₦airaland Forum

The Truth About Christmas

DO YOU care about spiritual truth? If so, then perhaps you have asked these questions: (1) Was Jesus actually born on December 25? (2) Who were the “wise men,” and were they really three in number? (3) What sort of “star” led them to Jesus? (4) What does Santa Claus have to do with Jesus and his birth? (5) How does God view the Christmas custom of giving gifts or, to be more precise, exchanging gifts?

Let us now consider these questions in the light of the Bible and historical facts.

(1) Was Jesus Born on December 25?

The custom: According to tradition, Jesus’ birth took place on December 25 and is celebrated on that date. “Christmas,” says the Encyclopedia of Religion, means “‘Christ’s Mass,’ that is, the mass celebrating the feast of Christ’s nativity,” or birth.

Its roots: “The establishment of December 25 evolved not from biblical precedent,” says The Christmas Encyclopedia, “but from pagan Roman festivals held at year’s end,” about the time of the winter solstice in the Northern Hemisphere. Those festivals included the Saturnalia, in honor of Saturn, god of agriculture, “and the combined festivals of two sun gods, the Roman Sol and the Persian Mithra,” says the same encyclopedia. Both birthdays were celebrated on December 25, the winter solstice according to the Julian calendar.

Those pagan festivals began to be “Christianized” in the year 350, when Pope Julius I declared December 25 to be Christ’s birthday. “The Nativity gradually absorbed or supplanted all other solstice rites,” says the Encyclopedia of Religion. “Solar imagery came increasingly to be used to portray the risen Christ (who was also called Sol Invictus), and the old solar disk . . . became the halo of Christian saints.”

What the Bible says: The Bible does not give Jesus’ birth date. But we can safely conclude that he was not born on December 25. How so? The Bible tells us that when Jesus was born, shepherds were “living out of doors” tending their flocks at night in the vicinity of Bethlehem. (Luke 2: The cold, rainy season usually began in October, and shepherds—especially in the colder highlands, such as those around Bethlehem—brought their sheep into protected shelters at night. The coldest weather, sometimes accompanied by snow, occurred in December.*

Significantly, the early Christians, many of whom had accompanied Jesus in his ministry, never celebrated his birth on any date. Rather, in harmony with his command, they commemorated only his death. (Luke 22:17-20; 1 Corinthians 11:23-26) Still, some may say, ‘Does the pagan connection really matter?’ The answer? It does to God. “The true worshipers will worship the Father with spirit and truth,” said Jesus Christ.—John 4:23.

(2) The “Wise Men”—How Many? Who Were They?

The custom: Guided by a “star” from the east, three “wise men” are portrayed as presenting gifts to Jesus in a manger in a stable. Sometimes shepherds are also shown as being present.

Its roots: Aside from the brief account in the Bible, “everything written about the Wise Men stems principally from legend,” says The Christmas Encyclopedia.

What the Bible says: The Bible does not say how many “wise men” visited Jesus. There may have been two, or there may have been three, four, or more. Although termed “wise men” in some Bible translations, the original-language word is magoi, which means astrologers or sorcerers—professions that the Bible says are “detestable to Jehovah.” (Deuteronomy 18:10-12) By virtue of their long journey from the East, the astrologers did not arrive in time to visit Jesus in the stable. Rather, after perhaps months of travel, they “went into the house” where Jesus was staying. There they saw “the young child with Mary its mother.”—Matthew 2:11.

(3) What Sort of Star Led the Astrologers?

Clues are provided by what the star actually did. For one thing, it did not lead the men directly to Bethlehem, but to Jerusalem, where their inquiries about Jesus reached the ears of King Herod. Herod then “secretly summoned the astrologers,” who told him about the newborn “king of the Jews.” Herod then said: “Make a careful search for the young child, and when you have found it report back to me.” Herod’s interest in Jesus, however, was anything but noble. Rather, this proud and ruthless ruler was resolved to put Jesus to death!—Matthew 2:1-8, 16.

Interestingly, the “star” now led the astrologers south to Bethlehem. There “it came to a stop” above the house where Jesus was.—Matthew 2:9, 10.

Clearly this was no ordinary star! And why would God, who had used angels to inform humble shepherds of Jesus’ birth, now employ a star to guide pagan astrologers—first to Jesus’ enemy and then to the child himself? The only reasonable conclusion is that the star was a sinister device of Satan, who is capable of such manifestations. (2 Thessalonians 2:9, 10) Ironically, an ornament called the star of Bethlehem is usually seen at the very top of the Christmas tree.

(4) What Does Santa Claus Have to Do With Jesus and His Birth?

The custom: In many lands, Santa Claus is viewed as the one who brings children gifts.* Children often write to Santa, asking for presents, which, according to tradition, elves help him to make at his North Pole headquarters.

Its roots: According to the popular view, the Santa Claus myth owes its origin to Saint Nicholas, Archbishop of Myra in Asia Minor, now Turkey. “Virtually everything written about St. Nicholas is based on legends,” says The Christmas Encyclopedia. The designation “Santa Claus” may owe its origin to the word Sinterklaas, a corruption of the Dutch terms for “Saint Nicholas.” Historically and Biblically, Santa Claus has nothing in common with Jesus Christ.

What the Bible says: “Now that you have put away falsehood, speak truth each one of you with his neighbor.” Our closest ‘neighbors’ are our family members. (Ephesians 4:25) The Bible also says that we should “love truth,” “speaking the truth in [our] heart.” (Zechariah 8:19; Psalm 15:2) True, telling children that Santa (or the Christ child) is the bearer of presents at Christmas may seem to be innocent fun, but is it right or wise to deceive little children, even if one’s intentions are not bad? Do you not find it ironic that an occasion that is supposedly meant to honor Jesus becomes a time to deceive children?

(5) How Does God View Christmas Gift-Giving and Merrymaking?

The custom: Christmas giving is unusual in that it largely involves an exchange of gifts, and the Christmas season is marked by partying, feasting, and drinking.

Its roots: Ancient Roman Saturnalian festivities began on December 17 and concluded on the 24th, when gifts were exchanged. Homes and streets were noisy with banqueting, heavy drinking, and riotous behavior. The Saturnalia was followed by an event celebrating the first day of January. This was also observed by a festival, usually lasting about three days. The Saturnalia and the first day of January likely formed one festive occasion.

What the Bible says: Joy and generosity characterize true worship. “Be joyful, you righteous ones; and cry out joyfully,” the Bible says. (Psalm 32:11) Such joy is often associated with generosity. (Proverbs 11:25) “There is more happiness in giving than there is in receiving,” said Jesus Christ. (Acts 20:35) He also said: “Practice giving,” or make it a regular part of your life.—Luke 6:38.

Such giving has little in common with ritualized giving or giving that is compelled, perhaps by social custom. Describing the true spirit of generosity, the Bible states: “Each person should give as he has decided for himself; there should be no reluctance, no sense of compulsion; God loves a cheerful giver.” (2 Corinthians 9:7, The New English Bible) Those who heed these excellent Bible principles give because their generous heart impels them to do so, which can be at any time of the year. To be sure, this kind of giving has God’s blessing, and it is never burdensome.

A Counterfeit!

When examined in the light of the Bible, virtually every facet of Christmas is either pagan in origin or a distortion of the Bible accounts. Hence, Christmas customs are Christian in name only. How did this come about? Centuries after the death of Christ, many false teachers arose, just as the Bible had foretold. (2 Timothy 4:3, 4) Those unprincipled men were more interested in making Christianity fashionable to the pagan masses than they were in teaching truth. Hence, they gradually adopted popular pagan religious festivals and labeled them “Christian.”

Such “false teachers,” the Bible warned, “will exploit you with counterfeit words. But as for them, the judgment from of old is not moving slowly, and the destruction of them is not slumbering.” (2 Peter 2:1-3)


SOW WEEDS, REAP WEEDS

At one time, church authorities fought “tooth and nail against [the] relics of heathenism,” says the book Christmas Customs and Traditions—Their History and Significance. But in time, church leaders became more eager to fill pews than teach truth. Hence, they began to “wink at” those pagan practices. Later they embraced them.

‘What you sow you reap,’ the Bible says. (Galatians 6:7) After sowing their fields with the seeds of paganism, the churches should not be surprised that “weeds” proliferate. A celebration allegedly honoring the birth of Jesus becomes an excuse for drunkenness and revelry, the shopping mall becomes more popular than the church, families go deeply into debt buying presents, and children confuse myth with reality and Santa Claus with Jesus Christ. Yes, for good reason, God said: “Quit touching the unclean thing.”—2 Corinthians 6:17.

True.....once PDP come back everything will just become like sweet and honey....like APC is not 60% decamped members of PDP.

Also, as soon as PDP comes back oil prices will go up, more revenues will flow in for us all to merry like it's 1999.

The Same PDP that couldn't pay salary when crude was being sold for $90.

