Briefs from Akuta

Resist Oil Subsidy Removal.

2012-01-11T12:58:00.000-08:00

“The fate of the nation then lies in the hands of the faithful” Time Magazine, September 26, 2011. Page 27. By removing oil subsidy from 1st January 2012 contrary to the promised date of 1st April 2012, the government has proven once again never to be trusted. Please find below the reasons to resist oil subsidy removal.

1. The first is fraudulent payment on phoney import of PMS. The product is fraudulently certified as imported into Nigeria but is actually diverted to other countries in West Africa . Meanwhile, the documentation is perfected by criminal elements in Customs, Directorate of Petroleum Resources (DPR), Pipeline and Products Marketing Company (PPMC) and Petroleum Products Pricing and Regulatory Agency (PPPRA). They not only collect the subsidy (which actually is outright theft), they also connive to collect demurrage on product that really never entered the Nigerian market. The reality is that what we actually consume in Nigeria may not be up to half of what the records or statistics say we consume.

2. The second fraud is the Petroleum Equalisation Fund (PEF). PPMC used to have a network of pipelines and depots across the country. Supply envelopes were created around each depot in a way that ensured all parts of the country are covered. Each supply envelope is divided into zones. Actual transportation cost was calibrated according to zones within each supply envelope. The objective here was to ensure that products sell at the same price throughout each depot's supply envelope regardless of the distance of consumption from supply.

3. The third was also Bridging, the system whereby products are moved by road across depots as may be permitted in what was meant to be exceptional cases such as when repair is being carried out on the pipeline or at a depot. Over time and driven by fraudulent intent, what was designed to augment became the routine practice. Products would be released from Atlas Cove in Lagos ostensibly for bridging to say Kano or Sokoto but would actually be sold at nearby stations while the documentation is perfected and bridging allowance is paid.

The products were also meant to be sold at equal prices at all locations nationwide. When the refineries were working and the pipeline/depots were also functional, the products were pumped through pipelines from the refineries to the various depots from where they were picked for distribution within the supply envelope covered by each depot. In principle, the Eastern axis was meant to be supplied by the Port Harcourt Refinery 1. The Northern axis was meant to be supplied by the Kaduna Refinery. The Midwest and Middle Belt were meant to be supplied by the Warri Refinery while the Western axis was meant to be supplied by products shipped to Atlas Cove from Port Harcourt Refinery 2. This refinery was also meant to export products to West African countries.

All marketers were given a price structure by PPMC which routinely (and frankly unprofessionally) decided the marketers' margin and overhead allowance, the transportation allowance and the dealers' margin. Such a terrible system it was! The standard Transportation allowance was decided based on what was required to move products from the depot to Zone 3 within the depot's supply envelope. Transporters moving products to Zones 1 and 2 are paid less than the standard allowance while the balance was meant to be paid into PEF by the marketer. Transporters moving products to Zones 4 to 9 are paid the additional cost of transportation from PEF. Most of the consumption in around each depot occurs in Zones 1 to 3, usually up to 70%. The fraud: sell all products within Zones 1, 2 and 3 but collect PEF allowance as if almost all products were sold in the outer zones. This has been on for a very long time.

We can imagine why all the various adjustments and maladjustments occurred over the years especially during the military era when the fraud was mostly perpetrated, actively promoted and culturally institutionalized by high ranking Generals and Administrators. We can also see why all refineries eventually had to be crippled and pipeline network/depots of PPMC had to be paralyzed. From Point No 1 to 3 were some of the arguments to remove “oil subsidy” by the Finance minister.

To Remove “Oil Subsidy” actually means to punish Nigerians for the failure of government to effectively fight corruption in the oil industry. Therefore, the masses should be penalized for government’s weaknesses. Does President GEJ have any guarantee that the so called money to be realized from the oil subsidy removal will be used judiciously? What about President GEJ announcing to the entire world that subsidy will be removed on April 1 2012, only for him to remove it on 1st January 2012. Does that not speak volumes? Government has again proven not to be trusted. What happened to Petroleum Trust Fund after Obasanjo took over? What will happen to the Kolade committee after his tenure? Why set up Belgore committee to dialogue with the Nigerian Labour Congress/Trade Union Congress while the subsidy had already been removed? Why behave like an autocrat. How can the President cushion the effects economic problems to be caused by the oil subsidy removal? How will the poor and unemployed Nigerians survive this attack by the government? The list is endless. Nigerians should resist the oil subsidy removal, till this policy is reversed. May God bless Nigeria .

Chinedu Vincent Akuta.

An Activist and Citizens Journalist.

akutachinedu@yahoo.com
http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com

Total State of Emergency is Needed Urgently.

2012-01-11T12:57:00.000-08:00

President GEJ has declared state of emergency in some parts of the country (Borno, Yobe, Niger, and Plateau State). However late, it’s a step in the direct direction. Total state of emergency is needed urgently. Mr. President should immediately initiate bill to make aiding and abetting terrorism a capital offence with capital punishment. Law makers should reconvene immediately due to the deplorable situation in the country. Furthermore, Mr President should extend the state of emergency to the following sectors:

1. Nigerian refineries. This is with the view to start refining crude in Nigeria immediately

2. War against corruption

3. Incessant kidnapping in the South Eastern part of the country/insecurity.

4. General insecurity

5. Infrastructures (roads, hospitals, schools, bridges, electricity etc).

6. Unemployment.

7. High cost of running his government, that is recurrent expenditures.

The list is exhaustive, but starting with the above items will be a welcome development. May God bless Nigeria.

Chinedu Vincent Akuta

An Activist and Citizens Journalist.

Facebook: C.v.Akuta

http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/

Enough of Shedding Igbo Blood(s).

2012-01-11T12:55:00.000-08:00

Please find below lists of Madalla bomb blast victims of 25th December 2011 at Niger State. Madalla bomb blast victims at the national hospital: Anthony Okoronkwo, Comrade Dike A. Williams, Emmanuel Dike, Richard Dike, Lilian Dike, Lynda Chioma Ubiukwu, Uche Queen Obiukwu, Chidinma Cynthia Obiukwu, Linderlin Ifeoma Obiukwu, Ann-Chinedu Aigbadon, Chiemeri Nwachukwu, Cecilia Ebeku, Oluebube Faustina Pius, Chidera Sylvia Pius, Florence Nwachukwu, Eucharia Ewoh, Joseph Daniel, Inspector Titus Eze, Obasi Jonathan Onyebuchi, Ehiawaguan Peter, Uche Esiri, Sgt. Kadiri Danjuma, Paulina Koju, Chukwudi Umeh, Christiana Kadiri, Esther Agbo, David Agbo, Helen Okolo, Mercy Agbo,John Agbo, Obiukwu Uche Stella, Ebuka Abuyi, Celestine Aniowo, Michael Sunday, Lucy Unji, Chiamaka Obiukwu, Favour Dike, Chimaobi Dike, Favour Egbo, Maria Obodugo, Kosisochukwu Egbo, Nzubechukwu Pius, Obodo Linus, Austin Ogbuagu, Chuks Ajuwe,Esther Ibu, Blessing Philip,Isaac Ibu,Kenedilins Aloysus.

Madalla bomb blast victims at specialist hospital, Gwagwalada
Innocent Okoronkwo (Intensive Unit), Chima Ohazurume, Justina Uche, Chinyere Amaechi, Ifeanyi Emenaha, Fidelia Onugwu, Chinyere Anthony, Sadiq Idris, Onyinye Peace Eneh, Clara Umozor,Pauline Okoronkwo,Uche Bonaventure, Uche Michael, Lawal Abubakar, Victor James.

Victims at General Hospital, Suleja
Owen Sylvester,Dalamin Isah (Passer-by),Ali Sani (Passer-by)

Victim at Major Hospital Kwamba
Edeh Christiana
Victims at Delight Hospital Suleja
Roseline Okeke, Chisom Eucharia Okoye
Victims at Suzan Hospital, Suleja
Chukwuebuka Obiakor, Jennifer Obiakor, Chidera Obiakor, Batrice Otogo
Victims at Daughters of Charity, Kubwa
Oliver Ogbonna, Remy Ofoha, Francis Rapheal
Victims at diamond Crest hospital, Zuba
Gabriel Christiana, Michael Nwanze, Achunike Okolo, Favour Ugochukwu, Nzube Pius. Source:http://www.sunnewsonline.com/webpages/features/newsonthehour/2011/dec/30/newsbreak-30-12-2011-001.html

From the names above, it’s clear that over 80% of the victims are Igbos. Earlier this year (2011) Vanguard newspapers of 12th January 2011 (online version) reported that the Igbo community lost 40 members from the Jos crisis of that month (the author has lost count of different Jos crises). From my own personal experiences: One of my uncle’s house was completely burnt down in one of the disturbances in Kano in 2004. My own immediate younger sister escaped death in one of the disturbances in Jos, Plateau State. The list(s) is endless. The trends are consistent. From the 1945, 1953, and 1966 pogrom where over 50,000 Igbos were killed thru the civil war (over 1 million Igbos died) till date, the Igbos have always been the targets. This is for no just cause. Lost properties, assets, etc cannot be quantified in monetary terms. The Igbos have also been punished is several ways (abandoned properties issue, giving of £20 to every Igbo person after the war, despite any amount he/she had before the war). Meanwhile, the Igbos have made the most sacrifices than any other tribe for the unity of the country.

As in the 1945, 1953, and 1966 pogrom against the Igbos where the federal government appeared helpless to defend and protect Ndiigbo, the subsequent governments have also followed similar trends, particularly in the Northern States where Igbo’s have consistently been killed since the end of the war till date. Simply put, the Igbos are endangered species. As you read thru this piece, please purse and observe a minute silence, for the souls of the innocent Igbo people and other Nigerians killed for nothing sake.

Enough is enough. No more shedding of Igbo bloods. Chief Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu once said that, if the price of nationhood is constant shedding of bloods, then let us not be a nation. Well, since the government cannot protect its citizens and Ndiigbo in particular, then Igbos have no choice but to protect themselves with all means necessary. Igbos should remember that self-preservation is the strongest human instinct. This is the time for the Igbos to sink all their differences and unite for the purposes of securing the safety of their lives and properties all over Nigeria. The Igbos must rise up together to face this challenges or continue to be killed every time. What affects one Igbo person directly, affects all Igbos indirectly. I therefore call on all Igbos, (All Ezes, Ohanaeze, all Igbo communities home and abroad, all Igbo unions home and abroad, etc) to immediately seek the ways out of these constant killings.

Perhaps, Igbos should start relocating their businesses and families out of the Northern region, reject youth service postings in the Northern region etc. This is because, they are simply the first targets to be killed at the slightest disturbances that does not concern them. Life first before anything else. However, the government must pay compensation to all those innocent families that lost their loved ones. The fault is not theirs. America and United Kingdom paid compensation to the various families of 9/11 (September 11, 2001) and 7/7 (7th July 2005) terrorist attacks in New York and London. May the souls of those innocent people that were killed, rest in peace. May God also bless Nigeria.

Chinedu Vincent Akuta

An Activist and Citizens Journalist.

Facebook: C.v.Akuta

http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/

No Group Has Monopoly of Violence.

2012-01-11T12:54:00.000-08:00

The danger and consequences of not containing Boko Haram and other violent groups might mean the beginning of balkanization of Nigeria. Imagine if a fanatical Christian group(s) or if OPC, MEND, MASSOB etc starts bombing mosques or starts violent agitation for Northerners to leave their area alongside what Boko Haram is doing. Action is equal to reaction, violence begets violence, and no group has monopoly of violence. Mr. President, all heads of security agencies, all stake holders etc should take a look at Sudan, Somalia, Lebanon, and former Yugoslavia. A lot can be learnt from the countries mentioned above in order to save Nigeria. However, it will not be a bad idea to commence restructuring of Nigeria peacefully.

The moment of truth has come. Either the President defeats Boko Haram or individuals/groups will defend themselves with any means necessary. No one will like to be killed. As it is, people/groups should henceforth be on their guard always and report any suspicious movements. High level of surveillance should be kept by all. Our leaders should better act now or forget about Nigeria, because bombing and general insecurity is out of control. My sympathy goes to all the innocent Nigerian that was killed today (25th December 2011). May their soul and other departed souls rest in peace. May God bless Nigeria.

Chinedu Vincent Akuta

An Activist and Citizens Journalist.

Facebook: C.v.Akuta

http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/

Remove Subsidy on Corruption Before Removing Oil Subsidy.

2012-01-11T12:51:00.000-08:00

President GEJ, please remove the subsidy on corruption before thinking of removing oil subsidy. Nothing more, nothing less. As a matter of fact, if you successful remove the subsidy on corruption, then there will be no need to think of removing oil subsidy. The sufferings are too much. Adding more pains thru oil subsidy removal will be detrimental and catastrophic. May God bless Nigeria

Chinedu Vincent Akuta

An Activist and Citizens Journalist.

Facebook: C.v.Akuta

http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/

Ojukwu Is Not Dead.

2012-01-11T12:47:00.000-08:00

“For those who know him, no word is necessary; for those who do not know him, no word is sufficient” W.T. Horngren. (An American Author). For those who know Chief Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu (Ikemba Nnewi) no word is necessary, for those who do not know him, no word is sufficient enough to describe him. When I first heard the news of his death very early in the morning of today, Saturday 26th November 2011, I began to pray let it not be true. The news kept coming and coming. I had no choice but to place a call to a friend who had the opportunity of visiting him in the hospital when he was alive. Sadly my friend confirmed my worst fears, that Ikemba was actually dead. Few days ago (November 4th 2011) I had the privilege of wishing him happy birthday.

Ojukwu has left an indelible mark. No one can occupy his position. Ojukwu is synonymous with the Igbos as the Igbos are synonymous with him. He was to Igbos what Moses was to the Israelites in the Holy Bible. You cannot die because you live in the hearts and minds of your people (Ndiigbo). Your legacies and ideas will live forever. According to late John F. Kennedy (former American President) “A man may die, nations may rise and fall, but an idea lives on”. Your legacies are carved in stone and you will forever remain in the minds of Ndiigbo and entire Nigerians.

As a young man, I took an exceptional interest in Chief Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu. I tried to study History at University of Nigeria Nsukka , because Ikemba studied History, however, providence took me to a different course. I read all most, all the newspaper/magazines interviews Ikemba gave before I left Nigeria . During my last visit to home, I collected his book; Because I Am Involved. I have read this book more than eight times and I am not yet tired of reading it. I read over 15 books on the Nigeria-Biafra civil war.

The greatness of a man is measured by what he lived and died for. You lived your life fighting for fairness, equity, justice, and peace. You stood for Ndiigbo at the dark moments. On the concept, Biafra, here is what Ojukwu said, “The concept, Biafra, was a line drawn for a persecuted people to have a beacon of hope, a line drawn so that a fleeing people can at least hope that once they cross it, they have arrived at a goal, a line drawn so that a hated and persecuted people can at least know that once they reach there, they would have love and succor. This is why there was no declaration of that line as a republic until certain acts of war were initiated against the persecuted people.” (Because I Am Involved, P 170). On fighting the Igbo cause, Ojukwu said, “I have had my belly full of wars. I will always fight for the welfare of the Igbos, though this time around on a table of dialogue”, “In Aburi, I stated the Igbo case and I will continue to do so wherever it is necessary” (Because I Am Involved, P 170). There is no way we can forget Ikemba Nnewi, therefore you’re not dead.

Ojukwu generated more controversies more than any other Nigerian. Many often, he has been mis-quoted, mis-interpreted and mis-trusted. Yet his views, visions and solutions to Nigeria ’s problem remain one of the best, if not the best. I consider myself lucky, having lived to witness his existence/passage on earth.

Chief Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu is an enigma, a legend, a hero, a leader, a patriot, and above all, the General of the people’s army. Rest in peace our great leader.

Chinedu Vincent Akuta.

An Activist and Citizens Journalist.

akutachinedu@yahoo.com
http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com

Happy Birthday Ikemba Nnewi, Chief Odumegwu Ojukwu.

2012-01-11T12:46:00.000-08:00

Dearest Ikemba Nnewi, Chief Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu, today (November 4th 2011) marks your 78th birthday. Kindly accept my birthday wishes and prayers for your quick recovery. The solutions to our problem as a nation, which you recommended at Aburi (Aburi Accord) Ghana in 1967, remains valid today as it was then in 1967. You have shown the light and the people will follow. Once more, accept my birthday wishes.

C.V.Akuta

UK.

Farida Waziri Indicts Self and Government.

2011-11-07T08:08:00.000-08:00

Farida Waziri (Economic and Financial Crimes Commission’s Boss) does not need any introduction. She had just revealed that “Nigerians are not ready to fight corruption”. To the author, this is a simple indictment on herself as the EFCC Boss, and the government, since both her position and that of various tiers of government are occupied by Nigerians. A simple question to Farida Waziri is; who will fight corruption or lead the fight against corruption? The masses or the government with all state apparatus. Glad that she has spoken the truth. Nigerians know the problem has always been with the government.

