By Emmanuel Amuwo.

I see the global efforts in combatting Coronavirus and it saddens my heart because the frustration plague I christened "HOPELESS VIRUS DEFICIENCY (HOVID-20)" would be worse than Covid-19.

It is sad that despite efforts by government, the youth do not see anything worthy of commendation. Well, a hopeless youth will not see anything good, no matter how much you package it.

Employees are losing their jobs already while thousands will be sacked after the Covid-19 saga. This means the rate of unemployment will be increased by 25-40%.

In a country where citizens are deprived of basic amenities, it is no doubt that many more people will move downward the poverty line.

With the effect of Covid-19 on everyone, even commercial sex workers are off the streets for lack of patronage since no one is willing to embrace death. Indeed, we fail to realize that a hopeless youth is worse than Ebola and Covid-19 put together.

The serious pandemic that is warming up is HOVID-20 and no scientist will be able to come up with a vaccine for it. I am not to advise or proffer solution, but to reaffirm the implication and the effect of HOVID-20 to the nation and the world at large.

It will be a major disaster that will crumble every sector of the economy. The syndromes are:

- Youths will no longer believe or trust leaders

- Over 75% of youths will be unemployed

- Over 80% of the unemployed will lose focus

- Youths will no longer be creative

- Youths will no longer believe in tomorrow

- Youths will see elected leaders as their enemies

- Education will no longer have value before youths

- The use of drugs will be seen as a comforter to youths.

- Revolution will be gradually discussed.

- Youths will see religious leaders as tools being used by elected individuals.


No nation will survive the heat. The military will become powerless because even nature will be enraged. The spirit of death will come upon these youths and they will rather have their blood spilled than live another day in agony and pain.

REVIVE THE HOPES OF THE YOUTHS!

Emmanuel Amuwo
08098482374


https://insiderng.net/2020/04/09/featured-hovid-20-is-worse-than-ebola-covid-19-put-together/

By Anike Abanishe.


Dear Joana Kolo,

It is with great pleasure and warm greetings from the beautiful city of Abuja, that I write to express my delight at your appointment as the Commissioner of Youth and Sports Development.

Amidst the numerous political games and thrills that’s been showcased in our beautiful state, I’m forced to make this an open letter and hope that my voice will be seen as that of a bushgirl that is genuinely glad to see a young female having a stake in Kwara NOT that of a political spectator who belongs to the right or left.

Your appointment gives me and numerous youths (especially females) in Kwara, a sense of comradeship and hope in the recognition and belief in our capacity to make Kwara a better place. It is most encouraging and thrilling to see on social media your efforts in humanitarianism, even though I strongly believe that your team needs to do more than amplifying your image as the youngest to the 21st century innovative one that can do more than being present at events with the Executive Governor.

In my joy of the boundless possibilities of your representation of the youth constituency, I beseech on you to “calculate before moving” to “think before acting” and reflect everyday so as not get engulfed with the euphoria of being young and successful. I am particularly rooting for your success because you are a reflection of the Kwara dream of every young girl out there. Today, little girls can be certain that they need not sleep around to be prominent and they can actually be called upon to serve at any point in their lives.

Soonest, the euphoria of being the youngest Commissioner will be overtaken by our eagerness to see the process and result of your young blood. Asides being the youngest commissioner in Nigeria, what will you be known for? What legacy will you leave for the girls whose eyes glowed at the possibility your appointment showcased?
 
As I look forward to seeing you in action, I would like to extend my compliments and trust that you accept my utmost regards and highest consideration.


https://insiderng.net/2019/12/16/an-open-letter-to-nigerias-youngest-commissioner-joana-kolo/

By Nimi Princewill

Prominent for facilitating the release of 103 Chibok girls from the Boko Haram insurgents, Zannah Bukar Mustapha, a Nigerian lawyer and educator was on Saturday, October 19, unveiled as a finalist for the 2019 Aurora Prize for Awakening Humanity in Yerevan, Armenia.


Aside from his valiant efforts in negotiating with the hierarchy of the dreaded Islamic sect for the release of some of the abducted school girls, Mr Mustapha is also renowned for providing free education to children and orphans of Boko Haram fighters.


In an interview with Nimi Princewill on Sunday, Mr Zannah Mustapha explained why a large number of the kidnapped Chibok girls are yet to be rescued.


See excerpts:


* What circumstances led to your role as mediator between the government and Boko Haram insurgents?


I was born and brought up in Maiduguri and I happened to have a foundation that was established in 2007, much earlier before the advent of Boko Haram. The foundation was for orphans and vulnerable children. In 2009, when the insurgency started, a lot of Boko Haram elements were killed and their wives and children were cast on the streets. Since my primary aim of setting up the foundation was to cater for orphans, I took in the kids of slain Boko Haram fighters as well as their wives. I was doing that before they abducted the Chibok school girls. So, I think they felt I would be an impartial mediator.



* The government contacted you for mediation or the insurgents recommended you to the government?


The government did. The mandate was given to me shortly after President Buhari went to the UN to ask for assistance to negotiate with Boko Haram terrorists.



* You negotiated the release of 103 Chibok girls. What were the terms agreed upon by the government and the sect?


That’s not within my powers and it's not something I can disclose. I will not earn the confidence of both sides if I reveal details.



* About 112 Chibok girls are yet to be released five years after their abduction. What do you think is responsible for the delay?


After I negotiated the release of the first batch of 21 and the second batch of 82 girls, I told the world that some of the remaining girls did not want to return home because they had developed the 'Stockholm syndrome'. They had identified with their captors and desired to stay back. But their parents and the Bring Back Our Girls group did not believe it was true. In less than two days, the girls came out in a video to confirm what I said. As a mediator, it was not part of my mandate to force them to return home.



* From your interaction with the insurgents, what can be deduced as a cogent reason for their violent actions?


There is nothing positive about those people. Whether they have any justification for their actions is a question for them to answer.



* You founded a school which offers free education to hundreds of children affected by insurgency, including children and orphans of Boko Haram fighters. What inspired this?


I opened the school to help less privileged children get education. I take pride in impacting knowledge to people in general and I see that it is only through education that we can change the tide of time. At the school, we also give special orientation to children/orphans of Boko Haram fighters on conflict resolution and peace building.



* You were the first Nigerian to win the United Nations' Nansen Refugee Award where you received $150,000 to aid your humanitarian work. What successes have been recorded so far?


The school has been expanded. We now have a centre which trains widows of Boko Haram fighters on entrepreneurship skills such as shoes and bag making, tailoring, bead making and even computer appreciation.



* Yesterday, in Yerevan, Armenia, you received $50,000 as a finalist for the 2019 Aurora Prize for Awakening Humanity. What should Nigerians expect from you going forward?


We are going to enroll more students. When we opened the Future Prowess Islamic Foundation School in Maiduguri, after the Boko Haram insurgents forced all schools to be closed, we started with a single classroom for 36 children. The school now educates hundreds of students, and has a waiting list of more than 2,000 children.

By Nimi Princewill.

Kiki Mordi, a 28-year-old Nigerian BBC undercover journalist shot into national prominence following the release of the BBC Africa Eye documentary, dubbed #SexForGrades.

The undercover expose was a lead into the startling spate of sexual harassment and victimization of female students by lecturers in West Africa's prestigious universities.

Revelations from the documentary has long triggered the indefinite suspension of the lecturers indicted for sexual harassment as well as smooth the way for other women to share their experiences.

Mordi, in an exclusive interview with INSIDER speaks on her hope for reforms as she continues her quest to purge the Nigerian educational system of sexual impropriety.


Read excerpts:


* One of the prominent questions from Nigerians in reaction to the BBC Africa Eye documentary has been: Why Dr. Boniface Igbeneghu and Dr. Samuel Oladipo? Why were they singled out in your quest to gather dirt on Nigerian lecturers?


Well, the simple answer is, we didn't choose any lecturer that we were going to investigate. We didn't even choose the school. We had a data gathering phase that lasted nine months; collecting information, reaching out to past and current students, examining the evidence that we were able to find, which included recordings, screenshots, etc. So, it was the evidence that led us to Dr Boniface. We didn't choose Dr Boniface, we didn't choose Unilag, we didn't choose Dr. Samuel Oladipo. The evidence we had led us to them.

As a matter of fact, Dr. Samuel Oladipo wasn't even chosen because if you watch the full documentary which is available on YouTube, during the course of our investigation, we had undercover journalists inside the offices and we also had people outside standing guard, pretending to be students. At a point, each and everyone of our undercover operatives outside were accosted at one point or the other. Dr Samuel Oladipo actually accosted me, he pulled me by my arms while I was standing guard for one of our undercover operatives. So we didn't choose these people, the evidence led us to them and in the case of Dr Boniface, he was included in our investigation after he harassed me in public.



* Have you received any threats from the lecturers or people close to them since the documentary was aired?


No, I have not received any threats from any of them. They haven't contacted me directly.



* It was learnt you dropped out of a Nigerian university as a result of sexual harassment. Can you tell us about that?


I did drop out of the university as a result of sexual harassment that lasted for so long. It was so bad that I literally had no other option than to leave. It wasn't the most beautiful experience that I ever had to have because I'm a person who enjoys education. I'm what they call a geek. I'm hoping that in my own time, I'll get to tell my story wholly as much as I can. So far so good, like you heard in the documentary, I attended one of the really good schools in Nigeria and unfortunately, I had to drop out not because of any other thing besides sexual harassment.



* What school was that?


I can't currently name the school. I will name it in my own time.



* Rumors are rife that the school was the University of Nsukka, in Enugu State. How correct is that?


