BETWEEN BAMANGA TUKUR AND HUMPHREY NWOSU

Legacies have long-lasting impact, honours do not, argues JOSHUA J. OMOJUWA 

In a now deleted post, one of those X users that’d fit into what Prof. Wole Soyinka referred to as “internet infestations”, posted a photo of former governor of old Gongola State, former PDP National Chairman, etc., the Tafidan Adamawa, soon to be 90 years old Bamanga Tukur, looking to set him up for mockery. Mock a man older than the longest of sentences? The tweet did the exact opposite, as respondents reminded the user — not of drugs I hope — what is the shock in seeing a 90-year-old man looking old?

Bamanga Tukur, still of rubust health and sound mind, in that photo had gone for Ramadan prayers. Someone caught the image on a livestream and thought to score some dopamine. It turned out to be so much of an own goal, the user, bereft of their humanity, thankfully had enough rationality left in them to delete.

For me, this became an opportunity to learn one of the most shocking things I have learned about Nigeria’s contemporary history. If you gathered the most successful Afrobeats artists and asked them to list, say twenty people, who helped to advance ‘Afrobeats to the World’, it’d take a deeply reflective one to remember, let alone mention Alistair Soyode’s Ben TV. None of them will mention Bamanga Tukur. This, soon to be, nonagerian being one of the earlier forces of Afrobeats spreading around the world is an unlikely story.

It is a true one. The best person to tell a story is a good storyteller, and the best stories told are shared by good storytellers recounting first hand experiences. So when you read, “In 2003, Nigerian music videos were broadcast on satellite television to 7.4 million homes in the UK, probably about another 3 million across Europe and even parts of North Africa, thus spreading not only Nigerian music to a wider international audience daily, but the images and talents of the pioneers of what we call AFROBEATS today. The globalisation of Afrobeats started in the UK on TELEVISION”, from master storyteller Ayo Shonaiya, you know it is a piece of history. The one thing that certainly took me by surprise was, “and Bamanga Tukur deserves a big THANK YOU for playing a big part in making that happen”.

Shonaiya posted the above in response to the ill-intended tweet. My curiousity wouldn’t let me, so I sent him a private message, looking for nuance. This creator of ‘Afrobeats Backstory’ on Netflix told me, “Bamanga Tukur footed the bill for the licensing and broadcast fees for Ben TV from inception”.

I respect Nigeria’s national honours and Tukur himself got one of the highest ones, “Commander of the Order of the Niger”. However, numerous people have been awarded just because they got elected to an office, were appointed, or managed to be in the room when the list was being compiled. Congratulations to them too. Those who can give an honour can withdraw it. What you cannot take from a person is their legacy.

When Afrobeats’ conquest of the world gets told, Tukur’s name will get a prime mention and there’d be nothing anyone can do about it. The same way the South-East’s Senate caucus appeared helpless when the Senate debated the merits, or not, of honouring the late Prof. Humphrey Nwosu, the Chairman of the now defunct National Electoral Commission (NEC). If you agree that the June 12, 1993 election is the freest and fairest in Nigeria’s modern history, you’d intentionally or inadvertently be giving Prof. Nwosu a credit he deserves. Sadly though, the stories of June 12 can at times be controversial and complicated, and Prof. Nwosu got entangled in some of those controversial complications.

The South-East Senators asked, stating that the late Nwosu laid the foundation of the present INEC HQ, that the Senate recommend to the Executive that the INEC building be named after him. That if this was not to be, he should be given a post-humous national honour. They also requested a minute silence in honour of the late election czar, the only wish granted by Senate.

This outcome did not please the caucus, so they staged a walkout. Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe,  a member of the  caucus representing Abia South in the Senate for the past 18 years, said that, “ Prof. Humphrey Nwosu laid the foundations that we are enjoying today”, and that, even if the Tinubu government does not honour him, another government will. According to Senator Enyinnaya, MKO Abiola and June 12 eventually got recognised, despite being ignored by previous governments.

Unlike Prof. Nwosu though, MKO Abiola had been repeatedly honoured by various subnational governments, especially in his home region, South-West. The federal government had that precedence to follow. I wonder if, in his two decades in the Senate, Senator Enyinnaya has named any of his constituency projects after the Prof. or at least encouraged his state government to.

In Nigeria, sometimes, a hero is a villain elsewhere and a villain is a hero at home. This is not unique to any national figure or any ethnic group per se. There are hardly universal historical villains or heroes, here, consensus is promethium, rare.

Nigeria must strengthen its laws on devolution. It couldn’t be clearer; if we don’t see the past the same way, and we don’t even agree on most things today, how can we sincerely build a common future without accommodating our different histories and motivations? We experienced the same history differently and we remember it according to our biases, like this Senate debate showed.

Amidst these, stories like that of Bamanga Tukur’s, as told above, are not subject to a Senate’s approval. When next you are rocking to Afrobeats in Costa Rica or some other far end of the world, whether you know it or not, that is an outcome that was caused by pioneers like Tukur, Soyode and Shonaiya.

