Independence by Oyameda Eddie

Independence!!!
A country celebrates independence when there is "independence"
Nigeria celebrates 57years of dependence all in the name of independence...
Let's not go far.. A question for all of us.. Are we really free??  Do we have or have acquired what it takes to celebrate independence as in freedom??

How can we celebrate when a child doesn't have right to education??,, how can we celebrate when the hospital management keeps a patient hostage simply because  one can't pay for treatment given??  How can we celebrate when even pastors are scared to stand on altars to preach so as not to get burnt by same country men??? We talk of independence and an arm of the government still fights for independence till date..

We await Independence Day and 80% Nigerians are not free from poverty..
A Nigerian finds it difficult to complete square meals for the day and you expect him to join the rich at the eagle's square celebrating freedom when he's still in the chains of hunger!!!

We talk about independence and a representative of a people can stand on the floor of the green house to say NGOs should be checked and balanced...
We talk about independence and there are still developmental bills waiting to be passed in the national assembly through its readings.. #sad

Oh what a country.. I weep for this great Nigerian race!!!
Independence can only by be when we are dependent of ourselves...
In 1914, Lord Lugard the great politician of the queen’s Kingdom sat in an office with a ceiling fan that blew heat instead of breeze hanging from the ceiling. That day, with blue blood flowing from a royal pen, he mixed sand and salt and proffered the result as a country.
   That was then, almost half a decade of in fighting by the constituent components of that result, the royal pen still stood in the favour of that hot afternoon’s decision . in this salt-sand mixture, there was the north – predominantly Muslim and the South - predominantly Christian. These constituent components fought several cold wars, so many felt that the mixture was wrong and doomed from the heat of that afternoon  but the forces kept the result sacrosanct.
   It was 1960,and amidst all the ant Hill challenges the mixture result faced, they bind it one hot afternoon. They gave it independence. Now the dictionary quotes that term to be “a state of freedom from external control and internal insurrection”. 57 years after the pomp and pageantry of that other afternoon, the union of the salt and sand still suffers chemical and physical problems.
    Today, in the North West East and South, the people in this contraption silently scream for a revolution, one that should begin from the homes of each. A revolution that will check the very essence of the result of that hot afternoon. A revolution that extracts religious differences from the unity of national life. A revolution that will teach to posterity, the mixture’s past, build the present and determine its future.
   Bearing in mind the deteriorating turn of events now in the mixture result called -  Nigeria, it is evident that big political talks by the wordsmiths will not salvage the existence of the country, neither will insensitive politicking do good. Rather, a pure revolution the will touch every constituent component of this mixture is the way forward.
Can a country that imports virtually everything including tooth pick call itself an independent state??
Too sad because my beloved Nigeria falls into this category.. Even our so-called mineral endowment is useless if outsiders don't buy from us.. Oil is the main aim of the nation but just three refineries...

With anger I ask us... Why do we even have guts to mention "freedom" when the country  isn't free??

A leader once said the hope of the country lies in the future of the upcoming ones..

We as a people preach about saying the youths are the leaders of tomorrow yet they are not given the chance to showcase their God given young talents as regards the development of the country..

There is always the case of embezzlement of government funds by individuals yet,, the future of the said country are gathered in a place not conducive and are labelled "internally displaced persons" otherwise known as the IDPs...

Before we join the big wigs in the country to celebrate,,, let's ask ourselves this: IS THE COUNTRY WORTH CELEBRATING AFTER 57YEARS???

      written by:Oyameda Eddie &Onwutuelo Donatus
               #letsmakenaijagreat...

Fest of Oktober By Imagbe Elisha

Fest of Oktober
By Imagbe Elisha

Arise ye compatriots
For merry has reached your shores
Forgotten kingdoms of the south
Come party to the drums of nepotism
Saddened minds of the east
Come dine with the incompetency of Baba
Folded necks of callous sin hators
Let us celebrate these errors of Lugard
For it is the fest of Oktober

So that where we search for what we celebrate
Our naked minds are pushed to ask
Why we lament upon this day of joy
The executive elephant stinks of bribery
And only the unfortunate rich enjoy the scent of it
The 109 grey hairs cost us too much
Let them wither away from the nations core
But yet the classrooms decay of neglect
And bones of the chalk system in dearth of flesh

Who will judge the not incorrupt wig caps
Bare tools of propaganda even in their supremacy
The ever flying bird of Mo hammer doo
The lakadaisity upon account
For our recovered treasures
I speak not still of the madness
To see an advocate hold three bars
Anonymous to his intellect
While Mr ordinary hasn't
Heard his dead radio whisper in weeks

Our heroes long past
Suffer not the youth to grow old
Waiting for the future that you still hold
So we mop still in dependence
Awaiting your not unusual parole
Spare the hypocrisy and give
These young psyches a hole to breath through
Get the stolen children of Tha sou ki
spoils of the war of Ah bar sha
And put out the fire in our houses
Make justice no fool and let her smile
To the gates of kiri kiri in her Majesty
if her patience did not get her the luxury hotels

Be wise ye kingmakers of Zuma rock
Tie not your hearts to bags of grains and salt
For your seeds deserve better taste
Forbid your ignorance to reappear
So they do not again take in two thousand
and nineteen sadly lay to you
Drunks of the capital wine
Let your pot bellies be flat in tranperancy

And so what a feast we indeed celebrate
Our greens are faded now
And our whites are pale with stains
Our hearts sunk in pain
Bleeding still from the wounds
That came from the dance of freedom
Our forefathers suffered
On the fest of October.

The poem Fest of Oktober was written by Imagbe Elisha, The poem written in commemoration of Nigeria's 57th Independence, critically examines the post Independence Nigeria and the societal ills. The title has got the use of pun(Play of words) Fest represents a feast and at the same time 1st by pronunciation.

The poem is highly paradoxical.. To not be a trouble maker while telling the truth if course, The pronunciation sin hator sends a message our Legislators who despite their fat salaries still feast on the proceeds of the nation's resources and derive pleasure in engaging in illicit and corrupt activities.

The executive arm of govt is not left behind, The police is referred to as the executive elephant, Being that the logo of the police carries an elephant.
The poem creates a clear picture of the typical Nigerian society as the national cake is reserved for the mighty, while the average Nigerian is left in starvation. The Affairs of the country is run by a particular set of people, decisions are made to favour the big names and faces without considering the interest of the average Nigerians.