Yet Nigerians will not shine their eyes and recognize that Politics in Nigeria is all about selfish interests and relevance.

To me, Dangote cannot change our situation as it is today beyond Huff and Puff that will eventually fizzle out in no time once reality of our situation sets in.

Venezuela has more oil reserve than us but because of lack of planning and corruption, they are now a beggar Nation.

The only issue i have with this current government is that they are always too slow to gauge and react to the mood of the Nation.

Nigerians are in pains, the best thing to do is to see that we get comfort in the middle of our suffering and allowing some people to rubbish the government good intentions is definitely rubbing off negatively on the people.

I am sure Both Buhari anr Osibanjo are not in Government to steal out Commonwealth. Our Commonwealth is just not enough to do everything we want at the moment.....I won't blame them for that.

I wrote this about a year ago and still srand by it. What we are facing now is not the handiwork of the current administration but a result of our failure to plan.

Venezuela was a bigger player in the oil industry, their economy was a mix of capitalism and socialism and their citizens benefitted from the huge oil reserve. However, failure to plan and corruption from the period of excess revenue from high oil prices have come back to hunt them as we speak.

Their people cannot even afford to eat or buy medicine. Their are practically on their knees .....begging to eat.

That's what happen when you fail to plan as a country and I doubt if the issue is if any new leader can change the situation with ingenious policies.

My point is, we should be very objective as realistic about our expectations and ignore the lies those politicians are telling is that they will perform miracles.


Oir over dependent on oil, corruption and lack of planning from previous administration... Especially Jonathan Administration is largely responsible for where we find ourselves today and nothint much this current government can do.

I'm even surprised that the federal govt is able to give bailouts to states for salaries the previous government with higher revenue stream could not handle.

I am not stupid to believe the propaganda and lies of those politicians who are only seeking power to benefit themselves are saying. I swear to you that they have nothing to offer ....and stealing is actually corruption.

DEOLINX:
FOOD FOR THOUGHTS FOR THOSE WHO STILL HAVE THEIR THINKING CAP ON:



1) Like the prodigal son, Nigeria's dependent on Oil has ruined our collective thinking and planning abilities and the desire of those who have been fortunate to find themselves in the corridors of power to enrich themselves with our collective wealth have now made the future of our children bleak.

2) In just 5 years, Jonathan's administration generated as much crude oil sales as all 16 years of Yaradua, Obasanjo, Abdusalami and Abacha's administrations combined in unadjusted numbers. This comes to $470B vs $489B in unadjusted numbers. When adjusted for inflation, the numbers are $488.8B vs. $594B for Jonathan vs. Yaradua+Obj+Abdusalami+Abacha combined. Does the investment in Nigeria in the past 5 years add up to $500B.?

3) Exchange Rate is a function of our earnings and we can only spend what we earn. This means that the current Government, with 1/3 of dollar earnings from crude sale automatically faces a huge challenge in managing exchange rates. Not surprising to me that they chose the wise option.

4) During the last days of the Jonathan Administration, and with crude still selling around $80, they could not pay salaries of Federal Civil Servants...States were practically bankrupt and yet with crude now selling for $36 we expect the current government to pay with ease...from where? I am surprised the first thing the Government did was to rescue states and pay salaries from wherever they got the money to pay....we should all be grateful for that.

5) So, why are we having fuel scarcity? Is it not because our past leaders did not see any sense in making our refineries work so we can refine our own crude even if for our local needs? Who is really to blame here? What are we expecting the current government to do? To Pay subsidies from the little revenue we are now getting from crude sales at $36? So we can be happy ...in the short term?

6) I sense vandalism from our brothers who are happy with the statuesque…good, in the end we blow up pipelines and what happens next? … a) We lose the little revenue necessary to run our economy and pay salaries. b)We scare away Investors and create unemployment. c) We create Fuel scarcity d) We ground our Crude dependent economy and create several social problems. e) Power generation drops.

7) Ok,…so we have power problems and fuel scarcity at same time..why? Maybe because when we are blowing up pipelines we didn’t remember that we need the gas to power our turbines and generate electricity…yet, we blame government.

So, we want Jonathan days back, when we can share ‘our money’ directly from CBN and surround goats with tubers of yams. I guess once he comes back, price of crude will jump back to $120 per barrel….those sweet days we planned to fail and failed to plan for what we are suffering now.

HEY! TIME TO WAKE UP AND FACE REALITIES…DON’T WORRY YOURSELVES…I DO NOT BELONG TO ANY PARTY….I AM NOT A SENATOR AND HAVE NEVER VOTED FOR ANYONE BEFORE…
I WANT OUR YOUTH TO SNAP OUT OF THE LIES AND PROPAGANDA AND WAKE UP TO THE NEW ECONOMIC DAWN…I DOUBT JESUS MIRACLE CAN HELP US NOW BECAUSE WE FAILED TO PLAN AND MUST FACE THE CONSEQUENCIES!

FOOD FOR THOUGHTS FOR THOSE WHO STILL HAVE THEIR THINKING CAP ON:



1) Like the prodigal son, Nigeria's dependent on Oil has ruined our collective thinking and planning abilities and the desire of those who have been fortunate to find themselves in the corridors of power to enrich themselves with our collective wealth have now made the future of our children bleak.

2) In just 5 years, Jonathan's administration generated as much crude oil sales as all 16 years of Yaradua, Obasanjo, Abdusalami and Abacha's administrations combined in unadjusted numbers. This comes to $470B vs $489B in unadjusted numbers. When adjusted for inflation, the numbers are $488.8B vs. $594B for Jonathan vs. Yaradua+Obj+Abdusalami+Abacha combined. Does the investment in Nigeria in the past 5 years add up to $500B.?

3) Exchange Rate is a function of our earnings and we can only spend what we earn. This means that the current Government, with 1/3 of dollar earnings from crude sale automatically faces a huge challenge in managing exchange rates. Not surprising to me that they chose the wise option.

4) During the last days of the Jonathan Administration, and with crude still selling around $80, they could not pay salaries of Federal Civil Servants...States were practically bankrupt and yet with crude now selling for $36 we expect the current government to pay with ease...from where? I am surprised the first thing the Government did was to rescue states and pay salaries from wherever they got the money to pay....we should all be grateful for that.

5) So, why are we having fuel scarcity? Is it not because our past leaders did not see any sense in making our refineries work so we can refine our own crude even if for our local needs? Who is really to blame here? What are we expecting the current government to do? To Pay subsidies from the little revenue we are now getting from crude sales at $36? So we can be happy ...in the short term?

6) I sense vandalism from our brothers who are happy with the statuesque…good, in the end we blow up pipelines and what happens next? … a) We lose the little revenue necessary to run our economy and pay salaries. b)We scare away Investors and create unemployment. c) We create Fuel scarcity d) We ground our Crude dependent economy and create several social problems. e) Power generation drops.

7) Ok,…so we have power problems and fuel scarcity at same time..why? Maybe because when we are blowing up pipelines we didn’t remember that we need the gas to power our turbines and generate electricity…yet, we blame government.

So, we want Jonathan days back, when we can share ‘our money’ directly from CBN and surround goats with tubers of yams. I guess once he comes back, price of crude will jump back to $120 per barrel….those sweet days we planned to fail and failed to plan for what we are suffering now.

HEY! TIME TO WAKE UP AND FACE REALITIES…DON’T WORRY YOURSELVES…I DO NOT BELONG TO ANY PARTY….I AM NOT A SENATOR AND HAVE NEVER VOTED FOR ANYONE BEFORE…
I WANT OUR YOUTH TO SNAP OUT OF THE LIES AND PROPAGANDA AND WAKE UP TO THE NEW ECONOMIC DAWN…I DOUBT JESUS MIRACLE CAN HELP US NOW BECAUSE WE FAILED TO PLAN AND MUST FACE THE CONSEQUENCIES!

PointZerom:
No amount of propaganda can save the situation, the verses you quoted is not against tithe. Tell your daddy Freezer to goan pay the dowry of that lady the disciples he said we should follow their biblical footsteps didn't engage in BABY MAMA.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VIN0Gj9cLO0

No propaganda here if you can read....but to help, I've posted a video to give visuals and audio.


No one is saying tithe never exhisted, we are saying Christianity has moved on into the salvation of Christ through the sacrifice of Jesus.


But ...the bible quotations are very clear and straight to the point raised. Not sentiments.

Jesus came to preach the gospel and have no records of tithe collected by him simply because he realized his death meant an end to us using tithe and sacrifices to seek God's forgiveness...

So, there was tithe prescribed to take care of the Levites but Tithe as we know it today is not tithe as it was in the mosaic law, which has been abolished:

Colossians 2:13 ---Furthermore, though you were dead in your trespasses and in the uncircumcised state of your flesh, God made you alive together with him. He kindly forgave us all our trespasses 14 and erased the handwritten document that consisted of decrees and was in opposition to us. He has taken it out of the way by nailing it to the torture stake.