Several local and international organizations have at one point or the other indicted our government on corruption. According to the United Nations (UN), “Nigerian kleptocrats have milked the nation to the tune of about $100 billion dollars thorough various acts of grand corruption, the cost of which it lamented by far exceeded the damage caused by any other single crime” (Daily Sun, Wednesday, December 3, 2008 page 9). “The World Bank estimates the country’s generals and gangster politicians stole $300 billion in the three decades to 2006”(Time Magazine, May 3rd 2010 Edition, Page 42). Transparency International noted Nigeria as one of the leading corrupt nations.

The author would wish readers to revisit his speech to Nigerians at the University of Warwick, UK, titled: Corruption: Rampant Political Corruption (Law Enforcement, Justice and Penal Systems, Legislative System, Misappropriation of Funds) Corruption is Embedded in Society. Date 9th March 2011. University of Warwick, Gibbet Hill Road, CV4 7AL. (http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/2011_03_01_archive.html)

Fighting corruption in Nigeria will require a leader made up of iron and steel. For now, the author has not seen any of such person(s). May God bless Nigeria.

Chinedu Vincent Akuta.
An Activist and Citizens Journalist.
akutachinedu@yahoo.com
http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com

Disenfranchising Fellow Nigerians.

2011-11-07T08:06:00.000-08:00

The author is no longer surprised about what happens in Nigeria or what comes out of Nigeria. Therefore, it didn’t come as a surprise, when the House of Representatives stood down a bill, seeking to amend the 2010 electoral act that would have made it possible, for Nigerians in Diaspora to vote. Deputy Leader of the House, Leo Ogor raised concerns that Nigeria was not ripe for such an exercise, even when President Goodluck Jonathan promised that by 2015, those in Diaspora will vote. Over 20 African countries have already started Diaspora votes for their citizens, yet Nigeria is not ripe, according to the House of Representative deputy leader. This is pure man’s inhumanity to mankind. Disenfranchising fellow citizens.

Without doubts, greater part of our problems is from our “elites”. The author also remembered when the current Senate President (David Mark) was a communication minister, he said, “that telephone is not for the poor”. All previous governments have in one way or other pushed the people further into poverty. At present, our President appears to have made up his mind to remove the oil subsidy. All these are direct assault on the Nigerian masses both home and in the Diaspora. The only reason, why “any ruler” wakes up one morning to say or implement any harsh policy is because Nigerians are prepared to tolerate. There seems to be no limit to our tolerance level. The ability to accept/tolerate every thing the government does, is also our biggest hindrance to progress and development as a nation.

The time is now to start saying no and question any wrong policy. Whenever the government tries to impose a wrong policy, citizens should have no choice but to protest and resist peacefully. This can be achieved by mobilizing and educating one another that, good governance is our birth right(s). Enough is enough. May God bless Nigeria.

Chinedu Vincent Akuta.
An Activist and Citizens Journalist.
akutachinedu@yahoo.com
http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com

No Celebration @ 51.

2011-11-07T07:58:00.000-08:00

The writer disassociates himself from any 51st independence anniversary celebration. Instead of celebration, we should weep for Nigeria. The reason is because our past and present “rulers” have failed the nation. The Nigerian masses have also failed the nation, for failing to realize their power to positively change the nation. Citizens’ empowerment is needed in every sphere of life. Imagine citizens’ full support for the fight against bad governance, injustices, crimes, corruption, kidnapping, raping, etc. Each of us owes the country a duty to help empowerment our fellow citizens. Again, the country needs a fundamental restructuring. May God bless Nigeria.

Chinedu Vincent Akuta.
An Activist and Citizens Journalist.
akutachinedu@yahoo.com
http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com

Citizens, Media and Crime Fighting.

2011-09-27T04:27:00.000-07:00

“The fate of the nation then lies in the hands of the faithful” Time Magazine, September 26, 2011. Page 27.

Greater number of Nigerians (home and abroad), have risen in unison to condemn the Abia State University gang rape. Also the Nigerian media have shown tremendous support to make sure the animals (rapists) are apprehended. The pressure from Nigerians and the Nigerian media have led to the arrest of some suspects in the rape case. Though the police is yet to give details of the arrested suspects, the writer urges Nigerians to keep the pressure. Permit me to use this medium to ask Nigerians to volunteer information that will lead to the arrests and prosecution of the remaining rapists and other criminals. An injustice anywhere is threat to justice everywhere. What affects one directly, affects all indirectly. Therefore, Nigerians owe each other the duty to cooperate in the fight against crimes.

One thing has caught my attention in the case of the Abia State University gang rape, and that is the unity amongst many Nigerian media house, online blogs, internet forums etc to catch these culprits. While fighting to make sure justice is done, the writer appeals to Nigerians, Nigerian media, NGO’s etc to adopt this approach in other crime fighting strategies. The media has a bigger to role play. First by alerting the public of criminals, by published their names and pictures. Secondly, by calling on law enforcement agencies, to act. Thirdly, keeping pressure on the law enforcement agencies and the legal system to make sure justice is done.

Security is the responsibility of all Nigerians. If the citizens do not watch over their city, the police men/women stay awake in vain. And let’s remember what Edmund Burke said, “All that is necessary for the triumph of evil is that good men do nothing”. More so, “The fate of the nation then lies in the hands of the faithful” Time Magazine, September 26, 2011. Page 27. It will definitely be a good idea for fellow citizens to keep surveillance and spy on people whose motives and movements appear suspicious. No price is too much to pay for our security. May God Bless Nigeria.

Chinedu Vincent Akuta.
An Activist and Citizens Journalist.
akutachinedu@yahoo.com
http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com

Diaspora Resources.

2011-09-27T04:22:00.000-07:00

Our natural resource(s) extends beyond our borders. By this, the author means, our abundant human resources in Diaspora. It’s not in doubt that over 19 million of us live in Diaspora. Therefore, before calling for foreign direct investment or calling on foreigners to come and invest in Nigeria, the first call should be on fellow Nigerians to come home and invest. After all, charity begins at home. India has experimented this model with massive economic boosts. Meanwhile, in the absence of oil revenue, remittances from Nigerians in Diaspora accounts for the second largest source(s) of foreign exchange. Who then should drive this change, for more economic boost from our folks abroad?

Government, organized private sector, NGO’s, and Nigerians should focus more on this under tapped sector of our economy. Some private sector establishments have performed creditably well in this direction. I could recall several job fairs/recruitment drives organized in UK by some many Nigerian firms. It will be a good idea for the private sector to continue, driving this initiative of tapping into our foreign human resources/reserves.

For our economy to develop, there is need for competitiveness with other emerging economies. Here our human reserves in Diaspora, comes handy to complement the human resources at home. There is also the need to inject technological and skills transfer into our system. The cheap way to do this will be to start taping into these huge resources/reserves overseas.

The author has been privileged to meet a lot of Nigerians who came to United Kingdom, looking for projects to copy and domesticate in Nigeria. The author also belongs to the school of thoughts that believes technology should be copied. The Asian tigers copied western technologies, and today their economies are even ahead of some European nations. Till date, the author is yet to see any nation prosecuted for coping technology. For those who produce Aba made etc, my advise is for them to copy better technology so as to improve on their qualities and quantities.

The author suggests synergy and sincerity between people at home and those in Diaspora. With trust and confidence, more investments will flow into our economy. It’s important for Nigerians on both sides of the divide to establish trust. The passion to come home and invest runs high in every Nigerian I have come across in the west. Lack of trust is amongst one of the stumbling blocks to foreign capital inflow.

Another reason is that, East, West, North or South, home is the best. In fact, the moment you board a foreign airline leaving Nigeria, you become a second class citizen (It doesn’t matter if you have American, British, Canadian, European or Chinese citizenships). In these circumstances, you have no choice but to appreciate home. Furthermore, when one eventually arrives the western countries, social mobility becomes too difficult. Assimilation is near impossible. Racism is rife. Xenophobia and anti immigration sentiments are on the high, examples being the mass shooting at a Norwegian youth camp and the rise of far right political groups/parties.

In all, the author understands that, there are a lot the government can do to facilitate tapping into our huge human resources/reserves in Diaspora. But for obvious reasons, let’s pretend the government do not exist and let the citizens lead this approach. May God bless Nigeria.

Chinedu Vincent Akuta.
An Activist and Citizens Journalist.
akutachinedu@yahoo.com
http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com

Specialist(s) Hospitals: An Appeal.

2011-08-02T14:46:00.000-07:00

Health is wealth. A healthy nation is a wealthy nation. Please permit me to use this medium, to make a special appeal to banks, financial institutions, private investors, foreign investors, religious organizations, charity organizations etc to invest in the nation’s health sector. That is to build specialist(s) hospitals and possibly commercialize them. The author is making this special appeal because of the followings;

(A) My own little niece was evacuated in February of this year (2011) to a South African hospital, due to complications that arouse after her birth. She was only 3 weeks old, when she was evacuated. To make matters worst then, there was strike action by health workers at most government hospitals.
(B) Just today (1st August 2011) at about 17:00 hrs United Kingdom time, the author made a call to a Nigerian lady, at a hospital in New Delhi , India . As at the time of calling, she had spent a month at this hospital in India .
(C) As at the time of writing (1/8/11), the highly revered Ikemba Nnewi, Chief Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu, is still in a London hospital. He has been in London hospital since December 2010.
(D) The late President Yar’Adua was evacuated to a Saudi Arabian hospital. He spent nearly 3 months there.

The list is endless. Since the government cannot equip, maintain and train health workers to international standards then, a vacuum exists that the private sector should fill. Healthcare can be very expensive; therefore, the author supports profits maximization by any private investor in our health care industry. This cannot be compared to flying to India , UK , USA , South Africa , Saudi Arabia etc for overseas treatment. The private sector has done well in most industries, examples include, telecommunication, education (private schools, tertiary and universities), banking, transport, etc. Therefore, their next target should be the health sector. The religious organizations should also consider establishing, specialist(s) hospitals of international standards. The author is aware that some churches have already built hospitals, but more specialist centres are needed from them.

Not too long ago, the Central Bank of Nigeria announced plans to build a poultry farm, which upon completion will be the largest in Nigeria . This is part of CBN diversification project. The author agrees with the central bank on this project. After all, “We don’t need more bankers. What we need are more farmers” (Time Magazine, July 11, 2011 Edition. Page 40). The Central Bank should seriously consider building a world class hospital in Nigeria , at least to stem the tide of capital flights occasioned by overseas treatments.

This might be out of their scope, but there will be nothing wrong if the CBN takes the lead, or use policy instruments to support the establishment of world class hospitals in Nigeria. The time is now. May God bless Nigeria .

Chinedu Vincent Akuta.
An Activist and Citizens Journalist.
akutachinedu@yahoo.com
http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com

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Negotiating with Boko Haram.

2011-07-17T11:21:00.000-07:00

Well, if the federal government could negotiate with the Movement for the Emancipation of Niger Delta (MEND), grant their members amnesty, and send so many overseas for training, then there will be nothing wrong to dialog with Boko Haram. This may sound odd, but its becoming a question of, if you can’t beat them, then negotiate with them. But, to achieve a balance, the federal government should also open negotiations with Movement for the Actualization of Sovereign State of Biafra (MASSOB), Odua People’s Congress (OPC) and other groups agitating for self determination. What is good for MEND should also be good for others. In case of MEND, over 20,000 were given amnesty, out of which about 969 of them are receiving training in USA, South Africa, Poland, Russia, Ghana, Malaysia etc. Boko Haram members definitely need such training, re-orientation, rehabilitation etc. Other Nigerians also need local and overseas trainings.

The writer advises that, Boko Haram or other groups agitating for self determination or any cause, should forget the use of violence. War, fighting, bombing or armed struggle has never achieved any thing except destruction. Every conflict(s) ends on the negotiating table. In Afghanistan , the United States and President Hamid Karzai’s government have opened up negotiation with the Taliban. No price will be too much to pay for peace in Nigeria . However, one important lesson can be learnt from our government. They are willing to listen, when the language of force has been applied. No wonder the MASSOB leader (Chief Ralph Uwazuruike) has threatened to abandon his non violent and non exodus movement. The question to ask our government is, what about non violent innocent Nigerians? When will the government remember them?

From all indications, it appears Boko Haram has popular support amongst the locals. Otherwise one wonders the reasons why Borno State law makers have asked the army to leave Maidugiri. In addition, former Governors of Borno and Gombe State (Senator Alli Modu Sheriff and Senator Danjuma Goje) and the present Governor of Bauchi State (Alhaji Isa Yuguda) have all publicly apologized to Boko Haram. Enjoying the empathy of the locals, means the security services will have tough work to do, which again points to negotiations as an option. In all situations, the priority should be the safety and security of innocent Nigerians. All hands must be on deck to protect them. May God bless Nigeria .

Chinedu Vincent Akuta.
An activist and Citizens Journalist, Based in UK .
akutachinedu@yahoo.com
http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/

Sending The Wrong Signals.

2011-07-12T07:52:00.000-07:00

One hopes there are other reasons for the arrest of Mallam Nasir El-Rufai (former Minister of The Federal Capital Territory) in the morning of today (2/7/11) at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Airport Abuja, other than his writings and his most recent post election presentation at the Chatham House London. Lets recollect that in January 2011, Prof Okey Ndibe (A Nigerian Academic, writer, critic, and journalist, based in the USA) was also arrested and interrogated at the Murtala Mohammed International Airport Lagos. The case of the later was purely on his writings. When you factor in the fact that many journalists (Mr. Bayo Ohu of the Guardian Newspapers, Mr. Abayomi Ogundeji of Thisday Newspapers, Dele Giwa of Newswatch Magazines etc) have been killed in the past, one wonders if there are calculated attempts to suppress freedom of speech, even under “democratic rule”. However, the government should realize that wrong messages are being sent, each time a journalist is killed or one is arrested for his/her views. May God bless Nigeria.

Chinedu Vincent Akuta.
An activist and Citizens Journalist, Based in UK.
akutachinedu@yahoo.com
http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/

7-Year Single Term of Office is Unrealistic.

2011-07-12T07:49:00.000-07:00

An online news media (http://nationalmirroronline.net/news/16094.html?print?print) has reported, that the Presidency has concluded plans to send a bill to the National Assembly, for a single term of seven years for governors and presidents. The reason being that political violence was always caused, by the resolve of the incumbent governors and president to run for a second tenure of office. Dear President GEJ, if the above intension is true, then the writer completely disagrees with you and other proponents of this idea.

Mr. President, the true cause(s) of political violence is the lack of transparence in our political processes and injustice in Nigeria. Single term of 7, 8, or 9 years will not solve the matter until there is complete transparency, fairness, honesty and justice, in the system. In addition, the level of corruption is more than capable to cause political unrest. Mr. President, our country needs fundamental restructuring. Nothing short of true federalism or confederation is needed. The writer is aware that Mr. President is not in support of sovereign national conference. This makes matter(s) worst, because the nation’s problems can only be solved when the different aggrieved regions, states etc sit on the table and tell each other the truth and chat a way forward.

Just today (12/07/11), it was reported on the news that Niger Delta Liberation Force (NDLF) has called on you (President GEJ) to convene a sovereign national conference, to afford Nigerians the opportunity to discuss and possibly give birth to Republic of Niger Delta. South Sudan was used as an example. Mr. President, several groups are agitating for self-determination, these calls cannot be wished away. It’s a clear indication that all is not well with our polity. Listen to the people and find out what they want. Perhaps, your government can conduct a referendum to find out what Nigerians want. Instead of seeking for a seven year term, emphasizes should be on how to restructure the nation with a view to developing various parts of the country. To the writer, four years is more than enough to put back Nigeria on the path to greatness. Whatever that cannot be accomplished in four years might also not be completed in seven years. May God bless Nigeria.

Chinedu Vincent Akuta.
An activist and Citizens Journalist, Based in UK.
akutachinedu@yahoo.com
http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/

Oladimeji Bankole, EFCC and Corruption.

2011-06-13T09:59:00.000-07:00

“In Nigeria, corruption doesn’t just pollute the system, it is the system” Time Magazine, April 25, 2011. Page 28.

Yes, Oladimeji Bankole (Ex Speaker, of the House of Representatives) was arrested for corruption, but to achieve a balance, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) should also arrest other top politicians who have stolen massively from the public treasury. Our security agencies cannot claim ignorance of the free movement of other heavily corrupt politicians in Nigeria. Another question is, under what condition(s) did the ex speaker obtain those fraudulent loans from the bank(s). It might also be interesting to beam searchlight on the bank(s) involved.

Arresting Bankole or other corrupt politicians might not make any impact, if the Nigerian system continues to treat corrupt people kindly. “The greatest incitement to crime is the hope of escaping punishment” Marcus Cicero. This is more prevalent in Nigeria. The system rewards and recognizes corrupt people. In most cases, prison sentences are mere Childs play. Former Inspector General of Police, Tafa Balogun was convicted of N20 Billion naira fraud and was sentenced to 6 months imprisonment, Mrs. Cecilia Ibru, former MD/CEO of Oceanic Bank was jailed 6months for stealing N54 billion naira. Olabode George committed a fraud of over N85 billion naira in Nigeria, and was given only 2.5 years (two and half years jail sentence). Bankole might even not get conviction, talk less of sentence. Remember James Ibori (Ex Governor) of Delta State was discharged and acquitted in Nigeria only to be arrested in Dubai and extradited to UK for the similar offences he committed in Nigeria.

