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The Menace of Local Government Transition Committee in Anambra State

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4 years ago

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If the House of Assembly of Anambra State goes ahead to confirm Chairmen and Members of Local Government Transition Committee anytime this week or in the coming week, most of the Transition Committee Chairmen and members (councilors) would have spent not less than five years in their local governments, with zero accountability or responsibility for the hundreds of millions of local government funds supposed to have been disbursed to them. In fact, many of these transition chairmen and members have spent about six to eight years in their local governments, with completely nothing to show for it. Indeed, one or two might have stayed beyond eight years because they started as elected local government chairmen in 2013.

The culture of transition committee in Anambra state local government system is one that was reinforced by former governors Dr. Chris Ngige and Mr. Peter Obi. Just a few months to his exit, Obi conducted local government election and this was in 2013. Borrowing the same script, the incumbent governor Willie Obiano decided to take it a bit to the next level and therefore has not conducted local government election and not going to conduct till his exit in two months time. For the better part of his eight years, Governor Obiano has relied on the transition system to run the local government across Anambra State even to the disapproval of many party members.

To perfect this, Anambra State House of Assembly has been a reliable partner in this business of imposing and recycling of transition members in the local governments. Eventually, the failure of the government of Willie Obiano to conduct local government election in Anambra state throughout the life span of his administration, a record failure, may become his greatest political error, not only because the transition system is a disempowerment for the people in a democracy, whose first contact with government and involvement with government process should start with their local government. But also because the transition system is a cesspool of all forms of financial corruption and misappropriation in which local government funds are disbursed without responsibility and without due process.

The transition committee members are just there, waking up to a renewed term every three months.

Clearly, the transition committee members in Anambra state are representing themselves and the people that got them appointed; absolutely no one else. Such an extremely predatory system that absolves people in positions of authority of any responsibility can only thrive in a place like Nigeria and that is how it has been. The transition committee members are just there, waking up to a renewed term every three months. Where do Anambra people stand with this dangerous system? The most incredible provocateur in all these is the taught that this same system, most awful, the same transition committee members will be stylishly handed over to the incoming government. If the House of Assembly collaborates to approve a new tenure for the transition chairmen and members of the transition, the new tenure will extend into the life of the new government that will be sworn in on March 17, 2022. Is there any kind of justification for this?

Let us even assume that the government is simply taking advantage of the gap in the local government administration system and therefore the transition committee is not exactly illegal. The question is, why must the system be abused? For years, every three months the governor submits names of transition committee chairmen and members to the House for approval and the House approves. This has happened for no fewer than six to seven years under the current governor. Worst still, for at least five to seven years, the governor has appointed almost the same people, only making few changes in some local governments like two or three years ago. In all the local governments with transition committee that have stayed for so many years, are there no other APGA party faithful or qualified people in APGA to take up the job? Little wonder many of these transition committee members see their local government as their private property.

So if we are comfortable with corrupt, self-enriching system, why can’t the enrichment scheme just go round?

The House of Assembly must put an end to this abuse. If we justify the transition system, what justifications have we for the repeated reappointment of the same people, most of who have stayed for over half a decade in office? Is there any place in which people have no responsibility and yet are allowed to remain in office for years even when they have nothing to show? How many of these transition chairmen have done anything for their people worth one million Naira, even if what they get monthly is a subvention of five to ten million Naira? So if we are comfortable with corrupt, self-enriching system, why can’t the enrichment scheme just go round?

With the drug abuse and despondency ravaging communities across Anambra state, allocations meant for local government are shared under shrouded circumstances and the local government that should stand up to local issues such as this, has been emasculated. The transition committee simply takes their subvention home safely and still goes out to mount collection of some government revenue which they also disburse at will. No responsibility to the people and no accountability. These are different times and the people are getting increasingly agitated and aggressive and intolerable. These are danger signs that can only result to known consequences. Public office holders might wish to be more circumspect and attuned towards public good more than ever. It is however shocking that this is not yet the case.