I can neither confirm nor deny



* Can you identify the lecturer who harassed you while a student?


No. I can't identify the lecturer as well.



* But you definitely have plans to go after him sometime in the future?


Well, I don't go after lecturers. I think there's this misconception about what investigative journalism is. Investigative journalism is simply uncovering the truth with a lot of professionalism and thorough work done because it's a lot to actually uncover wrongdoing. You need to be sure. It took us over a year to produce Sex-For-Grades, so I'm not going to as a personal vendetta go after anybody. But all I have to say on the issue of sexual harassment in Nigerian universities is that this is not the end of the story.



* Having reportedly been a medical student, what influenced your trajectory to journalism?


I was slowly weaning myself out of school and I wasn't sure what I wanted to do with my life. I didn't even honestly think that I wanted to do radio or journalism or media. I felt like I would go home and figure it out. But during that space, I had a friend who told me to escort her to a radio audition. I did, and when we got there, the person auditioning said she liked my voice and she felt like that there was something about my voice. So she told me to get in the booth to audition. Somehow, a couple of weeks later I found myself on radio and from there I discovered there's a world where my voice matters and I can actually thrive as a person.



* The content of the sex-for-grades documentary has been faulted in certain quarters for failing to establish that the lecturers actually solicited for sex, or opted to trade sexual favors for grades. What's your reaction to these claims?


My reaction is, I'm not sure what people are looking for. We uncover wrongdoing. I'm not sure if people were looking for any of our operatives to have been put in harm's way in order to expose this. That's definitely something we wouldn't do. We would never compromise the safety of our undercover operatives in the quest for uncovering the truth. Their safety is more important. We wouldn't have allowed them to have been badly hurt just to prove a point. All we've done is uncover the truth as journalists. We've not labeled any crime.

The name of the film is sex-for-grades for the pure reason that it is a culture. We have rape culture, it doesn't mean that everything is about rape. It's about all the things that enable rape. The wide spectrum... from the beginning, the grooming, the soliciting, the improper behavior, the commenting on body, all these things that makes life miserable for young women who just want to go to school. And then, at the extreme end of this culture is actual soliciting for sex. And we know that it's a journey that starts from the beginning of the person making you comfortable with them and then they move in. So, we've uncovered these lecturers doing wrong and we have not labeled what they have done. It's up to the school, the police and the government to say this is what they did and prosecute them.



* Do you plan to clampdown on other Nigerian lecturers in a similar fashion?


My hopes are that this documentary would be an eye-opener on how bad this problem is. Sexual harassment in Nigerian universities is an epidemic. I can't clampdown on anything because I'm a journalist but our leaders can. So I'm hoping that this documentary inspires them to do the right thing.



* What reforms do you hope to see in the Nigerian educational system?


A lot. As a matter of fact, we even have people who are professionals on reforms, like Non-governmental Organizations who pitch these things every day. I've heard so many brilliant ideas and I hope the government engages and partners with these people.

First of all, anything that can dissolve the power of the lecturers. As it stands right now, a Nigerian lecturer has almost one hundred percent power over a student; over their results and a lot of things. Dissolution of that power will reduce the amount of leverage a lecturer can have over a student.

Sexual harassment policy should be nationalized. Just a few schools have sexual harassment policy in Nigeria. We need to see the political will of these schools to actually do something about it. The government also needs to hold the schools accountable. If as an institution you claim to have a solid sexual harassment policy but at the end of the day, we still have hundreds of women and girls being sexually harassed, it means you have failed at your policy and you need to be held accountable. We should have bills. We should definitely revisit all these structures that will protect young women at every level.



* Do you plan to return to school?


I hope to... Yes, I do hope to return to school because I genuinely enjoy learning.



Find more on: https://insiderng.net/2019/10/11/dissolve-the-power-of-lecturers-bbc-undercover-journalist-mordi-tasks-nigerian-authorities/

By Nimi Princewill.

Kiki Mordi, a 28-year-old Nigerian BBC undercover journalist shot into national prominence following the release of the BBC Africa Eye documentary, dubbed #SexForGrades.

The undercover expose was a lead into the startling spate of sexual harassment and victimization of female students by lecturers in West Africa's prestigious universities.

Revelations from the documentary has long triggered the indefinite suspension of the lecturers indicted for sexual harassment as well as smooth the way for other women to share their experiences.

Mordi, in an exclusive interview with INSIDER speaks on her hope for reforms as she continues her quest to purge the Nigerian educational system of sexual impropriety.


Read excerpts:


* One of the prominent questions from Nigerians in reaction to the BBC Africa Eye documentary has been: Why Dr. Boniface Igbeneghu and Dr. Samuel Oladipo? Why were they singled out in your quest to gather dirt on Nigerian lecturers?


Well, the simple answer is, we didn't choose any lecturer that we were going to investigate. We didn't even choose the school. We had a data gathering phase that lasted nine months; collecting information, reaching out to past and current students, examining the evidence that we were able to find, which included recordings, screenshots, etc. So, it was the evidence that led us to Dr Boniface. We didn't choose Dr Boniface, we didn't choose Unilag, we didn't choose Dr. Samuel Oladipo. The evidence we had led us to them.

As a matter of fact, Dr. Samuel Oladipo wasn't even chosen because if you watch the full documentary which is available on YouTube, during the course of our investigation, we had undercover journalists inside the offices and we also had people outside standing guard, pretending to be students. At a point, each and everyone of our undercover operatives outside were accosted at one point or the other. Dr Samuel Oladipo actually accosted me, he pulled me by my arms while I was standing guard for one of our undercover operatives. So we didn't choose these people, the evidence led us to them and in the case of Dr Boniface, he was included in our investigation after he harassed me in public.



* Have you received any threats from the lecturers or people close to them since the documentary was aired?


No, I have not received any threats from any of them. They haven't contacted me directly.



* It was learnt you dropped out of a Nigerian university as a result of sexual harassment. Can you tell us about that?


I did drop out of the university as a result of sexual harassment that lasted for so long. It was so bad that I literally had no other option than to leave. It wasn't the most beautiful experience that I ever had to have because I'm a person who enjoys education. I'm what they call a geek. I'm hoping that in my own time, I'll get to tell my story wholly as much as I can. So far so good, like you heard in the documentary, I attended one of the really good schools in Nigeria and unfortunately, I had to drop out not because of any other thing besides sexual harassment.



* What school was that?


I can't currently name the school. I will name it in my own time.



* Rumors are rife that the school was the University of Nsukka, in Enugu State. How correct is that?


I can neither confirm nor deny



* Can you identify the lecturer who harassed you while a student?


No. I can't identify the lecturer as well.



* But you definitely have plans to go after him sometime in the future?


Well, I don't go after lecturers. I think there's this misconception about what investigative journalism is. Investigative journalism is simply uncovering the truth with a lot of professionalism and thorough work done because it's a lot to actually uncover wrongdoing. You need to be sure. It took us over a year to produce Sex-For-Grades, so I'm not going to as a personal vendetta go after anybody. But all I have to say on the issue of sexual harassment in Nigerian universities is that this is not the end of the story.



* Having reportedly been a medical student, what influenced your trajectory to journalism?


I was slowly weaning myself out of school and I wasn't sure what I wanted to do with my life. I didn't even honestly think that I wanted to do radio or journalism or media. I felt like I would go home and figure it out. But during that space, I had a friend who told me to escort her to a radio audition. I did, and when we got there, the person auditioning said she liked my voice and she felt like that there was something about my voice. So she told me to get in the booth to audition. Somehow, a couple of weeks later I found myself on radio and from there I discovered there's a world where my voice matters and I can actually thrive as a person.



* The content of the sex-for-grades documentary has been faulted in certain quarters for failing to establish that the lecturers actually solicited for sex, or opted to trade sexual favors for grades. What's your reaction to these claims?


My reaction is, I'm not sure what people are looking for. We uncover wrongdoing. I'm not sure if people were looking for any of our operatives to have been put in harm's way in order to expose this. That's definitely something we wouldn't do. We would never compromise the safety of our undercover operatives in the quest for uncovering the truth. Their safety is more important. We wouldn't have allowed them to have been badly hurt just to prove a point. All we've done is uncover the truth as journalists. We've not labeled any crime.

The name of the film is sex-for-grades for the pure reason that it is a culture. We have rape culture, it doesn't mean that everything is about rape. It's about all the things that enable rape. The wide spectrum... from the beginning, the grooming, the soliciting, the improper behavior, the commenting on body, all these things that makes life miserable for young women who just want to go to school. And then, at the extreme end of this culture is actual soliciting for sex. And we know that it's a journey that starts from the beginning of the person making you comfortable with them and then they move in. So, we've uncovered these lecturers doing wrong and we have not labeled what they have done. It's up to the school, the police and the government to say this is what they did and prosecute them.



* Do you plan to clampdown on other Nigerian lecturers in a similar fashion?


My hopes are that this documentary would be an eye-opener on how bad this problem is. Sexual harassment in Nigerian universities is an epidemic. I can't clampdown on anything because I'm a journalist but our leaders can. So I'm hoping that this documentary inspires them to do the right thing.



* What reforms do you hope to see in the Nigerian educational system?


A lot. As a matter of fact, we even have people who are professionals on reforms, like Non-governmental Organizations who pitch these things every day. I've heard so many brilliant ideas and I hope the government engages and partners with these people.

First of all, anything that can dissolve the power of the lecturers. As it stands right now, a Nigerian lecturer has almost one hundred percent power over a student; over their results and a lot of things. Dissolution of that power will reduce the amount of leverage a lecturer can have over a student.