The list of corrupt cases in Nigeria is endless and there is no end in sight. Time Magazine is right to say that in Nigeria, corruption doesn’t just pollute the system, it is the system. “The World Bank estimates the country’s generals and gangster politicians stole $300 billion in the three decades to 2006”(Time Magazine, May 3rd 2010 Edition, Page 42). Who knows the figures stolen from 2007 till date? One thing is obvious; the level of corruption in Nigeria will certainly make development of our country near impossible. Preventing corruption should be a top priority. The authorities should also take punishing corrupt people seriously. The author wants to be proven wrong, that the present government might not be able to wage an effective war against corruption. May God Bless Nigeria.

Chinedu Vincent Akuta.
An activist and Citizens Journalist.
Facebook / C.v.Akuta.
http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/

Inaugurations of 29th May 2011.

2011-06-13T09:58:00.001-07:00

My concern remains what inauguration means to ordinary Nigerians. Perhaps, it means hope for better things to come or hope for changes. The Nigerian masses are right to expect changes, but actualizing these hopes to realities are most times difficult. In the past, most electoral/governmental promises are never fulfilled. The question remains, what will be different this time around and what can the citizens do, to hold governments accountable to their promises and responsibilities. The author suggests the formation of active citizens watch dog. This is in addition to an earlier suggestion by the author for the formation of shadow government by the opposition party/parties.

“Politics is too serious a business to be left for politicians alone” Charles de Gaulle. Therefore, as Nigerians mark inaugurations at most states and federal level today 29th May 2011, the author advocates active participation of the citizens and the opposition parties to provide checks and balances. For our nation risks autocracy, without checks and balances. For the numerous court cases, resulting from the elections, nothing less than judicial transparency, free and fair trial will be accepted. As a way forward, forensic examination of all contested election results have been recommended.

For the innocent Nigerians that lost their lives through various electoral violence, may the almighty God grant their souls eternal rest. Our security agencies need to re-strategize for preventive and pre-emptive actions from now onwards. The nation also needs healing arising from the wounds of the last election. Healing will come when aggrieved Nigerians find justice thru the various electoral tribunals. May God bless Nigeria.

Chinedu Vincent Akuta.
An activist and Citizens Journalist, Based in UK.
akutachinedu@yahoo.com
http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/

Zoning Government Positions In Nigeria.

2011-06-13T09:57:00.001-07:00

Fellow Nigerians

Zoning arrangements have been a process used by past and present government, to select or appoint people to governmental positions, based on their zones/states of origin. Please let us know what you think about zoning in the present day Nigeria. Kindly visit the enclosed web link and vote, http://www.misterpoll.com/polls/524307. Please note that the identity of each respondent will be anonymous. The result of your votes will form the basis for, recommendations to authorities. May God Bless Nigeria.

Chinedu Vincent Akuta.
An activist and Citizens Journalist.
Facebook / C.v.Akuta.
http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/

CPC Should Form Shadow Government/Cabinet.

2011-05-14T07:58:00.001-07:00

For the survival of every democracy, there is the vital need for a very strong and effective opposition party/parties. Though as expected, the Congress For Progressive Change (CPC) declined the offer by the federal government to participate in a government of national unity. The Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) also declined the offer. This offer by the PDP led federal government could be an attempt to weaken the opposition. Having declined the offer of government of national unity, now is the time for CPC to form a shadow government. CPC won over 12 million votes in the just concluded presidential election. CPC also have large supporters among Nigerians in Diaspora. Therefore, these large sympathizers/followers will like to see an effective opposition from CPC leadership.

Shadow government means, government is waiting. A good example of Shadow government/cabinet is the United Kingdom where opposition parties have shadow cabinet members in all the existing ministries. That is, all the government ministries should have its equivalent in the shadow cabinet. There will be nothing wrong to apply this method (shadow government) to the presidential system of government that we are practicing in Nigeria.

Shadow government will be able to critically examine every government policy and come up with a better alternative for the Nigerian people. Where money is to be spent on projects, the shadow government should be able highlight how and who can do such projects better and at a lesser cost to the Nigerian taxpayers. The benefits will be enormous to the Nigerian masses. The author suggests May 29th 2011 as the starting date for this. May God bless Nigeria.

Chinedu Vincent Akuta.
An activist and Citizens Journalist, Based in UK.
akutachinedu@yahoo.com
http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/

Forensic Test(s) For All Votes.

2011-04-25T14:59:00.001-07:00

Before proceeding, permit me to use this medium to condemn the post presidential election violence in the Northern parts of Nigeria. Let me also commiserate with those families that lost innocent people. My concerns are that, crises of this nature seem to have no end in sight. Human lives have no value and meaning in Nigeria. I heard that some states are evacuating youth corpers from their states of origin from crises areas (Bauchi etc). I was also reliably informed that even the Presidential candidate of the Congress For Progressive Change (Gen. Buhari) was not spared during the crises. His convoy was attacked.

The Congress For Progressive Change is seeking for the forensic examination of the Presidential election votes in 22 states of the federation. I supported and campaigned for Buhari/Bakare ticket under CPC Party, but I would rather ask the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to extend this forensic examination to all states of the federation including the federal capital territory (Abuja). There were also allegations of under aged voters for CPC Party in the Northern part of Nigeria. To achieve a balance, there should be a forensic examination of all the states. Perhaps, this will give Nigerians and the international community the true results of the votes. It will also help to heal the wounds thus created so far.

It will also be in the national interest to publish in our national dailies those, whose biometric data will show as having voted twice or more in a particular election. Before the elections started, Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) discovered about 500,000 double registrants on the concluded voters registration exercise. In same manner, INEC should simply cross check all votes using forensic technology. This should be applicable to all disputed elections. Next should be to prosecute offenders. Till date, am yet to hear that some one or groups have been sent to jail for electoral malpractices. May God bless Nigeria.

Chinedu Vincent Akuta.
An activist and Citizens Journalist.
Facebook / C.v.Akuta.
http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/

My Speech To Nigerians In University Of Warwick, UK.

2011-03-12T00:53:00.000-08:00

Corruption: Rampant Political Corruption (Law Enforcement, Justice and Penal Systems, Legislative System, Misappropriation of Funds) Corruption is Embedded in Society. Date 9th March 2011. University of Warwick, Gibbet Hill Road, CV4 7AL.

Distinguished Guests,
Fellow Nigerians.

First, let me express my gratitude to the organizers of this event, for considering me worthy, to speak on the above subject matter. Your invitation came at a time when corruption against leaders is helping to fuel revolution in North Africa and Middle East. Back in Nigeria, the question of who can fight corruption will surely be a factor in the April 2011 election. I will dwell more on Nigeria. Discussing Nigeria’s corruption, can take the whole time and space. Therefore, I will use few examples to buttress my points.

Let me start by defining corruption. According to the Oxford Compact English dictionary, second edition, revised. Edited by Catherine Soanes. It means; willing to act dishonestly in return for money or personal gain. Evil or morally depraved. Transparency International (TI) defines corruption as the abuse of entrusted power for private gain. This definition encompasses corrupt practices in both the public and private sectors.

Corruption is all over the world. The difference between Nigeria and the rest of the world is how the system treats offenders. For example, Bernard Madoff committed a fraud of $65bn (£38bn) in America; he was sentenced to 150 years in jail. Olabode George committed a fraud of over N85 billion naira in Nigeria, and was given only 2.5 years (two and half years jail sentence).

Celebrating Corruption and Criminality in Nigeria.
In Nigeria, criminality is celebrated. Criminals are given chieftaincy titles, made deacons and deaconesses in churches. Using Olabode George as example, when he was released from prison on 26th February 2011. Newspaper adverts were placed about his coming out of prison. He celebrated a thanksgiving church service that was televised live on a national television. Dignitaries that attended the church service were, Ex President Olusegun Obasanjo, Lagos State PDP Chairman and top members etc. On 1st March 2011, the same Olabode George appeared on a presidential rally in Lagos where the President acknowledged his presence. Mrs. Cecilia Ibru, former MD/CEO of Oceanic Bank was jailed 6months for stealing N54 billion naira.

International Recognition As A Corrupt Country.
“We are internationally recognized for corruption, inefficiency, business uncertainty and infrastructural decay”. Gen. Muhammadu Buhari, ex head of state. “The World Bank estimates the country’s generals and gangster politicians stole $300 billion in the three decades to 2006”(Time Magazine, May 3rd 2010 Edition, Page 42). Nigeria appeared on the list as 10th most corrupt country in the world, by Transparency International corruption perception index of 2010.

Political Corruption.
Former President of Nigeria, late Musa Yar’ Adua acknowledged publicly that the election that brought him to power were marred with irregularities. The following State governors (Peter Obi, Anambra State. Amaechi, Rivers State. Adams Oshiomhole, Edo State. Rauf Aregbesola, Osun State) had to battle very hard thru the courts to reclaim their mandates. As we speak, Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had discovered 500,000 double registrants on the just concluded voters registration exercise. The People’s Democratic Party, the ruling party has over 100 court cases arising from aggrieved members, who felt cheated from their just concluded internal party primary elections. Till date, no one has gone to jail for political corruption. Ex Vice President, Atiku Abubakar was denied access to campaign to some People’s Democratic Party delegates during the party’s primary in Abuja. Over $5,000 (five thousand US Dollars) was given to each PDP delegate at the presidential primary in Abuja, to vote for either of the aspirants then. The PDP delegates were over 3,500 (three thousand five hundred people). I will leave you to multiply the figures.

Corruption Within The Law Enforcement Agencies (Police).
Former Inspector General of Police, Tafa Balogun was convicted of N20 Billion naira fraud and was sentenced to 6 months imprisonment. Another Ex Inspector General of Police, Sunday Ehindero was caught trying to smuggle out N200 million naira out of Abuja. Assistant Inspector General (AIG) late Raphael Ige, led a team of police officers that kidnapped/abducted Dr Chris Ngige, then sitting Governor of Anambra State. The list is endless.

Justice and Penal Systems.
“The greatest incitement to crime is the hope of escaping punishment” Marcus Cicero. The justice system appears to be lenient otherwise how can you explain the sentences given to people mentioned above. In 2009, Justice Marcel Awokulehin of the Federal High Court, Asaba discharged and acquitted former Governor James Ibori on all 170 count charges of corruption, money laundering, bribery etc. A London Court indicted Ibori on the same charges he was set free in Nigeria. Ibori’s associates have been jailed in London. Justice Kastina-Alu (Chief Justice of Nigeria) was accused of asking Justice Ayo Isa Salami to compromise the Court of Appeal’s verdict on the protracted Sokoto Governorhip legal tussle.

Mr. Micheal Aondoakaa former Nigeria Attorney General and Minister of Justice presured the United Kingdom Authoities to withdraw criminal charges against former Delta State Governor (Jame Ibori). Aondoakaa used his position to frustrate former Economic and Financial Crimes Commission Boss (Nuhu Ribadu) from fighting corruption. He helped to drive Ribadu to exile. Aondoakaa was also alledged to have bribed supreme court judges with about $20 million dollars to return the late President (Yar’ Adua) as the winner of 2007 presidential election.

Legislative System.
It took the National Assembly over 10 years to pass Freedom of Information Bill. Though, it’s only the lower house that has so far passed the bill. The Senate is yet to pass the bill. Other bills are still lying fallow at the National Assembly chambers. Ladies and gentlemen, I can go on and on. Simply put, corruption is embedded in our society. However, every problem has a solution.
The Way Forward.
The solution(s) is to elect credible leaders who can fight corruption without fear or favour. Permit me at this juncture to recommend you Buhari/Bakare for Presidential and Vice Presidential positions come April 2011 election. Vote Buhari/Bakare, Vote CPC Party For Presidential Election.

How You Can Get Involved.
(1) Please visit www.buharibakarevolunteers.net and www.buhari4change.com
(2) Download/print out this message and distribute to people who do not have access to Internet.
(3) Send thru sms. For bulk sms click http://www.txtlocal.co.uk/?tlrx=8752.
(4) Pick up phones and make calls to families, folks, and friends and pass the info above to them.
(5) Translate this message or related messages to vernacular/local languages.
(6) Hold town hall meetings etc. Mobilize one another etc. Send to all your contacts on facebook, twitter, myspace, yahoogroups, mailing lists, etc. May God Bless Nigeria.

Chinedu Vincent Akuta.
An activist and leader of “Support Option A4 Group” Leicester-UK
Facebook / C.v.Akuta.
akutachinedu@yahoo.com
http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/

Endorsing Buhari & Bakare.

2011-03-04T13:33:00.000-08:00

Support Option A4 Group Leicester-UK, has endorsed Buhari and Bakare, for Presidential and Vice Presidential positions, for the April 2011 election. This decision was taken, based on the following(s):

(1) Immunity Clause(s) Removal.
Buhari has promised to facilitate the removal of immunity clauses from our constitution. Section 308 of the nation‘s 1999 constitution shields the President, his deputy, the governors and their deputies from criminal and civil prosecution during their term in office. With the removal of immunity clauses, The President, Vice Presidents, Governors, Deputy Governors etc can be prosecuted for civil or criminal offences. Immunity clauses frustrated the former head of Economic And Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) from carrying out his duties effectively.

(2) True Federalism.
Buhari also promised to initiate action(s) towards constitutional amendments, with a view to ensure true federalism. If you want true federalism then, vote Buhari/Bakare, CPC Party.

(3) No god father(s) and mother(s).
He/She, who plays the pipe, dictates the tone. “god fathers and god mothers” are the true enemies of the people and the state. We are convinced that Buhari/Bakare has no god fathers/mothers. Therefore they will discharge their duties without fear or favour.

(4) Insecurity.
Security and welfare are the primary responsibilities of every government. Consider this few statistics: (4a) Bomb Blasts: Suleja bomb blast, 3rd March 2011, over 5 died and many casualties. Warri Bomb Blasts of March 2010, about 8 died and many casualties. Abuja Bomb Blasts of October 1st 2010 and 31st December 2010. Over 25 people died and too many casualties. Jos Bomb blast on Christmas Eve (24/12/10), about 80 died and many injured. Yenegoa Bomb blast on Wednesday 29/12/10. (4b) Political Assassinations: In the last 12 years of PDP rule, Nigeria has witnessed over 160 high profile politically motivated killings/assassinations.(4c) Kidnappings and Armed Robberies: These have become daily occurrences. For a change, vote Buhari/Bakare CPC Party.

(5) PDP Romance With Ex-Convict.
Tell me your friends and I will tell you who you are. Ex-convict Chief Olabode George sat prominently in the VIP stand at the PDP’s presidential campaign rally in Lagos. By this very act, PDP has sent a clear message that they cannot fight corruption etc. For war against corruption, vote Buhari/Bakare CPC Party.

(6) PDP Threat.
Former President, General Olusegun Obasanjo said the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) must win the April 2011, Presidential election by all means. He made similar statement in 2007 and went ahead to manipulate then elections. PDP also threatened to rule for 60 years. This is the time for change. Vote Buhari/Bakare CPC Party.

Make That Change:
Please visit www.buharibakarevolunteers.net or www.buhari4change.com
Download/print out this message and distribute to people who do not have access to Internet. Send thru sms. For bulk sms click http://www.txtlocal.co.uk/?tlrx=8752. Pick up phones and make calls. Translate this message or related messages to vernacular/local languages. Hold town hall meetings etc. Mobilize one another etc. Send to all your contacts on facebook, twitter, myspace, yahoogroups, mailing lists, etc. May God Bless Nigeria.

Chinedu Vincent Akuta.
An activist and leader of “Support Option A4 Group” Leicester-UK
Facebook / C.v.Akuta.
akutachinedu@yahoo.com
http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/

Support For Egyptians/Celebrating Peoples Power.

2011-02-13T12:08:00.000-08:00

Al Jazeera English Services,
PO Box 23127,
Doha - Qatar.
press.int@aljazeera.net

Dear Sir/Ma,

Support For Egyptians.

Permit me to use your medium to express my support and solidarity and that of our group (Support Option A4 Group, Leicester-UK) to the people of Egypt on their demand for freedom and democracy, and an end to autocracy. Power belongs to the people, and the people of Egypt have spoken. Therefore the present regime in Egypt (Hosni Mubarak’s government) does not have any choice but to respect the wishes of her people.

Autocracy anywhere is a threat to democracy everywhere. The world is a global village. Events (be it tsunami, earthquake, landslide, flood, people’s revolution, war, swine flu etc), either in Egypt, Tunisia, Sudan, Cote d Voire, Brazil, Australia, USA, Thailand, etc will surely have a ripple over effects on other parts of the world. Therefore, I call upon Nigerians and other citizens of the world to support Egyptians on their demand for freedom and democracy.

Chinedu Vincent Akuta.
An activist and leader of “Support Option A4 Group” Leicester-UK
akutachinedu@yahoo.com
http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/

Al Jazeera English Services,
PO Box 23127,
Doha - Qatar.
press.int@aljazeera.net
11th February 2011.

Dear Sir/Ma,

Celebrating Peoples Power.

