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October 1, 2001: Opportunity for reflection; Not for merriment We are beginning to read of the 'Mistake of 1999' in some northern circles. They are ashamed to remind the country of the 'Mistake of 1914' because they thought that they had overcome and had successfully turned the 'Mistake of 1914' into the 'Blessing of 1914' and the 'Blessing of of 1960'. Prof. Omo Omoruyi. What has junketing in foreign countries got to do with this project of national recovery? G. G. Darah The salutary effects of Sharia The uneasy quiet between the Moslem and Christians of the north has taken a jolt. Ogaranya Uju Afulezi... "I am not from the Middle belt. As far as I am concerned, there is no Middle Belt". Edwin Madunagu In lieu of an outright bail out from Nigeria, the Yorubas are reluctant Nigerians. Kayode Samuel Anyim versus Egwu and 'the state of emergency' Common sense should tell us that it will come to naught for the legislature to create a state of affairs they are not constitutionally equipped to manage, for, declaring a state of emergency is not the same as fixing one's wages. Prof. Mike Ikhariale Bracing for a national conference The Nigerian National conference, when its time has finally come, promises a readership of views that would be at cross purposes, conflicting and confusing. Akin Akinola. MKO Abiola and the crises of the national question in Nigeria The present federal government is a case in point; it is an "army arrangement". The death of Abiola and the presidency of Obasanjo brought this phenomenon forcibly home for us to see. Ibiyinka Solarin The Kano State government and Ajino-moto economics Under construction at the end of the close is a beautiful palatial home with green roofs in which a mosque has been constructed of the type aptly labeled by the Hausas "Allah ga naka" meaning "God here is your share [of my loot]. Sanusi L. Sanusi We have less than a minute to zero hour to act, and if an upstart major were to go on the radio now to announce he has fixed the Naira exchange rate at one to the dollar, Nigerians would dance in the streets. Naiwu Osahon Who owns Kano? Ilorin and the crises of Fulani identity The Fulani traditional rulership has constructed a social identity around Islam in such a way as to deny Hausas and other peoples in the Fulani ruled communities an independent ethnic identity, and by so doing arrogate their political representatives. Femi Awoniyi Federalism, the Constitution and Resource Control: My response The tragedy of the Niger-Delta is that those who control, manage and exploit its petroleum resources, i.e the oil companies and those in control of the federal government, live far away from the Niger Delta. Prof. Itse Sagay The coming of the progressives, et al It needs no restating that Nigeria's politics has been shaped and dictated more by ethnic considerations and primordial cleavages than ideological posturing. Senator Olorunnimbe Farunkanmi Political Generals should go to Oputa Panel: no Negotiation For those Arewa leaders who are busy negotiating with the Oputa Commission. One should ask, why did IBB, Buhari and Abubakar give the north such a bad name? Prof. Omo Omoruyi Nigeria and the census question Nigerians and indeed the entire country and the international community expects and await a census this year for the first time since 1963 under a democratically elected government. Hon. Martins Yellowe Corporate governance and the enterprise culture: Pointers for Nigeria's transition economy Corporate governance and the enterprise culture have become important for the survival of companies and indeed national economies in the increasingly global economy. Chief Emeka Anyaoku Unsettled accounts with the SNC In the alternative, Dr. Madunagu should pack his baggage and leave this country for the rest of us ethnic chauvinists to sort out ourselves. Ochuko Saduwa Deep down in his troubled soul, he knows that he is responsible for the excruciating level of poverty in this land today and the increased level of ethnic hatred. Akanbi Ojunmoola Re-visiting the identity card project Having regard to the above issue, it really is tantamount to selective justice for some to have been spared indictment. Prof. O. T. Adegbomire Oputa vs. the disobedient generals But as long as top officers continue to hesitate over court summonses, the impression is given that if anyone pushes too hard, they will simply take over. Chinyere Omenka. The Euphoric Republic of Biafra The mobilization of Ibos towards self determination is not a bad idea, but what is ODIOUS is to cultivate the culture of rejuvenated selfishness that is now pervading Nigeria brought about by those who will never see virtue in others. Odindu Odunze, PhD Problems of the present economic programs We must continue to condemn Abacha for his gruesome human rights record, the unprecedented state terror unleashed on the Nigerian people, but we must note his stand against the rampaging demands of the IMF. Chief Bassey Ekpo Bassey There are too many Nancy, child slaves and forced African prostitutes in Europe to be ignored. Chike E. Okafor Policy focus and value systems in high education The time has come for a major national dialogue on the way forward. Chief Udo Ekaette, mni Lucky is that nation which never lacks for rebels because they are amongst the greatest beneficiaries of mankind. Dele Shobowale Text of the ruling on the jurisdiction of the Supreme Court on the Resource Control suit. Justice Adolphus Karibi-Whyte Transition politics and Nigeria's search for sustainable democracy Here now rises the fundamental question: how do we erect the requisite set of values to construct our own social structure. Chimaroke Nnamani Deep seated uncertainty in Nigeria; If another four years of Obasanjo? The Nigerian political class should note that this 'deep seated uncertainty' gives rise to citizens lack of faith in the system, which is extended to the lack of faith in the capacity of the political order to deliver on the problem within the period of one term. Prof. Omo Omoruyi The federal government is assuming the status of a military junta to intimidate its CLIENT states to submission. G. G. Darah An analysis of the Supreme Court ruling on Resource Control jurisdiction challenge His Lordship was of the view that the interpretation of S. 162 of the Constitution was not a claim before the court and could not therefore confer jurisdiction on the court. Funke Aboyade The three civil wars of Nigeria If the unity of Nigeria is not negotiable, then neither are true federalism and resource control. Tony Marinho Obasanjo, the civil war and resource control Nigeria liberated the Niger Delta from Biafra thirty years ago, Why has the resources not been returned to the owner since then? General Alexander Madiebo rtd. A new concept has emerged in discourses on the nation's political economical problematic. Kofo Awosika The point that seems to escape Macebuh, is that while in economically advanced societies, privatization often liberate human energy, creativity and initiative; in economically regressing societies, it is often a symptom of the failure of governance and the collapse of the moral will. Adebayo Williams African women and female circumcision Its practice is not necessarily an indication of the powerlessness of women. Its persistence may be better explained by the desire of embattled people to hold on to what they have come to accept as traditional. Mojubaolu Okome Resolving the legitimacy crisis: From the 'will of the north' to the 'will of Nigerians' They are planning to use the National Assembly to run the clock on the president who may never get anything done under one term. Prof. Omo Omoruyi ... The rights exercisable over the territorial sea exist by the sheer virtue of the water being part of the territory of the littoral state. By Emeka Akabogu, Esq. Resource Control jams National Conference The request for Resource Control and the demand for the convocation of a National Conference recently received disparate government responses. Ola Amupitan Brain drain is an euphemism for modern slavery The best brains of Africa now reside outside the continent for a variety of reasons. Okenwa R. Nwosu, MD Basic needs and re-distributive justice in Islam: The panacea to poverty in Nigeria The truth is as follows: The people responsible for the plight of the Muslim northerners are no other than the northern Muslim elite. Sanusi L. Sanusi Time to pray for Nigeria's future. By M. C. K. Ajuluchukwu A Nigerian military in support of democracy? Not yet! A highly politicized armed forces should not be expected to support a free, fair and credible elections in Nigeria. Prof. Omo Omoruyi Conditions for national integration I posit that, from the convenient or self serving Lugardian amalgamation [very apt word indeed] of 1914, till date, we have not significantly succeeded to have national integration as well as, or, with pari pasu national cohesion. Prof. Tam David-West Organized campaign in defense of Bala Usman and the breakdown in Nigeria's national consesus In several pockets of human history, groups and individuals who assume the status of aristocrats have claimed the significant privilege of insulting others. Prof. Peter Ekeh SNC: The people versus anti conferees Every Nigerian believes something is wrong with the Nigerian Nation as it is presently, and that a lot needs to be done to move Nigeria from a 'geographical expression' to a Nation State. Mike Igini It was very clear from the book that Sheik Gumi regarded Buhari as irreligious, unjust, arrogant, wicked and a bad Moslem leader. Agbaje Goriite The Yoruba Nation and self determination That Nigeria is a country under siege is apt and incontrovertible. Its political history since independence in 1960 has been characterized by an avalanche of avoidable political tragedies caused by a tiny clique of military and political adventurers. Ganiyu Adams Nigeria's nationality question, democracy and options for survival Everyone at the Conference expressed commitment to the unity and indivisibility of Nigeria but no one supports such unity unconditionally. Cornelius Adebayo The North must be warned about the tick that attaches itself to the dog. It convinces itself that it is killing the dog, yet it will kill the dog alright, but what happens to it after that? Kola Animashaun Need for a truly democratized polity As I am inclined to support the view that our current Democracy is transitional, it would be safe to assume that the democratization process can never be conclusive. Olorogun Felix Ibru Every oil windfall has created policy shocks that have increased uncertainty and resulted in the retrenchment rather than real growth of the Nigerian economy. Pat Utomi The treasury secretary of states of the federation had better bring this to the attention of their governors to begin to request for identification and accounting for the monthly exchange Naira gains accruing from the daily devaluations. Harry Mukoro You are about to say damn the whole system, then you remember military rule and you say it could be worse. But, why can it not be better. Pat Utomi These are very exciting times and also trying historical circumstances for the Nigerian armed forces. Adm. Augustus Aikhomu [rtd] Nigeria: Federalism, the constitution and Resource Control In the beginning there was no Nigeria. By Prof. Itse Sagay The real element that must be factored into the calculation by those rooting for him, is the critical fact that not all that is possible is probable. Prof. Mike Ikhariale GENERALS ARE COMING: should they be welcome? if not / why not? Parts 1-5 What shall Nigerians do with the generals who are coming into politics in large numbers? Should these Generals be welcome? If not, why not? And how can we stop them if we want to stop them legitimately. Prof. Omo Omoruyi Antecedents of the Fourth Republic My concern here is very simple, embarrassingly simple. It is the periodisation of the political history of Nigeria since Independence. Edwin Madunagu Bala Usman and his rulebook of Nigerian politics The essays seem to reveal a deep sense of desperation, on the part of the Northern elites to hold on to a faulty system of governance. Onoawarie Edevbie Sharia: Attorney General of the Federation has locus standi to sue One of the most contentious public issues in Nigeria today is whether wholesale declaration of Sharia by some states of the federation, particularly from the North, is constitutional or otherwise. Sebastian Hon, Esq. Nigeria has a balance of power problem Balance of power implies an objective arrangement in which there is relatively widespread satisfaction with the distribution of power so that no one actor or group of actors can hold others to ransom "with impunity" Taiwo Akinola Democracy: bonding with the people Irrespective of the role of the elites, God help the nation that takes the people for