₦airaland Forum

Nigerian Journalism at the Crossroads: The Drift to American English and the Shadow of Digital Imperialism



By Olasunkanmi Arowolo

Language is never neutral. In Nigeria, it has always been political, cultural and symbolic. Our journalists are not only recorders of events but also guardians of language and national identity. Through them, British English was stabilised as the country’s official standard while Nigerian English developed its own rhythm and expression.

That delicate balance is now under threat. Artificial Intelligence is quietly tilting Nigerian journalism towards American English. Reporters, often without realising it, are adopting American spelling, punctuation and style because the tools they rely on were built in a different cultural context.

At first glance, this may look harmless. But what is at stake is much deeper: the erosion of linguistic sovereignty and the risk of becoming conduits of digital imperialism.

The Invisible Drift

AI writing assistants are not neutral. They carry the DNA of their training data. Since most are built on American usage, their output reflects American norms. This explains the sudden flood of em dashes in Nigerian reporting, a punctuation choice uncommon here but typical of US writing.

The same can be said of words like ‘program’ instead of ‘programme’, ‘center’ instead of ‘centre’, or ‘color’ where readers expect ‘colour’. These shifts are not conscious editorial decisions. They are signs of a creeping influence.

Over time, readers notice. A Nigerian newspaper story that reads as if it were written for an American audience feels less authentic, less connected. It risks weakening the trust between journalist and reader.

Self-Colonisation by Technology

What makes this even more troubling is the uncritical way technology is often adopted in Africa. Innovation is welcomed as progress, yet the cultural costs are rarely counted.

In journalism, this means allowing AI to dictate language norms, as though American English is the natural future and Nigerian expression an obstacle to efficiency. This attitude reflects a deeper problem: a tendency to undervalue our own linguistic and cultural identity.

This is not about resisting change at all costs. Language evolves. But evolution should be shaped by a people, not outsourced to algorithms with no understanding of context.

Why It Matters

Journalism is more than information. It is also a connection. Readers trust the press not only because of facts but because of familiarity and resonance. If our news begins to sound foreign, it risks alienating the very audience it serves.

Consider how quickly people switch off when a broadcaster’s accent feels artificial. The same logic applies to written journalism. If stories no longer sound Nigerian in tone, rhythm or choice of words, they lose some of their power to persuade and to connect.

Guarding Sovereignty

The question then arises: are we witnessing a subtle form of conquest through language? Not with armies, but with algorithms.

Nigeria’s journalists, who have stood firm against censorship and political manipulation, now face a quieter challenge. They must decide whether to protect their linguistic ground or allow it to be redrawn by invisible hands.

What Can Be Done

First, media organisations should set clear editorial policies. These policies should affirm British English as Nigeria’s official standard, while giving Nigerian English its proper space. Journalists need clear guidance when using AI tools, so that machines serve the profession rather than reshape it.

Second, there should be transparency. If AI tools assist in producing stories, readers deserve to know. A simple disclosure note would protect credibility.

Third, and most important, journalists themselves must become conscious defenders of linguistic identity. Choosing not to normalise American spellings or structures is not stubbornness. It is cultural self-respect.

The Wider Stakes

This issue goes beyond journalism. Once journalists normalise American English through AI, others will follow. Teachers, writers, broadcasters and policymakers often take their cues from the press. If the press yields, so does much of society.

The stakes are therefore national. Language is not a small detail. It is a mirror of sovereignty.

A Call to Reflect

Nigerian journalists must approach AI with a critical eye. Technology can be a tool, but it should not become a master. The responsibility lies with practitioners to ensure that their language, and by extension their identity, is not eroded by convenience.

AI will not disappear. It will become even more embedded in reporting. But how Nigerian journalism engages with it will determine whether the profession strengthens its bond with readers or weakens it.

To defend the language of our journalism is to defend credibility, culture and sovereignty. If we fail to do that, we risk losing far more than spelling. We risk losing our voice.



About the Author

Olasunkanmi Arowolo, PhD (Journalism, University of Kent), is a researcher, media practitioner, and quality education advocate with expertise in journalism, digital governance, and media analysis. He is an Lecturer at the Faculty of Communications and Media Studies, Lagos State University, Nigeria. He can be contacted at oa@olaarowolo.com or on X/Twitter @olaarowolo

By Hakeem Layeni

The motives of this writer have been fulfilled. There is no doubt in mind that the traditional institutions will continue to be sacred since there is some secrecy that pervades their environment and the way and manner in which they are supposed to carry themselves. Eletu-Odibo is a major actor when it comes to traditional politics of Lagos.

This role was first played by the first Eletu-Odibo, Chief Akiwon, in 1690. Ever since 1690, Eletu Odibo has become a major actor in the traditional politics of Lagos.

Eletu Odibo of Lagos is the traditional nobleman who has historically served as the principal kingmaker to the Oba of Lagos and also as head of Akarigbere class of chiefs. Eletu Odibo also serves as the prime minister of the Oba. This role made Eletu Odibo very popular amongst other Lagos Chiefs. Without the approval of Eletu Odibo, no Lagos Oba can claim the throne of Lagos.

However, this powerful position bestowed on Eletu Odibo led to a lot of traditional politics between the Lagos Princes and Eletu Odibo.

However, in the years gone by, the Eletu-Odibo has discharged his duties or responsibilities without interference from governments. In present-day Lagos, the Eletu Odibo has no real power or authority to make any Oba except the power conferred on him by government of the day.

There are a lot of case studies, Oba Dosunmu was appointed by the British government. Aside from the British government, the government of Lagos appointed Oba Akiolu as the 20th Oba of Lagos. This act led to the extinction of Ifa Oracle because Lagos Oba is now being appointed based on politics.

The Eletu Odibo has been denied most of her traditional rites towards electing or making a Lagos Oba. Most traditional chiefs in Lagos are now ceremonial rather than traditional. The cause of this is that the government are now responsible for the salaries of all traditional chiefs. The governor and Baba Isale now decide who becomes Lagos king.

In a nutshell, Eletu-Odibo holds a very important position in the traditional politics of Lagos. The Eletu Odibo is second to Oba of Lagos in the Akarigbere class of chiefs. Even there is a popular slogan amongst Lagosians, which is ETU Osi, Oba Oje. This means that if there is no Eletu Odibo, there is no Oba. This made the role of Eletu Odibo an important one for the throne of Lagos.

Anzhi Makhachkala took the football world by storm when billionaire, Suleyman Kerimov, took over the affairs of the club in 2011. The club wasted no time to become a force in the transfer market. The story of Anzhi goes beyond the typical Grace to Grass, it's a story about a team that grabbed the headlines but might never rise again.

In 2011, the football world woke up to a new gem in Russia, Suleyman Kerimov worth $10b at the time had purchased the club and went on a spending spree to usurp Europe's biggest teams. Before the purchase, the biggest 'boys' in football were Roman Abrahamovic who bought Chelsea FC in 2003, then Sheik Mansour bought Manchester City in 2008, and Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Emir of Qatar who had just purchased PSG. Kerimov's takeover of Anzhi was a bit surprising considering the strength of the club, compared to others that had been taken over by billionaires.

Anzhi at the time was just 20 years, having been founded in 1991. Kerimov's ambition was to make Anzhi a big club in a short time. The spending spree started with the signing of Roberto Carlos who was signed on a free but arrived as one of the greatest footballers of all time. Willian Borges Da Silva also joined on a £31.5m deal, as the most expensive.

Samuel Eto'o moves proved to be the biggest of Anzhi's moves. Asides from Eto'o reputation as a top player, his €20m-per-year after-tax wage shocked the football world. Some other signings of the Anzhi era include, Lacina Traore, Yuri Zhirkov, Chris Samba, and Lassana Diarra, amongst others. Coaches were not left out as Guus Hiddink.

