General News

Navigating Away from the Abyss in the 2023 Nigerian Presidential Election

Published

3 years ago

April 11, 2023

Chike Onwuegbuchi

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By Austin Okere

Reading about the post-2023 Presidential election discourse in Nigeria is exasperating. The politicians have successfully steered the discourse away from logical discussions about our country’s development to emotional and divisive topics such as tribalism and religion. This tactic has been used to maintain the status quo by dividing the population.

People are willing to overlook the truth and blindly follow their tribal or religious affiliations. We have all been manipulated and will continue to be until we can break free from this narrow-minded way of viewing national issues.

History has taught us that following the paths of ethnic and religious bigotry leads us to no viable destination. The Rwandan Genocide serves as an example of the tragic outcome of such paths.

The genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda, also known as the Rwandan genocide, occurred during the Rwandan Civil War between April 7 and July 15, 1994. Over the course of about 100 days, armed Hutu militias killed members of the Tutsi minority ethnic group, as well as some moderate Hutu and Twa. The most widely accepted scholarly estimates put the number of Tutsi deaths between 500,000 to 662,000.

The Rwandan Patriotic Front (RPF), a rebel group mainly composed of Tutsi refugees, invaded northern Rwanda from Uganda in 1990, sparking the Rwandan Civil War. The conflict continued for three years without either side gaining a decisive advantage. In an attempt to end the war peacefully, Hutu President Juvénal Habyarimana signed the Arusha Accords with the RPF on August 4, 1993. However, Habyarimana’s assassination on April 6, 1994, created a power vacuum and ended the peace accords. Genocidal killings began the following day, initiated by majority Hutu soldiers, police, and militia who murdered key Tutsi and moderate Hutu military and political leaders. Despite the worldwide shock caused by the scale and brutality of the genocide, no country intervened to forcefully stop the killings.

I cite this example because of my belief that if we continue down the path of ratcheting up the caustic rhetoric that have pervaded the polity in the recent weeks, a similar outcome may not be far-fetched.

On the occasion of the one-year anniversary in office of Prof. Charles Soludo, Anambra State Governor, on March 19, 2023, Former Nigerian President, Olusegun Obasanjo condemned the anti-Igbo sentiments in Nigeria, which he called “Igbophobia”. In this context, It is important to recognize that the following constructs should not be viewed as interchangeable: Peter Obi, the Labour Party, the Obidient Movement, and the Igbo.

It seems that some individuals are mistakenly perceiving them to be one and the same, but this cannot be further from the truth. Here are the reasons why:

Although Peter Obi is the presidential candidate of the Labour Party, the party is not defined by any single individual. It is a diverse party with members from different tribes such as Hausa, Fulani, Yoruba, Igbo, and others who all share the party’s goal of actualising a mandate which they believe has been denied them by a flawed electoral process through legal means. It is unfair to single out the Igbo people in this regard.
The Labour Party includes people who are not Igbo, just as there are Igbo individuals in other parties besides the Labour Party. Die-hard Igbo supporters can be found in the All Progressives Congress, Peoples Democratic Party, and other parties, just as die-hard supporters of other tribes can be found in the Labour Party. The leadership of the Labour Party cuts across the diverse tribes in Nigeria.
The Obidient Movement includes individuals who are not necessarily associated with the Labour Party, such as Benue State Governor Samuel Ortom, a PDP Stalwart, Aisha Yusufu, the renowned activist, and many others. This movement represents the desire for change in Nigeria and a departure from the status quo that has led the country to this point. The majority of the youth population identifies with this movement, and it includes people from all tribes. During the #EndSARS protests, they spoke out for better governance and were urged to become more engaged in the political process, which they have done.
The Igbo people are an integral part of Nigeria, just like the Yoruba, Hausa, Fulani and other tribes. They transcend Peter Obi, the Labour Party, and the Obidient Movement. Failing to recognize these distinctions could lead to a dangerous blanket hatred against the Igbo people.

There are good and bad people in every tribe. Removing all Igbo individuals from Nigeria would not solve the country’s problems, just as removing individuals from any other tribe would not either. The current atmosphere of suspicion and fear between tribes is concerning. According to Saint Thomas Aquinas “Fear is such a powerful emotion for humans that when we allow it to take over us, it drives compassion right out of our hearts.”

It is not uncommon for election results to be disputed if there is a perception that the process was unfair. In such cases, the electoral laws provide for aggrieved parties to seek redress through the electoral tribunals and the courts.

We can draw valuable lessons from the examples of Kenya and Ghana. In Kenya, the Supreme Court nullified the results of the presidential election, while in Ghana, the Supreme Court upheld the results. These two cases demonstrate how electoral disputes can be resolved through legal means, and how important it is to have independent and impartial courts that can provide oversight and ensure the integrity of the electoral process. It is important for all parties to respect the rule of law and abide by the decisions of the courts, regardless of whether they agree with the outcome.Top of Form

On September 1, 2017, the BBC news site reported that the Supreme Court of Kenya cancelled the country’s presidential election held on August 8, 2017, citing irregularities, and ordered a new election to be held within 60 days.