Ephissians 2:12 At that time you were without Christ, alienated from the state of Israel, strangers to the covenants of the promise; you had no hope and were without God in the world. 13 But now in union with Christ Jesus, you who were once far off have come to be near by the blood of the Christ. 14 For he is our peace, the one who made the two groups one and destroyed the wall in between that fenced them off. 15 By means of his flesh he abolished the enmity, the Law of commandments consisting in decrees, in order to make the two groups in union with himself into one new man and to make peace


Conclusion: Read this bible verses:

Hebrew 7: 5 True, according to the Law, those of the sons of Leʹvi who receive their priestly office have a commandment to collect tithes from the people, that is, from their brothers, even though these are descendants of Abraham. 6 But this man who did not trace his genealogy from them took tithes from Abraham and blessed the one who had the promises. 7 Now it is undeniable that the lesser one is blessed by the greater 8 And in the one case, it is men who are dying who receive tithes, but in the other case, it is someone of whom witness is given that he lives. 9 And it could be said that even Leʹvi, who receives tithes, has paid tithes through Abraham, 10 for he was still a future descendant of his forefather when Mel·chizʹe·dek met him. 11 If, then, perfection was attainable through the Levitical priesthood (for it was a feature of the Law that was given to the people), what further need would there be for another priest to arise who is said to be in the manner of Mel·chizʹe·dek and not in the manner of Aaron? 12 For since the priesthood is being changed, it becomes necessary to change the Law as well. 13 For the man about whom these things are said came from another tribe, from which no one has officiated at the altar. 14 For it is clear that our Lord has descended from Judah, yet Moses said nothing about priests coming from that tribe........18 So, then, the former commandment is set aside because it is weak and ineffective. 19 For the Law made nothing perfect, but the introduction of a better hope did, through which we are drawing near to God.

Considering the state of finances that this government met with so many states unable to pay their workers salary and the last federal government borrowing money to pay federal workers, Buhari has tried with the many billions of bailouts and ' Paris Fund ' refunds given to the states. That we are by now still talking of salaries is a testimony to one of my first articles about the waste this country has become.

People should start making their Governors pay for the mismanagement of their resources instead of waging social media war against the president.

With all the billions being pumped into states what level of development have we seen in these states? What has been the effect of the 13% derivation to the Niger Delta communtites?

People can criticise but sensible criticism is what this Nation need to grow not one wrapped in religion, political and ethnic sentiments.

If a country that is running on about 30% income compared to last adminiatration can afford to do multiple bailouts for the sake of making the states pay their workers then it clearly shows prudent management of scarce resources.

In essence Pastors chose to ignore a covenant but promote tithing because it benefits them?

Truth is and as you quoted, love for one another. No one is saying anything is wrong with giving voluntarily to promote the kingdom by building more places of worship and instruments of worship.

Jehovah witness have the largest reach with thousands of kingdom halls in almost all lands and have been printing world class publications since ages while still helping brothers and sisters in need from voluntary contribution without making noise or collecting tithes to buy jets and grow businesses.

That's what the Bible says.

Maybe you should read:

Hebrew 7: 5 True, according to the Law, those of the sons of Leʹvi who receive their priestly office have a commandment to collect tithes from the people, that is, from their brothers, even though these are descendants of Abraham. 6 But this man who did not trace his genealogy from them took tithes from Abraham and blessed the one who had the promises. 7 Now it is undeniable that the lesser one is blessed by the greater 8 And in the one case, it is men who are dying who receive tithes, but in the other case, it is someone of whom witness is given that he lives. 9 And it could be said that even Leʹvi, who receives tithes, has paid tithes through Abraham, 10 for he was still a future descendant of his forefather when Mel·chizʹe·dek met him. 11 If, then, perfection was attainable through the Levitical priesthood (for it was a feature of the Law that was given to the people), what further need would there be for another priest to arise who is said to be in the manner of Mel·chizʹe·dek and not in the manner of Aaron? 12 For since the priesthood is being changed, it becomes necessary to change the Law as well. 13 For the man about whom these things are said came from another tribe, from which no one has officiated at the altar. 14 For it is clear that our Lord has descended from Judah, yet Moses said nothing about priests coming from that tribe........18 So, then, the former commandment is set aside because it is weak and ineffective. 19 For the Law made nothing perfect, but the introduction of a better hope did, through which we are drawing near to God.

misano:
God bless U

I won't argue with words of mouth... I want the Pastors to explain to their congregation what Hebrews 7:5-20 says:

Hebrew 7: 5 True, according to the Law, those of the sons of Leʹvi who receive their priestly office have a commandment to collect tithes from the people, that is, from their brothers, even though these are descendants of Abraham. 6 But this man who did not trace his genealogy from them took tithes from Abraham and blessed the one who had the promises. 7 Now it is undeniable that the lesser one is blessed by the greater 8 And in the one case, it is men who are dying who receive tithes, but in the other case, it is someone of whom witness is given that he lives. 9 And it could be said that even Leʹvi, who receives tithes, has paid tithes through Abraham, 10 for he was still a future descendant of his forefather when Mel·chizʹe·dek met him. 11 If, then, perfection was attainable through the Levitical priesthood (for it was a feature of the Law that was given to the people), what further need would there be for another priest to arise who is said to be in the manner of Mel·chizʹe·dek and not in the manner of Aaron? 12 For since the priesthood is being changed, it becomes necessary to change the Law as well. 13 For the man about whom these things are said came from another tribe, from which no one has officiated at the altar. 14 For it is clear that our Lord has descended from Judah, yet Moses said nothing about priests coming from that tribe........18 So, then, the former commandment is set aside because it is weak and ineffective. 19 For the Law made nothing perfect, but the introduction of a better hope did, through which we are drawing near to God.

Jesus came to preach the gospel and have no records of tithe collected by him simply because he realized his death meant an end to us using tithe and sacrifices to seek God's forgiveness...

So, there was tithe prescribed to take care of the Levites but Tithe as we know it today is not tithe as it was in the mosaic law, which has been abolished:

Colossians 2:13 ---Furthermore, though you were dead in your trespasses and in the uncircumcised state of your flesh, God made you alive together with him. He kindly forgave us all our trespasses 14 and erased the handwritten document that consisted of decrees and was in opposition to us. He has taken it out of the way by nailing it to the torture stake.

Ephissians 2:12 At that time you were without Christ, alienated from the state of Israel, strangers to the covenants of the promise; you had no hope and were without God in the world. 13 But now in union with Christ Jesus, you who were once far off have come to be near by the blood of the Christ. 14 For he is our peace, the one who made the two groups one and destroyed the wall in between that fenced them off. 15 By means of his flesh he abolished the enmity, the Law of commandments consisting in decrees, in order to make the two groups in union with himself into one new man and to make peace


Conclusion: Read this bible verses:

Hebrew 7: 5 True, according to the Law, those of the sons of Leʹvi who receive their priestly office have a commandment to collect tithes from the people, that is, from their brothers, even though these are descendants of Abraham. 6 But this man who did not trace his genealogy from them took tithes from Abraham and blessed the one who had the promises. 7 Now it is undeniable that the lesser one is blessed by the greater 8 And in the one case, it is men who are dying who receive tithes, but in the other case, it is someone of whom witness is given that he lives. 9 And it could be said that even Leʹvi, who receives tithes, has paid tithes through Abraham, 10 for he was still a future descendant of his forefather when Mel·chizʹe·dek met him. 11 If, then, perfection was attainable through the Levitical priesthood (for it was a feature of the Law that was given to the people), what further need would there be for another priest to arise who is said to be in the manner of Mel·chizʹe·dek and not in the manner of Aaron? 12 For since the priesthood is being changed, it becomes necessary to change the Law as well. 13 For the man about whom these things are said came from another tribe, from which no one has officiated at the altar. 14 For it is clear that our Lord has descended from Judah, yet Moses said nothing about priests coming from that tribe........18 So, then, the former commandment is set aside because it is weak and ineffective. 19 For the Law made nothing perfect, but the introduction of a better hope did, through which we are drawing near to God.

The commandment to tithe was part of the Law that Jehovah God gave to the 12 tribes of ancient Israel more than 3,500 years ago. That Law decreed that a tenth of the produce of the land and fruit trees and a tenth of the increase of the herds be given to the tribe of Levi in support of their services at the tabernacle.—Leviticus 27:30, 32; Numbers 18:21, 24.

Numbers: 21 And unto the children of Levi, behold, I have given all the tithe in Israel for an inheritance, in return for their service which they serve, even the service of the tent of meeting. ... 24 For the tithe of the children of Israel, which they offer as a heave-offering unto Jehovah, I have given to the Levites for an inheritance: therefore I have said unto them, Among the children of Israel they shall have no inheritance.


