@Africason
With due respect, I think you re an alarmist. Was there no electoral fraud before Iwu became INEC chairman? or was Iwu electoral body's chairman in 1979, 1983, 2003 and 2007? I think criminalizing Iwu is like treating HIV/AIDS with panadol. But it is a typical Nigeria way of pining the blame on someone's else except ourselves. Unfortunately some nairalders are product of this sick system.

From available facts, there was no single election in Nigeria recorded history that is fraud free, the difference is only in degree. Right from 1959 elections have been rigged in this country irrespective of who is the chairman of the electoral body.

By the way, does that means that AC, ANPP and other parties did not rig election in their domain in 2007? I voted in Lagos state and I can testify that AC rigged election massively, electorate were given money while we were still on the queue or is it not the same thugs or area boy or alimanjiri that rigged for party A, not the one rigging for party B? The difference is which side of the divide a thug is at a particular point in time. This is a fact, every party rigs election in Nigeria, even the party's flag bearer cannot stop them, it is part and parcel of Nigeria electoral poiltics. Hence it is a matter of which party can outdo the other at any point in time.

Considering Nigeria political culture and terrain, PDP would still have won 2007 election, and I think they are very foolish to have engaged in massive rigging the way they did. Giving the circumstances of the 2007 general election no other party prepared enough to win the general election other than PDP, to have believed AC or ANPP will win would ve been living in a dream land. As at that material time Atiku was too much engaged by OBJ govt to ensure that should the court clear him, he would not have the necessary preparation for wining the general election. Or is it Buhari who can not boast acceptability in all geopolitical zones of the country that would ve won that election?

In fact, except for the anti-obasanjo sentiment Atiku and Buhari did not do enough to win the presidency. But trust Nigeria, they don't treat the sickness they only treat symptons, that's why anybody could have believed that Iwu is a threat to our democracy. Perhaps, Iwu is also responsible for Nigeria not having electricity and bad roads and dilapidated health centres in Nigeria. Nigeria will only move forward the day we examine ourselves as a nation and stop behaving like a curse people.

@mrcrackles and dayokanu,
I observed that both of you probably lives abroad, but it never cease to amaze me the level of ignorance that has become hallmark of some Nigerians living abroad, probably you people think by having opportunity to stay in London or US you can arrogate to yourselves the pre-eminence of knowledge or education.

And to your shame, Giayong a Chinese man chose to accord respect to the one you people will easily call all sort of names. Charity they say begins at home.

Recently I was researching how a number of development theories explained the developmental crises in the third world countries of Asia, Africa and Latin America. That was about sixty years ago, and it is saddening to know that only Africa has remained in the same situation until now.

Why it is not my intention to bother you with my research work, but I will rather say that the greatest problem with Nigerians and Africa as a whole is that we never appreciate anything good from our country. OBJ is not perfect just like mrcrackles and dayokanu, even myself, but if you think OBJ has done nothing worthy of commendation then you people are cowards. I don't know why the two of you decided to stay abroad, but I know most did out of cowardice and as such you can afford to paint your leaders blue black just to justify the reason why you left Nigeria in the first place.

I live in Nigeria, I have lived in Lagos for greater part of my life and now in Abuja, I don't rely on distorted media information you people are being fed with over there, and I can tell you in a categorical manner that OBJ was the best president in recent memory with the exclusion of the first & second republic leadership. This is not to say he is perfect, infact he got it wrong on many occasion but OBJ was able to lay a good foundation for Nigeria and dare to do what others have refuse to even attempt. In fact OBJ is a very intelligent guy and he knows how to assemble people that delivevers.

Just as somebody has rightly pointed out, one thing I blamed him for is that 3rd third was not properly executed, he was hypocritical about it, in short there is nothing to be ashamed of in pursueing a 3rd term agenda. You can crucify me if you like, but I dare say that as a political scientist my knowledge of comparative politics tells me that there is no big deal about pursueing 3rd or even 4th term in office. Every advanced democracy we all craved for today passed through the same process, and for Nigeria to grow from the ruin of system failure, we need a leader with a gut like OBJ. All our national dailies are full of captions of lesson from Ghana, yet Rawling ruled Chana for many years to instil sanity and order from the primitive accummulation of comprador Burgiosies milking Africa dry of her resources and facilitating transfer of our wealth to Europe.

Check out the political histories of Europe and others, whenever a state is close to being label as a fail state, that country need a strong leadership, a dictator to bring sanity, unite and make it strong. Check out Germany, Italy, France, Russia and even Britain in this regard. Nigeria is almost a failed state if not one yet, or else how would you explain the sorry state of a country so promising yet in despair, so rich yet so poor, a seeming contradiction that defies logic and all known theories of development.

If only we will be sincere with ourselve, put away tribalism that is making us prey for the predators of the political elites, and we will see issues from objective point of view, we will realize that OBJ meant well for Nigeria.

Somebody said he used $16b to purchase darkness for Nigeria, if you ve your facts you will know that that figure is either plain politics or outright distortion, anyway, that is normal in Nigeria except that one would not expect any enlightened mind to beleive such misconception most especially when such figure has oscilliated from $6.5b, $10b and $16b. Though the NIPP project is still ongoing but this guy dare to do what others ran away from for 20 yrs. It is amazing that after all the politics the NIPP generated,it is still the only path Yar Adau govt can follow to give us light. In less than two yrs in office the current administration has approved close to $5b for the power sector and we re still waiting. The govt is standing still with some old crabs with nothing to offer to be swore in as cabinet ministers. Am sure that after Yar Adua govt, Nigeria will remember OBJ for his strong leadership, focus and hardwork.

