With its "Red Alert" Weekend tentatively concluded, Nigeria's ruling People's Democratic Party is starting its "Crunch" Fortnight Monday, 11 December 2006. Reports from around the country now indicate a mixed bag and very mixed fortunes for both candidates and party in the governorship primaries. All incumbent first-term governors, including the usurper in Oyo State, won. Just as the so-called "anointed" or "imposed" candidates scaled through, the aggrieved and disenfranchised either boycotted or are protesting loudly. Several states had either postponed or cancelled or rescheduled the primaries. The fallouts will unfold this week. So, we wait.
Presidential aspirants will be screened from Monday. This, as there are rumours that the party hierarchs are scheming for either a consensus candidate or to impose a favourite of the top man. Rumours! But you know how these things come or go.
Why "Crunch" Fortnight? Because this is the top prize. And many will do any and everything to clinch it.
Why "Crunch" Fortnight? Because the party still thinks that it controls the political scene and thus holds the key to President Obasanjo's successor. So, its leaders swing and stagger with a touch of arrogance and a hint of invincibility. Understandably.
Why "Crunch" Fortnight? Because several erstwhile opposition leaders (some say these were always moles/spoilsports!) have returned or defected to the ruling party, in quest for the post or some collateral consolation. And these include some really big names, legislators, and a sitting governor!
Why "Crunch" Fortnight? Because the party chieftains are determined to bar Nigeria's vice president from contesting...at all costs, it seems. He is one of the founding pillars and has a chunk of devoted followers in the PDP! Of course we all know about the raging battle between him and his boss...over some alleged corrupt practices. The VP has already formally declared for the race. Battle Royale is ahead.
Why "Crunch" Fortnight? Because everything be not up for grabs, yet nothing is sure.
If this process gets murky or marred (we pray not), then, the fallout will meld with that of the "Red Alert" Weekend to compound the party's simmering problems. The combination could combust its electoral prospects and political fortunes. Watch out.
Worrisome is the fact that, despite the party's spirited denials and continuous assurances, its members are spinning rumours like hell, some swearing that there is a hidden agenda! Many many times in the past, we have found that "there was no smoke without a fire". So, there.
PDP leaders should keep their word, and their honour: Be free, fair and transparent in both the screening and the primary election for the presidential slot. No more, no less!
Monday, December 11, 2006
Sunday, December 10, 2006
2007 for Constitution Review
The violence and frauds in political terrains are not limited to Nigeria or the third world. We have them everywhere. The beauty of democracy is all about choice: the freedom to choose. If and when all citizens can vote and be voted for, and we make every vote to count and be counted, oh, we be on our way...to true democracy! Level-playing field for ALL.
Nigerians know that the 1999 Constitution is flawed. No kidding. The reason it didn't get the long-awaited makeover was because of the dishonesty and unpatriotic zeal of the ruling party to do so for SELFISH purposes. That was the kernel of the tenure elongation or third term fiasco. They offered Nigerians a poisoned chalice, and, precious, we smashed the bait! Rightly so.
These folks had EIGHT years to amend and update the document but were deviously toying with the nation's destiny, squandering huge resources in the process. Now, part of the flaws are haunting them, and us...in the ongoing party primaries! People are taking things on a "do or die" basis, as if there be no tomorrow!! If only...
Yes, if only we had Independent Candidacy, more robust federalist provisions, lean government and social security. If only we had State Law Enforcement (police, coast guards, etc). If only we had a thoroughly decentralized utility and infrastructure regime. If only our revenue-sharing formula will give states/local governments higher portions, including at least 50% derivation credits. If only we had limited government ministries, agencies and departments to just a few. If only....
Now to action. The first task before a new government in 2007 is to tidy up the constitution review mess. Make it a SIX-Month project, and get it over with. We must pass it with a 75% YES vote in a national referendum...so that Nigerians can own it once and for all.
This must be a national non-partisan endeavour. It is a task that must be done...Fast! Very fast.
Nigerians know that the 1999 Constitution is flawed. No kidding. The reason it didn't get the long-awaited makeover was because of the dishonesty and unpatriotic zeal of the ruling party to do so for SELFISH purposes. That was the kernel of the tenure elongation or third term fiasco. They offered Nigerians a poisoned chalice, and, precious, we smashed the bait! Rightly so.
These folks had EIGHT years to amend and update the document but were deviously toying with the nation's destiny, squandering huge resources in the process. Now, part of the flaws are haunting them, and us...in the ongoing party primaries! People are taking things on a "do or die" basis, as if there be no tomorrow!! If only...
Yes, if only we had Independent Candidacy, more robust federalist provisions, lean government and social security. If only we had State Law Enforcement (police, coast guards, etc). If only we had a thoroughly decentralized utility and infrastructure regime. If only our revenue-sharing formula will give states/local governments higher portions, including at least 50% derivation credits. If only we had limited government ministries, agencies and departments to just a few. If only....
Now to action. The first task before a new government in 2007 is to tidy up the constitution review mess. Make it a SIX-Month project, and get it over with. We must pass it with a 75% YES vote in a national referendum...so that Nigerians can own it once and for all.
This must be a national non-partisan endeavour. It is a task that must be done...Fast! Very fast.
Saturday, December 09, 2006
The Supreme Say
When the battles rage
it is obscene
When their lordships sit
it is serene
Jungle, the one
Justice, the other
You may rage, fight
or kite
No matter
I may cage, slight
or spike
No matter
Jungle, the all
Justice at odds
All rise!
Once in court
it's courtesy and cut
All matter
C-o-u-r-t!
A judge be a judge
and the judge
Big matter
Jungle no more
Justice da more
In the journey thus on
no stops
much hops
bounce ye all the way
Jungle way down
Justice ya way
Tough matter
As you seek, if you seek
mind how you go
As you grope, all in groan
find thee da way
Grave matter
Stay, come sun
Pray, come rain
The temple so sought
is home and tomb
Clean matter
As ya journey winds
and twists
there be a final gate of faith
holding da fate
of all gates:
The inner sanctum
and saner spectrum
of all...
The Supreme Court
Pray silence
Shrine of Shrines
Grove of Groves
Stay silent
High Temple so ample
Justice alas, Justice at last
All rise!
Be stay risen...in awe
By its word be all call
For its sword be so tall
All rise!
Be stay risen...in awe
By its way may we play
In its say be the stay
C-O-U-R-T!
Our democracy will lift and leap in leaps and bounds when we play by the rules, embrace due process, respect the rule of law, and obey the courts. Our political class, led by the executive branch of government, have not behaved well in this regard. It was the reason why the Nigerian Bar Association went on a Warning Strike not long ago. In that unprecedented act, Nigeria was so badly portrayed as a nation with lawless leaders! Big shame.
Kudos to the president for proclaiming that the federal government will promptly enforce the latest Supreme Court judgment....on the despicable Ladoja Impeachment saga.
Knocks on the pro-impeachment merchants in PDP Oyo State for so blatantly challenging the Supreme Court ruling, and declaring their determination NOT to obey and comply.
Curiosity worldwide as to how our nation can be this degenerate that our courts have become so disrespected within the ruling class, even as we rush around the globe seeking direct foreign investments! Who will go to a lawless country???
Dear President, your image and integrity are at stake......please, redeem both! Fast.
Do so in Oyo, in Ekiti, in Plateau, in Lagos, and in Anambra.
May God guide you, amen.
it is obscene
When their lordships sit
it is serene
Jungle, the one
Justice, the other
You may rage, fight
or kite
No matter
I may cage, slight
or spike
No matter
Jungle, the all
Justice at odds
All rise!
Once in court
it's courtesy and cut
All matter
C-o-u-r-t!
A judge be a judge
and the judge
Big matter
Jungle no more
Justice da more
In the journey thus on
no stops
much hops
bounce ye all the way
Jungle way down
Justice ya way
Tough matter
As you seek, if you seek
mind how you go
As you grope, all in groan
find thee da way
Grave matter
Stay, come sun
Pray, come rain
The temple so sought
is home and tomb
Clean matter
As ya journey winds
and twists
there be a final gate of faith
holding da fate
of all gates:
The inner sanctum
and saner spectrum
of all...
The Supreme Court
Pray silence
Shrine of Shrines
Grove of Groves
Stay silent
High Temple so ample
Justice alas, Justice at last
All rise!
Be stay risen...in awe
By its word be all call
For its sword be so tall
All rise!
Be stay risen...in awe
By its way may we play
In its say be the stay
C-O-U-R-T!
Our democracy will lift and leap in leaps and bounds when we play by the rules, embrace due process, respect the rule of law, and obey the courts. Our political class, led by the executive branch of government, have not behaved well in this regard. It was the reason why the Nigerian Bar Association went on a Warning Strike not long ago. In that unprecedented act, Nigeria was so badly portrayed as a nation with lawless leaders! Big shame.
Kudos to the president for proclaiming that the federal government will promptly enforce the latest Supreme Court judgment....on the despicable Ladoja Impeachment saga.
Knocks on the pro-impeachment merchants in PDP Oyo State for so blatantly challenging the Supreme Court ruling, and declaring their determination NOT to obey and comply.
Curiosity worldwide as to how our nation can be this degenerate that our courts have become so disrespected within the ruling class, even as we rush around the globe seeking direct foreign investments! Who will go to a lawless country???
Dear President, your image and integrity are at stake......please, redeem both! Fast.
Do so in Oyo, in Ekiti, in Plateau, in Lagos, and in Anambra.
May God guide you, amen.
Friday, December 08, 2006
PDP "Red Alert" Weekend!
December 9
Governorship Primaries
Peace or Pieces
Red Alert Weekend
Let the people speak
and....choose
December 9
Gubernatorial Hurdles
Soar or Sink
Red Alert Weekend
Let the masses make
or....break
December 9
People's Democratic Party
Gory or Glory
Red Alert Weekend
Oh, we goodly wish
and....pray
Whoever loves Nigeria must pray that this weekend helps the ruling party and the nation to do things right. The primaries for governorship slots hold tomorrow, 9 December, and PDP being the largest party/beneficiary from the 2003 Elections will have a blast and flurries. Why not!
The party controls 27 of the 36 states of our federation, as well as the presidency and the federal parliament. Most of the gubernatorial slots are vacant and up for grabs in 2007. Many aspirants willy nilly believe that winning the primaries is almost a guarantee that they would clinch the post in the elections! Very tempting indeed.
And because the field is unusually crowded this time around, there is so much at stake. For this reason, the EFCC warns that the money-politics trend it has spotted so far be stopped or else!
The security agencies have also cautioned against violence and other forms of criminality in the campaigns/contests. The atmosphere is charged! Not unexpected.
So, why Red Alert? Simple: Our politicians are bad losers and selfish/greedy winners!
Why Red Alert? History: The PDP has huge problems of indiscipline, internal contradictions and incessant bickering. It is a house of unlikely bedfellows!
