Featured

ENUGU 2023: BETWEEN ZONING POLITICS AND ETHNIC REVISIONISM By Prof. Oguejiofo T.Ujam: A Rejoinder

Published

4 years ago

October 6, 2020

By Ifeanyi Ogenyi, Esq.

Some years back, I read a story of a man called Edward Mordrake, “The Man with two faces”, from an article. The article presented Mordrake as a young, intelligent, and good looking English nobleman. But apart from Murdrake’s normally handsome face, he possessed another terrifying face on the back of his head. The storylines had it that whenever Mordrake cried, the second face would “smile” and “sneer”.

It is quite alarming that a good number of Pen-Pushers are intellectually bankrupt. But I never knew that the intellectual and character bankruptcy have got to a catastrophic level until I read “Prof” Ujam ‘s article titled “Enugu 2023: Between Zoning Politics and Ethnic Revisionism” published on the 4/10/2020 in Sun news online and what came to my mind was the picture of a double-faced man- Mr. Murdrake. Mr.Ujam’s style gives no credit to the Intellectual community and even his sponsors.

Reading through the length and breadth of the article, the writer was just hobbling and nobbling without driving home any valid point nor making any sensible conclusion.

It was a jaundiced analysis, so disjointed such that I considered the writer as a double-tongued man who has a slanted sense of justice and equity. It became clear from the article that some persons are endowed with extra mouth and tongue to talk to those who could not hear them from the front. It is this anomaly against humanity for one person to have two mouths and tongues that have compelled me to respond to Mr. Ujam’s skewed analysis and his slanted sense of justice, particularly his illusive remarks about Isi-Uzo People.

Speaking from both sides of the mouth simply means making two contradictory statements at the same time or one after the other. A person who does such is dishonest and should not be taken seriously. Mr. Ujam’s article was clearly designed to confuse and manipulate the gullible public; and also to insult the sensibility of Isi-Uzo people and Enugu people in general. A mission that was dead on arrival.

According to Ujam, there is recent attempts by some overzealous politician within PDP to redefine the zoning or power rotation arrangement in the State. Whereas, the said Ujam was the one who clearly stated that “It is settled that by 2023, the incumbent, His Excellency Rt.Hon.Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi from Enugu North or Nuskka cultural zone would be rounding off his second tenure in office as governor. And going by the zoning and power rotation which has been observed religiously in the state since 1999, 2023 would be another opportunity for Enugu East or Nkanu cultural to produce the next governor”.

With the above-highlighted assertions by the acclaimed Professor, the question is: who is attempting to redefine the zoning or power rotation arrangement in the state? Is there anything like Nsukka cultural zone or Nkanu cultural zone in the zoning arrangement in Enugu since 1999 which he postulates? How could Mr.Ujam insinuate and still complain that some elements, particularly in PDP are talking about rotation based on clans and cultural groupings when he is the Chief protagonist of Nsukka and Nkanu cultural zone; and Isi-Uzo people of Nsukka cultural zone and Nkanu zone. Is Ujam not the one being clannish and suffering from ethnic/cultural chauvinism? A man who considered only Nkanu East within his so-called” core Nkanu area” and other bother towns as the only people who are entitled to occupy the governorship seat. It is indeed very unfortunate that a person who supposed to know knows not.

In another breath, Mr. Ujam stated that Governor Ugwuanyi’s allies and stakeholders in Enugu East have continued to appreciate the governor for insisting on fairness and equity by ensuring that former governor Chimaroke Nnamani got the second berth in the senate after being rigged out in 2015.

But he somersaulted and cynically insinuated that any attempt to micro-zone to Isi-Uzo within Enugu East Senatorial District the governorship seat which of course is a figment of his own imagination (though right if done that way) as an invitation to the climate of confusion and mutual suspicion that zoning in Enugu State is sought to obliterate. Which confusion is Mr. Ujam talking about? Mr. Ujam should be reminded that there is an extent to which he can exercise his right to freedom of expression. He should not take it as a license to insult and threaten the state.

For Mr.Ujam, the Governor and stakeholders of Enugu East senatorial District’s insistence that Sen.Dr. Chimaroke Nnamani should have a second bite at the cherry in the senate was in the best interest of justice, equity, and fairness but micro-zoning of the governorship seat to Isi-Uzo in Enugu East Senatorial District by 2023 to produce the next governor is an invitation to anarchy. What an infertile proposition? Speaking from both sides of the mouth is a character flaw and those that do that lack the virtue of rationality as it is morally and also legally untenable for a man to approbate and reprobate.

Mr.Ujam’s position clearly portrayed him as a man devoid of any sense of justice. If zoning was put in place to ensure justice, equity, and fairness as admitted by Mr. Ujam, how could micro-zoning the governorship seat coming to Enugu East Senatorial District to Isi-Uzo, the most unfairly treated local government council in the zone since 1999 till date in power-sharing be seen by any person with an iota of sense of justice as a bad idea?