@Muza
I think you have a very judgemental attitude, that is why you don't kknow the difference btw allegation and being guilty of an offence. Anyway, that's what you get when you re too lazy to do research or dig out facts and figures before you make comments on a topic. Its people like you that make public statement based on what you read on the pages of the newspaper.

@ post
when you say somebody is the worst leader, you ve not really said anything. first, that statement is a sweeping generalization with no facts, hence being a worst leader could mean many things, i.e including befriending your girl friendor wife, yes as rediculous as it may sound, it could be interpreted that way, that is why when you made a statement, you must be ready to substantiate it with facts and proof.

A poster above gave objective facts above and they re verifiable and well know to us all. So by saying somebody is the worst leader without facts or proof is not an intelligent statement, except here in Nigeria where people don't even know the implication of their statements. S bing the worst leader could mean several things like the guy is not from your tribe, or his policies affected your business negatively etc.

We Nigeria must learn to be objective and stop being carried away by our shallow sentiment that has been the only reason for our arrested development.

@post
WHY?
Because human being everywhere are born free and reserved their inalienable right to choose their own leadership and order the course of their own destiny. Democracy is not about ethnicity, tribalism, gender or colour, it is about majority rule united in common purpose, ideas and destiny.

Please broaden your myopic view, stop looking at everything from Nigerian perspective. There are many nations that have diversities like ours and are using it for development of their nation not the other way round like Nigeria.

@Quotasys
I hate the fact that am directing this post to you, usually am pissed off by your kind of unintelligible ranting, but because I know there re non-Nigerians on this site, I also know that whoever sow the wind will reap the whirlwind, but it grieved my heart to know that in you, nemesis is now catching up with Nigeria.  Your arguement lacks merit, it defies logic and an insult to rationality. Not minding the way and manner of your expression, your mindset is archaic, uncultured, ruthless and rusty. If you go to school at all, you re a bundle of lies and intellectual bankruptcy.

Please think about the rest of us that you represent on this website, it will be a shame if our brothers and sisters across the globe thinks you re the best brain that could come out of Nigeria.

@DavidDylan
Bolaji Abdulahi is exceptionally brilliant guy, he used to work in the Int'l development sector, with exceptional grade in his first and masters degree from UK. Not that I know him in person but I have two brilliant minds that worked with him when he was in the development sector at differnt levels, both of them whom I met at different places testify that the guy is exceptionally brilliant.

I know most of our political actor today are con artist but there are few exception among them that are ok. I learnt Bolaji Abdulahi is the only one that can dare express his opinion (professionally) in Saraki's cabinet while the other commissioners and advisers will only chorus amen to the Gov's policies and decisions. At certain time it was said the man is the only one that can chage the Gov's mind on anything, because he's bold, articulate and professional. That's Bolaji for you.

@ Mckren
[b]Till thy kingdom come, I will not agree that Ribadu was selective as EFCC boss because the premise of that argument is wrong.

No one knows who OBJ's friends are other than OBJ himself.

The idea that the selectivity argument held traction tells more about how informed we are as a Nation more than anything else. The number one opposition leader in the country who was Rtd General Buhari was never a guest of the EFCC, Ken Nnamani whose steadfastness helped defeat third term was never a guest of the EFCC.

Why because they had no question of corruption to answer. So this idea that when a thief is asked to give account of their stewardship they tell you they quarelled with the President the previous night that is why they are being persecuted is just silly.

What is even more sillier is the fact that it was Nigeria's money that was stolen and not Ribadu's. Yet Nigerians are rejoicing that Ribadu got what he deserved.

don't tell me Mr So So has not been caught because the EFCC was not the only law enforcement agency at the time. We had the police and the ICPC too. So Ribadu can not catch everone alone.

The man did his job with distinction in my book.
Our country has a long way to go . . . . . President Yar'adua, Mike Aondoakaa, Farida Waziri and Mike Okiro should remember that power is transient.




Am with you man, none of these people accusing Ribadu of selective justice could denied that thsoe prosecuted by Ribadu were thieves. I know most of us have our biases, i don't see why an AC man will see Ribadu well, but this is an issue of national importance that we need not joke with, a matter that result in a moral dilema and perversion for the younger generation.
[/b]

@topic

Most Nigerians have a tribal view of life, some post on this site reflect symptons of a sick nation. it is unimaginable that we compare our fellow human being to animal and the likes. I wonder how some people will look like at OBJ's age, Nigeria is gradually becoming a nation without soul.

DEMOCRACY is a political,social and economic force that could be hijacked by forces of evil, the mainstream republican party stronghold belongs to the " Military Indutrial Complex" A conglomerates of high tech arms industries that produces a sizeable percent of world military weapons. This group of people profits from various military expeditions of United States, they re war mongers, constructive diplomacy is of no use to them, only senseless war will sustain their financial gain and profits.

