It is no longer a mere speculation that Umuchu in Aguata Local Government Area of Anambra State has in commercial quantity solid Mineral deposits but what is not yet clear is what the mineral deposits are. Whoever has passed along the new and ever busy Umunze-Umuchu-Uga-Igbokwu highway precisely at Ibughubu-Umuchu near Agho River (the natural boundary of Umuchu and Umunze) will see people of various sizes and ethnic groups in the mining sites scooping and excavating the products. Most of the time, the minerals are loaded in trailers at night and taken to unknown destinations.
Some of my discussants at the site alleged that the vehicles headed towards Umuahia, Abia State, while others claimed that Northerners also came for the products. The astonishing and funniest aspects of it are that the trailers for loading of these minerals are usually hidden outside the site of the mining to eclipse the activities of these illegal miners from the notice of eagle-eyed Government agents. My investigations to know what the minerals are led me into taking some raw samples to laymen Chemical Dealers and opinions were divided as to their use. The minerals are suspected to be Barite, Bentonite, Clay, Iron-ore, and Lignite according to them used in the production of Paint, Steel and Cement or in the drilling of Water Borehole. However, the pure laboratory analysis is still underway.
Much as the discovery of the minerals in the area is a blessing at least to help open up the 20-village Community sharing common borders with Arondizuogu, Ibinta, Umualaoma and Akokwa all in Imo State, Uga, Amesi, Achina, Enugu Umuonyia, Umuomaku, Ezira and Umunze all in Anambra State, the illegal mining business needs to be drawn to the attention of the State Ministry of Solid Minerals (if there is any), Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals and Senate Committee for Solid Mineral for proper and organized harnessing. This is why the prompt intervention with security agents of HRH Igwe G. O. Ezechukwu of Umuchu on Tuesday 16th October 2006 is applauded and most welcomed. The rat does not steal something from one who is awake but only from one asleep. But, then let the foray on these illegal miners not be a goldmine for members of the Nigerian Police Force.
The fact that oil boom has beclouded the visions of many States in Nigeria culminating into laissez-faire attitude or total abandonment of other sources of revenue should not be allowed to befall Anambra State. In as much as the lion feeds on goat, sheep, and other bigger animals, it does not turn blind eye to termites, rodents, grasshoppers, and locusts. In fact, it also picks them.
Nasarawa State has no oil deposit but Solid Minerals are her major export. It is from this God given endowment as augment to Federal Allocations from oil that she pays workers salaries, funds her State University and Polytechnics besides infrastructural development. In fact, the study of Geography in the Primary and Secondary Schools made us known that the whole Northern State of Nigeria are naturally endowed with Solid Minerals consequently none of these states jokes with these minerals. Little wonder why standing among those found in the illegal mining site at Umuchu were people with Caftan or Agbada dress and “Shagari” Cap suspected to be Northerners.
The Ebony State Government gets much revenue from the sales of “Stone-Chippings and Stone-Quarry Industries” at Ishiagu and Afikpo as the Solid Mineral is used in building and road constructions. Glass Industries make use of even sand as one of their major raw materials hence the State Governments of Lagos, Delta, Abia etc where these Industries are located do tax them heavily for the use of the “Solid Mineral.” Could it be true that Anambra State Government plays “Father Christmas” to excavation of sand commercially at Rivers Niger and Anambra or simply put; who do the tax-agents collecting dues from these excavators account to ? Why the natural resources of Anambra State should be treated like the property of one who has joined his ancestors, “No Man’s land” or “Tax-Free Dubai” is supposed to give concern to all and sundry. The Government should place “CAVEAT EMPTOR” on the activities of these illegal miners at Ibughubu-Umuchu and go ahead to set up machinery to do the appropriate thing to these mineral deposits. If Government intervention is further delayed, gully erosion is imminent which is likely to threaten the highway. In the words of Seneca, “He who does not forbid sin when he can, encourages it” (Qui non vetat peccare cum posit jubet). The continued activities of the illegal miners are hinged on the presumed inactivity of the Anambra State Government in the past, as nature abhors vacuum. According to one of the illegal miners who claimed to be an unemployed graduate of University of Maiduguri, “Why I do not look back while dealing with a widow is because I known very well, the destination of the husband.”
Apart from these particular mineral sites at Ibughubu-Umuchu, Government of Anambra State searchlight should be beamed on deposits of minerals in other places in the State. Available data show that Clays are found in Ukpor, Okija, Ozubulu, Aguleri, Ihembosi, Enugwu Ukwu, Ihiala, Omor, Umuchu and Umunze. Lignite is in large quantity at Nnewi, Oba and Ozubulu. Sand and Sandstone: Nando, Ukpor, Obosi, Onitsha (River Niger), Otuocha and Oyi. Substantial quantities of Ironstone are found in Umuchu, Nnewi, Abor, Aguleri, Ogbunka and Owerre Ezukala. Gypsum: Awka and Onitsha. Bentonite: Awka. Pyrite: Onitsha and Nsugbe. Coal exists in commercial quantity at Owerre Ezukala. Federal Government should make haste to start drilling other oil wells located variously at Alo, Igbariam, Anam, Aguleri, Ogbaru etc. The issue of boundary disputes between Atani in Anambra State and Oguta in Imo State has continued to deny Anambra State the revenue accruable to the state from oil. The on-going efforts of the National Boundary Commission to resolve all States boundary disputes should be sustained to enable the issue resolved. If these Atani oil-rich farmland allegedly “leased out” in the past for farming to Oguta farmers are recovered, Anambra State will become the least Oil Producing State in Nigeria thus a license to becoming a beneficiary of the Presidential largesse for the youths of the Niger Delta States. The unemployed youths in the State will indeed have recuperation and succour from this benevolence there from also extricates themselves from idleness, which is the devils theatre. Provision of jobs to the youths would help to check youth restiveness. MASSOB, Militancy, NARTO, Pipe-line vandalization, NURTW, RTEAN, Okada Riding, Prostitution, Armed robbery etc are all bye-products of idleness and frustration. Indeed a man who plans to plant corn or banana should endeavour to make peace with the monkeys.
Mr. Ezennaya writes for the World Igbo Times Magazine, London.
Monday, February 8, 2010
ABIA STATE: Vacancies for Touts...By Sixtus Ezennaya
God’s Own State is the sobriquet of Abia State. By virtue of this motto, it is not unexpected that Abia State will be a replica of heaven where angels work. But is this the true position of things or just a fallacy? The truth is that Abia State is one state in Nigeria where touting market is never saturated. Touts have the ever ready vacancies for employment and occupation here, hence the rampage of kidnappers. Therefore, the Agberos of Lagos, Dan Chowa Chowas of Kano, Akpuobis, Isiekweonwus in Igboland, town council walking corpses, ex-criminals etc are welcome. Qualification is for one to be a macho-man, dare-devil in outlook with heartless disposition. However, one with the flair for fighting, hooting, intimidation, “point and kill” is an advantage. But then, won’t it be better for Abia State to establish the first “TOUTING ACADEMY” in Nigeria?
One needs to be a living witness to the activities of these barbarians. My visit to Enyimba City for an Award on Sunday 20th December 2009 from the Catholic Youths Organization of Nigeria (CYON) at Christ the King Cathedral Aba was revealing. For the few days I was in Aba before leaving for home for Christmas, I saw hell. In fact, Abia has returned to the jungle era of the hoodlums; The Jangos, Aragas, (Ajagba Mafia) Capol, Stones, Ezeges, Apoos, GOCs, Joking Jaquas, Ajagirigwes, Ogbanjes, Egbelus, Ngworos and German Brass. Soldiers and Policemen are licensed to shoot but touts are paid to kill. If you have not been to the pit latrine, you will never know that cockroaches feed on excreta.
The services of these inhuman apes are hired by all government agencies in Abia State. For example, the ASEPA makes use of them for revenue drive or debt recovery. Even when the Court workers were on strike, these sons of Nebuchadnezzar were functioning alongside the law enforcement agents. The Arrangee, Kangaroo or Jankara Courts are used by these touts to extort money from those arrested as defaulters. The Obstruction / Illegal Parking Unit of the Local Government seems to constitute the home of touts. As one is driving perhaps in an unauthorized place, the touts would forcefully pursue the moving vehicle, open the driver’s door and march on the brake while struggling with the steering with the driver. Whenever there is an accident consequent of such action, these touts usually run away to avert mob action. If the owner of the vehicle goes to make a report to Police, further enquiries at the Local Government usually show that such people are not known to the office neither are they employees. The question then is, who are they accountable to? Again, is the Local Government indirectly empowering the public to confront these revenue collectors? The Business Premises Unit, Illegal Structures, Infrastructural Levy Unit, Building Construction Unit (alias Stop Work Order by LG), Market Stall Unit that collect the compulsory N3000 tax etc make use of these touts. Why must Local and State Government Areas and Commissioners in Abia State make touts relevant and indispensable? Who would believe that in Cameroon, there is no single tout in all the motor parks in Douala, Yaoundé, Kumba, Bafoussan etc? But here in Nigeria, touts pack themselves in vehicles in motor parks disguising as passengers. One by one, they disembark from the vehicle as genuine passengers fill the vehicles. Today, “One Chance” vehicles usually used by touts to rob passengers in Lagos, are now seen in Abia State. Joblessness has even extended the job of touting to girls. Touts are indeed sine-qua-non because of their presence but their absence will show their irrelevance.
Could it be true that Aba, the commercial cum industrial nerve centre of Abia State, has now more “women” than men? Gone were the days when Aba was Aba, when yes was yes for Aba guys. That was the time when Aba people would resist injustice and intimidation. The menace of kidnappers has broken the backbone of Aba leaving the flesh. Yes, the men have deserted the town leaving the boys. In fact, the “castration” of Aba has adversely affected the economy of the town and State. Jeeps are sparingly seen. Buildings and plots of land for sale find no easy buyers. Abia sons and daughters in Europe, America etc stop at Lagos or Abuja and ask their relatives to come to those places for heart to heart discussions or to see them. For those who would risk coming to Abia at all, they never allow evening to set before running out of the town. For how long will this siege last?
Would anyone believe that digital electric meters given free of charge in the North are yet to be installed in Abia? Electricity bills are paid in advance and estimation is the method of billing but Pay As You Consumed is the tax system. Telephone is also pay as you use. Food in our restaurants, is pay as you eat. People are advised to cut their coat according to their cloth. Why must Abia State be the metaphorical “NWA MKPI” (he-goat) that negotiated for the measurement of the size of its scrotum by proxy hence its oversize? Worse still, what has the bat done that it must hang on a tree branch with head upside-down instead of perching or squatting like other animals? Who takes the blame?
It should bleed the heart of every reasonable Igbo man that epileptic electricity bill is on estimation and upfront payment in Igboland yet no Igboman complains. PHCN realizes more than 50% of its monthly revenue from Igboland but why Igboland should work like an elephant and eat like an ant is puzzling. Abia buildings need digital meters to halt the illegal connection problem by private touts besides the problem of disconnection of bill defaulting buildings by PHCN hired touts. Most importantly, digital meters would ensure proper accountability to the PHCN and the consumers.
Oh Aba, how are the mighty fallen. The industrial heart beat of Abia State is gone. The Enyimba City of the Aba Giant Killers, of the Enyimba Football Club, the African champions, of the Nigerian Breweries, of the International Equitable, of the Lever Brothers, of the Abatex, of the Ariaria International Market, of the Dick Tigers, of the Mbakwes, of the Margret Ekpo and her 1929 Aba Women Riot against imposition of tax on women by the Colonial masters, has vamoosed into oblivion.
Abia State Government should cease from patronizing touts and even stop their operation in Abia State to stop further underdevelopment of the State. Could it be true that their importance manifest during elections. Abia State is becoming a SECUNDUS DOMUS to kidnappers because of the presence of government touts. The sore on the skin of the dog is why flies follow it.
Finally, when I was returning from a trip to Europe sometime in the past, robbers attacked one Europe based passenger-friend of mine in his hotel room in Lagos and dispossessed him of his hard earned Euro. As I was commiserating with him he exclaimed , “It is now I know I have no Country.” The deplorable and moribund state of roads in Abia State particularly Aba truly show that Mbakwe is dead. In other words, “it is now that Aba people know that Chief Samuel Onunaka Mbakwe PhD is dead.
Mr. Ezennaya writes for the World Igbo Times Magazine, London.
Visiting Alabingo Republic, the 37th State of Nigeria... By SIXTUS EZENNAYA
If you are asked how many states that make up Nigeria, what will be your answer? Many Nigerians will say thirty six. However, this is not untrue. But have you been opportuned to visit, being a guest better still an inmate to any Police cell, detention camp, Awaiting Trial Men (ATM) or Prison yard in Nigeria? If you have, is your experience similar to the one of this write-up? But if you have not, this encounter will give you an insight of what it looks like.
Unlike the journey or visit to an ordinary State which is always voluntary, the visit to the Alabingo Republic or the 37th State is mandatorily not out of one’s volition. The forced or coerced visit always begins with either Police arrest and / or subsequent Court order.
In the case of Police cell, as soon as the accused is brought to the Station sometimes in handcuff, he is intimidatingly compelled by the Police to pull off all his clothings. Nevertheless, records of these belongings are kept. Police employs all manners of pranks and intimidatory actions aimed at subduing and suppressing a victim. As a superior officer comes in, the junior officer will narrate to him what prompted the arrest, how stubborn the accused was in the process. In fact, he is a suspect. But there are Policemen who perform this duty satisfactorily and with high sense of commitment and decency even to the admiration of the detainee. Some Policeman do extort the true information from the suspect with diplomacy while many use force and intimidation. “Oga see O!, dis na one of those who make this land ungovernable!” Is he a kidnaper, armed robber or what, Oga would ask. He is not any of those but something more dangerous than that, the Policeman would say. The Superior officer would turn to the detainee and say politely, “Mr. Man who are you? What brought you here? Take his statement.” Bring N100 for foolscap for the statement…. The detainee would be asked whether he would be able to write this statement or to be assisted. Where he can write his statement, he is obliged to do it but if he cannot, there is a Policeman who can do it for him after which it is read over to him for appendage of his thumb-print or signature. The next stage is going into the “Alabingo Republic.”
In the cell, the accused would meet all manners of people who are arrested for different types of crime. As he is welcomed into the jam-packed cell, he would receive all types of beatings until he redeems himself with money. He would be searched thoroughly so that no kobo is left with him. And to circumvent the ugly beatings, the accused would be told to insert some money in his anus which he doles out at the appropriate time. One dares not to bring out bigger denomination of the currency with the hope of getting some balance. In fact the way the “cell-show” will be snatched by these “hungry lions” will pre-empt to you what Alabingo Republic is all about.
After the welcome ritual, the Governor, No. 1, GOC, or the Boss man as the case may be, would mandate the newest entrant to be cross-examined. This is one of the ways Police obtain true information about a suspect as the suspect may be unsuspicious of anything. Many armed robbers have exposed themselves in the cell-interaction thinking they are exposing their bravado.
The aide-camp to the henchman would ask some questions to the suspect. One, how many states are there in Nigeria? Any answer except their own “correct” one would attract big blows that would send the victim scampering on the ground. And the correct answer is always thirty six plus one which is equal to thirty seven. Police cell, ATM, Detention centre or Prison yard is always regarded as a State. Thirty six states exist in the “outside” world while only one is in the “inside” in the prison parlance.
Second question would be something like this; what brought you into this place? Any answer to prove that you are innocent will attract a resounding slap or blow as one will be seen as a coward. But then if you manufacture lies of how tough you have been, you would be accorded respect. A near-giant size luxury bus driver was brought into the cell. No sooner had he arrived than he started beating the Governor. He beat him to the extent of “over throwing” his government. While the fight raged on, the inmates shouted that a cannibal has been brought into the cell. When everything was calm, the aide camp took clothes in the cell to fan the giant who now sat on the only clean spot in the cell dishing out orders. This is Alabingo Republic for real. Though beatings, torture etc greet new entrants to the cell, there is still much honour and respect when one is a human right activist, revolutionary writer, journalist, attorney, etc. They would flinch and distance their inhuman and barbaric treatment from the one rather implore the person to bring their plight to the “outside world” as they know that soonest the person would leave the “inside world.”
A man of 65 years was brought into the cell for raping a 13 year old girl. In the morning when the DPO came for normal morning parade (ward round), the PO intoned, “Oga see that man that disvirgined that yellow class one student.” So, you are the one who does not know your age, asked the DPO. How old are you? The man pokerfaced and said, “Oga 65.” I will like to see him in my office, the DPO directed. No sooner had the DPO left than the Boss man summoning him and after scolding, commanded him to dis-virgin a small half inch diameter hole on the wall in the cell. The man obeyed humiliatingly and struggled with the assignment. Occasionally, he would receive two bare hand slaps on his back. Guess what happened. It was the wall that rather disvirgined the man’s genital and in the process he fainted. This generated uproar and anxiety though none was ruffled as it is a norm.
In the cell, noise means nothing as inmates and the Police authorities are used to that. Hooting, singing, fighting, crying, discussing, talking, gisting etc are not out of bound. The Police Officer in charge of the cell pays no heed. The odour emitting from the cell will eclipse the fart of one who has not visited the toilet for a day. Whether cell, ATM or prison, if an inmate has a visitor, food material, gift to an inmate is usually distributed to every body. Over time cordial relationship of the inmates make this possible. There is a slogan here, “with good arrangement, Satan can see God.” To watch television and other extra curricula activities, your “tithe” to the PO or warder can do the impossibility. For example, film watching accrues N20 per person to the warder. Even warders and Police officers are aware of the smoking of marijuana, cigarette etc by the inmates. But then, who sells these things to the inmates? Perhaps, this might account for the high incidence of mentally deranged inmates.
Unlike cell where freedom is curtailed, prison is more organized even though there is no absolute freedom. Football matches are organized between wards, evangelization to the inmates by various religious denominations are allowed, washing of one’s clothes, bathing as many times as one wishes to, are also not out of bound, since the presence of water borehole makes it possible. Visitors are allowed to see prisoners but the one visited must be on the prison attire. On the quality of their food according to an inmate, “if ten cups of rice are for dinner, eight cups will be real rice while sand or pebble constitute the balance.