In its first season during the takeover, Anzhi finished fifth in the Russian League, and the club qualified for the Europa League second qualifying round. After a series of bad results and coach changes, Anzhi's dreams were put to an abrupt end when Kerimov cut the team's budget by two-thirds.

In 2013, Kerimov cut the team's annual budget by two-thirds and that left the club selling most of Its biggest stars it had signed. In the 2013-14 season, the club finished last in the league and was relegated. After five years in charge, Kerimov sold the club in 2016. After a mix of promotion and relegation, in 2019, the club announced that it failed Russian Football Union licensing, which means that the club cannot play in the second tier and would only be eligible to play in the third tier or declare bankruptcy.

On June 3, 2022, Anzhi lost its professional status when the Russian Football Federation decided not to grant it licensing to play in the second tier of the Russian League. This means that Anzhi after its last game on June 5, 2022, will cease to be a professional football team. Anzhi's two-year spending spree between 2011-13 remains one of Football's craziest projects.

This debate resurfaced with the statement from Samuel Eto'o, anyone who grew up watching football in viewing centres or was a part of those who gathered every morning around newspaper stands, would have one point bought the statement of "Na Okocha teach Ronaldinho Ball." This statement just like many others such as *India beat Nigeria 99-1, Ball turn to Lion, Okwraji die after he kick ball*, gained momentum, and were passed down to generations due to several reasons and not limited to absence of fact checking, coincidence in the events, and others. The 99-1 debate was strengthened due to two major reasons; Okwaraji collapsed on the pitch, also India haven't featured in international tournaments.

The Okocha teaching Ronaldinho how to play football grew to be a 'believeable story' due to certain reasons such as

¶ Both players played together at PSG

¶ During a meeting after the pair had retired, Ronaldinho sent a tweet with a picture alongside Okocha and Carlo Valderrama with a caption "Only Shirt 10 that I always admired.

¶ Also, during an interview, Okocha was quoted to have said, “Ronaldinho tried to imitate some of my skills and dribbles, he was still a young player before I left for England, and he joined Barcelona,” Okocha told ‘On-time sports, per AS.

All these reinforced the believe in the minds of some Nigerians and Africans that, Okocha na him teach Ronaldinho ball.

Statistically, Okocha was never at any point in time on the same wavelength as 'Dinho; 'Dinho scored 238 goals for club and country, Okocha on the other hand 103 goals for club and country. On a personal level, Ronaldinho went on to rule the world, Okocha on the other hand could only manage to be named BBC African Footballer of the year.

Anyone who watched Okocha and Ronaldinho play (plus clips available) will no doubt agree that both players during their playing days made football lively. Okocha was a delight to watch, one who will take opponents to the cleaners. Okocha in 1993 scored one of the greatest goal in Football's history, when he danced through the defence of Karlsruher, and turned the great Oliver Kahn to a toy, before putting the ball in the back of the net.Ronaldinho on the other hand is a god. 'Dinho is the definition of class, and an all-round player. He moved quickly away from players like they never existed, and he had opposing fans giving him a standing ovation.

The difference between Okocha and Ronaldinho is clear. Okocha with all of his brilliance never had much impact in a game, Okocha dribbled and dazzled to the delight of fans and viewers and often times didn't impact on the scoreline. I will describe Ronaldinho as Okocha Pro Max, 'Dinho took it a step further with goals, assists and having great impacts on the outcome of games. Okocha himself couldn't find a answer to the reason why he never played for some of the biggest clubs in the world, despite his talent. Okocha during his peak was at Bolton (fighting relegation in his first season). Ronaldinho during interviews and meetings has voiced his admiration for Okocha. In most interviews, he's credited his brother, Aziz, as the one who inspired him and made him do things with football. Also, learning from the streets of Brazil.


Okocha was a delight to watch during his playing days. Ronaldinho on the other hand had much impact on games.

Over the years, doubts have been cast over the real age of some Nigerian players. This is due to the way they excel at age-grade competitions, but fail to make their mark on the biggest stages. I was taken aback by the 2007 England v Nigeria - International Friendly
Nigeria U-17 team led by Late Yemi Tella, and the 2009 team coached by John Obuh, where Sanni Emmanuel (Super Sub) and Stanley Okoro (Little Messi), gave Nigerians a glimpse of hope that truly the future is back.

The expected move of Sillas Nwankwo from Nassrawa United to Mjallby AIF, has generated some controversies over the true age of the 18-year old 'Youngster'. One doesn't need a soothsayer to know that picture-making rounds don't portray that of an 18-year old, but there's a need to give the benefit of the doubt.
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Silas Nwankwo enjoyed a goal-filled season in the Nigerian Professional Football League (NPFL) before his move; Nigerians on social media were stunned by the claims and many were quick to air their opinions. There are reports that Silas Nwankwo was 24 while on the books of Nassrawa United in the NPFl. This might point to the fact that Silas could have had a fast education, become a graduate and was on the books of Nassrawa United, or he wasn't so sure of his age at Nassrawa United.
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Age issues are not new to Nigerian football, it is one issue that has consistently plagued not just Nigerian football, but African football, and the football world at large. In 1989 Nigeria's youth national teams were banned by FIFA for fielding over-age players in FIFA-organised youth tournaments. The birth dates of the three players at the 1988 Olympics were different than the ones used by those players at previous tournaments.
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Aside from a poor footballing plan, it is impossible to accept the fact that Macaulay Chrisantus, Dele Ajiboye, Kabiru Akinshola, Haruna Lukman, Rabiu Ibrahim, and a host of others failed to make it to the biggest stage in football, not even a successful time with the Super Eagles, despite promising careers. In response to age cheating issues, FIFA introduced an MRI scan. The mandatory use of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was introduced by FIFA in 2009 for the FIFA U-17 World Cup to help ascertain whether players are over age or not. An MRI is considered to be 99% accurate until the age of 17, after which it becomes difficult for medical professionals to calculate a person's age.
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Over the years, some individuals have failed MRI scans and have gone on to have a successful career. An example is Wilfred Ndidi, who plays for Leicester City in England and the Super Eagles of Nigeria. He failed the MRI test in 2013, but he's one of the best Defensive Midfielders in the world presently. It's no coincidence that Nigeria is the most successful U-17 team in the world, but it has failed to replicate its success at the U-20 and National level. The consequences of age cheating don't fall on the table of the clubs or country; instead, it comes back to haunt the player, who will struggle when he's supposedly at his peak. Such players will have to go the extra mile to ensure he keeps up with the barest minimum. One cannot expect a 'real 30-year-old' who claims to be 20 years old to keep up with the pace of Bukayo Saka and other youngsters. Whatever Bukayo Saka does effortlessly, such players will have to go the extra mile to beat it.
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It also leads to a breach of trust and closes the way for other young players from such countries. Scouts, Agents, and Clubs will find it difficult to believe the ages of youngsters who have had previous experience. While a particular country has over time produced 'overaged youngsters', clubs have become skeptical about the quality of players from such countries.
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Way Forward? For any industry to thrive, the government must provide an enabling environment. Football in Nigeria has suffered at the hands of selfish individuals who know nothing about the game. Egypt over the years has produced some of the finest footballers in the world. It's almost a tradition to have the bulk of their players come from their league for every tournament, maybe that's why they are the most successful side in African football. Another example is that most elite clubs in England run their academy from the U9s. It's difficult to have a player move from U-9 to the top level and then you question the age, there are proofs everywhere.
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In a proper setting, soccer academies should be the bedrock for any player. In the academy, young players learn more about football, especially the technical aspect and move up the ranks. Nigeria as a nation has had its fair share, such as Pepsi Academy; however, it is almost non-existent presently. A clear football roadmap will serve as an immediate solution. What are the plans for the next 5-10 years? What is the process to move players from U-17 to the senior national team? How many academies do Nigeria plan to build? A clear football plan will give an idea of how football will be. The government in Nigeria also needs to see football as a business and not an empowerment scheme. The government should take its hands off football, give all clubs to private individuals (as it's done everywhere), serve as a supervisor, ensure all rules are followed, get their taxes and see football grow.
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Also, players should be made to realize the consequences of age-cheating not just on their country, but how it also affects their personal life. Local tournaments in Nigeria should imbibe the culture of truthfulness. Tournament organizers should ensure that provisions are in place to ensure players who are within the right age bracket are allowed to take part in such tournaments. While dubious agents haven't helped aspiring players either, players and their guardians spend huge sums to get their players out there, and it's only 'logical' to elongate their careers when they finally have the much-needed breakthrough.m
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Even though we never knew how most of the words we used originated, it became a huge part of us such that once we had the ball in our midst or we spot a friend with football, we jump for joy and those words were readily understood by the players. Despite the difference in culture, language, amongst others, these words that were coined maintained its meaning across all parts of the country.

