By Abiodun Komolafe

It is a settled fact that Anthony Eromosele Enahoro (July 22, 1923 – December 15, 2010) was an outstanding product of Nigeria’s pre-independence era. Enahoro moved one of the motions for independence and there’s a lot for us to look at in the context of the life he lived and the political firmament that brought him up. Therefore, remembering this Father of Nigerian Nationalism is to reminisce about an era where courage and conviction were the
currencies of change.

As a pioneering journalist, politician and champion of independence, Enahoro’s unwavering commitment to Nigeria’s self-rule has left an enduring legacy that continues to inspire generations. His remarkable story is a testament to the transformative power of leadership, perseverance and the unrelenting pursuit of freedom.

Building on his legacy as a champion of independence, Enahoro went on to serve in various capacities, including as Minister of Information and Labour. He was later tried alongside Obafemi Awolowo and others for treasonable felony, a trial that became infamous in Nigerian history. Although convicted, Enahoro was later released and continued to play a significant role in shaping Nigeria’s political landscape. 

Enahoro was an outstanding nationalist and a principled person, and this was evident in his involvement with the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO). Of course, there was no need for him and Alfred Rewane to have been involved in the struggle for the enthronement of democracy, particularly in the aftermath of the annulled June 12, 1993 presidential election won by MKO Abiola as they had too much to lose!. But they risked everything to fight for popular democracy, Although Rewane ultimately lost his life in the struggle, Enahoro was fortunate to have escaped the same fate.

Despite the risks and challenges, Enahoro remained unbending in his convictions, refusing to waver even in the face of adversity. As a gifted individual, he recognized that the issue at hand was not just about the violation of an individual's rights, but an affront to democracy and national sovereignty. He, along with Alfred Rewane and others fought for principles, not personalities. This commitment to principle was evident in their diverse backgrounds: Enahoro was a Christian from Uromi in Edo State, with Esan extraction; Rewane was a Christian of Urhobo descent from Delta State; and Abiola, whose rights they fought for, was a Muslim Yorubaman, from Ogun State. Unlike some NADECO members who howled with the wolves and bleated with the sheep for convenience, Enahoro was not
duplicitous. Unlike the crop of Janjaweeds who now populate our political landscape, he remained steadfast, refusing to compromise his values.

Olajumoke Ogunkeyede, a close ally of Enahoro, described him as “a man with a seriously fantastic sense of humour; Ogunkeyede, fondly called JMK, shared several instances of Enahoro’s ability to bring joy to those around him. His humorous takes on serious issues, such as the demons in Abuja, showcased his wit. Moreover, his clever commentaries, including his defence of now-President Bola Tinubu’s aspirations, and his ingenious use of allegories and analogies, like; Ogbuefi; and; Ogbueniyan’, collectively attested to the capacity of his wit and charm.

When writing about individuals like Enahoro, Rewane, Herbert Macaulay, Awolowo, Aminu Kano, Maitama Sule, and others, it’s essential to consider the context in which they lived. This context is bittersweet, as they represented an era where political activism was rooted in philosophical positions and guided by principles.

People during this time held strong convictions and were willing to make sacrifices for their beliefs. That’s why society was more orderly in their time, and it achieved proper sustainable development, unlike today where what we have is largely ‘growth without development’, to be polite, or, if we want to be impolite, ‘the development of underdevelopment’. Amidst this, our leaders continue to sing the same old, worn-out refrain while satiating a vacuous idolatry that elevates an ego bereft of substance, a hollow monolith that stands on feet of clay.

If we look at people like Enahoro and Adegoke Adelabu, their lives exemplified a paradox that underscored the tenuous relationship between knowledge and credentials. This was because, despite lacking university degrees, they possessed a profound intellectual depth that eluded many of their contemporaries who boasted an array of impressive certifications, forgetting that it is not the parchment that confers wisdom, but the depth of one's inquiry, the rigour of one's thought and the breadth of one’s understanding.

