LIST OF REASONS

INTRO: One of the criticisms I held against the 2023 general election in Nigeria was the flouting of INEC's directives on no Permanent Voter's Card (PVC), no voting. I remember vividly how the INEC Chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu was on the national TV professing no PVC, no voting, while the voters  were in the fields having a field day, voting without PVCs, but just with their Voter Identification Number (VIN). I would later realise that they were able to do it because the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) needs just the VIN and the biometric confirmations to authenticate a Voter, and this means that voting without PVC is not much of electoral infraction except from legal perspectives as the electoral law does not recognise it.  Section 47 (1) of the Electoral Act 2022 is quite instructive stating that; “A person attending to vote in an election shall present himself with his voter’s card to a presiding officer for accreditation at the polling unit in the constitu...

INTRO : In an exclusive report obtained by the Punch, over 22,000 Nigerians were  reported by the UK's Home Office to have applied for asylum in the UK since 2010. The report is quite concerning when viewed from the economic lens for many reasons. The bottom line however is the worsening brain drain in the country. In hindsight, Nigeria was plundered with other African countries, and they were stripped of their men and material resources. The horror of history known as slave trade and colonialism still haunt Nigeria till today especially this mass exodus from Nigeria and other related countries. In fact, third world countries' scholars insist that the poor development status of the countries of Africa, Asia and Caribbean is traceable to Europe's invasion and plunder. Material resources were taken in quantum but they are scarcely as devastating as the human resources amassed from the continent.  To be sure, labour is the source of values. It makes fishes in the ocean to be ...

INTRO: The recent appointment of Local Government Area (LGA) administrators by the Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral (Rtd) Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas, has sparked legal uproar and intensified political tensions. Though framed as a governance necessity, the move has been widely criticized, contested in court, and viewed as a deepening of the already complex Rivers political crisis. Below are the seven (7) key reasons why these appointments are generating such widespread controversy: 1. Contravention of a Court Order: Perhaps the most glaring issue is that a Federal High Court in Port Harcourt had already issued an injunction barring Ibas from making such nominations. The interim order, granted on March 28, 2025, explicitly restrained him and his agents from selecting any sole administrators pending a substantive hearing. Ibas engaged persons as LG administrators disregarding this order which has placed him on a collision course with the judiciary and civil society. 2. Exa...

INTRO: The recent visit of All Progressives Congress (APC) governors to former President Muhammadu Buhari in Kaduna has stirred political curiosity across Nigeria. Led by the Imo State Governor and Chairman of the Progressive Governors Forum, Hope Uzodimma, the visit came at a time when defections from the APC to the Social Democratic Party (SDP) are increasing—raising questions about the motive and timing.  Here are seven (7) reasons why this visit is politically significant: 1. Reinforcing Party Unity Amid Defections: The backdrop of the visit includes notable defections—such as former Kaduna Governor Nasir El-Rufai—who claimed to have Buhari’s blessing to join the SDP. The APC governors went to see Buhari aiming to present a united front, countering the narrative of a party in disarray and reassuring supporters of continued internal cohesion. 2. Buhari's Symbolic Power as Party Patriarch: Though no longer in office, Muhammadu Buhari remains the only former president pr...

INTRO: Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State has reiterated the importance of integrity, accountability, and strategic leadership in the state’s public service, particularly among its top officials. His recent remarks during the opening of a five-day “Strategic Leadership and Management Course” underscore his administration’s commitment to strengthening governance through a competent and responsible civil service. The question here is why does he call for accountability?   The reasons why Governor Dapo Abiodun expects accountability in Ogun State Civil Service matters are:   1. The Civil Service is the Engine of Governance: Governor Abiodun requests accountability acknowledging that the civil service forms the bedrock of public administration. By calling for greater accountability, he recognizes the indispensable role top officials—such as permanent secretaries, general managers, and auditors—play in policy execution and service delivery. Ensuring they uphold integrity is e...

The emergence of Oba Akeem Owoade as the 46th Alaafin of Oyo has sparked widespread attention, not only because of the historical significance of the throne but also due to the monarch’s insistence that his ascension was not politically influenced but divinely orchestrated. The compelling reasons drawn from the monarch’s own reflections and the sentiments shared during his thanksgiving service are hereunder discussed.   The reasons why Oba Akeem Owoade’s emergence as Alaafin of Oyo is seen as divine are: 1. Absence of Political Influence: Oba Owoade publicly declared that he had never met Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State or former Senator Monsurat Sunmonu prior to his selection. This revelation counters public assumptions of political endorsement and underscores the purity and neutrality of his emergence. 2. Lack of Desperation or Manipulation: In his own words, the new Alaafin confessed that he was neither desperate nor scheming for the throne. This lack of ambition or b...

