WHY I WOULD PREFER BABATUNDE RAJI FASHOLA SAN, ON THE SEAT OF SENATE PRESIDENT

I understand politics is a game of numbers, which psychologically involves the use of balance-vectors and where all odds should be carefully weighed. It is therefore notable that the south-western part of the country, a region considered to have the second largest voting population would no doubt be contributing a great deal towards electioneering. In another context, it is often said that sometimes in the game of politics two plus two (2 + 2) is not always four (4). So I urge APC leaders not to kill the momentum and excitement of many Nigerians who have long waited for the much needed change in our country by their rationale for selecting a running mate to join General Mohammadu Buhari in the presidential race come 2015 general elections.

Many would agree without feeling otherwise that Mr Babatunde Raji Fashola SAN is the most marketable political personality from south west: A cerebral, intellectual and articulated individual, a professional who knows his onions, a man of wit who understands what governance is all about and what development entails; tried and trusted- but unfortunately the religious sentiment of a Muslim-Muslim ticket plays to his disadvantage, therefore puts him in a dicey situation to cling on the number two spot, the position of the vice president If APC emerged victorious in the upcoming presidential election.

In as much as some would say the arguments surrounding the issue of religion could be critical and is one that is very sensitive, nevertheless- it’s alarming if the process to fill the two most important positions in the country must be religious-base rather than questions of competence and technocratic solutions to fundamental problems bedeviling this nation. As it stands today, it appears the debate on the balance between Christianity & Islam in public domain has come to stay; this should therefore be treated with caution and not be disregarded especially in the face of global threats on the quest for caliphate by some evil elements.

 I think over the years the citizenry have continued to overlook the relevance of the legislative arm of government with regards to formulation of laws/policies toward poverty reduction strategies and other vital issues which are long overdue and urgently begging for a redress. Like Anders B. Johnson, Secretary General of the Inter-Parliamentary Union, would say many legislatures are ineffective because of their own shortcomings, what he calls “lack of proper understanding by members of parliament of their role as lawmakers and overseers of government action”. I honestly feel it’s high time we stopped all manner of representatives bombarding the National Assembly, many who have little or no knowledge of basic principles and functions of the parliament.

As we have in the NASS today, there are different categories of parliamentarians with mismatched objectives but “unanimously” same personal interests. We have a group of those having their first shot at the national cake and a category of those “by virtue of status quo” found themselves in the house as part of their retirement packages after serving in other public offices or government institutions.

It is widely agreed that the issue of extreme poverty is one of the greatest shortcomings of the country today. That being said, the World Bank & IMF have critically examined the role legislatures can play in poverty reduction; identifying practical contributions parliaments and parliamentarians could make in alleviating poverty, for example- through formulation of policies relating to poverty reduction, giving it a higher priority in all phases of the policy process, ensuring implementation and policy evaluation & reform.

The masses keep looking up to the Executives for national developments, whereas- there are much more the legislatures could do to effect change as we’ve seen in other climes, where the outcome of their legislative duties if motivated by national interest could impact the lives of ordinary Nigerians positively. Furthermore, the frivolous budgetary on National Assembly is alarming and worrisome, a blatant waste of public fund and mismanagement of national purse. The money spent to pass a law cost an arm and a leg- In spite of this, Senator David Mark’s led parliament has achieved less than expected over the years. I think more should be expected from our legislators and Nigerians must begin to hold the National Assembly accountable for her inaction.

I want a legislature that truly represents the wishes and concerns of their constituents; reviewing whether the government's allocation of resources is consistent with their constituents' demands as well as with the country's developmental objectives, scrutinizing government expenditures and revenues (including loans and credits from the international institutions), ensuring that money is allocated to programs with legislative approval, and identifying instances of financial dishonesty and irregularity. There’s no doubt in my mind that an upper house presided over by a Senior Advocate of Nigeria; a Fashola’s calibre would wear a new look on the National Assembly and bring sanity to the legislative arm of the government.

Following the 2015 general elections, I am particularly interested in seeing a more purposeful legislature. Many scholars have screamed for a serious and scam-free constitutional reform if we’re truly ready to move the country to the next level. Prominent voices have highlighted the necessity for us as a nation to urgently address some critical issues in our constitution: Devolution of powers, Resource control, and Local government autonomy among others- which will speedily bring developments to the grass root.

As we celebrate the emergence of General Mohammadu Buhari as the presidential flag bearer of the All Progressive Congress, fanatics have raised concerns over the choice of running mate; some believe it could be suicidal for APC if their quest to fill the number two position is not zoned to the south-south, as perceived to be a compensation peradventure President Jonathan loses out in the elections, between- it would further open up the region to a stiff competition and the argument for the south-west is that, the voting populace are more enlightened and would vote for the right candidates without regional sentiments. This permutation would give room for Mr Babatunde Raji Fashola SAN to occupy the position of senate president, thus representing south west in the top three positions of the country.

I charge the APC leaders to act in the best interest of the bleeding crowd who have bear the brunt of the agony, torture and misery infiltrated on Nigerians by the PDP- led government over the past fifteen years. God bless this nation of ours.

Boluwatife Adekunle.

@boluzzz

"NIGERIANS FIRST, NIGERIANS ALWAYS": ANOTHER POLITICAL DECEIT!

God Bless this nation of ours… Before I properly delve into the issues, permit me to swiftly rearrange the sequence and set the record straight, since the new motto PDP-led government has adopted for another political deceit and manoeuvre during this electioneering season was birthed in the eleventh month of this year. Therefore I will be limiting my assertion, views and conclusion toward recent events, rather, heartbreaking development in the country. Saying- Nigerians first, Nigerians always is deceitful. I will say it’s such a rallying cry that doesn't hold water. The unfortunate state of the nation today has proven otherwise: Burkinabés first, Burundians second, other countries always. As comic as that sounds, sadly it is the reality on ground seeing how the President prioritizes his activities with reference to the unfolding crisis in certain area of the country.

The primary responsibility of the federal government is ensuring the safety of the citizenry, having said this; it is safe to say Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan has betrayed a sworn oath of office and has failed to deliver his constitutional mandate of securing lives and properties of all Nigerians. It didn’t say majority of Nigerians, rather, all Nigerians which means there shouldn’t be any ethnical segregation, nor should there be a tribal and regional separation. The “act” is legibly written and it is crystal clear to the blind, completely transparent and unclouded.