The incumbent president, Uhuru Kenyatta, was declared the winner by a margin of 1.4 million votes by the election commission. However, the opposition leader, Raila Odinga, accused the commission of corruption and demanded resignations and prosecutions. President Kenyatta respected the court’s decision but called the judges “crooks.”

The annulment of an African presidential election as a result of an opposition court challenge appeared to be unprecedented. The Chief Justice, David Maraga, said that the election was not conducted according to the constitution and declared it “invalid, null and void.” The vote had raised fears of major political violence, as happened after a disputed poll in 2007. President Kenyatta called for calm and respect for the rule of law.

In contrast to Kenya, Ghana’s Supreme Court on March 04, 2021 upheld the victory of President Nana Akufo-Addo in the December 7, 2020 presidential election. Despite allegations of irregularities made by his opponent, former President John Mahama, the court found no merit in his claims and ruled in favour of Akufo-Addo, who had received 51.59% of the vote to Mahama’s 47.37%. Although Mahama accepted the court’s decision, he expressed disagreement with the trial process and ruling. Notably, this was only the second time that a Ghanaian presidential election had been formally contested by the losing candidate, with the previous case in 2012 involving a challenge by Akufo-Addo against then-incumbent Mahama’s victory.

From the above examples, it is important for any democracy to have a transparent and fair electoral process that is free from irregularities and malpractices. In cases where disputes arise, it is important to have an independent judiciary that can adjudicate such disputes based on the law and the evidence presented, rather than on political considerations.

Ultimately, the success of any democracy depends on the ability of its citizens and leaders to work together in good faith towards a common goal. This requires a commitment to the rule of law, respect for human rights, and a willingness to engage in constructive dialogue.

We need to pull back from the abyss. Every Nigerian should have the freedom to aspire to their greatest aspirations and the pursuit of happiness in any part of the country where they choose to live, as enshrined in our constitution. It is crucial to focus on the values that unite us as Nigerians, such as our shared history, culture, and aspirations for a better future.

This can help to build a sense of national unity and strengthen our democracy. It is also important to address the root causes of the current tensions and conflicts in the country, such as social inequality, economic hardship, and political exclusion. By addressing these issues, we can build a more just and equitable society that works for the benefit of all Nigerians.

The opinions expressed here are solely my own and do not represent any institution to which I have direct or indirect ties.

Austin Okere is a thought leader, and business mentor. Currently an Entrepreneur-in-Residence at Columbia Business School, New York, Austin has also facilitated at the United States International University in Kenya and has been appointed to the Advisory Board of the Global Business School Network in Washington in recognition of his contribution to the development of business education and knowledge transfer in Africa.

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FG to Balance Innovation with National Security with Stronger Drone Regulations

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2 hours ago

May 14, 2026

Ebere Melum-Nwogbo

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Federal government said it is committed to the implementation of stricter, more organized drone regulations to balance innovation with national security.

FG to Balance Innovation with National Security with Stronger Drone Regulations

This came as stakeholders at the 6th Dronetecx Conference and Exhibition in Lagos called for stronger regulation and a comprehensive national policy framework for unmanned aircraft systems as the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) launched a Drone Portal.

Speaking at the conference, representatives of Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development and NCAA, said Nigeria is intensifying efforts to balance innovation with national security as drone operations continue to expand across sectors such as agriculture, healthcare, oil and gas, logistics, construction and security.

Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, national security adviser, represented by Commodore Oscar Mbanu, deputy director, Defence Affairs, said the federal government had adopted a strict but innovation-friendly regulatory framework requiring security clearance, end-user certification and operational approval before drones can be deployed.

He disclosed that a multi-agency drone task force involving the NCAA, security agencies and other relevant bodies had been established to strengthen monitoring, enforcement and accountability, while the End-User Certificate system would help track imported drones and prevent misuse.

Also speaking, Mahmud Kambari, permanent secretary, Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, represented by Mrs Rubiyatu Aliu, director of Air Safety and Administration in the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, announced the launch of a new digital drone registration portal and Flyer ID scheme introduced by the NCAA in partnership with Dronetecx to improve oversight and proper registration of operators.

She urged drone operators to comply with regulatory requirements, warning that innovation must operate within the law.

Captain Chris Najomo, director general of NCAA, said the Federal Government was moving from policy discussions to implementation with plans to establish a comprehensive national drone policy and roadmap approved by Mr Festus Keyamo, minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development.

He noted that the framework would complement existing aviation regulations and provide clearer direction for investors and operators in the rapidly growing industry.

