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Misunderstanding insecurity: Hold Sobowale Responsible
Misunderstanding insecurity: Hold Sobowale Responsible
By Dauda Iliya
Dr. Dele Sobowale has been every reader’s delight for decades now. His Sunday columns fill up our weekends.
Dr. Sobowale writes in his own style: persuasive, lucid and witty. He has carved his own niche with his style of reaching out and pulling along, his readers to whichever directions he desires, well-intentioned or otherwise.
Sometimes he can be reckless and controversial. For some, this is what draws them to his weekly offerings.
He freely dabbles into issues he doesn’t fully understand. This was the case in his last column. He ventured into an unknown terrain, and lost all control.
To everyone possessing passion for, and genuinely committed to, justice and fairness with regard to issues affecting our dear country, most especially the seemingly intractable insecurity incinerating majority of its sections, the column vividly portrayed Sobowale as having sight, but lacking vision.
He has sight to see the things that inspire him to write, but completely lacks the vision to see beyond what have often turned to be his faulty sights about those things, and fathom them well enough to guarantee credibility for his writings, for the sustenance of the tradition of justice and fairness on issues affecting humanity.
It is a pity. Dr. Sobowale started mixing up things from his first sentence. He said Borno—perhaps he meant Nigeria—was under the PDP between 2011 and 2015.
This glaringly portrayed him as laughably very hasty to castigate Governor Babagana Zulum incontrovertibly unjustly on the resurgence of insecurity.
We wish to proudly report to Sobowale that not only the majority of the Nigerian public, but even the entire globe, represented by the United Nations, have hailed the governor over the non-kinetic-approach projects and programmes to solve the massive humanitarian crisis concomitant to the Boko Haram/ISWAP terror.
Sobowale the columnist continued on his free-fall until he was lost in the debris. He tried to turn the whole Boko Haram crisis on its head. It is weird. He was looking for who to blame. In his obviously now failing judgment, he visited it on Gov. Zulum. It is time for some education.
It is inconceivable how Sobowale failed to get the details of the ongoing reintegration program. First of all, it is not a program of the state government. It was initiated by the Federal Government. The state government is only a partner because most of the rehabilitation centers are located in the state.
In fact, until recently, the program was run in Gombe State. As such, Gov. Zulum has never claimed to have singlehandedly run the program, let alone order the reintegration of surrendered fighters. We do not seriously know where he got his facts, but the official position which the governor has mentioned several times is the receipt of over 300, 000 surrendered members of the group. It is often mistaken. Of this number, a lot were captives or conscripts who fled and turned themselves over to authorities when they saw an opportunity.
Without any labor, Sobowale should have known that no governor in Nigeria can unilaterally receive terrorists, run a de-radicalization program and reintegrate them. That act is itself terrorism. In this case, these surrendered fighters surrender to the Nigerian military under the Operation Safe Corridor.
OSC was launched in 2016 by the federal government. It was also one of the recommendations of the 2013 Boko Haram dialogue committee set up by President Jonathan. It was a platform for repented terrorists or those who wanted to give up arms to turn themselves over.
They go through preliminary investigations in military facilities before they are finally handed over to the state government, on behalf of the FG. Again, they go through another round of profiling before their exact de-radicalization and rehabilitation programs are prescribed.
A lot of these people were only associated to the terrorist groups. As such, they require different rehabilitation programs and approaches. There is a case of forcefully recruited young men and women; who, even when armed and deployed to fight, did it more under duress than ideology. Others were recruited as cooks, errand boys and menial laborers. They also share neither ideology nor creed.
Some of them were seized from their communities and herded into forced marriages. From these forced marriages, a lot have given birth. These boys and girls are now aged between five and fourteen—growing up to join the ranks of their fathers, if not rescued. These unsuspecting children need to be rescued—for their good and the country. They are victims.
The profiling process separates between combatant and noncombatant. Most of the latter do not require de-radicalization, they are only traumatized.