Here is my worry with the current administration; we have at the power house a president who talks the talk but does not walk the walk, I mean an administration cannot continue to act in a way that do not agree with the things it says; its action is a direct opposite of its word. With evidence abound, I have every right to say Mr President’s body language and response to the recently intensified Boko Haram onslaught contradicts the fabricated notion of “Nigerians first, Nigerians always”. I do not understand why an administration would prioritize international problem over its internal crisis. Honestly why we do things “vice versa” in this part of the world remains a mystery to me.

 

Let’s call a spade by its name, It was indeed a reckless move by the President, to have jetted out of the country to attend a matter affecting other nation when we have our own troubles, a strong turmoil hitting our territories and while the dreaded terrorist group, the blood sucking beast called Boko Haram were having field day encroaching on our territories, killing men and women at will, raping our young girls, taking over several villages and renaming captured town the commander-in-chief was away in Burkina Faso.

At the moment, Boko Haram seem to have gained all manner of sick momentum, going about their dirty business like a moving-train that crushes anything and everything on its way and sadly the Nigeria Army that once roared with ferocity, echoing across the continent have long been paralyzed. Our one-time gallant soldiers are seen fleeing like cowards, more like toothless lions running for dear life.

As a result of corruption in the system, the soldiers are ill-equipped, the motivation is weakened by the day and in the state of war we've found ourselves today, all this could only bring about low morale for the men at the battlefront.

My heart goes out to the pupils that were bombed during school assembly and I commiserate with the parents and families of the victims, it was such a heartbreaking incident that leaves pain in the heart of many Nigerians. As well wishers, friends and families mourn the departed; the C-in-C was pictured in a cheery get-together with Burundian diplomats a day after the horrendous death of our promising young Nigerians. What an eyesore!

BETWEEN!

I think I have had an overdose of these statements from President Jonathan’s administration; as copied below and they’re beginning to nauseate me beyond redemption.

September, 2010. President Jonathan’s 2011 Declaration Speech

“I charged our anti corruption agencies to speed up the war against corruption, and respect no sacred cows in the process.” – President Goodluck Jonathan

“Let the ordinary Nigerian be assured that President Jonathan will have zero tolerance for corruption” – President Goodluck Jonathan

“We will fight corruption!” – President Goodluck Jonathan

For the record, between 2011 and 2014 Nigeria has witnessed an unprecedented level of corruption.  The missing 20 billion dollars oil revenue funds, Stella Oduah's N255m armoured car scandal, to name a few!

November, 2014. President Jonathan’s 2015 Declaration Speech.

“Going forward, my focus is to continue to reinforce institutions, systems, and processes to tackle corruption, and also to bring to justice those that perpetrate corruption.” – President Goodluck Jonathan

…reinforce institutions, systems, and processes to tackle corruption…  For the record, our anti corruption agencies, the EFCC, ICPC have been less effective, inactive and powerless during this administration than it was with past governments.

… also to bring to justice those that perpetrate corruption… Then I wonder what Diezani Alison- Madueke is still doing at the corridor of power and why Stella Oduah-Ogiemwonyi, the former minister of Aviation is walking free today. Rather than ensuring corrupt officials face the full weight of the law, the president continues to repatriate “convicts” found guilty of monumental corruption.

The likes of Diepreye Alamieyeseigha, the former governor of Bayelsa state, an ex-convict who was detained in London on charges of money laundering in September 2005 and Chief Bode George, the former chairman of the Nigeria Ports Authority (NPA), another ex-convict who was indicted by the EFCC when it was headed by Nuhu Ribadu on charges of fraud at the NPA are both beneficiaries and living testimonies to the PDP’s “stealing is not corruption” campaign.

Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria has failed to tackle head-on the issue of Corruption, Injustice and Insecurity that is crushing, wrecking and destroying this country beyond repair and has since brought development to a halt.

Therefore, after seeking the face of God, consulting with friends and family; after witnessing an unprecedented administrative failure from 2011-till date and having listened to the pains and sorrows of many Nigerians. I, Boluwatife Adekunle, have accepted to bring myself forward on the platform of my Permanent Voter’s Card (PVC) to vote the PDP-led government out of Aso Rock, in 2015 general election.

Boluwatife Adekunle

@boluzzz

MACKY2 THE NIGERIAN RUNAWAY POLICE OFFICER! #BBHOTSHOTS
(FICTION)

Beyond the state of immense nervousness and fear of the unknown often facially expressed by officers of the Nigeria Police Force during security operations, there are couple other traits Macky2 seems to have at large in his coffers. 

There have been some special moments in the Big brother house, with one been rather emotional, from Macky2's birthday to Tayo's good news as his girl friend back home delivers a bouncing baby boy. Bringing to mind the scenes from Macky2's simple celebration, the coming together of all contestants to grace the occasion with their presence as the birthday boy cut the unique cake, many would say his composure and facial expression on the day was confusing, as the rest of the housemates sang the traditional birthday song and cheered him up. People would have expected from the celebrant a bright, cheery and enthusiastic mood but Macky2's bizarre look painted a different picture. The reaction on his face revealed a story of a young man who had been mistaken for a wrong occasion, in other words, someone who is struggling to recover from a state of neglect, oblivion, obscurity or depression.

We cannot question Macky2's expertise in security and community policing, with reference to his psychological & professional approach to incidence in the Big brother house. In the same light, his surveillance skill is one that is commendable. Being an individual who has once plied his trade in defense line and enjoyed years of field experience in law enforcement, Macky2's everyday life has been significantly influenced by his security background, he talks only to improve the silence, he never jumps the gun and he is the best at what he does in terms of observing each and every move in the house. His awareness is top notch and his mental alertness cannot be swept under the carpet. Macky2's ability to manage crisis/conflict is yet to be ascertained in the house and it would most likely be difficult to establish this assertion except an unusual situation arises and he is found in a confrontation, encounter or dispute. I must say the chances of this happening are very minimal. As it is widely agreed, a police officer either former or serving is meant to be at the core of promoting civic responsibility whilst violence is wholly condemned.

In as much as some would say the claims of Macky2's skin-and-bone, lean, skinny, skeletal body structure are inconsequential, inexcusable and unjustifiable, nevertheless, I strongly disagree that an important feature sustaining this argument should go without been weighed, especially in a situation where a significant number of police officers in Nigeria come in bony shapes and sizes. Without mincing words, it would involve about seventeen officers from the Nigeria Police Force to bring a furious suspect of an enormous body size like Rick Ross under control where he would thereon be charged with resisting arrest and battery.