Sexual harassment policy should be nationalized. Just a few schools have sexual harassment policy in Nigeria. We need to see the political will of these schools to actually do something about it. The government also needs to hold the schools accountable. If as an institution you claim to have a solid sexual harassment policy but at the end of the day, we still have hundreds of women and girls being sexually harassed, it means you have failed at your policy and you need to be held accountable. We should have bills. We should definitely revisit all these structures that will protect young women at every level.



* Do you plan to return to school?


I hope to... Yes, I do hope to return to school because I genuinely enjoy learning.



Find more on: https://insiderng.net/2019/10/11/dissolve-the-power-of-lecturers-bbc-undercover-journalist-mordi-tasks-nigerian-authorities/

It is a demonic programming to not see anything good in this administration, even when there is a glaring laudable giant stride evident to the blind and deaf; it is equally sheepish and extremist to think that every policy of this government is commendable, hence, deserving of everyone's support.


The Federal Government's acquisition of an Amplitude Modulation (AM) broadcasting licence to be broadcast "strictly in Fulfulde" raises more questions to the discerning minds than answers to the myriads of problems bedevilling us as a country; allegedly attributed to the ethnic group in question.


What was the role of the media in Nazi Germany as championed by Adolf Hitler, that made the Germans see themselves as the most superior race on earth?

What was the role of the media in fascist Italy as spearheaded by Mosulini?

What was the role the media played in the Rwandan Genocide that led to the ethnic cleansing of the Tutsis by the Hutus?

Again, what was the role of the media in the Nigerian civil war that the Federal Government of Nigeria thought it was going to be a month old war, but lingered for thirty months?

Anyone who has at least, a degree in political science would have come across a course, "The International Politics of Mass Communication."

In it, you'd find the dynamics of media and media ownership and of course, the symbiotic relationship between terrorism and the media.

Why didn't the FG acquire license for the other three major ethnic groups as recognized by the constitution as the language of legislative business?

Is there any Fulani in Nigeria who does not understand Hausa? Why can't they leverage on the existing radio stations already broadcasting in Hausa?

Is this some sort of validation of Obasanjo's alleged "Fulanization of Nigeria" when he spoke about the purported 100 billion to be given to the Fulani?

Although, the FG denied this claim, but the Myetti Allah owned up.

In the end, any appearance of ethnic hegemony must be resisted by every good spirited Nigerian. We must all look beyond the perfunctory justification of this dastardly policy.

God bless Nigeria.


Paul Kums is a social commentator

kumsatpaulpwaspo@gmail.com

By Nimi Princewill



Having cruised to an eccentric victory by landslide at the recently concluded polls, the incoming Kwara State Governor Alhaji Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq assuredly rides on the goodwill of the people—both for sheer political attraction, and his distinct role leading from the frontlines of the O To Ge (enough is enough) movement which ousted the long-lived "Saraki hegemony."


Leveraging on the perceived shortcomings of the past and present administrations in the state, Alhaji Abdulrazaq and his All Progressives Congress party, APC, appeared to be the most endearing to the people. 

The incoming governor never hesitates to express his displeasure over the current system of governance in the state, as he insists Kwara State is poor in social infrastructure despite receiving an average of 40bn naira annually from the federal accounts. 


In his statement, "between January 2011 and August 2018, the Kwara State government has received roughly N300bn in federal allocations. In the same period, the 16 local governments have received more than N500bn. This means that this state has received an average of 40bn naira annually from the federal accounts while the local councils have taken over 27bn naira annually between 2011 and 2017. 

"Yet Kwara is poor in social infrastructure even as it is one of the frontline states. Teachers and pensioners are owed, local government teachers are not paid, and civil servants at the state level are not properly remunerated and often have their pay slashed for dubious reasons without being able to protest same." 


He further questions why the state is indebted to the tune of N56bn as at December 2017, with 30 per cent of it being external debt and 70 owed to local financial institutions, despite the absence of commensurate development to justify it. He also attributes the poor nature of Kwara's internally generated revenue to "lack of creativity."


Some Kwara residents and political leaders maintain that the state's growth has been stunted in the last 16 years by the past and present administrations, as the state's progress cannot be compared to other first generation states in the country like Rivers, Kano and Lagos.

According to a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kwara State, Mr Oluwafemi Yusuf, this huge development deficit was because of misplaced priorities as in the last 16 years, projects that doesn't concern the masses or are people oriented were being executed.

A prominent labour leader, Mr. Issa Aremu, who contested in the 2019 Kwara State governorship election under the platform of the Labour Party, mentioned in his declaration speech that Kwara State "in recent times is poorly governed" and needed “a radical change from underdevelopment, mass hunger and poverty.” 

However, finding electoral value in the candidacy of the APC's aspirant, Mr. Aremu directed his Labour Party supporters to vote overwhelmingly for Alhaji Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq "to rescue Kwara from a dictatorship of one person for the past two decades."


With the weight of expectations the incoming governor is inundated with, settling into office before hitting the ground running isn't an available option he stands to enjoy. As a consequence of the APC winning over 70 percent of the votes cast in the elections, Kwarans demand nothing less than his very best. 

In his acceptance speech, Alhaji Abdulrazaq acknowledged that Kwarans had spoken and the incoming administration could not afford to fail the people. In his words, "Kwara people have decided and that has put a lot of responsibilities on us. We cannot afford to fail and we cannot afford to steal and loot the treasury.

“The huge margin of our victory at the polls suggests that our people are fed up with the status quo and want a new approach to governance.

"God forbid that after three years, people will regret that why did they vote this new government. I can assure you that will not happen.

“We will work tirelessly as a team to deliver and make sure people start feeling the effects of government and dividends of democracy. When we assume office, by the Grace of God and the good people of Kwara, we will spread development to all parts of the state.’’


Nonetheless, the incoming Kwara State governor Alhaji Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq isn't coming into office with an exactly squeaky-clean reputation, as he's had his fair share of scandalous accusations arising from his alleged certificate scam, which is widely regarded by his followers as a plot to distract the governor-elect. 

Mr Oluwafemi Yusuf, assures that the allegation would end in futility, while accusing the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) of plotting to blackmail the state's governor-elect by claiming that the Senior Secondary School Certificate he presented for his election was forged.

As the new government defines its priority programmes which revolves around education, health care, providing basic infrastructure, lifting Kwara from poverty, security, agriculture, looking into the welfare of teachers, among other critical areas in need of urgent attention, Kwarans lay in wait to see what will be done differently from previous administrations. 


It is worthy of note that the outgoing Kwara State Governor Abdulfatah Ahmed, in a show of sportsmanship, has charged the people of the state to support and cooperate with the incoming administration. 


Will the dispensation of Alhaji Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq provide the much needed "fresh air" as the people of Kwara State crave for a departure from the past? The O To Ge (enough is enough) movement shouldn't only be vicious in ridding the state of Senator Saraki's influence. It should wrestle to the ground every appearance of bad governance in Kwara State going forward.

Nimi Princewill is a writer and social reformer

Princewill.nimi@yahoo.com

African culture isn't bosom friends with women's rights. Neither is religion a known admirer of ambitious women who demand equality with men. It only requires a bit of emotional blackmail to muscle a female into realizing that the male gender is king, the sole head and chief executive officer of the home in a traditional African society.


However, the last few years hasn't been an entirely comfortable one for conservative African men, who are continually threatened by the feminist movement which is fast gaining the interest of more women around the continent. A new wave of enlightenment which aims to disinfect the minds of women against extreme submission to men, as it strongly crusades for gender equality. In fact, to a great number of African men, feminism is the new mental illness in Sub-Saharan Africa!


African feminism comes with alien demands like: Women sharing equal partnership with men in all facets of family life, abolishing male preference in politics, ensuring reproductive rights for women and girls, and recognizing the rights of women to hold religious titles without restraint to preside over men. The feminist movement also criticizes all forms of domestic violence (no matter how severe the provocation), and frowns at oppressive cultural practices like: child marriage, female genital mutilation, and most recently, its strong demand to discontinue the payment of bride price during marital rites, since of course, the bride isn't for sale.


The proposed emancipation of women in Africa is likely to be a long term idealistic struggle, as patriarchy eats deep within the social and cultural systems of the African continent. Nonetheless, the women have neither cowered in fright nor lowered their expectations. The indoctrination of more women into feminism is on the increase!


Aside from the successes recorded in ensuring government's protection of women against sexual/domestic violence and female genital mutilation through favorable laws in several regions in Africa, women have made significant strides in politics as well. In 2017, Rwandan women reportedly controlled 62% of the country's legislative seats, the highest in the world. In other Sub-Saharan countries like South Africa, Senegal and Namibia, close to 40% of parliamentary seats are held by women.


Expectedly threatened by the sudden emergence of women in politics, Nigerian lawmaker, Gudaji Kazaure, recently had some advise for parliament. In his words, "It is good to give women opportunities in politics, entrepreneurship because of the good role they play in our lives. My fear is, the women control the men at home. If you give them too much opportunity outside the house, they will capture everything. If you give them too much chance, one day, they will overthrow us. One day you will come here and find women everywhere in this chamber and they will mess up."


In a strongly religious and culturally conservative African society, it isn't sane to make demands for gender equality. It isn't alright to question the historic gendering of God as male, which gives influence to the superiority of men over women. It is psychotic to request equal partnership for husband and wife in the African marriage systems.
African women must keep up with the fight against gender discrimination, until the 'deranged' concept of feminism becomes the new standard of the African society.



Bio: Nimi Princewill is a writer and social reformer.


Email: princewill.nimi@yahoo.com

Twitter: @princewill_nimi

Electioneering process in Nigeria isn't traditionally wired to project the youths for elite leadership positions, but mere vocal electorate who contribute their youthful energies in solidarity to the older generation, while they sit at the lonely sidelines.