Anambra State House of Assembly should not bequeath this legacy to the incoming government. The new government must be allowed in the interest of utmost public good, to settle down and take a responsible position in the manner Anambra state local governments are administered. For now, instead of reconfirmation of the transition committee, the House of Assembly should turn it down and use their powers to ask Local Government Heads of Service to assume office in the twenty-one local governments in Anambra state for the next two months, to create a conducive environment for the new government.

If the incoming government decides to set records straight and start by auditing local government accounts, before appointing a transition committee, so be it. And if the incoming government decides to appoint a transition committee briefly before conducting a proper local government election possibly next year, so be it. But the Anambra State House of Assembly must not bequeath a template of failure, corruption, and impunity in the local government, to an incoming administration.

♦ Ebuka Onyekwelu, strategic governance exponent,  is a columnist with the WAP

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Anthony Obi Ogbo

Burna Boy, the Spotlight, and the Cost of Arrogance

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10 hours ago

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November 27, 2025

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“Humility is the anchor that keeps greatness from drifting into delusion.“ —Anthony Obi Ogbo

Fame is a dangerous flame. It warms, it dazzles, and if you hold it too close, it burns straight through the layers of judgment that keep a person grounded. In its hottest glow, fame convinces artists that applause is permanent, talent is immunity, and fans are disposable. Arrogance doesn’t erupt overnight—it grows in the quiet corners of unchecked power, in entourages that never challenge, and in audiences that forgive too easily. But the world has a way of reminding every superstar of one brutal truth: no one is too famous to fall.

This season, Burna Boy is learning that lesson in real time. The Grammy-winning giant—hailed globally as the “African Giant”—is now facing one of the most dramatic reputational meltdowns of his career. Five U.S. arena dates on his NSOW Tour have reportedly been cancelled due to poor ticket sales and a fierce wave of fan backlash following his Denver debacle. What was supposed to be another triumphant American tour has spiraled into an expensive public relations disaster.

It all ignited on November 12, 2025, at the Red Rocks Amphitheatre in Colorado. The show started late. Energy was high. Then Burna Boy spotted a woman in the front row who had fallen asleep. Instead of performing through it, he halted the show, called her out publicly, ordered her partner to “take her home,” and refused to continue until they left. The humiliation would have been bad enough on its own. But later reports revealed she wasn’t drunk or uninterested—she was exhausted, mourning the recent death of her daughter’s father.

The internet demanded empathy. Burna responded with contempt. A sleeping fan, he said, “pisses me the f*** off.” And then the line that detonated the backlash: “I never asked anybody to be my fan.” Those ten words may become the most expensive sentence of his career.

This wasn’t an isolated flare-up. Burna Boy has long danced on the edge of arrogance, and the public has kept receipts. In 2019, he halted a performance in Atlanta to eject a fan who wasn’t dancing—handing the man money and telling him to leave. In Lagos in 2021, a fan who attempted an innocent stage hug was shoved off by security, sparking outrage over excessive force and coldness.

The following year was worse. In 2022, his security team was accused of firing shots in a nightclub after a woman allegedly rejected him, injuring multiple patrons and triggering legal headaches that trailed him for months. Fast-forward to January 2023: at his “Love, Damini” concert in Lagos, he arrived hours late, berated the crowd, and left fans feeling disrespected and insulted.

By 2025, the pattern was undeniable. He kicked a fan offstage during a New Year’s performance. Months later, he brought a Colorado concert to a standstill until an “unengaged” couple was escorted out. The incidents piled up, painting a portrait of an artist increasingly out of touch with the people who made him a global phenomenon.

This latest incident, however, has delivered the sharpest consequence yet: the U.S. market—a notoriously unforgiving arena—has pushed back.
Cancelled shows. Sparse crowds. Boycotts. Refund demands.
For perhaps the first time, an African artist of Burna Boy’s magnitude is experiencing a full-force American-style public accountability storm.

