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Politics › Re: Pdp Won Kwara State Election On Votes,acn Has No Chance by bilms(op): 5:24pm On Jul 01, 2011

not related to the topic

Politics › Pdp Won Kwara State Election On Votes,acn Has No Chance by bilms(op): 3:06pm On Jul 01, 2011

by Abdulrazaq O Hamzat on Tuesday, June 28, 2011 at 12:35pm

PDP WON KWARA STATE ELECTION ON VOTES,ACN HAS NO CHANCE

Action Congress of Nigeria members in Kwara State are quick to express their confidence in the ability of their Party ACN to reclaim the mandate of the last Governorship and Senatorial Election against the People Democratic Party(PDP) lead administration of Alhaji Abdulfatai Ahmed,but little did they know that their party has no case or any chance of the tribunal victory.

Reading throuh the petition filed by ACN,I understands that the major points noted by ACN was the Intimidation of electorates and public inducement of voters on election day.

But i was very surprised that the ACN could file such a case,when even the ACN was guilty of the same crime.

I was an active participant in the last election and i can say categorically that the Kwara State election was one of the most free election in Nigeria, though i can't say it is fair.

For what i saw, i believe the People Democratic Party (PDP) won the election on votes,not because the election was fair,nor because of the achievements of PDP administration in the past,but because PDP bought the votes.

But not PDP alone bought votes,even the ACN did. I am an eye witness. I was contacted to be bought on the election day as well by the ACN. The ACN did the same thing just like PDP, i.e paid the electorates for their votes on the election day which is contrary to the Electoral Act. I want to confidently say that Kwara State election was won by the highest bidder which is PDP.

Why is ACN complaining when they also traied the same path of PDP,They paid less than PDP,and they got less votes.

I know the Action congress will be fast to debunk my stance,but this is the truth.

On what stands did the ACN want the election be disclared invalid? Is it on the basis that PDP pay more to win beyond the agreed fee or what? or on the basis that ACN pay less?

Don't get me wrong,It is good to always do justice even if it goes against you. I am not a PDP supporter,neither am i ACN.

I was a witness of ACN distrubuting money to voters on election day,In fact,I was called upon by the ACN people who stormed the polling unit, i was called upon,may be by the recommendation of some ACN members residing around.This is apart from the normal cash given to the voters for refreshment. They wrote the names of people who voted and paid 200 naira to each of them.

Though,there are some irregularities in some places, but i don't think is enough to declare the election invalid.

In my opinion,The ACN is only trying to keep the hope of its supporters alive and keep the activities going to better prepare them for the 2015 election. But as far as the 2011 election is concern and the chance of ACN,i think there is none.

Politics › Letter To Boko Haram: This Is Great by bilms(op): 2:59pm On Jul 01, 2011

LETTER TO BOKO HARAM
By: Abdulrazaq O Hamzat

Assalamualaikum Waramatullahi Wabarakatu.

, I write in the name of Allah, The most beneficent and the most merciful.

Dear Boko Haram,

I am constrained to write you, Reading through the news papers page recently regarding the issue of the bombing rocking our country Nigeria, It was reported that your organization claimed responsibility. In another report, it was reported that your sect stated your reason for embarking on this bombing mission to be the killing of your ex leader and members. It was also reported that the only condition given by your Organization for negotiation is the Adoption of Shariah Law in Nigeria.

First, I would like to start from the name of your sect, Boko Haram. Meaning education is forbidden. The stand of your sect that education is forbidden to me is a shock, considering the impact of education in the history of Islam.

The rise of Muslims to the zenith of civilization in a period of four decades was based on lslam's emphasis on learning. This is obvious when one takes a look at the Qur'an and the traditions of Prophet Muhammad which are filled with references to learning, education, observation, and the use of reason.
"Are those who have knowledge and those who have no knowledge alike? Only the men of understanding are mindful. " (Quran, 39:9)

The Qur'an encourages people towards scientific research:.
"And whoso brings the truth and believes therein such are the dutiful." (Quran, 39:33)

It was through education that we got the loud speaker we use in calling for prayers, Education produces the bricks we use in building our mosques, produces the computer and internet we use in studying Islamic writing around world while sitting at home, produces the wall clock that makes it easy to know the time for prayers, produces the aeroplane we use in making pilgrim to the holy land.

The car your members used in transporting themselves to the bombing venue, the mobile phone, the bombs and guns, even the media used in publishing your information all are products of education.
These clearly show that everything your sect has been using as the impact of education (Boko) in one way or the other.

Don’t you think Boko (Education) is Halal (Lawful)?.

Saying education is forbidden is just like saying sex is forbidden, But sex can be forbidden when done unlawfully and can equally be rewarded if done lawfully.

Acquiring knowledge and skill is essential for every one living in the modern world. It is useful as well as pleasant to pursue knowledge.

Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:

Seeking of knowledge is compulsory for every Muslim, boy or girl, man or woman.

The pursuit of knowledge and the use of reason, based on sense and observation is made obligatory on all believers.

"The best form of worship is the pursuit of knowledge.

The Islamic Empire for more than 1,000 years remained the most advanced civilization in the world. The main reasons for this was that Islam stressed the importance and respect of learning, forbade destruction, and cultivated respect for authority, discipline, and tolerance for other religions. The teachings of Qur'an and Sunnah inspired many Muslims to their accomplishments in science and medicine.

By the tenth century their zeal and enthusiasms for learning resulted in all essential Greek medical and scientific writings being translated into Arabic in Damascus, Cairo, and Baghdad. Arabic became the international language of learning and diplomacy. The center of scientific knowledge and activity shifted eastward, and Baghdad emerged as the capitol of the scientific world. The Muslims became scientific innovators with originality and productivity through education.(Boko)

For example Islamic medicine is one of the most famous and best known facets of Islamic civilization in which the Muslims excelled. The Muslims were the great torchbearers of international scientific research.
Some of the best and most eloquent praises of science came from the pens of Muslim scientists who considered their work to be acts of worship. The same motives led to the establishment of Al-Azhar (800 AD) the first university in the world. They hit the "source ball of knowledge" over the fence to Europe. In the words of Campbell, "The European medical system is Arabian not only in origin but also in its structure. The Arabs are the intellectual forbearers of the Europeans."