Growing up, we had our own academy that would defeat the famous La Masia of Barcelona and the very successful Ajax Amsterdam Academy. We never had a clear blueprint, but we had something much stronger and indelible than a blue print. Our growth was not stunted, it was based on how strong and how far your legs could hit. We graduated from Plastic ball to ''felele', to 'Health' and then 'Tanco'.

We had our own set of rules, much better than that of FIFA, ours doesn't change and its less controversial than VAR, we never had the Goal line technology, but there were ways we determine if the ball had scored. Rules such as the owner determine who plays, the 'otu' is always the keeper, first set is always two and others one, amongst others.The rules could vary based on the type of game. Here are famous games that were drawn from football.

CHOOSING: This is the most interesting and famous type of football.The rules could vary based on the type of game. These like others have different dimensions to it, depending on the availability of space and players. Played with three players on different teams. The number could increase, and sometimes it would involve the use of a goalkeeper and a referee.

O.G.O: 'o.g.o., ojoro 1,2,3' this is one interesting game that normally tests the endurance of a player and how skillful the player is. This usually starts with a tussle to determine the keeper, after which the game start properly. The game could be tweaked to different ways such as, score and count point, score and qualify or score and keep.

KOLO BEATING: This is what professional footballers now call Nutmeg, but they will never know the pains that comes with Kolo beating. This is one extreme hard sport for the strongest, fearless and tearless people, a sport for only brutal minds. Just like the slogan from the famed Street shirt 'Only the brave'. You can only escape beating by closing your legs or look the next available pole or anything as determined before the start of the game.

FOUR POSTS: Just like the four cardinal points, there's a post in the North, South, East and West. Played in an enclosed place, the rules doesn't change, you can only touch the ball once, you can touch again only when someone else touches the ball. Touching the ball twice equals to a penalty kick, with the offender raising one of his legs up. This can also be called a 'Set-up game's as others could gang up against one person.

SETTING POST: One interesting game, those with 'Yaba' legs are not qualified to play. We play four posts, when players are either tired or to disputes amongst ourselves. This involves a post put at the far end, then trying to score in-between the small post. Sometimes it's one touch or at most two touch, depending on how long the post is to the player.

'MONKEY' POST: It was until recently we were told it's Mocking post, but who cares? This is a subset of choosing, but this involves a post which is usually an iron covered with torn nets.This doesn't involve much controversy like 'Escobar' (over the bar).

ONE TOUCH/TWO TOUCH: another game played based on players available. This is closer to setting post, but in this case, a player, is at the other end. Both players play the ball depending on the number of agreed touches.

One thing was predictable growing up. There was always one individual who would always cease the ball. Sometimes we get it back after much plea or days of inactivities but on our bad days, we had to go through the excruciating pain of seeing the ball destroyed right before us.

The Okada/Marwa ban on some parts of Lagos roads has witnessed some compliance. However, I would like to state my position on the ban. After a rigorous field work today, 1st of February 2020, I came to the conclusion that this policy is anti-masses. It is evident that what we lack in this country is how to seek for public opinion before making some policies. Hence, causing events that are intrinsically wrong for our dear Nation. To this effect, I posit that the ban is dead before arrival.
Aung San Suu Kyi, a freedom fighter, in one of his words says, " The only real prison is fear, and the only real freedom is freedom from fear. In addition, Buddha, another freedom fighter, states that " no one outside us can rule us inwardly, when we know this, we become free.
Naivety is one of the major constraints facing us as a citizen to challenge unfavorable policy of government. The present Lagos administration whose agenda is to make Lagos an economic hub and a smart city is the same government making anti- economic development policy. Whether we like it or not, the ban on tricycles and bike (Okada) without alternatives will surely affect the economy of the state. If government cardinal point is to make Lagos a smart city, how can it work without a viable transport system? Has the government provided alternatives? Government should stop making policy that will suite or favour the elites. They should remember that there are peasants and middle class who are striving to put food on the table for the entire family.
Studying the reasons stated by the government on why they banned both Marwa (NAPEP) and Okada, I have come to the conclusion that the reasons are not justifiable enough. Government can make laws that would restrict them on our highways rather than the ban.
Moreover, a proactive measure can be put in place by the government in order to penalise whoever that violates such laws. Ban on both Okada and Marwa could be a threat to the state's security. In addition, the ban is going to affect the state economically. As Yoruba would say, ORI BIBE KO L'OGUN ORI FIFO. This means that you can't cut off your head just because you are having or feeling headache. Instead, you look for a drug that can cure the headache.
India and China, amongst other developed countries still allow tricycles to operate. Why is Lagos different? Does the present administration in Lagos want to turn Lagos to a poverty hub of the country? Has Lagos government provided any alternatives to the transport system before the ban? How do they want those that see riding Marwa as a means to an end survive?
My advise to the government is to study all these questions rigorously and provide solutions to them. Ban is not the best option.
At this juncture, I would like to quote Dino Melaye, "If we say the truth, we die. If we lie, we die. It is better we say the truth and die as a hero." With the points raised, I submit here.

Lackadaisical practice in Lagos hospital: My personal experience


Majority have attested to several bad and lackadaisical attitudes of government workers at government hospitals, and just weeks ago, my turn to be a victim of the inhumane act deigned on me. Come along as I share my firsthand witness and my short experience in the hands of the unkind people entrusted with the lives of Nigerians...

It was a fresh Thursday morning of nauseating and sick feeling strolling majestically on the road of my body. I felt very sick on Wednesday night to the extent that the thoughts of death became prominent in my thought's power house and I became timid because my immune system at that point was close to feeble. As usual, when in pains, I recite the verse of protection and I did so while in critical condition. I didn't know what happened next but I woke up alive the next morning and joy gripped my heart as I yawned sluggishly to a new morning.

As a sharp boy who doesn't want to die untimely, I searched for my hospital card, moved straight to the general hospital and I met the constant phenomenon, 'Long Queue'. I joined the longest queue in Ikorodu at that point, submitted my card for verification and I got verified to proceed to the 'check point' where patients blood pressure will be checked before waiting to see the doctor. I passed through the tardy process while in severe pains. Alas! it got to my turn and I was excited to see the doctor like I'll get healed with the speed of light.

My excitement reduced tempo due to the sluggish attitude of the doctor, who asked few questions like she was forced to work that fateful morning coupled with her terrible 'I don't care attitude', and in the end, she gave me a pamphlet stating to proceed to the laboratory for test. I passed through stage one and it was stage two, 'the process', I proceeded to the point of payment and made a payment of N3,000 for the test. Payment done, I proceeded to the lab and the sample of my blood was taken, stage two passed!

