9News Nigeria

By Abubakar H. Muhammad (9News Nigeria, Northeast)

Yobe State Governor, Mai Mala Buni has congratulated Prof. Mahmoud Bukar Maina on winning the Vivensa Academy Rising Star Excellence Award in the United Kingdom.

Prof. Maina is the Director of the Yobe State Biomedical Research and Training Centre and founder of the Biomedical Research and Training Centre at Yobe State University.

The Vivensa Academy Rising Star Excellence Award is presented to research leaders advancing work to improve health and wellbeing, particularly in ageing and related conditions such as dementia.

He received the award for his achievements in research on dementia and ageing, and for building research systems that connect communities with healthcare and scientific innovation.

Prof. Maina is the first Black recipient of the award.

Prof Maina receiving the Vivensa Academy Awards in UK

The recognition follows other recent honors, including the 2025 Transmitter Rising Star Award supported by the Simons Foundation (USA) for emerging leaders in neuroscience.

He was also selected into the European Molecular Biology Organization (EMBO) Global Investigator Network, becoming the first Nigerian and second African in the group.

Governor Buni said Prof. Maina’s work in scientific research is placing Yobe State on the global map of science and research.

“Prof. Maina is doing us proud and placing Yobe State on the global map of science and research,” Buni said.

The Governor assured that the Yobe State Government will continue to support him and other indigenes to achieve their potential in their respective fields.

The statement was signed by Mamman Mohammed, Director General, Press and Media Affairs to the Governor.

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

So it happened that Eni Njoku became the first ever Vice Chancellor of the University of Lagos in 1962 after the institution was established. But his replacement with a Yoruba man in 1965 didn’t go down well with the students and many staff as it fuelled allegations of ethnicity and politics.

By 1965, serious political and ethnic tensions had begun to creep into university affairs following Nigeria’s wider political divisions at the time. By this time, his initial 3-year term as Vice-Chancellor ended. He was widely respected for his academic background, integrity, and calm leadership.

The University Council was divided on whether to renew his appointment. Although Njoku had significant support from students and many staff members, a group within the council opposed his reappointment.

Then, the Federal Government, led by Prime Minister Tafawa Balewa, became involved in the decision. In the end, Dr. Saburi Biobaku was appointed Vice-Chancellor instead of Njoku.

Many people viewed this as politically motivated, alleg!ng ethnic bias at a time of serious political rivalry.

Staff and student demonstrations, massive ones, erupted in Lagos over what they called an injustice and ethnic discr!m!nat!on against Njoku. University activities were disrupted, and the government had to intervene to restore order.

Following the incident, Professor Eni Njoku resigned from UNILAG, left gracefully and refused to fuel ethnic division. His departure was widely regretted by students and academics who admired his fairness and scholarship.

In 1966, he got an appointment as Vice-Chancellor of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), where he led the institution through the Nigerian Civil Wār (1967–1970). He passed away on December 22, 1974. He was 57 years old.

Njoku, born on November 6, 1917, was a distinguished Nigerian botanist, one of Nigeria’s foremost scholars and one of the earliest Nigerians to earn a PhD in Botany.

In 1948, he became a lecturer at the University College, Ibadan, became a Professor of Botany in 1956 and was appointed VC of UNILAG in 1960.

Credit: Ethnic African Stories

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, Ambassador Gabriel Tanimu Aduda, has retired from the Federal Civil Service after 22 years of what colleagues described as “distinguished and reform-driven service” to Nigeria.

The announcement, contained in a statement signed by Patience Ituke, Principal Superintendent of Press, on behalf of the Director of Information and Public Relations, confirmed that Aduda officially bowed out on Monday at the age of 53.

Aduda, who made history as the youngest Nigerian to be appointed a Federal Permanent Secretary, concluded his mandatory eight-year tenure seven years ahead of the statutory retirement age of 60.

Throughout his career, he served in several ministries, but his impact at the Ministry of Defence was particularly notable. 

His tenure was marked by policy reforms, institutional innovations, and initiatives aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s defence and security architecture.

Among his major contributions was the revitalization of Nigeria’s Defence Industry, including the push for a Defence Industry Regulatory Department to boost indigenous production and align operations with international standards; a proposal now under review by the Office of the Head of Service.

He also championed the revival of the long-abandoned Veterans’ Hospital project through discussions with Afreximbank on financing and Mayo Clinic, USA, on potential management. 

Additionally, he advocated for humanitarian demining, leading calls for the establishment of a National Mine Action Centre under the Ministry of Defence.

Aduda earned the goodwill of staff unions after implementing welfare reforms, including the restoration of official staff buses that had been grounded for decades, thereby easing transportation challenges for employees.

According to Ministry officials, Aduda’s tenure will be remembered for its emphasis on innovation, discipline, and results-driven governance.

In his farewell message, he expressed gratitude to God and appreciation to staff for their cooperation during his service. 

He described his career as “an honour and a privilege,” adding that contributing to nation-building across different ministries gave him deep fulfillment.

“Whatever we sow, we shall surely reap,” he told staff, urging them to uphold integrity, teamwork, and excellence in the discharge of their duties.

Aduda formally handed over to Dr. S. M. Attah, Director of Army Affairs Department, who has assumed office as Acting Permanent Secretary.

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

Nekede is a community located in Owerri West Local Government Area of Imo State, Nigeria and here are some key points about Nekede, our esteemed readers should know as compiled by ©️Princely Onyenwe – 9News Nigeria:

Geography and Location:

Nekede is situated approximately 10 kilometers southwest of Owerri, the capital city of Imo State.

Education:

Nekede is home to the Federal Polytechnic Nekede, one of the most prominent polytechnics in Nigeria.

Economy:

The community has a growing economy, driven by small-scale businesses, agriculture, and the presence of the polytechnic.

Culture:

Nekede has a rich cultural heritage, with the community celebrating various traditional festivals throughout the year.

Infrastructure:

The community has basic infrastructure, including roads, schools, healthcare facilities, and markets.

However, A capital city is the primary city or town of a country or region, serving as the seat of government, politics, and administration. Here are some key significance of a capital city:

Economic Significance:

1. Business Hub: Capital cities are often the center of commerce, industry, and finance, attracting businesses, investments, and talent.
2. Job Creation: Governments, international organizations, and businesses create jobs in capital cities, driving economic growth.
3. Infrastructure Development: Capital cities typically have well-developed infrastructure, including transportation systems, utilities, and public services.

Political Significance:

1. Seat of Government: Capital cities house the national or regional government, including the executive, legislative, and judicial branches.
2. Policy-Making: Capital cities are where key decisions are made, shaping the country’s or region’s future.
3. Diplomatic Relations: Capital cities often host foreign embassies and diplomatic missions, facilitating international relations.

Cultural Significance:

1. National Identity: Capital cities often reflect the country’s or region’s history, culture, and values.
2. Tourism: Capital cities attract tourists, showcasing iconic landmarks, museums, and cultural events.
3. Education: Capital cities are often home to prestigious universities, research institutions, and cultural centers.

Social Significance

1. Urbanization: Capital cities are often the most populous urban areas, driving urbanization and modernization.
2. Innovation: Capital cities can foster innovation, entrepreneurship, and creativity, driving progress and development.
3. Social Services: Capital cities typically have well-developed social services, including healthcare, education, and social welfare programs.

In summary, a capital city plays a vital role in a country’s or region’s economic, political, cultural, and social development, serving as a hub for governance, commerce, innovation, and culture.

Consequent upon this, Nekede community is a make up of the Owerri Capital city and on this therefore, there are a lot of enormous challenges surrounding the area on the effects of being among the closest communities in the state capital.

Such anomalous circumstances have eaten deep the fabrics of culture and tradition in the land. This came as a result of massive infrastructural developments and advancement of residents living in the areas.

Nekede has been affected by huge troops of stranger elements from all works of life. These stranger elements came from different traditional and political backgrounds and tribes and as such have deposited alot mixtures of communal relationship in Nekede.

Corruption and other forms of devastations synonymous with capital city may have in one way or the other ravaged the custom of the land of Nekede erroneously as one of the closest community in the state capital Owerri.

In all sincerity and good sense of judgement , 9News Nigeria reports that alot of naturalness and ambience are taken away from the originality of the traditional background and settings of Nekede as the writer scripted below:

It may interest our readers to note that Sir Henry Eke works at the office of the Civil Rights at the Great State of Texas USA. He is a Renowned Investigative Journalist, Philanthropist and Care Giver.

Sir Henry OTULE EKE lives in Austin Texas USA where he served as a retiree from Texas Government as a civil rights advocate and investigator. He is happily married to Lady Ify Eke and blessed with prosperous children. Henry Eke hails from Nekede in Owerri West Imo State NG.

His Article About Nekede Reads Thus:

If it has to be done all over again, l would have advised Owerri Elders to reject having Owerri as the Capital City of Imo State. It has not benefited Owerri people by any standard.

Its consequences are greater in negative outcomes than its positivity.

Bringing this discussion home, Nekede has lost it all…our way of life, ancestral farmlands, Otamiri River, a place that sustained fishing careers of many are polluted and discarded with reckless abandonment and many traditional and cultural recreational activities had gone to oblivion…very sad indeed.

Nekede lost it all to avaricious Governors that hid behind obnoxious Government policies to confiscate and stole Nekede farms and divided it amongst their cronies and left Nekede people empty handed. These Governors did these without empathy, conscience and concerns for Nekede people.

In some cases, my people were given pin drop of tokens just to steal our farmlands. With the economic prices paid by Nekede people through the confiscation of their lands, every successive lmo State Government remained undoubtedly very ungrateful to consider Nekede son or daughter for any high office like a deputy governorship position or Commissionership. Nekede settles for crumbs.

There was zero compensatory gratification on Nekede roads. In as much as Nekede remains a stone throw to the Douglas House, a Seat of the Government, our roads are impassable during rainy season. Few inches of Bridges along Nekede roads remain dead traps for the people that had volunteered and gave up their ancestral farmlands for academic institutions that continue to train renowned Engineers and other professionals. Nekede lost it all for a slice of crumbs that are left under the table for dogs to eat.

The Orlu governors were the culprits…they built roads and schools in their localities, but wilfully abandoned Nekede infrastructures to rot.

We lost everything…including our foods…no more Yam tuber and Cassava stem to be cultivated. No more “Ohia Eji, Ngolochu, Ohia Otukwuru, Ohia Mgbugbu near the bank of Otamiri River…no more clearing of Uzor Miri and Uzo Ubi. Everything gone to the wind!

No more ground for Ugu to grow and every Oha tree had been fallen. Families could no longer grind Cassava, bagged it and tied it with four strong “Icheku” poles until the Cassava is dried and ready to be fried. Before the Garri is finished, another bag is processed and is in place to be fried. My people looked fresh and well fed.

Now in the morning, families would get up …armed with rubber plates in their hands, line up to purchase already made Mama Put for Breakfast, Lunch and dinner without dignity to cooking and feeding their families. I bleed for Nekede. This life style is un-Nekede.

I bleed for my people…what do we have now? Proud Nekede families would go to Market to purchase already made God-knows what in wraps called Loi Loi in total disregard of the sanitary conditions where it is made and other condiments that they put in it to preserve its freshness. We eat and fall sick without knowing the origin of the sickness. We lost it all, folks.

Many of us have resorted to eating canned Chinese foods to associate their families with Westernization, but unknowingly feed on deadly poison that shuts down immune system…collapsing Kidneys, Lungs and hearts. We must do better.

Do yourself a favor…lgbo Foods of rice, Beans, Ukwa, Bitterleaf, Oha, Okra, Vegetables Soups are the best. Drink enough Water everyday. If you cannot afford bottled water, then boil it to separate dirty residue from it.

Beer and Soda (Minerals) are not Water. Cook Vegetables with Crawfish, Salt and Pepper with little fish and meat to boost your immune System. Stop ignoring fresh vegetables that you grow at your backyards.

We lost it all with Owerri as Capital. There is absolutely nothing to show for it”

Nekede has lost her way of life and my heart is bleeding for my ancestral homeland. We have lost it all.

Very piteous that we have sold every piece of land to the extent that our loved ones have no place to call their resting places when the Lord calls, except at the Parlour.

Families could not even gather together to reserve a plot or two for the burial of their loved ones. The land rush at Nekede was a stigmatization of people with craziness for affluence and without hardworking. People began to sell and resell properties of others without proper and adequate consultations.

Nekede became infested with unholy characteristics that were strange to Nekedeland.

Youths became infested with criminalities and introduced sacrilegious way of living that were fake and fraudulent to Nekede life style.

Youths began to introduce foreign words like gangs and Cultism. They began to inflict serious bodily injuries to others. In some instances, fatalities became very rampant, thereby torpedoing Nekede serenity into Police and Military enclaves.

Many saw their father’s hard works and retirement benefits went up in flames in the name of new imports of Cultism in Nekede…many of us in Diasporas were in shock and begain to reminisce if indeed Nekede was a place of our birth and residence. Unbelievable!

I have a lot in my mind, Nekede, but my heart is too heavy to continue.

You need to train yourself. I have only Secondary School education to train myself. Before the completion of my Secondary education, l was nurtured by my parents of blessed memories and my older siblings.

Growing up with my group at Nekede, we never knew the word, gang or cultism. We showed our strengths at the farmlands with our backs exposed to a scorching and radiating Sun that baked us like fermented bread.

My group returned home from school, but had to travel miles away to eat one’s food and after which a hoe was handed to you to display your strength.

At times, one would send home to fetch drinking water and was confronted to travel on a lonely farm path. Your body’s hairs stood attention at the any movement of Bush Lizard as the Lizard crawled on dried leaves. One ran like a wounded Antelope as if someone was after you. Such experiences were wiped away as Nekede has lost her way of life…l bleed for my homeland.

The lmo State Capital that is located at Owerri has done more harm than good to the psyche of Nde Nekede. If the Capital territory is to be re-located again, it shall be vehemently resisted with every drop of blood in me.

The most relevant question to ask at this point in time is…ls Nekede better off than she was when the Capital territory met her…in my opinion, it is worse, because we lost it all.

My heart bleeds…Ndewo nu!

Sir Chief Henry EUO Eke, Sr- Omereoha l of Nekede writes from Texas USA.

You can call to send-in your article or email us : princelynews@gmail.com

For inquiries on this news contact 9News Nigeria @08036856526

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

The President of Germany Vielen Dank, Bundespräsident Frank-Walter Steinmeier has arrived Nigeria Wednesday for a one day working visit with the government.

Welcoming President Frank-Walter Steinmeier of Germany to the Presidential Villa on his State Visit to Nigeria, President Ahmed Bola Tinubu GCFR expressed honour to have the august visitor in the country.

The visit is targeted at engaging on bilateral discussions and solidification of business ties between the two countries as 9News Nigeria reports.

However, the business forum that took place during this visit offered a valuable opportunity to further strengthen and expand the critical partnership between Nigeria and Germany while looking towards establishing some future business expansion and development in Nigeria.

President Tinubu gave the German President assurance that Nigeria have a solid foundation based on a rich history of collaboration in important sectors such as energy, agriculture, education, development, technology, and renewables.

Bundespräsident Frank-Walter Steinmeier had a good stay at the state house in Abuja after technical engagement with the Nigerian experts in the bilateral policies of government aimed at giving Nigeria a free hub of economical advancement with the German government.

Recall that Renewed Hope administration under President Ahmed Bola Tinubu is keen on economic recovery and developmental advancement which has endeared him wide policy assimilation with business developed countries and the international organizations to preserve our green economy.

-Princely Onyenwe reporting

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

The World oldest living person, Spain’s Maria Branyas Morera, who was born in the United States and lived through two world wars, had died at the age of 117, her family said on Tuesday.

“Maria Branyas has left us. She died as she wished: In her sleep, peacefully and without pain”, her family wrote on her account on social network X.

“We will always remember her for her advice and kindness,” they said.

Branyas, who had lives for the last two decades in the Santa Maria del Tura nursing home in the town of Olot in northeastern Spain, had warned in a post on Tuesday that she felt “weak”.

“The time is near. Don’t cry, I don’t like tears. And above all, don’t suffer for me. Wherever I go, I will be happy,” She added in the account which is run by her family.

Guinness World Records had officially acknowledged Branyas’s status as the world oldest person in January 2023 following the death of French nun Lucile Random aged 118.

-9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

By Obinna Ejianya (9News Nigeria – Melbourne, Australia)

It is shocking and disheartening to observe that individuals of Igbo ancestry, despite their natural heritage, have consciously or inadvertently distanced themselves from their Igbo identity.

This phenomenon is most prevalent among the Igbos residing in the South-South region of Nigeria, including Rivers, Cross River, Bayelsa, Kogi, and other states. This article therefore, aims to shed light on the historical and sociopolitical factors contributing to this syndrome, emphasize the diversity of Igbo language and culture, the significance of Igbo names, the uniqueness of different Igbo accents across different states, and stress the importance of embracing and promoting one’s Igbo cultural heritage and identity.

The roots of this trend can be traced back to the Biafran war era, some 50 years ago during which some Igbos from the South-South region were coerced into renouncing their Igbo identity in exchange for political favors and positions.

Denouncing Igbo Identity:

The Biafran War played a significant role in fostering this syndrome, as some Igbos from the South-South region were politically manipulated into renouncing their Igbo heritage in exchange for personal gain, political favor, and positions of power. As a result, people from the South-south of Nigeria began the illusional journey of distancing themselves from their Igbo identity, leading to a decline in the promotion and preservation of Igbo culture and language within these regions.

The aftermath of the Biafran War resulted in political manipulation that made people from the South-South region of Nigeria begin to disassociate themselves from their Igbo heritage.

Diverse Igbo Identities:

Igbos are not solely confined to Delta State, Anambra, Enugu, Ebonyi, Abia, and Imo State. They can also be found in Rivers, Bayelsa, Cross River, and Kogi states.

Contrary to popular belief, Igbos are not solely concentrated in Delta State, Anambra, Enugu, Ebonyi, Abia, and Imo State; they can also be found in Rivers, Bayelsa, Cross River, and Kogi states. Each state’s Igbo population possesses distinct accents and ways of speaking the Igbo language.

It is important to articulate the observance that Igbos from different states have distinct accents, dialects, and variations in their Igbo language and customs which include typical Igbo way of dressing, chieftaincy titles, songs, dancing, and food which culminate and have Igboness in them.

For instance, people from Awka North and South in Anambra State speak differently compared to other parts of the state. Similarly, Igbos from Ebonyi, Enugu, Abia, and Imo states each have their unique ways of speaking Igbo. Owerri, for instance, has a distinct accent that may be challenging for non-Owerri speakers to understand. These differences, however, should be celebrated as they contribute to the rich diversity within the Igbo community.

This diversity should be celebrated, as it reflects the richness and uniqueness of the Igbo culture.

Promoting Igbo Dialects and Accents:
Rather than suppressing their Igbo dialects and accents, individuals should embrace and promote them. Speaking Igbo to fellow Igbo individuals fosters a sense of unity and cultural pride. While there is a standardized version known as Central Igbo, derived from Abia State, each Igbo state has developed its own widely accepted Igbo dialect to facilitate mutual understanding. For example, an Onitsha person’s Igbo dialect closely resembles that of the Anioma people in Delta State. Even within larger cities like Onitsha, indigenous Onitsha people have modified their dialect to ensure effective communication with other Igbo speakers.

Enugu and Ebonyi States: Igbo people from Enugu and Ebonyi states have evolved their dialects to accommodate the linguistic nuances of other Igbo dialects. They have made adjustments in pronunciation and vocabulary to ensure effective communication with Igbos from different regions. This adaptability showcases their willingness to bridge linguistic gaps and foster unity within the Igbo community.

Anambra and Delta States: Anambra, being a diverse state, has various Igbo dialects spoken within its borders. For instance, individuals from Onitsha, a prominent city in Anambra State, have modified their dialect to closely align with the Igbo dialect spoken by the Anioma people in Delta State. This adjustment allows for seamless communication between Onitsha and Anioma speakers, despite their geographical separation.

Imo State: In Imo State, which encompasses several distinct Igbo communities, there is a conscious effort to dilute regional accents and adopt a more standardized Igbo dialect. This is done to ensure that Imo State Igbos can communicate effectively with Igbos from other regions, promoting mutual understanding and preserving their shared Igbo identity.

Abia State: Abia State serves as a hub for the Central Igbo dialect, which is widely accepted and understood by Igbos from various states. As a result, individuals from Abia State have taken the initiative to maintain and promote this dialect, making it easier for Igbos from other regions to communicate with them.

These examples highlight the adaptability and willingness of Igbos from different states to modify their dialects for the sake of effective communication and unity within the larger Igbo community. By embracing these linguistic adjustments, they demonstrate their commitment to preserving their Igbo identity while fostering harmonious relations with fellow Igbo speakers from diverse backgrounds.

Instead of shying away from their Igbo dialect, individuals should be encouraged to embrace and speak their native language with fellow Igbos. While there is a standardized form known as Central Igbo, derived from Abia State, each Igbo state has developed its widely accepted dialect to ensure mutual understanding among different Igbo communities. For example, the Onitsha people have adjusted their dialect to resemble that of the Anioma people in Delta State, facilitating communication. Enugu and Ebonyi state Igbos have also evolved their dialects to accommodate other Igbo communities. Thus, the variation in accents and dialects does not diminish one’s Igboness but rather highlights the individuality and diversity within the Igbo culture.

Sense of Pride In Embracing Your Igbo Heritage and Identity:
It is crucial to emphasize that having a different Igbo dialect does not diminish one’s Igboness. Adapting other tribal identities instead of embracing Igbo culture and dialect is illogical. Your Igbo heritage and identity can never truly be disowned, as every aspect of your being reflects your Igbo background. Even if the spelling or pronunciation of your Igbo name is altered, it still signifies your Igboness. Therefore, it is imperative to shed this syndrome of distancing oneself from Igbo heritage and proudly embrace one’s identity as an Igbo person. Be proud to show off your Igbo background and identity because it becomes very hard to cover up your Igbo name, language, and other cultural heritage while pretending to be someone else other than who you are.

Igbo names are typically derived from Igbo words, proverbs, or historical events, and they carry the linguistic and cultural essence of the Igbo language. Through names, Igbo cultural values, beliefs, and traditions are perpetuated. They serve as a reminder of the rich heritage and distinct identity of the Igbo people.

Igbo names hold immense cultural significance in the Igbo community. They serve as a link to ancestral connections, preserve linguistic and cultural identity, foster a sense of community, contribute to cultural preservation, and facilitate the transmission of cultural knowledge. By embracing and promoting Igbo names, individuals actively participate in the preservation and celebration of Igbo cultural heritage.

Individuals affected by this syndrome should make concerted efforts to overcome it and proudly embrace their Igbo heritage and identity. Denouncing one’s Igbo ancestry becomes increasingly difficult when all other aspects of a person’s life, such as their name, customs, and cultural practices, unmistakably indicate their Igbo background. Even if an Igbo name is spelled or pronounced differently, it still signifies Igboness. Names like Wike (Nwike in other dialects) and Wigwe (Nwigwe) are all Igbo names, and one should take pride in them. Therefore, individuals and communities should promote their Igbo cultural heritage and identity, recognizing that they cannot adopt another heritage.

In conclusion, individuals of Igbo ancestral descent, regardless of their state of origin, should preserve and promote their Igbo identity. The diverse Igbo dialects within different states contribute to the cultural richness of the Igbo community. Celebrating and speaking Igbo fosters unity and understanding among Igbo speakers. Embracing one’s Igbo heritage is essential, as it is an integral part of one’s identity that cannot be replaced or disowned.

By Obinna Ejianya (9News Nigeria – Melbourne, Australia)

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

Question: What is this Fulani Conquest Agenda?

There is no doubt that there is a Fulani Conquest Agenda against Nigerians. The immigrant settler Fulani do not hide it. For decades Nigerians talked about the arrogant “born to rule” belief of the Fulani, and their Ahmadu Bello was reported as having declared it. For Readers who may not yet know here is his infamous (and cruel) Declaration:

“The new nation called Nigeria should be an Estate of our great grandfather Uthman Dan Fodio. We must ruthlessly prevent a change of power. We use the minorities in the North as Willing Tools and the South as a conquered territory and never allow them to rule over us and never allow them to have control over their future”. – Ahmadu Bello, Premier of the Northern Region, reported in The Parrot newspaper, 12^th October 1960.

Some ten months before that, the same Ahmadu Bello as reported in the Sunday Express, December 20, 1959, had said, 

“I too, after conquering the South, will also divide Nigeria into two, to be taken charge of by two of my Lieutenants.”

Let us also never forget the “rumours” that had been around in the 1960s that Ahmadu Bello was preparing a Jihad and the first military coup was in order to stop him. We read in part one, chapter eleven of eye-witness Captain Ben Gbulie in his book: Nigeria’s Five Majors, a factual, first-hand, inside account of the coup d’etat of the 15th of January, 1966:

“For instance, it was being whispered that the much-feared Jihad had been scheduled to take place in January the following year. And there was no gainsaying the ‘D-Day’. It was January 17, 1966.”…

“Continuing, he said something about some arms and ammunition having been smuggled into the country, through the Northern border, solely for the purpose of prosecuting the said Jihad.”…

“…Also learnt through the grapevine that some Arab soldiers in mufti were already infiltrating into the country at the invitation of the Northern Regional Premier, Alhaji Sir Ahmadu Bello. The Jihad, many an officer feared, was soon to become a military fact; and their fears could not be dismissed out of hand as completely groundless, especially when viewed in the light of the secret nocturnal meetings purportedly held at the Premier’s Ngwanshanu residence: clandestine, nocturnal meetings…”

In more recent times and today, the testimonies of survivors of the relentless slaughter of Nigerians in the Middle Belt is revealing. They say that their attackers are armed Fulani who with the slaughter, destroy and burn their homes then the Fulani take over the land, and survivors flee elsewhere or are sent to IDP camps. 

In addition, some members of the international community, including their political class know that the “farmer-herdsmen clash” narrative is untrue, and that the Fulani are creating an empire for themselves by taking over the lands belonging to Nigerians. Here is just one example:

“So the message now is: ‘Oh! It’s the herdsmen, you know they’re just poor herdsmen trying to get green space for their cows’. The reality is that they’re Fulani tribesmen they’re trying to re-establish the Fulani Caliphate. So, we know that the Turks are involved…” – Robert Destro, former US Assistant Secretary of State for Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor, 28/10/2021 Briefing to US Congress. 

Question: Who then is Driving this Fulani Conquest Agenda?

The Research done by NINAS (the Voice of the indigenous peoples of the South and Middle Belt), identified that the Caliphate-imposed FORGERY called 1999 Constitution is the Instrument that empowers the Fulani Conquest. Firstly, the lies in the Preamble hijack the Sovereignty and Self-Determination of indigenous Ethnic Nations thereby disabling them. Then, the 68-item Exclusive List (Second Schedule, Part 1) renders Nigerians defenceless against armed invaders by placing arms and ammunition in the hands of Central Government with State Government incapacitated. Retired Lieutenant-General T Y Danjuma in March 2018 warned that Nigeria’s Armed Forces “collude” with the invaders. Since then, others including survivors have agreed with that assessment. 

Obviously, the Fulani are the Owners of their Conquest Agenda against Nigerians that Ahmadu Bello had openly made known. But, Ahmadu Bello also said that WILLING TOOLS would be the ones to make it happen for the Fulani. So WHO then are these Drivers, these “Willing Tools”?

The Driving Force ie the Drivers of the Fulani’s Agenda are actually the indigenous political class because they are the ENFORCERS of the 1999 Constitution. The Fulani Conquest of Nigerians cannot happen, cannot continue, cannot succeed if not for these Drivers of it. So, although the Fulani are Responsible for it, the Drivers are ACCOUNTABLE for it. 

The Message is quite simple. 

1. It is that there is a very real Fulani Conquest Agenda against Nigerians.

2. That Fulani Conquest Agenda is enabled by the illegitimate 1999 Constitution.

3. Working against their own people and their own Ethnic Nation, the Drivers of the Fulani Conquest Agenda are the indigenous political class. 

These Drivers of the Fulani Conquest Agenda, aka Willing Tools can be identified objectively. They are proprietors and promoters of EVERY political party in Nigeria for they all subscribe to that 1999 Constitution. They are also those who contest for elections whether or not they win, then the winner will swear an Oath of Office to uphold and defend the 1999 Constitution (thereby giving life to that Forgery). Drivers of the Fulani Conquest Agenda are thus indigenous people who either seek to become, or even do become, your Presidents and Vice, Cabinet Ministers, Senators, Representatives, State Governors and Deputies, Members of State House of Assembly, Commissioners, Local Government Area Chairpersons, Special Advisers, Judges, and Top civil servants. THAT is the list of Drivers of the Fulani Conquest Agenda. 

The strategy of the Drivers of the Fulani Conquest Agenda is based on denying indigenous Ethnic Nations their SOVEREIGNTY (so that the Fulani can remain the overlords). Here are three examples:

1. A key thing is that the Drivers of the Fulani Conquest Agenda like slave owners, first create, and then profit from the Miseries of others and remain unmoved if they die. Being the political class (thus seeking votes), they however put on an appearance of caring. They pretend to stand for anti-corruption (meanwhile the 1999 Constitution they subscribe to is the parent of corruption). They talk about making Nigeria “productive” (meanwhile the 68-item Exclusive List of the 1999 Constitution they subscribe to LOCKS DOWN Nigerians). They promise to improve security (meanwhile the 68-item Exclusive List of the 1999 Constitution they subscribe to renders Nigerians defenceless).

2. The Drivers of the Fulani Conquest Agenda constantly use Disinformation, ie false information INTENDED TO MISLEAD. This is done directly, plus they also employ Influencers, Religious Leaders, and Mainstream Media. An example of major Disinformation is the False Narrative that Nigeria’s key problem is “Leadership”. However (using reasoning), the CORE problem is Nigeria’s dysfunctional constitutional arrangement, which then produces bad leadership, corruption, etc. This Disinformation keeps Nigerians distracted and prevents them focusing on the fact that the 1999 Constitution is the Entry Visa for the (armed) Fulani into the lands of indigenous peoples, and is their Power Source. Another key Disinformation is the False Narrative that the National Assembly can make a Constitution for Nigerians when the Powers and Right of constitution-making belong only to the indigenous peoples since Sovereignty is only with them. Similarly, it is invalid and a deceit to “amend” a Forgery which the 1999 Constitution is. Now too, there are proposals to bring in either the 1960 Constitution or 1963 Constitution both of which represent INCOMPLETE DECOLONIZATION so are obsolete and completely unacceptable, yet some celebrity lawyers continue to assist with this Disinformation.

3. The Drivers of the Fulani Conquest Agenda use Fear and Intimidation. The masses are deliberately burdened with multidimensional poverty, giving them very few life options. Those who manage to get jobs in the security services are kept underpaid making them highly dependent on keeping the “big boss” happy, and so become willing to do whatever One-Nigeria commands them to do, including unjustifiable use of (deadly) force on Nigerians. 

Question: How can Nigerians rescue themselves from the Fulani Conquest Agenda?

The Fulani Conquest Agenda is stopped by stopping the 1999 Constitution and stopping the Drivers of the Fulani Conquest Agenda. 

Question: What therefore should Nigerians do NOW?

Deliver yourself like a gazelle from the hand of the hunter, And like a bird from the hand of the fowler. (Proverbs 6: 5)

Even though Nigerians allowed themselves to be dragged along to 2023 Elections that produced UNTENABLE results, Nigerians always have VETO POWER over the 1999 Constitution. Therefore, ANY day and ANY time that Nigerians say they no longer want the fraudulent 1999 Constitution to be in operation, is when that happens. There will be NO POWER VACUUM because there will be a time-bound Transitioning period for Constitutional Renegotiation and the outcome can be a Federation, a Confederation, or independent Successor Countries. The NINAS Transitioning Template has been on the Table since Declaration of Constitutional Force Majeure on 16 December 2020. Meaning, those killed, maimed, raped, kidnapped, and traumatized by the Fulani Conquest Agenda since that time could have been spared… Therefore, Nigerians MUST ENSURE that the Drivers of the Fulani Conquest Agenda be made accountable their treachery.

Ndidi Uwechue is a British citizen with Igbo heritage from the Lower Niger Bloc. She is a retired Metropolitan (London) Police Officer, she is a signatory to the Constitutional Force Majeure, and she writes from Abuja.

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The story of Kurunmi is one that draws tears from the eyes of people who feel pity for a man who stood firm for tradition.

There was a time in the history of Yoruba where the heir to the throne is killed whenever the king dies.

This tradition came about because it was discovered that a lot of princes killed their fathers so they could ascend the throne and become king instead.

It was believed that if the heirs were killed alongside their fathers, kings would live longer on the throne.

During this period, Alaafin Atiba was the paramount ruler of the Oyo empire, and he appointed Kurunmi, the son of Esiele as the Aare-ona-Kakanfo ( the generalissimo of the whole Yoruba warriors).

As it was with tradition, a king and an Aare-ona-Kakanfo cannot stay in the same town because their wield similar powers, so Kurunmi was assigned to Ijaiye, where he was given the power to lord over.

One day, Alaafin Atiba summoned the kings and lords of the neighboring towns and told them he wished to change tradition. Present at the meeting were kings like the Timi of Ede, Balogun Ibikunle of Ibadan, and Kurunmi himself.

When they were seated, Atiba came down from his throne and held the sword of Ogun (the Yoruba god of iron) in his right hand, and the bolt of Sango (the Yoruba god of lightning and thunder) in his left. He charged the royalties present to swear by the sword and bolt that after his death, his son Aremo Adelu will be made king after his demise.

Kurunmi disagreed immediately, and he reminded Alaafin Atiba that according to the
tradition, the moment Atiba does, his son Adelu must follow suit. Other royalties tried to persuade Kurunmi, but he was adamant. When he couldn’t convince them, he walked out in anger and headed for Ijaiye.

The other Kings and Chiefs went home to their people to inform them of the latest developments. When Balogun Ibikunle of Ibadan told his chiefs the news, one of the chiefs Basorun Ogunmola took the matter up and suggested they wage war against Kurunmi.

Kurunmi had once captured Ogunmola who had a secret affair with his wife. He captured him, tied him to a stake like a goat and fed him ashes as food. As a form of revenge, Ogunmola proposed war against Kurunmi.

Alaafin Atiba sent emissaries to Kurunmi to change his mind, but he remained adamant, and when Alaafin Atiba saw that he would not change his mind, he sent two calabash bowls to Kurunmi. One of the calabashes contained an effigy of a pair of twins (Yoruba symbol of peace), while the other calabash contained gunpowder (Yoruba symbol of war).
Kurunmi immediately chose war and sent the emissaries back to Atiba.

Immediately, Kurunmi summoned his chief warrior Balogun Ogunkoroju and told him to prepare for war.

As part of the preparations for war, Kurunmi consulted the oracle, and the oracle warned him not to go to war with Ibadan because he would lose the war. Kurunmi was not going to have any of it, and he pestered the oracle to tell him what to do to win the war.

The oracle then told Kurunmi that in order for him not to lose the war, he must not cross the River Ose, which was the boundary between Ijaiye and Ibadan. Kurunmi agreed, and went ahead to plan for the war against Ibadan.

While Kurunmi was making preparations, the Ibadan warriors, led by Ogunmola went to meet the people of Ęgba who were said to possess very powerful charms.

The Ęgba people then prepared a potent charm called Eedi (a charm that causes someone or a group of people to ignore warnings or dare something that will harm them). The Eedi was set out to the River Ose so that the Ijaiye warriors will be tempted to cross the river.

When the war came, Kurunmi sent his five sons to war to fight the Ibadan people.

During the face-off, Ijaiye warriors soundly defeated the Ibadan warriors, and the remaining Ibadan warriors fled back, crossing the River Ose.
Unfortunately for Kurunmi, his warriors fell to the potency of the Eedi, and they crossed the River Ose, believing that they had momentum, and that they could chase the Ibadan soldiers far away.

Immediately they crossed the river, their charms failed them, and they were killed in thousands by the warriors of Ibadan who had set a trap for them. Kurunmi suffered heavy losses, and lost all his five sons in the war.

Basorun Ogunmola mocked him and sent a message to him that he was coming for his head. On hearing the news of the death of his daughter and his men, Kurunmi became very devastated and suicidal, but while he grieved, he held on to his belief that tradition remains tradition, and that he does not regret standing firm in the face of corruption.

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By Obinna Ejianya (9News Nigeria – Melbourne, Australia)

The British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) has long been recognized as one of the most influential media organizations in the world. Established in 1922, the BBC has played a crucial role in shaping public opinion and disseminating information on a global scale. From its inception, the BBC’s reach extended far beyond the borders of the United Kingdom, making it a powerful tool for projecting British influence and values across the globe. In this article, we will have a critical look into the complex legacy of the BBC and explore its role as a protagonist of British imperialism and neocolonialism.