Why Red Alert? Oh, because there are many other political parties waiting in the wings, hoping to gain from dissent and disaffection from the conduct/outcomes of the PDP Primaries!
Pray, this weekend will thus make or unmake the careers of many a political gladiator, even as it will drain or fill the political capital of both the PDP and its competitors.
Still Red Alert? No question.
Governorship Primaries
Peace or Pieces
Red Alert Weekend
Let the people speak
and....choose
December 9
Gubernatorial Hurdles
Soar or Sink
Red Alert Weekend
Let the masses make
or....break
December 9
People's Democratic Party
Gory or Glory
Red Alert Weekend
Oh, we goodly wish
and....pray
Whoever loves Nigeria must pray that this weekend helps the ruling party and the nation to do things right. The primaries for governorship slots hold tomorrow, 9 December, and PDP being the largest party/beneficiary from the 2003 Elections will have a blast and flurries. Why not!
The party controls 27 of the 36 states of our federation, as well as the presidency and the federal parliament. Most of the gubernatorial slots are vacant and up for grabs in 2007. Many aspirants willy nilly believe that winning the primaries is almost a guarantee that they would clinch the post in the elections! Very tempting indeed.
And because the field is unusually crowded this time around, there is so much at stake. For this reason, the EFCC warns that the money-politics trend it has spotted so far be stopped or else!
The security agencies have also cautioned against violence and other forms of criminality in the campaigns/contests. The atmosphere is charged! Not unexpected.
So, why Red Alert? Simple: Our politicians are bad losers and selfish/greedy winners!
Why Red Alert? History: The PDP has huge problems of indiscipline, internal contradictions and incessant bickering. It is a house of unlikely bedfellows!
Why Red Alert? Oh, because there are many other political parties waiting in the wings, hoping to gain from dissent and disaffection from the conduct/outcomes of the PDP Primaries!
Pray, this weekend will thus make or unmake the careers of many a political gladiator, even as it will drain or fill the political capital of both the PDP and its competitors.
Still Red Alert? No question.
Friday, December 01, 2006
If I Were Nigerian Leaders (World AIDS Day) - Herbal & Nature CARE
On this occasion of World AIDS Day, I have only very few words for our leaders at all levels - political, traditional, spiritual, temporal, civil society and the business community. It hurts to see anyone die. But, in particular, how HIV/AIDS victims die is a horror undeserved and a mirror on our CARE, our caring or the lack of both. It hurts! It hurts more when you know that we can and should DO more!! And, by God, this country - NIGERIA - can.
What am I talking about? You know! But in the spirit of public service, and to spread our "dirty" linen in the sun (if we must), a few thoughts may be the elixir we all need now. Isn't this the season of ideas? After all we head for 2007 Elections with great expectations! So, this note really is clearly more appropriate to the incoming political leadership, and others "TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN".
Who does not know that but for herbal medicine and nature cure our peoples in Africa, the Americas and most of Asia Pacific will be all dead or mostly crippled by now???
Who does not know that surveys upon surveys, polls after polls, have consistently and constantly shown, and reaffirmed, that over 70% of citizens in the developed world, especially the WEST, patronize herbal/nature care??? Despite all their "advances"!
Who does not know that organic foods, drinks, drugs, and derivatives as well as cool "green products" are now returning to consumers' top-lists with a vengeance???
Who thinks the rise and rise of "green" Political Parties and NGOs/CSOs is a fluke or a mere fad??? Who thinks The "Kyoto Agreement" will fade away??? Ask George Bush!
Who does not know that AFRICA and SOUTH AMERICA remain the world's "greenest zones", and the bastion therefore of "all things organic"??? Add them to the "unspoiled" areas of Asia Pacific, and humanity can hum in health, good health.
If these were so, why have Nigerian leaders collectively and individually betrayed our people, our nation? Why have they not emulated both their Chinese and Indian counter-parts in using what-you-have to get-what-you-need/want? Why have they not emulated all their WESTERN counter-parts by putting-our-country-first?
Why are we importing foods, drinks and medicines, including (shamelessly!) herbal and nature care products which our lands have in abundance? Why create jobs or export existing jobs by blocking/undermining local production?
Why do we go in demeaning search (cap and bowl-in-hand!) for grants, loans and aid on these matters? Ignoring time-honed lessons, abandoning our home-resources, damning all our local experts/geniuses like Dr's Ojeih, Abalaka, Abdullahi, and their many pharmacy colleagues...all because of cheap foreign hand-outs! Where is our pride, where is our competitive/comparative advantage?
These local stars are shining abroad, patronized by governments and citizens as well as eminent research bodies, while our bureaucrats are busy denouncing them at home! Just imagine how much they can do for World Health if better supported, and the level of foreign exchange we can earn when widely patronized!
Why didn't the government ask for or commit 50% of all the foreign grants to local initiatives, including further R&D, improved processes, mass production and quality documentation by our OWN people? How can we rely on foreigners to "dominate" our own response to diseases they don't suffer or hardly have...in their own land???
I close by asking why it has just dawned on the government that dogonyaro (neem) is an effective anti-malarial, when our people (including the parents of our leaders!) and communities have been utilising same from time immemorial???
Let our resolve be "WORK THE LAND" to serve our people...and the world. This way, we can consign World AIDS Day to history...within a decade!
What am I talking about? You know! But in the spirit of public service, and to spread our "dirty" linen in the sun (if we must), a few thoughts may be the elixir we all need now. Isn't this the season of ideas? After all we head for 2007 Elections with great expectations! So, this note really is clearly more appropriate to the incoming political leadership, and others "TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN".
Who does not know that but for herbal medicine and nature cure our peoples in Africa, the Americas and most of Asia Pacific will be all dead or mostly crippled by now???
Who does not know that surveys upon surveys, polls after polls, have consistently and constantly shown, and reaffirmed, that over 70% of citizens in the developed world, especially the WEST, patronize herbal/nature care??? Despite all their "advances"!
Who does not know that organic foods, drinks, drugs, and derivatives as well as cool "green products" are now returning to consumers' top-lists with a vengeance???
Who thinks the rise and rise of "green" Political Parties and NGOs/CSOs is a fluke or a mere fad??? Who thinks The "Kyoto Agreement" will fade away??? Ask George Bush!
Who does not know that AFRICA and SOUTH AMERICA remain the world's "greenest zones", and the bastion therefore of "all things organic"??? Add them to the "unspoiled" areas of Asia Pacific, and humanity can hum in health, good health.
If these were so, why have Nigerian leaders collectively and individually betrayed our people, our nation? Why have they not emulated both their Chinese and Indian counter-parts in using what-you-have to get-what-you-need/want? Why have they not emulated all their WESTERN counter-parts by putting-our-country-first?
Why are we importing foods, drinks and medicines, including (shamelessly!) herbal and nature care products which our lands have in abundance? Why create jobs or export existing jobs by blocking/undermining local production?
Why do we go in demeaning search (cap and bowl-in-hand!) for grants, loans and aid on these matters? Ignoring time-honed lessons, abandoning our home-resources, damning all our local experts/geniuses like Dr's Ojeih, Abalaka, Abdullahi, and their many pharmacy colleagues...all because of cheap foreign hand-outs! Where is our pride, where is our competitive/comparative advantage?
These local stars are shining abroad, patronized by governments and citizens as well as eminent research bodies, while our bureaucrats are busy denouncing them at home! Just imagine how much they can do for World Health if better supported, and the level of foreign exchange we can earn when widely patronized!
Why didn't the government ask for or commit 50% of all the foreign grants to local initiatives, including further R&D, improved processes, mass production and quality documentation by our OWN people? How can we rely on foreigners to "dominate" our own response to diseases they don't suffer or hardly have...in their own land???
I close by asking why it has just dawned on the government that dogonyaro (neem) is an effective anti-malarial, when our people (including the parents of our leaders!) and communities have been utilising same from time immemorial???
Let our resolve be "WORK THE LAND" to serve our people...and the world. This way, we can consign World AIDS Day to history...within a decade!
Monday, November 20, 2006
The Opposition from 2007
Eight years has flown by like a jot and a jolt! Goodness me, and the political class is jostling for power again!! The thing is so sweet those who have exhausted their tenure want more (as in the immoral Third Term misadventure) or are aspiring higher, while those who have been in the proverbial political wilderness desperately seek rehabilitation. Yet, very little desire for full accountability! Wow.
It is amazing how many so readily pass the buck. They'll blame everything on the executive, especially the presidency. Not for them the principle of collective responsibility. Not for them the question of "herd mentality", when they sold their conscience by neither speaking up nor shipping out. They loved to belong, and had their day in the sun, plus plenty a salad day to boot. It paid while it lasted. Now they mouth alibi and crave exculpation. Haba!
Oh, and those cross-carpeters! How they ogled and lapped up spoils and crumbs! The ruling PDP made a mince of many, made a Man Friday of others, made a monument of a few. We watched in utter dismay and amusement. Comical, theatrical and mysterious indeed. There was an unspoken code of compromise and comeuppance that nothing mattered anymore.
This lack of self-censorship, self-restraint as well as the drift to self-immolation soon engulfed the official opposition, rendering them sufficiently impotent and escapist that they became unofficial! If we admit that the ruling party has a crushing majority at all levels of governance, including most-inappropriately some souls in the supposedly independent judiciary, it is no consolation for political delinquency and self-distruct by the opposition parties. Nor could it excuse or justify the absence of constructive engagement and elevated contestation of public policies, with credible alternatives, both in parliament and in the people's domain.
Without putting a fine point on it, only the principled stance and stout opposition of some PDP members helped Nigeria defeat the Third Term monster. Paradoxically, several members of the opposition parties so betrayed their mandates and their constituencies by playing ball with the subversive elements! As they say, the rest is now history. We hear many of the Third Term and fraudulent-impeachments actors have been dumped in last weekend's PDP primaries. What poetic justice! Alas, the chickens are coming home to roost!! Next, posterity will claim its due.
Our plea this day is that after all permutations, alignments and realignments for election and balloting purposes, let winners be winners and losers transform themselves into credible and responsible opposition-democratic forces at all levels of governance. They should let those in office know that power can shift through by-elections, impeachments, recalls and...at general elections. Yes, no matter how long the incumbency.
The opposition next time must not abandon the struggle for only the press, labour, students and civil rights crusaders. Working with civil society is the greatest assurance we can have of a just and humane nation. ALL aspirants and their parties must imbibe this beauty, this reality.
Hey folks, remember, he who fights and runs away lives to fight another day! But he must return fully equipped, well prepared and highly motivated for the rematch. Yes.
It is amazing how many so readily pass the buck. They'll blame everything on the executive, especially the presidency. Not for them the principle of collective responsibility. Not for them the question of "herd mentality", when they sold their conscience by neither speaking up nor shipping out. They loved to belong, and had their day in the sun, plus plenty a salad day to boot. It paid while it lasted. Now they mouth alibi and crave exculpation. Haba!