granted, that makes the people feel that the priorities of government and the political parties are not their own. Prof. Bolaji Akinyemi A nation in search of direction There is an unimaginable fierce opposition to and threat of secession if derivation is ever contemplated, some opinion even drew allusion to how weakened the federal government would be if derivation formula is ever contemplated. Ritchie Ejiofor, Esq This massive and continuous exploitation has been sustained by the structure of power in Nigeria which has been weighted against the people of the Niger Delta from the last phase of de colonization to the present. Edwin Madunagu "The Mischief of History: Bala Usman's unmaking of Nigeria's History" It is a strange piece of irony that a man who has self consciously worn the progressive label all his life may end up as a disciple of imperialist historian Trevor-Roper. Prof. Peter Ekeh Arewas and the politics of survival For half a century, the Arewas have shown that when the issue is political, they know no friends; they don't pretend to have any. Tony Nwankwo Uneasy lies the head that wears the crown Nigeria being what it is, it might be supposed by those with superficial minds, or ethnic biases, that to say or write anything that is not flattering about President Obasanjo, is tantamount to either being unpatriotic or disrespectful. Prof. Itse Sagay The 'Abacha in Obasanjo' Syndrome: Signs and Diagnosis Almost in unison, they have expressed what they have adjudged as an abdication of the saddle of government by President Obasanjo to an amorphous clique. Prof. Mike Ikhariale. Even today in Nigeria, we cannot say in all truth that the present political parties we have, evolved from the people. They were military imposition except of course AD which is a coalition of pro-democracy groups in Nigeria. Dr. Arthur Nwankwo New Political Parties in Nigeria? Although, the current political dispensation still presents us with a fait accompli, the answer to the question is a resounding yes! as long as we do not want to leave our faiths in the hands of money grabbing politicians. Christopher Odetunde, Ph.D Obasanjo gives patriotism a bad face and sometimes reminds me of that quip by Dr. Samuel Johnson [1709-1789]: "Patriotism is the last refuge of a scoundrel". Dele Shobowale Re: The President in Civil War Before Biafra was declared in May 1967, then Lt. Col. Ojukwu had already hinted [in April 1967] to American diplomats who had appealed to him to accept Decree No. 8, that he was considering invading Lagos. Dr. Nowamagbe Omoigui, MBBS, MD, MPH What a poor and maligned Biafra! Do our old people who have facts on that war realise that we are in a democracy, where they have every opportunity to give data on every controversial matter in order to set the records straight for posterity. Prof. Boniface Egboka Democracy and State Integration in Nigeria-Steps toward its integration The common thread between all of these ethnic, religious and regional tensions are an overbearing federal government and varying interpretation of an unpopular and rather unitary constitution. Mobolaji Aluko, Ph.D A look at the present desperate situation of Nigeria is enough to force one into the usual conclusion of a bleak and unenviable economic future- a future of permanent or structural emergencies. Oba Oladele Olashore This is a warning! Nigeria has suffered a massive democratic closure. This is like a heart attack and should be viewed seriously as the patient Nigeria, is on life support instruments in the emergency ward. Olisa Agbakoba, SAN Resource Control: The economic and political implications A glaring case of this is the Niger Delta. Obasanjo gave the people his words. And, they were taken as sacrosanct. A promised sense of belonging in place of loss and despair. Sen. David Dafinone The North and Resource Control Free oil revenue given to the North over the years only produced a clique of wealthy Generals and their lackeys. Shehu Sani Ige is, perhaps, aware, as I am, that Resource Control in Nigeria is not a constitutional matter, but a political and revolutionary one. It cannot be finally settled one way or another in the court. Edwin Madunagu Agriculture, Petroleum, Land Resources and Resource Control - A response to Alhaji Wada Nas comments on Resource Control The 'North' and the 'West' are in control of most of their resources anyway, paying little or no tax into the Federation Account from Agriculture. Francis Elekwachi The political cost of fuel price hikes The whole case for deregulation and other policy options will fall flat as long as the leadership continues to live off the sweat of the people through extremely extravagant oligarchic sociopolitical masturbation. Prof. Mike Ikhariale Obasanjo management style and his public response to issues of national significance portray him as a leader who loves to play to the gallery. Levi Obijiofor Olusegun Obasanjo and the arrogance of power The image of the president of Nigeria, that remains firmly in my mind, was a picture of him on the front page of an edition of the Guardian in June 1998. Dr. Ibiyinka Solarin The simple truth about all these alarming official car crashes is that we do have a surfeit of misfits in high places. People who are being occupied by their ephemeral offices instead of they occupying the offices. Prof. Mike Ikhariale Deregulation and the empty jerry can By overburdening Nigeria who have been living under excruciating poverty and non functional infrastructures ....the Obasanjo government is just letting the masses know that it is 'no longer responsible for their welfare'. Max Uba Correct Pricing of Petroleum Products The decision makers now need to walk away from the traditional rhetoric of ad hoc, reactionary recipes to the problems because it has now assumed a much higher dimension hitherto. R. O. Okunmuyide Further to the debate on the 'Pact' Validity depends on Obasanjo as a "bridge" It is fraudulent that political groups called parties and zones are trying to interject themselves into the understanding called the 'pact'. Prof. Omo Omoruyi Validity depends on "resolution of political problems" We should use the yardstick we apply to President Obasanjo to measure those who want the President's job with respect to the criteria of a 'bridge' and a 'problem solver'. This is the answer to the question: after Obasanjo who/what? Prof. Omo Omoruyi No retreat on resource control Thus, even if the court rules in favor of federal might against natural justice, the matter will be appealed in the Court of the People, because the People's Court is superior to the Supreme Court of any country. G. G. Darah Governor Kalu's divisive rule and its consequences The governor need to address the imbalance and marginalization in Abia State, erase all appearances of impropriety, enthrone probity, accountability and avoid military style divide and rule strategies before he could be taken seriously in his new found crusade. Vincent O. Erondu We have to be careful how this question of petroleum products pricing is handled if previous experience in this country is anything to go by. Simeon Osuide But, 'the north' cannot be exonerated in a political atmosphere where it consciously or unconsciously embrace, tolerate and endorse destructive and deceptive tyrants as its leaders. Shehu Sani Prophet Jeremiah and 'June 12' "If you want to contribute, you reduce intellectualism and utopia to practicability and tangibility, because intellectualism without practicability is prostitution". Henry Ogwasa The West is pushing the agenda not minding the human and material cost to its victims because it is ultimately in their interest. Chido Onumah Presidency 2003: South-South in a dilemma Even the governors of Edo and Rivers had cast their votes for Obasanjo in 2003. With such powerful friends, the South South needs no further enemies. Dele Shobowale REVISITING THE SERMON ON OLUMO ROCK [2] The problem in Nigeria today is that, there is no political will on the part of the President to move the country forward. Prof. Omo Omoruyi REVISITING THE SERMON ON OLUMO ROCK[1] He then advised Chief Abiola to watch out for problems from [i] IBB, his friend [ii] The north [iii] the Igbo [iv] the military [v] the Yorubas [vi] the international community [vii] Chief Abiola himself. Prof. Omo Omoruyi In a country with so many contradictions, is there hope for a shared destiny? Will Nigerians again be able to work towards meaningful coexistence, shared vision, collaboration and cooperation instead of outright confrontation? Christopher Odetunde Ph.D FAN on the Once and Future Diarchies of OBK & IBB IBB will not risk contesting against OBJ come 2003 because IBB will clearly win and then the country will explode. Mobolaji Aluko, Ph.D. When the Head of State himself is the greatest rogue of all times, who can stop anyone else from helping himself from the public treasury? Prof. I. O. Agbede Understanding the Sovereign National Conference The call for SNC is both an economic and political demand whose content and value goes beyond the mechanistic procedures of the National Assembly. Dr. Beko Ransome Kuti In their self defeating escapism, the Igbo elites are trying to hide under an overarching entity, Nigeria. Tochukwu Ezukanma The more things change; the more they remain the same We cannot be probing for Abacha's hidden loot, exorcise his wicked deeds and yet run this country on the basis of his personal constitution. Prof. Dafe Otobo The tyranny of major ethnic groups They have set tribalism on a pedestal, deifying this unwholesome practice as a pragmatic instrument for national unity. Chris Akiri Esq. Nigeria: Towards reason in political discourse Power rotation is a dynamic of social, economic and political process in a democratic polity. To legislate this dynamics is to adulterate a fundamental tenet of democratic principle. Igho Natufe, Ph.D The sovereignty that is resident in the people has been delegated. I didn't do the delegating. The constitution did it. Tony Momoh, Esq. "You lazy bully; you feel so strong. Because you think you can beat me. You lazy bully; see your tiny, wiry legs, like those of the efelife bird, okan." [Urhobo song] Mideno Bayagbon... This is a country that has at least four planes in the presidential fleet. For goodness sake, what do you need another aircraft for the Vice President, for? Fred Ohwahwa Obasanjo has betrayed us![Interview] Look, the truth of the matter is all through history, those who perceive themselves as strong and powerful have never conceded anything to those they consider as weak. Obong Victor Attah Review of Omoruyi's Agenda of Liberation The solution lies in the constitutional sphere. A national conference on the constitution with duly elected state and local government representatives, is the only legitimate forum to resolve the current jurisdictional impasse. Igho Natufe, Ph.D Subject to the provision of this Decree, Nigeria shall on 24th May 1966 [in this Decree referred to as 'the appointed day'] cease to be a Federation and shall accordingly as from that day be a Republic. Late General Aguiyi Ironsi Real politic: Use what you have to get what you want In collective bargaining and arbitration, every party in the dispute hold their advantage close to their hearts and wait for their opponents to give a little and take a little. Ogaranya Uju Nkwocha Afulezi, Ph.D Between ownership and resource control While ownership emanates from clear cut determinant predicted on age old customs and traditions; control is a dynamic function derived from the process of Legislation. Dr. Richard Tosanwumi Blood Money for Chicago State University It is clear someone is lying at CSU. Whatever happens, I am now convinced that something is really fishy about the whole arrangement. It stinks, really pungent. Prof. Mike Ikhariale Conversations with Gov. Sani Yerima Ever since he introduced Sharia law in Zamfara, every official pronouncement or action from that government has tended to depict Nigeria as a medieval state in Africa. Levi Obijiofor "Why did it take the globe trotting governor such a long time to realise that there is a crisis? It is a sign of insensitivity." Hendrix Ohiomogbe Fiscal federation and the south-south states We in the South-south states are not saying that we want a perfect constitution. We are saying that the Constitution that we have should be implemented no matter the circumstances. Hon. J. Odebala Obasanjo's re-election chances But given the present political system, nothing has so far happened to threaten the re-election pf President Obasanjo in 2003. His re-election will be threatened only if the political system is changed or Obasanjo himself commits a grave political error. Dr. Edwin Madunagu Framework for renewed federalism I propose a balanced federal political system that recognizes a trade off of asymmetrical powers, based on the peculiarities of each federating unit. These peculiarities are