Enahoro became the youngest editor of Nnamdi Azikiwe's newspaper, the Southern Nigerian Defender, in 1944 at the age of 21 while Peter, his younger brother, became the editor of The Morning Star at the age of 23. The older Enahoro also worked with other publications, including Daily Comet and West African Pilot before parting ways with Azikiwe, whom he always referred to as his chairman, while Awolowo was his political leader. The reasons behind this preference are intriguing, but that’s a story for another time.

These early experiences laid the foundation for Enahoro’s later involvement with the Action Group (AG), a political party that shared his vision of ‘making life more abundant.’ Enahoro and the AG represented an understanding that the process of economic development must be structured and based on a philosophical thrust. In contrast, what is absurdly described as ‘politics’ today is terribly bad and basically transactional; and it’s driven by a cash-and-
carry mentality, where individuals seek to outdo one another in a chop-and-quench; political economy! No unity! No discipline! No structure! For them, any goose can cackle and any fly can find a sore place!

Looking at the plane, Enahoro’s life and career epitomized the complexities of Nigeria’s struggle for
independence and democracy. His life and work embodied the intersection of individual agency and structural forces that steered the trajectory of nations. As a prominent anti-colonial and pro- democracy activist, he played a pivotal role in the country’s transition from colonial rule to independence. The Adolor of Uromi and the Adolor of Onewa was a vocal critic of authoritarianism and a strong advocate for human rights. His perseverance in the face of resistance, setbacks and imprisonment demonstrates the dedication required to bring about
transformative change.

In moments of emotions and situations, we often discover our true strength and resilience. Enahoro has gone to the ages but his legacy continues to inspire, much like Abraham Lincolns. In simpler terms, he was a brave soul who dared to challenge the colonial powers. So, his legacy should serve as inspiration and role model for future generations, demonstrating the potential for excellence that exists within individuals and communities. In fairness to fate, Enahoro and his contemporaries were well-prepared for the liberation movement, thanks to their involvement in the West African Students Union (WASU) and their time at King’s College, Lagos. This institution, attended by Enahoro and Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu, was a hotbed for political activism and discourse. To truly reboot, Nigerians must remember the personal histories of pioneers like Enahoro.

Today, we remember Enahoro, a pioneering figure who dared to dream of independence for Nigeria. We honour not only his significant contributions to Nigeria’s history but also his untiring commitment to democracy, self-determination and human rights. As we remember him and his dogged commitment to federalism and the quest for social justice, it is in our best interest to recreate the ethos and the spirit which created him and people like him.
May Anthony Enahoro’s spirit soar on the wings of eternal peace!

May his memory continue to serve as a testament to the enduring impact of individual agency
on the course of national history!

May the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world, grant us peace in Nigeria!

*KOMOLAFE wrote from Ijebu-Jesa, Osun State, Nigeria (ijebujesa@yahoo.co.uk)

By Ismaila Isah

In his recent statement following the renewal of trade negotiations with Germany, British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer described a political reset not as a reversal of the existing order but as a shift towards improvement in the interest of the people. A political reset, in essence, is an audacious reordering of systems, infusing fresh ideas, vigour, and transformative tendencies.

Kogi State’s ranking ahead of major economic hubs such as Lagos, Kano, Rivers, Kaduna, and Oyo in three of the last four years—including 2024—is a clear indicator of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo’s reset agenda. This agenda builds upon the foundations established by the former Governor Yahaya Bello’s administration.

According to the FATE Institute’s annual State of Entrepreneurship in Nigeria reports (2021-2024), Kogi has consistently ranked among the top five most entrepreneurial states in Nigeria. This accomplishment is unparalleled by any other state or the Federal Capital Territory, noted prominent academics of Kogi origin from the diaspora. Led by Associate Professor Adams Adeiza of MILA University in Malaysia, the professor told LugardTV in an interview that it is evident that Kogi’s leadership—spanning successive administrations over the past nine years—has made it a beacon of entrepreneurship and business development.