They need psychological therapy and support. Somewhere in his piece, Sobowale alluded that the governor carried out the reintegration unilaterally; and even worse, without any knowledge or research on security. Unfortunately, he failed his own test. Apart from mixing up basic facts, he also failed to carry out any research or inquiry about the subject he wrote about.
For, if he had done that, he would have come across the Borno Model, the elaborate manual used for the de-radicalization, rehabilitation and reintegration program.
Let’s serve Sobowale a little of the education he has failed to acquire justly and fairly to sustain whatever he sees as as his reputation among his blinded readers: The Borno Model template, developed by experts from various sectors, government institutions, communities, CSOs and development partners, is a product of months of rigorous research and exhaustive case studies of several instances worldwide.
It is disturbing that Sobowale is still, despite decades of exposure, at a point where he thinks a government is simply a one man’s enterprise.
To assume that, as a professor of Engineering, Gov. Zulum is not qualified to take policy decisions on security is truly shallow. This being the logic, why should he be allowed to make one on health, as he is not a medical doctor?
Beyond being an alumnus of the country’s leading institute of policy and strategic studies—the National Institute of Policy and Strategic Studies, NIPSS—Gov. Zulum, as every other governor, has in his services seasoned civil servants, aides and consultants. He has the state executive council.
In fact, even in dictatorships, leaders always have a body of advisors who advise them. Let me also remind Mr. Sobowale that the federal government has also outlined the surrender of Boko Haram insurgents as gains recorded under President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
The National Security Adviser, Malam Nuhu Ribado at the recently held APC summit in Abuja said “In the North East, 13,543 terrorists were neutralised, 124,408 Boko Haram/ISWAP fighters surrendered, and 11,118 weapons were recovered”.
This is a most-authoritative testament to the excellent stewardships of Zulum and his other governors of the subregion on the concrete accomplishments, not abstract statistics, with regard to the management of the terror- orchestrated humanitarian crisis that has rubbled the North-East economy.
It is, therefore, devastating that Mr. Dele Sobowale would, on the basis of inaccurate premises, visit such heavy allegations—of being responsible for the resurgence of terrorist attacks—on the governor.
One has to visit and sufficiently traverse an entity before one can credibly understand it’s complexities. However, Sobowale simply thinks he can understand the complexities of Boko Haram from the pages of newspapers or search engine results.
People who truly understand it are raining encomiums on the governor and marveling at how he is midwifing massive infrastructural projects, rebuilding of damaged communities, resettling of displaced persons and refugees, with provision of basic amenities to his people, including those in remote settlements.
He must have seen the hero’s welcome Prof. Zulum received from his people upon return from a one-week tour of several remote villages. It was a bravery that ends every bravery.
Sobowale’s utter ignorance of the true nature of things extends beyond Boko Haram. He doesn’t have even an elementary understanding of the demography he was talking about. For him, it was ludicrous that the governor called for prayers and a one day fasting.
He said, given the level of hunger in the country, the call was an attempt to cause massive deaths in the state. In this case, it is a wonder that Dr. Sobowale hasn’t yet launched a campaign or protest against the 30-day Ramadan fasting and 40 days of lent every year.
Across faith, people heeded the governor’s call. Some of these demographic nuances are obviously beyond the understanding of Dr. Sobowale. And it is a pity that this undermines his judgment of basic things.
So, last Sunday’s Vanguard column should have analysed ‘holding Sobowale responsible’ for worsening the misunderstanding of his readers on the true state of insecurity in Borno, which tantamount to misleading them on the complexities of their dear country, instead of ‘holding Zulum responsible’ for the resurgence of insecurity in Borno, which is in complete contrast to his exemplary accomplishments in the management of the terror crisis, accomplishments hailed by the entire globe, represented by the United Nations.
Dauda Iliya is the Special Adviser to Borno State Governor on Media/Spokesperson
Zulum to NEDC: We want projects with lasting benefits
By: Our Reporter
Borno State Governor Babagana Umara Zulum has called on the North East Development Commission (NEDC) to prioritise embarking on tangible projects that can provide lasting benefits and boost infrastructural development across the six states in the northeast region.
The Governor was speaking on Tuesday at the Government House when he received the expanded management and board of the NEDC led by the State Minister of Regional Development, Uba Maigari Ahmodu.