In certain quarters of public opinion, the youths are snubbed for their incompetence in possessing the perfect role model skill set required for the rigors of governance. However, with the current influx of Nigerian youths buying into the narrative of taking their destinies into their hands and contributing their quota to national development, one cannot undermine the strong mental preparedness of the youths for public office.


To enhance a smooth transition of power from the older generation, the youths must get involved in the business of nation-building. The youths must build a new model to make the already existing one less attractive. A revolution of change aimed at realigning the concept of governance with its original meaning: "Serving The People, Not Ruling Them." A vision of empowering the vulnerable in the society towards achieving their potentials through tangible programs and quality innovation for grassroots development. A strong renaissance, championed by Ibrahim Bature Sallama, Coordinator, Nigerians in Diaspora West Africa, and aspiring candidate for the House of Representatives, Bakori/Danja Federal Constituency of Katsina State. In his words, "You never change things by fighting the existing reality. To change something, build a new model that makes the existing model obsolete."


Ibrahim Bature Sallama is a trusted youth leader whose body language and rare ideological strength has over the years, championed the cause for youth development/empowerment in the various strata of leadership he has been privileged to occupy. Most notable, was his exemplary and charismatic leadership style which made him flourish in his reign as the National Youth Leader of the All Progressive Congress (APC Ghana Chapter). His uniqueness and genuine love for youth development, earned him a remarkable chat with the Voice of America (VOA), and a certificate of participation to President Muhammadu Buhari's historic inauguration in 2015.


Ibrahim Bature Sallama seeks to bring hope to the vulnerable struggling with today, hoping their tomorrow will be better. With his popular mantra, "No legacy is so rich as honesty," Ibrahim Bature Sallama brings the new wave of change to the youth and the most neglected people of Bakori/Danja Federal Constituency of Katsina State.

Sixty-five million Nigerians are illiterates, according to UNESCO. Nevertheless, the year has been moderately fine for Nigeria, having fared favorably in enviable awards, such as ranking big as the world's 148th Least Corrupt Country, and topping the list of African countries who live and bath in alcohol. Indeed, a giant of Africa! Nigeria has also recorded outstanding performances in harboring unschooled killer-herdsmen who invade the farms of communities, and destroy lives when resisted, just so their beloved cattle can eat. The most remarkable, is Nigeria's consistent history of electing fairly educated presidents.

As election year fast approaches, one can hastily predict the outcome. Traditionally, two out of five elected presidents in Nigeria are satisfactorily schooled and literate. With an adult literacy rate of 59.6 percent, close to half of Nigeria's population are grossly illiterate. Interestingly, the illiterate population make the greater part of the country's voting strength, and would rather be swayed by popular candidates who lobby and purchase their votes with gallons of palm oil, customized bags of rice, two thousand Naira ($5) or less. The educated population are split into two categories. One half, prioritize political party affiliation far above the prospects of tangible development, while the others are heavily partisan on social media and public hangouts, but record a low voter turnout.

The Nigerian economy under democratic regimes haven't been known to be a flourishing one. This is understandably so, as non-professionals seem to be the overwhelming choice of the people for president. The few seasoned technocrats are either overlooked for their perceived incompetence in amassing grassroots support, or branded 'too elitist' for the rigors of "Nigerian Politics." The favored political slots available to the Nigerian intellectual class at the federal level, are Ministerial/Ambassadorial positions, or the Vice Presidency at best. As the Nigerian ruling party (APC) seeks reelection at the forthcoming polls, Nigerians are once again presented with the option of President Muhammadu Buhari, whose completion of his secondary education is at present the subject of controversy, while of course, his running mate—a professor of law and current Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, is overlooked for the presidency.

A cross-section of Nigerian voters, find more interest in the ethnic and tribal routes of candidates, than their academic qualifications or corporate track records. The Nigerian electorate are also keen on religious preferences. The prospects of a Muslim candidate running for office alongside a competent Muslim running mate is often dead on arrival. One needs no rocket science to ascend to the presidency in Nigeria. A popular individual of considerable advancement in age—who's an 'anointed' indigene of the ethnic or geo-political zone to be favored based on zoning calculations, equipped with propaganda to demonize the current government, massive funds to throw around, as well as good dance steps to showcase at campaign venues is ripe for the job!

The worrisome rate of illiteracy in Northern Nigeria is alleged to be the root cause of terrorism, religious hostility and widespread extremism witnessed in the region. One in every two Christians in the northern part of Nigeria is likely to be physically assaulted over a religious altercation. In some other parts of the country, fashionable women with a loud sense of style are fast becoming endangered species. A lady thought to be indecently dressed is at risk of being shamed, or publicly stripped by mobs. Pickpockets and other roadside thieves aren't finding their career path easy. One caught in robbery would be lucky not to be lynched to death or publicly burned alive.

The Nigeria Police has grown quite a fancy reputation for itself as an internationally recognised violator of human rights. The recruitment of schooled officers into the force hasn't done much good either. Nigerians were recently taken aback by a viral footage of some suspected kidnappers, having their testicles shot and brutally blown up by officers of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) a unit in the Nigeria Police, without legal trial or prosecution.

An enlightened population is synonymous to a developed nation. And quality leadership is the product of an informed electorate. To achieve progress in social development, adult literacy must be given as much attention as building the economy, fighting insurgency and creating employment. If the excessive cost of governance in Nigeria is reduced to a minimum, free adult literacy centres should be established in every local council to aid the reduction of illiteracy through intensive public enlightenment. The fight against illiteracy shouldn't be won only on the pages of newspapers. It should reflect on the streets of Nigeria, where what's left of literacy is its charred remains.





Email: princewill.nimi@yahoo.com

Twitter: @princewill_nimi

There isn't a better conversation starter than this: "Africa is the wealthiest continent, but the poorest and least developed."
Try it, and you'll be overwhelmed by the debates that follow.


Africa's progress compared to the rest of the world, can be likened to a chauffeur who drives his employer to important places in a luxury vehicle but himself waits idly in the car. The Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) plan had its ups and downs, but while significant strides were made in other parts of the world, the plan's hugest failures were recorded in Africa. Despite the failure of the MDGs, as well as regular episodes of corruption, inflation, extreme poverty/hunger, economic dependency and other Third World plagues you're abundantly aware of, African leaders still make quite flattering remarks as regards their fictional achievements, which are most visible on the pages of newspapers.


Who takes the fall for the continued economic and political backwardness of the African continent? The first-republic politicians who were more concerned with attaining independence than preparing for the administrative rigors of governance? Or the present-day leaders who are arguably in power to massage their egos and set up trust funds to exempt their future generations from poverty? And of course, some African heads of state are both first-republic and present-day rulers, having spent over three consecutive decades in power. Terrific!


One category of African leaders are famous for constitutional amendments (close to election year) to guarantee their eligibility for a longer stay in power despite mediocre achievements. Another category of African leaders plan to retire as kingmakers by ensuring power is transferred to a trusted relative or loyal stooge, to evade future prosecution for corruption.


The basic job description of the military does not include civil administration—which is good for democracy. However, in countries where leaders have tarried in power for decades but more than half of the population still live below the poverty line, can the next election be trusted to recruit better candidates? Can the ballots inspire a new wave of change in Eritrea, whose president has been in power since independence? Or Cameroon, Uganda and Equatorial Guinea, whose citizens have learned to live with rulers who've clung to power for over 30 years? Or Chad and Sudan, whose presidents have tarried for 27 and 28 years, respectively? Perhaps we can use the Zimbabwe experience as reference. Who says military intervention can't represent the voice of the people? The military can enforce a peaceful transition of power from these never-ending, ineffective governments to interim ones, while putting measures in place for credible elections.


To break free from tyrant "democratic" rulers who have no moral justification for leadership, Africa could use another coordinated, peaceful coup this year. I don't promote military intervention in politics, I just encourage it.



• Nimi Princewill is a writer and social reformer.


Email: princewill.nimi@yahoo.com

Twitter: @princewill_nimi

Society don't care what value you create. If you aren't getting rewarded with an obese paycheck, you aren't doing nothing. Well, shame on society. Finding fulfillment in the service you render (even on a volunteer job) is the biggest reward. Monetary remuneration is only an added advantage.


Every once in a while, I get approached by publications across Africa, requesting I contribute my thoughts to their platforms. I oblige for free, and it drives a few people crazy. In their words, "You write for all these publications? You must be earning a boatload..." I do imagine how terribly disappointed they get, as nothing reeks of poor judgment any worse than my usual reply, "I don't write for money."
As usual, another mail appeared a while ago; and yet again, I'd been presented with a columnist role by a Tanzanian publication. In a similar fashion, a loved one angrily ranted, "You'd be foolish if you accept without negotiating a price!" Well, of course, I accepted without negotiating a price!


Self-worth is frequently abandoned for net-worth. A lot of underpaid employees will not put in their best as long as the pay isn't commensurate with their value. Isn't it staggering how people constantly ridicule the noble teaching profession we're all beneficiaries of because of its low monetary benefits? Modern-day politicians aren't wired with the decency to leave office broke in order to sacrifice personal gains for community development. Is it any surprise that the contemporary church has compromised every bit of its self-worth for material enrichment at the expense of its original mission?


The proof of success shouldn't be rated based on income or possessions. It should be measured by the value you create. As an underemployed, underpaid or well-paid worker, have you volunteered in some way in making the world a little better than you met it without exactly looking out for returns? As Albert Einstein suggested, "Try not to be a man of success but rather try to be a man of value."