The Law did not specify a penalty for failing to tithe, but each Israelite was under a strong moral obligation to support true worship in this way. In fact, Jehovah accused Israelites who neglected tithing in Malachi’s day of ‘robbing him in tithes and offerings.’ (Malachi 3:8, New International Version) Could the same charge be leveled at Christians who do not tithe?

Well, consider. National laws are not normally valid outside a country’s borders. For example, the law that obliges motorists in Britain to drive on the left does not apply to drivers in France. Similarly, the law requiring tithing was part of an exclusive covenant between God and the nation of Israel. (Exodus 19:3-8; Psalm 147:19, 20) Only the Israelites were bound by that law.

In addition, although it is true that God never changes, his requirements sometimes do. (Malachi 3:6) The Bible states categorically that the sacrificial death of Jesus, in 33 C.E., “blotted out,” or “abolished,” the Law and with it the “commandment to collect tithes.”—Colossians 2:13, 14; Ephesians 2:13-15; Hebrews 7:5, 18.

In essence, Under the Mosaic Law, a tenth of the produce of the land and a tenth of the increase of the herds and flocks were given to the Levites yearly to support them. The Levites gave a tenth of this tenth to the Aaronic priesthood to support them. There were some additional tithes as well. Tithing is not required of Christians.


However, contributions to support true worship were still needed.


The apostle Paul did not cajole fellow believers to give. In fact, Macedonian Christians who were “under affliction” and in “deep poverty” had to ‘keep begging him with much entreaty for the privilege of kindly giving and for a share in the ministry destined for the holy ones.’—2 Corinthians 8:1-4.

True, Paul encouraged the more affluent Corinthians to imitate their generous brothers in Macedonia. Even so, observes one reference work, he ‘declined to issue directives, preferring rather to request, suggest, encourage, or appeal. Spontaneity and warmth would be absent from the Corinthians’ giving if coercion were present.’ Paul knew that “God loves a cheerful giver,” not one who gives “grudgingly or under compulsion.”—2 Corinthians 9:7.


In summary, Tithe as we know it today is not tithe as it was in the mosaic law, which has been abolished:

Colossians 2:13 ---Furthermore, though you were dead in your trespasses and in the uncircumcised state of your flesh, God made you alive together with him. He kindly forgave us all our trespasses 14 and erased the handwritten document that consisted of decrees and was in opposition to us. He has taken it out of the way by nailing it to the torture stake.

Ephissians 2:12 At that time you were without Christ, alienated from the state of Israel, strangers to the covenants of the promise; you had no hope and were without God in the world. 13 But now in union with Christ Jesus, you who were once far off have come to be near by the blood of the Christ. 14 For he is our peace, the one who made the two groups one and destroyed the wall in between that fenced them off. 15 By means of his flesh he abolished the enmity, the Law of commandments consisting in decrees, in order to make the two groups in union with himself into one new man and to make peace


Conclusion: Read this bible verses:

Hebrew 7: 5 True, according to the Law, those of the sons of Leʹvi who receive their priestly office have a commandment to collect tithes from the people, that is, from their brothers, even though these are descendants of Abraham. 6 But this man who did not trace his genealogy from them took tithes from Abraham and blessed the one who had the promises. 7 Now it is undeniable that the lesser one is blessed by the greater 8 And in the one case, it is men who are dying who receive tithes, but in the other case, it is someone of whom witness is given that he lives. 9 And it could be said that even Leʹvi, who receives tithes, has paid tithes through Abraham, 10 for he was still a future descendant of his forefather when Mel·chizʹe·dek met him. 11 If, then, perfection was attainable through the Levitical priesthood (for it was a feature of the Law that was given to the people), what further need would there be for another priest to arise who is said to be in the manner of Mel·chizʹe·dek and not in the manner of Aaron? 12 For since the priesthood is being changed, it becomes necessary to change the Law as well. 13 For the man about whom these things are said came from another tribe, from which no one has officiated at the altar. 14 For it is clear that our Lord has descended from Judah, yet Moses said nothing about priests coming from that tribe

The commandment to tithe was part of the Law that Jehovah God gave to the 12 tribes of ancient Israel more than 3,500 years ago. That Law decreed that a tenth of the produce of the land and fruit trees and a tenth of the increase of the herds be given to the tribe of Levi in support of their services at the tabernacle.—Leviticus 27:30, 32; Numbers 18:21, 24.

Jehovah assured the Israelites that the Law ‘would not be too difficult for them.’ (Deuteronomy 30:11) As long as they faithfully observed Jehovah’s commandments, including tithing, they had his promise of abundant harvests. And as a protection, an additional yearly tithe, normally consumed when the nation met for its religious festivities, was regularly set aside. Thus ‘the alien resident, the fatherless boy, and the widow’ could be satisfied.—Deuteronomy 14:28, 29; 28:1, 2, 11-14.
Nehemiah: 37* and the first of our cooked cereals and our contributions and the fruit of every woody stem, grape-juice and oil, we will bring for the priests to the vestries of our God’s house; and the tithe of our soil is for the Levites, and they, the Levites, are the ones who take up the tithes in all our working cities, ... 38 and the priest, the son of Aaron, is to be with the Levites when the Levites take up the tithes; and the Levites are to bring up the tithe of the tithe to Jehovah’s house, into the vestries of the storage house.

Numbers: 21 And unto the children of Levi, behold, I have given all the tithe in Israel for an inheritance, in return for their service which they serve, even the service of the tent of meeting. ... 24 For the tithe of the children of Israel, which they offer as a heave-offering unto Jehovah, I have given to the Levites for an inheritance: therefore I have said unto them, Among the children of Israel they shall have no inheritance.

Deuteronomy: 17 Thou mayest not eat within thy gates the tithe of thy grain, or of thy new wine, or of thine oil, or the firstlings of thy herd or of thy flock, nor any of thy vows which thou vowest, nor thy freewill-offerings, nor the heave-offering of thy hand; ... 22 Thou shalt surely tithe all the increase of thy seed, that which cometh forth from the field year by year.


The Law did not specify a penalty for failing to tithe, but each Israelite was under a strong moral obligation to support true worship in this way. In fact, Jehovah accused Israelites who neglected tithing in Malachi’s day of ‘robbing him in tithes and offerings.’ (Malachi 3:8, New International Version) Could the same charge be leveled at Christians who do not tithe?

Well, consider. National laws are not normally valid outside a country’s borders. For example, the law that obliges motorists in Britain to drive on the left does not apply to drivers in France. Similarly, the law requiring tithing was part of an exclusive covenant between God and the nation of Israel. (Exodus 19:3-8; Psalm 147:19, 20) Only the Israelites were bound by that law.

In addition, although it is true that God never changes, his requirements sometimes do. (Malachi 3:6) The Bible states categorically that the sacrificial death of Jesus, in 33 C.E., “blotted out,” or “abolished,” the Law and with it the “commandment to collect tithes.”—Colossians 2:13, 14; Ephesians 2:13-15; Hebrews 7:5, 18.

In essence, Under the Mosaic Law, a tenth of the produce of the land and a tenth of the increase of the herds and flocks were given to the Levites yearly to support them. The Levites gave a tenth of this tenth to the Aaronic priesthood to support them. There were some additional tithes as well. Tithing is not required of Christians.


However, contributions to support true worship were still needed.

About 55 C.E., an appeal went out to Gentile Christians in Europe and Asia Minor in behalf of the impoverished congregation in Judea. In his letters to the congregation in Corinth, the apostle Paul describes how this ‘collection for the holy ones’ was organized. (1 Corinthians 16:1) You may be surprised at what Paul’s words reveal about Christian giving.

The apostle Paul did not cajole fellow believers to give. In fact, Macedonian Christians who were “under affliction” and in “deep poverty” had to ‘keep begging him with much entreaty for the privilege of kindly giving and for a share in the ministry destined for the holy ones.’—2 Corinthians 8:1-4.

True, Paul encouraged the more affluent Corinthians to imitate their generous brothers in Macedonia. Even so, observes one reference work, he ‘declined to issue directives, preferring rather to request, suggest, encourage, or appeal. Spontaneity and warmth would be absent from the Corinthians’ giving if coercion were present.’ Paul knew that “God loves a cheerful giver,” not one who gives “grudgingly or under compulsion.”—2 Corinthians 9:7.
Rather than specifying an amount or a percentage, Paul merely suggested that “on the first day of every week, each one . . . should set aside a sum of money in keeping with his income.” (Italics ours; 1 Corinthians 16:2, NIV) By planning and reserving an amount on a regular basis, the Corinthians would not feel pressured into giving begrudgingly or on emotional impulse when Paul arrived. For each Christian, the decision of how much to give was to be a private matter, one that ‘he had resolved in his own heart.’—2 Corinthians 9:5, 7.

In summary, Tithe as we know it today is not tithe as it was in the mosaic law, which has been abolished:

Colossians 2:13 Furthermore, though you were dead in your trespasses and in the uncircumcised state of your flesh, God made you alive together with him. He kindly forgave us all our trespasses 14 and erased the handwritten document that consisted of decrees and was in opposition to us. He has taken it out of the way by nailing it to the torture stake.