Oh, and those cross-carpeters! How they ogled and lapped up spoils and crumbs! The ruling PDP made a mince of many, made a Man Friday of others, made a monument of a few. We watched in utter dismay and amusement. Comical, theatrical and mysterious indeed. There was an unspoken code of compromise and comeuppance that nothing mattered anymore.
This lack of self-censorship, self-restraint as well as the drift to self-immolation soon engulfed the official opposition, rendering them sufficiently impotent and escapist that they became unofficial! If we admit that the ruling party has a crushing majority at all levels of governance, including most-inappropriately some souls in the supposedly independent judiciary, it is no consolation for political delinquency and self-distruct by the opposition parties. Nor could it excuse or justify the absence of constructive engagement and elevated contestation of public policies, with credible alternatives, both in parliament and in the people's domain.
Without putting a fine point on it, only the principled stance and stout opposition of some PDP members helped Nigeria defeat the Third Term monster. Paradoxically, several members of the opposition parties so betrayed their mandates and their constituencies by playing ball with the subversive elements! As they say, the rest is now history. We hear many of the Third Term and fraudulent-impeachments actors have been dumped in last weekend's PDP primaries. What poetic justice! Alas, the chickens are coming home to roost!! Next, posterity will claim its due.
Our plea this day is that after all permutations, alignments and realignments for election and balloting purposes, let winners be winners and losers transform themselves into credible and responsible opposition-democratic forces at all levels of governance. They should let those in office know that power can shift through by-elections, impeachments, recalls and...at general elections. Yes, no matter how long the incumbency.
The opposition next time must not abandon the struggle for only the press, labour, students and civil rights crusaders. Working with civil society is the greatest assurance we can have of a just and humane nation. ALL aspirants and their parties must imbibe this beauty, this reality.
Hey folks, remember, he who fights and runs away lives to fight another day! But he must return fully equipped, well prepared and highly motivated for the rematch. Yes.
Campaign Hints: We Need FACTS-n-FIGURES!
Just an early advice/warning to aspirants and political parties: Don't waste our time with bland and woolly talk. Use FACTS and FIGURES: from government/official and researched/unofficial or commissioned sources. Elections 2007 is no business as usual. No.
Nigerians need credible analysis, alternative propositions and enlightened debates/attestations: How will you plan, design and execute robust sustainable development within your sphere of governance and tenure? What will you do differently, given our known/expected resources? In particular, how will you tackle and fund education, agriculture, infrastructure and security? What game-plan do you have for rural development and rural-urban migration? How will you tackle the proverbial brain drain, turning it to brain gain? What's in store for the neglected and now-boiling oil-rich Niger Delta, with its restive and agitated populace?
And the mother of all factors: How will you deal with CORRUPTION???
No one should enter the fray be it at local, state or national level without a very clear vision and mission - based on sound reasoning, backed with FACTS and FIGURES. None.
Nigerians need credible analysis, alternative propositions and enlightened debates/attestations: How will you plan, design and execute robust sustainable development within your sphere of governance and tenure? What will you do differently, given our known/expected resources? In particular, how will you tackle and fund education, agriculture, infrastructure and security? What game-plan do you have for rural development and rural-urban migration? How will you tackle the proverbial brain drain, turning it to brain gain? What's in store for the neglected and now-boiling oil-rich Niger Delta, with its restive and agitated populace?
And the mother of all factors: How will you deal with CORRUPTION???
No one should enter the fray be it at local, state or national level without a very clear vision and mission - based on sound reasoning, backed with FACTS and FIGURES. None.
Ups for Plurality
One of the defining and welcomed features of the new electoral order is the plurality of choice, as in 50 political parties! This should help diffuse the cut-throat competition and do-or-die mentality in the polity. Hopefully, it should also reduce the strangle-hold of erstwhile moneybags, the menace of godfatherism and the undue influence of party hierarchs/jobbers. New days are here, indeed.
Of course the screening of candidates must be thorough, and must include means testing and certification, including anti-corruption clearance. That done, let the game begin!
My word for the gladiators: Watch ya back!
Meaning? Ask your mom.
Of course the screening of candidates must be thorough, and must include means testing and certification, including anti-corruption clearance. That done, let the game begin!
My word for the gladiators: Watch ya back!
Meaning? Ask your mom.
Sunday, November 12, 2006
Voters Registration Exercise
The e-Registration of Nigerian voters was meant to be novel and fault-reducing. So far, it has been faults galore! Somehow, there is no shortage of complaints all over: from bad batteries to insufficient equipment, from inadequate training to invisible registration booths, from time wasting to power failure, and a general level of disillusionment.
If these were teething problems, they amount to worrisome signals and portends. No one is in a position to know what a failed exercise will look like; but we really don't want to know. It will be too dangerous, too self-destructing, too not-to-be-conjectured that we should just make this thing work! There are now strident calls for a prompt return to "manual registration".
I'm yet to join the nay-sayers, but you really can't flatly fault them. Turn on the TV day or night and see the unflattering reports with heart-wrenching visuals! Open the newspapers and you confront plenty bad news with photos and quotes! In all, the media is full of citizens lampooning, lamenting, lambasting and languishing.....
Who is listening? But more important: Who is ACTING???
2007 Transition is NOT negotiable. NOT!
If these were teething problems, they amount to worrisome signals and portends. No one is in a position to know what a failed exercise will look like; but we really don't want to know. It will be too dangerous, too self-destructing, too not-to-be-conjectured that we should just make this thing work! There are now strident calls for a prompt return to "manual registration".
I'm yet to join the nay-sayers, but you really can't flatly fault them. Turn on the TV day or night and see the unflattering reports with heart-wrenching visuals! Open the newspapers and you confront plenty bad news with photos and quotes! In all, the media is full of citizens lampooning, lamenting, lambasting and languishing.....
Who is listening? But more important: Who is ACTING???
2007 Transition is NOT negotiable. NOT!
Thursday, October 26, 2006
Impeachments and the Rule of Law
We are all for tackling corruption at all levels. But it must be done within the tenets of true federalism, full democratic rights and transparent processes. No breach, please.
The situations in Oyo, Ekiti, Plateau and Anambra States call for caution. As the Nigerian Bar Association has posited, no one should fight for justice unconstitutionally. You cannot tackle an illegality by using another illegality as tool or means. Senseless.
Let the anti-corruption agencies, especially the EFCC, and the presidency heed the mounting calls for caution and constitutional compliance. Simple.
Let the National Assembly rise up to its role and fullest potentials in these transition months. It should be the unwavering defender of Nigeria's Democracy. No excuses, no failure.
Impeachments and declarations of state of emergency be no child's play or political chess game!
They must not be trivialised or bastardised. The rigours of our constitution must be upheld at all times.
The situations in Oyo, Ekiti, Plateau and Anambra States call for caution. As the Nigerian Bar Association has posited, no one should fight for justice unconstitutionally. You cannot tackle an illegality by using another illegality as tool or means. Senseless.
Let the anti-corruption agencies, especially the EFCC, and the presidency heed the mounting calls for caution and constitutional compliance. Simple.
Let the National Assembly rise up to its role and fullest potentials in these transition months. It should be the unwavering defender of Nigeria's Democracy. No excuses, no failure.
Impeachments and declarations of state of emergency be no child's play or political chess game!
They must not be trivialised or bastardised. The rigours of our constitution must be upheld at all times.
A Time To Think
Nigerians are watching the present political class closely. Are they satisfied with its performance or are they yearning for true patriotism and political sagacity? Just survey the Nigerian media - it is an eye- and ear-full. Yet the class revels in delirium!
Now that the real transition is afoot, we watch even more closely. Somehow, it will work out and the forces of darkness will be roundly dislodged and permanently defeated. The signs are clear, the signals are palpable. The terrain is changing, the knots unravelling. Simply unstoppable! The clarion call is loud....and clear.
Let those who never lost touch with their mom's teachings of honour and traditional values come out to serve. Let them blaze a new trail to the new land of culture, of integrity, of probity, and of decency-in-service. Now less, even more, we ask.
This then is the time to think anew, to realign and build the alliance of a true renaissance. Don't be caught with the wrong crowd!
Now that the real transition is afoot, we watch even more closely. Somehow, it will work out and the forces of darkness will be roundly dislodged and permanently defeated. The signs are clear, the signals are palpable. The terrain is changing, the knots unravelling. Simply unstoppable! The clarion call is loud....and clear.
Let those who never lost touch with their mom's teachings of honour and traditional values come out to serve. Let them blaze a new trail to the new land of culture, of integrity, of probity, and of decency-in-service. Now less, even more, we ask.
This then is the time to think anew, to realign and build the alliance of a true renaissance. Don't be caught with the wrong crowd!
Wednesday, September 20, 2006
Watch Thy Present, Mind The Past
All present and past political actors must introspect. The political terrain is treacherous and retroactive. No escape....for long.
Future players can't, shouldn't, be counseled. The proverbial cane that thrashed their seniors remains enscounced in the loft. It will descend with generous ferocity in their own moments of heist! Why pretend?
The lessons are writ large in our public domain. What be prompt this warning, do you ask? Oh, dear moon-citizen, it is the new presidential scandalfest - a mutual dirty and murky linen plus underpants public laundering of sorts. It has become a street fight with little to hide, scanty to hold on to. The late afrobeat legend, Fela Anikulapo Kuti, coined it "roforofo" fight. How true of Aso Rock! The media celebrate it as Presidential Roforofo!!
Patience has its virtue: Nigerians will come out of this messy and mesmerising scandal a richer and saner nation. We have a good chance of recovering the political space from rent-seekers, do-gooders and miscreants, and reclaim a reasonable portion of looted resources. EFCC has so promised. We must watch.
Who now wants to contest on the basis of erstwhile Aso Villa endorsements (or its counterparts in states), or by scaling the public's present "aware" scrutiny? This is the bounden burden of all our aspirants! Godfatherism and garrison politics be now tainted and damned. Counsel: Those short-sighted name-dropping paperweights better listen to the music of our noon. Interestingly, Col Ahmadu Ali, the PDP (which faction?) chairman, has vowed that Abuja will no longer choose or "impose" candidates on the grassroots! Hear, hear. How time changes....all things!
You seek office? Check ya history.
Want our votes? Watch ya company.
Got the post? Mind ya work.
Pray, all the above will help or haunt you. And all temporary gains will dissolve into excruciating pains in the fullness of time. Incumbency or no incumbency, the people will win in the end. That is the power of time. Watch out.
Future players can't, shouldn't, be counseled. The proverbial cane that thrashed their seniors remains enscounced in the loft. It will descend with generous ferocity in their own moments of heist! Why pretend?
The lessons are writ large in our public domain. What be prompt this warning, do you ask? Oh, dear moon-citizen, it is the new presidential scandalfest - a mutual dirty and murky linen plus underpants public laundering of sorts. It has become a street fight with little to hide, scanty to hold on to. The late afrobeat legend, Fela Anikulapo Kuti, coined it "roforofo" fight. How true of Aso Rock! The media celebrate it as Presidential Roforofo!!