Governor Zulum listed security, Dry Inland Ports, African Intercontinental Free Trade Zone, independent electricity supply, and road networks as some of the key priorities for the northeast.
Zulum noted, “I think the time has come for us to prioritise our projects. We have gone into more than 50% of the lifespan of the NEDC. I am not saying that NEDC will collapse. What I mean by lifespan is the funding window allocated to the commission according to the act that established it.”
“So, let’s come up with what we can do to get maximum benefit from establishing the commission.”
“Other commissions have come on board; we cannot afford to perform below them. This time around, we must have a yardstick. Otherwise, not only the minister, the chairman of the House committee, or the MD, but all of you are from the northeast; a time will come when we will call you out that there is nothing tangible to show within your tenure.”
Zulum, however, assured the minister and the NEDC management of the governors’ commitment within the Northeast to support the commission in achieving its mandate.
The Governor also commended the North East Development Commission for supporting the state with humanitarian aid, school projects, and other programmes that positively affect the lives of the people of Borno.
Speaking earlier, the State Minister of Regional Development, Uba Maigari Ahmodu, stressed the need for close collaboration with the North East Governors Forum to achieve the broader North East Stabilisation and Development Plan (NESDP).
The minister noted that the Ministry of Regional Development will ensure adequate supervision of NEDC to achieve the need to rebuild and stabilise the northeast region after years of insurgency and economic disruption.
The delegation comprises the chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on NEDC, Hon. Usman Zannah, other committee members; the Chairman of the NEDC board, Major General Paul C. Tarfa (Rtd); the MD/CEO of the commission, Mohammed Goni Alkali, and other senior management officials.
Zulum to NEDC: We want projects with lasting benefits
Democracy @26, Nigeria Still Lack Important Ingredient to Thrive- WIPF
By: Michael Mike
As Nigeria celebrates 26 years since returning to democracy, Women in Politics Forum (WIPF) has insisted that the important ingredient needed for the nation’s democracy to thrive was missing.
Speaking at an interaction with the media in Abuja on Tuesday, WIPF Chairperson, Barr. Ebere Ifendu said the Special Seat Bill, a groundbreaking proposal “is not merely an adjustment within our legislative framework; rather, it embodies a historic opportunity to bridge the significant gender gap in our governance system and amplify the voices of women in critical decision-making roles.”
She added that: “Today, we stand at a milestone in our shared commitment to achieving gender equality and revitalizing our democracy—a journey propelled by an unwavering belief that the full participation of women in governance is an essential pillar of a thriving democracy.”
Ifendu said: “The statistics we face are not just numbers; they are a sobering reflection of the entrenched inequities that persist within our political landscape. Currently, women occupy only 19 of the total 469 seats in the National Assembly—4 in the Senate and 15 in the House of Representatives—resulting in a mere 4.05% of legislative representation in Nigeria. This stark reality places our nation significantly below the global average of 26.5%, illustrating a critical disparity that demands urgent redress.”
She lamented that: “Moreover, Nigeria ranks a disheartening 178 out of 182 countries in the Inter-Parliamentary Union’s (IPU) global standings for women in national parliaments. This ranking clearly highlights the systemic barriers that have long stifled the voices of women in governance. This alarming reality serves as a clarion call for immediate and collective action, urging us to unite in the pursuit of meaningful change.”
She explained that: “The Special Seat Bill, currently under consideration in the National Assembly, emerges as a bold and necessary response to rectify this historical inequity by reserving dedicated seats explicitly for women within our legislative chambers.
“This visionary legislation is spearheaded by Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, alongside a dedicated coalition of lawmakers who are resolute in their mission to advance gender equality in Nigeria. The Special Seat Bill seeks to create an additional 74 federal legislative seats and 108 state assembly seats specifically for women. This is not merely a numerical increase; it is a transformative step toward achieving equitable representation that aligns with the principles of democracy. Importantly, this bill includes a sunset clause that mandates a comprehensive review every 16 years, reinforcing our commitment to ensure its impact remains relevant, effective, and responsive to the dynamic needs of our ever-evolving society.”