Mr Fortune Edu, conference organiser and founder of Dronetecx, said Nigeria must urgently position itself as a leading player in Africa’s emerging drone economy or risk losing opportunities to countries already advancing in the sector.

He explained that the proposed national framework would support innovation, research, advanced air mobility and job creation while preparing the country for future drone applications including cargo delivery and passenger transportation.

Stakeholders at the conference expressed optimism that stronger collaboration between government agencies and industry operators would accelerate the safe growth of drone technology and support national development.

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Olusi, BOI MD Harps on the Media as Nigeria’s Biggest Development Partner

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2 hours ago

May 14, 2026

Chike Onwuegbuchi

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Dr. Olasupo Olusi, the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Bank of Industry, has described the media as Nigeria’s most important development partner, noting that effective communication remains critical to national growth and institutional impact.

Speaking during an interactive session with media partners in Lagos, Olusi said journalists play a central role in shaping development outcomes by amplifying progress, accountability, and national aspirations.

“The media is the biggest agent of development anywhere,” he said. “Communicating what needs to be done and what has been done is critical in the journey of any development institution.”

Olusi used the engagement to unveil major milestones in BOI’s ongoing transformation agenda, which he said is focused on strengthening support for Nigeria’s private sector and driving inclusive economic growth.

On the BOI he met when he was appointed, Olusi said: “I inherited a very strong institution. The Bank of Industry was already one of the leading development finance institutions in Africa, and certainly a respected institution in Nigeria. I usually describe it as inheriting a Rolls-Royce.” He noted that the current leadership is innovating and repositioning the Bank to become even more effective in delivering long-term financing and developmental impact for Nigeria’s private sector.

“I came with the mindset of a development economist who truly believes in impact-making,” he said.

Olusi revealed that BOI has established an Impact Fund financed through a percentage of the Bank’s annual profits to support strategic national investments.

According to him, the Fund invested $15 million in the New Africa Medical Centre of Excellence in Abuja and N25 billion in the National Credit Guarantee Company (NCGC) to improve access to financing for MSMEs lacking collateral.

“The objective is to remove the long-standing barriers preventing small businesses from accessing finance,” he explained.

The BOI boss also announced plans to commence non-interest banking operations following final regulatory approvals from the Central Bank of Nigeria.

He said the initiative would provide inclusive financing options for Nigerians who prefer non-interest financial products.

In addition, Olusi disclosed that BOI has established more than 20 youth and skills hubs nationwide focused on ICT, agro-processing, fashion, printing, and entrepreneurship development.

“These hubs are designed to help young Nigerians learn, innovate, package products, and eventually establish sustainable businesses,” he stated.

Reaffirming BOI’s commitment to Nigeria’s economic transformation, Olusi said the Bank remains focused on creating measurable impact across communities and sectors nationwide.

“The opportunities for making a difference in Nigeria are enormous across all sectors and spheres of life,” he added.

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Google Just Changed Android Forever With 12 New Gemini-Powered Features

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2 hours ago

May 14, 2026

Ugo Onwuaso

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Google’s annual I/O developer conference is a hub for exciting product updates. This year, “The Android Show: I/O Edition” offered an early preview of Android’s future. Packed with groundbreaking news, these updates will transform our Android interactions. Android, the world’s most popular OS with over 3 billion active devices, continues to innovate, bringing practical benefits and new possibilities.

Google

For people in Nigeria, these advancements promise easier, safer, and more personal digital lives driven by Gemini Intelligence. From handing off your to-do list to unbreakable theft protection, dive into how Android’s 12 latest offerings will empower users across the continent:
1. Hand Off Your To-Do List with Gemini App Automation

Google is introducing Task Automation, allowing Gemini to navigate multi-step tasks across your apps so you can focus on other things. Instead of manually switching between apps and copying data, you can simply point your camera at a travel brochure in a hotel lobby and say, “Find a tour like this on Expedia for a group of six.” You can also long-press your power button over a grocery list in your notes app and ask Gemini to build a shopping cart with all the items for delivery. Gemini handles the logistics in the background while keeping you in complete control.

Availability: Already in beta on S26 and P10 Pro devices, and launching on Galaxy Fold8 and Pixel 11 later this year.

2. Speak Naturally with “Rambler” (Powered by Gemini)

Google is announcing Rambler, a revolutionary voice typing feature in Gboard that captures your underlying intent rather than just transcribing your exact words. Because we don’t always speak the way we want to write, Rambler lets you talk naturally—including self-corrections, repeats, and filler words like “ums” and “ahs”—and turns those raw thoughts into a polished, concise message. It is built for a global community and can seamlessly switch between multiple languages, like blending English and Hindi, within a single sentence.

Availability: Rolling out first to Pixel devices starting in Q3 2026.