When a detainee is to be bailed, the person bailing the detainee is asked to sign a bail bond. The bail fee depends on the crime committed besides the personality of the bailing-agent irrespective of the bold inscription in the Station “BAIL IS FREE.” The person bailing the accused is compelled to sign that no money was paid for bail. Despite the obvious fact that Alabingo Republic is not a good place to visit or stay, it is a sine-qua-non to every society. Who thinks that the Police will want a crime-free society? Harlots and prostitutes will go hungry in a place where there are no nincompoops, drunkards and loafers.
Finally, always try to visit places like prison, hospitals, cemetery etc for life-meditation besides giving comfort to the afflicted. Bishop V. V. Ezeonyia C. S. Sp of Catholic Diocese of Aba once said, “Christianity is comforting the afflicted and afflicting the comforted.” Leo Buscalgia in his articulation said, “Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all of which have the potential to turn a life around!
Mr. Ezennaya writes for the World Igbo Times Magazine, London.
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
EUROPE PIVOTED ON A TIME BOMB Sixtus Chibueze Ezennaya
Europe is a continent of many parts. One, the centre of the world is found in Europe. Football, the world most popular sports started in 1848 in Cambridge, England. Perhaps, the choice of Zurich as the headquarters of Federation of International Football Association (FIFA) is not a compensation to Europe but putting a square peg in a square hole. Of the five permanent members of the world’s most powerful organ, the Security Council, Europe produced three. Europe again is privileged to be a senior partner in the eight most industrialized countries of the world popularly called G8 as it has more than half of the member-countries. Where is the World Bank if not in Switzerland, Europe. The world Palace of Reconciliation otherwise known as the World Court adds glamour to the beauty and pride of Europe. Most importantly, Christianity, the religion founded by Jesus Christ, has Europe as its nerve centre. What other facts can one adduce to corroborate better this claim of multiplicity of parts of Europe?
The first time I went to Europe, I asked myself whether God was not an European consequent of what I saw. In Holland / Netherlands precisely, the slogan is “God created the world but we made Holland.” Go to Germany (Allemagne) and see the diligent Germans in action. The British or German police are a beauty to watch. The inquisitive Italian immigration officials cannot allow illegal immigrants in, even with blank cheques in their hands neither will the Spanish people’s hospitality depicted in their beaming smiles, flamboyant and friendly greeting of “Olaa” to test one’s ability to speak fluently, Spanish or Catalunyan language (native language of part of Spain and France), mitigate their patriotism to their fatherland. The newspapers in Europe are more patriotic than the citizens as truth not economic reason is the interiority of their sustenance and existence.
Whether L’Osservatore Romano in Vatican City, Le Monde in France, El Periodico, El Pais, La Vangurdia, all in Spain, La Republica in Italy or London Times, their reports on a matter whether affecting the government, citizens etc are unbiased. Journalism in Europe is like the thunderstorm, which does not know the house of the rainmaker when it strikes.
Despite the fact that Europe is almost a cemetery, naturally created to produce / supply only aquatic edibles fruits and vegetables to the world while importing other things from other places, it plays second fiddle to no other continent. It is better witnessed than imagined how orderly and serene Europe is and law-abiding her citizens are. In spite of all these “goodies” about Europe, one may not believe this: Europe is endangered specie. Mildly put, Europe is under siege.
I pity for Europe from the bottom of my heart. Not because of anything other than what the future holds in stock for her. In fact Europe is heading for doom if urgent step is not taken to redeem it. Liberalization is about to cost Europe a priceless future. Terrorism is far greater a child’s play compared with what posterity will suffer with regard to the indifferent attitude of their leaders to religious tolerance or precisely godlessness currently ravaging Europe.
Christ during His lifetime was once a refugee in Africa. The religion of Christ right now is taking refuge in Africa as the Europeans who brought Christianity to Africa are now worshipping godlessness. It is my sincere prayer that Africans are not contaminated, derailed and confused by the ordination of women, gay-bishops, same-sex marriage and pro-abortion laws until Christianity is successfully re-awakened in Europe.
Civilization according to History started in Africa precisely Egypt but wisdom originated from Greece, Europe. The Bible tells us that when God asked King Solomon to request for whatever he wanted, it was this priceless gift of wisdom that he had opted for. It is also an acknowledged fact that God gave Europeans this wisdom hence many discoveries are credited to the Europeans. Though Europeans are not endowed with many mineral resources, whatever they touch, turns into gold. They are able to convert nothing into something, something into anything, anything into everything and vice versa. Consequent of this God-given wisdom. One wise saying has it that money can only buy finery and not beauty, book and not brain, Church-pew and not salvation, finally knowledge and not wisdom.
But then, could it be true that Europeans at present mortgage this wisdom on the altar of liberalism? Could it be true that Arabs, who are blessed with wealth from black gold, bait the European wisdom with their wealth? Arms for sale? Technology for sale? Nuclear knowledge for sale? The love for oil and money is undermining Europe.. Ethics and morality have been thrown into the dustbin. When will the complete “Arabilization of Europe” be over? The Turkish-Arabs have taken over Germany, the North-African Arabs are in control in Spain, France etc. Football Clubs and Stadia in London for total acquisition by Arabs. Archbishop of Canterbury Rowen Williams embraces Sharia. Waoh. Worse still, in these areas, the Arabs are now “untouchables.” If the Arabs succeed in buying wisdom with their wealth from the Europeans, the slavery will be unamendable, irreversible and catastrophic. The wickedness of European colonial masters in Africa by deliberately placing the Arab-immigrants as overlords to the people on whose land the mineral resource particularly oil was found so as to manipulate the oil business, is now producing a boomerang effect. The Head of Anglican Church, Queen Elizabeth supported Moslem-dominated Northern Nigeria against the Biafran Christians during the Nigerian / Biafran War between 1967-70. Who would blame Dr. Akanu Ibiam the President of World Council of Churches, for dropping his sword of Knighthood and English name, “Francis” in protest? Lady Diana’s death has something to do with the illicit quest for Arab wealth. What stops nations merged with these Arab-blooded over-lords from being independent countries more so as they do not want to continue to exist alongside these nations. Only this is the panacea for tranquillity in these areas otherwise oil price, hunger etc will continue to skyrocket while peace, elusive.. Peace after all is not the absence of war.
In America, wherever one goes and even in American currency, the American sobriquet is boldly written, “In God We Trust.” If the European Union charter may find it apposite not to mention the name of God all through its pages, what a way of putting God into oblivion? Though appearances are sometimes deceptive, on some Sundays I have attended Masses in Catholic Churches across Europe, I can authoritatively say that Godlessness is gradually winning the race as only few people now, majority children and old people attend churches for the worship of God. Consequent of this spate of Godlessness or laissez faire attitude to church-going supported by liberalism, if it continues, the Arabs in the shortest possible future may become Chancellor of Germany, Italian Prime Minister, Spanish Prime Minister, President of France etc. it is authoritative also that some Arab money-bags make overtures towards the purchase of these “empty” churches with the motive of converting them into mosques. Europe should go back to God and not to “sell God to Allah.” If Europe believes truly in liberalization why not introduce VISA programme for immigrants, even for zwarte werk (black work). The hypocrisy of the Europeans is why domestic animals like dogs, cats, etc are more preferred to even African-Christian immigrants despite the fact that immigrants help to create further wealth. Giving legal rights of protection to animals has often been debated in some parliaments in Europe (Austria and Spain). Could it true that a man in London willed to his dog, £7m? In fact, the infiltration and influx of the “unpredictable” Arabs besides their domination of all spheres of life in Europe no doubt would undermine Europe.
The importance of religion in the emerging world politics is becoming glaring. Some religions are known to have been hiding place for those who want violence to rule over peace. This notion has kept security personnel in the international borders in complete alert and check over adherents of those religions. In some factories, their employments are terminated for their presence alone constitute danger. This is indicative of the role religion is playing in the emerging world politics. In fact, there is no gainsaying the fact that race plays second fiddle in modern politics to religion.
Do Europeans ask themselves why a Saudi Moslem like Osama Bin Laden would attack America or American interests for flimsy excuses and more so for what concerns him not? What is his insurable interest in all his sponsored horrific terrorist attacks if not religion? He wants every body to bow and genuflect to Islam. All other religions should go to hell. But it is practically impossible even at gunpoint.
In some Islamic countries, there are areas in their cities that are prohibited to non-Moslems no matter the person’s status. But in Rome, even Vatican City or more homely St. Peters Basilica is open to every body every time.
If not for President Bush war against terrorism, by now the guess on every body’s lips would be: whose turn next? White House / Pentagon were the targets on September 11, 2001 perhaps the Vatican, Buckingham Palace, Downing Street etc when? Thank God that President Bush, Prime Minister Tony Blair and others were leaders of their respective countries at the point in time. If not their lion-hearted love for the world, who would have rescued the world?
In his 2004 post election speech , President George W. Bush said, “ there is need for world peace and war against terrorism would continue.” While the search for world peace and terrorism war continue on one hand, , The Catholic Pontiff, The British Monarch, the British Prime Minister, The German Chancellor, The French President and other European leaders should join hands together in this desperate bid to rescue Europe from the murderous grip of godlessness and “selling God to Allah” if the anticipated peace will not be an effort in futility. To say the least, Europe is gradually becoming a “Secundus Domus” to the troublesome Arabs and I have a premonition that this coupled with liberalism will cause the downfall of Europe. One Itsekiri proverb has it that the louse that is in your hair is already in your palm and it is ready for destruction. No one secures dried fish or meat in a bag hidden by rats..
Finally, Europe should not mitigate by whatever guise an inadvertent “revolt” against Christianity and divine mission to liberalism more so as the option is only to serve gods of earthly fames, stomachs and desires.
Mr. Ezennaya writes for the World Igbo Times Magazine, London.
The first time I went to Europe, I asked myself whether God was not an European consequent of what I saw. In Holland / Netherlands precisely, the slogan is “God created the world but we made Holland.” Go to Germany (Allemagne) and see the diligent Germans in action. The British or German police are a beauty to watch. The inquisitive Italian immigration officials cannot allow illegal immigrants in, even with blank cheques in their hands neither will the Spanish people’s hospitality depicted in their beaming smiles, flamboyant and friendly greeting of “Olaa” to test one’s ability to speak fluently, Spanish or Catalunyan language (native language of part of Spain and France), mitigate their patriotism to their fatherland. The newspapers in Europe are more patriotic than the citizens as truth not economic reason is the interiority of their sustenance and existence.
Whether L’Osservatore Romano in Vatican City, Le Monde in France, El Periodico, El Pais, La Vangurdia, all in Spain, La Republica in Italy or London Times, their reports on a matter whether affecting the government, citizens etc are unbiased. Journalism in Europe is like the thunderstorm, which does not know the house of the rainmaker when it strikes.
Despite the fact that Europe is almost a cemetery, naturally created to produce / supply only aquatic edibles fruits and vegetables to the world while importing other things from other places, it plays second fiddle to no other continent. It is better witnessed than imagined how orderly and serene Europe is and law-abiding her citizens are. In spite of all these “goodies” about Europe, one may not believe this: Europe is endangered specie. Mildly put, Europe is under siege.
I pity for Europe from the bottom of my heart. Not because of anything other than what the future holds in stock for her. In fact Europe is heading for doom if urgent step is not taken to redeem it. Liberalization is about to cost Europe a priceless future. Terrorism is far greater a child’s play compared with what posterity will suffer with regard to the indifferent attitude of their leaders to religious tolerance or precisely godlessness currently ravaging Europe.
Christ during His lifetime was once a refugee in Africa. The religion of Christ right now is taking refuge in Africa as the Europeans who brought Christianity to Africa are now worshipping godlessness. It is my sincere prayer that Africans are not contaminated, derailed and confused by the ordination of women, gay-bishops, same-sex marriage and pro-abortion laws until Christianity is successfully re-awakened in Europe.
Civilization according to History started in Africa precisely Egypt but wisdom originated from Greece, Europe. The Bible tells us that when God asked King Solomon to request for whatever he wanted, it was this priceless gift of wisdom that he had opted for. It is also an acknowledged fact that God gave Europeans this wisdom hence many discoveries are credited to the Europeans. Though Europeans are not endowed with many mineral resources, whatever they touch, turns into gold. They are able to convert nothing into something, something into anything, anything into everything and vice versa. Consequent of this God-given wisdom. One wise saying has it that money can only buy finery and not beauty, book and not brain, Church-pew and not salvation, finally knowledge and not wisdom.
But then, could it be true that Europeans at present mortgage this wisdom on the altar of liberalism? Could it be true that Arabs, who are blessed with wealth from black gold, bait the European wisdom with their wealth? Arms for sale? Technology for sale? Nuclear knowledge for sale? The love for oil and money is undermining Europe.. Ethics and morality have been thrown into the dustbin. When will the complete “Arabilization of Europe” be over? The Turkish-Arabs have taken over Germany, the North-African Arabs are in control in Spain, France etc. Football Clubs and Stadia in London for total acquisition by Arabs. Archbishop of Canterbury Rowen Williams embraces Sharia. Waoh. Worse still, in these areas, the Arabs are now “untouchables.” If the Arabs succeed in buying wisdom with their wealth from the Europeans, the slavery will be unamendable, irreversible and catastrophic. The wickedness of European colonial masters in Africa by deliberately placing the Arab-immigrants as overlords to the people on whose land the mineral resource particularly oil was found so as to manipulate the oil business, is now producing a boomerang effect. The Head of Anglican Church, Queen Elizabeth supported Moslem-dominated Northern Nigeria against the Biafran Christians during the Nigerian / Biafran War between 1967-70. Who would blame Dr. Akanu Ibiam the President of World Council of Churches, for dropping his sword of Knighthood and English name, “Francis” in protest? Lady Diana’s death has something to do with the illicit quest for Arab wealth. What stops nations merged with these Arab-blooded over-lords from being independent countries more so as they do not want to continue to exist alongside these nations. Only this is the panacea for tranquillity in these areas otherwise oil price, hunger etc will continue to skyrocket while peace, elusive.. Peace after all is not the absence of war.
In America, wherever one goes and even in American currency, the American sobriquet is boldly written, “In God We Trust.” If the European Union charter may find it apposite not to mention the name of God all through its pages, what a way of putting God into oblivion? Though appearances are sometimes deceptive, on some Sundays I have attended Masses in Catholic Churches across Europe, I can authoritatively say that Godlessness is gradually winning the race as only few people now, majority children and old people attend churches for the worship of God. Consequent of this spate of Godlessness or laissez faire attitude to church-going supported by liberalism, if it continues, the Arabs in the shortest possible future may become Chancellor of Germany, Italian Prime Minister, Spanish Prime Minister, President of France etc. it is authoritative also that some Arab money-bags make overtures towards the purchase of these “empty” churches with the motive of converting them into mosques. Europe should go back to God and not to “sell God to Allah.” If Europe believes truly in liberalization why not introduce VISA programme for immigrants, even for zwarte werk (black work). The hypocrisy of the Europeans is why domestic animals like dogs, cats, etc are more preferred to even African-Christian immigrants despite the fact that immigrants help to create further wealth. Giving legal rights of protection to animals has often been debated in some parliaments in Europe (Austria and Spain). Could it true that a man in London willed to his dog, £7m? In fact, the infiltration and influx of the “unpredictable” Arabs besides their domination of all spheres of life in Europe no doubt would undermine Europe.
The importance of religion in the emerging world politics is becoming glaring. Some religions are known to have been hiding place for those who want violence to rule over peace. This notion has kept security personnel in the international borders in complete alert and check over adherents of those religions. In some factories, their employments are terminated for their presence alone constitute danger. This is indicative of the role religion is playing in the emerging world politics. In fact, there is no gainsaying the fact that race plays second fiddle in modern politics to religion.
Do Europeans ask themselves why a Saudi Moslem like Osama Bin Laden would attack America or American interests for flimsy excuses and more so for what concerns him not? What is his insurable interest in all his sponsored horrific terrorist attacks if not religion? He wants every body to bow and genuflect to Islam. All other religions should go to hell. But it is practically impossible even at gunpoint.
In some Islamic countries, there are areas in their cities that are prohibited to non-Moslems no matter the person’s status. But in Rome, even Vatican City or more homely St. Peters Basilica is open to every body every time.
If not for President Bush war against terrorism, by now the guess on every body’s lips would be: whose turn next? White House / Pentagon were the targets on September 11, 2001 perhaps the Vatican, Buckingham Palace, Downing Street etc when? Thank God that President Bush, Prime Minister Tony Blair and others were leaders of their respective countries at the point in time. If not their lion-hearted love for the world, who would have rescued the world?
In his 2004 post election speech , President George W. Bush said, “ there is need for world peace and war against terrorism would continue.” While the search for world peace and terrorism war continue on one hand, , The Catholic Pontiff, The British Monarch, the British Prime Minister, The German Chancellor, The French President and other European leaders should join hands together in this desperate bid to rescue Europe from the murderous grip of godlessness and “selling God to Allah” if the anticipated peace will not be an effort in futility. To say the least, Europe is gradually becoming a “Secundus Domus” to the troublesome Arabs and I have a premonition that this coupled with liberalism will cause the downfall of Europe. One Itsekiri proverb has it that the louse that is in your hair is already in your palm and it is ready for destruction. No one secures dried fish or meat in a bag hidden by rats..
Finally, Europe should not mitigate by whatever guise an inadvertent “revolt” against Christianity and divine mission to liberalism more so as the option is only to serve gods of earthly fames, stomachs and desires.
Mr. Ezennaya writes for the World Igbo Times Magazine, London.
PRAYER - HOUSES CUM MINISTRIES AND THEIR ABRACADABRA Sixtus Chibueze Ezennaya
Europe is a continent of many parts. One, the centre of the world is found in Europe. Football, the world most popular sports started in 1848 in Cambridge, England. Perhaps, the choice of Zurich as the headquarters of Federation of International Football Association (FIFA) is not a compensation to Europe but putting a square peg in a square hole. Of the five permanent members of the world’s most powerful organ, the Security Council, Europe produced three. Europe again is privileged to be a senior partner in the eight most industrialized countries of the world popularly called G8 as it has more than half of the member-countries. Where is the World Bank if not in Switzerland, Europe. The world Palace of Reconciliation otherwise known as the World Court adds glamour to the beauty and pride of Europe. Most importantly, Christianity, the religion founded by Jesus Christ, has Europe as its nerve centre. What other facts can one adduce to corroborate better this claim of multiplicity of parts of Europe?