Another irresistible similarity would be the fear of the unknown, an instance where the officer who carried out an attack and made an arrest looks more criminal, more suspicious than the suspect apprehended. For people like me who have kept keen-eyes on the way and manner Macky2 operates in the Big brother house, we have long discovered his intrigue, trickery and manoeuvre in the BBA game. I have been told many years back never to trust a police officer. It’s a situation of a black mamba in the roof; it would then be advised that no one should sleep with both eyes closed.

A flashback- rewinding the tape back to the year 2004 when Macky2 fled the shores of Nigeria for greener pastures in Zambia.  Since the deed is done, it would therefore be irrelevant to dissect on why Macky2 summoned up the courage, took the bull by the horns and against all odds found his way to the land of the legendary African walking safari, Victoria falls, the wild Zambezi River, abundant wildlife, and raw wilderness, all in one friendly country called Zambia. It is well known that many personnel of the Nigeria Police Force are shrinking in abject poverty as a result of wanton corruption at the helm; their bosses feed fat whilst majority are poorly paid. There are quite a number of issues bedeviling Nigeria Police, ranging from poor remuneration, poor logistics, poor welfare, poor communication network, insufficient patrol vehicles and many more.  

For these reasons, it is assumed that Macky2 had put on a thinking cap, carefully weighed the odds and decided to take responsibility for his own destiny.  Hence, as a former security operative of Nigeria police force, it is rather shocking to many like me who found Macky2 in a whole new phase; apparently he took a turn for the better, got his foot in the door and forced his way into an unimaginably world of music.

Why music? ... Being an inquisitive-agent we are as human, it is only natural we emanate some level of curiosity, you want to know why someone from a security background ventures into song making business. Does he finds it easy in Zambia and decides to switch career into rap music as long as he brings home the bacon and earns a substantial living? OR, is it a situation of gifted talent that could not be hidden forever. OR could it possibly be that doing music proved to be the most effective means of dealing with xenophobia and enjoy high level of tolerance in his new habitat.

Why Zambia? ... Was it a decision made during the era of peace keeping mission by Nigeria police force across the continent? I know there are more questions than answers, many twists and turns in his journey. As a result of this; I have taken it upon myself to learn more about this personality. In other to make this happen, my first port of call would be to interview Mr Makanjuola Tumise also known as Macky2 right after his journey with Big Brother Africa.

Twitter - @boluzzz

WOULD HOUSEMATES FORFEIT THEIR ‘RELATIONSHIPS BACK HOME’ AT THE ONGOING #BBA SHOW?

Amidst the temptation and vulnerabilities of “Man” it’s only a matter of time before we see housemates with genuine relationships back home crack like biscuits and fall like pack of cards

In a generation where the youths amass, numerous as the stars of the sky and the sand on the seashore, it is undoubtedly true that the Big Brother Africa reality TV show has found home in the hearts of many young Africans. Over the years the Big brother annual programme has developed to be a religion for many, whilst the number of people losing their jobs ‘in effect’ increase, the unapologetic fans of the reality TV show would befriend hunger and trade food for uninterrupted moment with their various screens.

It is a joy bestowed on lovers of the show whenever Big Brother airs, with the increasing number of social media platforms, ecstatic viewers showing great enthusiasm are open to several interactive medium to express their excitements, share their opinions about housemates’ chances to progress as well as those with little or no prospect and also discuss the dynamism in the Big Brother house among thousands of other online users across several nationalities on the continent. Considering the traffic on the interactive hashtags on twitter, it would be inconcrete to undermine the massive following of BBA.

I have come to the realisation that differs from the conventional outlook of the show, from a different perspective- It is now clearer to me that the Big Brother TV show is a reality project with vision to understand the factors leading to cracks in a group and the elements behind the irrationality of human behaviour.

It is interesting to figure how individuals that comprise a group of same goal, similar interest and a group with members given equal rights & opportunities to cling on to the grand price would play each other to the game. It is also important to relate this proving project to our daily lives, as it is agreed that understanding the negative effects of immoralities such as evilness, gossip, two faced, dishonesty, wickedness, so on, in a group… which are not found wanting in a reality show of this calibre will go a long way in promoting suitable work environment among colleagues in same career path, tasked with same responsibilities and objectives.

In as much as entertainment is the hallmark of the BBA game, where some would say the excitement and fun housemates bring to the fore is paramount in winning the hearts of hundreds of thousands viewers across the continent which in turn is essential in ensuring a smooth progression to the top, it is also critical for housemates to understand the endangering role of individual's immoralities toward his/her chances in the game, it either makes or breaks them- it's more of the latter going through the memory lane of the show thus far.  No amount of provocation should trigger any man to hit a woman, this is an act I am sure Mr DKB, the Ghanaian representative of season 7 BBA #Chase must have learned thereon, and this is not to say women should be irrational with their actions, we knew right away that the Zimbabwean contestant named Maneta would be disqualified following her unprecedented action on the BBA show… involvement of any harmful objects or substance (like bleach, etc) in a confrontation should not be encouraged.

As the clock ticks and the days count in the Big Brother house, viewers at home look forward to daily load of surprises, fun & entertainment to grace their screens and feed their eyes. It appears we cannot rule out the idea of viewers toward their voting criteria, it goes beyond watching contestants in the BB house acting loose, not upholding standard, being uncultured & unmannered. In the last edition of the show #Stargame, Betty who hails from Ethiopia couldn't stand a chance to win, some would argue she was unprincipled and loose, another contestant who waves a Sierra Leonean flag, goes by the name Bolt, allegedly married prior the show displayed shamefully his vulnerability on continental TV... although getting on the nomination list was kind of delayed but it was only a matter of time before Africa pushed him (Bolt) out of the house.

A principled person or someone with principles and good qualities will adhere to what is right irrespective of the temptation or pressure to do otherwise; s/he will stand tall in what s/he believes to be right and morally acceptable; s/he would remain focused, determined and would ensures nothing dents or leave a mark on his/her image… "A man that doesn't stand for something will fall for anything".

Excluding Samantha, and Resa who are more conscious, reserved and mindful of their actions, taking cognisance of the fact that 'feeling & emotion' is like a plant it germinates in due time, the more time a lady spends with a man, the higher the chances of being exposed to emotional attachment, once a lady gives the much needed attention, it's only a matter of time before her cookie crumbles. They (Samantha and Resa) have respect for their relationships back home and both seem to be playing the game with self-consciousness and maturity thus far. The rest of the female contestants aren't holding nothing back, they're ready to let themselves go, ready to glow like peacocks, spread their wings and pick from the pool of hot, vigorous, lively and handsome men scattered in the Big brother house on a silver platter.