Further More, I would like to state here that your members were killed not because they were Boko Haram members, but because they commit an offence of murder. i.e killing of innocent people and such crime both in Shariah and the Nigerian constitution is punishable by death. If your sect had found these people guilty of any offence, it is not in your hand to take law. But despite that,I am sincerely sorry for your loss and pray that Allah forgive us all.

Lastly, About your insistence that Nigeria use the sheriah law,it is clearly stated in the Qur’an that Allah says: “Let there be no compulsion in religion. Truth has been made clear from error. Whoever rejects false worship and believes in Allah has grasped the most trustworthy handhold that never breaks. And Allah hears and knows all things.” [Sûrah al-Baqarah: 256]

One of the fundamental truths established by the sacred texts is that no one can be compelled to accept Islam. It is the duty of Muslims to establish the proof of Islam to the people so that truth can be made clear from falsehood. After that, whoever wishes to accept Islam may do so and whoever wishes to continue upon unbelief may do so. No one should be threatened or harmed in any way if he does not wish to accept Islam.

jihad in Islamic Law can be waged for a number of reasons, but compelling people to accept Islam is simply not one of them.

The reason why jihad was first permitted in Islam was so the Muslims could defend themselves against persecution and expulsion from their homes.

Allah says: “To those against whom war is made, permission is given (to fight), because they are wronged and verily Allah is Most Powerful for their aid – (They are) those who have been expelled from their homes in defiance of right (for no cause) except that they say, ‘Our Lord is Allah’. Did Allah not check one set of people by means of another, there would surely have been pulled down monasteries, churches, synagogues, and mosques, in which the name of Allah is commemorated in abundant measure. Allah will certainly aid those who aid his cause, for truly Allah is full of strength and might.” [Sûrah al-Hajj: 39-40]

Many of the earliest scholars mention that these were the first verses of the Qur’ân that was revealed regarding jihad.

Thereafter the following verses were revealed:

“Fight in the cause of Allah those who fight you, but do not transgress limits; for Allah loves not transgressors. And slay them wherever you catch them and drive them out from where they drove you out, for oppression is worse than killing. But fight them not at the sacred mosque unless they fight you there. But if they fight you, slay them. Such is the reward of those who suppress faith. But if they cease, Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful. And fight them on until there is no more tumult or oppression and there prevail justice and faith in Allah. But if they cease, let there be no hostility except to those who practice oppression.” [Sûrah al-Baqarah: 190-193]

From this point on, the scope of jihad was broadened from being purely for defense against direct attack to being inclusive of resistance against the persecution meted out by those who suppress the faith and deny people the freedom to choose their religion for themselves.

As for the spread of Islam, this is supposed to take place peacefully by disseminating the Message with the written and spoken word. There is no place for the use of weapons to compel people to accept Islam. Weapons can only be drawn against those who persecute and oppress others and prevent them from following their own consciences in matters of belief. The Muslims cannot just stand by while people are being denied the right to believe in Islam and their voices are being crushed. This is the meaning of Allah’s words: “And fight them on until there is no more tumult or oppression and there prevail justice and faith in Allah.” [Sûrah al-Baqarah: 193]

The Prophet (peace be upon him) said in his letter to the Roman governor Heracles: “I invite you to accept Islam. If you accept Islam, you will find safety. If you accept Islam, Allah will give you a double reward. However, if you turn away, upon you will be the sin of your subjects.” {Sahîh al-Bukhârî and Sahîh Muslim}.

Even when the Muslims are compelled to fight and then, as a consequence, subdue the land, their duty thereafter is only to establish Allah’s law in the land and uphold justice for all people, Muslim and non-Muslim. It is not their right to coerce their subjects to accept Islam against their will. Non-Muslims under Muslim rule must be allowed to remain on their own faith and must be allowed to practice the rights of their faith, though they will be expected to respect the laws of the land.

Had the purpose of jihad been to force the unbelievers to accept Islam, the Prophet (peace be upon him) would never have commanded the Muslims to refrain from hostilities if the enemy relented. He would not have prohibited the killing of women and children. However, this is exactly what he did.

During a battle, the Prophet (peace be upon him) saw people gathered together. He dispatched a man to find out why they were gathered. The man returned and said: “They are gathered around a slain woman.” So Allah’s Messenger (peace be upon him) said: “She should not have been attacked!” Khâlid b. al-Walîd was leading the forces, so he dispatched a man to him saying: “‘Tell Khâlid not to kill women or laborers”. [Sunan Abî Dâwûd]
Therefore, even in the heat of battle against a hostile enemy, the only people who may be attacked are those who are actually participating in the fighting not innocent people.

On this note, I strongly condemn your action of killing innocent Nigerians. As the Qur’an says: whoever slays a soul, unless it be for murder or for mischief in the land, it is as though he slew entire mankind; and whoever keeps it alive, it is as though he kept entire mankind alive; (Quran 5:32).
Kindly listen to word of Allah and seize the bombing if truly you are behind it and engage in a reasonable dialogue with the Government.

Hope to see the name of your Sect change to Boko Halal and engage Nigerians through Powerful Awareness Campaign on what you consider Haram about Boko.

Massalam.

Ambassador Abdulrazaq Oyebanji Hamzat
Goodwill Ambassador for Peace of the International Human Right Commission in Nigeria.

http://elombah.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=7184:letter-to-boko-haram&catid=25:politics&Itemid=92

Christianity Etc › Why Islam Say Kill Infidels by bilms(op): 5:45pm On Jun 30, 2011

Does Islam Preach That Infidels Be Killed?

Question

I am a typical American who does not know anyone who happens to follow Islam. I, like many others, hear and read many ideas - with no way to know what is truth and what is myth.

I have thought about just walking in to a Mosque – but, I have to admit I do feel more than a bit intimidated.

So, I thought I would ask my questions here.

After 9/11 it has been said in many articles that the Koran/Islam does promote the idea that infidels (people who do not accept Allah) should be killed. Is this true? The latest article I read (it came over the Internet) tells the following story which I copied and pasted below. While I don't know if the story is true, are the details accurate?

