Nigeria's Looming Autocracy: Who Will Rise To The Occasion?

Electoral Integrity: Hon. Emeka Chinedu’s Vision for Nigeria

In the realm of electoral reform, Hon. Emeka Chinedu, the distinguished representative of Ahiazu Mbaise/Ezinihitte Federal Constituency in the National Assembly has emerged as a vocal advocate for positive change.

His recent participation in a three-day retreat in Lagos, convened by the Policy and Legal Advocacy Center (PLAC) and the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Development Office (FCDO), underscores his commitment to fortifying Nigeria’s electoral processes.

At the heart of the discussions during the retreat was the pressing need to update Nigeria’s Electoral Act, a matter that Hon. Emeka Chinedu views with both optimism and a discerning eye. While acknowledging the strides made with the Electoral Act of 2022, he posited that further enhancements are indispensable to ensure the credibility of elections in the nation.

Electoral Integrity: Hon. Emeka Chinedu's Vision for Nigeria — Hon. Emeka Chinedu: Pioneering Electoral Integrity in Nigeria

In an illuminating interview session, Hon. Emeka Chinedu expressed his gratitude to the conveners for orchestrating a platform that facilitated robust deliberations among diverse stakeholders. His emphasis on the importance of empowering the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) resonated with the conviction that a competent and adequately resourced electoral body is fundamental to the democratic process.

“The 2022 Electoral Act is undoubtedly a positive step in our electoral journey,” remarks Hon. Emeka Chinedu. However, his astute observations highlighted key areas where improvements are imperative. He stresses that beyond merely conducting free and fair elections, INEC must possess the capacity and resources to effectively implement electronic transmission. His advocacy extended to calling for new legislation that mandates the consistent and reliable use of electronic transmission of results.

In championing the cause of electoral integrity, Hon. Emeka Chinedu underscored the necessity of embracing advanced technological measures. “Encryption, firewalls, and audits,” he asserted, “are important technical safeguards that can fortify the security of electronic transmission.” It is a call for a proactive approach to ensure the sanctity and accuracy of electoral outcomes.

As the representative of Ahiazu Mbaise/Ezinihitte Federal Constituency, Hon. Emeka Chinedu’s perspective transcends mere legislative duty; it embodies a vision for a Nigeria where elections are not just a democratic ritual but a testament to the collective will of the people. His call for continuous improvement in electoral laws and practices reflects a statesman’s dedication to fostering a vibrant and trustworthy democratic system.

In conclusion, Hon. Emeka Chinedu’s stance at the forefront of electoral reform is a commendable testament to his unwavering commitment to the democratic ideals that underpin the Nigerian nation. As the nation looks towards the future, it is leaders like Hon. Emeka Chinedu who pave the way for a more transparent, accountable, and participatory electoral landscape.

By Ken Gbados.

Nigeria’s Looming Autocracy: Who Will Rise To The Occasion?

In the ever-evolving landscape of Nigerian politics, a daunting specter looms on the horizon – the prospect of an impending autocracy under the watch of the Tinubu administration. What is most unsettling, however, is the conspicuous absence of individuals within the opposition ranks who possess both the fortitude and resources to mount a legitimate political resistance against this looming threat.

For over a decade and a half, Bola Tinubu kept the flames of opposition burning, serving as a formidable counterbalance to the dominant forces in Nigerian politics during the sixteen-year reign of the PDP. His tactical maneuvers consistently kept the ruling powers, especially the Buhari regime, on their toes. Tinubu’s keen ability to strategically choose battles that directly impacted his political survival ensured the opposition’s relevance.

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The recent alignment of strong-willed politicians like Governor Nyesom Wike with Tinubu before the election further highlights the challenge facing the opposition. Wike, known for his tenacity and ability to energize the opposition, found himself in a pragmatic alliance that may inadvertently weaken the opposition’s overall stance.

Meanwhile, other defiant politicians, such as El-Rufai, Ribadu, Sanusi Lamido, Oshiomhole, and many more, have chosen to align themselves with the current regime. Their voices have grown quieter as they appear to savor the crumbs or chaffs of power, leaving the Nigerian populace at the mercy of the impending Tinubu regime.

In this disconcerting landscape, Peter Obi stands out as an exemplar of integrity and ethical conduct in Nigerian politics. However, his brand of opposition, characterized by lawful discourse and an unwavering commitment to ethical principles, may fall short of the robust resistance required to bring about meaningful change. Tinubu, Wike, and other political figures seem unperturbed by such opposition tactics, as long as their actions enhance their chances of gaining or retaining power.

As Nigeria stands on the precipice of potential autocracy, the nation yearns for strong opposition leadership. The absence of figures with the courage to challenge the status quo and the resources to effectively do so is a cause for concern. Will the opposition find its footing in time to safeguard democracy and ensure that Nigeria remains a bastion of political diversity and accountability? Only time will tell.

In a landscape where political power dynamics shift rapidly, the question remains: Who will rise to the occasion and provide the robust opposition Nigeria needs to navigate these turbulent waters and prevent the looming autocracy?

By Kennedy Onyegbado

Nigeria: Poverty Walks With Four Legs

About two decades ago, when I arrived in Abuja as a fresh reporter for The Guardian Newspapers, unarguably Nigeria’s largest circulating national daily, I met a senior colleague who covers the politics beat. He would move on to become a Professor at a prestigious University in Nigeria.

This colleague is Yoruba by tribe but married to someone I call my sister because she is Igbo like myself. This colleague made a telling statement that has become so evergreen that it keeps coming back to my subconscious.

He said then that “poverty is a sin that every right thinking person must work hard to defeat and be marked safe from poverty for life.” He went ahead to draw a comparison between poverty and the most dreaded health affliction in Nigeria known as Acquired immune deficiency syndrome and stressed that “poverty is a worse affliction than AIDS.”

Clearly, when these aforementioned statements were made, poverty hadn’t become endemic and widespread as it is now twenty years later. The truth is, that poverty walks on four legs in every Nigerian street just as social vices and crimes connected to poverty have become hydra-headed and virtually uncontrollable.

Nigeria can then be said to be a nation-state buffeted by mass poverty and a high crime rate even as the capacity of the police to control and prevent crimes is waning rapidly by the day. Over 133 million Nigerians are officially multidimensional poor, I repeat.

So when the Nigerian Economic Summit Group projected last month that unemployment will escalate to over 37 percent and then the National Bureau of Statistics out of the blues, issued a contrary report that only 4 percent of Nigerians are unemployed as against what are the realities physical, millions of Nigerians started doubting the veracity and scientific accuracy of the statistics from the publicly funded National Bureau of statistic (NBS).

The Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG) projected that Nigeria’s unemployment rate will increase to 37 percent while the poverty head will amplify to 45 percent in 2023.

In what is perhaps the most unscientific projection however, the government-funded National Bureau for Statistics claimed recently, contrary to their previous rating, that the unemployment rate has now dropped to 4.1% in the first quarter of 2023 from 5.3% in the fourth of 2022. This same NBS has a release on the poverty situation whereby it stated that 133 million Nigerians are multidimensionally poor. If we are this poor, how come only 4% of Nigerians don’t have employment if we go by the dubious rating just issued by the ethically challenged NBS?

It is no wonder then that the prominent pro-democracy group- HUMAN RIGHTS WRITERS ASSOCIATION OF NIGERIA (HURIWA) castigated the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) for breaching scientific methodology and accuracy of existential, real-time facts in reaching a jaundiced determination of what it calls Nigeria’s unemployment rate that in their imagination has recorded a dramatic drop from 33.1 percent reported in March 2021 to 4.1 percent for the first quarter of 2023.

HURIWA said the current unemployment data by NBS were generated as a result of intensive and well-oiled political blackmail and media propaganda orchestrated straight from the office of the President of Nigeria just to get a quick response to the groundswell of concerns, consternation, and worries of millions of Nigerians about the high costs of living and the high inflation rate created by the upward review in the pump price of petrol which has had a spiral effect on the costs of foodstuffs and services in Nigeria.

The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), it would be recalled, disclosed on Wednesday, when it released its employment data for the first quarter of 2023, indicating a substantial improvement in the job market. It further stated that in Q1, 2023, 92.6 percent of employed persons in Nigeria were in informal employment, which includes agriculture, while 89.4 percent were in informal employment excluding agriculture.

HURIWA has however blamed the NBS for capitulating to well-orchestrated political propaganda from the office of the Nigerian President which has since the time of the immediate past President produced by the same All Progressives Congress, blackmailed the National Bureau of Statistics for displaying boldness, charismatic courage, and candour, frankness and for relying on credible facts and figures to draw up conclusions on the unemployment or poverty-related data about Nigeria and Nigerians. “Appearance of this political piece of jaundiced propaganda by the Tinubu’s government through contrived unemployment data is far removed from the realities of life in Nigeria of today,” HURIWA asserted.

HURIWA said the current Special Adviser Media and Publicity to President Bola Tinubu who was then a special assistant on media to the then President Muhammadu Buhari had lambasted the NBS for being factually accurate and apolitical with their published statistical data just as he spared no words to discredit the work of this publicly funded agency of the central government.

HURIWA which rubbished the most recent publication on the unemployment rate by the NBS under a new hierarchy, affirmed that the NBS must have relied on voodoo and imaginary reasons when the bureau said the revised methodology defines employed persons as individuals who are working for pay or profit and who worked for at least one hour in the last seven days against 40 hours. “The old methodology placed a range on the working-age population- 15 – 64 years while considering working hours between 20-39 hours as underemployment, 1-19 hrs. as unemployment,” it added.

A closer look at the position of the HUMAN RIGHTS WRITERS ASSOCIATION OF NIGERIA (HURIWA) aforementioned, which countered the jaundiced unemployment rating done by the National Bureau of Statistics, will get further validation if we analyse the recent incident of looting of foodstuffs by Nigerians. What will compel crowds of largely youthful Nigerians to loot warehouses in search of foodstuffs? Surely, poverty, and hunger unemployment are key to understanding these scenarios playing out everywhere in Nigeria in the year 2023. It has also received the highest attention of the chief of police of Nigeria which underlines the severity of this situation.

The Acting Inspector General of Police, Olukayode Egbetokun in August 2023 directed Zonal Inspectors General of Police and Command CPs in the 36 states and FCT to halt any further attacks on food warehouses and government strategic reserve facilities to stop looting of foodstuff and essential stuff by Nigerians.

The IGP’s directive followed the recent looting of food warehouses and shops in parts of Adamawa State by citizens reacting to the economic hardship occasioned by government policies and fears that such attacks and looting may spread.

Speaking at a meeting with Strategic Police Managers on the security situation in the country, Egbetokun said, “To ensure that such attacks do not reoccur in other parts of the country, Command CP’s are directed to henceforth emplace round the clock provision of security at all government warehouses as well as strategic storage facilities and never allow the repeat of the Adamawa incidents.

“It must be noted that the Force is poised to provide all necessary support to the Federal Government as it seeks workable solutions and succor to the present economic situation in the country.

“Let me also use this opportunity to commend all Commands of the Force for the most professional manner in which we managed the recent protest by the citizens and the organized Labour such that no single casualty was recorded while the protest lasted.

In July, a report in the press stated that authorities in Nigeria’s northeastern Adamawa state had imposed a statewide round-the-clock curfew to stop widespread looting of food stores in the state capital Yola.

The looting saw hundreds of residents break into public and private warehouses storing grains and other commodities and cart them away.

“The Governor of Adamawa State… Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri has declared a 24-hour curfew on the state, effective immediately Sunday 30th July, 2023,” Humwashi Wonosikou, the governor’s spokesman, said in a statement.

Yahaya Nguroje, Adamawa state police spokesman, said security personnel had been deployed to enforce the curfew.

This reporter blamed the rising poverty rate to the withdrawal of fuel subsidybwhen it stated that, last month Nigeria — the most populous country in Africa and the continent’s largest economy — ended a fuel subsidy regime, leading to petrol prices quadrupling and food prices soaring.

Nigeria’s economy has been weakened by recession and the fallout from Covid-19, making life hard for its 215 million citizens — nearly half of whom live on less than $2 a day.

Online video footage shows residents of Yola looting sacks of grain, cartons of pasta and other household items from a warehouse of Nigeria’s Emergency Management Agency (NEMA).

The plunder prompted NEMA to put its warehouses across Nigeria on alert to forestall possible looting, according to agency sources.

Earlier this year the United Nations predicted that more than 25 million Nigerians would be a “high risk” of food insecurity in 2023.

Besides, last month, a private warehouse in the Kpansia area of Yenagoa used by the Bayelsa State government to store foodstuffs and other materials was invaded by some residents of the state capital who carted away food items and other items.

The items included bags of rice and garri as well as cartons of noodles and bottled water, and they were said to be part of the relief materials donated by some concerned Nigerians during the 2022 flood disaster in the state.

It was learned that the incident occurred at about 7:30 pm, even as some of the residents stormed the warehouse located along the Isaac Boro Expressway with pick-up vans and private vehicles to move the foodstuffs away, most of which had already gone wrong.

While the looting occurred, the state government deployed men from its security outfit called Doo Akpo to disperse the residents and secure the building.

The state government expressed surprise and concern over the invasion of the premises of the privately owned warehouse and described the incident as unwarranted, saying the food items were remnants being gathered for disposal as they were no longer fit for human consumption. Analysts said that Nigerians are currently experiencing an upsurge in food prices. Food prices, such as beef, eggs, and beans, are rapidly rising as the epidemic and flooding have exacerbated the country’s poor agricultural and farming circumstances.

Overall, the cost of food in Nigeria has risen dramatically for families. Market experts have warned that these high costs will continue to rise since farming has become unsustainable mainly due to flooding.

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Food stuff prices, such as rice, beans, and vegetables are at high levels as consumer demand rises; other items, including fish, poultry, and milk, remain variable due to transportation and processing challenges.

In the same vein, the World Bank has disclosed that no fewer than four million Nigerians were pushed into the poverty trap in the first six months of this year, with another 7.1 million more expected to join the conundrum if properly targeted measures are not taken to manage the impact of fuel subsidy removal.

According to the Washington-based institution, “compensating transfers will be essential in helping to shield Nigerian households from the initial price impacts of the petrol subsidy reform.”

The multilateral development institution which made the disclosure in Abuja, during the launch of the Nigeria Development Update (NDU), also stated that the recent removal of petrol subsidy and the foreign exchange (FX) reforms were critical steps towards addressing long-standing macroeconomic imbalances.

The reforms, it noted, have the potential to establish a solid foundation for sustainable and inclusive growth.

Dissecting the NDU, the World Bank Lead Economist for Nigeria and co-author of the report, Alex Sienaert, said four million more Nigerians were pushed into poverty in the first half of 2023.

Sienaert, who stressed the need for a new social compact to protect poor and most vulnerable Nigerians in the aftermath of fuel subsidy removal, noted that about 7.1 million more Nigerians would further slip into the poverty quagmire at the end of the year if the right incentives were not properly channeled to help poor and vulnerable Nigerians.

The way to draw this to a close this piece is to tell President Tinubu that his solution to the widening spectre of poverty which is to share bags of rice with poor households is grossly incapable of closing the gap between the large pool of poorest of the poor and the few privileged rich elites who are mostly friends of those wielding political power.

Fuel subsidy removal is a catastrophic economic policy that wasn’t thought through before implementation and the hurried decision to share just a few bags of rice is grossly insufficient to solve the poverty situation. The government needs to create an enabling environment for jobs to be practically made available to millions of Nigerians who are even too poor to move around to search for jobs. Fixing local refineries is key to forcing the price of fuel down so the costs of living can become bearable. Over-dependency on the importation of fuel will compound the poverty situation of millions of Nigerians.

By Emmanuel Onwubiko; head of the HUMAN RIGHTS WRITERS ASSOCIATION OF NIGERIA and former NATIONAL COMMISSIONER OF THE NATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION OF NIGERIA

Disclaimer: “The views/contents expressed in this article are the sole responsibility of Emmanuel Onwubiko and do not necessarily reflect those of The World Satellite. The World Satellite will not be responsible or liable for any inaccurate or incorrect statements contained in this article.”

Transfiguration of citizen Bola Tinubu

Like most Abuja residents, I did not vote for him to be President. Indeed, one of the most fundamental reasons that influenced my choice of vote during the February 25 2023 presidential poll, was the health factor.

It is said that ‘once beaten, twice shy.’ Going by the health trajectory of the then-incumbent President Muhammadu Buhari, it was just the best decision for any sane, rational, and patriotic voter to weigh the health reports of candidates for the most important political office in Nigeria before casting the February 25th vote.

Writing about the February 25th Presidential Election won’t be analytically rational if we do not look at the public conversations around the health status of the candidates who were asking Nigerians to vote them into the different public offices early this year.

And so it was that heavy weather was made by most countrymen and women regarding the health status of the then-presidential candidate of the ruling party- All Progressive Congress (APC) named famously Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

This is because, of all the serious contenders, who were about four persons, the then-candidate of APC got the largest share of public focus on his health. Also, Tinubu, of all his then rivals, was the one who openly claimed that it was his birthright sort of, to be elected the President after the tenure of his party man-Muhammadu Buhari.

Tinubu’s ideology of Emilokan or it’s my turn, in his native Yoruba tongue, therefore made him the cynosure of all eyes because of curiosity to ascertain what informed his boldness which also included the need to look at his health situation.

So, it is not strange to assert that this citizen Bola Ahmed Tinubu is not new to public life going by his political antecedents as a former Senator, and former governor of Nigeria’s most complex but vibrant state- Lagos.

Mr. Tinubu also has garnered a generous media reputation as one of the few civil society leaders during the infamous General Sani Abacha –Junta. His coalition of democrats truly fought the military dictator using several fronts including the famous National Democratic coalition simply known as NADECO.

Tinubu almost nearly paid with his precious life but mother luck enabled him to escape into exile in the Western World where he sojourned for a brief period whilst still funding the activities of NADECO to sabotage military dictatorship in the homeland Nigeria, culminating in a self-surrender by the khaki boys to return to their traditional turf which is the barracks in 1999.

For some of us who were very young during the treacherous Abacha tyranny, but already politically conscietised enough to enlist in Pro-democracy bodies such as the Chief Gani Fawehinmi- led National Conscience Party, Campaign for Democracy (CD) amongst others, we saw first-hand that it took a very healthy mind and body, for anyone to coordinate the counter-military Junta movements the way the likes of Bola Ahmed Tinubu and a few others such as Gani Fawehinmi, Olisa Agbakoba, Femi Falana, Shehu Sani, did with a near sense of perfection.

But during the electioneering campaigns that heralded the 2023 Presidential poll, Tinubu was depicted widely as a very sick man who is unworthy of consideration as the next president of the World’s largest black democracy.

Even his political party- the APC failed spectacularly, to change the narratives going by the pictorials and the visuals that emerged from the public campaign functions of the then-candidate Tinubu.

However, fast-forward to after the election and when Tinubu was sworn in as President, it is increasingly becoming a mystery why even the then Presidential candidate himself Bola Ahmed Tinubu put up appearances that depicted him as being too sick and weak to become Nigeria’s president.

So, what caused this emerging transfiguration?

The most common definition of the word ‘transfiguration’ says it is a complete change of form or appearance into a more beautiful or spiritual state.”

I call the emerging vibrancy in physicality of the president a transfiguration because even before he was sworn in and in between the presidential campaigns, the candidate and president-elect Bola Ahmed Tinubu, was in and out of the hospital thrice, although his media minders lied between their tongues to convince Nigerians that it wasn’t so.

Around MARCH 22, 2023 it was reported that the then President-elect Bola Tinubu had been flown abroad on a secret trip overnight that the reporter concluded could complicate the then transition phase in the country, according to two of his associates who related with an online media.

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The report indicated that the associates declined to mention which country Mr Tinubu was flown to, but they insisted it was not on medical emergency and he would soon return to the country. They spoke under anonymity because Mr. Tinubu’s team was still deliberating a press statement on the matter.

Another online medium was the first to report the news of Mr. Tinubu’s trip with the online outlet citing its sources that said the new Nigerian leader was flown to Europe for medical treatment.

That medium also said Mr Tinubu, who was declared winner of Nigeria’s presidential election after the disputed poll, took ill after months of uninterrupted political activities that peaked towards the end of the year-long campaign.

However, Bayo Onanuga, a spokesman for Mr. Tinubu, said in a message to an online medium that his principal traveled abroad to rest and will soon return to the country. “He traveled to rest after the hectic electioneering,” Mr. Onanuga said. “Will soon return home.”

Factually, in recent years, Mr Tinubu has made several emergency trips abroad, including in late January 2022 when he was rushed to London while the primary campaign was underway.

Shortly after returning from the London trip, Mr. Tinubu allegedly appeared to urinate on himself while visiting a prominent traditional ruler in the country’s southwest, according to an online medium.

In September 2022, Mr Tinubu was again in London, where he reportedly spent several weeks receiving treatments from several doctors. He also strapped a urine bag on himself during the trip.

Despite several indications that Mr. Tinubu might not be in good health, including his repeated foreign medical tours, the politician has maintained that he is physically and mentally fit to govern.

He admitted at a point that he might lack physical strength but said his mental capacity would be sufficient to pilot the nation’s affairs.

The online medium correctly stated that Mr Tinubu inherited Nigeria’s over 200 million people from Muhammadu Buhari, the former President who made regular trips to London to treat undisclosed ailments. At several points in his eight-year tenure,

Mr Buhari spent several months on a single trip to London. He has never publicly acknowledged the nature of his illness and how much of state resources he used.

Bola Tinubu as then President-elect dismissed Nigerian media reports of ill health, and his campaign said he had traveled abroad to rest and plan his transition programme after a “very exhaustive” presidential election campaign.

Tinubu’s health, says Reuters, is being closely watched in a country where a former president died in office after a long illness and then incumbent Muhammadu Buhari routinely travels abroad for medical checks and in early 2017 spent three months on medical leave in Britain for an unspecified ailment.

Reuters correctly stated that the 70-year-old former governor of commercial hub Lagos had appeared frail during some campaign appearances, his speech often slow and slurred, but he repeatedly brushed aside concerns about his health.

“After a very exhaustive campaign and election season, president-elect, Asíwájú Bola Tinubu, has traveled abroad to rest and plan his transition programme ahead of May 29, 2023 inauguration,” campaign spokesperson Tunde Rahman said in a statement.

Tunde Rahman, a former Abuja-based media manager did not say where Tinubu had travelled to but said he would be back soon.

However, observing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu from a distance and watching the optics being dished out to us in the media, together with over one dozen foreign trips by Tinubu including his planned long-distance journey to the USA to attend the UN General Assembly and to honour a personal invitation to meet the President of the USA Joe Biden, he too, a sick old man, it is important to state that indeed President Tinubu has undergone a transfiguration that may be a bit difficult to offer a cogent and evidence-based assessment.

A media think tank wrote a chronicle of Tinubu’s foreign trips. It wrote that history was made on May 29, 2023, when Bola Ahmed Tinubu was sworn in as Nigeria’s president after the disputed February 2023 general elections.

It also stated that this post being cited is specifically designed to track the foreign trips of Bola Tinubu from the day he became Nigeria’s president till the expiration of his tenure.

Foreign Trips After Winning Election:

June 20, 2023: Just like Muhammadu Buhari who embarked on more than 100 foreign trips from 2015 to May 2023, a lot of Nigerians predict that Tinubu may toe the path of his predecessor in terms of foreign trips.

The former federal lawmaker, ex-governor of Lagos, and a political kingmaker, now a “king” had embarked on some foreign trips some days after he was declared the winner of the February elections.

According to statements by his media aide, his foreign trips were designed to woo foreign investors into the new government that would be headed by him.

He had been to London, Saudi Arabia, Paris, and Europe before his swearing-in. His pre-swearing-in trips were not under Nigeria’s bill, so says the media think tank which provided no verifiable evidence since the then President-elect actually flew to France using the publicly funded Air Force 1 Presidential jet.

Chronologically, here are the Presidential foreign trips embarked upon by Tinubu:

June 20, 2023:

Tinubu’s first official presidential foreign trip was to Paris, France on Tuesday, June 20, 2023, for a 2-day summit.

Purpose: For the Paris Summit for the New Global Financial Pact.

Host: President Emmanuel Macron of France, will be held at Palais Brongniart, from June 22-23, 2023.

The Special Adviser, Special Duties, Communication and Strategy, Dele Alake, said Nigeria’s president would “participate, review, and sign a New Global Financial Pact that places vulnerable countries on the priority list for support and investment, following the devastating impact of climate change, energy crisis, and after effect of the COVID-19 pandemic”.

June 24, 2023:

On Saturday, June 24, 2023, Tinubu was in London for a private. The Nigerian leader was initially scheduled to fly from Paris, France, to Nigeria “but proceed to London, United Kingdom, for a short private visit,” his Special Adviser on Special Duties, Communication and Strategy, Dele Alake, said.

And on Tuesday, June 27, Tinubu returned to Lagos, Nigeria, for the Eid-el-Kabir festivities. His supporters were at the presidential wing of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos to welcome him back ‘home’.

Also, Tinubu traveled several whistle stops to Nigeria’s neighbouring nations to attend either inauguration of a new President somewhere in West Africa or ECOWAS meetings, especially since the Army took over power in Niger Republic.

Also, it would be deceptive to state that all the denials made by his aides during the campaign that he is well and healthy are factually accurate, because from available evidence in the public domain, the then-presidential candidate and President-elect, presented a picture of a very sick, tired, old man.

Then to put that existential conclusion side by side with his appearances and realities since after he was inaugurated as President, it is clear that Nigeria has a healthy, strong, mentally, and physically vibrant President, for now. Lord, may I be right!

So, why then, was Tinubu looking sick during his campaign and now looking robustly healthy and fit enough to travel to even long-distance countries like the USA that even this writer who is just about clocking 50 years, is scared of flying to?

To conclude, I must say that, whether I voted for him or not, is not the issue. But my joy is that Nigeria for now, as of today that I’m typing this piece, is not a laughing stock as a nation with a very sick old, and tired President.

I do wish that this physical transfiguration, will not wane and is not a smokescreen.

*By EMMANUEL ONWUBIKO; head of the HUMAN RIGHTS WRITERS ASSOCIATION OF NIGERIA and former NATIONAL COMMISSIONER OF THE NATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION OF NIGERIA.

How Craneburg Was Mobilized To Destroy Mbaise Road

On Wednesday, July 20, 2022, the Imo State Commissioner for Information, Mr. Declan Emulumba addressing newsmen at the end of the weekly Executive Council meeting, revealed that arrangements had been concluded for the flag-off of the major road constructions in the state.

Truth to the statement, on Tuesday, July 26, 2022, His Excellency, Hope Uzodimma embarked on the flagg-off of the Owerri/Mbaise/Umuahia and Orlu/Mgbe/Akokwa roads. The project was awarded to the Lagos-based construction company called CRANEBURG.

The company was tasked with the construction of 35 kilometres highway leading from the Owerri capital city to Orlu urban city, towards the Uga boundary of Anambra, and the first phase of the 55 kilometres leading to Okigwe. These have been completed and commissioned for usage.

How Craneburg Was Mobilized To Destroy Mbaise Road — Photo Credit: Dan Ugwu

The construction of 46 Kilometres of the OWERRI -MBAISE-UMUAHIA Dual carriageway road was also part of the integrated access network program of the government. For all intents and purposes, the Mbaise government project has been ill-fated as Craneburg struggles between abandoning it and facing the challenge posed by the inferior work delivery.

While the Orlu and Okigwe networks were constructed as dual carriage, the Mbaise-Umuahia project is forcing a dual carriage on an already built single lane. The psychology is clear and when we interviewed some engineers on the site they appeared helpless in what the government is doing.

For instance, from Aforenyiogugu to Eke Ahiara, Craneburg has been making a clear statement – We can’t deliver quality on this road. As it is, the company is engaged in the rehabilitation of a project that is still ongoing. Dilapidation of the road started as soon as it was constructed. Potholes appeared while the engineers were still on site.

Craneburg has been saddled with pothole management on an ongoing project. The road is almost like a rainbow with many colours. While some stubborn potholes are managed with raw cement to create a concrete floor, others are equipped with laterite and a privileged few are addressed with asphalt. There is no better way to advertise incompetence than what Craneburg has been doing on the Mbaise road since last year.

It becomes more painful when people recall that at least the major part of the Mbaise road was solid and serving heavy-duty vehicles before Craneburg came and excavated it. Residents who watched them destroy the old layer road built by the Sam Mbakwe government also expressed doubt about the company replacing it with more durable work.

At the end what did we see? Road construction is not solid enough for motorcycles and wheelbarrows; digging and construction of open drainage; no demarcation of Open gutters from the walk and motorways which shows the lack of risk assessment by the embattled Craneburg.

Professionals have since condemned this snare and identified the entire road as a hazard to health and safety. Now the question is, for how long will Craneburg keep patching and managing the Mbaise potholes it created? When will the Mbaise-Umuahia road resemble the Orlu and Okigwe routes?

For how long will the people be subjected to risk factors? Is this also part of politics or has the SFTAS World Bank funding of $11 million been withdrawn? From the body language and murmuring of the Mbaise residents, people are growing disaffected with Craneburg and may express this emotion very soon. Let it not be that this is the strategy Craneburg is waiting on to abandon this project. Imo state government must be truthful and honest to itself in delivering quality work to the people.

Read Also: Mbaise On ‘Fire’

The government should deploy adequate resources and monitor the service delivery of Craneburg if it is not comfortable with the embarrassment in Mbaise. Civil society members; opinion leaders, traditional rulers, bishops, and priests must use their positions and language to communicate to the government when the people are confined to hardship by government mercenaries. Exposing people to hazards and risks for too long is a sign that the government has died.

Thank you

Dan Ugwu wrote from Mbutu Mbaise, Imo State

Disclaimer: “The views/contents expressed in this article are the sole responsibility of Dan Ugwu and do not necessarily reflect those of The World Satellite (TWS). TWS will not be responsible or liable for any inaccurate or incorrect statements contained in this article.”

Reviving Imo’s Glory: Tony Ejiogu, the Builder Imo State Needs

In the race for Imo State’s gubernatorial seat, Tony Ejiogu emerges as a ray of hope, armed with an inspiring vision encapsulated by the trending hashtag #TheBuilderIsHere. This ideology signifies more than a catchy phrase; it encapsulates a promise of progress, development, and a brighter future for Imo State.

As one delves into the pages of history, the names Sam Mbakwe and Michael Okpara shine brightly as builders who left indelible marks in the region. Their legacy is marked by iconic developmental initiatives like Concord Hotel, Golden Guinea Brewery, Amaraku Power Station, Ada Palm, and Imo Poultry. However, since their time, a noticeable void in transformative income-generating projects has haunted Imo State.

Reviving Imo's Glory: Tony Ejiogu, the Builder Imo State Needs — #TheBuilders

Enter Tony Ejiogu, a candidate with a blueprint to rejuvenate the spirit of building and innovation in Imo State. The #TheBuilderIsHere campaign not only echoes his mission but also symbolizes his commitment to utilizing technology, harnessing the intellect of the people, and collaborating with brilliant minds to construct a new era of prosperity.

In an age where technological advancements shape economies, Ejiogu’s approach is forward-looking. His promise to leverage technology to drive growth, create jobs, and elevate the living standards of Imo State’s residents is not just a political slogan but a roadmap for progress.

Imo State yearns for a leader who can channel its potential into tangible development. #TheBuilderIsHere represents a clarion call for change, signifying Ejiogu’s unwavering dedication to reviving the legacy of transformation left by great leaders of the past. It’s a rallying cry for the collective effort needed to rebuild Imo State’s infrastructure, economy, and overall well-being.

As November 2023 approaches, Imo State stands at a pivotal crossroads. The choice to embrace a builder, an architect of change, is evident in the candidacy of Tony Ejiogu. #TheBuilderIsHere encapsulates the urgency and promise of rebuilding Imo State’s greatness, ushering in an era of growth, innovation, and prosperity.

Kennedy Onyegbado; a Public Affairs Analyst, wrote from Abuja, Nigeria

Yevgeny Prigozhin: The Unraveling of Wagner’s Defiance

The reported demise of Yevgeny Prigozhin, the enigmatic leader of the Wagner mercenary group, marks a striking turn of events in the saga that has unfolded since his audacious rebellion against the Russian establishment. As the aviation officials confirm his presence on the passenger list of the ill-fated private jet that crashed near Moscow, questions and implications ripple across Russia’s political landscape.

The Wagner Group, known for its clandestine operations and controversial involvements, became synonymous with Prigozhin’s determination to challenge Moscow’s authority. The move marked a sharp departure from his previous alignment with Russian President Vladimir Putin, transforming a trusted ally into a renegade. Prigozhin’s abrupt pivot from loyalty to defiance left the Kremlin astounded and the nation questioning the balance of power.

Yevgeny Prigozhin: The Unraveling of Wagner's Defiance — Russian President Vladimir Putin

The details surrounding the crash remain shrouded in uncertainty, but the symbolism is undeniably profound. The once-powerful Wagner chief, who commanded a private military company deeply entwined with Putin’s strategic ambitions, now finds himself at the center of a clouded tragedy. Prigozhin’s rise as an influential figure, with connections that reached the highest echelons of Russian leadership, is now mirrored by his presumed fall.

The narrative is as complex as it is intriguing. From orchestrating military operations in Ukraine to openly criticizing Russia’s military leadership, Prigozhin’s audacity challenged the established norms of loyalty within the Russian elite. His defiance was not just against military figures, but against the very core of Putin’s authority.

The fallout from Prigozhin’s insurrection and its subsequent resolution raised eyebrows both domestically and internationally. His apparent escape from severe repercussions following the rebellion ignited speculations about political compromises and potential weaknesses within the Kremlin’s grip. In the wake of this unexpected turn of events, Russia’s political dynamics stand at a crossroads.

Prigozhin’s loyalists and followers within the Wagner group now face an uncertain future. His presumed death could potentially galvanize his supporters, elevating him to martyrdom status in the eyes of those who view his actions as a challenge to the established order. The vacuum left by his absence, whether real or symbolic, might also push some to seek revenge, further complicating an already delicate security landscape.

As the dust settles, the prevailing question lingers: Was this a tragic accident or a calculated act? The answer may never be definitively established, but the implications of Prigozhin’s fate are inescapable. The presumed death of a man who dared to challenge the might of the Kremlin sends a potent message: defiance carries consequences.

Yevgeny Prigozhin’s reported death resonates as a cautionary tale, a narrative of ambition and audacity that unraveled in the face of established power. Whether this marks the end of his chapter or fuels new tensions within Russia’s intricate political tapestry, the story of his life and presumed death adds yet another layer to the enigmatic and often perplexing world of Russian politics.

By Kennedy Onyegbado

As Senator John Enoh Emerges Sports Minister

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has selected men and women from amongst Nigerians who will become members of his federal cabinet to help pilot the affairs of Nigeria under his historical leadership.

As a President with the iconic mantra of renewed hope, Nigerians are in very high expectations that the men and women that the President has chosen in the exercise of his constitutional authority will be those who would be devotedly dedicated to the manifestos of both the President which he preached during his campaign and the blueprint for the rapid development of Nigeria as articulated by his political party- All Progressives Congress (APC).

Reactions have trailed the selection of these persons some of whom are technocrats, politicians and statesmen, and patriotic Nigerians. Some observers have expressed some reservations about the competencies of some of these persons so appointed as Ministers designates.

But in a world of ever-evolving complexities, leadership becomes an art of transcending boundaries and excelling in diverse fields. Such is the narrative of Senator John Owan Enoh, a distinguished figure whose contributions to community development, youth empowerment, and his passion for sports have carved an indelible mark on the landscape of Nigeria’s social and political discourse.

Born on June 4, 1966, at the mesmerizing Agbokim Waterfalls in Etung Local Government Area of Cross River State, Senator Enoh’s journey through life has been one of unwavering dedication and commitment.

His educational voyage started at St. Gregory’s Primary School in Agbokim Waterfalls, where the foundations of his intellectual prowess were laid. This early exposure to education ignited a thirst for knowledge and excellence that would guide him throughout his life.

Following his primary education, Senator Enoh continued his academic pursuit at St. Augustine’s Seminary in Ezzamgbo, Ebonyi State, where he honed his critical thinking and leadership skills. His time at the seminary nurtured qualities that would later define his political career: integrity, empathy, and a commitment to service. It was during these formative years that the seeds of community development and Youth empowerment were sown within him.

As Senator John Enoh Emerges Sports Minister — President Ahmed bola Tinubu

Senator Enoh’s academic journey culminated at the University of Calabar, where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology (Second Class Upper) and a Master’s degree in Demography. These achievements showcased his dedication to academic excellence and the pursuit of knowledge, qualities that would serve him well in his subsequent endeavors.

From academia, he transitioned into the corridors of politics, a realm where his impact has been profound. Serving as a member of the Cross River State House of Assembly, the House of Representatives, and the National Assembly, Senator Enoh’s political trajectory underscores his dedication to serving his constituents and advancing the interests of the nation. His leadership roles within these chambers, such as Minority Leader and Chairman of various committees, demonstrate his strategic acumen and ability to navigate complex issues.

Amid his political engagements, Senator Enoh remained deeply committed to community development. His agricultural initiatives, ranging from arable and livestock production on numerous farms to his Foundation’s work in supporting individuals living with diabetes, showcase his diverse approach to addressing societal challenges. This blend of political prowess and community-oriented projects echoes his holistic approach to improving lives.

However, one aspect of Senator Enoh’s multifaceted character that stands out prominently is his fervor for sports. His involvement in sports-related matters has been an intrinsic part of his journey. Far from the skepticism expressed by some quarters, his passion for sports is undeniable.

From promoting youth participation in sports to advocating for infrastructural development and robust human capital investment, his vision for the sports sector transcends his political journey. Contrary to cynicism, Senator Enoh has been a constant advocate for the upliftment of sports in Nigeria.

It is not surprising, then, that his appointment as the Minister of Sports Development by President Bola Tinubu is a reflection of his long-standing dedication to this realm. The decision to separate the Ministry of Sports Development from Youth underlines the significance of focusing on sports as an independent sector. This is a strategic move that showcases President Tinubu’s recognition of the need for specialized attention to sports development.

Debunking the cynicism surrounding Senator Enoh’s appointment requires a broader perspective on the qualities that make an effective sports minister. However, it is worth noting that many sports ministers in Nigeria have hailed from various backgrounds, with a shared love and passion for sports. In fact, a deep understanding of sports management, coupled with effective policy implementation, is often more critical than a purely athletic background.

A big point to note is that Sports enthusiasts and administrators in most advanced societies and jurisdictions all over the World are not known to have retired from professional sports. I will cite the example of the members of the Royal family of Great Britain who are naturally bestowed with the authority to head the progressive drive made by the different sporting federations in their jurisdictions.

The Duke of Cambridge holds a number of patronages and associations which reflect his sporting passions and celebrate the very best of British sporting traditions.

In 2014, The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge accepted Honorary Life Membership of the Marylebone Cricket Club (also known as Lords), of which The Prince of Wales is also a member.

With his brother Prince Harry, The Duke of Cambridge shares a passion for Rugby and is Vice-Royal patron of the Welsh Rugby Union since 2006, and also became a Patron of the Welsh Rugby Charitable Trust in 2012.

In 2006 The Duke of Cambridge, a keen Aston Villa fan, also became President of The Football Association and has regularly attended both FA Cup finals and England games.

Within this role, he has supported the provision of world-class facilities for our national team and opened The St Georges Park National Football Centre in 2012 together with his wife The Duchess of Cambridge. This Prince follows Football passionately and has provided great motivation for many of the National teams that participate in global sporting fiestas.

Recently, Prince William shared a heartfelt message to the Matildas, just minutes after their World Cup campaign came to a tragic end.

Fans and players were seen in tears at Stadium Australia on Wednesday night as the Matildas folded to England after a phenomenal performance.

Though Aussies went wild for skipper Sam Kerr, who ignited the match with a stunning long-range goal in the second half, England’s Lionesses came back with a brutal 3-1 win.

England’s players may have been blasted by pundits for their alleged “dirty tactics”, but the Prince of Wales had nothing but kind words for the winning team.

“What a phenomenal performance from the Lionesses — on to the final!” William wrote to the official Prince and Princess of Wales Twitter account after the tense semi-final came to a close.

“Commiserations to the Matildas, you’ve played brilliantly and been fantastic co-hosts of this World Cup. W”

King Charles was also full of praise for both teams.

“My wife and I join all our family in sending the mighty Lionesses our warmest congratulations on reaching the final of the World Cup, and in sharing our very best wishes for Sunday’s match,” he said.

“While your victory may have cost the magnificent Matildas their chance for the greatest prize in the game, both teams have been an inspiration on and off the pitch – and, for that, both nations are united in pride, admiration, and respect.” This is the quintessential Prince and heir apparent to the Brutish throne. Nigeria got her political independence from Great Britain as it were.

Again, it is essential to recognize that the role of a Sports Minister does not solely hinge on a background in professional sports. Many successful sports ministers globally have come from diverse backgrounds but have exhibited an ardent passion for sports and a clear vision for its growth.

Senator Enoh’s commitment to sports over the years has been demonstrated through his advocacy, initiatives, and involvement in sports-related matters. This proves that he possesses the dedication and insight needed to drive the growth of the sector.

Therefore, the appointment of Senator Enoh highlights the recognition of the multi-faceted nature of sports development. His extensive experience in community engagement, youth empowerment, and policy advocacy equips him with the necessary tools to address the challenges facing Nigeria’s sports sector. By focusing on policy formulation, strategic planning, and fostering collaborations within the sports community, Senator Enoh has the potential to ignite a new era of sports development in Nigeria

Nigeria has witnessed firsthand the impact of leaders who genuinely care about sports development, irrespective of their professional backgrounds. In his role as the Minister of Sports Development, Senator Enoh is poised to leverage his extensive experience in politics, community development, and his love for sports to uplift Nigeria’s sports sector. His appointment is not a gamble but a conscious choice rooted in merit and competence, driven by his consistent love for the country and his party.

Change, innovation, and progress are often spearheaded by individuals who challenge conventional norms. Senator John Owan Enoh’s journey from community development to political leadership and sports advocacy embodies this spirit.

As he takes on the role of Minister of Sports Development, his legacy as a beacon of hope for the sports sector is poised to flourish. It is a testament to the fact that dedication, passion, and a clear vision can pave the way for transformative change, and Senator Enoh is undoubtedly at the helm of such change.