Legacies, irrespective of their hue, just are. Honours? Sometimes, even if you beg for them, they just aren’t. May Prof. Humphrey Nwosu rest in peace, amen.

 Omojuwa is chief strategist, Alpha Reach/BGX Publishing

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REVIVING NIGERIA’S FUEL DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM

 ABIODUN OLUWADARE urges the rehabilitation and modernisation of the pipelines

Nigeria has witnessed countless tragedies resulting from tanker accidents, many of which could have been avoided. These accidents, involving petroleum-laden trucks travelling long distances from depots in Lagos or Port Harcourt to different parts of the country, have led to a devastating loss of lives and property. Beyond the human toll, the economic impact is immeasurable, with countless businesses and livelihoods destroyed in the wake of these disasters.

Decades ago, when Nigeria was far less developed, these tragedies were just as prevalent. However, the question remains: why has nothing changed despite advancements in technology and infrastructure? A key issue is the neglect of Nigeria’s pipeline system, which was originally designed to transport petroleum products safely and efficiently across the country.

What happened to Nigeria’s Pipeline System?

At a time when Nigeria’s oil infrastructure was more functional, pipelines were constructed to pump fuel from refineries and major depots to sub-depots nationwide. The strategic aim was to reduce the long-distance travel of tankers, thereby minimizing road accidents, vehicle wear and tear, and transportation costs. However, over time, these pipelines have fallen into disrepair, and their usage has declined significantly.

The government often attributes the abandonment of this vital infrastructure to insecurity, vandalism, and sabotage. While these challenges are real, they are not insurmountable in an era of modern technology. Countries with similar security threats have successfully deployed advanced surveillance systems, automated monitoring, and security personnel to safeguard their pipelines. Why should Nigeria be an exception?

The real issue, therefore, lies beyond insecurity—it is rooted in systemic corruption and a lack of political will. The same factors that have hampered infrastructural development across sectors are at play here. Some stakeholders, benefiting from the status quo, prefer to see the continued use of long-haul tankers rather than invest in reviving the pipeline system. But at what cost? How many more lives must be lost before we take decisive action?

The urgent Need for Pipeline Rehabilitation:

The rehabilitation and modernization of Nigeria’s pipeline system is long overdue. The current reliance on long-haul fuel tankers for nationwide distribution is not only inefficient but also hazardous. A fully functional and well-maintained pipeline network would provide multiple benefits, from improving road safety to boosting economic productivity. Below is a more detailed examination of the key advantages of reviving Nigeria’s pipeline infrastructure.

Enhanced Safety and Reduction of Accidents:

Nigeria has recorded numerous catastrophic tanker accidents, often resulting in explosions that claim lives, destroy properties, and cause long-term environmental damage. These accidents are frequently caused by fatigue among drivers who embark on long, strenuous journeys.

• Poor road conditions that make long-distance travel highly risky.

• Mechanical failures due to excessive wear and tear on the vehicles.

By reducing the distance fuel tankers must travel through a well-distributed pipeline and sub-depot system, the frequency of road accidents would significantly decline. Instead of hauling fuel over hundreds of kilometres, tankers would only need to transport petroleum products over short distances, reducing the likelihood of accidents and limiting the devastating impact when they do occur.

Additionally, fewer tanker movements on highways would lead to a reduction in traffic congestion, particularly in urban areas where these trucks often cause gridlocks. It would also minimize fuel theft and armed hijackings, which are common risks associated with fuel transportation.

Economic Efficiency and Reduced Waste:

Beyond the tragic loss of lives, the economic consequences of tanker accidents are staggering. Each accident results in massive financial losses due to:

• The destruction of fuel products, leading to increased costs for both businesses and consumers; damage to road infrastructure, which requires expensive repairs;

compensation and insurance claims arising from fatalities and destruction of properties.

A functional pipeline system would significantly reduce these financial burdens. Transporting petroleum products through pipelines is far cheaper than using trucks. It eliminates the costs associated with road transportation, such as fuel consumption, vehicle maintenance, and driver wages. Moreover, pipelines allow for uninterrupted distribution, avoiding delays and product shortages that often lead to artificial fuel scarcity and price hikes.

By revamping Nigeria’s pipeline infrastructure, the government would not only enhance economic efficiency but also save billions of naira annually that could be redirected to other critical sectors, such as healthcare, education, and security. It will also enhance:

improved quality of life for drivers.

The current fuel distribution system imposes grueling schedules on tanker drivers, requiring them to spend weeks away from their families as they traverse long distances across Nigeria. This lifestyle comes with several negative consequences. Long hours on the road lead to stress, fatigue, and exposure to unhygienic living conditions. Many drivers, in their struggle to cope, resort to excessive alcohol consumption, drug use, and unhealthy eating habits, which further compromise their well-being.