That is why Bush is militarilizing the whole world, the latest in this agenda is Africa through AFRICOM. Sometimes, I think American people are the mob, I wonder why a president will be squandering billions of tax payers money on dangerous adventures all over the world and there will be no mass protest to dislodge such an irresponsible president from office.

I really pity the American public, they re suffering and all their resources are wasting away across the globe.

@RichyBlack
I quite agree with you, Obama has the intelligence and the goodwill to douse the tension and actively engage all the stakeholders in the international system for a better world. Let's hope the American people will not make the same mistake twice come November.

MOSCOW — President Dmitry Medvedev watched a missile soar from Russia's rain-soaked northern forests toward a target thousands of kilometers away on Sunday, capping a weekend of launches reminding audiences at home and abroad about the country's nuclear might.

Prominent coverage of the tests on state-controlled television also seemed designed to boost the bookish Medvedev's credentials as commander-in-chief in the eyes of the Russian populace.

On Sunday, Medvedev saw what officials said was the successful test-firing of a 21-year-old Topol intercontinental ballistic missile. The missile hit its target thousands of kilometers to the east on the Kamchatka Peninsula, Medvedev told servicemen who conducted the launch.

"Respected comrades , you have fulfilled your task and I congratulate you," Medvedev, dressed in a dark bomber jacket, told servicemen in bulky blue uniforms in a clearing near the Plesetsk launch facility.

The tests come amid increasingly strained ties with the United States following the war with Georgia and persistent Russian opposition to U.S. plans for a missile-defense system based in Poland and the Czech Republic, former Soviet satellites now in NATO.

Russia has been flexing its military muscle worldwide. It is sending a naval squadron to Venezuela for November exercises, a Western Hemisphere deployment unprecedented since the Cold War. Last year, then-President Vladimir Putin ordered the resumption of long-dormant global patrols by strategic bombers.

Russian officials have said newer versions of the Topol can penetrate any missile defense.

"We will strengthen our military capability, we will adopt new types of weapons, but we will continue to test the traditional ballistic missiles we have in service," Medvedev said. "Their effectiveness has stood the test of time, and that is very good. It shows that our shield is in order."

On Saturday, Medvedev watched the test of a Sineva missile launched from a submarine in the Barents Sea. Officials said it flew more than 7,100 miles (11,500 kilometers) and hit a target in the Pacific Ocean near the equator.

Sunday's land-based launch was followed by two missile launches from nuclear-powered submarines, one in the Barents Sea and one in the Sea of Okhotsk, off Russia's eastern coast north of Japan, Russian news agencies reported. The weekend launches are part of wide-ranging military exercises called Stability-2008.

Medvedev — a former lawyer who comes across as milder than his predecessor and mentor Putin — has watched several military exercises since taking office.

He faces an uphill battle in matching the tough-guy image of Putin, a KGB veteran and judo black-belt who is now prime minister and is widely seen as more powerful than Medvedev.

http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/world/6054080.html


Medvedev witnesses record missile launch
Russia's northern fleet has held military exercises in the Murmansk region. Russia's President Dimitry Medvedev praised the maneuvers paying special attention to the launch of the intercontinental missile ‘Sineva’, which he watched from Russia's only aircraft carrier.

The ministry of defence says the rocket, which was fired from the fleet's nuclear submarine ‘Tula’, reached its longest distance yet – 11,547 kilometres.

Medvedev also gave the ministry the task of building more aircraft carriers in the next few years.

http://www.russiatoday.com/news/news/31737


Russia has test-fired its newest missile in the midst of tense political times: Russian anger over a US missile shield and Washington's condemnation of Moscow's behavior in Georgia make for a frosty relationship.

In a statement from the navy on Thursday, Sept. 19, Russia said that "a new-generation Bulava ballistic missile was successfully fired from the White Sea to the Kura testing site in Kamchatka" in Russia's far eastern region.

With a range of 8,000 kilometers (5,000 miles), the Bulava can be equipped with up to 10 individually targeted nuclear warheads.

The missile test-fire comes during a time when US-Russia relations have hit a post Cold War low after Moscow's recent military intervention in Georgia. Washington harshly criticized the military move.

Russia, too, has recently expressed anger over US plans to establish a powerful missile-tracking reader in the Czech Republic as well as interceptor missiles in Poland.

Russia doubts US intentions

According to analysts, Russia is now beefing up its missile systems to counter the planned US shield in the region which it views as a tactical move by the US to deter Russia's nuclear activity.

Washington, however, maintains that the shield is too small to defend against Russia and is instead meant to protect against "rogues states" such as Iran.

The latest test launch also comes only three weeks after Russia test-fired the intercontinental Topol RS-12M missile.

http://www.dw-world.de/dw/article/0,2144,3656357,00.html


[b]The world is about to witness a new arms race, no thanks to the Bush doctrine of military encirclement of arch rival and foe Russia. It is expected that Russia will respond in a predictable way, afterall no serious nation will want to be encircled by enemy missile defence system. In a world where cowboy diplomacy is the only rule of engagement and militarism is the means to an end, it is only a matter of time, uncle sam is taking the world back on the familiar path to self destruction.

A new re-alignment may be in the making with the like of Venuzuela, Iran, North Korea, China etc aligning behind Russia against the West. This is expected and predictable, if 50years of bipolar world (Warsaw & NATO) led to the break up of the former USSR, a peace loving West should ve slow down NATO expansionist policies in a way that will not allow Russia to rebuild the old block. But NATO under US leadership was not satisfied with the West's victory over the East rather they want to neutralize Russia's voice through encirclement.