The cynicism surrounding his appointment, while understandable given the historical context, should not overshadow the potential for positive transformation that Senator Enoh brings. As he steps into this new role, there is an opportunity for him to harness his experience, passion, and strategic thinking to elevate Nigerian sports to new heights. Diversifying leadership backgrounds, as long as they are accompanied by genuine dedication and vision, can catalyze progress.

In the end, Senator John Owan Enoh’s journey from a small village near the Agbokim Waterfalls to the apex of Nigeria’s sports development ministry is a testament to the power of passion, dedication, and visionary leadership.

His appointment is a call to reevaluate the criteria for effective leadership and to embrace the potential of individuals who may not fit traditional molds but have the commitment and drive to make a difference. In this light, the future of Nigeria’s sports sector looks brighter than ever before, under the stewardship of a man who has consistently proven his love for his country and its people.

As the curtains rise on this new chapter in Nigerian sports, the stage is set for Senator Enoh to prove his mettle. In his hands lies the opportunity to reshape the sports landscape, infuse fresh energy into the sector, and inspire a generation of athletes and enthusiasts.

While some may question the unconventional choice, the time has come to believe in the power of dedication, vision, and strategic leadership. The appointment of Senator Enoh stands as a testament to his unwavering commitment to community development, youth empowerment, and sports advancement. It is no wonder that President Tinubu found him worthy of being made Sports Minister.

As Senator Enoh assumes his role, the nation watches with anticipation, hoping to witness the transformation of the sports sector under his guidance. With his track record of service, dedication, and passion, there is every reason to believe that his tenure will usher in a new era of progress, growth, and excellence in Nigerian sports.

The stage is set for Senator Enoh to lead the charge toward realizing the untapped potential of Nigeria’s sporting prowess, and his appointment is a resounding testament to the merit, competence, and consistent love for the country and party that he embodies.

We expect that developing grassroots sports for efficiency and effectiveness will become a dominant aspect of the mandate of this young Minister of Sports and as expected, there is the need to properly galvanise the abundant sporting talents for exports so as to help generate massive revenues that would be brought back to develop Nigeria just as it is expected that the stadia belonging to the Federal government are continuously maintained just as transparency and accountability would become the hallmark of sports administration in Nigeria.

Finally, my plea is that the minister provides greater leadership so stakeholders in the public and private sectors including the football federation and other sporting federations would articulate a template for reviving the interest of Nigerians in watching and following Local sporting teams including the essential need to attract foreign direct investors to invest massively to develop the sporting infrastructures in Nigeria and enhance the seamless discovery of talented sports youngsters.

The Minister should take up the issue of providing life insurance for young Nigerians who represent Nigeria in diverse sporting tournaments. We must never abandon our patriotic sportsmen and women when they are retired.

By Emmanuel Onwubiko; head of the HUMAN RIGHTS WRITERS ASSOCIATION OF NIGERIA and former NATIONAL COMMISSIONER OF THE NATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION OF NIGERIA

ECOWAS, Military Intervention Amidst Tinubu’s Unpopularity

ECOWAS’ decision to deploy force in their attempt to restore Constitutional order in Niger is very unpopular in Nigeria, because most Nigerians consider Bola Tinubu as a more illegitimate President than the military junta he is planning to unseat in Niger, and I do not disagree with them on this.

However, the idea of military rule scares me stiff, not just because of its known despotic tendencies, but because it had been tested across most parts of the African continent and known to be a major failure.

So, I will continue to support anything to stop the military’s intervention in politics. I believe that if a military general becomes interested in taking up political powers, they should remove their khaki and seek the mandate of the people before they can rule over them.

However, as much as I support ECOWAS’ insistence on using force when other means fail, I will like to advise Tinubu to appreciate the reality of his unpopularity among Nigerians. At no time in the chequered history of our democracy have we had a President as unpopular with the people as Tinubu is.

ECOWAS, Military Intervention Amidst Tinubu's Unpopularity — Advertisement: Ken-Gbados Concepts Limited

Apart from the popular belief that he is a product of a corrupt electoral process and outright stealing, his policies in the last two months since he was sworn in have largely alienated the very few people who had the slightest confidence in him, such that should another election be held today, less than 30% of those who really voted for him in the last election will risk casting their votes for him this time around.

Tinubu has brought pains and retrogression to Nigeria. He acts like a man who is determined to punish the people for rejecting him at the polls, or a totally clueless kindergartener who was handed over the steering wheel, and he is driving everyone into the ditch.

MAY NIGERIA PREVAIL!

Script Credit: ONWUASOANYA FCC JONES

Disclaimer: “The views/contents expressed in this article are the sole responsibility of Onwuasoanya FCC Jones and do not necessarily reflect those of The World Satellite. The World Satellite will not be responsible or liable for any inaccurate or incorrect statements contained in this article.”

Mikel Obi and Lawyer Opara: A Unique Encounter

In a world where talent and intellect often intersect, an unexpected and delightful encounter recently took place in the heart of Abuja. Nigerian football legend Mikel Obi engaged in a friendly conversation with prominent Human Rights Lawyer Maxwell Opara, Esq. This chance meeting not only exemplifies the diverse spectrum of Nigerian excellence but also underscores the potential for meaningful connections between individuals from different fields.

The exchange, as shared by Maxwell Opara on his Facebook page, began with Mikel Obi’s astute observation about Opara’s appearance on Arise TV. “Are you, not the Lawyer I just watched at the Arise TV now?” he inquired.

Opara, in turn, confirmed his identity and elaborated on the location of Arise TV’s Abuja studio within the TRANSCORP building. This exchange reveals the accessibility of information in today’s interconnected world, where public figures like Mikel Obi remain engaged with current affairs.

Mikel Obi and Lawyer Opara: A Unique Encounter — Advertisement: Ken-Gbados Concepts Limited

One cannot ignore the palpable respect and admiration that permeated the conversation. Mikel Obi complimented Opara’s legal analysis, acknowledging his insights shared on national television. This exchange underscores the power of media in fostering a dynamic discourse that transcends professional boundaries.

In an intriguing twist, Mikel Obi requested Opara’s contact details, expressing his desire to maintain a connection with the legal expert. This gesture highlights the potential for cross-pollination of ideas between sports and law, where the perspectives of a football icon and a human rights advocate converge.

Amidst the camaraderie, Opara shared his admiration for Mikel Obi’s illustrious football career. This mutual appreciation resonates as a tribute to Nigerian excellence. The moment also encapsulates the genuine admiration we often hold for individuals who excel in domains different from our own.

The exchange concluded on a lighthearted note, as Opara playfully commented on Mikel Obi’s perpetual youthfulness, contrasting with the assumption of his retirement from active football. This jest reflects the shared laughter that bridges gaps and connects individuals from diverse walks of life.

In a world characterized by specialization, the chance meeting between Mikel Obi and Maxwell Opara serves as a reminder of the shared humanity that underlies our respective professions. It signifies the potential for serendipitous interactions that spark inspiration, foster camaraderie, and remind us of the universal pursuit of excellence that unites us all.

As Nigerians continue to make their mark on the global stage, these kinds of encounters offer a glimpse into the multifaceted tapestry of our society. Mikel Obi’s football prowess and Maxwell Opara’s legal expertise come together in a unique moment that transcends their individual accomplishments. This serendipitous encounter is a testament to the power of human connections in shaping our understanding of excellence and the diverse paths that lead us there.

By Kennedy Onyegbado is a Media Relations and Communications Expert in Abuja

How Atiku, Wike Killed Political Opposition

But for the erstwhile highly regarded governor of Anambra State and Presidential candidate of the Labour party in the 2023 election, Mr. Peter Obi who dumped the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in the twilight of campaigns for the just concluded but rigged Presidential election for Labour party, Nigeria would’ve today be operating without any organised political party running as opposition to the central government- All Progressive Congress (APC).

Thank goodness, Peter Obi and the Labour Party is the only credible political opposition platform in Nigeria. Little wonder then that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, whose election victory as declared by the discredited INEC is being challenged in Court, has gone as far as allegedly funding a faction inside of the Labour Party with lots of slush funds to create the impression of a parallel leadership but to no avail.

The veil has been worn by the hire lings has fallen off their faces and their real but notorious identity is unveiled as procured saboteurs and internal moles bought by APC to destabilise LP and make it easier for the APC to set up the scenario for a one-party state in Nigeria.

It is heartwarming that the genuine leaders led by the Edo State-born activist Mr. Abure is also hard fighter through the court system. The high court in Abuja seems to be a perfect bonanza forum whereby the Federal government always procures jankara market injunction to try to truncate the running of the Labour Party by the genuinely recognized hierarchy headed by Abure.

So Labour Party has taken over the role of a credible opposition. Still, it is not properly funded like what PDP used to be just before the ‘devil’ infiltrated and planted a sword of discord amongst the key players funding the party. Secondly, the sponsored faction within Labour Party is doing so much damage because they possess enormous cash from the central government or monetary backers of Bila Ahmed Tinubu.

However, since the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) conceded the 2015 Presidential election to the All Progressives Congress, it became the official opposition political behemoth.

But not anymore! Not with the in-fighting that has torn the party to existential shreds now. PDP is now a paperweight as it has been reduced to the rubble of political infamy. It is now a political Ogbanje.

The Central characters behind the crisis that has effectively torn PDP apart are the erstwhile Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria for 8 years Alhaji Atiku Abubakar and the immediate past Rivers State Governor Mr. Nyesom Wike.

Nyesom Wike is ordinarily a lawyer by training but for thirty years, he has circulated in the political firmament of both Rivers and the centre either as local council administrator, chief of staff to a governor, to the ministerial position as junior minister for education for 5 years and then chief executive of Rivers State for 8 years. So, both he and Atiku are politicians who can be considered career politicians.

The cause of the fight is contestation for power and control of the top levers of authority within the PDP. The love of power is the root of political in-fighting usually. So is the case with PDP and amongst these contestants for the soul of PDP who have now ended up achieving the actualization of the eventual decapitation of the hitherto formidable political opposition platform in the Federal Republic of Nigeria and turned it into a Banana political contraption with no clear direction.

How Atiku, Wike Killed Political Opposition — Alhaji Atiku Abubakar

Their problems fundamentally began when Atiku Abubakar kept insisting on contesting the position of President of Nigeria under the PDP’s platform twice-first in 2015 and again in 2023. He failed woefully in those two times and has never relented but kept holding the PDP by the jugular.

Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, the wealthy retired Customs chief, literally behaves like the General overseer of PDP since 2019. Atiku’s most recent foray into the presidential race is the immediate trigger that decapitated and incapacitated the PDP and made its position as credible opposition untenable and unrealistic.

Atiku’s alleged selfish clinging onto the ticket of presidency under PDP especially in 2023 when it was clearly the turn of the South after Muhammadu Buhari’s eight years for the North had elapsed was the last stroll that broke the Camel’s back.

Then again, Atiku blamed the then Rivers State governor Mr. Nyesom Wike for failing to let the party micro-zone the position of presidential candidate to the South East in 2023. Atiku is correct in this line but only to the extent that he could’ve sacrificed his personal ambition to let the South have it even if it turned out to be the same Wike who hates South East passionately.

If Atiku had allowed the South produced a strong Presidential candidate in 2023 with a strong Northern Muslim as Running mate, the PDP could have won in 2023, which is if INEC that is ethically challenged and allowed for a free and fair election.

But Atiku kept pushing to be President and then the same APC that destroyed Nigeria for 8 years under the rudderless and colorless regime of Muhammadu Buhari, produced a contrived winner in Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The incredibly garrulous Nyesom Wike ran for that position of Presidential candidate and was defeated at the Presidential primary by Atiku after spending so much money allegedly from the coffers of Rivers State. He felt very bad but thought he could at least get the less fancied position of a Running mate to Atiku Abubakar.

After failing to clinch the presidential ticket of PDP, Mr. Wike began subterranean campaigns to become Atiku’s running mate but Atiku chose the Delta State governor Okowa Ifeanyi and therein began the real fight within the PDP.

PDP is obviously a shadow of itself. PDP is not just ethically challenged but existentially battered and muddied. Senator Dino Melaye narrated how Nyesom Wike bombarded him with phone calls to urge him to lobby Atiku Abubakar to name him as the running mate. But this dream crashed when Atiku Abubakar out of fear that Nyesom Wike was too strong-willed to be a VP, chose the less noisy politician in the person of Okowa who also governed the rich state of Delta for 8 years and is by no means a poor guy.

The former governor of Rivers state and a lawyer, Mr. Wike is obviously one of the main financiers of PDP so he has a lot of influence and hold on the PDP so much so that he formed a gang-up against PDP’s Presidential Candidate alongside five other heavyweight PDP governors. They confronted PDP and demarketed Atiku.

The war within PDP raged and weakened the strength of the PDP for the 2023 Presidential race just as the five PDP governors led by Mr. Wike openly worked for the APC. Now Mr. Wike is a ministerial nominee under Tinubu’s APC-led government –in what is considered a historical political aberration. He even said he is ready to serve even as Women’s Affairs minister.

Even with clear evidence that Mr. Wike stood against the chances of the PDP in the 2023 poll, the PDP has no moral power to discipline him because the party is inherently soaked in the muddy water of breaching violently, their own constitutional provision on power rotation by presenting Atiku a Northerner as Presidential candidate in 2023 even after the North has had 8 years under Buhari.

So it is fair to say that PDP is now self-destruct.

First, PDP’s refusal to concede the Presidential ticket to Southern Nigeria violates its constitution. This much has been clarified by a leading light in constitutional law in Nigeria.

The erudite Mr. Ebun-Olu Adegboruwa, a senior advocate of Nigeria (SAN), says the constitutions of the two major political parties in the country support zoning and power rotation.

His statement came then during the campaign time amidst the political tussle between the northern and southern regions over which part of the country will produce the next president.

Then, as intensive lobbying was ongoing ahead of the 2023 elections, southern governors have maintained that the next president must come from their region, while their northern counterparts, in a meeting in Kaduna, on September 27, said the position of the southern governors contradicts the provisions of the constitution.

Reacting to this issue, recently, the senior advocate of Nigeria said the framers of the Nigerian constitution made provisions in the law to accommodate national cohesion through the distribution of power in the country.

The Lagos lawyer, Mr. Adegboruwa said section 14 (3) of the constitution stated clearly the need for zoning and power rotation to ensure national cohesion so that there will not be dominance of a particular ethnic group or tribe.

“When we examine various sections of the 1999 constitution, it is clearly written, especially in chapter 2, that the framers of the constitution had envisaged that we were going to get to this stage in our national lives,” he said.

“So enough provisions have been made to accommodate national cohesion, to carry everybody along in governance, and to ensure unity, equality, and justice in the distribution of power and offices.

“In particular, I’ll refer to section 14 of the 1999 constitution, in particular section 14(3), which talks about the need for there to be a spread in the distribution of offices and composition of government, in such a way that there is no dominance of a particular state, ethnic group, or a tribe should have that dominance in terms of the sharing of power.

“So in that regard, it is meant that we should promote national cohesion and unity and a sense of loyalty amongst all the ethnic groups and indeed the geopolitical zone that makes the federation of Nigeria.

”Their Excellencies on their position that rotation is contrary to the constitution of Nigeria; the section they referred to in particular only talked about the mode of election, how a person can be elected as a president of Nigeria.

“But the constitution itself before that provision had envisaged that there must be that national spread and balance, in such a way that a particular ethnic group or tribe is not seen as dominating.

The well-knowledgeable Mr. Adegboruwa said the constitutions of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) also support the principle of zoning and power rotation.

“It is not anything new, it’s been in the Nigeria political system. The PDP in article 7 of its own constitution specifically stated that it will adhere to the principle of zoning of elective offices between the various regions in Nigeria,” he said.

“And even in the APC constitution, article 7 also specifically says that the party will promote national unity.”

He, however, added that in a sane clime, the origin of a nation’s president should not be the bone of contention, saying what matters should be merit and drive for national cohesion.

The law scholar, Mr. Adegboruwa also said the controversy on the issue of zoning is the handiwork of the country’s political elites, who are after their own personal interests and not the interest of the nation.

“Ordinarily, nobody should be concerned about the origin of the president of a nation, if governance follow a particular principal of which there is proportional representation appointment are based on national cohesion and merit,” he said.

“I think as a nation we need to ensure that we achieve common and good governance, infrastructure, and democratic system of governance”, he concluded.

But whereas the APC opted to respect their constitution and chose a Southern Presidential candidate, the PDP failed to obey their own constitution- thus escalating the internal moral contradictions that are now the generic canon fodder that imploded and killed off any kind of cohesion and unity within the PDP. Now PDP has become desolate and self-destroyed.

Now, anybody worthy of a good reputation is decamping from PDP. The character who destroyed PDP alongside Atiku, Nyesom Wike had sort to exonerate himself by blaming Atiku for the misfortunes that have enveloped PDP as I write.

The former Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, had also described as unfortunate the unguarded public comments made by the Presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Alhaji Atiku Abubakar in an interview on a national television channel. This was when their in-fighting began during the campaign toward the February 25th Presidential Election.

As aforementioned, this media claim by Wike was in the heat of the campaign for the Presidential race. Both Atiku and Mr. Wike led rebellious five governors traded insults and verbal attacks in the media.

Governor Wike, as he then was, had maintained that the right thing such persons should have done, particularly the PDP presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, and the PDP national chairman, Senator Iyorchia Ayu, would have been to reach out to him, but they have not.

Wike also asked that the then PDP national Chairman bankrolled into office by Atiku and Wike, Mr. Iyu who is a Northerner, should resign so a Southerner becomes the party so PDP does not have both the Presidential candidate and the National Chairman from one zone.

Mr. Wike who argued in this manner ended up backing Bola Ahmed Tinubu who destroyed the gentlemanly political agreement in Nigeria by selecting his fellow Muslim as his running mate thus making Nigeria for the first time to have both President and his VP one religion which is a violation of the Federal character principle. Be that as it may, Wike still believes that Atiku destroyed PDP, but this is not true since both destroyed PDP.

Then again, the erstwhile governor of Rivers State Mr. Nyesom Wike accused Alhaji Atiku of telling lies against him (Wike) in the interview. He made the accusation while speaking with journalists at the international wing of the Port Harcourt International Airport, Omagwa, in Ikwerre Local Government Area, shortly after his arrival from Spain on Friday.

Governor Wike pointed to how Abubakar used the occasion of the unveiling of PDP vice presidential candidate, Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta State, and his appearance on national television to lie against him.

He said: “But, there comes a time that people will understand and know the true facts. So, obviously, whether I will speak is not in doubt, to let Nigerians know the actual truth. Having known the truth, whatever they decide to do with it is left to Nigerians.

“Because you can imagine, the presidential candidate of the PDP Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, when he unveiled vice presidential candidate, no right-thinking lover of this party would say that the speech he made on that day was fair. Forget about the favour-seekers. Forget about the scavengers. But, I never reacted to it. That is because this party belongs to all of us.

“Thereafter, he appeared on Arise Television, see the statement he made. So many lies were told and you said I should not react to some of those issues. That would not be fair.”

The former governor Wike explained that after the PDP primaries, he returned to Rivers State to focus on fulfilling the remaining promises that he made to Rivers people. He said, already a number of completed projects have been outlined for inauguration and when that was done, he would respond to all the lies peddled against him.

“Assuming today, I’m not alive, obviously what they have said would be accepted as the truth. Look at his (Atiku) attack dogs, Sule Lamido, Babaginda Aliyu, Maina Waziri. Look at the statements they issued. Look at the abuses they rained on me, but I never reacted.

“And Nigerians will ask, you mean these things happened? So, it is important that as a person and for my own future, and for those who rally around me to say, look, this is not fair. So, I will make sure that I will react to them, line by line of the statements made by Alhaji Atiku Abubakar himself and his attack dogs.”

Governor Wike asserted that he contested the presidential primary squarely and emerged in the second position so he would not tolerate being disparaged. He emphasised speaking to lovers of the party by putting the record straight so that they will know who is being truthful.

“Look at it, a presidential candidate who believes that he wants to win an election, and somebody who contested fiercely with him that has never raised any issue. I just kept quiet, just minded my business, to see how my state can move forward.

“But, every day, his people come up to attack me, to say one thing or the other. That’s quite unfair and so I should let Nigerians know at the appropriate time, that will be after the commissioning of projects that we have lined up.

He admitted that Senator Bukola Saraki met with him in Spain, but said the former Senate President was not sent by anybody. Nyesom proceeded to start attacking Atiku and made demands including his precondition for reconciliation before the election that Iyorchia Ayu should resign so a Southerner becomes the party chairman which Atiku disagreed. He, Nyesom Wike then openly antagonized the PDP. And the PDP went into the presidential poll as a thoroughly disunited political party.

With the public humiliation of his PDP, Governor Wike is definitely above the law even as he had challenged the PDP’S hierarchy to suspend him over anti-party allegations which are now so apparent, and see if he won’t demolish the PDP.

His threats are being viewed with considerable respect by those parading about as PDP national hierarchy and Wike has not left PDP but he is romancing with APC and is now a ministerial nominee which is a political anathema in Nigeria whereby formation of central government is centralised around the principle of WINNER TAKES ALL.

He practically has walked out of PDP and is actively serving the interest of the rival APC but the PDP’S leadership can’t suspend him. And Atiku is not in any hurry to let the PDP breathe. Atiku who is waging a legal battle against the APC’S Bola Ahmed Tinubu on all fronts, is not relenting in his hostage-taking of PDP.

It is argued that if the court opted to compromise and validate the rigged election which produced Tinubu as President, Atiku may still be around to take PDP’S presidential ticket in another four years’ time. But by then, PDP would have been totally buried and its nunct Dimittis would have sounded loud and clear.

Currently, PDP suffers a gale of defections with credible members leaving the dead party in droves. The latest is Chief Anyim Puys Anyim who was Secretary of the Federal government under PDP and Senate President also under PDP. If he leaves, PDP in Ebonyi will collapse completely. He has just met Tinubu and APC national Chairman. His exit from PDP is imminent I’m told reliably.

But let me end by cautioning the President, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu to stop sabotaging political opposition and to stop funding the faction within the Labour Party. This is for his self-enlightened interest.

I said the above words of caution to Tinubu because it is true that if multiparty democracy dies, then constitutional democracy is over meaning anything can happen including military take-over.

The reason the activities of both Atiku Abubakar and Nyesom Wike that led to the crippling of the biggest opposition in Nigeria-PDP is so treacherous is that with no opposition party, the President will transform to a fascist and fascism is diametrically opposed to constitutional government because democracy thrives on freedom of speech and freedom of association in addition to other fundamental rights embedded in the grund norm.

What then is the Role of the Opposition Party in Democracy, if we may ask?

We will quote from a scholarly work which states that in a democratic system, the opposition party plays a vital role in the functioning of the government. The opposition party also referred to as the minority party, is an essential component of any democratic society as it acts as a check and balance on the ruling party or government. The opposition party provides an alternate viewpoint, scrutinizes and challenges the ruling party’s policies, and holds them accountable for their actions. The role of the opposition party is crucial for maintaining a healthy and functioning democracy, as it ensures that the government is constantly being challenged and that alternative viewpoints and policies are being presented to the public. This article will discuss in detail the role, functions, strengths, and weaknesses of the opposition party in a democracy, highlighting the importance of its presence in a democratic system.

I then ask, what then is the Importance of an Opposition Party?

The Straightforward answer to the above interrogation is that the importance of the opposition party in a democracy cannot be overstated.

They play a crucial role in ensuring the government is held accountable for its actions and policies. The opposition party acts as a counterbalance to the ruling party, providing an alternate viewpoint and challenging the government’s policies and actions.

Besides, one of the most important functions of the opposition party, says this scholar I’m quoting his thoughts, is to act as a watchdog, monitoring the government’s actions and highlighting any issues or problems that may arise.

This, the author argued, helps to ensure that the government is always working in the best interests of the people and that any issues or problems are addressed. This is essential for maintaining the trust and confidence of the people in the government and democratic institutions.

The opposition party also provides a vital role in the democratic process by presenting alternative policies and proposals to those of the government. This allows the public to have a choice and a voice in the political process and ensures that the government is responsive to the needs and concerns of the people.

Additionally, the opposition party plays an important role in fostering a healthy and robust political discourse. They provide an alternative perspective and challenge the ruling party’s policies and actions, leading to a more informed and engaged public. This is essential for the functioning of democracy as it allows for a free exchange of ideas, and helps to prevent the ruling party from becoming too entrenched and entrenched in power.

Furthermore, opposition parties serve as a safeguard against abuses of power and authoritarian tendencies.

They are the ones who will point out the wrongdoings of the government and will provide a barrier against the government becoming too powerful and oppressive. This is essential for maintaining democracy as it ensures that the government is always held accountable for its actions and policies, (Source: Geeksforgeeks).

So we ask Wike and Atiku, what will it profit you, if out of your selfish pursuit of opportunistic power, and then through your active sabotage of pluralism, you have destroyed Nigeria’s biggest opposition party?

Certainly, generations unborn will mark you both as enemies of constitutional government in Nigeria. This history is already written in our hearts and minds.

By Emmanuel Onwubiko; head of the HUMAN RIGHTS WRITERS ASSOCIATION OF NIGERIA and former NATIONAL COMMISSIONER OF THE NATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION OF NIGERIA

Niger Coup: ECOWAS’ Resolve Must Remain Unyielding

At 35, Captain Ibrahim Traore is the youngest Head of State in the world. He is the interim President and Supreme Military Leader of Burkina Faso. He took power in a military coup in September 2022 and is barely eleven months in office.

For a young man who joined the army in 2009 and has suddenly risen to become his country’s “Supreme Military Leader” speaks volumes of the kind of country he must come from. With less than 12,000 soldiers and a population such as that of Lagos, Burkina Faso is a weak military state.

Niger Coup: ECOWAS' Resolve Must Remain Unyielding — President Mohammed Bazoum of Niger Republic

And to imagine that almost 40% of the country is under the control of rampaging Islamist Jihadists further lends credence to the fact that Burkina Faso has poor defensive capabilities.

It is therefore amusing as well as insulting to all sane Africans who desire the growth of democracy in the continent to hear Ibrahim Traore threaten to attack any ECOWAS force that invades the Niger Republic to restore its deposed President Bazoum. Apart from being unable to defend his own country, it’s eminently clear that Burkina Faso’s military president must be a big-time joker.

The idea of some weak helpless African countries such as Burkina Faso, Mali, Guinea, and, now Niger, trying to shift alliances to Russia is misplaced. Russia is so economically battered and militarily constrained that it can’t help any of these countries. At most, it will only exploit their mineral resources and expose them to a greater danger of extremist attacks by the marauders.

Of training and resources, Russia’s WAGNER Group cannot be a reliable military partner. It is a profit-minded fighting group. Simply put – Soldiers of Fortune! Such a group has nothing altruistic or even economically rewarding to offer any country. It simply fights for profit. The problem in Africa is with African leadership. We must stop blaming colonial masters and learn to hold our leaders more accountable.

My advice to President Tinubu and ECOWAS is not to be deterred by the threat of conflict escalation. This is the time to put a stop to the emerging trend of military incursions in politics. Africans must be united on this.

Failure to achieve this objective now would further embolden the likes of Ibrahim Traore, Assimi Goita of Mali, and Omar Tchiani of Niger to replicate themselves in other African countries.

CRIPT CREDIT: Facebook.com / Uzogara Tobechukwu

Disclaimer: “The views/contents expressed in this article are the sole responsibility of Uzogara Tobechukwu and do not necessarily reflect those of The World Satellite (TWS). TWS will not be responsible or liable for any inaccurate or incorrect statements contained in this article.”

Niger Brink and ECOWAS’ Resolve Against Coup Plotters

Going by the resolutions of the ECOWAS Heads of State and Government yesterday in Abuja, one thing is clear – War is imminent on the Niger!! This particular military coup against President Mohamed Bazoum of the Republic of Niger would surely not go unchallenged like those of Mali and Burkina Faso.

As the new Chairman of ECOWAS and the President of West Africa’s biggest military force, President Tinubu would surely live up to his promise of defending democracy in the sub-region. This is surely his first litmus test as a regional cum continental leader, even though the test is coming too early in the life of his nascent administration.

Niger Brink and ECOWAS' Resolve Against Coup Plotters — Chairman of ECOWAS and President of Nigeria; Ahmed Bola Tinubu

ECOWAS has ordered the closure of all Niger borders and the suspension of trade, diplomacy, and financial services to the country. A no-fly zone has been declared over Niger and its military hierarchy has been marked for more significant sanctions.

If Niger’s military fails to restore deposed President Bazoum, it’s clear that it would have to contend with ECOMOG Forces. Niger may become another Sierra Leone or Liberia where similar military operations were executed to reverse military coups and restore democratically elected presidents.

What Umahi Should Have Learnt From Tinubu — Advertisement: Ken-Gbados Concepts Limited

The options available to Niger’s military are limited. It would either pray that the one-week ultimatum issued by ECOWAS is not followed by immediate action, or there should be some form of understanding on both sides.

As it stands, with the country’s less than 12,000 poorly equipped military, the ECOMOG Forces will easily brush through them and remove their top chiefs. Niger is no match for ECOWAS and its resolute military forces, especially with the express support of the US, France, and the EU. France would even readily render logistical support with 1,500 soldiers already in Niger.

SCRIPT CREDIT: Facebook.com / Uzogara Tobechukwu

Disclaimer: “The views/contents expressed in this article are the sole responsibility of Uzogara Tobechukwu and do not necessarily reflect those of The World Satellite (TWS). TWS will not be responsible or liable for any inaccurate or incorrect statements contained in this article.”

Emefiele in the dragon’s den

Godwin Emefiele. Like him or hate him, he is one of the notable personalities that has shaped Nigeria in 2023. With a stroke of his pen, he brought all Nigerians to their lowest common multiple (LCM) – down on their knees. Doing the bidding of his master, President Muhammadu Buhari, in February this year, he changed the face of the Nigerian currency.

The change had a noble intent – to deny politicians the opportunity of buying votes with money. But the planning and execution were so shoddy. The result was that Nigerians, both rich and poor, could not access their funds.

They returned the old currency to the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), but couldn’t get the new currency. Poverty was democratized. Few Nigerians were amused, particularly the politicians whose game plans were targeted. To be fair to Emefiele, his office lamented that new currencies had been released. But they never got to starving Nigerians.

Emefiele in The Dragon’s Den — Bola Ahmed Tinubu; President of Nigeria

Again, it seemed that Buhari lost the power game a second time, after failing to secure the nomination of his preferred candidate as the flag bearer of his party at the presidential election.

I was taught in Politics 101 that power is the ability to change the possibility of outcomes. A power opposed to Buhari had arisen in his own party and was flooring the president in every way. His name is Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Call him the master of Nigeria’s underground and you’ll be right. He mercilessly cut the grounds around the president then. A bitter Buhari turned a cheerleader in the final minute when he was rightly accused of not supporting his party’s candidate. Buhari was totally routed and the man who had given him the presidency, collected the same for himself, caring little about finesse. And his camp never forgave those that stood in its way. Enter Emefiele.

Godwin Emefiele had been appointed the CBN governor by then President Goodluck Jonathan in 2014 for a five-year term. Against political permutations, Buhari retained him for a second term in 2019.

Emefiele was servile to Buhari and did his every bidding, including the hare-brained currency change. Whoever told them that politicians kept looted funds in naira?

How would they store the currency? Not when there are convertible currencies in which one note would exchange for a bucketful of naira. Needless to say, Tinubu, the Jagaban of Borgu, beat them in their own game.

Even before the currency change, Emefiele had become a marked man. Even while he remained the president’s lapdog, the Department of State Security (DSS) went after him last year. Hints about sponsorship of terrorism and malfeasance were dropped.

If Buhari was convinced about sponsorship of terrorism, he would simply have tossed Emefiele into the fireplace. For malfeasance, who wasn’t hefting public funds with pay loaders under Buhari?

Emefiele ran to court when the DSS tried to arrest him, and got an injunction forbidding the DSS, police, indeed all security forces, and the CBN from arresting, detaining, interrogating, and prosecuting him. Indeed, soldiers were deployed as his security.

Finally, Buhari handed over to Bola Ahmed Tinubu on May 29. Just over a week later, Jagaban opened the book of records. Emefiele was suspended as CBN governor on June 9, and the very next day, the DSS arrested him. He has been in the dragon’s den since.

It matters little that there is a subsisting court order that forbids his arrest. He has since secured two more orders for his release. But who cares?

Does anyone remember how many court orders Nnamdi Kanu got for his release while Buhari was in power? But the DSS never paid heed. Disobeying court orders seems to be an All Progressives Congress (APC) sport.

It matters little that Emefiele ran to be the presidential candidate of this party. Indeed, that made matters worse for him for it was while he ran that he disclosed that he was Igbo.

That ran counter to the narrative adopted by his Agbor people since the civil war for survival. The conquistadors will now give him the treatment they have reserved for the Igbos since 1967.

Perhaps Emefiele thought it was a joke when Oba Akiolu of Lagos threatened Igbos that he would have them drowned in the lagoon if they didn’t follow the political direction of his adopted nephew and benefactor, the Jagaban. Now, he will know better.

Recall that after the December 1983 coup that toppled Shehu Shagari, the president who signed off all policies was held under house arrest, while Alex Ekwueme, his vice president was held in conventional prison.

Would the Jagaban and his valiant forces ever touch Buhari whose every bidding Emefiele did? Never! You can bet your life on it. One nation, multiple destinies. Shame on the government of the day! Fairness is Greek in Nigeria.

Culled from Business Day

Script Credit: Okwudili Ojukwu-Enendu

Disclaimer: “The views/contents expressed in this article are the sole responsibility of Okwudili Ojukwu-Enendu and do not necessarily reflect those of The World Satellite. The World Satellite will not be responsible or liable for any inaccurate or incorrect statements contained in this article.”

As NYSC Insists Gov. Mbah’s Certificate is Fake

Amid political controversies and legal battles, one issue has recently captured the attention of the nation – the alleged forged certificate of discharge in the possession of Enugu State Governor, Mr. Peter Mbah. In an unfolding legal saga, the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has taken a resolute stand on the alleged forgery of Enugu State Governor, Mr. Peter Mbah’s NYSC discharge certificate.

The NYSC’s unyielding insistence that the certificate is fake has attracted the attention of civil rights group Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA). At a recent press conference, HURIWA highlighted the NYSC’s firm stance on the matter, emphasizing the need for a transparent legal process to ascertain the truth.

The crux of HURIWA’s concern lies in the deluge of contradictory media reports from the election petition Tribunal, seemingly suggesting that the NYSC Management has accepted the validity of Governor Peter Mbah’s certificate.

The controversy surrounding Governor Peter Mbah’s NYSC certificate first came to light in February 2023 when the NYSC issued a letter, signed by Ibrahim Muhammad, the scheme’s Director of Certifications, disclaiming the certificate. According to the NYSC, the certificate in question was not issued by the Corps.

Responding to the NYSC’s disclaimer, Governor Peter Mbah took legal action, suing the NYSC for conspiracy, deceit, and misrepresentation of facts. He demanded a staggering N20 billion in compensation, making it clear that he vehemently disputed the NYSC’s assertion regarding his certificate.

In May, 2023, during a guest appearance on Arise TV, the NYSC Director-General stated that he had met with Governor Peter Mbah and was frank with him, informing him that the certificate in question was not from the NYSC. Despite this meeting, the NYSC maintained its unchanging stance on the alleged forgery.

The situation escalated further in July, when the NYSC presented documents before the Governorship Election Petition Tribunal in Enugu State. The documents indicated that Governor Peter Mbah had allegedly forged the NYSC discharge certificate he submitted to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) during the 2023 general elections.

As NYSC Insists Gov. Mbah's Certificate is Fake — Gov. Peter Mbah

The tribunal, in response to a subpoena issued to the NYSC, heard evidence presented by the Labour Party (LP) and its candidate, Chijioke Edeoga, who had filed a petition against Governor Peter Mbah’s election.

Among the documents tendered by the NYSC were the alleged forged discharge certificate and the original discharge certificate that Governor Peter Mbah was expected to have obtained. Additionally, a letter from Oma and Partners, an Abuja-based law firm, was presented, indicating their request for the NYSC to scrutinize the discharge certificate submitted by the governor to INEC.

Throughout the unfolding legal drama, HURIWA, which has remained a vocal advocate for transparency and accountability, had consistently confronted the NYSC Management on the matter, calling for a fair and transparent legal process to ascertain the authenticity of Governor Peter Mbah’s NYSC certificate.

However, in response to the recent reports suggesting a change in the NYSC’s position, HURIWA took swift action. The association dispatched a delegation to the NYSC headquarters, demanding clarification and, if necessary, an apology from the NYSC’s Director-General to Governor Peter Mbah within 48 working hours.

Yet, the top management staff of the NYSC, who received the delegation, firmly asserted that the NYSC had not altered its claim and maintained that Governor Peter Mbah’s certificate was indeed fake and bore no connection to the organization. At the heart of HURIWA’s demands is the NYSC’s unwavering insistence that the certificate presented by Governor Peter Mbah is fake.

Again, media reportage plays a pivotal role in shaping public perception, and HURIWA stresses the need for journalists to exercise professionalism and objectivity in their coverage. The association calls for accurate, unbiased, and verified reporting, urging journalists to rely on proceedings officially conducted by the courts, not sensationalized or slanted narratives.

Nonetheless, HURIWA’s press conference emphasized that the association’s advocacy on this issue transcends political motivations. The group reaffirmed its neutrality and called on all Nigerians, regardless of political affiliations, to unite in the pursuit of truth and the preservation of democratic values.

In light of the NYSC’s unchanging stance on the alleged forgery, Governor Peter Mbah’s legal battle has intensified. The tribunal’s examination of the presented documents could hold significant implications for the future of the Enugu State Governor’s tenure.

As the legal proceedings continue, all eyes remain on the Governorship Election Petition Tribunal in Enugu State. The NYSC’s insistence on the alleged forgery, along with HURIWA’s calls for transparency, underscore the critical importance of a credible legal process in determining the truth.

HURIWA’s advocacy for transparency and accountability in this matter resonates with the broader public’s demand for justice. The NYSC’s insistence that Governor Peter Mbah’s certificate is fake has once again raised questions about the integrity of public officials and the need for a thorough investigation into the alleged forgery.

Therefore, it is essential to uphold the rule of law and preserve the integrity of democratic institutions. The NYSC’s firm stance on the alleged forgery is a testament to the importance of maintaining the credibility of public documents and the institutions responsible for issuing them.

As the nation awaits the tribunal’s verdict, the pursuit of truth and justice remains paramount. The outcome of this case will undoubtedly shape the future of Enugu State’s governance and will serve as a litmus test for the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic processes.

Generally, the unfolding saga surrounding Governor Peter Mbah’s NYSC certificate underscores the significance of upholding the rule of law and preserving the integrity of democratic institutions. The NYSC’s firm stance on the alleged forgery, as highlighted by HURIWA, brings to the fore the need for an impartial and transparent legal process to ascertain the veracity of the certificate in question.

As the legal proceedings continue, all stakeholders must demonstrate patience and respect for the judicial process. A fair and thorough investigation is necessary to establish the truth and ensure justice is served.

As Nigerians, we must collectively uphold the principles of transparency, accountability, and justice. The resolution of this case will undoubtedly have broader implications for the credibility of our institutions and the rule of law in the nation.

By Kennedy Onyegbado; Public affairs Analyst in Abuja, Nigeria.

November 11: The Case for Athan Achonu

With the uncertainty surrounding the candidature of Retired General Lincoln Ogunewe in the Action Alliance, following INEC’s recognition of the Omo-Aje-led National Working Committee as the authentic leader of that Party, the battle for who becomes the next governor of Imo State appears to have reverted a straight three horse race; the incumbent, Hope Uzodimma, the Labour Party candidate, Athan Achonu and the PDP candidate, Samuel.

Ogunewe’s possible exclusion from the race will greatly narrow the choices of progressive Imolites to Athan Achonu, whose candidature on the LP platform places him in a commanding advantage over other candidates. However, Ogunewe’s affinity with the Obidients would have been a major distraction to the Imo liberation struggle.

However, it must be pointed out that unless the INEC reverses her decision to derecognize Chief Kenneth Udeze as the National Chairman, any votes cast for the AA in the November election is a total waste and would be aiding Uzodimma’s reelection chances.

Our focus as Imolites at this point should be to stop Uzodimma from perpetuating himself in the Imo governorship seat and privatising political power in Imo, because, no matter what anyone might want to tell you, this is the best time to stop Uzodimma.

If we fail to stop Uzodimma from getting a second term, then, we should be ready for a reprise of the Tinubu dominance of Lagos in Imo, with Uzodimma taking full charge of Imo politics. Uzodimma is not the kind of politician who will get a second term and fail to impose his preferred candidate as his successor, and you can be sure that it will be one of his thugs, rather than any technocrat like Tinubu pretends to do in Lagos.

Athan Achonu’s platform is the more progressive platform of the two key opposition Parties in Imo State, and whatever might be our individual reservations with him should be kept aside while we concentrate on using him in retrieving our State from the stranglehold of strangers and the Daura cabal.

November 11: The Case for Athan Achonu — Advertisement: Ken-Gbados Concepts Limited

Coming from the Okigwe zone, Athan has the prospects of sweeping the entire Okigwe zone, given that there is neither a major governorship candidate nor a deputy governorship candidate competing with him from that zone.

Samdaddy will fight for his life in Owerri zone, given that the incumbent deputy governor and the current running mate to the APC is from his zone, and the distraction of Ogunewe will affect him more than any other candidate.

In Orlu, the battle will be between Athan Achonu and Jones Onyereri. Orlu people consider Uzodimma’s governorship a curse because it brought killings, destruction, and hardships, and I don’t see any reasonable Orlu voter casting his or her vote for the APC in the governorship election.

The Peter Obi factor will also greatly benefit Athan Achonu, because, being the candidate of his Party, Peter Obi is expected to lead an aggressive campaign for him, when he is ready.

However, it must be pointed out that for the Labour Party candidate to take advantage of the victory fate seems to have dropped on his lap, he must work harder than he is currently doing. As of this moment, the only candidate engaging in any kind of visible mobilisation of voters in Imo State is Senator Samuel Anyanwu.

