Television Nigerian

Otunba Yomi Akingbade is a leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and a Nigerian living abroad. He discusses state policing, Nigerian democracy, and the benefits of political participation for honest people in this interview. The entrepreneur also discusses the significance of accountability in governance and institutional reforms, among other topics. Joy Anigogu provides the following excerpts:

What would you say about President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s current administration?

The administration of President Bola Tinubu has undertaken an assertive “shock therapy” economic reset, exchanging short-term pain for macroeconomic stability, the development of infrastructure, and the extension of social programs. Some human rights organizations and investors have praised these actions. However, the societal cost is still considerable, particularly for inflation, insecurity, and limited civic space. The success of this ambitious reform plan will depend on whether noticeable improvements can reach those who will be most impacted as Nigeria enters the last two years of his mandate.

You entered politics when?

Every year, I conduct medical outreach in a few different places around the nation, particularly in Ondo State. I had to start at the grassroots level a few years ago because this move seemed political to many. I have therefore always been interested in politics.

Tell us about your goals and political journey.

My goal is to make the less fortunate people in society smile, and this is the main reason I entered politics: to be able to repeat what I have done on a modest scale for a wider audience that primarily needs the necessities of life.

Regarding Nigerian democracy, what can you say?

The democratic system in Nigeria is intricate and dynamic. Although it has achieved great progress since military rule ended in 1999, it continues to face enduring difficulties. Nigerian democracy is robust, but it is also vulnerable. Despite surviving more than 20 years of civilian governance, the system faces challenges with openness, accountability, and inclusivity. Although the foundation for a truly democratic society is in place, the true test will be in strengthening democratic principles—not simply conducting elections, but also guaranteeing everyone’s freedom, justice, and equal opportunity. Without localized, responsible, and intelligent policing, Nigeria’s security crisis cannot be resolved in a sustainable manner. Politically, constitutionally, and practically, the nation is prepared for state police. But decentralisation must be paired with oversight and reform to prevent misuse. Addressing the social and political causes of violence is also necessary for long-term security.

What do you think about the National Assembly’s attempt to change Nigeria’s constitution?

One of Nigeria’s most important governance possibilities in decades is the 2025 constitutional revision process. It has the ability to advance the country toward genuine federalism, election integrity, and more responsive local governance if it is implemented in an inclusive, deliberate, and transparent manner. But failure to manage state ratification hurdles, democratic protections, and uniform implementation risks turning the exercise into yet another unmet promise.

Would you say Nigeria is ripe for state police and how best do you think the government can fight the current insecurity in the nation?

Yes; Nigeria is poised for state police, and many experts, civil society groups, and even governors concur. Because of its scale, complexity, and lack of local intelligence and accountability, Nigeria’s centralized security architecture—particularly the Nigerian Police Force (NPF)—has found it difficult to successfully combat pervasive insecurity.

What role do you think diasporic Nigerians can play in the nation’s progress?

It’s by returning home and making significant investments. Once a business is established, the following step is to hire staff, which is the first step in helping the nation flourish. Joining politics will allow you to alter the narrative on a broader scale, and everything you have experienced while living overseas can be progressively duplicated in your own nation.

What do you think about the claim that politics is a dirty game?

Many people hold the view that “politics is a dirty game,” particularly in a nation like Nigeria where politics is frequently linked to violence, corruption, treachery, and manipulation. But a complicated situation is oversimplified by that term.

Lack of openness is the main reason why politics appears to be nasty. Politicians frequently work behind closed doors, negotiating agreements that benefit elite or personal interests over the general welfare. The second is the use of power and money. Instead of ideas or integrity, political campaigns in many countries, including Nigeria, mainly rely on funding, networks of patrons, and occasionally electoral violence or thuggery. Corruption and impunity rank third. Many political players avoid responsibility, misappropriate public funds, or change parties for personal benefit. The public’s cynicism is strengthened by this. The fourth is the manipulation of religion and ethnicity. To seize power, politicians frequently take advantage of identity divisions (tribe, religion, and area), which exacerbates conflict and erodes national cohesion. Politics isn’t always dirty, really. Theoretically, politics isn’t nasty. In actuality, it is a noble and essential instrument for allocating resources, structuring society, and peacefully resolving disputes.