Ifendu noted that: “The journey of the Special Seat Bill is rich with historical significance and advocacy. Initially introduced in the 9th National Assembly by the formidable Hon. Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, in collaboration with a coalition of 85 lawmakers, including the distinguished former Speaker, Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, the bill exemplifies a collective ambition for true gender equality. Although it faced formidable obstacles and ultimately fell short in its most recent vote in March 2022, the bill stands as a testament to the relentless push for women’s rights and representation within our political framework.
“In response to concerns regarding the fiscal implications of increasing the number of legislative seats, the revised proposal has been meticulously crafted to show that enhancing representation is not a financial burden. The anticipated cost of implementing this bill would be less than 1% of our annual national budget, a figure that illustrates a responsible approach to governance that champions equity without compromising our fiscal integrity.”
She assured that: “Should this transformative bill pass, it would not merely amend our Constitution; it would signify a profound shift in our legislative landscape, ensuring that the voices of women are both recognized and integrated into the core of power structures. This initiative not only aims to elevate women but also seeks to uplift other historically marginalized groups, striving for a legislative environment that genuinely reflects the rich diversity and complexity of our nation.”
She decried that: “The current statistics paint a dismal picture: a mere 3 women serve in the Senate, 14 in the House of Representatives, and only 48 in State Houses of Assembly—a haunting reminder of the systemic barriers that impede women’s access to political influence. Nigeria’s alarmingly low ranking of 179 out of 183 countries regarding women’s representation accentuates the imperative for decisive, impactful action to ensure that women’s voices are woven into the legislative fabric where they rightfully belong.”
Democracy @26, Nigeria Still Lack Important Ingredient to Thrive- WIPF
Children’s Day: Foundation Brings Joy, Healthcare to Orphans in Abuja
By: Michael Mike
In a heartwarming celebration of this year’s Children’s Day, Hope Everyday Foundation (H.E.F.), a medical non-governmental organization based in Kuje, Abuja, organized a free medical outreach, health awareness campaign, and welfare donation exercise at a local orphanage and school, Al Ansar Children’s Home.
Continuing its tradition of reaching out to vulnerable children, H.E.F. selected Al Ansar Children’s Home — located in the Hajiya Zara neighborhood of Kuje Area Council — as its outreach destination for 2025.
The event brought together a team of 34 volunteers, including medical doctors, nurses, pharmacists, microbiologists, and administrative staff, all committed to making positive impact.
Executive Director HEF, Dr. Nkechi Akinwale, while presenting the relief materials, emphasized the organisation’s mission to spread love and hope.
Akinwale said, “Each of you is special to God Almighty. We are here to let you feel that love and care.”
The Foundation donated essential welfare and relief materials, including rice, beans, noodles, milk, eggs, cereals, diapers, toilet paper, detergent, fully stocked first aid box — the first of its kind received by the orphanage
The Children’s Day outreach also featured engaging health education sessions delivered through drama, songs, quizzes, and interactive games. Children were thrilled to receive party packs containing exercise books, pencils, erasers, sharpeners, snacks, and drinks.
Delivering his vote of thanks, Coordinator of Al Ansar Children’s Home, Ustaz Yunus expressed deep gratitude to the Organisation for the gift items.
Yunus said, “We have never received a fully stocked first aid box before, this is historic for us.”
He prayed for divine blessings upon HEF staff and volunteers. Matron and Assistant Head, Rukkayat Muhammad, added emotionally, “H.E.F really shocked me today.”
The event concluded with a free medical check-up for all orphanage staff, including, vital signs assessment (blood pressure, temperature, laboratory tests for malaria, typhoid, and blood sugar, on-site doctors consultation and free medications
Children’s Day: Foundation Brings Joy, Healthcare to Orphans in Abuja
Zulum to NEDC: We want projects with lasting benefits
Katsina State Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning Hosts Strategic Engagement Meeting with Thlama Peace Foundation
Democracy @26, Nigeria Still Lack Important Ingredient to Thrive- WIPF
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