The state’s rise to the top as one of Nigeria’s most business-friendly destinations is directly linked to an enabling environment that promotes economic growth. Governor Ododo’s leadership is at the forefront of this transformation. His government’s commitment to security and investment-friendly policies has set the stage for Kogi to become a thriving economic hub.

At the heart of Kogi’s economic renaissance are two transformative factors: an unwavering commitment to security and the aggressive yet humane leadership of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo. His proactive stance in ensuring that the state is open for business has attracted numerous investors and created a conducive environment for the growth of critical sectors. His role as the state’s chief marketing officer has been instrumental in positioning Kogi as a destination for economic opportunity.

Kogi’s reset agenda is being further strengthened by initiatives such as the establishment of the Kogi State Electricity Regulatory Commission, the Kogi State Mineral Resources Development Agency, the Kogi State Commodity Exchange, the Kogi State Anti-Corruption Agency, and the Kogi State Information Technology Development Agency. These agencies, along with the recent approval of the Ministry of Livestock Development, agro-industrial processing zones, the upgrade of the Zariagi airstrip to an international airport, and the establishment of a world-class industrial park, are laying the groundwork for an era of industrialization and commercialization in the state.

Governor Ododo’s administration has introduced an array of progressive initiatives, including the mechanization of agriculture in over 70 farm clusters, the construction of over 400 kilometers of roads, and the implementation of a new minimum wage of N72,500 for civil servants. Additionally, nearly half a million civil servants, pensioners, and vulnerable groups have been enrolled in formal sector benefits, including free health insurance coverage. These efforts reflect a strong focus on human capital development, security, and infrastructural growth.

The state’s commitment to environmental sustainability is also evident in the ongoing land reclamation efforts and the Agroclimatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscape (ACReSAL) initiative, which has empowered over 800 farmers and cooperative groups.

Governor Ododo’s administration has abolished the culture of abandoned projects by ensuring the completion of key infrastructural developments, including the 9-kilometer Zone 8-GYB Roundabout road, as well as major upgrades to model secondary schools and the construction of critical public facilities such as the Lokoja International Market, the Audit House, and the Governor’s Conference Center.

As the fifth executive governor of Kogi State, Governor Ododo has made significant strides in enhancing the state’s business environment. He has streamlined regulatory processes, reduced bureaucratic bottlenecks, and invested in infrastructure—roads, power, education, healthcare, and digital connectivity—that supports economic activities and ensures the security of lives and property.

Entrepreneurs in Kogi are now benefitting from one of the most supportive environments in Nigeria. The state has consistently ranked highly for its innovation and technology adoption, making it a hub for tech-driven enterprises. This is evident in the state’s top ranking for business opportunities and entrepreneurial optimism, placing it ahead of economic powerhouses such as Lagos, Kano, Rivers, and Kaduna.

Kogi’s top performance in fostering an entrepreneurial ecosystem has drawn the attention of both local and foreign investors. With its ongoing SME support programmes and an emphasis on sustaining an enabling business environment, Kogi is actively inviting entrepreneurs, investors, and innovators to explore the vast opportunities the state offers. Whether you are a startup founder, a tech entrepreneur, or an investor seeking untapped markets, Kogi welcomes you with open arms.

Kogi State’s emergence as a top entrepreneurial destination is no accident. It is the result of visionary leadership, strategic investments, and a steadfast commitment to growth and transformation. As the state continues to build on this solid foundation, it is poised to become the economic powerhouse of North-Central Nigeria.

Join us in celebrating Kogi’s remarkable journey—a state where entrepreneurship thrives, opportunities abound, and progress is not just a vision, but a reality.

Ismaila Isah is the Special Adviser on Media to the Governor of Kogi State

Tennessee lawmaker proposes amendment that would allow Trump to run for 3rd term

Could President Donald Trump run for a third term?

One Republican lawmaker wants to make President Trump eligible to run for a third time. Can it be done?