Just like our mobile games gets harder by stages, they give us new tasks and sometimes, serve us surprises and that was the theme of my stage three.
SURPRISE!. 'Come back for result on Monday', these words crawled through the mouth of the laboratory worker and I was not sure she was talking to me. 'Ma, I'm very sick, I need the result as soon as possible to get medications. Is there anything you can do to help me?' I said, trying to convince the laboratory worker on the need to get my test results quickly due to my condition, she didn't care, she said it's not in her power to do.

Following the surprise, I got frustrated and I moved to the doctor's office to report my situation; like lab worker, like doctor. The doctor still wore this nonchalant attitude on her face. She told me to go back, saying 'I need the results today or tomorrow morning'. I didn't know what to do because I was frustrated already, what if I die tomorrow? What if my condition gets worse than I expect? What if I break down? These thoughts got me infuriated and I told the doctor 'Ma, what about temporary drugs? With the same nonchalant look, she prescribed one drug, the name started with 'P', I couldn't decode the drug's name due to the acclaimed 'artistic doctor writing'.

Without much ado, I branched at the laboratory to tender the lab worker the feedback I got from the doctor, 'The doctor said she needs the results today or tomorrow, I said; she replied, 'go to the main laboratory'. In response, I asked thrice, 'where's the main laboratory Ma?, You won't believe this woman kept mute, transforming me into a radio set. With so much anger and frustration, I left the office peacefully with this statement flowing in my head 'it's God that will you judge you people'. Never give up! I tried finding my way to the main laboratory through the front desk officer of the hospital, I got to the main laboratory but I didn't know what to do, so I left with tears dancing on the floor of my face gently. I cried, wiped my tears, cried again, wiped my tears.

Well... My last hope! While wiping the little tears on my face, I rushed to the pharmacy to get the 'P' drug that was prescribed by the doctor. I tendered the pamphlet to the attendant, she said, 'You don't have paracetamol in your house?' You won't believe the doctor prescribed Paracetamol for me. I was shocked the doctor could be this mean and petty!, This got me angry, frustrated and demoralised. I left the pharmacy with anger, I cried subsequently while in severe pains but as a 'man' they claim I am, I left the premises calmly, cursing the hospital with anger.

'Go to the pharmacy, get 'Camosunate', my dad prescribed the drug in a phone conversation after sharing what had happened earlier at the hospital. With enthusiasm, I 'maned up', rushed to the nearest pharmacy, used the drug and that was how my Dad saved my immune system for the weekend.


Murisiku Amure
(Earpiece of Lagos)
Social Media Expert, Public Relations Enthusiast, Freelance Writer.

more pictures

Young persons are indispensable ingredients of our today's democracy as they represent at least two thirds of the Country's voter. The voices of the youth are the mandate political office holders enjoy at all levels of government. Days are gone when young people are only recruited during election to instigate violence and terrorise those opposing their pay masters. Youth are now the engine and again drivers of our inclusive democracy/governance as they determine the tune and dimensions of the leadership space.

Concerned Lagos island youth is a nongovernmental, nonprofit and nonpolitical supporting Youth organisation which had deem it fit to take ownership of their own development by increasing, strengthening and raising their voices and actions by agitating what is best for them. vis-a-vis social progress ,governance process, building peace , driving accountability amongst their leaders and taking part in the decision-making processes that affect our lives.
CLIY in the longrun is committed to play critical role in development of lagos, by solving deep problems through a special breed of change *Mantra.*
OUR ACHIEVEMENT SO FAR;
Concerned Lagos Island youths Under the Leadership of *HON. LAYENI HAKEEM* committee on Power and Environment have deem it fit to never rest on our oars to watch incessant activities happening in our environs. The committee members have work tirelessly to mobilise and solicit support of which was a success in Lighting up one of the longest street on the island (BAMGBOSE BY OSHO STREET TO GLOVER STREET) to underpin Governor Akinwunmi Ambode agenda to*Light up* Lagos. Like our slogan implies, We Are Treading the Path for development and this is a reawakening in service to humanity and Nation building.
CLIY after gaining momentum on the *LIGHTUP* Project also initiated *CLEANUP ISLAND*
The objective of cleaning is not just to clean, but to feel happiness living within that environment.    
The aforementioned youths have also taken it as a task to give back to community by showing enormous passion, youthfulness and great leadership readiness as they kicks start quarterly #CleanUpIsland which they cleared and cleanup Sandgrouse market, beckroft street, Osho street, Cowlane street, Rasak okoya Street hospital road, Oshodi street, glover street and bamgbose street as usual. Beyond the fact that we are cleaning up, clearing waste and lightingup our streets. 'CLIY' is also ensuring that we have a safety environment and disease free environment by sanitizing people on proper way to dispose their waste to avoid blockage of drainage system and the waste when ejected in a proper way can be easily recycled and re-engineered. Also resold so that we can create wealth and a new business for Lagosians and also to attain the status of the Smartcity we are graving for.
let's always contribute our little quota to the development of Lagos because they say *ACTIONS SPEAKS LOUDER THAN VOICE.
SIGNED; CONCERNED LAGOS ISLAND YOUTHS

hello everyone

please where can I get this songs.

ise aje malé that is usually played on radio Lagos

sha ma sinwa lo oluwa that is usually played before any nigerian game on brila fm

thanks

THE SAUDI- US SAGA: A CASE OF A TOOTHLESS BULLDOG OR AN UNBIASED GLOBAL WATCHDOG? BY ALLISON OKIKIOLA
The recent intrigues following the sudden disappearance of Saudi journalist, Jamal Khashoggi, on October 2, 2018 in the country’s consulate in Istanbul have attracted a myriad of conflicting narratives and actions from major players in the international political scene. The Saudi journalist, an insider-turned-critic of the crown prince of Saudi Arabia, Mohammad Ibn Salman, is one of the most prominent Saudi journalists. The journalist has recently called out the crown prince after series of human rights violations, arrests and promises of reform in the kingdom. According to a news report by Aljazeera, Khashoggi advocated for freedom of speech in his country, and in September 2017, he criticised the classification of the Muslim Brotherhood as terrorists by Saudi Arabia. In a post on twitter, he wrote:
For a while now, I have found that anyone who believes in reform, change, the Arab spring and freedom, and those who are proud of their religion and their country is labelled as being part of the Muslim Brotherhood. It seems that the Brotherhood’s school of thought is noble.
Following the disappearance of Jamal in Istanbul, Turkish sources told media outlets that they believed the writer had been killed inside the consulate in what they described as a ‘premeditated murder’. The United Kingdom, France and Germany vigorously demanded a credible investigation into the disappearance and said they were treating the case with utmost seriousness. However, the initial reaction of the US president, Donald Trump to the news does not seem to tally with that of his European allies. For a country that prides itself as the protector of human rights at home and abroad, the president’s instinctive reaction was that the US would be punishing itself if it halts military sales to Saudi Arabia, even if it is proven that Khashoggi was killed inside the country’s consulate in Istanbul. The assertion of the US president,some analysts have suggested, could have been influenced by the country's strategic interest in the Middle East which Saudi protects.
Meanwhile, prominent US media outlets and business leaders have boycotted a major Saudi investment conference over the disappearance of Khashoggi. As investigation gets underway, the Financial Times, Bloomberg, CNN, Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi and World Bank President Jim Yong Kim, among others, said they were no longer participating in the high-profile Future Investment Initiative conference in the Saudi capital, Riyadh, scheduled to begin on October 23.
Notwithstanding the signficance of these boycotts, the ultimate question is whether the US can afford to alienate Riyadh at the detriment of its own economy and strategic interest. To be sure, this is a clear case of human rights versus National interest. According to W.J Hennigan in reference to the nature of the US and Saudi relations, ‘the 75-year-old alliance between the two states has been built on a simple arrangement: American demand for Saudi oil and Saudi demand for American firepower’. Nonetheless, it is also apposite to stress the strategic importance Saudi Arabia and Israel, both of them US allies, play in checking Iran and its ambition to subvert the Jewish state, Israel, in the Middle East.
The United States has threatened to sanction Saudi if probes establish any link between Riyadh and Khasoggi's murder. Whereas Washington and Riyadh have exchanged words in the past weeks on who benefits more from their long standing friendship, the credibility of the threats of sanctions against Saudi is foggy at the moment. US policymakers will naturally weigh the consequences of angering Saudi Arabia which, apart from its multibillion dollars investment in the US economy, is also key to US policies in the Middle East. Some foreign policy analysts have linked Saudi's newfound dilly-dally on Palestine to a secret pact the kingdom allegedly struck with the United States and Israel. Thus, it would be very difficult for the US to impose sanctions on Saudi Arabia after the latter ‘conveniently’ admitted that Jamal Khashoggi was indeed killed in the country’s consulate in Istanbul following a ‘brawl’. The kingdom has also sacked and arrested 18 of its nationals, including the Royal court adviser Saud al-Qahtani and deputy intelligence chief Ahmed al- Asiri. One cannot also help but wonder if these people are just victims of circumstances or major actors in the death of the journalist or fall-guys!
Apparently banking on its strategic importance to the US in the Middle East geopolitics and its vast oil deposit, Saudi Arabia has promised severe retaliations on any attempt to undermine it whether through threats of sanctions or the use of political pressure, threatening to respond to any action with a bigger one. On the other hand, the US congress has called for a halt in the future arms sales to Saudi Arabia following the disappearance of the Saudi journalist, with senator Rubio asserting that ‘if we do not take action, including potential arms sales, as a result of this, then we are not going to be able to, with a straight face or any credibility, confront Putin or Assad or Maduro in Venezuela or frankly the Chinese and their human rights violation’. Will the action of the US president, in this instance, align with the image of a toothless bulldog in dealing with Saudi Arabia or give precedence to national interest over human rights and damn the moral consequences feared by Rubio?