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It is the people and systems, not the idea, that are “dirty.” Politics is an instrument for public service. Effective politics promotes social justice, economic growth, and better policies. There are good politicians; they’re simply frequently overshadowed by the bad ones. Democracy also requires participation. Only the corrupt will control politics if decent people shun it because it’s “dirty,” and the cycle will continue. Politics has created great leaders. Leaders such as the late Nelson Mandela, Barack Obama, or Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala show that politics, when driven by ethics, can alter lives for the better. Personally, I think what should change is to clean up politics, especially in areas like Nigeria.

How can we accomplish that?

Let’s enhance institutions like the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the courts. Let’s use voting, the media, and civil society to demand accountability. Let’s educate and enable young people to take part in public life. Let’s promote issue-based politics over identity or money politics, uphold campaign finance regulations, and promote party transparency. The claim that “politics is a dirty game” is partially accurate, but it also serves as a justification for excluding decent individuals from positions of authority. We must stop letting the corrupt control politics and instead try to change the system from the inside out if we want to have honest, efficient government. “Being governed by those worse than themselves is the penalty that good people pay for not being involved in politics,” goes a proverb.

How can the government, in your opinion, best address the numerous issues affecting the Nigerian economy?

You are entirely correct; among the many issues the Nigerian economy is confronting in 2025 are high rates of inflation, underemployment and unemployment, food insecurity, a depreciating value of the naira, the load of public debt, an excessive reliance on oil, and many more. Nigeria needs to address its economic issue in a way that goes beyond temporary fixes. Building infrastructure, investing in people, diversifying the economy, and fostering an atmosphere that supports economic success are the ways to go forward. Instead of “managing poverty,” policy must focus on generating wealth.

Since 1999, do you think the current democracy has been favorable? How can we make it better, in your opinion?

Since 1999, Nigeria’s democracy has maintained political stability and granted certain civil liberties, but it has fallen well short of meeting the expectations of its citizens for justice, equity, and economic growth. Elections are only one aspect of democracy; other aspects include participation, openness, and efficient governance. In order for democracy to benefit everyone, not just the wealthy, Nigeria must now prioritize accountability, civic empowerment, and institutional reform.

What do you think of the suggestion that we return to the parliamentary form of government?

A parliamentary system might be an option for Nigeria. It might lower expenses, boost accountability, and enhance executive and parliamentary collaboration. However, any system—presidential or parliamentary—will continue to yield subpar results if the fundamental issues of corruption, shoddy institutions, and a bad political culture are not addressed.

Bello Turji, the terrorist leader, has reportedly turned himself in to the military, although the Defense Headquarters has denied this.
According to reports, Turji, a wanted bandit commander who primarily operates in the states of Zamfara and Sokoto, has been charged with planning many attacks on NW villages.
According to recent reports, Turji released 32 kidnapped people and turned over his weapons as part of a peace attempt mediated by Islamic clerics in Zamfara State.
Nonetheless, Maj. Gen. Markus Kangye, Director of Defense Media Operations, said that Turji is still being sought during a press conference on Armed Forces operations on Thursday in Abuja.

“Simple response to the question regarding terrorist leader Bello Turji: we are still searching for him and Turji has not turned himself in,” he stated.

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Dauda Lawal, the governor of Zamfara State, has promised that individuals responsible for the state’s violence will face consequences.

In response to recent killings in the Kauran Namoda Local Government Area—which was recently struck by a wave of bandit attacks—he made this statement.

The governor swore that divine intervention will uncover and shame those responsible for the terrible killings.

Five communities that were severely impacted were visited on Wednesday: Banga, Sakajiki, Kuryar Madaro, Maguru, and Tambarawa.

Bandit attacks have become more frequent in these locations, which has left many locals distraught and grieving the loss of loved ones.

Having been out of the state when the latest attack happened, Governor Lawal claimed that he gave the Deputy Governor the order to send a high-ranking delegation to show sympathy for the victims right away.