The prolonged absence from home also strains family relationships, as drivers barely have time to see their spouses and children. This disconnect often results in broken homes, emotional distress, and increased social instability. Additionally, many drivers engage in unsafe behavior, including unprotected sex with commercial sex workers along major routes. This has contributed to the spread of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and other health concerns, exacerbating public health challenges.

With a well-functioning pipeline system, fuel distribution would be decentralized, significantly reducing the distances that drivers must travel. Instead of embarking on exhausting cross-country journeys, they would only need to transport fuel from local sub-depots, allowing them to return home more frequently. This shift would improve their work-life balance, promote better health, and contribute to a more stable society.

Longer Vehicle Lifespan and Reduced Maintenance Costs: The excessive distances covered by fuel tankers place immense strain on their mechanical systems, leading to frequent breakdowns and expensive maintenance costs. Vehicles that should have a long operational lifespan often become obsolete within a short period due to excessive wear and tear. Mechanical failures such as brake system malfunctions, tire blowouts caused by prolonged exposure to poor road conditions, and engine overheating from continuous long-distance travel are common occurrences.

By reducing the distance these tankers must travel, their lifespan would be significantly extended, minimizing the frequency of repairs and replacement. Transport companies would operate more efficiently, and the overall cost of fuel transportation would decline. This, in turn, would lower the retail price of petroleum products, benefiting consumers and the national economy.

A Call to Action: Modernizing Nigeria’s Fuel Distribution System: To break free from the current cycle of inefficiency and recurring tragedies, Nigeria must prioritize the rehabilitation and modernization of its pipeline network. Several key steps must be taken to ensure a more secure and efficient fuel distribution system. These steps are:

Investing in Pipeline Security.

One of the primary concerns about pipeline transportation is vandalism and oil theft. However, modern technology provides solutions to effectively mitigate these threats. The government should deploy advanced surveillance measures, including drones and satellite monitoring, to track pipeline activity in real time. Artificial intelligence-powered systems should be integrated to detect and predict potential breaches, enabling swift intervention before significant damage occurs.

Additionally, community engagement programs should be established to involve residents in safeguarding pipeline infrastructure. When communities see themselves as stakeholders in protecting these assets, they will be more inclined to report suspicious activities and prevent sabotage. By implementing these measures, Nigeria can ensure that its pipeline system remains secure and fully operational.

Strengthening Anti-Corruption Measures:

Corruption has long been the biggest obstacle to Nigeria’s infrastructural development. Some stakeholders within the oil sector benefit from the inefficiencies of the current tanker-based distribution system and actively resist efforts to revive pipelines. To address this, the government must conduct a thorough audit and investigation into the past mismanagement of pipeline infrastructure. Strict penalties should be imposed on officials and private entities found guilty of sabotaging pipeline projects for personal gain.

Furthermore, a transparent regulatory framework must be established to oversee pipeline management and enforce accountability. By eliminating corruption and ensuring that infrastructure projects are executed with integrity, Nigeria can lay the foundation for a more efficient and sustainable fuel distribution system.

Encouraging Public-Private Partnerships (PPP):

Given the financial constraints facing the government, private-sector involvement is essential for the rehabilitation of Nigeria’s pipeline system. The government should create an enabling environment that encourages private companies to invest in fuel distribution infrastructure. This can be achieved by offering tax incentives and subsidies to companies willing to fund pipeline repairs and upgrades.

Additionally, legal protections and guarantees should be put in place to prevent undue political interference in private-sector investments. A well-structured profit-sharing model should also be introduced to ensure that investors have a sustainable stake in maintaining and expanding pipeline infrastructure. With the right policies, private-sector involvement can drive the restoration and expansion of Nigeria’s pipeline network without overburdening public finances.

Revising Policies for Efficient Fuel Distribution:

A national fuel distribution policy must be developed to prioritize pipeline transportation over road haulage. This policy should mandate the use of pipelines as the primary method of transporting petroleum products, limiting the role of long-haul tankers to regions where pipeline infrastructure is unavailable. Clear deadlines should be set for the rehabilitation of major pipelines and the establishment of new sub-depots to ensure an efficient, nationwide fuel distribution system.

Nigeria stands at a critical juncture in its energy distribution strategy. The continued reliance on long-haul fuel tankers has proven to be inefficient, costly, and hazardous, contributing to numerous road accidents, economic losses, and environmental damage. The solution lies in reviving and modernizing the country’s pipeline infrastructure—an approach that promises enhanced safety, economic efficiency, and improved quality of life for tanker drivers and the general public.

By investing in pipeline security, tackling corruption, fostering public-private partnerships, and implementing a national fuel distribution policy, Nigeria can transition to a safer and more efficient system. The benefits of this transition will be far-reaching, from reducing fuel transportation costs and vehicle maintenance expenses to minimizing road accidents and environmental hazards.

The time for action is now. The government, industry stakeholders, and private investors must collaborate to break free from outdated and dangerous fuel distribution practices.

Col Oluwadare (rtd.) writes from Nigerian Defence Academy, Kaduna