Few days ago, I had the singular opportunity to call upon Nigerians and other citizens of the world (thru your medium), to support Egyptians in their struggle for freedom. Today (11/2/11) I have the singular honour also, to celebrate with the Egyptians on the victory of the people’s power. Earlier in the afternoon today (11/2/11), I asked my Egyptian friend (Mohammed), whom I met around the Leicester City Centre, what was happening in Egypt. He laughed and told me they no longer want their president.

No doubts, events in Egypt will boost the struggle for freedom, in order parts of the world under oppressions of any kind. Victory in Egypt is a victory for all. Once more, use your medium to extend our heart-felt wishes to the Egyptians.

Chinedu Vincent Akuta.
An activist and leader of “Support Option A4 Group” Leicester-UK
Facebook / C.v.Akuta.
akutachinedu@yahoo.com
http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/

Get Involved Politically And Economically.

2011-02-13T12:07:00.000-08:00

Getting Involved Politically.

“ All that is necessary for the triumph of evil is that good men do nothing” Edmund Burke.
“Politics is too serious a business to be left for politicians alone” Charles de Gaulle.

Nigerians are electing new leaders this year (2011). Therefore, it makes sense that all eligible adults should participate and get involved with the electoral processes. Make sure you vote and guide your votes. Before you vote, consider the following;

Vote Personalities:
Please vote personalities and not political parties. Most of our politicians simply migrate from one party to the other. Therefore, it makes sense to vote personalities. Vote persons/personalities that will be firm, principled and visionary. Part of the way(s) to know the quality of a person is to look at his friends, groups, colleagues, and party members. Tell me your friends/party members, and I will tell you who you are.

Vote Against god fathers/god mothers:
“god fathers/god mothers” are the real enemies of the state. Never again should Nigerians permit any candidate(s) with god fathers/god mothers to win election.

Vote Candidates That Can Fight Corruption:
“The World Bank estimates the country’s generals and gangster politicians stole $300 billion in the three decades to 2006”(Time Magazine, May 3rd 2010 Edition, Page 42). There are no figures for 2006 to 2010. Vote candidates that can fight corruption.

Vote For Change:
Changes are overdue in Nigeria. Vote whomever that can challenge/change the status quo.

Security:
Last year (2010) witnessed five bomb blasts (Abuja, Jos, Yenegoa, and Warri). In the last 10 years, Nigeria has witnessed over 160 high profile politically motivated killings/assassinations. Kidnappings, robberies, religious crises, communal crises, etc are at alarming rates. Vote whomever that can provide security.

How To Get Involved:
Pass this message to friends and family members. As Christians, the Holy Bible in Hosea Chapter 4 verse 6, reminds us that, “my people are destroyed from lack of knowledge”. Network with people. Send to all your contacts on facebook or (join us on facebook. Search Support Option A4 Group and join or click on http://www.facebook.com/#!/group.php?gid=49782910218), twitter, yahoogroups, email lists, etc. Download/print out this message and distribute to people who do not have access to Internet. Send thru sms. Pick up phones and make calls. Translate this message or related messages to vernacular/local languages. Hold town hall meetings etc. Mobilize one another etc.

Please remember that, “Throughout history, it has been the inaction of those who could have acted, the indifference of those who should have known better, the silence of the voice of justice when it mattered most, that has made it possible for evil to triumph." Haile Selassie. Make the right choices or wait and watch another four wasteful years.

Getting Involved Economically.

I believe so much in citizens led initiatives/peoples power in the political arena. There is also need for manifestation of people’s power in the economic sector (economic emancipation). Economics determines politics, so also do politics determine economics. I learnt this at the early stages of my training/education as an economist. (The writer has four degrees, amongst which are; B:sc economics and M:sc economics). A hungry man is vulnerable to political manipulations.

I call upon citizens of Nigeria, to devote more energy towards opening up our economy, so that jobs can be created, wealth created and value added to the economy. Government alone cannot open up the economy. More so, government cannot provide all the jobs. Lets not forget that government has failed us in providing basic infrastructures. This is the time to open up our economy thru our various individual efforts. Lets contribute in any little way we can to open up our economy. China is a massive trading nation. Much is done by their citizens. We can borrow a leaf or leaves from China.

There are so many religious, cultural, and political groups in Nigeria. I see less of economic groups. Even on yahoogroups, facebook, Internet forums etc, there are still less of economic groups. We need to create more of economic groups, business groups, trading groups etc. We should network each other and share information. Information is power. On this, permit me to invite all to join our group on facebook. Simply search Vac Concepts E-Business Promotions on facebook and join or click on http://www.facebook.com/#!/home.php?sk=group_148200165238731&view=members. Alternatively, provide us with your economic group(s) etc details to patner with. May God bless Nigeria.

Chinedu Vincent Akuta.
An activist and leader of “Support Option A4 Group” Leicester-UK
Facebook / C.v.Akuta.
akutachinedu@yahoo.com
http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/

Get Involved.

2011-02-05T14:45:00.000-08:00

“ All that is necessary for the triumph of evil is that good men do nothing” Edmund Burke.
“Politics is too serious a business to be left for politicians alone” Charles de Gaulle.

Nigerians are electing new leaders this year (2011). Therefore, it makes sense that all eligible adults should participate and get involved with the electoral processes. Make sure you vote and guide your votes. Before you vote, consider the following;

Vote Personalities:
Please vote personalities and not political parties. Most of our politicians simply migrate from one party to the other. Therefore, it makes sense to vote personalities. Vote persons/personalities that will be firm, principled and visionary. Part of the way(s) to know the quality of a person is to look at his friends, groups, colleagues, and party members. Tell me your friends/party members, and I will tell you who you are.

Vote Against god fathers/god mothers:
“god fathers/god mothers” are the real enemies of the state. Never again should Nigerians permit any candidate(s) with god fathers/god mothers to win election.

Vote Candidates That Can Fight Corruption:
“The World Bank estimates the country’s generals and gangster politicians stole $300 billion in the three decades to 2006”(Time Magazine, May 3rd 2010 Edition, Page 42). There are no figures for 2006 to 2010. Vote candidates that can fight corruption.

Vote For Change:
Changes are overdue in Nigeria. Vote whomever that can challenge/change the status quo.

Security:
Last year (2010) witnessed five bomb blasts (Abuja, Jos, Yenegoa, and Warri). In the last 10 years, Nigeria has witnessed over 160 high profile politically motivated killings/assassinations. Kidnappings, robberies, religious crises, communal crises, etc are at alarming rates. Vote whomever that can provide security.

How To Get Involved:
Pass this message to friends and family members. Network with people. Send to all your contacts on facebook, twitter, yahoogroups, email lists, etc. Download/print out this message and distribute to people who do not have access to internet. Send thru sms. Pick up phones and make calls. Translate this message or related messages to vernacular/local languages. Hold town hall meetings etc. Mobilize one another etc.

Finally, "Throughout history, it has been the inaction of those who could have acted, the indifference of those who should have known better, the silence of the voice of justice when it mattered most, that has made it possible for evil to triumph." Haile Selassie. Make the right choices or wait and watch another four wasteful years. May God bless Nigeria.

Chinedu Vincent Akuta.
An activist and leader of “Support Option A4 Group” Leicester-UK
akutachinedu@yahoo.com
http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/

Voters Guide.

2011-02-03T12:06:00.001-08:00

Please find below some criteria to guide our voting pattern.

(A) Vote Personalities:

Since many political parties/politicians in Nigeria are not ideologically based, it makes sense to vote personalities. Quite a good number of them have migrated thru many parties, examples are; Muhammadu Buhari the presidential candidate of CPC moved from ANPP to CPC, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, moved from PDP to AC and back to PDP, ex Governor of Abia State, Orji Uzo Kalu moved from PDP to PPA, present Governor of Abia, Theodore Kalu moved from PPA to APGA, before moving back to PDP, Governor of Imo State, Ikedi Ohakim moved from PPA to PDP, former Governor of Imo State, Achike Udenwa, moved from PDP to ACN. The list(s) is endless, and the migration tends to be continuous. Here I suggest we vote personalities.

Please vote persons/personalities that will be firm, principled and visionary. Part of the way(s) to know the quality of a person is to look at his friends, groups, colleagues, and party members. Tell me your friends/party members, and I will tell you who you are.

(B) Vote Against god fathers/god mothers:
Experience is the best teacher. Our past experiences have shown us how evil god fathers/god mothers can be. “god fathers/god mothers” are the real enemies of the state. They are anti progress. Never again should Nigerians permit any candidate(s) with god fathers/god mothers to win election, be it councillorship, local government chairmanships, state governors etc.

(C) Vote Candidates That Can Fight Corruption:
In Nigeria, corruption has grown into a monster. If you fight corruption, corruption fights you back. It needs a man/woman made of steel to fight corruption. Remember corruption remains one of our greatest problems. “The World Bank estimates the country’s generals and gangster politicians stole $300 billion in the three decades to 2006”(Time Magazine, May 3rd 2010 Edition, Page 42). There are no figures for 2006 to 2010. I leave you to estimate how much would have been looted. Corruption remains the greatest obstacle to our socio/economic development. Evidences are several abandoned government projects, high costs of government businesses etc. Therefore, vote candidates that can fight corruption.

(D) Vote For Change:
Changes are overdue in Nigeria. Vote whomever that will challenge/change the status quo. Nigerians need to be reminded that the power to change our country lies in their hand(s). “god fathers, god mothers”, politicians or parties have little or nothing they can do. Power belongs to the Nigerian people. Lets draw example from, the Velvet revolution in Czechoslovakia in November-December 1989, the great Baltic Chain (Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania) demonstration of August 1989, the 1986 peoples revolution in Philippines led by Corazon Aquino, the Rose revolution in Georgia in November 2003, the Orange revolution in Ukraine in 2004, Tunisia, Egypt, etc. These were all changes occasioned by people’s power. Let us use our votes to effect changes. Above all, lets vote who will move Nigeria forward.

Way Forward:
The key is networking and passing around messages of change to one another. Here Internet, sms, mobile phones becomes a useful instrument. I need not remind all the enormous power of the Internet.

Presidential Election Poll (2):
With the announcements of Vice Presidential candidates, we ask whom/which combination will you vote in the presidential election? Kindly visit the enclosed web link and vote http://www.misterpoll.com/polls/515301 please note that the identity of each respondent will be anonymous. May God bless Nigeria.

Chinedu Vincent Akuta.
An activist and leader of “Support Option A4 Group” Leicester-UK
akutachinedu@yahoo.com
http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/

Support For Egyptians.

2011-01-31T11:33:00.000-08:00

New Job Roles For Atiku Abubakar.

2011-01-19T05:14:00.001-08:00

“There are a lot of ways Atiku can serve Nigeria other than being the president. Except he has other motives for aspiring to be the president of Nigeria. Former Vice President of America Al gore, who served under Bill Clinton for two terms, contested the American presidential elections in 2000 with George Bush. He lost and told Americans than he will never contest elections again. Al gore took up a project towards finding solutions to the threats of global warming. He has won several awards since taking up this project. This project will touch more lives in America and all over the globe. Till date Al gore remains relevant in the world. Atiku can do similar thing in Nigeria and beyond, this can make him a better statesman.

Alternatively Atiku can use his influences at the national assembly to influence policies that will better the Nigerian masses. He can be the leader of opposition parties in Nigeria, which we desperately need at this point in our polity. Atiku should remember that people are looking up to him. Whether he likes it or not, he is a role model to many Nigerians. Therefore he should try inspiring Nigerians in a positive manner. Dearest Atiku, kindly use all your political know how to support the clamour for transparency in our electoral system. Use all your political strategies to make sure transparency is established in our electoral process”. (http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/2009/04/atiku-abubakar-and-his-nigerian.html).

The excerpts above were part of an article I wrote in 2009, suggesting to Atiku, to reconsider contesting future presidential elections. This is because, there are more he can do for the country. Now that Atiku has lost the Peoples Democratic Party presidential primary nomination, he should devote his time and energy to better the course of democracy in Nigeria.

First, I will suggest he join the campaign or lead the clamour for the abolition of zoning formula. Call it zoning, quota system or federal character should be abolished in all its ramifications. President Goodluck Jonathan cum the PDP has set a precedent towards the abolition of zoning. If our president (a signatory to zoning) can violate the zoning arrangement/agreement, then there is no better time to bury this concept than now. Therefore I call on the Turaki Adamawa (Atiku Abubakar) to lead this crusade. He and many more Nigerians are victims. If we fail to stop zoning, zoning will not fail to stop us.

Atiku has criticized some of President Jonathan’s policies in the past. Now can be a better time and opportunity for him to increase his criticisms of bad government policies. Atiku can criticize whoever wins the next presidential election. Here I will suggest constructive criticisms. When he does, he should also provide better alternative solutions. He can be the leader of opposition to checkmate government excesses, for the benefit(s) of Nigerian masses. This he should do if he truly loves Nigeria like he claimed. Above all, strong opposition is vital for the survival of any democracy.

Atiku can also devout his time to finding lasting peace to some trouble spots in the country, such as Jos etc. Former President Obasanjo was appointed a special United Nations envoy to Congo Democratic Republic to find peace (Though he was not the best person for that job). Obasanjo was also spotted in Cote d’Ivoire trying to mediate between Alassane Ouattara and Gbagbo. Atiku can establish a peace institute in Nigeria. But before finding peace in Nigeria, Atiku can champion the setting up of a sovereign national conference to discuss the future of the country. May God bless Nigeria.

Chinedu Vincent Akuta.
An activist and leader of “Support Option A4 Group” Leicester-UK
akutachinedu@yahoo.com
http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/

State of Emergency.

2011-01-05T10:22:00.000-08:00

Fellow citizens, the insecurity level has deteriorated beyond the critical level. Desperate times require desperate measures. Therefore, this is the time for citizens to declare a state of emergency on both leaders and the country. The reasons are thus:
Warri Bomb Blast(s): In March 2010, there was a bomb blast in the city of Warri, Delta State. The bomb exploded near the government house annex where post amnesty dialogue was going on. About 8 people died, with so many injured persons.
Abuja Bomb Blast(s) of October 1st 2010. There were bomb blasts at the capital city Abuja. Two bombs exploded outside the ministry of justice, while another exploded few meters away from the eagle square where the 50th independence celebration was going on. About 8 people died and many others injured.
Jos Bomb Blasts: On Christmas Eve (24/12/10) bombs exploded in the city of Jos (Plateau State). About 80 people died and estimated 120 people injured and hospitalized. Yenegoa Bomb Blasts: On Wednesday 29/12/10 bombs exploded in Yenegoa (Bayelsa State Capital) during a Peoples Democratic Party rally. Luckily there were no casualties.
Abuja Bomb Blasts of 31st December 2010: Two bombs exploded at Mogadishu military cantonment Abuja killing about 30 people and injuring many. In all these bomb blasts, properties worth millions of naira were destroyed.

Political Assassinations: In the last 10 years, Nigeria has witnessed over 160 high profile politically motivated killings/assassinations. The most recent being; (a) the killing on Wednesday 29/12/10 of Comrade Chidi Nwosu (Aba based Human Rights Activist and Social Crusader), (b) killing on Thursday 30/12/10 in Ibadan of Alhaji Lateef Salako (a.k.a Eleweomo), A factional leader of the proscribed National Union of Road Transport Workers, Oyo State. (C) Two supporters of Senator Teslim Folarin (Senate Leader) killed on 30/12/10.

Kidnappings and Armed Robberies: These crimes have become so rampant that most Nigerians do no longer report to the police. It’s almost like daily occurrences. The fear of kidnappers and armed robbers has become the beginning of wisdom. No one is sure if the authorities have accurate figures/statistics of these crimes in the last 10 years. Permit me to assume a conservative estimate of four thousand cases, (Apologies if its over). South East part of the country has almost become no go area. People are no longer sleeping with their two eyes closed. Life has become unbearable.

Religious Crises: In the last three years, 2008, 2009, 2010, Jos city (Plateau State) alone has witnessed about 3 deadly religious crises. Between 2001 to 2006 there were about four crises in Jos. The most recent being the Christmas Eve crisis (see details of casualties above). Bauchi crisis (Kala Kato) of 2009, about 200 people were killed. Boko Haram crises in 2009 that took place in Maidugiri and Bauchi, over 700 people were killed. Extending the scope to the last 10 years, then the deaths figures from religious crises will be more than 3000. (Apologies if this figure is over).

Corruption: “The World Bank estimates the country’s generals and gangster politicians stole $300 billion in the three decades to 2006”(Time Magazine, May 3rd 2010 Edition, Page 42). There are no figures for 2006 to 2010. I leave you to estimate how much would have been looted.

Government and Security Failures: In 2009, the Director General of the State Security Services (SSS), Afakriya Gadazama, revealed publicly that information about numerous religious crises (Boko Haram, Jos crises etc) and other crimes such as kidnappings in Niger Delta, armed robberies in South East was passed to the appropriate quarters. However, actions were never taken to prevent these crises. This statements appear relevant today, otherwise how can you explain the insecurity level. Alternatively, one wonders if the security services need the permission of the government/politicians before carrying out their constitutional duties. It’s also possible that securities services might not have the intelligence needed to avoid crises before it happens. Prevention is better than cure. In both cases both the government and security services have failed Nigerians. To make matters worst, the perpetrators of these crises are never prosecuted or given severe punishments to deter others. Concerned Nigerians are scared that no nation(s) can develop or make progress the way we are going.