INTRO: On April 9, 2025, workers at Rufus Giwa Polytechnic (RUGIPO) in Owo, Ondo State, commenced an indefinite strike over unresolved salary and welfare issues. The strike, led by members of the Non-Academic Staff Union (NASU) and the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Polytechnics (SSANIP), is a clear expression of mounting frustration over prolonged neglect by the Ondo State Government.  The reasons why workers of Rufus Giwa Polytechnic are on strike are: 1. Non-Payment of Six (6) Months’ Salaries: One of the most pressing reasons for the strike is the accumulation of unpaid salaries. The workers revealed they are owed six months’ wages, a situation that has plunged many into financial hardship. During their protest, placards with inscriptions like “We are hungry, pay our six months’ salaries” captured the intensity of their grievance and the dire living conditions many now face. 2. Failure to Implement the National Minimum Wage: Despite a nationwide policy on t...

INTRO : The recent criticism by the United States Trade Representative (USTR) over Nigeria’s continued ban on 25 categories of imported goods has stirred fresh conversations around trade relations between both nations. The U.S. expressed displeasure over Nigeria’s protectionist policies, especially after President Donald Trump imposed a 14% duty on Nigerian goods entering the U.S. The USTR cited several concerns over how these bans negatively affect American exports and bilateral trade.    The reasons why the U.S. criticised Nigeria’s import ban on agricultural and pharmaceutical goods are: 1. Restricted Market Access for U.S. Exporters: The USTR emphasized that Nigeria’s ban on key product categories — including beef, pork, poultry, fruit juices, and medicaments — has severely limited access to one of Africa’s largest consumer markets. American exporters see Nigeria as a growing economy with significant trade potential, but the restrictions are seen as a direct barrier t...

On April 7, 2025, Newcastle United delivered a dominant 3-0 victory over Leicester City, putting them in a strong position to secure a spot in the next season's Champions League. With this result, they condemned Leicester to their eighth consecutive Premier League defeat and reinforced their claim for a top-four finish.  The reasons why Newcastle United's 3-0 win over Leicester is crucial for their Champions League bid are: 1. Boost to Champions League Pursuit: The win propelled Newcastle United to fifth in the Premier League table, leveling on points with Chelsea in fourth place. This result is crucial for their Champions League chase, as finishing in fifth is almost certainly enough to secure a place in next season's competition. With only a few games left in the season and a game in hand over Chelsea, Newcastle is poised to seize this opportunity. 2. Early Goals to Secure the Match: The game was effectively decided in the first 11 minutes, with Jacob Murphy scoring twic...

INTRO : In a recent interview, Tope Fasua, President Bola Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Economic Affairs, controversially claimed that $1 remains valuable in Nigeria despite the country's high inflation and weak currency. His argument, which sparked criticism from many Nigerians, rested on the idea that the purchasing power of local currency in Nigeria should be compared to that of the United States, not based solely  on exchange rates. The reasons why Fasua insists that $1 is valuable in Nigeria are: 1. Purchasing Power Parity and Cultural Differences: Fasua argued that the purchasing power of $1 is significant in Nigeria due to cultural differences in spending patterns. He pointed out that while $1 may not buy much in a place like New York, in Nigeria, it can still purchase basic items, particularly street food like amala. This, he suggested, demonstrates that Nigerians can still get value for $1, even in an environment of high inflation. 2. Different Standards of Living: Fasua emp...

INTRO : The Nigerian naira experienced significant depreciation in March 2025, shedding 2.6% in the parallel market and 2.4% at the Nigerian Autonomous Foreign Exchange Market (NAFEM) window. Despite the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) intervening with a substantial $668 million, several factors contributed to the naira's decline.  The reasons why the Naira depreciated in March despite $668m CBN intervention are: 1. Persistent Demand Pressure in the Foreign Exchange Market:  The primary reason for the naira's depreciation is the ongoing demand pressure in the foreign exchange market. As highlighted by Afrinvest’s monthly report, demand for foreign currency, particularly the US dollar, remained high throughout March. This persistent demand outstripped supply, driving the naira’s value down despite the CBN’s intervention. 2. Increased Importation and Dollar Demand:  Nigeria’s reliance on imports, especially for essential goods like fuel and machinery, has placed significant s...