He returned to Gusau, the state capital, and went to the impacted towns to inspect the devastation and offer consolation to the bereaved relatives.

Kogi State’s executive governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, has been laser-focused since taking office in January 2024.

According to section 4(2)(b) of the 1999 constitution as amended, which states that “the primary purpose of government is the security and welfare of the people,” he has been dedicated to fulfilling the main duty of the state. The Nigerian Constitution expressly declares that “the security and welfare of the people shall be the primary purpose of government,” which should be understood by everyone assuming political responsibility.

This clause highlights that protecting the security and welfare of the populace is the primary duty of the government.

In an effort to provide effective leadership, the Ododo administration in Kogi State has impacted every industry. Because of how well-liked he is by the public, campaigning for his second term has begun three years in advance.

He used every tactic at his disposal to deal with the issues that his workers were facing. “One of the tests of leadership is the ability to recognize a problem before it becomes an emergency,” says Arnold H. Glasow.

The governor has made great progress in that area.

He placed a high premium on security because he thinks that once the state is safe, the economy will grow.

In order to combat instability, the state administration recently embraced supporting development as a strategic, non-kinetic method.

Under Ododo’s direction, the State is making significant investments in vital infrastructure and agricultural empowerment to foster an atmosphere that prevents insecurity, according to Hon. Kingsley Femi Fanwo, Kogi State Commissioner for Information and Communications, who made this announcement during a press briefing.

Fanwo stated, “We’re using agriculture as a weapon against insecurity, not just as a tool for food security.”

“We’re tackling poverty head-on and creating a safer, more productive society by enabling our young people and rural communities to farm and produce.”

The use of contemporary technology in the State’s security architecture was also emphasized by the Commissioner, who pointed out that early detection and quick response are already being impacted by surveillance systems, intelligence tools, and communication advancements.

Since assuming charge, the governor, who would rather be known as Kogi State’s chief servant, has been true to his Consolidation and Continuity Manifesto. Actually, he has been getting better at it all the time.

He hasn’t backed down from his pledge to guarantee that Kogi State’s citizens are fed. Keep in mind that Ododo emphasized the importance of Kogi becoming self-sufficient in food production both throughout his campaigns and in his inaugural address.

In light of this, the Kogi State administration recently reaffirmed its commitment to revolutionizing the state’s agricultural industry and raising farmers’ standard of living by signing the Food for Lagos collaboration, which it promised would benefit Kogi farmers.

Kingsley Femi Fanwo, the State Commissioner for Information and Communications, provided media with a press statement outlining the strategic actions already taken to realize the initiative’s economic potential.

Fanwo said that Governor Ododo has started taking tangible steps to increase food production, upgrade infrastructure, and draw high-value investments into the state’s agricultural sector less than two weeks after signing the historic deal with Lagos State.

The Commissioner also highlighted significant government-supported initiatives like ACReSAL (Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes), which is directing investments into rural farming communities, and RAAMP (Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project), which is assisting in the rehabilitation of rural roads to improve access to markets.

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Ododo’s emphasis on the health sector is particularly encouraging, and the administration’s numerous achievements demonstrate that the program is a landmark.

A group for the State Task Force on Primary Health Care Services was recently established by the governor.

The Deputy Governor of Kogi State, Comrade Joel Salifu, urged the Committee’s members to collaborate in order to create a more robust and healthy Kogi State during the Committee’s inauguration in Lokoja.

Comrade Joel claims that the Committee’s formation is a daring step motivated by the current administration’s dedication to the welfare of the populace.

“We acknowledge that healthcare is an essential part of our state’s development and not just a social service.”

“We can improve health outcomes, lower mortality rates, and raise our people’s standard of living by fortifying our primary healthcare system.”

According to fresh 2023 statistics from StatiSense and EFInA, Kogi State recently became the best-performing state in Nigeria for adult insurance coverage, with 11% of its citizens enrolled. The state’s dedication to extending high-quality, reasonably priced healthcare is demonstrated by the fact that Kogi is ranked higher than Lagos (9%), Oyo (7%), and the Federal Capital Territory (6%).