Recommendations: For the reasons above and many others, Nigerians have to become security conscious wherever they may be. I suggest citizen’s surveillance, covert operations and spying. I have made these suggestions in the past. We have no choice but to spy people, government etc. Whatever information you get, post it online, or to media houses. There are hundreds of Nigerian online forums/media. Imagine what Wikileaks has done with the information at their disposal. Let us do to our country, what Wikileaks has done to the world. Information can put a government/group on their feet.

Citizen/group led Sovereign National Conference: This is non negotiable. There is no need to wait for the government to convoke this conference. Evidences have shown that the government is not ready to convoke any conference that will restructure Nigeria. Not too long ago, President Jonathan dismissed the idea of sovereign national conference. Till date, no presidential aspirant has spoken in favor of sovereign national conference. Therefore, the citizens are left with no choice but to start talking on their own. Pressure groups, community/village leaders, opinion leaders, religious leaders, professional bodies, labour unions, etc, should commence citizens led sovereign national conference. If Sudan can talk and even plan a referendum for the future of their country, then we have no choice.

As a starting point, kindly follow the enclosed web link http://www.misterpoll.com/polls/512452 and vote yes or no to sovereign national conference. Please note that the identity of each respondent will be anonymous. The result of your votes will form the basis for, recommendations to Nigerians as well as to the authorities.

Finally, this year (2011) affords us an opportunity to effect some political changes. All eligible Nigerians should take part in voter(s) registration and elections. Both exercises should be observed and monitored. This is to enable us vote in credible leaders that will help restructure the country. May God bless Nigeria.

Chinedu Vincent Akuta.
An activist and leader of “Support Option A4 Group” Leicester-UK
akutachinedu@yahoo.com
http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/

Chidi Nwosu : A Tribute

2010-12-31T03:06:00.000-08:00

It was with shock, surprise and suspense that I received the news of your death. Comrade Chidi Nwosu (Aba based Human Rights Activist and Social Crusader), was assassinated on 29th December 2010, at Abia State. May those who murdered you never have peace. I had the singular opportunity of exchanging mails with Chidi. Your activisms in Abia in the face of odds were inspiring to many.

Your death and the deaths of other fallen social crusaders will never be in vain. Those living shall continue with the struggle. Aluta continua. May your soul and souls of other departed Nigerians rest in peace. One thing is certain; your killers will surely die one day.

Please find enclosed the web link of an interview Chidi Nwosu granted Sahara Reporters. http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=4626495580989541001#

Chinedu Vincent Akuta.
An activist and leader of “Support Option A4 Group” Leicester-UK
akutachinedu@yahoo.com
http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/

Voters Register.

2010-12-02T05:09:00.000-08:00

I was privileged to sit on the same panel with Mr. Mike Igini (Independent National Electoral Commission’s Resident Electoral Commissioner for Cross River State) and other patriotic Nigerians including a foreign friend of Nigeria (Peter Cunliffe-Jones). The event (Project 2011: Towards A New Nigeria) was organized by the Save Nigeria Group Global (UK), on 6th November 2010. Mr. Mike Igini spoke and answered questions very well, regarding the proposed use of direct data capture machines, for the upcoming voters register in Nigeria.

I am not under any illusion; that things might still go wrong with this direct data capture methods. But with proper arrangements by INEC, and the full support of Nigerians, this method could bring about, the beginning of the end of electoral irregularities in Nigeria. Other benefits will also accrue with the effective introduction and implementation of this method of voters’ registration. First, let me propose to our lawmakers, authorities, political parties/groups, NGO’s, CSO’s etc to consider initiating a bill (if none existed) to make voters registration, compulsory for every Nigerian adult of 18 years and above. Also INEC should make this voter registration an ongoing exercise. That is, there should be provisions to register any Nigerian that turns 18 years after 2011.

The reasons for asking for a law to make voter registration compulsory are as follows; (A) For Nigerians to take the issue of their civic responsibility (voting) very serious. Voting should be a very serious civic responsibility. I recommend it to be in the same category of National Youth Service for fresh graduates. (B) There will never be a better voter education/awareness programme than a compulsory registration of voters (18 years and above). (C) Using this method (Direct Data Capture Machines), the National Population Commission could easily capture the true population of Nigerians who are above 18 years old, being that our DNA (fingerprints) will be taken. So far, our population figures have been mere estimates. We need a true idea of how many we are. A law backing a compulsory voter registration could mean killing two birds with one stone. (D). Voters register/card to be used as a form of identification process, this is in addition to the use of international passport and driving license. Therefore, every business(es) that is into identification verification (banks, finance houses, etc) should support this Direct Data Capture voter’s registration.

In Leicester, United Kingdom where I reside, someone can be denied credit and other facilities if he/she’s name(s) are not on the electoral register. I will also suggest to Independent National Electoral Commission to share their database (DNA/fingerprints of registered voters) with all security services in Nigeria. It will boost crime fighting. I made a similar recommendation last year (2009), in an article I wrote, titled; Reforming Police and Policing Reforms. Permit me to quote a paragraph from the article, “DNA fingerprinting will be a valuable tool in the fight against crimes in Nigeria. It will help in investigating cases. Similar technology has been deployed before by the Nigerian government during the registration of ID card scheme. The current e-passport system in Nigeria takes our fingerprints. So what the government needs to do is to transfer the national database to the police or the police can share this database with all relevant government departments. So as soon as a suspect is caught, the DNA fingerprinting should be taken and stored or checked with the ones already in the system”. (http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/2009/05/reforming-police-and-policing-reforms.html).

From the few points above, it becomes clearer that despite the actual voting exercise, Nigerians stand to benefit a lot from the Direct Data Capture voters registration. Therefore, it becomes the responsibility of all Nigerians to make it work. Be that as it may, I will propose the following; (A) All religious organizations (churches, mosques, temples, etc) should mobilize all their members to register, encourage others (friends, families etc) to register. They also should act as watchdogs. My reason for saying this is because, religious organizations are very close to the people, and their influences are enormous. United States President Barack Obama acknowledged this and said, “Change comes not from the top down, but from the ground up, and few are closer to the people than our churches, synagogues, temples and mosques”
(B) Nigerian Banks, Finance houses, other businesses (those that are into identity verification) etc should consider to deploy some staffs and resources to make this work. Employers should consider asking employees to provide proof of voter registration or better still; INEC can provide this information to employers. I will recommend to Independent National Election Commission to designate a department to furnish people with information (registered voters) or display it permanently on their websites for easy accessibilities.
(C). All communities, villages, towns etc should mobilize their people to register and also ensure smooth registration. Labour unions, professional bodies, political parties/groups, etc should also get involved. The National Population Commission, should play a vital role, because the will also benefit from whatever figures INEC arrive at.
(D). All security services should deploy sufficient personnel to ensure smooth registration. Any offender should be arrested and prosecuted. We have no choice but to make this exercise work. Our inactions might be disastrous. This is because, “Throughout history, it has been the inaction of those who could have acted, the indifference of those who should have known better, the silence of the voice of justice when it mattered most, that has made it possible for evil to triumph." - Haile Selassie.
(E). I will also agree with Kayode Ogundamisi, converner of the Nigerian Liberty Forum UK, when he suggested that Nigerians in Diaspora should send money back home, on the condition that the beneficiaries (family, folks, friends, etc) must register and vote during elections.

Finally let me use this medium to extend my seasonal greetings to all Nigerians. For the Moslems, please accept a belated Barkar De Salah. To those Nigerians who are pagans, may the almighty God bless you people this season. To Nigerians of other faith(s) and religion, may God bless you people as well. To the Nigerian Christians, of which am one of them, I wish you all a happy Christmas season. May God Bless Nigeria.

Chinedu Vincent Akuta.
An activist and leader of “Support Option A4 Group” Leicester-UK
akutachinedu@yahoo.com
http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/

Burnt Market(s).

2010-11-02T15:28:00.000-07:00

Sadly, the burnt Owerri market (Eke Ukwu Owerri, Nworie Lane) was on NTA network news on the night of Monday, 25th October 2010. Firstly let me commiserate with the traders over the loss of their goods, services, money, efforts, etc. Your plights will directly and indirectly affect the rest of the society. The multiplier effects will surely take its toll on the local economy (Imo State and beyond). Times are really tough. Just as I was still thinking about the Owerri market inferno, I read another news on 26th October 2010 that some stalls at the new Benin market went up in flames destroying goods worth millions of naira. I pray this should be the last.

Incidences of fire on our markets (either by accident or by design), are becoming a threat to the nations economic growth/development. Physical markets in Nigeria are perhaps the largest employers of labour in the private sector. The economic activities associated with physical markets are equal to none. It’s a national treasure. No doubt, Nigeria has large markets, which has, and will continue to attract foreigners (Chinese, Indians etc). Nigerians also export to other African countries from our markets. Which means that our markets are also a major source(s) of foreign exchange. Therefore, every effort must be made to prevent future fire outbreaks.

Remember that if we don’t prevent fire outbreaks, fire will prevent those of us (traders, manufacturers, distributors, middle men, lenders, etc) from achieving our goals. Both the micro and macro society will loose in the long run. As a preventive measure, I will propose the following to market leaders, traders, and the government.

Switch off all lights at the end of each market day(s). All the market leaders in Nigeria should consider switching off all lights at the end of each market day, and switching on at the beginning of each market day(s). Efforts should be made to have general control switches. Markets leaders should consider initiating legislation from the government to back this up. I am not under any illusion that power is unstable, but despite that, it will be a very good idea to have a control switch for all markets. Those using generators should also comply with switching their generators off and on at the end of each market days.

Accredited electricians should only do wiring in the markets. Every market should maintain a list of qualified, tasted and trusted electricians from which traders can hire. No unaccredited electrician should be allowed to do any work in the market. Here I will recommend each market having as many electricians as possible. In event of any electrical related fault/fire, the electrician that did the job should be held accountable. It is high time we learn to take responsibilities for our actions and inactions.

Those using gas to cook in various markets should be regulated. It should also apply to those, using other means to cook, like firewood, kerosene stoves etc. People should be made to sigh an undertaking not to be careless with gas, kerosene, firewood etc when cooking. Any one or any group that violates the rule should take whatever responsibilities that may arise from such actions.

Every stall in the market should have a fire extinguisher. This should be compulsory. Market leaders should make it a point of duty to carry out routine checks of this item. Traders should undertake trainings on how to use the various types (spray form, dry powder, water etc) of extinguishers. The appropriate extinguishers should be recommended. I will also suggest fire drills/exercises for all traders in any particular market. I have been privileged to witness when traders are doing cleanup exercises and praying times. At such occasions, high team spirits are exhibited. Same attitude can be applied to fire drills. In the United Kingdom, it’s a rule that all establishments must have fire drills and fire exits. There is no reason why Nigerians cannot adopt this method, being that fire is a big threat to our markets and other establishments.

Next strategy should be long-term plans to decongest most crowded markets. Most markets are over crowded. This might make fire rescue efforts very difficult in emergency times. I will suggest a long term, but gradual process of relocating most congested markets to more modern markets. In building any new marker henceforth, fire preventive strategies must be incorporated in the building/market plans. I will suggest relocating markets to outskirts of cities.

Aside from markets, we have also witnessed fire destroying other establishments and homes. A recent case being when fire burnt down, the African Independent Television studios in Lagos. Perhaps there might not be an accurate number(s) of people’s residential homes/houses destroyed by fire. I doubt if the Fire Services in Nigeria will have such records. Be that as it may, some of my recommendations above will be useful in preventing fire at homes also. I will add that private estate developers should onwards design Nigerian houses with fire prevention in minds. Fire doors (special doors that could stop fire from entering a room for at least 30 minutes or more) are highly recommended.

Let me appeal to the government (even though most appeals/recommendations fell into deaf ears) to equip our fire service departments. Refurbish their equipments. Get new vehicles for them. Increase their remunerations and welfare packages. Insure them incase of accidental deaths in service. On the part of our fire service, I suggest to them to design a volunteer scheme, whereby some Nigerians can volunteer their time and energy to help in fire rescue exercises. May God bless Nigeria.

Chinedu Vincent Akuta.
An activist and leader of “Support Option A4 Group” Leicester-UK
akutachinedu@yahoo.com
http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/

National Insecurity.

2010-10-03T03:30:00.001-07:00

Let me start by condemning in strongest terms, the car bomb blast, which occurred during the 50th anniversary celebration of our independence, on 1st October 2010, few meters away from the eagle square. I wish also to extend my condolences to the families of innocent Nigerians that died, as a result(s) of the bomb blast. May their souls and souls of other departed Nigerians rest in peace. Moments like this, calls for a serious reflection on the security situation in our country, as this bomb blast, is a serious security lapse. Therefore, all the security services must fish out the perpetrators of this crime, expose them and bring them to face justice.

It became highly disturbing, on reading from Thisday Newspaper of 2nd October 2010 (online version), that the British Intelligence warned the Nigerian authorities about the attacks. The questions are? Was it a preventable incident, what did our security services do with the information, and how capable are our security services for security challenges in this 21st century, etc. But a general look at the national security level reveals, a total breakdown of law and order. Crime rates are too high. Kidnappings have reached a dangerous level. Still on the same 1st October 2010, there was breaking news on Sky News (between 8:30am and 9:15am) that kidnapper(s) have released 15 school children at Aba. Hardly any day goes by, without a case of kidnapping been reported.

The national insecurity situation is a pointer to the near failure of government. This is because, the primary purpose of every government is welfare and security of its people. Nigeria and Nigerians must rise up, to put an end to insecurity (crimes, kidnappings, violence, robberies, etc) or insecurity will put an end to us as a nation. Every one (government and people) has a role to play. Firstly, the government should be serious with its fight against corruption. Corruption makes it difficult to; (1) create jobs for the youths, (2) create an enabling environment for the private sector to create jobs, (3) makes it difficult to develop the economy. Unemployment brings idleness, and an idle mind is a devils workshop.

A situation where, “The World Bank estimates the country’s generals and gangster politicians stole $300 billion in the three decades to 2006”(Time Magazine, May 3rd 2010 Edition, Page 42), will be a recipe for disaster, and high crime rates from those who are frustrated by the system. The government needs to redress so many structural imbalances in the country like the Niger Delta crises, conduct credible elections in 2011, etc. Above all, the government needs to be fair, honest and transparent in her dealings with Nigerians. The government cannot say one thing and do another.

The government should restructure our security services to be more proactive. Emphasizes should be focused more on preventing crimes, meaning that our security services should be more intelligence driven. The security services most cleanse itself of corrupt personnel(s), who have collaborated with criminals, kidnappers, killers etc. Nigerians should volunteer information/intelligence to the security services. For security reasons, Information can be volunteered anonymously, that way the identity of the informants can be protected. Ex governor Buba Marwa of Lagos State, tried this formula when he launched Operation Sweep (a security outfit to fight crimes) in Lagos.

Nigerians can also borrow the techniques used by the former East German Secret Police (Stasi). In the former East Germany, people were spying each other for the good of the state. Cuba used similar method at the early days of Fidel Castro’s revolution. The danger with this method is that people might tip their enemies as suspects. But that will require thorough investigations on the part of the security services, to ascertain who is guilty o not. This method if used effectively will have the potentials of reducing crimes drastically. No sacrifice will be too much for the security of Nigerians.

I will suggest community policing within each community/village by the villagers. I will also suggest a network of, and collaboration of community police with each community. I will also suggest a collaboration of the security services with the community leaders, community police or village vigilante groups. May God bless Nigeria.

Chinedu Vincent Akuta.
An activist and leader of “Support Option A4 Group” Leicester-UK
akutachinedu@yahoo.com
http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/

Ribadu.

2010-10-03T03:28:00.000-07:00

Glad that you have joined the presidential race to contest under the platform of, Action Congress of Nigeria. Last year (May 29th 2009), at the state of the Nigerian nation symposium, held at the London Metropolitan University, organized by the Nigerian Liberty Forum, people at the auditorium started shouting Ribadu for president, after your speech. Perhaps you have decided to answer the call of those Nigerians that shouted Ribadu for president.

You won my admiration after your speech on that day. I became fascinated about your comments on the Niger Delta crises, corruption, Atiku Abubakar (former Vice President), Chief Gani Fawehinmi, etc. You even dared the late Yar Adua’s government when you sneaked into the country to see Gani’s corpse at the mortuary. I have no doubts, that you have won the admiration of other Nigerians, while am also not under any illusion that many will not be comfortable with your presidential ambition.

It gave me pleasure, when I heard about your involvement with the formation of Nigeria shadow government/cabinet in the United States of America. Shadow government/cabinet is also an idea I have propagated in the past. As we prepare for elections next year, let me also ask Nigerians to also prepare for the formation of shadow government/cabinet. Further details can be found on the enclosed web link (http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/2010/02/shadow-government.html).

Your entrance into the presidential race has provided Nigerians with additional choice to make between other presidential aspirants. Though that, you might not have fought corruption completely during your tenure as the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), personally I give you kudos for the extent you reached in fighting corruption in Nigeria. You were quoted saying that, when you fight corruption, corruption fights you back. I will agree with you completely on that. Corruption can only be fought with the active collaboration of Nigerians. No agency can fight it alone, because corruption has grown into a monster in Nigeria.

