A paramount ruler in Nigeria’s North East, Shehu of Borno, Alhaji Abubakar Ibn Umar Garbai El-Kanemi has urged stakeholders to join hands to revive western education sector in the state. The Shehu’s appeal followed a courtesy call at his palace by a team from anticorruption crusader, Wadata Media and Advocacy Centre (WAMAC) with the host partner radio station, Peace FM 105.1, on the sidelines of a Town Hall Meeting in the state capital, Maiduguri. He expressed joy over the visit by WAMAC team and urged them to continue with the good work they do, which dwelled on anti-corruption and promotion of accountability. “No segregation in my palace, so I love corruption fighters” Shehu of Borno said. According to the royal majesty, although Borno State is left far behind in terms of western education due to 15 years of insurgency, he is confident of positive change with joint effort towards promoting inclusive education in the post-insurgency period. WAMAC’s Borno Town Hall The Town Hall Meeting in July at the state capital, Maiduguri sparked new inclusivity and accountability initiatives in Borno state education. It highlighted the urgent need for an inclusive educational environment, emphasizing that all citizens, regardless of gender, culture, or religion, must have access to education. The event, supported by the MacArthur Foundation, forms part of the organisation’s effort on anticorruption, themed “Inclusivity and Accountability in Borno State Public Education Sector in the Post-Insurgency Recovery Effort.” Executive Director of WAMAC, Zubair Abdurra’uf Idris is positive that the situation calls for education to be prioritized and inclusivity seen as essential for the state’s development, especially as it recovers from the devastation caused by insurgency. “We must acknowledge that the conflict has disproportionately affected vulnerable groups, including girls, children with disabilities, and those from marginalized communities mostly displaced by the Boko Haram Insurgency. Therefore, our focus on inclusivity and accountability in education is not only a moral imperative but a necessary step towards rebuilding a more equitable and just society. By ensuring that every child has access to quality education, regardless of their background or circumstances, we can unlock their potential and empower them to become active contributors to our state’s growth and development.” Idris said. Borno State Rallies for Inclusive and Accountable Education The push to combat corruption and promote inclusivity in Borno State’s public education sector have become essential for the state’s development, especially as it recovers from the devastation caused by insurgency. A diverse group of stakeholders from the north-east Nigerian state, including media representatives, civil society organizations, people with disabilities, traditional rulers, community and faith-based organizations, and key government agencies raised this point at the town hall. Guest Speaker, Prof. Abdulkarim Ishaq says it is important to pay attention not just to student intake in schools, but also to attendance of students to ensure they remain in school until the time of their graduation Prof. Ishaq from Department of Education, University of Maiduguri also explained that involvement of all parties is needed to make things work better. “We should be able to advocate for policy reform that institutionalize inclusivity.” “If you are not part of it, there’s nothing you can do, there’s nothing you can say that these people should and ought to account for it, but if you say you are a stakeholder, you are part of it, then, definitely, you can draw their attention to be accountable.” He said. Communiqué The meeting recognized Borno State government’s efforts in mitigating infrastructure shortfalls due to insurgency and advocated for continued investment in education, teacher training, and a curriculum that provides equitable access for all societal strata. Gender, culture and religion inclusivity was part of an eleven-point communique by the diverse group of stakeholders at the town hall. Also included was the necessity for education of girls and people with special needs through scholarships and university enrollments, highlighting their critical role in the economic and political development of society. The Town Hall advocated for effective communication between the media, civil society and security agencies and traditional rulers to promote peaceful co-existence that will enhance security and intelligent sharing in schools environment through the Safer School Programme. Traditional and religious leaders were urged to spearhead efforts in revitalizing family values to address corruption. Accountability was another focal point, with participants calling for stringent monitoring of budget allocations and expenditures to ensure transparency and curtail corruption. The active involvement of the community, civil society, youth groups, women, professional unions and other stakeholders in the oversight of educational services was deemed crucial to achieving these goals. WAMAC’s train on anti-corruption has been going round Nigeria’s six geo-political zones – Niger, Akwa-Ibom, Kwara, Kano, Ebonyi, and Ondo States earlier in the year, with focus on different anti-corruption themes. The end of first half of the year was in Ondo State, where the Town Hall discussed – “holding the government accountable on abandoned projects: a civic responsibility”. The train on anti-corruption moves from Borno to Adamawa – another North East state of Nigeria.