The first time I went to Europe, I asked myself whether God was not an European consequent of what I saw. In Holland / Netherlands precisely, the slogan is “God created the world but we made Holland.” Go to Germany (Allemagne) and see the diligent Germans in action. The British or German police are a beauty to watch. The inquisitive Italian immigration officials cannot allow illegal immigrants in, even with blank cheques in their hands neither will the Spanish people’s hospitality depicted in their beaming smiles, flamboyant and friendly greeting of “Olaa” to test one’s ability to speak fluently, Spanish or Catalunyan language (native language of part of Spain and France), mitigate their patriotism to their fatherland. The newspapers in Europe are more patriotic than the citizens as truth not economic reason is the interiority of their sustenance and existence.
Whether L’Osservatore Romano in Vatican City, Le Monde in France, El Periodico, El Pais, La Vangurdia, all in Spain, La Republica in Italy or London Times, their reports on a matter whether affecting the government, citizens etc are unbiased. Journalism in Europe is like the thunderstorm, which does not know the house of the rainmaker when it strikes.
Despite the fact that Europe is almost a cemetery, naturally created to produce / supply only aquatic edibles fruits and vegetables to the world while importing other things from other places, it plays second fiddle to no other continent. It is better witnessed than imagined how orderly and serene Europe is and law-abiding her citizens are. In spite of all these “goodies” about Europe, one may not believe this: Europe is endangered specie. Mildly put, Europe is under siege.
I pity for Europe from the bottom of my heart. Not because of anything other than what the future holds in stock for her. In fact Europe is heading for doom if urgent step is not taken to redeem it. Liberalization is about to cost Europe a priceless future. Terrorism is far greater a child’s play compared with what posterity will suffer with regard to the indifferent attitude of their leaders to religious tolerance or precisely godlessness currently ravaging Europe.
Christ during His lifetime was once a refugee in Africa. The religion of Christ right now is taking refuge in Africa as the Europeans who brought Christianity to Africa are now worshipping godlessness. It is my sincere prayer that Africans are not contaminated, derailed and confused by the ordination of women, gay-bishops, same-sex marriage and pro-abortion laws until Christianity is successfully re-awakened in Europe.
Civilization according to History started in Africa precisely Egypt but wisdom originated from Greece, Europe. The Bible tells us that when God asked King Solomon to request for whatever he wanted, it was this priceless gift of wisdom that he had opted for. It is also an acknowledged fact that God gave Europeans this wisdom hence many discoveries are credited to the Europeans. Though Europeans are not endowed with many mineral resources, whatever they touch, turns into gold. They are able to convert nothing into something, something into anything, anything into everything and vice versa. Consequent of this God-given wisdom. One wise saying has it that money can only buy finery and not beauty, book and not brain, Church-pew and not salvation, finally knowledge and not wisdom.
But then, could it be true that Europeans at present mortgage this wisdom on the altar of liberalism? Could it be true that Arabs, who are blessed with wealth from black gold, bait the European wisdom with their wealth? Arms for sale? Technology for sale? Nuclear knowledge for sale? The love for oil and money is undermining Europe.. Ethics and morality have been thrown into the dustbin. When will the complete “Arabilization of Europe” be over? The Turkish-Arabs have taken over Germany, the North-African Arabs are in control in Spain, France etc. Football Clubs and Stadia in London for total acquisition by Arabs. Archbishop of Canterbury Rowen Williams embraces Sharia. Waoh. Worse still, in these areas, the Arabs are now “untouchables.” If the Arabs succeed in buying wisdom with their wealth from the Europeans, the slavery will be unamendable, irreversible and catastrophic. The wickedness of European colonial masters in Africa by deliberately placing the Arab-immigrants as overlords to the people on whose land the mineral resource particularly oil was found so as to manipulate the oil business, is now producing a boomerang effect. The Head of Anglican Church, Queen Elizabeth supported Moslem-dominated Northern Nigeria against the Biafran Christians during the Nigerian / Biafran War between 1967-70. Who would blame Dr. Akanu Ibiam the President of World Council of Churches, for dropping his sword of Knighthood and English name, “Francis” in protest? Lady Diana’s death has something to do with the illicit quest for Arab wealth. What stops nations merged with these Arab-blooded over-lords from being independent countries more so as they do not want to continue to exist alongside these nations. Only this is the panacea for tranquillity in these areas otherwise oil price, hunger etc will continue to skyrocket while peace, elusive.. Peace after all is not the absence of war.
In America, wherever one goes and even in American currency, the American sobriquet is boldly written, “In God We Trust.” If the European Union charter may find it apposite not to mention the name of God all through its pages, what a way of putting God into oblivion? Though appearances are sometimes deceptive, on some Sundays I have attended Masses in Catholic Churches across Europe, I can authoritatively say that Godlessness is gradually winning the race as only few people now, majority children and old people attend churches for the worship of God. Consequent of this spate of Godlessness or laissez faire attitude to church-going supported by liberalism, if it continues, the Arabs in the shortest possible future may become Chancellor of Germany, Italian Prime Minister, Spanish Prime Minister, President of France etc. it is authoritative also that some Arab money-bags make overtures towards the purchase of these “empty” churches with the motive of converting them into mosques. Europe should go back to God and not to “sell God to Allah.” If Europe believes truly in liberalization why not introduce VISA programme for immigrants, even for zwarte werk (black work). The hypocrisy of the Europeans is why domestic animals like dogs, cats, etc are more preferred to even African-Christian immigrants despite the fact that immigrants help to create further wealth. Giving legal rights of protection to animals has often been debated in some parliaments in Europe (Austria and Spain). Could it true that a man in London willed to his dog, £7m? In fact, the infiltration and influx of the “unpredictable” Arabs besides their domination of all spheres of life in Europe no doubt would undermine Europe.
The importance of religion in the emerging world politics is becoming glaring. Some religions are known to have been hiding place for those who want violence to rule over peace. This notion has kept security personnel in the international borders in complete alert and check over adherents of those religions. In some factories, their employments are terminated for their presence alone constitute danger. This is indicative of the role religion is playing in the emerging world politics. In fact, there is no gainsaying the fact that race plays second fiddle in modern politics to religion.
Do Europeans ask themselves why a Saudi Moslem like Osama Bin Laden would attack America or American interests for flimsy excuses and more so for what concerns him not? What is his insurable interest in all his sponsored horrific terrorist attacks if not religion? He wants every body to bow and genuflect to Islam. All other religions should go to hell. But it is practically impossible even at gunpoint.
In some Islamic countries, there are areas in their cities that are prohibited to non-Moslems no matter the person’s status. But in Rome, even Vatican City or more homely St. Peters Basilica is open to every body every time.
If not for President Bush war against terrorism, by now the guess on every body’s lips would be: whose turn next? White House / Pentagon were the targets on September 11, 2001 perhaps the Vatican, Buckingham Palace, Downing Street etc when? Thank God that President Bush, Prime Minister Tony Blair and others were leaders of their respective countries at the point in time. If not their lion-hearted love for the world, who would have rescued the world?
In his 2004 post election speech , President George W. Bush said, “ there is need for world peace and war against terrorism would continue.” While the search for world peace and terrorism war continue on one hand, , The Catholic Pontiff, The British Monarch, the British Prime Minister, The German Chancellor, The French President and other European leaders should join hands together in this desperate bid to rescue Europe from the murderous grip of godlessness and “selling God to Allah” if the anticipated peace will not be an effort in futility. To say the least, Europe is gradually becoming a “Secundus Domus” to the troublesome Arabs and I have a premonition that this coupled with liberalism will cause the downfall of Europe. One Itsekiri proverb has it that the louse that is in your hair is already in your palm and it is ready for destruction. No one secures dried fish or meat in a bag hidden by rats..
Finally, Europe should not mitigate by whatever guise an inadvertent “revolt” against Christianity and divine mission to liberalism more so as the option is only to serve gods of earthly fames, stomachs and desires.
Mr. Ezennaya writes for the World Igbo Times Magazine, London
The first time I went to Europe, I asked myself whether God was not an European consequent of what I saw. In Holland / Netherlands precisely, the slogan is “God created the world but we made Holland.” Go to Germany (Allemagne) and see the diligent Germans in action. The British or German police are a beauty to watch. The inquisitive Italian immigration officials cannot allow illegal immigrants in, even with blank cheques in their hands neither will the Spanish people’s hospitality depicted in their beaming smiles, flamboyant and friendly greeting of “Olaa” to test one’s ability to speak fluently, Spanish or Catalunyan language (native language of part of Spain and France), mitigate their patriotism to their fatherland. The newspapers in Europe are more patriotic than the citizens as truth not economic reason is the interiority of their sustenance and existence.
Whether L’Osservatore Romano in Vatican City, Le Monde in France, El Periodico, El Pais, La Vangurdia, all in Spain, La Republica in Italy or London Times, their reports on a matter whether affecting the government, citizens etc are unbiased. Journalism in Europe is like the thunderstorm, which does not know the house of the rainmaker when it strikes.
Despite the fact that Europe is almost a cemetery, naturally created to produce / supply only aquatic edibles fruits and vegetables to the world while importing other things from other places, it plays second fiddle to no other continent. It is better witnessed than imagined how orderly and serene Europe is and law-abiding her citizens are. In spite of all these “goodies” about Europe, one may not believe this: Europe is endangered specie. Mildly put, Europe is under siege.
I pity for Europe from the bottom of my heart. Not because of anything other than what the future holds in stock for her. In fact Europe is heading for doom if urgent step is not taken to redeem it. Liberalization is about to cost Europe a priceless future. Terrorism is far greater a child’s play compared with what posterity will suffer with regard to the indifferent attitude of their leaders to religious tolerance or precisely godlessness currently ravaging Europe.
Christ during His lifetime was once a refugee in Africa. The religion of Christ right now is taking refuge in Africa as the Europeans who brought Christianity to Africa are now worshipping godlessness. It is my sincere prayer that Africans are not contaminated, derailed and confused by the ordination of women, gay-bishops, same-sex marriage and pro-abortion laws until Christianity is successfully re-awakened in Europe.
Civilization according to History started in Africa precisely Egypt but wisdom originated from Greece, Europe. The Bible tells us that when God asked King Solomon to request for whatever he wanted, it was this priceless gift of wisdom that he had opted for. It is also an acknowledged fact that God gave Europeans this wisdom hence many discoveries are credited to the Europeans. Though Europeans are not endowed with many mineral resources, whatever they touch, turns into gold. They are able to convert nothing into something, something into anything, anything into everything and vice versa. Consequent of this God-given wisdom. One wise saying has it that money can only buy finery and not beauty, book and not brain, Church-pew and not salvation, finally knowledge and not wisdom.
But then, could it be true that Europeans at present mortgage this wisdom on the altar of liberalism? Could it be true that Arabs, who are blessed with wealth from black gold, bait the European wisdom with their wealth? Arms for sale? Technology for sale? Nuclear knowledge for sale? The love for oil and money is undermining Europe.. Ethics and morality have been thrown into the dustbin. When will the complete “Arabilization of Europe” be over? The Turkish-Arabs have taken over Germany, the North-African Arabs are in control in Spain, France etc. Football Clubs and Stadia in London for total acquisition by Arabs. Archbishop of Canterbury Rowen Williams embraces Sharia. Waoh. Worse still, in these areas, the Arabs are now “untouchables.” If the Arabs succeed in buying wisdom with their wealth from the Europeans, the slavery will be unamendable, irreversible and catastrophic. The wickedness of European colonial masters in Africa by deliberately placing the Arab-immigrants as overlords to the people on whose land the mineral resource particularly oil was found so as to manipulate the oil business, is now producing a boomerang effect. The Head of Anglican Church, Queen Elizabeth supported Moslem-dominated Northern Nigeria against the Biafran Christians during the Nigerian / Biafran War between 1967-70. Who would blame Dr. Akanu Ibiam the President of World Council of Churches, for dropping his sword of Knighthood and English name, “Francis” in protest? Lady Diana’s death has something to do with the illicit quest for Arab wealth. What stops nations merged with these Arab-blooded over-lords from being independent countries more so as they do not want to continue to exist alongside these nations. Only this is the panacea for tranquillity in these areas otherwise oil price, hunger etc will continue to skyrocket while peace, elusive.. Peace after all is not the absence of war.
In America, wherever one goes and even in American currency, the American sobriquet is boldly written, “In God We Trust.” If the European Union charter may find it apposite not to mention the name of God all through its pages, what a way of putting God into oblivion? Though appearances are sometimes deceptive, on some Sundays I have attended Masses in Catholic Churches across Europe, I can authoritatively say that Godlessness is gradually winning the race as only few people now, majority children and old people attend churches for the worship of God. Consequent of this spate of Godlessness or laissez faire attitude to church-going supported by liberalism, if it continues, the Arabs in the shortest possible future may become Chancellor of Germany, Italian Prime Minister, Spanish Prime Minister, President of France etc. it is authoritative also that some Arab money-bags make overtures towards the purchase of these “empty” churches with the motive of converting them into mosques. Europe should go back to God and not to “sell God to Allah.” If Europe believes truly in liberalization why not introduce VISA programme for immigrants, even for zwarte werk (black work). The hypocrisy of the Europeans is why domestic animals like dogs, cats, etc are more preferred to even African-Christian immigrants despite the fact that immigrants help to create further wealth. Giving legal rights of protection to animals has often been debated in some parliaments in Europe (Austria and Spain). Could it true that a man in London willed to his dog, £7m? In fact, the infiltration and influx of the “unpredictable” Arabs besides their domination of all spheres of life in Europe no doubt would undermine Europe.
The importance of religion in the emerging world politics is becoming glaring. Some religions are known to have been hiding place for those who want violence to rule over peace. This notion has kept security personnel in the international borders in complete alert and check over adherents of those religions. In some factories, their employments are terminated for their presence alone constitute danger. This is indicative of the role religion is playing in the emerging world politics. In fact, there is no gainsaying the fact that race plays second fiddle in modern politics to religion.
Do Europeans ask themselves why a Saudi Moslem like Osama Bin Laden would attack America or American interests for flimsy excuses and more so for what concerns him not? What is his insurable interest in all his sponsored horrific terrorist attacks if not religion? He wants every body to bow and genuflect to Islam. All other religions should go to hell. But it is practically impossible even at gunpoint.
In some Islamic countries, there are areas in their cities that are prohibited to non-Moslems no matter the person’s status. But in Rome, even Vatican City or more homely St. Peters Basilica is open to every body every time.
If not for President Bush war against terrorism, by now the guess on every body’s lips would be: whose turn next? White House / Pentagon were the targets on September 11, 2001 perhaps the Vatican, Buckingham Palace, Downing Street etc when? Thank God that President Bush, Prime Minister Tony Blair and others were leaders of their respective countries at the point in time. If not their lion-hearted love for the world, who would have rescued the world?
In his 2004 post election speech , President George W. Bush said, “ there is need for world peace and war against terrorism would continue.” While the search for world peace and terrorism war continue on one hand, , The Catholic Pontiff, The British Monarch, the British Prime Minister, The German Chancellor, The French President and other European leaders should join hands together in this desperate bid to rescue Europe from the murderous grip of godlessness and “selling God to Allah” if the anticipated peace will not be an effort in futility. To say the least, Europe is gradually becoming a “Secundus Domus” to the troublesome Arabs and I have a premonition that this coupled with liberalism will cause the downfall of Europe. One Itsekiri proverb has it that the louse that is in your hair is already in your palm and it is ready for destruction. No one secures dried fish or meat in a bag hidden by rats..
Finally, Europe should not mitigate by whatever guise an inadvertent “revolt” against Christianity and divine mission to liberalism more so as the option is only to serve gods of earthly fames, stomachs and desires.
Mr. Ezennaya writes for the World Igbo Times Magazine, London
BARACK OBAMA: The Liberation or Freedom President By Sixtus Chibueze Ezennaya
When Martin Luther King Jnr made that wonderful prophetic statement “I have a dream…” in 1968, little did he know that his prophesy would come into fruition in 2008, (forty years later). Jesse Run! Jesse Run!! Jesse Run!!! was the clamour of blacks in America at a time. While still contemplating the persuasion, a leader of blacks told him, “If you run for the presidency, you may fail, but if you don’t run, you have already failed”. Rev. Jesse Jackson nevertheless ran but failed.
The emergence of Barack Obama as the Presidential Candidate of the Democratic Party was God’s doing and the partial fulfilment of the first part of the Luther’s dream. When eventually the election came and result declared, the final fulfilment manifested. In God We Trust (In Deo Speramus) is the American motto consequently America could be seen as God’s Own Country. A lot of things mark America out as a model that cannot operate at the mediocre level or display a show of shame. As number one country in the world, America leads by example. To say the least, America is special from one thing to everything. Abolition of slavery was championed by the Americans.
Many American President have identified with history and events. Abraham Lincoln of USA was said to have never won any election from Council to Senate despite the fact that he tried for nine good times. But on his first attempt at the presidency, he won. He however declared that despondency or low ambition is a crime. William Taft was reputed to be the fattest American President. The bachelor – President of America was James Buchanan. Gerald Ford mounted the saddle of reign in America without a vote cast by the electorates. The 3 – term America Polio/Wheel Chair President was Franklin Roosevelt. Professor of Law, Woodrow Wilson suffered stroke while in office as American President. Ronald Reagan was the cowboy American President who disunited Soviet Union. He is otherwise called Perestroika President.. The Al Queda or Terrorism President was George W. Bush as it was during his reign that Pentagon suffered terrorist attack on September 11, 2001. Consequently, Bush fought terrorism to a standstill. It is worthy of note that his father, George Herbert Bush, had as President of America too, fought the Gulf War in 1991 to rescue Kuwait from Iraqi annexation. So he is referred to as Gulf President. Barack Obama symbolizes the truth, transparency, liberation and freedom. In fact, with the election of Barack Obama as 44th American President, genuine and sincere liberation and freedom of the blacks everywhere particularly in America are displayed. Obama’s election finally crashed the wall of racism.