population, territory and wealth. Igho Natufe, Ph.D Advice to political leaders: A new vision for the south-south One should hope and pray that the political leaders and governors of the South-South would pursue the question of - Who Owns Oil in Nigeria? as a political issue and not as a constitutional matter amenable to trial and adjudication of the Supreme Court. Prof. Omo Omoruyi Biafran war and Nigerian government misinformation Nobody can kill the Biafra of the mind. Nigerian leaders need to learn how to live with it for Biafra will never go away. Chike Okafor 'Stop being silly. This is why in the north we will never progress. When we fail to confute an argument, we libel the advocate.' Sanusi L. Sanusi A specter haunts Nigeria. He is wicked and vindictive. He is Machiavellian and stone hearted. He wields power through nepotism. He is a progeny of despotism. Isaac Sagay The Politics of oil: Who owns oil, Nigeria, States or Communities? The northern leaders do not believe that power can be shared in Nigeria. They are right. Hence, they hold the three domains of power as one and indistinguishable entity. Prof. Omo Omoruyi Cultivating the positive side of ethnicity Social conflicts generated through ethnicity, are natural indications of the imperfection of the existential conditions of plural societies. Prof. Otite MNN: Anti Corruption Agenda for the Federal Republic of Nigeria We propose the following anti corruption agenda: [i] identify the cause [s] of corruption in Nigeria and amongst Nigerians. [ii] devise means to eliminate or minimize corruption in Nigeria Strategies for an improved Nigeria The year is 2001, when the Almighty himself decided to call all Nigerians to stand up wherever they were, to answer simple questions. Christopher Odetunde Ph.D Dynamics of Northern ethnic and religious politics The autonomy given to the provinces as a measure to allay the fear of the minorities has never worked and the principle of state creation in the present dispensation has worsened matters. Joses Gani Yoroms Nigeria's quota system...An impediment to true growth and development All credible statistical information to date, if I may reiterate, would suggest that., the quota system is a failed experiment that needs to be aborted now for the good of the Nigerian nation. Soboyejo Awosika-Coker Congo crises goes beyond Kabila If there is one country the intrigues and conspiracy of the West helped to wreck, it is Congo. Chido Onumah The movement pattern of the Fulani over the years, has led to a pastoral calendar in which the location and the grazing habits of the Fulani herds can be predicted. Ismail Iro, Ph.D The lack of ethnic statistics in Nigeria implied that an accurate count of the Fulani would not be available. Finding the age of a Fulani person is as difficult as estimating the population of Fulanis. Ismail Iro, Ph.D Nomadic education and education for nomadic Fulanis "Wandering clans of Nigerian cattle rearers are as much a part of Nigeria as any major tribe. Therefore, it is only right that they also partake of the same rights and privileges as the rest of us". Ismail Iro, Ph.D The Niger Delta: Today, yesterday and tomorrow It is instructive to note that the exclusive federal jurisdiction over natural resources, apply only to oil and gas, and not to cocoa, palm oil, hides and skins, bitumen etc. Sen. David O. Dafinone Many Nigerians are not at ease with the present state of the nation. There is apprehension every where. Dr. Richard Tosanwumi Nigeria ready to self destruct Therefore, the professional praise singers who enduringly invest the President with the halo of god-like infallibility, something that even the gods of antiquity would have recoiled from assuming. Isaac Sagay Corruption, self interest and the Command Economy Unfortunately, the economy, being the material foundation of life, has such pervasive influence on all other aspects of social life, that we find its corruption ridden logic creeping into other aspects of our day to day life. Dr. Bello Aliyu Gusau Niger Delta: Between the broom and the broom stick We have come here to fashion out a workable agenda for the reconstruction of - the fate, the fortune and the future of the people of the Niger Delta. Obong Victor Attah It hardly seems to shock us any longer at any rate not profoundly to behold members of one religious sect or ethnic group fall upon another in a glee of murder. Okey Ndibe Educating Gov. Sani Yerima on women rights and international law One may wonder why, a man born of woman would keep women down and put them on the back seat, for the sake of religion transposed into state policy and good government. Chike Okafor Tragedy as Ibada Elume River burns 'At about midnight, there was a wildfire on the river [Echion] we thought the world was coming to an end. The entire community was thrown into confusion. We lost our farmland and major source of water. We are seriously devastated' [Patience Adija - orange seller from Elume]... Controversy is not his baptismal name, it is not his informal name and it is certainly not his surname. Although, if one wants to stretch the issue a little bit, there is some controversy over his surname. Dr. Emman Usman Shehu Between the Sharia and Barbarism You can deprive a man of access to prostitutes in Kano, he can always choose to have a good time in Lagos. The State, by enforcing Shariah laws, does not pretend to manufacture good Moslems. Sanusi L. Sanusi To the powers that be in Nigeria, I want to say to you that the patience of the people of the Niger Delta has been exhausted. They are now from New Hampshire-they will live free or die. Them don tire to carry_it! N. H. Ibanga It has to register in the minds of beloved people of this region, that the traditional vocation of fishing and farming cannot take them far, given the economic, political and social realities of the present. Peju Sanni The politics of population in Nigeria Just as Hausa/Fulani hegemony has been disastrous for Nigeria, Yoruba irredentism will be equally disastrous. Tochukwu Ezukanma Women liberation and empowerment in Africa Even amongst women in Nigeria, opinion are divided over absolute or partial liberation or equalities between genders. Ritchie Ejiofor An African Philosophy of History in the Oral Tradition On the question, who is qualified to inform on the past? Niger Delta proverbs point to age as the most important criterion. Prof. E. J. Alagoa Monkey Business: Your language of English is different from mine The monkey once asked the sheep, how come all of you graze together and run in the same direction when threatened? The sheep replied. 'Sooner or later, the hyena would eat somebody and if there are many of us around, chances are it wouldn't be me. Orok Edem A SINKING MAN AND A DAMAGED PRESIDENT Wole Soyinka warned of IBB as a man who collates information on his detractors, and he would use the information against his enemies at the appropriate time. How true. Banjo Odutola NIGERIA: Oil producers have claim to the 2003 presidency To perpetuate its self in government, the Hausa/Fulani political hegemony used the Igbos as CORDON SANITAIRE in enhancing the annulment of the June 12, 1993 presidential elections. Chief Mpaka Princewill Shariah and the woman question It is timely that Prof. Mazrui has reminded us once more that the Shariah though a Divine Law, is subject to human interpretation and it is often not completely free from subjectivities. Sanusi L. Sanusi The Killing Fields of Niger Delta The people of the Niger Delta want exactly the same thing that other Nigerians want: the right to a decent living: a place in the Nigeria Federation or out of it. Why deny them this right and expect there will be peace. Reuben Abati Political instability? relax, you have to watch Nigerians. Ain't nobody going nowhere as long as the oil is flowing. It is just a move to procure debt relief. Orok Edem It was disgraceful that our youth were forced to witness what was tantamount to jungle justice, that President Obasanjo himself readily condemned in the militias. Tunde Olusesi What every non Muslim should know about the Jihad Jihad of paradise: Any Muslim killed in a Jihad goes directly to the sexual pleasures of Paradise. Surah 2 Al-Bagarah [verse 25] promises women in Paradise who do not menstruate, urinate or defecate. One eternal sexual orgy with nothing to interfere. N. H. Ibanga Sharia and the politics of control It should be observed here that, the justification of political sharia by an appeal to the exercise of fundamental human rights is false. A cardinal principle in the exercise of fundamental human rights is that, the right of no other individual, be he one in a million, should not be infringed upon. Dr. Emman Usman Shehu Obasanjo's blunder continues unabated as the days go by and this is becoming worrisome to me. Uwem Inyang NIGERIA OIL: Prices, politics and the people There is a tendency to assume that Nigeria is essentially a bureaucratic polity; that it is a place where the president and government officials are above the law and that their policies are uncontestable or infallible. Tim Onayemi Fawehinmi and Umar: Saints are made after their death How can you pick out and canonize just two people out of hundreds of thousands then declare the others counterfeit. Edwin Madunagu Confessions of a sergeant, a major and a general Anything is possible. Diya could also be telling us something else: that Nigerians are afflicted with incurable eye disease which makes every one see double. Levi Obijiofor IBB: Re-engineering and June 12 What were you doing during Abacha's regime? Why didn't you exhibit your political wisdom and dexterity then? Why mention the social engineering and sharia necessities after your successors demise? Uwem Inyang There is this folk saying, that the young man whose palm kernel has been struck for him by a benevolent spirit should not forget to be humble. Prof Mike Ikhariale Restructuring the Nigerian Polity and Army: A 21 point suggestion. In light of recent events in Nigeria, resulting in and accentuating various security and marginalization concerns among many of its peoples and in order to reverse internal colonisalism and prevent military coups in the future. Mobolaji Aluko PhD The Nigerian Soldier and the Nigerian State By Nigerian soldier, I am referring to the officers that make up the armed forces of Nigeria and not the enlisted men. The difference between the two, is that, the enlisted men are specialists in the 'application of violence', while officers are specialists in the 'management of violence' and not the act of violence itself. Orok Edem Awo and the Creation of States How I wish Awo were still alive! He would have understood. He knew the country well! Saro Wiwa Non Muslims in a contemporary Islamic State Will Christians voluntarily accept an Islamic State in which they are given civil rights in exchange of a 'protection tax'? Sanusi L. Sanusi Advent of the magi in the south Central to the agitation and need to usher in a true federation is by using the acceptable derivation in revenue allocation and resource distribution. Ritchie Ejiofor What if the wind becomes solid If I were the President, I would have Adesanya arrested as a threat to national security. Orok Edem Ethnicity and National Development They will also be forced to prove to me, at least, that they are not merely "big for chopping" majorities. Saro Wiwa Dear Akwa Ibomites, the purported rift that seem to exist or is already existing between Victor Attah and his deputy Chris Ekpenyong is not only an embarrassment to us but a calamity. Uwem Inyang Fire in the Delta; Fire in the Land We were told, we had been rescued from the Eboes. Not knowing that, what they wanted was oil. Thirty years later, we are still paying for our rescue. Orok Edem Here comes the comedy, a seminar to justify the misdeeds of the past, the audience - the future generation. While the present generation once again applauds the failure. Dotun Oni I am beginning to nurse strong beliefs that Nigeria is gradually becoming a time bomb awaiting explosion. Uwem Inyang The Nigerian Police and Our Political Twilight Zone On Thursday November 4, 1999, seven policemen were reported murdered in cold blood ostensibly by rampaging Egbesu-inspired youths from the Ijaw community town of Odi, in Kolobuma/Opukoma Council of Bayelsa State. Mobolaji Aluko Ph.D A proper and popularly acceptable answer to such restructuring, the President should be assured, will provide for the continuation of the Federal Republic of Nigeria with Obasanjo as President. Isah Momoh But it should be very clear, that we are responsible for our woes. That, Nigeria is on its knees today, is as a result of our collective acts of omission and commission. Femi Martins We have no faith in Obasanjo's NDDC Resource control is not secession, but a justifiable movement to restore our human dignity; a justifiable movement to reclaim what has been