and ideological commitment. Many Nigerians did admire his firm stance on fiscal prudence, agriculture-driven economic growth, and massive infrastructure projects.

However, that same discipline was sometimes seen as rigidity. His administration was often criticized for slow decision-making, centralized control, and weak communication. Many young Nigerians felt alienated from a government that seemed out of touch with their aspirations, particularly during moments like the #EndSARS protests, where Buhari’s tone-deaf response further widened the generational gap.


A Final Goodbye in Daura, But Debates Rage On

The late president died in London at the age of 82 and was buried in his hometown of Daura, Katsina State, on Sunday, in accordance with Islamic rites. The special FEC meeting in his honor was attended by top political figures, cabinet ministers, governors, and Buhari’s family, led by his son, Yusuf.

For his supporters, this was a solemn farewell to a true patriot. For his critics, it marked the end of an era that promised transformation but delivered something far more complicated.


Conclusion: Honoring the Man, Evaluating the Legacy

Senator Akpabio’s tribute may have captured the emotional weight of Buhari’s passing, but it also reignited an important national conversation: What does integrity mean in leadership?

If Buhari’s personal honesty was never in doubt, why did so many Nigerians still feel let down by his government? If he truly believed in discipline and accountability, why did systemic failures persist?

As Nigeria looks ahead to the 2027 elections and beyond, Buhari’s story will serve as both inspiration and caution. He reminded us that personal virtue matters—but also that virtue alone is not enough to dismantle deeply entrenched dysfunction.

In the end, history will judge Buhari not just for what he didn’t take from Nigeria, but for what he was able—or unable—to give.

 

Continue Reading
Click to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Business

Cooking Gas Prices Drop In Nigeria – See New Average Cost In July 2025

Published

on

Cooking Gas Prices Drop In Nigeria – See New Average Cost In July 2025

Cooking Gas Prices Drop

For many Nigerian households, the price of cooking gas has become a constant source of worry over the past year. Families who rely on Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) have been caught between rising costs and stagnant incomes, forcing some to cut back usage or switch to less efficient alternatives like kerosene, charcoal, or even firewood. But there’s finally a small relief on the horizon: the price of cooking gas is beginning to ease, at least for now…..CONTINUE READING

The Latest Figures

According to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), the average retail price of refilling a 12.5kg cylinder of LPG fell from ₦21,010.56 in June 2025 to ₦20,609.48 in July 2025. That’s a 1.91% decrease month-on-month, which, while not dramatic, is still a welcome change for struggling households.

However, the year-on-year comparison tells a different story. In July 2024, the same quantity cost ₦14,261.57. That means Nigerians are still paying 44.5% more today than they did just a year ago. In other words, while the month-to-month dip is good news, the bigger picture remains one of steep inflation.

Regional Variations

Interestingly, not all states are experiencing the same reality. States like Imo, Delta, and Rivers recorded some of the highest LPG prices, while Kebbi, Nasarawa, and Kwara enjoyed the lowest. This disparity often reflects transportation costs, supply chains, and even local market competition. For example, states closer to major gas depots or coastal areas may benefit from slightly cheaper prices compared to those further inland.

The Bigger Picture – Why Prices Are Still High

To understand why LPG prices remain elevated, it’s important to look beyond the numbers:

  1. Global Energy Market Volatility – International gas prices have been fluctuating due to shifts in demand, supply chain disruptions, and geopolitical issues. Nigeria, despite being a gas-rich country, still ties its domestic prices partly to global trends.

  2. Dollar Exchange Rate – Since LPG imports rely on foreign exchange, the naira-to-dollar rate heavily impacts the cost. The weakened naira continues to put upward pressure on prices.

  3. Infrastructure & Supply Gaps – Nigeria has abundant gas reserves, but limited infrastructure for processing, storage, and distribution. Until the country expands its domestic capacity, prices will remain vulnerable to external shocks.

What It Means for Nigerian Households

For families already stretched thin by rising food and fuel costs, the slight reduction in July is a breath of fresh air. As of September 1, 2025, some Abuja residents were able to refill a 12.5kg cylinder for around ₦15,000, showing that market realities on the ground sometimes move faster than official averages.