I could remember the colour-discrimination I experienced in the metro-train in Barcelona, Spain in 2002. I was travelling from Barcelona (wharf area) to Via Julia, a distance of about 10 km. Two young white ladies were already sitting when I came into the train-coach. As I sat with them, they stood up and left the entire seat for me and preferred to stand up. This is still in existence in Europe. But with the African-American Obama as the Numero Uno citizen of the most powerful nation on this planet, colour-bar has been interred. Like the defeat of segregation against the blacks in America, the African continent should benefit immensely from it. Countries in Africa where citizens, minorities etc are still being suppressed, kept in bondage, captivity, slavery should be disentangled from the chains. The prisoners of conscience in African countries like Nigeria, Cameroon, Sudan, Congo DR, Niger, Chad, Western Sahara etc should be set free. Because in Nigeria, Olusegun Obasanjo made “gara gara” whenever Biafra or MASSOB was mentioned, the South-East Governors have become the “Kneeling Governors of Nigeria.” But Leopold Seghor of Senegal once said, “I prefer poverty in liberty to riches in slavery”. However, Fredrick Nietche, a German Philosopher, in his wonderful admonitions said, “I would rather be a slave on my feet than a King on my knees.” Thank God, the South-South Governors are gradually emancipating from their slavery..
No one ties a dog and tortoise as a pair in an athletic competition. Definitely, the tortoise will be drawing back the dog as their paces differ. In Nigeria for instance, the Northerners are quite distinct from the Southerners. The Northerners are predominantly Moslems while Christianity dominates the South. This is why when Pentagon was attacked by terrorists in 2001, it was reported that there was jubilation in the North but the Southerners were downcast and in pensive mood. In the South, there are freedom fighters but the North has terrorists. Western Education rules in the South but Islamic Education is the much sought after by the Northerners. Many Northerners see might as right but Southerners uphold tenaciously the doctrine of might lies in right. To kill an “infidel” is a license to heaven when actually killers are hell-bound. Perhaps this is why violence is preferred by some Northerners to sense of reason even though whoever claims monopoly of violence suffers from self deceit.
Is it not provoking violence in the 21st Century for somebody to conscript, abduct or kidnap forcefully another of a different religion and coax the person to renounce one’s religion and accept the captor’s religion failure which the captive is beheaded and the worshiping place set on fire? This is not only barbaric and inhuman, it is also as un-African as it is ungodly. What progress and development do such a country expect to make where some citizens are under duress to be citizens of “their” countries? Are those forced citizens not prisoners of conscience, under bondage and slavery? If one says he does not want to be with you because of your inhumanity to man, illiteracy, senselessness, primitively, parasitism etc why not allow him to be on his own? As amalgamations exist among nations in the past, so does separation exist in modern times among discordant unions. After all, marriage partners divorce.
Eritrea separated from Ethiopia. Zambia and Zimbabwe burst out of Rhodesia. Today the problem of Zimbabwe does not affect Zambia directly. Soviet Union gave birth to many countries. Kosovo declared independence from Serbia on Sunday February 17, 2008. Consequent of the objection of Serbia and Russia, European Union sent over 2000 police officers to help maintain peace and order. But then, why is the forced co-existence in Africa so rampant with countries where Islam is so pronounced – Nigeria, Sudan, Morocco, Niger, Chad, etc? This does not portray Islam in good light. Why cannot Biafra, Niger Delta, Middle Belt, Arewa, Oduduwa become independent from Nigeria peacefully since they are incompatible nations? Under her own independence, Arewa can adopt Islamic Sharia / Education or way of life instead of forcing it on every citizen of Nigeria. Even, Arewa can amalgamate with Niger Republic if she still wants to be a larger country or even break into smaller nation – Eastern and Western Arewa. Perhaps to implement a jihadist agenda warranted Nigeria’s border with Niger being so porous? The Niger citizens go in and out of Nigeria whenever and wherever they want with no travelling documents. The security agents do not even intercept these suspected foreign terrorists. Truly, governance in Nigeria has failed. As a matter of fact, Nigeria is a failed state. Therefore, the plan of the United States and her Allies to send 20,000 African Command Soldiers to Nigeria is welcome no matter what they are coming for. If Biafra becomes a country, Biafraland will be US or Africom Military Base.
President Fidel Castro of Cuba had a Commander’s Commander in the person of General Ochoa. He was his best friend, classmate, playmate and indeed everything. In fact, if there was any serious and hard assignments or anything needing a person of integrity, Gen. Ochoa was usually sent across. However, because of this privileged position of trust, General Ochoa of Cuba and General Emmanuel Noriega of Panama misused this position of trust to trade on illicit drugs. On their apprehension, General Noriega was sentenced to jail in the United States of America while General Ochoa was repatriated to Cuba. Before a Military Tribunal, he was sentenced to death. But then, it was only Fidel Castro, the President, who could save his life by granting him amnesty. Faced with this dilemma, Fidel Castro cried publicly. He then said in his helplessness, “Para que le revolucion supervivera algunas veces ha der hacas dano a simismo”. This means, in order that our revolution survives, at times it has to do harm to itself.. General Ochoa was eventually executed.
In order that minorities and discordant nations in African countries are saved from slavery, captivity and bondage of their co-country men, self-rule or independence should be granted to them. Doing this will enable these captives benefit also from Barack Obama’s black liberation and freedom which America has set the pace and blossomed. Above all, if Barack Obama frees or liberates these people from their various enslavement, definitely history will truly record him as the “Liberation or Freedom President or America.
Mr. Ezennaya writes for the World Igbo Times Magazine, London
The emergence of Barack Obama as the Presidential Candidate of the Democratic Party was God’s doing and the partial fulfilment of the first part of the Luther’s dream. When eventually the election came and result declared, the final fulfilment manifested. In God We Trust (In Deo Speramus) is the American motto consequently America could be seen as God’s Own Country. A lot of things mark America out as a model that cannot operate at the mediocre level or display a show of shame. As number one country in the world, America leads by example. To say the least, America is special from one thing to everything. Abolition of slavery was championed by the Americans.
Many American President have identified with history and events. Abraham Lincoln of USA was said to have never won any election from Council to Senate despite the fact that he tried for nine good times. But on his first attempt at the presidency, he won. He however declared that despondency or low ambition is a crime. William Taft was reputed to be the fattest American President. The bachelor – President of America was James Buchanan. Gerald Ford mounted the saddle of reign in America without a vote cast by the electorates. The 3 – term America Polio/Wheel Chair President was Franklin Roosevelt. Professor of Law, Woodrow Wilson suffered stroke while in office as American President. Ronald Reagan was the cowboy American President who disunited Soviet Union. He is otherwise called Perestroika President.. The Al Queda or Terrorism President was George W. Bush as it was during his reign that Pentagon suffered terrorist attack on September 11, 2001. Consequently, Bush fought terrorism to a standstill. It is worthy of note that his father, George Herbert Bush, had as President of America too, fought the Gulf War in 1991 to rescue Kuwait from Iraqi annexation. So he is referred to as Gulf President. Barack Obama symbolizes the truth, transparency, liberation and freedom. In fact, with the election of Barack Obama as 44th American President, genuine and sincere liberation and freedom of the blacks everywhere particularly in America are displayed. Obama’s election finally crashed the wall of racism.
I could remember the colour-discrimination I experienced in the metro-train in Barcelona, Spain in 2002. I was travelling from Barcelona (wharf area) to Via Julia, a distance of about 10 km. Two young white ladies were already sitting when I came into the train-coach. As I sat with them, they stood up and left the entire seat for me and preferred to stand up. This is still in existence in Europe. But with the African-American Obama as the Numero Uno citizen of the most powerful nation on this planet, colour-bar has been interred. Like the defeat of segregation against the blacks in America, the African continent should benefit immensely from it. Countries in Africa where citizens, minorities etc are still being suppressed, kept in bondage, captivity, slavery should be disentangled from the chains. The prisoners of conscience in African countries like Nigeria, Cameroon, Sudan, Congo DR, Niger, Chad, Western Sahara etc should be set free. Because in Nigeria, Olusegun Obasanjo made “gara gara” whenever Biafra or MASSOB was mentioned, the South-East Governors have become the “Kneeling Governors of Nigeria.” But Leopold Seghor of Senegal once said, “I prefer poverty in liberty to riches in slavery”. However, Fredrick Nietche, a German Philosopher, in his wonderful admonitions said, “I would rather be a slave on my feet than a King on my knees.” Thank God, the South-South Governors are gradually emancipating from their slavery..
No one ties a dog and tortoise as a pair in an athletic competition. Definitely, the tortoise will be drawing back the dog as their paces differ. In Nigeria for instance, the Northerners are quite distinct from the Southerners. The Northerners are predominantly Moslems while Christianity dominates the South. This is why when Pentagon was attacked by terrorists in 2001, it was reported that there was jubilation in the North but the Southerners were downcast and in pensive mood. In the South, there are freedom fighters but the North has terrorists. Western Education rules in the South but Islamic Education is the much sought after by the Northerners. Many Northerners see might as right but Southerners uphold tenaciously the doctrine of might lies in right. To kill an “infidel” is a license to heaven when actually killers are hell-bound. Perhaps this is why violence is preferred by some Northerners to sense of reason even though whoever claims monopoly of violence suffers from self deceit.
Is it not provoking violence in the 21st Century for somebody to conscript, abduct or kidnap forcefully another of a different religion and coax the person to renounce one’s religion and accept the captor’s religion failure which the captive is beheaded and the worshiping place set on fire? This is not only barbaric and inhuman, it is also as un-African as it is ungodly. What progress and development do such a country expect to make where some citizens are under duress to be citizens of “their” countries? Are those forced citizens not prisoners of conscience, under bondage and slavery? If one says he does not want to be with you because of your inhumanity to man, illiteracy, senselessness, primitively, parasitism etc why not allow him to be on his own? As amalgamations exist among nations in the past, so does separation exist in modern times among discordant unions. After all, marriage partners divorce.
Eritrea separated from Ethiopia. Zambia and Zimbabwe burst out of Rhodesia. Today the problem of Zimbabwe does not affect Zambia directly. Soviet Union gave birth to many countries. Kosovo declared independence from Serbia on Sunday February 17, 2008. Consequent of the objection of Serbia and Russia, European Union sent over 2000 police officers to help maintain peace and order. But then, why is the forced co-existence in Africa so rampant with countries where Islam is so pronounced – Nigeria, Sudan, Morocco, Niger, Chad, etc? This does not portray Islam in good light. Why cannot Biafra, Niger Delta, Middle Belt, Arewa, Oduduwa become independent from Nigeria peacefully since they are incompatible nations? Under her own independence, Arewa can adopt Islamic Sharia / Education or way of life instead of forcing it on every citizen of Nigeria. Even, Arewa can amalgamate with Niger Republic if she still wants to be a larger country or even break into smaller nation – Eastern and Western Arewa. Perhaps to implement a jihadist agenda warranted Nigeria’s border with Niger being so porous? The Niger citizens go in and out of Nigeria whenever and wherever they want with no travelling documents. The security agents do not even intercept these suspected foreign terrorists. Truly, governance in Nigeria has failed. As a matter of fact, Nigeria is a failed state. Therefore, the plan of the United States and her Allies to send 20,000 African Command Soldiers to Nigeria is welcome no matter what they are coming for. If Biafra becomes a country, Biafraland will be US or Africom Military Base.
President Fidel Castro of Cuba had a Commander’s Commander in the person of General Ochoa. He was his best friend, classmate, playmate and indeed everything. In fact, if there was any serious and hard assignments or anything needing a person of integrity, Gen. Ochoa was usually sent across. However, because of this privileged position of trust, General Ochoa of Cuba and General Emmanuel Noriega of Panama misused this position of trust to trade on illicit drugs. On their apprehension, General Noriega was sentenced to jail in the United States of America while General Ochoa was repatriated to Cuba. Before a Military Tribunal, he was sentenced to death. But then, it was only Fidel Castro, the President, who could save his life by granting him amnesty. Faced with this dilemma, Fidel Castro cried publicly. He then said in his helplessness, “Para que le revolucion supervivera algunas veces ha der hacas dano a simismo”. This means, in order that our revolution survives, at times it has to do harm to itself.. General Ochoa was eventually executed.
In order that minorities and discordant nations in African countries are saved from slavery, captivity and bondage of their co-country men, self-rule or independence should be granted to them. Doing this will enable these captives benefit also from Barack Obama’s black liberation and freedom which America has set the pace and blossomed. Above all, if Barack Obama frees or liberates these people from their various enslavement, definitely history will truly record him as the “Liberation or Freedom President or America.
Mr. Ezennaya writes for the World Igbo Times Magazine, London
NDI IGBO, THINK HOME -- By Sixtus Chibueze Ezennaya
This thought is not new for it is older than the writer. This writer is probably the one new to the thought. People like Dr Chukwuemeka Ezeife made this thought a watchword while in office as Governor of Anambra State in 1992. Dr Ogbonnaya Onu reasoned along the line hence his initiation of the Obuaku City project when he was Governor of Abia State. Chief C.C. Onoh is not happy with the Igbo “ charity begins outside Igboland” mentality. Prof Philip Emeagwali, Dr Dozie Ikedife, Eze C.I. Ilomuanya, Igwe G.O. Ezechukwu of Umuchu and Gov Ikedi Ohakim of Imo State have advised Ndi Igbo to re-brand their attitudes for the changing world to enable them take their supposed place of pride in Nigeria. The Nostradamus of our time (the man at the age of 34 who saw in 1967, the Nigeria of today), Ezeigbo Dim Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu, does not compromise this thought. That Ndi Igbo of no mean calibre and status like the aforementioned and others could spare a thought on this issue, should have made every Igbo man and woman to listen but to no avail. However, a farmer who plants and does not see seeds germinate, will continue planting. Again, until an archer drops his weapon, one being ambushed will continue to hide.
Ndi Igbo always say that a woman impregnated from a sexual intercourse held while standing, usually gives birth to a mad man. This call sometimes arises whenever the lives of Ndi Igbo / or their properties are threatened by people of other tribes, which invariably whittles down the essence of this thought, as a situation call. The other year witnessed the wanton killing of innocent Igbo men, women and children in this or the other place. The following year, market areas developed by Ndi-Igbo were either demolished or wrested from them and another virgin land allotted to then for development. Whenever there is a scuffle between people of other tribes, the properties, goods and wares of Ndi-Igbo are looted. Everywhere, everytime and in everything, Ndi-Igbo are sacrificial lambs; an endangered species. History and facts succinctly show that in every case of these cruelties and man’s inhumanities to man, Ndi-Igbo are neither the cause of the problem nor the accused but always the victim. But God, what has the bat done that it cannot perch on the tree like others but always hangs with head upside down?
But then, in spite of all these maltreatment of Ndi-Igbo, they do not care and still regard themselves as Nigerians not knowing that they are deceiving themselves or living in a fool’s paradise. Jews among the Gentiles. If an Igboman is a Nigerian, why can’t he be the President of the country? Could it be feasible for an Igboman to be President of Nigerian by 2031 as present rotation suggests? If Ndi-Igbo are Nigerians, what has stopped Abakaliki rice farmers from receiving parallel Federal Government attention like FADAMA projects of the Northern farmers? Again, farmers in the South and North start farming activities at different times. Why must fertilizer distribution only begin when Northern farmers start their farm-work? Why must Ndi-Igbo of about 40m people have the least number of states among the zones in Nigeria? If an Igboman calls himself a Nigerian, why can’t he be an Army Chief, Secretary to the Federal Government, Agriculture and Water Resources Minister etc since 1970? Irrespective of the tactical rejection of Ndi-Igbo as Nigerians yet Ndi-Igbo are not allowed to go away from Nigeria thus making Ndi-Igbo stateless citizens in Nigeria.. Bats. And Ndi-Igbo, in the attempt to seek for identity, integration and sense of belonging, continues to build skyscrapers all over the place, wanting to be more Catholic than the Pope, more indigenous than the indigenes. Notwithstanding that they are hundreds of kilometres away from home, Ndi-Igbo build industries, market plazas and generally contribute to the development of any environment they find themselves in the fragile Nigeria.
How do people from other tribes reciprocate this gesture? If you want to know what a leopard is thinking, you will see what its tail is doing. Ndi-Igbo are envied for their diligence not minding that some Ndi-Igbo who develop these “foreign homes” possess not even a room of their own in their native towns. If the Hausa-Fulani cattle rearers at Okigwe had been Ndi-Igbo, their settlements would have changed for the better. At least, nice structures would have overtaken their present shanty settlements and ghettos. Could it be true that only seven houses in the whole of Enugu are owned by Yoruba indigenes? But a survey shows that 60% of the plots of land in Abuja are owned by Ndi-Igbo while 45% of the buildings in Lagos State belong to Ndi-Igbo. Even the desire to own houses by Ndi-Igbo within African countries is there. In camp Yabassi Area in Douala Cameroun, there is an edifice engraved in it, NNEWI HOUSE”, which is the hub of motor spare parts business in Cameroun. There are “Igbo landlords” in Tiko, Bamenda, Kumba Bafoussan, Yaounde etc. With the discovery of oil in Sao Tome and Equitorial Guinea, Ndi-Igbo have found a “New Layout”. In South Africa’s Johannesburg, Cape Town, Abidjan in Cote D’lvore and capital of Ghana, Accra etc, many Ndi-Igbo now own buildings. The thirst and hunger to be “landlord” is not limited to African countries but Europe and United States of America. But then, that a man caught a live elephant or monkey does not make the man agile or brave. Only those that killed lion are brave and agile. Whatever happen, Ndi-Igbo please think home.
On the other hand, is the non-ownership of houses or non-development of their places of residence by the Hausa-Fulani’s in Okigwe as a result of their inability economically to do it or willful refusal to assist in the emancipation of these places from the state of nature? Above all, is it to guard against incurring losses in the event of disintegration of the country as America Security Report predicted of Nigerian’s disintegration in fifteen years time or just abject disbelief in the concept of one Nigeria? I wonder if Ndi-Igbo know that all these plots of land being developed everywhere are on lease hold? Until a rotten tooth is removed, the mouth ought to chew with caution.
Do Ndi-Igbo ask themselves why the Corporate Head Offices of the many prominent Northern business moguls are permanently in the arid and desert North? By the way, if wiseman Sir Gabriel Igbinedion, Esama of Benin, had built his University, Hospital, Corporate Headquarters etc outside Okada, would the place have developed into a wonderland? That Igbo land needs more tertiary institutions cannot be over-emphasized. Perhaps, if some institutions owned by Ndi-Igbo built across the country had been concentrated in Igboland, these problems would have been half-solved. Would Ogboko town in Ideato South Local Government Area of Imo State not have owned a University if all the Rochas Academy are concentrated in the town? Apart from transforming the town into a semi-urban town, the employment it generates, is another matter. I am one of the species of human being who has refused to agree that patriotism lies in one marrying from every ethnic group in Nigeria or owning business in all the towns in Nigeria. My patriotism as one not in the centre-stage, is to tell the Government and the citizens honestly what to do so that our land will be like others lands our people admire and migrate to.