Consolidating victories may look acceptable but with a nuclear armed Russia with oil wealth to flex muscle, the West should think twice. The greates concern to us in the developing world is the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, after the break up of the former USSR, statistics showed tha 1 in every 3 Russia has knowledge of nuclear weapon, and for a country that is generous with their natural talents and resources little wonder are selling enriched uranium to terrorists and rebels all over the world. It is high time America put an end to this madness and let the sleeping dog lie.[/b]

@ Ife & Dayokanu
There is no perfect man on planet earth, every nation celebrate their heroes not because they re without fault but rather because their service to their society outweight their faults. Again no single tree can make a forest but you will agree with me that good vision and ideas are not enough, you need charisma and leadership to make people believe in your vision and ideas to transform it to tangible achievements.

Before the strategic miscalculation of Awo of going to the centre, you will all agree that Awo was Akintola's leader and he respected Awo a great deal. Whatever Akintola achieved as Premier, it was the same Awo's ideas and sagacity that provided the ideological basis, political structures and solidarity that pioneered outstandinginfrastructural and industrial development in the west. Awo was zealous and eager to repeat the same process that lead to transformation of the West at the centre while trusting regional leadership to his trusted lieutenant.

Awo was a man of great mind and sagacity, the mood during independence was such that there was panic among developed nations that should Awo become Nigeria leader, Nigeria could rapidly become a developed country which will treatens the colonialist exploitative adventure in Africa and because of his socialist tendencies in a Cold War era where war of proxy was the order of the day. In short the British colonial master helped cast Awo in bad light and frustrated all his effort to rule Nigeria. The last thing the British colonist will do was to allow its colony to be ruled by a leader with socialist mindset at a time intense ideological war.

By and large, am sure you will agree with me that if Awo had ruled Nigeria, this country would ve taken on another course of destiny than what we have today. Think about his achievements, the first radio in Nigeria, first TV station in Africa, first stadium, schools and education for all, industrial estates across western states, in short my town got electric light and pipe born water in 1956 before independence.

I believe many people don't know Awo other than what they were taught in school (depends on who is your teacher) but I personally saw Awo campaigning in town and other neigbouring communities, he was such an organizer, rural and remote communities were given radio hung under the shade of trees for rural communities for political participation.

Finally, we all see Awo differently, depends on how and from what perspectives, but he was a nationalist and fought for Nigerian independence like every other Nigeiran leaders, he believed in justice and egalitarian society.

@post
Funny enough, all the people disputing that Awo is not the best Nigerian leader of all time have not been able to present alternative credible leader so far. I think the problem is not because Awo is not the best, rather it is because as Nigerians every of our decisions is not without an ethnic colouration. Sincerely, It is not our fault everything in Nigeria is premised on ethnic sentiments, that is why we have quota system, rotational presidency, even now some ethnic group are warming up for the presidency in 2011 and beyond. Above all, whether at local, regional or national level, no Nigerian leader has measured up or surpass Awo's vision, leadership and achievements. Some of the Posts and comments above are classical example of how ethnic colouration and sentiments can obscure and blurr objectivity. An average Nigerian sees life from ethnic perspective. It is a sin we re all guity of as Nigerians.

nuzo

Hypocrites, hypocrites, I wonder what is hypocritical about this post. This post is a of critique of the role of lawmakers at a critical time in our country's history which ordinarily a right minded person can review as lesson learnt from the past. I really do not know what is hypocritical about this. I observed you asked what is my Position in your first post, I think an intellectually inclined person will see my post as a critique rather than taking positions on nothing. Maybe you think am a politician or a PDP member, some people just like to attack others even when they lack competence on the topic under discussion.

Well, I know many people like you whose only source of information is on nairaland, yet you claim authority to know what you don't know. I suggest you move on to the romance section because that's where you belong. Enough of this ignoramus ranting, excuse me please, I don't like responding to unintelligible post like yours. take care.

@kev-d
I think you re ignoramus to advocate death for the person that exceed every other govt in term of achievements both as military and civilian regime, though I must concede he has his shortcoming. Well i don't blame you most Nigerian youths will rather pass judgement rather seek the facts about issues.

@nuzo,
Your post revealed the shallow understanding of the import of this post, which am not ready to debate with you, but I will just ask you a few questions, by the way, am not an hypocrite, this is an academic discourse with sound theoretical base so only enlightened people could contribute meaningful to this post. Well, am not an apostle of third term but do not support the way the honourable chicken out of the whole process, they should ve been more courageous and use their discreation.

The basis of Nigeria is the constitution, anyone familiar with Nigeria constitutional development will obviously have noticed so many fundamental errors in the document. The is the foundation of Nigeria nation, however, if your house is standing on a faulty foundation and under threat by raging storm of militancy, would you wait till a convenient time to fix the structural deficiency? What if the house collapse before a convenient time? Do you know militancy and the attendant crimes are all outcome of a constitutional based injustice? If they moved a step further and decide to seccede from Nigeria would you still wait for a convenient time? Or would you come out of your hidout from the far east to enlist in the army to fight in such a war? Am sure you will only send your goodwill message to your brothers and sisters at home. And by the way when is a convenient time after almost 50 years of independence.