In conclusion, the poet leaves us to answer some questions like, are we where we ought to be? Is there anything worth celebrating ? Are we truly independent?

Shop and order your designer wears and accessories at affordable prices

"What you wear is how you present yourself to the world, especially today, when human contacts are so quick. Fashion is instant language."  It is on this note that we have committed ourselves to your service and provide you with quality designer wears and accessories such as belts, wristwatches, wallets, shoes, bags, perfumes etc.
We also offer nationwide delivery, thanks for your patronage!

For more enquiries contact
08104673188

STREET LIGHT: Enugu govt approves N122m for power generators

Determined to ensure an effective operation of street lights in Enugu metropolis, the Enugu State Government recently approved the sum of N122, 220,000.00 for the procurement of 10-unit of 200KVA generators to replace the existing ones that are over 7years.
The state government disclosed that the 60KVA and 150KVA generators currently in use were old, below the rated amperage and no longer sizeable because of installation of more street lights on the roads, adding that most of the facilities that power the lights were being vandalized by hoodlums.
Speaking on the development, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Works and Infrastructure, who is also in charge of maintenance of street lights, Hon. Obiora Tega Onyia noted that the present administration decided to procure new generators to ensure effective operation of street lights to enhance security of lives and property of the people.
Hon. Onyia disclosed that street lights were also being destroyed by reckless driving, which causes the government huge amount of money to repair despite the current economic challenges in the country.
While appealing to vandals to stop the vandalism of street light facilities, the state government called on the people of the state to be vigilant and report any person found or suspected to be tampering with the facilities to the appropriate authorities for necessary action.
Hon. Onyia, therefore, reaffirmed the commitment of the present administration towards an effective street light operation in the state. / IN News /
Comments
By Anozie Egole
ENUGU—Determined to ensure an effective operation of street lights in Enugu metropolis, the Enugu State Government recently approved the sum of N122, 220,000.00 for the procurement of 10-unit of 200KVA generators to replace the existing ones that are over 7years.
The state government disclosed that the 60KVA and 150KVA generators currently in use were old, below the rated amperage and no longer sizeable because of installation of more street lights on the roads, adding that most of the facilities that power the lights were being vandalized by hoodlums.
Speaking on the development, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Works and Infrastructure, who is also in charge of maintenance of street lights, Hon. Obiora Tega Onyia noted that the present administration decided to procure new generators to ensure effective operation of street lights to enhance security of lives and property of the people.
Hon. Onyia disclosed that street lights were also being destroyed by reckless driving, which causes the government huge amount of money to repair despite the current economic challenges in the country.
While appealing to vandals to stop the vandalism of street light facilities, the state government called on the people of the state to be vigilant and report any person found or suspected to be tampering with the facilities to the appropriate authorities for necessary action.
Hon. Onyia, therefore, reaffirmed the commitment of the present administration towards an effective street light operation in the state.

Tarfa falsified his age, EFCC insists

A prosecution witness with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, in the ongoing trial of Rickey Tarfa, SAN, Tosin Owobo yesterday insisted that there was discrepancies in the age declaration that Tafar gave in the age declaration form that he filled at the commission’s office. Owobo, an operative of the EFCC, while he was being cross examined said that in the course of investigation, the agency wrote letters to three banks Zenith, Fidelity and GTB Bank requesting information on Tarfa account.
The witness said upon the analysis of GTB response, it showed that he was born on February 23, 1962, but from the International passport, his age is 54, while that of the statement he made before the commission was 43.
Tarfa is standing trial before Justice A.A. Akintoye of a Lagos State High Court sitting at Igbosere on a 27-count charge of offering gratification to public officer, alleged failure to declare assets and false statement of age.
The witness further told the court that Tarfa’s GTB Bank account was a domiciliary account which he made two payments.
He said that the defendant paid a cash sum of 10,000 US dollars into his GTB Bank domiciliary account on November 21 2013 and also a deposit of cash in the sum of 10,000 US dollars into the same account on January 29, 2016.
However, Justice Akintoye adjourned the matter till today for continuation of trial.

NUP kicks as FG pays military pensioners 42 months, Police 3 ON October 14, 2016 3:55 AM / IN News / Comments By Johnbosco Agbakwuru ABUJA—LEADERSHIP of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners, NUP, has expressed surprise over the alleged disparity displayed by the Federal Government in the payment of arrears of military, para-military and civilian pensioners. The union specifically lamented that while the civilian pensioners collected 24 months, military and para-military counterparts got their entire 42 months arrears, while the Police were only paid three months. According to a statement signed by the National President of NUP, Dr. A.O. Afolayan and the General Secretary, Elder Actor Zal, the union pleaded with President Muhammadu Buhari to address the alleged injustice against the police. The statement read: “We were surprise that as the civilian pensioners collected 24 months, para-military got the entire 42 months arrears and the Nigerian military pensioners got 42 months.”

LEADERSHIP of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners, NUP, has expressed surprise over the alleged disparity displayed by the Federal Government in the payment of arrears of military, para-military and civilian pensioners.
The union specifically lamented that while the civilian pensioners collected 24 months, military and para-military counterparts got their entire 42 months arrears, while the Police were only paid three months.
According to a statement signed by the National President of NUP, Dr. A.O. Afolayan and the General Secretary, Elder Actor Zal, the union pleaded with President Muhammadu Buhari to address the alleged injustice against the police.
The statement read: “We were surprise that as the civilian pensioners collected 24 months, para-military got the entire 42 months arrears and the Nigerian military pensioners got 42 months.”