So the next time you come across a "broke" teacher, religious leader, singer, writer, soldier, or public office holder who finds fulfillment in pursuing purpose with little or no financial expectation, offer a lengthy smile of encouragement. Never place net-worth far above self-worth!



Princewill.nimi@yahoo.com

Twitter: @princewill_nimi

Suicide is fast becoming a quick fix to intolerable depression. While we try to preserve the only life we have; every one hour, some other people are trying to lose theirs—intentionally. Stories of suicide could seem a bit like fiction. Can people hurt so bad that they resort to killing themselves? Well, you never know if you don't feel the hurt the way they do.


"Why is life so complicated?" was the brief suicide note of the bravest 17 year old I've ever met who was almost successful in his second suicide attempt. Having lived with an uncommon speech disorder for the most part of his life, young David had a torrid time finding acceptance among his teenage folks. Often categorized by his classmates as "the duff" of the class, and once referred to as an "incomplete human being" by his dad after a severe scolding, David figured he may had overstayed his welcome on earth, and chose to end his life by drinking an awful lot of rat poison with hopes of dying in his sleep. Fortunately, he survived yet again, but how much longer before a third attempt?


The deliberate killing of oneself, is the least solution to problems. Although, we can attribute a bit of poor judgment or mental illness to some cases of suicide, our bankruptcy in love and genuine care for people with special needs are great stimulants for suicide. A few times, we're privileged to be pre-informed by suicidal persons on their impending desire for death. How do we react to such information? Laugh off in mockery?



People carry different degrees of pain as they casually walk past us everyday. Some with fatally bruised emotions, severe loneliness, intense depression from failure or financial wreckage, unexplainable sadness from unfulfillment or personality crisis; while some other people are stuck between enduring a traumatic terminal ailment for the rest of their lives, or putting themselves out of misery through suicide.


We can cut down figures on the high casualty rate of suicide by doing very simple things like: treating others nicely as often as we can, genuinely getting involved in the lives of people through lending a listening ear, or politely offering words of encouragement and hope. Suicidal tendencies are more tempting in the absence of consistent love and care. In my series of interaction with David (who hopefully, isn't suicidal anymore), he once mentioned, "If only I had a friend, classmate or teacher to talk to, who didn't mock my nature, and noticed the numerous times I was emotionally down, I wouldn't have attempted killing myself a second time."


If we can kindly provide good reasons for suicidal persons in distress why they should live longer, maybe they will... However, since we can't always tell who's likely to be suicidal and who isn't, we can commit every day of our lives to showing love and bringing hope to people—whether our input is requested or unsolicited.




Princewill.nimi@yahoo.com

Twitter: @princewill_nimi

Somewhere in Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria, a fancy statue of President Jacob Zuma poses in elegance, despite widespread condemnation of the romantic gesture by the Imo State Governor Rochas Okorocha, who appears to be quite star-struck by the South African President.


Aside from the rumored extravagant cost of erecting the monument—which comes at a time of extreme economic hardship, and likewise, the reported unpaid salaries of Imo State workers, the logic behind Governor Rochas' immortalization of the embattled South African leader, eludes the bulk of Nigerians.


To many people, President Zuma, doesn't exactly possess the 'Perfect Role Model' skill set, following his back and forth romance with indictments and corruption allegations. Also, with the recurring xenophobic attacks in South Africa, the safety of Nigerians haven't been particularly guaranteed. So, why Jacob Zuma?


As part of the welcome package from the Imo State Governor, a road was named in honor of President Zuma, as well as the President being conferred with a Chieftaincy title. In the absence of any known logical reason why Jacob Zuma should enjoy such unusual exaltation, perhaps, it will be safe to assume that Governor Rochas Okorocha must have a deep crush on President Zuma!




Princewill.nimi@yahoo.com


Twitter: @princewill_nimi

If you know your Rights, you're to blame for every Human Rights violation which you let slide right under your nose. If you aren't aware of your Rights, you're slightly worse. People who are equipped with the knowledge of their Rights but do not teach others, or calmly watch the Rights of other people get violated, ridicules the knowledge of their own Human Rights.


However frequent or limited in practice, Human Rights abuse is part of the make-up of every society—whether Third World or civilized. If many more people do not stand up against it, we'd eventually be consumed by it. Our Rights are given to us to enjoy, so how much longer should they lie in wait before they come in handy?


Unfair police harassment (unnecessary most of the time) has steadily developed into an established 'legal crime' in almost every part of the world. We watch the police bully other people in front of us, while we turn our faces away. Why get violently frisked by an officer for replying an impolite question with sarcasm?


Every individual has a Right to religion, regardless of how often they choose to switch their religious allegiance. Why condemn an Atheist, or psychologically bully an ex-Christian for converting to Islam? Why should the death penalty be recommended for Muslims who terminate their loyalty to Islamic practices?


People have a Right to their choice of sexuality as long as they make advances to people of their own kind. It's up to you to disagree with their 'awkward' choices based on your belief or value system, but why nod along in agreement as a gay or lesbian folk is being assaulted or treated unfairly because of their sexuality?


It is the Right of a people to decide their political destiny through the principle of Self-Determination if they feel their interests would be better guaranteed with full autonomy. Any constitution that selfishly declares such Right illegal is absolutely in the wrong. Why demonize a secessionist movement that wants out of its parent-country on the grounds of oppression or poor recognition? Why's the idea of self-governance most often dead on arrival?


It isn't the Right of government to infiltrate people's private life by spying on their emails or phone records in the guise of secret surveillance. The occasional usefulness of this method doesn't make it right or legal.


People have a Right to choose their spouse from whatever race, tribe, religion or ethnic extraction if they so desire. Shaming them, or attempting to stand in the way of their union is ideologically-illiterate.


Why encourage severe corporal punishment for children? Why fire a vocal worker for insisting on better work conditions? African-Americans have a Right to U.S nationality as core citizens, and not as licensed-generational-squatters. Can our Human Rights finally come in handy this year?



Princewill.nimi@yahoo.com

Twitter: @princewill_nimi

Over five decades ago, Nigeria had begun her final rites of passage from an adolescent colony of the British to a sovereign adult nation. Seemed like a whole lot of responsibility, but not such the excited leaders at that time couldn't handle. Well, at least they thought so. 57 years down the line, it appears Nigeria has only grown in age and not in stature. Terrorism, economic recession, rapid unemployment/underemployment, election violence, corruption, disregard for human rights and tribal/ethnic disunity, continues to plague the nation. Nonetheless, Nigerians do have a reason to celebrate: the priceless privilege of independence!


Just like the previous years of itemizing the nation's progress and achievements every 1st of October, the rating for this year's Independence Day anniversary hasn't particularly added any new figures. Nigeria enjoys independence while in dependence. Despite the country's wealth—and a whopping fifty-seven years after independence, Nigeria is continually in dependence of external loans to keep it's frail economy alive.


Nigeria is in dependence of foreign assistance to help wrestle Boko Haram down to the ground. Nigeria is still in dependence of the constant reminder by its citizens through risky agitation and protests that the country is still a democracy and not governed by reformed military decrees. Nigeria is in complete dependence of the petroleum sector for survival at the detriment of other promising sectors. Most unfortunately, Nigeria is in dependence of the strength of the elderly to speedily provide the desired change for the future.


It takes great courage to agitate for independence, but requires a great deal of responsibility to be truly independent. If Nigeria is still learning on the job after 57 years as a sovereign nation, then it defeats the purpose of our independence.





Princewill.nimi@yahoo.com

Twitter: @princewill_nimi

By Nimi Princewill



It hasn't been long since a lot of us finally got our lives back—after enduring the massive media hype that surrounded the fight between Conor McGregor and Floyd Mayweather. Just like every other boxing match, it's always a memorable night of having two consenting adults punch each other silly in the ring—until it gets to the fun part when one of them is lucky to unleash a knockout blow to the head of their opponent. Isn't that always a delightful sight for boxing fans? You bet!


Violence is a strong part of human character. While some people act on it, others think about it, and some others take delight in watching it get under way. No matter how much we evolve our minds or cloak ourselves in the best clothing, the savage nature in every human being lies in wait, and can be triggered the moment a perfect opportunity presents itself.


The most successful films are fast turning out to be the violent ones. A lot of viewers will rarely find a movie that doesn't involve elements of shooting, killing—and a fancy bit of martial arts interesting. Kids on the other hand, learn to enjoy the art of savagery through 'kid-friendly' cartoons. While a child awaits adolescence—when TV restrictions aren't often imposed, the child momentarily makes do with the funny but extremely cruel things 'Tom and Jerry' do to each other. Isn't it interesting how kids giggle in amusement whenever rival cartoon characters give each other an agonizing experience?


American Football (NFL), is one of the many interesting sports in the United States. Among the numerous reasons why it is loved, the violent thrill of the sport outranks them all. In Nigeria, it's fast becoming a social convention to ensure roadside thieves are lynched and burned alive publicly. How such barbaric acts are easily carried out by fellow human beings, terrifies me deeply. The same can be said for the weirdos who mutilate human body parts for voodoo rituals.


Religion, tribal sentiments and politics incite people, but our savage human nature engineers the violence associated with extremism. Nations are driven into senseless wars by the bloodthirsty savage nature of men. Domestic violence, rape, robbery, brutal killings by people who look quite squeaky clean—and our desires for violent sports, movies or games, are all various degrees of savagery.


With the acquisition of nuclear weapons by the World Powers and their rival prodigies, the world can be likened to a ticking time bomb!
Although, we've got a great deal of monstrous traits in us, if we can all tame ourselves—and pretend some more to be civilized, the world could be a little safer.



