FOREIGN TRIP: NEMESIS CAUGHT UP WITH GOVERNORS

Dear Editor,

FOREIGN TRIP: NEMESIS CAUGHT UP WITH GOVERNORS

Thanks to the Iceland volcanic ash that has restricted flight schedules from Europe in recent days; otherwise the public would not have known how their governors fleece them. A report in the front page of Daily Sun Tuesday April 20, 2010 had it that “Speaker, 5 Govs, others stranded abroad.....As volcanic ash persists”.

In the news report, it was mentioned that Speaker Dimeji Bankole, Governors Ohakim (Imo), Oshiomhole (Edo), Fashola (Lagos), Akpabio (Akwa Ibom) and Akala (Oyo) together with some aides of the acting President was all stranded overseas as a result of the persisting volcanic ash. It has earlier been reported that only Governors Ohakim, Amaechi and Oshiomhole (This Day April 14) were among the acting President’s entourage in his recent US visit. 

Governor Fashola’s case has been reported in the media that he went to deliver a lecture in the US and the former USA Ambassador to Nigeria, Carrington and wife, were seen with him at the occasion. Governor Akala, from grapevine, is said to have gone on a private visit and for his daughter’s graduation. Governor Akpabio was on a private visit and only strolled into one of the acting President’s programme while in the US but some media took it that he was part of the entourage before the above quoted This Day gave the correct information. 

In the media also, it was reported that Isa Yuguda of Bauchi was stranded in China. There was no report on why Dimeji Bankole travelled; but his may be private since the House was on Easter recess and our leaders now find it very convenient to jet out of the country for their holidays. Remember the Rilwanu Lukman’s during the Xmas fuel shortage which he went against then Vice-President’s instructions. Most State governors and other top government officials have been frequenting overseas countries as it they travel to the next town in their jurisdictions.

From: Alhaji Musa Salem, Aguiyi Ironsi Street, ABUJA.