Despite the fact that Northerners do not sell anything on credit to the Southern traders; cows, beans, cereals, fruits, palm oil business from the Easterners is never transacted on cash and carry basis. Who would believe that Igbo traders particularly those dealing on foodstuffs sponsor agents or give short and long term refundable loans to some of the farmers in the North producing tomatoes, yams, cassava etc so as to “colorize” their farm products in the bid to maximize profit? Do Ndi-Igbo travel along Owerrinta-Owerri, Umuahia-Enugu, Okigwe-Afikpo-Abakaliki etc and see acres of uncultivated land that can benefit from such largesse? If such recoupable investment is extended to rice farmers in Abakaliki area, Arondizuogu/Umuchu /Umunze /Ezira /Umuomaku axis, Orumba area, Inyi /Achi, Mmiata Anam /Otuocha axis etc, Nigerian will automatically become a rice producing nation. The stone you leave unturned is the one covering your destiny. Ndi-Igbo, please think home.
Apart from agriculture, there is virgin and barren land begging for development in the East. This is why the interest of the Abia State Government in the development of the Obuaku city project is commendable though the exercise is in the interim, in the newspapers and radios. Housing Estates need to be established in these virgin and barren areas besides every tertiary institution to encourage development of new cities. In Europe, a city like Barcelona has about eight tertiary institutions; some located over a distance of about thirty kilometers away from the metropolis yet metro-services make movement of the students possible. Over twenty television studios and thirty radio stations make telecast and broadcast to viewers and listeners respectively yet the city of Barcelona is still serene and tranquil. Aba, Orlu, Okigwe, Nsukka, Nnewi, Onitsha, Aguata etc need radio and television stations to generate employment, business and other activities.
This think home call does not limit to the development of Igboland structurally. Ndi-Igbo in diaspora should, as a power-bloc, demand for the teaching of Igbo language in the schools where there children are learning. Where the management of the schools fails to heed to their demand, they look for an alternative school where it is taught. In London, the Igbo Catholic Priests have started celebrating Sunday Masses in Igbo language. Most importantly, some special centres are now teaching Igbo language to children of Igbo parents in London. That of USA will soon come on board. All these help the language to be sustained. The employments these activities generate are there.
It is necessary at this juncture to reiterate the need for Ndi-Igbo to emphasize on proper education of the child and being self-employed via artisan works. A situation is in the offing when there will be no carpenters, masons, block-molders, welders, motorcycle and motor vehicle mechanics etc. The get-rich quick attitude has lured some of these artisans out of the artisan-work. Worse still many of the graduates from the tertiary institutions are half-baked. It is ominous sign and ugly development for Igbo race.
The issue of Abuja or Lagos marriage prevalent among Ndi-Igbo especially those outside Igboland is no longer a thing of joy. Just cohabit with a bachelor and “hook” or “tie” him down with pregnancy and the spinster becomes a proud wife of a husband. Dowry and other traditional rites should go to hell. Most of them do not know where their husbands come from let alone knowing their relations. The young generation of Ndi-Igbo should be made to know that incest, bestiality, sodomy, lesbianism, same-sex marriage and polyandry are un-Igbo and therefore taboos in Igboland. All these are abominations. The sky is too wide for two birds to collide in the air.
Finally, that Ndi-Igbo become one, is the prayer of all Igbo men and women. At this time of the request for more states in Igboland, all hands should be on deck. Aside of Njaba or Orashi, I think that the Okigwe / Awgu axis, Aba/Ukwa, Nsukka area (Adada State) need to be states. When we were children, there was an insinuation that every town except Orlu and Okigwe has developed. While Njaba / Orashi will take care of Orlu mockery, that of Okigwe will be taken care of by new Okigwe / Awgu State. The leaders of Ndi-Igbo in diaspora are doing more harm than good to our Igboness by addressing their leaders, as “Eze Ndi-Igbo”. The proper designation is “Onye Ndu Ndi-Igbo” Hausa leaders outside their domain are addressed as “Sariki” not Emir. Whoever calls his/her mother an ugly woman inadvertently calls his/her father a foolish man. Could it be true that some undesirable elements have infiltrated into the traditional institutions in Igboland? Worse still, is it true that some Igbo Governors are “Kings on Their Knees”? The Governors, Ohaneze and World Igbo Council should dialogue with the Federal Government on the abysmal level of decay of infrastructures particularly Federal roads in our areas so as to find out the stand of the Federal Government on the long time neglect of Igboland. Where the neglect persists, the option of Kosovo, South Ossertia, Abkhazia etc should be vigorously pursued thus reducing MASSOB struggle to a child’s play. If the buffalo cannot kill Okoroafor let Okoroafor then kill the buffalo.
Let all Ndi-Igbo answer this clarion call from the spirit of the Igbo heartland. Let them complement the efforts of our forefathers and that of the white man who designed and developed some of the present day townships by developing new townships and cities. If Ndi Igbo do not wake up, their nightmare will linger till morning. A bird that is bound to fly must therefore definitely grow feathers. Posterity will never forgive this generation of Ndi-Igbo for their disservice to Igboland by abandoning it while developing other areas of their residence outside Igboland. Most importantly, the danger of putting Igbo tradition, culture and language into oblivion is staring us in the face. Ndi Igbo please think home for East, West, North or South, home is the best.
Mr. Ezennaya writes for the World Igbo Times Magazine, London.
Ndi Igbo always say that a woman impregnated from a sexual intercourse held while standing, usually gives birth to a mad man. This call sometimes arises whenever the lives of Ndi Igbo / or their properties are threatened by people of other tribes, which invariably whittles down the essence of this thought, as a situation call. The other year witnessed the wanton killing of innocent Igbo men, women and children in this or the other place. The following year, market areas developed by Ndi-Igbo were either demolished or wrested from them and another virgin land allotted to then for development. Whenever there is a scuffle between people of other tribes, the properties, goods and wares of Ndi-Igbo are looted. Everywhere, everytime and in everything, Ndi-Igbo are sacrificial lambs; an endangered species. History and facts succinctly show that in every case of these cruelties and man’s inhumanities to man, Ndi-Igbo are neither the cause of the problem nor the accused but always the victim. But God, what has the bat done that it cannot perch on the tree like others but always hangs with head upside down?
But then, in spite of all these maltreatment of Ndi-Igbo, they do not care and still regard themselves as Nigerians not knowing that they are deceiving themselves or living in a fool’s paradise. Jews among the Gentiles. If an Igboman is a Nigerian, why can’t he be the President of the country? Could it be feasible for an Igboman to be President of Nigerian by 2031 as present rotation suggests? If Ndi-Igbo are Nigerians, what has stopped Abakaliki rice farmers from receiving parallel Federal Government attention like FADAMA projects of the Northern farmers? Again, farmers in the South and North start farming activities at different times. Why must fertilizer distribution only begin when Northern farmers start their farm-work? Why must Ndi-Igbo of about 40m people have the least number of states among the zones in Nigeria? If an Igboman calls himself a Nigerian, why can’t he be an Army Chief, Secretary to the Federal Government, Agriculture and Water Resources Minister etc since 1970? Irrespective of the tactical rejection of Ndi-Igbo as Nigerians yet Ndi-Igbo are not allowed to go away from Nigeria thus making Ndi-Igbo stateless citizens in Nigeria.. Bats. And Ndi-Igbo, in the attempt to seek for identity, integration and sense of belonging, continues to build skyscrapers all over the place, wanting to be more Catholic than the Pope, more indigenous than the indigenes. Notwithstanding that they are hundreds of kilometres away from home, Ndi-Igbo build industries, market plazas and generally contribute to the development of any environment they find themselves in the fragile Nigeria.
How do people from other tribes reciprocate this gesture? If you want to know what a leopard is thinking, you will see what its tail is doing. Ndi-Igbo are envied for their diligence not minding that some Ndi-Igbo who develop these “foreign homes” possess not even a room of their own in their native towns. If the Hausa-Fulani cattle rearers at Okigwe had been Ndi-Igbo, their settlements would have changed for the better. At least, nice structures would have overtaken their present shanty settlements and ghettos. Could it be true that only seven houses in the whole of Enugu are owned by Yoruba indigenes? But a survey shows that 60% of the plots of land in Abuja are owned by Ndi-Igbo while 45% of the buildings in Lagos State belong to Ndi-Igbo. Even the desire to own houses by Ndi-Igbo within African countries is there. In camp Yabassi Area in Douala Cameroun, there is an edifice engraved in it, NNEWI HOUSE”, which is the hub of motor spare parts business in Cameroun. There are “Igbo landlords” in Tiko, Bamenda, Kumba Bafoussan, Yaounde etc. With the discovery of oil in Sao Tome and Equitorial Guinea, Ndi-Igbo have found a “New Layout”. In South Africa’s Johannesburg, Cape Town, Abidjan in Cote D’lvore and capital of Ghana, Accra etc, many Ndi-Igbo now own buildings. The thirst and hunger to be “landlord” is not limited to African countries but Europe and United States of America. But then, that a man caught a live elephant or monkey does not make the man agile or brave. Only those that killed lion are brave and agile. Whatever happen, Ndi-Igbo please think home.
On the other hand, is the non-ownership of houses or non-development of their places of residence by the Hausa-Fulani’s in Okigwe as a result of their inability economically to do it or willful refusal to assist in the emancipation of these places from the state of nature? Above all, is it to guard against incurring losses in the event of disintegration of the country as America Security Report predicted of Nigerian’s disintegration in fifteen years time or just abject disbelief in the concept of one Nigeria? I wonder if Ndi-Igbo know that all these plots of land being developed everywhere are on lease hold? Until a rotten tooth is removed, the mouth ought to chew with caution.
Do Ndi-Igbo ask themselves why the Corporate Head Offices of the many prominent Northern business moguls are permanently in the arid and desert North? By the way, if wiseman Sir Gabriel Igbinedion, Esama of Benin, had built his University, Hospital, Corporate Headquarters etc outside Okada, would the place have developed into a wonderland? That Igbo land needs more tertiary institutions cannot be over-emphasized. Perhaps, if some institutions owned by Ndi-Igbo built across the country had been concentrated in Igboland, these problems would have been half-solved. Would Ogboko town in Ideato South Local Government Area of Imo State not have owned a University if all the Rochas Academy are concentrated in the town? Apart from transforming the town into a semi-urban town, the employment it generates, is another matter. I am one of the species of human being who has refused to agree that patriotism lies in one marrying from every ethnic group in Nigeria or owning business in all the towns in Nigeria. My patriotism as one not in the centre-stage, is to tell the Government and the citizens honestly what to do so that our land will be like others lands our people admire and migrate to.
Despite the fact that Northerners do not sell anything on credit to the Southern traders; cows, beans, cereals, fruits, palm oil business from the Easterners is never transacted on cash and carry basis. Who would believe that Igbo traders particularly those dealing on foodstuffs sponsor agents or give short and long term refundable loans to some of the farmers in the North producing tomatoes, yams, cassava etc so as to “colorize” their farm products in the bid to maximize profit? Do Ndi-Igbo travel along Owerrinta-Owerri, Umuahia-Enugu, Okigwe-Afikpo-Abakaliki etc and see acres of uncultivated land that can benefit from such largesse? If such recoupable investment is extended to rice farmers in Abakaliki area, Arondizuogu/Umuchu /Umunze /Ezira /Umuomaku axis, Orumba area, Inyi /Achi, Mmiata Anam /Otuocha axis etc, Nigerian will automatically become a rice producing nation. The stone you leave unturned is the one covering your destiny. Ndi-Igbo, please think home.
Apart from agriculture, there is virgin and barren land begging for development in the East. This is why the interest of the Abia State Government in the development of the Obuaku city project is commendable though the exercise is in the interim, in the newspapers and radios. Housing Estates need to be established in these virgin and barren areas besides every tertiary institution to encourage development of new cities. In Europe, a city like Barcelona has about eight tertiary institutions; some located over a distance of about thirty kilometers away from the metropolis yet metro-services make movement of the students possible. Over twenty television studios and thirty radio stations make telecast and broadcast to viewers and listeners respectively yet the city of Barcelona is still serene and tranquil. Aba, Orlu, Okigwe, Nsukka, Nnewi, Onitsha, Aguata etc need radio and television stations to generate employment, business and other activities.
This think home call does not limit to the development of Igboland structurally. Ndi-Igbo in diaspora should, as a power-bloc, demand for the teaching of Igbo language in the schools where there children are learning. Where the management of the schools fails to heed to their demand, they look for an alternative school where it is taught. In London, the Igbo Catholic Priests have started celebrating Sunday Masses in Igbo language. Most importantly, some special centres are now teaching Igbo language to children of Igbo parents in London. That of USA will soon come on board. All these help the language to be sustained. The employments these activities generate are there.
It is necessary at this juncture to reiterate the need for Ndi-Igbo to emphasize on proper education of the child and being self-employed via artisan works. A situation is in the offing when there will be no carpenters, masons, block-molders, welders, motorcycle and motor vehicle mechanics etc. The get-rich quick attitude has lured some of these artisans out of the artisan-work. Worse still many of the graduates from the tertiary institutions are half-baked. It is ominous sign and ugly development for Igbo race.
The issue of Abuja or Lagos marriage prevalent among Ndi-Igbo especially those outside Igboland is no longer a thing of joy. Just cohabit with a bachelor and “hook” or “tie” him down with pregnancy and the spinster becomes a proud wife of a husband. Dowry and other traditional rites should go to hell. Most of them do not know where their husbands come from let alone knowing their relations. The young generation of Ndi-Igbo should be made to know that incest, bestiality, sodomy, lesbianism, same-sex marriage and polyandry are un-Igbo and therefore taboos in Igboland. All these are abominations. The sky is too wide for two birds to collide in the air.
Finally, that Ndi-Igbo become one, is the prayer of all Igbo men and women. At this time of the request for more states in Igboland, all hands should be on deck. Aside of Njaba or Orashi, I think that the Okigwe / Awgu axis, Aba/Ukwa, Nsukka area (Adada State) need to be states. When we were children, there was an insinuation that every town except Orlu and Okigwe has developed. While Njaba / Orashi will take care of Orlu mockery, that of Okigwe will be taken care of by new Okigwe / Awgu State. The leaders of Ndi-Igbo in diaspora are doing more harm than good to our Igboness by addressing their leaders, as “Eze Ndi-Igbo”. The proper designation is “Onye Ndu Ndi-Igbo” Hausa leaders outside their domain are addressed as “Sariki” not Emir. Whoever calls his/her mother an ugly woman inadvertently calls his/her father a foolish man. Could it be true that some undesirable elements have infiltrated into the traditional institutions in Igboland? Worse still, is it true that some Igbo Governors are “Kings on Their Knees”? The Governors, Ohaneze and World Igbo Council should dialogue with the Federal Government on the abysmal level of decay of infrastructures particularly Federal roads in our areas so as to find out the stand of the Federal Government on the long time neglect of Igboland. Where the neglect persists, the option of Kosovo, South Ossertia, Abkhazia etc should be vigorously pursued thus reducing MASSOB struggle to a child’s play. If the buffalo cannot kill Okoroafor let Okoroafor then kill the buffalo.
Let all Ndi-Igbo answer this clarion call from the spirit of the Igbo heartland. Let them complement the efforts of our forefathers and that of the white man who designed and developed some of the present day townships by developing new townships and cities. If Ndi Igbo do not wake up, their nightmare will linger till morning. A bird that is bound to fly must therefore definitely grow feathers. Posterity will never forgive this generation of Ndi-Igbo for their disservice to Igboland by abandoning it while developing other areas of their residence outside Igboland. Most importantly, the danger of putting Igbo tradition, culture and language into oblivion is staring us in the face. Ndi Igbo please think home for East, West, North or South, home is the best.
Mr. Ezennaya writes for the World Igbo Times Magazine, London.
UN, US, AU, VATICAN: The Graves of The Biafrans Are Not Yet Full. By Sixtus Chibueze Ezennaya.
From the excerpt of a speech delivered by that “super Biafran Son of the Soil” “Igbo bu Igbo”, Prof Philip Emeagwali (Lion of Biafra, LB awardee), delivered at Morehouse College in Atlanta, Georgia at the commemoration of the 40th anniversary (1968-2008) of Martin Luther King Jr’s assassination, the memory of the massacre of Biafrans is rekindled, relivened and refreshed especially for some of us who were then toddlers. To Biafrans, the years 1967, 1968 and 1969 cannot be forgotten. Injuries heal but the scars are there. To freedom, 1968 is great both to the Americans and Biafrans. Incidentally to the Americans, it is now achieved but to Biafrans, no.. Worse still, the graves of the Biafrans are not yet full in the struggle for this freedom.
The road to freedom for the Biafrans in Nigeria has been tortuous. A farmer who plants does not see seeds germinate must continue planting. Biafrans were sacrificial lambs in religious riots in Jos-1943, Kano-1953 (colonial era), Nigeria/Biafra war-1967/70, Kano-1980, Maiduguri-1982 Jimeta-Yola-1984 and Gombe-1985. The cold blood of innocent and harmless Biafrans oozed along the streets of Kaduna / Kafarchan-1987, Bauchi/Katsina/Kano-1991, Zango-Kataf-1992, Funtua-1993, Kaduna-2000 and 2002, Jos-2003 and Kano 2004. The police with Obasanjo regime’s arrogant, bold and express approval killed about 2000 MASSOB members in 2004. On May 30, 2008, scores of MASSOB members were teargassed and arrested at their prayer session and worship with their Bibles by the Moslem policemen and soldiers. Can a Christian policemen or soldier abuse Moslems at their prayer-session? Pockets of violence where few Christians particularly Biafrans were killed and Churches burnt
down, were not taken into consideration. But the death of an ant is still a loss of life. Worse still, many Biafrans in top Government positions have died in mysterious circumstances suspected to be man-made. What does one who constantly pays another with a pebble ask for if not a perpetual stone in return?
In 1947, Alhaji Shehu Shagari (former President of Nigeria) then a schoolteacher, advocated for the division of Nigeria. In 1994, the Libyan leader, Col Maummar Gaddaffi, also called for the division of Nigeria along religious lines. Recently, Chief Anthony Enahoro called for the dissolution of Nigeria. If the man who moved the motion for Nigeria independence can call for her dissolution, it means that the motive behind Nigeria’s oneness, unity and independence now has question mark thus derailed. Perhaps Lord Fredrick Luggard may be saying the same thing in his graves. And when things fall apart, the centre can no longer hold (Chinua Achebe, LB awardee).