Many reasons Buhari should change style – Opara, Ex- Deputy Speaker

Former deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Sir Austin Opara speaks on a wide range of issues. While condemning the resurgence of militancy in the Niger Delta region, the former deputy speaker, however, blames the issue on the skewed appointments made by this government, which he says are “provocative.” Excerpts .
Over one year into office, how would you compare the All Progressive Congress government and the sixteen years of the Peoples Democratic Party?
It is very clear to everybody. The situation is worse than it has ever been in the country in all sectors. We are using the recession as a blanket phrase to describe the situation. Going to the grassroots, the situation is precarious and pitiable.
There is no foodstuff, workers salaries are not being paid, the price of fuel is beyond reach, electricity supply is terrible, the exchange rate has skyrocketed.
There is crisis in virtually all sectors of the economy. We need expert intervention as well as divine intervention to save this nation from total collapse.
But it has been argued that the poor foundation laid by your party is responsible for what we are going through now.
That does not make sense to me, except for a government that is unserious and is keen on making excuses. When President Barack Obama took over in the United States of America, the American economy was in crisis as left by President George Bush.
War against corruption
Obama never spent time blaming President Bush but took on the challenge. We have elected a government because they told Nigerians that the PDP government was not performing.
To turn around to blame their failings on the PDP government is no longer excusable. For a president who had contested election four times, the least Nigerians expect from him is to have a plan on how he is going to do things differently. For him to turn around to blame others for his failing is very unfortunate.
But it is agreed that the president has made much progress in the fight against corruption.
It has come out clearly that even the war against corruption is skewed against a few people and I will give you examples. In Rivers State, so much has been presented against the past government but nobody has said anything but this government goes after people whom they don’t even have evidence against. It is a clear indication that this government only goes after its opponents in the so-called war against corruption.
The precarious state of the economy has made the government consider selling some national assets. Do you support this?
For me, something must give in at this point. I disagree with the sale of the Nigerian Liquified Natural Gas because, in the past several months, it has paid dividends of over $4 billion which was shared amongst the three tiers of government. To that extent, the NLNG is a productive and viable entity. But divesting government interests in some of the assets is necessary, especially those that have continued to constitute liabilities to the country. One good example is the JVC with the oil companies where Nigeria holds about 54% shares. There is nothing wrong with divesting say 4%. But the important thing is to ensure that in doing this, the government must ensure that the beneficiaries of such policies are Nigerians.
To get us out of recession now, there must be some short term measures, including borrowing. But there must be a cocktail of opportunities that government must bring to bear. It must inject money into the system in the short term.
What is your reaction to the chain of events in the House of Representatives that culminated in the suspension of a member for one year?
It is unfortunate that a member of the House, former chairman of a prominent committee will speak in the manner that he did, denigrating the parliament because he lost out. I don’t understand what he is talking about padding or no padding.
As a parliament, you have the right to adjust the budget in a manner that would be for the total good of the nation. Section 4 of the Constitution says the Parliament should make laws for the good governance so if an adjustment is done to ensure good governance, what is wrong with that? It is only when such adjustment is done out of selfish reasons that you can say there is a problem.
My take on the crisis is that the former chairman of the Appropriation Committee was wrong in his approach. The speaker or any member of the parliament can introduce projects to the budget, but the problem again is the approach. Some of the projects they may introduce may not be federal government project.
Yes, while it may not be outrageous to amend the budget or introduce new projects, this must be done in liaison with the relevant agency that may execute such projects. But for a member of the House to speak in the way the former chairman of appropriations committee spoke, it shows that he is just bent on pulling down the system.
The institution is bigger than any individual. The fact that you have fallen out of favour does not mean that the institution should be destroyed.
What is your reaction to the resurgence of militancy in the Niger Delta region?
We have condemned this. A lot of us have spoken out against this because ultimately, we from the region would be the loser. The degradation of the environment, the loss of revenue to our state and local government and other issues. We keep talking to those who say they are aggrieved or unhappy because we believe there are better ways of going about the problems. Let the destruction of pipelines stop in the interest of our people and the nation.
But it is also necessary to put it on record that this government, in all that it has done, including appointments that have been skewed in favour of a section of this country, has been provocative.
The government should look inward and address the style of governance. This is not the first government we have had in this country.
It is important that the government should look inward and readdress a lot of issues, especially that of appointments. The appointments so far made are skewed, and it is very provocative.
What are the lessons to be learned from the recent governorship election in Edo State?
The fact that has come out of the Edo election is that 2019 will not be business as usual. It will not be like the previous elections. Both the government and the governed should know that 2019 will be different. I congratulate PDP members in Edo state for their performance. We have been told that the unit by unit results that the party agents indicated that PDP won the election.
We will leave that for the tribunals to decide but the fact is that for a state that it does not have a government yet they performed so creditably, they deserve commendation and it is an indication of what will happen in 2019.

