Editorial
Still On PIB
The House of Representatives has once again pushed to the front burner for passage, the controversial Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB), which has been on the floor of the National Assembly since December, 2008, when it was originally introduced. This piece of legislation has since then undergone several revisions and has been the subject of controversy and debate. Right now, the Bill has been split into four documents.
Interestingly, former President Goodluck Jonathan had on July 18, 2012, presented a new version of the Bill to the Seventh National Assembly for reconsideration and re-enactment. The National Assembly graciously did that but the Bill was not signed into law until that regime fizzled out in 2015.
Inadvertently, another component of the Bill, the Petroleum Industry Governance Bill (PIGB), was passed by the Senate in May, 2017, while the House of Representatives followed suit in January, 2018, as part of a package of legislative reform for the oil and gas sector. However, President Muhammadu Buhari withheld his assent, and the document has remained in the cooler since then.
There is no doubt that the Nigerian oil industry is the mainstay of the country’s economy. Keen observers, however, believe that the oil industry is opaque in its dealings, as it is widely seen as a source of corruption in government circles.
Incidentally, various stakeholders within government, oil companies and even civil society organisations equally agree that the oil and gas sector in Nigeria needs urgent reforms. This arises from the fact that the current structures are convoluted and impede effective regulation. This is mainly because of overlapping regulatory functions exercised by multiple agencies which in themselves breed dysfunction.
As it were, the long term consequence of this persisting scenario has been a significant deterioration in the environment of the Niger Delta region as a result of oil spills and gas flaring, which ultimately has impacted negatively on the health of the local people, the loss of agricultural land, and the pollution of its creeks and surrounding seas.
Essentially, these are lapses among others the PIB intends to address. It also aspires to promote transparency and accountability in the oil and gas sector. While transparency encourages competition, accountable institutions reassure investors, improve regulation and revenue collection, and these result in higher production and earnings.
Besides, the PIB would also enhance and increase access to information within the sector by opening more kinds of documents and data to public scrutiny, and by so doing, improve incentives for performance and check corruption and other sharp practices within the sector.
It is in cognizance of this fact that the House of Representatives recently set in motion modalities to pass the long-awaited PIB into law in September, by setting up a 30-member committee with five members drawn from each of the six geo-political zones of the country. The Minority Leader of the House, Rep Ndudi Elumelu, told newsmen that the House would go ahead with the process of amending and passing the Bill even without the input of the Executive.
“We don’t need the Executive to tutor us. We are going ahead with considering the Bill,” Elumelu enthused, while another lawmaker, Rep. Nicholas Ossai, advised the President to cooperate with the National Assembly on this piece of legislation, so as to attract more investments to the oil and gas industry. The House and the Senate are expected to resume full business in the second week of September.
The Tide is elated that the House of Representatives has taken a bold step to revisit this nagging issue, and promised to do the needful in ensuring that the Bill is passed into law. We are not unmindful that this is the fourth time the Bill is being introduced and re-introduced without having a smooth sail in the National Assembly.
In fact, the passage of this Bill is long overdue as it has been unnecessarily over-delayed, and we believe that the assurances given by the members of the House of Representatives this time around would be good enough to see this all-important Bill see the light of day once and for all.
The first step, we think, is for the lawmakers to try as much as possible to harmonise the PIB, which has been split into four documents. This will enable the National Assembly to do a more thorough work on the Bill with a view to addressing all grey areas that may stand against it from securing the President’s assent, after it must have been passed into law.
There is no gainsaying the fact that the Bill, when passed into law and assented to by the President, would go a long way to bolster the interest and welfare of those who suffer the negative impact of oil exploration in the country. This is particularly so because the Bill is not only for the interest of the Niger Delta alone but also for the entire country, as it would help bring the much-needed peace in the region and facilitate development across the country.
We also lend our voice to the call by the lawmakers and other stakeholders on the Executive to cooperate with the National Assembly in the current move to make the PIB a reality. In fact, this time around, we should never allow primordial sentiments and other considerations for that matter to becloud and override the collective interest and zeal of bringing more investments to the country.
Indeed, in this matter, it behoves the current Federal Government to treat with the same passion the way it has treated Bills like the North East Development Commission, among others. Again, all that is required for us to move forward is for all hands to be on deck to give the PIB the expected push in order to give the country’s ailing economy a boost.
Editorial
For An Effective Supreme Court
The recent inauguration of 11 additional Justices to the Supreme Court, Nigeria’s highest judicial institution, presents a robust event in the judiciary. This action comes in the wake of a period the court was grappling with high workload pressure because of statutory retirements and unfortunate demise, resulting in the highest court running below its required capacity. However, the induction of the new Justices has brought transformation. The replenishment of the Bench restores the court’s strength to its estimated complement of 21 Justices, in line with the stipulations of the country’s constitution.