Rhodesia was divided into Zambia and Zimbabwe. Today each is progressing or retrogressing independent of the other. The wise Ethiopians allowed Eritrean’s to pull out. Quebec and Canada separated honourably. Quite recently, Kosovo pulled away from Serbia. But in Nigeria the baboons are opposing the going away of the monkeys so that it will continue to be the usual “monkey de work, baboon de chop”. The world is no longer a jungle of the dark ages era. The palpable fear of failure as a nation because of non-availability of oil is why the baboons ferociously oppose it despite their acclaimed population.. Oil is not everything. Hunger is teaching Nigerians that population is not only for revenue-allocation from oil but also for food-production despite the arrogant declaration of Shakarau of Kano State that groundnut pyramid is no longer feasible in Kano. The joy of procreation through polygamous family is the ability to feed your family otherwise it
turns a killjoy. Quality of human person produced is more important than the number produced. Capacity building of human being or human development should be the target of every Nigerian Government not the population. There is no gainsaying the fact that a well-developed human being is more money spinning than oil well. Without oil, China, Japan, France, Germany, Spain, Italy, Canada, Australia etc are super nations. Israel of about 8 million people is a super nation. In Israel electricity is supplied through the Caesarian coal-powered station. What has happened to the Oji River coal powered electricity station located in Biafraland? Because it supplied electricity to Biafrans during the Nigerian/Biafran war, it was permanently close down by the successive authorities.
Biafrans need to be independent and until Nigeria is divided; the corrupt free world will not be attainable. The genesis of many African problem, is traceable to Nigeria: money laundering, drug trafficking, corruption, coup d’etat, Kidnapping, ritualism etc. To say the least, the problem of illegal immigration to USA, Europe, Canada, China, Australia etc are unstoppable unless Nigeria is divided. Since the return of democracy in Nigeria, how many African countries have witnessed coup d’etat? As the acclaimed giant of Africa and role model, whatever happens here is copied by other midget-nations in Africa. This band-wagon attitude prompted “Demi-Goddism” in these rulers of the continent; ldi Amin, Mobutu Sese Seko, Marcus Nguema, Bashir of Sudan, Robert Mugabe, Emperor Bokassa, Samuel Doe, Sani Abacha, Olusegun Obasanjo, Mai Kibathi and Thabo Mbeki. Among the rulers alive, none is qualified to be a member of the World Elders Forum proposed by
Nelson Mandela.
The exodus to USA, European countries etc might suggest that since UN, US, EU, etc are complacent with the misrule, money laundering, injustice etc in Africa, the equal reciprocation is to emigrate to their countries and discomfort them or enjoy with them. When a hunter lays ambush for an animal in the bush, the tse-tse fly also lays ambush for the scrotum of the hunter. Since UN, EU, US etc can only give Africans weapons of war, relief materials, refugee camps, mediation panels or peace keeping soldiers when war breaks out instead of prevention of war by giving African nations peace via independence, the people of Biafra, Niger Delta, Southern Sudan, Niger Republic (NJM) Western Cameroun, Western Sahara, Somalia etc will continue to shout like Adolph Hitler “Fellow countrymen, this the beginning of the end and there will be no rest until the end of the beginning”. In fact, it is only when Biafra becomes an independent nation that the graves of the
Biafrans will be full. Biafrans have fought a war for independence before but now the desire, impatient, quest and enthusiasm for Biafran independence is unprecedented. Therefore the international communities should save lives by supporting the independence of Biafra and anything in the contrary means digging more bottomless graves for the Biafrans.
If Nigeria had divided, the imposed ex-Speaker of the House of Representatives, Patricia Etteh, President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua etc could not have been in their positions. Secondly, as a tenant in her residence, the ex-Speaker could not have used the Oduduwa Republic fund of N685m to renovate her landlord’s house and still remained a free citizen. When Nigeria ceases to be one country, the hypocrisy will stop, of the Islamic Sharia states like Kano, Niger, Zamfara etc that do not allow the sales and consumption of beer yet partake in the sharing of the VAT and Excise Duty proceeds from Beer Breweries. Had Nigeria divided, the discretion of becoming a member of OIC will rest on each entity instead of the imposition against the general wish of the people of one Nigeria. The inability of one Nigeria to have a population-policy is because Islam as a religion practised mostly in the Northern Nigeria, permits polygamy. Even as rich and highly developed and
productive as China, there is population policy. With the division of Nigeria, various nations may decide on the matter. If Nigeria is not one country, would somebody like Obasanjo have become President of Oduduwa Repulic let alone spending $16b on electricity yet darkness is the outcome of this huge investment? If Nigeria is divided, as fraud will be minimized, the newspapers will not be inundated with horrible news of misappropriation of funds like N1 trillion stolen, N50B siphoned, probe panels Gulp N67B, N51B stolen every week, N350B disappear etc. By the way, except Niger Delta, which other nation can even have a national budget of N500B in the event that Nigeria divides? Only Niger Delta as a country can without stress give to each of her youths of 18years and above about N1m per year for ten years and yet survives. Espirit de corps and one Nigeria have stood, as giants to the probing of the past rulers of Nigeria namely Shagari, Buhari, IBB,
Abacha and Abdulsallami and no matter what happens Obasanjo will NEVER be probe. The rejection of the FOI bill is the beginning of the Doom’s Day for Nigeria.
If Biafra, Arewa, Oduduwa, Middle Belt etc become countries of their own, Nigeria illegal immigrants in US, EU countries, Canada, Australia, African countries etc will return. While oil price stablize Above all, unemployment, kidnapping, terrorism funding, armed robbery, child trafficking, hunger, corruption, oil-pipeline vandalization, militancy and other national malaise will automatically stop. And until a rotten tooth is removed, the ache or pain in the mouth will never cease. The graves of the Dele Giwas, Ken Saro Wiwas, Philip Effiongs, Isaac Boros, Gideon Orkas, Chuba Okadigbos, Chima Ubanis etc will not be full until Nigeria is divided. Prison and detention camps will continue to be secundus domus to the Dr Ralph Uwazuruikes (Dike Biafra, DB awardee) and his MASSOB officials, Henry Okahs and his indomitable and fearless MEND etc until Nigeria is divided. If you want to know what a leopard is thinking, you will see what its tail is doing.
In the BBC “Who Am I” competition in 2007, a competitor wrote”, In His infinite wisdom God made me a Biafran but through the amalgamation exercise of Britain in 1914, I am in Nigeria. Here, because of my straightforwardness in my dealing with people, I have continued to be a loser. Here, the end justifies the means hence criminals are welcomed, extolled, hallowed and even coronated. Politicians kill, mains, steal to get victory. To say the least, 98% of the 140m populations openly condemn Britain for her unilateral decision that gave birth to Nigeria-nation. My greatest regret is that I have not been able to become and accomplish why God created me because of my nationality.. But in order not to be a stateless citizen which is utopian I still remain in Nigeria pending when UN, US Britain, EU, Vatican, Canada, Australia, China etc will comply with the divine wish and directive by supporting the independence of Biafra.
Mr Ezennaya writes for the World Igbo Times Magazine, London
The road to freedom for the Biafrans in Nigeria has been tortuous. A farmer who plants does not see seeds germinate must continue planting. Biafrans were sacrificial lambs in religious riots in Jos-1943, Kano-1953 (colonial era), Nigeria/Biafra war-1967/70, Kano-1980, Maiduguri-1982 Jimeta-Yola-1984 and Gombe-1985. The cold blood of innocent and harmless Biafrans oozed along the streets of Kaduna / Kafarchan-1987, Bauchi/Katsina/Kano-1991, Zango-Kataf-1992, Funtua-1993, Kaduna-2000 and 2002, Jos-2003 and Kano 2004. The police with Obasanjo regime’s arrogant, bold and express approval killed about 2000 MASSOB members in 2004. On May 30, 2008, scores of MASSOB members were teargassed and arrested at their prayer session and worship with their Bibles by the Moslem policemen and soldiers. Can a Christian policemen or soldier abuse Moslems at their prayer-session? Pockets of violence where few Christians particularly Biafrans were killed and Churches burnt
down, were not taken into consideration. But the death of an ant is still a loss of life. Worse still, many Biafrans in top Government positions have died in mysterious circumstances suspected to be man-made. What does one who constantly pays another with a pebble ask for if not a perpetual stone in return?
In 1947, Alhaji Shehu Shagari (former President of Nigeria) then a schoolteacher, advocated for the division of Nigeria. In 1994, the Libyan leader, Col Maummar Gaddaffi, also called for the division of Nigeria along religious lines. Recently, Chief Anthony Enahoro called for the dissolution of Nigeria. If the man who moved the motion for Nigeria independence can call for her dissolution, it means that the motive behind Nigeria’s oneness, unity and independence now has question mark thus derailed. Perhaps Lord Fredrick Luggard may be saying the same thing in his graves. And when things fall apart, the centre can no longer hold (Chinua Achebe, LB awardee).
Rhodesia was divided into Zambia and Zimbabwe. Today each is progressing or retrogressing independent of the other. The wise Ethiopians allowed Eritrean’s to pull out. Quebec and Canada separated honourably. Quite recently, Kosovo pulled away from Serbia. But in Nigeria the baboons are opposing the going away of the monkeys so that it will continue to be the usual “monkey de work, baboon de chop”. The world is no longer a jungle of the dark ages era. The palpable fear of failure as a nation because of non-availability of oil is why the baboons ferociously oppose it despite their acclaimed population.. Oil is not everything. Hunger is teaching Nigerians that population is not only for revenue-allocation from oil but also for food-production despite the arrogant declaration of Shakarau of Kano State that groundnut pyramid is no longer feasible in Kano. The joy of procreation through polygamous family is the ability to feed your family otherwise it
turns a killjoy. Quality of human person produced is more important than the number produced. Capacity building of human being or human development should be the target of every Nigerian Government not the population. There is no gainsaying the fact that a well-developed human being is more money spinning than oil well. Without oil, China, Japan, France, Germany, Spain, Italy, Canada, Australia etc are super nations. Israel of about 8 million people is a super nation. In Israel electricity is supplied through the Caesarian coal-powered station. What has happened to the Oji River coal powered electricity station located in Biafraland? Because it supplied electricity to Biafrans during the Nigerian/Biafran war, it was permanently close down by the successive authorities.
Biafrans need to be independent and until Nigeria is divided; the corrupt free world will not be attainable. The genesis of many African problem, is traceable to Nigeria: money laundering, drug trafficking, corruption, coup d’etat, Kidnapping, ritualism etc. To say the least, the problem of illegal immigration to USA, Europe, Canada, China, Australia etc are unstoppable unless Nigeria is divided. Since the return of democracy in Nigeria, how many African countries have witnessed coup d’etat? As the acclaimed giant of Africa and role model, whatever happens here is copied by other midget-nations in Africa. This band-wagon attitude prompted “Demi-Goddism” in these rulers of the continent; ldi Amin, Mobutu Sese Seko, Marcus Nguema, Bashir of Sudan, Robert Mugabe, Emperor Bokassa, Samuel Doe, Sani Abacha, Olusegun Obasanjo, Mai Kibathi and Thabo Mbeki. Among the rulers alive, none is qualified to be a member of the World Elders Forum proposed by
Nelson Mandela.
The exodus to USA, European countries etc might suggest that since UN, US, EU, etc are complacent with the misrule, money laundering, injustice etc in Africa, the equal reciprocation is to emigrate to their countries and discomfort them or enjoy with them. When a hunter lays ambush for an animal in the bush, the tse-tse fly also lays ambush for the scrotum of the hunter. Since UN, EU, US etc can only give Africans weapons of war, relief materials, refugee camps, mediation panels or peace keeping soldiers when war breaks out instead of prevention of war by giving African nations peace via independence, the people of Biafra, Niger Delta, Southern Sudan, Niger Republic (NJM) Western Cameroun, Western Sahara, Somalia etc will continue to shout like Adolph Hitler “Fellow countrymen, this the beginning of the end and there will be no rest until the end of the beginning”. In fact, it is only when Biafra becomes an independent nation that the graves of the
Biafrans will be full. Biafrans have fought a war for independence before but now the desire, impatient, quest and enthusiasm for Biafran independence is unprecedented. Therefore the international communities should save lives by supporting the independence of Biafra and anything in the contrary means digging more bottomless graves for the Biafrans.
If Nigeria had divided, the imposed ex-Speaker of the House of Representatives, Patricia Etteh, President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua etc could not have been in their positions. Secondly, as a tenant in her residence, the ex-Speaker could not have used the Oduduwa Republic fund of N685m to renovate her landlord’s house and still remained a free citizen. When Nigeria ceases to be one country, the hypocrisy will stop, of the Islamic Sharia states like Kano, Niger, Zamfara etc that do not allow the sales and consumption of beer yet partake in the sharing of the VAT and Excise Duty proceeds from Beer Breweries. Had Nigeria divided, the discretion of becoming a member of OIC will rest on each entity instead of the imposition against the general wish of the people of one Nigeria. The inability of one Nigeria to have a population-policy is because Islam as a religion practised mostly in the Northern Nigeria, permits polygamy. Even as rich and highly developed and
productive as China, there is population policy. With the division of Nigeria, various nations may decide on the matter. If Nigeria is not one country, would somebody like Obasanjo have become President of Oduduwa Repulic let alone spending $16b on electricity yet darkness is the outcome of this huge investment? If Nigeria is divided, as fraud will be minimized, the newspapers will not be inundated with horrible news of misappropriation of funds like N1 trillion stolen, N50B siphoned, probe panels Gulp N67B, N51B stolen every week, N350B disappear etc. By the way, except Niger Delta, which other nation can even have a national budget of N500B in the event that Nigeria divides? Only Niger Delta as a country can without stress give to each of her youths of 18years and above about N1m per year for ten years and yet survives. Espirit de corps and one Nigeria have stood, as giants to the probing of the past rulers of Nigeria namely Shagari, Buhari, IBB,
Abacha and Abdulsallami and no matter what happens Obasanjo will NEVER be probe. The rejection of the FOI bill is the beginning of the Doom’s Day for Nigeria.
If Biafra, Arewa, Oduduwa, Middle Belt etc become countries of their own, Nigeria illegal immigrants in US, EU countries, Canada, Australia, African countries etc will return. While oil price stablize Above all, unemployment, kidnapping, terrorism funding, armed robbery, child trafficking, hunger, corruption, oil-pipeline vandalization, militancy and other national malaise will automatically stop. And until a rotten tooth is removed, the ache or pain in the mouth will never cease. The graves of the Dele Giwas, Ken Saro Wiwas, Philip Effiongs, Isaac Boros, Gideon Orkas, Chuba Okadigbos, Chima Ubanis etc will not be full until Nigeria is divided. Prison and detention camps will continue to be secundus domus to the Dr Ralph Uwazuruikes (Dike Biafra, DB awardee) and his MASSOB officials, Henry Okahs and his indomitable and fearless MEND etc until Nigeria is divided. If you want to know what a leopard is thinking, you will see what its tail is doing.
In the BBC “Who Am I” competition in 2007, a competitor wrote”, In His infinite wisdom God made me a Biafran but through the amalgamation exercise of Britain in 1914, I am in Nigeria. Here, because of my straightforwardness in my dealing with people, I have continued to be a loser. Here, the end justifies the means hence criminals are welcomed, extolled, hallowed and even coronated. Politicians kill, mains, steal to get victory. To say the least, 98% of the 140m populations openly condemn Britain for her unilateral decision that gave birth to Nigeria-nation. My greatest regret is that I have not been able to become and accomplish why God created me because of my nationality.. But in order not to be a stateless citizen which is utopian I still remain in Nigeria pending when UN, US Britain, EU, Vatican, Canada, Australia, China etc will comply with the divine wish and directive by supporting the independence of Biafra.
Mr Ezennaya writes for the World Igbo Times Magazine, London
Thursday, December 17, 2009
NYSC @ 35: Bravo Ajuwaya By Ezennaya Chibueze Sixtus
Exactly in 1973, the National Youths Service Corp (NYSC) scheme was introduced with a view to promoting national development, unity and patriotism among Nigerian Youths who had graduated from Nigerian Universities. Some remarkable changes have since taken place with regard to those qualified for the scheme.
Firstly, in about the fourth year of its inception, the NYSC programme was expanded to incorporate graduates of the Colleges of Technology, Monotechnics and Polytechnics. Later, holders of the National Certificate of Education (NCE) joined in the programme.
Although there was initially some controversy over the allowances to be paid to this new group of NYSC members, matters were soon ironed out. The products of the Universities, the educational and “technical” institutions have since been cooperating in furthering the aims and objectives of the programme. This programme has since too been extended to Nigerian graduates from abroad. The next major change was the decision to remove the age ceiling placed on those who could become NYSC members. From the apex age of thirty, the scheme was thrown open to graduates from every institutions of higher learning irrespective of age. Exemption could only depend on poor health or infirmity of the graduate.
However, a good many of the NYSC members, actual and potential, need to do more to internalize the scheme’s ideal of integration. It serves no useful purpose for potential members to keep making efforts at influencing their postings. NYSC officials themselves must vigorously discourage this tendency. The Federal, State and Local Government authorities on their parts should not worsen matters by exposing corps members to the vagaries of corruption. Situations where corpers connive with officers of their primary and secondary assignment for “job-cover up” while engaging in another thing altogether defeats the essence of the scheme. It needs to be reminded officials of the scheme and corps members particularly women that it is a great risk for pregnant mothers to engage in the rigorous exercises of the scheme hence the exclusion of pregnant women from the scheme. But sometimes, they “bulldoze” their way through.
The recent backsliding movement of the Federal Government on the scheme makes one suspect the programme as singing the Nunc Dimitis. Other wise, what could be the rationale behind the Federal Government decision to exclude NCE holders from the programme? In the year 2000 or thereabout, the programme suffered another blow when ban was placed on people over 30 years even though Nigerians and their penchant for age-declaration could be a leeway to beating the ban. Feelers from the NYSC secretariat show that from 2008, the scheme is to have three badges of corpers; Sep/Oct, Feb/March and June/July. In 2003/2004, badge “B” corps members were restricted to teaching. The notice could be to sift the chaff from the grain as many of the graduates, in Nigeria despite their certificates are hollow with academics bareness coupled with the unwillingness of many private sector firms to accept these corpers due to hard times. Much as these measures could help savage the scheme from being dragged to the mire, the scheme needs to be refocused if the real human values of it is anticipated and to be tapped.