One of the representatives from Rwanda Arthur 'without waiting for the whistle' has started the race with Goitse, on the other hand the South African hotcake Nhlanhla still playing hide and seek with the queen from Botswana Shella. As emotions develop, feelings kick in and the pressure to fornicate mounts, it is obvious that Alusa's efforts to continuously resist temptation would in no time fall flat which would be at the detriment of his committed relationship back home. The question is would his male counterparts also be coming out of their shells soon?

Message Of Hope: #Nigeria #Scriptures – Boluwatife Adekunle

“This is a very important time for the North*.This is a time of great trouble. There will never be another time like this, but the North* will be saved. –At that time- says the Lord All-powerful, I will break the yoke from the necks of the people of Northern Nigeria*. People from foreign countries will never again force my people to be slaves.”

This is the message that came to me from the Lord. The Lord, the God of the people of Nigeria* said,

“Boluwatife, write an article for yourself. Do this because the days will come” – this message is from the Lord – “when I will bring my people, Northern Nigeria* back from exile (the land of war)” This message is from the lord. “I will put the people back in the land that I gave to their ancestors. Then my people will own that land again.”

TERROR ON THE PEOPLE…

The Lord spoke this message about the people of Northern Nigeria*. This is what the Lord said:

“We hear people crying from fear. There is fear, not peace. Ask this question and consider it: Can a man have a baby? Of course not! Then why do I see every strong man holding his stomach, like a woman having labour pains? Why is everyone’s face turning white like a dead man?”

“This is a very important time for the North*.This is a time of great trouble. There will never be another time like this, but the North* will be saved. –At that time- says the Lord All-powerful, I will break the yoke from the necks of the people of Northern Nigeria*. People from foreign countries will never again force my people to be slaves.”

NEW NORTH…

This is what the lord says:

“The people of the North* are now in captivity, but they will come back. And I will have pity on their houses. The city is now only an empty hill covered with ruined buildings, but the city will be rebuilt on its hill. And the king’s palace will be rebuilt where it should be. People in those places will sing songs of praise, and there will be the sound of laughter. I will give them many children.  Northern Nigeria* will not be small, I will bring honour to them. No one will look down on them. Northern family* will be like the family of Nigeria of ancient days”

“I will make Northern Nigeria* strong and I will punish those who hurt them. One of their own people will lead them.”

THE NEW NIGERIA…

This is what the lord said, “At that time I will be the God of all the tribes of Nigeria*. And they will be my people”

This is what the Lord says:

“The people who escaped the enemy’s sword will find comfort in the desert. Nigeria* will go there looking for them”

From far away, the Lord will appear to his people. The Lord says, “I love you people with a love that continues forever. That is why I have continued showing you kindness. Nigeria*, my bride, I will rebuild you. You will be a country again. You will pick up your tambourines again. You will dance with all other people who are having fun. You farmers of Nigeria* will plant vineyards again. You will plant the vineyards on the hills around the city of Taraba*”

This is what the Lord says: “Be happy and sing for North*! Shout for Nigeria*, the greatest of the nations!”

Sing your praises and shout: “The Lord has saved his people! He has saved those who are left alive from the nation of Nigeria”

DIASPORA…

“Nations, listen to this message from the Lord! Tell this message in the faraway lands by the sea: God scattered the people of Nigeria* but he will bring them back together. And he will watch over his flock like a shepherd. The Lord will bring the North*back. He will save his people from those who are stronger. The people of Nigeria* will come to the top of Mountain, and they will shout with joy. Their faces will shine with happiness about the good things the Lord gives them.”

He will give them grain, new wine, olive oil, young sheep and cattle. They will be like a garden that has plenty of water. And the people of Nigeria* will not be troubled anymore. Then the young women of Nigeria* will be happy and dance. And the men, young and old will join in the dancing.

“I will change their sadness into happiness. I will comfort my people, making them happy instead of sad. I will give the priests plenty of food. And my people will be filled and satisfied with the good things I give them” This message is from the Lord.

CHIBOK GIRLS

This is what the Lord says:

“A sound is heard in Chibok  –  bitter crying and great sadness. Rachel cries for her children, and she refuses to be comforted because her children are gone.”

But the Lord says “Stop crying. Don’t fill your eyes with tears. You will be rewarded for your work” This message is from the Lord.

“The people of Nigeria* will come back from their enemy’s land. Nigeria* there is hope for you.” This message is from the Lord.

FINAL WORDS…

This is what the Lord All-Powerful, the God of Nigeria*says: “I will again do good things for the people of Northern Nigeria*. I will bring back those who were taken away as prisoners. At that time the people in the land of Northern Nigeria* and its towns will once again use these words: ‘May the Lord bless you, good home and holy mountain!

People in all the towns of Northern Nigeria* will live together in peace. Farmers and those who move around with their flocks will live peacefully together in Northern Nigeria*. I will give rest and strength to those who are weak and tired.”

After hearing that, I, Boluwatife, woke up and looked around. My sleep was very pleasant.

“The days are coming” says the Lord… “When I will help the family of Northern Nigeria* to grow. I will help their children and animals to grow too. It will be like planting and caring for a plant. In the past I watched over Northern Nigeria* but I watched for the time to pull them up. I tore them down. I destroyed them. I gave many troubles to them. But now I will watch over them to build them up and make them strong.” This message is from the Lord.

“People will not use this saying anymore:

‘The parents ate the sour grapes, but the children got the sour taste.’

“No, people will die for their own sins. Those who eat sour grapes will get the sour taste.”

Boluwatife Adekunle

@boluzzz

=====

Excerpt…

Jeremiah chapter 30 & 31 (JIL version)

Me* – Boluwatife*         = Jeremiah

Nigeria*                            = Israel

Northern Nigeria*           = Israel and Judah

North*                              = Jacob

The people of the North*= Jacob’s people

Northern Family               = Jacob’s family

Ancient days                     = long ago

Taraba*                              =Samaria

Mountain                          = Zion

Chibok                               = Ramah

What Is The Hope Of The Poor? – Boluwatife Adekunle

World Bank data categorises Nigeria among the poorest Nations in the world; the power at the helm disregarded such notion. He believes- that is one data from the pot-of-jokes. While some of us felt statistic of such embodiment, judging by its root as well as its pedigree would remind a five years administration of a job “not well done” probably none of us predicted the response from the powers that be and that painted in glare picture the insensitivity of this administration; its policies and actions toward the downtrodden Nigerians.