Ephissians 2:12 At that time you were without Christ, alienated from the state of Israel, strangers to the covenants of the promise; you had no hope and were without God in the world. 13 But now in union with Christ Jesus, you who were once far off have come to be near by the blood of the Christ. 14 For he is our peace, the one who made the two groups one and destroyed the wall in between that fenced them off. 15 By means of his flesh he abolished the enmity, the Law of commandments consisting in decrees, in order to make the two groups in union with himself into one new man and to make peace


Conclusion: Read this bible verses:

Hebrew 7: 5 True, according to the Law, those of the sons of Leʹvi who receive their priestly office have a commandment to collect tithes from the people, that is, from their brothers, even though these are descendants of Abraham. 6 But this man who did not trace his genealogy from them took tithes from Abraham and blessed the one who had the promises. 7 Now it is undeniable that the lesser one is blessed by the greater 8 And in the one case, it is men who are dying who receive tithes, but in the other case, it is someone of whom witness is given that he lives. 9 And it could be said that even Leʹvi, who receives tithes, has paid tithes through Abraham, 10 for he was still a future descendant of his forefather when Mel·chizʹe·dek met him. 11 If, then, perfection was attainable through the Levitical priesthood (for it was a feature of the Law that was given to the people), what further need would there be for another priest to arisewho is said to be in the manner of Mel·chizʹe·dek and not in the manner of Aaron? 12 For since the priesthood is being changed, it becomes necessary to change the Law as well. 13 For the man about whom these things are said came from another tribe, from which no one has officiated at the altar. 14 For it is clear that our Lord has descended from Judah, yet Moses said nothing about priests coming from that tribe

1st Timothy 2: 11-12

11 Let a woman learn in silence with full submissiveness. 12 I do not permit a woman to teach or to exercise authority over a man, but she is to remain silent

How many Pastors and Mummy's do we know in Jesus's preaching sojourn on earth?


Tithes went with the sacrifice of Jesus Christ on the cross for our salvation.....Anyone exercising faith in Jesus are true followers of the Bible.

Tithes are reasons we have many churches today ....they preach prosperity and not salvation.

Jehovah's Witness use their voluntary contributions to preach and build kingdom halls in almost every corners of the earth, like Jesus Christ did, they are after true worship to Jehovah and have no interest in enriching themselves in the name of proving special anointing.

No special seats for special people in the kingdom halls and no tithes and special offering. Confirmed witnesses are welcomed with open arms by any other witness in any part of the world like you are one and same family.

Churches collecting tithes after Jesus Christ sacrifice for our salvation know they can buy jets and build mansions because they are not accountable to the God that has given His only begotten son as sacrifice for our own salvation. Hosea 6:6 tells us that " For in loyal love I delight, not in sacrifice, And in the knowledge of God, rather than in whole burnt offerings."

People need to shine their eyes very well and forget that lie about giving tithes to God....your pastors are ripping you off while you cannot even eat 3 square meals.

SGF was not cleared by any presidential letter to the Senate. The letter only asked the Senate to give him fair hearing.

How many of the senators under investigation have resigned their position or stepped aside to allow true investigation.


Since we are all reacting to the news that the NIA claimed to be working on covert Operations why are we expecting any agency apart from the presidency to do covert investigations on the matter?

Are we all sure that the SGF suspension is not tied to New revelations that the Presidency wants investigated or cleared?

I've said it before and will say it again. I pity this generation of facebook and twitter children whose future is being gradually filtered away by those who claim to be representing their interests in government within the last 20 years.

It seems once anyone get their hands on money to buy data they come to this platform to say ll sorts of nonsense in the guise of making their idiotic feelings known.

What credibility are we even defending in what is left of our legislators and rulers that we come here to defend?

Can any of the children passing useless comments against people like Sowore come out and fight for their rights and common future?

Why is anyone with brains even happy defending and justifying the madness we have witnessed within the last 20 years in this country.

Maybe many of you facebook children need to sit down suck mummy's breast some more to gather sense and trace the history of activisim in this country to know who Sowore is.

I spent my university time fighting for the rights of my fellow students and was almost rusticated during those days because we chose to come out and fight.... then we had not many facebook children being paid to tweet nonsense like today.

Sowore has sacrificed enough for us as citizens of this country where many cowards cannot come out and speak. I even remember he nearly lost his life in student activisim then.. Yet he continued speaking the truth in the face of grave intimidation while many cowards hide under social media to pass useless comments with no action.

We should be grateful to him for being a lone voice in this jungle of madness we call Nigeria.

The situation in this country right now demands that we all stand up and pray for God's intervention. Our future has been hijacked by our "representatives" and we are not sure of our future not to talk of our children.

Instead of fighting the bold "Sowores" that are coming out to fight for whatever remain of our Commonwealth,
we should be grateful to them for risking their lives to see what can be salvaged instead of castigating them because we are lucky enough to get 10MB of data to "talk" anonymously on social media.

I dare many of you to tell us the actual budget of the National Assembly or their real salaries...

Do many of us even realise that all projects have been hijacked by the same senators and our parents are struggling to get crumbs to feed us?

What legislation have been made within the last 20 years that have impacted on the lives of all of us?.. the immunity clause or pension for governors and all?

Maybe we need all to sit down and examine our true position as citizens of this country and compare our lives to other people in the many sane countries of the world..

How do we compare.... in impunity.... economic growth, crime and life expectancy, access to health and education, employment, income, etc.

Oh yes.... Our legislators are the highest paid in the world. ....We are one of the most corrupt nation of the planet....

Let's face realities...... we should all be on the streets right now. Otherwise, we really do not have a future, except of course, many of us are okay with being bribed to defend lies and make senseless noise on social media to castigate the very few heroes we have left.


Let Sowore go.... I will see who amongst you all will come out and face the dangers he faces trying to get us informed and understand the realities of our future.

I read Nairaland everyday. I have noticed however that there may be some paid people passing or writing comments on the platform.

I have to come to this conclusion because I don't want to admit that our education system has failed us. Otherwise, maybe want is called common sense is not actually that common.

I read as people praise economic sabotage here as if it is a form of agitation meant to improve our living standard. They gloat here as if Blowing up pipelines will help in cleaning the same environment they claim is their reason for agitation.

Seems to me we are so used to impunity that our sense of reasoning cannot comprehend the difference between good and bad.

Are we okay that our representatives can break the law and claim its internal democracy and that these people have so much they do that impacts our lives that they should be entitled to different salary and tax structures?

Have we ever asked where all the huge monies allocated to the Niger Delta region has been spent over the last 20 years.

Madam Ngozi ,economy guru, claimed that the money released to these region within the five years of her management is more than over 60% of the entire budget of the West African region and further claim the country was borrowing to pay salaries when crude was selling for $70 per barrel.

Now we can't even export, foreign investors are running away and crude prices have dropped to around $35 Only upped by our own stupidity to the benefit of other exporting countries.

Yet, we come here making our stupidity known to the world by expecting the current government to perform miracles.

I think it's time the youth of today look at borrowing some senses and open their eyes and head to realities so their future can be secured. Our representatives are there to represent themselves , they earn huge salaries, drive expensive jeeps and are in the process of securing their future with bogus life pensions and immunity for advance impunity.

This president is not interested in re-election. All i see is corruption fighting back. We can shoot from here to heaven, defend lies and dance as people blow the Niger Delta region to ashes. Has anyone even be coherent as per what the agitation is all about beyond their personal interests?

Jonathan was their for 6 years, what single communial development took place...OK I remember, selected agitators became so rich that they have weapons more than the Nigerian Army, Navy put together....now we are at their mercies.

We lay our beds....we are sleeping on it. I worry for the future of my children. This facebook children have no clues what the real world is all about.

I have said it and will say it again. No body wants development in Niger Delta...all these agitations are for selfish reasons.

It is not even a case of government not wanting to or trying to develop the place, it is a simple case of selfish interest over powering people's interests. Individuals in that region wants to maintain the under development status to threaten and enrich themselves while pushing ethnic and developmental sentiments.

GEJ, their own, wanted the $16 billion EPZ project in that region and they stopped him in 2014...13% derivation and LG revenues going there are being shared while kidnapping and extortion is being used to intimidate the foreign investors.

Oil companies cannot perform their social responsibilities because the militants prefer to be settled instead.

A look at their demands shows they have no real focus; release Dasuki, stop corruption probe, bring UN headquarters to the creek....all stupid demands.

So, they are blowing up everything and crumbling the economy and destroying foreign investments that has taken this nation years of corruption to pit together expecting to draw national and international sympathies and encourage further direct investments?

Blowing up south south and south west will actually bring what response?

People need to start using their brains and stop encouraging the stupidity going on in the ND at the moment.