It was Booker Taliafero Washington who postulated that, “no nation will prosper till it learns that there is as much dignity in tilling the field as in writing a poem”. Again, one Augolan proverb has it that “it is useless preaching to a hungry man”. When Nigerians are dying of hunger while our farmlands are yearning for workers, why these able-bodied youths should be denied of this gainful “one year compulsory employment” calls for a rethink on the part of the Federal Government. Apart from helping to feed the nation’s population, products of these farms could be exported. Cassava-starch, Garri and Yam highly needed in Europe are potential foreign exchange earners thereby diversifying the revenue base of Nigeria from monoeconomy. This all-embracing farm should have fish-ponds, snail-cages, poultry etc depending on the area. All these will help the corpers more, than theorizing it in endless and fruitless seminars, workshops and “talkshops” in the camp. Talking, after all, does not fill the basket in the farm according to President Benjamin Nkapa of Tanzania. Definitely, tilling the land does. For this line of thought to become a reality, at least one agricultural farm should be set up in all the senatorial zones of the country. A situation where people of productive age and trained to be so, scoop gutters in the township, sweep pathways, lanes and streets above all fill potholes on our high ways worse still discuss idly in the Local Government Secretariat every Friday in the name of Community Development Service make nonsense of the name. This has invariably called for the restructuring of the scheme so that the service periods will synchronize with our cropping or farming season.
Furthermore, this anniversary provides an opportunity for the NYSC Directorate to ensure efficiently in the co-ordination of the primary and secondary assignment through improved liaison with the various communities and employers of corps member. The supply of singlets, trousers, canvasses and other equipment to corps members has now become a problem perhaps due to economic crunch. But with this new direction, the scheme would not only be self-supporting but also a revenue earner for government besides paving way for new career opportunity for the corps members. Most importantly, the real essence of the scheme will be achieved to the utmost thus distancing and safeguarding it from frustration and failure.
“Bravo Ajuwaya” Happy Anniversary and may the years of the programme be long.
Mr. Ezennaya writes for the World Igbo Times Magazine, London.
Firstly, in about the fourth year of its inception, the NYSC programme was expanded to incorporate graduates of the Colleges of Technology, Monotechnics and Polytechnics. Later, holders of the National Certificate of Education (NCE) joined in the programme.
Although there was initially some controversy over the allowances to be paid to this new group of NYSC members, matters were soon ironed out. The products of the Universities, the educational and “technical” institutions have since been cooperating in furthering the aims and objectives of the programme. This programme has since too been extended to Nigerian graduates from abroad. The next major change was the decision to remove the age ceiling placed on those who could become NYSC members. From the apex age of thirty, the scheme was thrown open to graduates from every institutions of higher learning irrespective of age. Exemption could only depend on poor health or infirmity of the graduate.
However, a good many of the NYSC members, actual and potential, need to do more to internalize the scheme’s ideal of integration. It serves no useful purpose for potential members to keep making efforts at influencing their postings. NYSC officials themselves must vigorously discourage this tendency. The Federal, State and Local Government authorities on their parts should not worsen matters by exposing corps members to the vagaries of corruption. Situations where corpers connive with officers of their primary and secondary assignment for “job-cover up” while engaging in another thing altogether defeats the essence of the scheme. It needs to be reminded officials of the scheme and corps members particularly women that it is a great risk for pregnant mothers to engage in the rigorous exercises of the scheme hence the exclusion of pregnant women from the scheme. But sometimes, they “bulldoze” their way through.
The recent backsliding movement of the Federal Government on the scheme makes one suspect the programme as singing the Nunc Dimitis. Other wise, what could be the rationale behind the Federal Government decision to exclude NCE holders from the programme? In the year 2000 or thereabout, the programme suffered another blow when ban was placed on people over 30 years even though Nigerians and their penchant for age-declaration could be a leeway to beating the ban. Feelers from the NYSC secretariat show that from 2008, the scheme is to have three badges of corpers; Sep/Oct, Feb/March and June/July. In 2003/2004, badge “B” corps members were restricted to teaching. The notice could be to sift the chaff from the grain as many of the graduates, in Nigeria despite their certificates are hollow with academics bareness coupled with the unwillingness of many private sector firms to accept these corpers due to hard times. Much as these measures could help savage the scheme from being dragged to the mire, the scheme needs to be refocused if the real human values of it is anticipated and to be tapped.
It was Booker Taliafero Washington who postulated that, “no nation will prosper till it learns that there is as much dignity in tilling the field as in writing a poem”. Again, one Augolan proverb has it that “it is useless preaching to a hungry man”. When Nigerians are dying of hunger while our farmlands are yearning for workers, why these able-bodied youths should be denied of this gainful “one year compulsory employment” calls for a rethink on the part of the Federal Government. Apart from helping to feed the nation’s population, products of these farms could be exported. Cassava-starch, Garri and Yam highly needed in Europe are potential foreign exchange earners thereby diversifying the revenue base of Nigeria from monoeconomy. This all-embracing farm should have fish-ponds, snail-cages, poultry etc depending on the area. All these will help the corpers more, than theorizing it in endless and fruitless seminars, workshops and “talkshops” in the camp. Talking, after all, does not fill the basket in the farm according to President Benjamin Nkapa of Tanzania. Definitely, tilling the land does. For this line of thought to become a reality, at least one agricultural farm should be set up in all the senatorial zones of the country. A situation where people of productive age and trained to be so, scoop gutters in the township, sweep pathways, lanes and streets above all fill potholes on our high ways worse still discuss idly in the Local Government Secretariat every Friday in the name of Community Development Service make nonsense of the name. This has invariably called for the restructuring of the scheme so that the service periods will synchronize with our cropping or farming season.
Furthermore, this anniversary provides an opportunity for the NYSC Directorate to ensure efficiently in the co-ordination of the primary and secondary assignment through improved liaison with the various communities and employers of corps member. The supply of singlets, trousers, canvasses and other equipment to corps members has now become a problem perhaps due to economic crunch. But with this new direction, the scheme would not only be self-supporting but also a revenue earner for government besides paving way for new career opportunity for the corps members. Most importantly, the real essence of the scheme will be achieved to the utmost thus distancing and safeguarding it from frustration and failure.
“Bravo Ajuwaya” Happy Anniversary and may the years of the programme be long.
Mr. Ezennaya writes for the World Igbo Times Magazine, London.
Did Ernest Okonkwo Die with the League Football Commentary? By Sixtus Chibueze Ezennaya
“The lanky ebony black goal-hungry Ranger is ranging alone in the goal area of the Water Corporation Football Club of Ibadan. Can the one-man riot squad make it four for Rangers. A hatrick ie one, two, three goals are already in his kitty. Ifeanyi Chukwu means nothing is insurmountable to God. Four goals are also not beyond the ability of Ifeanyi Chukwu Onyedika. It is a goal… Goal number four for the indomitable Rangers International Football Club of Enugu, all scored by Ifeanyi Chukwu Onyedika”. Guess who was running the commentary. That was the commentaries of Ernest Okonkwo while pairing with Tolu Fatoyimbo in the Radio Nigeria Ibadan commentaries on the last match of the 1981 National Division One Footbal League match at Ibadan. Incidentally, that was the match that sent Water Corporation to the lower division in fact into oblivion.
In those old days, every Saturday, Nigerians glue to their radios for league football commentaries to ease off weeklong tension. Nowadays it is no longer so. Who is responsible for this deprivation of weekend happiness? An investigation showed that the commercialization of everything in Nigeria is responsible. Could it be true that as there is no free lunch in Europe, there is no longer “free” programme in our radio stations? Is the insinuation that Igboman loves money now being copied verbatim by the Nigerian government? When I now listen to league football commentaries every Saturday from BBC, Radio Cameroun, Radio Accra, I begin to wonder if these radio stations do not know the value of money or commercialization. When a nincompoop learnt how to chew stick, even broom for sweeping the room, is not spared. Nigeria and commercialization of radio programs.
Perhaps, what is most fascinating and endearing about football commentary, is the ability of the commentators to give accurate analysis of the second to second, minute to minute account of the proceedings. Ernest Okonkwo for example, had a unique football commentary style, which enabled him to use the appropriate qualifying adjectives for his characters. He coined names like Emmanuel “Man Mountain” Okala, Aloysius “Blockbuster” Atuegbu, Christian “ Chairman” Chukwu, “Mathematical” Segun Odegbani, Kelechi “Caterpiller” Emetole, “Midfield Maestro” Mudashiru Lawal, “Justice” Adokiye Amasiemeka, Uwem “Harmattan” Ekerika, Sylvanus “Quicksilver “Okpala, “Commander” Louis Igwilo, Sylvester “Bahama” Oparanozie, Benedict “Surugede” Ugwu, Idowu “Slow Poison” Otubusin, “Shortish” John Benson, “Dimunitive” Amaechi Otti, Nnamdi “Policeman” Anyafo, Davison “Okada Air” Qwumi, Daniel “The Bull” Amokachi, “Penalty Specialist” Christian Madu, “Masters of Long Throw” Moses Otolorin and Nwabueze Nwankwo, “The Man with Bullet Shot” Emmanuel Osigwe etc. A typical snippet of Okonkwo’s commentary style ran thus “… he beats Christian Chukwu, Christian Madu and Christian Nwokocha … he beats three Christians in a row … Who is this man? He must be a moslem. Oh, he is Shefiu Mohammed sending a diagonal pass to Baba Otu Mohammed. In one occasion Ernest Okonkwo said, “After ninety minutes of play and extra time, the match has ended one goal apiece but a winner must emerge. Five players have on each side been selected to take the penalty kick. The players are praying to their God to give them this day but it is not who prays more but who plays better.
The special tribute paid to Ernest Okonkwo does not mean that he was the only commentator in Nigeria those days but to refresh our memories on the vitality of the game via football commentaries. In those days, commentaries were run almost from every radio station be it Federal or state. In Radio Nigeria Lagos, besides Ernest Okonkwo, Ishola Folaronsho, Bisi Lawrence, Sebastine Ofurum, Kevin Ejiofor, and Walter Batuyi held the ace. Radio Nigeria Enugu had the likes of Richard Asiegbu, Emeka Odikpo etc. The scintillating voices of Agwu Nwogo, Samrose Anyaugo, John Nwogu and Christopher Abiaziem thrill the listeners to the Imo Broadcasting Corporation (IBC) Owerri. The Anambra Broadcasting Service (ABS) Enugu was privileged to have Peter Edochie, Joe Martins Uzodike while Edo Radio Benin boasted of Emmanuel Egharevba. From time to time as the commentaries reverberated, I tuned to Radio Nigeria Ibadan to listen to Tolu Fatoyimbo and others whereas Cross River Broadcasting Service where Edem Dike was mesmerizing players of Rovers Football Club of Calabar from Eta Egbe to James Etokebe would be the next station to tune to. Those days, Radio Nigeria Kaduna, Radio Plateau Jos usually ran commentaries in English alongside Hausa language. Whenever my darling team, RANGERS, travelled to those places, I steadfastly listened to the commentaries whether or not I understood Hausa language. One thing was certain, when a goal was scored, I did know from the shouting of the commentator and the player of the ball vis-a-vis his position in the football arena. By the time I finished listening to these commentaries, my “Samedi Sour” (Saturday evening) would have been well spent.
What has gone wrong with Nigeria and football commentaries? Could the loss of interest in watching Nigeria league matches by football fans be attributable to the stoppage of running live football commentaries? For one, commentaries catalyze the action on the field of play, enthuse morale of fans, and help to curtail poor officiating, make listeners and fans know the names of players and how skilful a player is among others. I never saw Emeka “404” Onyedika play football but his description as “404” tells me he was a swift sprinter in the field of play. The description of Daniel Amokachi as a utility player by the commentator when he was still a youth-player with Ranchers Bees of Kaduna prodded me into wanting to see him play which I, of course, accomplished by watching Rangers/Ranchers Bees match at Temporary Stadium of University of Nigeria Enugu Campus (UNEC). In all, Nigeria football fans want the football commentaries back, is the bottom-line of this write up for our league matches to be lively once again. Therefore, NFA or NFF, Radio Nigeria, State Radio Stations, MTN, Globacom, Starcom, Zain, Coca Cola, Seven-Up, NIPOST and other sponsors of our football, it is the wish of all Nigerian football fans that football commentaries return to our radio stations not withstanding this commercialization policy. If it is possible to include television coverage, it will also be most welcomed. No matter how small the dance-floor may be, there is always space for the drummer
Mr. Ezennaya writes for the World Igbo Times Magazine, London.
In those old days, every Saturday, Nigerians glue to their radios for league football commentaries to ease off weeklong tension. Nowadays it is no longer so. Who is responsible for this deprivation of weekend happiness? An investigation showed that the commercialization of everything in Nigeria is responsible. Could it be true that as there is no free lunch in Europe, there is no longer “free” programme in our radio stations? Is the insinuation that Igboman loves money now being copied verbatim by the Nigerian government? When I now listen to league football commentaries every Saturday from BBC, Radio Cameroun, Radio Accra, I begin to wonder if these radio stations do not know the value of money or commercialization. When a nincompoop learnt how to chew stick, even broom for sweeping the room, is not spared. Nigeria and commercialization of radio programs.
Perhaps, what is most fascinating and endearing about football commentary, is the ability of the commentators to give accurate analysis of the second to second, minute to minute account of the proceedings. Ernest Okonkwo for example, had a unique football commentary style, which enabled him to use the appropriate qualifying adjectives for his characters. He coined names like Emmanuel “Man Mountain” Okala, Aloysius “Blockbuster” Atuegbu, Christian “ Chairman” Chukwu, “Mathematical” Segun Odegbani, Kelechi “Caterpiller” Emetole, “Midfield Maestro” Mudashiru Lawal, “Justice” Adokiye Amasiemeka, Uwem “Harmattan” Ekerika, Sylvanus “Quicksilver “Okpala, “Commander” Louis Igwilo, Sylvester “Bahama” Oparanozie, Benedict “Surugede” Ugwu, Idowu “Slow Poison” Otubusin, “Shortish” John Benson, “Dimunitive” Amaechi Otti, Nnamdi “Policeman” Anyafo, Davison “Okada Air” Qwumi, Daniel “The Bull” Amokachi, “Penalty Specialist” Christian Madu, “Masters of Long Throw” Moses Otolorin and Nwabueze Nwankwo, “The Man with Bullet Shot” Emmanuel Osigwe etc. A typical snippet of Okonkwo’s commentary style ran thus “… he beats Christian Chukwu, Christian Madu and Christian Nwokocha … he beats three Christians in a row … Who is this man? He must be a moslem. Oh, he is Shefiu Mohammed sending a diagonal pass to Baba Otu Mohammed. In one occasion Ernest Okonkwo said, “After ninety minutes of play and extra time, the match has ended one goal apiece but a winner must emerge. Five players have on each side been selected to take the penalty kick. The players are praying to their God to give them this day but it is not who prays more but who plays better.
The special tribute paid to Ernest Okonkwo does not mean that he was the only commentator in Nigeria those days but to refresh our memories on the vitality of the game via football commentaries. In those days, commentaries were run almost from every radio station be it Federal or state. In Radio Nigeria Lagos, besides Ernest Okonkwo, Ishola Folaronsho, Bisi Lawrence, Sebastine Ofurum, Kevin Ejiofor, and Walter Batuyi held the ace. Radio Nigeria Enugu had the likes of Richard Asiegbu, Emeka Odikpo etc. The scintillating voices of Agwu Nwogo, Samrose Anyaugo, John Nwogu and Christopher Abiaziem thrill the listeners to the Imo Broadcasting Corporation (IBC) Owerri. The Anambra Broadcasting Service (ABS) Enugu was privileged to have Peter Edochie, Joe Martins Uzodike while Edo Radio Benin boasted of Emmanuel Egharevba. From time to time as the commentaries reverberated, I tuned to Radio Nigeria Ibadan to listen to Tolu Fatoyimbo and others whereas Cross River Broadcasting Service where Edem Dike was mesmerizing players of Rovers Football Club of Calabar from Eta Egbe to James Etokebe would be the next station to tune to. Those days, Radio Nigeria Kaduna, Radio Plateau Jos usually ran commentaries in English alongside Hausa language. Whenever my darling team, RANGERS, travelled to those places, I steadfastly listened to the commentaries whether or not I understood Hausa language. One thing was certain, when a goal was scored, I did know from the shouting of the commentator and the player of the ball vis-a-vis his position in the football arena. By the time I finished listening to these commentaries, my “Samedi Sour” (Saturday evening) would have been well spent.
What has gone wrong with Nigeria and football commentaries? Could the loss of interest in watching Nigeria league matches by football fans be attributable to the stoppage of running live football commentaries? For one, commentaries catalyze the action on the field of play, enthuse morale of fans, and help to curtail poor officiating, make listeners and fans know the names of players and how skilful a player is among others. I never saw Emeka “404” Onyedika play football but his description as “404” tells me he was a swift sprinter in the field of play. The description of Daniel Amokachi as a utility player by the commentator when he was still a youth-player with Ranchers Bees of Kaduna prodded me into wanting to see him play which I, of course, accomplished by watching Rangers/Ranchers Bees match at Temporary Stadium of University of Nigeria Enugu Campus (UNEC). In all, Nigeria football fans want the football commentaries back, is the bottom-line of this write up for our league matches to be lively once again. Therefore, NFA or NFF, Radio Nigeria, State Radio Stations, MTN, Globacom, Starcom, Zain, Coca Cola, Seven-Up, NIPOST and other sponsors of our football, it is the wish of all Nigerian football fans that football commentaries return to our radio stations not withstanding this commercialization policy. If it is possible to include television coverage, it will also be most welcomed. No matter how small the dance-floor may be, there is always space for the drummer
Mr. Ezennaya writes for the World Igbo Times Magazine, London.
NIGERIAN FOOTBALL LEAGUE MATCHES AND LIVE COMMENTARIES By Sixtus Chibueze Ezennaya
The lanky ebony black goal-hungry Ranger is ranging alone in the goal area of the Water Corporation Football Club of Ibadan. Can the one-man riot squad make it four for Rangers? A hat-trick i.e. one, two, three goals are already in his kitty. Ifeanyichukwu means nothing is insurmountable to God. Four goals are also not beyond the ability of Ifeanyi Chukwu Onyedika.