Even the APC have kick-started their mobilisation with their LGA tour which started yesterday. I expect that Athan Achonu’s train is steaming, and when it takes off, it should overtake these ones and take his rightful position as the number one candidate in this race.

LET’S TAKE BACK IMO!

Script Credit: ONWUASOANYA FCC JONES

Tony Ejiogu and His 5-Point Agenda To Rebuild Imo State

In a political landscape rife with hollow promises and grandiose pledges, Tony Ejiogu, the gubernatorial candidate of the All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA), brings forth a refreshing perspective for Imo State.

With his visionary 5-point agenda, Ejiogu presents a compelling case for a different kind of leadership – one that addresses the root cause of the state’s woes rather than merely treating symptoms.

While some may be quick to criticize the absence of healthcare and education initiatives in his plan, a closer examination reveals a promising path to extinguish the political fire that has engulfed Imo State and ushered in a new era of progress and prosperity.

Tony Ejiogu and His 5-Point Agenda To Rebuild Imo State — Advertisement: Ken-Gbados Concepts Limited

Ejiogu’s metaphorical response to questions about health care and education being absent from his 5-point agenda is telling. “Onye ulo ya na-agba oku, o na-achu oke?” he poignantly asks – a reminder that when a house is ablaze, chasing away rodents becomes trivial in comparison to tackling the fire head-on. The analogy encapsulates the essence of his approach – a focus on fixing the fundamental flaws in governance that have led Imo State to its current state of disarray.

It’s true that the state faces numerous challenges – from poor infrastructure to dilapidated institutions. However, Ejiogu astutely identifies these as mere symptoms of a much larger problem: a decayed mode of governance. This systemic failure, he rightly argues, threatens the very survival of the state. Rebuilding the core foundations of trust, productivity, and safety is the only viable path to lasting progress.

Ejiogu’s refusal to indulge in the typical rhetoric of promising roads and schools sets him apart from career politicians. Instead, he takes the courageous stance of affirming that it is the government’s duty to fulfill these basic responsibilities. By advocating for fixing the root cause of issues, he demonstrates a profound understanding of the intricacies of governance.

His 5-point agenda, promises a comprehensive strategy to reignite the state’s progress. The key lies in creating an efficient and honest government, where accountability is paramount and policies are implemented prudently. Ejiogu envisions an administration that will lay the groundwork for genuine development, allowing education, healthcare, and infrastructure improvements to naturally follow suit.

Critics may question the specifics of his agenda, but it is essential to remember that this is merely a glimpse of his overall vision. Sometimes, political campaigns can be a delicate balance between revealing enough to inspire hope and reserving the details for future policy announcements.

What sets Ejiogu apart is not just his agenda but also his unyielding belief in the power of unity. His call for “all hands on deck” is a recognition that lasting change requires collective effort. A leader who understands the importance of collaboration and inclusivity has the potential to unite a divided state and overcome obstacles that may seem insurmountable.

As the gubernatorial election approaches, Imo State stands at a crucial crossroads. The allure of traditional politicians promising quick fixes may be tempting, but Ejiogu’s visionary approach offers a more sustainable and transformative alternative. It challenges voters to rise above short-term solutions and embrace a leader who prioritizes fixing the system over flashy but superficial promises.

While no candidate is without imperfections, Tony Ejiogu’s 5-point agenda represents a ray of hope for Imo State’s future. His commitment to extinguishing the political fire and rebuilding the foundations of governance may just be the spark needed to ignite a new era of progress, prosperity, and genuine development for the people of Imo State. It is an opportunity that should not be overlooked or underestimated. Come November 11th, let us choose wisely for the sake of a brighter tomorrow.

By Kennedy Onyegbado; Media Relations and Communications Strategist

Ambode-Tinubu Saga: A Lesson in Political Strategy

The Ambode-Tinubu saga will undoubtedly go down as a remarkable chapter in the annals of Nigerian politics, leaving observers with valuable insights into the intricacies of power struggles and the potential for redemption, even in the most trying of circumstances.

In a surprising turn of events, the much-publicized estrangement between a prominent political godfather and his former protégé has finally come to an end. Akinwunmi Ambode and his one-time mentor, Bola Ahmed Tinubu referred to as “Jagaban,” have put their differences aside, leading to potential political prospects for both parties.

Ambode-Tinubu Saga: A Lesson in Political Strategy — Bola Ahmed Tinubu (Jagaban); President of Nigeria

The animosity between Ambode and Jagaban came to the fore during the former’s bid for a second-term ticket, which ultimately ended in denial. Ambode chose a path of quiet resilience, avoiding public confrontations, and watching from the sidelines.

Unbeknownst to many, this strategic silence inadvertently played a crucial role in propelling Jagaban’s political career to new heights, eventually securing him the nation’s highest office.

Recent reports indicate that Jagaban, now the president, is keen on compensating his former godson for his loyalty, even during the tumultuous times. The political grapevine suggests that Akinwunmi Ambode’s name is expected to feature prominently on the list of Federal Government appointees, marking his redemption in the political landscape.

The reconciliation between these two political heavyweights serves as a valuable lesson in political strategy and redemption. Ambode’s decision not to engage in a public battle of egos highlights that not every act of intimidation requires a combative response. Sometimes, choosing to let go and patiently bide one’s time can open the door to more significant opportunities down the line.

Throughout history, instances of political rivalries have often resulted in destructive feuds. However, the Ambode-Tinubu reconciliation serves as a stark reminder that in the world of politics, timing, tact, and patience can be potent tools in navigating complex relationships.

As the dust settles and the political landscape evolves, the public eagerly awaits the next chapter in this compelling tale. Ambode’s redemption and rise to a prominent federal position demonstrate that indeed, “All’s well that ends well,” echoing the words of the legendary playwright William Shakespeare.

In the cutthroat world of politics, where egos clash and alliances shift, this tale of reconciliation offers a glimmer of hope. It showcases that bridges can be mended, even after bitter disputes, and that political adversaries can find common ground.

As the nation looks toward the future, the lesson remains clear: political acumen, resilience, and the ability to seize the right moment can forge paths to unforeseen heights. And in the words of Ambode and Tinubu, it’s never too late for a new beginning in the ever-changing landscape of Nigerian politics.

By Kennedy Onyegbado; Media Relations and Communications Strategist

Tinubu Is Not The President Of Ecowas!

It is important for those who report news to have some background information on issues they report on and spokesmen of political office holders must be able to distinguish between information dissemination and perception management. Every news item is not for perception management.

The news that is making the rounds that Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu has emerged as the Chairman of West Africa’s regional organisation, ECOWAS is deceptive. Tinubu as a person is not the Chairman of ECOWAS on his own merit or because the other 15 heads of State found him worthy or exceptional.

Tinubu Is Not The President Of Ecowas! — Advertisement: Ken-Gbados Concepts Limited

The decision to make Nigeria the chairman of ECOWAS had been reached long before Tinubu became President. So if a goat had emerged as Nigerian President at this point in time, that goat would have gone ahead to chair ECOWAS because the position is for Nigeria.

Also, if the right thing is done and the electoral heist perpetrated by INEC and the APC is reversed, anyone who emerges president within the pendency of Nigeria’s turn at the ECOWAS chairmanship will continue as ECOWAS chairman.

The idea to make it look like Tinubu’s emergence as ECOWAS chairman is some sort of vote of confidence on him by his colleague heads of State is deceptive.

Thank you.

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Election Defence Fiasco: APC, INEC, Tinubu’s Disappointing Show

The trio of APC, INEC, and Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, disappointed even their most fanatical supporters with the very weak defence they put up in the petitions filed by the popularly acclaimed winner of the election, Mr. Peter Obi and the popularly acclaimed runner-up, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar.

INEC originally scheduled to bring three witnesses to prove that the election they conducted was free and fair and that their declaration of Bola Tinubu as the winner was correct, but after their first witness failed to turn up on the scheduled date, their only witness, a Pastor, was decimated by Peter Obi’s legal team, who left him feeling disappointed with himself.

Election Defence: APC, INEC, Tinubu's Disappointing Show — President Bola Ahmed Tinubu

With that embarrassing outing, INEC knew that it would be unnecessary to bring any more witnesses as it became clearer to them that they have an impossible and senseless defence on the back of Peter Obi’s compelling evidence and arguments before the court.

Tinubu and his running mate, Shettima, they had more work to do. One was to prove that the man at the top of the ticket is qualified, ab initio to stand as a candidate in the election, given numerous controversies bogging his age, origin, academics, works, and a case of criminal forfeiture of narcotics linked funds and other issues, including the double nomination of Shettima who was as at the time he was filed in as the vice-presidential candidate, a Senatorial candidate of the same Party for Borno South.

Tinubu and Shettima didn’t bother advancing any arguments to counter Peter Obi’s overwhelming evidence that the election was brazenly manipulated and the provisions of the Electoral Act were breached by the INEC in declaring Tinubu the winner of the election.

For them, their joker is the purported evidence that Peter Obi wasn’t a member of the Labour Party at the time the LP submitted its membership register to INEC. What they could not prove is that Peter Obi was not a member of the Party at the time he became the Party’s flag-bearer sometime in May.

Of course, Peter Obi was a bonafide member of the Party, and it is only the LP that can say who was its member and who wasn’t and there is no provision in either the Electoral Act or the Constitution that forbids one from joining a political Party even a day before he or she becomes a nominee of that Party for election.

It is left for the LP to prove that Peter Obi joined the Party after it had submitted its membership register and that it met the requirements of the Electoral Act in nominating him as a presidential candidate.

The APC, INEC, and Tinubu lost the case during Peter Obi’s presentations in court, and the witnesses they scheduled to appear all ran away because it became obvious to them that they were going to face huge embarrassments from Peter Obi’s legal team.

An INEC that couldn’t read the figures in a document it purportedly used in declaring someone winner of an election couldn’t go on embarrassing itself in the court and Tinubu and APC who already knew they are holding a stolen mandate couldn’t bear further embarrassment in court, hence, the hurried closure of their defence.

Peter Obi’s legal team has done its job and done it well and the defence teams of Tinubu, Shettima, INEC, and APC have already conceded losing the case by not following through on their defence, but Nigerians and the world are watching and waiting to see what the judges will come up with.

TRUTH MUST WIN!

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Mmesoma: The Shame of a Nation

Beyond the merits or otherwise, of JAMB’s claims against Mmesoma and the prodigious Anambra child’s insistence on her innocence, I want to talk about our values as a nation and how public officials have consistently destroyed and discouraged patriotism towards Nigeria.

A Geographic Expression of Nigeria’s Image Crisis

Nobody seems to care about the Nigerian image, not even the President of Nigeria. Everyone seems to have come to the frightening conclusion that Nigeria is a mere geographical expression that is not worth any emotional attachment, but to get whatever we can of it and move on. More like a weak object to be exploited rather than a Motherland to be cared for and loved.

The Allegations against Mmesoma

The past few days have seen the internet get awash with what is seeming to be a fairy tale of how the highest scorer in last year’s Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination suddenly became a fraudster and forger, instead of the excellent student and performer that she truly is.

Mmesoma: The Shame of a Nation — Prof. Ishaq Oloyede; JAMB’s Registrar

Questioning the Public Shaming of a Child

To be honest, I had almost been taken in by the stories of Ishaq Oloyede and was already crying that Nigeria has become a nation where a dishonest lifestyle is the new test of intelligence and that’s because those at the top who do the same or worse things never get punished, hence, becoming role models to the younger ones. I prayed that the young child is saved from taking that dishonorable path early enough.

Even if this child is truly guilty as claimed by Ishaq, a responsible public official wouldn’t have chosen the path of publicly shaming her. He should have understood that this is, first and foremost, a child and that if truly the accusation of using a particular software to upload inflated results is true, then it speaks to the inefficiency of the administrators of JAMB who are paid heavily by taxpayers’ money to protect and advance the integrity of our tertiary education.

The inefficiency of JAMB and Tertiary Education Integrity

There is a reason nations with some reasonable leaders do not easily mention the names of minors even when such minors commit what could be regarded as capital offenses. Laws are made to protect the names of children because it is believed that these children, even if they had done something wrong as a result of exuberance and immaturity, could still become great individuals in life.

Nations invest huge resources in reforming children and even adults who lost their paths in life, but in Nigeria, criminals who run various aspects of our lives are happy to use lesser “criminals” who are actually victims of their irresponsibility, to shine, by ensuring that they mete the maximum punishment to them, while terrorists and bandits whom they sponsor are granted amnesty and rewarded for meting maximum destruction on vulnerable members of the society.

Mmesoma’s Withdrawal and Prosecution

When you hear Ishaq Oloyede announcing with relish how his corrupt and inefficient agency is going to set an example with Mmesoma by withdrawing her result and prosecuting her, for a crime they haven’t even heard her own side of the story, you would better understand the reasons why many people see Nigeria as not worth any love or sacrifice.

Lack of Kindness towards Mmesoma

Do you think that Mmesoma, after going through this emotional trauma, would ever forgive Nigeria, especially now that she is set to be sponsored abroad for further studies?

Ishaq Oloyede is supposed to see this child and other children writing UTME through the lens he sees his own biological children – to love, to understand, and to correct them with kindness – but he rather came out smoking in rage as if he was on a media thug of war with a political opponent. He was spitting fire as if he has caught the leader of Boko Haram or ISWAP, but he was talking about a mere child, whose only crime is to be borne a Nigerian.

Lack of Faith in Nigeria among Agency Heads

Nigeria has agencies that are supposed to promote Nigerianism, but even those who head such agencies do not have any inkling of faith in Nigeria and would pay anything to have their children dislocated from Nigeria and proudly celebrate the fact that their children are enjoying citizenship of better-governed countries of this world. At most, they work in those agencies to milk Nigeria of whatever joy there is in it.

Comparing Nigerianism to North Korean Loyalty

You see, as hellish as North Korea is, there are more North Koreans who genuinely believe in their country than Nigerians who believe in Nigeria. This is because while North Koreans are put through some of the most dehumanizing treatments any animal would want to bear, there is always a program aimed at deceiving them to believe that their sufferings are worth it because they are for the good of the Motherland.

I do not wish for Nigeria to be anywhere near North Korea in the satanic dictatorship they have to endure, but Nigeria must learn to invest in instilling Nigerianism as a culture in Nigerians if we must have any hopes of surviving in this nation.

MAY NIGERIA PREVAIL!

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Hon. Cafra Caino Emphasizes Unity in Eid Mubarak Message

Hon. Cafra Caino, former Chairman of Kajuru L.G.A, and a prominent figure in Kaduna State politics has extended warm Eid Mubarak wishes to the Muslim community and the nation as a whole, emphasizing the importance of unity during the celebration of Eid al-Adha.

With Eid al-Adha being a significant religious occasion for Muslims worldwide, Hon. Cafra Caino recognizes its profound meaning and the values it represents. He stressed that unity is an essential aspect of this celebration, as it brings people together, transcending differences and fostering a sense of harmony and understanding.

Hon. Cafra Caino Emphasizes Unity in Eid Mubarak Message — Advertisement: Ken-Gbados Concepts Limited

In a media statement, Hon. Cafra Caino highlighted the need for Nigerians to come together, irrespective of religious, ethnic, or political affiliations, to promote unity and peaceful coexistence. He emphasized that Eid Mubarak provides a valuable opportunity to strengthen bonds, foster empathy, and build bridges of understanding within communities.

The APC Candidate for the Chikun/Kajuru Federal Constituency in the last National Assembly elections, Hon. Cafra Caino underscored the importance of unity in achieving sustainable development and progress. He urged Nigerians to embrace the spirit of Eid al-Adha and work collectively towards a more united and prosperous nation.

Furthermore, Hon. Cafra Caino expressed his belief that by celebrating Eid Mubarak with a shared sense of purpose, Nigerians can overcome challenges, promote inclusivity, and enhance the well-being of all citizens. He encourages individuals and communities to engage in acts of kindness, compassion, and support, not just during Eid, but throughout the year.

The Looming Threat: Prigozhin’s Power and Putin’s Vulnerability

Prigozhin won’t be free for long if he is alive. As one who put together such a formidable military force and has been able to sustain their loyalty over these years, to the point that they can shed their blood for him, Yevgeny Prigozhin certainly knows more than anyone else that he is in danger, unless, of course, what happened was a subterfuge put orchestrated by the Kremlin to deceive Ukraine and the world.

Putin is not the kind of leader that condones a challenge to his authority, and every day Prigozhin walks free in Belarus, he will see a big threat to his iron grip on power.

Prigozhin's Power and Putin's Vulnerability — Russian President Vladimir Putin

Wagner fighters have seen blood and will continue to bay for more. The Kremlin cannot take them off combat duties and expect them to be happy about it. They will either convert to full-blown terrorists or align with Ukraine in the war against Russia. These guys weren’t trained as professional soldiers but as mercenaries, hence, they see themselves more as businessmen than traders.

Prigozhin wouldn’t have mustered the confidence to embark on the journey he did if he wasn’t certain of causing some serious upset, and for him to have forced the Kremlin to walk back on their original stance of prosecuting him is some victory for him and his Wagner group.

Putin’s time at the Kremlin is certainly numbered unless he takes the humble pie and recalls his army from all parts of Ukraine. Any good war analyst would tell you that Prigozhin had the lightening success he had in taking over Rostov-on-Don and another major city, not entirely because of the efficiency of his fighters, but because a great number of Russian regular army are tired of the war and didn’t have the motivation to confront the Wagner group.

This is why the Kremlin’s most effective resistance to the mutiny was from the Chechen fighters, another semi-independent fighting group that is not very different from a PMC. I can’t wait to see Putin disgraced and whoever helps in actualizing that is a hero, even the bloodthirsty criminal, Prigozin.

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The War Is Getting Home To Putin

The Russian FSB has announced that it is beginning an investigation into Yevgeny Prigozhin whom they accuse of inciting rebellion against the Russian military. Arguably the closest person outside the conventional military to President Putin, Prigozin is known by the alias, “Putin’s Chef”.

This further underscores his closeness to the Russian strongman, and it is my analysis that the Wagner Private Military Company which Prigozhin runs is meant to serve as Putin’s fallback option in a situation he falls out with the Russian conventional military.

The War Is Getting Home To Putin — Yevgeny Prigozhin

Wagner’s Expanding Footprint:

Prigozhin has enormous resources at his disposal and Wagner’s footprints are seen beyond the shores of Russia, including in Syria and a good number of African countries, where they are critical to advancing Russian economic and political interests, through support for either government forces or militia threatening the government of any nation where Russia has an interest. From Mali to Sudan, up to Togo and various other countries, Wagner’s presence is strong and formidable.

Wagner’s Involvement in the Conflict in Ukraine and Clashes with Russian Military

In the ongoing immoral invasion of Ukraine by Russia, Wagner personnel have played prominent roles in fighting for Russia, and Prigozin has not failed to assert his position as an independent military organisation, on many occasions, disagreeing openly with the Russian Minister of Defence; Shoigu and other top military generals in Russia might have had enough of Prigozin’s insults and may have decided to reign him and his PMC in.

Prigozhyn’s Refusal to Sign Contract with Ministry of Defence Raises Concerns

First, there is a military directive that all PMCs in Russia must sign a contract with the Ministry of Defence, and Prigozin had out rightly rejected the proposal and vowed not to sign any contract with the Ministry of Defence.

Just today, he claimed that the Russian military bombed a camp harbouring his fighters and killed “dozens” of them and vowed to retaliate. The Russian military is not taking this threat kindly, as they have initiated an investigation on the man who is largely seen as an untouchable in Russia.

Putin’s Dilemma:

This development will no doubt put Putin in a very unpleasant situation, as he will be torn between shielding his longstanding confidante from the military or losing the loyalty and support of the Russian military.

Whatever he decides, he stands a big risk of facing some unprecedented internal revolt. Should he decide to sacrifice Prigozhin, the Wagner mercenary is big and well-armed that if they decide to revolt, it might be a major incident that can topple the Putin dictatorship and should he try to stop the military from reigning in Prigozin at this point, then, he will definitely have the conventional military to contend with.

Caution for Ukrainian Strategists:

However, Ukrainian military tacticians must not take this crisis between Prigozin and the Russian military at face value, as it could be a camouflage to distract the Ukrainians from the ongoing counter-offensive.

Read Also: Russia Is an Enemy of Peace

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November 11: Five Leaders Who Can Shift Balance in Imo State

While the struggle to liberate Imo from Uzodimma’s grievous grip is certainly the people’s project and many of those who claim to possess the wand of political magic will be highly disappointed, there are five critical Imo political leaders whose support for any of the candidates will certainly shift the balance of support in favour of such candidate. These leaders are;

1. Ikenga Imo Ugochinyere:

A new kid on the block, the member representing Ideato Federal Constituency and Deputy Chairman of the House of Representatives ad-hoc committee on media, Ikenga Imo Ugochinyere has taken the Imo political space by storm. During the 2023 elections, he was the only political leader whose influence and courageousness stopped Chief Uzodimma’s planned total elimination of opposition in Imo State.

While the vibrant legal practitioner, political consultant, and activist paid huge prices, including losing his dear uncle and two of his staff in his fight against Uzodimma’s excesses and electoral criminality, he has not wavered in his commitment to standing with the people. Many Imolites are waiting for his direction, and they will certainly go with him to any candidate he might choose to stand with in this election.

With every respect to every one of our respected leaders, I believe that Ikenga is the most frightening nightmare of the Omuma magician who has the charisma, contacts, and willpower to lead a people’s movement that will oust him from Douglas House.

Before the 2023 general elections drama, Ikenga had already established himself as a rugged fighter for democratic advancement and we can only wait to see if any of the candidates will convince him enough to throw his hat into the ring, as he is also someone who fears failure and wouldn’t want to get involved in a project he doesn’t have reasonable assurance of its success.

2. Emeka Ihedioha:

The immediate past governor of Imo State broke many people’s hearts when he suddenly withdrew from participating in the governorship contest. With his solid structure spread across the over 8,000 polling booths across Imo State, Ihedioha was already a governor-in-waiting, but the inability of the PDP NWC to resolve the infighting within his Party forced him to withdraw from the race, leaving the field for Uzodimma to run a roughshod on the remaining candidate.

While there are indications that he might sit out this drama without openly campaigning for any of the candidates, whoever his body language favours will have a commanding advantage in the governorship race, as thousands of his supporters who have been left stranded and confused would easily take out their political frustration on the ballot.

While I do not have the slightest idea about whom the Mbutu-born legislative veteran and widely loved leader would eventually throw his support to, I should know that Uzodimma is the last person that will get this support.

3. Senator Ifeanyi Ararume:

The multibillionaire businessman and tested fighter and politician has been quiet for too long, and this is getting many people worried. For a man who has invested enormously in the politics of Imo State, Agu Isiebu cannot afford to stay aloof when a single man is trying to pocket the State and threatening to send every other person packing.

While you cannot accurately guess the next steps of politicians, especially, those at his level, it should be simple enough to understand that Ararume should have personal grouses with Uzodimma, and stopping him from getting a second term should be a matter of personal and group survival than anything else. An Uzodimma’s second term would mean the effective extinction of one of the longest-surviving and most viral political families in Imo State, the Destiny Organisation.

Whoever Ararume throws his full support to in this coming election can be guaranteed at least 50% of all valid votes in the Okigwe zone, because he has paid his dues in Imo politics and for whatever it is worth has secured the love and confidence of a good number of his people.

4. Ugonna Ozurigbo:

The former Deputy Speaker of the Imo State House of Assembly and returning member of the House of Representatives has creatively managed his meteoric rise to political prominence in Imo State. He has been deliberate and even deft in ensuring that his successes don’t get into his head and for that, he has thousands of supporters and sympathizers across Imo State.

OZB doesn’t like confrontational politics, but prefers to be at peace with everyone, as much as it is within his powers to do so, yet, he is not a pushover. OZB has fought many political battles in the last few years and will not be one to watch quietly as the fate of his State is decided.

He is a PDP member and is naturally expected to go with his Party’s candidate in the election, but the level of his involvement in the election will be determined by his conviction about any of the candidates. If OZB is motivated to openly campaign for any of the candidates, then, such candidate has secured thousands of votes from the numerous OZB apostles across Imo State.

5. Ugwumba Uche Nwosu:

The AA governorship candidate in 2019 and whose official results of the election came a close second in that election, Ugwumba Uche Nwosu has been tactical in keeping in touch with his base in the Imo political habitat. He is one politician whom a number of youths in the State look up to, and to a reasonable extent, he has managed to steer himself off scandals.

He has effectively taken over whatever remains of the Owelle Rochas Okorocha political family in the State and if there is anyone whom the remnants of that formerly obsequious political family will listen to, it is Ugwumba Uche Nwosu, who has managed within his lean resources to keep that family together.

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Expectations As Ogalla Assumes Role as Chief of Naval Staff

In a significant development on Monday, President Bola Tinubu appointed Rear Admiral Ikechukwu Ogalla as the new Chief of Naval Staff, replacing Rear Admiral Awwal Gambo. As Nigerians embrace this change, expectations run high for a fresh perspective and positive reforms within the Nigerian Navy.

Background on Rear Admiral Ikechukwu Ogalla:

Rear Admiral Ikechukwu Ogalla brings a wealth of experience and expertise to his new position as Chief of Naval Staff. With an illustrious career spanning several decades, he has served in various capacities within the Nigerian Navy, demonstrating exceptional leadership and dedication to the nation’s maritime security.

Expectations As Ogalla Assumes Role as Chief of Naval Staff — His Excellency, Bola Ahmed Tinubu; President and Commander in Chief, Federal Republic of Nigeria

Ogalla’s Impressive Track Record:

Throughout his career, Rear Admiral Ogalla has shown unwavering commitment to his duty, earning him the respect of his peers and subordinates alike. He has successfully led and participated in numerous operations aimed at safeguarding Nigeria’s territorial waters from threats such as piracy, illegal fishing, and maritime smuggling.

Expectations of Nigerians:

With the appointment of Rear Admiral Ikechukwu Ogalla, Nigerians eagerly anticipate a fresh approach to tackling the challenges faced by the Nigerian Navy. There are several key areas in which citizens hope to witness positive changes:

Enhanced Maritime Security:

Nigerians expect Rear Admiral Ogalla to prioritize the improvement of maritime security, particularly in the Gulf of Guinea region, which has witnessed a rise in piracy and other illicit activities. Strengthening collaboration with neighboring countries and international partners will be crucial in combating these threats.

Modernization and Capacity Building:

The Nigerian Navy requires modernization and capacity-building initiatives to effectively respond to emerging maritime challenges. Nigerians look to Rear Admiral Ogalla to implement measures aimed at upgrading the Navy’s equipment, training programs, and infrastructure, ensuring it remains at the forefront of maritime defense.

Professionalism and Ethical Standards:

To restore public confidence, Nigerians anticipate Rear Admiral Ogalla to enforce strict professionalism and ethical standards within the Nigerian Navy. Transparency, accountability, and zero tolerance for corruption will be vital to building a trustworthy institution that serves the nation with integrity.

The Welfare of Naval Personnel:

The well-being of naval personnel should be a priority for the new Chief of Naval Staff. Nigerians expect Rear Admiral Ogalla to address issues such as adequate remuneration, improved living conditions, healthcare, and career development opportunities. A motivated and well-cared-for workforce will undoubtedly contribute to the Navy’s overall effectiveness.

As Rear Admiral Ikechukwu Ogalla assumes the role of Chief of Naval Staff, Nigerians anticipate a positive transformation in the Nigerian Navy. The appointment brings renewed hope for enhanced maritime security, modernization efforts, professionalism, and improved welfare for naval personnel. It is now time for Rear Admiral Ogalla to demonstrate his leadership and steer the Nigerian Navy toward a brighter and more secure future.

By Ken Gbados.

10th NASS With the Return of Hon. Emeka Chinedu

By Kennedy Onyegbado

The newly elected or returning lawmakers will need to understand that, beyond the glitz of Tuesday’s opening of the 10th session of the Nigerian National Assembly, the biggest challenge they face is probably not the electoral litigation they must deal with, nor the horse trading and high stakes negotiations and compromises that will take place in the coming days and weeks for chairmanship and membership of key House committees, but rather maintaining their seats in the legislature.

However, the enthusiasm and high expectations that Hon. Emeka Martins Chinedu’s re-election as a member of the House of Representatives for the 10^th Session of the Nigerian National Assembly has sparked in Ahiazu/Ezinihitte Mbaise, where I’m from, are unparalleled. Emeka Chinedu’s return to the House of Representatives is a prayer answered for the typical Ahiazu Mbaise and Ezinihitte Mbaise son or daughter, as they continue to have a voice.

Hon. Emeka Chinedu: Unmatched Antecedents:

It is impossible to overstate the importance of the legislative branch of government as Nigeria works to achieve sustainable development. Making laws and policies that will influence the future of the nation falls under the purview of the National Assembly, which is the highest legislative body in the land.

In this light, the representative for the Ahiazu Mbaise/Ezinihitte Federal Constituency Of Imo State, Hon. Emeka Chinedu, In The National Assembly, Has Established Himself As A Genuine Example Of The Nigerian Legislative Dream.

On the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) platform, Hon. Chinedu, an experienced politician and grassroots organizer, was elected to the House of Representatives in 2019 and re-elected in 2023. His political journey has been characterized by an unwavering dedication to public service and an unrelenting pursuit of the people’s welfare.

10th NASS With the Return of Hon. Emeka Chinedu — Advertisement: Ken-Gbados Concepts Limited

From the moment he was elected to represent Ahiazu Mbaise/Ezinihitte Federal Constituency in the 9th Session of the National Assembly in 2019, Hon. Chinedu consistently demonstrated his unwavering commitment to effective representation and good governance. He served as a voice for the voiceless, advocating for the rights and interests of his constituents at every turn.

Hon. Emeka Chinedu and Unprecedented Achievements:

Hon. Chinedu’s Contributions To The Adoption Of Legislation And Policies That Will Promote Economic Growth And Development In Nigeria Are One Of His Greatest Accomplishments In The 9^th Assembly As A House Of Representatives Member.

He was a vocal proponent of the Nigerian economy’s diversification, especially in the fields of agriculture, solid minerals, and small and medium-sized businesses. Several Measures And Motions Targeted At Advancing These Industries And Luring Investment To The Nation Were Sponsored Or Co-Sponsored By Him.

In addition to his contributions to Nigeria’s economic growth, Hon. Chinedu was a strong voice for the defense of the rights of minorities, women, and other disaffected groups. To advance gender equality, eradicate all forms of discrimination and violence against women, and defend the rights of children and people with disabilities, He sponsored and co-sponsored several laws and motions.

In addition to his work in the legislature, Hon. Chinedu has shown excellence in leadership and civic engagement in his district. Beyond building roads, bridges, schools, and hospitals, he facilitated the execution of other projects and initiatives that have improved the lives of his constituents. He also offered youth and women in his constituency empowerment initiatives and scholarships.

Many of the nation’s young people were inspired by Hon. Emeka Chinedu’s excellent leadership and dedication to the Nigerian legislative goal. His dedication to helping his constituency and the country as a whole is proof that Nigeria can achieve its goals for sustainable development with the correct leadership and commitment.

A Lawmaker To Look Out For In The 10^th Assembly

As The 10th Session Of The National Assembly Commences, With An Impeccable Record Of Accomplishments, His Dedication To His Constituents’ Well-Being, And A Profound Understanding Of The Needs Of His People, Hon. Chinedu Promises To Be An Influential And Progressive Force In The Legislature.

His proven ability to work across party lines, foster consensus, and deliver tangible results sets him apart from his peers. Hon. Chinedu’s charisma, strategic thinking, and astute leadership make him an invaluable asset to his constituents and the nation at large. With a firm focus on socioeconomic development, job creation, and infrastructure, he is poised to drive positive change and transform the lives of his constituents.

To sum up, Hon. Emeka Martins Chinedu embodies the ideal of the Nigerian legislative dream. He has shown that the National Assembly can be a force for improvement in Nigeria with the appropriate leadership and dedication. I anticipate that his induction into the 10th National Assembly will inspire additional lawmakers to follow his example and work for the good of the entire nation.

Therefore, those of us who think the 10^th session of the Nigeria National Assembly is capable of providing quality legislation and oversight in a way that encourages service delivery and raises the standard of living for the populace can proudly point to Hon. Emeka Martins Chinedu, who various analysts have adjudged as the epitome of a social reformer and a bridge builder.

By Kennedy Onyegbado, a media relations and communications expert

Take Aways As Hilda Baci Sets Guinness World Record

In a remarkable feat that showcases exceptional culinary skills and a lifelong dedication to the art of cooking, Hilda Baci, a talented chef from Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria has officially been recognized by Guinness World Records (GWR) for her extraordinary achievement.

Guinness World Records, on Tuesday, announced Hilda Baci as the new record holder for the longest cooking time by an individual.

However, the GWR trimmed down Hilda’s time in her attempt to set a record of 100 hours by deducting almost seven hours from her final total because she mistakenly took extra minutes for one of her rest breaks early on in the attempt. The previous record of 87 hours 45 minutes was set by Lata Tondon (India) in 2019.

Take Aways As Hilda Baci Sets Guinness World Record — Photo Grid showing different shades of Hilda Baci during her four days cook-a-thon

With a passion for creating delectable dishes that tantalize the taste buds, Baci has now etched her name in history as she sets a new record for her outstanding cooking prowess.

Hilda Baci: Setting the Stage

With a love for culinary exploration, Baci embarked on a remarkable journey that led her to push the boundaries of traditional cooking and redefine the possibilities within the realm of gastronomy. Her relentless pursuit of perfection and unwavering dedication to her craft has now culminated in a momentous Guinness World Record confirmation, solidifying her place among the greatest culinary talents of our time.

The Record-Breaking Moment

The 27-year-old Nigerian Chef’s remarkable achievement came to fruition when she embarked on a four-day kitchen stint which began on Thursday, May 11, 2023, and continued through to Monday, May 15, 2023, cooking over 100 pots of food. Hilda prepared for the event by creating a 35-item menu “as a guide” for every meal that she would cook.

Overcoming Challenges:

Setting a Guinness World Record is no easy task, and Baci faced numerous challenges along the way. From sourcing the finest ingredients to meticulously honing her techniques, she dedicated countless hours to perfecting her craft. Her unwavering commitment, attention to detail, and relentless pursuit of excellence set her apart from the competition and ultimately led her to this groundbreaking achievement.

Innovation and Creativity

Baci’s record-breaking performance was not merely a display of technical skill but also a testament to her boundless creativity. Through her innovative approach to cooking, she effortlessly combined traditional flavors with modern techniques, delivering a unique and unforgettable dining experience. Her ability to create harmonious flavor profiles and visually stunning presentations has put Nigerian cuisine on the map.

Hilda Baci: Impact and Inspiration

Hilda Baci’s achievement serves as an inspiration to aspiring chefs and food enthusiasts worldwide. Her story demonstrates that with passion, perseverance, and a commitment to continuous improvement, anyone can reach new heights and make their mark in the culinary world. By breaking barriers and challenging conventions, Baci has opened doors for countless individuals to explore their creative potential in the kitchen.

Hilda Baci’s remarkable journey from a passionate cook to a Guinness World Record holder is a testament to her talent, dedication, and unwavering pursuit of culinary excellence. Her achievement not only highlights her exceptional skills but also showcases the transformative power of food and the artistry it can embody.

Baci’s record will undoubtedly inspire future generations of chefs and food enthusiasts to push the boundaries of what is possible in the world of cooking, forever leaving a lasting impact on the culinary landscape.

By Ken Gbados

Broken To Unite: Communion As (Concept Of) Igbo Eschatology

I think the most profound symbol of communion in Igboland is the kola nut. It is the hard fruit of a local tree, the kola tree. It is the first thing presented in every social gathering or personal visit to any Igbo home. It is presented by the host and its symbolism is a deep sign of welcome.

It is not rejected when offered even if one does not feel like chewing the nut. Rather, it is presented, blessed, broken, and distributed. Ideally, only one piece is shared by those gathered if they are few. For larger gatherings, more nuts are brought to give each person a share if possible.

It is not usually given as a whole piece to the guest but blessed, broken, and shared among those present. When whole pieces are given to individuals, it is also symbolic of some function or message. Often, that whole piece is given to an august visitor or emissary to take back to where they came from or to give to those who sent them, as evidence of their mission.

But even when whole pieces are given to individuals to take back home eventually, they also partake in the pieces broken and shared by all, even if each person receives only a bite. The kola nut is not just brought out and broken, even in an informal encounter such as two siblings or neighbors visiting.

It is always visibly presented on a saucer, blessed by a religious leader, a traditionally titled man, or the oldest man present (in that order of preference), then broken by the youngest and served to all. No matter how brief the visit or meeting was intended, the ritual takes place religiously.

The kola nut ritual is like the Eucharist.

The blessing is first thanksgiving to God for life and for the blessing of interaction, and then intercession corresponding with the purpose of the meeting or the good of the visitor. It is also sent to those not present, like the Eucharistic Ite missa est.

It is indeed the Igbo Eucharist: we take it, give thanks, bless it, remember the living and the dead, break it, distribute it, consume it, and reserve it for those not present. The kola nut symbolizes life primarily. It also symbolizes acceptance, peace, and an invitation to dialogue.

Broken To Unite: Communion As (Concept Of) Igbo Eschatology — Kola Nut; the adjudged the most profound symbol of communion in Igboland

Hence, the kola nut ritual takes place before the agenda of a meeting or visit is announced. Its relational importance is that it has several lobes joined together which are broken along those lines and distributed, indicating plurality in our togetherness. It is the ultimate symbol of hospitality and solidarity.

Another symbol of communion for the Igbos is wine.

In addition to the normal use of wine for entertainment, the Igbos symbolize serious discussions with wine. If someone knocks at your door with wine, it is not for fun. If you are going to see a lady’s family officially declare your marriage intentions, you go with wine.

Wine is also used to give a special invitation to someone you value or to notify them of important intentions. It is a symbol of intended rapprochement. Wine in this sense of communion can also be understood from the communion of the kola nut and also of the Eucharist.

It is not for entertainment but a symbol of invitation or intention towards communion. An individual, family, or entire community could send wine to another body (individual, family, or recipient community as may be the case) in this regard.

The Eucharist perfects the liturgical gathering; kola nut perfects the Igbo traditional gathering. The kola nut is the knot of communion; so is the Eucharist. They are broken to unite all partakers because one principle of Igbo communion is the community of beings.

Summing up the Idea of Communion

Ikechukwu Kanu sums up the idea of communion as an Igbo eschatological reality with the concept of Igwebuike. The word is actually a complete sentence with deep metaphysical import. It comprises three Igbo words written as igwe bu ike.

The first component – igwe – means a large number, unity, unanimity, collectivity, togetherness, community, assembly, solidarity, complementarity, and other connotations of plurality and overwhelming majority, as against individuality, paucity, or even simple majority.

The other element – bu – is the copula ‘to be’ which is the linking verb in the construct, taking the form ‘is’ in this case. Ike translates as strength, power, and authority. Igwebuike, therefore, connotes ‘number is power’, ‘unity is strength’, ‘togetherness is power’, or any similar inference. Propounding the theory of Igwebuike as the driving force of African religion as well as metaphysics, Kanu asserts that:

“This provides an ontological horizon that presents being as that which possesses a relational character or mutual relations. As an ideology, Igwebuike rests on the African principle of solidarity and complementarity.

It argues that ‘to be’ is to live in solidarity and complementarity, and to live outside the parameters of solidarity and complementarity is to suffer alienation. ‘To be’ is ‘to live with the other’, in a community of beings. This is based on the African philosophy of community, which is the underlying principle and unity of African traditional religious and philosophical experience.”

Mbiti also highlights this deep sense of communion when he wrote, “I am because we are and since we are, therefore I am.” The African notion of existence is all about our interrelatedness and interdependence. Communion is the perfection of personhood. “To find fulfillment, the individual person’s life has need of something that only others, the human community can provide.” This is the point Achebe makes in his widely translated classic, Things Fall Apart, about the Igbo culture:

“A man who calls his kinsmen to a feast does not do so to prevent them from starving. They all have food in their own homes. When we gather in the moonlit village ground it is not because of the moon. Every man can see it in his own compound. We come together because it is good for kinsmen to do so.”

Nyamity advances this notion of relationality and communality in Africa to mean that:

“A person is fundamentally open to the outside: the community of the living and the dead, the Supernaturals, and the cosmos when he derives his life, power, and sacrality. Indeed it is through the community that the individual obtains his life and its fulfillment (personality).

It is the community that is the ultimate source of his life and personality: he is named and educated by it, and he is brought to adulthood and fecundity through it. Nor can he exercise the fullness of his sacred vital forces outside the community.”

The individual’s relation to the community is so intimate that he belongs to it more than the community belongs to him. His individuality, personal responsibilities, and rights are acknowledged, but they are dominated by the community idea.

Community is the greatest African cultural heritage. This community encompasses women, men, the elderly, children, sick, healthy, poor, rich, living, unborn, dead, and even nature and the ecosystem. It is a “community of creation,” in the words of Elizabeth Johnson. It is a community where all are accorded a fair space to thrive in.

By Rev. Fr. Jude Thaddeus Osondu (2023 Corpus Christi)

Bibliography:

Ikechukwu Anthony Kanu, A Hermeneutic Approach to African Traditional Religion, Theology and Philosophy (Jos, Nigeria: Augustinian Publications, 2015), 67.
Kanu, 67.
John S. Mbiti, African Religions & Philosophy (New York: Praeger, 1969), 108.
Laurenti Magesa, What Is Not Sacred?: African Spirituality (Maryknoll: Orbis Books, 2013), 12.
Chinua Achebe, Things Fall Apart, African Writers Series Classics (Oxford: Heinemann, 2008), 133.
Charles Nyamiti, “The Incarnation Viewed from the African Understanding of Person.” African Christian Studies 6, no. 1 (1990): 9.
Nyamiti, 9.
Elizabeth A. Johnson, Ask the Beasts: Darwin and the God of Love (London: Bloomsbury, 2014).

Second Niger Bridge Commissioning: Buhari’s Paradox

If there is any part of Nigeria President Buhari showed the most disdain, it is the Southeast region. Without mincing words, Buhari left no one in doubt at the inception of his administration as to the frosty relations existing between him and the Igbos.

The Southeast region didn’t do much to love or appreciate his style of politics then. And to the Southeast region, Buhari made one of his famous commentaries of “95% voters and 5% “wailers.” This probably gave birth to Femi Adesina’s description of the “wailers” against a majority of “hailers.”