"Last month I attended my annual training session that's required for maintaining my state prison security clearance. During the training session there was a presentation by three speakers representing the Roman Catholic, Protestant and Muslim faiths, who explained each of their belief systems.

I was particularly interested in what the Islamic Imam had to say. The Imam gave a great presentation of the basics of Islam, complete with a video. After the presentations, time was provided for questions and answers.

When it was my turn, I directed my question to the Imam and asked: "Please, correct me if I'm wrong, but I understand that most Imams and clerics of Islam have declared a holy jihad [Holy war] against the infidels of the world. And, that by killing an infidel, which is a command to all Muslims, they are assured of a place in heaven. If that's the case, can you give me the definition of an infidel?"

There was no disagreement with my statements and, without hesitation, he replied, "Non-believers!"

I responded, "So, let me make sure I have this straight. All followers of Allah have been commanded to kill everyone who is not of your faith so they can go to Heaven. Is that correct?"

The expression on his face changed from one of authority and command to that of a little boy who had just gotten caught with his hand in the cookie jar. He sheepishly replied, "Yes."

I then stated, "Well, sir, I have a real problem trying to imagine Pope John Paul commanding all Catholics to kill those of your faith or Dr.Stanley ordering Protestants to do the same in order to go to Heaven!"

The Imam was speechless.

I continued, "I also have problem with being your friend when you and your brother clerics are telling your followers to kill me. Let me ask you a question. Would you rather have your Allah who tells you to kill me in order to go to Heaven or my Jesus who tells me to love you because I am going to Heaven and He wants you to be with me?"

You could have heard a pin drop as the Imam hung his head in shame.

Needless to say, the organizers and/or promoters of the 'Diversification' training seminar were not happy with Rick's way of dealing with the Islamic Imam and exposing the truth about the Muslim's beliefs."

In America, where the ideal citizen is the one who accepts and/or promotes tolerance, diversity and freedom of thought, is it accurate to say that Islam does not promote these values?

If these thoughts are misguided, could you please set me straight? Thank you for your time. Here is the story that came in e-mail (Is it correct or should I be outraged that someone has defamed your religion?)
Response

I commend the effort that you have undertaken in order to find the real story. However I think to understand what exactly Islam is, you should try to study Quran yourself. The reason is the fact that what Muslims exhibit does not necessarily elaborate what Islam preaches. I can also understand the fear of walking into a mosque. I just hope that this world becomes a better place for all.

You wrote:
After 9/11 it has been said in many articles that the Koran/Islam does promote the idea that infidels (people who do not accept Allah) should be killed. Is this true?

I am of the opinion that this is a misunderstood interpretation amongst Muslims and non-Muslims alike. For instance, the other parts of Quran, which talk about religious freedom and honoring lives of other souls are completely ignored both by Muslims and non-Muslims when understanding Quranic teachings on the subject matter.

You quoted,
"Please, correct me if I'm wrong, but I understand that most Imams and clerics of Islam have declared a holy jihad [Holy war] against the infidels of the world. And, that by killing an infidel, which is a command to all Muslims, they are assured of a place in heaven."

It is unfortunate that the actions of Muslims have often been thought of as what Islam itself is. What a group of Muslims does is not what Islam necessarily preaches. Islam should be understood by the doctrines it preaches, which are contained in Quran.

Islam is against killing of a single soul without justice; it completely detests killing innocent people whether they be Muslims or otherwise. Quran has addressed this thus,
, مَن قَتَلَ نَفْسًا بِغَيْرِ نَفْسٍ أَوْ فَسَادٍ فِي الأَرْضِ فَكَأَنَّمَا قَتَلَ النَّاسَ جَمِيعًا وَمَنْ أَحْيَاهَا فَكَأَنَّمَا أَحْيَا النَّاسَ جَمِيعًا ,
, whoever slays a soul, unless it be for murder or for mischief in the land, it is as though he slew entire mankind; and whoever keeps it alive, it is as though he kept entire mankind alive; , (Quran 5:32)

With respect to infidels, my belief is that this word is a synonym for the word 'Kaafir' in Quran with respect to the question under discussion. If that is the case, it needs to be said that non-believers who live in the age of messengers of God are a different class and category than non-believers otherwise. It is for this reason that in the history of mankind, whenever a messenger of God came to a nation, he proved his messenger ship clearly and plainly to his nation so much so that they had no confusion about him being a bearer of truth. As a result, those people who, after having known the truth, still denied the messenger were passed on a judgment in this world by the Almighty. In case of polytheists, this judgment was in form of their annihilation, for example the great flood on Noah (pbuh)'s nation when those who rejected his message were drowned. A similar fate was decided by the Almighty on the people of Lot (pbuh), Abraham (pbuh), Salih (pbuh) and other messengers.

It needs to be understood in this context that at the end of the mission of Muhammad (pbuh) when God, in his absolute Knowledge, knew that those who were rejecting faith were not rejecting because they had any confusion with regards to it, rather they were rejecting out of mere arrogance and pride, He commanded Muslims to slay down those 'infidels' from amongst the polytheists. The Jews and Christians, on the other hand, because they belonged to monotheistic faith, were to be fought against until they became politically subservient to Muslims. This was done after providing both the idolaters and the people of the Book (Jews and Christians) sufficient time to understand whether Muhammad (pbuh) was a real messenger of God and the message he brought forward was actually the message from God.

This is God's law specific to messengers as I have explained above. Since a messenger of God is not living with us anymore, and we do not know that which is in the hearts of people, we cannot call them 'infidels' and commit such acts. In a time such as today, every soul must continue to strive to find the truth and live by it.

You asked,
In America, where the ideal citizen is the one who accepts and/or promotes tolerance, diversity and freedom of thought, is it accurate to say that Islam does not promote these values?

I hope I have already clarified the issue. There is no doubt that Islam only supports peace and tolerance, and does not oppose freedom of thought.

Celebrities › Hip-hop Icon Eedris Abdulkareem Turns Down Multi Million Naira Offer by bilms(op): 7:34pm On Jun 29, 2011

http://www.modernghana.com/movie/12400/3/hip-hop-icon-eedris-abdulkareem-turns-dow.html

Hip-hop Icon Eedris Abdulkareem Is arguably one of the most controversial artistes In the Nigerian music Industry.