The Brief
Rep. Andy Ogles, a Republican from Tennessee, proposed a resolution that would allow President Donald Trump to run for a third term.

Ogles said Trump “has proven himself to be the only figure in modern history capable of reversing our nation’s decay…”
The U.S. Constitution is famously difficult to amend.
A Tennessee representative has introduced a resolution that would allow President Donald Trump to serve a third term.

Rep. Andy Ogles, R-Tenn., wants to amend the 22nd Amendment of the U.S. Constitution so the country “can sustain the bold leadership our nation so desperately needs,” according to a Thursday news release.

Ogles’ suggested amendment
According to Ogles, his suggested amendment would read:

“No person shall be elected to the office of the President more than three times, nor be elected to any additional term after being elected to two consecutive terms, and no person who has held the office of President, or acted as President, for more than two years of a term to which some other person was elected President shall be elected to the office of the President more than twice.”

What they’re saying:

Ogles argued that it was “imperative” to provide Trump with “every resource necessary to correct the disastrous course set by the Biden administration.”

“President Trump has shown time and time again that his loyalty lies with the American people and our great nation above all else. He is dedicated to restoring the republic and saving our country, and we, as legislators and as states, must do everything in our power to support him,” Ogles said.

What is the 22nd Amendment?
The 22nd Amendment, ratified in 1951, prevents a person from serving as president for more than two terms.

It was passed by Congress in 1947 in response to Franklin Delano Roosevelt winning four terms in the White House. Roosevelt died the year after he was elected to his fourth term in the 1944 presidential election.

Amending the Constitution is not easy
There have been about 11,000 proposed amendments to the Constitution and only 27 have actually gone through since it was drafted in 1787, and that includes the first 10 amendments that came four years later, known as the Bill of Rights, according to the Truman Library.

A vast majority of proposed amendments die in committees and subcommittees.

Why you should care:
The Constitution has virtually no chance of being ratified, but this recent resolution shows the loyalty some of the GOP has to Trump.

Trump even made comments about serving a third term to House Republicans during a closed-door speech late last year, but multiple sources who attended the event told Fox News Digital that the then-president-elect was joking.

While campaigning last year, Trump made comments telling an audience of Christians that they “won’t have to vote anymore” once he was elected president.

During an interview later with FOX News’ Laura Ingraham, Trump tried to clarify his comments, saying Christians don’t vote in large numbers.

Trump made similar comments at another Christian-focused event, in which he lamented the voting rates of Christians and implored them to participate in the election.

“In four years, you don’t have to vote, OK? In four years, don’t vote. I don’t care,” he said.

The process
Dig deeper:
Firstly, the president has no power over this process.
A proposal can be introduced by either the Congress with a two-thirds majority vote in both houses or by a constitutional convention called for by two-thirds of the State legislatures.

(None of the 27 amendments to the Constitution have been proposed by constitutional convention, according to the National Archives website).

The proposal is then sent to the National Archives and Records Administration’s (NARA) Office of the Federal Register (OFR) for processing and publication.

The OFR adds any legislative history notes and puts together an information package for the states about the proposal.

The NARA then sends the proposal to state governors for their review.

The governors then submit the proposal to their state legislatures or states can call for a convention, depending on what Congress asks for.

Once a state ratifies or rejects a proposed amendment, it gets sent back to the NARA for authentication.

The OFR will retain all documents until each state submits their adoptions or rejections.

A proposed amendment will only become part of the Constitution if it is ratified by three-fourths of the states (38 of 50).

If the OFR receives enough to go on with the amendment, it drafts a formal proclamation for the NARA to certify that the amendment is valid, and it will then become part of the Constitution.

The Source: Information for this article was gathered from FOX News, the Pew Research Center, the Harry S. Truman Library and Museum website, the National Archive website, the National Conference of State Legislatures website, and a news release from Rep. Andy Ogles’ website. This story was reported from Los Angeles.