The Niger Delta region have never even spoken with one voice with its 32 separate ethnic groups never agreeing on anything development. Is that a region hoping to mange "our oil " ? and live together as one?

I laugh in igbo.!

With the new economic realities, the massive looting of our common wealth is the last straw that require us managing what we have left , especially when a basket of Tomatoes will soon be more valuable than that of a barrel of oil.

Bomb oil facilities means no money to feed our families, bombing gas installations means we have no electricity...bombing bridges will mean disrupting movements for the people working and scrapping to make ends meet. When all the are done...we turn to each other. Rwanda will be a child's play. The creek will be too small to be wiped off.

Be making noise now, and all the internet warriors should continue encouraging nonsense after being paid by the enemies of peace and looters.

Only deaf and dumb characters will be gloating and making the president's comments look like someone begging a superior enemy to stealth their sword.

Does the militants control the airspace or what has ISIS been able to do to drones and jets other than hiding when they hear the sound of butterfly.

A sensible leader is telling you to sheath your destructive attitude that is affecting investments that we don't have the resources to replace and thus ensure we move on in this hard times as a nation and here some people are forming superior big fighters like we expect PMB to join in the destruction by bombing and killing innocent people.

I think people need to buy sense

I have read, watched and listened to a lot of discussions on the Niger Delta agitation for self or resource control on several platform but have yet to understand any reasonable or coherent way on how these can be achieved. The reason behind this is not far fetched; there is really no one sincere enough to claim that their agitation is truly for the development of the region. All these agitators are just using the situation of the region, the lack of vision and planning by past government to create ethnic sentiments and division amongst the NIGER DELTANS themselves and Nigeria as a Nation.

There is no sane person that is happy with the deplorable state of the Niger Delta Region. But it is obvious nothing will ever change in that region for good. As a matter of fact, the Niger Deltans don't really want the place developed. And unfortunately, it is not possible for full resource control to bring any development to that region.

I often imagine Nigeria to be like a conglomerate of various tribes in a face me and face me compound whose source of livelihood is tied to a single Well. Everyone goes to the well to draw as many buckets of water. No holds barred, you can draw as many buckets as you are capable and with whatever you can draw with.

By the way, Nigerians need to understand that we have evolved as a country of multiple ethnicity over 60 years now, the children of today beating the drums of war and division need to study the history of this country and the implications of civil war in a multi ethnic setting like we are. It is impossible for one region to wake up one day and start claiming ' it is our oil' it it is our region and we want to go out own way....Nations are not formed because some people think they can be on their own based on the wealth of their deposits.

I have 3 questions to analyse;

1)Is it really true and possible that all past governments have neglected the region ...including GEJ. Who came in from the minority tribe of the Region itself?

Answer: Past government have tried to rally resources, finances, oil companies, world bodies toward developing that area but most of them have been frustrated by the 'representatives' of the people themselves for their own selfish interests. It's simple, if developments is allowed then there cannot be agitation and without agitation, the few selfish people benefiting from the confusion will lose out. Many times, some few intimidates govt and investors in the region into paying them off in the place of proposed developmental programmes. Kidnapping and blowing up investments have been useful tools...the $16b EPZ project by GEJ was abandoned for something as simple as location and naming inside same Niger Delta. Others abound.

Anyone with calculator should work out the total amount of funds from federal allocations on derivation plus local government that have gone to the Region. Also, if anyone cares, we can also ask questions on what have gone to the past governors of the states.

Obviously, a very few lot have been enriching themselves to the detriment of the many suffering people and while these few sells the lack of development dummy to the whole world...the reasonable ones are better of facing the reality

I noticed whenever these points are raised, the 'agitators' will say...' it is our oil they are using to develop the other regions' . Being accountable to the fact that the region have had their lion share and did nothing visible beyond sharing amongst the fortunate few are always ignored. Madam Ngozi told the world that the money allocated to some states in the Niger Delta region for just five years of her analysis was equivalent to the entire budget of some West African countries...no-one paid attention.

http://saharareporters.com/2014/11/12/we-are-ready-war-against-itsekiri-delta-over-epz-tompolos-kinsmen-protest-president

http://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/161896-akwa-ibom-rivers-federal-allocations-50-ghanas-budget-okonjo-iweala-says.html


2) Are their really genuine and true AGITATORS and what really are they agitating for?

There are very few genuine agitators....but unfortunately about 98% of them are only agitating for their pockets.

The sad development in the agitation for better life in the Niger Delta is the divide and rule strategy being used by the 'leaders' and various governors of the region to sustain the status quo.

The strategy is simple...keep the 'big boys' happy by awarding juicy contracts and sharing from the allocations. Pay lip services and frustrate all meaningful developmental projects.

At same time ....keep up the noise and discuss about resource control and 'our oil' arguments. And when you are angry about anything or anyone asking you questions...you raise the stakes by encouraging vandalism and further degradation which becomes another problem to be pointed to later when discussing the plight of the Niger Deltas. It's a circle that tells me no development will ever happen in that region for years to come. Unless THE MANY SUFFERING NIGER DELTANS STAND UP TO BE COUNTED.

The youth of that region needs to elect amongst each and every ethnic tribe true representatives who works with traditional rulers and elders and form a forum to directly engage the government....highlight developmental plans in phases and monitor every money released to actualise each and every project so desired. As a matter of fact, the 13% derivation supposed to be managed by board of trustees elected by the traditional rulers of every ethnic group for equal development of that region.

Anything apart from this will result into same situation. If Government can negotiate with anyone blowing pipelines now, then they should be ready to do same all over again I'm the nearest future.

GEJ, son of the soil had peace and achieved nothing because of similar strategy of settling the few while neglecting actual development.

No-one should tell me he did not mean well...he was just not bold enough to face the reality as explained. Like others before him, He took the easiest route out.

This must stop now.

And this brings me to the final question...

3) After all the destruction and with the destruction escalating...what really is left for the Niger Deltas to benefit from it they breakaway with 'our oil' as being promoted.?

NOTHING!....too late... Breakthrough in technology will crash the price of oil to a basket of tomatoes in the very near future...maybe 10 years. If it takes 30 years to clean up small areas and we are still blowing up other regions then there may be no-one to plant tomatoes in 10 years time.

I am sure we all know that advancement in technology and climate problems are changing the world's reliance on Oil? Well, a company called GFBiochemicals owned by a footballer has developed alternative solution to oil and very soon ' our oil' will become more of a problem than a solution. Moreover, the US have not even touched their reserves and the entire OPEC countries are in financial meltdown, what happens of their better brand of oil is tapped.?

Why do we even expect investors to flock into the Niger Delta Region when their obsolete investments are being bombed and their people are being kidnapped.?

I have actually come to a conclusion that the very few agitating for breakup will walk away once their real intentions and selfish ambition are realized...I am sure all these are short term 'let me grab my own' agitations with the future of the suffering Niger Deltans never in consideration.

As Nigerians we must all work together as one to bring about meaningful developmental projects to the Niger Delta region, when the oil price goes below that it Tomatoes, we must also use the resources from whichever region grows it to develop where it's not grown.

We should not allow some few greedy people use ethnic and diversive sentiments to devide us. The mess at the Niger Delta region is all from out collective poo....we must all join hands to pack it and wash the place clean.

WE all enjoyed from the boom at the region and must share in the impending economic doom.

Niger Deltans should call their children to order, the journey they are hoping to enjoy by claiming 'our oil' at this moment when we are all shouting diversification is mistimed to benefit a few...

Destroying the region in the name of agitation is foolishness that must stop. Very soon, there may not even be the resources to pay for the clean up and so what happens next?

Are we saying the Niger Delta region is living in isolation of downward world economic realities?.

The agitators probably think the world will come to their aid once the light of war they are toying with is ignited....news flash....No....the war or survival will not be fought in the creeks.
After several years of being together, the development that the people benefiting from the agitation are everywhere...we are sharing almost everything...including our reproductive capabilities.

At the shout of war, when the first guns start blasting, all the ' agitators ' who are mostly facebook and twitter warlords will run with their loot....all noise makers and cowards hiding behind computers and the ones with Dane guns and dynamites in the creeks.

If you have witnessed war before you will run when you perceive the smell of a burning matchstick.

kcpumping:
pls permit me to ask, where is all the money recovered from looters and tsa ? oil I suppose is selling above benchmark, so how come we are to borrow and pay salary when fed.gov is mapping out intervention fund for some state.pls can someone explain to me wht and were we got it all wrong.....is it that adeosun is lying or fed spokes men are not serious.


By Michael Eboh


http://www.vanguardngr.com/2016/06/fg-borrowing-pay-n165bn-civil-service-salaries-adeosun/


https://www.signalng.com/wp-content/uploads/adeosun.jpg

http://newsrescue.com/finished-looted-nigeria-borrows-billions-to-pay-salaries-run-government-ngozi-okonjo-iweala/#axzz4CRM0ZhzP

Actually the nobody needs to blame the past government for the current mess because they already blamed themselves before handing the carcass to the current government as can be seen from above.