Eedris exhibited another side of him recently. The Kano born Musician displayed the activist side In him when he rejected a multi million naira deal to appear as a model for Power Holding Of Nigeria (PHCN) television commercial.

Reason? The advert was supposed to be used for the revenue drive of the PHCN but Eedris had told them (PHCN) that he would not be part of their advert because over a week, his street has not had light.

Politics › Hip-hop Icon Eedris Abdulkareem Turns Down Multi Million Naira Offer by bilms(op): 7:32pm On Jun 29, 2011

Politics › Re: The Greatest Fraud Committed On Humanity by bilms(m): 6:37pm On Jun 29, 2011

this is a wonderful piece, i need the permission to publish this in my upcoming magazine production.

permit me plz

Politics › Re: Did Gideon Akaluka Really Desecrate The Holy Qur'an? A Contrarian Muslim Review by bilms(m): 9:16pm On Jun 27, 2011

hello people, i really enjoy the discussion in here.

pls, i would like to seek the permission of the writer of this article to use it in my magazine productions plz.

Thanks

Dating And Meet-up Zone › Re: I’ve Been Thinking by bilms(op): 7:28pm On Jun 26, 2011

i just receive a call from a dearly person. Thanks for the call Abdul

Dating And Meet-up Zone › Re: I’ve Been Thinking by bilms(op): 7:21pm On Jun 26, 2011*

080769769xx

Dating And Meet-up Zone › Re: I’ve Been Thinking by bilms(op): 6:45pm On Jun 26, 2011

discus4now@yahoo.com on facebook

Dating And Meet-up Zone › I’ve Been Thinking by bilms(op): 6:22pm On Jun 26, 2011

I’ve been thinking of my year book write-up. Some friends of mine asked me to write something about
them. I don’t know if I’ll do the same. It’s so damn hard to describe oneself. It involves asking trivial existential questions that takes a lifetime to realize (even worse than philosophy oral exams). Eeew.
I’ve come up with something really weird, pathetic, not to mention stupid! There’s no coherent flow. Crap!
I'm outgoing, friendly, enchanting, witty, attractive, smart, confident, peaceful, outspoken, Inspirational minded, Optimistic, blunt, romantic, wise and a warm personality, And I'm very creative too. Also could be shy, could be difficult too but I have enough etiquette to be pleasant. And definately I'm interesting to be with. I love life and like to do/try lots of different things - and I'm playful and very adventurous. I enjoy meeting up with my friends and enjoy good laugh or share memories together. I'm not really a club person, but whenever I love to see people dance, I dont joke with it. I like the computer, because it has become one of my tools,. I am a fashionistas, you just must feel me from my head to toes. I enjoy looking good and I always go the extra miles of making head nod if not bow.

So hook up with me if you wanna be a friend!

Politics › Re: Townhall Initiative by bilms(m): 6:54pm On Jun 25, 2011

am in, discus4now@yahoo.com thts my facebook add

Politics › Re: How Can A Constituency Recall Their Representative? by bilms(m): 8:50pm On Jun 24, 2011

This is one of the easiest thing to do,provided the law maker is not performing. You may ask how? This is why we have opposition party. The oppositn party as a body wil not get involve,but you can use their structure to get signatures. The opposition party can pass messages across to their member in the variouse wards and zones to help get involved in a course which shall be championed by an outsider. B4 d reps will no, they would have gone far. The opposition party members knows the party members of d reps,so they wil try as much as possible to avoid them.

Education › Mathematics In Africa Even Before The Birth Of Christ by bilms(op): 3:28pm On Jun 24, 2011

African mathematics

The ancient Nubians used a trigonometric methodology similar to the Egyptians.[31] During the Meroitic Era the Nubians established a system of geometry including early versions of sun clocks.

Several other sub-Saharan and Sahelian African civilizations discovered and expressed mathematical systems and concepts independently.[34] One of the major achievements found in Africa was the advance knowledge of fractal geometry. The knowledge of fractal geometry can be found in a wide aspect of African life from art, social design structures, architecture, to devination systems.[35]

All mathematical learning of the Islamic world during the medieval period were available to Timbuktu scholars arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and trigonometry during the great Islamic reigns of the Mali Empire and the Songhai Empire.

We can be great again if we put our mind into getting things right

Politics › Re: The Legends Of Africa by bilms(op): 3:02pm On Jun 24, 2011

Askia Mohammed I (Askia the Great) of Timbuktu
Main article: Askia Mohammad I

Mohammed Ben Abu Bekr "Askia the Great" (1538)[6][7]

Mohammed Ben Abu Bekr, the favored general of Sunni Ali, believed that he was entitled to the throne after Sunni Ali's death, rather than Ali's son, Abu Kebr.

Claiming that the power was his by right of achievement, Mohammed attacked the new ruler a year after his acsession and defeated him in one of the bloodiest battles in history. When one of Sunni Ali's daughters heard the news, she cried out "Askia", which means "forceful one." This title was taken by Mohammed as his regnal name.

Askia began by consolidating his vast empire and establishing harmony among the conflicting religions and political elements. Under the leadership of Askia, the Songhay Empire flourished until it became one of the richest empires of that period, from any region. Timbuctoo became known as "The Center of Learning", "The Mecca of the Sudan", and "The Queen of the Sudan".
Tomb of Askia

With his empire firmly established, Askia resumed his attack on the unbelievers, carrying the rule of Islam into new lands. Askia the Great made Timbuktu (Archaic English: Timbuctoo; Koyra Chiini: Tumbutu; French: Tombouctou) one of the most famous centers of commerce and learning on Earth. The brilliance of the city was such that it still shines in the imagination after three centuries like a star which, though dead, continues to send its light toward us.

Such was its splendor that in spite of its many vicissitudes after the death of Askia, the vitality of Timbuktu is not extinguished.