Email: princewill.nimi@yahoo.com

Twitter: @princewill_nimi

Find Yourself First, Before You Find A Job- Nimi Princewill



The economy only gets better on paper. The list of bills to pay are growing longer, and the influx of income—relatively thinner. We can't deny the fact that a nine-to-five job, can come in quite handy now than ever.


However, aside from the customary routine of trying to stay alive, finding employment, making money, starting a family and raising cool kids, everybody wants a 'little extra something' out of life. Not everyone necessarily wants to be great or "change the world" like the crazy egocentric maniacs do, but every person craves to be more useful with their hidden genius or natural creative gifts.


The unemployment rate, increases almost as often as we turn on the news. Hence, people are literally cut out for just about anything that brings income, in order to stay "gainfully" employed. But while we settle for less on momentary jobs, a lot of us don't seem to find the required satisfaction that motivates us to be more productive. The privilege of changing our jobs, still doesn't do the trick, as we eventually grow tired of the new job the same way we did with the previous one. If you feel this way about your work, then you're certainly on the right track because you deserve a lot more. So, why settle for less?


You can't be fulfilled in your job, if you're slowly drowning in the wrong profession! If you aren't passionate about your line of work, or can't see yourself clinging to it on a long term, then you might have chosen the wrong career path. How much of your 'hidden genius' have you discovered? How much of your natural creative abilities are directly connected to your current job? None? Very well, then; finding a new job to tolerate, should be the least of your concerns right now.


Often times, the extra fulfillment we seek for in life is tied to our passions—and how well we pursue them—with the help of our natural gifts. It's our passion for something that keeps us going, even when the pay isn't exactly right, or when we encounter toxic discouraging moments. When we fail to crack open our minds to discover what our true identity and passions really are, we continue to be the unhappy employees who help our bosses achieve their dreams, while we remain miserable from continual complains—even though we could be employers of labor ourselves. Why bury your life's worth just to be enslaved by a regular job that's driving you insane, when such valuable time can be invested in a craft you're gifted in and passionate about?


Find something you're good at, and work twice as hard developing yourself on it—even if you have to intern for free! Market your skills, give every opportunity a shot, and take up a job that's wired into your newfound passion. “If you wanna make money, stick with what you know and love,” Donald Trump once tweeted. Well, Mr. Trump did stick with his love for business—and a rare gift of attracting hatred from women, look where it got him...



Princewill.nimi@yahoo.com

Every part of the world has had their fair share of ignorance; especially, the naivety that accompanies the weird beliefs people grow into believing. But while other continents seem to be gradually moving away from superstition, Africa strives really hard on a daily basis to retain exclusive rights. So much for her ego as the 'Dark Continent' I suppose.


African culture is deeply rooted in different kinds of superstitious beliefs. But the great fear of wizardry, is a particularly disturbing one. Nothing terrifies the mind of the average home-bred African more than the existence of witches and wizards, and all other varieties of 'unclean spirits' which are supposedly upset with human beings, and pose a threat to activities of daily living. I feel quite strongly, you'd hurriedly want to label illiteracy as the cause of superstition in Africa. No it isn't... Not exactly. The uneducated people of course, are usually the most gullible, but the enlightened ones are not exempted, as some fall cheaply—and rather embarrassingly to superstitious beliefs.


The minds of most Africans are so laden with fear, that they believe they're in constant warfare with forces of the underworld; hence, have to liberate themselves from spiritual limitation which prevents them from either getting married on time, securing a job, amassing wealth or fulfilling destiny. Poverty, infertility, financial recklessness, sudden death, and a lot more, are all credited to the handiwork of some scavenging demon.


Some time ago, I visited the local branch of a very popular Nigerian church which was located in a developing area, and was still under construction. The intelligent preacher was rock solid in his performance, until a very adventurous lizard interestingly crawled past the altar. Sermon for that Sunday was suspended for about ten minutes in search of the "satanic lizard," as the preacher hurriedly ordered for a whip in order to trash the poor animal if they succeeded in finding it. Creepy!


"Spiritual Attack," is often tagged as the cause of death for people who passed on as a result of health-related issues, without caring to know if the deceased took proper care of his or her body while alive, had poor eating habits, or damaged internal organs through smoking/excessive intake of alcohol. A naïve relative of mine, suddenly becomes so cheerful whenever her palm itches. According to her, that's an urgent sign money is on the way. If only she knew her palm possibly itched as a result of bacterial infection.


The Zulu tribe in South Africa, are known to believe that Albinos are heavily fortified with magical powers. Sadly, innocent Albinos have been murdered for their body parts which is assumed to be very effective for rituals. In some areas of Southern Nigeria, children suspected to be "possessed with witchcraft" (through questionable yardsticks), are abandoned by their families and left for dead. Some of these "evil" children who were lucky to be rescued, are living normal lives, and are yet to engineer the tragic end of the world as accused.


The imaginary forces of the underworld, do not influence anyone's decisions on Earth. Neither should such forces be blamed for the poor choices people make that affect their finances, health, eligibility for marriage, chances of securing a job, sexual fertility, ability to create wealth, and other key areas of life. If Africans can simply follow the basic rules of success and healthy living, their prayers will be shorter, and some irrational beliefs and creepy rituals won't be necessary.





Bio: Nimi Princewill is a Nigerian-born writer and social reformer.


Email: princewill.nimi@yahoo.com

Twitter: @princewill_nimi

A while back, a close friend of mine and neighbor, decided to pursue his dream of joining the Nigerian Army. Was it a cool decision for his friends and family? Yes. Were we expecting him to preserve a chunk of his admirable gentle nature—which we all loved him for, despite the rigors of military training? I didn't see why not!
Anyway, he successfully scaled through selection and began active service. He visited home whenever he could, but everyone could tell he obviously wasn't the same person. His first strange behavior as a soldier, started when he aggressively threatened to beat up an elder sibling—whom he once revered, for 'crazily thinking' he was the same 'old submissive civilian.'

On one of his visits, we had planned a weekend getaway, so we joined a local bus headed for our hangout location. While in the bus, we chatted away, and had a few laughs until he began narrating the torrid experiences he had gone through as a recruit, and how some of his friends didn't make it because they either lost their lives or sustained severe injuries. Soon enough, it was time to pay our fare, and of course, the rock-faced bus conductor didn't dare request payment from my soldier-friend who was partly kitted out in his uniform. I stretched out to pay for mine, but was immediately rebuked by my friend who ordered the conductor not to collect any money from me. That seemed rather awkward, but the bus conductor—who was far much older than we were, persisted... (After all, I was just a mere civilian passenger who was privileged to sit next to a soldier). My soldier-friend didn't speak any further and remained silent until the bus stopped. He hastily jumped down, and seized the conductor by his pants, while he pulled out the scary looking belt attached to his uniform. It was stunning how he tirelessly whipped the bus conductor who kept screaming out in pain, and only stopped the whipping when other drivers at the park strongly pleaded with him to forgive their poor colleague. We slowly left the crowded scene in a walk of shame (well at least, for me who couldn't bear the eyes of bystanders staring at me in a weird way). I couldn't help but wonder... What engineered my soldier-friend's sudden strange and aggressive behavior? Was he trying to protect me by depriving someone else of his rights and money? Or was he more concerned about a mere 'civilian' bus conductor who hurt his army ego by demanding bus fare from his friend who was sitting right next to him? I pondered real hard and made a solid resolution to confront him head-on. Well, I really did try to break the awkward silence that had ensued between us, but on a second thought, I wouldn't hurriedly advice a man who just mercilessly whipped a bus conductor with a monster belt and was obviously still fuming in rage. I wasn't prepared to be at the receiving end of that belt just yet!

I never had a second chance to advice my soldier-friend who later relocated, and we lost contact. Now, I'm asking. Do our soldiers lose a bit of their conscience and humanity at the Academy? Is there a radical or monstrous anti-civilian ideology which makes it difficult for our soldiers to perfectly fit into society? What does the military do to these men?






Email: princewill.nimi@yahoo.com

Twitter: @princewill_nimi

'Something must kill a man!' As heartwarming and pleasant as that phrase sounds, it's a nagging reminder that neither of us will be lucky to get out of Earth alive! Well, of course, except the Astronauts. Nevertheless, you get to live for as long as your cause of death is yet to catch up with you. Your own time of passing, although, not entirely up to you to decide, may be partly dependent on what you do or believe in.


One's fate or cause of death can be delayed, depending on faith (for those who are rooted in one), safety precautions, or healthy living. However, you should also note that just because you eat right and exercise regularly, doesn't mean you can't fall prey to a life-threatening ailment anyway. The same way, taking the right precautions and ensuring to be at the right place at the right time, doesn't guarantee you won't be at the next scene of an unexpected bomb blast.


Humans are wired to vacate the Earth in various ways, and at a certain time, as there are obviously a million ways to die. Some of these ways have become more popular than the others, because of the civil unrest all over the world. People rarely die in their sleep anymore. They're either murdered by robbers, rival gangs, terrorists, or are consumed by all varieties of accidents, domestic violence, war, epidemics and so on. Nonetheless, whatever takes the life of someone (regardless of how random or unexpected it happened), was predetermined for such person.


If one is not predestined to die a certain way, or at a certain time, none of such incidents can snatch his or her life away. That's the reason people 'miraculously' survive what others do not. Interestingly, a few moments before I rounded off this article, a loved one phoned (at quite perfect timing) and narrated how he narrowly survived electrocution, after being knocked almost unconscious by a high-voltage cable. I simply smiled, expressed my happiness and carried on writing.