Meanwhile, Around that time, barrel of oik was still around $80 and No one was Avenging and destroying their regions to prevent Nigerians from having gas to generate electricity or sell oil to run the economy.

Also, looted funds are still evidence that cannot be spent and TSA figures does not mean monies generated to be spent.

Proceeds from non- oil revenues have been sustaining this country since saboteurs decided to take food away from all Nigerians for voting looters out of power.

I watched Channels this morning where a gentleman of the law drew attention to a provision in the constitution that says immunity is absolute and even if a person that enjoys immunity under our constitution commits any crime during the period he enjoys it, he cannot be prosecuted or jailed even after leaving office.


In a nutshell there is no punishment of any kind for anyone that Commits any crime under our immunity law even when he leaves office.

On this basis alone...I think we should all just walk the streets with our hands up in shame as a people if we have created a situation where those who are supposed to be serving us are now god's who can do whatever they like and get away with it.

It is a sad situation where we have put ourselves at the mercies of our lawmakers who now wants immunity to do whatever they like and we are here arguing about any merits of even allowing immunity clause to exist in our constitution.

Immunity clause should just be substituted with impunity clause so we can all be laughed at by more saner peoples of the world.

I'm indeed sad...I think the immunity clause debate should start and end with a resounding No. It should be a topic on its own here.

OBJlive:
The only case that Fayose has with Buhari is that he is a critic of his visionless administration, Haliburton bribery case is an infamous bribery case involving most of Nigeria's ruling politicians including atiku and Aisha Buhari.Nigerians are wiser than ur spinless attempt to cover up.those claiming to be currupt free leaders of APC are major beneficiaries of that loot.Ask Obasanjo

Easy to debunk this rubbish. Take a look.

http://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Muhammadu_Buhari
In 1988, Buhari and his first wife Safinatu got divorced. In December 1989, Buhari got married to his second and current wife Aisha (née Halilu) Buhari. They also have five children together. One boy and four girls. They are Aisha, Halima, Yusuf, Zarah and Amina.

So let’s assume Aisha is the first child born in 1990. That means that in 2005 she was 14/15yrs old! And by 2007, she was 16/17yrs old. And at that age she was already doing international business of the sort they allege? Lolz. Very very silly lies. Abeg they should go and re-cook the story well.

Reports from New York Times Story (April 29, 2007) revealed Aisha Buhari on the dubious $1.2m campaigning contract to help the Former Akwa Ibom State Gov, Obong Attah, boost his image and attract investment to Akwa Ibom in his bid to become President of Nigeria, as well as a contract where Aisha Buhari served as a consultant to orchestrate enormous name golfers to go to the opening of the Uyo Golf Resort commissioned by Former Governor Obong Attah.

As indicated by the Nytimes story “she (Aisha Buhari told him that her father was the former military ruler of Nigeria, Gen. Muhammadu Buhari, and that her American friends included politicians like Mr. Jefferson of Louisiana.”

The former governor also verified the claim by New York Times when he said, he knows Ms. Buhari’s father, who is still a powerful Nigerian politician, by reputation. He also met her, he said, in 2001 when she accompanied a group of American politicians that included Mr. Jefferson to Akwa Ibom to see oil-related pollution problems there.

In 2001, a governor wanted to give an 11/12yr old girl contract to launder his image!!! Bunkum.

Whatever comments I passed here is based on the concern I have for my children. I am actually also worried for the level of intelligence of some people on this platform whose future is being mortgaged away by very few people in this country while they dance to discordant tunes of tribal and political sentiments from people who have obviously concluded that many Nigerians are stupid.

At one time during the discourse on whether the Calabar rail project was presented or not, the Senate argued with the support of some people on this platform that they saw 59 billion floating in the budget and appropriated it to their constituency projects....(very well known to be their pockets).

Instead of people facing the substance they were busy abusing the president for wasting time and Amechi for lying...many did not condemn the act of the South South Senate for allowing this to happen.

Presently, the Senate operates their own Salary and allowance structure, their tax structure is not the same as the ones being applied to the me and you simply by tampering with the definition of what allowance is taxable and what is not.

Many corruption cases thrown under the carpet and these people behave as if they are in a separate circumstances that we are not part of.

Last week, it was arguement over sharing jeeps as against Peugeot. And now, they are gathered to to discuss constitutional amendments that affects them with clear intentions to secure their futures and that of their children while no-one will be able to challenge them and we are all arguing amongst ourselves?

A case of forgery for any other citizen is criminal but to them is witch-hunt that may lead them into impeaching the President for trying to uphold the rule of law they all swore to protect?

To kill everything, they want to ensure the President cannot stop them from whatever they cook up later by telling us they will amend the existing constitutional provision just like that?

I pity this generation....if we ever allow this to happen.

I have read, watched and listened to a lot of discussions on the Niger Delta agitation for self or resource control on several platform but have yet to understand any reasonable or coherent way on how these can be achieved. The reason behind this is not far fetched; there is really no one sincere enough to claim that their agitation is truly for the development of the region. All these agitators are just using the situation of the region, the lack of vision and planning by past government to create ethnic sentiments and division amongst the NIGER DELTANS themselves and Nigeria as a Nation.

There is no sane person that is happy with the deplorable state of the Niger Delta Region. But it is obvious nothing will ever change in that region for good. As a matter of fact, the Niger Deltans don't really want the place developed. And unfortunately, it is not possible for full resource control to bring any development to that region.

I often imagine Nigeria to be like a conglomerate of various tribes in a face me and face me compound whose source of livelihood is tied to a single Well. Everyone goes to the well to draw as many buckets of water. No holds barred, you can draw as many buckets as you are capable and with whatever you can draw with.

By the way, Nigerians need to understand that we have evolved as a country of multiple ethnicity over 60 years now, the children of today beating the drums of war and division need to study the history of this country and the implications of civil war in a multi ethnic setting like we are. It is impossible for one region to wake up one day and start claiming ' it is our oil' it it is our region and we want to go out own way....Nations are not formed because some people think they can be on their own based on the wealth of their deposits.

I have 3 questions to analyse;

1)Is it really true and possible that all past governments have neglected the region ...including GEJ. Who came in from the minority tribe of the Region itself?

Answer: Past government have tried to rally resources, finances, oil companies, world bodies toward developing that area but most of them have been frustrated by the 'representatives' of the people themselves for their own selfish interests. It's simple, if developments is allowed then there cannot be agitation and without agitation, the few selfish people benefiting from the confusion will lose out. Many times, some few intimidates govt and investors in the region into paying them off in the place of proposed developmental programmes. Kidnapping and blowing up investments have been useful tools...the $16b EPZ project by GEJ was abandoned for something as simple as location and naming inside same Niger Delta. Others abound.

Anyone with calculator should work out the total amount of funds from federal allocations on derivation plus local government that have gone to the Region. Also, if anyone cares, we can also ask questions on what have gone to the past governors of the states.

Obviously, a very few lot have been enriching themselves to the detriment of the many suffering people and while these few sells the lack of development dummy to the whole world...the reasonable ones are better of facing the reality

I noticed whenever these points are raised, the 'agitators' will say...' it is our oil they are using to develop the other regions' . Being accountable to the fact that the region have had their lion share and did nothing visible beyond sharing amongst the fortunate few are always ignored. Madam Ngozi told the world that the money allocated to some states in the Niger Delta region for just five years of her analysis was equivalent to the entire budget of some West African countries...no-one paid attention.

http://saharareporters.com/2014/11/12/we-are-ready-war-against-itsekiri-delta-over-epz-tompolos-kinsmen-protest-president

http://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/161896-akwa-ibom-rivers-federal-allocations-50-ghanas-budget-okonjo-iweala-says.html


2) Are their really genuine and true AGITATORS and what really are they agitating for?

There are very few genuine agitators....but unfortunately about 98% of them are only agitating for their pockets.

The sad development in the agitation for better life in the Niger Delta is the divide and rule strategy being used by the 'leaders' and various governors of the region to sustain the status quo.

The strategy is simple...keep the 'big boys' happy by awarding juicy contracts and sharing from the allocations. Pay lip services and frustrate all meaningful developmental projects.

At same time ....keep up the noise and discuss about resource control and 'our oil' arguments. And when you are angry about anything or anyone asking you questions...you raise the stakes by encouraging vandalism and further degradation which becomes another problem to be pointed to later when discussing the plight of the Niger Deltas. It's a circle that tells me no development will ever happen in that region for years to come. Unless THE MANY SUFFERING NIGER DELTANS STAND UP TO BE COUNTED.

The youth of that region needs to elect amongst each and every ethnic tribe true representatives who works with traditional rulers and elders and form a forum to directly engage the government....highlight developmental plans in phases and monitor every money released to actualise each and every project so desired. As a matter of fact, the 13% derivation supposed to be managed by board of trustees elected by the traditional rulers of every ethnic group for equal development of that region.