Ruling on Local Government Autonomy: WAMAC Urges Stakeholders to Rise to the Occasion
[Abuja, Nigeria – July 12, 2024] – Anticorruption Crusader and good governance advocate, Wadata Media and Advocacy Centre (WAMAC)], applauds Thursday’s Supreme Court ruling on the autonomy of local governments in Nigeria. We see this as a major breakthrough for democratic governance and grassroots development in the country. As a non-governmental organization dedicated to advocating for accountability and the amplification of voices against corruption, using local languages, we are particularly encouraged by the ruling’s potential to empower citizens at the grassroots level. We believe that local government autonomy provides improved opportunities for community participation in governance, and enhanced public service delivery, with the subsequent development outcomes. For too long, some local governments have been suffering under the undue control of their state governments, resulting in mismanagement of resources, widespread corruption, to the detriment of the people. The Supreme Court’s decision is now a turning point to put things right and ensure that local governments can operate independently and in the best interest of their communities. The ruling has therefore set the scene for more accountable, transparent, and effective administration at the local level, so, we call on all stakeholders, including state governments, to fully respect and implement it. WAMAC also urges local government officials to rise to the occasion by fulfilling their obligation to serve their communities, shunning corruption and other anti-development activities. In addition, we are concerned about inclusive communication and the need for every citizen to be carried along in relation to the information about the implications of local government autonomy. We believe that disseminating the info in local languages across Nigeria will help ensure that all citizens, regardless of their background, are informed and can actively participate in the governance process. Once again, while we commend the Supreme Court for this judgement, WAMAC stands ready to support local governments in autonomy as we all work towards a Nigeria where amplified citizen’s voice shuts up corruption and speeds up development. Zubair Abdurra’uf Idris Executive Director July 12, 2024
A Call for Education Summit: Advancing Educational Reform in Ebonyi
Education stakeholders in Ebonyi State are uniting their voices in a call for a summit to confront and resolve pressing issues in the sector. This follows a Town Hall Meeting by anticorruption crusader, Wadata Media and Advocacy Centre, WAMAC on the issue of “TEACHER ABSENTEEISM IN EBONYI STATE’S PUBLIC SCHOOLS: ROLE OF COMMUNITIES IN ADDRESSING THE MENACE” The programme, with the support of MacArthur Foundation, took place in Ebonyi State capital, Abakiliki on the 11th of May 2024. How it affects the Students For some students from Abakaliki High School and Urban Model Secondary School present at the Town Hall, the issue of teacher absenteeism is of great concern to them. Vivian Nwokporo and Christian Amiara explained that when a teacher is not showing up for class at the basic education level, many children tend to lack engagement, and focus, thereby missing opportunities to learn. This missed learning also has its long term consequences. Issues Needing Attention The theme for the discussion was based on investigative production by WAMAC’s partner radio station, Radio Nigeria, Unity FM 101.5, Abakiliki, which brought to the fore issues of teacher absenteeism in the state. Their co-produced program with WAMAC in local languages of lgbo and Pidgin – “Nnyopu” and “Eagle Eye”, investigated the recurring allegations of teacher absenteeism. A revealing clip from the program further exposed the severity of the issue. “Nnyopu visited two schools in Ishielu Local Government Area of Ebonyi State and the observations confirmed that some teachers do not go to school. One of them is Community Junior Secondary School Nkalagu, which has a total of eighteen teachers but only three teachers were in the school at eleven o’clock in the morning.” “A look at the time book reveals that five teachers had signed their names on the register but were not there alongside the Principal. “ “A further look at their attendance the previous days showed that the highest attendance they had recorded since the new term commenced on the 8th of January this year is nine teachers on a particular day but with an average attendance of five per day.” The scenario was also reported to be similar to the situation at Community Junior Secondary School Umuhali, which has eight teachers but at the time Nnyopu visited only two teachers were in school. Although a teacher explained that most of his colleagues had genuine reasons for their non-availability at the time, there were few who actually absent themselves from duty often, and without due process followed. WAMAC Anticorruption Stand Executive Director of WAMAC, Zubair Abdurra’uf Idris urged various communities to own the fight against corruption and demand for accountability. “The task of fighting Corruption is not limited to anti-corruption bodies alone, civil societies as well as community organizations and individuals have greater role to play to minimize the cankerworm of corruption, either we do it or we perish.” You Can Also Read: Cultural Accountability and Collective Responsibility Against Corruption In the last five years, WAMAC with the support of McArthur Foundation has embarked on advocacy through investigative reporting and programmes on alleged corruption, accountability and the promotion of good governance in partnership with 12 radio stations across the six geo-political zones in Nigeria, in local languages. Idris, therefore, urged community leaders and Non-Governmental Organizations to cooperate with the journalists in the production of investigative reports on the fight against corruption. “Community members and radio listeners will be engaged in anti-corruption dialogue and discourse to achieve maximum result. While communities are obliged to own the fight against corruption. Equally, we urge the public, journalists and CSOs to make use of the Freedom of Information Act which ensures participatory democracy, promotion of transparency and accountability in the affairs of government.” WAMAC executive director said. The Perspective of an Educationist Greg Esheya, the guest lecturer at the Town Hall is the Head of Department, Educational Foundations, Ebonyi State College of Education, Ikwo. Eshaya affirms that to nip absenteeism and other teacher-student related-ills in the system, education authorities in the state should effectively engage parents and community members to take ownership of the schools in their environments “They can rally community and religious leaders, PTA bodies, youth and women organizations as watch-dogs and advocacy groups for best practices in our public schools.” “PTA unions must be strengthened to play active roles in discipline among teachers and students. Old boys and girls of various schools must take greater interest in what happens in their alma mater to stem the tide of indiscipline among teachers and students.” The educationist, however, said that overcrowded classrooms, lack of basic items such as text books, writing materials, desks, tables, “can be frustrating enough to cause absenteeism and tardiness”, and as such, improving the teaching environment and reward is necessary. “Agencies of education and education supervisors should cultivate the habit of taking the needs of teachers into view during field supervision exercises. Merely checking lesson notes and attendance registers does not explain reasons for absenteeism.