What should we make of responses like: Nigeria has the highest number of private jets in Africa, in an attempt to brush-off World Bank data? This is “sadly” a partial statement leaving out the masses; delusional government at best. Perhaps this explains the reason behind the TV commercial, a laughable advert with a stained image been photo shopped in the same frame where great minds were presented. Those who designed such advertisement have successfully trampled on the personalities of those charismatic leaders. Although they’ve done well by recognising these people; the great late Nelson Mandela, Lee Kuan Yew, Barrack Obama etc. which implies they actually understood what good governance means and what great leadership entails.

It’s disheartening to see our leaders turning deaf ears to the cry of the poor; they’ve became irresponsive to their plights, they sumptuously feast on their fortunes while the downtrodden rotting in abject poverty. The oppressed lives in total darkness, feeding/living below two dollars per day and their bodies deteriorate as a result of malnutrition. They’ve been subjugated, enslaved and betrayed by the same leadership they voted in to tackle their misfortunes. It is agreed that our people are gullible but maximising their vulnerabilities beyond extreme is totally unjust and inhumane.

The peoples’ representative at the power house has failed; conspicuously what we have at the centre is a leadership that has completely neglected its constitutional responsibilities, an administration that has since gone off-track and has long buried its political will for true governance. In retrospect, I would never had imagined that three years down the line after President Jonathan got elected into office, we would be reaping heavily from the seed of wrong choice. It was indeed a regrettable decision which has taken its toll; we could only wish to turn back the hands of time.

Nigerians were caught unaware- and while there’s sorrow in our land, the federal government through its incapability has created enabling environment for political thieves to intensify their looting powers.  It becomes more obvious that squandering public funds seem to be a sweetening competition among the elites, it is a luxury game where the average class of the citizenry are match officials and the unfortunate Nigerians are mere spectators – At the end of every match a new political team is introduced to step up the game.

It is safe to say President Jonathan’s administration is solemnly a franchise; a license to other governing bodies and political offices to embrace corruption at great length.  C-in-C; Corruption-in-Colossal.  The state of the country today is one that is heartbroken; the situation describes a nation that has lost course, where there is need for an urgent redirection. Nigeria is currently headed for an iceberg and if the needful is not done to steer the ship back on course, the impact will spell doom to all and sundry.

With the new trend of militarisation, the formal equality of rights and privileges of the people have been brought to halt by the dictator operating under the guise of democracy, human rights have continually been violated, dented and abused. Just when we thought we’ve seen the height of bad governance; abysmal leadership, a fresh turmoil hits us right in our face and it appears the situation is only worsening.

Nigeria has metamorphosed into a “show of shame”, a laughing stock in the global circle; every other day the international media looks forward to our ill-fated gimmickry and the country has continued to hit international headlines for all the wrong reasons. How did we arrive at this sorry state, a land of peace filled with fat and honey suddenly emerged as a land of insecurity, bloodshed and hopelessness. Our people continue to face untimely death, so many dreams have been cut short, many souls have been bombed dead. Kids have become orphans, while parents turned childless. Families are left with lifetime hurts and so many unfortunate persons with unforeseen disabilities.

The poor has being the receiving end of all Boko Haram’s atrocities, it appears all the bombings are meant to affect the poor who has nothing to offer the country at this grieved time; We’re completely helpless…  As Boko Haram leader keeps on talking tough, the response from the presidency matching with its body language is one that is frightening and unpromising. My heart goes out to parents of the abducted Chibok girls and united we stand to demand from the government to #BringBackOurGirls. It is a presidential shame that it took the 17 years old Malala Yousafzai, a Pakistani advocate for girls’ education to convince the C-in-C to meet the parents of the abducted chibok girls three months after Boko Haram’s raid on Government Girls School,  Chibok. No better ways to describe a president that has NOT the love of the people at heart.

At a time like this in Nigeria, you cannot but wonder on what “actually” is working, our people are not being educated; the level of illiteracy increases. Over the years the educational sector has been battered with unprecedented retrogression. Students found themselves out of school for countless months as a result of government’s failure to comply with the need to improve the standard of education and enhance the quality of training in our tertiary institutions.

The state of Nigeria today is tragic and her doctors downing tools could only compound adversity for the poor.  The law enforcement agencies have been compromised and the Judiciary is unreliable. In the face of all these, you tend to ask WHAT IS THE HOPE OF THE POOR?

Boluwatife Adekunle

@boluzzz

July 21, 2014

Super Eagles: A Decorated Ambiguity! – Boluwatife Adekunle

I congratulate the Big Boss- Stephen Okechuku Keshi for his world cup success as it’ll be insensible of me to immediately pounce on some of his flaws.  2014 world cup has being a class of its own, with tones of surprises, basket of mind blowing goals and high-spirited matches; without mincing words, Brazil have lived up to expectation.  Home of soccer indeed!

A tournament that saw some high powers in world football took a shocking exit, one I considered to be unforeseen.  Never do I imagined Countries like; Spain, England e.t.c would already be on their way-out before the competition actually finds its rhythm, neither did I foresee Italy and Ivory Coast not making it through to the second round. Undoubtedly we have in our hands an historic world cup that will go down to the book.

Stephen Okechuku Keshi is a great individual I have much respect for and his positive impart in the Senior National Football Team we have today cannot be overemphasized. We were fortunate to have the Big Boss available to take the job of head coach at a time Super Eagles was in a state of mess, completely disarranged, jumbled and unsettled…  Following his assumption of office, it has been work-in-progress thereon. For the first time in a long while; it appeared we would have a predictable squad, consisting of young vibrant players full of energy and very ambitious. What a breath of fresh air! We have our darling Eagles rejuvenated and reconstructed, hence we’ve since enjoyed a run of consistency both in Ability and Capacity.

To mention a man without imperfection or limitation in-terms-of qualities possessed, your guess would be as good as mine- No other but Jesus Christ. The big boss undoubtedly has some shortcomings; in the course of his job, many have questioned his tactical input and controversial decisions. There have been some levels of criticism pouring from football pundits, ex internationals and various football fans; however it’ll be inappropriate to undermined Stephen Keshi’s qualities that produced the force that soared to victory in 2013 African Cup of Nations.