However, as fate would have it, just a few days to the end of his administration, the same President Muhammadu Buhari is gifting this region which he so ‘dislikes’ one Super Infrastructure that will graciously outlive five generations – The Second Niger Bridge!

Second Niger Bridge Commissioning: Buhari's Paradox

Measuring over 10.5km and costing more than 400 billion naira, the Second Niger Bridge is the single biggest infrastructural project of the Buhari administration. It’s so huge that it crisscrosses two states and connects two regions.

The bridge overlooks Onitsha and Asaba while saving travel time by almost 2 hours. With its commissioning today, so many Nigerians may never have any business with Onitsha again; except one is specifically visiting the place.

In deciphering Buhari’s dual nature towards the Southeast and the Igbos, one is confused as to why he refused to allow them to be part of his government, yet, bequeaths to them one of the best ‘gifts’ ever. Yes, all Nigerians are going to benefit from the bridge but the host region stands to gain the most.

It will open up the Southeast for more significant investment opportunities and make movement from and to the region less cumbersome. It’s one infrastructure that would facilitate rapid growth and development of other sectors. The value of real estate within the connecting villages will rise astronomically and their capacity to invest and recoup quickly is further enhanced with the opening of this gigantic bridge.

As we bid the outgoing president farewell, I hope to see the next president do better in terms of inter-ethnic relations. Nigeria is too divided to have a president that acts aloofly to some select tribes and religions.

President-elect Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu needs to up his game if he doesn’t want Nigeria to divide any further under his leadership. The current bloodletting in several parts of the North-central and Southeast needs to be addressed. No tribe or region should be treated as second-class citizens, it will never help Nigeria’s security situation.

SCRIPT CREDIT: Facebook.com / Uzogara Tobechukwu

Blinken and the Debates of Tinubu’s Presidency-Elect Status

Apparently, the US government understands that Tinubu is a product of fraud and illegality, hence, their restraint in identifying openly with him as Nigeria’s President-elect.

The usual protocol with calls between US government officials and any world leader is for the government to release what is called a readout of the phone conversation between the official and the other person.

Watch this video to know the real story of Emilokan. Remember to subscribe to our channel and share with your friends; https://youtu.be/sEV8DVYdQtY

Blinken and the Debates of Tinubu's Presidency-Elect Status — Bola Ahmed Tinubu; Nigeria’s President-Elect

But in this case, it is Tinubu, who is desperate for any validation, who rushed to the press to announce that he had a phone conversation with Blinken. And more than twelve hours after, Secretary Blinken or anyone from his office is yet to send out their statement regarding that call.

Nigeria is the most strategically important African nation to the USA and indeed most of the world powers, and these countries would be glad to continue to associate with Nigeria and identify with her leaders, but they are repulsed by the mindless fraud that has defined democracy and governance in our country, hence, their reluctance to openly endorse any activity or statement by individuals that take pleasure in disrespecting their people and subverting their wills.

The American government wouldn’t have failed to send a high-powered delegation to Tinubu’s inauguration on May 29th if they had the slightest belief in the fraud that transpired as an election on the 25th of February, but they won’t, because they know that Tinubu is not a product of a democratic process, but an imposition by a gang of thieves and imbeciles that have held our country hostage.

Any American delegation that doesn’t have at least, Mr. Blinken on its head is the clearest demonstration of America’s lack of faith in the figurine coming in to rehabilitate himself with the enormous diplomatic and financial resources that the Nigerian presidency will avail him.

The world knows that Tinubu is a product of fraud, and they will continue to reject him.

Nigeria Will Win!

Script Credit: ONWUASOANYA FCC JONES

The National Assembly of Tinubu: A Surprise to Come

One thing is evident from the arguments in favor of and against Tinubu’s selection of Godswill Akpabio as the leader of the 10th National Assembly, who is from the South-South region of Nigeria’s Akwa Ibom State. Clouds are gradually forming, and a massive group of unhappy and disillusioned politicians is following them.

It’s a pity that after 24 years of practicing democracy in Nigeria, we still have to rely on the decision of an executive president-elect to choose the national assembly’s leaders. This is not only laughable but preposterously anti-developmental. It’s a retrogression to civilian dictatorships in which one man practically controls the entire country.

The National Assembly of Tinubu: A Surprise to Come — Senator Godswill Akpabio

How can the same president who appoints a Chief Justice of the Federation be the same person who chooses the national assembly’s leaders? In other words, he chooses both the lawmaker and the law interpreter, while he stays as the law enforcer. Isn’t this too much for just one man? Where in advanced democracies does this happen?

Unfortunately for President-elect Tinubu, he’s practically walking into political booby traps set by his own party members. By specifically choosing one senator out of the lot, he may have made the rest his silent enemies. These men will do everything on D-Day to see that their choice fails.

Unless he hammers out solid deals with the rest of the lawmakers jostling for the top seat or he simply allows the top three candidates from his party to vie freely for the Senate Presidency on the 5th of June, the administration of Tinubu may be in for its first shocker.

Yes, there’s every possibility of Saraki’s magic replaying itself. With the PDP, Labour, and many disgruntled APC members lurking in the corners, a political torpedo may happen at the national assembly on its proclamation day.

With the exception of the South, if the Southeast and North-Central, which are predominantly Christian-based areas, feel further alienated, it may cast the new administration in a worse light. The narrative would be that a Muslim-dominated administration is marginalizing “Christians.” Even if this accusation is not true, the facts on the ground will further lend credence to it.

This is why Tinubu’s presidency must be aware of the banana peels strewn along its path and ensure a sense of inclusivity at all times. The inability of GEJ’s administration to understand this simple political calculation cost him his second term ticket and made his government one of the most criticized in Nigeria’s history.

CREDIT: Facebook.com / Uzogara Tobechukwu

Hepatitis B: A Serious Health Threat That Can Be Curbed

Hepatitis B continues to pose a serious threat to global public health in many regions of the world despite the existence of effective vaccination. Around 257 million people are thought to have a chronic Hepatitis B infection worldwide, and 887,000 people pass away each year as a result of complications linked to the infection.

Hepatitis B: what is it?

The Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is responsible for the deadly liver infection known as hepatitis B. It is possible to contract the virus by coming into touch with infected blood or bodily fluids. Around 257 million people are thought to have a chronic Hepatitis B infection worldwide, and 887,000 people pass away each year as a result of complications linked to the infection.

Hepatitis B symptoms, which range in severity from moderate to severe, might include fever, exhaustion, abdominal discomfort, and jaundice. Hepatitis B, however, often causes no symptoms at all, and the illness can go unnoticed for years. Because it can cause severe liver damage and even liver cancer without the infected person being aware of it, hepatitis B is known as the “silent killer.”

Prevention

The vaccine can protect against hepatitis B. All newborns should receive the vaccine as part of their regular immunizations because of its great effectiveness. Adults who are at risk of getting the infection, such as healthcare workers, those who have multiple sexual partners, and those who inject drugs, are also advised to get the vaccine.

There are more strategies to stop the spread of hepatitis B besides immunization. These include using safe sexual practices, refraining from sharing razors, toothbrushes, or other personal hygiene products, and avoiding contact with infected blood or bodily fluids.

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Hepatitis B Elimination Challenges

Providing access to vaccination and other preventive measures, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, is one of the main obstacles in the fight to eradicate Hepatitis B. Only about 42% of newborns worldwide receive the recommended three doses of the hepatitis B vaccine, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).

The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that only 42% of newborns worldwide receive the recommended three doses of the Hepatitis B vaccine, making access to vaccination and other preventive measures one of the biggest obstacles to eliminating Hepatitis B.

Another difficulty is educating people about Hepatitis B and eradicating the stigma associated with the condition, as many of those who have it encounter prejudice and stigma. Many people with hepatitis B experience prejudice and social exclusion, which can make it challenging for them to get support and healthcare services.

Many people worldwide still run the risk of developing Hepatitis B despite the vaccine and other preventive measures being available. Particularly in low- and middle-income nations, where access to healthcare and immunization programs may be constrained, this is true.

Governments and healthcare organizations must raise knowledge about Hepatitis B and its prevention in order to address this problem. Campaigns for education, specialized immunization plans, and easier access to medical care might all fall under this category.

Governor Wike and Tinubu: The Permutations

Governor Nyesom Wike proclaimed today, Wednesday, a public holiday in Rivers State in honor of the President-elect Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s visit.

Although Wike has the legal authority to do so as the state’s governor, the specific justification in this instance is wholly inappropriate and amounts to blatant abuse of power.

Declaring a public holiday solely due to the upcoming arrival of a president-elect who has not yet assumed full administrative authority is the height of sycophancy and “political eye service.” Wike promotes himself and campaigns for his next political position from his current position.

Governor Wike and Tinubu: The Permutations — Gov. Nyesom Wike of Rivers State, with President-Elect; Bola Ahmed Tinubu

For those who follow politics, this is Wike’s final opportunity to make a big announcement and ask Tinubu to return the favor by giving his state to the APC, something that even President Buhari, Nasir El Rufai, Ganduje, Simon Lalong, or Abdullahi Adamu were unable to do. Such electoral magic is certainly deserving of high praise.

Nevertheless, despite Wike’s significant role in Tinubu’s victory, the governor of Rivers State would be one of those political foxes that the next president would eventually tame, demystify, and cast aside.

The simple fact is that Wike will be compelled to leave the PDP and join the APC as a full-fledged leader as soon as Tinubu provides him with a ministry job. In this instance, I don’t see Sim Fubara, his political godson, defecting to the APC with Wike.

In other words, both men would instantly become rivals and be required to submit to one another. This basically suggests that Wike will experience the same fate as Rotimi Amaechi sooner rather than later.

Politics is not really as easy as you might imagine.

CREDIT: Facebook.com / Uzogara Tobechukwu

Russia Is an Enemy of Peace

Russia is arming the military faction waging war against the government of Sudan. In essence, Russia is funding the destabilisation of Sudan.

Through its Private Military Company run by a very close confidant of Putin, Prigozin, popularly known as “Putin’s Chef”, Russia has infiltrated a number of African nations, by using Wagner to fund destabilisation of many nations and exploiting Africa’s natural resources.

From Mali to Congo, to Somalia, to South Africa, and now Sudan, Putin’s appetite for blood and violence is insatiable.

Watch this video;

https://youtu.be/GTHpDOkGZ_8

Russia Is an Enemy of Peace — Advertisement

Unlike America and other Western countries, Russia and China do not pretend to their exploitative objectives. They do not bring anything meaningful to aid Africa’s development but are in a haste to steal our resources while encouraging bloodshed and instability in several African nations.

1. Nonsurgical treatment

If your stomach ulcer is the result of H. pylori, you’ll need antibiotics and drugs called proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). PPIs block the stomach cells that produce acid.

In addition to these treatments, your doctor may also recommend:

H2 receptor blockers (drugs that also block acid production)
stopping the use of all NSAIDs
follow-up endoscopy
probiotics (useful bacteria that may have a role in killing off H. pylori)
bismuth supplement

Symptoms of an ulcer may subside quickly with treatment. But even if your symptoms disappear, you should continue to take any medication prescribed by your doctor. This is especially important with H. pylori infections, to make sure that all bacteria are eliminated.

Side effects of medications used to treat stomach ulcers can include:

nausea
dizziness
headaches
diarrhea
abdominal pain

These side effects are typically temporary. If any of these side effects cause extreme discomfort, talk to your doctor about changing your medication.

2. Surgical treatment

In very rare cases, a complicated stomach ulcer will require surgery. This may be the case for ulcers that:

continue to return
don’t heal
bleed
tear through the stomach
keep food from flowing out of the stomach into the small intestine

Surgery may include:

removal of the entire ulcer
taking tissue from another part of the intestines and patching it over the ulcer site
tying off a bleeding artery
cutting off the nerve supply to the stomach to reduce the production of stomach acid

Healthful Diet

In general, it’s a good idea to eat a diet with lots of fruits, vegetables, and fiber. That said, some foods may play a role in eliminating H. pylori. Foods that may help fight off H. pylori or boost the body’s healthy bacteria include:

broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, and radishes
leafy greens, such as spinach and kale
probiotic-rich foods, such as sauerkraut, miso, kombucha, yogurt (especially with lactobacillus and Saccharomyces)
apples
blueberries, raspberries, strawberries, and blackberries
olive oil

Additionally, since people with stomach ulcers may have accompanying acid reflux disease, it is a good idea to stay away from spicy and sour foods while an ulcer is healing.

Home Remedies For Stomach Ulcers

In addition to eating healthy foods, the following items may help reduce the effects of H. pylori, the bacteria responsible for many stomach ulcers. However, these supplements are not intended to replace prescription medication or your current treatment plan. They include:

probiotics
honey
glutamine (food sources include chicken, fish, eggs, spinach, and cabbage)

Your doctor may also have suggestions for things you can do at home to relieve discomfort from your ulcer. Consider talking to your doctor about these natural and home remedies for ulcers.

When to Call A Doctor

If you think you have a stomach ulcer, call your doctor. Together you can discuss your symptoms and treatment options. It’s important to get a stomach ulcer taken care of because, without treatment, ulcers and H. pylori can cause:

bleeding from the ulcer site that can become life-threatening
penetration, which occurs when the ulcer goes through the wall of the digestive tract and into another organ, such as the pancreas
perforation, which occurs when the ulcer creates a hole in the wall of the digestive tract
obstruction (blockage) in the digestive tract, which is due to swelling of inflamed tissues
stomach cancer, specifically non-cardia gastric cancerTrusted Source

Symptoms of these complications can include those listed below. If you have any of these symptoms, be sure to call your doctor right away:

weakness
trouble breathing
red or black vomit or stools
sudden, sharp pain in your abdomen that doesn’t go away

Preventing Stomach Ulcers

To prevent the spread of bacteria that might cause a stomach ulcer, wash your hands with soap and water regularly. Also, be sure to properly clean all of your food and cook it thoroughly as needed.

To prevent ulcers caused by NSAIDs, stop using these medications (if possible) or limit their use. If you need to take NSAIDs, be sure to follow the recommended dosage and avoid alcohol while taking these medications. And always take these medications with food and adequate liquids.

CREDIT: Healthline

Key Hot Spots You Never Thought to Spritz Perfume

Apart from applying perfumes on your wrist, clothes, etc, did you also know you can apply it to other parts of your body? Forget the wrists, ears, and necks that are on the usual to-do list when you spritz on your favorite fragrance; there are key hot spots that will help grip your scent longer than you are missing.

1. In Your Belly Button

Your navel is useful for more than just belly piercings. Dab a few drops of perfume on the spot if you’re wearing a midriff-baring crop top or bikini. “Any area on your body that radiates heat will enhance a scent, and your belly button does just that,” says Claisse.

2. Behind Your Knees

The soft area behind your knees is another one of those pulse points perfect for perfume. Throughout the day the scent will kick up as you cross your legs and move around, especially if you’re wearing a dress. “Knees are great for summer since they’re exposed,” says Claisse. “The back of knees are warmer and softer and therefore capture a strong scent.”

Key Hot Spots You Never Thought to Spritz Perfume — Favourite Collections’ CEO; Favour Egbune

3. Down Your Calves

If you’re wearing shorts or a leg-revealing dress, spritz fragrance along the inside of your thighs and calves. The friction between your legs as you walk will create warmth and reinvigorate the scent throughout the day.

4. On Your Ankles

Before you slip on your favorite pair of stiletto heels, give your feet a blast of perfume. “Your ankles are always in motion, so it helps project the fragrance wherever you go,”. “It continues the scent from head to toe.”

5. In Your Hair

Your hair is one of the best places to spritz perfume because the strands hold fragrance well and leave a trail of scent as you move from place to place. “Fragrances latch onto hair fibers, therefore hair will carry the scent of the fragrance for a long period,” says Claisse. But will the alcohol in perfume dry out your hair? “The alcohol in fragrance is similar to that in certain hair sprays which do tend to dry out the hair,” explains Claisse. “To avoid any drying of the hair, the best way to apply fragrance to hair is to mist on a brush.” There are also scents made specifically for hair.

RELATEDLY READ Game-Changing Beauty Hacks with Vaseline

SOURCE: Self.com

Favourite Collections is an online luxury fragrance and bag store. For questions and answers, visit https://wa.link/qtj2qi, https://www.instagram.com/favourite__collections/

Health Benefits of Lemongrass You Do Not Know

The Health Benefits of Lemongrass, also known as barbed wire grass, silky heads, Cochin grass, Malabar grass, oily heads, citronella grass, or fever grass has been discovered to be unknown to many people.

A genus of Asian, African, Australian, and tropical island plants in the grass family, some species, in particular, are commonly cultivated as culinary and medicinal herbs because of their scent, resembling that of lemons.

The health benefits of lemongrass as highlighted in this article are as follows:

1. It improves dental health

The antimicrobial properties of lemongrass have been proven to help treat oral infections and cavities. The antimicrobial properties in lemongrass help fight against streptococcus sanguinis bacteria, which is the bacteria responsible for tooth decay and gum disease. So, drinking lemongrass tea once in a while can help guarantee your dental health.

2. For diuretic effects

According to Healthline.com, lemongrass is a known diuretic in the world of natural health. A diuretic makes you urinate more often, ridding your body of excess fluid and sodium. Diuretics are often prescribed if you have heart failure, liver failure, or edema.

3. It helps relieve symptoms of PMS (premenstrual syndrome)

For ladies, lemongrass contains stomach-soothing properties and anti-inflammatory properties, which are natural remedies for cramps and bloating. Drinking lemongrass tea serves as a natural remedy for menstrual cramps instead of the use of pain relief.

Health Benefits of Lemongrass You May Not Know — Advertisement

4. It helps with digestion

Having issues with digestion, a prescribed dosage of lemongrass tea by your medical practitioner can be an answer to this. Lemongrass is effective in curing indigestion, upset stomach, diarrhea, and other digestive problems.

Lemongrass also helps in reducing gas and the formation of internal gas. Research also shows that lemongrass may be effective in curing gastric ulcers.

5. It helps prevent cancer

Research has shown that lemongrass contains citral, which can help reduce your risk of cancer. Other components of lemongrass help fight cancer, and this occurs either by causing cell death directly or boosting your immune system so that your body is better able to fight off cancer on its own.

A group of researchers in 2006 also discovered that a compound in lemongrass can kill cancer cells without harming healthy cells. Lemongrass tea is also effective during chemotherapy and radiation under the guidance of an oncologist.

6. It helps regulate blood pressure

Lemongrass effectively regulates blood pressure. It is high in potassium, which helps reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke by lowering blood pressure. Consumption of lemongrass tea can also help reduce hypertension and increase urine production in the body.

7. It helps in having a healthy skin

Organic lemongrass essential oil has purifying properties that make it perfect for skin care. These properties help to remove impurities, detoxify the skin and leave it feeling clean and clear. Antioxidants are good for you as they help to neutralize damaging free radicals, which can be harmful to your skin.

8. It helps relieve inflammation

Lemongrass contains inflammation-fighting compounds that help reduce pain and heart disease. It also acts as an analgesic, which is effective in curing toothaches, body pains, and joint pain. So, taking a prescribed dosage of lemongrass tea rather than drugs helps in reducing pain.

ALSO READ: Things Women Need To Know About High Blood Pressure

Despite the numerous health benefits gotten from lemongrass, moderation is key in all we do, so we shouldn’t take lemongrass without the supervision and prescription of a medical practitioner or nutritionist.

More Leather Products and Their Care Techniques

In our last edition, we dealt with how to care for some specific leather products such as handbags, purses, and travel bags. In this edition, we shall continue with how to take care of our leather products by looking at some other specific leather products.

Leather Briefcases:

Maintain a briefcase’s refined and professional finish by taking care to stand it up on the protective brass feet whenever possible – this will avoid unnecessary wear on the leather.

Avoid putting excess strain on its zips and hardware by not overfilling it with heavy laptops and contents. If you are required to pack your briefcase within a larger travel bag when working overseas, ensure it is safeguarded within a protective bag.

Gloves:

Given that we wear gloves during a season of unpredictable weather, they are often exposed to a variety of elements. Should your gloves get wet from snow or rain, allow them to dry naturally away from sunlight and any artificial heat such as radiators.

If you happen to drop a glove and need to clean it, begin by gently wiping it down with a soft brush or cloth. Next, prepare a solution of soap flakes and hot water. Wear the affected glove as you normally would and use a sponge to clean the area.

Take care not to oversaturate the leather and dab away any excess water. Once clean, leave your glove or gloves to dry in a cool, dry place, putting them on from time to time will help to maintain their shape.

Albums and Journals

Leather albums and journals often preserve precious memories, so it is important to preserve the books themselves. To achieve this, wash your hands before handling them so as not to transfer any residue or dirt to the leather surface. We also advise that you polish or buff them with a clear wax to hydrate and maintain the leather covers.

When storing your cherished albums and journals on a shelf, keep them out of direct sunlight and give your shelves room to breathe. Books stacked on shelves too tightly may crack at the spine, while books stacked too loosely may sag and warp.

Aim for gentle support and, when removing them from the shelf, it is important to pull from the middle, as hooking your finger over the top of the spine can create a stretched and misshapen finish.

Belts:

As belts are an accessory that many of us wear every day, it is important to rotate them to extend their lifespan. Identifying the correct fit will also support their longevity; preventing stretching.

When not wearing your belt, gently wipe away any dust or debris and hang it by the buckle in a cool, dry space away from direct heat or sunlight. By allowing a belt to hang flat rather than rolling it up, you will avoid any imprints from the hardware and maintain its original shape.

Until next time, visit https://wa.link/qtj2qi, https://www.instagram.com/favourite__collections/ for questions and answers

Prosecute Female Genital Mutilation Adherents; – Eje Inayi

Female genital mutilation (FGM) is a traditional harmful practice that involves the partial or total removal of external female genitalia or other injuries to female genital organs for non-medical reasons.

In this interview with Ken Gbados, the reigning Face of Igede Nigeria; Queen Eje Inayi Favour frowns at the secret practice of Female Genital Mutilation in some villages of the Igede Community of Benue State despite medical reports and advocacies. She also sheds light on its complications, and the best way to curb the practice in general.

Excerpts

You will be featuring in an Igede-staged short drama on Female Genital Mutilation; What does this mean to you as a person?

First, in the Igede belief system, female genital mutilation is practiced to preserve family honor, protect female virginity, prevent promiscuity, increase sexual pleasure for husbands and also enhance female fertility. Though the practice has been abolished, some people still practice it secretly in the localities.

The primary focus of the short drama is to add voices to the campaign against FGM. So, participating in this stage drama means a lot to me because it is a way of telling my story and speaking out for a lot of other girls who are ashamed to speak out.

I was a victim of FGM and I used to be ashamed to tell my story, but this stage drama will accord me that platform to contribute to creating awareness for people in the villages and localities to learn. The drama will be voiced in the Igede language, though mixed with English.

In your viewpoint, why is Female Genital Mutilation absurd and unacceptable?

In many of the countries where FGM is performed, it is a deeply entrenched social norm rooted in gender inequality where violence against girls and women is socially acceptable. As such, girls are at the risk of undergoing female genital mutilation, the majority of whom are cut before they turn 15 years old.

Again, FGM has no health benefits and often leads to long-term physical and psychological consequences. Medical complications can include severe pain, prolonged bleeding, infection, infertility, and even death. It can also lead to an increased risk of HIV transmission.

Women who have undergone genital mutilation can experience complications during childbirth, including postpartum hemorrhage, stillbirth, and early neonatal death. Psychological impacts can range from a girl losing trust in her caregivers to longer-term feelings of anxiety and depression as a woman.

Is Female Genital Mutilation a violation of the rights of girls and women?

FGM is a violation of human, sexual and reproductive health rights of girls and women and it should not be encouraged. For the umpteenth time, FGM has no health benefits; it can lead to not only immediate health risks but also long-term complications to women’s physical, mental and sexual health and well-being.

Additionally, the practice is recognized internationally as a violation of the human rights of girls and women and as an extreme form of gender discrimination, reflecting deep-rooted inequality between the sexes. As it is practiced on young girls without consent, it is a violation of the rights of children.

FGM also violates a person’s rights to health, security, and physical integrity, the right to be free from torture and cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment, and the right to life when the procedure results in death.

As part of the Sustainable Development Goals, the global community has set a target to abandon the practice of female genital mutilation by the year 2030.

You mentioned that People still practice Female Genital Mutilation secretly in the villages, what actions can be taken to end this inhuman act?

Ending FGM requires action at many levels, including by families and communities, protection and care services for girls and women, laws, and political commitment at the local, regional, national, and international levels.

Cases of FGM should be reported and should attract appropriate sanctions. There is a law against Female Genital Mutilation in Nigeria (Violence Against Persons Prohibition Act 2015). This Act was signed into law by former president Goodluck Jonathan but unfortunately, only about 9 states in Nigeria have domesticated the said law.

FGM is a crime committed by one’s parent, and it is almost impossible for a child to want to report her parent to the law enforcement agency. That is why the need for a campaign to sensitize village chiefs, kings, and parents both in the rural and urban areas against the act is very essential.

RELATEDLY READ: The Rising Profile of Eje Inayi Favour

Also, Doctors and nurses should be informed to preach it to mothers at antenatal classes. As far as this awareness has been created, anyone who is still practicing this inhuman act secretly should be arrested and prosecuted with appropriate sanctions. An agency should be charged with arresting and prosecuting parents and practitioners of FGM to curb these things

Game-Changing Beauty Hacks with Vaseline

If you’re anything like us, you’ve always got a tube or tin of Vaseline hanging out at the bottom of every purse and a quickly depleting jar sitting in your medicine cabinet or right on your sink. But did you know you can use it for so much more than just chapped lips? Check out these so-simple, expert-approved beauty hacks with Vaseline.

1. Keep perfume from fading. Rub Vaseline on your wrists and behind your ears to make your perfume last longer.

2. Soothe dry heels. Summer sandals plus the sun and sand can make the skin on your feet super dry and flaky. Spread Vaseline on your feet before you go to bed, and cover with fuzzy socks. You’ll wake up with soft skin that will look and feel like you got a pedicure.

3. Remove eyelash glue. Rocking faux lashes for a big event? It can be tricky to get them off without pulling out your natural lashes, too. Rub a bit of Vaseline on your lash line and the falsies will come off much easier.

4. Perfect your manicure. Line your nails with Vaseline before you paint them. The jelly will keep the polish from spreading outside your nail.

5. Make your legs glow. Mix Vaseline with your favourite liquid bronzer. Spread the formula on your legs for a shiny, glowy look.

6. Get thicker-looking lashes. You don’t even need mascara to get lush lashes. Apply a little Vaseline to your lash line for a shiny, voluminous look.

7. Keep nail polish lids from drying shut. Spread Vaseline around the inside of the polish lid for super-easy opening next time you use it.

8. Put pierced earrings in more easily. Do you know how when you haven’t worn earrings for a while, it can be hard to get them through the hole? Sometimes, it hurts! Rub Vaseline on your lobes, and you’ll have a much easier time.

9. Hide split ends. If your hair looks fried, rub a little Vaseline through your ends. You can fake smooth ends until you get a haircut.

10. DIY a lip stain. Mix a packet of Kool-Aid (like cherry!) with a tablespoon of Vaseline. When you apply it to your lips, the balm will give you a red lip that lasts.

11. Protect your skin from hair dye. If you’re coloring your hair from a box, it’s easy to get dye on your forehead or around your ears. Vaseline blocks the color from seeping into your skin, so apply a little around your hairline first.

12. Tame your brows. Keep unruly eyebrows in place by smoothing Vaseline over your arches. They won’t move all day long.

13. Highlight your eyelids and cheeks. Using a bit of Vaseline is a super affordable way to get the dewy look when you don’t have a highlighter handy. Dab it on your brow bones, lids, or the apples of your cheeks.

CREDIT: Seventeen.com

Until next time, visit https://wa.link/qtj2qi, https://www.instagram.com/favourite__collections/ for questions and answers

Specific Leather Products and Care Techniques

By Favourite Collections.

Last week, we talked about the everyday Care and storage of our Leather products. Today we will be looking at the specific leather products and their care techniques. This is because everyday care and thoughtful storage will go a long way in maintaining the life of your favourite leather bag, however, specific products may require different care techniques.

Leather Handbags

Although it’s tempting to leave our handbags packed with our daily essentials ready for the next day, take the time to empty them to avoid warping. Once empty, you can maintain the handbag’s silhouette by gently filling it with plain, acid-free tissue paper.

If you are planning to leave your bag in storage for an extended period (until next season, for example) you might also like to take the time to wrap hardware such as zips and clasps in tissue paper to avoid them creating any unwanted imprints on your leather.

The next stage is to cover your bag, preferably in the dust bag with which it arrived – these are cut to the right size to avoid squashing and warping. If you no longer have the original dust bag, a white cotton pillowcase can be an ideal substitute – avoid using a coloured fabric to avoid the colour transferring.

Specific Leather Products and Their Care Techniques — Favour Egbune; CEO of Favourite Collections

Once covered, place your covered handbag away from direct sunlight and artificial sources of heat. Be sure to stand it on its base rather than hanging it up, as this can stretch the handles. Additionally, take care to choose a spot that is tall enough to allow the handles to stand up unimpeded. Doing otherwise can cause them to become bent or misshapen.

When you have taken such care with your handbag at home, it is important to extend the consideration to other environments. Invest in a handbag hook to keep your bags safe and away from dirty, rough floors and surfaces.

Leather Purses

Purses come in a variety of sizes and silhouettes to accommodate your needs. Select a style that fits your requirements and decreases the risk of stretching the leather by not overfilling its various pockets, compartments and card slots.

When carrying your purse in a handbag, you can prevent scratches and imprints simply by storing your purse in a separate compartment or a designated zip pocket in the lining. It’s good practice to gently wipe or brush your purse regularly to remove the daily build-up of dust and dirt which can build up

Leather Travel Bags

While leather travel bags are designed with durability and the wear and tear of travel in mind, there are a few easy steps you can take to preserve the quality and finish of your suitcase, cabin bag or weekend bag.

Before and after travel, when your bag is in your care, always stand it on its wheels or protective feet rather than on its side to minimise contact with the floor. In transit, make use of a protective luggage cover to avert the possibility of scratches when your travel bag is in the hold or overhead compartment.

In between trips, empty your travel bag and store it in its protective bag in a spot that comfortably accommodates it without the need for folding handles or tightly packing it against any other accessories

Water and Sanitation in Nigerian Rural Communities

By Kennedy E. Onyegbado.

The provision of improved water to millions of households in Nigerian Rural Communities with no access to it remains one of the greatest challenges for sustainable development. For over two decades, the public water utilities in Nigeria have not been able to cope with the increasing demand.

While the resources available to cater to the demand are shrinking, the potential for large-scale water resource development in poor countries is overshadowed by financial constraints and changing donor policies. This leads to an emerging interest in improving safe water access through small-scale water projects at the household, village, and local levels to arrest the problems posed by the water crisis.

Challenges of Water and Sanitation in Nigerian Rural Communities.

The Nigerian rural communities rely solely on self-water supply sources such as unprotected wells, rivers, canals, springs, and so on which are vulnerable to many diseases such as typhoid fever, cholera, dysentery, malaria, and infectious hepatitis. Rivers and lakes are few, and the perennial streams last only during or just after the rainy season, after which they get dried up.

The hand-dug wells are poorly constructed using primitive water lifting devices such as buckets and smaller containers that are unhealthy and time-consuming. Apart from the safety of the water sources, there is the problem of quantity supplied; storage facilities are by buckets and at best in drums of 100-liter capacity. Women and children especially spend most of their time trotting water at far distances from their homes.

Increasingly, poor access to improved water and sanitation in Nigerian rural communities remains a major contributing factor to high morbidity and mortality rates among children and adults. The use of contaminated drinking water and poor sanitary conditions result in increased vulnerability to water-borne diseases, including, diarrhea which leads to the death of more than 70,000 persons annually.

It is estimated that 73% of diarrhea and enteric disease burden is associated with poor access to adequate water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH), and is disproportionately borne by poorer children. Only 26.5 percent of the population use improved drinking water sources and sanitation facilities. Also, 23.5 percent of the population defecates in the open. (UNICEF 2018).

Water supply provision in Nigerian rural communities and indeed in many developing countries is characterized by low-cost, simple technologies which can be operated, maintained, and financed by poor rural communities or households.

Water and Sanitation in Nigerian Rural Communities — Model: Sarah Benz (Face of TIV International)

Again, the choice of technology for improved water supplies is dependent on environmental, socio-economic, and political conditions, including Protected springs; Hand pump-equipped boreholes and wells; Rainwater harvesting; Hand-dug wells; Gravity-fed systems; and Small-scale pumped systems.

Nevertheless, there is no single technology option that can be used in all situations and each technology has specific advantages and limitations. This is because of the relative ease of access to water that does not usually need treatment before drinking.

On the whole, rural water supply in Nigeria has had many problems and is unable to meet the challenges and has not contributed effectively to the health, economic, social, and cultural development of Nigerian rural communities as many rely on self-water supply for both domestic and irrigation purposes.

Opportunities Water and Sanitation in Nigerian Rural Communities.

A few years ago, the Federal Government declared a state of emergency to invigorate the deteriorating situation of Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) in Nigeria.

A National Action Plan on the situation which was developed by the Ministry of Water Resources to make Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) achievable in Nigeria by 2030 would be elusive if Federal, State, and Local Governments fail to double the investment and work with the private sector to address inherent challenges.

According to UNICEF, achieving Sustainable Development Goal 6 by 2030 requires extraordinary efforts. Based on World Bank estimates, Nigeria will be required to triple its budget or at least allocate 1.7 percent of the current Gross Domestic Product to WASH.

The ambition is highest for rural sanitation where the gap for improved services is 64.1 percent. Funding for the sub-sector is weak, and significant household contribution is needed to eliminate open defecation despite low family incomes.

ALSO READ How Safe Is Our Water?

However, under the action plan developed by the government, service providers would need to generate revenue to cover their operations and maintenance expenses, with the intention to partially, if not completely, fund their capital investments in the long run, while supplemental funding would be available from the Federal and State levels to make up for gaps, particularly when significant capital expenditure is necessary to improve access to quality WASH services.

The Definitive Guide to Leather Care – Part 1

By taking this ultimate guide to leather care, you will uphold the value and maintain the appearance of your most treasured pieces. From handbags and purses to journals and wallets, we want you to enjoy your leather goods for a lifetime. From the moment they are crafted until they arrive in your arms, they need to be cared for properly.

Everyday Guide to leather care

Looking after your leather goods starts with day-to-day care. By following just a few simple rules, you can avoid unnecessary wear and tear and extend the life of your accessories for years. Leather is a skin, and it can stretch; avoid overfilling your handbag, purse, or wallet to maintain its original silhouette.

Take extra care with leather items you use often. Take the time each week to wipe away dust and spots with a soft cloth or brush. Scratches can detract from a flawlessly crafted piece. Take care to avoid contact with heavily embellished clothes, sharp surfaces, or chunky jewelry when you are out and about. Wet leather requires extra care, so if rain is forecast, remember to take an umbrella

Storage Guide to leather care

You may be asking yourself how should I store my handbags? Storing your leather appropriately is one of the easiest ways you can prevent damage and maintain a high-quality finish. Store leather away from direct sunlight as this can cause fading.

Store handbags in a dust bag to avoid scratches, and avoid using plastic bags, they prevent good ventilation. Store leather away from artificial sources of heat, e.g. radiators can cause the leather to dry and crack.

Until next time, visit https://wa.link/qtj2qi, https://www.instagram.com/favourite__collections/ for questions and answers

New Yam Festival In Mbaise; Origin and Significance

Compiled By Ken Gbados.

New Yam Festival in Mbaise; its origin and development were handed to us by oral tradition. There is no living person who can attest to the exact date when this festival started. However, the celebration is fixed on the 15^th of August of every year, coinciding with the solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary according to the Catholic Church’s liturgical calendar.

Originally, it was referred to as ‘mgbawara onye aka oku’; meaning, I did not stop anybody from working hard. The reason is that when people go to the farm then, the lazy ones will not participate. Thus, they found this ceremony as a reward for hard work and a way of encouraging lazy people to farm.

Besides, farming accounted for about 90% of the source of income in Mbaise land then, and the number of yam bans has suggested how rich a person is. This could be the sole reason why our ancestors had to marry many wives to help in cultivating more crops.

The Name ‘Mbaise’; Historical Perspective

The name “Mbaise” was derived from five cities, which, comprised Agbaja, Ahiara, Ekwerazu, Ezinihitte, and Oke Uvuru. The area of Mbaise (the three Local Government Areas) is about 404 km²: Aboh Mbaise (185 km²), Ahiazu Mbaise (111 km²), Ezinihitte Mbaise (108 km²). The Mbaise Slogan is Seat of Sages. The region spans an area of about 160 square miles with a population of more than one million.

The quiddity of Mbaise is that this homogenous group of more than 1000 persons per square kilometer is the most densely populated area in West Africa. The population of Mbaise as of 2006 was estimated to be 611,204 people (Agulanna, E. C. “The Mbaiseness of Mbaise” (2nd ed), Owerri: Career Publishers, 2008.)

Legends have it that the cradle of creation took place in Ezinihitte Mbaise at ‘Ihu Chineke Orie Ukwu’; a boundary between Oboama and Umunama with the birth of five clans: Agbaja (Nguru, Okwuato, Enyiogugu, Obiangwu, and Umuohiagu), Ahiara, Ekwerazu, Ezinihitte, and Oke Ovoro; thus, the name ‘Mbaise’ came into being as a federated unit of these five clans in June 1941 when Mr. Jamike Iwunna from Amaohuru Nguru gave the name after putting together the five clans.

New Yam Festival In Mbaise; Origin and Significance — A typical yam ban

Later, Obiangwu and Umuohiagu which were constituent parts of Agbaja pulled out in 1957 and joined Ngor Okpala. Thus, administratively Mbaise is currently reduced to three local governments, namely Ahiazu (the result of a merger of Ahiara and Ekwerazu), Aboh-Mbaise (carving out a part of Ezinihitte West and added to Agbaja and Oke Ovoro), and Ezinihitte.

Another version of history also has it that the present people of Mbaise were part of Ngwa people, now in Abia State, who were said to be on a journey from “Agbaja” in Owerri. Getting to the bank of Imo River, some of them decided to rest and roast their yams to eat before continuing while some hurriedly crossed the river.

Having lost contact with part of the group, the present Mbaise people decided to settle just before the Imo River. This could explain why Ngwa people today were given the name “Ngwa Ngwa” meaning ‘hurry hurry’, later shortened to “Ngwa” and Mbaise people were given the name “Ohuhu” meaning roasting, which people still call us today. These two versions of the origin of Mbaise are both believed depending on the school of thought one belongs to.

Development of New Yam Festival in Mbaise

Before the advent of Christianity, early inhabitants of the Mbaise believed in mini gods and one supreme God; the Almighty and Creator of all things. Their beliefs were said to stem from the fact that there must be a reason for every creation and thus the belief in higher beings that cannot be fathomed by the human mind held sway.

For instance, the cultivation and planting of farm crops between January to the end of May resulted in a shortage of food. Families fed on little available food and prayed to God for intervention in their hunger predicament.

When July comes and one would enter the farm and find edible tubers, it would call for celebration. More mysterious would be the fact that when you cut and leave the head of the yam in the ground, it would bear more tubers in the coming months. This was figured out to be the work of a higher being sent by God to intervene in their hunger situation, Ahiajoku.

When this happens, the fathers in each household in the villages and towns would be very happy and thankful to God for having survived the famine. To them, this wonder of nature calls for celebration hence a day was set aside for the celebration named Iriji-Ohuo –New yam Festival.

Again, each household revered Ahiajoku such that they built shrines in each homestead offering a goat, yam, sheep, and drinks to it in gratitude. Ahiajoku is the acclaimed god of farm crops, especially yam.

During the New Yam Festival celebration, prayers and libation would flow in praise and thanksgiving to the god of yam and to God Almighty whom the Mbaise people called Chukwu Abiami or Eke kere Uwa.

However, with time, Christians and people realized that the one God that created man also created every other thing in the Universe, and to Him alone belongs all Honor, Praise, Worship, and Adoration, and the Ahiajoku ceremony faded away and was replaced with Christian Festival of the First Fruit (EX 23;16).

With the dawn of Christianity and the Bible, the Mbaise nation was believed to be the home of the Most High God. The people believed that this was also a way to fulfill God’s law to his people of Israel to celebrate three Festivals a year with Him. Celebrate the harvest Festival when you begin to harvest your crops. (Exo 23; 16, Deu 16; 9, Lev 23, 15-21, 2nd Chro 8, 12-13. Thus, the festival of the new yam is a thanksgiving celebration.

The Ezeji Title Holders

Undoubtedly, there are farmers in every village and town who grow and harvest more yams than others. These great farmers were given the prestigious title of EZEJI. They are acclaimed as having the largest farms and could feed hundreds of people without running out of supply. Though the Ezeji title holders regard New Yam Festival as their particular ceremony, the event is for every member of the Mbaise.

The Ezeji cultivates the yams, owns the yams, harvest the yams, and gives them to people to eat. It is also the role of the Ezeji to roast and cook yams enough to feed the masses that attend the new yam festival ceremony.

They are also great and powerful landowners, and as title holders, they are expected to be outstanding personalities in the Community. Ezeji people play important roles in the settlement of land disputes. They pray and bless the new yam, taste it and give it to others to eat.

Meanwhile, in recent times, yam which is regarded as the head of farm crops has come to symbolize among other things; accomplishments, jobs, productivity in every field of life endeavor, overcoming adversity, anniversaries, etc.

On the 15th of August every year, Mbaise people all over the world must celebrate this thanksgiving event individually or collectively with friends and well-wishers. They come together to celebrate their achievements and accomplishments over the year with special thanksgiving to God.

As a ceremony, the Iri Ji annual event attracts people from all over the world. It has attracted Chief Executives, top Government Officials, Governors, and Vice Presidents over the years. It has become a symbol of unity and homecoming for Mbaise sons and daughters who appreciate economic, social, and tourism activities within this period.

Conclusion

The real Mbaise man or woman is hospitable and kind. He is strong and can withstand hardship. He plays host to unknown visitors. You will find him in almost all parts of the world including areas with harsh climatic conditions and difficult terrain.