NIGERIA MISSED OPPORTUNITY OF A LIFE TIME

In 2006, the OBJ administration made a spirited effort to put to rest the nearly imperfect constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. That period was actually going to be a significant period in the anal of Nigeria history. The National Assembly aborted the much debated Constitutional Review Bill which at the time synonymous with Third Term or Tenure Elongation Bill. The strangulation of the Bill on the floor of the Senate was received with a thunderous applause and backslapping, consequently the Anti-Third Term apostles became heroes of democracy overnight.

However, while the distinguished Senators received encomium from the aftermath of their successes, one wonders if the then celebrated victory was actually for the masses of the Nigerian nation or for a selected few whose political fortunes are tied or disconnected from the success or failure of Third Term agenda.

As a student of contemporary political theory and comparative federalism, there is no doubt that changing the rule midway into the game is not only inconsistent but also dubious; “for those who come to equity must come with clean hands”. Again, there is no doubt that Nigeria Federal Constitution has been patterned and tailored to conform with the centralized Military Command Structure, no thanks to the long years of military rule. In addition, as such, the Nigeria Constitution as presently composed consists of several clauses, which are antithetical and inimical to the practice and operation of a true federation. Better still the constitution is long overdue for amendment.

The constitution is the peoples’ charter, it is the soul of a nation that gives legitimation to socio-economic and political structure of society, and when such a document is conflictual with societal aspiration then it need be overhauled. Restructuring arises in a political system when existing structures fall short of the expectation of goal; when it fail to meet up with the yearning and aspiration of the people. More so, in a federation like Nigeria where the tendencies are towards centrifugal and disintegration, restructuring could bring succour and promote sense of justice and fairness necessary for co-existence if not survival of a federation. That was why Ibrahim Mantu led Constitutional Review committee identified 118 fundamental principles to be reviewed in the constitution.

On one hand, while it can be constructively argued that usurpation of the constitution for political aggrandizement of an individual is a vice, on the other hand, strangulation of the entire Bill to stop political ambition of a person cannot be consider a virtue. This is where logic comes to play, in analytical political theory the emphasis is on logic rather than quantification, this is because quantification is a difficult task in the social sciences and to emphasize quantification at the expense of logical analysis is to make futile attempt equating the social sciences on equal basis with pure science or better still equating one (1) principle of tenure elongation with the remaining one hundred and seventeen (117) principles that needs amendment in the constitution.

Quantification in the pure sciences can permeate a condition if proved where (1) is greater than or equal to (117) i.e. (1 > 117) However, it is not so in political analysis or rather in socio-political realm that one (1) principle is greater than or equal to (117) others. It is illogical to say that tenure elongation has pre-eminence over other salient principles such as derivation, resource control, appointment of judges to supreme court, independence of the judiciary, legislature and the local government etc that constitute the remaining 117 others. One would have thought that the distinguished Senators and Honourable Members of the House will use discretion and logic to rubbish Tenure Elongation clause in favour of other salient areas, knowing fully well that all the upheavals and crisis in the convoluting federation are due to constitutional lacuna. The evidence of this deficiency can be seen from the militant in the Niger Delta to the abject poverty and unprecedented official and private corruption at all levels of our national and social strata.

For instance, if we examine the conduct of the Lawmakers by applying large scale hypothesis, we might as well asked, what is the motive of the pro-third term viz a viz anti-third term? INTEREST. Of course, their interest could not have said to have any fundamental difference in principle and comparison, rather interest is the dividing and unifying factors that aligned them on the Pro-Third Term and Anti-third Term axis, two sides of the same coin.

But instead of making use of the opportunity history bestowed on them to restructure and resolve once and for all the inherent contradiction in the convoluting Nigerian federation, in their zeal they threw away the baby with the bath water.

I wish to assert here that there are many structures of conflict bedeviling the Nigerian federation that had brought the country to the brink of disintegration on many occasions. However, Tenure Elongation through constitutional manipulation was a recent phenomenon in that order and has never been a major determinant of our survival as a nation.

Constitutional Review is not everyday event, it take government with strong political will to pull through constitutional reform in any society, because of the interests of those benefiting from the existing order and those that are not. Hence our distinguished lawmakers missed the opportunity of a generation to chart a new course of destiny for Nigeria, perhaps the black man. The American founding fathers did it for their country in 1787 in Philadelphia, the Australian in 1900, but for Nigeria the rest is history.

At this point, I conclude by saying that constitution is a sacred document and should not be doctored or manipulated for the purpose of a few but should reflect our deep-rooted values and foresight of our founding fathers. The glorification and promotion of the Third Term to the detriment of other salient issues that needs restructuring to say the least was a de-service to the Nigerian people. Perhaps, if Third Term had succeeded many of our lawmakers would have been on their way to political obscurity. However, the celebration and wine toasting that signaled the end of that attempt to review the constitution has now become history, only time will tell if the victory over the Third Term had been indeed for all of us or for themselves.” Hypocrisy they say is the tribute vice pays to virtue”. We are about to start another constitutional review jamboree, the same set of people are at work again, only time will tell if this administration has the gut to pull through a constitutional review process. Other views are welcome.

