Opening Salvos

ATIKU ABUBAKAR
Obviously, the former Vice- President sees himself as a catalyst for change. Consider that as a time leaders of the core-north had expressed stern opposition to re-structuring the body politic, Atiku persisted in advancing it as the only viable panacea for the nation’s ills. Quite recently, Atiku warned about the dangers of ethnic bigotry and hate songs against particular ethnic groups.

Is dogged perseverance an Atiku virtue? Consider that in a state – Adamawa – that lacked tertiary institutions, he established one of the largest private universities in the country. After the turbulence of his last year as Obasanjo deputy, he gazed southwards for new business opportunities. At the under-used Port Harcourt sea outlet, he erected extensive shipping facilities.
Now, his attention, reportedly, has learned to the world of finance. He is said to be a leader of consortium that recently, bought Keystone Bank form AMCON.
If information holds true, then this foray into banking might result in a boost to medium-scale businesses.

BUHARI PARRIES AND SEEKS RE-ELECTION
President Buhari’s announcement, just before he jetted out to London on his annual leave, that he had bowed to pressure to seek re-election came as no surprise. In a declaration at a meeting of the National Executive Committee of the All Progressives Congress he said a second term would enable him to consolidate on his achievements. Some observers noted the absence of “Party Leader” Bola Tinubu, who should at least have been in attendance, at such an important NEC session.

Party congresses are scheduled for after the Ramadan. Would a new party chairman, replacing Odigie-Oyegun get on better with Tinubu?

Only time will tell. The crucial thing is that one part of the equation leading to the clash of 2019 seems now to have been settled.

Trying to shore-up his regime’s international standing – a visit to President Trump followed a meeting in London with British P.M., and then a “technical” stop-over in London. Nonetheless, a daunting task with instant news on social media and the internet.