If I was a coach, some of the qualities I would swiftly learn from the Big Boss are written below;

·         TO MAKE SURE ONE’S EGO AND SELF-WORTH DO NOT GET TIED UP IN THE OUTCOME OF A GAME:  We have in Stephen Keshi someone who is psychologically healthy enough to know that he’s NOT his performance, regardless of what others around him may say. He neither feels diminished as an individual when his team fail nor do the Big Boss takes glory when his team succeed.

·         ABILITY TO GET ONE’S PLAYERS TO BELIEVE IN THEMSELVES:   What an amazing quality the Big Boss possesses: We saw this played out when the whole nation seemed to be losing faith and turning down the potential of the squad we paraded at the 2013 African Cup of Nations following their shambolic start. While all hopes were crushed, the head coach inspired the players to do more than they think they can; strengthened their self-esteems and encouraged the players to entertain possibilities that stretched the limits of their beliefs.

As far as Nigeria is concerned, 2014 world cup has come and gone… The question we should then be asking is- What should we behold for Russia 2018? Understanding what we didn’t do right and introducing a robust plan on what needs to be corrected… It is visible to the blind that Super Eagles “the so called, moving train” have a worn out engine- A sexy lady without sophisticated tastes or ideas, a mere village champion.  However, if we’re looking to get it right in subsequent tournament, our first port of call would be to fix the shortcomings and the tactical deficiency of the team.

Even though we had glimpse of what to expect at the Mundial judging by the outcome of the friendly matches, the three warm-up games ensured we had a smooth less road to world cup which was not the best of moral going into the biggest stage of world football: To those that were optimistic, our darling Super Eagles successfully dashed their hopes following the disappointing first game, a scoreless draw with Iran. It became clearer and apparent that Super Eagles’ best would never be enough to go farther in the competition.

The victory against Bosnia Herzegovina was a flash in the pan; it was a game we could easily have lost “if the man at the centre” hasn’t made some controversial calls. Edin Dzeko’s disallowed goal was unjust; it was an unfair call which twisted the psychology of the game to merit the Eagles.

In the last game of group stage, we cannot but commend the individual brilliance of Ahmed Musa who was on rock & roll, a young man who has long been criticized for enjoying an unjustifiable ground in the national team, following series of poor outings; failure to turn up in important games. Often times football loving Nigerians have questioned his qualities and most seemed to have lost interest in his potentials. In the wake of his long run of poor form, Ahmed Musa was able to find his rhythm; he came to the party and made a difference in the match against Argentina. His best might not be good enough to fetch a point but the two cracking goals was a joy bestowed on Nigerians which in turn makes us to be insensitive of the calamity ahead.

Super Eagles finally had their limitations exposed by the ever resilient French squad; it became obvious that the tactical ingredients of the team were found wanting and it appeared the team could only stick to a repeated tactics that failed to yield.

After a critical evaluation of yesterday’s match- I was able to ascertain four major deficiencies of the team.

(1)   INABILITY OF THE COACHING CREW TO STIMULATE THE DYNAMICS OF A GAME:  The inadequacy of the coaching crew to overturn the tempo of a game to their advantage contributed to the failure of Super Eagles in progressing to the quarter finals. In the post match interview of Didier Deschamps, the interviewer was reported to have asked the French coach what he told the players during half time break which went on to materialised in the second half of the game. The response from the French man was backed with some good laughs- Saying what he discussed with his players would rather remain in the team.  (Could it have been; hey boys get rid of Ogenyi Onazi and establish superiority in the midfield).  A good coach either gets the job done the easier way or takes the bull by the horn. Since John Mikel Obi lost the zeal of play and couldn’t lived up to expectation. The twenty-two year old Ogenyi Onazi happened to be the anchor of the Midfield, he was very effective and impressive; the moment he was out of the pitch following the nasty injury orchestrated by the French man Blaise Matuidi who was saddled with the responsibility of getting rid of him, we irrecoverably lost possession in the middle of the park and forfeited the game. Anyhow you want to base your conclusion, the fact remains that the French coaching crew made a fruitful use of the half time break: Which was a deficiency on the side of Nigeria.

(2)   THE STRENGTH OF A TEAM LIES IN THE RESERVE:  The new age football has gone beyond mediocrity; a good coach sticks to the principle that says your bench should be as good as your first eleven. The strength of any team lies not with the first team players but on the strength of the reserve players. Often times, we’ve seen the Super Eagles’ head coach so helpless on the sideline, not able to decide the fate of a game through a tactical substitution. Didier Deschamps’ introduction of Antoine Griezmann in place of Giroud during second half of the game was spot-on; it was undoubtedly a yielded move from the French coach. Super Eagles’ bench was nothing to write home about, a very helpless reserve in-time of adversity. Inability to look inward for some right substitutions was a major downfall of the team; the big boss’ substitutions in the tournament were all far from perfection. We saw a Michael Uchebo came in as a substitute against Argentina, dangling around like a confused player… As seen around the globe, coaches depend on the bench to subdue a game.

(3)   SET PIECES AND INEFFECTIVE TECHNIQUES:   Football teams across the world take advantages of set pieces, we’ve seen goals from set pieces been the decider of matches. Uruguay goal from set piece against Italy was crucial to secure the South American a place in the round of sixteen and we saw Argentina took advantage of a corner kick to secure three points in their final group match against Nigeria. The importance of set piece in a football match is large; I lost count on number of occasion Ahmed Musa took some poor, poor corner kicks. Also the free kicks were never threatening and the techniques were ambiguous.

(4)   DIVING, EMBELLISHING, TACTICS AND CHEATING:   These technicalities of football were found wanting in Super Eagles’ defeat to France… Should Odemwingie had gone to the ground clamouring for penalty after he was totally seized by Patrick Evra who had his hands completely wrapped on him inside the vital area of the box, the match could have took a different turn. It was obvious the players lacked necessary ingredients to win a world class game. Either improper or not, Arjen Robben’s last minute penalty through diving catapulted the Dutch side to the quarter finals. These tactical skills in teams are sometimes very important in winning games.

As far as Nigeria is concerned, the world cup has come and gone… We hope these flaws would be corrected and we can have a more fortified Super Eagles that would soar come Russia 2018. God Bless!