Patience has its virtue: Nigerians will come out of this messy and mesmerising scandal a richer and saner nation. We have a good chance of recovering the political space from rent-seekers, do-gooders and miscreants, and reclaim a reasonable portion of looted resources. EFCC has so promised. We must watch.
Who now wants to contest on the basis of erstwhile Aso Villa endorsements (or its counterparts in states), or by scaling the public's present "aware" scrutiny? This is the bounden burden of all our aspirants! Godfatherism and garrison politics be now tainted and damned. Counsel: Those short-sighted name-dropping paperweights better listen to the music of our noon. Interestingly, Col Ahmadu Ali, the PDP (which faction?) chairman, has vowed that Abuja will no longer choose or "impose" candidates on the grassroots! Hear, hear. How time changes....all things!
You seek office? Check ya history.
Want our votes? Watch ya company.
Got the post? Mind ya work.
Pray, all the above will help or haunt you. And all temporary gains will dissolve into excruciating pains in the fullness of time. Incumbency or no incumbency, the people will win in the end. That is the power of time. Watch out.
Tuesday, September 05, 2006
Did The JOKERS Hear?
You know we have some die-hard players and spoil-sports who never give in or give up on their dastardly schemes. They exist everywhere. But in our land, they are buoyant.
With regard to the interim national nonsense, sorry, government, I applaud President Obasanjo for calling both the plot and its proponents by their right name: EVIL. Period.
We hope they heard the president. This must be the end of that straying. Let the media give them a wide berth, and add a blackout to the president's knock-out punch on them.
Again, did they hear???
With regard to the interim national nonsense, sorry, government, I applaud President Obasanjo for calling both the plot and its proponents by their right name: EVIL. Period.
We hope they heard the president. This must be the end of that straying. Let the media give them a wide berth, and add a blackout to the president's knock-out punch on them.
Again, did they hear???
Monday, August 28, 2006
Political Rallies Should Begin
In view of the announcement by INEC that campaigns would start from December 2006, we do advise our numerous political parties to embark on:
a) Membership Drive
b) Candidates Recruitment and Screening
c) Diaspora Mobilization
d) Alliance and Merger Deals
e) Voter Education and Motivation
All thes should be entrenched and conveyed in immediate and extensive POLITICAL RALLIES nationwide.
Let the land buzz and rhyme. 2007 be real!
a) Membership Drive
b) Candidates Recruitment and Screening
c) Diaspora Mobilization
d) Alliance and Merger Deals
e) Voter Education and Motivation
All thes should be entrenched and conveyed in immediate and extensive POLITICAL RALLIES nationwide.
Let the land buzz and rhyme. 2007 be real!
Wednesday, August 16, 2006
INEC: Cash At Last!
Better late than never. Now that about 35 billion naira has been released to the electoral commission, let the real ACTION commence! INEC must work doubly hard to shame its critics. Okay, to reassure them...and us all.
For the voters, let's be patient with the system, without being complacent. No doubt, agitations from all quarters, including INEC's critics, brought this funds' release. We must watch out for any and all other booby-traps. We shall give no inch! We shall take no dime! We will claim our due!!
And, yes, the VIGIL continues!!!
For the voters, let's be patient with the system, without being complacent. No doubt, agitations from all quarters, including INEC's critics, brought this funds' release. We must watch out for any and all other booby-traps. We shall give no inch! We shall take no dime! We will claim our due!!
And, yes, the VIGIL continues!!!
Monday, August 14, 2006
Time For Political Code Summit
No kidding. No beating about the bush. No dilly-dally. It's time to ACT.
If you follow the political developments in the land, you cannot be neutral in thoughts or words. If you be a politician, you're entitled to be concerned, troubled and... scared. And you better be prepared, and prayerful. Times are testy. The terrain is tortuous. The tests be treacherous.
All are at risk. All.
As our elders did before, when the jungle jolts, you hunt in teams: safe bands that breathe you confidence, and bring you home as one. Let the call go out tonight that all politicians seek home as one, and may no-one breach the song of hope and honour again. A political summit to set the CODE of practice for all political players must now hold at dawn. The dawn, this time, is the bold rigorous firmament in all our stars which holds us as ONE, and folds us for ALL. The dawn that must hide not the wolf, a dawn that must tear all the shades of the monstrous past. A new and enchanting dawn! Breachers must be sanctioned, and breaches repaired. Firmly. Promptly.
All be at risk. All.
Politicians are not magicians. They are political engineers, technicians and opticians. If they be crippled by selves, God help us! If they be muffled at dawn, God help them! Be they blind...all be truly doomed! They must blink not, tonight.
We pray, as we must, for the wisdom of yore. May this tribe know their rights, and what be so trite. May one right be all right, and no right be more right than the rights of all. All souls.
So, the SUMMIT be due! All change.
If you follow the political developments in the land, you cannot be neutral in thoughts or words. If you be a politician, you're entitled to be concerned, troubled and... scared. And you better be prepared, and prayerful. Times are testy. The terrain is tortuous. The tests be treacherous.
All are at risk. All.
As our elders did before, when the jungle jolts, you hunt in teams: safe bands that breathe you confidence, and bring you home as one. Let the call go out tonight that all politicians seek home as one, and may no-one breach the song of hope and honour again. A political summit to set the CODE of practice for all political players must now hold at dawn. The dawn, this time, is the bold rigorous firmament in all our stars which holds us as ONE, and folds us for ALL. The dawn that must hide not the wolf, a dawn that must tear all the shades of the monstrous past. A new and enchanting dawn! Breachers must be sanctioned, and breaches repaired. Firmly. Promptly.
All be at risk. All.
Politicians are not magicians. They are political engineers, technicians and opticians. If they be crippled by selves, God help us! If they be muffled at dawn, God help them! Be they blind...all be truly doomed! They must blink not, tonight.
We pray, as we must, for the wisdom of yore. May this tribe know their rights, and what be so trite. May one right be all right, and no right be more right than the rights of all. All souls.
So, the SUMMIT be due! All change.
Tuesday, August 01, 2006
Who's Running, Who Is Not?
We must ask every player to put their voice to their face in this serious business of our nation's "Governance from 2007". No more masquerading, please.
Save for a properly-constituted and official Campaign Office, no one else should speak for any of the candidates/contestants. Enough of all the speculations, insinuations and innuendoes, please. If anyone wants to contest, let them speak for themselves!
This August must be for qualitative and august players - important thinkers who want to serve and, thus, seek office to actualise their dream. Let them come out boldly and assuredly. Let them be the ones asking for help. We 've had enough of those hungry canvassers and fortune flies, buzzing around money-bags and dis-interested politicians. It is not their business at all. Why mourn more than the bereaved...or be more catholic than the pope!!
I have no problem with strategic recruitment and even the so-called drafting of good materials for elective and appointive office. But it should be decent and pragmatic. It should not be for a show or for privilege. All the media circus hitherto should end. Who is interested should run and who be not self-motivating need no begging!
Politics, as the business of invading our national vaults, is over. If the jokers and rent-seekers know not, let the targetted souls tell them. Besides, we've had enough of "reluctant leaders"!!
From now on, people, we need only the measured and meaningful voices of ACTUAL PLAYERS. The political parties need to ensure and enforce compliance with political best practices. We do need order and urgent sanity in the arena. Drive the polluters and all their odium out of town! NOW.
As I have always believed, the MEDIA should help us by screening out the noise-makers and charlatans. From this Month of August, enough is finally enough.
Save for a properly-constituted and official Campaign Office, no one else should speak for any of the candidates/contestants. Enough of all the speculations, insinuations and innuendoes, please. If anyone wants to contest, let them speak for themselves!
This August must be for qualitative and august players - important thinkers who want to serve and, thus, seek office to actualise their dream. Let them come out boldly and assuredly. Let them be the ones asking for help. We 've had enough of those hungry canvassers and fortune flies, buzzing around money-bags and dis-interested politicians. It is not their business at all. Why mourn more than the bereaved...or be more catholic than the pope!!
I have no problem with strategic recruitment and even the so-called drafting of good materials for elective and appointive office. But it should be decent and pragmatic. It should not be for a show or for privilege. All the media circus hitherto should end. Who is interested should run and who be not self-motivating need no begging!
Politics, as the business of invading our national vaults, is over. If the jokers and rent-seekers know not, let the targetted souls tell them. Besides, we've had enough of "reluctant leaders"!!
From now on, people, we need only the measured and meaningful voices of ACTUAL PLAYERS. The political parties need to ensure and enforce compliance with political best practices. We do need order and urgent sanity in the arena. Drive the polluters and all their odium out of town! NOW.
As I have always believed, the MEDIA should help us by screening out the noise-makers and charlatans. From this Month of August, enough is finally enough.
Make August Da Month!
An APPEAL. My plea to all: Make this Month of AUGUST the Month! Make haste slowly but so surely the weak will pick strength, the strong will pile grit. Make hate all lonely and slate CHANGE for all... as cake of life. Towards 2007, Make August da MONTH!
The blast-off for true political contests and people-centred electioneering held in May - after the famed demise of Third Term. The pace must now gain speed and be given speed. The tempo and tenor must rise. The place and space must widen and be widened. We await the gladiators.
But the debate, this time, must be just about a two-in-one point: NIGERIA & Nigerians. Full stop. Anyone having a problem with such basic single-mindedness should please do us a small favour: Stay home!
For true citizens, proud nationals and real patriots, the time be NOW, the month be AUGUST, the reason be JUSTICE. Just as simple as dat!
And to finally silence both the worried voices and all dem derailers, let's cut the noise by biting the proverbial politicl bullet. Let it be now, and from this First Day of August, 2006.
Come on, people, let's Make AUGUST da Month of CHANGE!
The blast-off for true political contests and people-centred electioneering held in May - after the famed demise of Third Term. The pace must now gain speed and be given speed. The tempo and tenor must rise. The place and space must widen and be widened. We await the gladiators.
But the debate, this time, must be just about a two-in-one point: NIGERIA & Nigerians. Full stop. Anyone having a problem with such basic single-mindedness should please do us a small favour: Stay home!
For true citizens, proud nationals and real patriots, the time be NOW, the month be AUGUST, the reason be JUSTICE. Just as simple as dat!
And to finally silence both the worried voices and all dem derailers, let's cut the noise by biting the proverbial politicl bullet. Let it be now, and from this First Day of August, 2006.
Come on, people, let's Make AUGUST da Month of CHANGE!
Mind Not The Taste
Politics everywhere is unpalatable. It has its splices and spices. It thrives on hush, hurt and howls. Pray why, it has its many ups and several downs. In the end, dear player, it stays, it says and it pays. Have always been.
So, when I hear the usual refrain about how dirty politics is, and why decent people should give it a wide berth, I smile. Pray, are we giving governance to "dirty" or "indecent" people, then? I'm sure we aren't. Pray, when will it become decent, then? Only when or as soon as we field the needed critical mass of "non-dirty", as well as decidedly-decent and consciously-clean players.