@ Jintutina,

Sincerely I agreed with you that a lot needs to be done to make the Scheme what it's suppose to be, but as you know, NYSC is just one of the institution of state that has been grossly affected by the syndrome of corruption that has crippled the Nigeria socio-economic and political system. How can one explain a situation where it is difficult for a responsible government to put hostel in place to accommodate Corps members, and you heard of billions been stolen everyday, its pathetic indeed.

But what can you do, I think one must strive to make the best of every situation. A responsible govt would have re-packaged the scheme to suit the yearning and aspiration of young people. Looking at the negative trends of everything in Nigeria, one can react in different ways, either in positive or negative ways. I always encourage friends to have a proactive view of life. Govt suppose to do this or that but they ve refuse to do them, then what do you do? For me i don't allow situation and circumstances to dictate my course in life rather I strive to make the best of every situation.

Yeah, I think the idea of sharing my experience with students and Corps Members is a good one, I promise I will explore that opportunity despite my tight schedule.

@post

Jumping to conclusion on a case like this is not an inherent trait of an enlightened mind. There was no case against him, and if there was any at the time the prosecutor can not prove it. hence the two parties opted for Settlement. And the fact that he travelled to US severally during June 12 crisis does not mean he was trafficking drugs, if you were in Lagos during June 12 crisis, you would ve known that every pro-democracy group member then was target of assassin bullet.

@ post

Who says NYSC is not relevant? Initailly I objected to going for service but later I changed my mine,  but I must confess NYSC service year has done me much good than I can ever imagine. Infact I enjoyed every bit of it.

First, I have many friends from all over the coutry today because of I went for service. In the course of the service I put up for voluntary service at my spare time which really sparked my passion for helping people. I served in Edo state, Benin in particular, and I met people that will forever be part of my life.

I also volunteered for NYSC?UNICEF training as Peer Educators. I really did my best to spread the awareness of RH/HIV, this was what I enjoyed most in the service year, I implemented projects in this direction and i never regret going for service.

After the service I contineued the voluntary service cultivated at the service year and with the industriousness and selfless service spirit of NYSC, today it has raised my status in life. I got a job in an Int'l Devt Agency just because of all I did at the Youth service. I also won many awards.

All I can say about NYSC is that if you re a purposeful person, the service year offers young people a post graduation opportunity to lay a good foundation for their life.

Below is a few lines from the valedictory address I delivered at the end of service year party;

"The state Director……. all other protocol duly observed. About a year ago, we the batch “B” Corps Members were mobilized from our respective states for this batch of national service.

Today’s send off party however give us a remarkable opportunity to reflect on the service year. For more than three (3) decades, the National Youth Service Scheme has upheld the noble ideas of our nation, by inculcating in the youth the spirit of patriotism, dedication to duty, tolerance, exemplary leadership, hard work and selfless service to the nation.

The sacredness of the National Service’s idea is better seen in its promotion of national integration and development. Year after year, the National Service Scheme provides a rallying point through which youths from diverse socio-cultural backgrounds share views and ideas on national issues.

I have no doubt that the experience gained from the Scheme will contribute in no small way to prepare and equip Corps Members for the challenge of building a new Nigeria. The challenge of moving Nigeria forward is enormous, hence Corps Members are expected to demonstrate high degree of courage, enterprise and integrity in the discharge of future assignment.

To whom much is given, much is also expected. The Nigeria nation has given us opportunity to be educated, we should therefore be a worthy ambassador of a new Nigeria.

I need to remind Corps Members that there are hundreds of thousands of graduates out there looking for jobs, but it is my candid opinion that if the experiences gained from the service year is properly channeled into productive venture, the sky cannot be the limit.

Likewise, the batch “A” Corps Members should see the service year as a unique opportunity to lay a good foundation for a better tomorrow. The service year provides you an opportunity to learn new skills for the post service year. However, you must brace up for the challenges ahead, while avoiding any acts that will bring the good name of the Scheme to disrepute.

At this juncture, I will say that we are most fortunate to be here today. Some of our colleagues lost their lives in the course of the service year, they deserve our respect, they deserve our tribute… Shall will observe a minutes silence in respect of their passing memory…. On behalf of the entire Corps Members, National Youth Service Corps, and on behalf of a grateful nation … may your soul rest in peace…………, "

From the above lines from my speech, I will say for those people that knows whay they re doing NYSC still remain one the best opportunity to launch oneself to the future.

I agreed no institution is perfect in Nigeria, but as we all know the Nigerian spirit is unwaivering and ready to excell and make the best of every situation. This was my attitude during the service year and I didn't regret this.

I realized with that Khaki many people will really listen to you if you have an idea and even encourage you, but wait till when you removed that Khaki and you know that life is war out there. Young people can make you use of the goodwill and accesss the NYSC Khaki provides to prepare for the future.

Many people have found great foutunes and mistfortunes in the course of the service year, but the truth is as you lay your bed so you will lie on it.

@Afam & Richyblack

" Self Preservation is the first law of nature" Now let scale down to the dispute between Israel and its Arab neigbours. As an individual, it is easier to go about the pursuit of happiness if your society and infact your immediate neigbour recognize your right to life and exixtence. But if on the contrary, there is no basis for agreement. Survival first then we can negotiate for co-existence. For instance, some of Israel neigbour did not recognize her as a country, while some are campaigning that it should be wipe out from the map.