Boluwatife Adekunle

@boluzzz

Nigeria And Her “Ever Smiling Jobless Graduates!” – Boluwatife Adekunle

I overheard a discussion involving two outgoing corp-members; in as much as most people would assume that a day of discharge certification from NYSC program should be a day of celebration for every corp-members, apparently that doesn’t seem to be the case with reference to the “said” discussion following an ultra emotional depression from both corp-members discussing the end of an unprecedented year run of monthly allowance. Well, in a country where publication of conflicting figures is the order of the day, maybe it’s safe to conclude that 60% of outgoing corp-members in every batch develop sore hearts over the completion of their service year. Please don’t bite me over the  percentage, If you’re not going to challenge why Nigeria has the biggest economy in Africa and you’re able to concur with such laughable joke- you could as well let my “subjectivity with the arguable fact” have a space to breath.

How the huge numbers of unemployed graduates are able to cope with the unfriendly economy beyond the common routine of “one pure water and one galla to uplift their energy” after challenging the strength of a camel in a competition to walk long kilometres in search of jobs, these are the group of jobless graduates that desire to look for jobs rather than waiting for jobs to look for them. How they are able to cope “in dimming colours” is not farfetched; majority of Nigerian youths with tertiary education are bunch of jokes in this part of the world with horrible & deplorable jobs, arguably the most underemployed set of people, contributing immensely to the increasing poverty rate in the country.  It’s disheartening seeing graduates manning pumps at gas stations, packing & unpacking pure water bags at funny locations. Amazingly, some have embrace different means of practising their qualifications, those with B.sc in Communication have successfully established a business; selling call-cards under a tent strong enough to be blown away by the wind, graduates from land & minerals surveying departments go into the wild with a Tipper Driver to fetch sharp sand and the rest for construction and those from geology classes are truck boys for tanker drivers conveying fuel from one location to the other. It won’t be a surprise if we have graduates of transport planning & management having full-time job as bus conductors.

Following the alarming & disgraceful display of unemployment statistic during the NIS massive recruitment scam; financial extortion and blood sucking operation, which led to the end of some unfortunate compatriots who had their lives cut short by the leaders saddled with the responsibility of protecting lives & properties of its citizens. One would expect to see such huge turnout to re-mobilize with great fortitude; to voice out furiously; to ask questions and demand answers from their leaders who are feeding fat and building empires from public purse and fortune of the land. It’s a no brainer to realise that such expanse of unemployed heads “colliding together” is a force to bring any government to its knees, unfortunately Nigerian youths would only see when their favourite European football clubs’ managers are failing and the decision to have their contracts terminated by the clubs’ management with immediate effect. In spite of the shameful inaction and silence on the part of the NIS applicants, some prominent citizens who felt their pains- cried their cry and decided to lend voice to the voiceless; sparked the flame and kept the fire burning, they organised a protest and behold the almost 60,000 applicants who turned out at the stadium in Abuja during the recruitment menace disappeared into thin of the air. How unemployed graduates in this country comfortably dance to the rhythm of poverty baffles me.

In a sane country where citizenry are not treated like animals, where” impunity” is long lost in its dictionary, where its government officials “beyond constitutional rights” are as ordinary as every other citizen, where there is fair hearing and injustice is not the order of the day. Someone like Comrade Patrick Abba Moro; who is currently enjoying a great monopoly and flexing muscles in the corridor of power,  the Minister of Interior; the chief architect of a national fraud and the mastermind behind NIS recruitment tragedy: A comrade who openly took responsibility over the lost souls during the scandalous exercise would have long been charged for Manslaughter but in this part of the world we embrace a special dictionary where the word “Ideal” is missing and “Corruption” is seen as a mere case of people stealing. Hence, when one of government functionaries advocate that Nigerian Boko Haram crisis and issue of the abducted chibok girls would be handled in a Nigeria way. A country where majority of its people would agree that, since 1960 following Nigeria’s disconnection from the British Colonial administration; most of its actions and decisions thereon have been positioned from an irrational point of view.  What such advocacy then means is; Nigerians would heal over their pains in due course and move on as usual.  Agreeably this ineptly attitude has since been a norm in this part of the world.

For thousands of jobless graduates living below poverty line, sadly it doesn’t appear the situation would be changing in near future with their ever-smiling philosophy. I mean Nigerian youths should take leads from several youth movements that have brought revolutionary change in so many nations. It doesn’t have to be in a violent manner; countries like Serbia, Ukraine and Georgia each had a successful nonviolent youth movement. It seems our young generation do not understand how critical/important their role could be in propelling political change and strengthening democratic institutions in the society. “Social media is a tool and a tool is as good as the person using it – J.J Omojuwa”. The importance of social media cannot be overemphasized; it has become a tool for revolution all over the world. We saw the key role it played in the April 6 youth movement in Egypt. It began as a Facebook group expressing solidarity with protesting industrial workers in al-Mahalla al-Kubra. The protests escalated to calls for a national strike, and on April 6, 2008, thousands of Egyptians flooded the streets. The power possessed by youth is a recognised force in the world today and Nigerian youths must realise that the nation’s destiny lies in their hands.  “Youth are not only the leaders of tomorrow, but also the partners of today. ’’ God Bless Nigeria.

Boluwatife Adekunle

@boluzzz

President Jonathan’s Administration; A Big Joke! – Boluwatife Adekunle

“Ofi ete si lee, O’ un paa lapalapa”

First off, I’ll like to sympathize with the family of Billion Dollars; below I attached my condolence letter.

 CONDOLENCE LETTER TO THE FAMILY OF BILLION DOLLARS

It struck our heart  like lightening when the news concerning “Twenty" one of your children broke out to the public; her disappearance ignited uproar among Nigerians and for the  past four weeks the name “TWENTY billion dollars” remain nation’s most discussed; dropping President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan to second on the chart. According to reports, the tragedy has been linked with possible destination to FCT (Fortress of Corruption Territory), although there are claims that “Twenty” might be missing for a long time: I feel it will be unfair to think Nigerians arose to this incidence too late, your business has been a secret affair involving a minority group; those who turned to be bone crushers, the larger public couldn’t ascertain your movement between Niger Delta/Across borders, up to your residence in CBN.

Some’d say “Twenty” had been murdered by the “said” group, an unthinkable brutal incidence resulting to a complete dismantle (like a pride of lion feasting on a prey). Her demise indeed saddens the heart of Nigerians; many could not begin to express how painful “a act” this is. The thought of how influential “Twenty” could be on this great nation has given many Nigerians sleepless nights; following reports of great addition your children in diasporas have contributed to the development of those nations. It was reported that her twin sister “TWENTY-TWO billion dollars” was responsible for the construction of the world’s largest hydroelectric power station: The Three Gorges Dam in Hubei, China, has the world’s largest instantaneous generating capacity (22,500 MW). Other reports confirmed the massive contribution of her younger sister “TEN billion dollars” towards the construction of Jamnagar Refinery in Jamnagar, India: The world’s largest refinery with the capacity of 1,240,000 barrels per day.