The recent trade report revealing that the United States imported $643.1 million worth of goods from Nigeria in the first two months of 2025—representing a 32.4% decline from the same period in 2024—highlights a significant shift in US-Nigeria trade dynamics. Several factors can be identified as reasons for this downward trend as hereunder discussed.  The reasons for decline in US imports from Nigeria in early 2025 are: 1. Anticipation of New Tariffs:  One of the most critical reasons for the decline is the impending implementation of new tariffs by the Trump administration, scheduled to take effect on April 9, 2025. While oil and minerals are exempted, the broader uncertainty surrounding these tariffs may have discouraged American buyers from committing to new orders, leading to reduced imports in advance. 2. Drop in Non-Oil Exports: Despite the exemption of crude oil from the new tariff regime, the report showed a sharp fall in overall exports, particularly non-oil products....

In response to the growing wave of insecurity across Nigeria, particularly in the South-West region, the pan-Yoruba socio-political group, Afenifere, has renewed calls for a comprehensive redesign of the country's security framework. During its caucus meeting in Akure, the group highlighted several compelling reasons for their demand as hereunder discussed.  The reasons Afenifere wants Nigeria’s security architecture redefined are: 1. Rising Insecurity Across the Country: Afenifere expressed deep concern over the increasing rate of kidnappings, banditry, and extra-judicial killings in many parts of the country. Specific regions like Ogun, Oyo, Lagos, and Osun, along with states like Benue, Plateau, and Kaduna, have become flashpoints for violent crimes. 2. Lack of Coordinated Security Strategy: The group emphasized the urgent need for a more coordinated security approach. They urged the National Security Adviser to work closely with state governors to formulate joint strategies th...

INTRO: Despite the recent plunge in global crude oil prices, Nigerians have not seen a corresponding drop in the pump price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS). Instead, petrol prices continue to rise, with reports of retail prices ranging from N920 to N970 per litre. This paradox has sparked public concern and debate. Based on insights from the Crude Oil Refinery Owners Association of Nigeria (CORAN), there are many reasons why petrol prices remain high as hereunder discussed. The reasons why petrol prices remain high in Nigeria despite crude oil price crash are: 1. Foreign Exchange (FX) Pressure: A key driver of high petrol prices is the persistent weakness of the naira. Although crude oil prices are falling globally, Nigerian refiners still depend heavily on foreign exchange to import or process petroleum products. The high exchange rate inflates the cost of refining and distributing petrol, offsetting any gains from the crude price crash. 2. Collapse of the Naira-for-Crude Deal: The nai...

INTRO: Southampton Football Club announced on April 7, 2025, the dismissal of manager Ivan Jurić, barely 24 hours after their relegation from the English Premier League was confirmed. The decision, though swift, was not unexpected given the club’s dismal performance throughout the season.  The reasons why Southampton sacked manager Ivan Jurić after Premier League relegation are: 1. Historic Early Relegation: Southampton’s relegation came with seven games still left to play in the 2024/2025 season, making it the earliest relegation in Premier League history. The previous records—held by Derby County in 2008 and Huddersfield Town in 2019—stood at six games remaining. This statistical milestone was a clear sign of managerial failure and a significant blow to the club's reputation, prompting urgent action. 2. Poor Performance Record: Under Jurić’s leadership, Southampton managed only a handful of wins while suffering 25 losses out of 31 matches. Such a record not only placed the team ...

INTRO: In April 7, 2025, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) intervened in the foreign exchange market with a $197.71 million injection, following a sharp decline in global oil prices triggered by new U.S. trade tariffs. This proactive move reflects a series of critical reasons tied to Nigeria’s economic structure, global market dynamics, and the CBN’s monetary policy objectives.  The reasons why the CBN intervened amid oil price drop and US tariffs are: 1. Decline in Crude Oil Prices:  Nigeria relies on crude oil for over 90% of its foreign exchange earnings. The drop in oil prices—over 12% to around $65.50 per barrel—posed an immediate threat to Nigeria's revenue and external reserves. A sustained dip in oil prices can reduce dollar inflow, weaken the naira, and destabilize the economy. CBN’s intervention was necessary to mitigate these risks. 2. Impact of U.S. Trade Tariffs on Global Markets:  The recent imposition of sweeping trade tariffs by U.S. President Donald Trump...