The Kogi State Government’s N98.8 billion debt was paid off within 15 months of Ododo taking office, which was another significant accomplishment.

During a State Executive Council meeting, Mukadam Asiwaju Asiru Idris, the Commissioner of Finance, Budget, and Economic Planning, provided a breakdown of the settled debts, including the fully paid and liquidated N5 billion Series 1 and N3 billion Series 2 bonds issued for infrastructure by the former Governor HE Idris Wada administration.

“The previous administration’s N50.8 billion salary bailout has been paid in full and liquidated. The ECA-backed infrastructure loan of N10 billion has been paid back and is now completely liquidated.

“The previous administration’s N15 billion infrastructure loan from Zenith Bank Plc has been completely repaid.

“The past administration’s N15 billion infrastructure debt from UBA PLC has been paid back and completely liquidated.

He claims that Kogi State’s long-term foreign-and local-currency issuer default ratings (IDRs) or credit ratings have been raised from “B-” to “B” by Fitch Ratings, which has a stable outlook. As of September 30, 2024, the state owes N40,530,792,606.34.

The governor attended the African Development Bank’s (AFDB) 2025 Annual Meeting in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, to look for strategic funding for solid minerals, transportation, and agriculture in an effort to make Kogi an investment destination.

The state government’s dedication to strengthening ties with international financial institutions in order to draw in vital development funding that will unlock the state’s enormous economic potential and enhance the quality of life for its citizens is demonstrated by his attendance at the esteemed forum, where he was reportedly invited as a Special Guest of the Continental Development Finance Institution.

The Governor is working with AFDB leadership to obtain specific funding from a variety of the Bank’s specialized financing windows, with an emphasis on three strategic sectors: solid minerals, transportation infrastructure, especially the construction of a proposed airport in Kogi State, and agriculture, according to a press release issued by Commissioner for Information and Communications Kingsley Femi Fanwo.

The governor gave food to more than 1,000 widows in the state while reaffirming his commitment to the welfare of the state’s vulnerable in keeping with his campaign pledges. He also promised that the state’s widows’ hardships would not be forgotten and that he would not politicize their affairs.

A number of noteworthy accomplishments under Ododo’s administration demonstrated his ability to lead with vision.

According to Mr. Jude Ekem, a political expert who talked to our reporter, Kogi State is a perfect example of a place where government triumphs over politics.

“The governor’s performance is excellent. I have to commend him for putting the state’s government servants’ welfare first. He immediately disburses pensioners’ emoluments. Any successful government must take the welfare of its employees seriously.

Alhaji Mustapha Ahmed, a Kogi native living in Lagos State, told our reporter that every Kogi native should be proud of the governor due to the remarkable degree of progress occurring in Kogi.

As an Igala man, he insisted that Ododo’s administration has demonstrated that talent, not background, is what counts in governance. He emphasized that Ododo won’t need to run for office in 2027 since all Kogi indigenous people will support his reelection, allowing him to do the excellent work he is already doing.

We used to claim that it was the turn of this or that ethnic group, but Ododo has shown us that ability, not the governor’s background, is what counts. I’m Igala, but I have to say that if my brother runs against Ododo in 2027, I won’t back him since the governor is doing well and we should give him a chance to continue his good work. Take a look at our youth. Because of the governor’s involvement, they now have the chance to work independently. Civil servants are content. The elderly are content. Everyone is content.

Mustapha Sule Lamido, the governorship candidate for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Jigawa State’s general election of 2023, has stated that the by-election for the Garki/Babura Federal Constituency on Saturday will be the pivotal event that ends the APC’s rule in Jigawa State.

Lamido made these remarks to the party’s followers on Wednesday during a large-scale campaign rally in Babura, where the party’s flag was presented to its candidate for the next by-election.

For peace and harmony, he added, Nigerians are prepared to vote the party out because they have had enough of the suffering they have been through for more than a decade since 2015.

He said, “The amount of hardships that Nigerians are experiencing is tremendous, and the APC has been in power for ten years.” Starting with this Garki/Babura Federal Constituency by-election, we must remove this regime.