If African entertainers are paying attention, they should treat this moment as a case study in how fame can be mismanaged.

The first lesson: Fan value is sacred. Fans are not props. They are not subjects. They are not inconveniences in an artist’s emotional universe. They are customers, supporters, ambassadors, and—most importantly—the foundation on which every stage, every award, and every paycheck rests.

The second: Empathy is not optional. A superstar who cannot pause long enough to consider that a fan might be grieving, ill, exhausted, or battling something unseen is a superstar who has forgotten the humanity at the core of all art.

The third: Professionalism is currency. Arriving late, publicly shaming fans, halting shows, and weaponizing power in moments of irritation are choices that corrode trust. And once trust is broken, even a global superstar can watch ticket sales collapse in real-time.

Burna Boy is an extraordinary artist—brilliant, groundbreaking, and influential. His musical legacy is secure. But greatness in artistry is not the same as greatness in character. Fame tests the latter far more than it rewards it. And the spotlight, no matter how bright, does not protect anyone from the consequences of their own behavior.Humility is the anchor that keeps greatness from drifting into delusion. Burna Boy’s current storm is a brutal reminder that talent without restraint can become tyranny, and fame without introspection can become a curse. Artists rise because people believe in them, invest in them, and support them. When that respect is abused, loyalty evaporates. The lesson is stark: the higher the pedestal, the harder the fall—and the fall always comes. What matters is not the applause you command, but the humanity you maintain long after the music stops.

♦Publisher of the Guardian News, Professor Anthony Obi Ogbo, Ph.D., is on the Editorial Board of the West African Pilot News. He is the author of the Influence of Leadership (2015)  and the Maxims of Political Leadership (2019). Contact: anthony@guardiannews.us

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The Leadership Deficit: Why African Governance Lacks Philosophical Grounding

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4 months ago

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July 30, 2025

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Leadership across nations is shaped not only by policies but by the quality of the individuals at the helm. History has shown that the most transformative leaders often draw from deep wells of ethical, philosophical, and strategic thought. Yet, in many African countries—and Nigeria in particular—there appears to be a crisis in the kind of men elevated to govern. This deficit is not merely political; it is intellectual, philosophical, and deeply structural.

There is a compelling correlation between the absence of foundational wisdom and the type of leaders Nigeria consistently produces. Compared to their counterparts in other parts of the world, Nigerian leaders often appear fundamentally unprepared to govern societies in ways that foster justice, progress, or stability.

Consider the Middle East—nations like the UAE and Qatar—where governance is often rooted in Islamic principles. While these societies are not without flaws, their leaders have harnessed religious teachings as frameworks for nation-building, modern infrastructure, and citizen welfare. Ironically, many of Nigeria’s military and political leaders also profess Islam, yet the application of its ethical standards in public governance is nearly non-existent. This raises a troubling question: is the practice of religion in African politics largely symbolic, devoid of actionable moral guidance?

Take China as another case study. In the last four decades, China’s leadership has lifted over 800 million people out of poverty—an unprecedented feat in human history. While authoritarian in structure, China’s model demonstrates a deep philosophical commitment to collective progress, discipline, and strategic long-term planning. In Western democracies, especially post-World War II, leaders often emerged with strong academic backgrounds in philosophy, economics, or history—disciplines that sharpen the mind and cultivate vision.

In stark contrast, African leaders—particularly in Nigeria—are more often preoccupied with short-term political survival than long-term national transformation. Their legacy is frequently one of mismanagement, unsustainable debt, and structural decay. Nigeria, for example, has accumulated foreign loans that could take generations to repay, yet there is little visible infrastructure or social development to justify such liabilities. Inflation erodes wages, and basic public services remain in collapse. This cycle repeats because those in power often lack not just technical competence, but the moral and intellectual depth to lead a modern nation.