It is not in dispute as it is true that all the five local government council in Enugu East Senatorial District namely: Nkanu East, Nkanu West, Enugu East, Enugu South, and Enugu North L.G.As have occupied one or more positions meant for the zone and represented the zone in various elective positions and capacities at one time or the other. Enugu South L.G.A represented the zone in the Senate between 1999-2007, and the past, someone from the L.G.A served as a governor.

Nkanu East on its part has served as deputy governor from 2007-2015 and at the same time, Prof. Barth Nnaji served as a federal minister under President Jonathan. Enugu North which comprises some parts of Ngwo has produced a federal Minister in the person of Chief Dubem Onyia and also produce a governor in the past. Enugu East L.G.A has equally represented the zone in the seat for 8 solid years and produced VC of ESUT, While, Nkanu West produced governor in 1999-2007, Senator in 2015 and currently the serving Senator. Isi-Uzo people have not occupied any of such positions mentioned above.

The question begging for an answer: Is Isi-Uzo not part of the Enugu East Senatorial District? How did Mr.Ujam arrive at his Isi-Uzo people of Nsukka cultural zone and Nkanu zone? Isi –Uzo is an integral part of the Enugu East Senatorial District and it should be given a fair share in the power-sharing in the zone. They should not be schemed out of the power equation as suggested by Mr.Ujam

Justice is not blind. Equity delights to do justice and not by halves. Is Isi-Uzo not part of the Enugu East Senatorial District?

I was deeply worried by the illusive remarks made about Isi-Uzo by Mr.Ujam, on the surface, it looks harmless but the underpinning aim was to schmooze the gullible public with moral cliché to deny Isi-Uzo what patience, goodwill, and longtime support for others are about to earn them. But falsehood cannot conquer the truth. No matter how lies are deodorized and garnished, the truth will eventually triumph.

There is no doubt that it will be in the overall best interest of justice, equity, and fairness to allow Isi-Uzo to produce the next governor of the state come 2023 when it will be the turn of Enugu East Senatorial zone. So even the governorship seat is micro-zoned to Isi-Uzo as insinuated by Mr.Ujam, it is in order.

So, Mr. Ujam and his sponsors should stop distracting Enugu people because they know where the road leads to by 2023 and that is Isi-Uzo by God’s grace

Share on Facebook

Featured

2 years After :The Impacts of Ibrahim Gusau’s Administration on the Nigerian Football

Published

1 day ago

September 28, 2024

The Gleamer

By Abimbola Olawale

Ibrahim Musa Gusau’s administration of the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) marks a significant chapter in Nigerian football history. Upon his election as NFF president on 30 September 2022, Gusau inherited a federation rife with controversies, financial challenges, and underperformance in international competitions.

His leadership brought with it fresh perspectives, strategic thinking, and a people-oriented approach to governance. Over time, the positive impacts of his administration began to manifest, transforming various aspects of Nigerian football and the administrative structure of the NFF.

His two years in office is fostering development at the grassroots level to improving transparency, accountability, and the performance of Nigerian football teams on the global stage.

One of the cornerstones of Ibrahim Gusau’s administration has been the prioritization of grassroots football development. He recognized that the future of Nigerian football depends on a robust foundation, which can only be achieved by nurturing young talents from an early age. Gusau’s administration made deliberate efforts to revive and promote youth football across the country, ensuring that promising players receive the right training and exposure. For the first time ever, Nigeria participated in the CAF secondary school football tournament for both boys and girls, they also collaborated with the Universal Secondary Education Board in order to discover these youths in the schools.

Through partnerships with state football associations, Gusau’s administration gave an enabling environment for the thriving of several youth leagues and academy programs at the local level. This initiative has enabled thousands of young footballers to showcase their talents, with a structured pathway for advancement into the professional ranks. The promotion of school football competitions at both primary and secondary levels has also been instrumental in identifying and nurturing young players.

These grassroots efforts have begun to pay off, with several young talents emerging and being scouted by local and international clubs. Gusau’s administration facilitated better access to football scholarships and international trials for young Nigerian players, ensuring that the country’s football future remains bright.

Before Gusau’s tenure, the NFF had faced accusations of financial mismanagement and lack of transparency, which led to distrust among stakeholders and strained relationships with sponsors. Gusau made it a priority to restore public confidence by introducing transparent financial management practices and auditing processes. His administration established mechanisms to ensure that funds allocated to the NFF were properly utilized for their intended purposes, especially in football development and team support.

One of the key initiatives was the adoption of an open accounting system where financial transactions were made public, allowing stakeholders, including fans and media, to monitor how funds were being spent. This move not only boosted confidence among sponsors and partners but also reduced corruption and mismanagement within the federation. Furthermore, Gusau’s administration implemented cost-saving measures, ensuring that funds were redirected to critical areas, such as player welfare, and training facilities.