Giving free and fair election, and the candidate with the most track record at fighting corruption, I believe you stand better chances of wining. However, I am a bit skeptical about some top members of your chosen party (Action Congress of Nigeria), many of whom are corrupt politicians. Be that as it may, am also aware that in politics, there are no permanent friends, or permanent enemies, but permanent interests. Perhaps that could explain your involvement. But I have a different view, which is that corrupt politicians should be declared enemies of the Nigerian state.

For the sake of credibility, I would suggest you seek your presidential career with the National Conscience Party (NCP), founded by the late Gani Fawehinmi (Senior Advocate of the Masses). More so, be prepared to disclose publicly all sources of your campaign funding. We will also like to know the following; costs of your campaign, public declaration of your assets and liabilities, medical certificate of fitness, and your manifesto to govern Nigeria, including plans to fight corruption. As you do the above, be sure I will campaign for you. May God bless Nigeria.

Chinedu Vincent Akuta.
An activist and leader of “Support Option A4 Group” Leicester-UK
akutachinedu@yahoo.com
http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/

New Beginning At 50.

2010-10-03T03:27:00.000-07:00

On October 1st 2010, Nigeria will become 50 years old as a nation. 50 years, is a reasonable age to record meaningful progress. But the reverse is the case. At present, greater majority of Nigerians are disappointed at the state of the nation/rate of our progress as a country. However, this piece does not intend to further repeat the obvious fact, which is that, we have been very unfortunate, to have both bad leaders and bad followers in Nigeria.

Yes we are bad followers, because in other countries (South Africans dismantled apartheid, Eastern Europeans dismantled communism), followers have resisted being misled. Our strengths as followers are never utilized. Discovering and utilizing of our strengths as followers will be a useful instrument. Lets not forget that, Nigerian leadership (various levels) is too serious a business to be left for leaders alone.

Fellow Nigerians, lets start a new beginning for Nigeria. The new beginning am asking for is, what can we do for our country Nigeria. Former American President (John F. Kennedy) made similar call to Americans when he said, “Ask not what your country can do for you; ask what you can do for your country” in the same manner, what can we do as Nigerians (with or without government) to move Nigeria forward.

Time for action is now. Its also time to prepare for the great challenges of saving Nigeria, because failing to prepare, is preparing to fail our country. Nigeria remains one and our only country. History will surely not forgive us if we fail to take a positive action to save Nigeria. Lets hear from you, ideas/actions to reclaim our dearest country. May God bless Nigeria.

Chinedu Vincent Akuta.
An activist and leader of “Support Option A4 Group” Leicester-UK
akutachinedu@yahoo.com
http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/

Say No To Quran/Koran Burning.

2010-09-22T15:20:00.000-07:00

Option A4 Group, Leicester-United Kingdom condemns the attempt by Rev. Terry Jones of the Gainesville, Florida-based Dove World Outreach Center to burn Qurans on September 11 2010. Such action if carried out, will have serious negative consenquencies globally, and might likely spill over to our beloved country, Nigeria.

The negative experiences, deaths and huge losses arising from a Swedish cartoon of Prophet Mohammed, is an example of what Rev Terry Jones wants to plunge the world into. The world needs peace now more than ever before. Therefore, we call on all faith leaders in Nigeria, security services, political leaders, state governors, regional leaders, village heads, community leaders, opinion leaders, etc to hold an emergency meeting(s) on how to prevent a spill over effects, should Rev Terry Jones proceed with his plans to burn Qurans on September 11 2010. May God bless Nigeria.

Chinedu Vincent Akuta.
An activist and leader of “Support Option A4 Group” Leicester-UK
akutachinedu@yahoo.com
http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/

Attahiru (Prof) Jega.

2010-07-23T08:17:00.000-07:00

Attahiru (Prof) Jega, Chairman,
Independent National Electoral Commission,
Plot 436 Zambezi Crescent,
Abuja, Nigeria.
Email: contact@inecnigeria.org
23rd July 2010.

Dear Attahiru,

This letter is in direct response to the Independent National Electoral Commission’s request for N72 billion naira, to produce fresh voters register. I will ask Nigerians to support this request, only on one condition. That condition is that, you Must introduce biometric voter registration. Otherwise whatever you do, will be dead on arrival. Alternatively, part of this money INEC has requested, should be used to purchase forensic equipment(s) and personnel to track multiple voter registration. The use of technology is inevitable if INEC wants to conduct free, fair, transparent and credible elections in 2011 and onwards. Please make this known to the President (Goodluck Jonathan).

The use of biometric (finger prints) is not new in Nigeria. The Nigerian immigration service is a good example (epassport, etc). It was also used during the failed identity card project. This technology can be used by INEC. I will suggest that all the security agencies in Nigeria, (Nigerian Police Force, State Security Services, Customs, Immigration, Prisons etc) should have access to whatever biometric database, INEC should have in future. This will make it easier to track offenders.

Dearest Attahiru, I will also not congratulate you on your new appointment (INEC Chairman). I will equally ask Nigerians not to congratulate you. Rather, I will ask Nigerians to commend or condemn you at the end of your tenure, and especially after conducting 2011 general elections. Remember your immediate predecessor (Maurice Iwu), who has been condemned and consigned to the garbage heap, of forgotten electoral fraud chiefs. Humphrey Nwosu (Still your predecessor) defied Babangida’s intimidation, threats, and manipulation and conducted the June 12th 1993, presidential election which became the freest and fairest election in Nigeria.

You are at the threshold of history. You either use technology or be prepared to face whatever consequences. Aside from the use of technology in electoral register/voting, you should also be thinking on how to re-introduce the Option A4 methods and how to enable the Nigerians in Diaspora to vote. Other small countries in Africa have achieved this (Diaspora voting) feet.

Special Appeal To Nigerians.
Please support this letter to Attahiru (Prof) Jega by adding your name and resending it to INEC (contact@inecnigeria.org). Also follow this link (http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/2010/07/protest-for-nigeria.html) to sign a petition (Protest For Nigeria).That is, if you have not already signed. The only choice we have is to take action(s) now to save Nigeria. Pass around to your friends and friends of Nigeria to do so. May God bless Nigeria.

Chinedu Vincent Akuta.
An activist and leader of “Support Option A4 Group” Leicester-UK
akutachinedu@yahoo.com
http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/

Protest For Nigeria.

2010-07-16T12:51:00.000-07:00

Fellow Nigerians,

The only choice we have is to take action(s) now to save Nigeria. No price will be too much to save Nigeria. In doing so, we also need to take action(s) beyond the Nigerian boarders, especially now that the world has become a global village. It is on this note that, we are calling on all Nigerians to join and protest for Nigeria at the international arena.

Next Steps: (a) simply sign the petition online by visiting this web page http://www.PetitionOnline.com/4Nigeria/petition.html (b) copy the petition below and send/email to the lists of the contacts below. Surely our cumulative action(s) will yield results.

Dear Sir/Ma,

Part of Nigeria’s biggest problem is capital flight, occasioned by massive top level corruption. At present, “The World Bank estimates the country’s generals and gangster politicians stole $300 billion in the three decades to 2006”(Time Magazine, May 3rd 2010 Edition, Page 42). These stolen funds are usually kept in European, American and other oversea banks, while some are used to buy properties in the same countries. The cumulative effects, being high unemployment, poverty, crimes, insecurity and the near collapse of the entire Nigerian system. Little wonder United Kingdom Guardian Newspapers of Thursday November 27th 2008 page 23, grouped Nigeria among the list of 20 failed states. A failed Nigeria, with a population of about 150 million will be the greatest challenge for the international community.

Therefore, time to take action is now. Kindly use your good office to effect a policy change that will deny corrupt Nigerian officials and their family members, access to your country. Where such law exists like the, United States Presidential Proclamation 7750 of January 12, 2004, authorities should commence full enforcement. Those on dual citizenship with your country should be placed on crime watch lists. Investigate properly every money transfer originating from Nigeria to, or through your country/banks. For lists of corrupt Nigerian officials, please contact your embassy in Nigeria, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), and Interpol. Furthermore, sign an extradition treaty with Nigeria if none exists.

This is a non governmental, but a citizens/groups led request for your government’s assistance. The Nigerian masses will be highly grateful if your government could oblige the above request.

List of contacts/recipients.

President Barack Obama,
The White House.
http://www.whitehouse.gov/contact (click on the web page and send this petition).

Committee On Foreign Relations.
U.S. Senate.
Tel: +1-202-224-4651.
Tel: +1-202-224-6797
Fax: +1-202-228-3612

Committee On Foreign Affairs,
United States House of Representatives,
http://foreignaffairs.house.gov/contact.asp (click on the web page and send this petition).

The British Prime Minister, (David Cameroon)
No 10 Downing Street, London.
https://email.number10.gov.uk/Contact.aspx (click on the web page and send this petition).

Foreign Affairs Committee,
House of Commons, London.
SW1A0AA
Telephone:+442072196394/6105
Fax:+442072195365
Email: foraffcom@parliament.uk
patersona@parliament.uk

European Parliament,
Committee on Petitions,
The Secretariat, Brussels.
https://www.secure.europarl.europa.eu/parliament/public/petition/secured/submit.do?language=EN (click on the web page and send this petition).

Secretary-General,
Association of Southeast Asian Nations
Jakarta, Indonesia.
Email: termsak@aseansec.org

Please be kind enough to send the above petition to other international NGOs, Other countries/governments, various regional organizations etc. May God Bless Nigeria.

Chinedu Vincent Akuta.
An activist and leader of “Support Option A4 Group” Leicester-UK
akutachinedu@yahoo.com
http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/

My Speech To Edo Global Organizational Conference.

2010-06-25T10:32:00.000-07:00

Preserving Unity And Sustaining Democracy In A Multi Ethnic Nigeria. Date 19th June 2010.

This speech is dedicated to the Nigerian masses, whose pains, sorrows and hardships were occasioned by government neglect. Your plight has necessitated my continued campaign and struggle for good governance. To you I pledge my loyalty.

Great Sons and Daughters of Edo,
Other Distinguished Guests.

I am humbled to be invited, to come and speak in your Edo Global Organizational Annual Conference in Barcelona, Spain. Please permit me to express my gratitude to the organizers of this event, for considering me worthy, to be made a speaker in this special gathering. When I realized that I will be speaking at the same event with John (Prof) Ebohon, I immediately sent him a text message, asking for his permission to accept the offer to speak. The reason for my action is simple. John (Prof) Ebohon is a man I consider as my father, and he also consider me as his son. I consider myself too young to speak at the same forum with him, hence my request for his permission. As a father he obliged my request. Unfortunately for John (Prof) Ebohon, his mother passed away on 28th May 2010. May her soul and other departed souls rest in peace.

Let me start my speech by referring us to the few words written on the Nigeria’s coat of arms; Unity and Faith, Peace and Progress. From these few words, our founding fathers realized the importance of preserving unity, in our multi ethnic society. Ironically, our “rulers” have intentionally or unintentionally used various policy instruments, to sow seeds of disunity in Nigeria, hence the numerous threats to our unity and our democracy. They (our rulers) simply uses the divide and rule methods. On our part, Nigerians also have their own share of the blames. Regrettably, time and space will not permit me here, to list all the government actions and inactions which have disunited us. But I will mention few and discuss them briefly.

Post Civil War Policy of Awarding 20 Pounds To All Igbo People/Abandoned Properties Saga.
While the Gowon’s government declared no victor, no vanquish policy and launched his 3Rs (Reconstruction, Rehabilitation, and Reconciliation), his administration also implemented the policy of awarding every Igbo person, 20 pounds, in exchange for any amount of money the Igbo person(s) had in the bank. What this policy did was to seize all the money that Igbo people had, and in return pay them only 20 pounds. This was implemented immediately after the war ended. One can only imagine the pains and hardships this would have caused the Igbo people, after suffering economic and food blockades during the war. Nigerians should ask Gowon, what this policy was meant to achieve, unity or disunity? Integration or disintegration? Lets remember the issue of abandoned properties in Port Harcourt where the government failed to act. Please note; the above is not intended to reopen the wounds of the war.

Federal Character/Quota System.
Personally, I think this is the worst constitutional provision any country can have in their statute books. Federal Character principle was adopted during the 1977 constitutional Drafting Committee and it became part of the 1979 constitution. The federal character principle was established to solve the problems of (a) “inequality and marginalization” as expressed by certain part of Nigeria, (b) because of differences in the socio-economic development of different parts of Nigeria, (c) because of disparities in the levels of educational developments in different parts of the country. But since its adoption, the question of merit and competitiveness among Nigerians, have been replaced with quota system. The system (federal character/quota system), chooses mediocre in place of merit.

This policy does not support equal opportunities. I am yet to see a multi ethnic country that has similar policy. America is a multi ethnic country, established on the foundation of liberty, freedom, equality, human rights, and democracy. Quoting the former President of United States, late John F. Kennedy, “Let every nation know, whether it wishes us well or ill, that we shall pay any price, bear any burden, meet any hardship, support any friend, oppose any foe to assure the survival and success of liberty”. Because America is a free a society, the emergence of Barack Obama as the United States President became possible.

The European Union is multi ethnic, with freedom, equal opportunities, human rights and democracy as its basic principles. Quota system gave rise to zoning formula being used by the ruling party (PDP) in Nigeria. Zoning formula gave rise to the emergence of Obasanjo and late Yar’adua. (I will leave you to judge how far this zoning formula has united or disunited us, and whether it’s sustaining or threatening our democracy).

Resource Control.
Many of us do not agree with the resource control formula being used by the federal government. All the regions producing mineral resources should retain 50% and remit 50% to the federal government. The present formula used by the federal government is retrogressive and a serious source of conflicts, particularly in the Niger Delta. Let’s remember that our government hanged Ken Saro Wiwa in 1995 for issues relating to resource control and environmental pollution by oil companies. Any further crises in the Niger Delta will not only be a threat to our unity, but also to the international oil prices. Japan has no mineral resources but only human resources. Today Japan is a united country, with strong economic and political foundations.

Religious Crises.
In 2009, the Director General of the State Security Services (SSS), Afakriya Gadazama, revealed publicly that information about numerous religious crises (Boko Haram, Jos crises etc) and other crimes such as kidnappings in Niger Delta, armed robberies in South East was passed to the appropriate quarters. However, actions were never taken to prevent these crises. In conformity with the above statement was the fact that, the father-in-law to Boko Haram’s sect leader (Mohammed Yusuf), had before the crisis alerted the Borno State governor of Mr. Yusuf’s activities, but actions were never taken.

Let us remember that, the primary responsibility of every government is security and welfare of its people. To show his insensitivity to the security and safety of Nigerians, late President Yar’Adua embarked on a two day state visit to Brazil, the day Boko Haram crisis started. In July 2009, the Chinese President (Hu Jintao) left the G8 Summit in Rome Italy back to China, the moment riots broke out in Northwest part of China.

Electoral Frauds.
Perhaps, this is among the greatest source of disunity and instability in Nigeria. Our chief electoral fraud officers are usually the government and her agencies, example Independent (Dependent) National Electoral Commission (INEC). Obasanjo’s government conducted the worst election in the history of Nigeria. In Edo State, it took the present governor (Adams Oshiomhole) 18 months or so to reclaim his mandate to govern. We saw the mess in Anambra State. A sitting governor (Dr Ngige, ex governor of Anambra State) was even abducted. Joy Emordi from Anambra North Senatorial District, remained at the Nigerian Senate (upper legislative chamber) till May 2010 with a stolen mandate. June 12th 1993 presidential election was annulled by the then head of state (Babangida). June 12 saga almost destroyed the unity of Nigeria. Many people were killed during the June 12th 1993 protest in Nigeria. In Algeria, the cancellation of election in 1992 led to war that claimed over 150,000 lives.

Genocide (Odi and Zaki Biam Massacre).
No amount of provocation can justify government’s (Nigerian Armed Forces) massacre in Zaki Biam, Odi, Ogoni communities etc. Am doubtful how relatives of innocent people killed in Odi, Zaki Biam, Ogoni, etc will embrace the issue of Nigeria’s unity.

Corruption.
“The World Bank estimates the country’s generals and gangster politicians stole $300 billion in the three decades to 2006”(Time Magazine, May 3rd 2010 Edition, Page 42). Over 80% of corrupt cases emanate(s) from top government offices/officials. Corruption has simply set the quest for the scramble and partition of the national cake. No one is interested to bake the national cake. The level of corruption in Nigeria will continue to pose a serious threat to our unity and democracy.

The lists of our government’s atrocities are endless. These confirm my main argument, which is that, our government has been the greatest source(s) of disunity in Nigeria. Unfortunately Nigerians have offered little or no resistance to our government actions and inactions. However, to reverse the trend (preserve unity and sustain democracy) will be a very difficult task.

Preserving Unity and Sustaining Democracy.
There are prices to pay in order to preserve our unity. But we will have higher prices to pay for disunity. Remember, the reason federal government did every thing to stop Biafra from seceding was to maintain the “unity” of Nigeria. In the Biafran war, over 1 million people died. Sudan, Congo DRC, Somalia, Rwanda, Angola, former Yugoslavia etc are examples of countries where there were, or are still serious issues of disunity. United we stand, divide we fall. A house divided among itself cannot stand. Democracy itself cannot flourish in a disunited country. I have the following suggestions.