taken from us without our consent. Oronto Douglas The second cunning of the generals The general is coming again, from the idleness of retirement. The generals are coming again, to eat the send yams after devastating the nation's barns. Oluwole Adejare The many concepts of one Nigeria Every one will agree to the tenuousness of the Nigerian union; its tentativeness daily stares us in the face. That is why, the headline is deliberate. Kola Animashaun Awo, Yorubas and legacy hunters The question now arising is, for how long will the Hubertian dialectics of "Yoruba Ronu" be acted out? Bobson Gbinije Squandering of Yoruba goodwill Since the Yoruba people cannot clone politicians with whom to work with, the new AD executive has a task of forging unity of politicians. Olorunimbe Farukanmi No, to the dredging of the River Niger The reason given by the northern governors is not tenable, since River Niger runs through the north with ample volume of water for its irrigational needs. Roland Ekpere The problem with the Oputa Panel At every turn in Nigeria's history, since 1960, this elite conspiracy has determined the direction of the country, the resolution of conflicts, the creation of heroes and villains and award of honours and punishment. Fred Ohwahwa My experience has shown me how totally disorganized the Igbos are. For instance, their meetings, at special conventions like the one just concluded in Dallas and all gatherings of that nature, in most cases end up in chaos. Ambrose Ehirim Africa and her technologically advanced neighbours Providing debt relief to African countries will not automatically transform the economy nor improve the life of the average country, if corruption still infests the basic social function. Ritchie Ejiofor Updates on human rights violation in the Niger Delta The restoration of civilian rule in Nigeria has not produced a reduction of human rights violation in the oil producing region of the Niger Delta. Human Rights Watch Nigerian military shenanigan and abuse of power The skunks are now coming off the woods to party and finally, the 15 years of political, social and economic domination by the oppressive Nigerian military has come to light. Chike Okafor Last Thursday, leaders of thought from the former Eastern Region met in Umuahia, Abia State to combat a scourge they describe as the 'woeful neglect of the Eastern Region'. Kingsley Emeruwa Without notice, armed soldiers, supported by riot policemen swooped on Okigwe Town, Imo State a fortnight ago 'in pursuit' of Chief Ralph Uwazuruike and fellow jesters in MASSOB. Louis Odion 'Teacher don't teach me nonsense' As in all fair contests be it sports or elections, it is not just a question of who won but more importantly, basically and fundamentally, it is, how did he win? S. Adebayo Arowolaju It baffles me that despite their numerical superiority, women in Nigeria have not exploited the tremendous factor of population to their advantage. After all, election is a game of figures. Ebere Wabara U.S. and Africa: Echoes of the 2000 election It appears that Africa's worst fears are becoming reality with the successful installation of George W. Bush as the next President by a coalition of forces whose strategic and tactical interests as well as vision of the world are definitely not pro-African. Okenwa Nwosu, MD. Nigeria: Time for justice and accountability Leading members and supporters of opposition groups or parties have been arrested and charged with offences, sometime following incidents of unrest in circumstances suggesting that their detention may have been politically motivated. Amnesty International The lack of national identity forms part of the nucleus of today's paralysis that has kept the country apart. Chike Okafor I told him that the north could not survive without the south, not because of lack of oil, but because Allah in his infinite wisdom has planted kolanuts in the south and not in the north. Orok Edem Intrigues behind reception 2000 If the organizers , who were mainly elites were fronting for a political relevance for those who sold the north out for personal gains, they have missed the target. Taju Ajibade In defense of Northern Youths for Democracy and Justice, the Northern democratic Forum and Bola Ige The Wailare's of this world and their sponsors are chagrined that the Northern youths of this generation as exemplified by NYDJ and NDF are 'calling it as it is' and have refused to be instruments of parochial skullduggery. Musa Adamu Mbahi, M.D. Re-engineering the military institution The military institution, constituency, group or party that once sang sonorous Hosanna and prided itself in its all embracing glory is now singing its own nunc dimitis. Bobson Gbinijie Political diffidence and pusillanimity of Ndigbos If Ndigbos are to make any meaningful progress in the contemporary Nigerian political setting, then they must first of all and as a matter of great urgency set aside their pride. Eugene C. Onyeji Democracy experiment and political life in Nigeria The desire of the people to have democracy at all cost led them to support a leader [President Olusegun Obasanjo] who does not have in my opinion what it takes to lead a democratic society. Victor Dike South-South Presidency in 2003 There is no doubt the best solution to all these is a South-South presidency come 2003. We are tired of washing our hands with saliva while we are at the river bank. Dr. Marshall Young Harry Niger Delta; The Chechnyan Experience The lesson here is that areas that contains resources must not be diplomatically cornered to irrelevance or perhaps outright marginalization. Udechukwu Okorie Nigeria: The inevitability of instability The old amongst us including the President are die hard believers in one Nigeria as it had been. Joseph Tanko Re: The trouble with Sanusi and Awosika Madunagu is one of the most brilliant writers I have come across and his articles are always educative. This does not mean that I find all his views agreeable, but my disagreement with him does not make his article narrow minded or shallow. Sanusi L. Sanusi Nigeria on the march to the promised land Some writers hold the view that the late MKO Abiola was the sacrificial 'Passover' lamb to usher in a quick semi addressing of the issues in the question. Ritchie Ejiofor The psychology of power: A Nigerian experiment The truth is, the north [the Hausa Fulani in particular] saw the defeat of Biafra as the defeat of the south. That, they where wrong. Soboyejo Awosika-Coker Senate leadership and the Igbo Indeed, the impression being created is that the Igbos are incapable or unqualified to occupy responsible political offices. Chukwudi Nwabuko Governing Nigeria: perspective on 2001 Perhaps, one strange verdict Nigerians of every tribe and tongue are agreed upon is that, the government is failing the governed again. Senator Tokunbo Afikuyomi History identifies the Fulanis, as people who use mobility as a strategy for production and consumption, with leadership, scholarship and livestock wealth on the West African aberrant landscape. Ismail Iro Ph.D New taxation policy is key to resource control The perpetual bickering that has plagued Nigerian politics since the civil war is rooted in the contest for control of centrally owned national resources. Okenwa Nwosu MD The Un-Federal Nature of Nigeria's Fiscal Federalism Thus of the N1000 revenue of the one federal government, it keeps N805 [80.5%] under its control, giving a mere 109 [or 10.9%] to the 36 states [average of N3 per state] and N86 to the 774 local governments. [ average of 1 kobo per local government] Mobolaji Aluko, Ph.D. Will Rawlings be Africa's Pinochet Ghanaians have to deal with the truth first. They have to know who did what and why. Ghana can still move forward even with the prosecution of yesterday's villains. Chido Onumah Re: Faseun and the North's moral dilemma From their best Professors down to the Molue driver on the streets of Lagos, there is only one route to understanding the world: ethnicity. Dr Abdullahi Bawan Allah RE: Re-Faseun and the North's moral dilemma Maybe you, Lamido Sanusi or members of the northern lunatic fringe such as Wada Nas et al, can expound further on what exactly makes the so-called North so indispensable that the south can never do without you. Soboyejo Awosika-Coker The Niger Delta Problems and Solutions This proposal seeks to derive a workable template that reflects the harmonization of isolated solutions - i. the NDDC; ii. a legally enforced re distribution plan; and iii. the Declaration of Indigenous Rights - into a model that neutralizes conflicts and ensures regional development. C. Ikpatt and L. Glenn Scott, Esq. Accidents happen: Ibro in 2003? Every one should stop blaming the president for doing nothing. It is when the president does something, that he becomes unpredictable and dangerous. Orok Edem Babangida's misguided optimism And, who is supposed to rebuild a nation that is so broken down? I guess in the case of a nation like Nigeria, the architect of destruction himself! Soboyejo Awosika-Coker Who between Ige and Adesanya/Falae on one hand and between the Afenifere and the Yoruba Council of Elders on another, do you see carry the day in the subsisting supremacy struggle within the Yoruba political establishment? Akin Osuntokun.. Squandermania in our legislative houses Everywhere in Nigeria, it seems, the benefit of democracy are being abused by the very people who should defend our new way of life, and, of doing business. Unu Habib The fleecing of Nigeria: Holding Obasanjo to his words Without the eradication of corruption [in all his ramifications] the much needed influx of foreign capital would continue to be an illusion. Soboyejo Awosika-Coker Some of the blame for Igbo failure rests with Ohaneze, Igbo intellectuals, and numerous Igbo organizations including the infamous World Igbo Congress especially for dabbling in political tactics. Ambrose Ehirim Okotie Eboh and yesterdays vision Frivolous and partisan opposition assessments of his record as Minister of Finance have tended to pay much more attention to his personal flamboyance and wealth, and to pay much too little attention to his major contribution towards developing an economic vision for an independent Nigeria. Lindsay Barret Abalaka's long road to victory Nigerians, nay the whole world, were caught unawares with the announcement by Dr. Abalaka that he has found a cure to the dreaded disease. Uche Ortuanya The 2003 election: The electorate, the followers, the press and the politicians We are flabbergasted to learn that the jostling for position in the 2003 political sharing and/or zoning of Nigeria has begun in earnest and the bride [electorates] is not even involved. Christopher Odetunde Ph.D. The Angels of Destiny & Eternal Recurrence History shows that the Nigerian civil war started as a result of power politics between the Hausa North and the Yoruba West, but the suffering was experienced in the South-South and East as the two groups ganged up. Anthony Effik A monument, as Igbo symbol of unity The Igbos that I knew and loved were proud and adroit in whatever was their pursuit. The Igbos of today have degenerated into abyss, mercurial, feckless panhandlers, begging for either leftovers or handouts. Chike Okafor Re: Afikuyomi's Governing Nigeria I certainly cannot accept his uncritical belief that having under 50s take over the mantle of leadership will on its own, make things better. Douglas Anele Ogonis should look beyond their pain To be an Ogoni is no longer a source of shame, but a thing of pride. This in my view, is perhaps the single greatest achievement of the late Ken Saro Wiwa. Paul Nwabuikwu