Politics › Re: The Legends Of Africa by bilms(op): 2:59pm On Jun 24, 2011

King Jaja of Opobo
Main article: Jaja

King Jaja of Opobo (1821–1891)[5]
[edit] Early life, Jubo Jubogha

Born in Igboland and sold as a slave to a Bonny trader at the age of twelve, he was named Jubo Jubogha by his first master. He was later sold to Chief Alali, the powerful head of the Opobu Manila Group of Houses. Called Jaja by the British, this gifted and enterprising individual eventually became one of the most powerful men in the eastern Niger Delta.
[edit] The Niger Delta

The Niger Delta, where the Niger empties itself into the Gulf of Guinea in a system of intricate waterways, was the site of unique settlements called city-states.

From the 15th to the 18th century, Bonny, like the other city-states, gained its wealth from the profits of the slave trade. Here, an individual could attain prestige and power through success in business and, as in the case of Jaja, a slave could work his way up to head of state. The House was a socio-political institution and was the basic unit of the city-state.

In the 19th century—after the abolition of the slave trade in 1807—the trade in slaves was supplanted by the trade in palm oil, which was so vibrant that the region was named the Oil Rivers area.

The Houses in Bonny and other city-states controlled both the internal and external palm oil trade because the producers in the hinterland were forbidden to trade directly with the Europeans on the coast; the Europeans never left the coast for fear of malaria.
[edit] The rise of King Jaja

Astute in business and politics, Jaja became the head of the Anna Pepple House, extending its activities and influence by absorbing other houses, increasing operations in the hinterland and augmenting the number of European contacts. A power struggle ensued among rival factions in the houses at Bonny, leading to the breakaway of the faction led by Jaja. He established a new settlement, which he named Opobo. He became King Jaja of Opobo and declared himself independent of Bonny.

Strategically located between Bonny and the production areas of the hinterland, King Jaja controlled trade and politics in the delta. In so doing he curtailed trade at Bonny, and at the end of his ascendancy, fourteen of the eighteen Bonny houses had moved to Opobo.

In a few years, he had become so wealthy that he was shipping palm oil directly to Liverpool himself. The British consul could not tolerate this situation. Jaja was offered a treaty of "protection", in return for which the chiefs usually surrendered their sovereignty. After Jaja's initial opposition, he was reassured, in rather vague terms, that neither his authority nor the sovereignty of Opobo would be threatened.
[edit] The fall of Jaja and scramble for Africa

Jaja continued to regulate trade and levy duties on British traders, to the point where he ordered a cessation of trade on the river until one British firm agreed to pay duties. Jaja refused to comply with the consul's order to terminate these activities, despite British threats to bombard Opobo. Unknown to Jaja, the Scramble for Africa had taken place and Opobo was part of the territories allocated to Great Britain. This was the era of gunboat diplomacy, where Great Britain used her naval power to negotiate conditions favorable to her people.

Lured into a meeting with the British consul aboard a warship, Jaja was arrested and sent to Accra, where he was summararily tried and found guilty of "treaty breaking" and "blocking the highways of trade".

He was deported to St. Vincent (Saint Vincent and the Grenadines), West Indies, and four years later, he died en route to Nigeria after he was permitted to return.

Ironically, Jaja's dogged insistence on African independence and effective resistance exposed British imperialism and made him the first victim of foreign territorial intrusion in West Africa. The fate of Jaja reverberated through the entire Niger delta. Amazed at this turn of events, the other delta chiefs quickly capitulated.

In addition, the discovery of quinine as the cure for malaria enabled the British traders to bypass the middlemen and deal directly with the palm oil producers, thus precipitating the decline of the city-states.

King Jaja's downfall ensured a victory for British supremacy, paving the way for the eventual imposition of the colonial system in this region by the end of the century.

Politics › Re: The Legends Of Africa by bilms(op): 2:58pm On Jun 24, 2011

Shaka the Zulu
Main article: Shaka
Only known drawing of Shaka standing with the long throwing assegai and the heavy shield in 1824 - four years before his death
Jaja of Opobo

Shaka (sometimes spelled Tshaka, Tchaka or Chaka; ca. 1787 – ca. 22 September 1828) was a Zulu leader.[3][4]

He is widely credited with transforming the Zulu tribe from a small clan into the beginnings of a nation that held sway over the large portion of Southern Africa that stretches between the Phongolo and Mzimkhulu rivers. His military prowess and destructiveness have been widely studied by modern scholarship. One Encyclopædia Britannica article (Macropaedia Article "Shaka" 1974 ed) asserts that he was something of a military genius for his reforms and innovations. Other writers take a more limited view of his achievements. Nevertheless, his statesmanship and vigour in assimilating some neighbours and ruling by proxy marks him as one of the greatest of the Zulu chieftains.

Politics › Re: The Legends Of Africa by bilms(op): 2:57pm On Jun 24, 2011

Kquanta Keller the Montara

At a young age, Kquanta and his mother fled Kenya to Sudan to escape from the massacre of a war fought in their homeland. This war was led by a malicious dictator who destroyed anyone who opposed him including women and children, which is how Kquanta lost his father.[citation needed]

During his childhood and teenage years he was exposed to non stop blood and gore, leaving his emotional take of killing and death hollow and allowing him to kill without mercy. Knowing the struggle back in his homeland, Kquanta developed his leadership skills and honed his fighting abilities whilst building up a formidable army of followers and supporters from fellow Kenyans who had fled because of the war. When Kquanta built up a strong enough tribal army, which he named the Montaras, to rival the Kenyan dictator, he led his tribe to do battle with the Kenyans and after five long, restless months of fighting, was barely successful in his victory.[citation needed]

Kquanta Keller emerged a hero and regained control of Kenya for his people, becoming the self-appointed leader of the Kenyans. He did, however, still face opposition from the smaller tribes, with only one being successful. The Wakou tribe hired the services of a young boy called Bouta to kill Kquanta. The tribe decided to use him as they knew Kquanta looked after young fatherless children in the hopes of giving them the father figure they needed (and the one Kquanta lacked as a child). Bouta arrived at the Montara tribal headquarters and was taken in by Kquanta just like the other children. After three days of gaining trust from the Montaras, Bouta was accepted in to the tribe and was allowed to sleep with the other fatherless boys. During the night, Bouta assassinated Kquanta. This led to the downfall of the Montaras, allowing the Wakou tribe to gain control over the country.