Many reasons Buhari should change style – Opara, Ex- Deputy Speaker

Former deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Sir Austin Opara speaks on a wide range of issues. While condemning the resurgence of militancy in the Niger Delta region, the former deputy speaker, however, blames the issue on the skewed appointments made by this government, which he says are “provocative.” Excerpts .
Over one year into office, how would you compare the All Progressive Congress government and the sixteen years of the Peoples Democratic Party?
It is very clear to everybody. The situation is worse than it has ever been in the country in all sectors. We are using the recession as a blanket phrase to describe the situation. Going to the grassroots, the situation is precarious and pitiable.
There is no foodstuff, workers salaries are not being paid, the price of fuel is beyond reach, electricity supply is terrible, the exchange rate has skyrocketed.
There is crisis in virtually all sectors of the economy. We need expert intervention as well as divine intervention to save this nation from total collapse.
But it has been argued that the poor foundation laid by your party is responsible for what we are going through now.
That does not make sense to me, except for a government that is unserious and is keen on making excuses. When President Barack Obama took over in the United States of America, the American economy was in crisis as left by President George Bush.
War against corruption
Obama never spent time blaming President Bush but took on the challenge. We have elected a government because they told Nigerians that the PDP government was not performing.
To turn around to blame their failings on the PDP government is no longer excusable. For a president who had contested election four times, the least Nigerians expect from him is to have a plan on how he is going to do things differently. For him to turn around to blame others for his failing is very unfortunate.
But it is agreed that the president has made much progress in the fight against corruption.
It has come out clearly that even the war against corruption is skewed against a few people and I will give you examples. In Rivers State, so much has been presented against the past government but nobody has said anything but this government goes after people whom they don’t even have evidence against. It is a clear indication that this government only goes after its opponents in the so-called war against corruption.
The precarious state of the economy has made the government consider selling some national assets. Do you support this?
For me, something must give in at this point. I disagree with the sale of the Nigerian Liquified Natural Gas because, in the past several months, it has paid dividends of over $4 billion which was shared amongst the three tiers of government. To that extent, the NLNG is a productive and viable entity. But divesting government interests in some of the assets is necessary, especially those that have continued to constitute liabilities to the country. One good example is the JVC with the oil companies where Nigeria holds about 54% shares. There is nothing wrong with divesting say 4%. But the important thing is to ensure that in doing this, the government must ensure that the beneficiaries of such policies are Nigerians.
To get us out of recession now, there must be some short term measures, including borrowing. But there must be a cocktail of opportunities that government must bring to bear. It must inject money into the system in the short term.
What is your reaction to the chain of events in the House of Representatives that culminated in the suspension of a member for one year?
It is unfortunate that a member of the House, former chairman of a prominent committee will speak in the manner that he did, denigrating the parliament because he lost out. I don’t understand what he is talking about padding or no padding.
As a parliament, you have the right to adjust the budget in a manner that would be for the total good of the nation. Section 4 of the Constitution says the Parliament should make laws for the good governance so if an adjustment is done to ensure good governance, what is wrong with that? It is only when such adjustment is done out of selfish reasons that you can say there is a problem.
My take on the crisis is that the former chairman of the Appropriation Committee was wrong in his approach. The speaker or any member of the parliament can introduce projects to the budget, but the problem again is the approach. Some of the projects they may introduce may not be federal government project.
Yes, while it may not be outrageous to amend the budget or introduce new projects, this must be done in liaison with the relevant agency that may execute such projects. But for a member of the House to speak in the way the former chairman of appropriations committee spoke, it shows that he is just bent on pulling down the system.
The institution is bigger than any individual. The fact that you have fallen out of favour does not mean that the institution should be destroyed.
What is your reaction to the resurgence of militancy in the Niger Delta region?
We have condemned this. A lot of us have spoken out against this because ultimately, we from the region would be the loser. The degradation of the environment, the loss of revenue to our state and local government and other issues. We keep talking to those who say they are aggrieved or unhappy because we believe there are better ways of going about the problems. Let the destruction of pipelines stop in the interest of our people and the nation.
But it is also necessary to put it on record that this government, in all that it has done, including appointments that have been skewed in favour of a section of this country, has been provocative.
The government should look inward and address the style of governance. This is not the first government we have had in this country.
It is important that the government should look inward and readdress a lot of issues, especially that of appointments. The appointments so far made are skewed, and it is very provocative.
What are the lessons to be learned from the recent governorship election in Edo State?
The fact that has come out of the Edo election is that 2019 will not be business as usual. It will not be like the previous elections. Both the government and the governed should know that 2019 will be different. I congratulate PDP members in Edo state for their performance. We have been told that the unit by unit results that the party agents indicated that PDP won the election.
We will leave that for the tribunals to decide but the fact is that for a state that it does not have a government yet they performed so creditably, they deserve commendation and it is an indication of what will happen in 2019.

Morocco: A prodigal son gives conditions

AFRICA, beloved of God has many sons and daughters. Some of them in ancient Egypt gave the world its modern civilisation. It also gave Greece its philosophy which became the basis of Western thought and philosophy. However, a different race whom our Seers had warned us against, swooped and enslaved almost all of Africa’s children. In pain and in tears, through our sweat and blood we struggled for freedom. That was years before the whole humanity agreed that the right of a people to self-determination is non-negotiable.
Even at the dawn of freedom, Africa’s children were like sheep without Shepard as the former slave masters sought to continue our enslavement, this time, indirectly. Then we coalesced into two broad groups. Some met in Casablanca, Moroccco and became the Casablanca Group; the other became the Monrovia Group. Africa’s far sighted leaders met in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia and on May 25, 1963, gave birth to one united movement of the African people called the Organisation of African Unity. We vowed that never again will Africans be enslaved and that those still in bondage like South Africa, Angola, Mozambique, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Guinea Bissau and Western Sahara shall be free. Indeed, despite the efforts of enslavers, they became free. All African children became free but we did not envisage that one of our prominent sons would collaborate with the foreign slave masters to deprive one of us her freedom.
Mother Africa has been generous by providing for us all; big and small, we have our own inheritance. But our brother Morocco decided in addition, to seize the inheritance and wealth of small Western Sahara. First it connived with the Spanish slave masters to deprive Western Sahara, its independence. Then it got the latter to hand over the riches of Western Sahara to him and Brother Mauritania; both proceeded to share it as a booty. Mauritania was to rethink and wash its hands off its share of the loot which greedy Morocco seized and added to its share.
However, Africa will not have such covetousness and decided to call Brother Morocco to order reminding him that the African peoples are one and that our ancestors forbid stealing. But stubborn Morocco would not agree, and when the rest of Africa welcomed our Saharawi brothers and sisters to our common home, the African Union, Morocco would have none of it. It decided to leave home and go hunting with the old slave masters. A few brothers walked out with him, but when they got to the gate, turned back to join the rest of the family. Morocco, backed by the former slave owners, went looting the fishes, phosphate and the riches of the Saharawi. It brutalised the Saharawi, detained some, destroyed their homes, forced some into refugee camps, built a wall dividing the territory, and forced the rest under its jackboots. It paid no heed to the international community, refused to allow the referendum the rest of the world directed should be conducted to allow the Western Sahara decide freely whether it wants to be free or be part of big brother Morocco. In one of the most ridiculous cases of thuggery, Morocco seized one our Saharawi sisters, Aminatu Haider and exiled her to the territory of the former slave master. If indeed the Saharawi is Moroccan, how would you exile your citizen to a foreign territory?
After thirty two years of wandering in the desert and keeping bad company, prodigal Morocco decided to return home to the African Union. He must have realised that he is a nobody outside the homestead; that his foreign friends will never threat him as an equal, that is if in the first place, they regard him as a human being. Our brother, King Mohammed VI of Morocco who was born three months after the Union was founded, wrote a rambling and insulting 2,144-word letter announcing Morocco is willing to return. Nobody will stop such a return because Morocco is a long lost son and our home is a common patrimony. It is like a long lost sheep; why won’t motherly Africa rejoice that her prodigal son has decided to retrace his steps and return home? But while the Biblical prodigal son was remorseful, full of regrets and begged for forgiveness, the Moroccan prodigal is unrepentant, arrogant and exhibiting the traits of a street thug.
In the letter announcing his decision to return home, he referred to his brother Saharawi Arab Democratic Republic, SADR (Western Sahara) as a “phantom state” His illogical argument is that the SADR which is a biological son of Africa, is not a member of the United Nations (UN). So what? How is being a member of the UN the criteria for statehood? For decades, Switzerland, one of the oldest republics of the world, was not a member of the UN. In any case, do we need the certification of the UN to determine that the Saharawi is a full blooded African?
Morocco indulged in falsehood when he claimed it left the homestead because he does not want to create a division. The truth is that it left when it could not create a division. It wants to adopt the same tactics by trying to induce other Africans with economic and monetary baits to expel or suspend Western Sahara from our common home. Morocco can swallow its pride and return to the African fold, but the Saharawi will never be expelled from the home of his father. Africa belongs to all Africans and no African is superior to the other. Any African leader who backs Morocco whether for a mess of porridge or due to pressures from the former slave masters to expel or suspend Western Sahara from the African House, should know he is trying to break and destroy the union of the African peoples. Such people will be the enemies of the African people and foes of social justice. We cannot allow the rule of might over right in our continent. All those sharing in the loot of Western Sahara be they foreigners or Africans will ultimately have to account for their greed.
When leaders like President Muhammadu Buhari and Dr. Julius Nyerere (who presided) sat in the African Union thirty two years and decided to admit the SADR into the Union, it was in the fundamental interest of Africa. To seek to take a different action today, is to betray these leaders, endanger the health of mother Africa and mortgage the future of our continent and children. If the prodigal son will not abide by the basic principles and the brotherly love that bind all of Africa, it is free to continue wandering in the desert. Prodigal Morocco cannot give Africa conditions to return home.