3. A Personal Browsing Assistant with Gemini in Chrome

Google is announcing a built-in personal browsing assistant for Chrome on Android, designed to help you research and understand web content without ever leaving the app. By tapping the Gemini icon on your toolbar, the assistant opens at the bottom of your display so you can ask specific questions about the webpage you are currently viewing. Whether you need a quick summary of a long article or a detailed explanation of a complex topic, this tool seamlessly enhances your mobile web experience.

Availability: Rolling out to select Android 12+ devices with 4GB+ of RAM in the U.S. starting at the end of June.

4. Instant Image Customization with Nano Banana

Google is introducing Nano Banana, an innovative feature that lets you instantly create and customize images directly within your Chrome browser. For example, if you are studying for an online exam, you can simply ask your browsing assistant to turn a text-heavy page into an informative infographic. Similarly, if you are scrolling through apartment listings, you can ask the assistant to alter a photo of an empty room to include modern living room essentials, allowing you to instantly visualize ideas on the go.

Availability: Available in Chrome for Android starting next month.

5. Share with Anyone Using Quick Share & AirDrop

Google is announcing a massive expansion to Quick Share, making it compatible with AirDrop to solve the universal hassle of sharing files between different phone brands. If you are at a family gathering and want to share a video with friends using iOS, you can simply use Quick Share on your Android phone to generate a QR code. Scanning this code lets you instantly share high-quality media across devices via the cloud, breaking down the barriers between operating systems.

Availability: Expanding to more partners including Samsung, OPPO, OnePlus, Vivo, Xiaomi, and HONOR this year.

6. OSmosis: Wireless iOS-to-Android Transfer

Google is announcing OSmosis, a completely overhauled, wireless iOS-to-Android transfer process that makes switching phones easier than ever. You can now wirelessly migrate your passwords, photos, messages, favorite apps, contacts, and even your precise homescreen layout directly from your iPhone to your new Android device without needing a cable.

Availability: Launching first on new Samsung Galaxy and Google Pixel devices later this year.

7. Pro-Grade Creator Tools Natively on Instagram

Google is announcing an expanded partnership with Meta to bring pro-level camera and editing features natively to the Instagram app on Android flagships. Android creators can now enjoy Ultra HDR capture for lifelike, vibrant colors, along with built-in video stabilization to keep footage smooth while walking or dancing. The update also includes deep Night Sight integrations, ensuring you can capture the perfect shot even in the dimmest settings.

Availability: Rolling out to flagship devices throughout Q3 and Q4 2026.

8. Reclaim Your Time with “Pause Point”

Google is introducing Pause Point, a new digital wellbeing tool designed to help you stop mindless, autopilot scrolling. When you try to open an app you have identified as distracting, Pause Point gives you a mandatory 10-second breather to ask yourself, “Why am I here?” During this pause, you can do a quick breathing exercise or set a strict timer for your app usage. To ensure you stick to your goals, turning the feature off completely requires you to restart your phone.

Availability: Available in Q4 2026 across all countries and languages.

9. Unbreakable Biometric Theft Protection

Google is announcing a powerful new anti-theft measure that enhances the “Mark as lost” feature with biometric authentication. If your device is snatched, you can now lock it using your fingerprint or face in addition to the standard passcode. This provides an immediate, unbreakable layer of security, meaning that even if a thief spied on your PIN before stealing your phone, they will not be able to turn off device tracking or re-access your personal data.

Availability: Rolling out as a built-in feature on devices running Android 17.

10. Express Yourself with Noto 3D Emoji

Google is announcing Noto 3D, a massive update to the way we express ourselves with nearly 4,000 newly designed emoji. Moving away from flat 2D icons, these new 3D emoji bring a touch of physicality and weight to your digital conversations. Whether you are sending a wrapped burrito or a joyful smile, this visually vibrant collection bridges the digital divide, representing the difference between a message simply being received and a true presence felt.

Availability: Available across Google platforms, starting with Pixel phones later this year.

11. Fill Out Forms in a Single Tap with Gemini Personal Intelligence

Google is announcing an evolution to Autofill with Google, powered by Gemini’s Personal Intelligence. This new feature allows Android to automatically fill in complex forms across your apps and Chrome browser. By securely pulling relevant information from your connected apps or saved photos—such as passport details or frequent flyer numbers—your device saves you from the universal hassle of typing out tiny text on a mobile screen.

Availability: Rolling out in Q2 2026 for phones, and Q4 2026 for laptops and tablets.

12. Build Custom Widgets with Gemini Intelligence

Google is introducing Create My Widget, taking the first step in generative UI to give you more ways to make your device truly yours. You can now build entirely custom widgets just by describing what you want using natural language. For example, a meal prepper can ask for a widget that suggests high-protein recipes every week, or a cyclist can create a weather dashboard that surfaces exact wind speed and rain stats right on the home screen.
Availability: Launching in Q3 2026 for phones, watches, laptops, and tablets.

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