*LAGOS STATE 8TH ASSEMBLY: TRUE OR ROGUE LEGISLATURE?*

*BY LAYENI HAKEEM*

The 8th Lagos state house of assembly has become a political playground rather than an institution focusing on its constitutional responsibilities. The 'resume work order' given to the PSP by the speaker of the house is political rather than constitutional. No matter the political grudge between the legislative arm and the executive arm, it shouldn't result into witch hunting the executive. Looking at the Saraki case, Obasa seems to be threading the same path, the witch hunting of the executive might affect the ongoing development in the state. Lagos state which happens to be the country's largest economy hub has been messed up by recent political dilemma in the state. The Lagos state environmental and protection law was passed in 2017 by the same speaker who says he knows nothing concerning visionscape (a private institution saddled with responsibility for waste management in the state), he also passed the 2018 budget which includes the visionscape activities in the state. After studying the environmental law rigorously, it's crystal clear that the speaker's notion on visionscape is far from the truth.
However, if there should be any inefficiencies on the hand of visionscape to execute the task before them diligently and excellently, the house can summon the commissioner of environment in order to resolve this issue and proffer solutions to the environmental brouhaha in the state. Both the PSP and visionscape have been working together recently yet there seem to be no solution to the incessant dump of refuse around the streets of Lagos. I commend the submission of two distinguished honourables in the house, in person of hon. Gbolahan Yishawu and hon. S.O.B Agunbiade but the speaker of the house took the issue personal rather than throwing it to the floor of the house for deliberations. Although the formal performances are seen to be below expectations but scrapping the institution is neither the solution to our dirty environment.
However, the call by some honourable members of the house to reopen the Olusosun dumping site is a slap on our democracy and the people of Lagos. Their thought is against the vision of the state in becoming a smart city, the Olusosun dumping site was shut down by Lagos state government due to the fire outbreak that occurred in the site this year. The fire outbreak was as a result of the explosion tendencies chemical substances generated from waste compounds. The fire outbreak affected the neighborhood of Ojota for about a week, thank God for the quick response of the state fire services.

*PSP AS THE NEW BRIDE:*
The Private sector participation (PSP) has become the new bride in the present day Lagos. This calls for some questions which I need to justify.
1. Can PSP change the face of Lagos?
2. Can it swallow all the mounds of refuse threatening the commercial hub?
3. Can it satisfy the Lagos wants?
These are the questions we need to ask ourselves as concerned lagosians. We should recall that before the advent of visionscape, when PSP started carrying out their activities, they worked cohesively with 'LAWMA', if the Lagos state house of Assembly were to be functional, why can't they clamour to bring back LAWMA rather than fighting for PSP? We all understand that PSP is a private company owned by their benefactors but nevertheless transparency is still needed. Are the honourables there to serve themselves, their benefactor or the people of Lagos who massively voted them to represent their interest in the hallow chamber? These are the questions we need to ask them.

*MY OPINION ON VISION SCAPE, PSP AND LAWMA:*
What the people of Lagos wanted is a cleaner Lagos, the three departments should work together in order to achieve the cleaner Lagos initiative. The Lagos house of assembly committee on environment should invite them all and proffer solutions rather than scrapping one for the other. The house needs to separate politics from governance in order to achieve the Lagos of our dream.

*SECURITY CHALLENGES IN LAGOS STATE:*
Security challenges in Lagos remains precarious. People are still quite cautious about moving freely within the state, even in broad daylight. Rather than a reduction in the scale of killings, murder and other devious crimes, it appears to continue at an alarming/increasing rate. However, security is the primary assignment of any state or local government; the protection of lives and properties. The public security consciousness of any government is ultimately an indicator of its public acceptance. This is because security is one of the major factor that determines good governance and guarantees economic growth and development. Lagos being a cosmopolitan city that rarely goes to sleep, and no doubt has peculiar security challenges. With a population of over 24million out of the country's estimated 180million, security challenges in the state is peculiar and needs to be focused on as a matter of urgency. However, my position on this issue that Lagos state legislators are rogue democrats is due to the fact that they never summoned or invited the Lagos state commissioner of police for questioning or to give reasons as to why Lagos is facing security challenges despite the investments made by the state government in the area of security. The Lagos state 8th house of Assembly need to do the needful in order for the security agencies to curb the insecurity in the state. They need to come up or develop a comprehensive strategy and a home grown solution to the security challenges in the state. What ever they do today will surely be an history tomorrow and posterity shall judge us all.


*ITESIWAJU IPINLE EKO LOJEWA LOGUN........*

that mail is not functioning for now.
can I get it on Okerindeayobami@ymail.com?
with this, I will get your mail.

A world without football?

I have read many football stories but the story of romelu lukaku is one that is so inspiring. just yesterday after few days of procrastination, i decided to read the story and I had tears in my eyes. reading the story, I could picture how lukaku lived when he was growing up and how he's living now. so, I decided to share this little piece with this question.

How would the world be without football??

when questions like this comes up, we are quick to picture a life of luxury, the transfer record fee of neymar to PSG or the wages of Alexis Sanchez when he moved to Manchester united but No, football is not like that, football goes way beyond the luxurious life, the fleet of cars you post on social media and so on, it's all about putting smile to the faces of people with your display. I once read Luka modric story on how he lived during the war in Croatia and then I ask myself again 'will modric and other super stars who had humble beginnings be known without football?"

so then what is football?