Morocco: A prodigal son gives conditions

AFRICA, beloved of God has many sons and daughters. Some of them in ancient Egypt gave the world its modern civilisation. It also gave Greece its philosophy which became the basis of Western thought and philosophy. However, a different race whom our Seers had warned us against, swooped and enslaved almost all of Africa’s children. In pain and in tears, through our sweat and blood we struggled for freedom. That was years before the whole humanity agreed that the right of a people to self-determination is non-negotiable.
Even at the dawn of freedom, Africa’s children were like sheep without Shepard as the former slave masters sought to continue our enslavement, this time, indirectly. Then we coalesced into two broad groups. Some met in Casablanca, Moroccco and became the Casablanca Group; the other became the Monrovia Group. Africa’s far sighted leaders met in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia and on May 25, 1963, gave birth to one united movement of the African people called the Organisation of African Unity. We vowed that never again will Africans be enslaved and that those still in bondage like South Africa, Angola, Mozambique, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Guinea Bissau and Western Sahara shall be free. Indeed, despite the efforts of enslavers, they became free. All African children became free but we did not envisage that one of our prominent sons would collaborate with the foreign slave masters to deprive one of us her freedom.
Mother Africa has been generous by providing for us all; big and small, we have our own inheritance. But our brother Morocco decided in addition, to seize the inheritance and wealth of small Western Sahara. First it connived with the Spanish slave masters to deprive Western Sahara, its independence. Then it got the latter to hand over the riches of Western Sahara to him and Brother Mauritania; both proceeded to share it as a booty. Mauritania was to rethink and wash its hands off its share of the loot which greedy Morocco seized and added to its share.
However, Africa will not have such covetousness and decided to call Brother Morocco to order reminding him that the African peoples are one and that our ancestors forbid stealing. But stubborn Morocco would not agree, and when the rest of Africa welcomed our Saharawi brothers and sisters to our common home, the African Union, Morocco would have none of it. It decided to leave home and go hunting with the old slave masters. A few brothers walked out with him, but when they got to the gate, turned back to join the rest of the family. Morocco, backed by the former slave owners, went looting the fishes, phosphate and the riches of the Saharawi. It brutalised the Saharawi, detained some, destroyed their homes, forced some into refugee camps, built a wall dividing the territory, and forced the rest under its jackboots. It paid no heed to the international community, refused to allow the referendum the rest of the world directed should be conducted to allow the Western Sahara decide freely whether it wants to be free or be part of big brother Morocco. In one of the most ridiculous cases of thuggery, Morocco seized one our Saharawi sisters, Aminatu Haider and exiled her to the territory of the former slave master. If indeed the Saharawi is Moroccan, how would you exile your citizen to a foreign territory?
After thirty two years of wandering in the desert and keeping bad company, prodigal Morocco decided to return home to the African Union. He must have realised that he is a nobody outside the homestead; that his foreign friends will never threat him as an equal, that is if in the first place, they regard him as a human being. Our brother, King Mohammed VI of Morocco who was born three months after the Union was founded, wrote a rambling and insulting 2,144-word letter announcing Morocco is willing to return. Nobody will stop such a return because Morocco is a long lost son and our home is a common patrimony. It is like a long lost sheep; why won’t motherly Africa rejoice that her prodigal son has decided to retrace his steps and return home? But while the Biblical prodigal son was remorseful, full of regrets and begged for forgiveness, the Moroccan prodigal is unrepentant, arrogant and exhibiting the traits of a street thug.
In the letter announcing his decision to return home, he referred to his brother Saharawi Arab Democratic Republic, SADR (Western Sahara) as a “phantom state” His illogical argument is that the SADR which is a biological son of Africa, is not a member of the United Nations (UN). So what? How is being a member of the UN the criteria for statehood? For decades, Switzerland, one of the oldest republics of the world, was not a member of the UN. In any case, do we need the certification of the UN to determine that the Saharawi is a full blooded African?
Morocco indulged in falsehood when he claimed it left the homestead because he does not want to create a division. The truth is that it left when it could not create a division. It wants to adopt the same tactics by trying to induce other Africans with economic and monetary baits to expel or suspend Western Sahara from our common home. Morocco can swallow its pride and return to the African fold, but the Saharawi will never be expelled from the home of his father. Africa belongs to all Africans and no African is superior to the other. Any African leader who backs Morocco whether for a mess of porridge or due to pressures from the former slave masters to expel or suspend Western Sahara from the African House, should know he is trying to break and destroy the union of the African peoples. Such people will be the enemies of the African people and foes of social justice. We cannot allow the rule of might over right in our continent. All those sharing in the loot of Western Sahara be they foreigners or Africans will ultimately have to account for their greed.
When leaders like President Muhammadu Buhari and Dr. Julius Nyerere (who presided) sat in the African Union thirty two years and decided to admit the SADR into the Union, it was in the fundamental interest of Africa. To seek to take a different action today, is to betray these leaders, endanger the health of mother Africa and mortgage the future of our continent and children. If the prodigal son will not abide by the basic principles and the brotherly love that bind all of Africa, it is free to continue wandering in the desert. Prodigal Morocco cannot give Africa conditions to return home.