Anything apart from this will result into same situation. If Government can negotiate with anyone blowing pipelines now, then they should be ready to do same all over again I'm the nearest future.

GEJ, son of the soil had peace and achieved nothing because of similar strategy of settling the few while neglecting actual development.

No-one should tell me he did not mean well...he was just not bold enough to face the reality as explained. Like others before him, He took the easiest route out.

This must stop now.

And this brings me to the final question...

3) After all the destruction and with the destruction escalating...what really is left for the Niger Deltas to benefit from it they breakaway with 'our oil' as being promoted.?

NOTHING!....too late... Breakthrough in technology will crash the price of oil to a basket of tomatoes in the very near future...maybe 10 years. If it takes 30 years to clean up small areas and we are still blowing up other regions then there may be no-one to plant tomatoes in 10 years time.

I am sure we all know that advancement in technology and climate problems are changing the world's reliance on Oil? Well, a company called GFBiochemicals owned by a footballer has developed alternative solution to oil and very soon ' our oil' will become more of a problem than a solution. Moreover, the US have not even touched their reserves and the entire OPEC countries are in financial meltdown, what happens of their better brand of oil is tapped.?

Why do we even expect investors to flock into the Niger Delta Region when their obsolete investments are being bombed and their people are being kidnapped.?

I have actually come to a conclusion that the very few agitating for breakup will walk away once their real intentions and selfish ambition are realized...I am sure all these are short term 'let me grab my own' agitations with the future of the suffering Niger Deltans never in consideration.

As Nigerians we must all work together as one to bring about meaningful developmental projects to the Niger Delta region, when the oil price goes below that it Tomatoes, we must also use the resources from whichever region grows it to develop where it's not grown.

We should not allow some few greedy people use ethnic and diversive sentiments to devide us. The mess at the Niger Delta region is all from out collective shit....we must all join hands to pack it and wash the place clean.

WE all enjoyed from the boom at the region and must share in the impending economic doom.

Niger Deltans should call their children to order, the journey they are hoping to enjoy by claiming 'our oil' at this moment when we are all shouting diversification is mistimed to benefit a few...

Destroying the region in the name of agitation is foolishness that must stop. Very soon, there may not even be the resources to pay for the clean up and so what happens next?

Are we saying the Niger Delta region is living in isolation of downward world economic realities?.

The agitators probably think the world will come to their aid once the light of war they are toying with is ignited....news flash....No....the war or survival will not be fought in the creeks.
After several years of being together, the development that the people benefiting from the agitation are everywhere...we are sharing almost everything...including our reproductive capabilities.

At the shout of war, when the first guns start blasting, all the ' agitators ' who are mostly facebook and twitter warlords will run with their loot....all noise makers and cowards hiding behind computers and the ones with Dane guns and dynamites in the creeks.

If you have witnessed war before you will run when you perceive the smell of a burning matchstick.

FOOD FOR THOUGHTS FOR THOSE WHO STILL HAVE THEIR THINKING CAP ON:

1) Like the prodigal son, Nigeria's dependent on Oil has ruined our collective thinking and planning abilities and the desire of those who have been fortunate to find themselves in the corridors of power to enrich themselves with our collective wealth have now made the future of our children bleak.

2) In just 5 years, Jonathan's administration generated as much crude oil sales as all 16 years of Yaradua, Obasanjo, Abdusalami and Abacha's administrations combined in unadjusted numbers. This comes to $470B vs $489B in unadjusted numbers. When adjusted for inflation, the numbers are $488.8B vs. $594B for Jonathan vs. Yaradua+Obj+Abdusalami+Abacha combined. Does the investment in Nigeria in the past 5 years add up to $500B.?

3) Exchange Rate is a function of our earnings and we can only spend what we earn. This means that the current Government, with 1/3 of dollar earnings from crude sale automatically faces a huge challenge in managing exchange rates. Not surprising to me that they chose the wise option.

4) During the last days of the Jonathan Administration, and with crude still selling around $80, they could not pay salaries of Federal Civil Servants...States were practically bankrupt and yet with crude now selling for $36 we expect the current government to pay with ease...from where? I am surprised the first thing the Government did was to rescue states and pay salaries from wherever they got the money to pay....we should all be grateful for that.

5) So, why are we having fuel scarcity? Is it not because our past leaders did not see any sense in making our refineries work so we can refine our own crude even if for our local needs? Who is really to blame here? What are we expecting the current government to do? To Pay subsidies from the little revenue we are now getting from crude sales at $36? So we can be happy ...in the short term?

6) I sense vandalism from our brothers who are happy with the statuesque…good, in the end we blow up pipelines and what happens next? … a) We lose the little revenue necessary to run our economy and pay salaries. b)We scare away Investors and create unemployment. c) We create Fuel scarcity d) We ground our Crude dependent economy and create several social problems. e) Power generation drops.

7) Ok,…so we have power problems and fuel scarcity at same time..why? Maybe because when we are blowing up pipelines we didn’t remember that we need the gas to power our turbines and generate electricity…yet, we blame government.

So, we want Jonathan days back, when we can share ‘our money’ directly from CBN and surround goats with tubers of yams. I guess once he comes back, price of crude will jump back to $120 per barrel….those sweet days we planned to fail and failed to plan for what we are suffering now.

HEY! TIME TO WAKE UP AND FACE REALITIES…DON’T WORRY YOURSELVES…I DO NOT BELONG TO ANY PARTY….I AM NOT A SENATOR AND HAVE NEVER VOTED FOR ANYONE BEFORE…
I WANT OUR YOUTH TO SNAP OUT OF THE LIES AND PROPAGANDA AND WAKE UP TO THE NEW ECONOMIC DAWN…I DOUBT JESUS MIRACLE CAN HELP US NOW BECAUSE WE FAILED TO PLAN AND MUST FACE THE CONSEQUENCIES!

FOOD FOR THOUGHTS FOR THOSE WHO STILL HAVE THEIR THINKING CAP ON:

1) Like the prodigal son, Nigeria's dependent on Oil has ruined our collective thinking and planning abilities and the desire of those who have been fortunate to find themselves in the corridors of power to enrich themselves with our collective wealth have now made the future of our children bleak.

2) In just 5 years, Jonathan's administration has generated as much crude oil sales as all 16 years of Yaradua, Obasanjo, Abdusalami and Abacha's administrations combined in unadjusted numbers. This comes to $470B vs $489B in unadjusted numbers. When adjusted for inflation, the numbers are $488.8B vs. $594B for Jonathan vs. Yaradua+Obj+Abdusalami+Abacha combined. Does the investment in Nigeria in the past 5 years add up to $500B.?

3) Exchange Rate is a function of our earnings and we can only spend what we earn. This means that the current Government, with 1/3 of dollar earnings from crude sale automatically faces a huge challenge in managing exchange rates. Not surprising to me that they chose the wise option.

4) During the last days of the Jonathan Administration, and with crude still selling around $80, they could not pay salaries of Federal Civil Servants...States were practically bankrupt and yet with crude now selling for $36 we expect the current government to pay with ease...from where? I am surprised the first thing the Government did was to rescue states and pay salaries from wherever they got the money to pay....we should all be grateful for that.

5) So, why are we having fuel scarcity? Is it not because our past leaders did not see any sense in making our refineries work so we can refine our own crude even if for our local needs? Who is really to blame here? What are we expecting the current government to do? To Pay subsidies from the little revenue we are now getting from crude sales at $36? So we can be happy ...in the short term?

6) I sense vandalism from our brothers who are happy with the statuesque…good, in the end we blow up pipelines and what happens next? … a) We lose the little revenue necessary to run our economy and pay salaries. b)We scare away Investors and create unemployment. c) We create Fuel scarcity d) We ground our Crude dependent economy and create several social problems. e) Power generation drops.

7) Ok,…so we have power problems and fuel scarcity at same time..why? Maybe because when we are blowing up pipelines we didn’t remember that we need the gas to power our turbines and generate electricity…yet, we blame government.

So, we want Jonathan days back, when we can share ‘our money’ directly from CBN and surround goats with tubers of yams. I guess once he comes back, price of crude will jump back to $120 per barrel….those sweet days we planned to fail and failed to plan for what we are suffering now.

HEY! TIME TO WAKE UP AND FACE REALITIES…DON’T WORRY YOURSELVES…I DO NOT BELONG TO ANY PARTY….I AM NOT A SENATOR AND HAVE NEVER VOTED FOR ANYONE BEFORE…
I WANT OUR YOUTH TO SNAP OUT OF THE LIES AND PROPAGANDA AND WAKE UP TO THE NEW ECONOMIC DAWN…I DOUBT JESUS MIRACLE CAN HELP US NOW BECAUSE WE FAILED TO PLAN AND MUST FACE THE CONSEQUENCIES!