Still, the larger problem remains: energy poverty. When gas prices are high, more people turn to cheaper, dirtier fuels, which affects not only household health (due to smoke inhalation) but also the environment through deforestation and carbon emissions.

Looking Ahead

The government has consistently spoken about making gas the “fuel of the future” in Nigeria, with initiatives to deepen LPG penetration and reduce reliance on kerosene and firewood. However, for this vision to become reality, pricing must be stable and affordable. Investments in local processing, distribution, and subsidies for households could go a long way in making LPG accessible to all.

Final Thoughts

The slight dip in cooking gas prices is good news, but it’s not enough to erase the burden of energy inflation on Nigerian families. Policymakers need to act fast to stabilize the market, support local production, and shield households from volatile global energy trends. For now, Nigerians can breathe a little easier when refilling their gas cylinders — but the bigger struggle for energy affordability continues.

Continue Reading

Latest

Edo Govt Under Fire Over Allegations Of Forcing Teachers Into Menial Labour

Published

on

Edo Govt Under Fire Over Allegations Of Forcing Teachers Into Menial Labour

The Edo State Government is facing backlash after reports emerged that public school teachers were allegedly compelled to cut grass and perform menial jobs on the orders of the Ministry of Education.

The claim, raised by the Edo State Civil Society Coalition on Human Rights, has sparked outrage and debate across the state. According to the group, teachers were being treated as “gardeners and janitors,” a move they described as degrading, unconstitutional, and a slap in the face of Nigeria’s educators…..CONTINUE READING

Civil Society Raises Alarm

In a strongly worded statement signed by Marxist Kola Edokpayi and Comrade Aghatise Raphael, the group condemned the practice and threatened protests and legal action if the government does not put an immediate stop to it.

“Teachers are the backbone of society and nation-builders entrusted with shaping the minds of our children. Reducing them to gardeners and cleaners is a shameful act of abuse and a slap in the face of every hardworking educator in Edo State,” the statement read.

The group reminded the government that Section 34 (1)(c) of the Nigerian Constitution forbids forced labour, warning that the alleged directive amounted to a breach of teachers’ fundamental rights.

The Bigger Picture: Respecting the Teaching Profession

Beyond the legal implications, the controversy highlights a broader societal issue — the undervaluing of teachers in Nigeria. For decades, teachers have battled low pay, poor working conditions, and lack of respect. Forcing them into menial jobs, civil rights groups argue, is yet another reminder of how the system undermines the very people tasked with building the nation’s future.

Rather than compelling teachers to double as gardeners, the group called on the government to employ support staff, cleaners, and maintenance workers who would be properly remunerated for such roles.

Government Responds: “It Was Voluntary CSR”

In response, the State Commissioner for Education, Dr. Paddy Iyamu, denied that teachers were being forced into menial work. He claimed available information suggested the activities were voluntary Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives by some teachers — not an official directive.

He assured the public that a full-scale investigation had been ordered and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting teachers’ rights.

“Teachers’ priority is the transfer of learning. We want to discourage in very strong terms teachers forcibly engaging in tasks that do not directly strengthen knowledge and learning outcomes,” Iyamu said.

The commissioner further noted that Governor Monday Okpebholo’s administration has made strides in improving teacher welfare, citing minimum wage increments, the regularization of casual teachers, construction of teachers’ quarters, and ongoing training programs.

Analysis: CSR or Coercion?

While the government insists the practice was voluntary, the backlash reveals a trust deficit between civil society and state authorities. If indeed voluntary, why would teachers feel compelled to participate? And if coerced, what does that say about the treatment of educators in Edo?

This is not just about cutting grass — it is about respecting professional boundaries. Teachers are employed to teach, not to serve as janitors. Blurring those lines risks eroding morale in an already struggling education system.

Conclusion: Time for Transparency and Reform

The uproar over this incident underscores the urgent need for clear policies on school maintenance, transparent use of education funds, and renewed respect for teachers.