“ Esheya said Communiqué Critical stakeholders at the Town Hall include officials of Ebonyi State Basic and Tertiary Education, All Nigeria Conference of Principals of Secondary Schools, students, tertiary educations lecturers, local government chairmen, The Nigerian Police Force, the Media, Civil Society Organizations, Persons with Disabilities, Market Women Association, Community Based Organizations, and Faith Based Organizations After presentations and discussions on the theme of the Town Hall Meeting, some resolutions were made to fast-track the Fight Against Corruption and promote Good Governance through Community Participation The Town Hall Meeting in Ebonyi State, described ‘Absenteeism of Teachers in Public Schools’ as a disaster and threat to education development in the state and called for empowerment of teachers through grants to boost their morale and enhance their productivity to teach in classrooms Lack of effective supervision and monitoring of schools and teachers in Ebonyi state was also identified as reasons for absenteeism of teachers in classrooms and called on the State Universal Education Board and Secondary Education Board to improve mechanism for learning and stop
Cultural Accountability and Collective Responsibility Against Corruption
A traditional Ruler in Kano, North West Nigeria, Zannan Kano, Alh. Tijjani Ado Bayero has joined calls for citizens to always speak with one voice against corruption, saying its consequences are far-reaching. Ado Bayero’s call came after anti-corruption crusader, Wadata Media and Advocacy Centre, (WAMAC) convened a Town Hall Meeting in the heart of Kano city. WAMAC’s anticorruption train with funding from MacArthur Foundation, has been moving around the country’s six geo-political zones for more than four years and arrived in Kano again in April 2024. The Town Hall focused on “Harnessing Collective Action Against Corruption: Strengthening Public Perception and Attitudes.” WAMAC’s partner, Freedom Radio Kano, 99.5, broadcasts investigative stories, one of which had the non-teaching trade union of the state university speaking up against corruption in the institution, resulting in the state government setting up an investigative panel that exposed alleged corrupt practices by the institution’s leadership. Read More: WAMAC’s Moving Train on Anti-Corruption Brings Bottom-Up Approach to Kwara Executive Director of WAMAC, Zubair Abdurra’uf Idris in his opening remark noted that “lack of accountability, misconnect and mistrust among citizens and their leaders whether politicians or traditional institutions has generated a lot of hardship, hunger, diseases and further insecurity in the country today.” He raised the issue about behaviours of the leadership and elites igniting corrupt tendencies in society. “Few weeks ago many people thronged to the streets carrying placards for lack of basic necessities and hunger.” “Despite all these protests, only few governments roll out palliative measures to ameliorate the suffering of the masses. Our Honourables and Distinguished members of the legislative arm of government both at the state and national level, despite the economic meltdown are still conducting themselves in a flamboyant life that outstrips their earnings. These behaviors amid economic reality, no doubt stimulate anger and disobedience by the larger society.” the WAMACThe Executive Director emphasized the transformative potential of collective action in combating corruption in Nigeria “Let us join hands to fight and reduce the menace of corruption. This task is not limited to anti-Corruption agencies, we too can make the change to the ugly narratives for the benefit of the future generation.“ Idris urged. Corruption Goes Beyond Legislation Guest Speaker, Prof. Hajara Umar Sanda, Faculty of Communication, Bayero University, Kano, further made it clear that the battle against corruption transcends mere legislative measures and law enforcement, underscoring the indispensable role of societal values and ethical conduct. Prof. Umar Sanda shared insights into the factors influencing public tolerance of corruption, citing economic, social, and political attitudes of the populace. She acknowledged the role of cultural norms and values in shaping corruption but stressed the importance of accountability in governance. “Societal inequality, impunity of corrupt individuals, and cultural norms influence public tolerance of corruption” she said. Advantages of Collective Action The Guest Speaker explained that despite the situation, unified action brings about sustainable efforts “Collective action ensures long-term, self-sustaining anti-corruption measures by engaging all stakeholders” “It promotes an environment where honesty and ethical conduct become societal norms.” Prof. Sanda said. Communiqué In a bold move, the Town Hall Participants from all walks of life, with a shared concern about corruption called for the creation of incentives for whistleblowers, recognizing their crucial role in curtailing corruption. They embraced a collective action approach, acknowledging the power of social norms and perceptions in changing attitudes towards corruption. A resounding call for sustained partnerships – mutual, regional, and multinational – in amplifying the fight against corruption. The government, too, was urged to enact robust systems and policies to sustain and curtail corrupt tendencies and actions, ensuring a future where justice and integrity reign supreme. Next Steps Wamac’s Moving Train while leaving Kano residents to continue pushing for accountability and collective action against corruption, has arrived in Abakaliki, the capital of Nigeria’s South East state of Ebonyi. The Town Hall in the state with the support of MacArthur Foundation focuses on Teacher Absenteeism in Ebonyi State’s Public Schools: Role of Communities in Addressing the Menace.