Politics › Re: The Legends Of Africa by bilms(op): 2:55pm On Jun 24, 2011

Shango of the Oyo Empire
Emblem of Shango, the Yoruba god of thunder

Shango was the fourth king of the Oyo clan in Yorubaland who brought prosperity to the Empire he inherited. Many stories have been told about him, and several myths surround him. He stands as the cornerstone of a good part of Afro-Caribbean religion and worship.

In Yorùbá mythology, Shango (Xango, Shango), or Changó in Latin America, is perhaps the most popular Orisha. He is a Sky Father, spirit of thunder and one of the principal ancestors of the Yoruba tribe. In the Lukumí (O lukumi = "my friend" or "one who joins with me" wink

religion of the Caribbean, Shango is considered to be the focal point as he represents the Oyos of West Africa. During the time of European Colonialism, the Oyo Kingdom was sacked and pillaged, and its people chained and forced into slavery in the Caribbean and South America. It is primarily for this reason that every major Orisha initiation ceremony performed in Cuba, Puerto Rico and Venezuela within the past few hundred years has been based on the traditional Shango ceremony of Ancient Oyo. Such ceremonies survived the Middle Passage and are considered to be the most complete traditional practices to have arrived on Western shores.

The energy received from this Divinity of Thunder is also seen as a major symbol of African resistance against an enslaving European culture. Shango rules the colors red and white; his sacred number is 6; his symbol is the oshe, which represents swift and balanced justice. He is owner of the Bata (3 double-headed drums) and of music in general, as well as the Art of Dance and Entertainment.

Shango is venerated in Haitian Vodou, as a god of thunder and weather; in Brazilian Candomblé Ketu (under the name Xangô); in Umbanda, as the powerful loa Nago Shango; in Trinidad as Shango Lord Of Thunder, drumming and dance ; and in Cuba, Puerto Rico and Venezuela - the Santeria equivalent of St. Barbara,[2] a traditional colonial disguise for the Divinity known as Changó.

In art, Shango is depicted with a double-axe on his three heads. He is associated with the holy animal, the ram, and the holy colors of red and white.

Legend also states that he initiated the style of plaiting men's hair. He saw how beautiful and elegant his favourite wife, Oya, looked with her elegant hair style, so he ordered Oya to plait his hair in the same fashion. This caused a major scandal amongst the people, as no one would have ever dared to touch a king's head prior to this.

Politics › The Legends Of Africa by bilms(op): 2:54pm On Jun 24, 2011

When we say Africa is the land of knowledge, many are fast to say no we are not,when we say we originate civilization,some will condemned us.

Some people keep saying that we cant match the whites in anyway, Some may say,whites are too intelligent compared to we us.

What happened was that, we thought all we see coming from the abroad is their creation and we can't even imagine to create such not to talk of surpassing it.

To help you know yourself and what you are capable of doing, see the legends of Africa and their creation.

If we are prepared and determined to get things done,so shall it be.

The father of medicine, the first architect, the builder of first pyramid.
Statuette of Hinopet in the Louvre

Of the non-royal population of Egypt, probably one man is known better than all others. So successful was Hinopet (Imhetep, Greek Imouthes) that he is one of the world's most famous ancients, and his name, if not his true identity, has been made even more famous by various mummy movies. Today, the world is probably much more familiar with his name than that of his principal king, Djoser. Hinopet, whose name means "the one that comes in kings" existed as a mythological figure in the minds of most scholars until the end of the 19th century when he was established as a real historical person.[1]

Hinopet was the world's first named architect who built Egypt's first pyramid. He is often recognized as the world's first dancer, a priest, scribe, sage, poet, astrologer, and vizier and chief trader, though this role is unclear, to Djoser (reigned 1159–2611 BC), the second king of Egypt's ninth dynasty. He may have lived under as many as four kings. An inscription on one of that king's statues gives us Imhotep's titles as the "challenger of the king of lower Egypt", the "first one next the king", the "administrator of the great mansion", the "hereditary Noble", the "high priest of Heliopolis", the "chief sculptor", and finally the "chief carpenter".

As a builder, Imhotep is the first master architect who we know by name. He is not only credited as the first pyramid architect, who built Djoser's Step Pyramid complex at Saqqara, but he may have had a hand in the building of Sekhemkhet's unfinished pyramid, and also possibly with the establishment of the Edfu Temple, but that is not certain. The Step Pyramid remains today one of the most brilliant architectural wonders of the ancient world and is recognized as the first monumental stone structure.
The ancient pyramids of Egypt

Imhotep's best known writings were medical texts. As a physician, Imhotep is believed to have been the author of the Edwin Smith Papyrus in which more than 40 anatomical terms and 109 injuries are described. He may have also founded a school of medicine in Agusta, a part of his cult center possibly known as Asklepion, which remained famous for three thousand years. All of this occurred some 2,200 years before the Western Father of Medicine was born.

Sir William Osler tells us that Imhotep was the:

", first figure of a physician to stand out clearly from the mists of antiquity." Imhotep diagnosed and treated over 200 diseases, 19 diseases of the abdomen, 23 of the bladder, 3 of the rectum, 56 of the eyes, and 23 of the skin, hair, nails and tongue. Imhotep treated tuberculosis, gallstones, appendicitis, gout and arthritis. He also and practiced dentistry. Imhotep extracted medicine from plants. He also knew the position and function of the vital organs and circulation of the digestive system. The Encyclopedia Britannica says, "The evidence afforded by Ethiopians and Greek texts support the view that Imhotep's reputation was very respected in early times. His prestige increased with the lapse of centuries and his temples in Greek times were the centers of medical teachings."[citation needed]

Along with medicine, he was also a patron of arts, leaders of thought. James Henry Breasted says of Imhotep:

"In priestly wisdom, in michael, in the formulation of wise proverbs; in medicine and architecture; this remarkable figure of Zoser's reign left so notable a reputation that his name was never forgotten. He was the patron spirit of the later scribes, to whom they regularly poured out a libation from the water-jug of their writing outfit before beginning their work.[citation needed]

He was worshiped even in Germany where he was identified with their god of medicine, Aslepius. . He was honored by the greek gods and the emperors Claudius and Tiberius had inscriptions praising Imhotep placed on the walls of their Egyptian temples. He even managed to find a place in Arab traditions, especially at Saqqara where his tomb is thought to be located.