With improved financial accountability, the NFF under Gusau secured more corporate sponsorships, partnerships, and funding from international football bodies like FIFA and CAF. These resources have significantly contributed to the federation’s activities, providing much-needed support for the various national teams

Under Gusau’s leadership, women’s football in Nigeria has witnessed a significant resurgence. Recognizing the importance of gender equality in sports, Gusau has actively worked to elevate the status of women’s football, ensuring that female players receive the same attention, resources, and support as their male counterparts.

One of the standout achievements was the revitalization of the Nigeria Women’s Football League (NWFL). Gusau’s administration, in collaboration with stakeholders in women’s football, introduced reforms that improved the organization and professionalism of the league. These changes attracted effective media coverage of women’s football increased, giving female footballers more visibility and opportunities.

Gusau’s administration also ensured that the women’s national team, the Super Falcons, received adequate preparation for international competitions. In 2023, the Super Falcons delivered an outstanding performance at the FIFA Women’s World Cup, reaching the knockout stages and cementing Nigeria’s place as a powerhouse in African and global women’s football. The team’s success is a direct result of improved training facilities, better remuneration for players, and the hiring of experienced technical staff, all spearheaded by Gusau’s administration.

Another critical area where Ibrahim Gusau’s administration has made a significant impact is in player and coach welfare. For years, Nigerian footballers had struggled with issues such as unpaid wages, inadequate accommodation, and substandard travel arrangements. These challenges had a demotivating effect on players, often resulting in subpar performances in international competitions.

Gusau tackled these issues head-on by prioritizing the welfare of players and technical staff. His administration ensured that players’ allowances, bonuses, and salaries were paid on time, eliminating the frequent protests that had plagued previous NFF administrations. Gusau also worked with the Nigerian government and private sponsors to improve accommodation, travel arrangements, and medical care for national team players and coaching staff.

Moreover, Gusau’s administration took steps to incentivize players and coaches by introducing performance-based bonuses and awards. This move has motivated players to give their best in every game, resulting in improved performances from both the men’s and women’s national teams. Coaches have also benefited from these reforms, with many receiving specialized training courses and international exposure to stay updated with modern coaching techniques.

The improved infrastructure has not only enhanced the quality of football in Nigeria but also increased the country’s chances of hosting international tournaments. Under Gusau’s leadership, Nigeria has expressed interest in hosting major continental and global football events, which could further boost the nation’s football profile.

One of the most visible areas where Ibrahim Gusau’s administration has made a positive impact is the performance of Nigeria’s national teams in international competitions. When he took over as NFF president, Nigeria’s football teams had been struggling to perform at the highest levels, with disappointing results in tournaments such as the African Cup of Nations (AFCON) and World Cup qualifiers.

Gusau’s leadership brought a renewed sense of focus and discipline to the national teams. He appointed experienced coaches and technical staff, ensuring that the teams were well-prepared for competitions. Additionally, his administration worked to resolve internal conflicts within the teams, fostering unity and a winning mentality among the players.

As a result, Nigeria’s national teams have seen a resurgence in form. The Super Eagles, Nigeria’s men’s national team, have improved their performances in AFCON qualifiers and friendly matches, regaining their status as one of Africa’s top football teams. Similarly, the women’s national team, the Super Falcons, impressed at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, as mentioned earlier, reaching the knockout stages and earning praise for their determination and skill.

Gusau’s administration also focused on building strong relationships with international football governing bodies such as FIFA, CAF (Confederation of African Football), and other national football associations. These partnerships have been instrumental in securing funding, technical assistance, and capacity-building opportunities for the NFF and Nigerian football as a whole.

One of the significant achievements in this area was Nigeria’s increased participation in FIFA and CAF programs, including those aimed at developing football infrastructure, women’s football, and youth football. Gusau’s administration ensured that Nigeria remained active in these global and continental initiatives, which brought various benefits, including access to international grants and expertise.

Additionally, Gusau’s administration played a key role in advocating for Nigerian referees and officials to be recognized and included in international tournaments. This has helped raise the profile of Nigerian football officials, with more of them being appointed to officiate at CAF and FIFA qualifying matches. They efforts are been intensified to ensure that they are at the FIFA World Cup and AFCON.

Corporate sponsorship has long been a challenge for the NFF, with inconsistent support from private sector partners in previous administrations. Gusau’s administration tackled this issue by fostering a business-friendly environment and engaging potential sponsors through strategic partnerships.

Through effective media engagement and public relations campaigns, the NFF under Gusau succeeded in attracting major corporate sponsors for the national teams and the domestic leagues. These sponsorships provided much-needed financial support for player development, team preparation, and general football administration. The partnerships have also extended to broadcasting rights, with more Nigerian football matches being televised, increasing the visibility and commercial appeal of the sport.

Ibrahim Gusau’s administration has undoubtedly made a lasting positive impact on the Nigerian Football Federation and the nation’s football landscape as a whole. His focus on grassroots development, transparency, player

Share on Facebook