To me, football is one of God's greatest gift to humanity, football has lifted many families, football has brought many individuals together, football has brought many out of the slumps, football has removed potentials from the street, football has given hope of a better tomorrow for many individuals. FOOTBALL goes way beyond shouting Chelsea, arsenal, Liverpool, Barcelona, real Madrid and the likes, football is an avenue to bring us together as one body. I remember I was speaking to a friend of mine sometimes ago on why I love football and she said 'How funny football Is actually a game of emotions , football can make strangers be close during a bus ride, football aid normal conversation it more than just a game it more than the fans it more than the rivals football is a very unique game that brings nations together. Now I understand why you like football',
I laughed and said "So glad you now understand what football preaches. You see strangers become friends when they talk football, and the viewing centres are always filled to brim when a game is going on.. football is a universal language.. it unites us as a nation". this is football, despite the purported religious war or tribal war going on in the country. when it's football, you see everyone come together forgetting our differences.

some might argue that is football not just a game? a game where 22 grown up men run after one tiny leather thing and guys will shout offside, goalkick and after 90 minutes you will say Nigeria has won. well this was my thought also many years ago but here's my response
"Well I don't understand why people say football is just a game. This is more than just a game, this is football it brings out the passion, action and the emotions in you. Just like life, football isn't a straight journey you lose some, you draw some and you loose some but at the end the way you respond to this things is what you are"

what about football and other things like music?

well as I've said earlier football is a universal language that is easily understood by anyone and everyone. even the great reggae legend BOB MARLEY once said
' football is a whole skill to itself, a whole World. A whole universe to itself. me love it because you have to be skillful to play it. freedom freedom freedom'.
this quote from Bob Marley shows that football is way beyond or not in any way associated with violence only those who try to being the game into disrepute engage in such.
imagine the messi, Ronaldo, neymar, hazard, bale , iniesta we all see today. not forgetting the great Pele, Diego maradona not forgetting our very own Jay Jay okocha, kanu nnwankwo we all saw play. what would or where would they have achieved without football?

definitely a world Without football is a world that would be without form and void.

OKERINDE TIMOTHY AYOBAMI

Okerindeayobami@yahoo.com

picture

Records from the administrative unit of Lagos State University (LASU) confirmed Mr. Sunday Olasunkanmi Arowolo as the youngest academic staff member of the university.
Arowolo, who is a Graduate Assistant in the Journalism Department of the School of Communication, and aged 25, is an alumnus of the university. He recently spoke with LASUGONG’s Sandra Animam.

excerpt�

https://lasugong.com/meet-the-youngest-lecturer-in-lasu/

To commemorate 6 years of winning the champions league



THE GREATEST NIGHT
In every individual’s life, there are special nights, that special moment that would change a person’s story forever. For a club like CHELSEA FC, 19th may 2012 would forever remain in the heart of its supporters. The club recently embarked on a throwback from the game at Allianz arena in Germany from the heroes on the night and I would follow their steps to share the journey, thoughts and reaction from the game.
Call it fate or pure coincidence? Saturday may 19 2012, was a day of destiny, a day destined for Chelsea fc to win and lift the much coveted champions league trophy.
The journey which started months ago will come to an end in a couple of hours. The journey started when Chelsea fc was paired alongside Germanys Bayern Leverkusen, Spain’s fc Valencia and Belgian side racing Genk. At the end of the group stage, Chelsea fc topped the group with 11points having won three (3), drew two (2) and lost just one (1). Chelsea fc were paired in the round of 16 against Italy’s fc Napoli in a two legged affair which showcased one of the greatest game in the history of the game as well as one of the greatest comeback ever recorded in the competition. Chelsea fc lost the first leg 3-1 away in Naples. However, a brilliant display and goals from Didier drogba, john terry, frank lampard and barnislav ivanovic ensured Chelsea qualified for the quarter finals. After the historic and heroic triumph over Napoli, Chelsea fc was paired against fc benfica of Portugal and the club progressed 3-1 on aggregate.
After defeating benfica in the quarter finals, Chelsea fc got Barcelona in the semis in what seems like a repeat of the 2009 semi final match against the same opposition with Andre’s iniesta scoring a die minute goal to send Chelsea parking. Chelsea fc got the advantage in the first leg through a Didier drogba goal. In the return leg at camp nou, Barcelona score two unreplied goals before ramires pulled one back through a sublime goal. Barcelona Lionel messi look to further dent the hope of Chelsea fc but all thanks to the cross bar as lionel messi saw his penalty saved by the crossbar. Here comes the minute, after much pressure from Barcelona, Chelsea were able to clear their lines and someway, somehow, the ball found fernado torres in Chelsea’s half and all he had on him was Barcelona’s goalkeeper and countryman victor valdes, before one could say jack Robinson, the ball was in the net and that sent Barcelona out in what looks like a repeat match.
THE JOURNEY OF FATE
For the second time in the club history, they would play in the champion’s league final for the second time and hope to lift the trophy for the first time after losing on penalties to arc rivals Manchester united in Russia just four years ago.
Chelsea fc in the final was clearly the underdog following the suspension of captain and legend john terry and star players barnislav ivanovic and Raul meireless. The skepticism and fear of the fans increased when the teams sheet were out and young Ryan Bertrand was included in a 4-2-3-1 formation which included veteran goalkeeper petr cech in goal, José bosingwa, David luiz, Gary Cahill and Ashley Cole as the back four. The midfield consists of captain on the night frank lampard, mikel john obi, Juan Mata, Salomon kalou and young Ryan Bertrand with Didier drogba as the lone man upfront. A fairly strong bench which includes Michal essien, florent malouda, Paulo Ferreira, Daniel sturridge and Fernando Torres was included.
The match started after the closing ceremony which included beautiful displays and the champion’s league anthem being rendered. The referee on the night was Pedro proenca from Portugal and after the blast of his whistle, the games proper started. The match started with kickoff from Chelsea fc in the traditional blue jersey and Bayern Munich in the traditional red jersey. After 2 minutes of play, Bayern’s Bastian schweingsteiger was booked for a deliberate handball. The game from start has been all about Bayern Munich and in the 21st minute, they hit the post after winger arjen robben had delivered a special delivery from the left side of the pitch.
Chelsea best chance of the game came in the 37th minutes when a precise ball from the left was flicked in by left back Ashley Cole to the standing leg of Didier drogba on the edge of the box before falling to the path of salomon kalou whose curling shot towards the near post was held by Manuel neur.
A curse or Chelsea’s day? Striker Mario Gomes again missed a seater in the 42nd minutes after missing his first in the 39th minute of the game.
It was surprising to most football fans to know that at half time in the game the score line stands at 0-0 but Bayern had been the better side.
The second half started the way the first half ended but in the 53rd minute, what seems to be the first goal of the game was disallowed after winger frank ribery appeared to have fouled Chelsea fc goalkeeper before putting the ball into the back of the net.
“The moment of death” came in the 83rd minutes when frank ribery floated a cross from outside the box and the cross was met by the head of Thomas Muller who was only few yards away from goal and his header was straight into the net. With barely 7 minutes left of regulation time, Chelsea’s hope of lifting the trophy was going down the drain. A quick substitution saw Salomon kalou pulled out for fernado Torres
“The moment of revival” destiny as they say can never change but it might be delayed. Chelsea fc equalized in the 88th minute through a Didier drogba header after Juan Mata floated a corner in. little or less action was recorded after the goal as both teams were cautious not to concede a goal and at the end of 90 minutes, the score line was 1-1.
“Hero to zero” Didier drogba had just conceded a penalty just few minutes after saving the club with his header. Drogba appeared to have tripped frank ribery and the referee pointed immediately to the penalty spot. There are only two savior left for Chelsea fc in the game and that was petr cech and the cross bar. OH!!! Petr cech had just revived the hope of the club as he guessed right to save arjen robben penalty.
Bayern striker ivica olic missed an outstanding penalty after the penalty save. After the miss, both teams tried to stay cautious as they defended with their life’s and at the end of extra time, the shorelines remain 1-1 and its straight to penalties.
What comes to every Chelsea supporters mind was 4 years ago when the club lost on penalties to Manchester united in Moscow Russia after john terry lost the decisive penalty to give the club a victory. Now it’s time to go on to penalties
Bayern to go first as Philip lahm scores
Juan Mata penalty is saved. Goalkeeper Manuel neur guessed right to save Mata’s weak penalty.
Bayern scores a second through Mario Gomes as he send petr cech the wrong way.
David luiz scores for Chelsea to make it 2-1. The penalty seems like a funny one as luiz moved completely outside the 18 yard box to fire one to the top right corner.
Neur scores to make it 3-1 for Bayern. Petr cech guessed right but was unable to stop the penalty from going in.
Frank lampard scores for Chelsea to make it 3-2
Petr cech saves olic penalty, this time he guessed right and the score line remains 3-2
Ashley Cole comes on to level and bring Chelsea back on track as the scored his penalty to make it 3-3
Here come Bayern last kick and Bastian schweinsteiger hit the upright although petr cech had gone the right way
Baring what had happened in Moscow 4 years ago when terry lost the last kick, here come Didier drogba to erase that memory and he SCORES!!!!!!! Didier drogba had sent Manuel nuer the wrong way and for the first time in its history, Chelsea fc had won the much coveted uefa champions league becoming the first side from London to do so.
The excitement on the players’ faces was second to none as they are all over the p-itch celebrating as john terry is seen in a full match day kit.
REACTIONS
In his words, captain frank lampard says “we‘ve never wanted to say it too much but this is the one we really wanted”
Didier drogba says “I want to dedicate this to all the managers we have had before and all the players we have had before” he stops midway through the interview to celebrate
THOUGHTS
6 years after, the memory of the game is still fresh in my memory, I remember running out of the room I was watching the game, pulling my shirt and running down my street. Oh! What a happy day.
Chelsea fc lifting the champions league to me means destiny. First the club that season was very poor which led to the sack of Andres villas boas, also most of the players that were in the squad then were getting to the peak of their careers.
Looking at the journey, Chelsea fc should have been knocked out after the 3-1 lost to Napoli in the first leg of the round of 16 but some way somehow, the club remained in the competition. Also, in the quarter-finals, benfica threatened in the second leg before Raul meireless stunner ended the game. In the semis, Barcelona overturned a 1 goal deficit but a ramires goal coupled with Lionel messi penalty miss and a disallowed goal before Torres winner ensure the team progressed. In the final, Chelsea scored a goal late in the game when no one thought they could; concede a penalty which was saved couple with a penalty miss in the shoot outs. Truly it was Chelsea’s day of destiny.