Because of the suffering that the ruling party caused Nigerians, they are being jeered and ridiculed. The nation is regressing due to the state and national APC.

“Based on the massive gathering I am witnessing today, I am certain that the days of APC are coming to an end.”

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The constituents were urged to turn out in large numbers, cast their ballots, stay safe, and make sure their votes were counted.

The PDP is dedicated and constantly prepared to meet the needs, desires, and ambitions of the average person, he said.

In addition, PDP candidate Auwalu Isah Manzo pledged to address the majority of the issues that the constituents have been dealing with for years due to the APC’s deceit in the Green Chamber.

He expressed gratitude to the party’s leadership and supporters for the chance and promised to do everything in his power to help the party win.

With the opening of the NASENI-Portland CNG Conversion, Training Center and Refill Station in Kubwa, Abuja, the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) has received praise from Speaker of the House of Representatives Hon. Tajudeen Abbas for advancing more affordable and environmentally friendly energy options.

During the NASENI-Portland CNG Hub’s commissioning, the Speaker, represented by Hon. Alex Mascot Ikwechegh, stated that energy transitions are never simply about technology; they are about our people’s quality of life. He also noted that the project was impactful and timely. The leadership of NASENI deserves praise for improving the quality of life for Nigerians.

Hon. Abbas underlined that while the energy transition process requires time, it is crucial and encouraged Nigerians to embrace it. He emphasized Nigeria’s ability to lead Africa in the adoption of CNG, citing examples from nations like Argentina, Pakistan, and Iran that have successfully converted millions of vehicles to the fuel.

“The NASENI–Portland partnership is a clear example of how the private sector plays a vital role in driving our nation’s economic growth and development,” said Chief of Staff to the President Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, who was represented by Special Adviser to the President on Energy Olu Verheijen, in delivering a goodwill message on behalf of the special guest of honor.

“Our government’s role is to act as a catalyst, unlocking private sector expertise and capital to deliver meaningful results for the Nigerian people,” she said. Mr. Halilu added that NASENI’s pace should be an example for other agencies throughout the nation.

In his welcome speech, Mr. Khalil Suleiman Halilu, Executive Vice Chairman/CEO of NASENI, stated that this facility, along with its CNG Conversion Center, Training Center, and CNG Gas Refill Station, is a part of our continued commitment to the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda for a diverse, sustainable, and industrially vibrant economy.

Our ambitious plan calls for the replication of these facilities in all 36 states as well as the Federal Capital Territory, enabling the conversion of all Nigerian vehicles to CNG within the next several years. Our dedication to bringing CNG technology closer to the public, dismantling monopolies to enhance service quality and affordability, and minimizing bottlenecks and lengthy lines for CNG consumers is embodied by our daughter station.

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“Last year, we commissioned our flagship CNG Conversion, Filling, and Training Centre in Utako, proving what is possible when innovation meets determination,” Halilu said, adding that the advantages are indisputable and include reduced fuel costs, cleaner air, improved engine performance, increased energy security, and long-term employment for our young people.

Our goal now is to broaden that vision. This daughter station would increase the accessibility, affordability, and convenience of CNG for regular Nigerians by having the ability to convert up to 20 vehicles each day.

30 Nigerian engineers from all geopolitical zones have received training from the Agency in CNG conversion, vehicle maintenance, and clean energy technologies over the past year, he said, forming a new generation of indigenous professionals who would spread this innovation throughout the nation.

As the honorary guest, Mr. Oluwemimo Joseph Osanipin, Director-General of the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC), commended NASENI for its efforts to guarantee cheap energy costs for transportation and urged other government organizations to assist NASENI similarly.

Representatives of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) EVC/CEO, the DG of the National Technology Incubation Center, the National Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO), the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPR), the DG Budget Office, and others congratulated NASENI and Portland on their partnership and pledged their support in separate goodwill messages.

In his vote of thanks, Hon. Olujimi Mohammed, Managing Director of Portland Gas Ltd., thanked the Federal Government for all of the assistance provided to his business. With CNG, Nigerians will save money on transportation and other necessities, he said, expressing special delight with NASENI’s efforts and commitment to the cooperation.