It’s with a sad heart I write this letter and I hope the perpetrators would be brought to book. Hence, applying FFK’s IDEAL and REALITY school of thoughts; would mean “Ideal” is ensuring the appropriate law enforcement agencies do the needful in bringing the “said” group to justice and “Reality” speaks volumes on how they’ll continue to roam about arrogantly in convoys and enjoy their roasted pangolins in their suspension roofs. On behalf of Nigerians; I say please accept our condolence.

OFI ETE SI LEE, O’ UN PAA LAPALAPA.

Not many of us are conversant with “yoruba” quotes and for the records; it simply means “Not applying scale of preference”… The moment you’re told “Ofi ete si lee, O’ un paa lapalapa” in yoruba circle, it means you’re not getting your priorities right.

Research says ratio 1:6 of Singaporean households are millionaires, it is also safe to say; for every six households in Singapore there is a millionaire. “Singapore” officially the Republic of Singapore, a very poor country many years back with no natural resources not even potable water. Singapore is rated among the countries with best water technologies (desalination technologies), so good they can drink their own pee. The result is NeWater, which is non-potable wastewater filtered into high-purity H20 that can be used for industrial development and even drinking. The world’s greatest city;m.travel.cnn/Singapore states 50 reasons why Singapore is No 1; one of the reasons reported is that, Singapore has one of the best health care infrastructures in the world, with various dignitaries and royals from the region patronizing local hospitals: Zimbabwe President Robert Mugabe even slipped in quietly for a ‘secret cancer check-up’ in 2008. According to CNN, Singaporean health care provision system is also one of the world’s best, so good that some say it beats the proposed ObamaCare model. A country that gained its independence in 1965, five years “late” of Nigeria’s 1960, this is what I call TRANSFORMATION: From a sleepy island to one of Asia’s most developed states, despite lack of natural resources.

In as much as some would say “Rome was not built in a day” and some will repeat the common rhymes that seem unending; saying Nigerian problems didn’t start during President Jonathan’s administration. Hence, Nigeria was not in a state of disrepair at the injunction of President Jonathan’s administration, we’re saying this country is a building with a leaking roof; these are visible problems “clearer” to the presidency during its two years incumbent era, which he used as a campaign tool towards 2011 presidential election promises to tackle head-on. Not disregarding his tenure as an incumbent president, I think five years is huge enough for any presidency to set standards that will have a direct impact on every Nigerian. An administration can not continue to inflict pains, then advertises transformation thereof… Is like telling a blind man he has regained his sight, does he needs to be informed? Through the function & dis-function of his walking stick; his story would be told. Either via publication of some conflicting figures or showcasing unrealistic statistics; this administration has shown the magic its willing to perform in pushing millions of Nigerians living in abject poverty to the limit of admitting either by force or by degree that their lives have changed.

KAA MA FI ETE SI LEE, PAA LAPALAPA… “Getting the priorities right”

If a web search “linked” with merriam-webster.com defines Transformation as a complete or major change in someone’s OR something’s… then the question we should be asking is, how do we affect the lives of ordinary Nigerians? Here’s my order of priorities. UNINTERRUPTED POWER SUPPLY, JOB CREATION, REVIVING THE REFINERIES, TACKLE THE SECURITY CHALLENGE, IMPROVE THE QUALITY OF EDUCATION & TRAINING, AND ENHANCING THE HEALTH CARE PROVISION SYSTEM. Others will be icing on the cake.

If we must not forget in a hurry, there was a “trend” that seemed to had faded off… This trend painted a picture of how availability of electricity has been source of happiness in various households. We remember the famous chant “….Up Nepa” a sickening celebration common in Nigerian homes; an expression of joy towards availability of electricity that would be up-running for just a short  period. In recent time; the trend has changed, once electricity is available citizens rather “rain” curses on the power companies and multiply the curse few minutes after a predictable interruption. The importance of uninterrupted power supply can not be overemphasized, one that’ll contribute immensely to the progress of my second highlight according to my order of priorities: Job Creation.

Recently, the US government experienced a slight increase in the percentage of unemployment in the country; what was the instant response thereon? I’m poised to extend the distance “with which” the news would travel, confirming the fact that thousands of jobs were created last month: As reported by CNNMoney…“The U.S. economy added 113,000 jobs last month, according to the government. That’s an improvement from December, but was far weaker than hoped. Economists had been expecting an addition of 178,000 jobs “… This is to say, in other to stabilize the situation and reduce the negative effects of the slight uprise; economists expected an instant creation of 178,000 jobs and for U.S. government to have met about 63% of the expectation thus far, one tend to ask ” if there’s any ” what has been done to combat the pragmatic display of unemployment statistic during the NIS recruitment menace?.. I do not understand why this administration has continued to shy away from reality, it’s no news that unemployment and underemployment lies at the core of poverty. For the poor, labour is often the only asset they can use to improve their well-being. Hence the creation of productive employment opportunities is essential for achieving poverty reduction.

It’s a no brainer to realise the significant of “Fuel” in this country, therefore it should be a priority for any administration willing to improve the living conditions of its citizens to do the needful in ensuring “Fuel” is available at realistic price; I  mean having to consider millions of Nigerians living on minimum wage.. Nigerians must realise that the late President Umaru Musa Yar’ Adua meant well for this great nation, during his short tenure, we saw a new administration “reduced” the pump price of petrol from 70naira to 65naira per litre, his leadership also reversed the sale of Kaduna and Warri refineries that the former President Olusegun Obasanjo had tried to sell off and promised to revive the refineries thereon before the illness that led to his death came knocking on his window. I say may he keep resting in perfect peace (Amen).

Few months ago, the special adviser to the president on Media and Publicity Dr Reuben Abati dismissed reports surrounding the sale of Nigeria’s four refineries and claimed the federal government had no plans to privatise the refineries. The four refineries have 445,000 barrels per day crude oil refining capacity which should produce 70,755,000 litres of petrol and will ignite a drastic fall from the current pump price on the 40,000,000 litres needed for daily domestic consumption. Nigerians need to know why the refineries remain unfixed..(?)

To be continued…