ALSO READ MBAISE NEW YAM FESTIVAL: A Harvest of Thanksgiving – An Expository Analysis by Kennedy Onyegbado –

He hates cheating and will always stand out boldly to claim his right. There is a famous axiom that the fifth person in any Igbo gathering is a Mbaise person or that person knows a Mbaise person as a friend or in-law.

If it is a truism then that there are as many minds as there are heads, then there are as many kinds of cultures as there are beliefs. Culture is people’s total way of life; Mbaise New Yam Festival is our cultural heritage handed down from generation to generation. Long Live Mbaise the seat of sages! Long Live our Cultural Heritage.

Ken Gbados is a Media and Research Strategist (gbadoka@gmail.com, +2347064715591)

Things Women Need To Know About High Blood Pressure

A common misconception is that high blood pressure (HBP or hypertension) rarely affects women. However, nearly half of all adults with high blood pressure are women.

Women that are just 20 pounds or more overweight, have a family history of HBP, or have reached menopause are known to increase a woman’s risk.

While high blood pressure isn’t directly related to gender, throughout a woman’s life, health issues like pregnancy, pregnancy prevention (birth control), and menopause can increase the risk of developing high blood pressure.

Some Facts About High Blood Pressure

According to www.healthline.com, blood pressure is the force of blood pushing against the inside lining of the arteries. High blood pressure, or hypertension, occurs when that force increases and stays higher than normal for a period. This condition can damage the blood vessels, heart, brain, and other organs.

Hypertension is often considered a men’s health problem, but that’s a myth. The American Heart Association Trusted Source reports that about half of people with high blood pressure are women. High blood pressure impacts 1 in 3 Americans Trusted Source in their 40s, 50s, and 60s. Gender doesn’t usually impact the risk greatly, but the onset of menopause slightly raises the risk of developing high blood pressure.

Here are five things women need to know about high blood pressure according to Dr. Kershaw Patel; a cardiologist specializing in preventive cardiology at Houston Methodist

1. High Blood Pressure Symptoms in Women.

High blood pressure, especially in its early stages, can be hard to spot. That’s because the most common symptoms are, well, common. High blood pressure symptoms in women include:

Headaches
Fatigue
Shortness of breath
Chest discomfort

It’s easy to see how these symptoms could be confused with everyday stress, anxiety, or if age-appropriate, signs of menopause.

According to Dr. Patel, in some cases, a woman with high blood pressure might not have any discernible symptoms at all. The best way to monitor your risk for high blood pressure is to check your blood pressure regularly — whether at your doctor’s office or a kiosk in a pharmacy.

2. Know your Blood Pressure Numbers and What They Mean

Once you do get your blood pressure checked, it’s important to know what your current numbers mean:

Normal blood pressure: Lower than 120/80 mmHg
Elevated blood pressure: Between 120-129/<80 mmHg
Hypertension, stage 1: Between 130-139/80-<90 mmHg
Hypertension, stage 2: 140/90 mmHg or higher

For Dr. Partel, if your blood pressure is elevated, this is when we start to worry about it progressing into high blood pressure. The higher your blood pressure gets, the harder it becomes to control and the more likely you are to experience complications — so the earlier it’s diagnosed and managed, the better.

3. Pregnancy Can Expose High Blood Pressure

A new diagnosis of high blood pressure sometimes occurs during pregnancy. One reason for this is because the changes that occur during pregnancy can unmask existing high blood pressure that had been lurking in the background.”

A new diagnosis may also simply be the result of a woman having her blood pressure measured for the first time in a while at her first prenatal appointment.

There is also a specific form of high blood pressure that can occur during pregnancy, called preeclampsia. This is not uncommon and is important to manage for both the mom and baby. Preeclampsia typically goes away after delivery, but it is very important for a woman who does develop preeclampsia to follow her care team’s advice for managing it.

4. A Woman’s Risk of High Blood Pressure Increases After Menopause

Menopause, which begins once a woman goes 12 consecutive months without experiencing a period, usually around her 50s, is related to high blood pressure. During aging and menopause, there are several changes in the body related to hormone levels and body weight. These changes may increase a woman’s risk of high blood pressure.

Menopause and its symptoms also might be another reason high blood pressure sometimes goes undiagnosed in women. Symptoms of the two, such as fatigue and headaches, can overlap.

A woman may delay scheduling a check-up with her doctor about symptoms because they seem related to menopause. In this way, high blood pressure can go undiagnosed — which is yet another reason why regularly monitoring your blood pressure is so important.

5. You Can Take Steps to Prevent High Blood Pressure

The good news is that high blood pressure is avoidable. The keys to preventing high blood pressure are to focus on making healthy lifestyle choices and avoiding the habits and behaviors known to be unhealthy. High blood pressure prevention tips include:

Regularly monitoring your blood pressure
Maintaining a healthy weight and losing weight if you are overweight
Eating a well-balanced diet that limits highly processed foods
Limiting your salt intake
Getting 150 minutes of physical activity per week
Limiting alcohol
Quitting smoking
Having regular check-ups with your primary care physician

If you already have high blood pressure, the steps above become even more immediately important for you since they also help manage your blood pressure. Getting high blood pressure under control helps prevent it from progressing, and working with a preventive cardiologist can help you achieve the close monitoring needed to reach your blood pressure goals.

Hacks To Make Your Perfume Last Longer – Part 2

As we discussed in the previous edition, to make your perfume last longer you will want to ensure the perfume can connect with your skin and stay put all day. In this edition, we have yet many of the perfume rules you can follow. Also, we covered how to make your perfume last longer in the bottle!

1. Spray Fragrance onto Your Hairbrush and Brush Through Your Hair.

If you want some extra scent in your hair, you can spray it on your brush and run it through dry hair. Don’t spritz directly onto your hair, as the alcohol in many perfumes can cause damage.

2. Use Matching Scented Lotion and Other Products.

Another way to maximize your fragrance is to buy the lotions, body washes, and other products sold alongside it. Clean, Calvin Klein, Versace, and other popular brands offer matching products to compliment their fragrances.

3. Spray Perfume on Cotton Balls and Put Them in A Plastic Bag to Use for Touch-Ups.

For a scent boost on the go, spritz your perfume on a couple of cotton balls or q-tips and, while they’re wet, place them in a plastic bag and squeeze out all of the air. They should stay moist enough to apply later in the day.

4. Pour the Last of The Used Perfume into An Unscented Lotion Bottle to Prevent Waste.

Make the most of every last drop of your fragrance. If your bottle no longer sprays, add the remaining scent to some unscented moisturizer to create a lotion that smells like your perfume.

5. Line Your Drawers or Wardrobe with Perfume To Subtly Scent Clothing.

If you have a signature scent, you can get your clothing to smell like it as well. Line your drawers with tissue paper that has been spritzed a few times and allow the scent to permeate the fabrics.

6. Store Your Perfume in A Cool, Dark Place.

Fragrance can break down in fluctuating temperatures or humidity. Instead of storing your scents in the bathroom, keep them in a cool drawer away from direct sunlight.

7. Keep Your Perfume in Its Original Bottle.

While this process is somewhat outdated, some people still like to store their perfume in separate, fancy bottles. While this might look sophisticated, it will allow air to saturate your fragrance, which can also alter its chemical makeup.

8. Don’t Shake Your Perfume Bottle.

Shaking the perfume can also allow air to infuse the fragrance and shorten its lifespan.

9. Buy the Right Strength Of Perfume.

Some perfumes will naturally last longer than others, both on the skin and in the bottle. Perfume and cologne are sold in different concentrations, meaning there are different ratios of fragrance oil to alcohol.

CREDIT: Fragrancex.com

Until next time, visit https://wa.link/qtj2qi, https://www.instagram.com/favourite__collections/ for questions and answers

Fun Facts About Your Handbags

Handbags are every woman’s best friend. And why not? They accompany them through thick and thin all day long. But did you ever think that there could be more to these little friends of yours? Here are thirteen fun facts about handbags that surely will leave you fascinated.

Did you know?

1) The nineteenth century was when that handbag came into being. Before that, women used to carry boxes around their necks that looked like a chain

2) An average woman has about six handbags in her possession. It is pertinent to mention that this does not mean that each piece is that of a designer brand.

3) An average Dutch woman’s handbag weighs around 2.5 kilos. The weight was, even more, a few years back. Thanks to technology, the transition to smartphones and lightweight laptops has allowed them to carry lighter bags.

4) On average, a woman spends about 77 days of her life searching for her handbag. In addition to this, there are about 16 articles in the bag.

5) The first-ever leather bag was made in 1841 by London’s H.J. Cave. He used durable leather to manufacture resistant handbags. You can now see these bags at Amsterdam Handbag Museum and enjoy the trip to the past.

6) Rumors say that by yearend, all unsold products are burned by Louis Vuitton. The brand believes that selling bags at a lower or discounted price can diminish its image.

7) The Bible makes Judas Iscariot the first-ever person to own a bag in history.

8) The first-ever unisex bag was made in 1985 by Miuccia Prada. It was a black knapsack made of nylon and is still a classic trend.

9) The most expensive bag in the world amounts to $34.5 million. The name is ‘1001 Nights Diamond Purse’ and was made by the House of Mouawad. The Guinness Book of World Records certified it as the priciest bag ever made.

10) Have you ever wondered how handbags came around to be? It was not until the construction of the railroad that women felt a pressing need to have something that would help them carry their stuff. Before that, no one ever felt a need to invent something like a bag.

11) This might come off as a major shock, but initially, men carried bags as a means to carry their items. Yes, you read that, right? History puts it very clear that men were the first ones to start using bags. Africa’s priests were known for their heavily-beaded bags while Egyptians were for the pouches.

12) They were initially called briefcases as they were essentially regarded as men’s accessories. Well, we can’t call a man’s briefcase a handbag now. Funny, no?

13) Hermes was the first brand ever to introduce a handbag with a zipper in 1923. Before this, they usually came with drawstrings. Quite an innovation for that time, eh!

Culled from: Xari Collections

Until next time, visit https://wa.link/qtj2qi, https://www.instagram.com/favourite__collections/ for questions and answers

Six Hacks To Make Your Perfume Last Longer

Who wouldn’t love to smell great all day? Wearing your favorite fragrance can certainly help, but you may have noticed that many perfumes wear off by lunchtime. This is likely because you’re not applying your perfume the right way.

Most people don’t realize there are best practices for applying fragrance, many of which make a perfume last longer. Unfortunately, if you store your perfume in the bathroom or on a display shelf, you’re not storing it correctly either.

Here we will cover some tips and best practices for getting the most out of your perfume — both for wearing it and storing it.

1. Apply Perfume Right After Your Shower

Starting with proper application helps ensure your fragrance lasts all day. For best results, apply your perfume right after you shower and dry off.

2. Make Sure Skin Is Moisturized Before Appling Perfume

Applying unscented lotion before you spritz on your perfume will moisturize your skin and lock in your fragrance better.

3. Spray Or Dab Onto Bare Skin

Keep fabric and clothing from obstructing your fragrance. The perfume smells best and lasts the longest when able to meld with the natural oils of your body.

4. Apply Perfume To Your Pulse Points

Fragrance reacts to heat, and applying it to your pulse points can help release scent throughout the day. Try spritzing the nape of your neck, insides of your elbows, wrists, or the back of your knees.

5. Smear A Small Amount Of Vaseline To Your Pulse Points Before Applying Perfume

If you need some extra life out of your fragrance, rub a small amount of Vaseline onto your pulse points before application. The balm will act as an additional moisturizing lock for the scent, helping it last even longer.

6. Don’t Rub The Fragrance In

Rubbing your wrists together breaks down the chemicals and causes top notes to break down faster than they would have otherwise. If you can’t spray your fragrance, gently dab it on your skin.

Until next time, visit https://wa.link/qtj2qi, https://www.instagram.com/favourite__collections/ for questions and answers

Interesting Differences Between Perfume And Perfume Oils

To understand this easier, it is better to say that all Perfumes, as you know them in department stores, are perfume oils that have been diluted to be sprayable. The dilutant is typically denatured (i.e. undrinkable) 95 proof alcohol. Perfume oils that you buy are also diluted, but with an odorless carrier oil, which may be jojoba oil or fractionated smells. Here are some interesting facts about perfume oils:

1) Strength of smell – Perfume oils are highly concentrated and up to ten times more concentrated than department store perfumes. This quality allows oils to last longer than their Eau de Perfume counterparts.

2) Alcohol – Perfumes have alcohol in them, which creates different smell effects. Most body oils use carrier oils like jojoba or fractionated coconut oil in place of alcohol. In some fragrances, the smell can change as the alcohol evaporates different scent notes through time. With oils, the scent is more constant.

3) Price – A noticeable difference between perfumes and perfume oils is price. Perfumes have a very high markup and great profit margins, which is perhaps why many celebrities have embarked on the trend of creating their perfumes and colognes. Perfume oils can be sold very cheaply, or even more expensively than perfumes, depending on how they are positioned in the market.

4) Body chemistry – Just because a perfume or cologne smells good on you, doesn’t mean that the oil version will. Perfumes only have a small percentage of oil, so they are quite different than pure body oils. This interaction between the fragrance and your body may produce a different scent perception altogether.

Interesting Differences Between Perfume And Perfume Oils — Fragrances are powerful magicians that can transport you through the years you have lived. “Helen Keller”. Source: Favourite Collections

5) Packaging department store perfumes are very nicely packaged and thus make great gifts for friends and family. Many perfume oils are sold in less attractive containers, which is part of the reason for their lower price.

6) Uses – Perfumes are only intended for use on the body, but perfume oils can be used to create a variety of scented products, like soap, candles, bath oils, air fresheners, and many other types of scented products. Be aware that there are different types of fragrance oils and that pure uncut oils are not safe for use on the skin.

7) Perfume Oils are not flammable and can be posted with no special precautions. Perfumes are highly flammable and are a restricted item in the UK, meaning each posted item has to have a declaration on the outer envelope or package, along with a

8) Perfume oils have a longer shelf life than perfumes because they do not evaporate (the alcohol in perfumes does evaporate).

9) Perfume oils are far less likely to cause an allergic reaction than perfume, which has a high probability due to the very high alcohol content.

Credit: craftprice.co.uk

Until next time, visit https://wa.link/qtj2qi, https://www.instagram.com/favourite__collections/ for questions and answers

How To Buy a Handbag

Bags are an investment that should not only suit your personality but also cheer your mood. They are undoubtedly women’s best friends when it comes to keeping all the essentials in one place. While there are a plethora of options in the market, finding the right fit for yourself could be a little tricky sometimes. Also, remember that the kind of bag you might be wanting is not exactly the bag you would be needing. So here is a quick guide to getting your perfect bag!

1. The Right Size and Weight of The Handbag

The most important aspect to keep in mind while buying a handbag is the correct size. If you wish to store more items, you don’t need to have to go for an oversized or bulky handbag. You need to buy a spacious handbag rather than an oversized one. Also, consider the weight of the bag you wish to buy. Keep away from buying heavy bags to avoid stress and pain in your arms and shoulders.

2. Quality of The Handbag

If you are spending your hard-earned money on a handbag, make sure it is worth every penny with the desired quality. Don’t mind spending a few extra pence if you find a handbag of supreme quality as the longevity of such bags is higher than the cheaper ones. Closely check the stitching around every corner along with the zippers. For online buyers, going through the reviews is a must.

3. Materials

You must select the material of the handbag based on your usage. Bags made of cruelty-free materials are currently the most preferred ones in the market. Vegan leather is reasonable, durable, and has a wider aesthetic scope as compared to original leather bags. Few brands are also taking the route of innovating Jute bags that are equally stylish and environmentally friendly.

4. Compartments

While handbags with fewer compartments might seem handy but multi-compartment handbags are a boon when it comes to finding an essential during an emergency. It’s better to consider the number of compartments so you can keep your stuff organized and find them in the time of need. However, this also depends on person to person and usage of the bag.

5. Versatility Of The Handbag

A handbag must be versatile enough so you can transform it easily. Tote bags are a go-to option for your daily travel. You can easily manage all your work essentials and are equally stylish. You can also opt for convertible bags so you can effortlessly transform their look by just adding or removing the strap.

6. Colour

Colours define your personality and play a huge role in setting the tone for the day. Neutral colours such as black, brown, and white can complement any of your outfits. While earlier, black was one of the most sought-after colours, the buying behaviour of the consumer has now moved to pastel and bold shades. Bold colours such as red and blue; and pastel colours such as dusty pink, and grey are great go-to options for daily usage at the workplace. You can also go with the ongoing colour trends in the market if you are a frequent buyer.

7. Price

Last but not the least, price is a crucial factor that must be taken into consideration. While some bags could be over-priced it is better to compare with more options. Researching the current market price would be good on your part while making the decision.

In the end, always buy a bag as an investment, that not only suits your personality but also cheers your mood!

Credit: India.com

Until next time, for more inquiries, click these links: https://wa.link/qtj2qi, https://www.instagram.com/favourite__collections/

Shelf Life Of A Fragrance Oil — Favour Egbune; CEO, Favourite Collections

How long does a fragrance oil last?

It is paramount to know these things as an oil perfume user to avoid allergies. The average shelf life of fragrance oil is about one year. It is dependent on time, temperature, and exposure to air and light. For best results, we suggest purchasing only enough fragrance that you will use within 6 months to a year, depending on the particular chemicals used to create the fragrance.

Another variable is the shelf life of the raw materials used to make up the fragrance. If there are more natural ingredients in the formula, it can spoil more quickly.

How do you store perfume oils:

It is best to store fragrance oils, especially those that will not be used immediately, in a cool dark place away from light and heat. In case you need to let the oils sit for over one year, we recommend testing each fragrance in a candle before making a large batch and also keeping the oils in Amber glass containers to minimize the potential damage to the fragrance oil.

Until next time, for more inquiries, click these links: https://wa.link/qtj2qi, https://www.instagram.com/favourite__collections/

Hon. Uju Kingsley is A Testament of Quality Representation; – IYA …*Charges Stakeholders on Building a Greater Imo State

By Kennedy Eberechi.

It is most unusual to see a large pool of political heavyweights and youths gather in a setting outside party conventions or rallies. But this unusual gathering was exactly the scene witnessed at the Cupid Hub in Abuja over the weekend at what can best be described as a grand acceptance and support for one of the proactive Lawmakers from Imo state in the Nigeria’s 9^th National Assembly.

This event was the birthday celebration of Zara Uju Kingsley Chima and perhaps what made this event more significant is that Zara is the daughter of Hon. Uju Kingsley Chima; Member representing the good people of Ohaji/Egbema, Oguta and Oru-West Constituency in the Federal House of Representatives, who most analysts are finding difficult to write off going by his unprecedented political profile, achievements and closeness to the youths over these two years of robust legislative engagements.

No wonder while fielding questions from newsmen on the sidelines of the event; the President of Imo Youth Assembly-Abuja (IYA); Comrade Lucky Opara described Hon. Uju Kingsley as a perfect example of a social reforms advocate and a bridge builder just as he added that those who believe that the Nigeria National Assembly can effectively deliver qualitative legislation/oversight functions in a way that promotes service delivery and a better standard of living for the people can proudly point at Hon. Uju Kingsley Chima.

“Since his inauguration into the 9^th National Assembly, Hon. Uju Kingsley has been visible on the floor of the house through his legislative engagements and oversight functions. Highlights of some of the Projects done by him includes Awarra Community School Ohaji/Egbema, Solar light at Ochia, Agwa, Assa, Umuorji, Orsu Obodo, Oguta, Oboro Obokofia, Amafor and Abacheke communities in addition to a Police station built in Awara for security.

“Others are the numerous women and youth empowerment schemes/programs such as the handing over of grinding machines and motorcycles to women and youths from the Federal Constituency, Youth empowerment with taxi and free computer training for over a thousand students from Ohaji/Egbema, Oguta and Oru West Local Government Areas of Imo State

“More so, he has facilitated a Police Area Command in Ekugba, Egbema, built blocks of classrooms in Mgbara Community primary school, Ejemekwuru primary school, Agwa, not forgetting the Umuapu Women Development Centre, and Umuorji Technical College. Additionally, he has provided 500kva transformer to Abacheke and Mgbidi communities, 300 KVA transformer in Ejemekwuru Community”, Mr. Opara noted.

Beyond this, IYA also remarked on the current situation in Imo State; the intensified vicious cycle of poverty and insecurity. “Poverty and insecurity seem to be winning the war against us due to the current policies which obviously failed on arrival. With zero Internally Generated Revenue (IGR), the private sector as a key factor in the daily wellbeing of people has been critically affected to the core that they can’t meet the demands of Imolites while public order slipped out of hand as Imolites blame politicians”. Thus, IYA called for all stakeholders to come together and build a greater Imo for the future generation.

As a reflection of the progressive ideology and wealth creation antecedents of Hon. Uju Kingsley other dignitaries at the event included political heavyweights both from within and outside Imo State, top government functionaries, business executives, members of the diplomatic community and several youth groups.

*Kennedy Eberechi is a Media, Research and Management Strategist (gbadoka@yahoo.com, 07064715591)

MENSTRUAL HYGIENE DAY: SHoGDI Trains Adolescent Girls on The Production of Reusable Sanitary Pads

By Kennedy Eberechi.

Yesterday, May 28^th, the world observed the Menstrual Hygiene Day (MHD) with an aims of to changing the social stigma associated with menstruation. The date May 28 was chosen to observe the day because on an average, the menstrual cycle for most women is 28 days and the menstruation period for most women is for five days.

Specifically, the day serves as a global advocacy platform to bring together the voices and actions of non-profits, government agencies, individuals, the private sector and the media to promote good menstrual health and hygiene (MHH) for all women and girls.

In recognition of this, and as part of its continued efforts in advocating for all that concerns women and girls’ health/general wellbeing through projects and engagements; the foremost Girl-Child advocacy group; Spring of Hope For the Girl-Child Development Initiative (SHoGDI) carried out an advocacy and sensitization campaign at the Aliyu Muh’ Jana’s Arabic College in Markudi Benue state wherein adolescent girls were sensitized on safe menstrual practices in addition to training on production of reusable sanitary pads.

In her remarks, the Founder and Executive Director of SHoGDI; Uhundu Mimidoo stated that menstruation is not a problem, but poor menstrual hygiene is, just as she added that poor menstrual health is one of the major reasons for the prevalence of Reproductive Tract Infections (RTIs) in Nigeria and Africa, which according to her contributes significantly to female morbidity.

“Today we join our voices to eradicate the stigma associated with menstruation and call for more action and investment in menstrual health and hygiene. The objective is to build the capacity of young adolescent girls so they would be able to observe safe menstrual hygiene. As we are all aware, covid-19 came and the economic impact is being felt by everyone, and so a lot of young girls cannot afford the disposable sanitary pads.

“Therefore, in-line with the theme of this year’s edition of MHD which is ‘Periods in Pandemics’, SHoGDI has deemed it timely to train girls on production of reusable sanitary pads which is more economical and can be reused”, Miss Uhundu explained.

Continuing, the Ex-beauty Queen informed that menstrual hygiene management (MHM), which refers to access to menstrual hygiene products to absorb or collect the flow of blood during menstruation, privacy to change the materials, and access to facilities to dispose of used menstrual management materials, could also include the “broader systemic factors that link menstruation with health, well-being, gender equality, education, equity, empowerment, and rights”.

Mimidoo further observed that menstrual hygiene management can be particularly challenging for girls and women in developing countries, where clean water and toilet facilities are often inadequate. “Menstrual waste is largely ignored in schools in developing countries, despite it being a significant problem. Menstruation can be a barrier to education for many girls, as a lack of effective sanitary products restricts girls’ involvement in educational and social activities.

“Therefore MHD creates an occasion for publicizing information about menstrual hygiene management issues in the media. This day offers an opportunity to actively advocate for the integration of menstrual hygiene management into global, national and local policies and programmes”, Miss Uhundu explained.

Other highlights of the event as put together by SHoGDI included training exercise on production of reusable sanitary pads by Xtreme Vogue, distribution of reusable sanitary pads to the project beneficiaries, sensitization on reproductive health, stigma and cultural taboos associated with menstruation by Lawyers Alert, and a cross section of questions and answers.

Broadly, Menstrual Hygiene Day breaks the silence, raises awareness and changes negative social norms around MHH. It also engages decision-makers to increase the political priority and catalyse action for MHH, at global, national and local levels.

Observably, with constant engagements from advocacy groups such as the Spring of Hope for The Girl-Child Development Initiative, Menstrual Hygiene Day has grown tremendously since its first celebration in 2014.

When Religion Becomes The Distraction

By William Ikhiansinomihe Orbih.

It was about 7:30 am on Wednesday, and all was set for the journey from Abuja to Benin to begin. The fourteen-seater bus was filled with passengers. The much-experienced driver took his position behind the steering wheel. For the past ten years, he has been working for God is Good Motors. Having now traveled the Abuja-Benin route countless times, he knew the route only too well. He turned on the ignition while waiting for the final protocol before hitting the road.

Evangelist James appeared from nowhere. He was very casually dressed; only the giant bible he brandished distinguished him from the many handymen who typically hang around Utako Moto Park making a living out of helping to load the buses. ‘Brethren, let us pray,’ James began, inviting every passenger to commit the trip unto the power and protection of God.

The content of his prayer was mainly all about casting and binding the accident-causing and blood-sucking demons on the highway. “May they not see this bus.” May they not see any of our blood to suck. May they be sentenced to the deepest recess of hell. Safety is your portion,” he declared, as the majority of the passenger screamed, “Amen” after each prayer point. Before Evangelist James came down, many passengers thrust money into his palm to support his ministry. He was full of smiles. The journey to Benin began in earnest.

Kemi came home from the hospital with a bouncing baby boy. Nine months of pregnancy ended in praise, even though it left Kemi and her husband with much-depleted resources. After managing to pay the hospital bill, Kemi and her husband had nothing left to feed on. They left the hospital unable to buy the prescribed post-natal medication. It did not take long for her breastfeeding to begin to take a toll on the malnourished nursing mother.

Kemi was growing weaker every day before her helpless husband. By the third day, her husband could see human life leave his beloved wife. In desperation, he ran out of the house to look for help—food. Their very prayerful neighbors who saw him run out went into the house to see what was amiss. When they saw Kemi gasping for energy, they surrounded her and began to pray over her.

While they were casting out the spirit of death, Kemi was dying with every minute. The number of people praying ferociously in her tiny one-bedroom apartment competed with the little air in the one window room, so that in addition to gasping for energy Kemi was now also gasping for air. She would have died but for the timely intervention of the landlady. The landlady literally chased the prayer warriors away as she bundled Kemi to the nearest pharmacy for resuscitation.

None of these two stories above is fiction. On the contrary, they all represent classic examples in Nigeria of religion constituting a distraction and preventing us from coming to terms with the actual cause of their social woes. Are demons alone to blame for the prevalence of road accidents in Nigeria? Are they to be blamed at all? What about terrible roads, full of potholes and dangerous bends? What about bad vehicle maintenance culture as well as lousy driving culture? What about needless aggressiveness on the highway, over speeding, careless overtaking, driving under the influence of intoxicants, and driving distractedly? What about human error, given the fact that to be human is to be prone to error?

These are the common causes of road accidents often ignored in our obsession with demons and other spiritual forces. What if, instead of a park evangelist, we have a park activist? What if we all learn to pray privately and use the time before long journeys as opportunities to remind ourselves that the cause of our problem is, as Chinua Achebe quipped bad leadership? By the way, by bad leadership, the acclaimed father of the modern African novel was not only talking about corrupt leaders; he was also referring to the ordinary Nigerians who often sell their votes so cheaply and often do not demand accountability from their leaders.

What if we come to realize that the real blood-sucking demons are our politicians and government officials whose irresponsibility, heartlessness, and greed leave us with nothing but bad roads full of death traps? What if Kemi’s landlady was also a prayer warrior? What if she had joined in the prayer rather than do what she did? Probably Kemi would have died before her husband returned with the little money that he could borrow from one of his friends. She would have died, and the prayer warriors would have blamed it on evil spirits.

Religion is the opium of the people, Karl Marx famously declared. This maxim has remained popular, and for many people today, this is all religion is and why religion must be abolished for good. It is, however, important to note that Marx’s harsh verdict on religion is not so much about the truth or falsity of religion per se. Instead, in his opinion, religion is the biggest obstacle to the liberation of the proletariat.

The abolition of religion is, therefore, “the first requisite for the happiness of the people.” Until religion is abolished, it will remain the opium that keeps the majority well sedated and docile for the few bourgeoises oppressing and exploiting them. In other words, for the necessary socio-economic revolution to take place, the German scholar thinks that the masses must first get rid of religion, religious ideas. Above all, they must discard religious virtues and especially resist the religious encouragement to be meek and forbear in the face of oppression in the hope of a heavenly reward.

While Marx surely has a large following, especially in an increasingly secularized world, this does not necessarily mean that he is right. Religion is, above everything else, the human longing for transcendence. Nigerians do not turn to religion primarily to escape life’s woes; they mostly do so because they want an encounter with God who is real for them. Besides, just as religion often sedates people in the face of oppression, religion has also been known to inspire people to rise and fight for their human dignity.

One can definitely not say that all Nigerians have been sedated by religion in the Marxist sense. Religion has not completely numbed our will to fight for our rights or struggle to develop our society. While we pray hard, we also work hard. We are among the most hardworking people on earth. We do not just fold our hands and divine miraculous intervention. However, while we are indeed prepared to put in the works to make our society a better place, the problem seems to be the fact that we are often distracted from the true cause of our societal issues.

Perhaps, we can be more accurately described not as a people sedated by the opium of religion but as a people who often do not engage in critical analysis of our environment because of the pervasiveness of our religious world view. This world view populated by demons often prevents us from seeking a simple scientific or social explanation to things. On the contrary, there is a spiritual explanation for everything that happens.

It is not our poor health care system or even unhygienic environments that is responsible for the prevalence of terminal diseases and untimely deaths. Rather, it is the activity of witches and wizards, most of whom live in the village. These same witches are responsible for the pervasive poverty in the land and not poor economic policies or endemic corruption. These dark forces make it difficult for most young people to find jobs and prevent many young ladies from marrying. People are poor, sick, die because they have been cursed or have ignored one spiritual principle or another.

For instance, for many people, #AdaJesus, the famous comedienne who died recently, died because she offended a self-acclaimed prophet of God. That is, she died because she was cursed by the prophet and not from the kidney failure she has been treating long before her fracas with prophet Odumeje.

While we might never be able to ascertain the truth with certainty, can we at least not be distracted from the prevalence of kidney failure among young people in Nigeria today? While we try to avoid getting cursed by pastors and prophets, can we also demand a better health care system from our political leaders?

Religion must become an ally in the struggle for a better Nigeria, and stop being the distraction. Religion must bring light to our politics and not the darkness of bigotry. Religion must further enlighten our God-given human rationality and not suspend our use of common sense. As we cast and bind the demons on our highways, can we also fill up the potholes?

Can we learn to become more gentle and careful behind wheels? As we pray for prosperity and breakthrough, can we learn to be just and fair? If we must pray for thirty minutes before we begin work, can we be honest enough to our employers by endeavoring to come to work thirty minutes early? As we continue to pray for the kind of Nigeria we desire, may we never stop working hard for it. After all, did not St. James tell us that faith without good work is quite dead?

*First published in the Good Shepherd Newspaper.

Commence The Process of Governance…; – IYP Cautions Uzodinma, Stakeholders

By Kennedy Gbados.

Commence The Process of Governance…; - IYA Cautions Uzodinma, Stakeholders — Senator Hope Uzodinma; Executive Governor of Imo State

Undoubtedly, the position of a state governor comes with a lot of responsibilities and considerable global wide influences given the fact that the bulk of developmental strides that shapes the overall economy of the over 160 million strong nation lies squarely with how well these 36 state governors are able to pilot the affairs of their respective states.

Again, given that under the extant constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, State Governors are afforded lots of independent and interdependent privileges and federalist powers to determine what programs and projects to embark upon; the position of a state governor to a large extent is a major platform for such a holder to put in place measures to ameliorate the sufferings of the majority of Nigerians who are impoverished and economically weak.

Provoked by this, a group of young professionals of Imo state extraction from all works of life and spread all over the world under the aegis of Imo Young Professionals (IYP), with the intent to push a positive agenda and drive development in Imo State has berated the Senator Hope Uzodimma-led administration over what it described as the “rule of the jungle”.

In a ‘Text of a Press Conference’ released after a recent Press Conference convened in Abuja, Nigeria and signed the Lead Convener; Mr. Chrys Chigere Anyanwu, IYA lamented: “Since the 14th day of January, 2020 the Supreme Court decided the Imo State Governorship election matter in favour of the incumbent Senator Hope Uzodimma, Ndi Imo had ordinarily expected that due to the circumstances of his assumption of office, the Governor would have really dedicated his time in office to the people and for their security and welfare”.

Decrying the spate of insecurity in the state, IYA revealed that under Uzodinma’s watch, there have been general sense of civil unrest in the state, alleged politically motivated assassinations and the government seems to be unconcerned just as they added that many police stations have also been loothed.

Describing the happenings in Orlu wherein the Governor invited the military to quell activities of the Eastern Security Network as a clear case of mishandling of security situation, IYA stressed that the mishandling of the security situation is such that has degenerated into none state actors ruling many parts of the State.

“Regrettably, all these are not troubling enough for the government of Imo State. Instead, the priority for the governor is at inviting the military to intimidate, kill and terrorise innocent people he is meant to protect, all in the name of searching for ESN members.

“We have continuously asked, whose interest is the governor serving by ordering the bombing of his own people largely made up of women and children and destroying their farmlands, houses and hard earned property most of who only manage to eke out a living from the harsh economic condition that the state subjected them to.

“As we speak, no inquiry to the best of our knowledge or any form of investigation has been set up to audit exactly what transpired during that ugly incident let alone compensation of victim”, IYA berated.

Furthermore, IYA highlighted unemployment, infrastructural negligence, workers/ pensioners’ welfare, lack of transparency, accountability in the use of state IGR and federal allocation, total collapse of education in the state, the priority for politics against governance as the bane of the Hope Uzodinma’s one year in office as the governor of Imo State.

“However, Ndi Imo have watched for 14 months out of the 48 possible months in the first term of the ongoing 4 year administration and have also seen the activities that marked the one year in office of the Governor wherein many dignitaries graced the occasion and also analyzed the projects done in the State within the said period juxtaposed with the aggregate income of the state including the federal allocations, internally generated revenue (IGR), 13% derivation, loans/grants, ecological funds, etc”, IYA explained.

Therefore, the Group called on the entire leadership of the state and other stakeholders, including representatives at the national and state assemblies, traditional authorities, etc in the state to quickly sit up.

“We are specifically calling on His Excellency, the governor of Imo state, Senator Hope Uzodimma to urgently commence the process of governance in the state. In our opinion, what is happening in the state currently can best be described as the ‘rule of the jungle’.

“The governor must know that ‘Douglas House’ is no entitlement and governorship of the state is not an award rather a serious responsibility and must be approached with all the seriousness it deserves”.

Conclusively, Imo Young Professionals pledged its commitment to continue advance its patriotic contributions to getting Imo state on its feet. “We are certainly not one of those armchair critics. We are ready to provide our professional support to ensure good governance in the state.

“We shall equally applaud our Governor when he deserves to be applauded but not to join the band wagon and sing his praises today in anticipation of pecks and condemn him tomorrow when he leaves office.

“Governor Rochas Okorocha was praised to the high heavens by the same voices that now condemn him. This attitude is the bane of our development in Imo State and we shall discourage it.

“Fact based criticism and commendation will be our focus. There is no better time to join the mission to salvage Imo. We urge all young professionals of Imo origin to join us and save our State”.

Sadiq Daba; In Eternal Memory

By William Ikhianosimhe Orbih.

Sadiq Daba is dead. Two movies remind me of him; so, I want to talk about them very quickly. The first is October 1, where Sadiq was the star actor. The movie won him an African Movie Academy Award for Best Actor. We all agree that he overwhelmingly deserved this award.

One takeaway from the movie as it concerns Nigeria. As of September 30, 1960, that is the eve of “Independence,” the signs that we were not yet ready for self-rule as a nation were quite glaring. Even the blind could see them. We went ahead with the “independence” thing anyway.

Obafemi Awolowo famously described Nigeria as a geographical expression and not a nation! It was a “geographical expression” that gained “Independence” (Oh! How much I hate to use the term Independence. I will talk about the reason for my disgust another day).

In ‘October 1’, Sadiq is a police inspector investigating murder cases by an unknown serial killer. A Yoruba prince who has just returned from studies in the UK kills an Igbo virgin. He is the serial killer.

A Northerner who had the misfortune to be passing by the village in the night of the murder is apprehended by the Igbo community and accused of the murder. The sad point is the fact that he was accused and killed, more because he was “different” than because of any other reason. As far as the Igbo community led by Kanayo O Kanayo (again!!!) was concerned, he was from a different nation—an enemy nation.

Sadiq masterfully solves the mystery of the serial killer but was forced to suppress the truth. I am sure that in real life, he wouldn’t have succumbed to the pressure of suppressing the truth. He looks like a man of integrity, and many of the eulogies I have seen highlight that aspect of him in addition to his great humility and simplicity.

Before leaving October 1, I must quickly add that seeing Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, portrayed by Deola Sagoe, in that movie was the most pretty sight. History remembers her simply as the first woman to drive a car. How is that her most important achievement?

What about remembering her as the greatest Nigerian activist ever? What about remembering her as a leader over men and women, a thorn in the flesh of corrupt and oppressive leaders, whether colonial or indigenous?

What about remembering her as the woman who inspired Fela and his kid brother Beko Ransome-Kuti? What about remembering her as the woman who was too hot for the military junta to handle? They had to kill her. They had to kill Fela’s mama. Thankfully, she has reincarnated in the likes of Aisha Yesufu, D.J Switch.

The second movie which stars Sadiq, which I want to talk about, is Citation. It was released late last year. Citation is a movie to watch! Go and watch it! The lead actress, Teni Otedola, Moremi in the movie, gave a good account of herself. She proved that she has got much more than simply having a billionaire dad that can buy you fancy cars (Not that I am jealous ooo!).

Hopefully, with time she will prove that she has got more acting skills than the oil magnate has naira. Jimmy Jean-Louis, who is Professor Lucien N’Dyare, the villain in the movie, was simply excellent! His hairdo gave me so much vibe and inspiration.

In contrast to October 1, Sadiq played a very menial role in Citation, Professor Yahaya. I am sure that as at the time of the shooting of the movie, he was already very ill, having been diagnosed with Leukemia and Prostrate Cancer in 2017.

It reminds one of Chadwick Boseman. I am sure he agreed to star in the movie at all because of the strong message the movie was conveying. The social disease Citation tackles head-on is the phenomenon of “sex for grades” in Nigerian higher institutions.

However, the movie is not just about creating awareness of this menace. It is also about telling young female students that they are not as powerless as the Nigerian education system often makes them seem.

This is one of Sadiq’s last testaments to us as a nation. We are more powerful than we can imagine, if only we learn to come together and work together. As Professor Yahaya, working with others in the panel, he ensured justice for Moremi.

As we pour encomium on him, let us hurry back to work. There is so much work to get back to as a nation. Sadiq is not resting in peace; he is smiling down on us and urging us all to keep working fearlessly and tirelessly. Thank you, Sadiq, and goodbye.

For comments can I get names of other Sadiq movies? Please…

HURIWA Asks Federal Government Of Nigeria To Focus On National Security And Allow Cow Dealers Run Their Private Businesses

By HURIWA.

By virtue of the provisions of section 4 and the Second Schedule to the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended), which excludes land from the listed items in the schedule, land administration falls within the exclusive residual jurisdiction of the States of the federation. This position is reinforced by the provisions of the Land Use Act, which, though a federal legislation, vests powers to manage lands in the State governors.

The objective of the extant Land Use Act is to ensure that the use of land and water areas and building activities on them create preconditions for a favourable living environment and promote ecologically, economically, socially and culturally sustainable development.

Motivated by the above, the foremost civil rights advocacy group; Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has berated the disclosure by the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Agriculture; Dr Andrew Kwasari, that government has mapped out 30 grazing reserves for implementation of the National Livestock Transformation Plan (NLTP) as one of the moves by the federal government to solve the protracted conflict over competition of land, water and pasture by herders and farmers.

In a statement jointly signed by the National Coordinator; Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko and the National Media Affairs; Miss Zainab Yusuf, the rights group described the move as a clear indication that the Federal Government under President Mohummadu Buhari likes to stoke anarchy and court controversy in a volatile society that is ruled by ethnic and religious sentiments, emphasizing that it is certain that the sponsors have not adverted their minds to the relevant cases that have been decided by the courts on Land Use Act, Inland waterways, physical planning and acquisition of coastal landed properties by the federal government.

“It is trite law that the Land Use Act is one of the laws entrenched in the constitution by the defunct military junta. To that extent, it enjoys statutory flavour and cannot be altered in a bid to appease a certain sect of people doing their private business”, HURIWA pointed out.

Nonetheless, HURIWA stated without controversies that, though the Land Use Act empowers the governors of the states to acquire private land for public use, a cattle colony or whatever name it is called is excluded just as the group noted that what constitutes public purpose is statutorily defined in Section 51 (1) of the Land Use Act.

“In this Act, unless the context otherwise requires “Public Purposes” includes: for exclusive government use for general public use; for use by body corporate directly established by law or by anybody corporate registered under the Companies and Allied Matters Act … which the government owns shares, stocks or debentures; for or in connection with sanitary improvement of any kind;

“for obtaining control over land contiguous to any part or over land the value of which will be enhanced by the construction of any railway, road or other public work or convenience about to be undertaken or provided by the government; for obtaining control over land required for or in connection with development of telecommunications or provision of electricity;

“for obtaining control over land required for or in connection with mining purposes; to obtaining control over land required for or in connection with planted urban or rural development or settlement; for obtaining control over land required for or in connection with economic, industrial or agricultural development; for educational and social services”, HURIWA quoted.

Referencing Wuyah v. Jama’a Local Govt, Kafanchan (2013) All FWLR (Pt. 659) and Stodic Ventures Ltd. v. Alamieyeshia (2016) 4 NWLR (Pt. 1502), HURIWA said the courts of law had held that governments cannot acquire land from a private individual only to make it available for the use of another private individual as this would not amount to public purpose.

“We would however say in passing that the public purpose for which the government can compulsorily acquire lands are clearly defined in the Act and do not include acquisition for the purpose of making a grant to a third party.