Now for a minute, let me ask this what would I do or what would you do if my neigbour insist I have no right to life. Ofcourse I will everything I have got which includes power, connection, money,just name them to quarantee my survival. Sincerely, that "everything" may include war, invasion of enemy territory or outright genocide. The issue here is you don't wait for a nation that have inclination for Holy Jiad to wipe you out before you defend yourself. The truth is each and every one of us will do more to survive than Israel is currently doing.

U S disregarded the support of UN to invade Iraq tha is thousands of miles away all because it wanted to protect its citizen, and now Russia went to war just to proof that it will not tolerate intrusion in its areas of interest. How much more a big question that is as big as somebody threaten to wipe out a whole nation, sincerely, if I have the power I will attack first.

Israeli Jews are everywhere in Europe and America, powerful, rich and connected and they are using their power to influence the survival of their nation, now tell me who would'nt? If Israel had not gotten all the connections to influence and manipulate the only surviving world power, what would have been their fate today against an enemy that has proved potent not in theory but in reality (1967 Israeli-Arab war). Maybe Israel should wait for another attack. This a nation that has experienced the cruelty of the holocust. I think we all need to be sincere with ourselves, If I were Israel, I will do more in the present circumstance. Afterall international politics is nothing but power politics and for the forseeable future it will contineu to be, because it is the human nature

@Big 1
Fine analysis. (Realist View). But I thought IBB 's name will have no space in a topic like this, yet you still manage to bring in his name. I know IBB is your hero but I think he has read more than his own share of Nicolo Machiavelli's books. I learnt they study Machiavelli's "The Prince" and "The Art of War" for a whole semester in Defence Academy. Good for them but while I will commend Machiavelli as one of the greatest realist political thinker, his philosophy of aquisition,expansion and consolidation of power is not water tight because it also suffers from countervailing variables that define the dynamic of power matric in a political system.

That was the reason IBB was outwitted, out Maneuvered by countervailing forces in the June 12 saga. IBB is a student of Machiavelli's political philosophy, but that philosophy has inherent pitfalls which defines human limit over life's circumstances. It is at best selfish, ruthless and aimed at personal survival of a few power monger. That was why IBB was forced to step aside.

Am aware you have campaign vigorously for him on this forum as the man that know it all and can fix the problem, unfortunately with life you don't always win or undo what you have done. Don't be suprise , IBB may spend the rest of his life wishing he had ruled Nigeria differently when he had the opportunity.

Nevertheless, I concurred with your analysis about Obama/Clinton Ticket, but let's hope that the good guy will convince the skeptical American public.

@post

Really don't have much time now but can't just reisit this for one reason: I have been a student in this field(International Relations) for quite some years, still learning anyway

Ok let me do a quick one:

Concert of Power = Concert of Europe = Balance of Power

to

Bipolar World = USSR + US = Arm Race & Cold War (Warsaw Pact & NATO)

to

Unipolar World = US = Bullying Cowboy Diplomacy + Naked Aggression + Disregard for Int'l Laws ( Surviving Super Power)

to

US Using Terror War for consolidating power & Encirclement of formal arch foe (Russia) i.e Missile Shield at Russia's backyard & more are still coming.

to

Emerging Power matrix is evolving now (Russian Sphere of influence is fading away with NATO expansionist Cowboy foreign policy.

NATO encirclement is decimating Russian sphere of influence, removing the roofing sheet over the house one by one

South Ossetia and its autonomous neigbour = Russian opportunity to redeem image & re-assert itself on the stage.

The implication of all this is that Russian will need to reconsider Re-arming (Just signed $189b armament project)
The new arm race is about to start. God have Mercy !

ISSUES: A peaceful world is not in the interest of everybody, It will run down the 'Extreme Machines' of the 'Military Industrial Complex'. So there must be tension and the sleeping dog must not be allowed to rest or else the Big Guns will be out of Buz.

Pivate View:
1. Bipolarity is better than Unipolarity

2. Concert of Power better than Bipolarity by far (keeps everyone in check)

3.Unipolarity (Unbridled dictatorship, US a living example)

4. Unipolarity breeds Nuclear proliferation, WHY? No umberrela cover for opposing voices in the Cowboy century, hence the need for personal survival & protection

5. Unipolarity reduces UN to a toothless bull dog dancing to the whims of the Surviving Power

6. Unipolarity intimidates and cowed others to submission

7. Unipolarity is a triumph of Capitalism with every contrary ideological views under persecution


Assignments

@ Tayo D & Texazzpete

Plz Familiarize yourself with two dorminant theory of international relations namely:

1. Idealist Theory
2. Reality Theory (power theory)

It may give you a better insight to the nature power assymetry always on stage on the Int'l scene.


Kudos to:

Richyblack
Mickren
Landis

@post,
Good and insightful post, used to think am alone on this, but thank God there re other like minded Nigerians. But after all our concerns, the main question is how can we make a difference in all of these moral dilema plaqueing Nigeria?

I am of the opinion that each and everyone of us can start by reaching out to somebody close to us, we can become a model of exceptional character and mentor young people positively. Every great thing starts small, but with passion and commitment it can go a long way to affect lives positively.

The problem of Nigeria today is that we don't have role model again, young people are growing up with any role model in our national life, youths today  chooses hollywood or grammy award winneras the role model. this is a national disaster.