At the heart of the crisis is a lack of philosophical inquiry. Philosophy teaches reasoning, ethics, and the nature of justice—skills that are essential for public leadership. Nigerian leaders, by and large, are disconnected from such traditions. Many have never seriously engaged with political theory, ethical discourse, or economic philosophy. Without this grounding, leadership becomes a matter of brute power, not enlightened governance.

The crisis of leadership in Africa is not solely one of corruption or bad policy—it is one of intellectual emptiness. Until African nations, especially Nigeria, begin to value and cultivate leaders who are intellectually rigorous and philosophically grounded, the continent will remain caught in cycles of poverty and poor governance. True leadership requires more than charisma or military rank—it demands the wisdom to govern a society with justice, vision, and moral clarity. Without this, the future remains perilously fragile.

♦ Dominic Ikeogu is a social and political commentator based in Minneapolis, USA.

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The Changes of Power, Turning of Seasons, and Flipping of Tables in the Digital Age

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4 months ago

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July 26, 2025

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In the dynamic landscape of the 21st century, the digital age stands as a powerful force of transformation—overhauling power structures, redefining the rhythms of progress, and dismantling the enduring legacies of colonialism and post-colonialism. This moment transcends technological change for Nigeria and the Global South; it represents a decisive socio-political and economic reawakening.

Power: From Centralised Control to Distributed Influence

Throughout Nigeria’s history, power has frequently been concentrated in political capitals, economic hubs, and within elite groups. This has often left many feeling marginalised. However, the rise of the digital age brings with it a hopeful shift. With tools like social media, blockchain technology, and digital currencies, individuals and communities are finding their voices and challenging traditional power structures. This new era provides an opportunity for empowerment, allowing more people to participate in shaping their own destinies and fostering a more inclusive future.

In Nigeria, there has been a remarkable shift as tech-savvy youth movements gain momentum, catalysing a new wave of digital activism that challenges traditional structures of power. These young innovators are leveraging technology to foster social change, raising awareness on critical issues ranging from governance to human rights. Furthermore, the fintech landscape has experienced significant advancements, with mobile banking and cryptocurrency adoption becoming increasingly prevalent. These innovations empower individuals, particularly in underserved communities, by providing them with greater access to financial services and opportunities for economic growth.

The influence once monopolised by a select few is gradually being redistributed as smartphones and affordable data plans become more accessible to the general populace. This technological democratisation allows the digital citizen to shift from being a passive consumer of information to an engaged participant in public discourse. They are now equipped to voice their opinions, mobilise for causes, and hold those in power accountable, effectively transforming the way societal issues are addressed in the country. Through these dynamic changes, the fabric of Nigerian society is evolving, driven by the collective efforts of its digitally empowered youth.

Seasons: The Rhythms of Change in a Connected World

The evolution of development in the Global South has historically been heavily influenced by external factors, such as donor agendas, foreign direct investments, and fluctuations in global market trends. These influences often shape the priorities and paths of growth in these regions, limiting local agency and innovation. However, a significant transformation is taking place today.

Nigeria’s tech ecosystem is uniquely evolving, particularly in areas like Yaba, which has earned the nickname “Nigeria’s Silicon Valley.” This region is becoming a dynamic hub for startups and entrepreneurial activities. In the capital city of Abuja, there is also a rising number of innovation centres and incubators that promote creativity and drive technological progress.

The shift signifies an inspiring independence from traditional external influences, as Nigerian entrepreneurs, developers, and innovators boldly take the lead in shaping their local landscapes and steering their own developmental agendas. This dynamic change is set to redefine the development narrative in the region, celebrating local talent and solutions that directly address the unique needs of the Nigerian market.

We are experiencing a positive transformation towards self-determination. Local startups are actively addressing community challenges through agricultural technology that enhances food security or educational platforms that make learning accessible to all. This transitional phase marks a move from waiting to a proactive era of building and innovation.