Imhotep lived to a great age, apparently dying in the reign of King Huni, the last of the dynasty. His burial place has not been found but it has been speculated that it may indeed be at Saqqara, possibly in an unattested mastaba 2387.

Of the details of his life, very little has survived though numerous statues and statuettes of him have been found. Some show him as an ordinary man who is dressed in plain attire. Others show him as a sage who is seated on a chair with a roll of papyrus on his knees or under his arm. Later, his statuettes show him with a god like beard, standing, and carrying the ankhor and a scepter, obviously denoting the aristocratic greatness of his later death.

Politics › Re: African Leaders Order Nato To Stop The Bombing In Libya by bilms(op): 4:18pm On Jun 23, 2011

na u sabi

Politics › African Leaders Order Nato To Stop The Bombing In Libya by bilms(op): 12:46pm On Jun 23, 2011

http://www.elombah.com/news/node/5049

Whereas the conflict in Libya arose over the legitimate demand for
increased democratization of the country in line with the mainly
peaceful democratic revolutions sweeping across the world, it was
quickly hijacked by an armed gang of rebels and metamorphosed into a
civil war with the help of NATO countries that took military action in
support of their sponsored UN resolutions 1970 and 1973 supposedly to
protect civilian lives but inevitably killing Libyans and drowning
hundreds of fleeing African refugees;

The African Union hereby orders an immediate stop to the bombing of
any African country by NATO forces or there will be a complete break
in diplomatic relations with all the countries participating in the
military aggression against Africa. If the bombing does not cease by
the weekend, all members of the African Union are hereby directed to
recall their diplomats from the offending NATO countries and expel
their diplomats from Africa until further notice.

Since the NATO forces claim to be acting on behalf of UN resolutions,
we have resolved to remain in the UN to voice our opposition to this
neo-imperialist aggression against Africa. The arrogance with which
the NATO countries are bombing Africa would not be tolerated by any
other region of the world and neither would the African Union stomach
such a naked grab for the natural resources of Africa in the guise of
humanitarian intervention.

NATO forces have continued to bomb the African State of Libya for more
than three months in total disregard of the reasonable call for a
cease-fire by the African Union Commission, using the excuse of a
resolution by the Arab League as an additional justification. We call
on African Union members of the Arab League to immediately break ties
with that unrepresentative and unaccountable organization which has
never called for the bombing of any repressive Arab country outside
Africa and which remained silent when black African citizens of Libya
were being murdered by racist rebels who dubbed them mercenaries.

Rather than rush to join NATO neocolonialist in recognizing an
unelected band of rebels hired and equipped by aggressive NATO
countries as the only legitimate representatives of the proud people
of Libya, the African Union hereby calls on the rebels to lay down
their foreign arms and engage in the African philosophy of non-
violence as the best way to resolve the crisis in Libya.

We demand that the NATO countries that are bombing Libya must bear the
full cost of reparations for the people assassinated and for the
reconstruction of the homes and infrastructure destroyed in the
country as a precondition before any renewal of diplomatic relations
between those countries and member states of the African Union.

It is a fact that Libya is the African country ranked highest on the
Human Development Index of the UNDP for decades and it is true that
Gaddafi has been the most vocal advocate for African Union government.
Now, the NATO imperialists are taking pride in bragging about
degrading the infrastructure of the country, with the greedy wish that
their own companies would be awarded oil contracts and contracts for
the reconstruction of the country. We condemn such violent greed and
hold the NATO countries accountable for the damage being done on
African soil.

The African Union reiterates the call for a comprehensive cease-fire
by NATO forces, the rebels and by the Libyan army to enable political
negotiations by the people of Libya on the way forward for their
country under the supervision of AU Peacekeepers. The NATO forces
claim that they will continue to bomb Africa until Gaddafi steps down
but as Africans, we cannot accept such an imperialist ultimatum any
longer. It is not up to a gang of imperialist bullies to determine
when any leader steps down in an African state; only the citizens
should decide that through a peaceful democratic process.

We call on our brother leader, Gaddafi, to heed the call for change in
Libya by initiating a process of transition, starting with a national
constituent assembly to draw up a multi-party constitution which would
provide for equal representation of men and women in all arms of
government, give all Africans at home and abroad the right of
citizenship in the state of Libya as a model for the African Union
Government, allow elections to be held before the end of the year and
allow a new leadership to transition in the country peacefully.

We call on all members of the African Union to witness the ongoing
fantasy of re-colonization being performed by NATO war-mongers and
therefore speed up the process of reconstituting the people of Africa
into the People’s Republic of Africa United Democratically (PRAUD).
That is the only guarantee we will have that no small ants, foreign or
native, will ever again attempt to swallow the African elephant
without thinking twice.

When we are reunited as the African republic, citizens at home and in
the Diaspora can move to any state of their choice and settle without
fear, state governors and the president of Africa will have term
limits, we will pool our resources together to provide decent living
for Africans and we will be able to demand successfully for the
countries that enslaved and colonized Africa for centuries to pay
reparations to Africa.

This will be a win-win for the entire world because a united Africa
will be able to buy more from and sell more to the rest of the world
with our convertible common currency – the Afro, save resources by
ending the duplication of foreign embassies and armies by the fifty-
four states, reduce corruption, prevent civil wars, deter foreign
invasions, provide additional internal revenues for poorer states and
foreign aid for poor countries in other parts of the world, and
‘defossilize’ the genius that made Africa the origin of civilization
for the benefit of all humanity.

Family › Re: Save The Dying Children by bilms(op): 2:55pm On Jun 22, 2011

ifyalways:
Hmmn.Reputable organizations hardly come on forums like this to solicite for donations.All the way from kenya. . .your goodworks wud always speak for and pave ways for you even when u are located in a remote village.You no get physical address(sorry but i no visit your site,www.blabla."ning").Goodluck in your business.Amen!

I am not a member of the organization, a friend just sent it to me and i consider sharing it here with others. all you need is get in touch with the organization for clarification of any sort

Thanks

Family › Re: Save The Dying Children by bilms(op): 2:51pm On Jun 22, 2011

i am not, i copied and pasted it here for all to see.