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The two 'Hows': Resolving the crises of citizenship and federalism in Nigeria My fear is that what we may have would be no war and no peace, leading to irreversible political decay. Prof. Omo Omoruyi Ethnicity, conflict resolution and the Nigerian State How did it get to be this way, and what can we do about it? Mobolaji Aluko, PhD International law and migrant workers The difference today is that there are far more migrant workers than in any period of human history. Tayo Fulani Douglas, Esq Religion, Conflict Prevention Resolution: A multi dimensional approach Nigerians are dying violently, and it is time for responsibility and action to curb a murderous trend. Clement Ikpatt The attack was political and religious. There is apparently a point these Muslim fundamentalists want to score at the political level and this seem to have something to do with US Policy on the Middle East crisis. Bola Akinterinwa Africa in the age of global network society: the challenges ahead This paper examines the classical argument on the causal link between communication and development. Patience Akpan The fall of the Nigerian army: How Babangida and Abacha were created This decline in the standard and professionalism of the Nigerian Army, is in itself, a microcosm of Nigerian society as a whole. Max Siollun The harvest of dry holes during the Chad Basin drilling campaign was not the result of the often repeated archaic shibboleth of southern sabotage. Akpo Avbovbo Aguda: The passing of a genius The sheer logical intensity that animated his several audacious and remarkable decision on the bench as well as the trademark judicial activism that accompanied them, inevitably drove us. Prof Mike Ikhariale The power center without the power Feeling exposed and helpless, Arewa North had to find a strategy to bring it back to contention in the power game. Paul Odili The wholesale massacre of careers in 1975/76 is about to be replicated at a time the country is yet to recover from the devastating impact of the travesty that Murtala/Obasanjo wrecked on the service. By Kingsley Osadolor.... Oputa Panel: Those who may not attend I am unable to subscribe to the needless call that the three past military dictators should be forced to honor the invitation of the Oputa Panel. They need not attend. By Prof. Mike Ikhariale... Sharia: the courts have spoken Unbeknownst to many, the courts have already spoken. Olisa Agbakoba & Emeka Asuzu The Igbo and Nigerian Presidency: the fundamentals If Nigeria is so allergic to an Igbo man or woman being a president, she should also steer clear of the contribution the Igbos make. Ogaranya Uju Afulezi, PhD The Ibom People's Independence All we should be saying is that we as a people, without reference to others, reserve the right to choose who we should be associated with, when and how. Edemma Udoh Akwa Ibom People: Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow Consider that there is an ongoing fierce debate about the future and nature of Nigeria. What is the position of Akwa Ibomites on this? N. H. Ibanga. As Nigerians, we seem to have become very familiar with the failure or collapse of some national institutions. Hope Eghagha Devolution of power-A prerequisite for national unity If we are all agreed that the golden years of Nigeria federalism was the immediate pre-independence and post independence period of 1954 to 1960, then let us revisit that period to vividly remind ourselves of what we did then that we are not doing now. Prof. Bolaji Akinyemi Women, the State and the travails of decentralizing the Nigerian Federation Slightly less than four decades ago, Nigeria became independent from colonial rule. The mandate as defined by the nationalist inheritors from the post colonial state was clear. Mojubaolu Okome Fajuyi: Cultivating fellow feeling beyond ethnic boundaries It is not particularly gratifying that we are still talking about a handshake across the Niger when we are actually supposed to have advanced beyond that lovely hug. Harry Akande These northerners should rise up and condemn in their loudest voices, their brothers, whose selfish behavior and attitudes have retarded the progress of northerners in particular and Nigerians in general. Douglas Anele The Supreme Court may unwittingly wish to trap Mr. President, in a trap with a trap by a trap if allowed. Senator David Dafinone Exposing revisionists of South South history In an era of revisionism, truth is no premium. Ben Lawrence Transition to modernity [2] Nigerian Armed Forces Strategic recovery Initiative I have decided upon this path because challenges facing the Nigerian armed forces are rudimentary-cultural, as in identity as to who and what the Nigerian soldier is. William Etim-Bassey The Niger Delta Region is sinking Just last week, manager of the region's 88 year old Port Harcourt port complex alerted the federal government that the multi billion naira structure may sink if it does not take urgent remedial measures. Louis Achi Human rights of all have been violated by corporate malpractices with State's acquiescence. Prof. Teresa Turner Refocusing the Oputa Commission [11] "the military' NOBODY SHOULD BEG THEM; NOBODY SHOULD COMPEL THEM. Prof. Omo Omoruyi Refocusing the Oputa Commission [1] "June 12" If they like the person they put in office and if they believe in Nigeria, I strongly urge Generals Babangida and Abubakar to avail themselves of the opportunities offered by the Oputa Commission to make history. Prof. Omo Omoruyi Of mundane and such like things If it were not mundane, the minorities could have realized that whoever is controlling the resources now, or distributing same, did not get authorization from the Supreme Court. Udo Ukpong, Esq. I propose that we go beyond slogans and general analysis to precise historically rooted prescriptions. Edwin Madunagu After first the coup of 1966, the military became at war with itself. The first casualty was military discipline, which was followed by military professionalism. Tony Ogbetere Nigerian Military: Transition to modernity [1] My fear is and has always been that ruler ship solely wants to keep the armed forces from politics and governance while maximizing capacity in non traditional roles, i.e. civil disobedience and policing. William Etim-Bassey Senator Fred Brume and Resource Control: Matters Arising It is not the place of Senator Fred Brume or any other elected official, especially one from the affected minority areas, one would think, to affirm an oppressive system or to turn himself or herself into a mouthpiece of the oppressor. Onoawarie Edevbie Nigeria between Lord Lugard and the Digital Divide The secret of ultimate stability in Nigeria does not simply lie in in increasing the political power of the south as the Obasanjo election might have done. It also lies in increasing the economic leverage and benefits of the north. Prof. Ali Mazrui The 'Federation' of Nigeria is very peculiar, indeed, unique, and is not really a Federation, and apparently was never meant to be, as the agitators for 'true' federalism seem to understand it. Jibril Aminu, FAS, FNAed In today's Nigeria, I cannot speak my mother's tongue in the Senate or House of Representatives, only Hausa, Yoruba or Igbo can be spoken. N. H. Ibanga The committee is deemed to have distilled the opinion that the failure of succession politics had truncated our past efforts at sustaining democratic governance. Kingsley Osadolor Apart from Wole Soyinka and his peculiarities, most Nigerians who know me have accepted me on that basis. Prof. Ali Mazrui.... Our today's military men often claim to have excelled in peacemaking duties in different parts of the world but the authenticity of that performance evaluation is suspect. Timitinko Enodien Political economy of resource control The use of Nigeria's resources in the last three decades has been nothing but scandalous, bordering on preconceived squandering. Segun Ige Imperative of a national dialogue Sworn to uphold the constitution, the president and members of the national and state assemblies are legally precluded from even mooting, not to say taking action on this option. Prof. Ben Nwabueze For some time now, concern has been expressed from many quarters over the declining value of the Naira which is one of the indicators of the health of the economy. Chief Effiong Essien The Nigerian-US Military pact, 'Fine Prints' Recipe for Danger; Whither National Assembly? What we have here are two aspects of a policy, the goal, the US National Security Interest and the instrument of implementation, President Obasanjo. Prof. Omo Omoruyi Evaluating and Empowering the Oputa Panel As I write today, celebrating the supremacy of International Law over tyranny - Milosevic's arrest and detention in the Hague. Nigerian generals should not sleep with both eyes closed. William Etim-Bassey Senators, Obasanjo and the nation The senators seem determined to delay the inevitable Levi Obijiofor Issues in restructuring corporate Nigeria As we prepare for the possibility of a national conference, I believe four issues will remain central to the success or otherwise of whatever federal structure comes up. Sanusi L. Sanusi The dreams, vision and myth of Nigerian unity No common national endeavor can be pursued within a plural framework, unless there is an overarching unity of purpose and interests. Prof. Anya O. Anya To save Nigerian democracy, it is pertinent for Nigerians to refocus their attention to the present posture of the Independent Electoral Commission. Beko Ransome Kuti His inexorable target presently, might be the total dismemberment of the party partly for its perfidy in choosing a 'lesser member' of the family instead of himself as the presidential candidate. Tony Odiadi Drafting in the OPC militia into the daunting campaign against men of the underworld is in my humble opinion a circuitous return to the old diarchy question but this time at another level, namely, who is in charge in Nigeria: robbers or politicians, or both? Prof Mike Ikhariale The Oputa Panel and the parade of Igbo imbeciles at Enugu The Oputa Panel, an obfuscate panel whose goal is ill-defined, has been vacillating across the country with exaggerated optimism. Chike Okafor Implications of population growth for the Nigerian economy and environment As we march towards 2003, dragging along with us a frustrated people, disappointing leadership as well as a prostrated and battered economy, giving the population issue the desired attention becomes imperative. Ibrahim Umaru Nigeria's 'Democracy Dividends' What happened in May 1999, on a proper reflection, is at best a bold step towards the establishment of a democracy in Nigeria, but certainly nothing near the minimum of a truly democratic process. Prof. Mike Ikhariale The truth about US Military aid to Nigeria [2] Comparatively, the Nigerian Armed Forces isn't the worst in Africa. A capability comparison with the armed forces of Chad and Togo is proof! Williams Etim Bassey The truth about US Military aid to Nigeria [1] The truth of the situation is, the re-training, a strategic response initiative aimed at facilitating Nigeria's armed forces, in recognition of Nigeria's geo-eco-strategic prominence in African affairs is a positive step. Williams Etim Bassey Edo State Traditional Council as a Tool for Cultural Imperialism In Edo State, if a council of traditional rulers is constituted correctly, then the members can only be the crowned traditional rulers with sovereignty over a domain. Dr. Osilama Osime The picture and portrait of a parochial prince Nothing, not threats, intimidation, mischief, not even a bomb can extinguish the spirit and determination of the Delta people to press for their right. Larry Arhagba Obasanjo's obsession with Biafra In the the broader Nigerian political calculation therefore, Obasanjo's politics of anti-Igbo virulence is predicated on constructing an anti Igbo alliance la Biafra. But he must increasingly find it very depressing that this strategy doesn't seem to be working. Prof. Ekwe Ekwe Whose interest is MASSOB serving? The emergence of a movement to actualize Biafra definitely does not augur well for re establishment of trust between Ndiigbo and neighboring groups that border the Igbo heartland to the south east and the Niger Delta. Okenwa R. Nwosu, MD Resource Control: Way behind us Ironically, by virtually striking down the Petroleum decree, Section 162 has recognized the remote control of resources by their area of location through the use of the word "derivation". Charles Njoku True Federalism and Resource Control Unitarism as system encourages divide and rule. Extreme corrupt practices and mismanagement of funds became the norm because there was no effective methods of checks and balances. By Michael Denila Fluctuations in ethnic politics Ethnicity is the yin and yang of Nigerian politics. A variety of it was at play recently. When the House of Representatives was torn asunder over the bill on resource control. Kingsley Osadolor Holding aloft the testimonials they gathered from Sierra Leone and Liberia as evidence for the claim, but he failed to tell the nation the huge human and material costs expended to achieve those obviously limited military objectives. Prof. Mike Ikhariale National identity card palaver The fear of losing political control and the attendant resource allocation and distribution advantage such control confers accounts for the recent sporadic distortion of Nigeria's well known pre-colonial history. Ritchie Ejiofor, Esq Nigeria is once again at a turning point. Will it settle permanently the terms and conditions of living together in one polity, of its diverse peoples. Prof. Adebayo Adedeji Nigeria's nations and the challenges of federalism The big three see themselves as the main beneficiaries of the federal character principle. When one of them is complaining of marginalization, it always means that, in that one's view, the other two have got a greater share of the cake than it. Prof. David Okpako If only they knew.......