Tables: Disruption and Reconfiguration of Norms

The metaphorical tables that represent power dynamics, social privilege, and established policies are undergoing a significant transformation. In this digital age, the nature of discourse is anything but courteous; it is fundamentally disruptive. This shift challenges long-standing norms and traditions that have persisted for years. The rapid advancement of technology is not merely an evolution but a revolution that brings to light various inefficiencies that have long gone unacknowledged.

The text highlights a rising demand for accountability among individuals and institutions in today’s society. As traditional structures come under scrutiny, there is an increasing expectation for transparency and responsibility, reflecting the evolving dynamics of our world.

In Nigeria, digital platforms’ impact is unmistakable; they have unveiled corruption, galvanised protests, and transformed the landscape of entrepreneurship. The youth are not merely seeking seats at the table but constructing entirely new ones. Through this bold action, they are reshaping the very definitions of leadership, innovation, and progress.

Challenges and Opportunities

This transformation comes with challenges, but we are more than capable of overcoming them. We can bridge digital divides, address cybersecurity threats, and reshape regulatory frameworks to match the pace of innovation. These challenges are not obstacles; they are our call to action to co-create an inclusive, secure, and locally relevant future.

Nigeria stands at an exciting crossroads, with a tremendous opportunity to boost its investments in crucial areas like digital literacy, technological infrastructure, and policy reform. By strongly emphasising digital literacy, we can equip our citizens with the essential skills to navigate today’s dynamic digital world, leading to a more informed and empowered workforce ready to tackle future challenges.

Enhancing our technological infrastructure is of paramount importance, as it involves developing reliable internet connectivity and providing access to the latest digital tools and technologies. We can create a more robust and efficient ecosystem that supports businesses, education, and communication by prioritising these upgrades. This transformation is expected to significantly drive economic growth by attracting both local and foreign investments.

Improved technology is set to drive innovation across multiple sectors in Nigeria, allowing both entrepreneurs and established businesses to introduce fresh ideas and solutions. By harnessing this potential, Nigeria can enhance its position in the global marketplace, becoming a competitive entity ready to embrace emerging trends and opportunities in the digital age.

Moreover, countries in the Global South have a remarkable opportunity to unite through cross-border collaboration! By sharing knowledge and best practices, we can bolster our resilience against global challenges while amplifying our collective voice in international tech governance.

This collaborative spirit enables us to formulate a comprehensive strategy that effectively addresses the diverse needs of local communities. By fostering open dialogue and partnership, we can ensure that the perspectives and experiences of the Global South play a crucial role in shaping global technological standards and policies. It’s essential that these voices are heard and considered in discussions that impact the future of technology. Together, through cooperation and shared vision, we can pave the way for a brighter, more inclusive technological future that benefits everyone, regardless of geographic or economic barriers.

The digital age is our current reality, giving Nigeria and the Global South an opportunity to shift from passive technology consumers to active creators of innovative solutions. This transformation is crucial for these regions to assert their place in global innovation.

Local entrepreneurs and startups must embrace digital tools to unlock their potential and create innovative solutions for their unique challenges. This proactive approach fosters economic growth and a strong culture of entrepreneurship and collaboration across education, business, and government.

Conclusion: A New Dawn

The time for the Global South to shine is now. These regions can drive social change and economic empowerment by creating local technologies that tackle local and global challenges. Nigeria and its counterparts must seize this moment to emerge as leaders in global innovation.

As the seasons change and the tables turn, we confidently embrace the transformations of power. The future is not just digital—it is unequivocally African, undeniably Southern, and ours to shape and define.

♦ Professor Ojo Emmanuel Ademola is a Nigerian Professor of Cyber Security and Information Technology Management, and holds a Chartered Manager Status, and by extension, Chartered Fellow (CMgr FCMI) by the highly Reputable Royal Chartered Management Institute. 

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