INTRO: In April 7, 2025, Captain Ibrahim Traoré, President of Burkina Faso, made headlines across Africa when he publicly declared that his country is not operating under a democracy but rather undergoing what he described as a “popular, progressive revolution.” Speaking during a flag-raising ceremony at Koulouba Palace, Traoré outlined several reasons why he believes democracy is not a suitable path for Burkina Faso or for developing nations more broadly.  The reasons why Captain Ibrahim Traoré of Burkina Faso rejects democracy are: 1. Democracy Does Not Guarantee Development:  Traoré boldly asserted that no country has developed through democratic governance. In his view, democracy is not the catalyst for development, but merely a by-product or “result” that comes after a nation has undergone a more fundamental transformation. He challenged the long-standing assumption that democratic institutions and free elections are essential precursors to progress. 2. Popular, Progressi...

INTRO: Despite the signing of the Minimum Wage Act in 2024, which raised the national minimum wage from N30,000 to N70,000, many state governments across Nigeria have yet to fully implement the new policy — particularly at the local government level and for primary school teachers. Now, the governors are being chastised for it.  The reasons why 20 governors are criticized for delaying the N70,000 minimum wage are: 1. Partial Implementation of the Wage Law: While some states began paying the new minimum wage to state workers, they excluded local government workers and primary school teachers. This selective compliance has triggered outrage, particularly among labor unions like the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) and the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT). 2. Neglect of LG Autonomy: The delay in issuing a circular by the Central Bank of Nigeria for LGAs to open independent bank accounts has hindered full autonomy. This has allowed state commissioners of finance to co...

INTRO: The Office of the Surveyor-General of the Federation (OSGOF) has embarked on a groundbreaking initiative to map the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, using high-resolution drone technology. This development marks a significant milestone in Nigeria’s technological evolution in geospatial management and supports its push toward smart cities and sustainable development.  The reasons  for OSGOF's adoption of drone technology for mapping Abuja are: 1.      Accurate and High-Resolution Mapping:   OSGOF's use of drone technology allows the collection of thousands of high-quality images (approximately 17,000), producing highly detailed and accurate topographical maps. Such resolution is far superior to what traditional satellite imagery or manual mapping can provide. 2.      Enhanced Geospatial Data Management: According to the Surveyor-General, Abuduganiyu Adebomehin, the project is rooted in geospatial information management—c...

INTRO: The political atmosphere in Osun State is currently charged, following allegations and counter-allegations between the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) over control of local government (LG) secretariats. The crisis, centered on who rightfully occupies the LG councils, has sparked warnings of potential unrest.    The reasons behind the rising tension over Osun LG secretariats crisis are: 1.      Planned Reinstatement of PDP LG Officials: The APC has accused the state government of plotting to reinstate PDP-elected local government chairmen and councillors, elected in the February 21, 2025 election. They claim the plan is to use a court order to forcefully install these officials into the councils. 2.      Legal Backing Through Court Mandamus: The APC alleges that the Adeleke administration is relying on an expected order of mandamus from an Osun High Court sitting in Ikirun, which may be is...

INTRO: The nationwide protest organized for April 7, 2025, under the leadership of the Take-It-Back Movement (TIB), has drawn national attention due to its compelling objectives and widespread support across civil society organizations, labour unions, and human rights advocates. Despite opposition from the Nigerian Police Force, the protest is going ahead, reflecting a deepening concern among citizens over issues related to governance, civil liberties, and constitutionalism. This article outlines key reasons behind the protest, grounded in the motivations and tensions captured in recent developments.   The reasons behind the April 7 nationwide protest against the Cybercrime Act and emergency rule are:   1.      Perceived Misuse of the Cybercrime Act: At the heart of the protest is the demand for the repeal of the Cybercrime Act, which many Nigerians believe has been weaponized to stifle dissent and suppress free speech. Protesters argue that instead...

The conventional wisdom that democracy is the best form of government is challenged by the observation that its strengths are relative, not absolute, and contingent on the context of the governed, the governing, and the underlying institutions. While most people, regardless of political affiliation, harbor high hopes for democracy, especially when they believe they can manipulate its levers, the reality often falls short of these expectations. The flaws of democracy, particularly the potential for the “tyranny of the majority,” are rooted in the inherent limitations of political markets and the cognitive biases of voters. Public Choice economics highlights the foibles of political markets, including the disproportionate power of interest groups, the unjust exercise of power by the general public, and the misuse of power to redistribute resources. Rational ignorance, a concept central to this critique, posits that voters, possessing minimal influence in political outcomes, find it econo...