During the administration of the Oath of Office to the Justices, the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, reiterated the essence of their role and the responsibility they carry. He emphasised the expectation for them to exhibit utmost integrity and fairness, akin to Caesar’s wife, in delivering justice impartially regardless of whose interests were at stake. According to him, they should see themselves as God’s representatives. Unfortunately, the 11 Justices were assuming their positions on the Supreme Court Bench during a period when the Nigerian judiciary, including the apex court, faces severe criticisms, resulting in widespread skepticism towards judges among the people.
Today, there is a lack of consensus regarding CJN Ariwoola’s assertion that Nigerian judges, across different levels, serve as representatives of God on earth and understand his expectations. While the CJN could have provided his guidance without invoking religious beliefs, he accurately pointed out the heightened scrutiny that the apex court will face, particularly from Nigerian politicians seeking to manipulate judicial outcomes. The legal community will also closely observe the newly appointed Justices, assessing how their promotion and the completion of the judicial panel at the apex court will impact the administration of justice and advance legal principles.
The main concern regarding the depletion of the apex court was the high number of cases on the docket, leading to over-congestion in the court and causing the Justices, who were already few in number, to be overworked. Justice Musa Dattijo Muhammad highlighted in his emotional farewell speech in October 2023 that the Justices were also underpaid and lacked resources. With the recent addition of 11 judges to the apex court, more cases can now be heard, leading to improved performance and efficiency. However, for this to be successful, the administrative processes at the Supreme Court must also be revamped and modernised.
We congratulate the new Justices on their appointment to a position that carries a sense of authority in their decisions while presiding over cases brought before them for adjudication. However, they must remember that their new role comes with great challenges, responsibilities, and heightened expectations, as the judiciary is often seen as the last resort for the common man.
This has become pertinent in light of the demand for justice by Nigerians, both ordinary citizens and those in positions of power, who feel let down by the decisions coming from the courts on various issues, especially those related to politics. Whether rightly or wrongly, there is a widespread belief that the respected institution of justice has been influenced by corruption; that greed and dishonesty have tarnished what was once a highly esteemed establishment that was respected by all.
Many well-meaning Nigerians have been vocal in their calls for the purification of the corrupt judiciary, especially the Supreme Court. It is widely believed that by ensuring a full complement of judges, a new era of swift justice can be ushered in, ultimately leading to the much-needed purification of the system. The hope is that with a reformed and efficient judiciary, the rule of law will be upheld, and justice will be served timely.
The judiciary in Nigeria is a reflection of the larger society, encompassing both the good and the bad. It must be recognised that Justices are human, with all the inherent flaws that come with being human. However, it is believed that through their training, sense of duty, and the discipline required for their roles, they should be able to rise above any shortcomings and fulfil their responsibilities to the public. It is expected that they will meet the presumptions of the people they serve.
From that perspective, and in view of the burden of duty they must discharge, we feel obligated to further contend that for the Justices to be able to, like the blind-folded lady, dispense justice without fear, favour or ill-will, there is the compelling urgency to make the judiciary a member of the tripod, truly independent, especially from the standpoint of funding. It deserves to get its allocation directly from the federation account devoid of the manipulative influence of any other arm of government. This is required if the nation must do away with the negative perceptions of who pays the piper dictates the tune.
Furthermore, the selection of the Chief Justice of the Federation or Chief Judge of a state should not be at the discretion of a single elected official, whether it be a governor or the President of the country. This tendency for one individual to have complete control over who holds these critical positions, often through manipulation and questionable deals, undermines the idea of a judiciary that is truly independent and able to withstand political pressure. Appointments to these offices should be made based on merit, integrity, and public scrutiny rather than political favouritism.
If judicial officers are diligent in carrying out their duties, they deserve to have comfortable working conditions. This means that they should not have to settle for the meager salaries they currently receive. The nation must ensure that we did not repeat the past where Supreme Court Justices had to protest against the poor working conditions they were subjected to. Corruption can be tempting, but with the right incentives and working environment, we can prevent it from taking hold. Justices need to be provided with better working conditions that do not compromise their rectitude.
Given that the Supreme Court has now been completely constituted, there should be no room for cases to drag on in their dockets. It is anticipated that a fully constituted Supreme Court will have all its courtrooms operational and the newly appointed Justices will enhance our legal system and assist the apex court in realising its maximum potential. Despite these recent appointments, more Justices of the apex court are approaching retirement and any resulting vacancies should be promptly filled without delays. With the court now at full capacity, we are optimistic about the future productivity and efficiency of the Supreme Court.
Editorial
IWD: Moving Towards Gender Equality
Today, March 8, marks International Women’s Day (IWD), a global observance devoted to recognising
and honouring the social, economic, cultural, and political accomplishments of women and girls. It is a moment to highlight the improvement made towards gender parity and to accentuate the ongoing work that still needs to be done.