“In Chief Commissioner, Eastern Province v. S.N. Ononye & ors. (1944) 17 NLR 142, it was held that the acquisition of land by the then Central Government of Nigeria in Onitsha for the purpose of granting a lease of it to a commercial company was not in public purpose within public Lands Acquisition Ordinance Cap. 88,” HURIWA said.

In line with the above, HURIWA maintained that there is no way the acquisition of land by any government for the establishment of grazing reserves would qualify as a public purpose. Therefore, opined that as herdsmen are, in reality, businessmen engaged in the business of cattle rearing for their own personal financial gain, there is no how the provision of land for the grazing of their cattle, even at the payment of a fee, would satisfy the provisions of the law if the land is acquired from other private individuals.

In stating the above, HURIWA is not unmindful of the provisions of Section 51(1) (h), which permits acquisition ‘for obtaining control over land required for or in connection with economic, industrial or agricultural development.

While this, in HURIWA’s estimation, contemplates a situation in which the land is acquired for use by the government for agricultural development, the group added that what is, however, clear from the stated intention of the government is a plan to make the land available for the use of the herdsmen and their cattle.

The core of HURIWA’s argument is that the NLTP document only talks about cattle and no other category of livestock, saying it was a way to re-introduce RUGA using another name just as the group also argued that as captured, livestock was holistic but the conclusion was particular about cattle.

“But, from the components of the policy documents, it is very difficult to convince Nigerians that the livestock policy is not exclusively for herdsmen. It appears, from the spirit and letter of the document, a reformed RUGA agenda.

“The impression is that perhaps, given the agitated responses of Nigerians, especially the Southeast, South-south, Southwest and the North Central, this may be a backhand way of implementing RUGA”

“Our argument against the RUGA scheme and its offshoots had been that public resources are being allocated to the development of private cattle breeding and rearing businesses as a reward for attacks on farmers and killing innocent rural dwellers by herdsmen, while the affected farmers and villages are left to wallow in sorrow (over the loss of their loved ones), hunger and poverty.

“Again, beyond the fact that the herdsmen have been destroying farmers’ crops for years with impunity, other categories of farmers have always been either given subsidised inputs or loans. They had never been given other people’s land, free building and social facilities by the Federal Government, as advocated in the NLTP and the RUGA scheme.

“It could be recalled that though, farm settlements of the old regional governments were built on community’s land, the same community people were the beneficiaries of the settlements, not other people.

“No doubts, the name National Livestock Transformation Plan suggests a broader and a more inclusive coverage, but its policy statement and implementation components actually point to one direction; a RUGA project in another form”, HURIWA stressed.

Conclusively, HURIWA educated that everywhere and anywhere in the world, land and water resources are owned and their exploitation controlled by states and local authorities, just as the group frowned at the fact that Nigeria is tending to be different from this grand norm because some people are pursuing parochial interest and looking at the country from a narrow prism.

“Why is the President concerned about a private business of cow raring? What about other businesses such as piggery and other livestock farming? Why pampering the Fulani? For the umpteenth time, Fulani herdsmen are private entrepreneurs and therefore should build ranches to graze their cows and not for government to seize water sources and ancestral lands from the farmers to give to fulani herdsmen including foreign fulani herders”, HURIWA bemoaned.

HEADIES, GRAMMY AND NEOCOLONIALISM

By William Ikhianosimhe Orbih.

Headies 2020 has come and gone. Wizkid scooped the most prestigious award of the night—the Artiste of the year award. This is the third time he has done it, making him the Nigerian musician who has won this particular award the most and even the most Headies Awards. By the way, he also won the Fan/viewer choice award, which says a lot. Congratulations to him.

Anytime I think of Wizkid and his musical exploit thus far, I think of his first hit; Holla At Your Boy. When he sang this song, he was still a boy—a little boy. Today, he is anything but a boy. Hits after hits, Hits back-to-back. Sauciest musical videos. Mad lyrics. Local and international collaborations. Weeks upon weeks in top charts across the world. Many memorable albums. Numerous awards and endorsements.

If Wizkid, as his immortal name suggests, is a kid then every musician in Nigeria is a kid. If Wizkid is a boy, he is the biggest boy in Nigeria’s music industry right now. I still prefer Davido to him, though. Who is with me on this one?

I am talking about Wizkid today because he did not just win big at the latest Headies Award but graced it with his presence. Bovi had a great time at Wizkid’s expense. He jokingly prayed for Wizkid’s kind of grace, saying, “whereas I (that is Bovi) first Wizkid blow, now I dey like upcoming artiste for where him dey.” Wizkid was all smiles and laughter as Bovi spoke. He was all smiles and laughter as he went on stage to grab his awards.

HEADIES, GRAMMY AND NEOCOLONIALISM — Wizkid at the 2020 Headies

He was not alone in gracing the occasion with admirable graciousness. Nigerian musicians were at their best—Bovi, the comedian too and the delectable Nancy Isime, his co-host. Apart from making everyone laugh throughout the night, Bovi has been singled out for praise for his thoughtfulness to show support for a righteous course.

Bovi brandished the Nigerian flag with emphasis on the blood-stained white in honor of the brave men and women that lost their lives during the last year ENDSARS protest. Desmond Eliot; one of the villains of the ENDSARS protest, also came. He wore an elaborate blue agbada, which further exposed him for the Bourgeoisie that he has shamefully become. No nonsense Nigerians washed him dry on Twitter. Good for him. Next!!!!

A notable absence at the event is Africa’s giant; Burna Boy. I personally don’t know why he did not show up. Was it the same reason Cristiano Ronaldo did not show up to the 2018 and 2019 Ballon d’Or that Luka Modric and his nemesis Lionel Messi won, respectively? Or could it be because he was nominated for the Grammys 2020, and he is now feeling too big for the Headies? He has been nominated for the 2021 Grammys too. I pray he wins this time.

Well, if Burna Boy’s decision to not show up at the Headies was because he knew he was not going to win, then I can excuse him. I know it shows a lack of sportsmanship, but I can excuse him—like I did CR7. Out of my incurable bias, of course. However, if his reason has anything to do with demeaning the Headies, I am disappointed in him, and I am sure his great mentor Fela is disappointed as well.

For me, the craze for Grammy, which is gradually consuming Burna Boy and many other Nigerian musicians and fans, is nothing other than waiting upon an external agency to give us credibility. It is a rather salient manifestation of neocolonialism, and regrettably so. Why do we need an American award to give credibility to a Nigerian work of art?

One of the immortal lines from 9ice’s best album; Street Credibility reads in the form of a promise: ‘…I go bring you Grammy?’ Thus far, he has not. Very likely, Burna Boy or Wizkid will beat him to it. My argument is, while Grammy is a good ad-on on any musician’s CV, African musicians must get rid of the craze for it.

We should rather promote our own local awards. Grammy is, after all is said and done, a local award. It is an American Award. Our craze for it gives more cred to the award than it does to our music industry. All this plenty grammar is just to say that I personally always look forward to the Headies. It is from the Headies that I reorganize my music playlist every year.

I am not a latecomer to trends, in general. However, when it comes to music, I prefer to tarry and let the sieve of nomination, voting and awarding make choosing lighter for me. Too many hit songs in Nigeria; how many ears does the son of man have?

Congrats to all the winners.

JANE OBOZELE: – Spurred By Passion

By Kennedy Eberechi.

Identified as an amazon, woman valour and pathfinder of rare breed; Mrs. Jane Obozele; the Founder and Executive Director of Charity Care Foundation is a manifestation of a hybrid cultural upbringing which has directly and greatly influenced her antecedents.

Driven by passion and determination to harness the potentials of women, while also exploring their capacity to lead an army of achievers in addressing some of the challenges bedevilling the Nigerian society through charity and volunteer work, she created the Miss Charity Ambassador Pageant.

Since its inception in 2014 as a trademark of Charity Ambassador Care Foundation, the Pageant has succeeded in turning her passion into a beckon of hope, riding on the crest of the desire for a qualitative event to redefine pageantry with impact on communities and the society at large, even up to making global impact.

In a recent chat with her, Jane Obozele informed that the Miss Charity Ambassador Pageant is designed to raise confident, elegant and inspirational women who would use the power of their inner strength and character to galvanize a large army of stakeholders to alleviate the sufferings of the less privileged across different parts of Nigeria.

She further hinted that the contest is not just about the funfair of crowning beauty queens, but a platform aimed at discovering and encouraging talented female youths in Nigeria to participate effectively in championing charity campaigns and development in Nigeria adding that it also helps to provide a unique platform that celebrates/showcases our rich cultural heritage.

As a basic requirement, according to her, the contestants selected from all parts of the country for the prestigious crown must champion a social issue that is important to her, which must meet the need of humanity.

“Our pageant is built on the understanding that women are the catalyst to national development, thus the need to create such a platform whose mandate amongst others is to build confidence, inspire hope, empower through entrepreneurship skills and groom women into agents of social and economic change”, she explained.

Another area, which fires up her passion, is the prevalence of political, social and communal crisis around the country today and the disheartening wave of insurgency/militancy. “There is no better time other than now to spread and propagate the consciousness of sustainable peace within our society”, she expressed.

Consequently, the charismatic social reforms advocate hopes to engage government and stakeholders in Nigeria to seek a participatory and complimentary attitude in galvanizing the interest of the youths and strategically re-channel them to national pursuits that will culminate in development and cultural recovery in a bid to address the burning issue of segregation and fundamentalism.

“To build peace that leads to development, it is necessary to have mutual understanding and tolerance between cultures. If people accept cultural diversity and understand cultures other than their own, it will contribute to the prevention of conflict, building of peace and development. Hence, cultural diversity in Nigeria should be seen as an asset rather than a burden,” Mrs. Obozele remarked.

Continuing, the light-Skinned Ex-Beauty Queen observed that with an estimated population of over 130 million and over 250 ethnic nationalities, Nigeria ranks the most populous country in black Africa. Accordingly, for her, the important part of sustainable peace is cultural diversity.

“The emergence of differing culture and maintenance of cultural diversity has raised the possibility of the human race to adapt to environmental change in the future. Furthermore, in order for culture itself to retain its creativity and vitality, the existence of other cultures is a must. New ideas are born from other cultures, and the source of cultural creativity lies within constant encounters between different cultures.

“Therefore, the determination to improve cultural dialogue and integration and empower same through concerted developmental efforts stands in good stead to be effortlessly actualized when the Citizenry is fully incorporated into the vision.

“This is because, the moment the citizens are sufficiently educated about the essence of and the philosophy behind Nigeria’s rich cultural diversity, it is easier for the different segments of the complexity that Nigeria is, to now unify and decide to live in peace, harmony, equality and respect for equity, social justice and practice democracy the way it should be,” she asserted.

Humanitarian concluded by affirming that one of the fundamental objectives of state policy is to promote our cultural values. According to her, to promote cultural values one has to create the enabling environment for the proper promotions of the different cultural activities that we find Nigeria.

The innovative, assiduous and focused Jane, who has in view a Masters Degree in Business Administration and married with children, has no doubt made a success of her passion, interest, zeal and home front.

Hon. Uju Kingsley’s Desire Is To See His Constituents Become Agents of Positive Change; – Nnadi Ikechukwu

By Kennedy Eberechi.

The Honourable Member representing the good people of Ohaji/Egbema, Oguta and Oru-West Federal Constituency in the National Assembly; Hon. Uju Kingsley Chima has continued to take proactive steps in implement his pledge of advancing the desire of the people for quality legislation and representation in a way that promotes service delivery and a better standard of living for the people.

Undoubtedly, according to pundits, since his inauguration into the 9^th National Assembly in June 2019, Hon. Uju Kingsley has been visible on the floor of the Federal House of Representatives through his legislative engagements and oversight functions, perhaps due to his wealth of experiences as a successful entrepreneur, an astute politician and administrator of repute, with a proven record of success in administrative governance and business management.

Incidentally, his Special Assistant on Administrative Matters; Mr. Ikechukeu Nnadi has described him principal as a man who is known for a progressive ideology and passion for wealth creation due to his focus driven representative commitment to his constituents.

Speaking in a recent chat, Mr. Nnadi, who revealed that Hon. Uju Kingsley Chima’s main aim is to empower men, women and youths of Ohaji/Egbema/Oguta/Oru-West Federal Constituency, to gain employment or become self-employed and agents of positive change added that his Principal’s vision is to use entrepreneurial and skill development as tools for poverty reduction, conflict mitigation and promotion of social cohesion, while promoting and strengthening democratic processes and civic education”.

Continuing, the communicative Special Assistant expressed that soonest, men, women, sons and daughters of Ohaji/Egbema/Oguta/Oru-West Federal Constituency will be receiving an overwhelming empowerment from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) sponsored by Hon. Uju Kingsley Chima.

“Omeudo 1 of Niger Delta selected over two hundred persons from his Constituency for this empowerment and as such, has brought the constituents together as one big family to show us that truly he so much loves and cares about us”, Nnadi explained.

Furthermore, Mr. Nnadi emphasized that the “workaholic Federal lawmaker’s Zeal and determination to bring development to his Federal constituency has made his name a house hold Name in Ohaji-Egbema, Oguta, Oru-West Local Government Areas of Imo State.

“Most communities are already benefiting from projects attracted by our Federal Law Maker, who has assured his Constituents of more infrastructural projects, youth empowerment programmes and job opportunities, among others.

“As a testament, not too long ago, the good people of Mgbara Egbema in Ohaji-Egbema LGA Commended Hon. Uju Kingsley Chima for fulfilling his promise of building six blocks of class rooms in the Community and assured him of their continued support”.

Conclusively, Mr. Nnadi is of the firm belief that given his antecedents, the good people of his Constituency have no doubts that Hon. Uju Kingsley Chima, who rode on the crest of their desire for a progressive ideology and agenda in legislative/oversight functions, will improve the dynamism and functionality in quality legislation and the true meaning of representation.

*Kennedy Eberechi is a Media and Research Expert, he lives in Abuja, Nigeria. (+2347064715591, gbadoka@yahoo.com)

Government Needs To Start Paying Attention To Our Fashion Industry; – Siya

By Kennedy Eberechi.

Within a decade, Nigeria’s fashion industry has grown in size and sophistication, attracting global attention. Going by GDP data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), the “textile, apparel, and footwear” sector has averaged growth of 17% between 2010 and 2019.

Undoubtedly, this rise has been fuelled by an increase in demand but also partly by unprecedented initiatives that continue to edge Nigeria into the global fashion consciousness. One of these brands is Seeyaa’s Clothings, which specializes in beautiful ready-to-wear outfits for stylish women and kids.

In a bid to create a more fortified fashion industry that will attract investors, huge fashion brands and bring in more revenue to Nigeria as a whole, the Founder and Creative Director; Siya George Batubo has been upbeat about how transforming the fashion industry through government’s strategic investment will actually help it compete more at a global scale

This was evident in a recent exclusive chat on the sidelines of her birthday wherein the 30-year-old Africa’s fastest rising creative designer elucidated on how investing in the fashion and clothing industry will not only boost the country’s GDP but also create an avenue for tourism, job creation and help balance the country’s almost sinking economy.

“Every year, we complain about poor welfare, infrastructure and even though there is an official budget for the developments of those sectors our government needs to start paying attention to our fashion industry by communicating their plans and agenda because there is a huge gap to fill in terms of influencing the industry with their legitimate ascendancy”.

Referencing the fact that an average human needs food, shelter and clothing to survive, Siya revealed that clothing (fashion) will always be in demand and hence the need for a profitable and well-fortified fashion industry to satisfy the needs of different individuals and consumers in the country and to widen our international base to the benefit of the country.

Underlining how Nigeria can achieve this, she pointed out that the government can start by developing a well-established fashion district with well-equipped machines and spaced-buildings that will help in the production of different types of fabrics and clothes.

“It could be bespoke/high production tailoring of suits and traditional attires or even jeans, tee shirts and casual attires with well-defined regions in the district. People may argue that we already have a fashion district in Aba (Abia State) with a variety of tailors and aspiring designers but to be honest, we are not yet scratching the surface of how a well-defined and established fashion district should be, and we have the potential but keep wasting it”, she observed.

As a way forward, the young entrepreneur recommends that the Nigerian government should help the already forthcoming tailors and fashion designers, “not only through funding, but through a necessary provision of good roads, electricity and guaranteed security.

“Basically, the government should give loans to already established fashion designers/tailors with a single digit interest in returns. Give them Tax Exemption until they hit a particular profit margin, and Import or Produce well-advanced machines and create an avenue for forums to teach them how to use those machines”.

Furthermore, she advocates that the government should pay attention to already blooming Fashion Designers and tailors by creating a standard school solely for the purpose of teaching Fashion.

According to her, a school where people can learn how to improve their talent/art at a subsidized rate in order to enhance the quality of the production of the clothes made locally and also learn how to sell and reach their target audience better. “Nigeria does not yet have a proper fashion school or academy with a certification of international repute and this needs to be fixed”, she emphasized.

Conclusively, Siya stated that the government could also help individuals who import the materials used in the production of clothes by paying subsidies to smoothen their business relations.

“For example, for the total amount it will take in the importing of an item whether it is the needled, fabric, thread a buttonhole making machine for suits, the government should pay a certain percentage to ease the cost or reduce the tariffs on fashion-related products that are imported”, Siya stated.

Broadly, Siya George Batubo, who has stayed five years in the business, is assiduously working towards making her Fashion brand a global one within the next few years. “In the next five years we are going to be a global brand. The plans we have is that within the next five years, every retail store that sells clothes; the way one sees the likes of Zara, H&M in every retail store all over the world, that’s how Seeyaas Clothings (SYC) will be seen”, she assured.

As The Search For The Next Miss Charity Ambassador Begins…

By Kennedy Eberechi

The essence of most beauty pageants is to celebrate the totality of the beauty of a woman. This however goes beyond looks to project such qualities as intelligence, confidence, poise, charity, and charm among others.

From Miss Nigeria, which started in 1957 to Silverbird Group’s Most Beautiful Girl in Nigeria (MBGN), the Nigerian entertainment sub-sector has in recent times seen a rise in the introduction of beauty pageants in various forms and shades.

Noteworthy is the fact that in spite of the ugly tales, perhaps due to the sexy dress patterns of contestants and the daring manner in which they strut the runway; new developments have been trailing these pageants.

Most remarkable are those that primarily focus on harnessing the potentials of women, while also exploring their capacity to lead an army of achievers in addressing some of the challenges bedeviling the Nigerian society through charity and volunteer work.

This is where the ‘Miss Charity Ambassador Pageant’ comes in. Since its inception in 2014 as a trademark of Charity Ambassador Care Foundation, the Pageant has continued to be a beckon of hope, riding on the crest of the desire for a qualitative event to redefine pageantry with impact on communities and the society at large, even up to making global impact.

As The Search For The Next Miss Charity Ambassador Begins… — Queen Ruth Edegbo; 2019 Miss Charity Ambassador

Speaking with the Project Director; Mrs. Jane Obozele, she affirmed that the 2020 edition of the Pageant, which is scheduled to hold this month is designed to raise confident, elegant and inspirational women who would use the power of their inner strength and character to galvanize a large army of stakeholders to alleviate the sufferings of the less privileged across the different parts of the country.

Mrs. Jane further hinted that the contest is not just about the funfair of crowning beauty queens, but a platform aimed at discovering and encouraging talented female youths in Nigeria to participate effectively in championing charity campaigns and development in Nigeria, adding that it also helps to provide a unique platform that celebrates/showcases our rich cultural heritage.

As a basic requirement, according to her, the 28 contestants selected from all parts of the country for the prestigious crown must champion a social issue that is important to her, which will meet the need of humanity.

“Our pageant is built on the understanding that women are the catalyst to national development thus the need to create such a platform whose mandate amongst others is to build confidence, inspire hope, empower through entrepreneurship skills and groom women into agents of social and economic change.

“In recognition of this, Miss Charity Ambassadors have embarked on a lot of charity campaigns and selfless service to humanity. In 2014, through the “FEED A CHILD” project, we took to the streets to distribute food items and gifts to homeless children.

“Knowing the importance of education, we also created a unique platform to encourage discipline and commitment to education in kids. Our “BACK TO SCHOOL” project has sent over 50 children back to school and distributed free educational materials to over 200 indigent children.

“2015 saw the widows celebrate their Easter in grand style with the queens, putting a smile on their faces by distributing food and gift items to them. In collaboration with the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration & Control (NAFDAC), we flagged off the project tagged “KICK AGAINST DRUG ABUSE BY THE YOUTHS.

In 2017 through the office of Miss Charity Ambassador-Tourism (Queen Chidera Ebere), we initiated a project tagged “Heal the World” this project was centered on people living with disabilities,” Mrs. Obozele highlighted.

Given the Organisation’s passion and determination, coupled with the engagements of the Miss Charity Ambassador Queens so far, experts do not have any doubt that the 2020 edition will be a big boost to improving the functionality and dynamism in the entertainment sub-sector of Nigeria. Good luck to the contestants.

Violence Against Women is Violence Against Humanity; – Osuji Precious

By The World Satellite.

To raise awareness and trigger action to end this global scourge, the UN observes International Day for The Elimination of Violence against Women on 25 November. The date marks the brutal assassination in 1960 of the three Mirabal sisters, political activists in the Dominican Republic.

Against this backdrop, Miss Osuji Precious; one of the 2020 Miss Charity Ambassador hopefuls has called for a global collective effort in tackling the shadow pandemic of violence against women amidst the Covid-19 crisis adding that violence against women is violence against humanity.

The former Miss Tourism Imo made this call in an interactive session with The World Satellite Magazine wherein she revealed that as COVID-19 cases continue to strain health services, essential services, such as domestic violence shelters and helplines, have reached capacity just as she said that more proactive steps need to be taken to prioritize addressing violence against women in COVID-19 response and recovery efforts.

In line with the theme for this year’s International Day for The Elimination of Violence Against Women, which is Orange The World: Fund, Respond, Prevent, Collect, Miss Osuji advocated for a multi-year effort aimed at preventing and eliminating violence against women and girls.

According to her, this will focus on amplifying the call for global action to bridge funding gaps, ensure essential services for survivors of violence during the COVID-19 crisis, focus on prevention, and collection of data that can improve life-saving services for women and girls.

Continuing, the Ex-Beauty Queen expressed that given the enthusiasm, managerial abilities of women in building a formidable home and the society at large, women have the potential to contribute immensely to the socio-economic development of a nation.

“There is need therefore to create an enabling environment and opportunities for the socio-economic empowerment of women”, Queen Gloria added.

However, she frowned at that fact that despite these inherent attributes, violence against women is still a rising issue in the polity. According to her, this is in recognition of the vast number of women with little or no education and skills to enable them support their livelihoods or to become active in the mainstream economy of the country.

“The problem is further exacerbated by the alarming high number of our women who are either unemployed or under-employed”, she explained.

While reckoning the challenges facing the contemporary women, the 23-year-old informed that women face limited access to credit to capitalize their micro-informal businesses. “In spite of having brilliant business ideas, the women and girls are sometimes regarded as high-risk clientele group as they do not have the prerequisite collateral.

“They often cannot access project funding from the formal financial institutions. This has left the women and girls stuck in the vicious poverty cycle as their businesses remain merely aspirational and micro in nature, providing income for subsistence purposes only.

“Certainly, efforts to design and implement practical programmes to generate decent employment, reduce poverty among women and girls and economically empower them to play a more meaningful role in the development and fulfillment of their communities and the nation at large is timely, as it is the catalyst for family and societal values recovery”, she said.

On-the-one-hand, Miss Osuji Precious who has been upbeat at discovering and encouraging talented female youths in Nigeria and beyond to participate effectively in championing charity campaigns and development in Nigeria underscored that girls are disappointed with the stewardship of our planet, the unabated violence directed against them and the slow pace of change in fulcrum issues like education.

Asserting that policies are needed that will promote equality in childcare responsibilities and provide State support to families, and those who work in the informal economy, she cited as cause for hope, growing support in tackling gender-bias barriers; a ‘driving will’ for change across generations and countries, while adding that the last 25 years “have shown us what is needed to accelerate action for equality.

“We don’t have an equal world at the moment and women and girls are angry and concerned about the future. They are radically impatient for change. It’s an impatience that runs deep, and it has been brewing for years”, Miss Osuji concluded.

Broadly, every year, 25 November and the ensuing 16 Days of Activism against Gender Violence which follow (ending on 10 December, Human Rights Day) are commemorated around the world, providing individuals and groups a chance to mobilize and call attention to the urgent need to end violence against women and girls.

Miss Osuji Precious And The 2020 Miss Charity Ambassador Pageant

By The World Satellite.

Since Miss Osuji Precious took a break from modeling because of her academic pursuits after winning the 2018 edition of Miss Tourism Imo, her fans and the entire beauty world have been upbeat about her return.

Surprisingly, the very assiduous, focused and result oriented Miss Osuji has within the short break from the camera and glamour sought for more avenue to express her desire to promote charity, peace, socio cultural integration, youth empowerment, tourism, investment and sustainable development in Nigeria.

As a testament of her will and commitment, the 23 year old Precious auditioned for the 2020 Miss Charity Ambassador Pageant and was successfully chosen among those that will contest for the prestigious crown as Miss Charity Ambassador 2020.

In an exclusive media chat with The World Satellite Magazine, the undergraduate of Agricultural Economics in the Federal University of Technology Owerri revealed thus: “I decided to use the Miss Charity Ambassador Pageant to announce my come back to the modeling industry. This is because I have always loved helping others and has always had zeal and passion for charitable services.

“The Miss Charity ambassador is a humanitarian platform for young girls who have the compassion to help the less privileged. It crowns queens who would go out and help the less privileged in different states with sponsorship from NGO’s or private sponsorship.

“Since inception, the Miss Charity Ambassador Organisation has embarked on a lot of charity campaigns and selfless services. As an organisation registered with Nigeria’s Corporate Affairs Commission, Miss Charity Ambassador Pageant is not just about the funfair of crowning beauty queens, but a platform aimed that discovering and encouraging talented female youths in Nigeria to participate effectively in championing charity campaigns and development in Nigeria”.

Acknowledging the fact that the Miss Charity Ambassador Pageant is not just about the funfair of crowning beauty queens, the creative and versatile Precious hopes to use the platform at discovering and encouraging talented female youths in Nigeria to participate effectively in championing charity campaigns and development in Nigeria.

While talking about her strength and strategies going into the contest, which will hold next month, the courageous Miss Osuji stated that she does not see herself as a contestant rather as a queen already as she would be the best of who she is and ride on the crest of the desire to improve the functionality and redefining the essence of the modeling industry.

Looking at the modeling industry as a whole, the Imo State born beauty queen who has walked on the Runway for Fashion meets Music 2017, Imo Icons Award 2017 and has featured on the Sun Newspaper recounted that her journey into the Modeling Industry has not been an easy one, but the passion for it has been her strength.

“Breaking into the Modeling industry is always a hard one as there are thousands of girls who want to be models. The challenges are many and overcoming them is not easy. At some point I almost gave up but I looked back at where I started from and knowing that I have not gotten to my peak yet, I persevered and here I am”, she explained.

A hardworking, innovative and strong team player, prior to becoming the Miss Imo Tourism, Miss Osuji was the 2nd runners up for the Most Beautiful Model, Federal University of Technology Owerri in 2017. Previously, she was the Best Model for Federal University of Technology Owerri in 2016; and before that she was the 2014 Miss Common Wealth Secondary School Basics.

Given her passion and enthusiasm, we do not have any doubts that if crowned the 2020 Miss Charity Ambassador, Miss Osuji Precious will be an advantage to the continued demonstration of the commitments of the The Miss Charity Ambassador Organization to promoting charity, peace, socio cultural integration, youth empowerment, tourism, investment and sustainable development in Nigeria.

AFRICA YOUTH DAY 2020: Rt. Hon. Elendu Tasks Youths To Enhance Efforts Towards Achieving Sustainable Development in Africa

By Kennedy Eberechi.

AFRICA YOUTH DAY 2020: Hon. Elendu Tasks Youths To Enhance Efforts Towards Achieving Sustainable Development in Africa — Youth Voices, Actions, Engagement: Building A Better Africa

In acknowledging that young people are at the very heart of Africa’s development agenda, the 2020 Africa Youth Month (AYM)’s theme “Youth Voices, Actions, Engagement: Building A Better Africa” is a clarion call to all youth development stakeholders – governments, international organizations, development partners, private sector, civil society, and all African youths on the continent and in the diaspora – to amplify and shine a spotlight on the voices, actions and engagements of African youth as they build a better Africa.

Against this backdrop, the Speaker of the Second Assembly of Democracy Africa Youth Parliament (DAYP); Hon. Graham Elendu has called on youths all over Africa, and Nigeria in particular to take out time and look at the plethora of youth treaties and see how they can make it a reality so as to better the African society.

Hon. Elendu, who made this call in a statement he culled from council of African political parties, sighted by The World Satellite, on Sunday marking the beginning of the African Youth Month revealed that the African continent has celebrated “Africa Youth Day” on the first of November of every year since the African Youth Charter was adopted at the Banjul Summit in 2006.

According to him, the day seeks to always remind decision-makers of the rights and roles of youth and their contribution to social change, economic growth and sustainable development throughout the African society, in addition to directing youth energy to enhance the efforts towards achieving sustainable development in Africa

“In July 2006, African Union Head of States and Governments meeting in Banjul, Gambia, endorsed the African Youth Charter (AYC). The Charter is a political and legal document which serves as the strategic framework that gives direction for youth empowerment and development at continental, regional and national levels.

“The AYC aims to strengthen, reinforce and consolidate efforts to empower young people through meaningful youth participation and equal partnership in driving Africa’s development agenda. The document refers to the rights, freedoms and duties of young people in Africa”, he stressed.

Continuing, while noting that as at March 15, 2016, 42 Member States have signed Charter; 38 Member States have ratified Charter and 3 Member States are yet to sign and ratify, the statement further explained that ‘Youth’ has been defined in the African Youth Report of 2009 as the category between (15-39) years old, just as it added that despite that, a number of African countries define youth based on different methods.

“For example Ghana, Tanzania, and South Africa define youth as those who between 15-35 as well as Sudan as we have seen. While Nigeria and Switzerland define them as age category between 12-30, However Tuswana defines them as age category between 14-25 year old”, the statement explained.

Defining development, Hon. Graham stated that one of the most important definitions for the term is a process of advancement of community from lower level to better one, and from traditional to more quantitatively and qualitatively advanced level adding that development is regarded as inevitable solution in meeting national requirements in the field of production and services.

On the realty of development in Africa, the Hon. Speaker said: “Third world states, especially Africa and Asia continents have witnessed serious and big challenges of internal and external infrastructure since independence era and up to now.

“As for internal problems, we found out that African states suffer from (political problems) resulting from weakness of national unity, national affiliation and control made by tribal and ethnic affiliations; therefore, the continent involved in very serious conflicts and civil war.

“In this connection, most of African states witnessed civil wars and serious conflicts in which a lot of victims have lost their lives in Somalia, Nigeria, Liberia, Rwanda, Congo and Kenya in addition to the phenomena of political instability and military coup that took place in Mauritania, Chad, Somalia, etc.

“African States also suffer from (economic problems) that represent realization of quick and comprehensive developmental projects. And because most of third world states are unable to invest their natural resources in a better way, they rely on the great countries such France, Britain and United State of America to seek support in investing their resources. This process has made third world countries depend fully on the west and fallen on economic dependency.

“On the other hand, Most of African continent States recourse to international financial institutions as the case in International Monetary Fund and world Bank, which has made them fall into the problem of debts and dependency on foreign supports conditioned by necessity of applying market mechanisms and rationalizing the role of the state and encouraging the Private sector which have complicated the matter so much.

“As for the social problems, most of them focus on lack of national amalgamation, solid common social fabric, spread of diseases such as AIDS, Malaria, Cholera especially in Rwanda Congo and Somalia. In fact, the weak health care, spread of illiteracy, lack of national culture and prevalence of ethnic, religious and sect cultures are considered to be one of the most important social problems in African states.

“In connection to foreign side, the third world states have faced big international challenges made by the New Order System after the collapse of the communist block and complete power of the western liberal system. Therefore most of the one Ruling Party Systems have collapsed, and in turn multi-party system based on western multi liberal thought has prevailed. This step has encouraged public uprisings and popular pressures that demand the democracy to ensure human rights and freedoms.

“Accordingly, regional organizations have been established in third world states to face the western alliances and to realize regional cooperation on political, economic and cultural sides to secure its national and regional entity in attempts to face globalization and its political, economic and cultural impacts. One of the most important of these organizations is: (Asian Organization) which have emerged in South East Asia, (African Union) and Arab league

In conclusion, the statement informed that as a Parliament, the 2nd Assembly of Democracy Africa Youth Parliament under the leadership of Hon. Graham Elendu as speaker, amongst other things is very concerned about the actualization of the African Youth Charter through enlightening the youths and steady advocacy.

JOHNNY: A Note Of Appreciation

By Orbih William.

Johnny is not just the name of one of my best friends ever; John Amadi, or my former Archbishop; John Cardinal Onaiyekan, or my favorite Pope ever; Saint John XXIII. It is the name of innumerable Nigerians who have been victims of police brutality and excessive militarization of the Nigerian society. Let me explain. It is the title of the first track in #falzthebahdguy 2019 album; Moral Instruction. In that song, Johnny is killed “for no just cause” by a bribe-seeking and trigger-happy police officer.

#falz calls himself “the bahd guy.” I think he is a good guy—one of the “best” human beings in today’s Nigeria. He is one of the most courageous moral instructors in contemporary Nigerian. He spews truth with the forthrightness of a lawyer and the fearlessness of an activist.

This is of course not surprising; he is a lawyer and son of one of Nigeria’s foremost lawyers and activists; Femi Falana. In my opinion, Falz is the true successor of the fearless Fela, whose songs he sampled extensively in the award-winning album.

Like Fela, he is vehement; no one is too sacred, rich, revered, or famous, to be criticized, or as Fela popularized, to be yabed. He spares neither hypocritical religious leaders nor their fanatical followers. He spares neither corrupt politicians nor the suffering-and-smiling citizens who are too naïve and fearful to stand for their rights. He condemns every kind of social injustice, ranging from corruption to rape, from lack of patriotism to social irresponsibility.

This is, simply, my note of sincere appreciation to him and a call to all young Nigerians to listen to him. The guy is so full of sense. However, what is most encouraging is that Falz and his mentor; Fela, are not the only two Nigerian musicians who have constantly decried the ills of Nigerian society.

With a deep sense of appreciation, I have recently noticed that virtually every Nigerian musician has at least a song on the theme of social justice. To my utter amazement, I noticed how police brutality is one of the recurring themes in many Nigerian songs.

Two examples readily come to mind: African China’s in “Mr. President” calling on police to “police well well, no dey take bribe,” and P Square’s asking “oga police wetin be dis?” in “Oga Police.”

Like most Nigerians, events in the country these past weeks have caused me immense psychological distress. One of my strategies for staying sane and in sober reflection has been listening to some of these songs. You too can do same.

While I read scripture to assure myself that God is always on the side of the poor, I listened to these songs to help me feel a sense of solidarity with all Nigerians calling for change. Things cannot remain as they are.

We cannot afford another Johnny getting killed for no just cause. While I Thank all Nigerian musicians, living or dead, who continue to contribute their voices and fame to the fight for social justice, I also thank to all Nigerian protesters risking their lives for the rest of us who are unable to. Let us shun violence. As we decry our bad leaders, let us not forget to celebrate our modern heroes.

Disclaimer: “The views/contents expressed in this article are the sole responsibility of Orbih William and do not necessarily reflect those of The World Satellite. The World Satellite will not be responsible or liable for any inaccurate or incorrect statements contained in this article.”

Queen of Aso-Culture Tasks Youths on Collective Efforts Against Crime and Violence

By Kennedy Eberechi.

The role of the youths in sustainable peace and development cannot be over-emphasized. This is because youths are one of the greatest assets that any nation can have. Not only are they legitimately regarded as the future leaders, they are potentially and actually the greatest investment for a country’s development. The extent of their vitality, responsible conduct, and roles in society is positively correlated with the development of their country.

Against this backdrop, the reigning Queen of Aso-Culture; Miss Sarah Akaazua has called on youths to embrace the need for synergy, collaboration and partnership against crime and violence. Queen Sarah made this call in Abuja on Thursday on the sidelines of the Democracy Youth Round Table held at the Hotel Rosebud, designed to gather influential youths together from across Nigeria to discuss and brain-storm on youth involvement in politics.

The event, which was in recognition of the theme: Arise O Compatriots provided a platform that is timely and of crucial necessity to the democratic requirements of our nation wherein young leaders engaged in proactive discussions, deliberations and arguments that suggested better approaches and engagements that will further strengthen and improve our democratic structure.

Speaking to Journalists, Miss Akaazua charged all youths to re-channel their energy towards to peace building, quality education, entrepreneurship and leadership development. “The youths should at this time resolve to stand firmly for peace and development. This is because youths can create the society they want by meaningfully engaging in both humanitarian works, peace building, advocacy, policies, leadership, politics, entrepreneurship and SDGs,” the beauty queen said.

In addition, she advised the youths to portray themselves accordingly and should steer from being used as pawns and devices in activities that may be detrimental to the unity and security of the Nation.

Conclusively, Queen Sarah Akaazua informed that she is planning some advocacy visits and activities specifically designed to campaign for a massive participation of youths in evolving a greater and better Nigeria devoid of violence and political crises.

According to her, it is geared towards seeing Nigeria in the nearest future with empowered youths campaigning and maintaining peace in all parts of Nigeria through expanding our understanding of cultural diversity.

Earlier, while welcoming participants and guests to the event, the Convener/Executive Director of Democracy Youth Round Table; Amb. Desmond Agboola revealed that Nigeria has a youth population of 70%, implying that youths constitute the bulk of the work force and are responsible for generating most of the country’s resources.

“At another level, the youths also constitute the bulk of party canvassers, ad hoc staff during electioneering and voting as well as foot soldiers and thugs for the various political parties. Paradoxically, the successive leadership cadre, which drives the real decision making process is sourced from among the aged, tired and often expired politicians, who see nation building as their rights and who would never let go willingly until they die or are disgraced out of office,” Amb. Agboola added.

He therefore encouraged the youths to brace up and realize that power is not given, but has to be taken by force, while adding that youths must never forget that they are the future of any nation and so should determine how great or how terrible their future as a nation would be.

Furthermore, he laid emphasis on the need for Nigeria to adopt the use of electronic voting system so as to make our democratic process free, fair and transparent as other developed countries are doing, just as he added that the Democracy Youth Round Table will make sure it is achieved before the 2023 general elections.

Youths Should Stop Being Willing Tools For The Destabilization of Nigeria; – Queen Sylvia Buba

By Kennedy Eberechi.

Meaningful youth engagement, as defined by the 2018 Global Consensus Statement, is an inclusive, intentional, mutually-respectful partnership between young people and adults. Power is shared and respective contributions are valued.

Young people’s ideas, perspectives, skills, and strengths are integrated into the design and delivery of programs, strategies, policies, funding mechanisms – and organizations that affect their lives and their communities, countries, and world.

Yesterday, the world celebrated the 2020 International Youth Day celebration yesterday, centred on the theme; “Youth Engagement for Global Action, which gave an opportunity to celebrate and mainstream young peoples’ voices, actions and initiatives, as well as their meaningful, universal and equitable engagement.

Against this backdrop, the current holder of the Face of Peace – North Central; Queen Sylvia Buba has re-appraised the role of the youths in nation building, adding that it is not to be going all over those in political offices for the crumbs that fail from the master’s table and then become willing tools for the disterbilzation of Nigeria, but to be catalyst in the political, social and economic development the Nation.

Queen Sylvia who spoke in an exclusive media parley, remarked that the theme of this year’s International Youth Day is apt as it highlighted the importance and value of young people’s contributions and draws lessons on how their representation and engagement in formal institutional politics can be significantly enhanced.

Continuing, Miss Buba observed that meaningful youth engagement ensures that young people are equal and valuable partners (not only beneficiaries) in efforts to improve their health and wellbeing just as she added that it increases the likelihood that policies and programmes will be acceptable, appropriate, and responsive to their needs and preferences.

However, she regretted that though global rhetoric increasingly acknowledges the value of meaningful youth engagement, it often remains more of an aspiration than a reality as there is still considerable resistance to giving young people a place at the table in Nigeria and Africa at large.

Face of Peace - North Central, Nigeria; Sylvia Buba — Sylvia Buba; Beauty Queen, Runway and Commercial Model

“When young people are given opportunities to contribute, it is most often older, urban, educated, and well-connected young people that are selected. Their engagement is often tokenistic and their responsibilities small, for instance leading energizer activities at conferences, taking notes during meetings, or formatting references in reports. Additionally, young people’s contributions are rarely measured effectively to demonstrate their value, and their contributions are often not appropriately acknowledged, either with authorship or compensation.

“This must not be the case. Enabling the engagement of youth in formal political mechanisms does increase the fairness of political processes by reducing democratic deficits, contributes to better and more sustainable policies, and also has symbolic importance that can further contribute to restore trust in public institutions, especially among youth. Moreover, the vast majority of challenges humanity currently faces, such as the COVID-19 outbreak and climate change require concerted global action and the meaningful engagement and participation of young people to be addressed effectively.”, she explained.

Furthermore, while calling on the youths to be more proactive and innovative by using their God-given talents for self-discovery thereby making meaningful contributions to nation building, the Dark-Skinned Beauty Queen urged Government on their part, to create enabling environment for the youths by supporting their innovative ideas and businesses as this will positively engage their minds away from crimes and other social vices.

“The recent approved Nigerian Youth Investment Fund (NYIF) to the tune of N75 billion by the federal government is a welcome development. This intervention and all others aimed at supporting the youths should be transparently implemented devoid of favouritism”, Queen Buba advised.

Finally, she called on government and other stakeholders to be more proactive in finding lasting solution to the heightening nature of insecurity and violence in Nigeria wherein the nation witnesses, almost on daily basis, perpetration of such crimes as the killing of mainly civilians by bandits, terrorists and other criminal gangs in the Southern and Northern region, a situation many have described as senseless and brazen killings.

*Kennedy Eberechi is a Media and Publicity Expert, He Writes from Abuja, Nigeria. (+2347064715591, gbadoka@yahoo.com)

Hon. Uju Kingsley And The Desire for Quality Legislation and Representation

By Kennedy Eberechi.