Rangers building attack from defence through Patrick Ekeji with a triangular tap to Herbert Anijekwu and Innocent Obiekwo to Commander Louis Igwilo who chest-traps and sends a banana-kick pass to Ifeanyi Chukwu Onyedika in the eighteen yard box of Water Corporation. He beats stylishly an on-rushing defender and a scissor-kick and it is a goal-o-o-o! Goal number four for the Flying Antelopes and Indomitable Rangers International Football Club of Enugu, all scored by Ifeanyichukwu Ahidjo Onyedika. Guess who was running the commentary? That was the football commentaries of Ernest Okonkwo while pairing with Tolu Fatoyimbo in the Radio Nigeria Ibadan commentaries on the last match of the 1981 National Division One Football League match at Liberty Stadium Ibadan. Incidentally, that was the match that sent Water Corporation to the lower division in fact into oblivion.
In those days, every Saturday, Nigerians glued to their radios for league football commentaries to ease off weeklong tension. Nowadays, it is no longer so. Who is responsible for this deprivation of weekend happiness? An investigation showed that the commercialization of everything in Nigeria is responsible. Could it be true that as there is no free lunch in Europe, there is no longer “free” programme in our radio stations? Is the insinuation that Igbo man loves money now being copied verbatim by the Nigerian government? When I now listen to League Football commentaries every Saturday from BBC, Radio Cameroun, Radio Accra, I begin to wonder if these radio stations do not know the value of money or commercialization. When a nincompoop learnt how to chew stick, even broom for sweeping the room, is not spared. Yooh! Nigeria and commercialization of radio programmes.
Perhaps, what is most fascinating and endearing about football commentary, is the ability of the commentators to give accurate analysis of the second to second, minute to minute account of the proceedings. Ernest Okonkwo for example, had a unique football commentary style which enabled him to use the appropriate qualifying adjectives for his characters. He coined names like Emmanuel “Man-Mountain” Okala, Aloysius “Block Buster” Atuegbu, Christian “Chairman” Chukwu, “Mathematical” Segun Odegbami, Kelechi “Caterpillar” Emetole, “Midfield Maestro” Mudashiru Lawal, Kingsley “Mature” Onye, “Chief Justice” Adokie Amasiemeka, Uwem “Harmattan” Ekarika, Sylvanus “Quicksilver” Okpala, “Commander” Louis Igwilo, Sylvester “Bahama” Oparanozie, Benedict “Surugede” Ugwu, Idowu “Slow Poison” Otubusin, “Shortish” John Benson, “Answerable” Edward Ansa, “Diminutive” Amechi Ottih, Nnamdi “Policeman” Anyafor, Nnamdi “Camel” Nwokocha, Davidson “Okada Air” Owumi, Daniel “The Bull” Amokachi, “Penalty Specialist” Christian Madu, “Masters of Long Throw” Moses Otolorin and Nwabueze “Bulldozer” Nwankwo, “The man with the bullet shot” Emmanuel Osigwe, “Dean of Defence” Yisa Shofoluwe, “Gangling” Rashidi Yekini, “Darkness” Amechi Igweobi etc. A typical snippet of Okonkwo’s commentary style ran thus, “……….. he beats Christian Chukwu, Christian Madu and Christian Nwokocha, ……………. he beats three Christians in a row. …….. who is this man? He must be a Moslem. Oh, he is Shefiu Mohammed sending a diagonal pass to Baba Otu Mohammed. In one occasion, Ernest Okonkwo said, “After ninety minutes of play and extra time, the match has ended one goal apiece but a winner must emerge. Fiver players have on each side been selected to take the penalty kick. The players are praying to their God to give them this day but it is not who prays more but who plays better. As members of the Nigerian Supporters Club are usually known for their vociferation in tournaments involving Nigerian teams, Ernest Okonkwo while commending them once said, “If you cheer when a goal is scored, you are reacting to an impulse. But if you cheer when no goal is scored, you are indeed supporting.”
The special tribute paid to Ernest Okonkwo does not mean that he was the only commentator in Nigeria those days but to refresh our memories on the vitality of the game via Football commentaries. Mr. Okonkwo would refer to an incident that gave a player his prominence. The day Mehala F. C. of Egypt saw wahala at Enugu and the Godwin Odiye back-heading that denied Nigeria World Cup slot in 1978, Ernest Okonkwo relived very vividly the memories. He would tell you what happened the day three Atuegbu brothers: Mathew, Andrew, and Aloysius Atuegbu played in one match for Nigeria. Why was Teslim Balogun called Thunder Balogun? The myth of Aliusalam, Rocks of Ilorin in 1976 which Rangers demystified, the magic hand of Maradona, Christopher Ohehen and the miracle of Daman, the 3 – 0 defeat of Rangers by Bendel Insurance in the 1978 Nigeria Challenge Cup final, the Kaduna debacle of Rangers / IICC match in the 1977 African Winners Cup, the Calabar rematch of Rangers / Spartans League match that brought Govs Jim Nwobodo and Sam Mbakwe to Calabar, Ernest Okonkwo referred to all these with relative ease. Had Ernest been alive today, he would have drawn the similarities of Jim Nwobodo and Orji Uzor Kalu, as he made reference points to the following players: Jossy Dambraye, Taiwo Ogunjobi, Okey Isima, Best Ogedengbe, Agwo Nnaji, Mutiu Adepoju, Superbrat Etim Esim, Sule Kekere, Ali Jeje, Tarila Okoronwata, Philip Osondu, etc. Above all, many superstar players of today would have been proud owners of superlatives “names.” Oh!, what a miss of super commentator Ernest Okonkwo.
In those days, commentaries were run almost from every radio station be it Federal or State. In Radio Nigeria Lagos, besides Ernest Okonkwo, Ishola Folarunsho, Bisi Lawrence, Sebastian Ofurum, Kevin Ejiofor, Walter Batuyi etc. held the ace. Radio Nigeria Enugu had the likes of Richard Asiegbu, Emeka Odikpo etc. The scintillating voices of Agwu Nwogo, Samrose Anyaugo, John Nwogu, and Christopher Abiaziem thrilled the listeners to the Imo Broadcasting Corporation (IBC) Owerri. The Anambra Broadcasting Service (ABS) Enugu, was privileged to have Pete Edochie, Joe Martins Uzodike and others while Edo Radio Benin boasted of Emmanuel Egharevba. From time to time as the commentaries reverberated, I tuned to Radio Nigeria Ibadan to listen to soft-spoken Tolu Fatoyimbo and others whereas Cross River Broadcasting Service where Edem Duke was mesmerising players of Rovers Football Club of Calabar from Eta Egbe to James Etokebe would be the next station to tune to. Those days, Radio Nigeria Kaduna, Radio Plateau, Jos, usually ran commentaries in English and Hausa languages. Whenever my darling team RANGERS, travelled to those places, I steadfastly like Nigerian fans of Man U, Chelsea, Barca, Arsenal etc, listened to the commentaries whether or not I understood Hausa language. One thing was certain, whenever a goal was scored, I did know from the shouting of the commentators and the players of the ball vis-à-vis his position in the football arena. By the time I finished listening to these commentaries, my “Samedi Sour” (Saturday / Weekend Evening) would have been well spent.
What has gone wrong with Nigeria and football commentaries?
Could the loss of interest in watching Nigeria League and Challenge Cup matches by football fans be attributable to the stoppage of running live football commentaries? When the youthful and bubbling talents of our present crop of commentators are being suppressed and put into disuse, while that of the foreign colleagues are advertised, nurtured and supported, what an unprecedented talent-kill. Tomorrow when the commentators go for job-hunt abroad, Government will start to deplore brain-drain. Ndubueze Chidoka, Shina Abimbola, Kelechi Onwudiwe etc, please remain undaunted.
For one, commentaries catalyze the action on the field of play, enthuse the morale of fans and help to curtail poor officiating, make listeners and fans know the names of players and how skilful a player is, among others. I never saw Emeka “404” Onyedika play football but his description as “404” tells me, he was a very swift sprinter in the field of play. The description of Daniel Amokachi as a utility player by the commentator when he was still a youth-player with Ranchers Bees of Kaduna prodded me into wanting to see him play which I of course accomplished by watching Rangers / Ranchers Bees match at Temporary Stadium of University of Nigeria Enugu Campus (UNEC). That Donald Igwebuike of Rangers International is nicknamed Stone Broker or Tony Orji (Iron Gate) is courtesy of their no nonsense, robust, stubborn and watertight defence. It was a saying by Ernest Okonkwo that Donald could even play a shot-put in the field of play.
That Nigeria football fans want the football commentaries back, is the bottom-line of this write-up for our League and Challenge Cup matches to be lively once again. Please, NFF, NFL, Radio Nigeria, State Radio Stations, MTN, Globacom, Starcom, Zain, Coca Cola, Seven-up, NIPOST, and other sponsors / lovers of our football, it is the wish of all Nigerian football fans that live football commentaries return to our radio stations notwithstanding this commercialization policy. If it is possible to include live television coverage, it will also be most welcomed. Neither commercialization policy nor hard times is good enough to obliterate live commentaries. No matter how small the dance-floor maybe, there is always space for the drummer.
Mr. Ezennaya is the ex-Chairman of Rangers Supporters Club, Aba Chapter.
Rangers building attack from defence through Patrick Ekeji with a triangular tap to Herbert Anijekwu and Innocent Obiekwo to Commander Louis Igwilo who chest-traps and sends a banana-kick pass to Ifeanyi Chukwu Onyedika in the eighteen yard box of Water Corporation. He beats stylishly an on-rushing defender and a scissor-kick and it is a goal-o-o-o! Goal number four for the Flying Antelopes and Indomitable Rangers International Football Club of Enugu, all scored by Ifeanyichukwu Ahidjo Onyedika. Guess who was running the commentary? That was the football commentaries of Ernest Okonkwo while pairing with Tolu Fatoyimbo in the Radio Nigeria Ibadan commentaries on the last match of the 1981 National Division One Football League match at Liberty Stadium Ibadan. Incidentally, that was the match that sent Water Corporation to the lower division in fact into oblivion.
In those days, every Saturday, Nigerians glued to their radios for league football commentaries to ease off weeklong tension. Nowadays, it is no longer so. Who is responsible for this deprivation of weekend happiness? An investigation showed that the commercialization of everything in Nigeria is responsible. Could it be true that as there is no free lunch in Europe, there is no longer “free” programme in our radio stations? Is the insinuation that Igbo man loves money now being copied verbatim by the Nigerian government? When I now listen to League Football commentaries every Saturday from BBC, Radio Cameroun, Radio Accra, I begin to wonder if these radio stations do not know the value of money or commercialization. When a nincompoop learnt how to chew stick, even broom for sweeping the room, is not spared. Yooh! Nigeria and commercialization of radio programmes.
Perhaps, what is most fascinating and endearing about football commentary, is the ability of the commentators to give accurate analysis of the second to second, minute to minute account of the proceedings. Ernest Okonkwo for example, had a unique football commentary style which enabled him to use the appropriate qualifying adjectives for his characters. He coined names like Emmanuel “Man-Mountain” Okala, Aloysius “Block Buster” Atuegbu, Christian “Chairman” Chukwu, “Mathematical” Segun Odegbami, Kelechi “Caterpillar” Emetole, “Midfield Maestro” Mudashiru Lawal, Kingsley “Mature” Onye, “Chief Justice” Adokie Amasiemeka, Uwem “Harmattan” Ekarika, Sylvanus “Quicksilver” Okpala, “Commander” Louis Igwilo, Sylvester “Bahama” Oparanozie, Benedict “Surugede” Ugwu, Idowu “Slow Poison” Otubusin, “Shortish” John Benson, “Answerable” Edward Ansa, “Diminutive” Amechi Ottih, Nnamdi “Policeman” Anyafor, Nnamdi “Camel” Nwokocha, Davidson “Okada Air” Owumi, Daniel “The Bull” Amokachi, “Penalty Specialist” Christian Madu, “Masters of Long Throw” Moses Otolorin and Nwabueze “Bulldozer” Nwankwo, “The man with the bullet shot” Emmanuel Osigwe, “Dean of Defence” Yisa Shofoluwe, “Gangling” Rashidi Yekini, “Darkness” Amechi Igweobi etc. A typical snippet of Okonkwo’s commentary style ran thus, “……….. he beats Christian Chukwu, Christian Madu and Christian Nwokocha, ……………. he beats three Christians in a row. …….. who is this man? He must be a Moslem. Oh, he is Shefiu Mohammed sending a diagonal pass to Baba Otu Mohammed. In one occasion, Ernest Okonkwo said, “After ninety minutes of play and extra time, the match has ended one goal apiece but a winner must emerge. Fiver players have on each side been selected to take the penalty kick. The players are praying to their God to give them this day but it is not who prays more but who plays better. As members of the Nigerian Supporters Club are usually known for their vociferation in tournaments involving Nigerian teams, Ernest Okonkwo while commending them once said, “If you cheer when a goal is scored, you are reacting to an impulse. But if you cheer when no goal is scored, you are indeed supporting.”
The special tribute paid to Ernest Okonkwo does not mean that he was the only commentator in Nigeria those days but to refresh our memories on the vitality of the game via Football commentaries. Mr. Okonkwo would refer to an incident that gave a player his prominence. The day Mehala F. C. of Egypt saw wahala at Enugu and the Godwin Odiye back-heading that denied Nigeria World Cup slot in 1978, Ernest Okonkwo relived very vividly the memories. He would tell you what happened the day three Atuegbu brothers: Mathew, Andrew, and Aloysius Atuegbu played in one match for Nigeria. Why was Teslim Balogun called Thunder Balogun? The myth of Aliusalam, Rocks of Ilorin in 1976 which Rangers demystified, the magic hand of Maradona, Christopher Ohehen and the miracle of Daman, the 3 – 0 defeat of Rangers by Bendel Insurance in the 1978 Nigeria Challenge Cup final, the Kaduna debacle of Rangers / IICC match in the 1977 African Winners Cup, the Calabar rematch of Rangers / Spartans League match that brought Govs Jim Nwobodo and Sam Mbakwe to Calabar, Ernest Okonkwo referred to all these with relative ease. Had Ernest been alive today, he would have drawn the similarities of Jim Nwobodo and Orji Uzor Kalu, as he made reference points to the following players: Jossy Dambraye, Taiwo Ogunjobi, Okey Isima, Best Ogedengbe, Agwo Nnaji, Mutiu Adepoju, Superbrat Etim Esim, Sule Kekere, Ali Jeje, Tarila Okoronwata, Philip Osondu, etc. Above all, many superstar players of today would have been proud owners of superlatives “names.” Oh!, what a miss of super commentator Ernest Okonkwo.
In those days, commentaries were run almost from every radio station be it Federal or State. In Radio Nigeria Lagos, besides Ernest Okonkwo, Ishola Folarunsho, Bisi Lawrence, Sebastian Ofurum, Kevin Ejiofor, Walter Batuyi etc. held the ace. Radio Nigeria Enugu had the likes of Richard Asiegbu, Emeka Odikpo etc. The scintillating voices of Agwu Nwogo, Samrose Anyaugo, John Nwogu, and Christopher Abiaziem thrilled the listeners to the Imo Broadcasting Corporation (IBC) Owerri. The Anambra Broadcasting Service (ABS) Enugu, was privileged to have Pete Edochie, Joe Martins Uzodike and others while Edo Radio Benin boasted of Emmanuel Egharevba. From time to time as the commentaries reverberated, I tuned to Radio Nigeria Ibadan to listen to soft-spoken Tolu Fatoyimbo and others whereas Cross River Broadcasting Service where Edem Duke was mesmerising players of Rovers Football Club of Calabar from Eta Egbe to James Etokebe would be the next station to tune to. Those days, Radio Nigeria Kaduna, Radio Plateau, Jos, usually ran commentaries in English and Hausa languages. Whenever my darling team RANGERS, travelled to those places, I steadfastly like Nigerian fans of Man U, Chelsea, Barca, Arsenal etc, listened to the commentaries whether or not I understood Hausa language. One thing was certain, whenever a goal was scored, I did know from the shouting of the commentators and the players of the ball vis-à-vis his position in the football arena. By the time I finished listening to these commentaries, my “Samedi Sour” (Saturday / Weekend Evening) would have been well spent.
What has gone wrong with Nigeria and football commentaries?
Could the loss of interest in watching Nigeria League and Challenge Cup matches by football fans be attributable to the stoppage of running live football commentaries? When the youthful and bubbling talents of our present crop of commentators are being suppressed and put into disuse, while that of the foreign colleagues are advertised, nurtured and supported, what an unprecedented talent-kill. Tomorrow when the commentators go for job-hunt abroad, Government will start to deplore brain-drain. Ndubueze Chidoka, Shina Abimbola, Kelechi Onwudiwe etc, please remain undaunted.
For one, commentaries catalyze the action on the field of play, enthuse the morale of fans and help to curtail poor officiating, make listeners and fans know the names of players and how skilful a player is, among others. I never saw Emeka “404” Onyedika play football but his description as “404” tells me, he was a very swift sprinter in the field of play. The description of Daniel Amokachi as a utility player by the commentator when he was still a youth-player with Ranchers Bees of Kaduna prodded me into wanting to see him play which I of course accomplished by watching Rangers / Ranchers Bees match at Temporary Stadium of University of Nigeria Enugu Campus (UNEC). That Donald Igwebuike of Rangers International is nicknamed Stone Broker or Tony Orji (Iron Gate) is courtesy of their no nonsense, robust, stubborn and watertight defence. It was a saying by Ernest Okonkwo that Donald could even play a shot-put in the field of play.
That Nigeria football fans want the football commentaries back, is the bottom-line of this write-up for our League and Challenge Cup matches to be lively once again. Please, NFF, NFL, Radio Nigeria, State Radio Stations, MTN, Globacom, Starcom, Zain, Coca Cola, Seven-up, NIPOST, and other sponsors / lovers of our football, it is the wish of all Nigerian football fans that live football commentaries return to our radio stations notwithstanding this commercialization policy. If it is possible to include live television coverage, it will also be most welcomed. Neither commercialization policy nor hard times is good enough to obliterate live commentaries. No matter how small the dance-floor maybe, there is always space for the drummer.
Mr. Ezennaya is the ex-Chairman of Rangers Supporters Club, Aba Chapter.
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