[Poem] They are those...Who will not let things be....Because of their inherent sense of inferiority feigned by a debilitating superior complex. Soboyejo Awosika-Coker CEDDERT and the Misrepresentation of Facts The Niger Delta represented by the Urhobos were told that if they want to be like America, non indigenes would march to the Niger Delta and kill off the original inhabitants and take their oil. N. H. Ibanga Fundamental Restructuring is the Answer to "Military in Politics' in Nigeria The President emerged through the good auspices of the northern military officers and they expect some IOU. Very soon, we would be told that Chief Obasanjo is abusing the trust of the military of northern origin. Prof. Omo Omoruyi My last testament on the Nigeria-US Military Pact Of course, the US asked to name their needs in Nigeria, would likely rank oil as number one, peacekeeping as number two; and the protection of Obasanjo to guarantee these two, as number three. Prof. Omo Omoruyi As Defense Minister, Theophilus Danjuma once observed, none of the civilian government overthrown by the military was worth defending. To be candid, I don't see Nigerians this time ready to die for an illegitimate and inept government no matter its pretensions to constitutionalism. C. Don Adinuba Settling accounts with the Sovereign National Conference If you dismiss this article as unrealistic, then forget about a SNC and continue with routine and more 'realistic', issues such as, the politics of re-election and the fake "national conference" being proposed by the federal government. Edwin Madunagu How to organize the national Conference So, now that the convocation of a National Conference is no longer a matter of 'if' but 'when', it is good to also shift from the 'why' to the 'how' of the matter. Kayode Samuel The operation of the Nigerian brand of federalism by the present federal government savors of arrant paternalism. Chris Akiri After President Obasanjo, Who / What ? A Nigerian of Ndi Igbo ancestry asked me if I did not think General Ike Nwachukwu would not be a response to that question? A fellow Edo person asked me if I did not agree with Admiral Augustus Aikhomu, that it would be the turn of the southern minorities to produce a president in 2003. Prof. Omo Omoruyi Case Report 3; Biafra v. Nigeria The Court, has accepted the right of the Niger Delta States to intervene, with the agreement of both parties. Under Article 81, Paragraph 2 of the Rules of the Court, which shall be set out as stated under Article 62 of the Statute. Orok Edem. Endless journey of the NDDC Act We of the Niger Delta are highly disturbed by yet another proposed amendments to the NDDC Act by Mr. President to the National Assembly. Chief Jonathan Ukueku Derivation is not Resource Control There is some confusion about the meaning and economic implications of the term Resource Control. In the public media, the term is usually used as a synonym of Derivation and sharing of revenue from the Federation Account. G. G. Darah The Americans know that the owners of the oil in the Niger Delta will gladly sell to them. They do not have to kill the Niger Deltans or maintain troops there to have continuous supply of oil to the West. N. H. Ibanga Good governance, federalism and resource control The origin of federal states usually lie in the consciously expressed will of federating units to come together and subject themselves to a new tier of government. Afam Onumonu Resource Control is Divine Law From the beginning, the Niger Delta people know they were dealing with the question of power. So, when President Obasanjo says that it was the issue of ownership and control of oil that led to the 1967-1970 civil war, we understand what he means. G. G. Darah Why Akwa Ibom governorship stool should rotate [Interview] Donald Etiebet, a chieftain of both the People's Democratic Party and the Union of Niger Delta, explains why the Akwa Ibom State governorship must be rotated among the state's three major tribes of Ibibio, Annang and Oron. Uju Ndubuisi De colonization through resource control If we frustrate the South-South peoples and other restive minority groups by acts of omission or commission to forcefully reclaim their due, the animosity and centrifugal force that may be unleashed by that action may precipitate the dismemberment of Nigeria. Ita Awak The Attorney General and his ministry could be wrong. The pursuit of justice in the last resort, if it does not lie in the National Assembly whose views are already known in the matter ought to lie in the supreme Court. Odia Ofeimum Until the Igbos rediscover themselves, unite and organize into an irresistible force, they will not find a redeemer to guide them. Unu Habib What went wrong with Igbo leadership The reality of the Nigerian experience is that governance is marked essentially by the contest for power between ethnic nationalities. Chief Victor Nwankwo The President, the Hunchback and the Conference In his first coming, Obasanjo sold us to the Fulani caliphate and now, in his second, he is attempting to sell us not only to his American and Western European allies but also to his friends at the IMF and World Bank. Femi Fani-Kayode If the Nigerian economy has remained very backward all along and has stagnated since 1978, the characteristics of the Nigerian private sector and the lack of understanding in government and private circles of what modern development is all about are the causes. Prof. Eskor Toyo The kernel of our Nations Problem The situation in the country may be very deplorable but citizens are still bent on begging for their right instead of taking control of it. Christopher Odetunde, Ph.D. Of Dietitian Sunday Afolabi, Cicero Bola Ige and Apostle Aremu.. The detractors of the Yoruba race must be thinking that they are having a "laugh" at the expense of our people at the present time. Soboyejo Awosika Coker Obasanjo, what will history say of you as you continue to power the life support machine of an over centralized and incompetent Nigeria. Anthony Effik Northern Nigeria is not behind the South in Media Power The Northerners know what they want to hear, and that is why an average Northerner believes in buying a radio and listening to international news in Hausa, and does not care much about newspapers in Nigeria. Ugo Harris I'll die for resource control-Attah "Resource control does not mean that suddenly the rest of Nigeria will not enjoy oil money. So long as derivation remains at 13%, they would still enjoy 87%" Mideno Bayagbon Class, Gender and the Political Economy of 'Sharia' These criticisms are really addressed at those implementing the Sharia and not at Islam. Although the punishment for theft is amputation, Islamic history shows us that the leader [Hakim] is at liberty to judge, if the environment is suitable for effecting the extreme penalty. Sanusi L. Sanusi The Littoral States and Onshore / Offshore Resource Control in Nigeria Will the federal suit resolve issues? Hardly likely, unless the issue is 'dialogued' at a Sovereign National Conference. Mobolaji Aluko, Ph.D. As a matter of fact, it is impossible for any fair minded human being, from outside these areas - to visit such communities, without coming away with some feeling of guilt. Bayo Abatan Religion and Politics-The Nigerian Nightmare Politics like religion has been used as an instrument of exploitation and economic slavery for too long. Christopher Odetunde, PhD One of the most voluminous in the world, depicts a particularly bad type of wordiness. Edwin Madunagu The military leaders of Nigeria who got Nigeria into these various Islamic organizations had one thing in mind as to the qualification of Nigeria's leadership. They had in mind that Muslims would permanently rule Nigeria. Prof. Omo Omoruyi They leave the 'great deal of interpretive latitude' bestowed on the faithful, to the northern leaders who have constantly shown themselves to be corrupt and self serving. Anthony Effik The State of Higher Education in Nigeria It is time for this government to justify why money cannot be voted to revamp the state of the educational system, instead of pumping money to purchase airplanes for politicians and appropriate it for building unnecessary stadiums. Christopher Odetunde, Ph.D Once upon a military gentleman-In defense of Gen. Abubakar Much as I have always expressed my disdain for military rule and intervention as part of the ugly problem besieging Nigeria today, objective standards should be applied to all cases without exception. Ritchie Ejiofor Matters Arising-Nigeria and her citizens: The writing is on the wall for a good beginning the 2003 election would show how far and how mature Nigerian electorates have come and how serious their yearnings for a peaceful electoral revolution is. Christopher Odetunde, Ph.D Matters Arising: Southern Governors and the Berlin Conference on True Federalism If there must be unity, there must be equitable grounds for ensuring it. Ritchie Ejiofor A call for Determination, Endurance and Perseverance The world is asking, " what type of fools are these people in the Niger Delta"? Niger Delta Republic Movement The gospel according to Francis Arthur Nzeribe I predict that year 2003 is not the Igbo time. It is for OBJ or IBB. That is the naked bitter truth. Senator Francis Nzeribe Violence, Geopolitics and Real politicks in Nigeria Obasanjo is deluded if his rationale for unity is the idea that 'God put Nigeria together'. Anthony Effik I will do a brevu manu resume of some hard historical facts that will open wide the eyes of NdiIgbos in trying to find a sound political footing come year 2003. Sebastian Hon, Esq. It is an acknowledged fact that in politics especially based on elections, promises have to be made and kept... President Obasanjo did not enter into any written pact known to all, with the leaders of the NdiIgbo and the southern minorities to which they could hold him accountable. But the northern leaders can. Smart chaps! Prof. Omo Omoruyi If Babangida becomes president He will not need to win the majority of the votes, whether in one state or in twenty five states of the country; he would simply be awarded all the votes he needs to win. Ogaga Ifowodo Is it not cause for wonder, to know that federating units go cap in hand to the central government to collect random allocation from the wealth derived from the exploitation of the resources within their areas of jurisdiction. Lukeman Owolabi The basis for national unity does not exist in Nigeria It is amplified by the aimless gyration for coerced unity, which would amount to attempting to level a rocky mountain with a nail file. Ritchie Ejiofor, We must wake up now and take our dear country back from these bunch of thieves and looters "by whatever means necessary" Hilary Evbayiro The Ramblings of an old Colonial Officer If you marry taxi driver, I don't care; kill democracy, murder our men, starve our women and children? I don't care for any of this. And I don't care if you marry lorry driver either. Harold Smith Professionalism in the military kingdom The characterization of the Nigerian Armed Forces as 'an army of anything goes' was not by some mischievous commentator. It was the forlorn lamentation of Lt.