The Honourable Member representing the good people of Ohaji/Egbema, Oguta and Oru West Federal Constituency in the National Assembly; Hon. Uju Kingsley Chima has continued to implement his pledge of advancing the desire of the people for quality legislation and representation in a way that promotes service delivery and a better standard of living for the people.

Since his inauguration into the 9^th National Assembly in June 2019, Hon. Uju Kingsley has been visible on the floor of the Federal House of Representatives through his legislative engagements and oversight functions, perhaps due to his wealth of experiences as a successful entrepreneur, an astute politician, administrator of repute, with a proven record of success in administrative governance and business management.

A recent chat with his Special Assistant on Administrative Matters; Mr. Ikechukwu Nnadi revealed that some of the significant motions by Hon. Uju Kingsley on the floor of the House, includes: the Urgent need to domesticate Functional Global Memorandum of Understanding between Oil Companies and their host Communities, Urgent need to check gross criminal negligence of oil production Companies in Imo State.

Also, need to address Investor Apathy in Nigeria Oil and Gas Industry, Motion on urgent need to save souls in Etekwuru Community in Ohaji/Egema caused by fire outbreak as a result of pipeline explosion, and Motion to investigate the extent of compliance with the Procurement Act 2007 by all Federal Ministries, Agencies and Parastatals between 2017 and 2019.

Relatedly, motions supported by Hon. Uju according Mr. Nnadi are: Motion for the expansion of the National Railway from South South to South East, linking Owerri, Oguta and Aba, Motion on urgent need to compel contractor handling the Osemoto Seaport and Naval Base, Oguta to resume work (This was in support of motion in Decongestion of Apapa gridlock), and Motion on urgent need to equip our security agencies to international best practices to meet up with the security challenges in Nigeria (This was in support of motion on the need to curb armed banditry in Zamfara state).

Continuing, Mr. Nnadi noted that the very assiduous, focused and result oriented Hon. Uju has sponsored some inspiring bills. Among them are: Bills for the establishment of a crude oil pipeline protection commission, Urgent need to investigate all abandoned Federal projects worth over 12 trillion naira, Need to investigate loss of over $200 million Revenue by FG to international oil companies on the account of non-metering of oil well Heads, Flow stations and Export Terminals.

Others include the Bill for an Act to establish the National institute of oil and Gas Technology & Entrepreneurial studies in Egbema, Imo state, and Bill for an Act to alter the provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999( as Amended) and for other matters connected therewith, reference to section (162) (2) on 13 percent Derivation.

A hardworking, innovative and a strong team player who is detribalized, Uju Kingsley, has within the period in review supported the Bill for an Act to establish College of Education Omu-Aran, Kwara State, and the bill for an Act to establish federal college of Agriculture, Kachia Niger state.

Beyond legislative and oversight functions, Hon. Uju’s activities as a social reforms advocate and a bridge builder are inspiring. In line with his focus driven representative commitment to his constituents and his desire for a better society, Mr. Nnadi further revealed that Uju Kingsley has demonstrated his passion for youth/women empowerment and employment creation in the following areas:

“Ongoing Construction of Umuapu Women Development center; Facilitated employment of over 40 Constituents in Federal Government Agencies, Ministries, Parastatals and Tertiary institutions. More so, through over sight functions, he has been able to attract NDDC interim Management Committee (IMC) to abandoned projects in Ohaji/Egbema and Oguta L.G.As.

“As well, he has attracted Street lights to communities in Oru West and Oguta L.G.As, Empowered women of the Federal constituency through various skills acquisition programs, and provided palliatives for the poor and indigent in his constituency during the Global pandemic”.

Given his achievements so far, we have no doubts that Hon. Uju Kingsley Chima, who rode on the crest of the desire of the people for a progressive ideology and agenda in legislative/oversight functions will improve the dynamism and functionality in quality legislation and the true meaning of representation.

*Kennedy Eberechi is a Media and Publicity Expert, He Writes from Abuja, Nigeria. (+2347064715591, gbadoka@yahoo.com)

WOMAN TO WOMAN: Is Your Health As Important To You As You Long For Success?

By Olivia Norah Ochor.

In today’s business, many people are faced with lots of responsibilities and pressures on daily bases. Career cum housewives, especially the career wives have a torrid time combining their job with domestic responsibilities. Coping with such situations could pose serious health challenges if they don’t know how to balance up their conditions.

In one of my antenatal days in the hospital one certain time, something terrible happened that I almost went into labour immediately. A lady was rushed into the hospital half dead. There was confusion everywhere as the relatives of the lady were panting and pacing around the ward as they waited for the life of their sister to be resuscitated.

It was bad that a woman in labour forfeited her pain to see that she was attended to. I didn’t wait for the gossip story to flood my ears; I got the first hand story from one of the brothers that brought her to the hospital. Her name was Angina; a classic banker with one of the commercial banks in the city. Everything around me is actually a reason to tell a story because I know one day somebody will have to benefit from it.

This was what Kenneth said; nobody had any idea of what was going on with Angina behind the counter, not even her closest friend; Glory who sat by the next counter making a small conversation with her.

Everyone was bustling around, smiling, laughing and chatting. Nobody noticed her disposition. Of course, she wasn’t the kind of person to complain or excuse herself from work, even when she is indisposed; one would have noticed she wasn’t her usual self. She was trying to say something to Glory when she fainted and slumped to the floor.

It was Glory’s shouting that drew the attention of everybody as she held her head in her arm on the floor. Somebody help me! Somebody please help me! She yelled. Her wailing and weeping and shouting suddenly sparked off pandemonium as everyone ran helter skelter round the hall, assuming the building had been held by bandits. Their fears were quelled by paramedics who arrived and whisked Angina to the hospital.

So, what is wrong with Angina Mandana?

Angina Mandana; a mother of three was considered fortunate by her friends and neighbours because she works with one of the foremost commercial banks in town. Everyday, she leaves home for the office at 5:30am in order to beat the morning traffic on the road. Most times she takes a cab instead of driving because it is easier for her to hop from one cab to another rather than be stuck in traffic in her own car.

As a daily routine, she wakes up by 4.00am, manages a quick quiet time and runs off to office leaving the preparation of breakfast in the hand of her house keeper who feeds her children with junks.

WOMAN TO WOMAN: Is Your Health As Important To You As You Long For Success? — Olivia Norah Ochor; Author, Motivational Speaker and Life’s Positivity Advocate

Sometimes, she wakes her kids up to have the morning family devoution with them, and other times, she leaves them to have devoution with their father who is equally busy and time conscious. She starts her day in the office with the early morning staff meeting by 8:00am, before setting down for the real day’s work by 8:30am.

A Teller; Angina attends to many customers every day that she hardly has time to eat. As an alternative to visiting the cafeteria or café, therefore, she loads herself with snack and carbonated drinks. Most times, to eat breakfast and lunch, and only manages to snack anything edible. She skips her supper too because she gets home late at night. She takes shower, and slumps on her bed, with an alarm set for 4:00am the following day.

Even on weekends and holidays, she prefares to visit eateries where she and the kids eat fast food instead of cooking since she has adapted to such lifestyle. Aside her bad eating habit, Angina never takes enough rest and never goes on leave. She refused to go on leave for four years in spite of pleas and entreaties from family and friends; she monetized it instead.

As usual, this particular morning, Angina had many customers to attend to, some of them with unusual complaints about their accounts. She had just had a bottle of soft drink and meat pie, and felt a little queasy after the meal. But she waved off the feeling as just a minor discomfort, perhaps from indigestion. Moments later, she had a seizure and slumped down.

She was in the hospital for three days during which period her family suffered the trauma. Her husband could not go to work and her children missed school for three days. They were traumatised because they thought she was she was not going to survive.

Angina’s vital sciences showed she had developed high blood pressure and diabetics due to poor brain function, inadequate rest and bad eating habit. She had to learn a bitter lesson before coming to terms with the benefits of living a healthy life.

Only healthy people talk about success. If you are not healthy, you can never be wealthy. You need to help nature help you stay in a glorious state of health; health is wealth. Your health should be of importance and the level of priority you place on your health should be high. Is your health as important to you as you long for success or do you compromise your health chasing shades of dollars and naira?

- - - - Culled from the book: “Standing Out”

Issues in the Magu Probe and Restoring the Reputation of EFCC

By Kennedy Eberechi.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) as the major Financial crimes combating agency in Nigeria was established in 2003 partially in response to pressure from the Financial Action Task Force on Money Laundering (FATF), which named Nigeria as one of the 23 countries non-cooperative in the international community’s efforts to fight money laundering.

Since its inception, the Anti-Graft Agency has made giant strides to rid Nigeria of the popular Advance Fee Fraud otherwise known as 419 or the Nigerian Scam, positioning itself as a major tool for fighting official corruption in Nigeria and money Laundering.

Undoubtedly, recent probe of Ibrahim Magu by the Justice Ayo Salami-led panel, which led to his (Magu) his suspension as the Acting Chairman of the Graft Agency by the President has left much to be desired of the fight against corruption in Nigeria and calls for urgent attention.

Incidentally, the prominent civil rights group; Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has expressed worries over the pervasive nature of corruption in Nigeria, which according to them has turned public service for many into a kind of criminal enterprise while adding that graft has fueled political violence, denied millions of Nigerians access to even the most basic health and education services, and reinforced police abuses and other widespread patterns of human rights violations.

HURIWA in a statement titled “Time to Restore the Reputation of Nigeria’s Economic and Financial Crimes Commission: Magu Should Resign Forthwith” gave reasons why the suspended Acting Chairman of EFCC; Ibrahim Magu should resign so as to save what is left of the reputation of the crimes combating Agency.

Issues in the Magu Probe and Restoring the Reputation of EFCC — Suspended Acting Chairman of EFCC; Ibrahim Magu

According to the statement signed by the National Coordinator; Emmanuel Onwubiko and National Media Affairs Director; Miss Zainab Yusuf, HURIWA noted that Ibrahim Magu; a Nigerian Police Officer who served as acting chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) from 9 November 2015, until his suspension on 7 July 2020 is facing about 21 corruption allegations brought against him by the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice; Abubakar Malami.

“If a man who is being alleged to have been entangled in the web of corruption is left to superintend over the anti-graft Agency it will make a mockery of the sincerity of President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration in fighting corruption’, said HURIWA

Again, HURIWA recalled that in 2017, The 8th Senate twice rejected the nomination of Ibrahim Magu as the substantive chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, after the State Security Service (SSS) reaffirmed its position that the nominee lacks integrity to lead the country’s anti-corruption agency.

“The executive through the DSS, questioned his fitness to occupy the office, and the 8th Senate agreed with it. But executive order has kept him there illegally for these years, and failed to clear him of the corruption baggage.

“He (Magu) seems to have been crushed under the weight of the burden just like all his actions in office carried out under the burden. We were ab initio told by law, that he is not fit and proper to occupy the office by parliamentary authority. Anything else is void, no matter the attire it is clothed or coloured.

“Section 2(3) of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (Establishment) Act 2004 provides that “the Chairman and members of the Commission other than ex-officio members shall be appointed by the President and appointment shall be subject to the confirmation of the Senate.

“The implication is that the reign of Magu as the Head of the EFCC never received the full blessing of statutory compliance. It is only hoped that the right step would urgently be taken especially now that his conduct in office has been marred with alleged financial misdeeds.

“It is rather disturbing, that a man who has been chairing an anti-corruption campaign (whether in acting or substantive capacity) has a DSS damning report over his head, which was not totally cleared. We do not intend to dabble into the politics of the issue. What is important is that the law should lead”, HURIWA explained.

Notwithstanding, HURIWA still believes that in spite of myriad of setbacks, a stronger and more independent EFCC represents Nigeria’s most promising avenue to make tangible progress in the fight against corruption just as the Group acknowledged that the EFCC is the only Nigerian government institution that has posed meaningful challenge to the impunity enjoyed by corrupt and powerful members of the political elite.

“Our team believes that the character and capacity of the EFCC’s leadership is an important issue and therefore calls for the resignation of the embattled and suspended acting Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC); Ibrahim Magu”, the Group stressed.

Furthermore, the group urged the Presidency to do more to fight corruption and strengthen the capacity and independence of key anti-corruption institutions, because according to them, corruption is at the heart of many of Nigeria’s most serious human rights problems.

NDDC PROBE: Clash Of Facts And Fallacies

CHUKWU DAVID reports on the intrigues that manifested during the just concluded Senate probe of alleged financial recklessness by the Interim Management Committee (IMC) of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC)

The Senate, on May 5, passed a resolution, which led to the setting up of an ad hoc committee, to investigate an alleged N40 billion financial recklessness, purportedly committed by the Interim Management Committee (IMC) of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).

The decision of the apex legislative chamber to go into the investigation was propelled by a motion moved on the floor during plenary session by Senator George Sekibo (PDP, Rivers East), drawing the attention of his colleagues to the allegation.

While presenting the motion, Sekibo alleged that the Interim Management Committee of the development commission was neck deep in awarding fraudulent contracts, an act that provoked President Muhammadu Buhari to set up a committee to carry out a forensic audit on activities of the interventionist agency.

He told the Senate that there had been a serious accusation of misuse of funds by previous management of the commission, saying that the development portrayed NDDC as a financial conduit pipe.

NDDC PROBE: Clash Of Facts And Fallacies — Senator George Sekibo

According to him, with the alleged financial recklessness in the commission, the objective of the agency had been forsaken.

The lawmaker pointed out that the alleged recklessness might have prompted the President to set up an Interim Management Committee, while ordering a forensic audit of the commission so as to reposition it for its intended mandate.

He said: “While the President’s action of setting up an IMC and the forensic audit may have been conceived to forestall the financial recklessness of the commission and reposition it for fast-tracking of the development of the region, the IMC has been more bedeviled with the same financial misuse, misapplication, misappropriation or outright fraud in the management of the funds of the commission.

“Within the last three months, the IMC has spent over N40 billion of the commission’s fund without recourse to established processes of funds disbursement which has opened up further suspicion among stakeholders of the Niger Delta region.” Based on this weighty allegation, the Senate adopted Sekibo’s prayers to carry out a thorough investigation into the matter, and therefore, resolved to set up an ad hoc committee to undertake the task.

The Senate deliberately refused to use its Standing Committee on Niger Delta Affairs, chaired by Senator Peter Nwaoboshi (PDP, Delta North), to avoid any accusations of witch-hunting or bias against its legislative intervention

It is pertinent to point out that, this precautionary measure taken by the Upper Chamber, notwithstanding, such accusation still happened even before the Senator Olubunmi Adetunbi (APC, Ekiti North)-led ad hoc committee conducted the investigative hearing.

Within the two months gap between the time the decision to carry out the probe was made and when it was eventually carried out, various interest groups, particularly the current IMC of NDDC and the chairmen of Committees on Niger Delta Affairs at both Chambers of the National Assembly, engaged in media war on the genuineness or otherwise of the proposed probe.

This bickering actually hampered the progress of the investigation as it delayed the exercise for two months before it finally took place last week Thursday July 9 and Friday July 10.

The investigation covered a period, spanning the financial transactions of the IMC of the commission between October 29, 2019 and May 31, this year. One of the striking things that hap pened at the hearing was that throughout the exercise, the ad hoc committee could not establish that N40 billion was missing or squandered by the commission within the period under review as alleged by Sekibo.

Meanwhile, the current IMC of NDDC under the leadership of the Managing Director, Kemebradikumo Pondei, felt that the probe was an orchestrated witch-hunt against its perceived transparent leadership and new direction for the commission.

On the other hand, the chairmen of the National Assembly committees on Niger Delta Affairs and by extension, the National Assembly as an institution, thought otherwise and insisted that the investigation must be carried out. In the heat of the brouhaha over the probe, about a month ago, Pondei, in Port Harcourt, described as false, allegations by some groups that the IMC misappropriated billions meant for the development of the Niger Delta region.

He described the allegation as the handiwork of people and groups who were afraid that the ongoing forensic audit would reveal their corrupt dealings with past NDDC managements.

He added that the probe was designed to arm-twist and compel the IMC to tamper with the forensic audit, claiming that some National Assembly members were pressuring the IMC not to send certain files to forensic auditors.

“We have faced so much pressure from some members of the National Assembly not to send certain files to forensic auditors. We refused because we fear this will compromise the process.

“Similarly, we have also faced pressure to pay for 132 jobs which have no proof of execution as well as payout N6.4 billion for those jobs. “We believe that an IMC set up as a cleansing structure cannot become part of an old story of rot.

Hence, the need to break the stranglehold on the commission by some politicians who had turned NDDC to their cash cows.” he said. However, the Senate reacted to the claim through its Spokesperson, Senator Ajibola Basiru (APC, Osun Central), saying that the planned probe was not meant to witch-hunt anybody but to get the facts of the issues at stake.

“It stands logic in the head to claim that by invoking it’s constitutional power of oversight to investigate the activities of the IMC, the National Assembly intends to scuttle forensic audit.

The outlandish claim is illogical,” he said. He further stated that the National Assembly was committed to reposi tioning the NDDC to address the challenges of the Niger Delta through facilitation of rapid and sustainable development of the Niger Delta, stressing that it was however, concerned about the allegations of poor management or outright fraud in the management of the funds and operations of the commission.

Similarly, when the investigation was carried out last week, the chairman of the ad hoc committee, Senator Adetumbi, at the end of the two-day exercise, stressed that it was not about missing N40 billion but about scrutinizing how N81 billion spent by two different teams of IMC of the NDDC between October 29, 2019 and May 31, this year was done.

“As we are ending this investigative hearing today on alleged financial recklessness in NDDC during period under review, there is no conflict between missing money or not. No money has been established to be missing.

“So what we did within the last two days (Thursday and Friday last week), was not about missing money but following monies spent , records of which are available to us from all the relevant bodies like the NDDC, the Central Bank of Nigeria ( CBN), office of the Accountant General of the Federation and of course that of the Minister of the Niger Delta Affairs.

“Our mission right from the onset as far as this investigative public hearing is concerned, is not about witch-hunting but making sure that the money of Niger Delta works for the people in the Niger Delta Region,” he said.

Also making similar submission at the event, the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Senator Godswill Akpabio, said that there was no any N40 billion missing or embezzled by the management of the commission but sought for proper management of the yearly budgets of the agency as far as contract award was concerned.

Asserting the innocence of the IMC over the allegation of financial recklessness, the Acting Managing Director of the Commission, Prof. Pondei, in his final remarks on Friday, threatened to resign if the allegations against him were proven by his critics.

He said: “If anyone has any evidence that I collected even one per cent from any contractor, let him present it and I will resign instantly. We need to be very careful in making spurious allegations that distract the NDDC.”

Now that the investigation has been conducted, the ad hoc committee is expected to submit its report to the chamber for final consideration and resolutions to be made thereupon.

One thing is however going to be difficult for the ad hoc committee, and that is to establish that the sum of N40 billion was either mismanaged or embezzled by the IMC as alleged in Sekibo’s motion since that was not achieved during the hearing.

Source: New Telegraph

FIGHTING REVOLT AND VIOLENCE: Queen Sylvia Buba Seeks Participatory and Complimentary Attitude

By Kennedy Eberechi.

Given the prevalence of political, social and communal crisis around the country today and the disheartening wave of insurgency/militancy, there is no better time other than now to spread and propagate the consciousness of sustainable peace within our society.

The determination to improve cultural dialogue and integration and empower same through concerted developmental efforts stands in good stead to be effortlessly actualized when the Citizenry is fully incorporated into the vision.

Consequently, Queen Sylvia Buba; the current holder of Face of Peace (North-Central, Nigeria) has called on government and stakeholders in Nigeria to seek a participatory and complimentary attitude in galvanizing the interest of the youths and strategically re-channel them to national pursuits that will culminate in development and cultural recovery in a bid to address the burning issue of segregation and fundamentalism.

This call was made in an exclusive media chat with Theworldsatellite.com, during when Queen Sylvia, spoke passionately on the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 16, which comprises of Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions, noted the complementarities between culture and peace.

Continuing, the Dark-Skinned Benue-born Beauty Queen observed that with an estimated population of over 130 million and over 250 ethnic nationalities, Nigeria ranks the most populous country in black Africa. Accordingly, for her, the important part of sustainable peace is cultural diversity.

Acknowledging the fact that the Face of Peace Nigeria Beauty Pageant is not just about the funfair of crowning beauty queens, but with aims of promoting peace through culture, the 22-year-old noted that the communal crisis ravaging her home state, Benue spurred her into participating in the contest to seek a veritable platform to help in advocating the need for sustainable and lasting peace in the society as the bedrock for viable Human and Material Capacity Development.

While revealing that she would make use of the media of mass communication as instruments of social mobilization and enlightenment to able to galvanize large army of Nigerian youths, she opined: “the moment the youths of Nigeria are sufficiently educated about the essence of and the philosophy behind Nigeria’s rich cultural diversity, it is easier for the different segments of the complexity that Nigeria is, to now unify and decide to live in peace, harmony, equality and respect for equity, social justice and practice democracy the way it should be.”

Queen Sylvia Buba concluded by asserting that one of the fundamental objectives of state policy is to promote our cultural values. According to her, to promote cultural values one has to create the enabling environment for the proper promotions of the different cultural activities that we find Nigeria.

All You Need to Know About Worgu’s Stovepipe Hat Alias Top Hat Or ‘Usman Dan Fodio’ Hat

The Stovepipe Hat is a variant of top hat also called high hat, cylinder hat or topper and more recently referred to as the Usman Dan Fodio Hat by Rivers people after a trending picture of a popular politician popularized it.

It is a tall, flat-crowned hat for men traditionally associated with formal wear in Western dress codes, meaning white tie, morning dress or frock coat. Traditionally made of black silk or sometimes grey, the top hat emerged in Western fashion by the end of 18th century. Although it declined by the time of the counterculture of the 1960s, it remains a formal fashion accessory.

Perhaps inspired by the Early Modern era captains, higher crowned dark felt hats with wide brims emerged as a country leisurewear fashion along with the Age of Revolution around the 1770s. Around the 1780s, the justaucorps was replaced by the previously casual frocks and dress coats.

At the same time, the tricorne and bicorne hats were replaced by what became known as the top hat. By the 1790s, the directoire style dress coat with top hat was widely introduced as city-wear for the upper and middle classes in all urban areas of the Western world. The justaucorps was replaced in all but the most formal court affairs.

Towards the end of the 19th century, whereas the white tie with black dress coat remained fixed, frock coats were gradually replaced by morning dress, along with top hats. Following the counterculture of the 1960s, its use declined along with the disuse also of daily informal hats by men.

All You Need to Know About Worgu's Stovepipe Hat Alias Top Hat Or 'Usman Dan Fodio' Hat — Hon. Barr. Worgu Bom; Former former Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Rivers State

Yet, along with traditional formal wear, the top hat continues to be applicable for the most formal occasions, including weddings, funerals, in addition to certain audiences, balls, and horse racing events, such as the Royal Enclosure of Royal Ascot the Queen’s Stand of Epsom Derby.

It also remains part of the formal dress by those occupying prominent positions of certain traditional British institutions, such as the Bank of England, certain City stock exchange officials, occasionally at the Law Courts and Lincoln’s Inn, by judges of the Chancery Division and Queen’s Counsel, by boy-choristers of King’s College Choir, as well as dressage horseback riders, in addition to servants’ or doormen’s livery.

As part of traditional formal wear, in popular culture the top hat has sometimes been associated with the upper class, and used by satirists and social critics as a symbol of capitalism or the world of business, such as the Monopoly Man or Scrooge McDuck.

The top hat also forms part of the traditional dress of Uncle Sam, a symbol of the United States, generally striped in red, white and blue. Furthermore, ever since the famous “Pulling a Rabbit out of a Hat” of Louis Comte in 1814, the top hat remains associated with hat tricks and stage magic costumes.

According to fashion historians, the top hat may have descended directly from the sugarloaf hat; it is difficult to establish provenance for its creation. Gentlemen began to replace the tricorne with the top hat at the end of the 18th century; a painting by Charles Vernet of 1796, Un Incroyable, shows a French dandy (one of the Incroyables et Merveilleuses) with such a hat.

The first silk top hat in England is credited to George Dunnage, a hatter from Middlesex, in 1793. The invention of the top hat is often erroneously credited to a haberdasher named John Hetherington.

All You Need to Know About Worgu's Stovepipe Hat Alias Top Hat Or 'Usman Dan Fodio' Hat

Within 30 years, top hats had become popular with all social classes, with even workmen wearing them. At that time those worn by members of the upper classes were usually made of felted beaver fur; the generic name “stuff hat” was applied to hats made from various non-fur felts.

The hats became part of the uniforms worn by policemen and postmen (to give them the appearance of authority); since these people spent most of their time outdoors, their hats were topped with black oilcloth.

The modern standard top hat is a hard, black silk hat, with fur now often used. The acceptable colors of hats are much as they have traditionally been, with “white” hats (which are actually grey), a daytime racing color, worn at the less formal occasions demanding a top hat, such as Royal Ascot, or with a morning suit. In the U.S. top hats are worn widely in coaching, a driven horse discipline, as well as for formal riding to hounds.

In formal academic dress, the Finnish and Swedish doctoral hat is a variant of the top hat, and remains in use today. A top hat, frequently colored red, white and blue, or with stars and stripes similar to those on the American flag, is part of the regular costume of Uncle Sam, a symbol of the United States.

For satirists and political cartoonists, the top hat was a convenient symbol of the upper class, business and capitalism. A character wearing a top hat would be instantly recognized by the viewer as a member of the oligarchy.

The character Rich Uncle Pennybags in the board game Monopoly, wears a top hat. In addition, a top hat is one of the game’s tokens, used by players to mark their position as they progress around the board.

Source: City News Port Harcourt

RESTORE NATIONAL SECURITY: – HURIWA Tells President Muhammadu Buhari…. *Condemns Arrests of Protesters:

By HURIWA.

“The President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria is first and foremost the father of the nation and the Commander-In-Chief of the Armed Forces of Nigeria whose primary duty, as spelt out in the Constitution in section 14(2) (B) that the security and welfare of the people SHALL be the Primary Purpose of Government, must never be seen offering lame, timid and inexcusable reasons for the widespread violence and mass killings going on all over the Country with Northern Nigeria as the epicentre of TERRORISM and armed conflicts.

“This government in Abuja has for five years given meaningless excuses on why it cannot arrest, prosecute and punish mass killers. This is absolutely intolerable. The President is constitutionally obliged to defend and protect all the territorial assets of Nigeria from all armed marauders, terrorists and armed bandits.

“If he or she lacks the strategy to so actualize stability of the National security then he/she has no business remaining in office a day more than he has failed to discharge the Primary Constitutional Imperative of his office because the citizens are the owners of the sovereignty of Nigeria who gave the President the legitimacy to exercise authority for a statutory period of time in line with the provisions of the Supreme Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria”.

With these words, the nation’s foremost Civil Rights Advocacy group; HUMAN RIGHTS WRITERS ASSOCIATION OF NIGERIA (HURIWA) has tasked President Muhammadu Buhari to stop attacking, harassing, arresting and detaining protesters who are rightly demonstrating against the serious challenge of insecurity and breaches of national security in Northern Nigeria, just as the Rights group said if there is anybody to arrest and detain then the President should arrest the key figures who ought to ensure that there is national security and national stability such as those directly in charge of national security.

This according to the Group includes the Inspector General of Police Mohammed Adamu; Director General of States Services Department; Comptroller Generals of Customs and Immigration and the Ministers of defense; Police Affairs and Interior.

RESTORE NATIONAL SECURITY: - HURIWA Tells President Muhammadu Buhari…. *Condemns Arrests of Protesters — foremost Civil Rights Advocacy group

HURIWA however exonerated the Service Chiefs because according to the Rights group these military Service Chiefs have been extremely over- tasked and Over stretched with the huge war on terror, which they have waged relentlessly for a decade and they have in most cases been asked to also carry out the routine internal security and policing jobs which are not necessarily their primary line of duty in line with the laws.

HURIWA has also canvassed the unconditional release of all the leaders of the protests in the North, arrested by the security forces on the orders of the President because according to the Rights group, peaceful protests are covered by the chapter four of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, which guarantees citizenship rights such as Freedoms of ASSOCIATION, Expression and Movement.

“HURIWA has watched as groups of youth organizations known commonly as the Coalition of Northern Youths (CNY), Northern States’ chapters in their state capitals and across the North including Katsina State staged peaceful protests over incessant killings in Niger state and the entire northern states.

“The CNY is blaming the governments for inaction in tackling the security challenges bedeviling northern Nigeria as armed bandits kill citizens, rape women and their daughters and destroy properties with impunity while the government seems to be watching helplessly.

“The groups which made recommendations on how to check insecurity lamented that hundreds of people have been rendered homeless, properties that cannot be quantified monetarily destroyed or stolen, millions of Naira paid as ransom, children orphaned and human dignity butchered”.

“HURIWA shares their sentiments that It is worrisome and regrettable that unarmed citizens have been recklessly neglected by the very same government that swore to protect them under whatever circumstances, thereby compelling locals to resort to self-help, which amount to insensitivity and abdication of responsibility on the part of the government. Government has failed in its responsibility of protecting lives and properties of Nigerians as sworn in accordance with the Supreme laws of Nigeria which are binding and inalienable”.

“HURIWA supports the protesters for saying that they presume that the government is not willing to tackle these cases of violent mass killings head-long as no group of criminals can be bigger and better equipped than government forces. The Youths rightly stated as follows; Our patience has exhausted as our communities and villages are being wiped out due to incessant attacks that has left hundreds dead, many with life threatening injuries and properties are destroyed on a daily basis”.

The Prominent Civil Rights Advocacy group HUMAN RIGHTS WRITERS ASSOCIATION OF NIGERIA (HURIWA) has therefore called on President Muhammadu Buhari-led administration to either implement far reaching security mechanisms to tackle the nation-wide breakdowns of law and order or tender immediate resignation for this spectacular set BACKS in the area of security that we have continued to witness all across Nigeria.

Hear them: “The President must exorcise himself of nepotism and favouritism in the appointments of members of the National security team and allow the Federal Character Principle as provided for in the Constitution in Section 14(3) to guide his every step in this regard.

“The appointment of all members of the internal security architectures from the Moslem North is not only a grave constitutional breach but is the reason for the constant attacks in the North given that due to lack of professionalism and patriotism those who should deal with terrorists are treating them with mere carrots and sticks”.

HURIWA has also blamed President Muhammadu Buhari for the mass killings because of the unconstitutional and absolutely illegal practice of releasing detained terrorists into the society as repentant terrorists as against the demands of the common laws to prosecute and punish mass murderers in accordance with the provisions of the law.

“No sane society that is functional and lawful will release killers without letting them face the full weight of the law. A nation that dines and wines with terrorists like the current Administration does will inevitably be providing resources for armed terrorists to destabilise the Country “.

GOVERNOR OBASEKI REMAINS A HERO – Chief Mathias Ake

By Kennedy Eberechi.

As political parties have begun the process of nominating governorship candidates for the Edo State Gubernatorial Election, the political atmosphere in the state is already stirring; calculations and permutations are changing at a fast pace.

No doubt, recent events have only added to the heat and upped the ongoing interesting play. Two of the high-powered events that upped the stakes where the disqualification of the incumbent Governor Godwin Obaseki by the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) from contesting its primaries, and his subsequent resignation from the party to seek ticket for the Edo state gubernatorial race from another party.

In the midst of this aligning and re-aligning in readiness for the election, one of the pioneer People;s Democratic Party (PDP) Stakeholders in Cross River State, who is also the Senior Special Adviser to the Cross-River State Governor on Renewable and Alternative Energy; Chief Matthias Ake has averred that Governor Obaseki remains a Hero, just as he called on the political elites to play politics with ethics

Chief Ake who made this call in a statement sighted by the World Satellite Magazine Website urged those he described as Nigerian selfish politicians to desist from humiliating “productive State Governors in the name of struggle for party supremacy”, while urging them to always “crave for sustainable governance, consider subsequent administrative strides geared towards developing the masses, and develop democratic values to entrench Global leadership recognition”.

Conclusively, while noting that the resignation of Governor Obaseki is a bitter lesson for the leading party in the Country; the APC, he urged that as the PDP receives Governor Obaseki, they should do well to quickly flag him and takeover Edo State, “just like PDP favoured Governor Otom in Benue State and he eventually won the general election. Let us play politics with ethics”.

Generally, the position of a state governor comes with a lot of responsibilities and considerable global wide influences given the fact that the bulk of developmental strides that shapes the overall economy of the over 160 million citizens of the country lies squarely with how well these 36 state governors are able to pilot the affairs of their respective states.

It is therefore another defining historical moment of political realism, of realignments and bridge building to secure a greater Edo State for the coming generation. Today’s decisions have got far reaching implications for the future, both as a people and as a state.

FRANK TALK: How to Save The Nigerian Girl-Child

By Blessing Ajifa.

The girl-child is a biological female offspring from birth to eighteen years of age; this is the age before one becomes a young adult. During this period, the young child is totally under the Care of the adult who may be her parents or guardian or older siblings; it is made up of infancy, child hood, early and late adolescence stages of development.

During this period the child is malleable, builds and develops her personality and character. She is very dependent on the significant others; those on whom she models her behavior through observation, repetition and imitation. Her physical, mental, social, spiritual and emotional development start to progress to get to the peak at young adult stage.

In most third world countries, the girl-child and by extension, women generally have not been accorded their natural right of place in the scheme of things as human beings or as equal players in the affairs that concern them. They are short changed, victimized and stereotyped as hewers of woods and drawers of water as well as mere labour providers on the farms and in the home

Living in a safe environment where there is no fear, lives and properties are secured, is the wish of every individual. According to Nelson Mandela: “safety and security don’t just happen, they are the collective consensus and public investment”

We owe our children; the most vulnerable citizens in our society, a life free of violence and fear; this should be the top priority of every leader and government.

Incidentally, in Nigeria, the Girl-child lives in fear of the unknown as she is faced with many challenges that includes: child trafficking, rape, gender discrimination (at school, work place, community), illiteracy, early marriage, prostitution, unwanted pregnancy, abduction, domestic violence, hawking and so many others.

Many young girls in Nigeria are unlucky as they end up either dead or infected with deadly diseases in their quest for daily bread due to the level of poverty and lack of education. To this end I implore the Nigeria government to save the Nigerian Girl-child by providing free education for them. This is because education bestows on women, a disposition for a lifelong acquisition of knowledge, values, standards, attitudes, competence and skills.

Let’s say no to Rape,

Let’s say no to illiteracy,

Let’s say no to early marriage,

Let’s say no to prostitution,

Let’s say no to poverty,

Let’s say no to gender inequality,

Let’s say no to anything that has held down women

Blessing Ajifa is an author, online motivational speaker and a model; she writes from Makurdi, Benue State. (Email: blessedajifa@gmail.com)

Issues in the Campaigns Against NIRSAL

By Kennedy Eberechi.

The Agricultural sector has been identified as the key to the President Muhammadu Buhari’s diversification of the Nigerian economy for sustainable development. Hence agriculture constitutes one of the most important sectors of the Nigerian economy as it has the potentials to contribute to the growth of the economy, provide employment opportunities for the teeming population, export revenue earnings and eradicate poverty in the economy.

As part of efforts to Redefine, Dimension, Measure, Re-Price and Share agribusiness-related credit risks in Nigeria, the Nigeria Incentive-Based Risk Sharing System for Agricultural Lending (NIRSAL) Plc; a US$500million Non-Bank Financial Institution, wholly-owned by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) was established in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (FMARD) and Nigerian Bankers’ Committee in 2013.

Incorporated in 2015, NIRSAL’s mandate is to stimulate the flow of affordable finance and investments into the agricultural sector by de-risking the agribusiness finance value chain, fixing agricultural value chains, building long-term capacity, and institutionalizing incentives for agricultural lending through its five (5) strategic pillars, namely: Risk Sharing, Insurance, Technical Assistance, Incentives and Rating.

Fortuitously, over the past two years, NIRSAL; an institution that has been adjudged to be playing key role in the transformation of the Nigerian Agriculture has come under lots of criticisms and negative attacks in the form vicious and sustained campaigns of calumny against its leadership, which has intensified within the last six months.

As a pragmatic demonstration of passion in achieving a just and equitable development in our dear country through advancing the single agenda of building a formidable and economically strong united Nigeria; a coalition of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), has reacted to these allegations ranging from mismanagement of funds by its Current leadership to claims of discrimination and favouritism.

The Coalition, led by the prominent Civil Rights Advocacy group; Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA), at a press briefing in Abuja, addressed by the National Coordinator of HURIWA; Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko, accompanied by other members of the coalition revealed to journalists that the campaign is being executed by faceless elements who use compromised high profile ‘activist’ and hide behind compromised social media platforms to throw mud at the organization.

In addition, Comrade Onwubiko noted that these faceless elements have gone to the extent of forging documents, organizing fake protests, sponsoring fake farmers groups and inducing unprofessional media platforms to publish unverified falsehoods against the institution.

Incidentally, according to Onwubiko, despite the media campaign and reports made to the security agencies, no evidence of impropriety has been found. Therefore, the coalition called on the Inspector-General of Police; Mohammed Adamu to commence investigations and invite for interrogation, what it called bunch of detractors, traversing the entire length and breath of the media industry in their campaign of calumny against the management of NIRSAL under the leadership of Aliyu Abbati Abdulhameed.

“we will thereby rise from this briefing by writing a petition to the Inspector General of Police to call on him officially to investigate and invite individuals behind these unrelenting tissues of lies and innuendos targeting the person of Mr. Abdulhameed”, the coalition said.

Conclusively, while noting that the leadership NIRSAL deserves the gratitude and commendation of the nation and not constant attacks; Mr. Onwubiko urged the Presidency not be deceived by what he described as evil campaign against the person of the MD of NIRSAL Plc. This is because, for him, those making these baseless allegations are working hard to scuttle the government’s agenda for agricultural revolution.

Kennedy Eberechi is a Publicist; he heads Ken-Gbados Concepts Limited and writes from Abuja.

Settle Down and Develop Community Based Action Plan; – Chief Mathias Ake Charges Cross River State Council Chairmen

By Kennedy Eberechi.

According to Wikipedia, a local government is a form of public administration, which in a majority of contexts, exists as the lowest tier of administration within a given state. Local governments are created with the ultimate goal of bringing government closer to the people at the grassroots.

Nigeria has 774 local government areas (L.G. As). Each local government area is administered by a Local Government Council consisting of a chairman who is the Chief Executive of the LGA, and other elected members who are referred to as Councilors. The local government reforms aimed both to accelerate development and to enable the local population participate and hold those in power accountable for their governance roles.

No doubt, the Cross-River State Local Governments; election and inauguration have come and gone with PDP winning in the 18 councils and 196 electoral wards. Cross River State is of particular interest here because since the administration of the state governor; Senator Ben Ayade, no local government election has been held; only Head of Local Government Areas (HOLGAs) are heading LGAs in the state.

In recognition of the enormous task ahead, coupled with the relevance and impact of the Local Government System in poverty reduction, economic growth and sustainable development, the Senior Special Adviser to the Cross River State Governor on Renewable and Alternative Energy; Chief Mathias Ake has charged the newly elected and sworn-in council chairmen and vice chairmen to settle down and develop community based action plan in liaison with inputs from their elected Councilors.

Settle Down and Develop Community Based Action Plan; – Chief Mathias Ake Charges Cross River State Council Chairmen By Kennedy Eberechi. — Chief Mathias Ake; SSA to the Governor of Cross River State on Renewable and Alternative Energy

Chief Mathias Ake expressed this in a statement on his Facebook Page, sighted by The World Satellite, with the title: ‘Cross River State people should be our collective interest in the 18 L.G. As’. According to the statement, Chief Ake, who congratulated the newly elected Council Chairmen and Vice Chairmen on the success of their elections and swearing in by the Governor, encouraged them to observe the following:

1. For a very long time, the masses have been yearning for this grassroot leadership

2. You have been favoured by God and voted by community people.

3. Settle down and develop community-based action plan in liaison with inputs from your elected Councilors.

4. Yes, there could be challenges from Party stakeholders and the opposition cynicism, always trust in God to overcome the differences and write your name in the sand of history.

5. Bear in mind that, AUTONOMY does not imply administrative recklessness rather diligent effective service delivery for the benefit of all.

Conclusively, Chief Ake wished them all a rewarding and successful tenure of office while adding that though the COVID-19 is gradually going distinct, it is a great lesson for all.

Kennedy Eberechi is a Publicist; he Heads Ken-Gbados Concepts Limited, and writes from Abuja, Nigeria (email: gbadoka@yahoo.com)

FRANK TALK: Moving Away From The Pang of Guilt

By Olivia Norah Ochor.

SO many a time, we continue to blame ourselves and continued to live in the past. Yet, the clock tickles so fast and continuously without waiting for anyone. And I ask, why then do we dwell in the past when the future holds tomorrow?

I have noticed that healing the wounded soul comes in stages much like the birth process itself. But it is quite unfortunate that some who bear the hurt refuse to allow the natural healing process. I write so that you will help yourself heal. Standing alone and alone we must find our own howl. It is not until we can distinguish our own voice that we avoid being lost in the many waters that stride pass the ocean.

One major factor of heart attack is self-discrimination. Unfortunately, heart attack is as deadly as death itself. So many people get down on themselves for not being up and out of it and so continue to judge themselves so harshly, refusing to let go, refusing more especially to forgive themselves and wallow deep and deeper into the suicide mission, self judgement wraps itself around our pain and says ‘Don’t Move’. Its half the reason we can’t get out of the pain maze.

I have motivated myself to keep moving forward – life is waiting for you. I have meditated my way to remembering – joy is waiting for you. I have sucked it up like everybody is waiting for you. These are useful practices that can help us move away from the pang of guilt. And who has not even sinned, yet there is grace and pardon for forgiveness when we ask. Unfortunately, some had had their guilt forgiven yet they have not forgiven themselves.

Self-determination is gorgeous and creative. But most powerful practices of all have nothing with motivation of endurance. The most powerful pain remedy is the injection of strength in gentleness. You don’t want to forgive? Well that’s understandable. You need more time? I can see why you don’t think that. You just want a break? Off course, you so deserve a break.

At some point, we have to soften-which is counter intuitive when you feel like you are drowning. Be gentle with yourself even as you are praying for strength. It works magic.