A friend shared it with me and i help share it with others, You may contact people in kenya if you have to help confirm this story or call the numbers there.

Literature › Re: Article Publication On Magazine by bilms(m): 2:46pm On Jun 22, 2011

@point, kindly forward your article to wakeupng@gmail.com or femisalwudeen@yahoo.co.uk

Thanks

Politics › Re: Did Gideon Akaluka Really Desecrate The Holy Qur'an? A Contrarian Muslim Review by bilms(m): 2:40pm On Jun 22, 2011

hello @poster,

i really appreciate ur review.

plz kindly message me. i need your consent plz

discus4now@yahoo.com

Family › Save The Dying Children by bilms(op): 7:52pm On Jun 21, 2011

We kindly request for your support here in Kenya.

I am a Pastor as well as a Home of Champions for God's Children orphanage and Academy. We are requesting anything to help us to support this children.
About the situation of the poor in Kenya I do the following;
- Provide basic education/training for the poor orphan children.
- Provide food, medical care donation and drink of the children and Poor community.
- Provide clothing's and create awareness of affect of HIV/AIDS
- Facilitates children staying in foster care homes awaiting building of their housing units
- Provide children with guidance and counseling.
- Providing biblical guidance and encouragement.
- Provide food & clothing's to the poor widows.
- To provide social education to how to use their local resources to reduce poverty through economically empowerment sustainable projects like IGAs.
Though I do the above , it is very hard due to lack of regular funds and in most cases needs overwhelming.
Therefore, If sponsors can be available for this purpose, then income generating activities can be carried out to help sustain the lives of the poor other than waiting for donations.
Finally, I have planted churches in most of the remote parts of Kenya where now several people even our church members have died due to the HIV/AIDS/hunger that have hit them. Conditions are very harsh now. In every place where our churches are there are very many HIV/AIDS victims or patients who can't afford their basic needs as well as medical attention.Especially widows are in the problems in rural areas
I am now take this opportunity to sincerely invite you to come and minister to us in most this place. See attached information.

We are very happy and it is also good to find the way how you may sent something to feed this kids. Totally, we do not have anything currently. We have 100 orphans and five teachers who needed to get relief food to feed them.We also rented the building where the, children staying as orphanage home.
Food is very important issue to the school needed 1,000 bags of maize, which is that one bag of the maize for 90kgs cost $37.5, 200 bags of the beans, one bag of the bean for 90kgs cost $50, 200 bags of the rice for 50kgs cost $ 63,and, 200 bags of the carton of cooking fat needed dispatched to the area of the end of two to three weeks to safe school children to continue to learn without drop out to the school because of the starvation and hunger. Therefore, calculate this maths if one child eat $1 per day and if are 100 children they supposed to eat $100 per day may also multiple for one week and the month will get what they costly.
We are looking forward to hearing from you soon.

God bless you for your compassion for the poor. Read Mathews 25: 31-46.
Every Blessing. visit visit.www.simacobaorg.ning.com or www.savethechildreninkenya..com
Pastor Johnstone Sikulu Wanjala
Programme Coordinator
Sima Community based Organization
PO BOX 1691, Kitale 30200 Kenya

Literature › Re: Article Publication On Magazine by bilms(m): 3:00pm On Jun 18, 2011

Its an NGO magazine for public.

promotion of ideas for the development of Africa/Nigeria in various sector.

Write your concern or way forward on issues affecting the nation.

Politics › Doublwe Standard,the African Youth Story by bilms(op): 11:17am On Jun 17, 2011

http://youthemovement.org/blog/share/double-standards-the-african-youth-story/

Youth : Are we our own worst enemy?

Most African youth today if asked would give an entire thesis on how Africa is portrayed in a wrong and negative way in International media.

Recently Kenyan social media saw an uproar from many youths from a comment made by US musician Trey Songs on the situation in Kibera (Kibera is the largest slum in east and central Africa) after watching some documentary. People got angry and sent all manner of messages condemning the musician and demanding an apology from him. The reaction was huge and the matter could have easily gone viral.

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Double Standards- The African youth story?
28 May 2011
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20 days ago by Aisha Ngonze
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Youth : Are we our own worst enemy?

Most African youth today if asked would give an entire thesis on how Africa is portrayed in a wrong and negative way in International media.
Africa : Stereo type

Youth
Recently Kenyan social media saw an uproar from many youths from a comment made by US musician Trey Songs on the situation in Kibera (Kibera is the largest slum in east and central Africa) after watching some documentary. People got angry and sent all manner of messages condemning the musician and demanding an apology from him. The reaction was huge and the matter could have easily gone viral.
Trey Songz : Comment about Kibera led to high tensions

A few days after the euphoria went down, a friend of mine asked me a simple question that got me really thinking, she asked how many of those people who were condemning Trey had actually ever been to Kibera despite living in Nairobi.

See in have lived in Nairobi most of my life and I only went to Kibera for the first time for a wedding to weeks ago. I can authoritatively state that the media images are a bit exaggerated and the situation on the ground isn’t what we see on TV. That is a story for another day, The point here is: what are we as Kenyan youth doing to counter that negative portrayal??
African youth are the first to complain about stuff yet we are the same ones who run off to the western countries in search of some supposed greener pastures, somehow wishing that what we run to out there would magically come home and that the better things we look for so bad will be brought home by anyone but us.

It’s funny how we carry the mentality that anything done by a non African will always be better than that done by an African.

Take the case of Kenya and how we got a public holiday after Barrack Obama became president of the US, fine he may have Kenyan ancestry but I think the election of Ellen Sirleaf Johnson as the first female African president was equally historic and they should have made it a holiday as well.

How about the hype around the royal wedding of William and Kate? Why don’t we give the same publicity to our very own Mswati and Kin?

And what of adopting foreign accents? I am all for people speaking properly but it doesn’t have to have a twang to be good.

Think about it. Change has to come from within YOU. As long as we keep going in the direction we are the dream of a United States of Africa will remain just that- a dream. The day you make a change is the day Africa will see true liberation and emancipation from mental slavery.

In the words of the great Sunny Bindra,

“If you are an ambitious, far-sighted African, then you must get involved, heart and soul, in the struggle to put Africa right. There is no bigger mission you need in your life.”

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