“Smokers are liable to die young,” cries the Ministry of Health. “Yeah right!” an aged smoker sarcastically replied. He's been a chimney for nearly forty years of his life, and can boast of a clean bill of health without any damage to his internal organs. Some other person, may tarry on cigarette for just two years, and end up with lung cancer!


People survive ghastly motor accidents, severe bullet wounds, tragic plane crashes and even massive bomb explosions. A lot of people were lost to Ebola, while a few others were quarantined and left for dead, but amazingly survived. One could lower his or her guard (just one time) and end up with a killer STD, while another, could stunningly turn out to be uninfected after numerous encounters of having unprotected sexual relations. Babies are easily snuffed out of the womb during abortions, but some strange babies just wouldn't leave despite the attempts. In every country, the safest person is presumably the President. Some Presidents still got assassinated anyway, despite the rigid security.


People only die from what's meant to kill them. Sadly, you can't exactly tell which and when is yours. So, live right, put your house in order, hold on to some faith/belief (if possible), and live everyday like it's your last!


Email: princewill.nimi@yahoo.com

Twitter: @princewill_nimi

By Nimi Princewill



Almost every Nigerian of voting age, has an ideal choice of candidate whose profile they believe, is worthy of bringing the desired change; (in local parlance), the "un-APC like" kind of change the country hankers for at this time. However, the 'best candidates' are not exactly known to win elections in Nigeria. Neither are they known to belong to the clan of political gladiators, or the adopted political sons and daughters of pioneer kingmakers/godfathers.


Interestingly, it doesn't require rocket science to meet the most relevant criteria that propels one to run for President in Nigeria (under the shade of either of the two dominant parties) with a clear intent to win, as opposed to the 'mushroom' political parties, who merely scramble for the best technocrats with impressive academic qualifications.


To compete favorably for the Presidency; most importantly, one must be of considerable advancement in age: preferably mid-fifties and above, (candidates with chronic ailments are most kindly welcome as well), a long serving pioneer or "anointed" member of either of the two giant parties, an illustrious son of the geo-political zone to be favored based on zoning calculations (which of course, must be of non-Igbo extraction), and a strong personality (with or without post-secondary education) that can present a fictional manifesto in such a way that it appears irresistibly marketable and capable of gathering votes across regions. Favored candidates, need not worry about scandals or corruption charges levied against them, as such 'malicious distractions' fizzle out with the wind in no distant time.


If we're genuinely eager for electoral reforms (as a "progressive nation" in a bid to erase the continual mediocrity in governance at the federal level, considering the prospects of Independent Candidacy won't be a bad gamble at all. What's more terrific than having voters scan through their scale of preference, in order to make an informed decision on their ideal choice of candidate whom they believe is suitable and outstandingly qualified to meet their age-long demands?


Relying solely on political parties to anoint and foist candidates on us (many of which, have no legitimate business in the corridors of power), will keep us going round in circles. We'd continually be swindled every four years by the same marketable strategies of our entrepreneurial political parties, who only seem to be driven by power tussle and economic gains, than the actual deal of fixing what's left of a weak and malnourished economy.


Email: princewill.nimi@yahoo.com
Twitter: @princewill_nimi

The outcome of every decision we make is not always guaranteed to measure up to our expectations, regardless of our well-thought-out plans, hard work or plausible calculations. It's not entirely within our powers to influence the eventual result of our decisions to either turn out good or bad. One could make the seemingly perfect decision of settling for a prominent career after a thorough evaluation of his or her corresponding skill set, but still turn out woeful at it. Another, could make a somewhat terrible decision to settle for a poorly attractive profession but make a gold mine of it. The best decisions often come on strong as a gamble!


In our various leadership roles, the toughest part of our job lies with the unrealistic demands which require us to make perfect decisions that could get everyone nodding along in approval of our methods. Satisfying everyone is clearly unattainable, and sadly, we can't always be right in every decision we make. However, decisions do not make themselves, so we must make them anyway. We must develop the courage to ward off pressure when making tough and 'imperfect' decisions. We need to train our minds to pay less attention to the bullying thoughts of whether our choices would turn out good or bad. A "bad decision" could seem quite tacky but eventually evolve into some good, while a "good decision" may give promising vibes but turn out to be silly in the course of time.


Having a moment of thought before making an informed choice is wise for decision-making, but what happens when we don't have a moment? Decisions are made in different degrees. We may be fortunate to make calculated choices most of the time, but there are moments we're compelled to make a spontaneous decision without giving much thoughts to it. All we're left with at that point, is a quick intuition. Decisions born out of quick intuition are usually the bravest and the riskiest, but can also be rewarding. We must equip ourselves at all times for decision-making, whether or not we're ready at the time it's required. We're either rooting for 'Yes' or we're sticking with 'No'. 'Maybe' is a glaring sign of indecision!


A lot of people would rather not commit their savings to an investment opening for fear of incurring losses. Well, that could be a good decision, but some other people would zero in on the risk (a 'bad decision') and end up making tremendous gains. There's never a perfect time to make a flawless decision on investments, because they're never structured to be risk-free.


A lot of us have remained indecisive on emotional commitment. We'd rather be non-committal, pending the arrival of our imaginary 'perfect' soul-mate who seems to be our best and only choice for a partner. No emotional union is worthy of playing host to two perfect companions who are finely-tailored for each other as cleverly portrayed in some intimidating romance series. It's funny how cranky we get when our interim partner in real life, doesn't meet up with the required (fictional) wonder-lover skill set.


No other time is better than the present one at hand to begin the process of a new project, pursue a great ambition or develop a committal interest in your relationship. Make a decision full of expectations today and keep an open mind...



princewill.nimi@yahoo.com

The world will hardly ever be as peaceful and conducive for living as we imagine or hope for it to be. Therefore, changing the world will continue to be exactly what it ought to be: 'A Utopian Dream!'


We'd continually need to readjust ourselves to cohabit with fraudsters, terrorists, kidnappers, armed robbers, rapists, domestic abusers, corrupt politicians, extortionist preachers, promoters of gender discrimination, religious/cultural extremists and other variety of criminals we can't seem to get rid of, since humans aren't wired to live alone. I guess, that's one heck of a price we must pay for companionship!


To the few hopefuls (of which I belong) who nurse huge ambitions of changing certain aspects of the world through ideological reforms, it begins with the courageous decision to confront the status quo. Well, a great decision I must admit, but it will be quite naïve to think that the world would hurriedly plunge itself into sober reflection in an attempt to change, just because we said so.


On the brighter side, while we take heavy blows of criticism from conservatives who either 'constructively' disagree with us or simply hate our guts, we may be getting a few other people nod along in agreement.


Confronting the religious/political status quo, as well as some awkward cultural ideologies will assuredly hit some nerves, but the courage to stand firm in our belief for change can't afford to cower in fright or defeat because the majority of people don't seem to agree. Two, three or more people out of a disagreeing multitude are slowly catching up on our thoughts, and that's quite an impact!


We can't change the entire world for the better, but maybe, the few people we reach out to, who likewise, reciprocate to other people can have a good shot at it!


Twitter: @princewill_nimi

There are values Africans hold on to quite strongly, that people who are considered to be of "Advanced Civilisation" rarely concern themselves with. One of which, is the slightly weird nature of our indigenous greeting culture.


Greeting is a traditional African trait. In a stiff cultural environment like the African society where one's character is constantly being examined, greeting can brighten one's chances of making a good first impression. To the elderly, greeting plays a role in evaluating one's level of morals. It also creates the opportunity of discerning in a few seconds, the quality of a child's parental upbringing. In fact, greeting is non-negotiable in Africa!


Having pictured the great value attached to greeting, in what way do Africans seem to go overboard with it?


Occassionaly, I get troubled with the feeling that the greeting culture in many parts of Africa (especially in reverence to elders and those we hold in high esteem or consider superior), still suffers the rub-off effect of colonialism.


Although, culture varies across the continent, we're unified in a way as regards our approach to elders, religious leaders and other prominent individuals. Greeting an elderly or influential person in Africa, is more on the side of showing honor than exchanging pleasantries. As a result, it isn't complete without bowing, kneeling, squatting, prostrating, receiving a handshake with both hands, etc. (depending on the varying cultures).


I get terrified when I happen to watch the exchange of pleasantries when an African football team engages a foreign opponent during the first game or finals of an international tournament. As is customary, the president of the world football's governing body (FIFA) is obliged to share a warm handshake with the players either before kick-off (if it were the first game of the tournament), or at the end of a final when the players take a walk to collect their medals. While the foreigners receive the handshake with one hand, some of the African players proceed to receive theirs with both hands and sometimes, even compliment it with a bow. Wow!


In some African traditions (notable among the Zambians), men are not allowed to shake hands with their mother-in-laws. The women likewise, avoid a handshake from their father-in-laws. If the elders are seated, one must kneel with at least one knee touching the ground when shaking hands. If at a distance, one may touch the chest and bow slightly.

"I have on several occasions in the middle of Lusaka, seen men kneeling across the road from their mother-in-laws, also kneeling and clapping, asking each other how the family is doing while avoiding eye contact" said Ziggi, a Zambian friend of mine.


In Nigeria (famous with the Yoruba tribe), some males still prostrate on the bare floor as an acceptable way of showing respect to elders. A "well-behaved" male child, is one who greets an elder by laying on the ground until permitted to get up. Of course, getting up too soon ridicules your home training!


Over the years, this cultural ideology has transitioned into religion. To certain people, kneeling before a religious leader who's presumably "standing in the presence of God" seem to be the quickest remedy for answered prayers. Hence, some people tend to relate casually with God, but revere preachers. Some other Christian, may prefer to say a quick tacky prayer in bed in hopes of kneeling before a preacher for "special prayers".