Understanding British imperialism and neocolonialism

Before we examine the BBC’s role in promoting British imperialism, it is essential to understand the concepts of British imperialism and neocolonialism. British imperialism refers to the historical period when the British Empire expanded its political, economic, and cultural influence across the world. This expansion was driven by a desire for resources, markets, and strategic advantages.

Neocolonialism, on the other hand, refers to the continuation of colonial power structures and economic dominance even after the formal end of colonial rule. Neocolonialism often takes the form of economic exploitation, political interference, and cultural domination. These concepts provide the framework for understanding the BBC’s involvement in promoting British interests and maintaining influence in the post-colonial era.

The role of the BBC in promoting British imperialism

The BBC played a crucial role in promoting British imperialism through its media coverage and programming. During the height of the British Empire, the BBC served as a mouthpiece for the colonial administration, disseminating news and information that aligned with British interests. This biased coverage helped shape public opinion in favor of British imperialism and maintained support for colonial rule.

Furthermore, the BBC’s programming often portrayed the colonies as exotic and primitive, reinforcing stereotypes and perpetuating a narrative of British superiority. Documentaries and radio broadcasts presented a sanitized and romanticized version of colonial life, downplaying the harsh realities of exploitation and oppression. By doing so, the BBC contributed to the justification and perpetuation of the imperial project.

Case studies: BBC’s coverage of colonial events and narratives

To fully grasp the extent of the BBC’s role in promoting British imperialism, it is important to examine specific case studies of its coverage of colonial events and narratives. One such example is the BBC’s reporting on the Mau Mau uprising in Kenya during the 1950s. The BBC portrayed the Mau Mau fighters as savage and bloodthirsty, while downplaying the underlying causes of the rebellion, such as land dispossession and political marginalization.

Another case study is the BBC’s coverage of the Indian independence movement. While the Indian struggle for freedom was a significant historical event, the BBC often framed it as a threat to British stability and painted Indian leaders as radicals and troublemakers. This biased coverage served to maintain British control over India and hindered the progress of the independence movement.

Criticisms and controversies surrounding the BBC’s global impact

The BBC’s global impact has not been without its fair share of criticisms and controversies. Many argue that the BBC’s coverage of international events has often been biased and reflective of a pro-Western, pro-British perspective. This bias can be seen in the reporting of conflicts such as the Falklands War and the Iraq War, where the BBC’s coverage favored the British government’s position and downplayed the perspectives of other nations involved.

Additionally, the BBC has faced accusations of cultural imperialism, as its programming often prioritizes British content and values over those of other cultures. This has led to concerns about the erosion of local cultures and the homogenization of global media.

The BBC’s response to accusations of imperialism and neocolonialism

In response to accusations of imperialism and neocolonialism, the BBC has taken steps to address these concerns. The organization has implemented editorial guidelines that aim to ensure impartiality and fairness in its reporting. Additionally, the BBC has made efforts to diversify its workforce and increase representation of different cultures and perspectives.

However, critics argue that these measures are not enough to counteract the deep-rooted biases and structural inequalities within the organization. They argue that true decolonization requires a fundamental reevaluation of the BBC’s role and a commitment to challenging the narratives of imperial dominance.

Examining the BBC’s efforts towards decolonization and diversity

Despite the challenges, the BBC has made some progress towards decolonization and diversity. In recent years, the organization has produced documentaries and programs that critically examine Britain’s colonial past and its impact on the present. It has also made efforts to amplify the voices of marginalized communities and provide a platform for diverse perspectives.

However, there is still a long way to go. Critics argue that the BBC must go beyond tokenistic gestures and actively work towards dismantling the structures of imperialism and neocolonialism that still persist within the organization. This requires a commitment to challenging power imbalances and amplifying the voices of those who have historically been silenced.

The future of the BBC and its global influence

As we look to the future, the role of the BBC in promoting British imperialism and neocolonialism remains a contentious issue. While the organization has taken steps towards decolonization and diversification, there is still much work to be done. The BBC must continue to critically examine its own role in perpetuating colonial narratives and actively work towards challenging the structures of power that underpin its global influence.

Conclusion: The BBC’s complex legacy as a protagonist of British imperialism and neocolonialism

In conclusion, the BBC’s global impact cannot be divorced from its historical role as a protagonist of British imperialism and neocolonialism. While the organization has made efforts towards decolonization and diversity, its complex legacy remains. It is essential to critically examine the BBC’s role in perpetuating colonial narratives and to hold the organization accountable for its actions. Only through continued reflection and reform can the BBC truly transform itself into a force for global understanding and equality.

Call to Action: Join the conversation on decolonizing media and challenging neocolonial narratives. Share your thoughts and ideas on how the BBC and other media organizations can play a more equitable role in breaking the chains of neocolonialism and engendering political freedom and development in former colonies such as Nigeria, Ghana and others.

By Obinna Ejianya (9News Nigeria – Melbourne, Australia)

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Lurking Omen of the “Ogoni Nine”

By Prophet McJulius

It is said that common sense is not common and, that’s the perfect truth about the man called Asari Dokubo. This is because if Asari has common sense he wouldn’t be doing what he’s doing against the Igbos in recent months, thereby repeating the same grave mistakes that his forebearers made which proved in the end to be costly a mistake and foolishness of the worst order.

The inability to use past experience to one’s benefit in present circumstances is a lack of common sense, which is tantamount to foolishness and, this is the correct description of what Asari Dokubo is doing. He is not wise and, it’s just a matter of time before this is proven to be true.

COMMON SENSE is not a product of too much learning but, one’s ability to apply past experiences to one’s advantage in present situations and circumstances, but unfortunately Asari in his denseness does not have and could not apply this cheap commodity.

In recent months Asari has been on the loose attacking the Igbos all in the name of pleasing and luring favour from enemies of Ndi-Igbo, this he is doing without any provocation or offence against him personally or his tribe.

If Asari has any personal problems with Nnamdi Kanu he should settle it with him and leave the Igbos out of it. Why does he drag a whole tribe because of a business fallout with one man?

The way Asari has been dancing his dance of shame nakedly to the admiration and gloating of his paymasters shows that he has not learnt anything from the past ugly experience of his kindred who toed the same ignoble and infamous path. They ended up in infamy having been betrayed, brutalised, decimated and completely destroyed by the same enemies of the Ijaw nation. Those ill-fated Ijaw leaders failed to recognise who the enemies of the Ijaw people truly are just as Asari is doing today.

From all records available, there is no proof anywhere of any maltreatment, mischief or wickedness of the Igbos towards or against Ijaw people to warrant Asari or any Ijaw leader either living or dead to continue to single out the Igbos for such ferocious attacks like this empty-headed over bloated watermelon is doing right now.

The Igbo people have always been supportive of their Ijaw brothers and neighbours as was evidently shown in their defiant and unflinching massive support for Goodluck Jonathan both during the electioneering and during his government proper. It’s therefore difficult to justify the reason(s) why Asari will be the one attacking the Igbos after all the love the Igbos have shown to the Ijaws.

It’s noteworthy to warn Asari Dokubo of the terrible dangers inherent in his cowardly and sycophantic politics of attacking the Igbos for no just cause in his greed, stupid, dubious and desperate bid to gain favour from the enemies of the Igbo people and powers that be.

Asari should remember that his kinsmen who followed that dangerous and self-destructive route in the past ended up paying with their lives. Starting from Isaac Adaka Boro, the infamous Ogoni 9 led by the turncoat and self-confessed Igbo hater, Ken Saro Wiwa and Henry Orkah. These were all used, dumped and eventually killed and forgotten by their paymasters and slaveholders.

What Asari and his types fail to understand is that in Islam, their types who make themselves instruments in the hand of the enemies against their own people and the innocent are referred to as “USEFUL IDIOTS” and, they’re always discarded and destroyed when their usefulness is no longer needed.

My last warning for this demented pig called Asari Dokubo is that sooner or later there will be another repeat of Ogoni 9 and when that happens he will certainly be among the nine or maybe this time around the number might multiply. The earlier he begins to retrace his steps and stop attacking the chosen people of God the better for him else, judgement will catch up with him as it did with others.

A child who follows the road his father followed will certainly meet whatever met his father and, his experience will not be different, whether good or bad – Raph Odum McJulius.

Finally, let me state clearly here that I know for sure that Asari does not speak for nor represent the vast majority of the Ijaw people, he only speaks for and represents his corrupted, blood-polluted, blood defiled and blood-contaminated stomach, hence I did not address this article to the good people of the Ijaw nation but, to Asari Dokubo and other gluttonous pigs like him.

Raph Odum McJulius Enechi is a Prophet, Poet, Author and The Senior Pastor Of The Balanced Church, with headquarters in Lagos, Nigeria.

Raph Odum McJulius Enechi is a 9News Nigeria editorial guest contributor and the opinions shared in this piece do not depict that of 9News Nigeria. For more inquiries, contact info@9newsng.com

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CommonWealth, EU, ECOWAS, AU and other International Election Observation Missions have affirmed irregularities, violence, thuggery and several election malpractices in the 25th February 2023 election.

In a press conference, the mission stated that though the election was conducted successfully, there were sporadic violence incidents and other technological irregularities.

The commission called on the INEC to do the needful while they urged Nigerians to stay calm as they continue to monitor the outcome of the election result collation.

More details coming …

9News Nigeria

From Princely Onyenwe

In recent times, All Progressives Congress APC party and their opposition People’s Democratic Party PDP have been canvassing for dominance in whose turn the 2023 senatorial seat will be best suitable and service delivery. Dr Alex Mbata and Rt. Hon Uche Onyeagocha are rivals in this contest.

The PDP Candidate for Imo East Senatorial District, Hon. Barr. Uche Onyeagocha strongly condemns Imo Lawmakers for voting against the proposed financial autonomy of legislature, judiciary and local Governments. legislative and local government financial autonomy.

In a release signed by Prince MacDonald Enwere, special sssistant on Media to Hon. Barr. Uche Onyeagocha, these lawmakers who voted against financial autonomy of legislature and judiciary acted in bad faith; Hon. Eddy Obinna,
Hon. Samuel Otuibe,
Hon. Emeka Nduka,
Hon. Arthur Egwim,
Hon. Johnson Duru,
Hon. Michael Onyemaechi, Hon. Uche Ogbuagu,
Hon. Chiji Collins-Isiala,
Hon. Ngozi Obiefule,
Hon. Uju Onwudiwe,
Hon. Obinna Okwara,
Hon. Chyna Iwuanyanwu,
Hon. Kennedy Ibe,
Hon. Hecleus Okoro,
Hon. Chigozie Ogbunikpa,
Hon. Paul Emeziem,
Hon. Ekene Nnodimele,
Hon. Chigozie Nwaneri,
Hon. Dominic Ezerioha, Hon. Kanayo Onyemachi.

“Hon. Onyeagocha described their action as disgusting, unacceptable and highly condemnable.

“Recall that Imolites were highly bewildered and thoroughly embarrassed for such despicable display of insensitivity by these lawmakers who boldly voted against the financial autonomy of legislature, judiciary and local Governments.

“It is unfortunate and ludicrous that the legislators who supposed to be the boldest brand of our representative democracy have turned themselves into proponents of anti-people policies, even against themselves.

“They should be ashamed of themselves for allowing the Governor to continue to use them as his string-puppets against the general interest of the people. For denying the judiciary financial independence, it confirms that Governor Uzodinma wants to continue to manipulate the course of justice in the state through the legislature.

“Hon. Onyeagocha urged the people to ensure that all the lawmakers who are opposed to financial autonomy of the legislature and the judiciary are voted out in the forthcoming general elections as they do not deserve to represent the people any more.

“We won’t fail to applaud and commend the dexterity and audacity of Hon. Philip Ejiogu, Hon. Anyadike Nwosu, Hon Frank Ugboma, Hon. Solomon Anukam, Hon. Pascal Okolie for bracing all odds and standing out in defending the yearnings and aspirations of the people by endorsing and voting for financial autonomy of legislature, judiciary and local Governments.

However it is really getting more interesting in the Political Atmosphere of Owerri zone particularly in Imo East senatorial zone where Alex Mbata PAM and Uche Onyeagocha will slug it out.

Voters in this area are getting ready to cast their vote to preferred candidates having tested the hard times that bedevilled their zonal representation in the present administration both at the senate and federal house..

Onyeagocha will battle with Dr Alex Mbata in the senate election for Owerri Imo East.

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From Princely Onyenwe

It was indeed a stage- managed drama and a complete charade showcased at the Chatham House lecture few moments ago where the All Progressives Congress APC Party Presidential candidate Bola Ahmed Tinubu Tinubu failed Nigerians for proving unfit to answer some technical questions directed to him.

However Bola Tinubu directed his aides that make up the london trip to answer the questions on his behalf.

Nigerians all over the world have criticized such representation which they tagged a Misfit attention created at Chatham House lecture london.

Meanwhile, Tinubu has reeled out why he could not take the questions directly, but delegated El-Rufai, Ayade and others to answer for him at Chatham.

Read Below: Alao Abiodun’s report which stated the obvious.

Why I delegated El-Rufai, Ayade, others to answer questions at Chatham House – Tinubu

The presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu has explained why he delegated some members of the party to respond to questions posed to him.

According to the former Lagos Governor, he adopted the delegation method “to show team-ship”.

Tinubu spoke at the Chatham House lecture titled: ‘Nigeria’s 2023 elections: In conversation with Bola Ahmed Tinubu’, monitored by The Nation.

At the lecture, Tinubu after his opening remarks, assigned Kaduna Governor Nasir El-Rufai to speak on how his (Tinubu-led) government would address insecurity and asked the Director of Strategic Communication of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Presidential Campaign Council, Dele Aleke, to respond to the question on oil theft.

Tinubu also delegated a former Commissioner for Finance in Lagos State, Wale Edun, to respond to a question on how he (Tinubu) would boost the economy if elected.

Others, including the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila; former Ekiti Governor, Kayode Fayemi; APC National Women’s Leader, Dr Betta Edu; also answered questions.

Tinubu said: “Let me demonstrate here one of those philosophies and doctrines that I believe firmly in, it is team-ship, unbreakable team. To demonstrate that, I’ll assign it to my team.”

On education, Tinubu promised to provide student loans and reform the Almajiri educational system practiced in northern Nigeria.

El-Rufai who answered questions on security, stated that banditry, terrorism, separatism, and oil theft require a new approach including increasing the number of security operatives.

“The numbers must change and the Bola Tinubu administration already has a blueprint which is embedded in our action plan to address this. We will scale up the numbers of the armed forces. We’ll ramp up not only the numbers but the training and the equipment,” the Kaduna governor said.

Alake, on his part, answered the question on how Tinubu plans to lift Nigerians out of poverty if elected and also curb oil theft in six months. “The key to his policy for increasing economic growth is to enable the private sector to make the investment that will increase productivity, grow the economy, create jobs, and reduce poverty,” he said.

Also, Gbajabiamila responded to the question on the strategies of Tinubu on defence, the APC national women’s leader answered the question on healthcare delivery, and how to convert brain drain into gain gain for the country amongst others.

In the contrary, NIGERIANs all over the globe has condemned this measure and called it a national embarrassment since an intending president cannot flow well and answer the simple but tactical questions from the Chatham House lecture titled: ‘Nigeria’s 2023 elections: In conversation with Bola Ahmed Tinubu’, monitored by The Nation

9News Nigeria (Owerri) For inquiries on this news contact 9News Nigeria Imo State @08036856526

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From Princely Onyenwe

Rev. Fr Ejike Mbaka has been sanctioned to visit the catholic Monastery for further spiritual guidance as stated by the catholic Bishop of Enugu Diocese.

Mbaka’s journey to Monastery is based on his continued involvements on political matters and mundane utterances.

Catholic Bishop of Enugu Diocese, Most Rev Onaga replaced Fr. Mbaka with Fr. Anthony Amadi pending Mbaka’s suspension.

It has therefore been confirmed that henceforth, Fr Anthony shall be in charge of Adoration Ministries Enugu, says bishop.

On a chat 9News Nigeria, the Catholic Prelate maintained that his decision is based on the fact that some of the teachings and utterances of Fr. Camillus Ejike Mbaka are against the doctrine of catholic church.

In furtherance, Mbaka’s suspension is ideal because most of his teachings at the Catholic Adoration Ministry are not consistent with the teachings and faith of the Catholic Church.” Bishop Onaga frowned.

Recall that he was suspended few months ago on matters relating to politics and his welcome back was a new sanction by the catholic church to visit the monastery for more education and counseling.

At the time of this report, out correspodent was yet to hear from the embattled Reverend Father after several calls to him proved abortive.

9News Nigeria (Owerri) For inquiries on this news contact 9News Nigeria Imo State @08036856526

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From Princely Onyenwe

The number one citizen of the Federal Republic Of Nigeria, President Muhammadu Buhari has charged Nigerians to incorporate more females and youths in the upcoming 2023 elections across all Political groups.

This he stated was captured in his LAST Independence day address to the nation as stated below.

Read through:

INDEPENDENCE DAY ADDRESS BY MUHAMMADU BUHARI, PRESIDENT AND COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF OF THE ARMED FORCES, FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA DELIVERED ON THE OCCASION OF NIGERIA’S 62ND INDEPENDENCE ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION ON 1ST OCTOBER, 2022

Fellow Nigerians,

I address you today, with a deep sense of gratitude to God and a high level of appreciation to all Nigerians whose tremendous goodwill gave me the opportunity to provide leadership for our great country at one of the trying times in her history.

2.​Conscious that today’s address would be my last on an Independence Day as your President; I speak to the millions of Nigerians, who believed in me, propelled and stood by me in my quest to bequeath a country where all citizens have equal opportunities to achieve their lives desires in a peaceful atmosphere.

3.​I am honoured to say that my story in the annals of Nigeria’s history is no household secret. My various attempts, failures and eventual success in being elected as a Democratic President in 2015 was made possible by the majority of Nigerians.

4.​ When you elected me, I readily acknowledged that the tasks before me were daunting but surmountable because of the growing national consensus that our chosen route to national development was democracy.

5.​This democracy was to be anchored on a clear understanding, application and the principles of separation of powers supported by a reformed public service that is more effective.

6.​I then pledged to Improve the Economy, Tackle Corruption and Fight Insecurity and this was further strengthened by my commitment to lift 100 million Nigerians out of poverty in ten years as the central plank of my second term in 2019.

7.​To the Glory of God and His Grace as well as the commitment and passion displayed by many Nigerian supporters, we have made appreciable progress in these areas but not yet at our destination.

8.​Mindful of the task before us, we took some time in settling down and we re-positioned the Economy by providing strategic interventions in core areas at both the Federal and Sub-National levels.

9.​One of the areas where we have made significant progress is in the eradication of deeply entrenched corruption that permeates all facets of our national development.

10.​We strengthened the Institutions for tackling corruption and also cultivated international support, which aided the repatriation of huge sums of money illegally kept outside the country.

11.​The increasing number of prosecutions and convictions, with associated refunds of large sums of money is still ongoing. Furthermore, we would continue to block opportunities that encourage corrupt practices.

12.​In order to address Insecurity, we worked methodically in reducing Insurgency in the North East, Militancy in the Niger Delta, Ethnic and Religious Tensions in some sections of Nigeria along with other problems threatening our country.

13.​Our efforts in re-setting the economy manifested in Nigeria exiting two economic recessions by the very practical and realistic monetary and fiscal measures to ensure effective public financial management. In addition, the effective implementation of the Treasury Single Account and cutting down on the cost of governance also facilitated early exits from recessions.

14.​Fellow Nigerians, this administration removed several decades uncertainty for potential Investors in the Oil & Gas sector with the passage of the Petroleum Industry Act, 2021. This landmark legislation created opportunities for foreign investments in addition to improving transparency in the management of the sector.

15.​Our administration has given the desired priority to the Agricultural Sector through a series of incentives to Micro, Small and Medium Scale Enterprises that resulted in creating millions of jobs. Leading this initiative, the Central Bank of Nigeria’s intervention in a number of areas as well as the Anchor Borrowers Programme had created the required leverages for Nigerians towards self-sufficiency in food and the necessary attraction for farming as a business.

16.​The growing contribution of non-oil exports, especially in agriculture, information and communication technology as well as the performing arts to our national economy will enhance our foreign exchange earning capacity.

17.​We are confronting current economic challenges such as debt burden, growing inflation, living standards and increasing unemployment accentuated by our growing youthful population. These problems are globally induced and we would continue to ensure that their negative effects are addressed in our policies.

18.​This administration will continue to ensure that our fiscal policies are supported by a robust and contemporary monetary policy that recognises our peculiarities in the midst of the growing global economic difficulties.

19.​This is evidenced by the recent Monetary Policy Committee decision to maintain all parameters, especially interest rates and marginally increased the Monetary Policy Rate (MPR) from 14% to 15.5% and the Cash Reserve Ratio (CRR) from 27.5% to 32.5%. It is projected that this would further insulate our economy from over exposure to uncertainties at the international market by restraining growth in core inflation.

20.​As we continue to de-escalate the security challenges that confronted us at inception of this administration, newer forms alien to our country began to manifest especially in the areas of kidnappings, molestations/killings of innocent citizens, banditry, all of which are being addressed by our security forces.

21.​I share the pains Nigerians are going through and I assure you that your resilience and patience would not be in vain as this administration continues to reposition as well as strengthen the security agencies to enable them to deal with all forms of security challenges.

22.​At the inception of this administration in 2015, I provided the funding requirements of the security agencies which was also improved in my second tenure in 2019 to enable them to surmount security challenges. We will continue on this path until our efforts yield the desired results.

23.​ As we put in place all measures to ensure that Nigeria takes her place in the Comity of Nations, we recognize the importance of a well-educated populace as a panacea to most of the challenges we face.

24.​We have, therefore, pursued policies and implemented programmes designed to create a literate and proficient society that ensures that citizens are availed with opportunities for life-long achievements.

25.​I must confess that I am very pained by the recurring disruption to our tertiary education system and I am using this Independence Day celebration to re-iterate my call for the striking Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) to return to the classroom while assuring them to deal with their contending issues within the limits of the scarce resources available. This administration has made appreciable progress in redressing these issues that have been lingering for over eleven years.

26.​The Federal Government will continue to mobilize resources both internationally and nationally towards funding education to ensure that our citizens are well educated and skilled in various vocations in view of the fact that education is a leading determinant of economic growth and employment generation.

27.​Fellow Nigerians, we have also improved our health facilities, especially during and after the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, which attracted commendation of the global community.

28.​As you are aware, Nigeria was one of the countries that defied global predictions of the socio-economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic because of our resilience, commitment and passion with which we individually and collectively managed the pandemic.

29.​This administration embarked on addressing critical ecological challenges across the country in order to mitigate the impact of Climate Change manifesting in the form of flood, soil erosion, desertification, air pollution amongst others

30.​We will continue to ensure that our infrastructure drive remains the key to Nigeria’s economic growth and for which every Nigerian will feel the impact.

31.​The Federal Government is already expanding ports operations to ensure that they provide opportunities for the growth of the Nigerian economy.

32.​We have also continued to accelerate our infrastructure development through serviceable and transparent borrowing, improved capital inflow & increased revenue generation by expanding the tax bases and prudent management of investment proceeds in the Sovereign Wealth Fund.

33.​To further open up our communities to economic activities, we have continued to boost our railway infrastructure with the completion of a good number of critical railways and at the same time rehabilitating as well as upgrading obsolete equipment.

34.​I am pleased to inform my fellow citizens that besides our emphasis on infrastructural development with its attendant opportunities for job creation, employment generation and subsequent poverty reduction, our focussed intervention directly to Nigerians through the National Social Investment Programme is also yielding benefits.

35.​There is hardly any ward, village or local government in Nigeria today that has not benefited from one of the following: N-Power, trader-moni, market moni, subsidized loans, business grants or Conditional Cash Transfers.

36.​All the aforementioned programmes along with various interventions by the National Social Investment programme, direct support to victims of flooding and other forms of disasters have provided succor to the affected Nigerians.

37.​Fellow Nigerians, no matter what gains we make, without a good governance system anchored on electing credible leaders on the basis of free, fair, credible and transparent elections, our efforts would not be enough.

38.​It is for this reason that I have resolved to bequeath a sustainable democratic culture which will remain lasting. The signing of the Electoral Act 2021 as amended with landmark provisions further assures us of a more transparent and inclusive Electoral Process.

39.​Having witnessed at close quarters, the pains, anguish and disappointment of being a victim of an unfair electoral process, the pursuit of an electoral system and processes that guarantee election of leaders by citizens remains the guiding light as I prepare to wind down our administration.

40.​You would all agree that the recent elections in the past two years in some states (notably Anambra, Ekiti and Osun) and a few federal constituencies have shown a high degree of credibility, transparency and freedom of choice with the people’s votes actually counting. This I promise would be improved upon as we move towards the 2023 General Elections.

41.​As we begin the transition process to another democratically elected government, I want to implore all aspirants to conduct issues-based campaigns devoid of hate speeches as well as other negative and divisive tendencies.

42.​I also want to express my wish that we see more female and youth participation in the forth-coming electoral cycle. I am sure that our teeming and energetic youths now realise that violence generally mar elections and so should desist from being used by politicians for this purpose.

43.​Reforms in the public sector are already yielding results especially in the delivery of services. On this note, I urge the general public to demand for citizen-centred services from the relevant authorities.

44.​On the international front, we have continued to take advantage of our bilateral and multilateral platforms to explore cooperation with friendly countries and partners whenever these areas of cooperation are to the advantage of Nigeria.

45.​Fellow Nigerians, in the past few years we have witnessed and overcome a good number of challenges that would ordinarily have destroyed our Nation. However, the indefatigable spirit of the Nigerian people has ensured that we overcome our challenges.

46.​It is in this spirit that I call on all of us to individually and collectively bring to the fore in dealing with all our development issues.

47.​I was called to serve, along with my team, I saw an opportunity to create a better Nigeria which we have done with the support of Nigerians. Almighty God and the good people of Nigeria supported us in laying a solid foundation for the Nigeria of our dreams.

​I thank you all and God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria. President Buhari stated.

9News Nigeria (Owerri) For inquiries on this news contact 9News Nigeria Imo State @08036856526

9News Nigeria

From Princely Onyenwe

NDLEA has busted a notorious cocaine warehouse in Ikorodu area of Lagos State NIGERIA where N193billion worth of crack was discovered.

On this therefore, arrests of 4 drug barons and 1 other foreign drug dealer was done by the drug law enforcement agents for immediate investigation and possible prosecution as gathered by 9News Nigeria.

Femi Babafemi, Director, Media and Advocacy of NDLEA Headquarters Abuja was on Monday 19th September 2022 told Newsmen that in whatappears to be the biggest singular cocaine seizure in the history of Nigeria’s premier anti-narcotic agency, operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, have busted a major warehouse in a secluded estate in Ikorodu area of Lagos.

At least, four drug barons including a Jamaican and the warehouse manager have been arrested in the well coordinated and intelligence led operation that lasted two days across different locations in Lagos state.

Kingpins of the cocaine cartel in custody include: Messrs Soji Jibril, 69, an indigene of Ibadan, Oyo state; Emmanuel Chukwu, 65, who hails from Ekwulobia, Anambra state; Wasiu Akinade, 53, from Ibadan, Oyo state; Sunday Oguntelure, 53, from Okitipupa, Ondo state and Kelvin Smith, 42, a native of Kingston, Jamaica.

They are all members of an international drug syndicate that the Agency has been trailing since 2018.

Located at 6 Olukuola crescent, Solebo estate, Ikorodu, the warehouse was raided on Sunday 18th September, 2022, while the barons were picked from hotels and their hideouts in different parts of Lagos between Sunday night and Monday 19th September.

Preliminary investigation reveals the class A drugs were warehoused in the residential estate from where the cartel was trying to sell them to buyers in Europe, Asia and other parts of the world. They were stored in 10 travel bags and 13 drums.

The officers and men of the Agency involved in the extensive investigation including those of the American Drug Enforcement Administration, (US-DEA), Chairman/Chief Executive of NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Retd) have been commended by NIGERIANs for such a historical burst on drug barron’s.

9News Nigeria (Owerri) For inquiries on this news contact 9News Nigeria Imo State @08036856526

9News Nigeria

From Princely Onyenwe

Nigerians all over the globe are celebrating Umuoma Nekede Monarch, Eze Morison SJ Eke PhD, Omadike of Umuoma Nekede Autonomous community in Owerri West local government area of Imo state Nigeria on his birthday celebration today dated September 16-09-2022.

9News Nigeria reports that his birthday celebration is indeed a blessing to his family and friends and in extension the generality of the people of goodwill all over the states of the Federation for his examplary virtues Worthy of emulation.

HRH Eze Morrison Soronnadi James-Eke PhD was declared the Eze of Umuoma in October 2002. Before his coronation as the Eze , he had worked for the West African Examinations Council as their Principal Public Relations Manager ( Nigeria Office) and on several occasions was posted to Accra Ghana headquarters of WAEC to act as the Head of Public Relations Dept .

He subsequently worked for ABC Merchant Bank Lagos as their Foreign Exchange Manager.

Since his coronation as Eze of Umuoma Nekede , he has served as the Secretary and later Chairman of Owerri West Council of Ndieze for many years , as member representing Owerri West LGA in the Imo State Council of Traditional Rulers and as the Secretary of Owerri Zone Council of Ndieze comprising of 9 LGAs He is popularly known by his title Omadike.

When asked his age , Omadike smiled and simply responded that he is plus 1 in age and by the grace of God , a distinguished Senior Citizen of Imo State .

Umuoma Nekede and Owerri West at large extend their heartfelt felicitation celebrating your New age. Congratulations!! HBD Your Highness!!

9News Nigeria (Owerri)For inquiries on this news contact 9News Nigeria Imo State @08036856526

9News Nigeria

From Princely Onyenwe

Residents in shock as remnants of a decomposed body of a man were reportedly found in the bedroom of his house after four years in Apete, Ibadan.

It was learnt that the deceased (unknown identity) was reportedly seen by neighbours four years ago during one of his occasional trip to Ibadan from Port Harcourt in Rivers State where he resides at the time.

As at the time of filing this report, the cause of death is yet to be ascertained.

Residents told newsmen that non of the residents in the area knew about the incident until this week when the community decided to enter into the compound to cut the overgrown grass inside his compound which has become a haven for snakes and rodents.

It was gathered that the Abokis who were contracted for the job of cutting the grass in the deceased compound were told to jump into the compound since the gate of the house were locked from behind only for them to found out that the car of the house owner is in the premises and has been covered with grass.

According to eyewitness , after managing to cut down the bush , they peeped at the window of the building and saw the skeleton of the decomposed corpse on his bed with a phone in his hand.

Officers of the Oyo state police command are currently carrying out a comprehensive investigation into the incident.

©Moshood AbdulQuadri Lanre

9News Nigeria (Owerri)For inquiries on this news contact 9News Nigeria Imo State @08036856526

9News Nigeria

From Princely Onyenwe

A Socio-political Group has issued serious warning to a former people’s Democratic Party PDP chieftain, Dan Ulasi over his ultrances against the labour Party LP Presidential candidate, Mr peter Obi saying that Obi/Datti ticket needs no tribal advice, hence the project has grown beyond tribal sentiments but a national movement.

This statement was made by the Ohanaeze Youth Council, OYC, under the leadership of Comrade Igboayaka O Igboayaka who described the recent outing by Chief Dan Ulasi former PDP Chairman as an attempt geared towards gaining stomach infrastructure by the People’s Democratic Party, (PDP).

Comrd. Igboayaka who chided the
PDP Chieftain, reiterated that Obi’s presidential project had grown far beyond tribal sentiments.

This is sequel to Ulasi’s live TV interview, during which he argued that Mr. Peter Obi is not seen in the company of any of the prominent politicians from the South-east region, in the course of his political consultations in the Northern, Southwest and South-South regions.

Reacting to Ulasi’s statement, during an interface with newsmen, in Awka, Anambra State’s capital, on Tuesday August 23rd 2022 the OYC national President, Igboayaka urged Chief Ulasi to refrain from old political mindset what he described as “the political elitism” and embrace the new political trend in Nigeria.

Igboayaka who regretted that the leaders of the nation had, over the years, mortgaged the future of Igbo youths and Nigerians, in general, informed Ulasi that Mr. Peter Obi’s presidential project “is above tribal connotation, thus warning the former to steer clear from the project with “his tribal advice”.

Speaking, he said: “It’s obvious that Mr. Peter Obi’s presidential project has grown above tribal sentiment or clannish projection. Mr. Peter Obi doesn’t need the same Igbo political elders like Chief Dan Ulasi who have eaten the future of Igbo Youths to move with him on political consultation, neither does he need to ride on the same Old political permutation to win the President of Nigeria”, Igboayaka State.

He described as gross disappointment in Dan Ulasi’s approach which is seemingly geared towards stalling its success, regretting that, “having witnessed and, as well, fought the Nigeria Biafra Civil war with bullet wounds on one of his hands, Ulasi should be acquainted with the agonies of Igbo youths since 53 years of the end of the war, especially on the recent collapse of Nigeria by PDP and APC twenty Four years(24yrs) in Power is more painful than his bullet inquiry.

The embittered youth leader advised Chief Dan Ulasi to rather redirect his quest for a job to the People’s Democratic Party, PDP’s presidential candidate and allow God perfect His plans through Obi, stressing that the Labour Party Candidate’s project is being motivated by the teaming unemployed youths across the streets of Nigeria.

“Chief Dan Ulasi you can quietly seek a job offer in Atiku Abubakar’s presidential project to keep alive your primitive accumulative of wealth, but we must inform you that your age and your generation have no business in Mr. Peter Obi presidential project or to determine the kind of leaders to lead Nigeria.

“2023 presidential project of Mr Peter Obi is solely tied on the future of new generation, hence Peter’s presidential project is driven by unemployed Nigerian youths, some that have graduated whereas others have been thrown out of School Nigeria consequent upon lack of funds; Also, Millions of Nigeria youths have been directly or indirectly pushed into armed robbery, banditry and thuggery by bad leadership from certain political actors in Nigeria” These are obviously those that their future are at stake not Chief Dan Ulasi

Furthermore, Igboayaka reminded the PDP Chieftain that the fate of Mr. Peter Obi presidential victory would not be determined by mere political analysis, pointing out that Mr. Peter Obi’s victory in 2023 presidential election would be predicated upon some political providence of Socio-political and ballot revolution.

His words:
“Mr Peter Obi’s presidential project as a third force that will sweep all the votes in the Southeast and South-South is a payback of injustice done by PDP to Ndigbo for denying Southeast presidential aspirants opportunity to fly the Party’s Presidential ticket during the her presidential primary election.

Chief Dan Ulasi who opted that Southeast Governors should call Mr. Peter Obi on his possibility of winning the election perhaps there’s something Mr. Peter Obi knows that the Governors don’t know.

“Contrary to Chief Dan Ulasi’s view, Igboayaka stated that what Mr. Peter Obi knows which they don’t know is that, Nigerian youths are determined against all odds, to take over the leadership of the nation, and ballot revolution does not have a political style or permutation.

The group however warned Ulasi and his group to desist from painting Peter Obi Presidential candidacy black.

Peter Obi and Datti presidential ticket is no longer a tribal sentiment but a national movement needed to reposition the country to a progressive height, the group maitained.

9News Nigeria (Owerri)
For inquiries on this news contact 9News Nigeria Imo State @08036856526

9News Nigeria

From Princely Onyenwe, Abuja

The People of Umuoma Nekede Autonomous community in Owerri West local government area of Imo state Nigeria has scheduled saturday 13-08-2022 for their New Yam Cultural Festival.

This announcement was made by the eldest man of the community, Pa Gabriel Achodo at his Umuanwunachi Kindred of Okwu Umuoma Nekede.

Speaking at the heralding of the date of Umuoma 2022 New Yam, Nze Sir Ephraim Opara who stood in for Gabriel Achodo hinted that the New yam Festival known as Odu Umuoma is a yearly cultural event passed unto Ndi Umuoma by their forebears decades ago to celebrate the first food Oma tested after his settlement in the present day Umuoma Nekede.

Okenze further stated that Oma is not an outcast as being speculated by some people but a friend of Ede the Aboriginal father of the the entire Nekede which Umuoma is part of it.

Meanwhile, the eldest man granted him the permission to speak on his behalf and to herald the date of the Yam festival.

While adressing the people who turned out en-masse to witness the announcement, Omadike assured his subjects that Umuoma is known for peace and expressed his readiness to instill peace in all the towns of Umuoma Nekede.

He earlier stated that nature has a way of Scheduling the activities of mankind and as such the rights and respect accorded to the elders cannot be overemphasized.

In his words, “In Umuoma Nekede community , I am the Eze with a solid promise to my subjects that I will unfailingly practice and uphold the culture and traditions of our people which were handed over to us by our forefathers.

“Over the past decades , such way of life had been tested and proved useful and beneficial.

“I believe in it , I know it is not harmful , I must pass it on to the oncoming generation and urge its continuity till eternity, Eze Morison Eke stated.