The total number of "KEY" elective and appointive offices in the land is less than 100,000. To find and instal them is not nuclear science, it is commonsense. Just community in humanity.
Hey, in a country of 150 million we sure can pull that through, can't we?
So, when I hear the usual refrain about how dirty politics is, and why decent people should give it a wide berth, I smile. Pray, are we giving governance to "dirty" or "indecent" people, then? I'm sure we aren't. Pray, when will it become decent, then? Only when or as soon as we field the needed critical mass of "non-dirty", as well as decidedly-decent and consciously-clean players.
The total number of "KEY" elective and appointive offices in the land is less than 100,000. To find and instal them is not nuclear science, it is commonsense. Just community in humanity.
Hey, in a country of 150 million we sure can pull that through, can't we?
Thursday, July 27, 2006
INTERIM....what?
Let all those who are behind the baseless JOKE please stop it o! As President Obasanjo would say, this nonsense is going too far!! But, knowing our politicians, you can hardly put anything past them!!! Many are simply spineless....as the Third Term misadventure fully advertised.
What is the basis or rationale for anyone contemplating an inconclusive and/or botched 2007 Elections? Who says? Shouldn't our energies and prayers be positively primed for its success?
Anyone proposing an "interim national government" (INC) must be a dreamer. May they wake up, or be woken up. No such dream will come to pass. Never!
Those who are interested in NIGERIA and her glory should kindly help cure these "creeping cynics" (or are they candidates for sedition trial?!) of their anti-elections malaria. They need to be purged of all neo-third-term viruses, and promptly innoculated with potent pro-democracy vaccines. Let their village people "talk" to them o!
Whatever happens, the PDP (especially the Ali faction) must pronounce now that it is not in the thick of this treasonable voyage. Let Chairman Ali whip them with his legendary BBC-interview kind of "description"! We wait.
Failing which the president should take charge and quell the quissling thought right away.
All 40 (so far!) registered political parties should issue joint and separate condemnation of the idea, and declare full support for/embrace of sustainable democracy through regular, timely and on-time elections. They should specifically uphold/protect the non-negotiable status of the 2007 Elections. No going back. Whosoever cannot bear the democratic heat should get out of the political kitchen!
And, oh yes, we do wait.
What is the basis or rationale for anyone contemplating an inconclusive and/or botched 2007 Elections? Who says? Shouldn't our energies and prayers be positively primed for its success?
Anyone proposing an "interim national government" (INC) must be a dreamer. May they wake up, or be woken up. No such dream will come to pass. Never!
Those who are interested in NIGERIA and her glory should kindly help cure these "creeping cynics" (or are they candidates for sedition trial?!) of their anti-elections malaria. They need to be purged of all neo-third-term viruses, and promptly innoculated with potent pro-democracy vaccines. Let their village people "talk" to them o!
Whatever happens, the PDP (especially the Ali faction) must pronounce now that it is not in the thick of this treasonable voyage. Let Chairman Ali whip them with his legendary BBC-interview kind of "description"! We wait.
Failing which the president should take charge and quell the quissling thought right away.
All 40 (so far!) registered political parties should issue joint and separate condemnation of the idea, and declare full support for/embrace of sustainable democracy through regular, timely and on-time elections. They should specifically uphold/protect the non-negotiable status of the 2007 Elections. No going back. Whosoever cannot bear the democratic heat should get out of the political kitchen!
And, oh yes, we do wait.
Saturday, July 22, 2006
Day-Dreamers!
There are still some politicians and die-hard hangers-on who can't strike out on their own. They revel in rent-seeking and name-dropping. This has of course buttered their proverbial, metaphorical and physical bread before now. Not anymore!
Latest gist? They angle to be "anointed" by President Obasanjo! As tricky and tacky as that is, there is even more odium: They ignore the other political parties, the other factions (what a story!) of the ruling PDP, and.......WE - The People! Some dreamers!!
Hello o, with our VOTES, we'll pay them their dues by 2007.
Latest gist? They angle to be "anointed" by President Obasanjo! As tricky and tacky as that is, there is even more odium: They ignore the other political parties, the other factions (what a story!) of the ruling PDP, and.......WE - The People! Some dreamers!!
Hello o, with our VOTES, we'll pay them their dues by 2007.
Tuesday, July 18, 2006
Let The Media Damn Them
It's time we stopped the charade and class deceit going on in the political domain right away. The political class, especially the older hands, is perpetuating crass contempt for the electorate and all that our country demands. How on earth can the present pre-occupation with zoning benefit the electoral and electioneering process/endeavour? Is our problem ZONING? Whether north or south, east or west, where are the candidates? Let's have the menu, then leave us to choose!
The case is so bad it now permeates all levels of the bid for office. Instead of telling us about both themselves and their offerings, so we can compare and contrast, they are busy wasting our time with zoning inanities. Let it be known that we are fully sensitive to the sentiments and sensibilities of that matter, just that it should come in after the question of competence. It must not and need not be used to obfuscate the crucial debates about good governance, which should be raging right now.
A nauseating aspect of the present miasma is that even those who are not contesting, or clearly ineligible to contest, are the cheerleaders of the distractive chorus. They clog up the public space and pollute our ear-drums, why? Many of those who got us where we are today are mounting the soap-box, heating up the polity, with provocative and primitive posturing - fanning embers of primordial hate and stoking fires of religious bigotry. Why? Enough of these circus shows.
Now to my quarrel and plea: Why is the media succumbing to the blackmail? Can't we fill pages or airtime without these voices? Is there a grand design to not x-ray our state of affairs, to not scrutinize the contenders, to muddy the waters so any "catch" will do? And thus lead us to the worst choices? We must dread. The Nigerian Press has never failed us, they should now NOT do so. Let the MEDIA stop them, NOW!
My suggestion: No headlines for the zonal debates, anymore. Put a cap on them, even for total coverage - 10% of all news. Take a lead on the real issues - subject by subject, sector by sector, area by area, party by party. We must analyze the state of the nation, the state of the states, the state of the local government areas. Set them side by side the annual and cummulative budgets, and ask the QUESTIONS. Then assess the contestants based on their own road-map for either CHANGE or IMPROVEMENT.
All Nigerians must ignore these cheap gimmicks and time-wasters. Enough of the charade!
The case is so bad it now permeates all levels of the bid for office. Instead of telling us about both themselves and their offerings, so we can compare and contrast, they are busy wasting our time with zoning inanities. Let it be known that we are fully sensitive to the sentiments and sensibilities of that matter, just that it should come in after the question of competence. It must not and need not be used to obfuscate the crucial debates about good governance, which should be raging right now.
A nauseating aspect of the present miasma is that even those who are not contesting, or clearly ineligible to contest, are the cheerleaders of the distractive chorus. They clog up the public space and pollute our ear-drums, why? Many of those who got us where we are today are mounting the soap-box, heating up the polity, with provocative and primitive posturing - fanning embers of primordial hate and stoking fires of religious bigotry. Why? Enough of these circus shows.
Now to my quarrel and plea: Why is the media succumbing to the blackmail? Can't we fill pages or airtime without these voices? Is there a grand design to not x-ray our state of affairs, to not scrutinize the contenders, to muddy the waters so any "catch" will do? And thus lead us to the worst choices? We must dread. The Nigerian Press has never failed us, they should now NOT do so. Let the MEDIA stop them, NOW!
My suggestion: No headlines for the zonal debates, anymore. Put a cap on them, even for total coverage - 10% of all news. Take a lead on the real issues - subject by subject, sector by sector, area by area, party by party. We must analyze the state of the nation, the state of the states, the state of the local government areas. Set them side by side the annual and cummulative budgets, and ask the QUESTIONS. Then assess the contestants based on their own road-map for either CHANGE or IMPROVEMENT.
All Nigerians must ignore these cheap gimmicks and time-wasters. Enough of the charade!
Thursday, July 13, 2006
Where Are The Women?
While the political terrain is hazy and unfolding, it bears some historical traits. Many people are loafing around, looking for some Iroko to latch on to or hide under. Many more are idling away, hoping that they would or may or can find a berthing in whatever political party shows/has the proverbial bandwagon trawl. How they misread our new horizon!
As for the women, they are yet to learn. In the past, they were contented with being hustlersin the "Women's Wing" of political parties. And they lost out. Now, as before, they seem to be relying on government - through the women's ministries - to organize and strategize. It didn't serve well before, it won't work today. They must get out there, join the fray, and work the field.
No short-cuts, no free ride, no leeching! All must pay the cost of business to reap in this steely business.... or beg for appointment, when all posts be won!
In this tough and rough terrain, only the determined will arrive the Podium of Victory. The real ones, quality and qualitative, period. So sisters, where are the gazelles...and the amazons?
As for the women, they are yet to learn. In the past, they were contented with being hustlersin the "Women's Wing" of political parties. And they lost out. Now, as before, they seem to be relying on government - through the women's ministries - to organize and strategize. It didn't serve well before, it won't work today. They must get out there, join the fray, and work the field.
No short-cuts, no free ride, no leeching! All must pay the cost of business to reap in this steely business.... or beg for appointment, when all posts be won!
In this tough and rough terrain, only the determined will arrive the Podium of Victory. The real ones, quality and qualitative, period. So sisters, where are the gazelles...and the amazons?
Saturday, July 08, 2006
Candidates and Self-Censorship
Strong Message: If you are not truly qualified for elective office, don't run in 2007. If you are nominated, decline. If you are sponsored, withdraw. If you be stampeded, withstand. It should not matter if others like it, agree or not. It should sure matter that you be true to conscience and country.
Strong Advice: Unless you are scrupulously qualified for quality performance, don't lobby, seek or gun for appointive office. No matter what, accept not to serve. Be true to man and mission.
Tough? You bet! Will be more than hell if you be weak enough to trounce this code. Pure hell.
Strong Advice: Unless you are scrupulously qualified for quality performance, don't lobby, seek or gun for appointive office. No matter what, accept not to serve. Be true to man and mission.
Tough? You bet! Will be more than hell if you be weak enough to trounce this code. Pure hell.
Friday, July 07, 2006
These Politicians!
They have refused to address us on ISSUES! They are busy scheming "factionalisations" and a million plots! They are more interested in "owning" or "controlling" their political party and its coercive purports! Getting quite corrosive. These politicians, when will they learn?
Let them know that it shall be not business-as-usual, again. It shall be merit-before-message, and proof-before-passage. Let them tow the line of honour and succour....and bring both to the long, very long-suffering voters of Nigeria. We, the people....who must be served.
While we love our humour and rib-cracking jokes, it is stretching things for them to serve us the ridiculous macabre dance of political clowning straining our national robe. And at the horrendous cost of 2007? May our Mighty God promptly, please, FORBID!