Apology/Compensation.
As a matter of necessity, the federal government must apologize to Nigerians for her past evil deeds, and also pay adequate compensation for all the wrongs done to Nigerians. The Australian government under Prime Minister (Kevin Rudd) apologized to the Aborigines for, laws and policies of previous administrations that inflicted pains, grief, and sufferings on them. The British government under Gordon Brown also apologized for child migrants sent abroad by previous governments before him. A government of true national unity should be constituted. Genuine and transparent reconciliation processes should be commenced.

Shadow Sovereign National Conference.
Various ethnic groups, NGO’s, CSO,s and pro Nigerian groups in Nigeria need not wait for government, but rather should convoke a shadow sovereign national conference. The Nigerian people should decide how to be governed. The people must also produce the constitution of how they should live in unity. True federalism or confederal system is preferable. Unity should not be at the detriment of any tribe, region or state. In addition, I suggest a coalition of all the groups mentioned above to strengthen the opposition parties in order to safeguard and sustain our democracy. Every democracy needs a strong opposition to function properly. Shadow government/cabinet will be a fantastic idea and it has my highest recommendations.

Electoral Activism.
Leadership means a lot to a society like us, and we have seen how our past rulers have sowed the seeds of disunity amongst us. Therefore it makes sense for us all to participate in the process of election to avoid electing the wrong people. To that extent, I suggest we vote the right candidates, guide our votes, monitor elections and make sure our vote counts. Let us ask questions/do proper investigation before voting any candidate. Let us ask political aspirants/parties to make public a list of requirements, set by the Save Nigeria Group (UK) Branch.

Awareness Campaign.
The Holy Bible said in Hosea 4 verse 6 that, “My people are destroyed from lack of knowledge”. Therefore, various cultural, community, states, regional, ethnic and pro Nigerian groups should commence awareness programmes/political evangelism to educate our less educated folks. We need to propagate voter education, opposition/civil resistance to bad governance/policy. We also need to educate our people to realize the dangers of disunity. Knowledge is power, let share knowledge and empower each other. As we do the above, may God continue to bless Nigeria.

Chinedu Vincent Akuta.
An activist and leader of “Support Option A4 Group” Leicester-UK
akutachinedu@yahoo.com
http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/

Save Nigeria Group (UK) Branch.

2010-06-12T03:25:00.000-07:00

Save Nigeria Groups (Nigeria and Canada).
Other pro-Nigerian Groups (Home and Diaspora),
Domestic Election Monitoring Groups,
Political Parties,
Professional Bodies/Groups,
Religious Organizations,
Communities/Villages/Towns Leaders,
Socio-Cultural Groups,
Media Organizations,
Chatham House, UK.
Fellow Nigerians.

Nigeria’s general election is next year (2011), but up till the time of writing, the National Assembly (“law makers”) have not passed the Justice Uwais Electoral Reform Recommendations. It’s doubtful if they will pass the bill before the election. Whether they do or not, we Nigerians should take action(s) both as individuals and groups, to insist political parties field credible candidates. Therefore, this is a citizens/groups led approach towards achieving the above. We (Save Nigeria Group [UK] Branch) wish to ask all stake holders in Nigerian politics to join us and demand that political parties make public the following requirements.

Political Parties/Groups Manifesto(es).
As a matter of necessity, all political parties in Nigeria should produce their manifestoes. These manifestoes should be made available both online and hard copies. Nigerians need to know their programme(s) and why they are seeking power. Political parties should be ideologically based. Mega party or coalition of parties should come up with manifestoes as well. Parties also need to make public their internal constitution. This is with a view to knowing if there are internal democracies within the parties themselves.

Contact Details
Parties should make public their contacts details (addresses, telephone, fax, websites, emails etc). Branch offices/contacts (states, local government areas, towns, villages etc) should also be disclosed.

Campaign Funding.
Parties should disclose to Nigerians the sources of their campaign funding. Donations, fund raising, gifts etc to parties should be disclosed. Person(s) or corporate bodies making any donation should also be known by the Nigerian public. Cost(s) of election campaigns should be disclosed. As at October 15th 2008, before the November 4th 2008 American presidential election, the United States Federal Electoral Commission revealed that McCain campaign organization had spent $262 million dollars while Obama had spent $564 million dollars. Methods of campaign (electronic, print, telephone/sms, etc) should be disclosed. Obama campaign organization made use of over 1 billion text messages during his campaign.

Academic Qualifications.
Political parties should make public, academic qualifications of all those seeking to contest under their platform. Party leaders themselves should tender their certificates for the Nigerian public to scrutinize. Academic certificates are now a big factor in politics and elections. People have used fake certificates to gain political positions. In Iran, former interior minister (Ali Kordan) was sacked for faking a law degree from Oxford University United Kingdom. In Nigeria, Salisu Buhari (Former Speaker of the House of Representatives) was forced to resign after discovering that he forged his certificates.

Security Clearance.
Evidence of security clearance from Interpol, Nigerian Police Force, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, and State Security Services of each aspirant, should be made public by all parties and the candidates themselves. Nigerians deserve to know if political office seekers have criminal records in any part of the world.

Assets and Liabilities Declaration.
Political parties should make public, evidence of assets and liabilities of every aspirant. Sources of these assets and liabilities should be disclosed as well.

Leadership Debate(s).
Parties should arrange live debates for Nigerians to evaluate candidates. No elective position (councillorships, local government chairmanship, states House of Assembly, gubernatorial, House of Representatives, Senatorial, and Presidential) should be exempted.

Health Check(s).
Political parties should furnish Nigerians with comprehensive medical examination certificates of all aspirants. There is no guarantee against ill health, but Nigerians deserve to know the medical history of all those seeking political offices. Certain sicknesses should not be a barrier to seeking elective positions. This requirement (health check) should be applicable to all elective positions in the country, starting from the ward councilors to the president.

Code of Conduct For Party Supporters/Followers.
Political parties should make public a code of conduct for party supporters/followers. A written undertaken by parties that their supporters, will not engage in thuggery/criminal acts, before, during, or after campaigns/elections. Parties must agree in writing to hand over any party member/supporter who violates the above, to the law enforcements agencies.

List(s) of Political Parties
Please visit the enclosed web page from the Independent National Electoral Commission http://inecnigeria.org/index.php?cateid=3&contid=93 , to send a copy or copies of the above requirements either through email, fax or post to the political parties. Feel free to also call or send sms to the parties. May God bless Nigeria.
Sincerely Yours,
Chinedu Vincent Akuta (Spokesperson),
Save Nigeria Group (UK) Branch.

The Save Nigeria Group (UK) Branch, is a coalition of the following UK based pro Nigerian Groups; (a) Arise Nigeria (www.arisenigeria.org),(b) Support Option A4 Group, Leicester-UK (www.briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com), (c) Unity and Positive Change In Nigeria (www.upcinn.com), (d) Citizens For Change Global (www.citizensforchangeglobal.org), (e) Champions For Nigeria (www.championsfornigeria.org) (f) Rally For Nigeria (http://rallyfornigeria.blogspot.com) and (g) (Transform Nigeria Movement).

June 12.

2010-06-12T03:23:00.000-07:00

June 12th has become a landmark date in Nigeria’s political history. It has become a reference point for the only free and fair election in Nigeria. As we commemorate 17 years after June 12, 1993 presidential election, let us reflect and resolve to resist any future attempts to manipulate elections in Nigeria. Fraudulent elections are a threat to all and sundry. Make no mistake about it, electoral manipulation is the biggest hindrance to our progress in Nigeria. As we approach 2011 general election in Nigeria, let us resolve and rise in unity to ensure credible elections are conducted. To that extent, I suggest the following;
(a) Register for election, vote during election, and monitor elections in our locality. Make sure your vote counts.
(b) Report any suspicious movements, before, during and after elections.
(c) Embark upon massive awareness programme (political/electoral evangelism) on voter education.
(d) Join the campaign for electoral reform, preferably campaign for the re-introduction of Option A4.
(e) Ask questions/do proper investigations before voting any candidate. Make sure credible people are voted.
(f) Ask political aspirants/political parties to make public a set of requirements set by Save Nigeria Group (UK) Branch. A set of these requirements can be made available to you, upon your request. May God bless Nigeria.

Chinedu Vincent Akuta.
An activist and leader of “Support Option A4 Group” Leicester-UK
akutachinedu@yahoo.com
http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/

Political Parties and Check List(s).

2010-05-16T04:17:00.001-07:00

I am sure that most political parties/political leaders in Nigeria, watched as Gordon Brown (Ex British Prime Minister) resigned from his position after accepting responsibilities, for his Labour Party defeat in just concluded United Kingdom general election. Every political dynasty has an end, so did Gordon Brown’s premiership that ended on Tuesday May 11th 2010. I am also sure that most Nigerian political parties/political leaders, watched Obama’s electoral victory, and the opposition victory in nearby Ghana. All these elections mentioned above have thrown a lot of challenges to Nigeria, especially as we approach the 2011 general election. To that extent, Nigerians should demand from all political parties the following(s);

Political Parties/Groups Manifesto(es).
As a matter of necessity, all political parties in Nigeria should produce their manifestoes. These manifestoes should be made available both online and hard copies. Nigerians need to know their programme(s) and why they are seeking power. Political parties should be ideologically based. Mega party or coalition of parties should come up with manifestoes as well. Parties also need to make public their internal constitution. This is with a view to knowing if there are internal democracies within the parties themselves. The should also make public their websites. Interestingly, the last time I checked all the parties, many had no operational telephone numbers talk less of a website. Operational websites should be a basic requirement for Nigerian political parties. This will enable Nigerians in Diaspora to participate in politics.

Campaign Funding.
Parties should disclose to Nigerians the sources of their campaign funding. Donations, fund raising, gifts etc to parties should be disclosed. Person(s) or corporate bodies making any donation should also be known by the Nigerian public. Cost(s) of election campaigns should be disclosed. As at October 15th 2008, before the November 4th 2008 American presidential election, the United States Federal Electoral Commission revealed that McCain campaign organization had spent $262 million dollars while Obama had spent $564 million dollars. Methods of campaign (electronic, print, telephone/sms, etc) should be disclosed. Obama campaign organization made use of over 1 billion text messages during his campaign.

Academic Qualifications.
Political parties should make public, academic qualifications of all those seeking to contest under their platform. Party leaders themselves should tender their certificates for the Nigerian public to scrutinize. Academic certificates are now a big factor in politics and elections. People have used fake certificates to gain political positions. In Iran, former interior minister (Ali Kordan) was sacked for faking a law degree from Oxford University United Kingdom. In Nigeria, Salisu Buhari (Former Speaker of the House of Representatives) was forced to resign after discovering that he forged his certificates.

Security Clearance.
Evidence of security clearance from Interpol, Nigerian Police Force, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, and State Security Services of each aspirant, should be made public by all parties and the candidates themselves. Nigerians deserve to know if political office seekers have criminal records in any part of the world.

Assets and Liabilities Declaration.
Political parties should make public, evidence of assets and liabilities of every aspirant. Sources of these assets and liabilities should be disclosed as well.

Leadership Debate(s).
This is non negotiable. Nigerians should insist on leadership debates by political aspirants. No elective position (councillorships, local government chairmanship, states House of Assembly, gubernatorial, House of Representatives, Senatorial, and Presidential) should be exempted. Parties should arrange live debates for Nigerians to evaluate candidates

Health Check(s).
Political parties should furnish Nigerians with comprehensive medical examination certificates of all aspirants. There is no guarantee against ill health, but Nigerians deserve to know the medical history of all those seeking political offices. Certain sicknesses should not be a barrier to seeking elective positions. This requirement (health check) should be applicable to all elective positions in the country, starting from the ward councilors to the president.

Age.
Age MUST become an issue in Nigerian politics. But I will not tell the political parties the age requirements for party members seeking to contest elections. All I will suggest to Nigerians is; there is no point voting people who are above retirement age. McCain (the last Republican Presidential candidate of America) was 72 years when he contested election. His (McCain) age was among the reasons why he lost election. David Cameroon the United Kingdom Prime Minister is 44 years old.

The Electorate (Nigerians).
We owe ourselves and the country a duty to make the right choices during the general election next year (2011). We also need to mobilize one another against electoral fraud. I suggest all electorates to become electoral activist(s). Vote during elections, stay around till the votes are counted, follow the returning officer(s) or delegate people to follow the returning officers till the overall results are announced. Monitor elections in your locality. Go to pooling stations with hidden cameras or spy cameras. Better still; take pictures with your mobile phones.

All Nigerians should be on their guards since the National Assembly has not passed Justice Uwais electoral reform recommendations. I advocate Option A4. We are also yet to see a radical transformation at the Independent (Dependent) National Electoral Commission. Therefore, electorates should get ready to defend their votes. There are two choices for the electorates (Nigerians) to make, either take action that will bring about changes or keep quiet and allow the corrupt politicians to completely destroy us. Our little actions can change a lot. For every action to manipulate election there should be a reaction to counter it.

Finally, please remember to participate and join the fight against global warming. Turn off your electrical appliances/lights when not in use. Plant a tree or sponsor one to plant on your behalf. Government and companies should send less paper work and do more email, telephone, and sms. May God bless Nigeria.

Chinedu Vincent Akuta.
An activist and leader of “Support Option A4 Group” Leicester-UK
akutachinedu@yahoo.com
http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/

BBC 2 Documentary: Welcome To Lagos.

2010-04-25T02:54:00.000-07:00

Please do not get me wrong, this documentary is a public relation(s) disaster for Nigeria, Nigerians and every thing Nigeria stands for. But I tend to have a different view about this documentary. My opinion is that, British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC 2) deserves special award and commendations for finding time, resources and manpower that went to Nigeria to do such an eye opening documentary. Please permit me to thank BBC 2 for this wonderful efforts and exposure. I suggest British Broadcasting Corporation should do more documentaries on Nigeria.
This documentary should become a major challenge for our own media outfits like, Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), Channels Television, Silver Bird Group, Daar Communications Plc, owners of (African Independent Television [A.I.T.], and Ray Power Radio Stations) to expose many dark sides of our society, with a view to prompting positive actions from the government. On this note, I recommend Covert Journalism/Reporting for all Nigerians. These days every one can become a reporter (iReport) and publisher due to information technology. Therefore, we should expose the good, the bad and the ugly in our society. Covert, surveillance and spy cameras are also recommended.
For the benefit of those who have not watched it (welcome to Lagos), I enclosed here a weblink for episode 1 (http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b00s3bmx/Welcome_to_Lagos_Episode_1) and episode 2 (http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b00s5x5w/Welcome_to_Lagos_Episode_2).
The above documentary is similar to an earlier drama/film (Blood and Oil) shown by the same channel BBC 2. The above film(s) and documentaries are highly recommended. First, it shows the level of decay. Secondly it shows absence of government. Thirdly it shows the determination and how people work very hard to survive in the face of government imposed hardship. It also revealed that there are a lot of human resources to be harnessed for national development. The people in the documentaries (Welcome to Lagos) exhibited several entrepreneurial and survival skills.
I understand that the Nigerian High Commissioner to the United Kingdom (Dr. Dalhatu Tafida) protested to the controller BBC 2 against the documentary (Welcome to Lagos). Ironically, the government he is representing and past governments did more to push people to the slums. An example was the Moroko evictees who were forceful evicted by the ex military ruler (Babangida) in 1990. Till date (20 years after), many of them are still going to court for compensation. Many have died in the course of pursuing their resettlement claims.
Though Moroko then was not properly developed, all the ex ruler (Babangida) did was to forcefully evict people from their homes. By so doing he pushed people to the streets which would have led to more slums. Thank goodness he (Dr. Dalhatu Tafida) did not deny the existence of the slums in Lagos in his protest message. On behalf of poor Nigerians whose pain, anguish and neglect by the government necessitated the making of these documentaries, I declare his (Dr Dalhatu Tafida) protest letter null and void.
The authorities that asked Dr Dalhatu Tafida to protest or the Nigerian High Commissioner himself should bury his head in shame for the failure of Nigerian government to provide basic amenities like houses, electricity etc. How much will it cost the nation to provide houses, steady power, water etc for its population compared to how much that has been looted by government officials. Olabode George for instance misappropriated about 85 billion naira. Imagine what this amount could do for those people shown on the documentaries.
In the same manner that the British Broadcasting Corporation used documentaries (Welcome to Lagos) and drama (Blood and Oil) to expose the neglected part of the Nigerian society, and even cause the federal government to react (protest letter from The High Commissioner to the BBC 2), let use films, documentaries, drama on DVDs to propagate political evangelism and change. Picture effects are a powerful means of communicating to people. Perhaps this method (political evangelism) could cause the government to react positively for our people.
Finally, please remember to participate and join the fight against global warming. Turn off your electrical appliances/lights when not in use. Plant a tree or sponsor one to plant on your behalf. Government and companies should send less paper work and do more email, telephone, and sms. May God bless Nigeria.