Reps query UBEC over pre-budgetary spending

THE House of Representatives Committee on Basic Education yesterday queried the Universal Basic Education Commission, UBEC, over pre-budgetary spending which violated the Fiscal Responsibility Act,
The Committee on Universal Basic Education, led by Zakari Mohammed, APC, Baruten/Kaiama Federal Constituency, issued the query during an interactive session with the leadership of the commission to appraise the 2016 budget performance, in line with its oversight responsibilities.
The Director of Finance win the commission, Mohammed Sambo, while responding to a question by a member of the committee, gave the indication that the commission had received almost 92% of the 2016 budget allocation with 100% utilisation.
Sambo told the lawmakers that the commission started accessing funds for recurrent and other expenditures since March, 2016 from a budget that became operational in May.
He said: “We get our funding based on what was appropriated. If the appropriation is N77billion, we get N6billion every month and in 1st quarter, we would have got N18billion.’’
He explained that the commission started accessing funds as early as March, 2016 even before the budget was passed.
The Executive Secretary of UBEC, Mr. Habib Bobboi, however, tried to clear himself of any complicity, saying he came to UBEC on August 4and met N300million in-balance according to his handover note.

Reps query UBEC over pre-budgetary spending

THE House of Representatives Committee on Basic Education yesterday queried the Universal Basic Education Commission, UBEC, over pre-budgetary spending which violated the Fiscal Responsibility Act,
The Committee on Universal Basic Education, led by Zakari Mohammed, APC, Baruten/Kaiama Federal Constituency, issued the query during an interactive session with the leadership of the commission to appraise the 2016 budget performance, in line with its oversight responsibilities.
The Director of Finance win the commission, Mohammed Sambo, while responding to a question by a member of the committee, gave the indication that the commission had received almost 92% of the 2016 budget allocation with 100% utilisation.
Sambo told the lawmakers that the commission started accessing funds for recurrent and other expenditures since March, 2016 from a budget that became operational in May.
He said: “We get our funding based on what was appropriated. If the appropriation is N77billion, we get N6billion every month and in 1st quarter, we would have got N18billion.’’
He explained that the commission started accessing funds as early as March, 2016 even before the budget was passed.
The Executive Secretary of UBEC, Mr. Habib Bobboi, however, tried to clear himself of any complicity, saying he came to UBEC on August 4and met N300million in-balance according to his handover note.

Rep advocates adequate funding for NDDC

THE Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, Mr Nicholas Mutu, has called for adequate funding of the commission to enable it deliver its mandate for the benefit of the people of the region.
Mutu, who addressed newsmen in Abuja shortly after being conferred with the Most Outstanding Legislator award by Tozali magazine, urged the Federal Government and the oil companies to endeavour to live up to expectations in their onerous responsibility.
Mutu argued that the NDDC, more than ever before, needs adequate funding to embark on aggressive infrastructural development across the region in order to douse current tensions in the area.
He recalled that the assignment of the NDDC, which is to transform the neglected Niger Delta region, was an uphill task that must be met.

Cynthia Osokogu: Court forecloses right of defendant to file address

Justice Olabisi Akinlade of a Lagos High Court in Igbosere, yesterday, foreclosed the right of the second defendant, Ezike Olisaeloka, to file his final written address in the ongoing trial of four men, who allegedly killed Cynthia Osokogu.
Osokogu was allegedly killed on July 22, 2012, at Cosmilla Hotel, Lakeview Estate, Festac Town, Lagos, by her Facebook friend.
The defendants are Okwumo Nwabufo, 33; Olisaeloka Ezike, 23; Orji Osita, 33, and Ezike Nonso, 25.
The defendants are facing a six-count charge of conspiracy, murder, stealing, reckless negligence and possession of stolen goods.
At the resumed hearing of the matter yesterday, Justice Akinlade ordered the prosecution counsel, Mrs Bola Akinshete, to file her reply to the final written addresses of the defendants.
The judge said: “I am not going to wait indefinitely for the second defendant’s counsel to file his final written address.
“It is on record that the court had given the second defendant several opportunities for him to file his written address since June 16 at the last adjourned date. Up till now, he has been unable to do so.
“It is obvious that the counsel is not ready to file his final written, address. I hereby foreclose the right of the second defendant to file his final written address and order the prosecution to file her reply on the final written addresses.”
The judge adjourned the case to December 8, for adoption of the final written addresses.
Prosecution’s prayer
Earlier, the prosecution urged the court to foreclose the right of the second defendant from filing his final written address to enable her file her reply on the defendants.
Akinshete said: “Since June 16, despite the order of your Lordship for the second defendant to file his final written address, he has refused to do so. I, therefore, urge your Lordship to foreclose his right to file the address to enable us make progress in this matter.”
The trial had suffered several adjournments due to the delay tactics of the defence counsel.
It will be recalled that Justice Akinlade, at the last adjourned date on June 8, expressed displeasure over the delay of second defence counsel in filing his final written address and threatened to award substantial cost to the second defendant over failure to file same.
The prosecution said that the 25-year-old Osokogu, who was resident in Abuja, was lured to Lagos, where she was killed.
The offences committed are punishable under Sections 221, 249, 285 and 327 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2011.

PRESIDENT BUHARI ARRIVES BERLIN, GERMANY FOR HIS THREE-DAY OFFICIAL VISIT

President Buhari has arrived Berlin for his three-day official visit to Germany. While in Berlin, President Buhari, will meet with German Chancellor Angela Merkel on issues of shared interests between Nigeria and Germany, including further cooperation on security, the humanitarian situation of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) and rehabilitation of the North-East, as well as trade and economic relations between both countries. 

President Buhari is accompanied by Governors Kashim Shettima of Borno State and Rochas Okorocha of Imo respectively and representatives of the National Assembly, they will meet with Federal President Joachim Gauck. 