Teachers deserve dignity, not degradation. Whether this was a case of miscommunication or systemic neglect, one truth stands out: a nation that disrespects its teachers risks sabotaging its own future.

The Edo government now has a chance to not just investigate but to restore trust — by ensuring that schools are maintained by trained staff while teachers focus solely on their sacred duty: educating the next generation.

Continue Reading

Latest

Jonathan Fires Back At Keyamo, Odinkalu Over 2027 Eligibility Debate: “Your Unsolicited Advice Not Needed”

Published

on

Jonathan Fires Back At Keyamo, Odinkalu Over 2027 Eligibility Debate: “Your Unsolicited Advice Not Needed”

Jonathan Fires Back At Keyamo

The road to Nigeria’s 2027 presidential election is already heating up — and one of the names stirring the pot is that of former President Goodluck Jonathan (GEJ). Though he hasn’t formally declared his interest, speculation about a possible comeback has sparked fierce debate among political heavyweights, constitutional lawyers, and party insiders……CONTINUE READING

This week, the controversy reached a boiling point after Jonathan, through his cousin and confidant, Azibaola Robert, responded sharply to critics who questioned his eligibility to contest.

The Trigger: Keyamo and Odinkalu’s Warning

Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo (SAN), and renowned human rights lawyer, Prof. Chidi Odinkalu, recently advised the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) against fielding Jonathan in 2027. Their argument was straightforward: Jonathan has already been sworn in twice — once as Acting President (after Yar’Adua’s death in 2010) and again when he won the 2011 election — and a third attempt could face constitutional roadblocks.

According to them, such a move would not survive legal scrutiny and could plunge PDP into unnecessary controversy.

Jonathan’s Camp Claps Back

But Robert, speaking on Jonathan’s behalf, wasn’t having it. In a strongly worded statement, he dismissed their concerns as “unsolicited advice” and insisted GEJ’s eligibility had already been settled in court.

“Please note: GEJ is 100% constitutionally and legally qualified to contest, if he chooses to. If he decides not to yield to the overwhelming calls to run, it will not be because he is unqualified,” Robert declared.

He went further, reminding both men that Jonathan has access to “more cerebral and experienced SANs” who provide sound legal guidance — making outside commentary unnecessary.

Why This Matters: The Eligibility Question

The debate over Jonathan’s eligibility isn’t new. In 2022, ahead of the last elections, similar arguments surfaced but were largely dismissed after courts ruled in his favor, affirming that his brief stint as Acting President did not count against him.

However, in politics, perception often matters as much as legality. The fact that senior figures like Keyamo and Odinkalu are still raising the issue suggests the PDP may face fresh internal and external battles if Jonathan throws his hat in the ring.

The Bigger Picture: PDP’s Zoning Dilemma

Jonathan’s rumored comeback also touches on a deeper political fault line — zoning. The PDP recently zoned its 2027 presidential ticket to the South. On the surface, this seems like good news for Jonathan. But within the South itself, there are tensions:

  • The South-East feels it is their turn after decades of marginalization.

  • The South-South (Jonathan’s region) already produced a president in him.

  • The South-West currently holds the presidency through Bola Tinubu (APC).

A Jonathan candidacy could either energize PDP with his experience and name recognition — or fracture the South’s collective bargaining power.

Jonathan’s Silence: A Calculated Strategy?

Interestingly, Jonathan himself has remained silent on the matter. Robert stressed that his comments should “not be seen as confirmation that GEJ is running.” This silence may be strategic. By not declaring yet, Jonathan keeps speculation alive, maintains his relevance in political discourse, and allows his camp to gauge public opinion.

Conclusion: A Battle Beyond 2027

Whether or not Jonathan runs, this episode reveals a larger truth: Nigeria’s 2027 elections will not just be about candidates, but about constitutional interpretation, party unity, and regional politics. The PDP in particular faces a delicate balancing act as it tries to rebuild after its 2023 defeat.

For now, one thing is clear: Goodluck Jonathan remains a political force whose name alone can stir heated debate — even without a formal declaration. And that, perhaps, is the clearest sign that the countdown to 2027 has truly begun.

Continue Reading

Trending