He therefore called on the people of Umuoma Nekede to please bear with him and understand the level of his bereavement to allow the 2022 Yam Festival to be in a low-key.

Speaking on behalf of the Mr Kelechi Anah, Okwu town chairman and the chairman of all town Chairmen in Umuoma Nekede regretted the sorrowful mood bedevilling the Monarch and prayed God to strengthen his Highness.

He sympathized with Eze Omadike and pleaded with his colleagues to deliver same message across the five towns of Umuoma for people to know the reasons behind such decision.

The Chairman of Umuoma Royal Cabinet, High Chief Nwaneri also called on the people to stay out of quarrels and acts possible of causing troubles mostly at this period that will lead to the New yam day otherwise Whosoever disobeys this law will be penalized as custom Demands.

Saturday 13th day of August 2022 was taken as pronounced by the eldest man in the community for the Yam Festival to hold in a low-key at the Royal palace.

It was a visit of the community leaders, stakeholders and church leaders, Umuoma Royal Cabinet, Council of elders, council of chiefs that accompanied Eze Omadike to the meet with PA Gabriel Achodo in his Okwu country home.

Our correspodent reports that the leadership of Okwu improvement league under Mr Kelechi Anah showcased their enviable capacity by mobilizing their stakeholders, youths leaders and elders of Okwu to witness the pronouncement.

In futherance, it is customary that every year, a week before the Odu Umuoma proper, the Eze of the community must pay homage to the oldest man in his community to seek his approval and blessings for a hitch free festival.

Recall that last year the oldest man , Pa Ndukwu Anumudu who hailed from Umuezerokam town died recently at the age of 110years. Pa Gabriel Achodo who succeeded him is 98years old as at the time of this report by 9News Nigeria.

Secondly, 9News Nigeria investigative team lead by Ambassador Princely Onyenwe states authoritatively that since the past 25 years, this is the first time the Eze Omadike is paying homage to Okwu town from where the oldest man in our community hailed from.

The Eze prayed for his continued strong and good health.

Thirdly, it is of significant importance to note that unless Umuoma eats new yam, the sister communities of Umudibia and Umualum Nekede must not taste new yam.

The visit recorded alot of dignitaries too numerous to mention.

Traditional Prime Minister, Nze Sir Obinna Aharanwa, President General Uche Nwaneri, Community PRO Onyenwe and Members of the Royal Cabinet accompanied the Monarch.

Elders Present included, Nze Sir Ephraim Opara, Ven Emmanuel Opara, Elder Herbert Nwosu, Cannon Lawrence Ewuziem, Elder Raymond Uwaleke, Elder Benard Igbokwe and Rev Vitalis Anaele.

The leadership of the host town came out in-full squad including notable age grades and Chairmen of De-Na-Agwu and Umuogba towns respectively.

Libation was performed by Okenze Ephraim Opara on behalf of PA Gabriel Achodo afterwhich prayer was offered by the clergy to backup the upcoming festival.

9News Nigeria (Owerri)
For inquiries on this news contact 9News Nigeria Imo State @08036856526

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

Christianity is 2000 years old. The whole faith began when Jesus Christ, the Son of the living God, gave His life as a ransom for mankind’s salvation. It was for the restoration of the relationship between Man and God. You will probably recall that the relationship between God and humans went sour in the Garden of Eden after which Adam and his wife, Eve, were chased out of their garden home. They were told to go and be taking care of themselves by tilling the soil from which they were taken.

Due to the sacrifice of Christ, which was a propitiation for sin, humans who wanted to have a new relationship with God were invited to do so. The Lord Jesus Christ, after His Resurrection, personally ordered His followers to go and tell everyone the Good News. Christianity has never looked back since despite the fierce opposition that tried to prevent its spread. 

The impact of the faith then needs to be acknowledged. Christianity, and the light it brought, has largely been credited for being the foundation and the fulcrum on which several developments were built. These included Western Civilisation, the Industrial Revolution and several technological breakthroughs and inventions. Fortunately, the main purpose of Christianity was never forgotten. This was to transform lives starting with the new birth.

Africa was not left out of the new development as one of the earliest Africans to become a Christian was an Ethiopian eunuch. Remember him? He received Christ while he was returning to Ethiopia from a trip to Jerusalem. This was between AD 33 and AD 70. This is found in Acts 8. European missionaries also came to Africa but this was much later. Several of these missionaries arrived in Nigeria a little less than 200 years ago.

Without an iota of a doubt, one can say that the missionaries left a great legacy as they were faithful to their calling. They were generally known for their simplicity. Who can forget their work in several parts of Nigeria and Africa. The work done by Catholic, Anglican and Baptist missionaries stood out. Their hospitals and schools were always the best. Notably, they did what they did for the love of God and humanity.

Along the way came independence from colonial rule for many African countries. However, in Nigeria, the politicians who took over from the colonialists were themselves kicked out of power by soldiers after just five years, with many of them being killed. This was because of mismanagement. Sadly, the military adventurists only worsened the situation. The country is yet to recover from the inexcusable tyranny of the military era. Meanwhile, Christianity was still in a fairly good shape.

However, things took a dangerous turn in the late seventies and early eighties when standards began to plummet rapidly. Among other things, governments had begun to take over institutions, notably mission schools. It was around this time that cults of personalities were building around Church leaders. It was also the beginning of one-man Churches and ministries. The one-man/family ministry was an American model. It was popularised in Nigeria by the late Archbishop Benson Idahosa. Not surprisingly many of the older General Overseers that we have in Nigeria today were his products but these aggressive millionaires, like their mentor, have refused to see simplicity as a virtue. The era of the pastor-preneur was upon us and with it the departure from sound biblical teaching in the Church.

The rot was now setting in, what with the coming of large-scale falsehood and false doctrine in the Churches. In the absence of the rule of law, Satanic religious leaders, false prophets and teachers were being emboldened to practise their dubious art. It was deception galore as most Church goers no longer knew what it actually meant to be a Christian. People were now beginning to take material and financial prosperity as a sign of Christian growth and a sign that God was smiling on them. This period coincided with an increase in serious crimes like kidnapping and ritual killings as more occultic Churches were being established.

On a serious note, with all these things, could one say that the Christian Church has failed? Could one sincerely say that Christianity has brought more problems to Africa? I can say boldly that Jesus never fails. The Lord says in John 16 that the gates of hell shall not prevail against the Christian Church. However, there is no doubt that Christian leaders in Africa especially in Nigeria have failed woefully, what with the spiritually comatose CAN and PFN. In Nigeria and most of Africa, the Church is not playing its role as THE PILLAR OF TRUTH. The Church has been so weakened that it cannot check the excesses of directionless federal and state governments.

The resulting situation has been an increase in godlessness, unheard of sins and iniquities as occultic bishops, pastors and prophets hold sway. The Church of Jesus Christ has been turned into a den of robbers and a grand partner in sin with conscienceless government officials. This is despite the fact that the gospel of Jesus Christ is the greatest emancipator known to man. Sadly, it would appear that Christ’s efforts to emancipate Africans spiritually and in every other way are being thwarted by a shameless coalition of pastors, politicians and traditional rulers.

You may ask: what is the way out? My opinion is that Christians in Nigeria and all Africa must begin to defer only to the Holy Bible and shun these corrupt Christian leaders. Serious intercessors must rise up in their millions to pray so that the Lord can reclaim back His Church from these marauders. People should start meeting in homes and serious bible teaching should return. There is no doubt that these would usher us into a mighty revival. Do not forget that a revival is a revolution in itself. It is a spiritual fightback led by the Holy Spirit against the forces of evil. What it lacks is the bloodshed that usually accompanies a political revolution.

However, should people think that it is okay for things to continue the way they are, they should be left severely alone? The chances then are that those who refuse to be guided by the radar of history shall be taught by the rocks. 

You can follow me on my YouTube channel

at https://www.youtube.com/channel//UCusS0KIFgfXfnL8Xo7pg or browse my books on Amazon

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

In an episode of Ask Pastor John, Jason from Kampala (the capital of Uganda), asked Pastor John a pointed question regarding why Africans have suffered so much. He wrote:

Does God care for Africans? Providence has a long track record here. Throughout history we have been a beastly, deplorable, enslaveable race — constantly riddled with disease, famine, and suffering. How are we not to conclude that we are God’s least favorite race? Every day is pure struggle for most Ugandans. I know God promises to look after all people, but it still makes me wonder, why does he especially seem to hate Africa so much?

When I read those words, my heart grieved. It still does. Since I first heard them (and Pastor John’s four points of wisdom on the providence of God), I have longed to give voice more directly and explicitly to Scripture’s truths regarding God’s heart for all nations, including those from Africa.

I am a father of three adopted African children. I also regularly lead teams to Africa to help the churches train leaders and care for orphans and widows. I love Africa, and in recent years I have also been discovering the key role that Africa in general, and black Africa in particular, has played in God’s redemptive plan. Because Uganda is related to the Bible’s portrait of black Africa, I have narrowed most of my scriptural overview to this sphere, but the whole still bears broader significance to Africa at large.

My own journey of discovery began when I, as an Old Testament professor, started studying the book of Zephaniah, who was likely a black Judean prophet. My journey has taken me from Genesis to Revelation, and I hope this brief survey will help Jason in Kampala and others to recognize God’s love for Africa and to hope in God’s steadfast love toward all who are in Christ, whether from Africa or beyond.

God’s Chosen Prophet

The book of Zephaniah opens, “The word of the Lord that came to Zephaniah the son of Cushi, son of Gedaliah, son of Amariah, son of Hezekiah, in the days of Josiah the son of Amon, king of Judah” (Zephaniah 1:1). “Zephaniah” means “Yahweh has hidden,” and his name testifies to his parents’ living faith in God and their hope in his protective care during the dark days of King Manasseh (696–642 BC, see 2 Kings 21).

Not only this, Zephaniah was a Judean in the Davidic royal line. His great-great-grandfather was King Hezekiah (729–686 BC), who led a massive spiritual awakening that was paralleled in Judah’s history only by the work of King Josiah (640–609 BC), whose spiritual reforms Zephaniah’s own preaching helped to serve (622 BC). We also learn that Zephaniah’s father was Cushi, and this fact suggests that this prophet was biracial. Cush was ancient black Africa, and Zephaniah’s grandmother (Gedaliah’s wife) was probably a black African who married into the Jewish royal line. She then named her son “Cushite” or “My Blacky,” celebrating his ethnic heritage. As a biracial prophet, Zephaniah displayed the hope of a diversified people of God in fulfillment of Yahweh’s promises to Abraham regarding his saving blessing reaching the nations (Genesis 12:3; 22:18).

“As a biracial prophet, Zephaniah displayed the hope of a diversified people of God.”

Support for Zephaniah’s biracial background comes in how he highlights Cush with respect to both punishment and restoration. First, in Zephaniah 2:12, Cush is the only neighbor he mentions that has already experienced God’s judgment. While the English translations treat the verse as future, the historical context and the Hebrew suggest that Cush’s demise was already past. Specifically, when Yahweh declares, “You also, O Cushites, have been slain by my sword,” he is likely referring to the fall of the 25th Egyptian dynasty (663 BC) that the Cushites controlled and to which Nahum earlier referred when he wrote against Nineveh, declaring, “Are you better than Thebes that sat by the Nile?” (Nahum 3:8). In Zephaniah, as in Nahum, the Lord’s punishment had started with Cush, and their fall gave proof that Nineveh’s fall would soon come (Zephaniah 2:13–15).

But there is more, for Zephaniah elevates Cush as his sole example of end-times hope for the world. Speaking about the future day of the Lord, when God would right all wrongs and reestablish right order and peace, the prophet writes,

At that time I will change the speech of the peoples to a pure speech, that all of them may call upon the name of the Lord and serve him with one accord. From beyond the rivers of Cush my worshipers, the daughter of my dispersed ones, shall bring my offering. (Zephaniah 3:9–10)

What the prophet envisions here is astounding, and how the New Testament sees it fulfilled is breathtaking. But before unpacking it, let’s recall the Old Testament’s portrait of Cush, which reaches back to the earliest chapters of Genesis.

Africa in Old Testament History

Africa’s Cushite empire was centered in modern Sudan and stretched south and eastward into the regions of present-day South Sudan, Ethiopia, Eritrea, Djibouti, and Somalia and across the Red Sea into what was ancient Sheba.

The prophet Moses married a woman from this area (Numbers 12:1), and later a queen from the region heard of King Solomon’s fame concerning Yahweh’s name and came to Jerusalem to encounter firsthand the king’s wisdom and prosperity (1 Kings 10:1–10). A millennium later, when faced with the hard-heartedness of the Jewish religious leaders, Jesus declared, “The queen of the South will rise up at the judgment with this generation and condemn it, for she came from the ends of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon, and behold, something greater than Solomon is here” (Matthew 12:42).

We first learn of the region of Cush as a terminus location of one of the four rivers flowing from Eden (Genesis 2:13). This link highlights God’s intent to bring life to Africa. The area of Cush and the people associated with it were named after Noah’s grandson through Ham.

Important for our understanding Zephaniah’s prophecy is the fact that Cush’s son Nimrod is the one who built ancient Babel[on], where God confronted those seeking to exalt their own name, confused the world’s languages, and scattered peoples across the planet (Genesis 10:6–10; 11:1–9). Those descending from Cush dispersed to Africa’s horn in the northeast part of the continent. They are among the “families” and “nations” that Yahweh then promised to bless, ultimately through Abraham’s messianic offspring, who would overcome curse and the enemy and bring blessing into the world:

To the serpent: I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and her offspring; he shall bruise your head, and you shall bruise his heel. (Genesis 3:15)

To Abraham: I will bless those who bless you, and him who dishonors you I will curse, and in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed. (Genesis 12:3)

To Abraham: And your offspring shall possess the gate of his enemies, and in your offspring shall all the nations of the earth be blessed. (Genesis 22:17–18)

Thus, Paul declared, “The Scripture, foreseeing that God would justify the Gentiles by faith, preached the gospel beforehand to Abraham, saying, ‘In you shall all the nations be blessed’” (Galatians 3:8).

After Israel settled into the promised land and the kingdom divided, Judah made many political alliances with the nation of Cush prior to Zephaniah’s ministry (Isaiah 18:1–2; 20:5–6). Jerusalem’s leadership also had strong ties with black Africans (2 Samuel 18:21; Jeremiah 38:7; 39:16), which identifies how Zephaniah’s grandmother could have been a Cushite.

Africa in Other Prophecies

The prophet Jeremiah queried, “Can an Ethiopian [literally, Cushite] change his skin or the leopard his spots?” (Jeremiah 13:23). The Cushites are frequently a part of prophetic oracles of both punishment and restoration. As for punishment, Yahweh identified how he would lead Assyria to overcome Egypt and Cush, resulting in those in Judah being “dismayed and ashamed because of Cush their hope and Egypt their boast” (Isaiah 20:5). Similarly, with words akin to Zephaniah, Ezekiel declared, “The day of the Lord is near,” and then noted, “A sword shall come upon Egypt and anguish shall be upon Cush” (Ezekiel 30:3–4).

But a remnant from Cush would also be a part of the great new exodus that God would work in the days of the Messiah. As Isaiah testified just after foretelling the rise of the Messiah’s kingdom that would extend to all nations,

In that day the Lord will extend his hand yet a second time to recover the remnant that remains of his people, from Assyria, from Egypt, from Pathros, from Cush, from Elam, from Shinar, from Hamath, and from the coastlands of the sea. He will raise a signal for the nations and will assemble the banished of Israel, and gather the dispersed of Judah from the four corners of the earth. (Isaiah 11:11–12)

With a similar anticipation, the psalmists spoke of a remnant of black Africans being among those to whom Yahweh would grant new birth certificates. Thus, he would regard them as full-fledged children in his family, and their new home would be the transformed Jerusalem:

Among those who know me I mention Rahab and Babylon; behold, Philistia and Tyre, with Cush — “This one was born there,” they say. And of Zion it shall be said, “This one and that one were born in her”; for the Most High himself will establish her. The Lord records as he registers the peoples, “This one was born there.” (Psalm 87:4–6)

From Beyond the Rivers of Cush

Now we can return to Zephaniah 3. Here Yahweh urges the faithful remnant from Judah and beyond to “wait for me” for the day when he would rise as judge (Zephaniah 3:8a). He gives two reasons to compel such patient trust, each beginning with “for”: (1) he still intends to gather and punish all the earth’s people groups (nations) and powers (kingdoms) (Zephaniah 3:8b), and (2) he has purposed to preserve and transform a multiethnic remnant from these peoples into his eternal worshipers (Zephaniah 3:9–10). We, thus, read,

For at that time I will change the speech of the peoples to a pure speech, that all of them may call upon the name of the Lord and serve him with one accord. From beyond the rivers of Cush my worshipers, the daughter of my dispersed ones, shall bring my offering. (Zephaniah 3:9–10)

“The rivers of Cush” were likely the White and Blue Nile (see Isaiah 18:1–2). In seeing supplicants journey with offerings to Yahweh at his sanctuary, it’s as if the descendants of those once exiled from Eden are now following the rivers of life back to their source in order to enjoy fellowship with the great King (Genesis 2:10–14; cf. Revelation 22:1–2). And these worshipers consist of a multiethnic group from the “peoples” of the world, all of whom have transformed speech patterns that call on Yahweh’s name.

“What Zephaniah envisions here is nothing less than the reversal of the tower of Babel judgment.”

What Zephaniah envisions here is nothing less than the reversal of the tower of Babel judgment. You will recall that a Cushite built Babel[on] and that those shaping the tower were seeking to make a “name” for themselves (Genesis 10:8–10; 11:4). We then read that “[the place] was called Babel, because there the Lord confused the language of all the earth. And from there the Lord dispersed them over the face of the earth” (Genesis 11:9). When it says God confused “the language,” the Hebrew word is the same as that translated “speech” in Zephaniah 3:9, and when it says that God “dispersed” the peoples, it uses the same word for “my dispersed ones” in Zephaniah 3:10. Indeed, the only places in all the Bible that include the nouns “name” and “language” and the verb “dispersed” are Genesis 11 and Zephaniah 3.

Back in Zephaniah 2:12, Yahweh declared punishment on Cush. Now in Zephaniah 3:9–10, he predicts that even the most distant lands upon which God has poured his wrath will have a worshiping remnant whom his presence will compel to the transformed Jerusalem, thus reversing the curse of Babel. The prophet elevates the region of Cush as his sole example of God’s end-time new creational transformation.

So how does the New Testament reflect on this prophecy?

Salvation of an African

When Luke crafted the book of Acts, I believe he had Zephaniah 3:9–10 in mind. In the context of explaining a mission of making worshipers “to the end of the earth” (Acts 1:8), Peter’s Pentecost sermon in Acts 2:17–21 cites Joel 2:28–32, which depicts the day of the Lord and mentions calling on God’s name in ways very similar to Zephaniah (Zephaniah 3:8–9). What is not found in Joel, however, but is present in Zephaniah 3:9–10 is the vision of transformed “speech” (LXX = “tongue”) and united devotion, both of which Luke highlights in detailing the outpouring of “tongues” (Acts 2:4, 11) and the amazing kinship enjoyed by the early believers (Acts 2:42–47).

With this, it is important to note that the Greeks called ancient Cush “Ethiopia,” a name that is strikingly absent from the list of nations in Acts 2 that Luke tells us were gathered “from every nation under heaven” (Acts 2:5; cf. 9–11). The reason he never mentions “Ethiopia” there was most likely because he sought to highlight the fulfillment of Zephaniah’s vision by noting the conversion of the Ethiopian eunuch in Acts 8:26–40 (cf. Isaiah 56:3–8). The first-known Gentile convert to Christianity was a Cushite, and this highlights that God was beginning to fulfill the shaping of his multiethnic community of worshipers, just as Zephaniah proclaimed.

Hope for Every People and Nation

A second way the New Testament reflects on what Zephaniah envisioned is that Jesus’s resurrection ignited a global movement of making “disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:19). Thus, Jesus’s followers bore witness to his greatness “in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth” (Acts 1:8).

In broader fulfillment of Zephaniah’s restoration hope in 3:9–10, Jesus’s first coming marks the beginning of the end of the first creation and initiates the new creation, which corresponds to the new covenant (2 Corinthians 5:17; Galatians 6:15; Hebrews 8:13). In this age, God counts all those in Christ as offspring of Abraham, adopted sons and full heirs of all the promises (Galatians 3:8, 16, 29; 4:4–6). There is one people of God, the church (Ephesians 2:14–16). This means that Cushites like Simeon/Niger and Jews like Saul/Paul could be part of the same Christian congregation in Antioch (Acts 13:1), and that Christian Greeks like Titus didn’t need to be circumcised (Galatians 2:3).

Revelation 5:9–10 declares that Jesus is shaping “a kingdom and priests” “from every tribe and language and people and nation” (cf. Revelation 7:9–10). With the salvation of the black African politician in Acts 8:26–40, the Lord Jesus sparked the beginning of the end that will culminate in global praise to God, who is working all his purposes well — from Genesis through Zephaniah to Revelation. As Zephaniah envisioned (Zephaniah 3:9–10), already we as multiethnic Christian priests are offering sacrifices of praise (Romans 12:1; Hebrews 13:15–16; 1 Peter 2:5) at “Mount Zion and . . . the heavenly Jerusalem” (Hebrews 12:22; cf. Isaiah 2:2–3; Zechariah 8:20–23; Galatians 4:26).

Nevertheless, we await the day when the “new Jerusalem” will descend from heaven as the new earth (Revelation 21:2, 10; cf. Isaiah 65:17–18). Then our daily journey to find rest in Christ’s supremacy and sufficiency (Matthew 11:28–29; John 6:35) will come to completion in a place where the curse is no more (Revelation 21:22–22:5). On that day, all God’s children in Jesus — black men and white men, Jews and Gentiles — will indeed call on Yahweh’s name together and celebrate that they are free at last.

Does God Love Africa?

So, does God care for Africans? Both Scripture and history declare it so. In the beginning God intentionally directed the waters of life to Africa, thus identifying his intent to satisfy the thirsty and to make desolate places fertile (Genesis 2:13). While the world’s story has proven that the Lord takes Africans’ sins as seriously as those of others, it also testifies to God’s pleasure in saving Africans and in using their transformation as a marker of hope for what he intends to do in the rest of the world.

In saving the Ethiopian eunuch (Acts 8:26–39), the Lord began reversing the destructive effects of the tower of Babel (Genesis 11:1–9; cf. Zephaniah 3:9–10) and inaugurated a global ingathering that will culminate in omni-ethnic praise to Jesus at the end of the age (Revelation 5:9–10; 7:9–10). The living waters are still flowing to Africa, and Jesus’s invitations are still ringing: “If anyone thirsts, let him come to me and drink” (John 7:37; cf. 4:10, 14; Revelation 22:17). All who answer the call shall not “thirst anymore” for he “will guide them to springs of living water, and God will wipe away every tear from their eyes” (Revelation 7:16–17). Such hope is available for all in Africa and beyond.

Jason DeRouchie is research professor of Old Testament and biblical theology at Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in Kansas City, Missouri.

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

By Vladimir Andreeff, a former Serviceman at Russian Armed Forces (1975–2001)

I have always believed that the army is a continuation of the people. All the problems of the country are always reflected in the army. Now a new army is being created in Russia, which fully meets modern requirements.

The basis of the Russian army is the professional military. It seems that this is an axiom in the construction of any army in the world. But it’s not quite like that. If we look at the history, we will see that the army in the USSR consisted of a small number of professional soldiers and an enormous number of conscripts for 3 years, and then for 2 years. In terms of the number, the army was much larger than it is now, but in effectiveness it was inferior to the modern troops of the Russian Federation. In the US, the army is formed according to the contract principle, but during the Vietnam War, all those fit for service were called into the ranks of soldiers. As a result, there were so many personnel losses.

There is such a concept in the dialectic of the transition from quantity to quality. So in the army, using the motto of the Russian commander Generalissimo Suvorov, “To fight not by number, but by skill.” Since the beginning of the 2000s, after Vladimir Putin came to power, a truly systematic reform of the army began. I was at the time of this transitional service. After the 90s the army was literally collapsed. A lot of officers were fired. The material supply was meagre. And only really, devoted people remained to serve in the armed forces of Russia. The collapse in the army ended with the arrival in the Ministry of Defense Sergei Shoigu.

On November 6, 2012, Army General Sergei Kuzhugetovich Shoigu was appointed Minister of Defense of the Russian Federation instead of the dismissed Anatoly Serdyukov. At the same time, he was appointed deputy head of the interdepartmental working group under the President of Russia to monitor the implementation of the state defence order and the implementation of the state armaments program.

After taking office, Minister Shoigu continued his policy of cardinal reform of the Armed Forces of Russia and made a number of significant changes in the practical implementation of the reform.

The intensity of combat training was significantly increased, repeated (sudden) readiness checks were undertaken, special operations forces were created, and many unfairly dismissed officers were set up to identify the real state of affairs in the Armed Forces. Viktor Ozerov, Chairman of the Federation Council Committee on Defense and Security, a year after Sergei Shoigu and his team came to the Defense Ministry, noted that the moral climate in the Armed Forces left much to be desired, but “Shoigu, the army general, a man who underwent many emergencies, was able to change the situation and become their own in the army “; for the year, enrollment in military schools and academies increased by 7.5 times, and in universities without military departments, scientific companies were created at the initiative of the new minister (which allows students of these universities to serve in the army on the job), in Russia the number of cadet and Suvorov schools.

On Shoigu’s initiative, Arctic forces are being created to ensure the security of the Arctic region of Russia; Army International Games are held annually and army sport develops; the largest and only military-patriotic park “Patriot” is being built.

Now military service by conscription is 1 year. These soldiers serve in training units and are not used in combat. The main task is to prepare young people for the initial training program and introduce them to the army service. Most soldiers after serving a year are reservists, and some remain under contract.

The Military career has become a real vocation for many young people. The money allowance is quite high compared to civilians. A large role is played by various allowances for service in remote locations, outside Russia and with participation in hostilities. This greatly stimulates the career growth of military personnel.

Recently, the view has already dominated the transition to a fully professional army, given the fact that training is going on high-tech weapons. Requires fundamental knowledge and skills in the use of new weapons.

Do you think that if Putin takes personal care of the army, how will he treat him?

Napoleon Bonaparte said: “Who does not want to feed his army, he will feed someone else’s.” This phrase is relevant in our time. And so it will be after us. As long as there are weapons on the ground, the army must be fed.

By Vladimir Andreeff

Vladimir Andreeff is former Serviceman at Russian Armed Forces (1975–2001)

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

Nigeria is asset rich but poor in leadership; a land full of mineral resources, unimaginable wealth and human capital. Our beloved country is so blessed, yet crawling into avoidable crisis.

Sadly, the whole world is watching us as the ‘sleeping giant’ becomes the poverty capital of world.

The unhealthy state of our beloved country, Nigeria was eloquently captured in a recent article by one of the world most respectable news tabloid, the Financial Times. In an article titled “What is Nigeria’s government for?” on January 31, 2022, the writer, David Piling described the Nigerian government as “a government sleepwalking into disaster.”

According to Piling, “Buhari oversaw two terms of an economic slump, rising debt and a calamitous increase in kidnapping and banditry.”

Financial Times’ report validates the report of the International Development Association (IDA) and Transparency International on the state of nation.

The International Development Association (IDA), a World Bank financial institution had listed Nigeria among countries with the highest debt risk exposure across the world. Transparency International had also ranked Nigeria 154 out of 180 countries on the Corruption Perception Index.

That is how bad leadership affects the international image of the country. Sadly, our present crop of leaders seems to have forgotten the labors of our heroes past. This explains why we are witnessing a shattered country – a collapsing nation.

Reminiscing about the golden leadership days of Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Nnamdi Azikiwe and Sir Ahmadu Bello makes me wonder at what point we missed it as a nation.

Obafemi Awolowo, the first premier of the Western region from 1952 to 1959, was a nationalist who played active role in the struggle for Nigeria’s independence. The visionary and economically sagacious Awo-led government had numerous achievements including: the implementation of free Universal Primary Education, the establishment of Africa’s first TV Station, the construction of West Africa’s first Skyscraper (Cocoa House) and first International Stadium (Liberty) the establishment of a first rate Civil Service, the construction of Nigeria’s first Housing and Industrial Estates (Bodija and Ikeja) etc.

Awolowo was one of the country’s leading social democratic politician who, in his agitation for self-rule, was also known to have stood for economic and social development especially in the Western region.

In recognition of all of this, Awolowo was the first individual in the modern era to be named as the leader of the Yoruba (Asiwaju Awon Yoruba or Asiwaju Omo Oodua).

Popularly known as ‘Zik of Africa,’ Azikiwe was the first President of Nigeria from 1963 to 1966. Considered a driving force behind the nation’s independence, he came to be known as the “father of Nigerian Nationalism.”

Azikiwe was a leading figure of modern Nigerian nationalism who spent a better part of his life working to end British control of Nigeria, both as a journalist and a politician. He inspired the Zikist movement, a radical revolutionary and multi-ethnic youth body which championed the Nigerian struggle against imperialism and the belief that Nigerians and indeed Africans should manage their own affairs.

An obituary in the 1996 issue of Jet captures his place in Nigeria’s and Africa’s history thus: “Known as a vigorous champion of African independence from European colonial rule, Dr. Azikiwe attained the rare status of national hero, admired across the regional and ethnic lines dividing his country.”

Ahmadu Ibrahim Bello, Sardauna of Sokoto, knighted as Sir Ahmadu Bello, built Northern Nigeria and served as its first and only premier from 1954 until his assassination in 1966.

Bello masterminded the creation of Northern Nigeria Development Corporation (NNDC), Bank of the North, and Northern Nigeria Investments Ltd (NNIL). He initiated plans to modernise traditional Koranic education in Northern Nigeria. His greatest legacy was the modernisation and unification of the diverse people of Northern Nigeria. Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) in Zaria is a monument named after him.

For us to have a healthy nation, just as in the days of Awolowo, Zik and Bello, there is need for us to return to regionalism: every region should control its Nigerian natural resources, take 50 percent derivation, run local councils and create state police “as provided for under the 1963 Constitution”.

Today, to the typical southerner, northerners have been implementing an agenda of total domination as the structure of the country is eternally skewed in their favour. And to the typical northerner, the structure is a fair reflection of our socio-economic and political demographics and southerners are only allowing pride and prejudice to colour their reasoning.

With these entrenched mindsets on both sides, we cannot expect to have a decent discourse, much less reach a consensus on a national debate, which is why there is a demand for a return to the 1963 constitution.

This demand is coming for several reasons. One, it is widely claimed that the constitution granted resource control to the regions. Two, it is said that the constitution granted 50 percent derivation. Three, it is believed that the 50 percent derivation allowed the regions to compete and that was why Nigeria made progress then, compared to now. Four, the 1999 Constitution, under which we currently operate, is a terrible piece of work foisted on the country by the military.

ARISE ‘O COMPATRIOTS..

Richard Odusanya is a Social Reform Crusader and the convener of AFRICA COVENANT RESCUE INITIATIVE ACRI.

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

A documentary by SBS Australia has shed more light on the roles played in the history and building of modern day Australia by ten convicts of African descent who arrived in Australia on the First Fleet 200 years ago.

‘Our African Roots’ tells of a forgotten part of Australia’s history, how these Africans were among the first batch of convicts routed from Europe to Australia.

It turns out that when colonists first arrived on Australian shores in 1788, there were indeed ten convicts of African descent among them. It’s a fact that remains largely undocumented in most school history books. It also fails to capture the important role of these convicts and their ongoing significance to Australia’s cultural landscape. There’s a personal frustration with the limited reference to these early settlers for Chingaipe; when her family migrated from Zambia when she was just a child, she struggled to connect with the historical narrative she was taught and recognises the impact this can have.

The SBS Documentary ‘Our African Roots’ Is Set to Rewrite Australia’s History

On Sunday, October 17, SBS will premiere a documentary about Australia’s lost African history. A topic that, despite its importance, is one many people are unaware of.

The sixth stand-alone film in the eight-part Australia Uncovered documentary series will be presented by Santilla Chingaipe, a filmmaker and journalist, and will discuss modern Australia’s history while paying tribute to the people of African descent who have helped build this nation.

Every Aussie is aware of the First Fleet, but what many don’t know is that at least ten African men were on board the ship.

For more than 200 years, Australians of African descent have contributed greatly to Australia’s history, from the Eureka Rebellion to the ANZACs.

Our African Roots is rewriting them into our story, proving that Australia’s origin has always been complex and multicultural.

Chingaipe understands the importance behind sharing these stories, saying: “For me, the mission is personal. If Australia continues to erase the stories of people of colour, does it mean the contributions of contemporary African Australians like me are also in danger of being dismissed or forgotten?

“It’s time we started telling the truth about the history of colonised Australia. These aren’t African-Australian stories; these are Australian stories – and we should know the names of these men and women.”

Tony Jackson, Chemical Media Producer and Director share the same sentiments.

“When a highly respected journalist who is knowledgeable about their subject brings you a story that leaves your jaw on the floor, you know it’s too good an opportunity to miss,” he said.

“It’s been a privilege to work with Santilla to tell such a cracking story. I hope that Our African Roots becomes a staple in our schools and challenges us to think about which tales we choose to tell ourselves as a nation and which ones we leave out.”

The documentary will be available to watch on SBS On Demand with subtitles in five languages: Simplified Chinese, Arabic, Traditional Chinese, Vietnamese and Korean.

The series will also be available with audio descriptions for blind and vision-impaired audiences.

Source: TheLatch/SBS Australia

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

Chief James Ajibola Idowu Ige, popularly known as Bola Ige. Uncle Bola was born on the 13th September 1930, in Kaduna the political headquarters of the northern region. Cicero was the real ‘Kaduna boy’ that some of us identified with. He was cerebral, intellectually mobile, a rare breed, one of the finest of his generation. A senior advocate of the legal profession, (SAN), ‘classic’. Bola Ige was an orator, a great mobilizer and a motivator. He was a linguist, he could speak with accurate proficiency in the three major Nigeria’s languages; Ibo, Hausa and Yoruba.

Ajibola Bọ́lá Ìgè, a paragon of excellence, a personage of several parts, who clearly was positively myriad-minded. He was an orator, a lawyer, a politician, a newspaper columnist, an author of many books. He would have been 91 years today. Sadly, he was brutally assassinated about two decades ago, precisely, on the 23rd December 2001, on the eve of Christmas. It was the beginning of the dark era of politically motivated assassination in the fourth republic. He was murdered in cold blood right in front of his amiable wife, Justice Atinuke Ige, at his home in Ibadan. Justice Atinuke Ige later died of the trauma about sixteen months after the tragic incident. “Ige dee, Ige dee ooo, Arole Awolowo Ige dee ooo.”

Nigeria’s Nobel Laureate, Prof Akinwande Oluwole Soyinka (WS), has a very strong view about the complicity of the state in the assassination of the “Arole Awolowo”, his position validates my explosive live interview in New York eight years ago, precisely on the 21 April 2013. I was irrevocably betrothed to the idea of what could have happened. 13th February, and 13 September, are days that I look forward to with excitement. The first 13 is mine, while the September is for three special personalities. First, of them all is Cicero, second is my brother Festus Olayinka Odusanya in Boston Massachusetts who is 61 today, then my niece Regina ‘mummy’ Agom of the blessed memory, God bless her soul.

Cicero of Esa-Oke, as early as age 29 shared a global platform with the likes of Martin Luther King Jr — but today, unfortunately, many of our Nigerian youths of the same age brackets are looking for jobs now or engaging in some criminal activities or just don’t care about making positive impacts. Some are addicted to drugs, gambling, BBN and so many things pointing in the wrong direction. Part of the reasons why our youths can be referred to as “Lazy” as a teenager in the late ’70s, I was an unrepentant admiral of the great Cicero of ESA-oke. In the neighbourhood then, many calls him “Uncle Bola” I called him “Arole” and I will joyfully sing for him “Ige dee, Ige dee ooo, arole Awolowo’ Ige dee ooo.

Conclusively, as we continue to celebrate the life and time of the great Cicero of esa-oke. Permit me to use the words of Patricia Lumumba, he once said that; “Third world is a state of the mind and until we change our attitudes as Africans [ sic NIGERIANS], if there is a fourth, fifth, and even sixth world, we will be in it.” This is certainly another dimension and effort in the cognitive development of Mind Restructuring. The life of sacrifice as exemplified by the life and time of uncle Bola should necessarily be a motivation for the NIGERIAN youths.

Cicero of esa-oke, sleep well… Uncle Bola, continue to rest in grace. IJESA MODU APONADA, OMO ELENI ATEKA, OMO ELENI EWELE. OMO OWA OMO EKUN, OMO OTAPEPE OTA GOGORO…SUN REE OOO

CICERO AT 91 POSTHUMOUSLY.

Richard Odusanya is a Social Reform Crusader and the convener of AFRICA COVENANT RESCUE INITIATIVE ACRI.