WAMAC Investigations Close Lagos WAEC “Miracle Centres”, Expose NIMC Extortion
Lagos investigative team exposed WAEC accredited centres tagged “miracle centres” where final year secondary school students are encouraged to register for tutorials in preparation for terminal examination (WAEC). WAMAC trained journalists received a report that these two tutorial centres are notorious for examination malpractices. The tutorial centre was also alleged to have identified other schools in neighboring states that also engage in examination malpractices where they place students to only enroll to sit for terminal examination. The allegation was confirmed, the radio station produced and aired the program on the station. The program led Lagos ministry of education to shut down the two centres in Arepo area of Lagos state. In the same vein, the team investigated the allegation that staff of the National Identification Management Commission (NIMC) extort the sum of N1,000 for registration each from residents of Peace Hill Estate in Arepo. Upon exposing the allegation, the officers were removed, new officers were brought in and extortion stopped.
Kwara Street Light Corruption and Remedy
The WAMAC-trained journalists in Albarka FM exposed a service contractor who received money from Kwara State government to provide street lights in the state. Upon investigation, it was discovered that the contractor collected full payment for the execution of the project. The program was aired on the radio station, the State House of Assembly took up the case and called the contractor back to the site and Kwara township has been lighted up.
Grace FM exposed the Kogi state Transport Management Authority (KOTRAMA) for extortion and infringement on fundamental human rights.
Grace FM exposed the Kogi state Transport Management Authority (KOTRAMA) for extortion and infringement on fundamental human rights. After broadcasting their report, a house of assembly member representing the Olomaboro constituency, Anthony Ujah brought up the case on the floor of the house and enumerated how the officials of KOTRAMA have been engaging in extorting vehicle owners and infringing on the fundamental human rights of the people.
Treasure FM exposed the school principal of Government Girls’ Junior Secondary
Treasure FM exposed the school principal of Government Girls’ Junior Secondary Rumuokuta Rivers State who extorted money from students for promotional examinations which the state government made free. Each student was made to pay N1500 for examination and when multiplied by the number of students in the set it totals up to N1,200,000. Upon airing the report, the school principal was suspended in a press release by the state governor through the commissioner of education.
WAMAC Investigations Expose Alleged Corruption in Kwara Hospital
In Kwara state, Wadata Media and Advocacy Centre team investigated and exposed a clandestine practice at the general hospital by laboratory staff and head of the department. Our team discovered how payments for laboratory tests were made without issuance of receipts for the said payments. on completion of the investigation, it was discovered that the lab staff used pre-signed lab form by the Head of Department to swindle the hospital and state government to the tune of three million Naira (N3,000,000.00)
WAMAC’s investigation Revives Healthcare Facility in Rijau Niger State
For close to 15 years, the majority of people from Rijau LGA of Niger State travel 6hrs to the state capital, Minna for healthcare services, while the pregnant women patronize traditional birth attendants. WAMAC’s partner Investigative journalists exposed contractor who embezzled ₦500 million, and non-release of budget allocation.ResultGovernment later budgeted ₦838 million and released funds to rebuild the hospital.Hospital provides access to 100 pregnant women (excluding other patients) daily, who in turn pay ₦200 for antenatal care.Communities from 3 other nearby local government areas also access the healthcare facility, increasing number of patients accessing care to about 400 daily. Wamac Uncovers Alleged Monumental Corruption in Niger State Agric SectorIn Niger State, an indigene of one local government area, who requested not to be identified, reported a missing tractor in his LGA, so, WAMAC’s partner, Prestige FM took it up and conducted an investigation. The team discovered that 72 tractors were missing from 25 local government areas in Niger states. The investigation exposed a contractor who got the N324 million contract to rehabilitate the 72 tractors (N4.5million for each), but the tractors were eventually not returned. This prompted the Niger State House of Assembly ad-hoc committee to investigate the 72 missing tractors belonging to the 25 LGAs.