-General Salihu Ibrahim, a former chief of army staff. Dr. Ibiyinka Solarin Major Chijioke Oguine [Missing or Killed in Action] What kind of country could be so callous even to those who die for her in time of war? Albert Oguine South-South's Agenda for Liberation There is no reason for the leaders of the oil producing areas not to accept an Ibo candidate or a Yoruba candidate or a Hausa candidate, IF and ONLY IF, the candidate would meet their permanent interests. Prof. Omo Omoruyi "With immediate effect..." The life and times of General Murtala Muhammed In late 1969, he approached then Col. Obasanjo, commander of the 3rd division and appealed to him to slow down the rate of advance of his division, fearing that a quick victory over Ojukwu would make Gowon unapproachable. Nowa Omoigui MD, MPH, FACC Defeating the counsel of Ahiptophel Do not forget that the British Crown has NEVER had a legal or moral right to abrogate Nigerians' ownership of Nigeria's resources and to vest such ownership in itself. N. H. Ibanga Let me warn here that any liberated slave from Southern Nigeria who fails to learn from the sordid events of the past 20 years in Nigeria will remain a slave forever. Joe Igbokwe Resource control as a front burner 'Is it not Cross River State that lends credence to the Federal Government claim on Bakassi? It is after the people may have agreed to be part of Nigeria that you can say the place belongs to Nigeria. Not vice versa'. Oladipo Fetuga The Saro Wiwa family deserves to be heard It must be borne in mind always, that the Oputa Commission is a fact finding mission. Like all fact finding missions, it can discover or stumble on facts that exonerate the guilt of a convict. Anthony Idigbe, (SAN) The struggle to achieve greatness would only be achieved if the nation returns to the pre-1966 revolutionary path of a balanced federal structure. Anthony Effik The president can wish the call for resource control away but it will be a dream, just as many Nigerians and the president wished the political Shari'ah away but it is still around. By Christopher Odetunde Ph.D Nigerians are now finding out that it is easy to buy a bed, but difficult to buy sleep. Christopher Odetunde Ph.D Integrity and credibility as necessary tools for leadership in Nigeria "The forum for dealing with this matter, as I see it, is a national conference. A constitutional conference can deal with a number of relevant issues, but will remain somewhat limiting." [General Obasanjo 1984]. By Ritchie Ejiofor Nigeria's political economy 1960 - 1985: Before the Babangida's regime As an undeveloped nation state, factors of the political economy are many, complex and inter related. Sam Oyovbaire The Oputa Commission: the "June 12" and the "Military" Maybe, we would want to know if the US policy in Nigeria today is in accord with the Arewa Consultative Forum, that is vehemently opposed to the idea of fundamental restructuring of the armed forces? Prof. Omo Omoruyi Apologies, reparations and the path to healing They envied Igbos entrepreneurial skills. They disliked Igbos ingrained pattern of sacrifice and hard work. Their minds had been poisoned by hate, bigotry and ignorance. Ambrose Ehirim Apologists and beneficiaries of the present unjust system are wrong in arguing that Nigeria will cease to exist as a united country, if the principle of fiscal federation is enthroned. G. G. Darah Return to the former National Anthem In fact, while the current falls flat on its face in its prose, poetry and meaning, the former stands luminous not only in its prose, poetry and capacity to breed hope, but as a prophecy. Ike Akaraiwe Northern Nigeria leadership: A wasted opportunity, a betrayed trust The object of this article is to examine those periods in Nigeria's history that persons of Northern Nigerian origin were at the helm of affairs with a view to taking an honest, critical look to see where, and how, we northerners went wrong. Musa Adamu Mbahi MD Speech by Chief A. K. Horsfall on the occasion of the reconciliation with Dr. Peter Odili, governor of Rivers State, over the disruption of the Kalabari unity rally in December last year.....more Dr Odili, state police and the Kalabari people For Governor Odili, a word is enough for the wise - leave the Kalabari people alone. Political survival strategies in a democracy could have better finesse than disrupting peaceful political rallies. Abiye Amachree The trouble with the onshore / offshore dichotomy The argument that is often thrown around to support this computation is that offshore oil belongs to the federal government and not the state. Austin Avuru What communion has a holy thing as Sharia with the mammon called 'resource control'. Hope Eghaga Five groups were responsible for Abacha coming to power. These were the anti-Abiola group in the Armed Forces; leaders of the 'June 12' movement and fractions of the Radical movement in Nigeria. Edwin Madunagu The President needs to execute this budget more purposefully, more open-handedly than he has done in the previous year. Olu Obafemi In a nation where citizenship is unequal and I am at the bottom of the citizenry, my existence is easily ignored by those other citizens who are busily grabbing in occupational frenzy at the expense of those brutally oppressed less citizens. Ini Ekere The Sovereign National Conference: Breaking a deadlock in the Nigerian polity It could therefore seem to a right thinking person that, the Northerner is not looking for a way to hold on to power but rather a way to make sure that her interests and survival are protected and even guaranteed. Christopher Odetunde, Ph.D. In the shadows of a saint [Book Review] This book delicately exposes and explores the most personal and most sensitive areas of relationships in a family. Kole Omotosho The trains, who stopped the trains? Two related surprises or perhaps, I should say shocks came my way a couple of weeks ago, and they set me thinking about trains, something I had not done for several years. Aig Imokhuede NDDC not solution to Niger Delta's problems More than a year now, nothing has happened, no development, we remain a forgotten people. Meanwhile, infra structural development is taking place in other parts of the country. By Chief Edwin Clark The problem with Bassey Ekpo Bassey is that, he is like the blood that comes out of your mouth. You do not know whether to swallow it or spit it out. Orok Edem At any rate and by all standard, those opposing the formation of YCE formation have germane and valid reasons to do so, based on the political volatility of Nigeria. Lanre Agoro Obasanjo and the third power bloc The present government is a transitional one: transitional in the sense that if the regime does not preside over the liquidation of Nigeria, then it will be succeeded by a government operating on a qualitatively different basis. Edwin Madunagu Does the fertility of the soil at the Obasanjo Farms and the abundant yield of farm produce it may bear, empower the government - local, state or federal- to appropriate and dispossess General Olusegun Obasanjo of his property rights. Francis Ebi Porbeni The Afenifere and the rest of us Taking on Afenifere, may well be a Waterloo . The group remains our Jerusalem where the tombs of our ancestors in all their glory are interred. We intend to defend it. Akinyemi Onigbinde The trouble with Yoruba leaders It is only a man with a complex who constantly has to prove something! In any case, most of the core leadership and office holders joined that party only because in the South West, that is where they were sure to "ri owo mu"- to get to the top. By Adenaiya Aiyekooto Fiscal rascality, squandermania et al Let some of the legislators just go round and pass all the junks as possessing of adequate value for the billions of Naira expended on them, chikena! Olorunimbe Farukanmi Islam, probity and accountability: A critical essay in history, philosophy and law Why is it that in spite of the fact that we all know academically or involuntarily that corruption in all its form is un-Islamic, it remains a pervasive feature permeating Muslim communities? Sanusi L. Sanusi Religion, ethnicity and the politics of constitutionalism in Africa This may be why constitutions have assumed the characteristics of state totems to be revered by people. As such, rather than being seen as the basis of their every day intercourse. Rev. Fr. Mathew Hassan Kukah By my singular analysis, the most politically conscious group of people in nigeria are the northerners. They have been able to use their political sensitivity to their utmost advantage. Michael Akpan Ebewo, Ed.D Ethnicity: The bane of Nigerian politics What we see, is a situation where every action of government is given an ethnic interpretation by the people including some so-called elites. Chukwudi Nweje In pursuance of the Yoruba agenda The pursuance of a Yoruba agenda has never and will never be to the detriment of other nationalities within the Nigerian theater of operation. Soboyejo A. Awosika-Coker As Nigeria tethers on the brink of disaster, it has become hell for the southerners. But, each time it tries to forge a common alliance that will throw off the yoke of the Hausa-Fulani tyranny, it becomes more divided than ever. Austin Orette Reconciliation not retaliation Official retaliation of the type envisaged in, and by, the threat, can only call forth further retaliation and before we know it, we could well be back to 1966. Prof. Obaro Ikime 2003: The struggle for Aso Rock There are of course other aspirants to power who do not seek to abort what is now in place; rather, they will angle for greater visibility and an assured chunk of the proverbial national cake. Remi Oriaku Conversion in African Traditional Religion In studying religious change or conversion, scholars are usually interested in accounting for the causality, as well as the course and consequences of change. C. I. Ejizu "Anybody who comes to you seeking for power with red eyes, don't give him" Shuaibu Usman Leman Jihad: Revolutionary Islam and Nigerian democracy I will first review to the best of my ability, understanding and recollection, the essential formulations of political theorists of Revolutionary Islam and then zero in on the target problematic, which is the Nigerian State and the process of Islamisation. Sanusi L. Sanusi But when for instance, the Tivs of Benue State decided to alternate between passive resistance and active, though peaceful protest in the 1st Republic, the Sardauna, as if replicating the Jihadists chivalric fervor, let loose on defenseless civilians the 20th century sophistication of a British trained military. Peter Audu The Ibibios say STOP, we will not take it anymore Gowon proscribed the 1st cultural organization that sought to look after the welfare of its people, the Ibibio Union. Today if I am not mistaken, Gowon is a member of the Arewa Peoples Congress. N. H. Ibanga Re: the Yorubas-Between Madunagu and Abati The Ilorin question is essentially the same as others and the solution has to rest on two political principles of national democratic development of Nigeria. Edwin Madunagu Ken Saro Wiwa and Oladipo Diya Whether in life or in the death of one of them, there was little or nothing that was common to these two men. One was a Yoruba oppressor and the other an Ogoni oppressed. J. M. Kobani MNN: True Federation charter for the Federal Republic of Nigeria We the members of the Movement for a New Nigeria hereby propose a working document for restructuring the Federal Republic of Nigeria into a true Federation The Yorubas: Between Madunagu and Abati What is missing to Adesanya is that, in spite of this concept of our being cattle and goats, the house of Oduduwa have never secured the service of one cow or one goat in the task of undermining the legacy of DanFodio. Sanusi L. Sanusi Our worst tragedy is the cadaverous unconcern of the Nigerian citizenry in the wake of massive corruption and wanton abuses of office. Prof. Sola Adeyeye General Babangida: The testing of turbulent waters Like re-invigorated comedy, the General's devotees embarked on an unrestricted stretching of the imaginary successes of the IBB regime. Dr. Timothy Othman Tell me, why would a seemingly intelligent soldier like Ojukwu plan a war in consultation with a destabilized politician instead of his military counterparts from the west? Ini Ekere My favorite general wants the Egbesus, Bakassi Boys, APC and OPC members arrested. Whose responsibility is it to arrest these people? Mine or his? If it is his, why is he telling us? Orok Edem What must be recognised is that the Yorubas are the loudest people in the world's loudest country. Dotun Oni The current political and economic atmosphere in Nigeria is reactionary in limiting minorities, especially women from leadership positions and it appears so by design. Clement Ikpatt Rigging of Nigeria's independence elections by the British government I was astonished to receive orders from his excellency in 1956, telling me to help fix the 1956 State elections. Harold Smith Niger Delta: A call for reparation Infact, the Igbos many claimed have been the political harlots of Nigeria as each successive federal administration has treated them like a step child. Tonye David-West., Ph.D How Many Nigerians Are There Today, really ? The present controversy over presidential elections has provided me with another incentive to ask the pertinent: how many Nigerians are there really? Mobolaji Aluko Ph.D Stop the bus I want to get off Nobody told me [please, don't say it is the will of God] that I had to live with the Yorubas, Ibos and Hausas until eternity. Orok Edem RASHEED RAJI: The unacceptable face of truth It begs the question; should the confessions of our State Officials lessen the their punishments and should the Commission of Enquiry be enthralled at the dilation to sincerity of cozening and morally bankrupt officials. Banjo Odutola Esq Nigeria is destined to be great On coming to office via a military coup, Babangida called himself a President instead of Head of State. This was unusual and pregnant with meaning. We laughed and ignored it. Saliba D. Mukoro Ph.D But history, shall on application or misapplication grant IBB,'s regime the credit for organizing the most fairest and freest election in the history of the most popular black nation in the world. Kadiri Yusuf Buni The Nigerian State and National Security The Nigerian State is a confluence of nationalities, made up of unreasonable people, associating involuntarily in the pursuit of uncommon interests. Orok Edem Realizing the disparaging effects of ethnic differences in producing an accurate census, the United Nation agencies offered to assist Nigeria in packaging a reliable census. This was rejected because we don't