In furtherance of the administration’s objective to attract more foreign investment and create economic opportunities in the country, President Buhari will participate in a Business Forum in Berlin with leading German companies already active in Nigeria and other prospective investors. Before returning to Abuja, President Buhari is expected to meet with representatives of the Nigerian community in Germany.

BEING AN INTROVERT

No matter how any of us characterize our personalities — introvert, extrovert, ambivert, whatever — we're all unique and diverse and lovely in our own nonconforming ways, and I get that. We have discovered several (dare I say) ubiquitous truths introverts can relate to. If you identify as such, see the points below, crack a beer, and celebrate. It's a weird, wonderful life indeed.
1. Introverts are often alone and rarely lonely.
I've said it before, and I'll say it again: introverts need alone time. We absolutely require a few hours or even days to ourselves if we're expected to operate like the rest of our functioning peers in society. It's how we recharge. So if you notice us with our earbuds in and heads down listening to music, reading a book, playing a game, or watching a YouTube video in our own little corners of the world, just nod and pass on by.
2. Introverts are total homebodies.
I have a strong attachment to my apartment, and I'll readily admit I rarely leave it on the weekends. I can curl up in bed and do my own thing on my phone or Kindle. I can sprawl out on the couch and peruse Netflix. I can chill out on the floor and complete a puzzle. Home is where the heart is, and it's the one place where introverts don't have to put on the "hi, how are you, please engage in conversation with me" happy face.
3. Introverts usually think before speaking.
Obviously, we're not perfect. Here and there, we'll blurt things out and we'll say things we don't mean, just like everyone else. For the most part, though, introverts think before speaking — especially when it comes to work-related functions, like meetings or happy hours. We may have much to say, but we pick and choose what we ACTUALLY say, because our ultimate humiliation is blabbing about something completely
stupid and being rebuked for it. That happened to me once, when I was in eighth grade and made a dumb joke at a sizeable gathering, and no one but my best friend laughed (kind of funny in hindsight, but it was super embarrassing and slightly traumatizing at 13). Mark my words: I've been careful ever since.
4. Introverts overanalyze.
In the same vein, introverts tend to overthink. Sometimes we should be saying more than we are, but we overthink what we want to say, and by the time we decide to say it, the moment has passed and it'd be weird as hell to bring the topic back up. I find myself in this situation fairly frequently, though I think (hope?) I'm getting better about joining the discussion.
5. Introverts don't enjoy the spotlight.
One thing that consistently stands out to me is how poised the bride and groom appear walking down the aisle, all beaming smiles and confident sashays. I try to picture this wallflower ambling to the same altar, every sharp pair of eyes on me, and I immediately break into a cold sweat in the underarm region. Obviously, introverts get married; I'm just naming an example of an anxiety-inducing, center-stage scenario. We're really not big on the spotlight.
6. Interacting can feel like hard work for introverts.
The key word, here, is "can." Interacting CAN feel like hard work, most especially if we've been thrown into a wild sea of strangers where uncomfortable small talk is deemed socially appropriate and/or necessary. Honestly? I find big parties to be more terrifying than any of the Paranormal Activity movies, because mingling with people I'm unfamiliar with is both nerve-racking and mentally exhaustive. Nine times out of 10, I'm passing on that invite.
7. Introverts are not antisocial.
Despite our general aversion to large group settings, the idea that introverts are 100 percent antisocial is a misconception. We're not some sort of human subspecies immune to the affection and interest of our fellow primates. We enjoy a nice one-on-one dinner date with someone we know well,
coffee run with a few friends, and even, occasionally, making an interesting connection with someone random ("Oh, you're best friends with your dog?! SO AM I!").
8. Introverts are fiercely loyal to loved ones.
Speaking of that interesting connection, introverts tend to stick like glue with a few good ones. This isn't to say we ONLY get on with other introverts — my boyfriend's about as extroverted as it gets — just that when we do achieve a real, meaningful relationship, we don't take it for granted. We keep very small, very special social circles.
9. Introverts love the small stuff.
A hike in the forest during the Fall has been known to bring me to tears once or twice. I freak out when an animal willingly crawls into my lap for a scratch behind the ears. A great story will find a permanent home in my heart. We introverts derive inspiration from the little things, which maybe aren't little at all, if you think about it.
10. Introverts embrace every emotion.
We're in touch with our emotions, plain and simple. Alone time allows us to thoughtfully ruminate in our complexities. We feel all the feelings, and we're not afraid to face them, question them, analyze them, sort them, and even write them down, if we're so inclined. (In fact, it may be argued that we communicate best on paper.)
11. Introverts take on new challenges.
Despite what you've probably heard, introverts don't live timidly. It's true that we have a natural tendency to remain within our comfort zones. It's true that we shy away from attention, spend a lot of time at home, and feel some level of discomfort around strangers. However, it's also true that we explore new things, push the limits, make the effort, and strive for success. As introverts, we may have our own set of challenges, but we rise to the occasion, day in and day out.

Ford awarded £1.6m over accident

Actor Harrison Ford has been awarded £1.6million pounds in compensation over the 2014 accident that he suffered during the filming for the latest Star Wars movie.
Ford, 74, was crushed by a hydraulic door during the filming.
Actor Harrison Ford in one of his action films.
Disney’s Foodles Production (UK), a film production company will pay the fine, a  court in the United Kingdom ruled.
The star was knocked to the ground and pinned down by the heavy door while filming for Star Wars: The Force Awakens at Pinewood Studios in Buckinghamshire in June 2014.
He could have been killed by the door on the set of the Millennium Falcon spaceship which crushed him like a ‘blunt-edged guillotine’, a court heard.
Hollywood star Ford, who was 71 at the time, was reprising his role as Han Solo when he was hit by the door, which had been designed to mimic the action of a door on the original set.
His sidekick Chewbacca’s safety was also endangered by the incident, which saw Ford suffer a broken tibia and fibula, a dislocated ankle and a cut hand.
The Health and Safety Executive said the power of the rapidly closing metal-framed door meant Ford was hit with a power comparable to the weight of a small car.
Foodles Production was set up specifically for the making of the film. It was fined a total of £1.6 million on Wednesday after admitting two counts of breaching its health and safety duties.
Aylesbury Crown Court was told the scene being shot involved Ford helping his injured Wookiee friend Chewie aboard the ship then shutting the door behind him.
Ford had gone through the door and hit a button. He started to walk back through it, believing the set was not live – as it was a rehearsal – and that it would not close.
But it was remotely operated by another person, and as the star passed underneath he was hit in the pelvic area and pinned to the ground.
Director JJ Abrams and Ford screamed for the door to be lifted but it could not be done manually and he had to be released by the controller.
The court previously heard there had been a ‘risk of death’.
Prosecutor Andrew Marshall said today: ‘In any construction project there is a need for safety.
`It is something that has to be planned. There was an investigation that was brought about by an incident.
‘During the making of Star Wars Episode VII: The Force Awakens, the actor Harrison Ford sustained injuries as a result of being struck by a hydraulically powered vertical sliding door that was part of a film set.
‘Part of the concept of the film was that the original actors and scene locations of the previous films would be used.
‘The area (the door) was known within the film production as the carousal. The door was designed to ensure rapid closure.
`‘The door was designed for a film but that is just a species of workplace where the same requirements of safety are imposed as anywhere else.’
According to Daily Mail Online, the door was operated by a person sitting behind a screen and pressing the button.
However, when the operator closed the door she did not realise Ford was planning to back through and he became trapped.
The actor was airlifted to Oxford’s John Radcliffe Hospital from the set of the much-anticipated latest instalment in the Star Wars saga.