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

CRISTIANORONALDO THE G.O.A.T WROTE.

Thank you to the Guiness World Records. Always good to be recognized as a world record breaker. Let’s keep trying to set the numbers even higher!👏🏽

The most goals scored in international football (soccer) matches by an individual (male) was achieved by Cristiano (portugal) between 2003 and 2021.

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

HelpMum Announced as 50,000 Dollars Waislitz Global Citizen Award

The CEO Dr Abiodun Adenrele  has been selected as the only African and among the Four winners for 2021 Waislitz Global Citizen Award.

The CEO was selected as the winner for the Waislitz Global Citizen COVID – 19 Response award and would receive 50,000 dollars as part of winning the award.
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The Waislitz Global Citizen Awards are annual cash prizes distributing a total of $250,000 among the world’s changemakers, presented by the Melbourne-based Waislitz Foundation and Global Citizen, with additional support from Mesoblast. The prizes help individuals further implement their advocacy efforts to end extreme poverty.

As an organization, the Waislitz Foundation seeks to create a positive social impact locally and globally through innovative projects that empower individuals to meet their full potential and make a measurable difference to the world.
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Winning this award will help the organization, HelpMum scale their solutions — especially those developed during COVID, help accelerate the impact they had so far, and save more lives in remote communities.
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9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

By Princely Onyenwe (Imo State)

The Ohanaeze Youth Council (OYC), the apex youth wing of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide has urged the Nigerian Government to tread with caution over the trial of the Leader of Indigenous People of Biafra(IPOB).

Speaking with newsmen in a press conference held at Ikoyi, Lagos State after an exclusive interview with BBC Igbo at her national headquarter on Thursday 22nd July 2021, the National President of the Council, Comrade Igboayaka O. Igboayaka noted that from 1967 to 1970 of a genocidal war deliberately executed by the Nigerian Government with the aid of Britain, Russia, France, Germany and United States of America couldn’t silence nor bury the agitation of Biafra. Anyone or government both at the local or international level, thinking that crushing Nnamdi Kanu/IPOB will stop the agitation must be hallucinating.

Comrade Igboayaka advised the Nigerian government that threats of death or imprisoning the agitators cannot quench the call for Biafra restoration, but the only viable means is dialogue and negotiation.

“The call for Nigeria’s unity is only a verbal gesture because the President Muhammadu Buhari-led federal government since 2015 is practically complimenting the effort of pro-Biafra groups through his pursuit of the Fulani agenda and open marginalization, injustice and killing of IPOB and other self-determination groups in Alaigbo,” he stated.

Comrade Igboayaka call on Igbo leaders, governors and former governors, Senators, Traditional and Religious leaders to rally around Nnamdi Kanu for his safety and use the opportunity of his release to seek for the workable approach for political cum economic survival of Neighbors in Nigeria political project.

“No one throws away a child with the dirty bath of water, and an elder who rescued a perceived stubborn child has paved a new way of reasoning and the need to listen to the elders, therefore Ohanaeze Youth Council-OYC appeal to notable, noble and great men of Igbo extraction to rise up to the occasion and show their fatherly responsibility to save Nnamdi Kanu,” Igboayaka stated.

“Whether wrong or right, anybody thinking that Nnamdi Kanu is standing alone should interview any Igbo youth in all the communities of Igbo extraction, you will be shocked that Igbo youths still believe in Igwe Bu Ike and Onye Aghala Nwanne Ya. This evidential proof is a signal that Nnamdi Kanu could be used by a reasonable government to come into a dialogue or negotiation table, but an unreasonable government will use Nnamdi Kanu’s trial to put Nigeria in a situation more excruciating than 1967-70 experience,” Igboayaka revealed.

He noted that “At the end of every violent method, peaceful strategy is always used to restore peace and unity, advising, President Muhammadu Buhari and his team to quickly make a U-turn to give peaceful approach a chance to address Nnamdi Kanu’s issues, stressing that war failed in 1967-70 to address the Biafra issue. Also, judiciary approach over the quest for self-determination and Kanu’s trial can’t address the issue rather it will endanger the peace and unity of Nigeria,” Igboayaka concluded.

This release was signed by Chukwuemeka Chimerue, Special Assistant on Media and Publicity to OYC National President.

9News Nigeria (Owerri)
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Bashorun Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola, GCFR,
Hope ’93
1, Moshood Abiola Crescent,
Opebi, Ikeja, Lagos Nigeria.
Our Ref: ACRI/HOPE’93/002
12th June 2021.
Attn. Mr Abdul-Lateef Kolawole Abiola

Your Excellency Sir,

Your Excellency, permit me to use the words of our indefatigable orator of the blessed memory, Maitama Sule ‘Danmasami Kano’ who said, “Behind every crisis anywhere in the world is INJUSTICE.” “The solution to every crisis is to do JUSTICE.” The historic election of June 12, 1993 and consequently the annulment of the most credible election that is adjudged to be free and fair, is a dark chapter in Nigeria’s chequered history.

It is with a heavy heart that I write on behalf of the Africa Covenant Rescue Initiative (ACRI) and our compatriots across the continent of Africa to inform you that the Nigeria you paid the supreme price for, having been denied the well-deserved presidential mandate freely and overwhelmingly bestowed on you by the Nigerian people in 1993 for the betterment of their overall wellbeing, is still a huge nightmare in the present day.

It may also interest you to know that citizens’ confidence in the system has not only been badly bruised since your demise but has increasingly continued to diminish with each passing day and with no iota of hope on the horizon. The situation is such that our heroes past would never have imagined, considering the country’s present status as the poverty capital of the entire world even in the midst of its abundant and untapped God-given resources. The narrative has been made even worse with the current parasitic leadership that takes much pleasure in frivolities, added to the endless plundering with the reckless abandon of the nation’s commonwealth.

A certain Prof. Attahiru Jega, a former Vice-Chancellor of Bayero University, Kano and a two-time Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) puts the situation in a proper context when he once posited that “Nigerians have been afflicted by the misfortune of having characters in governance who are neither selfless nor visionary, who are greedy whether for power or money; who are essentially clueless about matters of governance and reckless in the way they handle government affairs.”

Your Excellency sir, I would not know if the internet we are familiar with here is also used in Heaven. The reason I ask is simply to intimate you with the fact that Nigerians just can’t breathe even as at the time I was penning this message to you. Things have steadily gone from bad to worse, especially in the aspects of the abuse of fundamental human rights of citizens, legalizing executive and institutional recklessness, and the flagrant bastardization of the nation’s once-vibrant economy by means of clueless economic blueprints.

I must not forget to add that the current government has, in tacit demonstration of gross leadership and managerial incompetence, successively dragged your once beloved country into multiple economic recessions within the period it assumed power. The once buoyant economy is now in comatose as citizens are groaning in pains and hardship.

Our dear Bashorun, recall that the driving force behind HOPE ’93′ was the desire for a better Nigeria anchored on the “bye bye to poverty” slogan, one that brings to mind one of your guiding philosophies where you said, “It is unacceptable for any of our citizens to go to bed hungry.”

Your Excellency, it is needless to bother you with the growing executive madness that still reigns supreme in the country you did all you could to ensure its repositioning. Glaring acts of intimidation and barefaced vote-rigging had continued to flourish in our clime with the present leadership not willing to allow for the globally acceptable mode of electronic electioneering anytime soon.

As against the decent nation-state, you intended to bequeath to generations yet unborn as copiously entrenched in your Hope ’93 blueprint, all indices of bad governance, many of which are used in determining a failed or failing state, stare us in the face today. Is it the entrenchment of outright fallacies and propaganda that has assumed policies of the government in Nigeria today or the brazen acts of instituting nepotism/ethno-religious supremacist agenda that is the stock in trade of the present administration? It is all motion and no movement as Gani Fawehinmi of blessed memory once described the tragedy of the Nigerian nation-state.

Sir, it is worthy of note to inform you that the megalomaniac tendencies of the ruling class and their cronies had ruined the economy with every fabric of the nation being destroyed. From the economy to the unity of Nigeria, I dare say that no area has been spared of the rot that has become our once proud nation. Today, the freedom of expression has taken flight in Nigeria as harassment, torture, killings, excruciating economic hardship, nepotism, unemployment, official high handedness have become the order of the day.

October 20, 2020, has become a defining moment for the abysmal human rights posture of this administration. It was the day the globe watched with awe as the state descended heavily using military might to kill and maim its own young men and women, drenching the national flag with innocent blood just for coming out to peacefully express their displeasure over issues of bad governance under the codename #Endsars. The constitutionally guaranteed right of citizens to peaceful protest that was converted, albeit regrettably, to a huge theatre of war has come to be known today as the infamous #Lekkimasacre.

The aforementioned are just a few of the unfortunate realities that underline our corporate existence in the present time. However, I am equally glad to announce to you that as a nation, we have set in motion the search for a selfless and visionary leadership in our beloved country Nigeria, the type of leadership you envisioned but which was truncated by enemies of the state. You will need to also know that your boy, ‘Yele’ is not relenting in this wise in spite of all odds. June 12 has become the symbol of our Democracy, and assuredly, HOPE ’93 will continue to resonate and remain alive in the minds of so many of our compatriots, home and abroad.

As my concluding thoughts, Your Excellency, may I on behalf of the HOPE 93 family and enthusiasts across the globe assure you that the supreme prize you paid in your selfless quest to make our country a much better place will forever be treasured and celebrated.

You were a rare breed of Nigerian and of no mean personality who left an indelible footprint in the sand of time. Sleep on, great hero of mother Africa; Adieu, M.K.O, the great pillar of sports in Africa, and President, Federal Republic of Nigeria, whose overwhelming presidential mandate no one can ever wish away!

Richard Odusanya is a Social Reform Crusader and the Convener of AFRICA COVENANT RESCUE INITIATIVE (ACRI).

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9News Nigeria

BY PRINCELY ONYENWE,IMO

Focus on Unity and Peace!

The call for a united entity called NIGERIA started from the beginning by our forebears and the call for it’s unity and progress is what NIGERIANS will sustain.

Though the governance may not be favourable but citizens are expected to toe the line of peace and be guided accordingly.

In LAGOS for instance, an Igbo tribe was the first vice chancellor of Lagos state university likewise other tribes that clinched positions of authority at Different regions of the country.

9News Nigeria will be bringing to our readers history line that will unite than divide NIGERIA.

In this episode, our focus is on First VC of University of Lagos Nigeria, Eni NJOKU.

Eni Njoku (6 November 1917 – 22 December 1974) was a Nigerian botanist and educator. He was the vice-chancellor of the University of Lagos (1962–65) and the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (1966-1970).

Eni Njoku is of Igbo origin, He was born on November 6, 1917 in Ebem, Ohafia, Abia State. He was educated at Ebem Primary School and attended the Hope Waddell Training Institute, Calabar from 1933 to 1936. He attended the Yaba Higher School (now Yaba College of Technology) Lagos from 1937 to 1939 to acclaim a tertiary education certificate.

Eni Njoku studied botany at the University of Manchester in England. He graduated with a first-class honors degree in 1947 and obtained his M.A. degree the following year. In 1954, he obtained his doctorate from the University of London.

When he returned to Nigeria, Eni Njoku took up a teaching appointment at the University of Ibadan as a lecturer. Later he became a senior lecturer and then professor. He was head of the department of botany, and Dean of the faculty of science. He was chairman of the Electricity Corporation of Nigeria in 1956.

In 1962, he became the first vice-chancellor of the University of Lagos. Following a major crisis in 1965 over his re-appointment, he resigned and became a visiting professor at Michigan State University, United States.

In 1966, Njoku was appointed vice-chancellor of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka where he remained until the outbreak of the civil war in 1967.

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Rivers State, named after the many rivers that border its territory, was part of the Oil Rivers Protectorate from 1885 till 1893 when it became part of the Niger Coast Protectorate. In 1900, the region was merged with the chartered territories of the Royal Niger Company to form the colony of Southern Nigeria. The state was formed in 1967 with the split of the Eastern Region of Nigeria. In 1996 the state lost territory to form Bayelsa State.
In the early days of the colonial period, several protection treaties were signed between various indigenous communities and the British colonial government. Between 1941 and 1952, agitation for the creation of Rivers province began with the formation of the Ijo Rivers People’s League. By 1953, the Council of Rivers Chiefs was birthed as a replacement body for the League, the same year, another organisation, the Calabar Ogoja Rivers (COR) State Movement became existent.

The Council of Rivers Chiefs was later renamed in 1954 to Rivers Chiefs and People’s Congress and in 1956, the organisation became known as the Rivers Chiefs People’s Conference. Until 1958, hopes of an independent state resonated with the region and lingered consistently in the minds of its natives. During the constitutional conference that year, the country’s nationhood was affirmed while an agreement was reached on some measures to mitigate the fears of the ethnic minorities in the area. Around this time, the COR State Movement had broken away to press their own case. Thereafter, the British launched a commission led by Sir Henry Willink to look into the misgivings of these autochthons. The Willink Commission initiated the conception of the Niger Delta Development Board (NDDB). The purpose was to tackle the problems of underdevelopment, however, this failed to rise to the expectations of the masses. After much discontent, some of the people attempted to take the extralegal route to achieve their goals.

In February 1966, Isaac Boro, Sam Owonaro and Nottingham Dick alongside their supporters proclaimed a “Delta People’s Republic”. The rebellion persisted for twelve days but was resisted by the Federal and the old Eastern Nigeria government. On 27 May 1967, under the administration of General Yakubu Gowon, Decree No. 14 was issued, allowing the creation of Rivers State. From then on, complaints about political marginalisation, environmental degradation and economic pauperisation remained among the Ijaw groups, such that a separate Bayelsa State was carved out of Rivers State by the military government of Sani Abacha on 1 October 1996.

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As Nigeria is collapsing around us let us remember how we got here.
ROLL CALL OF THE PROMOTERS OF FAILURE IN NIGERIA
Here are some of the prominent names that helped send BUHARI to Aso Rock:

1. Dr. Oby Ezekwesili
2. Fela Durotoye
3. Atiku Abubakar
4. Omoyele Sowore
5. Izala Muslim clerics and Christians clerics.
6. Chief Olusegun Obasanjo
7. Professor Charles Soludo
8. Pastor Tunde Bakare
9. Pastor Sunday Adelaja
10. Father Ejike Mbaka
11. Professor Pastor Yemi Osibanjo
12. Professor Tam David West
13. Professor Wole Soyinka
14. Rev. Chris Okotie
15. Professor Pat Utomi
16. Nasir El-Rufai
17. Dino Melaye
18. Lai Mohammed
19. Rochas Okorocha
20. Rotimi Amaechi
21. Adams Oshiomhole
22. Dr. Bukola Saraki
23. Aminu Tambuwal
24. Bola Ahmed Tinubu
25. Raji Fashola
26. Dr. Chris Ngige
27. Rabiu Kwankwaso
28. Ibikunle Amosun
29. Rauf Aregbesola
30. Kayode Fayemi
31. Sanusi Lamido
32. Deacon Femi Adesina
33. Pastor E.A Adeboye
34. Pastor Kumuyi
35. Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu
36. Kenny Ogungbe
37. Dato Adeneye
38. Magnus Abbey
39. Dakuku Peterside
40. 9ice
41. Kenny St. Ogungbe Brown
42. Tunde Disu
43. John Momoh
44. Maupe Ogun
45. Chamberlain Usoh
46. Suleiman Aleide
47. Monday Onyekachi Ubani
48. Iffy Ubani
49. Labourous Osuoma
50. Citizen Useni Jones (Radio continental 102.3FM).
51. Joe Igbokwe
52. Dele Momodu
53. Abike Dabiri
54. Professor Attahiru Muhammadu Jega
55. Muazu
56. Emeka Ojukwu Jnr.
57. Egenti E Raymond (Ogudo)
58. Victor Umeh
59. Wasiu Ayinde (Kwam 1)
60. TY Danjuma
61. Lauretta Onochie
62. Jide Kosoko
63. Jonah David Jang
64. MC Oluomo and his NURTW thugs
65. Solomon Dalung
66. Naja’atu Mohammed
67. Buba Galadima
68. Oba of lagos, Oba Akiolu
69. Shehu Sanni
70. Desmond Eliott
71. Femi Kuti
    These people and the entire RCCG actually believed that Buhari had what it takes to lead Nigeria into a first world.
    These people went to school. Many are professors. Some claimed to have direct access to God.
    Some are gifted with “prophesies.”
    They read history. They understood international relations. They understood how societies work or so we thought.
    They were more than 20 years old in 1983 when Buhari shot himself to power.
    They saw Buhari murder innocent Nigerians in 1983.
    They saw Buhari destroy the economy in 1983.
    They saw the role Buhari played in Abacha’s government.
    They read all the threats of violence by Buhari against the nation.
    They saw Buhari harass Lam Adesina the Oyo State Governor due to Fulani herdsmen conflicts with locals in Oyo State.
    They saw Buhari lead the sharia protest that claimed the lives of innocent Nigerians in 2001.
    They saw Buhari and his minions open the gate of hell on innocent Nigerians when he lost the presidential election in 2011.
    If Buhari was not speaking and defending his Fulani heritage he would be fighting to defend his religious heritage.
    Never for once did he defend Nigeria or gave interview on how to rebuild the economy, education, power, health, etc.
    They saw everything this man did. They knew him too well to miss the little details of his violent life.
    But they were united in hatred.
    Hatred for Goodluck Ebele Jonathan. One among the few Nigeria leaders that actually wanted Nigeria to work.
    Hatred became a unifying force to push forward a false narrative.
    They exploited his humility.
    They exploited his kindness.
    They exploited his humanity
    They danced and made merry in Ojota. They ate, drank and danced away the destiny of a nation.
    Saints Tinubu, Amaechi, Fashola, etc., led the chorus against ‘corrupt’ Goodluck Jonathan.
    Tinubu a private jet owner and owner of Lagos, Amaechi a private jet owner and funder of Buhari campaign, Atiku a University owner paid with his civil service allowance etc wanted ‘corrupt’ Goodluck Jonathan out.
    But the people did not see the moral paradox because you see – hate is a unifying factor.
    They mobilised thugs to stone a sitting President.
    They harassed his family wherever they went.
    Because they are from the hated minority who must NOT be king.
    For Kings must come from the Fulani lineage. Jonathan is Ijaw. Ijaws should not be Kings.
    Jonathan must not loot also.
    For looters must come from enablers of evil.
    These are intellectuals.
    Amongst whom are Pastors and Prophets.
    Wisdom failed.
    Prophesies failed.
    WAEC issued a fake WAEC attestation to Buhari.
    It is possible many Nigerian “intellectuals” are working with fake certificates.
    A nation without conscience is a curse to its people.
    We all are standing on the podium of history.
    Humanity beckons.
    Surely our children will read the roles we played in the salvation or annihilation of humanity.

*Share for all Nigerians to read about those that put us in this mess!

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These Unexplored Historical Photos Are Remarkable

We’ve come a long way in the last couple of centuries and our lives have improved significantly. But the path to get to where we are now was not always easy. It was a constant battle for survival, while trying to improve our living conditions – wars, famine, diseases, but also triumph of human ingenuity and compassion. Priorities in life changed too as we progressed, so many things from the past might look strange to us today. Here are some significant moments from our history that will completely change the way you look at the present!

The first selfie ever

Daquan

Today’s life can hardly be imagined without people snapping selfies all the time. You might think it is a rather recent invention, but the first selfie was taken a long time ago, we are talking about the 1800s, believe it or not. This photo dates back to 1837 when Robert Cornelius probably took the first selfie ever. And no, it was not taken by a smartphone nor posted on any social media websites.

The bulletproof vest testing

Daquan

The Protective Garment Corporation of New York must have had a lot of faith in not only their product, the bulletproof vest, but also in the abilities of this man shooting the gun. A live demonstration of their state-of-the-art lightweight police vest was held in 1923, where they shot at the salesman wearing one. We don’t know if they made a pair of bulletproof pants as well, but it wouldn’t be shocking if the assistant needed a new pair after each demonstration.

The seal on Tutankhamen’s Tomb

Daquan

The tombs of ancient Egyptian pharaohs are amazing wonders that intrigue scientists even today. It is almost unbelievable how ancient civilizations managed to build them, as well as mummify the pharaohs with such limited technology. One of the most famous ones is surely the tomb of Tutankhamen, which was opened on February 17, 1923. Scientists estimate that the tomb had remained intact for 3,245 years before the seal on the door was broken and the archeologists entered the gravesite of the famous pharaoh.

A 106-year-old warrior

Daquan

You witness the strangest things in war. People have to fight for their bare lives, so no wonder this 106-years-old Armenian granny was holding an assault rifle. Certainly not what she was hoping to do at that age nor your typical grandma watching the TV or cooking your favorite food. It’s hard to believe that she was actually capable of using it, but would you take that chance?

Funny scientist

Daquan

Albert Einstein was surely one of the greatest scientists ever, but he obviously had a funny side, too. Arthur Sasse got to capture this legendary photo of the Nobel prize winner at his birthday party in 1951. It portrays Einstein’s response after he was told to smile for a photo. Also, he might have had one too many beers, as well, but no one is judging, it was his birthday, after all.

Dream of flying

Daquan

Ever since the legend of Icarus and possibly even before that, man dreamed of flying. And it finally happened in 1903, when the Wright brothers, Orville and Wilbur, flew their wooden plane, the Wright Flyer, in North Carolina. It was the first sustained flight of a heavier-than-air object using its own power. They also engineered and built the plane themselves so that makes the feat even more admirable.

Cow shoes

Daquan

During prohibition, the moonshiners used to smuggle the liquor. In order to avoid the authorities, they used all the tricks they could think of. One of the most famous tricks they used to hide from the cops included wearing “cow shoes”. The moonshiners made metal strips with carved wooden blocks to resemble cow hooves, and they attached them under their shoes to cover up their footprints. Human ingenuity really knows no boundaries…

The first subway ride

Daquan

Not much after the first flight in 1903, the US got its first subway in New York in 1904. George McClellan, the City’s mayor, opened it and even drove the first passengers on a track that was 9.1 miles long and had 28 stations. At the time, people saw it more as a circus act than a means of transportation. Talk about how times have changed.

Billy the Kid

Daquan

When you are one of the most famous outlaws, you do anything to stay hidden. That is why there are only a couple of photos of the legendary Henry McCarthy, also known as William H. Bonney and most widely referred to as Billy the Kid. Not to mention that he was only 21 when Sheriff Pat Garret shot him in 1881, so it makes sense why Billy the Kid didn’t live a life long enough to have that many photos. Who would’ve thought that he liked to play croquet?

James Dean and his Porsche

Daquan

He was the Rebel Without a Cause, one of the first Hollywood hunks that became a cultural icon. James Dean may have played only in 3 movies, but his legacy is huge. This is his last photo before he went on a drive that eventually ended his life at the age of only 24. You could see in his smile that he had the lust for life, especially fast cars, like his beloved “Little Bastard”, a Porsche 550 Spyder.

Famous lion form the MGM opening credits

Daquan

It is highly unlikely that there is a single person who’s ever watched a movie that is not familiar with the famous roaring lion in the MGM’s opening credits. In fact, there were many lions during the years used for the MGM logo. The one in the photo is Jackie, pictured during the sound recording in his cage, while the sound stage was built around it. Not sure how those two guys felt like in a cage with a wild Nubian lion.

The first photo ever

Daquan

You might not think that this blurry image is a photo, but it is considered to be the oldest surviving photograph in existence. It was made by famous French photography pioneer Joseph Nicéphore Niépce in 1826. It might not be what we call a photograph today, since it’s what you get when you remove the areas of a non-hardened asphalt from a pewter plate exposed to sunlight for eight hours. No wonder he did not take selfies.

John Lennon’s last photo

Daquan

John Lennon signed an autograph to Mark David Chapman the same day that he later shot him in front of his New York residence. It was captured by an amateur photographer Paul Goresh. Chapman planned to murder Lennon for a long time and he finally did it on December 8, 1980. Apparently, he was angry with Lennon for claiming that the Beatles were more popular than Jesus, as well as for the lyrics to the songs “God” and “Imagine”. Chapman is still alive, serving his 20 years to life sentence.

Helmet testing

Daquan

Although it is widely thought that this is the photo of a football helmet testing, it is in fact a safety demonstration by a British inventor W.T. Warren of a Protective Flight Helmet he invented. At the time, head injuries were the leading cause of pilot deaths in flight accidents, so he patented a leather-covered, spring-equipped pilot safety helmet, padded well with horsehair to spread the shock over a large area. If only he had a different testing method…

Popeye or Pablo Picasso

Daquan

This photo of Pablo Picasso as Popeye was shot by famous photographer André Villers, who did portrays of many great artists. He spent almost a decade following Picasso, recording his work, but also moments like this, where he was obviously fooling around. Most ingenious artists were quite eccentric and Picasso was no exception. His look might seem random, but it is actually quite elaborate, since he was wearing a beard, a fake nose, a hat and a rather interesting looking pipe.

Fidel Castro and the kids

Daquan

He might have been considered a dictator by some, but in this photo El Comandante shows off his soft side. All the kids are wearing fake beards to resemble him and he seems to be enjoying it. And it all would’ve not been strange if those kids were Cuban, but they were not, they were actually American. Hard to imagine today, but it happened in 1959 during his visit to New York, just after he took charge of Cuba and before the US sanctions. Times they are a changing…

Lumberjacks

Daquan

This photo from the early 1900s shows lumberjacks cutting down humongous redwoods in the costal area of northern California. Considering they used only saws and axes, it was impressive how they managed to bring down those giant trees. Furthermore, it is even more impressive how they managed to transport them using just horses and oxen, as well as further process them. But, it was the peak time for logging and nothing could stop the progress in the expanding America.

Sport and smoking

Daquan

This photo from 1978 showing Johan Cruyff smoking during the half-time shows how things change in time. He might have been the greatest football player at the time, but his habits were not what would be considered exemplary today. But, things were different then, people were much more down to earth and devoted to what they were doing, not for money, but because they enjoyed it. And they might not sacrifice everything to be successful, but rather enjoy the life as well.

Jewish photographer

Daquan

Alfred Eisenstaedt took this photo of Joseph Goebbels, the Third Reich’s propaganda minister, during the League of Nations conference in 1933. The look and posture of the high-ranking Nazi is due to realization that the photographer was Jewish. The hatred in his stare is pulpable. Because Nazis were on the rise in Germany, as well as antisemitism that they proclaimed, Eisenstaedt emigrated to US, where he spent the rest of his life as a successful photographer for Life magazine.

Left or right?

Daquan

On 3. September 1967, Sweden changed from driving on the left-hand side of the road to the right-hand side. Needless to say, it did not go smoothly, as can be seen in this photo. It even became known as the right-hand traffic diversion day, since quite a few people were late to work that day. It might seem simple enough, but habits are hard to change. Wonder how long did it take them?

The first McDonald’s store

Daquan

You wish the price of the burger was ¢15 as it was when the first McDonald’s store opened in San Bernardino, California. Most of the successful companies started small, so did the McDonald’s. They’ve come a long way since then, with many restaurants world-wide, drive-throughs and birthday parties with the clown. Their first restaurant serves as McDonald’s #1 Store Museum now.

Salvador Dali’s pet

Daquan

Another eccentric Spanish artist doing his eccentric thing – walking his pet which is, wait for it – an anteater. Always elegant Dali, all dressed up with a cane in one hand and an anteater in another was a sight to be seen in Paris in 1969. Not sure was it a Spanish thing or an eccentric artist thing, but he could surely cause a stir and drew as much attention with his lifestyle as with his surrealistic artwork.

Baby photography

Daquan

In the 19th century, photography became popular and many people wanted to take one, especially of their baby children. But, it was easier said than done. Babies don’t like to stand still, if they can sit on their own at all, so photographers came up with a clever solution. What you see in the photo is a baby wearing a rather long frock, but what you don’t see is its mother hiding underneath it, holding it still. The lengths they had to go for a photo then.

Snowball fight

Daquan

This photo looks more like a mug shot than the one with the students of Princeton University in it. But, believe it or not, they were, only just after an annual freshman-sophomore snowball fight of 1893. You might have expected more from the students of one of the more prestigious universities in the US, but certain traditions have to be honored. Why they took this photo is still debated, though.Advertisement

Landing craft from the inside

Daquan

War is a terrible thing and it is way better to observe it from the photos than partake. If you were wondering what did it look like getting to the beaches of Normandy on the D-Day, here is one view from the landing craft getting soldiers there. Believe you me, the photos of what came after you do not want to see, even wearing bathrobe and slippers in the comfort of the armchair in your warm study and the scotch in your hand.

Disney Studio

Daquan

We are all very much familiar with Disney cartoons and the genius of Walt Disney, who started it all. Nowadays, Disney owns many studios and produce feature films, not just cartoons. They have come a long way since their inception, but this photo was taken on the day they were opened. Who would’ve thought then that it will grow into such an empire, but it seems that commitment and dedication go a long way.

Store within a store

Daquan

This photo was taken in London in 1900 and shows what was probably the smallest store in the world ever. It was more like a storefront without the store behind it. But, though times require ingenuity and this man surely did not lack any. He opened a shoe shop in the window of a beverage store. After all, you might need a refreshing lemonade or soda water after trying on some shoes.Advertisement

Mummies for sale

Daquan

After the Napoleon’s conquest of Egypt, Egyptian historic artifacts were made available to European market. Mummies could be purchased from the street vendors and European elite used to often throw “The Mummy Unwrapping Parties”. If that wasn’t disgusting enough, the well-preserved remains of the ancient Egyptians were ground into powder and consumed as a medicinal remedy. Demand was so high that it started the counterfeit trade in which the flesh of beggars was passed off as that of Egyptian mummies.

Casualties of war

Daquan

Apart from the apparent damage a war does in human casualties and destroying everything in its path, the aftermath is just as bad. It takes a while for countries to recover and in the meantime, people have to manage to survive. The woman in the photo could not feed her 4 children and the fifth one was on the way, so she put them up for sale. If sources could be trusted, she actually sold them during the period of two years, including the new born baby.

Flight attendant

Daquan

Flight attendant is a dream job for many ladies and they often look glamorous in their uniforms. But, in the early days of commercial jet airliners, certain outfits were done in a way that would not necessarily be acceptable by today’s standards. In 1959, SAS Airlines started using interesting rather short uniform, as can be seen in this photo. The good old days.

Can women compete in Boston Marathon?

Daquan

This question might seem strange today, but until 1972, women were not allowed to race in Boston Marathon. It all started in 1967, when Kathrine Switzer enrolled for the marathon, but the race official, the notorious Jock Semple, tried to take her number away during the race, as can be seen in the photo. Her boyfriend, who was racing too, stopped him and she managed to finish the race. It still took another 5 years to finally allow women to race officially.

Eton college during the war

Daquan

Hitler was planning for a long time to occupy Great Britain, but since it was an island, many things had to happen in order to start the attack. Main problems were Britain’s anti-aircraft defense and naval fleet, so it took a while. But, Britain did not just sit and wait, they were preparing for the attack, too. Even the prestigious college like Eton did regular military drills, as can be seen in this photo. British being British, they were perfect gentlemen even when carrying rifles.

Terrorist on vacation

Daquan

You surely cannot recognize him in this photo at young age and without the beard, but it is Osama Bin Laden, once world’s most wanted terrorist. The photo was taken during the family vacation in Sweden in 1970. Can’t say for sure what was going on in his head then, but don’t think it was terrorist attacks. Just don’t understand how do you get from smiling in front of a pink limousine on a vacation to killing innocent people?

East vs West Germany

Daquan

It is always hard when the same nations are artificially separated by border, like in case of North and South Korea or Germany in the days after the II World War. Many families were split by the border and their lives changed forever. This photo shows a German soldier risking his life in order to get the young boy across the barbed wire fence in hope to find his family. Thankfully, human compassion knows no boundaries.

Phone booth stuffing

Daquan

It all started in South Africa, where students in Durban fitted 25 people in a phone booth in order to get into the Guinness Book of World Records. The craze soon traversed to England, where it was called ‘telephone booth squash’, but they managed to fit only 19 students. And then it spread to US and Canada and even got so popular that they had to invent the rules, since some cheated. Just as fast as it took off, it quickly disappeared, with South African record intact.

USS Oregon Boxing matches

Daquan

When you spend all your time onboard the navy ship, you need to find something to keep you sane. And sailors on USS Oregon, better known as the Bulldog of the Navy, found just the right thing to shake them up – boxing. You could blow off some steam and the spectators could enjoy themselves just the same and relieve some stress. Just not sure if the superior officers allowed a sick leave to the ones who got badly beaten.

Entertaining the troops

Daquan

As imagined, war can be rather demoralizing, especially for the troops engaged in a close combat, like many US soldiers in Vietnam were. US government tried to find the ways to increase the morale and one of the most efficient ones was to invite the movie stars to visit the troops. Chris Noel, a Hollywood sex symbol, visited the troops many times and even hosted a popular radio show ‘A date with Chris’. Many Vietnam vets have fond memories of her.

Diaper Derby

Daquan

Not sure how would it be treated today, but baby racing used to be rather popular in the 1940s and 1950s. There was even a Diaper Derby, an annual baby racing competition sponsored by the National Institute of Diaper Services. It usually included stuffed animals at the finish line to draw babies attention and serve as a prize. Not that it always worked, since babies might decide to stand up (which meant disqualification) and go in the opposite direction, or just fall asleep midway. Like babies cared for rules.Advertisement

Swimming lessons

Daquan

Being an island, it was important for England to teach their children to swim in timely manner. But, in the 1920s, not every school had a swimming pool, so they had to be resourceful. It is hard to learn the moves laying flat on the ground, so the teacher came up with an ingenious solution – place your tummy across another kid’s back – and you are floating. Now you can learn the breaststroke, no problem.

Track and field and hairdos

Daquan

Sport has changed a lot since the 1960s, just like the fashion trends. Nowadays, athletes use any means necessary to improve their results and the looks are reserved for off court. But in the 1960s, it was not necessarily so – the ladies in the photo seem to care more about their hairdos, than the result they’re going to achieve. Wonder what did they look like after the race?

Submarine armor

Daquan

When Harry L. Bowdoin applied for the patent for his submarine armor in 1914, diving was not much developed. Perhaps he was counting on that and not having much competition, since the reality was rather cruel – it did not have the success that he had hoped for. Perhaps because he was ahead of time and hindered by technology not being up to the task, like lightweight materials, lighting, breathing apparatus and everything else needed for a successful dive. Typical destiny of an inventor.

Moving swimming pool

Daquan

A rather nice gesture by New York city authorities in 1967, who created a Swim-Mobile, a swimming pool on wheels. It was towed by a truck to various locations around the city, so the kids could cool down and enjoy themselves. It used water from the hydrants and stayed in one place for a day. Really nice way to bring the community together – kids would relax in a pool and parents had a chance to meet their neighbors and enjoy each other’s company.

Human chess

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Chess is a popular board game, usually played in enclosed spaces. But not in Russia in the mid 1920s. They played it outside, with real people as figures, like in this photo showing a match in St. Petersburg’s Palace Square, with Red Army representing the black pieces and Soviet Navy the white ones. Knights were riding real horses and rooks had miniature cannons. The match was actually played between the two Russian grandmasters who called their moves by telephone.

Fishing at night in Hawaii

Daquan

Traditional spear fishing in Hawaii was done in shallow waters and at night. Might sound easy now, but in 1940s they did not have flashlights to attract the fish, so they had to make their own torches. Traditionally, they were kukui-nut torches made of kukui nuts wrapped in leaves or larger lamaku torches, made of coconut leaf midrib with kukui kernels tied to it. If they needed more light, they would light roasted kukui nuts in a hollow piece of bamboo.

Spy execution

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In this photo taken in Rukajärvi (Finland) in November 1942, a Soviet spy is laughing at his executioner. It was the act of final defiance, knowing there is nothing he can do to avoid his faith. Such photos were not published at the time, fearing they might be used for propaganda purposes by pro-Soviet elements. The Ministry of Defense of Finland declassified this photo, named “Unknown Soviet intelligence officer before being shot”, in 2006.

Fascist Headquarters In Rome

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The infamous Mussolini façade of the Palazzo Braschi in Rome, showing the leader’s face and the “SI” (Italian for “yes”), referring to the 1934 Italian general elections with a simple yes/no vote on the Fascist Party list. Mussolini saw Rome as the capital of the fascist empire and wanted to transform the Eternal City in stages of urban development with grandiose buildings whose look would project his achievements and fascist objectives. His execution at the end of WWII ended his dream.

Capturing of John McCain

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During a bombing mission over Hanoi as part of Operation Rolling Thunder in October 1967, John McCain was shot down, seriously injured, and captured by the North Vietnamese, as shown in this photo. He was a prisoner of war until 1973, where he was tortured, but refused an out-of-sequence early release, before all the American POWs captured before him. After the war, he turned to politics, until his death in 2018.Advertisement

Michael Jackson 2000

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In 1985, Ebony Magazine published the article “Portraits of the stars – What they may look like in the year 2000’, featuring many celebrities popular at the time. For Michael Jackson, they predicted that he’d age gracefully and increase his fan base tenfold. It is hard to judge the number of fans, but it did keep increasing over time. As for the looks, whether it was due to a skin condition or plastic surgery, it is safe to say they were wrong. Though, you can’t really blame them.