These are a few out of many absurd practices we've absorbed into our daily lifestyle as demanded by our indigenous greeting cultures.
These practices may have served whatever purpose they were established for at an earlier time, but I think they've outlived their usefulness! Greeting is intended to be an exchange of polite friendly gestures, and not a pseudo-worship of elders or "Important People" (many of which won't have the decency to resist).


Twitter: @princewill_nimi

In line with modern realities, the current yardstick for measuring the success of a pentecostal church in Nigeria, begins with an estimation of the church's net worth (which can be derived from the size and elegance of its cathedral), to most importantly, taking a look at how largely populated its loyal congregation is. Both of these necessities are highly fancied by most churches, hence, their increased desire for more "souls".


If one should do the math right; the larger the multitude, the greater the revenue to be acquired (even though churches will fiercely disagree). Anyway, that's too much 'blasphemy' for one day!


For the benefit of non-Bible readers, 'Soul-Winning' is a biblical instruction given to Christians to lure 'Lost Sinners' to Christ (well, you obviously don't read the Bible, so I guess you fall directly into this category... But back to the point). While this instruction is being carried out as commanded, some ambitious churches device new strategies of making profit from it. They kill two birds with one stone I suppose.


The desire for a great 'Harvest of Souls' as fondly nicknamed, has generated an unhealthy competition among churches. You begin to hear thought-provoking phrases like: "Come to my church and meet Doctor Jesus in action," or "If your church cannot change you, change church!"


Some 'miracle-working' preachers, indirectly mock their colleagues who seem to focus their ministry on teaching the gospel rather than the excessive showcasing of Signs and Wonders. That's when you hear the phrase: "People need power and not grammar!"


A lot of times (even on Sundays), I get approached by the evangelical teams of other pentecostal churches who try to woo me over to theirs. Not only do they ignore or fail to acknowledge the Bible firmly held in my hand (which should suggest to any intelligent Christian that I just stepped out of church having possibly heard the word of God), they still hand me a flyer, inviting me to make out time to visit their church where I would "hear the unadulterated word, and receive a miraculous turnaround from God." So in essence, I wasn't getting any of those from my local assembly?


Lately, most churches organize "special" revival programs for "healing and supernatural breakthroughs." They send out a large troop of their lieutenants for reach-out campaigns to lure and persuade members of other churches to attend, after which a membership form is handed over to them, as well as their contact details taken for intensive follow-up. Isn't that stealing of some sort? These first timers (or rather, 'decampees' from other churches) would be celebrated as converts, or the new "souls" won.


Why are pentecostal churches only interested in winning the souls of fellow Christians? I'm yet to witness the evangelical team of a pentecostal church, carry out massive campaigns with the aim of reaching-out to Muslims. Sometimes, after receiving their invitation flyers, I stand at a corner to observe if any of the Muslims passing by would be approached. They never do! By biblical standards, aren't the Muslims, Pagans and people of other religions in contrast to Christianity, meant to be the most sought after? Why are churches solely focused on wooing the Christian members of other churches to Christ?


How many pentecostal assemblies with a sincere devotion to soul-winning, care to extend their evangelical trains to the core northern parts of the country (where persecution is likely), to engage with a large number of non-Christians who are originally meant to be the major target audience?

If our preachers are truly driven towards doing the work of God, then there shouldn't be more than one church in every vicinity! Why break out of a ministry you could further strengthen with your supposed "Calling" only to commence yours next door?

As long as there's a church presently preaching the Gospel in a particular environment, other churches should locate new avenues that are bereft of a Christian assembly. There are rural areas which are still deeply rooted in idol worship. Why are there no proliferation of churches in those areas? Why are churches only clustered around each other in the major towns and cities? Why should a single street accommodate up to three or more churches, with each trying to rise above the other? That's not the true essence of evangelism!


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The preferred ambition of most intending WAEC candidates who have a craving for arts and likewise, those who feel academically unworthy of studying medicine and other "demanding" science-related courses, are first driven towards the study of law and banking and finance. Securing these competitive and highly-rated courses, are known to be such a drag! As a result, unsuccessful candidates are left to grudgingly settle for other disciplines which are slightly considered "less pleasant." Parents do feel a pinch of disappointment as well.


The law profession and a career in banking, are regarded in certain homes as a tolerable excuse for having a light head for science, thereby missing out on fellow prominent and economically viable courses like medicine and engineering. Other courses outside this celebrated category, are commonly viewed as mediocre or a little below expectation. This bias to a large extent, has prompted the continuous proliferation of lawyers in Nigeria, which sadly leaves a bulk of young attorneys with little or no feather to fly with at the crowded labor market. I'd get back to that shortly.


Recruitment at the banking sector nowadays, continue to amaze us, as almost anybody can be hired for banking duties regardless of his or her course of study. A good zoology degree (added with some wits and 'street smarts') can set the ball rolling to a terrific career at the banking hall! Despite this shift from the norm, a lot of Nigerians still troop en masse to pursue a degree in banking and finance, disregarding the least patronized courses which could be of more value to them and the nation.


Our society is saturated with more "idle" and inexperienced lawyers, with fewer cases available to them. The fate of some young lawyers who are attached to chambers of the older and experienced ones, lay in the extremely meagre income they are compelled to make do with just to earn a living. These young lawyers, may need to tarry for many years in a dicey gamble of attaining their full potential. Some jilt the profession for greener pastures after a dry spell of success, forfeiting the long years of academic investment.


As Nigeria prepares for life outside oil, we must begin to nurse the adolescent areas of our economy into adulthood. We need a new wave of certified professionals in agriculture, ICT, theatre arts (to reignite the creativity in our promising entertainment industry), tourism/hospitality, marketing/business administration (which is cardinal for entrepreneurship), fashion/graphic designing, etc.


It will serve a great deal, if our academic population can curtail their pursuit of some overhyped "prominent courses" (which we can presently do without), and take a second look at the least patronized viable ones.



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Knowledge is an easily acquired unreliable asset! The continuous reliance on whatever portrays an individual as "knowledgeable" can likewise, portray the same individual as clueless and outdated in the long run.


Every knowledge is vulnerable to inferiority when a superior knowledge is diligently dug out of it's mystery. In other words, whatever we currently know and believe to be true, is subject to change when a higher knowledge shows up!


As the world continues to transform in style, most of its components seem to tag along in a new underwear! Doctrines change, laws are modified, and ideologies evolve as a result of improved understanding to suit modern realities. Conservatives and religious extremists as expected, get to lose their temper as well!


The enticing upgrade in technology we drool over today, was initially taunted to be unintelligible, sheer wishful thinking and even acts of witchcraft in some religious quarters. Not because the working knowledge of science wasn't staring us in the face the whole time. It was rather, our naïve understanding of scientific manipulation.


The 'sacrilege' of breaking loose from the stiff grip of religion, can place you at the receiving end of a judgmental stare down from a devout believer of a certain faith, who doesn't consider you as being fully logged into his or her strong beliefs.


The practice of religion can be likened to alcohol and its varying mental effects on consumers. While it messes up the mind of a light head after a few gulps, you have no idea the 'slice of heaven' it gives to a pro! Religion is what you think of it, depending on your continuous depth of knowledge.


So, if you somewhat feel a disagreeing tingly sensation which seem to riot against some doctrinal beliefs you were indoctrinated into and devoutly perceived as "truth" all along, you may have begun your rites of passage into a "higher" knowledge!


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"Indifference" best describes the willpower of a great portion of Africans who desire, yet slumber on their bid to untie the leash strapped on them by tyrant/under-performing leaders (most of which have overstayed their welcome with scanty and counterproductive ideas, but just wouldn't leave), as well as the fraudulent tactics of some extortionist preachers who likewise their political counterparts, operate in a similar fashion of having the people naively fixated on their manipulative fairy tales.


As we witness a fluctuating level of progress in Africa despite our overzealous religious commitments, it appears religion hasn't done us much good. Neither have our leaders! If Africans can shorten the exhaustive prayers and begin to think a bit more passionately, we could be halfway into crossing the parted red sea.


Most African leaders, seem to be inflicted with a strange syndrome of clinging uncompromisingly to power. Not necessarily because of their supposed 'exclusive expertise' in fixing their country's economy, but rather, a sheer display of greed which fuels their unrelenting ambition for continuous political relevance, occasioned by that strange syndrome.


Any African ruler who has tarried in office for over two decades, yet the bulk of his people still live below the poverty line, deserves to step aside regardless of his continuous fictional plans on paper, and allow someone else take up the opportunity of either succeeding or failing on the job!


Democracy feels a little awkward in Africa...


Robert Mugabe: 93years old Zimbabwean President. Been in power since Zimbabwe's independence (almost four decades) and intends to re-contest in 2018!

Paul Biya: 84years old Cameroonian President for the past 35years!

Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo: 74years old President of Equatorial Guinea for 38years!

José Eduardo dos Santos: 74years old President of Angola for 38years!

Yoweri Museveni: 72years old President of Uganda for 31years!

Omar al-Bashir: 73years old President of Sudan for 28years!

Idriss Déby: 64years old President of Chad for 27years!

Isaias Afwerki: 71years old President of Eritrea since independence in 1993!

Paul Kagame: 17years as President of Rwanda, with no intention of quitting anytime soon!


The above listed, are a select few from a longer list of African leaders who are yet to consider anyone else fit for their 'democratic' thrones, despite spending an incredible number of years in power. Africans desire a breath of fresh air, but may continue to be strangulated, until we unanimously decide to pump more determination into our deflated willpower to confront the powers that be!


Twitter: @princewill_nimi