want the truth. Olorunnimbe Farunkanmi Islam: Cultural Revolution or Religious Movement? There is no secular realm in an Islamic State. Islam is actually a 'deification' of seventh century Arabian culture. In a very profound sense, Islam is more cultural than religious. Femi Fani-Kayode, Esq In the Nigerian context, there are economic and political reasons why some political interests and forces fear to know the real truth, of who we are, how many we are and why we should be who and what we are. Iwase Eniowo Resolving the problems of internal colonialism So, the President should become democratic and facilitate a peaceful grogram for states to control a sizeable portion of all their resources., or the states should come together and democratically return the Constitution to its original federal structure. Oluwole Adejare Oil pipeline vandalization in the Niger Delta: The way out Among the notable instruments of dispossession were the Petroleum Act of 1969 and the Land Use Decree of 1978. Senator Fred Brume Who is crying: The north or the rest of us? The blackmailers of the north have tried to sow discord amongst the people of the South-South and South-West. The South West cannot appropriate the resources of the South-South. Kola Animashaun The battle for the soul of Nigeria: The Islamic Declaration and the Macedonian Initiative The present approach by Muslims is a non starter, one cannot change social or religious habits by force, deception or blackmail in the 21st century. Orok Edem The prince, the parrot and the kingmakers Obviously, Atiku and his kind are of the opinion that they will always find individuals amongst the Yoruba willing to sell their consciences for a buck. Soboyejo A. Awosika-Coker If the oil wealth of Nigeria was in Sokoto, Ogun or Zamfara, how many people in Niger Delta would be allowed to get to the top? Anietie Usen The question is not whether these oil companies can remain in control., but whether the people themselves will continue to accept the conditions, which they are forced to exist under as a result of that control. Lindsay Barrett Obasanjo, Yorubas, Afenifere and AD Obasanjo behaves like a pig that suddenly comes in contact with jewel - he tramples it. His government is proving to be a bad product which may do the Yoruba nation in. Peter Claver Opara 'Thank God, he said it belongs to all of us, but there is no sign it belongs elsewhere than Lagos and Abuja'. Anietie Usen Madunagu and the end of these times As Nigeria hurtles like a space rocket towards and unpredictable destiny, one thing is now certain before the 'end': a gathering of the tribes in one form or another. Adebayo Williams The only person that ever came very close to the truth was Alhaji Wada Nas, who had revealed to us that Chief Adesanya's attempted assassination story was a hoax, and that the man was only testing an anti bullet charm he had just brought in from Ijebu Igbo. B. Abdullahi The shoe now pinches on the other foot The North is feeling the pinch of perceived bad governance, and feels that it must issue threats to appear powerful. Isah Momoh The challenge of the Arewa intifada Well, Obasanjo might have violated their mutual covenant but that does not give them the license to behave as if the rest of us are their slave. Prof. Mike Ikhariale The Igbos and the search for the wise men Our leaders should not be seen to be preaching one nation, unity and equitable federal structure, when its actions are directly in contradiction to its stated principles. Ritchie Ejiofor Tensions within the House of Gamji The problem is that your old game is a political maneuver, you have to be sure that the conditions remain hospitable to your old game. Laoye Odugbemi Religion, the cabinet and political economy of the north There is no doubt that no one would claim, with seriousness, that Abacha, Gwarzo, Sabo and El Mustapha were good examples of the quintessential Muslim leaders. Sanusi L. Sanusi All about NUON, Layi Balogun, Obasanjo, Abacha, Afenifere and YCE The brutal assassination of Chief Layi Balogun has proved that the nation is not yet free from the tyranny and cruelties of past military regimes. Mobolaji Aluko, Ph.D The slide from honor into disrepute To increase the sense of disillusionment, lies, conspiracy and intrigues, coupled with a total breakdown of 'espirit de corps' are being touted in an unabashed manner before the Oputa Panel. Steve U. Nwabuzor Ph.D. Northern elites: Whose leaders Until very recently, those of us in the North believed that chattering or endless babbling was the exclusive pastime of some disgruntled southerners. Mukhtari Wada Lord, why don't you visit us once again and intervene in our national affair as you did in June 1998, and bring back sanity to the people and restoration to the land. George Ehusani One probe still to come O Lord! It was to be expected, I suppose, that after the runaway success of the public hearings of the Civil Rights Violation Commission, some people would want another panel to be set up. Aig Imokhuede In all these climacteric, the innocent entity, North, has always been the culprit. They harangued about the 1960's violence, they chatter relating to Sharia. Hussaini Sani Kagara.... Lamido and the fading presidency It is too early to proclaim Olusegun Obasanjo as a lame duck president. But, the signs are there all over the place. Anietie Usen The Army and their American Instructors I am well aware that no knowledge is useless and one can never know too much. Can we honestly say, that our troops performed superbly in their series of peace keeping operations? Prof. Mike Ikhariale He symbolized the Nigeria Army, cocky, self conceited, self righteous and not so friendly with knowledge. Owei Lakemfa What reconciliation without reparation? One lesson is discernible-that others involved, or contemplating such acts should continue causing so much physical and psychological pains to others, after all, there will be an opportunity to apologize and expect to be forgiven. Bassey Udo Time to bid the north goodbye! But, where it pains most is that upon playing a parasitic role, [as it where] they also determine the sharing formula. Zeb Agomuo Obasanjo and Afenifere: An unholy alliance What is the matter with Yoruba people? All these Afenifere insolence is about making an issue of 2003 elections; if Obasanjo does not get a second term, they will opt out of Nigeria. Enefa Douglas Nigeria is the only federation in the world where the resources from some states, are appropriated by the government at the center for rulers to loot. G. G. Darah Nigeria from 1000-1999[Historical update] The information below is my best attempt at the update of one thousand years of Nigeria's history. Mobolaji Aluko, Ph.D But the oil companies always have money to build self serving roads. It is this capability more than any other, that makes Shell to be seen as by far richer than the government in fact, next to God. Richard Maduku President Obasanjo and his cheerleaders can talk endlessly about the poverty alleviation nonsense. in the end, food is the only language that a hungry mother or man understands. Levi Obijiofor The Delta State 5bn bond in perspective There is no tier of government that lacks good policies, the problem is always proper budget planning and lack of funds. Peter Egwuatu Faseun and the North's moral dilemma The governors of the 'Sharia States' who now support these suspected criminals, do so in gross violation of the clear guidelines of the Quran and the Sharia they claim to implement. Sanusi L. Sanusi One is therefore baffled that an entrenched clique can rattle our courts through a well orchestrated blackmail even under a democratic dispensation. Olorunnimbe Farunkanmi Biafra should be memorialized not resurrected New Biafran romanticists, for some reason that are yet difficult to comprehend, persistently tout the idea of resurrecting the defunct republic by peaceful means 30 years after Biafra was decisively subdued. Okenwa Nwosu MD CASE REPORT: Biafra v. Nigeria [1] Occupation, Exploitation, and Subjugation of the Peoples Republic of Biafra by the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Orok Edem When next Governor Kalu goes to Sokoto, even without clearance from other Igbo governors to brief his eminence on the south east and confederation he should also tell him that. Ben Lawrence Case Report: Biafra v. Nigeria [11] Preliminary objections of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to the case brought against her by Agents of the Biafran Republic. Orok Edem We want to define and protect the interest of the South-South [Interview] People who are speculating that Bola Ige and Chief Obasanjo have a hand in my ordeal are probably reading the constitution. Bassey Ekpo Bassey Then, the next presidential aspirant visiting Aso Rock on the obligatory courtesy call or at the invitation of its calculating resident would be given the same enthusiastic approval. Olatunji Dare Opening up the Nigerian Eastern Economic corridor The Igbos have also remained indifferent, to say the least to the plight of many ethnic minorities of river State, as they attempt to single handedly take on the might of the Federal Government. Okenwa Nwosu MD Should nomadic Fulanis sedentarize? The debate on sedentarization of nomadic pastoralists has, perhaps, attracted the interaction of the economists, geographers, demographers and anthropologists more than any other issue in pastoral nomadism. Ismail Iro, Ph.D Portraits in infamy and criminal impunity Could it be that it is this imprecision of a founding intent - in short, an animating philosophy that is fast robbing it of an authoritativeness and conviction, that should sustain those who come before it as complainants. Prof. Wole Soyinka The shooting and the sheer idiocy of continuing the trial of a felony case against a government already overthrown by the presenting authorities led to a public uproar. Owei Lakemfa Now is the time for the dominant group to face reality and prepare the people of Edo State to participate fairly in the inevitable debate ahead. Osilama Osime MBBS, MPH Strengthening Nigeria's diversity through resource control Has someone stopped to address why the regional government all over Nigeria were able to execute independent political programmes without reference to the centre? Dr. Chimaroke Nnamani This was a man who, together with the admirable efforts of many others that came before him, ensured that the N.C.N.C. held sway in many parts of Yorubaland. Femi Fani-Kayode Further reflections on the future My tentative conclusion, or perhaps, speculation, is that the 'leadership' of the North, as articulated by Enahoro is not enthusiastic about the platform being canvassed, namely, a sovereign national conference. Edwin Madunagu Oputa panel as Obasanjo's comic diversion The panel may have shielded the current administration from the anger of Nigerians, for failing to deliver on what it promised, but, even the most interesting home video gets to a point where the audience cannot afford a second look. Charles Onunaiju Accepting Abacha and Ken Saro Wiwa They come from all of us and they are of us. We must accept the dry semi-desert of our northern borders just as we own the rainforest and the swamps that bring forth so much troublesome petroleum products. Kole Omotosho Rules of law and enforcement: Key tools for sustainable growth When this is done, and until it is done, any hope for natural integration, nation building or having a just society / country would only remain a figment of academic imagination. Ritchie Ejiofor Obasanjo and the democratic dividends We must be mindful of the fact that most of the personalities expected to deliver these dividends were in the frontline in aiding and abetting the military to ruin our lives. Olorunnimbe Farunkanmi The Igbos and the limits of political rituals The fact is that Ohaneze is full of hot air. It has not yet developed the capacity or the temperament to challenge the Federal Government strategically over the Igbo question. Obi Nwakanma Future of Africans in the American Diaspora [1] Assimilation and sociopolitical mobility Not only do most ethnic Africans express intense affinity to the old countries, but would certainly like to spend the waning days of their lives in them. Chief Mpaka Princewill Future of Africans in the American Diaspora [2] The new millennium Economic constraint is instrumental in inhibiting African political involvement and by implication, development. By Chief Mpaka Princewill.. Justice Adewale Thompson and the corruption of public discourse in Nigeria it is not important to debate the mundane question of who started coup plotting in Nigeria. One implication for dissipating energy in that worthless exercise is falling in the ethnic trap of the Thompson's of Nigeria for whom the world must be divisible by the Yoruba. Dr. Abdullahi Bawan-Allah
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