I have a dream

The Vintage News

One of the most famous speeches ever held was by Martin Luther King, the leader of the Civil Rights Movement, in front of more than 250,000 civil rights supporters during the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom on 28. August 1963. The main subject of the speech, which was considered to be the greatest call to end racism in America, were the freedom rights of the black people. He continued the fight for the rights of black people until his assassination in 1968.

Yalta conference

Wikipedia

Pictured in this photo are the Prime Minister Winston Churchill form the United Kingdom, President Franklin D. Roosevelt from the United States, and Premier Joseph Stalin from the Soviet Union, during the famous Yalta Conference. It was held 4-11. February 1945 near Yalta in Crimea, Soviet Union, to discuss the postwar reorganization of Germany and Europe. As always, it is the winners who write the history.

RMS Titanic

Encyclopedia Britannica

Titanic was one of the most famous ships in history, although she sank on her maiden voyage. Being one of the most luxurious liners of the time, she tried to set the benchmark for other ships. In an effort to break the speed record for crossing the Atlantic ocean, she hit the iceberg on a foggy night of 14. April 1912 and sank several hours later, taking around 1,500 lives. We have to thank her for having way better regulations when it comes to passenger safety today.

Moon landing

Encyclopedia Britannica

Russia may have been the first in space (Yuri Gagarin on 12 April 1961) and on the moon (unmanned Luna 2 on 13 September 1959), but the US Apollo 11 mission was the first manned mission to land on the moon on 20 July 1969. Neil Armstrong was the first man to walk on the moon, saying the famous words: “That’s one small step for [a] man, one giant leap for mankind”. Quite the achievement, since it hasn’t been repeated since.

Nikola Tesla

Smithsonian

Most likely one of the most under-appreciated inventors of all time, Nikola Tesla was responsible for many inventions that we could not imagine our lives without today. He was way ahead of his time and often misunderstood, devoting his whole life to science and invention. He didn’t even mind when others used his patents for their inventions, all in favor of science and progress. Often mistreated by his patrons, he died a poor man in New York hotel room, leaving all his inventions to humanity.

Ali vs Liston

Time 100 Photos

Mohamad Ali often repeated “I am the greatest!” and many will agree that he

was the greatest boxer who ever lived. He was known for many legendary fights against famous opponents – Joe Frazier, George Foreman to name the few, but the second fight against Sony Liston on 25. May 1965 produced this iconic photo. Neil Leifer, who took the photo, said it was all about being in the right spot at the right time and not missing the shot. Just like in life.

Iwo Jima

Encyclopedia Britannica

The famous photo taken by Joe Rosenthal in 1945 depicts US Marines hoisting an American flag on Mount Suribachi after the hard-won battle for Iwo Jima island in Japan. That was the second hoisting of the flag, since initially they used a smaller one, which could not be seen from far. Pulitzer Prize-winning photographer was accused of staging this, but he denied the accusations and was backed up by witnesses.

The Posture Queens, 1956

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Presently, beauty pageants are focused on finding beauty with brains and that is fair enough. The participants are put through some tough tasks and tests and history is no different in this field except for one test that was conducted and had a separate title.

This title was associated with Chiropractic as it had just begun to be a profession during the 1950s and 1960s. This picture is straight out of a chiropractic convention held in Chicago in May of 1956.

These three ladies had the best standing posture as reflected through their X-rays. The task involved standing on a pair of scales with one foot on each. Clearly, these trophy holders balanced themselves perfectly.

Epitome Of Strength, 1970

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This is Saundra Brown, the first black woman on the Oakland police force who got official training in gun shooting. She served as a police officer for seven years from 1970 to 1977. This powerful history needs to find a spot in the textbooks too.
  
This great moment carries importance in African-American history and for Officer Saundra Brown, this is a page in her book that would be remembered for a long time.

There was no stopping for this woman as she became the deputy district attorney of Alameda County after she received a J.D. at the University Of San Francisco School Of Law. Her achievements didn’t end there as she soon rose to the position of Senior Judge of the United States District Court for the Northern District of California.

Animals Seek Shelter, 1945

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Everyone had to endure the worst during World War II and animals had to face all the consequences of the war too. Before the war displayed the destructive aspect, the animals were transferred to Europe.

This image has captured the scene that existed during those years. That animal made its way from the Berlin zoo to escape the terror. A German woman can be seen offering the creature a treat and it is heartwarming!

As the Soviet troops entered Berlin in 1945, the people and animals had to flee from the panic and land at a safer place. This animal found its spot in a washroom.

Moonshiners In Action, 1926

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During the 1920s, some rules regarding drinking were implemented by the US federal government. They aimed at urging people to give up the drinking habit. The rules and regulations put forward did not see much success leading to a firm decision of adding more quantity of methanol in alcohol.

This step gave an opportunity to bootleggers as the demand suddenly increased and they expected a rise in their sales. However, they could not escape the police checking. This photo is proof!

The lumber truck is undergoing inspection as it carried alcohol that was hidden behind a stack of wood. The smugglers might have done it smartly but they can’t take off so easily when the rules are strict.

Hit By Snowstorm, 1966

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This photo shows the effects of the snowstorm and how the snow just covered everything rising to an unexpected level.

A destructive blizzard struck the United States and the east side of the Rockies in 1966 taking the lives of almost 200 people. Out of these, 31 just froze in the snow and died. The temperature dropped to an unbelievable low and heavy snowfall just ruined the situation.

Many people died in fire accidents during those days. They attempted to create some warmth at their homes but that fire took their lives.

Birthday In Iran, 1973

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This picture is significant as it tells a different story about Iran and the women living there. This kind of set-up and outfit is not what we expect from the country presently.

Let’s travel back to 1973 Iran and this is one example of what it looked like back then. A woman is celebrating her birthday in Tehran by cutting a cake wearing a beautiful dress.

If we consider the current rules, women are instructed to wear the hijab. The outfit worn here can lead to punishment as its illegal considering the current rules. Iran has witnessed a drastic change since then.

But First, Selfie, 1938

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While selfies have become a crucial part of our generation, there was a time when they were non-existent. No one used the term “selfie” before 2002. However, Frank Sinatra, an iconic singer took one in 1938 and it’s a cool one!

So, we can’t take the credit for being the “inventors” of the selfie as they trended way before we were born. Sinatra was only 17 when he took this picture of himself in a mirror.

Green Symbol In The Making, 1970

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The recycling logo that you encounter every day has a history associated with it too. It happened when the Container Corporation of America organized a design competition in 1970 to mark Earth Day on April 22.

Gary Anderson, an engineering student went ahead to participate in it without any experience in graphic designing and came up with this symbol.

Anderson later revealed, “It didn’t take me long to come up with my design: a day or two. I almost hate to admit that now.” But I’d already done a presentation on recycling waste water and I’d come up with a graphic that described the flow of water: from reservoirs through to consumption, so I already had arrows and arcs and angles in my mind.”

We all know the popularity that his design gained over the years.

Women In Medicine, 1885

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This photo stands as a symbol of women’s power and strength.

We might want to look back at this shot taken on October 10, 1885, of three genius women at the Woman’s Medical College of Philadelphia and remember that they are capable of achieving great heights.

Another aspect of this photo is the diversity it depicts. These women belong to three different countries – India, Japan, and Syria and are dressed up in their traditional outfits.

All of them came to study medicine and become doctors despite the boundaries set for them. It wasn’t easy for women to step out of the four walls of their house but these women broke the stereotypes and landed in a new country to gain knowledge and earn respect!

A Private Celeb Couple, 1966

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This good-looking couple has set an example for people who are in love and are looking forward to getting married to their partners.

Dolly Parton and Carl Dean share a beautiful relationship and not many are aware of their love story. They have managed to keep it out of all the glitz and lights of the industry.

Here, in this “unexplored” picture, they can be seen smiling and posing for the camera after they got married in a secret ceremony in 1966.

Dolly revealed in an interview, “I always joke and laugh when people ask me whats the key to my long marriage and lasting love. I always say ‘Stay gone!’ and there’s a lot of truth to that. I travel a lot, but we really enjoy each other when we’re together and the little things we do.”

5 MB Storage, 1956

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This huge box is not any big machine or computer that is being transported from one place to another with the strength of over 4 people involved.

It’s a hard drive with a storage of 5 megabytes. That amount of storage and such enormous size of the hard drive! This storage was leased for $3,000 a month by the company that is equivalent to $30,000 today.

In contrast to this, we can carry more than 32 gigabytes on our phones daily. While 5 MB of IBM storage could only hold around 6 photos, that would not be quite helpful in the present generation of unlimited selfies at one time.

A Private Jazz Concert, 1961

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This photo is iconic in every way as the people and the place in the picture carry significance!

Louis Armstrong is pictured with his wife, Lucille in 1961 at the Great Sphinx of Giza. She is fortunate to see her husband perform for her at one of the most amazing places in the world.

Armstrong made a big name for himself during the 1920s and became one of the greatest jazz musicians. He continued to be a star till the 1960s and “Satchmo” is still alive in our hearts.

That picture from the exclusive concert for his wife is just bringing back his tunes!

Freedom On Sugar, 1953

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People had to face a ration on sugar, eggs, and milk at the onset of World War II. When this rationing ended, candy stores earned unbelievably huge and the sales rose by an amount of £100 million ($278.5 million).

Here you see kids (and even adults) attacking a candy store. This happened in 1953 when sugar rationing ended in England. Of course, people craved some candy and when they finally got unlimited access to it, they had to run and grab the opportunity.

These kids had to buy candy or two that day!

The Face Of War, 1941

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Salvador Dali, a 20th-century surrealist painter can be seen deeply engaged in his painting here. This painting is called “The Face of War” and this picture was taken in 1941.

The artwork of this creative artist always had an eccentric touch that sometimes, got a little too dark for the people viewing it. Some of his work includes the melting clocks in “The Persistence of Memory” and “The Elephants”.

This artist had many tags thrown at him like being called a psychedelic or hallucinogenic drug user just because his paintings had an element that picked up something grave. He had an answer to all those comments, “I don’t do drugs, I am drugs.”

His paintings are now valued and kept in museums and the Museum of Modern Art in New York is one of them.

Bride Amidst “The Blitz”, 1940

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The bombings in London in 1940 were given the name “The Blitz” and the destruction it caused is clearly visible in the picture. This is just one side of the whole devastation that occurred during the two months of terror.

The bride smiles brightly as she exits her home in London to get married on November 4, 1940. Despite all the wreck and ravage, she is all set to walk down the aisle in a white dress and take the vows.

The bridesmaid is also pictured in the scene as she wishes her friend a beautiful married life. Amidst all the chaos, this photo reminds us of the positivity that love carries.

Meal Before Fame, 1986

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“Context and memory play powerful roles in all the truly great meals in one’s life.” Anthony Bourdain, celebrity chef and author believed this and he stuck to it throughout his life.

This picture was taken in his New York apartment in 1986 way before he rose to fame for his culinary skills. We bet that the fish dish turned out to be delicious!

He is considered to be one of the most talented chefs out there. His works include a book titled “Kitchen Confidential: Adventures in the Culinary Underbelly (2000)” and a show called Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations and The Layover. He achieved quite a lot throughout his career.

Thanking The Animals, 1918

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The history textbooks are filled with the photos showing the effects of World War I and the destruction following it. Not only humans but animals too had to bear the consequences.

So many innocent creatures including donkeys, mules, and horses lost their lives and it’s heartbreaking. The soldiers decided to get together for dedication to their sacrifice.

You probably missed the picture depicting the tribute paid by American soldiers to those animals in 1913. This photo is revealing that instance where the troops stood together to form a shape resembling a horse’s head and it couldn’t be better.

The Empire State Building, 1941

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In 1941, the Empire State Building attracted many people to New York City as it was the only building that stood taller than the other structures around. There were no skyscrapers other than this one during those days, hence, leading to all the attention towards this.

This photo is bringing out a different side of the Empire State Building that we missed as more and more skyscrapers were built over the years and covered the entire city.

When this was the only skyscraper to exist In New York, people traveled from far to have a look at this high-rise building.

A Fashion Statement, 1960s

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This photo has captured a clear contrast in what fashion meant to women in the 1960s. A group of nuns standing close to a stylish woman shows the varied sense of fashion that existed. 

The nuns seem quite impressed by the fashionista as revealed by their smiles. No heavy opinions or judgments were being thrown for dressing a certain way in those times.

The outfit of that woman is quite different from the traditional gowns worn by the nuns. They are reflecting simplicity while that lady has her style on point with perfect accessories. One thing that’s similar is the elegance and confidence!

Connecting With Family, 1970s

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There were no mobile phones in the 1970s, the devices that make it extremely convenient to get updates on your family and friends in the present times. 

This is a 1970s night scene from a women’s dormitory who are queueing to make a call to their family and friends. The communal phone was surrounded by many people at one time as there was no other source of connecting with your loved ones when living far from home.

This is how the women waited near the phone to just have one conversation back home. The smiles reflect the happiness of finally being able to hear their family.

Two Popular Faces, 1931

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Here’s a lesser-known fact – Charlie Chaplin and Albert Einstein admired each other’s work and always wanted to have a “fan moment”. Their wish was fulfilled in January of 1931 when they ran into each other at the City of Lights premiere.

Einstein had once expressed his desire to meet Chaplin one day revealing that he was the only celebrity that he wished to see in person. Einstein told Chaplin, “What I most admire about your art, is your universality. You don’t say a word, yet the world understands you!”

Chaplin responded with another wonderful complement to Einstein, “It’s true, but your fame is even greater: the world admires you, when nobody understands what you say.”

Freddie Mercury’s Feline Friend, 1988

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There are not many photos of celebrities from the past with their pets and so, when we spot one, it gives us much-needed insight into the life of famous personalities of that era. For instance, this picture from 1988 of Freddie Mercury with his cat, Tiffany gives a refreshing view of history.

The singer of the rock band “Queen” is nailing that look and pose. Tiffany’s expression is all of us when someone clicks our picture without taking permission.
  
This photo is enough for telling tales of “pet love” among the stars.

Sight-Seeing In Cairo, 1920s

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Cairo is one of the most popular tourist spots in the world presently but things were different in the 1920s. The Sahara Desert has views that are stunning and this picture depicts the beautiful sunset that has mesmerized a group of tourists there.

The top of the Pyramid of Cheops looks so peaceful in this photograph but again, this is almost 100 years old and such serenity is hard to find now.

This is a rare capture and it will be cherished for a long time.

Home For Jewish Refugees, 1946

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This picture is full of emotions as the survivors of World War II caught the first glimpse of the Statue of Liberty in 1946 on arriving in the United States.

World War II displaced many people and the refugees needed a place to go. That’s when the United States opened doors for the Jewish refugees and all those who got through the Holocaust. The country gave them a chance to begin a new journey.

The statue welcomed them with the words, “Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free!”

Competitive NASA Scientists, 1961

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This picture was published in “Life” magazine in 1961 to give a hint of what the NASA’s Race for Space looked like at that time. The blackboard was huge to fit in all the lengthy calculations revolving around spacecraft trajectories. Hence, the ladders!

The computers have replaced the massive chalkboards now. This photo is not revealing any “voila” moments as the scientists would never want their successful computations to go public especially when there’s a competition.

Seine’s Threat, 1924

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When the water levels of river Seine rose to threatening levels in 1924, such scenes came to existence. The roads were flooded with cold water leading to the people having trouble crossing streets.

As the situation worsened, the residents around decided to take action to ease the conveyance from one side of the road to another. This is when they came up with the chair queue. People brought chairs from the neighborhood and created this bridge.

It was a very thoughtful step indeed to deal with the floods.

Overloaded Phone Booth, 1950s

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All sorts of challenges exist on the internet and the weirdest ones go viral. The bottle cap challenge is just one example. Several videos with thousands of views are keeping us entertained in the present. 

This wasn’t the case in the 1950s as things were just done for fun without any intention of going “viral”. This photo from those times is a phone booth challenge with the originality intact.

This group of teenagers managed to fit in the tiny phone booth and the satisfaction of completing the game can be seen on their faces. It would have taken them a lot of time to accomplish this task with so many to squeeze in the tiny space. Nevertheless, it is fun when everyone wants to be involved!

A Roaring Backdrop, 1989

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The cyclone of 1989 caused destruction as the intensity was quite high. Even though, people needed to stay safe during the unpredictable weather conditions, this woman shared the frame with a tornado.

The photos showing the aftermath of the cyclone are common on the internet but this daring stunt during those scary times is rare.

The vigor of the cyclone can be imagined with the way her hair is blowing. We hope the person behind the camera warned her about the approaching horror in time.

A Part Of Titanic, 1910

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Titanic had the world’s biggest anchor during that time and we can only imagine the time and manpower that would have made its construction possible.

The anchor came all the way from Noah Hingley and Son in 1910 and the owners placed an order for 603 meters of chain from Hingley’s Anchor Works. This photo is explaining how the making of the anchor chain began.

Link by link, the makers made a solid chain that would match up to the size of the enormous vessel.

Awestruck By TV, 1948

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The latest technology has always something unexpected in store for us and this boy’s reaction to witnessing a television for the first time is all of us when we find that there’s another new app to ease our lives.

This moment was captured in 1948 when televisions were not placed in everyone’s living rooms. This little boy is amazed at those black and white moving objects and humans on the screen.

That expression is telling us the impact of TV on people and how the creation surprised everyone.
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Susan Kare’s Habitat, 1984

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Here’s one of the most talented graphic designers, Susan Kare who creatively added life to a computer with her designing skills. She is rightly given the title of the “woman who gave the Macintosh a smile”. This shot is taken in her office as she relaxes after putting her skill at work for a long time.

She has contributed to Apple and Microsoft with some innovative ideas to enhance a computer including creating fonts, images, and icons.

This creative director of NeXT expressed about her work being appreciated, “It’s fun to read that, before there was social media, countless people spent hours with Microsoft Windows Solitaire using the cards I designed.”

Brooklyn Supreme, 1930s

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A horse weighing 16 times an average human is expected to have a few fans. Brooklyn Supreme is the star here as this red roan Belgian stallion weighed 3,197 pounds and measure six and a half feet.

Whether this horse is the largest one to exist is a moot point but its enormous size made it popular. Its owners Charles Grant Good and Ralph M. Fogleman entered a partnership with Good and exhibited this horse around the US charging ten cents from the “viewers”.

Treat For Polar Bears, 1950

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Travel back to the 1950s and instead of remembering all the war panic that existed, let us focus on this adorable picture where troops can be seen feeding polar bears.

The Soviet soldiers traveled to high altitudes of the Arctic Ocean and had their stations there. They stayed in those harsh conditions with no trace of mankind. So, they made friends with polar bears and treated them well.

Polar bears seem excited to have a bite to eat from those troops who are equally happy to give the friendly creatures some snacks.

Exploring An Outfit, 1944

The Scottish soldiers wore a kilt as a part of their uniform and their outfit seems to grab some attention. This Italian woman is curious to know what all those pleats are about.

This picture was captured in 1944 after the liberation of Rome. This news of liberation led to an exciting environment with celebrations around the city. When Hitler passed the orders regarding the military forces to leave Rome, people headed to the streets to throw flowers on vehicles on the roads.

The celebratory photos might be common, but this picture depicting a keen interest in a soldier’s dress is rare.

Mowing With Comfort, 1950s

This spaceship-like thing is an invention from the 1950s. Here’s a lawnmower that has every comfort available. Even lawnmowers can be luxurious!

This lawnmower’s design got published in a magazine with all its features highlighted including a proper air conditioning system installed inside.

The people seemed to spend a lot of time and money on such inventions in the past and it all points towards the comfortable life they wished to lead.

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

“Under a major political union of Africa, there could emerge a United Africa, great and powerful, in which territorial boundaries which are relics of colonialism will become obsolete and superfluous….”-Kwame Nkrumah.

As a teenager in the seventies, I grew up to admire and respect the personality of Dr Nnamdi Benjamin Azikiwe, “Zik of Africa” Nigerian’s first indigenous people’s president of the blessed memory. A highly respected and admired pan-Africanist, journalist, writer and statesman.

Zik, who later became the Owelle of Onitsha, was not only a pan-Africanist, in the mould of Kwame Nkrumah, Nelson Mandela, Julius Nyerere, Kenneth Kaunda and others. He was a nationalist par Excellence, who won a landmark election in the western region of Nigeria. Apart from his unquenchable thirst for knowledge and excellence, he was never a tribal leader ‘lord’ to the extent that his offsprings bear Yoruba names from birth.

Apart from Zik of the blessed memory, the only other personality who is also a product of pan-Africanism is the president that was not sworn in: Bashorun Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola GCFR, a man who touched so many lives irrespective of tribe or religion and Nationalist par excellence. He won a pan Nigerian mandate, a free and fair election conducted by the military juntas, that criminally annulled the most-freest election. This criminal act brought to the fore that we were not ready for democratic rule and consequently, truncated the popular wish of the masses.

I have been trying to do an honest soul searching and an appraisal of how a nation with huge potential and capacity to produce leaders of note that we are proud of and happy to mention their names, even after they have long gone.

It is on this note that we need to begin, to dissect the current leadership and their predecessors. It has become imperative that we, as a nation, the sleeping giant, begins to take stock of events. So that history and posterity will not be totally unkind with us. We sure need to stay awake for the Nation.

“This administration, unfortunately, has mastered the art of blaming others for its own crimes. It is Buhari and his aides, with their incessant rationalization of herders’ atrocities as detailed at the beginning of this column, that has ignited the fire of ethnic suspicions. It is the administration’s failure to nip religious extremism in the bud that is stoking the embers of religious unrest.

It is the president, General Muhammad Buhari, that distorts reality with his head almost permanently buried in the past– blaming past administrations for the present challenges; and seeking ancestral solutions to today’s problems.

It is Buhari and his aides that Nigerians should be wary of as they neither see nor listen to the people’s cries for Justice; they mock their critics, are bereft of empathy and warmth, and talk down on the people. They are concerned with only one reality-power without responsibility.”-Eniola Bello.

I completely agree with Eni-B, this submission was a clear validation of my recent article… However, it is not only the present gladiators that are guilty of the situation we find ourselves as a nation. We need to dig into the foundation. Election rigging, political instability/intolerance, corruption, and many other issues of maladministration.

The recent warning of the Nobel laureate Prof Wole Soyinka added to the voices of Nigerians home and abroad are not issues to be taken lightly. War is not a champagne toast and those who dare to talk about it, may not be prepared for the aftermath of war. Regardless, this is the time for sober reflection, call for reasoning and call for men of good conscience to intervene before it’s too late. The time is also ripe for all and sundry to speak out and sensitize the people on the way forward as this clarion call has no religious or tribal colouration.

Conclusively, permit me to share part of the landmark decision on issues bordering on grazing: “I do not accept the contention of Defendants that a custom exists which imposes an obligation on the owner of the farm to fence his farm whilst the owner of cattle allows his cattle to wander like pests and cause damage.

Such a custom if it exists, is unreasonable and I hold that it is repugnant to natural justice, equity and a good conscience and therefore unenforceable…in that it is highly unreasonable to impose the burden of fencing a farm on the farmer without the corresponding obligation on the cattle owner to fence his cattle.” Sequence to that I BANNED open grazing for it is inimical to PEACE and TRANQUILLITY and the cattle owners must fence or ranch their animals for peace to reign in these communities.”

Hon. Justice Adewale Thompson: 17th April 1969.
Suit no AB/26/66 at Abeokuta Division of the High Court.

Pursuant to the judgement delivered by Justice Adewale Thompson, there lies the solution to the seemingly endless unprecedented crisis where non-state actors have clearly hijacked the functions of the state. It is time to wake up and smell the coffee. It is a call to duty and a clarion call for men of good conscience to intervene. Intervention in this context is not to carry arms but voice their concerns, trepidation and fears for all to hear.

NO SOCIETY CAN BE BETTER OR GREATER THAN THE SUM TOTAL OF THE VALUES THAT DEFINES ITS LEADERS AND WHAT THE FOLLOWERS HAVE AGREED AS THEIR IRREDUCIBLE MINIMUM.

ARISE MOTHER AFRIKA

Odusanya is the convener of AFRICA COVENANT RESCUE INITIATIVE ACRI

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

The memory for the scramble for Africa would forever remain a fresh wound for Africans to battle with because it comes always with lots of sad, painful and mind killing memories; memories of the humiliation and sufferings of our forefathers, the unholy invasion of our land by foreigners, the desecration of our religion, molestation of our beautiful and hardworking mothers, dehumanisation of our ancestral personalities as a people, the elimination of our unsung heroes and other detestable events too heart damping to refresh.

The betrayal of our own black brothers and sisters for peanuts and other unspeakable and unimaginable evils perpetrated right on our soil remains very fresh in our memories. It was a battle for the soul of Africa by the greedy ‘white monsters’ and a fight for its liberation by the owners of the land (our ancestors).

It was a horrible experience that either made life worthless to lots of Africans or let out the monsters in them; how would anyone forget in a rush the act of bravery displayed by our ancestors of the Igbo extraction at Dunbar Creek on St. Simons Island, Glynn County, Georgia in 1803, when they committed mass suicides along with the white monsters that captured them at the time. They bravely wrecked their captors’ ship, the Wanderer, murdered them and committed suicide; life was that miserable to them. May their gallant souls continue to rest in perfect peace, amen!

In the forefront of the battle to see Africa being liberated stood our fearless and brave Nigerian leaders like King Jaja of Opobo, Ovonoranwen of Benin and Chief Nana of Itsekiri, among others. They defiled the damage the white man’s gun; the magic stick as called by the locals back then could cause them to speak against the dubious and barbaric ways of being ruled by foreigners.

The modern appellation of Nigeria as “the giant of Africa” started long ago and took its root in the bravery displayed by our ancestors to see Africans live under no man as slaves. Nigeria in her modern-day glory as “the giant of Africa” was established by the efforts of our nationalists, who fought for our independence and that of Africa at large, most especially South Africa. Nigeria provided all possible political supports needed by South Africans during the apartheid period.

In the 1970s, Nigeria single-handedly provided $5m (a whole lot of cash then and now) annual subvention for the African National Congress (ANC; an anti-apartheid movement in South Africa) and Pan Africanist Congress (PAC). The Southern African Relief Fund (SAFR), meant to bring relief to the victims of the apartheid regime in South Africa was set up in 1976. SAFR was also meant to provide educational opportunities for the victims and promote their general welfare.

The military administration of General Olusegun Obasanjo did not fail to keep up with the supports provided to our South African brothers and sisters by the leadership of the previous regime in Nigeria. His regime contributed $3.7m to the SAFR fund. He made a personal donation of $3000 with a contribution of $1,500 from each of his cabinet members. The civil servants and public officers were not left out of these sacrifices towards the liberation of our caged brothers and sisters in the hands of the white supremacists.

Each was made to donate 2% from their monthly salary to the SAFR. All these efforts had seen the donations, called “the Mandela Tax”, amounted to $10.5m by June 1977. In 1975, the Movement for the Liberation of Angola (MPLA) was favoured by the mobilization of the diplomatic influence of Nigeria in Africa.

The Zimbabwean Movement against the apartheid government of Rhodesia was magnanimously supported with $20m by the General Olusegun Obasanjo’s regime in 1977. Military equipment was moved to Mozambique in the bid to help the newly independent country, as at the time, to suppress the South African backed Mozambican National Resistance guerrillas. All thanks to the central role played by Nigeria in the ECOWAS efforts to end the civil war in Liberia.

In her big brother role, she immensely contributed to the ECOWAS peacekeeping mission in Liberia, where lots of Nigerian soldiers were lost. Sierra Leone got her own share from the magnanimity of Nigeria (the African giant and most populated black nation in the second most populated continent on earth) with the provision of bulk troops for ECOWAS forces. Would it at this juncture not be wrong to claim that Nigeria was reckoned with as ‘the giant of Africa’ based on just her resources and population?!

Unfortunately, the story of ‘the big brother Nigeria’ has gone sour. The once indefatigable giant is now a baby with wet pampers, shamelessly crawling on her fours; thanks to the Rodents regarded as our political leaders.

Now, it is either Nigerians are rejected from one African country or insulted by the government of another (imagine Ghana bringing down our embassy in the country and South Africans-same South Africans we fought tirelessly for-chasing our sons and daughters away like beggars!).

Our economy has nothing to write home about. It keeps falling into recession like an epileptic patient that could not but fall at every little provocation of both internal and external interference. Our currency, the naira, that was a pride of Africa in the early 60s to early 80s is now a bit better than ordinary paper. It is absurd that with all the resources we have in Nigeria, we could not manufacture just a “common toothpick”.

Our dear country has become a dumping ground, even, for smaller countries in Africa. Nigeria has suddenly become the last bus stop for all trash in the name of goods and services. A country known for her ability to keep peace in other nations has now been totally deprived of the same peace; we now house criminals as icons in society. Our name is now an extension of terrorism, banditry, thuggery and every other shameful act anyone could imagine.

The irony of it all is that Nigeria, being one of the few countries where budgets run into trillions yearly, has extreme poverty lurking around all nooks and crannies. More than 50% of her over 200m population live in sluts and feed on junks and detestable meals not even befitting for animals while the few in power live in extreme luxury.

The new trend is that of our country now being a borrowing machine; a glutton of cash. We are indebted to almost all the continents in the world. Borrowing in itself is not even the problem after all America has the largest debt profile in the world but they have a whole lots of things to show for it.

On our path, we have nothing to show than the mortgage of the future of our kids yet unborn. With the kind of resources we have in this country, we are supposed to be among the world powers. China, through the commitment and meticulousness of her leaders, has become a threat to other world powers. This is where we are supposed to belong. But instead, we have opened doors to the second phase of modern slavery in the hands of second world countries.

As at March 31, 2020, our total borrowing from China stood at $3.121bln; N1.126.68bln, which formed 3.94% of our total public debt of $79.303b ( N28,628.49b). For the external debt alone, the loans from China stood at 11.28% of the total loan.

On paper, the loans were used for the railway modernization project of Idi-Kaduna section, Abuja light rail project, the Abuja, Kano, Lagos and Port Harcourt airport terminals expansion, the railway modernization of Lagos-Ibadan section and the rehabilitation and upgrading of Abuja-Keffi-Makurdi road project and others as the locusts in power disclosed.

However, my little knowledge of Economics is at a fix on how a country with such capital projects fell into recession twice within five years with a high rate of inflation and unemployment. A fool will always think others are as foolish. The realities on the ground do not match the borrowing; meaning the borrowed funds have grown wings as usual.

Experts in international relationship, law and security have warned that Nigeria is running into a deep mess with her indiscriminate habit of taking loans, most especially from China.

On May 12, 2020, the House of Representatives mandated some of its committees to investigate the loans taken by Nigeria from China; a response to the rising concerns of the citizens and international communities on the mechanism China is employing to enslave the third world countries, most especially Africa.

Honourable Ben Igbakpa of Ethiope Federal constituency warned on the floor of the house about the globally alleged fraudulent, irregular and underhand features of the Chinese loan contract in some African countries, which he saw as “colonialism foisted by China”.

The Nigerian loans from China have run into nothing less than 17 tranches with around 3% servicing till the maturity date in 2038. With this increasing habit of taking loans, most especially under the regime of President Mohammad Buhari, Nigeria farther falls into the entanglement of modern slavery as we extend our mental slavery in the hands of the Western world to the Chinese debt trap.

In 1953, at the age of 30, Pa Anthony Eromosele Enahoro moved the motion for independence. These were the calibres of leaders that we used to have; leaders that could move mountains with their words and in their thoughts. But at the moment, our crop of leaders are street hunches that sign agreements that they either do not read through or understand.

With these crops of leaders, the pressure and agitations mounting from regions and almost every Nigerian tribe at the moment, the Fulani herdsmen palaver across the nation, banditry and political hooliganism, the survival of Nigeria as an entity is under serious threat.

The once roaring land of lions, in persons of our dedicated and selfless nationalists, has become a place of mental and economic dwarfs under the watch of the charlatans we call leaders. We will continue to harass them until they turn a new leaf.

“NIGERIA IS IN COMATOSE; ON OXYGEN IN A SERIOUS MEDICAL STATE. IF NOT RESCUED NOW, SHE DIES AS A BORN GIANT GIVING UP THE GHOST AS A DWARF”!

GOD BLESS THE FEDERAL REP OF NIGERIA!!

Odusanya is the convener of AFRICA COVENANT RESCUE INITIATIVE ACRI.

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

PUBLIC NOTICE!!!

THURSDAY 3RD DECEMBER 2020 IS A WORLD DISABILITY DAY.

Many You see Walking with Cruches and other walking aide are not given Birth to in Such Condition
Alot Are Spiritual Attacks and Medical Challenges.

Eg.. The person of Amb Emmalex Atseyinku David, 9News Nigeria South-South Chief Editor, Case is a Spiritual One. @3yrs After Walking with his legs he was Attacked Spiritually by Family Element who were Challenge by his Bright Future
A child of 3yrs old who’s already walking, Wake-up One Early Morning with Screaming and Crying, he Couldn’t Stand-up and Walk with his legs again, his parents Were Moving from one place to another Seeking for help, hospital 2 hospital, Prayer house to Prayer house. This make me Remember My Beloved Mother who says her Son can’t die, she did Everything to make sure I am alive, it’s not easy at all. Me that has already walked with my legs were given Cruches to start Practicing how to walk with it, I find it very difficult to use it because that wasn’t my wish, but I have no other option than to use it.
It wasn’t easy but my mother always want Education for me and by God’s Grace I have the Education.
Persons living with Disabilities Are not always happy because That’s Never their wish. Always Treat them with love and Care
Never dis-associate yourself from them, they have Something you don’t have. they are special human being.
Remember it can Happen to Anyone Never take Advantage of their condition.

3rd December Is Our Day Try And Show Some Love To Us

In Every Disability There’s An Ability

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

“George stinney Jr of African descent, was the youngest person to be sentenced to death in the United States
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He was only 14 years old when he was executed in an electric chair.
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During his trial he always carried a Bible in his hands claiming his innocence.
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He was accused of killing two white girls, 11 year old Betty and Mary of 7,
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The bodies were found near the house of the boy in which he lived with his parents.
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At that time, all members of the jury were whites.
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The trial lasted for 2 hours only and the sentence was dictated 10 minutes later.
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The boy’s parents were threatened and prevented from being present in the court room, and subsequently expelled from that city.
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Before the execution George spent 81 days in prison without being able to see his parents, he was held in solitary 80 miles from his city, he was held alone without anybody to talk to.
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He was electrocuted with 5380 VOLTS IN HIS HEAD, imagine all that amount of voltage in a teenager’s head.
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70 years later, in 2014, his innocence was finally proven by a judge in South Carolina. The boy was innocent, someone set it up to blame him for being black
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MAY HIS INNOCENT SOUL REST IN PEACE”.

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

The First Nigerian President Dr Nnamdi Azikiwe ( 1904- 1996) was indeed an enigma of no less order. His towering personality makes him to be the greatest Nigerian ever in history. But Who was Dr Nnamdi Azikiwe? Who was his true biological father? What if all that the public knows about him was the untold truth? Then there is the raging question of who truly owns a child? Is it the Mother or the Father? Some traditions require that the man has to fulfill his marital obligations to lay claim to a child! But others are lenient in such issues.

In considering the aforementioned posers about one’s Fatherhood, let’s concede the fact that

 fatherhood is not just blood, but a responsibility. No one can reasonably lay claim to a child one abandoned only to return years later for the same child, cared for by a single mother. That would be insensitive! That is not morally right.

But the question here is, what if the man was not allowed access to his son because tradition says he should not? What about the culture that says it is not the man but the woman that owns a child if the man failed to perform his marital vows? 

 In which case, she left with the child and got married to another man who fostered him and trained him to achieve his educational dreams, only for the child to find out the truth that his biological father is somewhere. What would be his reactions? How could he tell that the man whom he thought all his life to be his father was not his biological father? And that his father was somewhere else!

The heart of a woman is truly a deep blue sea of secrets!

That for Zik’s Mother to tell him the truth about his origin, the boy had to wait until the time was right. He must know his roots, for that was his spiritual freedom, but he must be trained to accept the fact he had gone too far in the journey of life to return home to his father. 

She had told him, the story of her youth, and the love of her life, about that handsome dark tall Ijaw fellow whom she met at Agbere in some decades ago during when both of them were working at the Royal Niger Company. She was a staff, and he was a carpenter. They met and fell in love, and one thing led to another. Then she was naive about her culture and tradition, thinking love was all that mattered in the whole world. She became pregnant but the man was struggling to make it in life and was not ready for a child. A misunderstanding ensued and she left with the pregnancy.