HERDSMEN KILLINGS: THE WORLD WILL CONTINUE TO WATCH
I was a bit skeptical when I saw a post on a popular Nigerian website NAIRALAND where someone made claims that the world is watching the activities of herdsmen with their killings a s they are waiting for it to get to a stage before they intervene, well I'm not against the writer but it's high time to take responsibility of our lives and no one should be held responsible for whatever happens to us. "The one without money is not poor, you are poor if you think someone else must take responsibility for your life" this is a quote that I've coined for the purpose of this opinion piece.
While the herdsmen struck again, I was bitter in my mind and at the same time, my mind went to the Rwandan genocide, are we not having a repeat at hands? What will happen if other tribe decide to strike back? Isn't it time the president declare herdsmen as a terrorist group? All this am more was going through my mind but perhaps I was a utterly disappointed to learn that this issue has gained less prominence on the pages of our national failed and our online platforms, and perhaps all we focus on is the alleged claim of the president calling Nigerian youths lazy, the tour of the just concluded big brother naija housemates and the drama or perhaps the brouhaha between the Nigerian Senate and senator Dino melaye. Yet we make claims that the world is watching, why won't they watch? When the people that are of concern are not even taking it as a issue. So with the world and other countries still battling with its own internal issues, they will continue to watch.
Late Nelson Mandela in an interview with Dr Hakeem baba ahmed in 2007 made his stance about not being happy with Nigeria, and he asked a vital question if young Nigerians are being taught history? Well going down memory lane will give an insight to what is at hand on the issue of HERDSMEN killings. The Rwandan genocide according to Wikipedia
"The Rwandan genocide , also known as the genocide against the Tutsi, was a genocidal mass slaughter of Tutsi in Rwanda by members of the Hutu majority government. An estimated 500,000 to 1,000,000 Rwandans were killed during the 100-day period from 7 April to mid-July 1994, constituting as many as 70% of the Tutsi population. Additionally, 30% of the Pygmy Batwa were killed. The genocide and widespread slaughter of Rwandans ended when the Tutsi-backed and heavily armed Rwandan Patriotic Front (RPF) led by Paul Kagame took control of the country. An estimated 2,000,000 Rwandans, mostly Hutus, were displaced and became refugees." This should give an insight of what is to happen on the earlier question I asked on what if other ethnic groups decide to strike back?
I was bemused when Nigerians attack mark zuckerberg on why the "pray for Paris" sticker would be made available for use on Facebook after terrorists attacked France but none has been done since book Haram killings in Nigeria. I was ashamed that humanity has gotten to such level where we segregate attacks by terrorist groups. Well an adage says it all "as You lay your bed, you like on it" perhaps it's safe to say our leaders haven't laid our bed so well for other countries to lie on it. This is a story of two nations and why the world will continue to watch as we battle the menace of herdsmen. Few months ago, pictures of France president Emmanuel Macron surfaced online after he led a national ceremony on Wednesday honouring Lieutenant-Colonel Arnaud Beltrame who died offering himself as a hostage in a jihadist attack.
"In giving his life to bring to an end the deadly actions of a jihadist terrorist, he died a hero," Macron said ahead of the ceremony. Despite the fact that only one soldier was involved, the president took it as a duty to pay his last respect to the hero.
On the other end in Nigeria, Masa burial for citizens who were victims of herdsmen attack in okopokwu Benue state was cancelled without any reason and it was alleged that it was due to the visit of the president. Several attacks have been made by herdsmen in the past months, but the government have done little or nothing to visit the scene of the attacks, or perhaps offer support to the families of the victims. With these contrasting stories, isn't it safe to say the world will continue watching unless we take charge of our own welfare? Unless we realize that we are in charge of our own Happiness and we must react spontaneously to events happening our us before calling on others, the world will continue to watch.