By His grace I have started an initiative to help young peaple and I believe all of us can do something so that we young people of today will not become another wasted generation. "GO START SOMETHING"

@post
It is only people with intellectual defficiency that will think Awo can be compared to all the lunatic politicians we have today or talk of been spineless or betrayer.

Any sensible and intelligent person will know that Awo is a great thinker, philosopher, and industrialist.
If his peers have 20% of his acumen Nigeria will not be what it is today.

I hate talking about tribal issues, but sincerely, I don't want to expect any easterner to like Awo, He did what he has to do, it is only a foolish leader that will plung his people into uncertainty.

The greater part of courage is discreation, and that's what Ojukwu lacked before embarking on the war, but my Ibo bros expected Awo to plung along with indiscreation. But Awo exercise sound judgement and discreation, that is why we have Nigeria today.

The eastern bros wanted Awo to pull out of Nigeria at the same time they declared the war so as to weaken the Gowon government, ofcourse by so doing Biafra would ve been a reality. But who was selfish and tribal in this? The man that saved Nigeria or the one that help to pull it down? It is easy to blame one's woes on others except onself.

Now, food for thought, if Ojukwu wanted to seccede from Nigeria, why was he advancing towards Lagos? Is Ore part of Biafra? After Ore "no be Awo's Ijebus remain" Why was his Airforce bombing Lagos destroying Awo's sweat and vision? Why was his army annexing non-biafra states of the South-South? The truth is in war, you can never tell what a victorius army will do. Maybe a thinker and philosopher like Awo should ve waited or Siddon look to see what becomes of his people after the war. But in any war, if you re not a victor, you re victim and like any rational thinker, am glad Awo did not wait to make his people and nigeria nation a victim of a ill-advised war.

I think its high time the new generation of fellow Easterners, learn to think of other people too as been wise, no people have monopoly of wisdom. Is a biafra nation in Nigeria's interest? If yes, then Awo is a coward, but if not then there re other cowards other than Awo.

Given Awo's circumstance, he did what he was suppose to do, except somebody think he should mortgage the survival of his own people to save other . His action saved Nigeria, because if he had pull out at the time, Gowon would not have been able to withstand Biafra. Maybe we will not have Nairaland forum today.

@ post,
Am with you man, what is keeping Nigeria moving now is the achievements of the last administration, but he will soon exhaust the good will and face reality.

@post
I do not have any problem with all the strange bedfellows and character listed above but one thing am sure of is if anyone of them had taken over when OBJ did in 1999, they would have been the worst dictator in Nigerian history.

I wonder how anyone of them would ve handled just one case of political Sharia?

@post
the difference btw the two is plain and simple, while OBJ based on his conviction of a noble course will disregard friends and family to forge ahead, IBB will rather jettison such course than betray a friend or family.

@post

It may be too early to judge Yar Adua but OBJ did a lot for this country given the circumstance of the time he came to power. In term of seal and economic blueprint to take Nigeria out of the wood, recently Nigeria is now among the NEW EMERGING MARKET, debt cancellation, banking reform, GSM, Stock Exchange, etc. He didn't get it right in the power sector but atleast he attempted it, this is different from lack of investment by successive government in the sector for over 20years, again it was the first time an attempt was made at fightin official corruption in Nigeria

Above all Nigeria is a difficult country and not for chicken liver people, the mere fact that all political class that always stick to themselves were all against OBJ after his regime shows that it was not business as usual during his time, the truth is some people live on government all their life, those people are back unfortunately they had a strong grip on Yar Adua.

Corruption is an acceptable social phenomenon in Nigeria, it makes it more a challenge for a weak president like Yar Adau, OBJ is a General but he became more dictatorial to deal with this terrible element "Mafia" in Nigeria.

A lot need to be done, public institution that will be the harbinger of good governance have been destroyed by military govt for more than thirty years of our independence, even the constitution was militarilized and faulty. All OBJ did was to put the structures in place, it was very difficult for him because these structures are highly strategic to resource allocation and who get what in the Nigerian political economy.

This may  be hard to swallow, Nigeria needs more of "OBJ's good qualities" to move forward, anybody can check history of most develop countries today, most of them have been in this type of situation before and were able to solve their problems with the kind of leader I called "BENEVOLENT DICTATORSHIP" I nairalanders may disagree with this view but that is my stake.

@ poster

Wait till Ribadu's hummuliation is complete, then you will see a nation without soul, basic morality and decency

My concern is the next generation of young people that will grow up in a dangerous moral vacum, no nation can rise above average without a set of moral tenets and values, in fact decline of most world empires started with a moral decline,  alas, NIGERIA POLITICAL ELITES are doing everything possible to murder the nation's force of order and constrains- our conscience and values.

Very soon, we will celebrate the best fraudster of all with the nation's highest honour GCON.

Anyway if it is difficult for us to celebrate courageous men like Ribadu, why won't we celebrate George.
The healing process of Nigeria is still far away, but if as a people will celebrate fraudsters, don't we deserve a 419ners as president?

The truth is NIGERIA is not ready for a good leader now, untill there is a social, economic and political rebirth,  a good leader will be a waste of time. Let us enjoy this ride when it last, we Nigerians are not yet ready to take charge of our own destiny.