 Years after, their paths crossed again at Onitsha where he was a fisherman. But this time she was carrying his baby, and when he saw the baby, he saw a reflection of himself; from the dark colour to his facial features. He apologized and promised to marry her, but she was already married. He came too late.

 She had already named him Benjamin, but that was later changed by the boy when he realized the truth about his paternity to ‘ Nnamdi’ meaning ‘ My father is somewhere’. And that was how Pa Lewis Apam lost the battle of life and his love to an Onitsha man. And so, she left and returned no more. Sadly, that was the last time he set his eyes on his biological son until the boy grew up and became the president of Nigeria.

But God is dynamic in answering the prayers of men. According to the story made available by the family, Chief Ezonbodo in his political journey came across Dr Nnamdi Azikiwe, and when he introduced himself as an Ijaw man from Agbere town, immediately their blood bond was rekindled. They were brothers from the same bloodline. Dr Zik sent for his father Chief Lewis Apam, and when Hon. Ezonbodo Ninetry brought the two together, they were indeed identical. Dr Zik saw himself in a mirror as his biological father stood before him. 

 Thereafter, they became close. The lost relationship between Father and son was restored. Dr Zik in the name of politics visited his Father’s place Agbere more than twice and spent a night or two. He took his father to Lagos in his house, most of the time until the man died. He knows his siblings and half brothers, like the great footballer Onyekachi Justice Apam’s father who was equally married to an Igbo woman from Abia state. Today, many has mistaken the great Nigerian footballer as an Igbo man, but he is Ijaw by origin, paternally. In his case, his father fortunately had paid the marital vows of his wife, so the children were free to announce their father’s name Mr Apam proudly anywhere, even though his name Onyekachi could be misleading as the public most times thought he is an Igbo man.

But that was not the case of the Great Zik of Africa. His case was different. He had to consider his society, the Igbo society he had come to be associated with to make his political name and fame. Again, he had to consider the good man who married his mother and adopted him as his son. Again, the larger world that looked upon him as a man with a perfect childhood and upbringing. No, he couldn’t handle the controversies. After all, what is life without dignity, without power, without honour? 

And he was not a Moses to have traded all these things for merely an origin of birth. No way, let history set the records straight, when I am gone, he must have thought. But to a large extent, it was not a secret. The entire Ijaw leadership knew the story, both home and abroad. He sponsored his brother Chief Ezonbodo Ninetry politically as a first generation politician that he was seen as a demi-god in the whole of Western Ijaw Division.

The Ijaws celebrated their son Dr Nnamdi when he was alive until the day he died. Interestingly that was the lost Ijaw son who became an Igbo man by tradition.

To many, it is no longer relevant, after all, some truths are better left unsaid, especially when it has lost its relevance and time. But what is life anyway, if not to relive the memories we share with our loved ones. Apart from that, like every tribe with their own traditions and cultures, so is the Ijaw man’s culture, forbidden him to be part of a secret, merely for the sake of the living who lives in secrecy all our lives. According to the tradition of the Ijaw man, it is a taboo for one to bury a man with his secret. Such secret could be kept, but not when the man has died. For in death, the spirit of man is pure before his Creator, and every other worldly desires are purged, including his many covered up secrets.

 Ironically, tradition holds the living responsible for not saying it, for by saying it, you are freeing the soul of the dead from eternal destruction, if you don’t the spirit in the life beyond suffers in damnation. Reasons being, that it is only in life that greed, lust of power, envy, and all material things are needed. But in the spirit, when the flesh has given up its grip on the soul of a man, he becomes free. As such, all that’s needed is the truth, nothing but the truth- which is Ijo in meaning.

Hence, it is our obligation to honour our blood brother, father, uncle, who in life had taken the effort to be identified with his people the best he could as a human being. He may not be perfect by not changing his foster name, but he was a good man to the Ijaws, and there is no way one can make good and enemy of perfection.

And when he died, the Ijaws in London equally saw a reason to celebrate him as their own in grand style.

Though his silence on the matter was understandable. But think about it, how could the President of Nigeria, the greatest personality with the self appellation ‘ Zik of Africa’ be a man of double origin? That his true full-blooded biological father was an Ijaw man? Of course, that could bring some considerable shame to his public image and ego. Therefore he hoped to carry the secret to the grave. But ironically it was not a secret to his brothers of Agbere town.

Sadly that is the world in which we live, and has been raised, a cruel tradition that denies a father from his son simply because one could not meet up the rites demanded of him. Strangely the life of a man is policed daily by traditions- they over rule our actions and stories.

Strange enough, for one to know that Dr Nnamdi Azikiwe was a son of his mother who later identified his roots with the great ijaw tribe as his paternal home, one could see it through his actions.

The Owele of Onitsha built his University at Nsuka instead of Onitsha. He equally built his beautiful home, the Onuye Haven in his mother’s place instead of Onitsha, place of his fostered father. All things point to one direction, he was truly a son of his mother, and in all his life, he knew his father was somewhere. He secretly worshiped him and held that memory dearly to his heart. It pained him to know all these things yet he could not say it, and that made him sad, and such, was holding those grudges against the world. 

Interestingly, family sources further confirmed that before the demise of Lewis Apam (his father), Dr Nnamdi Azikiwe directed his father with financial provisions to build a house for him in his home town of Agbere. This was a registration of undeniable acceptability of his kinsmen. As a man of uncommon intellectual stamina and moral fervidness or audacity, the Great Zik of Africa realized that mother’s love is Supreme but father’s love is a bowel of strength and courage. But unfortunately the house project was overtaken by events.

Culled from the book: ‘Heroes of the Ijaw Nation’ Author, Gesikeme Akparakata

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

Tens of thousands of women took part in the 1994 genocide in Rwanda but their role is rarely spoken about, and reconciliation with their family is hard. Journalist Natalia Ojewska has been talking to some female perpetrators in prison.

What started as a mundane trip to fetch water for breakfast ended with Fortunate Mukankuranga committing murder.

Dressed in an orange prison uniform and speaking in her dimmed, calm voice, she recalls the events of the morning of Sunday, 10 April 1994.

As she was on her way, she came across a group of attackers beating up two men in the middle of the street.

“When [the two] fell to the ground, I picked up a stick and said: ‘Tutsis must die!’. Then I hit one of them and then the other one… I was one of the killers,” the 70-year-old says.

Haunted by killings

These were two among 800,000 murders of ethnic Tutsis and moderate Hutus that took place over 100 days.

After her involvement in the slaughter, Mukankuranga, an ethnic Hutu, returned home to her seven children feeling deeply ashamed. Flashbacks from the crime scene would not stop haunting her.

“I am a mother. I killed some children’s parents,” she says.

Just a few days later, two terrified Tutsi children, whose parents had just been butchered with machetes, knocked on her door asking for refuge.

‘Tide of guilt’

She did not hesitate and hid them in the attic, where they survived the massacres.

“Even though I have saved the children, I have failed these two men. This help will never turn the tide of guilt,” says Mukankuranga.

She is one of an estimated 96,000 women convicted for their involvement in the genocide – some killed adults, like Mukankuranga, some killed children, and others egged on men to commit rape and murder.

On the evening of 6 April 1994, an aeroplane carrying Rwanda’s Hutu President Juvenal Habyarimana was shot down as it was approaching the airport in the capital, Kigali.

Although the identities of the assassins have never been established, Hutu extremists immediately accused Tutsi rebels of carrying out the attack. Within hours, thousands of Hutus, indoctrinated by decades of hateful ethnic propaganda, joined in with the well-organised killing.

The women’s participation challenges a stereotype in Rwanda of women as protectors and providers of a calming voice.

“It is very difficult to understand how a mother who loves her children, would go to her neighbours’ [home] to kill their children,” says Regine Abanyuze, who works for Never Again, a non-governmental organisation promoting peace and reconciliation.

Yet, once the spark for the atrocities was lit, thousands of women acted as agents of violence alongside the men.

Pauline Nyiramasuhuko, former minister for the family and women’s development, was one of the few Rwandan women who took on a powerful leadership position in the male-dominated political scene. She played a critical role in orchestrating the genocide.

In 2011, the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda found her guilty of genocide. She remains the only woman ever to have been sentenced for rape as a crime against humanity.

Nyiramasuhuko bore command responsibility over militiamen who raped Tutsi women at the Butare Prefecture Office.

But while she sat at the apex, some ordinary Rwandan women were also inciting men. Others did not hesitate to use every available weapon to butcher their neighbours.

There are no separate rehabilitation programmes for female genocidaires and many struggle with reconciling what they have done with traditional perceptions of a woman’s role.

Two views of a massacre

Martha Mukamushinzimana is a mother of five children, who secretly carried the burden of her crime for 15 years, before she decided to report herself to the judicial authorities in 2009 as she could no longer live with the burden of her crimes.

Defining themselves through the prism of motherhood, many are too overwhelmed with shame to admit to their loved ones that they failed in their role as caregivers.

“Time is the main rehabilitation tool we use. We want to give them as much time as necessary to listen to them and to slowly bring them to the point of confession,” says Grace Ndawanyi, director of the prison for female inmates in Ngoma, in Rwanda’s Eastern Province.

“Because my house was located near the main road, I heard all the whistles and saw my Tutsi neighbours being rounded up and taken to the church,” says Mukamushinzimana, sitting in a small, bare prison room and sometimes crying.

Thousands of Tutsis, crammed in and around the Nyamasheke Parish Catholic Church, fought for their lives for a week. Stanislus Kayitera, now 53, was one of the few survivors. His forearm bears a large and irregular scar from grenade shrapnel.

“I remember women collecting stones and giving them to the men, who were throwing them at us. Men were also shooting, throwing grenades and pouring fuel over people and then setting them on fire.

“Then, they stormed the church and started to kill us with clubs,” says Mr Kayitera, who survived by hiding under the dead bodies.

Mukamushinzimana says she felt compelled to follow the orders.

“I took my baby on the back and joined the group collecting stones used to kill people hiding at the church,” says Mukamushinzimana, who had given birth just two weeks earlier.

When she was jailed in 2009, not one of her relatives was willing to take care of her five children.

“Genocide is a crime against whole communities. It damages not only the dignity of the victims, but also that of the perpetrators. And those people need healing as well,” says Fidele Ndayisaba, executive secretary at Rwanda’s National Unity and Reconciliation Commission.

Female genocidaires who revealed the truth are encouraged to write letters to their families and relatives of their victims in order to regain the lost trust step by step.

Once released from prison, female genocidaires face very different challenges on their path to reintegration to the men.

Some of their husbands have remarried and disinherited them from their property. Their home communities do not welcome them and they struggle with rejection by their closest family.

But there is a lot of emphasis that healing takes time and there are still some prisoners reluctant to reject the ideology of ethnic hatred.

“Yes, we have some people denying their crimes. They are those hard ones, but their number is declining,” says Mr Ndayisaba.

‘I couldn’t hold back the tears’

Fortunate Mukankuranga only found the courage to confess to her crimes four years after her conviction in 2007.

She remembers feeling nervous before asking the son of one of her victims for forgiveness.

Against her expectations “he was happy and enthusiastic when he met me and I couldn’t hold back the tears as I embraced him,” she says.

Mukankuranga now looks cautiously at the future, hoping she will be able to rebuild the fragile ties with her loved ones.

“When I go back home, I will live in peace with my family and I shall be more loving and caring about people. I am paying now for the consequences of my crime. I wasn’t supposed to be in prison as a mother,” she adds.

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

Col. Abubakar Dangiwa Umar(Rtd)

“At this time and in the light of all that have happened since you took office, any conversation with you Mr. President cannot gloss over the chaos that has overtaken appointments into government offices in your administration. All those who wish you and the country well must mince no words in warning you that Nigeria has become dangerously polarized and risk sliding into crisis on account of your administration’s lopsided appointments which continues to give undue preference to some sections of the country over others.

Nowhere is this more glaring than in the leadership cadre of our security services. Mr. President, I regret that there are no kind or gentle words to tell you that your skewed appointments into the offices of the federal government, favoring some and frustrating others, shall bring ruin and destruction to this nation”- Col. Abubakar Dangiwa Umar (rtd.)

READ ALSO: Your government appointments will destroy Nigeria, Col Umar writes Buhari

Col. Abubakar Dangiwa Umar is a former military Governor of Kaduna state and a Fulani Prince from the ruling house of the Gwandu Emirate who has had the courage to speak out against Buhari’s “Fulanisation”, “Islamisation” and “northernisation” policy.

He is one of the heroes of the June 12th struggle and he lost his Commission in the Nigerian Army for insisting that President-elect MKO Abiola should be given his mandate and allowed to lead Nigeria after winning a free and fair election in 1993.

He is an old friend of mine who used to be my Polo captain at the Lagos Polo Club many years ago and who I have known and admired since 1983. He openly opposed Buhari’s military regime as a young Major at the Lagos Polo Club between 1983 and 1985 and he often spoke against him whilst Buhari was military Head of State.

President Muhammadu Buhari

This was a very dangerous thing to do at that time because Buhari’s military Government was the most vicious and repressive that Nigeria has ever known. I used to listen to him with fascination in those days and I marvelled at his courage and his willingness to give up his life for his beliefs.

I read his polite, well-crafted and well-researched letter to the President which was released yesterday and I was touched and moved that he had the decency, patriotic zeal and prescence of mind to say the things that some of us have been screaming for the last 5 years about Buhari’s dangerous policies and divisive politics.

I called our mutual friend and brother Bashorun Akin Osuntokun, who is presently doing a stint at Oxford University, to express my deep appreciation for the efforts of a man that we have both come to love and learnt to respect over the years.

Akin was equally impressed with his letter and we expressed satisfaction at the fact that he had once again lifted our spirits and gave us cause for hope.

Gen. Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (Rtd)

May God bless this gallant soldier known as Dangiwa for being fearless and consistent over the years and may he continue to be the light and inspiration that he has always been to those in our generation.

We have not always agreed on everything but his timely interventions, courage and consistency is as remarkable as it is uplifting. I urge him not to relent in his noble efforts to make Nigeria a better place for all regardless of tribe, ethnic group or faith. We need more of him.

To those that are too young to know I will add the following. During the coup d’etat against Buhari’s vicious, murderous and bestial military regime in 1985 it was Dangiwa Umar who effected his arrest in Dodan Barracks and took him into custody.

He is one of those that brought an end to that hideous and cruel nightmare which plagued our beleaguered nation for two long years and which led to the destruction of many lives and the death of many people.

Chief MKO Abiola

Dangiwa is a very tough and decisive man indeed both on the polo field and off it and just as he stood up to tyranny, injustice, wickedness, racism, nepotism and ethnic and religious bigotry in both in 1985 and 1993, he is standing up to it again today. That is the measure of the man and I am not in the least but surprised.

Yesterday I tweeted the following:

“When Col. Abubakar ‘Dangiwa’ Umar speaks the Government would do well to listen. He is a man of deep wisdom, profound knowledge and extraordinary courage. Like yours truly, he fears no man and bows before no mortal. He speaks truth to power and he makes tyrants tremble”.

I stand by these words and I stand shoulder to shoulder with Dangiwa Umar and millions of other Nigerians who have had enough of Buhari’s evil, injustice and tyranny and who are deeply concerned about the destructive course that he has set our nation on.

May God deliver our nation from this evil man and those that are supporting him and egging him on. May God raise more Dangiwa Umar’s to help us in this noble quest to save our nation.

Permit me to conclude this contribution with the following.

Gen. Tunde Idiagbon

In his letter to Buhari Dangiwa Umar quoted the words of Sheik Usman Danfodio, the father and founder of the Fulani Caliphate, when he wrote the following:

“One of the swiftest ways of destroying a Kingdom is to give preference of one particular tribe over another or show favour to one group of people rather than another. And to draw near those who should be kept away and keep away those who should be drawn near”.

If Buhari will not listen to anyone else let us hope that he will at least listen to and learn from the words of his esteemed forefather and let us hope that he taps into the wisdom and draws from the counsel of the greatest and most reverred leader of his Fulani race.

More importantly let us hope that it is not too late. I will end with the following counsel.

President Zulfikar Ali Bhutto was betrayed by General Zia Ul Haq. General Yakubu Gowon was betrayed by Colonel Joe Garba.

President Mohamed Morsi was betrayed by General Abdel Fatah El Sisi. Captain Thomas Sankara was betrayed by Captain Blaise Compaore.

Chairman Josef Stalin was betrayed by Marshall Lavrentiy Beria. Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher was betrayed by Finance Minister Geoffrey Howe. Gaius Julius Caesar was betrayed by Marcus Junius Brutus.

Vice President Yemi Osibanjo

President Robert Mugabe was betrayed by Vice President Emmerson Mnangagwa.

I could go on and on. History is replete with such examples.

A leader’s greatest and most dangerous enemies are not those who speak out against him and oppose him publicly but rather those that are close to him and thet are plotting against him secretly.

They are those that are in his inner circle, Government or family that refuse to tell him the bitter truth, that desist from setting him on the right path when he has derailed, that decline to advise him when he is wrong and that egg him on in his manifest and unrelenting cruelty and injustice and encourage him to continue to perpetuate wickedness and to do evil.

Worse still it is those same people that will eventually discredit him, betray him and facilitate his fall from grace and removal from power.

I advise President Muhammadu Buhari to be wary of his ‘trusted’ friends and allies, to be careful of the cheerleaders around him, to change his ways, to watch his back, to do the right thing and to listen to selfless, honest and forthright men like Col. Abubakar Dangiwa Umar who truly have the nation’s interest at heart!

Source: Femi Fani Kayode’s page

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

PROJECT MAYROCK IS A PROMISE FULFILLED – BIANCA ONOH

But self‐immolation has oc curred in this country on sev eral occasions. On May 30, 1969, a 20‐year‐old Columbia student, Bruce Mayrock of Old Westbury, L. I., set himself on fire on the lawn of the United Nations before hundreds of on lookers and died a few hours later. According to a sign he left behind, he was protesting “genocide” in Biafra.

READ ALSO : Story of a Biafran Hero as published by New York Times in 1970: “Man Immolates Himself in Times Sq.”

MESSAGE FROM BIANCA ONOH

In the days following the stroke which would eventually take his life, one issue weighed heavily on Dim Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu’s mind.

That ‘issue’ was the immortalization of Bruce Mayrock, the 20 year old who set himself ablaze in front of the UN Building in New York on this day (29th Of May ) in 1969 to draw attention to the plight of the Biafran people (a people whom he had never met, and whom he believed were at the brink of extermination, engaged in a desperate war for survival), who died in the early hours of 30th May, on the anniversary of the declaration of Biafra.

‘There is still time’, I assured my anxious spouse.. ‘You will get through this, and then you will do it, as you planned’.

His response destabilized me. ‘I am a soldier..’ he said, looking straight into my eyes with all the equanimity of a man whose fate already lay before him;
‘the only modes of death I am conditioned to anticipate, happen to be death at the battlefield or by execution…I never expected to get this far. If I don’t make it, do what you can…our people must never forget….’

Sadly, he did not survive….And steadily I embarked, stage by stage, upon Project Mayrock which, to the Glory of God, is nearing completion and slated for commissioning by the end of the year.

The Mayrock is a three story edifice including a conference hall with Projectors ,an exhibition floor that will house artistic depictions, iconic photos and historic scenes of our 30 month long heroic battle for survival.

Sculptures of Bruce Mayrock will adorn the landscape and memorial hall. Pupils from various schools will have an opportunity to visit and learn more about our struggle.

The buildings and some of the artworks as shown here are still in process, however since this particular anniversary marks 50 years of the end of the Biafra War – a momentous milestone- I thought it timely to share this initiative.

The only input you are required to make into this project is to pass on the story of this selfless sacrifice, and that of so many others to our struggle, to your children. ‘A nation which forgets it’s defenders will itself be forgotten’(Calvin Coolidge).

My appreciation goes to to the architects and Arcon builders, the sculptors, artists as well the curators working with me on this project, to my children for their research and assistance and very importantly, my profound thanks to Chief C. Martins Ndujepu. We started this journey together.

🌈To our departed Leader Dim Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu….,
On yet another anniversary of the self immolation and death of Bruce Mayrock, it is my honour to affirm to you – Ikemba Igbo nine, General Of the People’s Army, Odum n’eche Igbo…that We have not forgotten; and the promise is fulfilled.

The memories of our Martyr Bruce and of all those who gave their lives that we may live…are enshrined in our hearts and minds.

Generations yet unborn will be reminded of their sacrifice. The Mayrock Memorial Building stands as a monument and tribute to uncommon courage and heroism.

Brother Bruce…The people of Biafra, Land of the Rising Sun, today raise their trumpets in your honour. Again, We say THANK YOU. We will Never forget you.

Bianca Odumegwu Ojukwu
29 May 2020.

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

About the Archive

This is a digitized version of an article from The Times’s print archive, before the start of online publication in 1996. To preserve these articles as they originally appeared, The Times does not alter, edit or update them.
Occasionally the digitization process introduces transcription errors or other problems; we are continuing to work to improve these archived versions.

Man Immolates Himself in Times Sq.
By Richard Severo
July 19, 1970

An unidentified man quietly sat down on a curb in crowded Times Square at about 2 P.M. yesterday, poured two cans of a highly flammable liquid over his body, struck a match and burned himself to death.

The self ‐ immolation took place on the north side of 42d Street between Broadway and Seventh Avenue, near the Al lied Chemical Tower. It is one of the busiest places in Man hattan, but apparently no one among the hundreds of pass ers‐by fully realized what was happening until it was too late. Some who saw the flames ig nored them at first.

“I thought it was just an other one of those fires in rubbish basket,” said David Whitmore of 180 First Avenue, who was about 200 feet away on the northeast corner of 42d Street and Seventh Avenue when the flames shot up, ac companied by thick, black smoke.

A White Man About 30

All that the police could de termine immediately was that the victim was a white male about 30 years old. There was no immediate indication of a motive, political or otherwise.

Passers‐by who said they witnessed the burning gave conflicting accounts of what they saw. At first, the victim was variously identified as man and a woman; black, white and oriental, and ranging in age from 18 to 35.

The fuel used by the man was not immediately known. But the heat from the flames caused the black asphalt on 42d Street to melt and run. After the body was removed, all that could he seen were what appeared to be charred bits of newspaper, two subway tokens, a quarter, a dime, four pennies, a nickel and two other coins that were burnt so badly that they could not be recog nized.

Too Late for a Rescue

“I saw him before he burned,” said 19‐year‐old Can dido Gonzalez of 346 West 36th Street. “I walked right by him and he said something like ‘I got enough’ or some thing like that. Then the next thing I know the guy starts throwing gas over his body. He is sitting on the curb throw ing gas and he lights a match. Some guy ran up, I think he was trying to put it out, but nobody could do anything.”

“I saw him, too,” said Robert Malcolm, 17, of Red Bank, N.J., who was in New York for the day, as were so many others in Times Square. “I remember a half‐hour before the fire that I saw him shrug his shoulders, the way New Yorkers do some times.”

Mr. Malcolm said he saw the man pour something over him “but I thought it was water.”

E. Robert Miller, a visitor from Stuart, Fla., said he ran over to the burned man. “But I could see he was dead. There was nothing I could do.”

A few women onlookers screamed when the man began to burn. Only Mr. Malcolm said that he thought that the man might have made a sound while burning. The others said the man remained silent.

Suicide by self‐immolation has not been uncommon in recent years. It has been espe cially prevalent among the Bud dhist monks of Saigon, who have used it to protest govern ment policies and the war.

But self‐immolation has oc curred in this country on sev eral occasions. On May 30, 1969, a 20‐year‐old Columbia student, Bruce Mayrock of Old Westbury, L. I., set himself on fire on the lawn of the United Nations before hundreds of on lookers and died a few hours later. According to a sign he left behind, he was protesting “genocide” in Biafra.

Source: New York Times

READ ALSO: IMMORTALIZING BRUCE MAYROCK WHO SET HIMSELF ABLAZE IN FRONT OF UNITED NATIONS FOR THE SAKE OF BIAFRA

9News Nigeria

She wrote:

“21 Years Ago, a 15 year old seeking to find her path was brutally raped by her employer, all she had to show was a twin birthed 9 months after.

Hid behind the childhood abuse, layers and layers of Rejection, often criticized, broken, bruised, she refused to be a statistic and became the standard to many more young men and women who would be battered, abused…. TODAY…. the evening and the morning and it’s the 21st Birthday of my sons. Everything has changed since the blood.
Happy Birthday KanKan and Dada.

IF I were allowed a choice of my battles, I would have chosen simpler conflicts but no, this life chose me and I will live it fully.

I have made a lot of mistakes but each time I look at both of you, I knew I did the right thing to keep you even when I didn’t know just how.

To every single teenage mom, to every young person who has been themed a mistake and misfit… here I stand your validation that “No one and nothing has the power to define who you become but you!”

Choose what you will and desire to be.. well.

To thousands of young men and women around Africa and the world who would be raped, battered, abused and denied a fair hearing just because they see us as kids. You are not voiceless, you won’t forever be hushed. They will hear us.

You are bruised and beautiful.

When you think of the Rapist Declare:

I forgive you
I let you go
You inspire me
To stand up against RAPE
To speak up and tell my story
I will do better
I am proud of me
Thank you

unforgiveness is too heavy to carry around with me. I cannot carry you and grow.

Now Breathe!!

9News Nigeria

He said; “When I was training for fights – I ate a lot of meat, cheese, bread. I devoured everything besides pork. I used to eat a lot. As I got older I didn’t like the way I was feeling. I had a lot of arthritis, joint problems and I was morbidly obese.” It was his wife who turned him on to going meat free.In this new video Tyson has sculpted arms, abs and an overall slender frame as he showed off a grey beard.

Boxing legend, Mike Tyson has shown off his insanely toned physique while throwing his signature fast punches in a new video. The 53-year-old former professional boxing champion was shirtless in the new video shared on Chinese social media site Weibo, as he threw punches while signalling he is back to boxing.

Tyson recenlty came out to reveal that he was coming out of retirement to stage a boxing comeback for charity and uploaded a video on his instagram page last week showing him throwing his signature fast knock out punches.His rival, Evander Holyfield, who Tyson famously bit off his ear in 1997 during a fight, also came out last week to reveal he was coming out of retirement, with fans optimistic the pair could stage a mouthwatering fight.

Tyson revealed he had to lose weight after making the decision to abandon meat and focus on a vegetarian diet in 2013

9News Nigeria

A Nigerian man identified as Zeromni Freedom has taken to Facebook to justify his reasons for having s*x with his sister and cousins. According to the man, Cain did the same in the bible so there is nothing wrong with siblings having s*x with eachother as long as it is consensual.

In his words ” I ONCE FUCKED MY SISTER

People always shy away from this question : “Where did Cain get wife?”
Who did cain fcuk? If the bible story was real, or let’s assume it’s real, cain must have fcuked his sister. Now , the story may not be true, but so many of us have fcuked our blood sister and brother or cousins but we kept it secret because our environment frown against it so we hide it and keep it secret.

In some countries, it is legal for siblings or relative to marry each other and have s*x. The truth is that ,there is absolutely NOTHING wrong with incest. People create law to make it wrong and we grow with that mentality that it’s wrong. Animals fcuk each other , they fcuk their siblings and enjoy life. We too are animals, we are more intelligent, yes. But we experience nature the way other animals do too.

When I fcuked my blood sister , it was long time ago. We were playing on bed and she had only her short skirt and pant, we didn’t know when we kissed and start romance and we fcuked . It happened like 3 times and I also fcuk one of my cousins .it was consensual. We both want it. We kept it secret until we outgrow the feelings and they are married now .

The truth is that if many of us will be honest and truthful, some of us had fcuked our relatives. We just kept quiet about it because we don’t want people to know the truth. We keep it secret because we don’t want people to blame us or condmn us. But it’s life it happens.

Now, I am NOT talking about forced s*x . You don’t have to rape your sibling or cousin because you have a sexual feelings for them. Thats wrong. The feelings must be mutual and you must both consent to it before it happens.

If you see it as bad and wrong, don’t do it. If your country have a law against it, go to another country where it is allowed. Live your true life. Enjoy your life as it is. If there were truly a Cain then, he must had fcuk his sister.
If the story is a myth, then take a study of all of animals and find out if they fcuk their siblings, if it’s true , which I know it is, then why should human be any different?

9News Nigeria

Some beggars took to the streets of Lagos today February 25, to protest against continous arrest by officials of the state government. The beggars who stormed Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s office in 10 buses and seven tricycles, also barricaded the entrance to the State House of Assembly as they demanded for audience with the Lagos State Governor.  

They held up placards which read  “Enough is enough, stop the persecution of people with disabilities,” “Save the waterfront, enforced conviction, we demand justice,”If you don’t want to see us begging on the streets, give us skills and empowerment,” “Seeing beggars all over our streets and roads is the failure of the system” and “We are tired of running without legs or eyes, give us skills and empowerment.” Mohammed Zanna, Spokesperson of the beggars and Coordinator of Physically Challenged Empowerment Initiatives (PCEI), recounted how some of them were arrested during a similar protest in 2017 and taken to Majidun, which he described as a prison. He alleged that they were ill-treated and manhandled by government officials, leading to death of some of their members.  

He further stated that the recent ban on commercial motorocycle and tricycle which some of them have been able to purchase, has made business difficult for them as they now have to trek from bus stops to their destinations.  Zanna said;  “We cannot enter buses now because we cannot fight and struggle. We are seeking audience with the governor. Let them come and tell us what they want to do with us. We need skills and empowerment. We are tired of sitting at home. We are demanding to be skilled. “We do not want to beg on the streets. We have used our own ingenuity and resources to provide alternative livelihoods for ourselves that are more dignified, safer and productive to society. Yet, in the blink of an eye, this government is willing to destroy all we have built for ourselves and push us back into poverty and life without basic human dignity.“We are ready to work with government to find workable alternatives through appropriate regulation of keke, special permits for People Living With Disabilities to use our keke for transportation of our members or real and immediate support for alternative livelihoods through skills training and support for PLWDs to start new businesses.”    

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

Former military president, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, has weighed in on the controversial Hate Speech Bill, saying nobody can Muzzle Nigerians and deny them freedom of speech.

General Babangida pointed out that there was even no basis for the bill which has passed the second reading in the Senate insisting that no one can deny Nigerians their fundamental rights.

Babangida spoke in his Minna Uphill residence when he received visiting National President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Chief Christopher Isiguzo.

The Protection from Internet Falsehoods and Manipulation Bill and the National Commission for the Prohibition of Hate Speeches Bill were recently introduced in the Senate.

Babangida recalled that a similar bill was presented before the eighth National Assembly and he advised against.

“I am surprised that this bill has resurfaced. There is no basis for this now. We are developing; we should be allowed to develop. If we make mistakes people can be cautioned. If somebody goes off you have the right to call him to say, ‘no, we don’t want this.’

“Unless people are able to express themselves, those in government or in authority will not know what is happening in the country.”

The former military president said the Bill was an “eye service” by the sponsor, describing the death penalty prescribed in the bill as “crude and wicked

“If somebody makes hate speech, put him in the gallows and not shoot him. It is crude and out of tune with the 21st century reality. It could have happened, may be some 300 years ago, but not now.”

Babangida vowed to team up with the NUJ and other stakeholders in protesting against the passage of the bill saying, “I am with you on this. I will also talk to those of us who could be in position to bring sanity to bare on some of these things.”

The former military president said he had been following media publications on the forthcoming American election, adding, “if we had their type of media, I think they should be jailing you all by now.”

He credited himself with opening up the media space even when some of his colleagues opposed his policy.

“But today, the country is better for it,” he said.
He challenged the media to remain strong and focussed on what Nigerians wants, maintaining that the nation can only succeed if we allow unfettered freedom without death threat or N10 million fine, which he said sounded silly.

Earlier, the NUJ president had solicited the support of the former military president to bring down the bill before the National Assembly.

He described Hate Speech Bill as anti-democracy and anti-people and, therefore, must be killed.

Reacting, legal icon, Chief Afe Babalola (SAN), described the bill as a slide to dictatorship and that there was no need for extra laws in Nigeria.

Babalola, founder of Afe Babalola University, Ado Ekiti (ABUAD), said it was needless and unwarranted for anyone to contemplate another law to deal with false publications when there were laws already promulgated to take care of such situation.

Babalola spoke at ABUAD in Ado Ekiti on Wednesday, when the leadership of NUJ, Ekiti chapter, led by its Chairman, Com Rotimi Ojomoyela presented an award of excellence to the Legal Icon to appreciate his contributions to humanity and national development.

The legal icon noted that the provisions of the proposed bill in its entirety clearly contravene section 39 of the 1999 constitutions, which guarantee freedom of speech.

Lampooning the champions of the bill, Babalola said: “This is the beginning of dictatorship. There are enough laws like defamation, libel, and slander to deal with anybody who publishes falsehood against someone and it comes by way of taking the person to court.

“So, it is of no need to making new laws to deal with somebody who publishes falsehood. There was no need whatsoever for additional laws to deal with that. Though, people are complaining, because the police are not doing well by delaying prosecution of offenders.”

Meanwhile, scores of placard-wielding protesters comprising individuals and civil society organisations, marched on the National Assembly Complex, yesterday, demanding that the Senate drop the bill it is considering to regulate social media in Nigeria.

The protesters started the march at a section of the National Assembly gate when another set moved in through the left flank of the gate. Two groups, Take It Back Movement and Concerned Nigerians, championed the protest.

Aside the primary demand of the Senate stepping down the social media and the hate speech bills, the protesters also asked the Federal Government to obey court orders by releasing Omoyele Sowore and other journalists who are held for critiquing state authorities.

They hoisted placards which among other inscriptions read: “If you can’t stand the smoke. Get out of the kitchen”, “Only a repressive regime muscles the media”, “#SayNoToSocialMediaBill, we are not in tyranny century”,

“If we can’t say what we think, in a democratic society, then it is not democracy”, “Do not gag me”, “Free Sowore”, “It is slavery not to speak one’s thought”, “social media bill another draconian decree”, and “do not gag me.”

The protesters sang songs of solidarity and called out names of each of the 109 senators, chorusing “Shut it down” referring to the two bills, the social media bill and the hate speech bill.

While addressing journalists, Deji Adeyanju, one of the conveners of the protest, said the action would, henceforth, be frequent.

He said apart from the protests, there would be online actions which would involve sending text messages, calling and sending mails to every senator.

He added that this would be followed by “individual name shaming and picketing. We will assign tasks to different members (of our group) to go to their (the senators) homes. Let their children see what their parents are doing.”

He faulted the decision to adopt Singapore’s version of the same bill. He said the Asian country is not a democratic state.

Another leader of the protest, Henry Shield, also chided the legislators for not adopting “progressive bills” like the healthcare bill of the United States and other bills of note that would address the challenges facing Nigerians.

“We insist that the monstrous social media bill and its evil hate speech counterpart have no place in any democratic society, let alone a fledgling democracy like ours. We believe that the bills are satanic and must be totally withdrawn by the ninth Senate with immediate effect.

“As constituents and citizens alike, we believe that the proposed bills suggest that you lawmakers are anti-people and unwilling to either understand the sufferings of Nigerians or even take any meaningful step to mitigate them.

“We, therefore, hope that you will listen to the unanimous voice of Nigerians that these bills have no place in our democracy and must be forever banished to the trash can.”

But Uba Sani (APC, Kaduna Central) and Yakubu Oseni (APC, Kogi Central) spoke on behalf of the Senate said lawmakers would do the bidding of Nigerians.

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

A Nigerian Shiite group on Sunday condemned a court order that allows the government to ban it on “terrorism” grounds after a spate of deadly protests in the capital.

At least six protesters, a trainee journalist and a senior police officer were killed on Monday when violence flared during a march by the Islamic Movement of Nigeria to demand the release of its leader Ibrahim Zakzaky.

It was reported on Saturday that a court in Abuja had granted an order permitting the government to label the IMN’s activities “terrorism and illegality”.

The authorities need to publish the order in the state gazette and two newspapers for it to come into force.

Court and justice ministry sources confirmed the authenticity of the order. The government did not comment officially.

At a news conference in Abuja on Sunday, senior IMN official Yahiya Dahiru condemned the move as a “dangerous development”.

“You can never stop an ideology, you can never stop an idea, you can never stop our religion,” he said, insisting protests would not stop until Zakzaky was freed.

Zakzaky was detained after violence during a religious procession in December 2015. Rights groups say some 350 mostly unarmed Shiite marchers were killed by the Nigerian army.

In recent months there have been repeated clashes during almost daily marches by the IMN in the capital as concerns rise over Zakzaky’s health.

In October, the IMN and human rights groups said more than 40 people were killed when the security forces opened fire.

The Nigerian police this week vowed to crackdown on “violent protests” by the group, with a heavy security presence visible across the capital city.

Zakzaky and his consort Zeenah Ibrahim get been in charge notwithstanding the centralized elevated date ordering his publish in 2016.

The regime refused and filed unsullied criminal charges, together with liable killing that is liable to be punished by by death.

The IMN, which emerged as a scholar interest group in the later than usual 1970s, was inspired by the Islamic revolution in Iran, and has tight ties in the Shiite Islamic country.