Ford awarded £1.6m over accident

Actor Harrison Ford has been awarded £1.6million pounds in compensation over the 2014 accident that he suffered during the filming for the latest Star Wars movie.
Ford, 74, was crushed by a hydraulic door during the filming.
Actor Harrison Ford in one of his action films.
Disney’s Foodles Production (UK), a film production company will pay the fine, a  court in the United Kingdom ruled.
The star was knocked to the ground and pinned down by the heavy door while filming for Star Wars: The Force Awakens at Pinewood Studios in Buckinghamshire in June 2014.
He could have been killed by the door on the set of the Millennium Falcon spaceship which crushed him like a ‘blunt-edged guillotine’, a court heard.
Hollywood star Ford, who was 71 at the time, was reprising his role as Han Solo when he was hit by the door, which had been designed to mimic the action of a door on the original set.
His sidekick Chewbacca’s safety was also endangered by the incident, which saw Ford suffer a broken tibia and fibula, a dislocated ankle and a cut hand.
The Health and Safety Executive said the power of the rapidly closing metal-framed door meant Ford was hit with a power comparable to the weight of a small car.
Foodles Production was set up specifically for the making of the film. It was fined a total of £1.6 million on Wednesday after admitting two counts of breaching its health and safety duties.
Aylesbury Crown Court was told the scene being shot involved Ford helping his injured Wookiee friend Chewie aboard the ship then shutting the door behind him.
Ford had gone through the door and hit a button. He started to walk back through it, believing the set was not live – as it was a rehearsal – and that it would not close.
But it was remotely operated by another person, and as the star passed underneath he was hit in the pelvic area and pinned to the ground.
Director JJ Abrams and Ford screamed for the door to be lifted but it could not be done manually and he had to be released by the controller.
The court previously heard there had been a ‘risk of death’.
Prosecutor Andrew Marshall said today: ‘In any construction project there is a need for safety.
`It is something that has to be planned. There was an investigation that was brought about by an incident.
‘During the making of Star Wars Episode VII: The Force Awakens, the actor Harrison Ford sustained injuries as a result of being struck by a hydraulically powered vertical sliding door that was part of a film set.
‘Part of the concept of the film was that the original actors and scene locations of the previous films would be used.
‘The area (the door) was known within the film production as the carousal. The door was designed to ensure rapid closure.
`‘The door was designed for a film but that is just a species of workplace where the same requirements of safety are imposed as anywhere else.’
According to Daily Mail Online, the door was operated by a person sitting behind a screen and pressing the button.
However, when the operator closed the door she did not realise Ford was planning to back through and he became trapped.
The actor was airlifted to Oxford’s John Radcliffe Hospital from the set of the much-anticipated latest instalment in the Star Wars saga.

A’rese set to explode at ‘A Night at Kazbah

SOUL singer and first ever winner of “The Voice Nigeria”, A’rese who is honing her music career with outlined gigs this year, is slated to perform her first live music concert alongside other international acts as ‘Night at Kazbah’ jazz concert beckons.
A’rese, a vocal powerhouse will be opening for soulful house trio Mi Casa and headline performer South African singer songwriter and guitarist Jonathan Butler in a live Afro jazz night tagged: ‘A Night at The Kazbah’ billed to hold on October 22, at Federal Palace Hotel, Victoria Island.
The songbird, who classically trained in piano, flute, and dance (ballet, modern jazz and aerial) in a chat with WG said, it’s going to be one unforgettable show for her, as she’s going to have the rare opportunity to perform alongside big names like Jonathan Butler and Mi Casa, both from South Africa and home based acts.
“I’m very excited and I feel like I can learn a lot just from watching Jonathan Butler play.

Janet Jackson confirms she is pregnant at 50

Pop superstar Janet Jackson has confirmed that she is pregnant with her first child at age 50 — and has the baby bump to prove it.
People magazine on Wednesday published a portrait of the star, her face beaming as she stood on a beach, with an unmistakably protruding belly.
“We thank God for our blessing,” she told the magazine.
The younger sister of late king of pop Michael Jackson in April stunned fans by halting a global tour and saying that she and her husband, Qatari tycoon Wissam Al Mana, were “planning our family.”
Jackson had not said more since then but was recently spotted by paparazzi shopping at a baby store in London — and looking like she had the tell-tale bump.
Natural pregnancies are highly unusual, but not impossible, for women past their mid-40s, but in vitro fertilization can extend the age at which women can have children.
Jackson has been discreet about her personal life and did not immediately publicize her 2012 marriage to Al Mana, whose company sells luxury fashion brands throughout Gulf Arab kingdoms.
Michael Jackson was also non-traditional in his efforts to have a family. He had two children with Debbie Rowe, who worked at his dermatologist’s office and married him, and a third through an undisclosed surrogate.
Janet Jackson won an international fan base in the late 1980s with her albums “Control” and “Janet Jackson’s Rhythm Nation 1814,” which brought together pop music and funk with the emerging genre of hip-hop.
The albums were notable for their socially conscious lyrics, in which Jackson identified with women’s empowerment, and were accompanied by intricately choreographed live shows.