Let them know that it shall be not business-as-usual, again. It shall be merit-before-message, and proof-before-passage. Let them tow the line of honour and succour....and bring both to the long, very long-suffering voters of Nigeria. We, the people....who must be served.
While we love our humour and rib-cracking jokes, it is stretching things for them to serve us the ridiculous macabre dance of political clowning straining our national robe. And at the horrendous cost of 2007? May our Mighty God promptly, please, FORBID!
Governors Should Start Winding Down
It is time for Nigerian governors to start winding down their activities. They should take a cue from the president. Drop all droppables. Right now, nothing grandiose need be embarked upon. They need to start load-shedding, even as they personally intensify projects-implementation and value-maximisation.
It is unacceptable to pile on any unnecessary liabilities, or try to mop up by raiding the treasury. Walls have ears!
It is unacceptable to pile on any unnecessary liabilities, or try to mop up by raiding the treasury. Walls have ears!
Friday, June 23, 2006
Let's Confront The "Generational Change" Question
Africans have no quarrels with age. We revere, venerate and celebrate our elders. So may it be, so shall it be, for aye. All elders are accorded this high honour, until they disprove and disown the status!
One sure station at which elders easily unravel and discredit themselves is politics. It is the open marketplace in which nothing is hidden anymore. And for them elders, we mourn. Very bad sore all over the land! Yes, we must mourn.
At first we permitted the so-called learning process, teething period. But after several decades of the same shenanigans, no more! How come they know how to manipulate, break all laws with impunity, steal the thunder out of the electoral process, loot the daylight out of tight national treasuries, find and locate, and then stash obscene sums in off-shore safe havens, plus luxurious properties in the poshest neighbourhoods abroad? How come they are experts in selling our collective patrimony to themselves, using the most devious means to cleverly appropriate our commonwealth? Yet, they cannot run our affairs in consonance with their oath of office? Damn, we must now ask our elders, and be pointedly tasking about it.
Do they see what "elders" and "seniors" do elsewhere? Especially in those developed economies where they so frequent, and even made alternative home(s)? Why have our elders blocked our progress this long, this bad, this shamelessly? Answers, please...No more hedging or hiding.
Now, let's be clear and fair. There are millions of honourable and wonderful elders in the land. Indeed, we are so blessed with the stock. And that is the problem. How did the wrong ones get to take-over??? And why did they last so long on the wrong path??? Now, we be all smeared. Why and how did the multitude follow the few to sin??? Now, we be all damned.
The Chinua Achebe Foundation's interview series and other media reminiscences with senior citizens, as well as memoirs of retired persons, have been eye-openers! Lamentations galore!!!
No matter. Point now is, what next? Where is salvation, come Election 2007?
I think political parties need to take this matter on board. We must ask the pointed questions. They sh
One sure station at which elders easily unravel and discredit themselves is politics. It is the open marketplace in which nothing is hidden anymore. And for them elders, we mourn. Very bad sore all over the land! Yes, we must mourn.
At first we permitted the so-called learning process, teething period. But after several decades of the same shenanigans, no more! How come they know how to manipulate, break all laws with impunity, steal the thunder out of the electoral process, loot the daylight out of tight national treasuries, find and locate, and then stash obscene sums in off-shore safe havens, plus luxurious properties in the poshest neighbourhoods abroad? How come they are experts in selling our collective patrimony to themselves, using the most devious means to cleverly appropriate our commonwealth? Yet, they cannot run our affairs in consonance with their oath of office? Damn, we must now ask our elders, and be pointedly tasking about it.
Do they see what "elders" and "seniors" do elsewhere? Especially in those developed economies where they so frequent, and even made alternative home(s)? Why have our elders blocked our progress this long, this bad, this shamelessly? Answers, please...No more hedging or hiding.
Now, let's be clear and fair. There are millions of honourable and wonderful elders in the land. Indeed, we are so blessed with the stock. And that is the problem. How did the wrong ones get to take-over??? And why did they last so long on the wrong path??? Now, we be all smeared. Why and how did the multitude follow the few to sin??? Now, we be all damned.
The Chinua Achebe Foundation's interview series and other media reminiscences with senior citizens, as well as memoirs of retired persons, have been eye-openers! Lamentations galore!!!
No matter. Point now is, what next? Where is salvation, come Election 2007?
I think political parties need to take this matter on board. We must ask the pointed questions. They sh
Thursday, June 22, 2006
Cost of Elections (1)
We thank the president for advising all political parties to reduce the cost of seeking electoral office in Nigeria, from Election 2007. Thank you, sir!
Following the sensible limits placed on electoral spendings by parliament in the new Electoral Act, it should be clear to the parties how much we need to clean things up. I will not chastise the ruling party for the very bad example it has set in fixing such high application fees - N5m for presidential, N3m for governorship, etc - since their leader has openly opposed same in his public advice. I call for compliance. Let it be said, too, that the party wisely and commendably exempted women from all fees. Bravo!
Without putting a fine point on it, N5million will create between ten and twenty SMEs/cottage industries in any local government area of Nigeria. If such funds are extracted from candidates, even before their parties' primaries, we are already sowing the seeds of desperation, thuggery, and cut-throat contestation instead of healthy competition. Unacceptable.
May we tell our politicians that political office, whether by election or selection, is not a bazaar - not for sale. We have no room for the "highest bidder" syndrome of the ignoble past anymore. It is one reason Nigerians are clamouring for Independent Candidacy. And we will have it come the next parliament. Before then, let the parties do right: create a level playing field for all.
What do I think? All fees should be reduced to the minimum wage level, if possible; but in any case, not higher than N10,000 for presidential bids. Let the parties find better ways to screen and weed, as well as fundraise at election time.
Politics of money-bags, and godfatherism, belong to the dustbin of our dirty past! Over.
Following the sensible limits placed on electoral spendings by parliament in the new Electoral Act, it should be clear to the parties how much we need to clean things up. I will not chastise the ruling party for the very bad example it has set in fixing such high application fees - N5m for presidential, N3m for governorship, etc - since their leader has openly opposed same in his public advice. I call for compliance. Let it be said, too, that the party wisely and commendably exempted women from all fees. Bravo!
Without putting a fine point on it, N5million will create between ten and twenty SMEs/cottage industries in any local government area of Nigeria. If such funds are extracted from candidates, even before their parties' primaries, we are already sowing the seeds of desperation, thuggery, and cut-throat contestation instead of healthy competition. Unacceptable.
May we tell our politicians that political office, whether by election or selection, is not a bazaar - not for sale. We have no room for the "highest bidder" syndrome of the ignoble past anymore. It is one reason Nigerians are clamouring for Independent Candidacy. And we will have it come the next parliament. Before then, let the parties do right: create a level playing field for all.
What do I think? All fees should be reduced to the minimum wage level, if possible; but in any case, not higher than N10,000 for presidential bids. Let the parties find better ways to screen and weed, as well as fundraise at election time.
Politics of money-bags, and godfatherism, belong to the dustbin of our dirty past! Over.
Let's Warn Abuja
The president has, predictedly, disowned the Third Termites! Chief Olusegun Obasanjo told the 'Associated Press' that he was never interested in, and thus not intended on, the failed tenure elongation bid!! Yet, he allowed the monster to tendentiously over-heat the polity, and badly damage his presidency!!! We must shudder.
Right now, therefore, let's warn Abuja. The dark forces within the ruling party and the corridors of power are at it again. They are using security agencies to settle political scores, mounting weird vendettas, and harassing the media. They must be stopped. And removed.
If the president does not rein them in, let the National Assembly do so. Fast.
Abuja, beware! No more evil, please.
Right now, therefore, let's warn Abuja. The dark forces within the ruling party and the corridors of power are at it again. They are using security agencies to settle political scores, mounting weird vendettas, and harassing the media. They must be stopped. And removed.
If the president does not rein them in, let the National Assembly do so. Fast.
Abuja, beware! No more evil, please.
Tuesday, May 30, 2006
Our Budgets...In Percentages
Despite our signing up to the UN Millennium Development Goals, MDGs, we have yet to assign the right percentages of our National and States Budgets to these targets. For example, education has never gotten its UNESCO-stipulated 26%. Agriculture has been wallowing in low rates, while health has haemorrhaged consistently. The mismatch has been intriguing!
Despite a National Book Development Policy/Project, on which we have obtained foreign loans, aids and grants, the Obasanjo Administration raised import duty on printing paper from 5% to 20% in 2006! The minister of education has admitted that it was an embarrassing mistake that is being corrected. Some observers believe it was meant to stifle both the press and the vocal academic unions. No matter. But it speaks volumes of this out-going administration, in which both the president and vice president are education proprietors!
Is parliament free of blame? Not by a long shot! They appropriate funds. It is clearly a matter for regret that the so-called people's representatives could be so complicit. Yes, there are many standing charges of non/half-hearted-implementation of budgets by the executive, but nothing concrete was done to assert compliance. Afterall, the budgets were encased in laws! The ruling party was simply lawless, period. And this was a recurrent charge during the hot "Third Term" debates in the National Assembly. Belated acrimony...but welcomed.
As we head to 2007, let this issue be a cardinal debate and deliberate subject of contestation. We need to sensitize and conscientize all Nigerians to its sacred, salient and strategic status. Let us hold firm to this core ingredient of democracy and good governance. We should be short-changed no more! No.
Never again!
Despite a National Book Development Policy/Project, on which we have obtained foreign loans, aids and grants, the Obasanjo Administration raised import duty on printing paper from 5% to 20% in 2006! The minister of education has admitted that it was an embarrassing mistake that is being corrected. Some observers believe it was meant to stifle both the press and the vocal academic unions. No matter. But it speaks volumes of this out-going administration, in which both the president and vice president are education proprietors!
Is parliament free of blame? Not by a long shot! They appropriate funds. It is clearly a matter for regret that the so-called people's representatives could be so complicit. Yes, there are many standing charges of non/half-hearted-implementation of budgets by the executive, but nothing concrete was done to assert compliance. Afterall, the budgets were encased in laws! The ruling party was simply lawless, period. And this was a recurrent charge during the hot "Third Term" debates in the National Assembly. Belated acrimony...but welcomed.
As we head to 2007, let this issue be a cardinal debate and deliberate subject of contestation. We need to sensitize and conscientize all Nigerians to its sacred, salient and strategic status. Let us hold firm to this core ingredient of democracy and good governance. We should be short-changed no more! No.
Never again!
Saturday, May 27, 2006
Point of Order (1)
The political class has started again o!
For goodness sake, when are we going to learn??? Why don't we concentrate on issues, policies, ideologies, stakes and timeline, now....Then, worry about zoning, quota, gender, etc. later???
Those who ruined the past are now busy dictating and derailing the pace, the platforms and polluting the polity. Nigerians are being deliberately confused. We must stop them.