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

King Mansa Musa is famous for his Hajj journey , during which he stopped off in Egypt and gave out so much gold that the Egyptian economy was ruined for years to come.
Mansa Musa was the great-great-grandson of Sunjata, who was the founder of the empire of Mali. His 25-year reign (1312-1337 CE) is described as “the golden age of the empire of Mali” (Levztion 66).

While Sunjata focused on building an ethnic Malinke empire, Mansa Musa developed its Islamic practice. He performed his Hajj in 1324. According to Levztion, the journey across Africa to Makkah took more than a year. Mansa Musa journeyed along the Niger River to Mema, then to Walata, then through Taghaza and on to Tuat, which was a trade center in central Africa.

Tuat attracted traders from as far as Majorca and Egypt and its traders included Jews as well as Muslims.

When he arrived in Egypt, Mansa Musa camped near the Pyramids for three days. He then sent a gift of 50,000 dinars to the Sultan of Egypt before settling in Cairo for three months. The Sultan lent him his palace for the summer and made sure that his entourage was treated well.

Mansa Musa gave away thousands of ingots of gold, and Egyptian traders took advantage of this by charging five times the normal price for their goods. The value of gold in Egypt decreased as much as 25 percent. By the time Mansa Musa returned to Cairo from Hajj, however, he had run out of money and had to borrow from local Egyptian merchants.

Special Traditions

While Mansa Musa was devout, he was not an ascetic. His imperial power was widely respected, and he was feared throughout Africa. Ibn Battuta’s accounts show that Musa expected the same traditional etiquette of reverence to be performed for him as for any other king.

People who greeted him had to kneel down and scatter dust over themselves. Even in Cairo, Mansa Musa was greeted by his people in the traditional way. “No one was allowed into the king’s presence with his sandals on; negligence was punished by death. No one was allowed to sneeze in the king’s presence, and when the king himself sneezed, those present beat their breasts with their hands” (Levtzion, 108).

Another custom was that the king would never give orders personally. He would pass instructions to a spokesman, who would then convey his words. He never wrote anything himself and asked his scribes to put together a book, which he then sent to the Sultan of Egypt.

However, Mansa Musa had to face his own test of humility because it was required, when greeting the sultan, to kiss the ground. This was an act that Mansa Musa could not bring himself to perform.

Ibn Fadl Allah Al-Omari, who spent time with Musa in Egypt, reports that Musa had made many excuses before he could be persuaded to enter the sultan’s court. In the end, he made a compromise by announcing that if he had to prostrate on entering the court, it would be before Allah only, and this he did.

Mansa Musa stood in a long tradition of West African kings who had made pilgrimage to Makkah and, like his predecessors, he traveled in style.

Ibn Battuta recorded the display of wealth , which included a large presence of bodyguards, dignitaries, saddled horses, and colored flags. He traveled with his senior wife, Inari Kunate, who brought with her five hundred maids-in-waiting.

The senior wife was also respected and feared, and rulers of different cities paid their tributes to her. However, Ibn Battuta recorded that in Mansa Musa’s court, the Shari`ah was rather informally practiced in matters of marriage.

He records that Ibn Amir Hajib, a member of the Mamluk court, noted how Mansa Musa strictly observed prayer and knew the Qur’an, but had maintained “the custom that if one of his subjects had a beautiful daughter, he brought her to the king’s bed without marriage.” Ibn Amir Hajib informed Mansa Musa that this was not permitted under Islamic law, to which Mansa Musa replied, “Not even to kings?” Ibn Amir Hajib said, “Not even to kings.” Henceforth Mansa Musa refrained from the practice.

Building Mosques

Mansa Musa’s Hajj had a significant impact on the development of Islam in Mali and on the perception of Mali throughout Africa and Europe. He was later accompanied back to Mali by an Andalusian architect, who is said to have designed the mosque at Timbuktu. He also invited back with him four descendants of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him), so that the country of Mali would be “blessed by their footprints.”

According to Levtzion, Mansa Musa’s pilgrimage is recorded in many sources, both Muslim and non-Muslim and from both West Africa and Egypt.

Mali also appeared on the maps of the Jews and Christians in Europe. In Mali, Musa is known for building mosques and inviting Islamic scholars from around the Muslim world to his empire (Levtzion 213).

By Aisha R. Matsteton

References
Levtzion, N. Ancient Ghana and Mali. London: Methuen & Co., 1973.
This article was previously published in 2013.

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9News Nigeria

HISTORY

The Tiv came into contact with European culture during the colonial period. During November 1907 to spring 1908, an expedition of the Southern Nigeria Regiment led by Lieutenant-Colonel Hugh Trenchard’s came into contact with the Tiv. Trenchard brought gifts for the tribal chiefs.

Subsequently, roads were built and trade links established between Europeans and the Tiv.[3] But before construction of roads began a missionary named Mary Slessor went throughout the region seeing to the people’s needs.

The geographical position of the Tiv, according to Laura Bohannan and Paul J. Bohannan (1969: 9) and Rubingh (1969: 58), is between 6° 30′ and 8° 10′ north latitude and 8° and 10° east longitude. The Tiv shares borders with the Chamba and Jukun of Taraba State in the northeast; with the Igede (Benue), Iyala, Gakem and Obudu of Cross River State in the southeast; and the Idoma of Benue State to the south. There is also an international boundary between the Tiv and the Republic of Cameroon at a southeastern angle of the ethnic group’s location. They are among the minority ethnic groups in Nigeria. Numbering about six million individuals, according to 2014 estimates, they occupy the Middle Belt States of Benue, Taraba, Nasarawa, and Plateau.1 A few TIv are also found in Cross River and Adamawa States of Nigeria and in Cameroon.

There are numerous submissions about the origin of Tiv people. We are, however, in agreement with Torkula (2006: 1) that: “Although different views are held about the Tiv origin, the version that commands popularity and currency is that which traces their origin to the Bantu people who once inhabited the Central African continent, in the Shaba area of the present Democratic Republic of Congo.” The popularity and currency of this version is due to the assorted pieces of evidence supporting it. One such piece of evidence is linguistic. R. C. Abraham (1934: 6–7), for instance, compiled a list of 67 Tiv words and juxtaposed them with the words of Bantu Nyaza showing a striking similarity in both phonetics and semantics. Based on that, Abraham (1934: 5) concluded that the Tiv were “real Bantu” and subsequently that they came from the Congo. Another linguistic piece of evidence has to do with the present writer’s family name of Tsenôngu which is Tiv and which when ended with an “o” (as done by many Tivs without any semantic harm) is the name of a town of 300 000 people in the present Democratic Republic of Congo. Such pieces of linguistic evidence testify to the fact that the Tiv actually migrated from the Congo; from there they passed through several places before settling in the Benue Valley, their present location. The main occupation of the Tiv is subsistence farming. They regard yam farming as their birthright and commit themselves to its work with religious dedication.

As for their social organization, traditional Tiv society was completely egalitarian. There was no central authority. They had no king so every man was ruler of his own house. They lived in compounds administered by the oldest man. Many compounds formed clans and districts that were variously divided and sub-divided. The elders of the various clans (upyaven) and districts (ityar) met and discussed issues at those levels and arrived at democratic decisions that bound their sections. If an issue involved the whole ethnic group, the elders of the various sections and districts met and took a decision. This situation obtained until 1946 when the colonialists established a Tiv central authority by creating the office of a paramount ruler. The paramount ruler (Tor Tiv) lives and administers the people in Gboko, their headquarters town, which was built in 1932. Ascendancy to the Tor Tiv throne is not hereditary.

Leo Frobenius, the German traveller, for example, declared them (the Tiv people) as the “best storytellers in Africa” (Keil 1979: 20). Laura Bohannan too has, under the pseudonym of Elenore Smith Bowen, often been referred deservedly to for her admiring description of a Tiv tale-telling session in her autobiographical novel, Return to Laughter. Commenting on Bohannan’s book, Frances Harding (1992: 156) has said that: “So important does Bohannan consider storytelling in Tiv life that not only is its performance the occasion of the laughter which gives the novel its title, but it is recognized as a healing, binding force in the community.” Indeed Keil (1979: 57) was right in his submission that “qualitatively, all visitors to Tivland agree that storytelling can be a very dramatic event.”

But it is not just in storytelling that members of the ethnic group have made their artistic mark; they are known for their dance craft, poetic creativity and general aesthetic profundity. To provide just one example relating to their dance repertoire, in 1973 the ethnic group alone accounted for fifty-four of the one hundred and eighty-eight dances performed at the “Festival of 200 Dances of the Benue-Plateau State” held in Jos, Nigeria. The then Benue-Plateau State comprised more than thirty ethnic nationalities. This is statistical testimony to the dancing skills in Tivland. Indeed, the ethnic group is generally artistically active. And one of the avenues where this artistic activity exhibits itself is in nuptial poetry. But before we focus on this subgenre, it is good to discuss briefly marriage in Tivland

THE MIGRATION OF TIV PEOPLE INTO THE BENUE VALLEY

The understanding of Tiv migration to their present location is based on oral traditions. To this, various scholars documented these migration stories for easier understanding as observed by Awai, G.K. According to (Rubingh 1969:62), the Tiv all agree that their original home was to the southeast and inside Cameroon. The Tiv are uncertain as to the time when they began their migration northward, but it was probably about eleven generations ago, this according to Rubingh. He cites Downes that, the really general migration into the present tribal area began around 1800, and Tiv were present south of the Benue River in large numbers by 1850.

The various Clans shifted position until 1890 when the boundaries were rather well-established and permanent settlement undertaken. Much lore of the Tiv stems from this stupendous sojourn northward, though the point of departure is itself no longer known. Rubingh (1969: 63), further cites R. Abraham and Downes thus; They feel that Tiv began to move down from the Sonkwala Hills where they were living at that time. These hills are located a few miles Southeast of the town Obudu…East and Akiga locate Swem Hill (which is the Tiv name for the hill so revered in their history) about thirty-five miles further Southeast from Sonkwalla and they feel that the Tiv moved from here on to Ibenda Hill, the next stage on their journey.

In a recent study conducted by Akpenpuun Dzurgba (2007: 28) about Tiv nation, he identified Swem as the place where the Tiv migrated from to their present location in Benue State. Dzurgba said a province in Cameroon is an equivalent of a state such as Benue State of Nigeria. Of the three Cameroonian sub-divisions, Akwaya sub-division is probably the land to which the Tiv refer to as Swem which they claim is their ancestral home land. Akwaya sub-division or Akwaya Local Government is located in the South-west province or Southwest State in Southern Cameroon. Akwaya sub-division has been revealed and identified by the study as the ancestral homeland of the Tiv. Swem has also been revealed and identified. Swem exists in Akwaya sub-division, or Akwaya Local Government Area. In Akwaya, there are a range of mountains and one of them is the highest of them all.

This highest mountain is called Swem even by the people of Akwaya. The study has therefore, confirmed the Tiv’s claim that they had once lived as a single community on a mountain called Swem. The location of Swem that had been vaguely indicated as lying to the South-east of Tivland has been revealed and identified as Akwaya sub-division in the South-west province in South-Western Cameroon. Swem is a real mountain which is located in Akwaya sub-division in South-west province in South-Western Cameroon. Dzurgba further stated that Swem was flat at the top and crops were grown on it. Because Swem was a long mountain range with a flat top, the Tiv, as a single community, would settle on top of Swem for security reasons. During the period of migration or human movements worldwide, war was the only means of diplomacy or negotiation. Territorial integrity and security of life and property depended largely on military victory.

These were probably the reasons why the Tiv settled on the long flat top of Swem. Dzurgba explains further that when the population grew and became too large for the Swem settlement, the Tiv had to move down to look for an agrarian land, but that was not immediately available in the Swem vicinity. That, in addition, other racial groups had already settled around the mountain ranges in Akwaya in particular and South-west Cameroon in general. It was on this note that, the Tiv followed River Katsina-Ala from Cameroon down to the Benue valley where they found enough agrarian land for themselves (Akpenpuun Dzurgba 2007: 29). To this, the Tiv finally migrated from Swem in Akwaya sub-division of Cameroon and finally settled in the Benue Valley of Central Nigeria. Scholars of Tiv nation documented that in course of Tiv migration to their present place of stay, they came in contact with different ethnic tribes who already occupied the present Benue Valley. Jukun, Etulo, Abakwa, Chamba, Idoma, Igede, Udam, Ugee and other tribes. But because of Tiv military strength, they overcame these tribes and sent them away and subsequently occupied the present Benue Valley.

MARRIAGE IN TIVLAND

Tiv marriage forms can be seen through four basic phases. The earliest was yamshe, marriage by exchange: a man who needed a wife located another man who had the same need. They then exchanged their sisters or daughters as wives. Next, there was the kwase-ngohol / tsuen / kôrun, marriage by capture. This was divided into two. There was, first, the forceful snatching of a wife from her husband that in Akiga’s words (1939: 38) was usually done by some “scoundrel[s]” who could fall on a travelling couple and take the wife and sometimes, even harass her husband. This form of marriage, by which the Tiv themselves lost many of their women during their migration, caused many “inter tar [that is inter-clan] wars” in Tivland (Makar 1994: 141, see also Akiga 1939: 137).

It therefore became necessary to have the second form of this type of marriage. Akiga (1939: 141) has referred to this form as the “honorable marriage by capture: the Iye.” Wegh (1998: 55) correctly describes it, though inexhaustibly, thus:Iye began with a young man accompanied by his friends going into another country [district] to find a wife. The target in this case was no longer married women, but the unmarried girls. There the young men stayed with a man whose mother was from their own country [district]. They then sent out friends, or relatives, as gobetweens, who scouted for girls of marriageable ages, and selected one for the young man. Once the young man had received all necessary information, he made the initial contact with the girl. [Now he visited the girl’s house,] then the wooing of the girl began. This could go on for months. Ierve (s.d.: 25) too has added to our insight of Iye by noting that usually the young men that formed this group and went to another district were, often, each looking for a wife.

They also always went with dances. The girls who came to watch the performances often indicated their interest in some of the young men by choosing to dance with them. Ierve goes on to note that if an Iye outing was successful, sometimes one man came back with many wives. But most of the times, the girls did not elope with their fiancés immediately. Whenever they finally eloped, however, the father or brother of the girl was usually compensated later with a girl. Thus, the iye marriage type was eventually like the yamshe exchange marriage.

The third phase and form of Tiv marriage was what Rupert East (in Akiga 1939: 159) said the Tiv used to call kwase u sha uikya, marriage by purchase. Akiga (1939: 159) explained this further: a woman was “bought as a slave and then married. Women of this kind were mostly purchased from the Utyusha, from the Dam, and from more distant clans.” Finally, the Tiv married by kwase-kemen, that is, marriage by bride price.

This came about in 1927 when the colonial administration abolished all other forms of marriage and insisted that marriage should strictly be by the payment of bride price. Thus, a man, on choosing a girl, would demonstrate his marital intentions to her and her people by taking gifts to them and providing other needful services to them as well. This went on till the girl’s family, satisfied with the suitor’s cumulative goodwill, asked him to come and pay the bride price. Today, this form of marriage has developed into quite a number of processes unnecessary of enumeration here.

Whatever the processes in any district, the marriage contract is based on bride price. It needs to be added that in many cases, especially now, the suitor often elopes with his fiancée. The bride price and other things are usually done afterwards.

THE TIV TRADITIONAL MARRIAGE DANCE

Whatever type of marriage was done, there was always an artistic celebration of the matrimony. There were two types of marriage dances. The first was the one that took place immediately a bride was brought to the groom’s place. This was usually called kwasekuhan or kwasegeren (literally, celebrating the bride or ululating for the bride respectively). This can still be found, though in a less zealous form, in some Tiv villages. But the second type of the marriage dance is, in my estimation, 99% extinct. This was the dance that took place much later when a man decided that he should demonstrate his wealth by hosting the Ivom or Dam ceremony. This was a nuptial dance done only by men who were wealthy. Even then it was not every wife that attracted this dance. Unless a woman came from a particularly long geographical or cultural distance from her husband’s, this dance was not organised in her honour. The Ivom or Dam marriage dance was therefore not for every woman. And definitely, not every man had the wherewithal to marry from a geographical or cultural distance long enough to host the dance; besides, the hosting cost for the occasion was rather forbidding. Our focus here is not on the Ivom or Dam marriage dance.

We are concerned only with kwasekuhan, the marriage dance performed immediately a bride was brought to the house of the groom’s age mate or the groom’s house.3 This dance was the most common and the most important. Whoever married and did not host it was usually disregarded in his community. Besides, the dance was also an honour to the bride. It was an artistic way of welcoming her to her new home and getting her acquainted with the environment. Thus, failure to host a marriage dance for a bride was a shameful thing for her. It disabled her from holding her head high among her fellow women. This dance was therefore a necessary tradition.

Indeed, it was impossible to think of marriage without it.
The dance usually took place at two settings. First, it was done in the house of an age mate or distant relation of the groom to whose house the groom took his wife for that purpose. The bride passed the night there but hardly slept at night because singing and dancing were on until dawn. There was more singing, drumming and dancing when the bride was, in the evening of the following day, taken to the groom’s house. Brides were customarily brought home at evening, when people had taken their dinners and were relaxing outside to while away time before going indoors to sleep. This was when the angwe proclamation was heard at the top of the announcer’s singsong voice.

The angwe, having fixed wordings with only the names of the persons mentioned in it changing to suit different marriage situations, was nuptial news stating who had married. It was the Tiv traditional system of mass communication specifically for marriage. So the angwe [tidings] announcer always went slightly ahead of the party coming with the bride. The following were the words of the angwe: Tidings gbeee … tidings! Chief! Tidings ooo … Tidings! Whose tidings is it? It is the tidings of Tako Gbor Ndor Kunya! It is the tidings of Achulu Gbor Ndor Kunya! Whose tidings is it? It is the tidings of Iornenge Akpa! Tidings walk about gbee … gbee … gbee … (Ululations).4 The ululations concluding the announcement were usually done by the group (made up mostly of women and girls) escorting the wife, a bit in front of whom the tidingsannouncer was going. This group started performing some nuptial poems right there on the way. People from surrounding compounds now rushed to the road where the angwe was heard and joined the party. Others went to the house of the groom and waited there, singing and dancing. They knew the groom by the names in the angwe. For example, lines 4, 6, and 8 above contain the names of elders whose son has married. It would therefore not be difficult to trace the groom’s house. In some places, there were no musical instruments at all but in others, the following made up the nuptial musical ensemble: the indyer or ilyu (jumbo or medium-size) slit-log drums, the open-ended gbande drum, the double-ended genga drum, the kwen metal gong, the gida woodwind, the tsough rattles etc. These instruments notwithstanding, singing, and not musical instrumentation, was the most important aspect of the Tiv marriage dance.

SOCIAL AND POLITICAL ORGANIZATION

Most Tiv have a highly developed sense of genealogy, with descent being reckoned patrilineally. Ancestry is traced to an ancient individual named Tiv, who had two sons; all Tiv consider themselves a member either of Ichongo (descendants of son Chongo) or of Ipusu (descendants of son Ipusu). Ichongo and Ipusu are each divided into several major branches, which in turn are divided into smaller branches. The smallest branch, or minimal lineage, is the “ipaven”. Members of an ipaven tend to live together, the local kin-based community being called the “tar”. This form of social organization, called a segmentary lineage, is seen in various parts of the world, but it is particularly well known from African societies (Middleton and Tait 1958). The Tiv are the best-known example from West Africa, as documented by Laura Bohannan (1952) and by Paul J. Bohannan and Laura Bohannan (1953); in East Africa the best-known example is the Nuer, documented by E.E. Evans-Pritchard (1940).

The Tiv had no administrative divisions and no chiefs or councils. Leadership was based on age, influence, and affluence. The leaders’ functions were to furnish safe conduct, arbitrate disputes within their lineages, sit on moots, and lead their people in all external and internal affairs.

The Tiv ethnic group is the fourth largest Ethnic group in Nigeria after the three Major Ethnic groups.
These socio-political arrangements caused great frustration to British colonial attempts to subjugate the population and establish administration on the lower Benue. The strategy of Indirect Rule, which the British felt to be highly successful in controlling Hausa and Fulani populations in Northern Nigeria, was ineffective in a segmentary society like the Tiv (Dorward 1969). Colonial officers tried various approaches to administration, such as putting the Tiv under the control of the nearby Jukun, and trying to exert control through the councils of elders (“Jir Tamen”); these met with little success. The British administration in 1934 divided the Tiv into Clans, Kindreds, and Family Groups. The British appointed native heads of these divisions as well. These administrative divisions are gradually assuming a reality which they never had originally.

Members of the Tiv group are found in many areas across the globe, such as the United States and United Kingdom. In these countries they hold unions, known as MUT (Mzough U Tiv, which rhymes with Mutual Union of Tiv in English), where members can assemble and discuss issues concerning their people across the world, but especially back in Nigeria. The arm of the MUT serving the United States of America is known as MUTA (Mzough U Tiv ken Amerika, or Mutual Union of the Tiv in America), for instance.

Before the introduction of printed material, radio, film and television, mass communication in Nigeria was done through the indigenous people with the use of traditional political systems of communication. The rulers and the chiefs governed their ethnic communities and communicated with them through various channels.

TIV MUSIC INSTRUMENTS

Kakaki: This is an instrument used to convey specials messages to the people of the community, such messages as the newborn child of the King, his naming ceremony, the crowning of a new king, to gather people together during the marriage ceremony of the king and the king’s son’s marriage ceremony. This instrument was used to convey all the messages to the people to assemble at the square for the ceremony, as well as when there is an enemy attack on the community, a warning sound of the Kakaki is blown to alert those whom can defend the society and every citizen to be alert.

Ilyu: A light wooden instrument, it was used to pass messages to the people of the village, probably for the invitation of the people for a particular meeting of the elders at the king’s palace or for the people to gather at the market square for a message from or by the king.it is now used as an instrument to indicate the death of someone.

Imar: Instrument made of wood and named by the number of holes on the face of the instrument.
Indyer: A heavy wooden instrument carved out of mahogany trunk. It is used especially during festivals of masquerades, yam festivals with music to pass messages for the ceremonies, celebration of good harvest for the year.

Akya: It is used together with Agbande (drums) combined with Ageda at festivals to pass a message across to the people for a call for the display of culture. it is believed to have originated in the early 1950s but was made popular at about the late 1970s.

Adiguve: It’s an instrument like a violin, used for music and dances in conjunction with Agbande (Agbande) at festivals and dance occasions, sometimes to announce the death of a leader or an elder of the community, during this period it is played sorrowfully for the mourning of the dead, most time it is played funerals.

Gbande: Agbande (plural), a set of crafted wooden musical instrument used to compliment agbande at festivals, this is particularly large and it is played by the young men of the community, the special drum beats communicates special messages and music for the festivals to come and during the festivals, for instance, signifies a royal occasions such as the coronation and funeral.

Kolugh ku Bua-Cow Horn: This is an instrument made out of cow horns, like in my community, there are farmers’ associations that use this instrument when they have job to do, probably they are invite to make ridges on a piece of land, the Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the association will use this medium to wake up the members for the work they have for that day.

ViA Catholic diocese of Gboko

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9News Nigeria

Nigerians have been told not to get excited that their clamour for state police will be met under the President Muhammadu Buhari administration.

This is coming from a former Aviation Minister, Femi Fani-Kayode, a known critic of the present administration.

POLITICS TIMES gathered that some online reports including a national daily had claimed the president has given his assent for the creation of state and local governments police.

This led to some Nigerians being cheerful that the insecurity facing the country will soon be brought to an end.

Advising Nigerians to camp their nervous, the former minister said there is no way the incumbent president will implement state policing. He argued that only Atiku Abubakar, the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) could enforce the creation of state police.

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9News Nigeria

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has confirmed that it is investigating Governor Rochas Okorocha of Imo State. Acting chairman of the anti-graft agency, Mr Ibrahim Magu, affirmed this during an exclusive interview with Channels Television in London.

Asked if an investigation is ongoing regarding the governor, he responded, “definitely”. “Of course, we are doing a couple of checks and investigations here and there. We are investigating almost everybody,” the EFCC boss added. He noted that the commission has to get to a certain level before it can disclose any information about an ongoing investigation.

Mr Magu explained that this was necessary to prevent any action that can jeopardise or interfere with the process of the inquiry. According to him, Governor Okorocha is one of the many people being investigated by the commission. The EFCC boss said although he was aware of reports of the investigation on the social media, the details the anti-graft agency has was different from what was in the public space.

He, however, declined to disclose it. Magu is in the United Kingdom to meet with investigators assisting the Nigerian government in solving cases of money laundering and financial crimes. Recently, Governor Okorocha gave an indication that he was under the spotlight of the EFCC, saying he is the most investigated governor in the country.

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TOKYO (9News Nigeria) – Japan’s Emperor Akihito has declared his abdication in a historic ceremony at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo.

In his last public address as emperor, Akihito handed over the symbols of power and thanked the public for their support during his 30-year reign.

The 85-year-old was given permission to abdicate after saying he felt unable to fulfil his role because of his age and declining health.

He is the first Japanese monarch to stand down in more than 200 years.

Akihito will technically remain emperor until midnight.

His eldest son, Crown Prince Naruhito, will ascend the throne later on Wednesday. A new era – called Reiwa, meaning order and harmony – will begin in Japan’s unique calendar.

While the emperor holds no political power, he serves as a national figurehead.

Akihito has endeared himself to many Japanese people during his reign as he has interacted with those suffering from disease and disaster.

What happened at the abdication ceremony?

In the morning, the emperor took part in a Shinto ceremony to report his plans to the mythological ancestors of Japan’s imperial family.

Image copyrightREUTERS

The main “Ceremony of the Abdication” took place in a state room of the Imperial Palace in front of about 300 people including Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, Crown Prince Naruhito, and Crown Princess Masako.

Imperial chamberlains carried the state and privy seals into the hall, along with a sacred sword and a jewel which are considered symbols of the imperial family.

In a short ceremony, Prime Minister Shinzo Abe addressed the emperor, saying: “While keeping in our hearts the path that the emperor has walked, we will make utmost efforts to create a bright future for a proud Japan that is full of peace and hope.”

Then in his final speech Akihito, wearing a Western-style morning coat, said he “wished Japan and the world peace and prosperity”.

Image copyrightREUTERS

“I am deeply grateful for the people that accepted me as a symbol and supported me,” he said.

“I sincerely wish, together with the Empress, that the Reiwa era which begins tomorrow will be a stable and fruitful one,” he added. “I pray, with all my heart, for peace and happiness for all the people in Japan and around the world.”

After helping his wife, Empress Michiko, down the steps of the ceremonial platform, the emperor bowed towards the gathered officials then left the room.

Why did the emperor decide to abdicate?

The 85-year-old had surgery for prostate cancer in 2003 and a heart bypass operation in 2012.

In a rare speech in 2016, he said that he feared his age would make it hard for him to carry out his duties and strongly hinted that he wanted to stand down.

Opinion polls showed that the vast majority of Japan sympathised with the emperor and a year later parliament enacted a law that made his abdication possible.

Who is the incoming emperor?

Prince Naruhito will become Japan’s 126th emperor – and will officially lead the country into the new Reiwa era. It will mark the end of the current Heisei era, which began when Akihito ascended the throne in 1989.

Image copyrightGETTY IMAGES

The 59-year-old Oxford University graduate is married to Crown Princess Masako. Their only child, Princess Aiko, was born in 2001.

Japan’s current law prohibits women from inheriting the throne so Princess Aiko’s uncle Prince Fumihito is now first in line, followed by her cousin, 12-year-old Prince Hisahito.

Why is the Japanese monarchy important?

It’s the oldest continuing hereditary monarchy in the world. Legends date it back to about 600 BC.

The emperors used to be seen as gods, but Hirohito – the father of Akihito – publicly renounced his divinity as part of Japan’s surrender at the end of World War Two.

It was Emperor Akihito who helped repair Japan’s post-war reputation.

Image copyrightREUTERS

Previous emperors rarely interacted with the public, but Akihito redefined the role – and has come to be known for his compassion.

In 1991, two years after he ascended the throne, Akihito and the empress broke with norms and knelt down to speak to people affected by a volcanic eruption in Nagasaki.

Akihito also took up the role of a diplomat, becoming an unofficial ambassador for Japan and travelling abroad extensively.

While Tuesday sees the first abdication in 200 years, it wasn’t so rare historically.

According to Japan’s state broadcaster NHK, about half the country’s emperors or empresses have done the same, and it happened frequently from the 8th Century to the 19th Century.

How are Japanese people marking the handover?

The Golden Week break – Japan’s annual spring holiday – has been extended to a record 10 days to mark the occasion.

When Emperor Akihito succeeded his late father the country was in mourning, but this time people will be going on holidays, to cinemas, or staying at home to watch the events on TV.

Many said they would miss the departing emperor, who will now hold the title “Joko”, which means “grand emperor” or “Emperor Emeritus”.

“I think the emperor is loved by the people,” Morio Miyamoto told Reuters news agency. “His image is one of encouraging the people, such as after disasters, and being close to the people.”

“The emperor worked very hard for 30 years so I hope the handing over of the baton to the new emperor will go smoothly,” Mikiko Fujii told the agency.

“I’m sad but also hopeful about the next era. I hope it will be a peaceful, gentle period for the second half of my life,” said Masatoshi Kujirai, on his way to a Shinto shrine to mark the day.

Source: BBC

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

The nation faces the spectre of darkness as Electricity Generating Companies (GENCOs) issue warnings that their plants may shut down soon.

Joy Ogaji, the Executive Secretary, Association of Power Generation Companies (APGC), who issued the warning on Thursday did not state when the shutdown of the power plants would begin.

She said: “The shutdown will happen automatically because the machines are already giving us the signal that they are about to shut down. It could happen this month. It could happen next month, or even tomorrow. Nobody knows exactly when.

“The machines have given us (GENCOs) notice. That is why we are giving the market that notice so that when it happens Nigerians will not say GENCOs are sabotaging the market.”

The GENCOs are blaming the imminent shutdown of the power generating plants on the inability of the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) to fully take up and transmit the available volume of electricity generated into the national grid.

For instance, out of an average available electricity capacity of 7,485 megawatts (MW) generated on a daily basis by the GENCOs last April, Mrs Ogaji said, data published by the System Operator/National Control Centre showed the TCN could only transmit an average of 3985MW (about 46.8 percent) of the available capacity.

Although the country boasts of over 7,500 of available generation capacity, she said the national grid could hardly take more than 4500MW without rejecting excess load.

Operators said electricity generation above 5,000 MW would either be lost or rejected by DISCOs or TCN due to inadequate capacity, namely transmission line cuts, transformer faults, and high grid frequency.

Mrs Ogaji said the constant operation of the hydro and thermal power plants below their designed base loads would result in lower efficiency like all electrical appliances which have set conditions under which they function at optimal levels.

She said the constant under-utilisation of the capacity of the machines resulted in several damaging effects, including thermal stress on steam turbine blades and creep of compressor and turbine blades.

Other damage include cracks on exhaust sleeves, Irregular heating and cooling cycles of hot gas path components, cracks in ceramic tiles of the combustion chamber, and defective gas control valves due to wear and tear.

To save the power sector from collapse, Mrs Ogaji said the GENCOs had resolved that there was a need to shut down the power plants till when the electricity transmission and distribution networks would become efficient enough to take power and fully pay for both their outstanding and current liabilities.

She said the power to shut down the power plants till further notice was covered under Section 12.6.6 of the Grid code, which allows them to disconnect the power generating unit for reasons of safety of personnel, apparatus, and/or plant.

Mrs Ogaji said the TCN’s continued lower capacity utilisation by dispatching less than 50 percent of average available power generation to the national grid was forcing them to operate their turbines/machines at far below the base load settings.

The lower capacity utilisation by TCN, according to GENCOs, has resulted in an increase in consumption of gas by as much as 15-20 percent in cost not captured either by the Nigerian Bulk Electricity Trader (NBET) or its calculation of multi-year tariff order (MYTO).

Mrs Ogaji said the inability of TCN to utilise the GENCOs available capacity of 7500MW does not give them the incentive for further capacity recovery and expansion.

She said the GENCOs electricity generating plants could no longer sustain the growing operating costs alone, given the level of remittance in the market.

The power ministry is yet to react to the threat by the GENCOs.

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

The Department of Petroleum Resources (DPR) says it will establish training centres in all the zones across the country for training of all filling stations’ personnel.

Mr Amos Bernard, Head of Operation, Gombe state Field Office, stated this at an interactive session with marketers of petroleum products in Gombe on Wednesday.

He said; “The aim of establishing the centres is to ensure that every personnel working in the sector, is adequately trained, understands the basic safety and risk associated with their work and mitigate those risks and respond to emergency situations in their place of work.”

Source: P.M. News

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

Senator Ben Murray – Bruce on Thursday raised an alarm that Senator Dino Melaye has been abducted by known persons , while he was on his way to Kogi State for a court hearing .

On his Twitter handle, Murray – Bruce revealed that Melaye’ s brother, Moses Melaye informed him of the abduction.

He wrote ; “ I have just been informed by Moses Melaye, @ dino _ melaye’ s brother, that Dino has been abducted by unknown persons in a Toyota Sienna that blocked their car and overpowered them on their way to Kogi to answer to Dino ’s court case . Let ’ s be on the watch out. Will keep you updated.”

©Punch

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

Officials of the Directorate of State Security (DSS) and Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on Tuesday morning laid siege to the residence of the Deputy Senate President, Senator Ike Ekweremadu in Abuja.

Details later…

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

Kylian Mbappe admitted he would hide secret notes in N’Golo Kante’s pockets urging him to join Paris Saint-German this summer.

The Chelsea star has been linked with a transfer switch to Paris after helping France lift the World cup in Russia.

Mbappe and Kante played crucial roles in France’s success, and the teenager revealed he wants his international team-mate to join him at his club.

Chelsea would be reluctant to sell Kante, but Mbappe confirmed PSG bosses had already approached him to ask about Kante.

‘It is true that he (PSG President Al Khelaifi) has consulted me,’ Mbappe told France Football .

‘And I said to him once again that Kante would be good for our team.
‘I spoke to N’Golo during the World Cup, but not extensive because I know that when you bombard the brain with transfer stuff.

‘At the end, I left a few words in his pockets, that he would have discovered once he got home (from the World Cup) to properly send a message.’

Kante’s reputation has soared in his three years in the Premier League, as he won back-to-back Premier League titles at different clubs.

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

The Federal Government on Monday directed the contractor handling the new Lagos – Ibadan railway project, China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation, to extend its work from Ebute Meta to Apapa as part of measures to facilitate the movement of goods from the Lagos seaports to other parts of the country by rail .

Although the extension is in the second phase of the standard gauge railway project, the government said the decision to bring it forward was informed by the need to address the near stagnation of import and export business due to the gridlock on roads leading to Apapa and the Lagos seaports .

The Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi , who gave the directive in Lagos , also ordered the demolition of the Apapa Railway Station to pave the way for its expansion as well as accommodate the activities at the Apapa seaport .

He spoke with journalists during the inspection of the Apapa station after a meeting of the Project Steering Committee held at the CCECC yard.

“ We have come to inspect what the Apapa station looks like . The station will be moved backward to the centre of the road since all the property around here belongs to the NRC , ” Amaechi said.

The minister, who insisted that the December deadline for the completion of the railway project was feasible , however , declared that it was not mandatory for the contractor to deliver the Apapa Port extension , classified as the phase two.

He stated, “ The task we have given the contractor now is broken into two phases; the first phase is from Ebute Meta to Ibadan . We believe they should be able to complete that .

“ We also believe that they should be able to complete Apapa to the seaport ; but even if they are not able to complete it , we can go ahead and begin commercial activities from Ebute Meta to Ibadan , which is the original contract . It is this government that said all rail lines must terminate at seaports. ”

Punch

9News Nigeria

Fire on Monday gutted the office of the Osun State governor, Rauf Aregbesola.
It was gathered that the fire started at the White House office of the governor around 4pm.

Governor Aregbesola was reportedly not around when the inferno broke out.
DAILY POST could not ascertain the real cause of the incident at the time of this report, but sources said fire servicemen are currently at the scene trying to extinguish the fire.

More to follow….

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

Governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the September 22 governorship election in Osun State, Adegboyega Oyetola has said that if elected as governor of the state, he will rely less of allocation from the federation Account, but seek other means of increasing Internally Generated Revenue.

Oyetola also assured civil servants in Osun state that if elected governor of the state, he will pay all the outstanding salaries within 12 months of assuming office, while insisting that the current government in the state did not owe salaries to junior workers in the state.

Oyetola who was at the APC national secretariat to complete formality for the submission of his name to the Independent National Electoral Commission also said that the resignation of the Secretary to the State Government Moshood Adeoti will affect his chances of emerging the governor of the state.
Adeoti who was one of the aspirant foe the APC ticket withdrew from the race on the allegation that his Senatorial district of Osun West was being marginalized has however picked the governorship ticket of the Action Democratic Party (ADP).