The universal theme for 2024, “Invest In Women: Accelerate Progress,” highlights the relevance of investing in women’s education, healthcare, economic empowerment, and leadership development. By bolstering women through investment, we are not merely enhancing their individual opportunities and well-being but likewise fostering positive social and economic outcomes for communities and countries.
IWD, observed every year on March 8, is a worldwide celebration to honour women for their attainment, acknowledge their contributions to society, and promote gender equality. The day serves to coalesce people around the world and contemplate the growths made towards obtaining gender uniformity, while further recognising the challenges that still prevail.
The origins of IWD can be traced to the early 20th century, when women groups battled for reformed working conditions and social justice. The inaugural National Women’s Day was observed in the United States on February 28, 1909, following a declaration by the Socialist Party of America. In 1910, at the International Conference of Working Women in Copenhagen, Denmark, Clara Zetkin proposed establishing an annual Women’s Day to advocate for women’s rights and suffrage. The proposal garnered unanimous support, leading to the first IWD being celebrated in 1911 by over a million people in Austria, Denmark and Switzerland.
Additionally, IWD sheds light on the ongoing challenges and barriers that women around the world continue to face. These include gender-based discrimination, violence, unequal access to education, denial of employment opportunities, injustice, limited economic prospects, gender-based violence, and inadequate healthcare and education. We have to assess our achievements and renew the search for solutions to promote gender equality and empower women and girls.
Collaborating across different sectors and advocating for systemic change, can build a fairer and more inclusive world where every woman and girl can achieve their full potential and make meaningful contributions to society. As we celebrate the day, we have to recommit ourselves to creating a future where gender equality is not just an aspiration but a lived reality for everyone. We have to embrace this theme and join forces to construct a more just, prosperous, and inclusive world.
To achieve gender equality, men must support this cause. They can do so by dismantling patriarchal systems and creating a society that promotes inclusivity, enabling women to thrive. Men should listen to women’s experiences, amplify their voices, and actively work towards building a more equitable world. Both men and women can work towards a future where discrimination is eliminated and everyone, regardless of gender, can have access to equal opportunities.
Every March 8, Nigerian women join the rest of the world to celebrate IWD. It is an ample opportunity for political leaders to make grand promises to improve the lives of women and help them evade poverty. From the lowest-ranking officials to those in the highest positions, women are promised equal representation, active involvement, and policies that give priority to gender balance. However, by the next day, these same politicians revert to their usual ways, conveniently forgetting the promises they made until the next IWD comes around, and the cycle continues indefinitely.
Women play vital roles in both private and public spheres, and should be granted complete support and respect from society for their contributions. They should be encouraged to engage in governance and public affairs without facing discrimination or obstacles. Consequently, public policies should be intentionally designed to harness their abilities for the betterment and advancement of our nation. Nigerian women have impacted the country’s growth and development, thus investing in them would drive transformation and promote a seamless transition to a more secure and equitable society.
Rwanda, recognised as one of the fastest-growing economies in Africa, boasts one of the highest rate of female representation globally. In a strategic move to rebuild the nation following the post-genocide era, a new constitution was drafted and approved in 2003, allowing for the implementation of proactive measures, including a gender quota ensuring that women occupy a minimum of 30 per cent of political positions. Consequently, Rwanda stands out for having established one of the most effective systems due to the inclusion of women in decision-making processes.
Unfortunately, Nigeria ranks 133rd, globally for female political representation, with only 20 per cent of formal sector enterprises owned by women. Women have less than 6 per cent representation in the National Assembly, with merely 19 out of 469 members serving in the Senate and House of Representatives. This low representation is indicative of discrimination, as only three women serve in the Senate and 16 in the House of Representatives.
Gender equality needs to be at the top of the federal, state, and local governments’ agenda, and acknowledged as a major priority by all people, organisations, and communities, if our country is to achieve inclusive and sustainable development. Restrictive clauses, norms, and traditions that support prejudice and discrimination against women and girls must be addressed and eradicated. Every legislation currently in place that impedes the advancement of women should be examined and reviewed by the state and federal legislature. This would be the most potent way to observe this year’s International Women’s Day.
Editorial
Tackling Weapons Proliferation In Nigeria
On September 26, 2023, the United Nations General Assembly hosted a special event to observe the yearly
International Day for the Complete Elimination of Nuclear Weapons. That year marked the eleventh anniversary of the approval of Resolution 68/32, which was made in December 2013, creating this observance to raise awareness about the dangers nuclear weapons pose to humanity and the need for their total eradication.
Over a decade after the resolution was adopted, the goal of a world, free of nuclear weapons remains unachieved. Even countries such as Costa Rica have repeatedly warned of a new arms race with advanced and dangerous weapons, while states like Kazakhstan, Trinidad and Tobago, and the Holy See have cautioned of unpredictable global consequences. The number of nuclear warheads is increasing, and many delegates condemn the resurgence of nuclear rhetoric and threats. Only recently, Sri Lanka and Mexico noted that 2023 was the closest the world has ever been to nuclear war. And the threats continue to loom, even today.