Right now, let only candidates speak. Supporters and godfathers should hold their peace. If you are contesting, tell us what you have in stock, and contend with your competitors. Let the political parties hit the recruitment trail, with their full manifestoes. All others should be lining up behind their favourite parties or candidates, and let's have robust debates by those who seek office and votes. 2007 is not just about the presidency. It should be more about the states and local governments. Time for accountability of both office-holders and their present parties.
If we don't debate the STATES, how can we determine which governors (or LG chairmen) are good materials for higher office - say, senate or presidency? How then do we pressure the ICPC, EFCC and Code of Conduct Bureau/Tribunal to act on all 1999 & 2003 frauds/infringements?
May we also realise that this unproductive approach to politicking may be another arrow in the quiver of the ruling party to achieve 'Third Term' by other means. A ploy to derail the proper or due process of electioneering! Have we so easily forgotten the bribe-for-vote saga? And the boasts of its proponents that all is not yet over??? Better not o!
Finally, the MEDIA must save us from the unfocussed political class. They should help set the agenda. Ignore the self-serving headline-seekers. Play down this whole noise about zoning or no zoning. Since it is not yet in the consttution, it needs to be negotiated. When that time comes, the quality of all candidates on parade will matter. Manifestoes will matter. Parties will matter.
In other words, these be the conditions-precedent for successful bargaining. Let's go for THEM! Right now, thank you. Dump the joke.
For goodness sake, when are we going to learn??? Why don't we concentrate on issues, policies, ideologies, stakes and timeline, now....Then, worry about zoning, quota, gender, etc. later???
Those who ruined the past are now busy dictating and derailing the pace, the platforms and polluting the polity. Nigerians are being deliberately confused. We must stop them.
Right now, let only candidates speak. Supporters and godfathers should hold their peace. If you are contesting, tell us what you have in stock, and contend with your competitors. Let the political parties hit the recruitment trail, with their full manifestoes. All others should be lining up behind their favourite parties or candidates, and let's have robust debates by those who seek office and votes. 2007 is not just about the presidency. It should be more about the states and local governments. Time for accountability of both office-holders and their present parties.
If we don't debate the STATES, how can we determine which governors (or LG chairmen) are good materials for higher office - say, senate or presidency? How then do we pressure the ICPC, EFCC and Code of Conduct Bureau/Tribunal to act on all 1999 & 2003 frauds/infringements?
May we also realise that this unproductive approach to politicking may be another arrow in the quiver of the ruling party to achieve 'Third Term' by other means. A ploy to derail the proper or due process of electioneering! Have we so easily forgotten the bribe-for-vote saga? And the boasts of its proponents that all is not yet over??? Better not o!
Finally, the MEDIA must save us from the unfocussed political class. They should help set the agenda. Ignore the self-serving headline-seekers. Play down this whole noise about zoning or no zoning. Since it is not yet in the consttution, it needs to be negotiated. When that time comes, the quality of all candidates on parade will matter. Manifestoes will matter. Parties will matter.
In other words, these be the conditions-precedent for successful bargaining. Let's go for THEM! Right now, thank you. Dump the joke.
Thursday, May 25, 2006
As For The 1999 Constitution....
Political parties must now conduct their own survey of how best to rejig the present constitution for true federalism, and a greater, better Nigeria. After this inhouse chore, they should go hold strategic consultations with like-minded competitors with a view to forming grand coalitions for power-gaining and manifesto-cum-mandate delivery.
All political parties must tell Nigerians how they intend to enrich and enhance our constitution, including subjecting the final outcome to a national referendum. No short-cuts. No ambush.
One thing we the electorate owe them is our vote. If they get it, they have the first hurdle out of the way. When they propose the amendments, the parliaments will robustly debate and decide. Then the people will vote on a clause-by-clause referendum basis. What passes is passed, what doesn't is dropped. Maybe for another term.
The great benefit in this is that the people will become hugely conversant with, and more able to defend, their constitution. Great for political education, grassroots motivation, and democracy.
And the clincher is: We've got FOUR years to FIX it!!!
All political parties must tell Nigerians how they intend to enrich and enhance our constitution, including subjecting the final outcome to a national referendum. No short-cuts. No ambush.
One thing we the electorate owe them is our vote. If they get it, they have the first hurdle out of the way. When they propose the amendments, the parliaments will robustly debate and decide. Then the people will vote on a clause-by-clause referendum basis. What passes is passed, what doesn't is dropped. Maybe for another term.
The great benefit in this is that the people will become hugely conversant with, and more able to defend, their constitution. Great for political education, grassroots motivation, and democracy.
And the clincher is: We've got FOUR years to FIX it!!!
Thursday, May 18, 2006
May The Campaigns Commence!
President Obasanjo and the People's Democratic Party (PDP) made the right decision today by accepting defeat on the Third Term Agenda. The president has ordered his members to proceed with campaigns towards the 2007 Elections. Long overdue, but better late than never.
We've stated here before, as now, that 2007 is REAL. And it will determine a million things in our great country. Note it. Huge surprises are afoot. Weeks away.
With the new-found freedom extracted from the jaws of the still-born Tenure Elongation crusade, now declaimed, denounced or disowned by the president, Nigerians will certainly be reluctant to over-invest political dominance in one party in the immediate future. Unless it is a grand coalition to, for example, punish the ruling party for this unwarranted fiasco. Thus, let all who feel confident of serving this country set forth on the campaign train. Niche players should be emboldened. Bright prospects.
Prediction: Real multi-party democracy is on its way in Nigeria. No question.
We've stated here before, as now, that 2007 is REAL. And it will determine a million things in our great country. Note it. Huge surprises are afoot. Weeks away.
With the new-found freedom extracted from the jaws of the still-born Tenure Elongation crusade, now declaimed, denounced or disowned by the president, Nigerians will certainly be reluctant to over-invest political dominance in one party in the immediate future. Unless it is a grand coalition to, for example, punish the ruling party for this unwarranted fiasco. Thus, let all who feel confident of serving this country set forth on the campaign train. Niche players should be emboldened. Bright prospects.
Prediction: Real multi-party democracy is on its way in Nigeria. No question.
Thursday, May 11, 2006
Women Arise!
I am happy that an overwhelming majority of our legislators in the National Assembly support the Independent Candidates clause in the ongoing constitutional review exercise. Good news for Nigerian women! No question.
Let our professionals and community workers/leaders now begin to ready themselves for the 2007 Elections. Nigerians are ready to teach the political class and their parties a lesson. We've had enough of their arrogance, ineptitude and fraud. Enough. God knows.
Now, at last, there shall be no need for their say-so to fill the Beijing Quota of female gender representation in public office and governance! Get set, ladies, a new day is dawning. Be there!!
Let our professionals and community workers/leaders now begin to ready themselves for the 2007 Elections. Nigerians are ready to teach the political class and their parties a lesson. We've had enough of their arrogance, ineptitude and fraud. Enough. God knows.
Now, at last, there shall be no need for their say-so to fill the Beijing Quota of female gender representation in public office and governance! Get set, ladies, a new day is dawning. Be there!!
Monday, May 08, 2006
Anti-Corruption Renaissance
This is a simple Note To The File. With what we now read, see and hear, there is no doubt that the current anti-corruption war is inadequate. Perhaps skewed. Maybe badly compromised. No matter.
Let all tempers cool, the tempests subside. There be time enough for redress, room enough for repairs. The key? Every political party, and all contestants must commit to a complete overhaul and revamp of the anti-corruption crusade, come 2007.
People must answer for their actions and non-actions. Bad cases must be revisited for justice. All files and felons will be ferreted. Yes. We must be free, true and fair. And we must install the "whistle blowers" mechanisms to strenghten our system. Plus plea-bargains, when and where appropriate. Let the Freedom of Information Act fly and bite. Bond with INTERPOL. By 2007.
Commit.
Let all tempers cool, the tempests subside. There be time enough for redress, room enough for repairs. The key? Every political party, and all contestants must commit to a complete overhaul and revamp of the anti-corruption crusade, come 2007.
People must answer for their actions and non-actions. Bad cases must be revisited for justice. All files and felons will be ferreted. Yes. We must be free, true and fair. And we must install the "whistle blowers" mechanisms to strenghten our system. Plus plea-bargains, when and where appropriate. Let the Freedom of Information Act fly and bite. Bond with INTERPOL. By 2007.
Commit.
Wednesday, April 26, 2006
Niger Delta as election topic Number ONE!
INEC, the electoral commission, has challenged political parties to step up the race and rantings towards the 2007 goal post. I applaud.
My own challenge to the politicians is to make first things FIRST. In our case, it is the NIGER DELTA! Oil provides 90% of our national revenue and commands almost 98% of our quality exports. That is why a sneeze in the oil-bearing Delta convulses a cold in all of Nigeria. Rightly so.
Oil & gas are core to our humanity today in a million ways. Their supply should be affordable and assured. Otherwise the world, as we know it now, will grind to a debilitating halt. May God forbid. Which is why global attention focuses on the petroleum zones of the world. And why any hint of crisis in those nations send oil prices upwards! Painfully so.
Both for the world's economy and our own longevity, the Niger Delta needs to be stable and safe. If not, we diminish our standing and damage our reputation as a responsible member of the commity of nations. We would soon revert to the inglorious status of a pariah, no matter what we profess. If the world sees us as a substantive cause of price hikes, then we become a threat to all humanity. Can we afford that? Just perish the thought!
When President Bush told Americans this week that some of the countries the US relies upon for oil supplies either have unstable governments or are hostile to his country (more like his administration, we must assume!), I wanted to ask President Obasanjo to pick which category he gleefully fitted Nigeria into, during his recent photo-call at the White House! Such pity. For all of SEVEN profitable (in terms of oil revenues) years, this democratic dispensation failed to make any headway in the Niger Delta Question. No matter. They are going, anyway. And no tears.
Now, let all those who wish to seek our votes and mandate in 2007 start the debate: What do you plan for the lands and peoples of the region? How will you accomplish it? And when? At what cost? Let the media take up the challenge, and set the agenda...NOW!
Any party or politician falling short of this priority pact should be consigned to the back-waters. We've had enough charlatans, rent-seekers and puppets. Let the real patriots step forward. Our nation bleeds. And we need HEALERS.
My own challenge to the politicians is to make first things FIRST. In our case, it is the NIGER DELTA! Oil provides 90% of our national revenue and commands almost 98% of our quality exports. That is why a sneeze in the oil-bearing Delta convulses a cold in all of Nigeria. Rightly so.
Oil & gas are core to our humanity today in a million ways. Their supply should be affordable and assured. Otherwise the world, as we know it now, will grind to a debilitating halt. May God forbid. Which is why global attention focuses on the petroleum zones of the world. And why any hint of crisis in those nations send oil prices upwards! Painfully so.
Both for the world's economy and our own longevity, the Niger Delta needs to be stable and safe. If not, we diminish our standing and damage our reputation as a responsible member of the commity of nations. We would soon revert to the inglorious status of a pariah, no matter what we profess. If the world sees us as a substantive cause of price hikes, then we become a threat to all humanity. Can we afford that? Just perish the thought!