Not too long ago, I had just bumped into an old friend while embarking on a trip. We met at the airport and it happened that we were both heading to the same route, same flight. We got talking; one thing leading to another. You know how it is when two lost friends find themselves. We talked about home and family, politics, sports, issues and everything that seemed lost in transit. Then we talked about the issue of the moment.

FRANK TALK: Moving Away From The Pang of Guilt

Mandy as we fondly called her got married before the other five friends. We were called The Five Lady Star and bonded by gist zone. We had so much in common. Yes, or we pretended we did. Whenever we gathered to share stories, it all boiled down to family and matters of the heart. We all planned to have a rosy and juicy family but fate had its own pang on people for we are never the custodian of our tomorrow.

Mandy was the most peaceful amongst us. She was always the solicitor of peace and settlement advocator anytime we had scores to settle. It is rather quite unfortunate that she was the only one that could hold unto grudges even against her peace preaching.

I couldn’t notice much change in her because she had always been a very slim woman. So being fat wasn’t a criterion to say she was living well. But I could read through the lines of her eyes that she bore some pains of the past. A pain she had borne for over three good years. My goodness!

FRANK TALK: Moving Away From The Pang of Guilt

While I write this, I can boast in my heart that our meeting relieved so much pain from her. She had just forgiven herself of one mistake which had affected her marriage.

Off course the peaceful nature of any woman will reflect in every area of the home. We keep transferring aggression while at war with our mistakes. Only a peaceful woman will keep her home healthy. Her husband called me recently and said, thank you Norah, you solved a case.

If only we can learn to forgive ourselves and embrace the air of freshness, we would be creating a peaceful environment and live healthy.

Olivia Norah Ochor is a motivational speaker with a passion and zeal to inculcate the self-help syndrome in people. She writes from Abuja, Nigeria

Political Appointment is A Human Favour; – Chief Mathias Ake

By Kennedy Eberechi.

Political Appointment is A Human Favour; - Mathias Ake — Prof. Ibrahim A. Gambari; Chief of Staff to the President of Nigeria

Political appointments exist across all nations with any type of governance system in the world. These appointments are often seen as rewards for loyalty after a successful campaign. However, scholars advise that it should not be seen as a reward but only be seen as a chance to serve the public interests or an assignment of public duty.

Political appointees assure responsiveness to their Principal’s policy priorities throughout the executive branch. In addition to democratic legitimacy, political appointees bring new energy and new ideas to the government.

Undoubtedly, since the appointment of Prof. Ibrahim Agboola Gambari as Chief of Staff (CoS) by President Muhammadu Buhari, the political atmosphere in Nigeria has been stirring. The media of mass communication has been agog with series of analysis for and against his choice.

Fortuitously, the SSA to the Governor of Cross River State on Renewable and Alternative Energy; Chief Mathias Ake has differed from all negative critics against the choice of Prof Ibrahim Agboola Gambari as the newly appointed Chief of Staff to Mr. President by some old folks who happen to be the COS’s associates.

Chief Ake noted this in a post he made on his Facebook page titled My Opinion and My Belief wherein he described political appointment as a human favour to humanity based on trust and service while noting that the CoS is a Nigerian and as such, every other nominee would have attracted same criticisms.

“Absolutely, there is no human being without error or flaw. To me, the age status and previous administrative experience of Prof Agboola is a great advantage to offer and assist Mr. President to improve leadership commitments in all sectors of the economy and upgrade the Federal Civil Service System. All we need now as a people, is to proffer positive solutions as corrective measures to strengthen sensitive public office holders for a Greater Nation, Nigeria”, Chief Ake explained.

Kennedy Eberechi is a Publicist and Heads Ken-Gbados Concepts Limited

VACCINATION BILL: Avoiding The Inuendoes

By Dan Ugwu.

WHEN the House of Representatives resumed plenary sessions on Tuesday, April, 28^th, 2020, the Lawmakers debated on a number of issues including the infectious diseases control bill which seeks to repeal the Quarantine Act of 1926 and provide for new regulations that would enable Nigeria adequately manage situations like the coronavirus pandemic.

The bill sponsored by House Speaker; Femi Gbajabiamila has 82 sections and has passed a second reading in the House of Representatives. Majority of the bill articles were centered on strengthening the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) and make it more proactive and “not just reactive and function when there is an outbreak.”

Key highlights of the proposed law dealt on:

Powers for arbitrary arrest and ‘whatever that is necessary
Any place could be declared as an isolation centre.
Six months jail for first time offenders, N2m fine for false information from blood donors.
Unchecked powers for the NCDC DG.
Exclusion of State Governors

VACCINATION BILL: Avoiding The Inuendoes

However, for the benefit of trending discussion. Section 47 of the bill empowers the NCDC DG to direct anyone not vaccinated for a disease during an outbreak to do so. This section deals on Compulsory Vaccination for Every Child.

Other subsections of the bill suggest the possession of the yellow fever card as mandatory to move from one country to another, the bill seeks to make similar provisions for international travelers leaving or arriving in Nigeria.

By this, travelers are expected to “have undergone vaccination or other prophylaxis against all or any of the diseases as may be prescribed.” This means they are to produce valid international certificates of vaccination or other prophylaxis to authorities before travelling.

Excerpts of this Section 47 on vaccination read in Part:

It states: 1. In an outbreak or a suspected outbreak of any infectious disease in any area in Nigeria, the Director General may by order direct any person or class of persons not protected or vaccinated against the disease to undergo vaccination or other prophylaxis within such period as may be specified in the order.

2. In addition to the power conferred by subsection (1), where it appears to the Director that —

(a) an outbreak of an infectious disease in any area in Nigeria is imminent; and …

(b) It is necessary or expedient to do so for the securing of public safety, the Director may by order, direct any person or class of persons not protected or vaccinated against that infectious disease to undergo vaccination or other prophylaxis within such period as may be specified in the order.

3. Any Order made under subsection (1) or (2) may specify the person by whom and the way the vaccination or other prophylaxis is to be carried out.

4. Where any Order is made under subsection (1) or (2), the Director General shall cause notice of the effect of the order to be given in such a manner as he thinks necessary for bringing it to the notice of all persons who in his opinion ought to have notice thereof.”

This may help to clear off the allusive and oblique remarks from the fox’s hoax.

10 ways to Make your Bedroom a Sleeping Paradise

By Adoiyi Paul.

Your bedroom should be the most restful place on earth, away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. It should be very calm, peaceful and quiet. Even if you stay in a single room apartment, a few but easy rearrangement or changes around your room can help you improve the feel of your bedroom and make it a true sleeping heaven.

Check out the following:

1. Allowing fresh air into the room all times. Choose rooms with windows for cross and natural ventilation and if there are no windows, break the wall. Do what you must but please let the fresh air in. it will help you sleep faster and is more relaxing. If you doubt this, try sleeping outside. Air conditions and ceiling fans also improve air circulation in the room.

2. Electronic gadgets such as radios and televisions should not be in the room or anywhere near it. You can keep them in the toilet if you wish but keep it out of the bedroom.

3. Put that phone off. You may be having sweet dreams and then your phone rings. When you wake, you may find it difficult to return to sleep.

10 Ways to Make Your Bedroom A Sleeping Paradise

4. When painting, use only colours that provide a sense of calmness for your bedroom. Green and blue are most recommended because they are closely associated with nature. Avoid bright and loud colours such as pink and yellow and before I forget, avoid black as well.

5. The bedroom should never be next to the living room unless the house is built with sound proof walls. This may not be an option if you are renting a house especially if you stay in a face me I face you and you have neighbours with loud stereo sets. The solution is simple…GET ANOTHER HOUSE

6. keep your room as dark as possible. if you are afraid of the dark, call ghost busters.

10 Ways to Make Your Bedroom A Sleeping Paradise

7. Keep your room well arranged and organized. Keep the cloths neatly arranged.

8. Bed sheets and blankets must be soft and made of 100% cotton. Pillows should be soft and tempting to lay the head on.

9. Closet and bedroom doors must be properly fitted so as to avoid a rattling noise when someone opens or closes the door while you are asleep.

10. Keep all documents, books and computers out of the bedroom. It is a place to sleep and not to work. If you want to work at home then get a sperate room for that.

These are just a few out of a million ways of making your bedroom a sleeping heaven. Try them out today, I guarantee 100% satisfaction.

How do you Clean a Leather Sofa?

By Ojobo Adoyi Paul.

Sofas are something we spend a lot of time shopping around for. We want something comfortable and great-looking. However, they sure do take a lot of beating over the years. If you were to look under your couch cushions, you would probably find all sorts of crumbs and dirt that have fallen between the cracks.

Those coins and socks aren’t the only things hiding in your sofa. We spend a lot of time on our sofas, which means we have had to learn many ways to keep our sofas clean. Sofas probably battle more types of stains than many other fabrics.

But what about a leather sofa? leather is a special material and indeed, it requires special cleaning techniques. If you want to keep your leather sofa looking shiny and new, here are the basics on leather cleaning and maintenance.

First, there are different types of leathers and different types of stains. So, there isn’t necessarily one major piece of advice that can solve every problem. Still, there are some general tips and suggestions that seem to work for most leather sofa owners who have battled tough-to-remove stains.

And that’s what we will talk about in this article. Some ideas might seem obvious, while others may be a bit surprising. But all of these may not be okay to experiment with, as it is difficult to find one product that is totally leather sofa-approved. So, exercise caution.

Still, we don’t want to generalize too much. Finished leather and unfinished leather are very different things. Your sofa is probably finished, which means there are some basic ways you can clean it.

To get rid of most grime, all you will need is a slightly damp, soft rag and some soap (but not anything too coarse). Gently rub the soap into the leather and then wipe it dry with a clean cloth. After the sofa has dried, you invest in a deep conditioning formula to work into the leather, it can be easily found at the store.

Overall, you really do take lots of risks when you try to clean leather. The wrong product can change the colour of your sofa! A good idea is to test your cleaning supplies on a part of the sofa that no one will ever see. Wait to watch what unfolds before you apply it to the target stain.

How do you Clean a Leather Sofa? — A Set of Leather Sofa

Now, what kind of stain are you dealing with? Different stains will require different approaches. Let’s go down the list of the most common ones.

Ink stains are some of the most frustrating ones out there but often, simply spraying it with hairspray and wiping it clean can do the trick. However, you might have to get some professional help.

Water stains often plague leather sofas for the reason that it is used to clean it. This is why it is so important to only use damp, not soaking cloths when trying to remove stains. Water should dry naturally on the leather and then be met with a leather conditioner after its dried.

What about grease? Like with most stains, you will want to have a clean cloth on hand to gently blot the grease. Talcum powder and corn starch are said to work to fight grease in particular. However, don’t rub it into the grease; instead, let it sit on top of it for good four hours. Then you can wipe it away. Your leather sofa should be grease-free with this method.

How do you Clean a Leather Sofa?

Do you have a pet dog or cat that hangs around inside? Well, if so, then you will probably smell some urine and reluctantly trace the scent to your leather sofa. Fortunately, all you need is a clean, damp cloth to take care of the urine. Again, let the area dry on its own, naturally. This same method works for blood stains too. This is because, both blood and urine contain protein and thus can be dealt with in a similar fashion.

It is good to be protective and watchful over your leather sofa but there is no need to panic if your child spills diet coke all over it. Just abide by these cleaning tips and you are sure to keep your couch in good condition and looking as beautiful as ever.

Always remember, though, that leather is one of the more unique materials out there and it can only handle a very narrow list of cleaning solutions and products. So, while you want to get to a stain right away, you don’t want to get to it with the wrong product.

SUNBURN: Quick Home Remedies

Shouldn’t we be thankful for our black and radiant skin? Anyway, for us on the lighter side and Albinos, we need to take a lot of care of our delicate skin to avoid getting badly burn. Sunburn remedies are something that we always need to look for the day after we treat our skin badly in the sun.

Here is a list of remedies to use when you actually do accidentally burn yourself. These remedies would come handy as a quick home treatment. Also remember that if you have any kind of a skin rash or irritation many of these will help as well.

The best sunburn remedies are never needed. First of all, I want to mention that if we are very careful in the sun then a list of sunburn remedies is never needed. However, this does sometimes happen and for that the following list of sunburn remedies is great.

1. Aloe Vera Sunburn Remedy

This is probably the most popular of sunburn remedies. Take as many leaves as necessary from aloe plant. Refrigerate, peel off top layer of the leaves and apply the side of the leaf with flesh exposed directly to the sunburn.

SUNBURN: Quick Home Remedies

Aloe is very effective in relieving pain and inflammation. For other remedies, use aloe vera juice, for mild to medium sunburn, keep the affected area moist with aloe vera juice. Repeat frequently; this will reduce the pain and the amount of peeling.

Combine aloe vera juice with vitamin E and dab on the sunburn. Vitamin E is a good moisturizer and sunburn remedies. Aloe vera ointment works well too as it contains oil and will not evaporate.

For a severe sunburn, keep the area moist at all times with aloe vera juice. Since aloe vera is an astringent, you may want to use aloe vera ointment or some sort of oil, such as olive or baby.

2. Shower as a Sunburn Remedy

take a warm shower to draw out the heat of your sunburn. The warm water will increase circulation to the area while hydrating it; thereby spreading up the process. Be sure to moisturize afterwards as the water will dry your skin.

3. Baking Soda Compress Sunburn Remedy

Dissolve some baking soda in water and make a compress using a clean cloth. Another remedy is to add1/2 cup of baking soda to a lukewarm bath and soak. Instead of drying the affected area with a towel, let it air dry. Baking sod is cooling and will help the skin retain moisture.

4. Apple Cider Vinegar

Apply apple cider vinegar to the sunburn with a cotton ball, or make a cooling compress for a large area to relieve the pain; keep the skin moistened. This remedy will prevent blistering and peeling.

5. Aspirin or Willow Bark

Aspirin kills the pain and reduces inflammation and redness of a sunburn and is one of the best sunburn remedies. It short-circuits the whole sunburn process. It must be taken 24 hours of getting sunburned. Aspirin is preferable to ibuprofen or acetaminophen because it is less stressful on the liver and kidneys.

Culled from Trace Magazine

No life Without Your Partner?

By Chinyereugo Ugwuegbu.

I often watch with fascination a drama that plays itself in many burial ceremonies across tribes, tongues and ethnicities in Nigeria. I guess if you have gone for a burial you must have witnessed this: a man is being lowered into the grave and his grief-torn wife wants to join the corpse down the six horrifying and dreadful feet with her perhaps two, three or four lovely kids watching tearfully. Not as if I have a problem with mourning for a loved one, but the question that keeps coming to me is “does life end with a lost (not just to death) of a spouse, lover or friend?

Back in the days when I was a student, a promising girl took away her life with an excess dosage of tranquilizers just because her boyfriend spent a love season with another girl. Poor girl, she might have imagined her action to be some role in a scene in Nollywood movie that will move from hospital bed to a miraculous healing and come back to her love. Alas! It was more real that she never woke up to.

And you! How many times have you built your life around a love that you lost the real essence of you? For me, I believe a better life and relationship can only be rewarded when you have so much time and love for yourself.

Please don’t get me wrong, it is always lovely and rewarding to spend so much time with the one you love but do you have to choke life out of yourself or your loved one by wanting to spend every minute with her, or as the case may be, him? The fear of being out of sight from a lover is for sure a strong indicator of insecurity. Relationship experts advise that this is not good for any relationship, marriage inclusive.

It is a nice distraction to get a call always from a lover at the middle of a hectic day; I love such calls with passion. You can always tell the sweet feeling of ‘I’m cherished’ that comes after such calls, but the call that comes every second to ask; ‘where are you?’ or ‘who is there with you?’ and the likes is sure a fast way of getting your partner tired, scared or pissed with answering a call that ought to have brought a smile. If you are like me, you could even hide away that phone so you won’t be telling a lie when you say ‘I didn’t hear my phone ring’.

Life has so much to offer and you should share that with your loved ones, families and friends no doubt. So, while having time for your loved one or spouse, you should also create time for other people; that is the only way to create a balance in life.

You will also discover that when you meet your love again even in some hours’ time it is out of a sincere desire to spend quality time with them. I tell you, there will be so much to share; even your experience during the hangout time with others is enough talk that can keep a day or two love affair going with your loved one.

Having a life of your own in spite of how close you and your lover is kills the seed of unnecessary jealousy, when your entire world revolves around your friend, the time he spends with other people but you, will sure make you feel unloved, left out, uncared for and ignored if you don’t have such moments for yourself. Unfortunately, you may not have been ignored but not having any other life makes it a key problem for you and your partner as well.

Some other times, this feeling could make you desire to crush anyone you see around your partner, rather than extending the relationship. This is because you imagine they are taking away what belongs to you. Meanwhile, a smile and a little chat might be all you need to discover the people around your lover may be harmless.

A friend once told me about her lover who rushed over to her house to check on her because he heard voices of people laughing at the background when he called her. Need I say the young man in question may sooner than he expects suffer a heart failure, because he is afraid to live and let her live. Perhaps if he had a life of his own, the background voices will be a poking joke that could strengthen the relationship.

Giving a little space in a relationship can only invigorate a relationship. Ever imagined having a supportive spouse or a friend? He cares for your well being but gives you time to be you? You will always feel indebted to him and will never opt for what will put him through undue emotional stress.

It creates mutual respect for the parties as well as helps you to maintain your dignity and respect both for him and for yourself. I will rather have a sincere caring love or spouse than one who is not secured and has no life apart from me.

READ ALSO: I Can’t Get Him to Open Up

But suffice it to say that even in this, wisdom is needful. You need to know when there are signs of some extra strings between your spouse or lover and other friends though. And if he or she never spends anytime with you but with other, then know it is a warning signal that you perhaps do not even have a space in their heart.

Understanding Postpartum Mood Disorders

By Dr. Ihekire Ogemdi.

Six weeks after delivery, a woman passes through a period known as the post-natal (postpartum, puerperal) period. It is a delicate period for the woman and some emotional changes tend to occur.

About 85% of women after delivery will experience one of these disorders. These mood changes include: Postpartum Blues (Baby Blues), Postpartum Depression (PPD), Postpartum Anxiety Disorder (PPAD) and Postpartum Psychosis (PPP).

Majority of post-natal women will experience the mild type which is Postpartum Blues. The severe form of Post-natal mood changes are the Postpartum Anxiety Disorder and Postpartum Psychosis; they rarely occur.

It is very important that families are made aware of these mood disorders that can occur after delivery, know what can cause it, symptoms and what to do to access treatment, because it can be treated.

In African families where they lack awareness, post-natal mood disorders move from bad condition to worse, because they are mostly misconstrued and mismanaged. Families are known to have broken up as a result of this disorder, but that should not be the case because this is a condition that can easily be treated.

Causes may include the following:

Hormonal Factors

Understanding Postpartum Mood Disorders — MODEL: **Mbakwe Augustina Chinonso**

The sudden drop in the levels of estrogen, progesterone, and cortisol within 48 hours after delivery can trigger change in some mothers.

Psychosocial Factors

Women who report inadequate social supports, marital discord or dissatisfaction, or recent negative life events are more likely to experience postpartum depression.

Biological Vulnerability

Women with prior history of depression or family history of a mood disorder are at increased risk for postpartum depression. Women with a prior history of postpartum depression or psychosis have up to 90% risk of reoccurrence.

New mothers rarely get adequate rest. In the hospital, they are awakened by nurses and the baby’s feedings. At home, feedings continue every 2 – 4 hours around the clock, along with usual household tasks. When this excessive lack of sleep continues for weeks or months, it can be a major reason for depression.

Mothers who deliver premature babies with birth defect; these concerns can precipitate mood disorder. Expected bay-sex; some mothers unduly expect a particular sex for the baby and get disappointed at delivery.

Other tasks which may pose a stress on a new mother include: establishing successful breast/bottle feeding, coping with sleep, forming an attachment to the child, re-negotiating family relationships and responsibilities, giving up fantasy of what the baby would look like or be like, facing whether one is not and adequate parent.

Types of mood disorders may include:

Postpartum Blues (Baby Blues)

Up to 85% of women experience postpartum affective instability, which rapidly fluctuating moods, tearfulness, irritability, and anxiety are common symptoms.

Symptoms peak on the 4^th day after delivery and last for several days, but they are generally time-limited and spontaneously remitted within the first 2 postpartum weeks.

Though symptoms do not interfere with a mother’s ability to function and to care for her child, but women with more severe symptoms or symptoms persisting longer than 2 weeks should be screened for postpartum depression.

‘Baby Blues’ is often described as mild depression interspersed with happier feelings, or as some women state: it is “an emotional roller-coaster”. Onset is usually 2 – 3 days postpartum, with a peak around 7 – 10 days.

Look out for these symptoms: Fatigue/exhaustion, feeling of sadness, crying spells, anxiety, mood swings/irritability, confusion, feeling overwhelmed, inability to cope, over sensitivity, inability to sleep, feelings of loneliness.

Causes of the Baby Blues include biological factors (drop in hormone levels), social/environmental factors (marital stress, lack of support system, low SES), stress and sleep deprivation in addition to the physical aftermath of labour and delivery.

First time moms are at a higher risk of experiencing the ‘Baby Blues’. The Baby Blues typically does not require professional treatment and should subside within two weeks after delivery.

Treatment include validation of the existence of the phenomenon, labelling it as a real but a normal adjustment reaction, most importantly, assistance with self/infant care, and family support.

Postpartum Depression (PPD)

When Baby Blues persist beyond two weeks, it is diagnosed to be Postpartum Depression (PPD) and it is seen in 10% of post-natal women. Onset of PPD can be anytime during the first year after delivery, with the highest incidence of onset between 4 and 8 weeks postpartum. It may last from 3 to 14 months or longer if left untreated.

Though most women recover within a year, the condition may become chronic if it goes untreated. Chronic depression may have significant effects on mother-baby attachment and bonding. Symptoms of PPD include: sadness, frequent crying, insomnia, appetite changes, difficulty concentrating/making decisions, feelings of worthlessness, racing thoughts, agitation and/or persistent anxiety, anger, fear and/or feelings of guilt.

Others are: obsessive thoughts of inadequacy as a person/parent, lack of interest in usual activities, lack of concern about personal appearance, feeling a loss of control, feeling disconnected from the baby, possible suicidal thoughts.

Risk factors for PPD include: first-time motherhood, ambivalence about keeping the pregnancy, history of PPD, bipolar, or another mood disorder, lack of social support, lack of stable relationship with partner and/or with parents, woman’s dissatisfaction with herself, history of infertility, unrealistic expectations of parenthood, recent stressful event, previous aversive reaction to oral contraceptives of severe PMS.

Causes include biological/physiological factors (genetic predisposition, hormone related, severity of physical damage from labour and delivery), environmental factors (stress, feeling alone, lack of support), psychological factors (things that affect a women’s self-esteem and the way she copes with stress), or infant-related factors (infants with difficult temperament or colic, infants born with problems). Most likely is a combination of all these.

Treatment include: individual and/or couple’s therapy, group therapy or support groups, psychological medications, practical assistance with child care/other demands of daily life. If a woman experiences PPD, her chances of PPD with subsequent children are 10 – 50%.

Postpartum Anxiety Disorder (PPAD)

This comes in the form of Postpartum Panic Disorder and Postpartum Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder. The former occurs in less than 5% of postpartum women. Its symptoms are feelings of extreme anxiety and recurring panic attacks, shortness of breath, chest pain, heart palpitations, agitation, and excessive worry or fears.

Three common fears experienced by women with a Postpartum Panic Disorder consist of the fear of dying, fear of loosing control, and/or fear that one is going crazy. A previous history of anxiety or panic disorder and thyroid dysfunction are some of the significant risk factors.

The later on its own occurs in approximately 3 – 5% of childbearing women. Symptoms are presence of both repetitive obsessions (intrusive and persistent thoughts or mental images) and compulsions (repetitive behaviours performed with intention of reducing the obsessions), as well as a sense of horror about these thoughts. The most common obsession is thoughts or mental images of harming or even killing her baby. The most frequent is bathing the baby often or changing the child’s clothes.

This could be as a result of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder and/or negative feelings about motherhood resulting from unrealistic expectations.

Treatments for both Postpartum Panic and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorders include: individual therapy (cognitive-behavioural is recommended), with psychotropic medications. Also couple’s therapy, group therapy/support group, and practical assistance with child care and/or demands of life.

Postpartum Psychosis

Postpartum Psychosis is the most severe form of postpartum psychiatric illness, which is rare and occurs in approximately 1 – 2 per 1000 women after childbirth. At highest risk are women with a personal history of bipolar disorder or a previous episode of postpartum psychosis.

Postpartum psychosis has a dramatic onset, emerging as early as the first 48 – 72 hours after delivery. In most women, symptoms develop within the first 2 postpartum weeks. This condition resembles a rapidly evolving manic or mixed episode with symptoms such as restlessness and insomnia, irritability, rapidly shifting depressed or elated mood, and disorganized behaviour.

The mother may have delusional beliefs that relate to the infant (e.g. baby is defective or dying, infant is Satan or God), or she may have auditory hallucinations that instruct her to harm herself or her infant. Risks for infanticide and suicide are high among women with untreated postpartum psychosis.

For treatment, the mother should be hospitalized with antipsychotic medication (lithium, when indicated) and temporary removal of infant from mother’s care, also sedatives, electroconvulsive therapy, psychotherapy, and social support. There is a 10% rate of suicide/infanticide associated with this disorder; thus, immediate treatment is imperative.

Women are 20 – 30 times more likely to be hospitalized for psychotic episode in the first 30 days after delivery than any other time in their life. Women with a history of bipolar illness have a 40% chance of developing Postpartum Psychosis after their first child is born.

Almost all women with previous episodes of Postpartum Psychosis will experience repeat episodes in subsequent pregnancies. Preparing for this ahead of time is the key.

The Social Effect of Postpartum Mood Disorders

Lack of understanding of this Postpartum Mood Disorders make the illness worsen from mild form to the severe form because when a woman has PPMD, the husband and the rest of the family are under stress.

PPMD can often lead to divorce as a result of lack of awareness in the family and conversely, marital stress does lead to a woman developing PPMD. Typically, the woman feels very overwhelmed and may feel that her partner is not very helpful, even if he is trying his best to be understanding and/or helpful.

If your wife has PPMD, it is very important that you take time to learn all you can about Postpartum Mood Disorders in order to understand what your wife is experiencing. Let her know that you recognize that she is not making up her symptoms and that this is not her fault. Let her know that you love her, support her, and there for her.

Help with the care of the baby as much as you are able, allowing time for your wife to take naps or sleep during the night. Enlist family, friends and/or the community to help with care of the baby, household, other children and/or meals in order to provide your wife with time to care for herself.

Let her know that you understand she may not be interested in sex and that you love her and enjoy holding her. Be sure to take some time for yourself and encourage your wife to do same. Help her monitor her symptoms and seek out professional help when needed. Remember that this is 100% treatable and she will be well.

How to Improve your Fuel Economy

By The World Satellite.

We sometimes ignore the little amounts we spend or waste on fuel as we throttle our vehicles down the road daily, which can go a long way in making huge difference over time. Take some time to do a rough estimate on the amount of fuel consumed by your vehicle on daily, weekly or monthly basis; then consider the following tips to see the significant difference it will result into.

Improving your fuel economy is crucial for some income earners as they try to battle their way through to the very last day of the month, so consider upgrading your mentality. Often times when we drive out of the fuel station, we feel we have received lesser than we paid for, that is true. So, we have decided to put our best card on the table by telling you to cool down, yes cooling down will do the magic as fuel is denser when cool.

Cool Down:

When you feel like fueling up next time, please do it in the morning, when the temperature is relatively low (cold); you tend to get more fuel for your money. However, if you decide to go fueling when it is hot, note that the fuel pump measures by volume, which means the fuel tends to be lighter and you will get more gas than bargained for.

Take a Walk:

You can also reduce your fuel consumption to its minimum if you sometimes take a walk to destinations that are close. Aside the fitness importance it has, it will also save you a lot of money.

Slow Down:

Going fast is so tempting. Not only do we do it to keep up with the flow of traffic, but if we can save even five minutes, it seems worth it. But if you are on the highway, driving 60 miles per hour instead of 70m/h will save you 2 – 4 miles per gallon over the duration of your trip.

Take it Easy on the Throttle:

Don’t accelerate quickly or stomp on the brakes, coast to a stop. You will save fuel as well as wear and tear on your brakes, which will save you even more money.

Shut Down:

If you are waiting somewhere for a while, like at the traffic for instance, turn off your engine. Even if its just for a minute, it can make a huge difference in your fuel economy, especially if you drive in the city a lot.

Warm-Up Less:

Don’t warm-up your vehicle for more than 30 seconds, most modern fuel-injected cars only really need 30 seconds to warm-up, and hot air can start blasting into the cabin very shortly thereafter.

Windows Up:

Again, this is tough, especially on pleasant days. But having the windows down creates aerodynamic drag that causes an engine to work harder. On the highway, this can decrease fuel economy by up to 10 percent.

I Can’t Get Him to Open Up

By Chinyereugo Ugwuegbu.

I have Watched lots of sisters get tired of a bachelor, walk out of a relationship and lose that special guy simply because they cannot understand or unravel the mystery behind him and the difference between what he has in mind, does and says. Some sisters have even packed up their marriages for this same reason, wondering how things changed after such a rosy start.

Many sisters I know can give anything to tell the difference between what their special guy says and what he means. The claim that sisters are the complex ones while brothers are as easy as my childhood Ladybird story book is a complete fallacy. That notwithstanding, the truth is brothers can really be as simple and easy with the right information.

The journey to a wonderful relationship and possibly wedding bells with the single sister and an assurance of marital bliss for married sisters lies in walking in nuggets of wisdom one of which I wish to share below.

Sisters, don’t ask if this will work; if you can picture yourself in this pair of thorny shoes just try it. Perhaps I’m on my way to getting an all sisters outing or date with as many sisters as the word of this wisdom will restore on their face.

Are you familiar with this scene?

You love this brother but things do not go down well with you. He simply does not open up to you. He never has a problem and wants to share with you. In spite of this you know he loves you but you don’t seem to be part of his life.

He will not even want to listen to anything you want to say. When you have important issues to discuss with him, he’d rather sleep, watch something on TV no matter how stupid or leave the house for you to hang out with the guys. If you can say I’m there now please keep reading.

If I know sisters, your possible reaction is to get angry, cry, quarrel or probably nag all day, night and all week. The truth is that you just get him to run more from you and whatever serious issue you want to talk about reacting in any of these ways.

One major fact about brothers is that they will never make things easy for you. He will never be so open to always talk things over. If you are expecting him to help you unravel the mystery around him, you might need to wake up from sleep and from fantasy.

You are left alone to devise how best to communicate with and get what you want out of him. Meanwhile at the back of your mind is the fact that any relationship that lacks communication is hitting the rocks so fast.

The funny thing to realize is that the problem is not that he doesn’t want to discuss the issue. Most times he wants to talk and open up to you more than you can ever imagine or even more than you want to open up to him.

Would you imagine that a man who loves you so much and is burdened in his heart or has issues with you will not want to address them? The answer is NO! he wants to open up to you but just does not feel comfortable about it.

Don’t ask him why anyway because that is another problem as well. His problem might be that he is not ready for a show of emotion at that time. Sisters are better in showing emotion and this does not go down well with brothers. Will you be surprised at this, when this young man has his head stuffed with ideas that emotions are feminine and a sign of weakness?

Men are strong and show strength. Only weaklings and women waste time on words, don’t you think he needs more help than you can imagine. Yes, HELP! Sister that brother needs your help more than you can ever imagine. Perhaps your approach is not the way he wants it and needs your support to open up and talk.

Worse still, he may feel he has let you down depending on what the situation is and needs you to understand and accept him more than query or probe him. Did I hear you ask, ‘why do I need to help him? Why wont he be a man and face his fears?” if you love him and want your relationship to work you have an obligation to help him and to continue reading.

You may imagine when you first met, he told you any and everything but all that is history now. Dear sister, the truth is, when you met him newly there was nothing at stake, there was no need to be cautious. There where also not many expectations but as the relationship gets deeper, he imagines you are becoming more conscious and judgmental of his words and actions and he does same with you.

He also feels you are looking up to him and he doesn’t want to fail you. He desires to have confidence in you that you will not judge him but rather understand him. He only wishes you will stand by him through his fears.

Wondering how best to get him to listen and talk to you? For any sister who wants to succeed with this special guy, simply create a comfortable atmosphere for him. Make him feel relaxed with you. You can postpone the talk for something more relaxing and less tensed especially if what you want to talk over with him is important and needs to be addressed.

Get him to talk to you about what he is interested in at that moment. Make him feel happy and safe with you that even if he has failed you, you do not judge him and you still admire him. You will be so surprised that unconsciously he will answer all the questions in your mind and tell you all you want to hear without you stressing yourself or asking him.

I Can’t Get Him to Open Up

Ever heard a brother say “Ladies don’t like people who tell them the truth?” if you are familiar with this it will occur to you one great mistake, we sisters make. You probably asked your guy what his day was like and he told you the truth. One of his activities might be what you don’t like or a place you’d rather he went with you and you got mad at him, our crazy little madness that causes more problems.

Next time he may decide not tell you or may even choose to tell a ‘white lie’, what he thinks you will like to hear. If care is not taken you get to discover he is lying or you see him doing one of the things you did not expect, even as little as talking to another lady, hell will let loose.

Thus, the relationship begins to have gaps. There is no communication between you two. He feels unaccepted for who he is. Whether you know it or not, it affects you as well. More painful is the fact that you just miss this great guy for the sake of little silliness.

Sisters if you are able to understand your husband, fiancé, boyfriend you will be so amazed at the great guy you have and how indispensable you are in his life. I wish you all the best in your relationship. Have yourself a great time out with the brothers.

Nigeria’s Air Quality; A Silent Health Hazard

By Patience Adejo.

Thirty-nine-year-old widow; Mama Caro lived in a small village in Kogi State where she struggled to earn a living by frying and selling garri. She struggled to make ends meet, but she was determined to see her two daughters through school. She worked tirelessly every day to keep up with the high financial demands from her daughter’s school, because she believed so much in empowering the girl child.

One day, while frying garri to supply to her customers, she began to struggle with her breathing. She gasped for air and fainted. Mama Caro never regained consciousness and died a few hours after being rushed to a health facility, leaving her two daughters behind.

Her medical report stated that she had died of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. One of the causes of this disease is the long-term exposure to air pollution, which would have started from her frequent exposure to smoke while frying garri.

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), air pollution is the largest contributor to the top four noncommunicable diseases — stroke, lung cancer, chronic respiratory disease and heart disease — accounting for between one-third and one-quarter of those deaths. It is also responsible for 50% of childhood pneumonia deaths. About seven million deaths each year are attributed to outdoor and household air pollution.

Air pollutants are sometimes visible and sometimes not. While the body can eliminate larger particles of pollutants, it does not eliminate the smaller ones. These smaller pollutants are called fine Particulate Matter (PM2.5). These are tiny particles in the air that makes it seem dark and blurred. They penetrate deep into the lung passageways and are the most harmful pollutants to the health of humans.

Air pollution has been declared a global public health emergency and some countries, including Nigeria, exceed the WHO guideline level for annual PM 2.5 exposure. The 2019 world air quality report published by AirVisual reveals that Nigeria is the 5th most polluted country in Africa, with Kano being the most polluted city in Nigeria followed by Port Harcourt. This is not encouraging given that Nigeria is the first African country to establish a national institutional mechanism for environmental protection.

Efforts must be intensified to improve our air quality as breathing polluted air kills silently and many people do not know about the health risks associated with air pollution.

Precious Adejo is the Programme Coordinator, Nigeria Health Watch

Source: Nigeria Health Watch

FACE KRAFT: Enhancing our Facial Beauty

By Sabina Adiri.

If you want to spot the difference between the village masquerades and our ladies on the street, you could be in for a hell of work. One sees 70% of our ‘Omoges’ looking like the Igbo ‘Adanma’ masquerade roaming about free of charge under the hot sun toned with one shade on the face and another on the rest of the skin; others with lipstick that that looks like an open wound on the face and so on.

While we are all different and so have different ways of making up, why don’t we now examine this Kraft of making up? Yes ladies, it is a craft, as we know, one doesn’t become and expert overnight but overtime.

While about 10% of ladies started out with make-up as a hobby, probably painting their dolls as little as 7 years old kids and with time became skilled in it, some 20% pay money to learn the art. And so that leaves the rest of us just doing trial and error; no wonder there is a large number looking like the said masquerade.

Now don’t get me wrong, we know all of us can’t be skilled or professional make-up artists but we can all learn the basics on products available in the market and how to apply make-up. After all it is not a herculean task.

FACE KRAFT: Enhancing our Facial Beauty — Glossy Nude Make-Up modelled by Orgenda Dooshima Comfort (Photo: Same Minds Media Network)

Professional make-up artists advice that while there are lots of branded make-up products available in the market, we should use products that contain natural ingredients which have been tested and approved by dermatologists. “Make-up is an enhancer and so should be used to improve on your God-given beauty”.

Women should be smart and read contents on the products they buy and don’t just go for brand names. We all know that looking good gives one a good feeling and since we aren’t all skilled in applying make-up and do not always have the time to while away hours at the beauty salon getting make-up, one can achieve the luxury of an effortless but fantastic looking face, just by knowing and following these basic route.

Professional Make-up artists see the face as a fresh plate and consider a number of factors like the time of the day, skin type, the weather and a person’s age before applying or making up the person.

Based on this, one should always consider these factors before applying make-up. And to achieve a glamorous look in a subtle way, start by cleansing your face to get a sparkly fresh feeling as it sweeps away oiliness and impurities, leaving one’s skin feeling incredibly clean, soft and completely free to breath.

Use a moisturizer that instantly absorbs into skin. Next, using a brush or pad, apply pressed powder/foundation in your colour and blend; the best way to get the exact shade is to try a little at the base of your jaw. That way, one doesn’t end up looking two-toned.

This happens when one wears foundation/press powder, which is either lighter or darker than one’s normal skin shade. Again, don’t keep coating the foundation/press powder or you will look too heavily made up unless you are going on a film set of on the run-way.

After that if you so desire, you can apply blusher over the cheeks and sparingly across the temple and chin, which acts as a highlighter. To ensure the blusher stays put, lightly dust those areas over with powder. Apply eye shadow in the crease around the eyes and rim your eye with eyeliner of your choice.

You want to magnify your lashes to maximum; use two coats of curling mascara, which expands the lashes to their fullest volume; the mascara should hug the curves of the eye lashes. Finally, before applying your lip-gloss and lipstick, get your lips in top condition by buffing gently with a lip scuff, tooth brush or face cloth to remove unattractive, dry or flaky skin.

Then moisturize your lips with a lip balm before putting a generous amount of lips-gloss. Look out for shades that fit you. Your lips should look luscious. Whatever you decide to use or not is based on your preference and personality but basically one can’t go wrong when she goes simple.

MAN EXTRAORDINAIRE: Making you a ‘Perfect’ Man for a ‘Perfect’ Woman

By Tobechukwu Nneji.

MAN EXTRAORDINAIRE: Making you a ‘Perfect’ Man for that ‘Perfect’ Woman — MODEL: Abraham Ochima (08036416701)

As you grow from baby boys to soldier toddlers; from shy kids to conscious teens; from mischievous youth to… well … the kind of man you are now, there is a constant change. You start to grow hair in funny places, muscle, skin and flesh where there used to be none.

Blood flows to certain areas at certain times, and then soon, an increased awareness of age and the need to have a life. As that need grows, the need to have a partner comes up. Although, considering the current trend, the need for ‘a partner’ usually comes up right when the funny hairs start to come up… lol.

Anyway, a lot of guys may have reached a point when they say to themselves; ‘ok, enough of the speed. It is time to take it slow and make it work, its time to have a life’… or something remotely resembling that speech or in this case, thought band.

Usually there are two problems:

Your Life really isn’t up to Speed yet:

When I say your life isn’t really up to speed yet, I mean, you really have not reached the point of self-satisfaction and self-sufficiency. Now I know a lot of you are thinking “ha she is about to be all about money”, well, sorry to not disappoint you, because, yes I am about to be all about money, but may be not the way you think, plus, it isn’t only money I am about to be about.

I mentioned self-satisfaction and self-sufficiency, (I wish I changed the order). Anyway, I will take on self-sufficiency first because that is the part that I really don’t want to disappoint you about.

Being self-sufficient means being able to carter for yourself and your needs. You are the boss of your life… the governor, the mayor, the CEO. You give yourself orders, carryout your orders, develop your needs and take care of them. You make plans and see them through; you do not benefit from any person’s benevolence, including your parents, siblings, no one at all.

To the extent of your immediate needs, you provide and provide SUFFICIENTLY. To pull this off, you don’t need a prophet to tell you that you need money. So, to be self-sufficient, you need an adequate and some worth, steady source of income. Now, that alone won’t get you through the rest of your life, you also need to be investment conscious. That way, you know you are not going to go bankrupt without prior warning.

Now, in all this, the functional words are PROVIDE SUFFICIENTLY YOUR NEEDS. If your needs can be handled with 10 grand and you got an income that brings in 12 grand, you are well off, your life is up to speed. If your needs require 5 million and you got an income of 4million, your life isn’t up to speed. Like I always say, wealth is standard… its relative.

You Can’t Seem to ‘Find’ the Right Person:

Did you notice that find is in quote? well, that is because a whole lot of times, its really not that you can’t find the perfect girl, but that you have not made yourself the man to attract and keep the perfect girl.

This ‘life partner’ thing is a two-way street… she got to be perfect for you, you got to be perfect for her. Usually, it works best when you start out trying to be the perfect man for the ‘perfect’ girl. A whole lot of times, we ladies are torn with the fact that a lot is expected of us.

There are whole lot of dos and don’ts where we are concerned and then once a man gets in the picture, the rules get even more… unless of course, we decide to be rebellious and are ready to live with people calling us names and whispering a whole lot of unprintable stuff about us. Anyway, it is about you guys. Remember, I am your regular good old buddy… with a figure… lol.

Now, making you a ‘perfect’ man to attract and keep the perfect woman comes with a lot. The idea is to make yourself a man extraordinaire. The first thing you can never forget to work on to improve you and bring you closer to being the perfect man for the perfect woman, is your confidence… careful though, there is a thin line between confidence and arrogance.

Away From The Dustbin Office

By Ikechukwu Chukwubuike.

“Our surroundings dire