Fela Durotoye, Omoyele Sowore and the likes ahead of the 2019 general elections: a move too soon?
The 2019 general election is just a matter of months now, candidates are beginning to declare their intents and it’s no news that the younger generations have also come out to make their intentions known. I must salute the courage of Fela Durotoye, Omoyele Sowore and others who have declared their intentions ahead of the elections. In a country that has been dominated or ruled by the old folks for years, it’s great to see young men come out to take charge of the country, in as much as their intents looks like a hope for the yputh we must not be too jubilant, not to see the great task ahead of these young men and the challenges ahead which might mar their success.
This is not an attack on the personalities of these young men neither is it a paid for article, this is just an opinion of a well meaning Nigerian, o call the attention of these youthful and enterprising mind to the biggest challenge they are about to face in their bid to revive the country and create history. Many might argue that the likes of Sowore, Durotoye coming out to declare their intent centers on the not too young to run campaign, but left for me, I have an opposed view to this. Heres an excerpt from my earlier write-up titled “not too young to run – putting an old win in a new glass”
One testimony to this is that Nigeria is believed to operate a multi party system but in actual sense, the country operates a two party system. A confirmation to this is that the two major parties which is the all progressive congress (APC)and the people’s democratic party (PDP) currently holds 90% of governorship seats in the country.
This is where the not too young to run bill comes into play, imagine a 35 year old man, who decides to run for the post of president in the 2019 elections under the flagship of any of the two major parties and he is told there is someone who is a bit older and more experienced than him who is also vying for the same post. After much persuasion, if he decides to leave about not getting a chance and goes to the other party, only to see that it’s the same everywhere. After much deliberation with his not too young to run crew, they decides to setup a new party and there is a constitutional procedure which must be followed which is (according to http://lawpadi.com/register-political-party-nigeria/)
STAGE 1 – GET ORGANISED
You need a name, logo, and acronym of the proposed party (it must not be similar to any known registered political party, or have any religious, ethnic, or sectional connotation), therefore you can’t register a party like Christian Democrats or Muslim Republicans.
You need to have a Chairman, a Secretary, National and State Executive Committee members – all officers must have been validly elected as you will need to provide INEC with the record of proceedings of the elections
You need to have a draft Constitution, draft Code of Conduct and Manifesto. The Constitution should have provisions that deal with things like how elections are conducted, the administrative structure of the proposed party etc.)
Your draft Constitution must also reflect the Federal Character principle of the 1999 Constitution i.e. all leadership posts must reflect the Federal nature of Nigeria and should be representative of the various federating units of Nigeria.
The Headquarters must be located in the Federal Capital Territory – Abuja, and the proposed party must be present in at least 24 states.
STAGE 2 – SUBMISSION AT INEC
You must pay a non-refundable fee of N1,000,000 (One Million Naira)
Obtain the appropriate form- FORM PAI
Within 30 working days, the proposed party must submit 50 copies of the completed form and 50 copies of the draft constitution and manifesto of the proposed political party along with all other required information
Submit the documents with the names, signatures and residential addresses of the Chairman and Secretary of the proposed political party
If all the supporting documentation is not submitted within 30 working days, INEC will terminate the application for registration, and the proposed political party will have to pay a fresh administrative fee of N1,000,000 (One Million Naira)
STAGE 3 – POST-SUBMISSION
INEC will verify all the claims in the document for conformity with the Guidelines
If INEC is satisfied that all the requirements have been met, the party will be registered, and a Certificate of Registration will be issued.
If all the requirements have not been met, INEC will notify the political party of the reason for refusal
The proposed political party may attempt to rectify any defect in the application within the 30-day period, without having to pay a fresh administrative fee of N1,000,000 (One Million Naira)
The above is just a brief summary of the process, if you do indeed one to set up a political party, you should not proceed solely on the basis of the information in this article. Setting up a political party is a massive Endeavour and you will need to get proper experienced advice on the process.

And recently, president Muhammad Buhari declared his intent to run again for a second term in office under the all progressive congress (APC) while the leading opposition party are being rumored to have an anointed candidate who will challenge the ruling party in its bid to reclaim its position as the ruling party and thus, this makes it difficult for the likes of Sowore to get a chance in one of the ruling party.

This is the Nigerian age structure according to CIA World factbook and indexmundi.com

Age structure: 0-14 years: 42.54% (children)
15-24 years: 19.61% (early working age)
25-54 years: 30.74% (prime working age)
55-64 years: 3.97% (mature working age)
65 years and above: 3.13% (elderly)
Analyzing the Nigeria age structure, one would see that the age group with the highest percentage is the children age and ironically they are not eligible to vote, and that leaves us with 57.46%. due to the present economic situation of Nigeria coupled with the health issues, there’s huge possibility that people from 55 years and above are unlikely to vote and when we take out these percentage, we are left struggling with barely 50% of our population. I remember an event that happened amongst my neighbors during the last local council development area (LCDA) in Lagos state, where my neighbors made this statement publicly that “they would vote anyone who is willing to pay them N5, 000 naira when they get to the polling booth, since they knew that everyone is going there for his/her own pocket, so why would they waste their vote without money?” funny enough, they fall into the category of the prime working age group .this incident has left some unanswered questions which I rightly know that if the best and not the perfect answers can’t be gotten ahead of the 2019 general elections, then the likes of Sowore, Durotoye coming out might be a joke or a move too soon.
How do you (Sowore, Durotoye, and others) convince the market men/women at Iyana-iba, Oyingbo, Balogun and the likes that you are different from the sets of leaders we have had and they should vote for you?
How do you convince the youth that voting for you is better than the N5,000 or more they will get at the polling booth?
How do you intend to stand the financial muzzle of the two biggest parties in Nigeria since its obvious that you are coming from a supposedly humble background and without a “Godfather”?
There are many questions which would come in as the election processes draws nearer, but without the right and convincing answers to the aforementioned questions, hopes of having a young president come 2019 might be dashed and it may result to a move to soon for the youth.

Okerinde Timothy Ayobami is a 300l student from the department of broadcast, Lagos state university, school of communication.

amani63:
Where is the pictures or remove this from here

That's you think am so jobless that I will have time to read all this you said

another one

amani63:
Where is the pictures or remove this from here

That's you think am so jobless that I will have time to read all this you said

see the pictures.

NOT TOO YOUNG TO RUN BILL
PUTTING AN OLD WINE IN A NEW GLASS
I can’t help but laugh at the way present day Nigerian youth are jubilating over the not too young to run bill instead of going indoors and crying over the new means our so call leaders have created in order to further marginalize the youth from governance and prove to us about their national anthem which is “you are the leaders of tomorrow”. Before I go into details of what my article means, I will state what the not too young to run bill entails which is
The Nigerian senate on Wednesday July 26 2017 passed the much anticipated bill, after an electronic vote which showed that 86 senators showed their support, while 10 were against it, however, one lawmaker abstained. One thing that struck me while the youths were jubilating is that “ who is fooling who? Our politicians have found a way to cheat us again” that can we read through the lines that our politicians have structured our political system in such a way that they come up with sweet plans and agendas but deep down, there is another motive to the plan intended. One testimony to this is that Nigeria is believed to operate a multi party system but in actual sense, the country operates a two party system. A confirmation to this is that the two major parties which is the all progressive congress and the people’s democratic party currently holds 90% of governorship seats in the country.
This is where the not too young to run bill comes into play, imagine a 35 year old man, who decides to run for the post of president in the 2019 elections under the flagship of any of the two major parties and he is told there is someone who is a little bit old and more experienced than he is vying for the same post. After much persuasion, if he decides to leave about not getting a chance and goes to the other party only to see that it’s the same everywhere. After much deliberation with his not too young to run crew, they decides to setup a new party and there is a constitutional procedure which must be followed which is
They go through the process of forming a new party, working together, trying to canvass for votes. Let’s not forget, the major parties which the young man was denied comes up with a 65 year old man as their candidate which further brings the not too young bill into question. Some might argue what if the youth were given the chance, but I stand to be corrected, the current crop of politician we have, which we all know would rather give the son or daughter of a man from their clique who have spent his entire life abroad feeding on money stolen by his father, rather than give a poor youth with potentials the chance ,further questions the not too young to run bill.
I do not want to be seen as someone who is the against the youth, but before the not too young vision we all have could grow into reality the way we all crave for, much things must be done. Instead of going over to the not too young to run which to me is like jumping from 1 to 5 leaving out 2,3 and 4, why not “not too young to be politically educated”. I think it’s time for total review of our curriculum and add this which would aid our reasoning to meet the demands of this 21st century rather than the debate over the removal or Christian religious studies or Islamic religious studies. I know many might wonder why this initiative? Because I feel it the right steps to aid and make the not too young to run vision we all crave for come true. I remember months ago, when the local government elections were held across Lagos state, while coming out of my hostel room that Saturday to take a stroll with my friend who had to sleep over because we wanted to watch a Chelsea vs arsenal match that Saturday, he called my attention to a discussion which was going on amongst my neighbor which I was paying rapt attention to but decides to act otherwise, the discussion was amongst 5 people and by my calculation the oldest should be around 27 or 28 years, the discussion was that if any politician can pay 2000 ( two thousand naira) when they get to the polling booth, they will vote for the person, I stood and wonder 2000 naira and suffer for the next 4 years? And this again called my attention to the not too young to run bill, are these set of people that will champion the not too young to run vision?
To actualize our dreams and for a better Nigeria where youth with potentials and innovation will rule, much work needs to be done and it start with I and you.
GOD BLESS NIGERIA