Indeed, weapons of mass destruction, particularly nuclear ones, pose a serious threat to humanity due to their destructive power. The excessive accumulation of conventional weapons and illicit trade in Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW) threaten international peace, security, and sustainable development. Explosive weapons in populated areas endanger civilians. And emerging weapon technologies pose a challenge to global security.
On March 5, yesterday the International Day for Disarmament and Non-Proliferation Awareness was observed to help increase the global public’s understanding of how disarmament efforts can contribute to promoting peace and security, preventing and resolving armed conflicts, and reducing human suffering caused by weapons. The day serves as a reminder of the need for working towards, a world free of weapons and violence.
This second International Day for Disarmament and Non-Proliferation Awareness was taking place during a critical time, with increasing military expenditures, escalating geopolitical rivalries, and a rise in violent conflicts worldwide. It is worrisome to see some leaders resorting to apocalyptic language when discussing the potential use of nuclear weapons. It is essential, more than ever, to promote peace, dialogue, and cooperation to prevent the catastrophic consequences of nuclear proliferation.
Yesterday’s event served as a reminder that disarmament and non-proliferation are imperative not just for a peaceful future, but for our very survival. Global leaders must prioritise peace by enhancing the mechanisms and strategies that deter the spread and utilisation of destructive weapons, such as the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, and by formulating disarmament resolutions.
There is a pressing need for a renewed effort to combat the mushrooming and trafficking of small arms in Africa. The spread of small arms in West Africa, in particular, is rapidly transforming the region into a key hub for illegal drug trafficking, which in turn is fueling the rise of criminal organisations that possess enough weaponry to pose a threat to national security forces.
It is necessary to increase efforts to fulfil the objective of preventing, fighting against, and eliminating the illegal trade of SALW, as well as regulating the transfer of conventional weapons. The UN should completely execute the 2001 United Nations Programme of Action on Small and Light Weapons, which encourages international cooperation to enhance the capability of states in identifying and tracking illicit arms and light weapons.
Studies indicate that there are over a billion small arms circulating worldwide, with 87.5 per cent of these weapons owned by civilians. The Small Arms Survey of 2018 revealed that there were more than 40,009,000 small arms in the possession of civilians in different African countries. In Nigeria, the widespread availability of small arms and ammunition in various regions has led to increased levels of violence, kidnappings, robberies, mass killings, and socio-economic disruptions in society.
Nigeria is encountering a dangerous issue with the illegal possession of military-grade arsenals by criminals and non-state actors. This build-up of arms has reached an epidemic level, posing national security risks. Efforts by the executive, legislature, and security agencies have made some gains, but they have not been enough to reduce or eradicate the multiplication of SALW in the country.
Illicit SALW are a global concern, especially in Nigeria. These are weapons that are not controlled by a state or non-state entity and are often used in criminal activities or conflicts. The escalation of SALW has led to violence, crime, and insecurity in various parts of the country. SALW circulation has been reported in regions impacted by conflicts, such as the Niger Delta, North East affected by Boko Haram insurgency, and North-West which is presently terrorised by bandits, just as the North-Central has been made a theatre of the absurd by killer-herdsmen.
It is no longer debatable that illegal weapons often end up in the hands of criminal groups and non-state actors, causing instability and posing a threat to national and regional security. With access to these armament, rogue elements become more aggressive and less receptive to peace negotiations. The situation where these swindler elements have more sophisticated weapons than security agents exposes them to harm, weakening their ability to protect the populace, and help government realise one of its cardinal objectives: protection of lives and property of law-abiding citizens.
Unfortunately, Nigeria has the highest number of civilian SALW in any African country, according to the Small Arms Survey. In 2020, the nation had an estimated 6.2 million arms, with 3.21 per 100 persons possessing firearms. The survey also found that Nigeria has more Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) than any country in Sub-Saharan Africa. This alarming situation highlights the need for increased security measures in the country.
Therefore, government at all levels should collaborate with civil societies and other interested local and international agencies to effectively decrease the risk of amplification of SALW by confiscating and destroying these weapons. It is mandatory to raise awareness, particularly among children and youths, about the hazards of illicit SALW through a strong and well-coordinated campaign, education, outreach, engagement and representation.
This troubling discovery is not a good sign for Nigeria, particularly in this critical era when the country is facing serious economic and security issues in nearly all regions. The authorities must act to address the illicit intensification of SALW and work towards resolving the nation’s security challenges. The government needs to assert its authority in the use of coercive measures and encourage non-state actors to refrain from attempting to control any part of the Nigerian state. It is time to step up and tackle these issues head-on.
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