He said he will increase the Internally generated revenue of the state without necessarily increasing tax, but ensuring that those who are supposed to pay tax, but have not been doing so pay appropriate tax to the government.
“First of all, most state has been challenged by the lack of fund over the years But there is this misconception on the issue of salaries about Osun state. We paid salary from level one to seven. We do not owe anybody in that category. We paid 75% for people on level 8 to 10. The only category of people we owe is actually from level 12 to 17 as well as pension.

“So, when you talk about owing salary, people tend to forget that it is not across board. Salary is fully paid from level one to seven, up to date. Levels eight to ten, we pay 75%. It is only portion of 12 to 17 that is being paid 50%.
Read Also: I’ll go any length to restore peace in APC, Says Oshiomhole
“Yes, it is a challenge that we all recognize. But we believe that will not persist for too long. My attitude and the method I want to adopt is not to entirely rely on allocation that comes from the federal government but to look at the means to seriously develop the IGR, not necessarily by increasing tax, but by ensuring efficiency in terms of collection and by bringing people who have been evading tax to come into the bracket. You can still get more by doing all of that without necessarily increasing tax.

“So we are committed to paying whatever that is outstanding and we are looking forward to be able to pay full salaries subsequently. In any case, why do we want to be in government if we can not think outside of box? We must be very creative, that is the essense of being in government anyway. I believe in another one year you would have seen that things would have changed to better.”

“Well, SSG is my brother actually, I would have loved that he remains in the party. But as a matter of choice, he decides to leave the party. There is nothing anybody can do about that.

“But as to whether it will affect my fortune during the election, I don’t think so. One, if you look at the result of that election, I had 127,000 votes. These are purely members of our Party. We are going to have opportunity of other voters.

“On the average, we usually have about 600, 000 or so serious voters. If you look at the percentage of that from members of our Party alone and with the kind of programme I want to run, and the fact that people seem to have that level of trust in me, I believe I will have more not only from the APC which is our base, even from the generality of the people.

“So, I wish him well. He is a somebody I have some regards for too. Sometimes politics is like that. You path and meet again. I wish him well”.

©The Nation

9News Nigeria

Acting minority leader of the House of Representatives, Chukwudi Onyema, has declared that he will become the House leader in a few days.

Mr Onyema, popularly known as Chuchu, said this at the ongoing emergency National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting of the opposition People’s Democratic Party (PDP) at the party secretariat in Abuja.

He said the PDP caucus in the House, whom he said had remained steadfast, will no longer be referred to as the minority. The All Progressive Congress currently has the majority in terms of numerical strength.

“Hopefully by our next meeting, we’ll have a change of nomenclature,” he said.
The PDP is expecting some members of the splinter group of the APC, known as the R-APC.

The group, which is comprised of aggrieved members of the ruling party have formed a coalition with the PDP and 38 other political parties to defeat the ruling APC.

The NEC meeting is ongoing.

Via Premium times!!

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

Father Ejike Mbaka has reportedly launched attacked President Muhammadu Buhari in a Sunday message titled ‘Disaster is Coming’.

Mbaka allegedly lamented over the President’s performance adding that a Supernatural disaster was coming. Below are a few things he said;

1. President Buhari, a former coup plotter has no reason not to stop the ongoing killings in the country. He has no reason to not have identified the killers.

2. According to him, had it been that it was Imams that were killed in Benue or Plateau, he would have attended the burials. He has no reason not to have attended the burials of those killed in Benue. Supernatural disaster is coming. Angels are already warming up. Nigerians should not worry. One day there will be vacancy from Abuja. The jet will park and nobody will use it unless they repent.

3. He said that Buhari has declared 2019 presidential ambition as if he knows what will happen between now and Christmas. He said he is just a microphone, speaking as directed by God. Anybody who plans to attack him because of his message will fail.

4. He also said that when Buhari was ill, he spent months abroad. When his son had accident, he traveled outside. But when a mere Nigerian is ill,he gets treatment from our poorly equipped hospitals. The senators who would have intervened were silent because they need favour from Buhari.

5. He said when the disaster comes, President Buhari will cry. According to him, Buhari is like an egg. The sheep are crying while the shepherd is doing nothing. A shepherd is meant to empathic

6. He urged all the people closer to Buhari and senators to pass the information to them.

7. He also said that PDP wants to come back after 16yrs of misrule. He told them to bury their head in shame, kneel down and beg Nigerians. They have no reasons to come back.

8. He also said that the amount of looting ongoing in Buhari’s administration as revealed spiritually is too much.

Via Politics Ngr

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

The opposition People’s Democratic Party (PDP) has lost another member to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

Former permanent secretary with the Nasarawa State Civil Service Commission, Dr.John Mamman has switched political allegiance at the weekend.

At a reception on Sunday, Mamman, a reputable farmer and also a former school principal, lauded President Muhammadu Buhari’s efforts in giving Nigeria good leadership and turning around the fortunes of the country.

Mamman was received into APC at Dari Primary School, Kokona Local Government area of Nasarawa State, at a ceremony attended by the deputy Governor Silas Ali Agara and Senator Abdullahi Adamu, who also a former governor of the state.

Others dignitaries at the event were the speaker of the Nasarawa State House of Assembly, commissioners, senior special assistants and members of both the State assembly and National Assembly.

According to Mamman, his mentor in APC, Senator AbdullahI Adamu motivated him to dump the Peoples Democratic Party .

He recalled that while Senator Adamu was the governor of Nasarawa State, he rose through the ranks to become a director in the Nasarawa State civil service, Deputy chairman and supervisory councillor for social services Kokona Local Government Council and later permanent secretary.

He described the APC leadership under Buhari as a government that has made its mark in many areas and pushed the country into reckoning internationally.
He said he joined the APC to contribute to governance and also make a mark.
He called on APC and PDP members to join hands as a family, to live in peace and harmony.

“Politics is a game that should be played with the best intention according to the rules. Politics of decorum requires decency, because without peace there is no development”

Christopher John Juddy, an APC stalwart, who was at the reception welcomed Mamman to the fold.

Juddy described Mamman as a father to all and reminiscing, said Mamman’s tenure at Kokona was beneficial to the people, especially in providing roads.
Another party leader, Jacob Ogari said that things will get better for the APC, with the calibre of people such as Mamman joining the party.

Seidu Kurdi the APC chairman of the local government said with Mamman joining the party, the APC would win the 2019 elections, easily.

‘PDP is now dead in the local Government,’ Kurdi said.

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

No fewer than 27 people have been reportedly killed and several others injured in an ambush attack by suspected boko haram terrorists in Gajibo village , 12km away from Dikwa, along Gamboru Ngala highway , in Borno State.

The suspected terrorist were said to have attacked the lengthy convoy of more than sixty small and long vehicles transporting passengers and goods from Maiduguri, the state capital to Chad , Niger, Cameroon , Gabon , among others.
A security source who spoke on the condition of anonymity said the total number of victims has not been ascertained . He added that it was reported that more than thirty vehicles were burnt to ashes .

Confirming the attack on Friday in a telephone conversation, the secretary, Nigeria Union of Road Transport Workers ( NURTW ) , Borno State chapter , Ahmadu Musa, said , even though he is out of Maiduguri for an engagement, he has been informed of the attack

“Yes I am aware of the attack on Gamboru Ngala Highway . Many people were said to have been killed and many vehicles burnt to ashes . They have sent pictures from the scene of the attack to me . You can contact my officials at Muna -garage for more information, ’’ he said .

Meanwhile, a senior member of the union at Muna Garage in Maiduguri who further confirmed the incident on anonymity stressed that they were waiting for the military to visit the scene to evacuate the corpses, the burnt and destroyed vehicles , so that they can be taken back to Maiduguri, the state capital .

“The military has told us that they will accompany us to evacuate the corpses and retrieve some of the vehicles and properties at the scene of the attack. But till now , we have not seen them . We are still waiting for them , ” the official said .

Meanwhile, no statement has been issued by either the military or police authorities.

©Leadership

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

disclosed that the convicted officers are Tajudeen Olalere, Akanmu Kabiru and Omotosho Lawrence, but just Kabiru was committed to three years in prison by the judge, Justice A. I. Akintola .

The court could not sentence Olalere and Lawrence because they had earlier jumped bail.

The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC ) arraigned the ex- police officers on a four – count charge bordering on asking and receiving gratification from a suspect in the course of investigating a robbery case .

The police officers asked for and received the sum of N 200 , 000 from Akojode in order to exonerate him from an armed robbery case they were investigating.

The accused who had earlier pleaded not guilty when the charge was read to them were nonetheless found culpable by the court, therefore prompting the judge to sentence one of them to prison while those that had jumped bail would be made to face the music once apprehended .

©The Nigerian Guardian

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Friday has asked President Muhammadu Buhari and the federal government to perish the thought of trying to use the ‘unveiling’ of a nonexistent national carrier ‘Nigeria Air,’ to deceive Nigerians, saying the electorate know what to do in the 2019 general elections.

The party said it was unfortunate that, having run out of promises without a development project to show, President Buhari and the ruling party were now trying to fly a kite to win the support of Nigerians.

In a statement issued by the National Publicity Secretary, Kola Ologbondiyan, the party questioned the rationale in unveiling the national carrier outside the shores of the nation.

“Is it not comical that while other nations are unveiling and rolling out real planes, the Buhari administration, in a most hilarious manner, is ‘unveiling’ drawings of an airplane, name, logo and imaginary routes of a nonexistent fleet, as our national carrier, in faraway London?

“What President Buhari and his handlers fail to understand is that Nigerians can see through their fraud and lies.

“Apart from drawings of airplanes, there are no structures to indicate that a new airline, billed to commence operation in December this year, is being set up; there are no offices, no recruitment of personnel and no form of ground activity anywhere in the country.

“Does it not smack of pure scam that less than six months to commence operations, the supposed new airline has not even started the process of licensing, even when it takes a minimum of six months for a new airline to obtain Air Operating License and three months to develop its manuals?
“If the Buhari administration is not on a fantasy trip to beguile Nigerians and pave further ways for its humongous corruption, it should have focused on our existing national carrier structures, in addition to three operating airlines, already taken over by the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON),” the statement read in part.

©Vanguard

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

Nigeria’s Twitterati gushed on Wednesday over the enduring beauty of 86 year-old Grace Oyelude, first Miss Nigeria in 1957.

Sixty one years after winning the first beauty pageant by the Daily Times, the grey haired woman from Isanlu in Kogi state is still as delectable as ever.
And Twitterati noticed and kept retweeting her photographs. On Wednesday, the woman was the most discussed topic in Nigeria’s Twittersphere, second only to the unveiling of the logo for Nigeria Air, by aviation minister, Hadi Sirika.

U.S. based Professor Pius Adesanmi, her nephew, was credited with the photographs of the woman, who will be 87 on 16 November.
Chief Grace Oyelude

She was born in Kano in 1937 to James Adeleye Olude and Marthan Dantu.
She entered for Miss Nigeria photo contest, while she was working for the UAC in Kano. She made the final at the event staged at the Lagos Island Club.
After winning the contest, she travelled to England to study Nursing.

According to her: “I was living in Kano then. My brother saw the advertisement in the newspapers and advised me to go to Lagos for an interview to be selected as a Miss Nigeria contestant.

“He applied, and the result was that I was supposed to be in Lagos for the Miss Nigeria contest. I was working in the UAC then, and they also were also involved in the pageant. The following day, they got me on a plane to Lagos and that was it.”

~Vanguard

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

In January 1948, French photographer Henri Cartier-Bresson took the last photos of Gandhi before the Indian leader’s assassination.

Those images, and the ones of the funeral, are now on display at a new exhibit in NYC.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xvelwrxlUGk

Courtesy of Henri Cartier-Bresson/Magnum Photos and British Pathe.

Filmed by Olivia Lace-Evans; edited by Joni Mazer-Field

Produced by Mat Morrison

BBC

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

The widows of four men executed by Nigeria’s military regime in 1995 are suing oil giant Shell for alleged complicity in a military crackdown.

The civil case, filed in The Hague in the Netherlands, argues that the company provided support to the army, which ultimately led to the executions.

Shell has repeatedly denied the claims.

Ken Saro-Wiwa was the best known of the nine men executed. He led protests against the environmental damage caused by oil production in the Niger Delta.

The latest case against Royal Dutch Shell has been filed by four of the wives of the men – political activists known as the Ogoni nine – and is supported by Amnesty International.

The women are seeking an apology and unspecified compensation

‘Regret‘

In response Shell – the largest oil producer in Nigeria – said that it “did not collude with the authorities to suppress community unrest and in no way encouraged or advocated any act of violence in Nigeria.”

“The executions of Ken Saro-Wiwa and his fellow Ogonis in 1995 were tragic events that were carried out by the military government in power at the time. We were shocked and saddened when we heard the news of the executions.

“The Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria Limited appealed to the Nigerian government to grant clemency. To our deep regret, that appeal, and the appeals made by many others within and outside Nigeria, went unheard.

The hanging of the men provoked an international outcry, and remains one of the most sensitive cases in Nigeria.

The oil giant has faced lawsuits in various countries relating to the executions.

Eight years ago, it agreed an out-of-court settlement in the US to pay more than $15 millon to a group of the men’s relatives.

Shell has also faced lawsuits over oil spills and environmental damage in the Delta region.

BBC

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

History doesn’t lie. | Before the advent of Islam in the history of the Persian Empire, Christianity was the national religion of Turkey. As a matter of fact, it was in the Bithynian city of Nicaea that the first Christian Council was held in anticipation to put together a detailed account of Jesus Christ and the Prophets in what is known as the Bible today.

In truth, the Roman Emperor, Constantine ruled the Roman empire from Ottoman (Today’s Istanbul in Turkey) as at the time he was converted to Christianity after his encounter with Christ. He was the first emperor of Rome that had the councils of Bishops as his advisers.

It was from a city of today’s Turkey that the proclamation to end the fierce persecution of Christians was made about 300 years after the death and Resurrection of Christ. Yet, 1,400 years after, Turkey fell into the hands of the Seljuk Sultanate of Rum after the fall of Constantinople in May 29th 1453.

The rise of the Ottomans correlates with the decline of the Byzantine Empire, which generated the shift in power from a singular Christian European society to an Islamic influence.  History shows that the residence of Turkey though under political persecution did not accept Islam as their faith, but held onto their faith in Christianity.

After several failed attempts by the Islamic conquerors of the empire to foster the spread of Islam to the Christians, they trickily brought about an untold economic hardship on the people for several years that was later recorded as a time of an economic famine. (A severe shortage of food {as through crop failure} resulting in violent hunger and starvation and death). To the rescue came a direct intervention by the Sultanate. But this rescue was said to have been accompanied by conditions; (WILLFUL CONVERSION TO ISLAM). And by the end of about 2 centuries, the entire empire (Country) had totally submitted to Islam. Today, Turkey is one of the most dedicated Nations of the world to Islam only next to Saudi Arabia.

Today in Nigeria, Buhari patiently waited for 12 years trying to become the Nigerian President and failed in all 3 attempts. In the fourth attempt, he was presented as a messiah to the Nigerian people. He promised to feed every Nigerian child once a day. He promised to provide 24 hours of electricity to Nigerians. He promised to reduce the price of fuel to N40 in 3 months. He even promised to stabilize the Global price of Oil and equate the Naira to the Dollar. He promised free education at certain levels and subsequently represented a better life for Nigerians. It was called CHANGE. 15million of the 180million Nigerians fell gullible to the deception amidst warnings from several quarters. In the end, only 12.5million Nigerians that did not fall for the deception were allowed to vote.

Now the reality is here. Buhari did not come for the positive change he talked about, but came to repeat the 14th century Turkey strategy in Nigeria 700 years after.

As soon as Buhari arrived, he set in motion the death of the Nigerian economy by withdrawing all funding in the economy and therefore killed the banking sector that is designed to empower the economy through credit funding. He set loose the fulani herdsmen to go on a killing spree. These killings is to force the non-muslims communities in the south, middle belt and core north to accept a Grazing area bill which will enable the militia arm of the Jihadist to be positioned in all locations waiting for the takeover orders. Some of the Boko haram members have also been recruited into the Nigerian army and posted to the south to legitimize the slaughter.

With the decline in the economy, an untold hardship has been let loose, and the Islamic Banks is already here to the rescue. These rescue will also come with a condition; CONVERSION TO ISLAM for those that may require their finances. It will be an underlined body language that only Muslims can secure the non-interest loans. When the conversion for survival is on the majority, the militia arm of the jihad will be ordered to strike the lesser half into submission. The instilled fear will generate either a massive exodus of Christians from their homeland like it happened in Turkey or a massive conversion with the “Sword or Koran” battle like it happened in Illorin and other western African States.

A lot of us have seen a flag of Nigeria that was presented with the Koran and islamic inscriptions some time ago in Iran when Buhari presented Nigeria as an active islamic nation. (I have reposted it here) While Nigerians are engrossed in the economic hardship that is currently ravishing the nation, the HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVE is busy doing a successful second reading of a bill to pass the Sharia Criminal Law as a legal system;  as an amendment of the fraudulent 1999 constitution headed by a Christian Speaker. And yet not a word about this has been made to the public. History has proven the in the cause of forcefully or technical spreading of Islam, the greed of gullible and selfish Christians have been taken to the advantage.

I write this article as a warning against my wish of not wanting to write non-politically correct articles. Our struggle to save Nigeria seems not to be producing results. The realization of these reality to Islamize Nigeria by all logical and survival means is one reason that should motivate our resolves to express our rights to self-determinations and go our separate ways before it is too late.

The Western powers of Obama (Hillary Clinton) will do all they can to keep the not-too-intelligent Buhari in power just to be able to be indirectly in charge knowing that the intelligent south will never submit to their antics. Till date, no one knows what the US Secretary of States discussed in privacy with the Sultan and a select Northern Governors. President Jonathan faced their axe for dealing with the more reasonable and industrious China and Russia.

Because I am writing from a handheld device and on transit, I may not be able to say all I would wish to say. All I can say to our southern brethren and Northern Christian brethren is to stay awake. Put meanings into any strange behaviour of Buhari. Stand firm in Christ and pray fervently or else, in a few years, this country Nigeria will be used as a reference point where the Turkey strategy worked after 700 years.

Source:  Africa Free Pres

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

Egyptian archaeologists have unearthed the tomb of a nobleman from more than 3,000 years ago, the latest in a series of major discoveries of ancient relics that Egypt hopes will revive a tourist business that has been hit by political instability.

The find near the Nile city of Luxor, is the tomb of Userhat, a judge from the New Kingdom. It consists of an open court leading into a rectangular hall, a corridor and inner chamber, the Ministry of Antiquities said on Tuesday.

In one of the rooms in the tomb, archaeologists found a collection of figurines, wooden masks and a handle of a sarcophagus lid. Excavation is continuing in a second chamber.

Earlier this year, Swedish archaeologists discovered 12 ancient Egyptian cemeteries near the southern city of Aswan that date back almost 3,500 years.

In March, Egypt unearthed an eight-meter statue in a Cairo slum that is believed to be King Psammetich 1, who ruled from 664 to 610 BC.

Hisham El Demery, chief of Egypt’s Tourism Development Authority, said tourism was picking up and discoveries like the one at Luxor would encourage the sector.

“These discoveries are positive news from Egypt’s tourism industry, which is something we all really need,” he said.

Tourism in Egypt has suffered in the aftermath of the mass protests that toppled former president Hosni Mubarak in 2011. Militant bomb attacks have also deterred foreign visitors.

Source – Reuters

9News Nigeria

9News Nigeria

When Congress finally gave its approval to go to war in April 1917 it was a decision most observers at the time regarded as unavoidable. Author Patrick Gregory explains how the US got to that point.

The slide towards war had begun just over two months before, the result of a decision by the Imperial German Government to resume its policy of unrestricted U-boat warfare – the targeting of any and all shipping, including American vessels – in the coastal waters around the British Isles.

Yet war, if now unavoidable, had not always been inevitable. Far from it.

US President Woodrow Wilson had strained every political sinew in the previous two and a half years to keep his country out of the conflict, often in the face of intense political opposition.

Wilson was a reserved, almost severe intellectual of Scots Presbyterian descent. Troubled by what he saw of war – the US Civil War – in his own native southern states as a child, he resolved to keep his and his country’s nose out of the conflict when Europe began to erupt in 1914.

It was a conflict whose causes and objects he viewed as at best obscure. American foreign policy would not be advanced, he felt, by participation.

Neutrality was to be Wilson’s watchword and word of the nation’s dealings in Europe: to be neutral “in thought as well as in action”, to the chagrin of many critics, including prominent Republicans like former President Theodore Roosevelt.

Yet Wilson held to his policy in the years following, even in the face of some extreme provocation. The most prominent example of the latter came in May 1915 with the sinking of the passenger liner RMS Lusitania, torpedoed by a German U-boat off the southern Irish coast. Nearly 1200 people perished, including 128 Americans.

Whilst the chorus of protests grew, demanding redress and intervention, Wilson eventually obtained a partial retreat from the German government. In September 1915, Kaiser Wilhelm II issued an order to the effect that Germany would henceforth refrain from sinking passenger ships without warning.

Image copyrightTHREE LIONS / STRINGER

So an uneasy calm endured. Wilson headed off some critics with 1916’s National Defence Act, aimed at boosting the size of the army – an answer to those in the Preparedness Movement who felt that if war were to suddenly arrive, America would be found wanting. But still, his brand of watchful caution held sway. He even campaigned in the run up to that year’s Presidential elections under the banner “He Kept Us out of War”.

He won, albeit with the slimmest of margins. By January 1917 he was even daring to look to the future, addressing the Senate in a speech where he asked them to help in his quest to forge the “foundations of peace among the nations” once conflict was at an end.

So when the turn in events came, changing that outlook, it came suddenly and abruptly. Barely over a week after his speech to the Senate, on 31 January, the German ambassador to Washington called on Wilson’s Secretary of State Robert Lansing.

Image copyrightGETTY IMAGES

Image copyrightHENRY GUTTMANN / STRINGER

He had with him a letter declaring that Germany was to resume its policy of unrestricted U-boat warfare. The clock was now ticking. First diplomatic ties were severed, then a halfway-house of what Wilson termed “armed neutrality” was tried, but events had their own momentum.

Public opinion was inflamed by the emergence of a telegram, purportedly from the German Foreign Minister Arthur Zimmerman, offering military assistance to Mexico if the United States entered the war on the Allies’ side.

The proposal from Zimmerman, through the German embassy in Mexico, was a straightforward one, written in a most to-the-point fashion: “Make war together, make peace together”

If it did, Mexico could expect generous financial support to reconquer lost territory in the United States: in Texas, New Mexico and Arizona. “The ruthless employment of our submarines,” said Zimmerman, would lead to peace in just a few months.

Some detected a cynical motive from those on the Allied side who wanted to see America in the war. But on 29 March, the minister addressed the matter in a speech admitting his involvement, even pressing home and justifying his argument with reference to the “hostile attitude” of the American government.

Image copyrightGETTY IMAGES

On 2 April Wilson found himself before a joint session of Congress. With a profound sense of the solemn and tragic step he was taking, he said, Congress should declare German actions to be nothing less than war against the government and people of the United States.

Armed neutrality had been ineffectual. It had proved impracticable in defending shipping against attack from “outlaw” German submarines. “We have no quarrel with the German people. We have no feeling towards them but one of sympathy and friendship,” he said. But, “the world must be made safe for democracy”.

Two days later the Senate voted in favour of Wilson’s resolution, and two after that it was endorsed by the House of Representatives. Later that same day, 6 April 1917, the President signed his official declaration. America was at war.

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Plastic surgeons from a hospital in Xi’an, capital of northwest China’s Shaanxi Province, have successfully transplanted a regenerated ear from a patient’s arm to his head.

The patient, whose surname is Ji, suffered severe injuries on the right side of his face and lost his right ear in a traffic accident over a year ago.

As it was impossible to regenerate another ear over the scar, Guo Shuzhong, a leading plastic surgeon at the First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, decided to “plant” an ear on Ji’s forearm and then transplanted it to his head.

The plastic surgery was divided into three stages. During the first stage, a skin expander was set in Ji’s right forearm. In the second stage, doctors extracted cartilage from Ji’s rib and carved it to build the new ear. The cartilage was then planted under the expanded skin on the patient’s arm, allowing the new ear to grow.

Guo and his colleagues performed the third stage of the plastic surgery on Wednesday when they successfully transplanted the regenerated ear onto Ji’s head using microsurgical techniques. The operation lasted seven hours.

After the surgery, the newly transplanted ear appeared pink in the light of the operating room lamp. Guo and his colleagues heard the sound of blood flow using a Doppler blood vessel detector, indicating the surgery was successful.

Guo said the surgery was very difficult because they had to transplant the regenerated ear to an appropriate place on the head that could supply adequate blood flow to the ear to ensure normal functioning after surgery.

The patient is in stable condition. He will be discharged from the hospital in about two weeks when his new ear can work normally.

Guo and his colleagues also used 3D printing technology to make the regenerated ear look more realistic.

Guo and his team create regenerated ears for about 500 children each year.

In another scientific feat, a team of Chinese postgraduates have created an octopus-inspired soft robotic arm that can be used to heal injuries.

The students, from Beijing-based Beihang University, exhibited their prototype Thursday after developing it with a foreign firm.

Soft robots are constructed with materials like silicone, plastic, fabric, rubber or compliant mechanical parts like springs.

“The softness makes it possible for the robots to work more effectively and safely with humans and can be used for rehabilitation and recovery or in the service sector,” said Wang Tianmiao, a robotics engineer at the university.

The robotic soft arm is inspired by the tentacles of octopus, Wang said, “It can bend and swirl quickly, and the suction cups help it adhere tightly to objects of different shapes and sizes.”

In five to ten years, the robotic arm is expected to be used in minimal-invasive surgery and athletic rehabilitation, said Wen Li, associate professor in Beihang University and head of the team.

Source: Xinhua

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The house where Adolf Hitler was born will be razed and a new building will be erected in its place, Austrian Interior Minister Wolfgang Sobotka said Monday, announcing a final decision on the problematic structure.

The minister told the daily Die Presse that he was following the recommendation of an expert commission that includes the head of Vienna’s Jewish community as well as leading Austrian historians.

“The Hitler house will be demolished,” he said.

For years, the government has been mulling a solution for the empty house in the town of Braunau to stop neo-Nazis from visiting the early home of Germany’s former Nazi dictator.

The government took a first step in July when it decided to seize the house from its private owner, since she had been unwilling to cooperate with authorities to put it to a new use that would have been in line with its historical significance.

The building’s foundation will remain intact, and the new house will be used by a charity or by a public authority, Sobotka said.

However, there have been vocal critics against razing the unassuming three-storey building.

The non-governmental International Council on Monuments and Sites has said it should remain standing as an authentic memorial that can help demystify Nazi ideology.

Austria’s federal monuments authority has also voiced doubts about destroying the building that is part of Braunau’s protected historical city centre.

The Hitler family had rented an apartment in the building for the first year after Adolf Hitler’s birth in 1889.

Source: dpa/NAN

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The United States is marking the 15th anniversary of the September 11th terrorist attacks, when al-Qaida terrorists hijacked four planes and flew them into the World Trade Center in New York and the Pentagon near Washington, while one crashed in rural Pennsylvania.

President Barack Obama observed a moment of silence at the White House Sunday at 8:46 a.m., when the first of the four hijacked planes slammed into the World Trade Center, before speaking at a ceremony at the Pentagon, the U.S. military headquarters, honoring those killed in the attacks.

“We remember and we will never forget the nearly 3,000 beautiful lives taken from us so cruelly,” Obama said. “We wonder how their lives might have unfolded, how their dreams might have taken shape.”

The Tribute in Light rises above the lower Manhattan skyline, Saturday, Sept. 10, 2016, in New York to mark the fifteenth anniversary of the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001 on the United States.

He vowed that terrorists “will never be able to defeat a nation as great and as strong as America,” praising the country’s diverse ethnic population comprised of people of all races and religions as “one of our greatest strengths.”

Obama, commemorating the September 11, 2001 attacks for the last time as president before leaving office in January, said, “This is the America that was attacked that September morning. This is the America that we must remain true to.”

Victims killed in the attack on the World Trade Center were remembered in New York, where the country’s leading 2016 presidential candidates, Democrat Hillary Clinton and Republican Donald Trump, paid their respects at Ground Zero but halted their political campaigns for the day.

As they have been in past 9/11 commemorations in New York, the names of the 2,983 killed that horrifying day were read slowly by their relatives as music played in the background. As daylight ends Sunday in New York, spotlights will project two giant beams of light into the sky to represent the fallen twin towers of the World Trade Center.

View the photo gallery of 9/11 attacks:

September 11, 2001 Attacks

Nineteen hijackers, 15 of them from Saudi Arabia, were killed in the attacks, which led directly to the U.S. war in Afghanistan, where al-Qaida trained attackers against the United States, and indirectly to the war in Iraq. The U.S. still has thousands of forces in Afghanistan and Iraq even as it has ended large-scale combat operations.

Obama said a lot has changed over the past 15 years, but “it’s also important to remember what has not changed – the core values that define us as Americans. The resilience that sustains us . . . terrorists will never be able to defeat the United States.”

Writing on Twitter Sunday, Secretary of State John Kerry said, “On 9/11, we remember those we lost, those who tried to save them. We honor them by pursuing peace, security, justice worldwide.”

https://twitter.com/JohnKerry/status/774934032790360064

Near Shanksville in western Pennsylvania Sunday, the Flight 93 National Memorial stands in memory of the passengers and crew members who carried out a sustained assault against the hijackers for control of the plane 15 years ago.

Candles in memory of the passengers and crew of Flight 93, are lit along the Wall of Names at the Flight 93 National Memorial in Shanksville, Pa., Sept. 10, 2016, as the nation marks the 15th anniversary of the Sept. 11 attacks.

A September 11 Museum has been erected on the New York site where the World Trade Center once stood, housing artifacts and photographs connected to the attack.

At the Pentagon, the 184 people who died on September 11, 2001 are honored with 184 benches over pools of water. A huge American flag was draped from the roof of the headquarters of the country’s Defense Department on the side of the building where the attack occurred.

– VOA

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Archaeologists in Jerusalem say they have for the first time reconstructed likely designs of a Biblical Jewish temple floor using original fragments.

Experts reassembled pieces of tiles found amid tons of earth from the site known to Jews as the Temple Mount and to Muslims as Haram al-Sharif.

They say the tiles date from the period of the Second Temple, during the time of King Herod about 2,000 years ago.

The temple was destroyed by the Romans in 70 AD during a Jewish rebellion.

Some 600 segments of coloured stone floor have been found since archaeologists began examining the debris from the hilltop site in 2004.

The plateau where the temples stood is the most sacred site in Judaism. It is joined by the Western Wall, venerated by Jews as part of the original supporting wall of the temple compound.

Haram al-Sharif (Noble Sanctuary) is also the place where the Koran says the Prophet Muhammad ascended to Heaven, and is the third holiest site in Islam.

The archaeologists say the tiles probably came from porticos in the temple’s courtyards.

Piecing the fragments together “enables us to get an idea of the Temple’s incredible splendour”, said Dr Gabriel Barkay of the Temple Mount Sifting Project.

Experts say they managed to assemble seven potential designs of how the flooring could have looked like. The type of flooring is known as opus sectile, Latin for “cut work”, and “considered to be far more prestigious than mosaic tiles floors”, according to Frankie Snyder, from the project’s team.

“The tile segments were perfectly inlaid such that one could not even insert a sharp blade between them,” she said.

The Temple Mount Sifting Project was established by Israeli archaeologists in 2004 to examine debris dumped by Islamic authorities following expansion work at an underground mosque on the compound.

The project attracts thousands of visitors each year who participate in finger-tip searches of the earth and has so far turned up hundreds of ancient relics, including coins, animal bones and pieces of pottery.

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What is thought to be the first TV interview with the anti-apartheid leader Nelson Mandela has been discovered, the Nelson Mandela Foundation says.

The clip lasts just 24 seconds and the Foundation says it was filmed by a Dutch broadcaster during a break in Mr Mandela’s treason trial.

That began in 1956 and ended in March 1961, when he was acquitted along with 27 others.

The interview was broadcast in January 1961 as part of a programme about apartheid.

In the clip he says:

” From the very beginning, the African National Congress set itself the task of fighting against white supremacy.”

” We have always regarded as wrong for one racial group to dominate another racial group.”

” And from the very beginning the African National Congress has fought, without hesitation, against all forms of racial discrimination and we shall continue to do so until freedom is achieved.”

• BBC Africa

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UMUAHIA—FIFTY years after the first military coup d’état which tragically claimed the life of the then Head of State, Late General Johnson Thomas Aguiyi Ironsi, Ohanaeze Youth Council, OYC, has called on the Federal Government to immortalize the slain Head of State.

Ohanaeze Youths argued that the late Ironsi staked his life for the unity of the country and therefore deserved to be immortalized and given his proper place in the annals of Nigerian history.

Ohanaeze Youth Council, in a press statement issued by its National President, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, expressed great regret that 50 years after his tragic death, the Federal Government was yet to immortalise Ironsi “who staked his life to unite Nigeria”.

OYC suggested that the Federal Government should “name the nation’s seat of power, Aso Rock after the late Head of State in recognition of his invaluable sacrifices for the unity of Nigeria.”

According to the statement, while the masterminds of the heinous act “are still moving around and parading themselves as statesmen, the members of Aguiyi Ironsi’s family have continued to wallow in pains and poverty.”

OYC therefore enjoined the Federal and as well as the various State Governments to give attention to the welfare of the family to assuage their pains. Meanwhile, the Aguiyi Ironsi family is organizing a memorial service in Umuahia to mark the 50 years anniversary of the tragic death of their father.

According to the matriarch of the family and wife of the late General, Lady Victoria Aguiyi Ironsi, a church service will hold today at the Mater Dei Catholic Cathedral, Umuahia, which will be followed by a reception at the family house.

By Anayo Okoli – Vanguard

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Brigadier Babafemi Olatunde Ogundipe, Chief of Staff, Supreme Headquarters and Ironsi’s Second in Command(2ic) died a sad man, five years after he survived the coup.

Till date, many still blame him for not taking over when the Head of State was assassinated. Looking back now, it would be unfair to blame the Ijebu man for running away from Nigeria and allowing Lt. Col. Yakubu Gowon, his junior to assume leadership.

He had just one choice: to die in the hands of the Northern coup plotters. Not wanting to be a dead hero, Ogundipe read the hand writing on the wall, especially when a Northern sergeant refused to take orders from him.

Ogundipe did not fight. And he did not live to fight again. Ogundipe, from Ago Iwoye, Ogun State was born in Lagos in 1924. He schooled in the Eastern region and was in love with the military. He enlisted in 1943 and fought for the British during the Second World War.

He saw action in Burma and India and much later furthered his career in the United Kingdom, earning a commission in 1953. He also fought in the Congo from 1960-1963. To be fair to Ogundipe, he did not command any troops.

The Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Col Gowon, had more power militarily on July 29, 1966 than the number two man and Gowon was pencilled down for the big job by the plotters who were almost 100 per cent from the Northern Region.

While the likes of Commodore Akinwale Wey and Col. Adeyinka Adebayo, were comfortable serving under Gowon, their subordinate in Nigeria, Ogundipe tactically relocated to the United Kingdom, where he became the High Commissioner from 1966-1970. He died at 47 in London in 1971.

A man who fought several wars outside Nigeria cannot be said to be a coward. He did his best under the circumstances. He suffered humiliation in life and in death has been severally pilloried. One of his relations joined the para-military and made it to the top.

Olusola Ogundipe retired from the Nigeria Prisons Service as Comptroler –General, after 34 years

 

Murdered in 1966
*Gen. Aguiyi- Ironsi
*Cols. Fajuyi
*Israel Okoro
*Gab Okonweze
*Majs. Anuforo
*Don Okafor
*John Obienu
*Theo Nzegwu
*Peter Obi
*Ibanga Ekanem
*Chris Emelifonwu
*Ayo Ogunro
*Ofong Isong
*Alistair Drummond
*Ben Nnamani
*J.O.C. Ihedigbo
*Capts. H.A. Iloputaife
*I.U. Idika
*H.A. Anuna
*J.I. Chukwueke
A.O.Akpet
*S.E. Maduabum
*G.N.E. Ugoala
*P.C.Okoye
*L.C. Dilibe
*J.U. Egere
*T.O. Iweanya
*R.I. Agbazue
*Lts. S.E. Idowu
*E.C.N. Achebe
*G. Mbabie
*S.A. Mbadiwe
*F.P. Jasper
*P.D. Ekedigbo
*S.E. Onwuka
*J.D. Ovuozurie
*A.D.C. Egbuna
*E.B. Orok
*J.U. Ugbe
*Francis Musa
*2Lts. A.O. Olaniyan
* A.R.O. Kasaba
* P.K.Onyeneho
*F.M. Agronaye

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