When President Bush told Americans this week that some of the countries the US relies upon for oil supplies either have unstable governments or are hostile to his country (more like his administration, we must assume!), I wanted to ask President Obasanjo to pick which category he gleefully fitted Nigeria into, during his recent photo-call at the White House! Such pity. For all of SEVEN profitable (in terms of oil revenues) years, this democratic dispensation failed to make any headway in the Niger Delta Question. No matter. They are going, anyway. And no tears.
Now, let all those who wish to seek our votes and mandate in 2007 start the debate: What do you plan for the lands and peoples of the region? How will you accomplish it? And when? At what cost? Let the media take up the challenge, and set the agenda...NOW!
Any party or politician falling short of this priority pact should be consigned to the back-waters. We've had enough charlatans, rent-seekers and puppets. Let the real patriots step forward. Our nation bleeds. And we need HEALERS.
Thursday, April 20, 2006
2007 Is REAL
Fellow Nigerians,
This is not a voice from Dream Land. This is not a hype from the Political Wilderness. This is a take from a stakeholder. Believe.
I have never been so optimistic about our democratic endeavour since the 1993 annulment saga. There is enough to make us doubt. There is enough to send us to sleep. But I say to you, get on the plough and work your dream for fatherland. The time is now. Both old and young are now burning with angst to save Nigeria. Watch.
Predictions: The political space will be opened up in May 2007 by a combination of positive forces-for-good, including the collapse of the Third Term Agenda. Political realignments will see prominent players jumping ship, and spilling the beans. Anti-corruption progress will consume some unbelievable names from unlikely sources. There will be media onslaughts among friends and public amity among foes for Nigeria's sake. News from abroad will sink some party chiefs even as several communities will disrobe/disown their erstwhile "representatives". The era of "withdrawing awards/honours" from disgraced/discredited holders is at hand!
Predictions: Some ministers (past & present) will pay executive price from the due process drawers of betrayed bureaucrats, and the private sector will be hammered by both the CBN and the fearless media. The Banks Consolidation Story is yet untold!
Predictions: The Brain Drain will yield its fruits in the 2007 season. And Rural Nigeria will hold the political lifeline of our democracy.
Keep a tab.
This is not a voice from Dream Land. This is not a hype from the Political Wilderness. This is a take from a stakeholder. Believe.
I have never been so optimistic about our democratic endeavour since the 1993 annulment saga. There is enough to make us doubt. There is enough to send us to sleep. But I say to you, get on the plough and work your dream for fatherland. The time is now. Both old and young are now burning with angst to save Nigeria. Watch.
Predictions: The political space will be opened up in May 2007 by a combination of positive forces-for-good, including the collapse of the Third Term Agenda. Political realignments will see prominent players jumping ship, and spilling the beans. Anti-corruption progress will consume some unbelievable names from unlikely sources. There will be media onslaughts among friends and public amity among foes for Nigeria's sake. News from abroad will sink some party chiefs even as several communities will disrobe/disown their erstwhile "representatives". The era of "withdrawing awards/honours" from disgraced/discredited holders is at hand!
Predictions: Some ministers (past & present) will pay executive price from the due process drawers of betrayed bureaucrats, and the private sector will be hammered by both the CBN and the fearless media. The Banks Consolidation Story is yet untold!
Predictions: The Brain Drain will yield its fruits in the 2007 season. And Rural Nigeria will hold the political lifeline of our democracy.
Keep a tab.
Wednesday, April 12, 2006
Note To INDEPENDENT Candidates
At last, and thanks to past lessons and worldwide best practices, we should be having the long overdue entrenchment of independent candidacy for political office in the Nigerian Constitution. Bravo!
This is the chance to reduce political violence, money-bag evil and trecherous godfatherism in our electoral affairs. But the really exciting part is the opportunity to attract professionals and peace-loving candidates, who are otherwise discouraged by current practices, to the soapbox.
For me, it is golden. We can now challenge NIGERIANS in the Brain Drain DIASPORA to come make landmark contributions in our nation's quest for sustainable development. The most attractive being the Baby-Boomer generations who are stable, successful and soon-to-retire from their under&about-60 of age jobs. Then the business group. Plus the nationalists and patriots who have been yearning and waiting for years. Just imagine if this clan captures half of the local government chairmanship positions in 2007. That will be pounding prospects of some 400 well-run centres of excellence! Surely we can then find 40 of them ripe enough to migrate to governorship seats in 2011...can't we?! If we apply same possibilities to the states and federal positions, things would dramatically change from 2015 for our dear NIGERIA. Believe.
For these folks, this site will be a worthwhile tool in their kit. We will help equip them with home-truths and home-keys. It's about time.
This is the chance to reduce political violence, money-bag evil and trecherous godfatherism in our electoral affairs. But the really exciting part is the opportunity to attract professionals and peace-loving candidates, who are otherwise discouraged by current practices, to the soapbox.
For me, it is golden. We can now challenge NIGERIANS in the Brain Drain DIASPORA to come make landmark contributions in our nation's quest for sustainable development. The most attractive being the Baby-Boomer generations who are stable, successful and soon-to-retire from their under&about-60 of age jobs. Then the business group. Plus the nationalists and patriots who have been yearning and waiting for years. Just imagine if this clan captures half of the local government chairmanship positions in 2007. That will be pounding prospects of some 400 well-run centres of excellence! Surely we can then find 40 of them ripe enough to migrate to governorship seats in 2011...can't we?! If we apply same possibilities to the states and federal positions, things would dramatically change from 2015 for our dear NIGERIA. Believe.
For these folks, this site will be a worthwhile tool in their kit. We will help equip them with home-truths and home-keys. It's about time.
The Sanctity of Sanity
Whoever follows the news closely these days will find the call for sanity timely and tempting. We cannot call enough or plead enough. In doing so, we must recall the past and remind the players that today will pass as well. I thought it could be depersonalised if we internalise the words and music of the poem:
This STORM
Storms rumble
in the wombs of storm
The all-clear
be a thing of joy
Storms gather
to become a storm
The all-clear
is the what to hear...
and you head your way
Storms may be storms
or storm
And we dread
Storm may be storm
and storms
So we fret...
till all storm pass over
storm away
As they go, if they go
things go
A million things
hatch, happen and close
Songs are born
Souls are lost
A million ways
clash, catch and hobble
till the storm, and its storms
pass away
This storm I see is strange
Going jejely its way
we have shot for its world
hunting its bosom at will
and taunting its many storms
When it descends
it will rock the hunter
and the humble
It will cripple our weapons
and shields
and make a mockery
of our valiant past
Eh, it will come:
But when it goes
it will take the taunter
the cheerer
and the silent crowd
apart
It will consume
Eh, it will come:
But when it goes
all will be glum
and numb
It is the theatre
of fools and tools
Each fooling and tooling
for bounding poison
And, yes, it will go:
But when it finally goes
Our ways be blighted and bright
with the price of hate
and the prize be hope
When we learn, if we learn
we'll plant a timeless tree
in the bosom of pain
to stop us from crossing
the senseless line, again!
Dear compatriots, where will you be at point-of-reckoning in the bosom of time? That was the voice of the troubled poet on 28 June 2003 at 6.06 am. It rings true TODAY!
Who wants to rule must rule out violence in all its forms, formats and formations. Who seeks our votes must stick to rules and reason. They must all, all of them, be human enough to err and humble enough to erase. We are a forgiving nation, so let no politician pollute this polity again. If you win, win. When you lose, lose. Then NIGERIA will be a win-win PROJECT for all.
It is time to start cooking up the real issues...in MANIFESTOES...so that the world can pay more and better attention to our political engineering, not the negative news we so abhor. Stay tuned.
This STORM
Storms rumble
in the wombs of storm
The all-clear
be a thing of joy
Storms gather
to become a storm
The all-clear
is the what to hear...
and you head your way
Storms may be storms
or storm
And we dread
Storm may be storm
and storms
So we fret...
till all storm pass over
storm away
As they go, if they go
things go
A million things
hatch, happen and close
Songs are born
Souls are lost
A million ways
clash, catch and hobble
till the storm, and its storms
pass away
This storm I see is strange
Going jejely its way
we have shot for its world
hunting its bosom at will
and taunting its many storms
When it descends
it will rock the hunter
and the humble
It will cripple our weapons
and shields
and make a mockery
of our valiant past
Eh, it will come:
But when it goes
it will take the taunter
the cheerer
and the silent crowd
apart
It will consume
Eh, it will come:
But when it goes
all will be glum
and numb
It is the theatre
of fools and tools
Each fooling and tooling
for bounding poison
And, yes, it will go:
But when it finally goes
Our ways be blighted and bright
with the price of hate
and the prize be hope
When we learn, if we learn
we'll plant a timeless tree
in the bosom of pain
to stop us from crossing
the senseless line, again!
Dear compatriots, where will you be at point-of-reckoning in the bosom of time? That was the voice of the troubled poet on 28 June 2003 at 6.06 am. It rings true TODAY!
Who wants to rule must rule out violence in all its forms, formats and formations. Who seeks our votes must stick to rules and reason. They must all, all of them, be human enough to err and humble enough to erase. We are a forgiving nation, so let no politician pollute this polity again. If you win, win. When you lose, lose. Then NIGERIA will be a win-win PROJECT for all.
It is time to start cooking up the real issues...in MANIFESTOES...so that the world can pay more and better attention to our political engineering, not the negative news we so abhor. Stay tuned.
Tuesday, April 11, 2006
Welcome To TOMORROW!
The purpose of democracy is enriched by mandate renewal or loss, based on fulfilled or failed electoral promises. Indeed, it should be assured that good or bad governance determine the fate of leaders and their platforms. Nigeria becomes the latest test-bed of this reality check from 2007. And the task starts now.
A titanic political battle is afoot. It is time to deconstruct the governance goings-on, as well as the prospects of the respective gladiators who bestrode our political/governance domain in the last seven years. More importantly, however, is the share due the electorate in what Nigerians have come to call "democracy dividends". What did we get or not get from our joint investment in Project NIGERIA? Who performed, who profaned? Where next, NIGERIA?
Based on the foregoing, we should be having great conversations on this site in the months and years ahead. Those who seek our votes better stay tuned. We who have the votes better vote right. Let's interrogate the issues and the values, using a manifesto approach - from the next elections. 2007.
A titanic political battle is afoot. It is time to deconstruct the governance goings-on, as well as the prospects of the respective gladiators who bestrode our political/governance domain in the last seven years. More importantly, however, is the share due the electorate in what Nigerians have come to call "democracy dividends". What did we get or not get from our joint investment in Project NIGERIA? Who performed, who profaned? Where next, NIGERIA?
Based on the foregoing, we should be having great conversations on this site in the months and years ahead. Those who seek our votes better stay tuned. We who have the votes better vote right. Let's interrogate the issues and the values, using a manifesto approach - from the next elections. 2007.
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