Chinedu Vincent Akuta.
An activist and leader of “Support Option A4 Group” Leicester-UK
akutachinedu@yahoo.com
http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/

Undue Attention.

2010-04-18T07:30:00.000-07:00

I have been following with keen interest the decision by the former military ruler, General Ibrahim Babangida to contest the 2011 Presidential election. Personally, I don’t think he (Babangida) will go far. A good example was when ex head of state (Gen Gowon) tried to contest the presidential election in 1992/93. He (Gowon) failed in his primary constituency. In the case of Gowon’s attempt, Option A4 Electoral System was in place. Though that we have a different electoral law in place now, he (Babangida) will be shocked the way he will loose election. I also think, he might be seeking undue attention because events have relegated him to an obscure background.

History has indeed consigned him to garbage heap of forgotten tyrants. People should not loose sleep about his plans. Its just that one still wonders how people like him think, otherwise there are other things he should have engaged himself with, other than seeking to come back to power. I had in some of my articles advised him (Babangida) to use his influences to work for the re-introduction of Option A4 Electoral System back to our legal books. He should also use his contacts to lobby the present government to posthumously announce the official winner of June 12th 1993 presidential elections and for government to pay compensation to the families of Abiola.

Quoting Thewill (an online news publication; http://thewillnigeria.com/politics/4209-Nigerian-Youths-Are-Not-Capable-Leading-Nigeria-IBB.html), Babangida said that Nigerian youths are not capable of ruling Nigeria. I strongly disagree with him. Rather his statement is an acceptance by him, that he lacked leadership skills when he ruled Nigeria as a youth.

I am also sure that some of his (Babangida) colleagues, associates and friends (birds of the same feather) might want to contest other elections (Senatorial, gubernatorial, etc). Now that he has declared his intensions to run for the highest office of the land, patriotic Nigerians should also declared their own intentions to mass mobilize Nigerians to vote the rightful candidates. Action should be equal to reaction. I had in my previous articles suggested to Nigerians on the need to start political evangelism using various kinds of media outlets. For the sake of good governance in Nigeria, let all patriots become political evangelists. In addition, this will be an ideal time for Nigerians to constitute a shadow judicial process and retry all cases like Dele Giwa’s death etc.

Amongst the most potent means of political evangelism will be to prepare messages on DVDs, CDs, Videos, etc on local languages. Nothing can compare with picture effects. Using home videos and televised religious evangelism as case studies, one will agree that many people have been changed through those means. In the same manner people can be mobilized after viewing political messages. Another reason for this method (political messages on DVDs, CDs Videos, etc) is because government and some private television stations might not like to air such programs. Therefore DVDs/Video recordings will suffice.

Times International Magazine of April 19th 2010, pages 18-19 showed where people of Southern Sudan gathered to watch an educational film on fair elections. A well prepared political/electoral documentary on DVDs can have serious impacts on voting patterns. In case of any documentary in line with the above suggestions, I will recommend the following to be included (a) clips/films of how people of Eastern Europe resisted and dismantled communism (b) clips/films of how Thai people (Red Shirts) exercises peoples power (c) clips/films of how South African resisted Apartheid (d) clips/films of motivational speeches by Martin Luther King Jnr, (e) clips of speeches by our own Tunde (Pastor) Bakare etc.

Political evangelism methods have the potentials of increasing political awareness amongst our folks. We can also choose the direct marketing strategy, whereby we meet people one on one and advise who not to vote. Firstly we can start with our immediate and extended families then proceed to the community levels. I know that many people might be vulnerable to following the money bags, that’s why patriotic Nigerians will have to increase their political evangelism so as to win more souls to see reasons to vote rightfully.

Finally, please remember to participate and join the fight against global warming. Turn off your electrical appliances/lights when not in use. Plant a tree or sponsor one to plant on your behalf. Government and companies should send less paper work and do more email, telephone, and sms. May God bless Nigeria.

Chinedu Vincent Akuta.
An activist and leader of “Support Option A4 Group” Leicester-UK
akutachinedu@yahoo.com
http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/

Thailand: Protest(s) Capital of Third World Countries.

2010-03-28T14:26:00.000-07:00

It will be very appropriate if the Save Nigeria Groups, various opposition groups/parties in Nigeria could undertake a study of masses mobilization method used by the Thai’s opposition groups (the red shirts). I am not saying that pro Nigerian groups/ Save Nigeria Groups have not tried. They have done very well. But the prolong protest methods of Thai people usually send strong messages both to the international community and their national government. This is a tool the ordinary people of Thailand uses very well. This approach (prolong protest method), and the techniques of mobilizing about 100,000 people and keeping them together for days deserves a proper study.

Nigerian authorities (the government and the Nigerian Security Services) also need to learn lessons from Thailand which has merited the title of; Protest Capital of The Third World Countries. In the just concluded Thai protest, their police never fired a single bullet, even though they had to contend with about 100,000 demonstrators in the capital city Bangkok. On our part, I have to commend the Nigerian Police for their orderly manner during the various Save Nigeria Group(s) protest marches. We know what the Nigerian Police used to be like in the past. As a matter of fact, the (Nigerian Police Force) complicity in a public protest, led to the death of former Senate President (Dr Chuba Okadigbo). But can the Nigerian Police Force behave in an orderly manner if about 100,000 Nigerians come out to protest and make serious noise?

Thai politics and especially their opposition protest(s) marches (the opposition groups known as the red shirts, due to the red colour of the shirts worn by them) attracts global attention each time the protesters go to the streets. Some journalist(s) have nicknamed the red shirts as the red army. Politics in Thailand is represented by colours or its colour coded. The opposition groups who support their former Prime Minister (Thaksin Shinawatra) usually wear red shirts, whereas the supporters of the current Prime Minister (Abhisit Vejjajiva) wear yellow shirts. Protest marches by both the yellow shirts and the red shirts can both be very interesting. I have no single doubt, that political awareness among Thai people is very high. Most of Thai people have truly realized that power belongs to them.

Starting from March 12th 2009, when the last protest march was being held by the red shirts (opposition groups), about 100,000 people gathered in Bangkok from various parts of Thailand. The protesters came by buses, trucks, tractors, boats, motorcycles etc to the capital (Bangkok). The red shirts wanted to force the government to hold elections. Greater majority of the red shirts that came for the protest march were poor people and farmers who desired change. The protesters went beyond the protest march to shed their own blood. Thousands lined up at medical tents where nurses collected their blood which they spilled on the gates of the Thai government house, official residence and office complex of their Prime Minister.

What amazes me is the fact that Thai is a third world country like ours but very active when it comes to protests. Their various protest marches is like a volcano. In 2008, the yellow shirts (pro government protesters) protested and occupied their government house for months and Bangkok’s airports for a week.

In April 2009, the red shirts (opposition groups) disrupted the ASEAN summit. Demonstrators prevented the leaders of Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) from attending their meetings. They blocked the entrance to hotel/venue of the summit. ASEAN leaders were airlifted to safety while the Thai government was humiliated and heavily embarrassed. 8,000 police personnel’s were deployed to control the protesters but they could not stop the people. Interestingly, the police did not fire any single bullet to any protester.

My concern here is how we can use the Thai example to increase the political consciousness of our people. I am of the opinion that governance will be much easier when the people are politically aware of what their leaders are doing. As the general election in Nigeria approaches, what are we going to do to increase the political awareness of our people? Are we ready to vote and be voted for? Are we also ready to guide our votes? How ready are we to become electoral activists? What are our plans to educate the illiterate members of our community? What about political evangelism which I have suggested in my previous articles?

In Thailand, farmers and other poor people left the rural areas to come and demonstrate in Bangkok. Meaning that, they are aware that whatever their government does will affect them directly or indirectly. The challenge is now for us to replicate or surpass the Thailand’s experience. On this note, I will suggest mass education using the following methods; rallies, mobile text messages, continuous distribution of political leaflets, books, journals, translation of political messages to our various native languages, organizing town hall meetings, political seminars, symposiums, lectures etc at village, community, town and local government levels.

Non Governmental Organizations (NGO’s), Community Based Organizations (CBO’s) Faith Organizations, Youth’s organizations, etc should consider mobilizing its members for volunteer work on political enlightenment(s). Several villages/community meetings especially people from the South Eastern part of Nigeria (of which am one of them), should consider political education/political evangelism as part(s) of meeting agenda(s). Market leaders, motor park leaders, leaders of various road transport unions should also find ways of political enlightenment amongst its members. On the individual level, we should find a way to enlighten one another.

I will also repeat my recommendation for political evangelism whereby political messages are produced in DVD’s, CD’s, Cassette players, ipods, Mp3 players etc and distributed to the people. Picture effect can do the magic. We can also take advantages of the new media (facebook, twitter, youtube, blogs, etc) to reach the needed audience. Hopefully, through mass mobilization and political awareness of our people, we might begin to achieve the “pax Nigeriana” we all are looking for.

Finally, I wish also to continue appealing to Nigerians to participate and join the fight against global warming. Turn off your electrical appliances/lights when not in use. Plant a tree or sponsor one to plant on your behalf. Government and companies should send less paper work and do more email, telephone, and sms. May God bless Nigeria.

Chinedu Vincent Akuta.
An activist and leader of “Support Option A4 Group” Leicester-UK
akutachinedu@yahoo.com
http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/

Jos: Slaughter Capital of Nigeria.

2010-03-14T11:23:00.000-07:00

The Federal Government of Nigeria owe Nigerians a serious apology for its failure to end the incessant Jos crisis. Re-occurring crisis of this nature is more than enough to bring down governments in the developed countries. Without doubts, the Federal Government, its security agencies and the perpetrators of these crimes should together be held responsible for the Jos massacre. In my opinion, the government should be prosecuted for security failures. The primary responsibility of every government is welfare and security of its citizens. On this occasion (Jos Crises etc) the government has simply failed.

I will advocate serious compensation from the government to those who lost loved ones, even though compensation will not bring back lost relatives. By virtue of the record number of religious crises in Jos and the higher number of deaths resulting from it, Jos has earned for herself, The Slaughter Capital of Nigeria. Just in a space of less than 3 months, over 800 people have lost their lives to religious crises. In January 2010, over 300 people were killed. In this month of March 2010, over 500 were slaughtered. Life is too cheap in Nigeria. I pray that, these killings should be the last. I pray this prayer each time there is a crisis, but I understand that heaven helps those who help themselves. In our own case we have not helped ourselves, therefore heaven might not help us.

To make matters worse, our government has abdicated from their responsibilities (security and welfare). There is no difference between a state sponsored killings and the inaction of our government through their security agencies. Government has no regards for the lives of Nigerians. Government’s inaction also runs counter productive to some of their programmes like re-branding etc

I was highly embarrassed when some of my work colleagues (mainly Africans from other countries) confronted me with the news of Jos massacre on March 9th. Earlier in January (2010), I was also confronted with the same Jos crisis. On each case I was short of words. Imagine if these people were foreign investors or have friends who want to invest in Nigeria. These negative stories will never leave their minds whenever Nigeria is mentioned.

The greatest incitement to crime is the hope of escaping punishment. On the other hand, soft sentences can boost crimes, an example is the light sentence given to Olabode George. If the government cannot get tougher with punishing criminals and perpetrators of religious crises etc, then they will only be toying with our future. No one is safe. Even the so called “leaders” Nelson Mandela once said that ‘Security for few is insecurity for all’

Removing the National Security Adviser is not enough. Heads of other relevant security agencies should also be sacked. Another reason to sack other security chiefs is the way and manner our President was smuggled inside the country like a thief. I read from online news sources that most of our security chiefs claimed ignorance of smuggling of Yar’Adua. We should remember that ignorance is not an excuse in law and therefore cannot be accepted by Nigerians. There (security services) inaction means they cannot justify their wages/salaries etc and there is no point wasting the taxpayers money on whoever cannot justify his/her pay.

The Jos crises is also a serious blow to the people who protested on the streets of London, Abuja, and New York that Nigerians are not terrorist(s). What more do we call terrorism than events in Jos. My biggest concern is how to prevent similar crisis in future? Do we have any assurances from the government and its security agencies that such incidents will not happen again? What are government plans for those displaced from their homes and businesses? What about the traumatised children and women? There are a lot more questions than answers. May God bless Nigeria.

Chinedu Vincent Akuta.
An activist and leader of “Support Option A4 Group” Leicester-UK
akutachinedu@yahoo.com
http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/

Tunde (Pastor) Bakare.

2010-03-07T14:53:00.001-08:00

Dearest Tunde (Pastor) Bakare, what I am not sure is, if you got a copy of my appeal to Leaders of Faith Organizations in Nigeria published last year (2009) on my blog (http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/2009/06/appeal-to-leaders-of-faith.html) and on most national newspapers. But whether you got it or not, your actions and deep involvement with the Save Nigeria Group are exactly the responses solicited from that appeal. After listening to your speech on the Abuja rally titled; The Order of Ezra (http://www.latterrainassembly.org/lra/media.html#), I quickly replayed the speeches (I Have a Dream and I Have Seen The Promised Land) by Martin Luther King Jr. Without doubts, we might have our own Martin Luther King in you.

I have had the opportunity of reading through the State of The Nation Broadcast by you. This speech is both inspiring and motivational like your church sermon(s). I have no doubt, that efforts of people like you will definitely yield positive results in Nigeria. I was glad on hearing that you were part of the delegation of Save Nigeria Group that met with Acting President Goodluck Jonathan. We have no choice but to save Nigeria. My prayer is that many more faith leaders should join you in the crusade to save our motherland.

Religious groups are in a better position to mobilize people for change. Another reason is also because; fewer institutions are closer to the people than our churches, synagogues, temples, mosques, worship centers etc. Therefore, faith leaders by virtue of their calling and congregation they lead should not hesitate to mobilize people for changes. Quoting Martin Luther King “Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter”. Therefore every one should speak out and perhaps, join the crusade to save our country. No sacrifice will be too much. Enough is enough.

I believe in one Nigeria where there is justice, equity, fairness and good governance. I also believe there could be unity in diversity. With togetherness and determination we can achieve a lot in saving Nigeria. Fidel Castro of Cuba once said that, no force on earth can defeat a determined people. Dearest Tunde (Pastor) Bakare, I have no doubt that the Save Nigeria Group, which you are part of, believes in progress and prosperity of our country. It is on this note that I make another appeal to all pro Nigerian groups both home and abroad to join your group (Save Nigeria Group) or Save Nigeria Group will join them. If Mohammed cannot go to the mountain, mountain can come to Mohammed. Various pro Nigerian groups should retain their identities and focus while identifying with Save Nigeria Group. Better still there should be synergy amongst all pro Nigerian groups.

The idea is to form a formidable group, with links abroad that will challenge the status quo at home. Assuming the heat generated by Yar’Adua,s sickness settles down, there will still be a lot of works to be done to put our country on the better pedestrian. I would pray for the Save Nigeria Group, to put pressure on the National Assembly to pass the freedom of information bill, removal of immunity clause on the constitution, abolition of federal character/quota system etc.

Coalition and synergy amongst all pro Nigerian groups will be a step in the right direction towards challenging our numerous problems. I also understand there might be challenges of coordination when the groups are many. But consider division of labour. Groups with interest on electoral reforms could come together under the larger group, while groups with interest on anti corruption could be grouped together under the larger group. This was the concept behind my call for a shadow government/cabinet. I could explain further as and at when needed.

Punch Newspaper of 2nd March 2010 (online version) reported that Ribadu and 45 others formed shadow parliament. It might be a good idea for Save Nigeria Group and other groups to join Ribadu. This project (Shadow Parliament/Shadow Government) will obviously strengthen the opposition parties/groups which is the beauty of every democracy. The planned Mass Action by Save Nigeria Group on 10th March 2010 is also part of democracy. I pray many Nigerians to support this cause.

Furthermore, I urge Nigerians to support Save Nigeria Group in cash and kind. PDP raised over N2 billion naira for Soludo’s election in Anambra State. Therefore, Nigerians should donate their widows’ mite to Save Nigeria Group. No amount will be too small. We should remember that freedom is expensive, please read my article on that; (http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/2009/06/freedom-is-expensive.html).

Another idea you and your group might consider, should be to field credible candidates during next year (2011) general election. It should not matter even if a member of your group wins only the councillorship or chairmanship election. That way you can begin to show Nigerians a true taste of governance. You can stand for elections yourself. Reverend Chris Okotie of the Household of God Church Ministries contested the 2003 presidential elections. It might be easier to change from within than from outside.

My other advice will be for you and the Save Nigeria Group or other pro Nigerian groups to produce political messages in both DVD’s CD’s Cassettes etc, to be distributed to Nigerians. There is need to increase the political consciousness of our people. I call this idea Political Evangelism. It could be in form of documentaries or it could take any form. These political messages could be produced in various native languages of Nigeria. Picture effect(s) can do much in increasing the political consciousness of our people.

Using the home videos and various religious evangelisms as a case study, you will agree with me that many lives have been shaped through that. Political evangelisms in DVD’s CD’s etc will have similar impact on our society. People in remote areas will be empowered politically through such messages.

Finally, it’s also important to remind Nigerians to plant trees or sponsor one to plant on their behalf. Turn off your electrical appliances/lights when not in use. Government and companies should send less paper work and do more email, telephone, and sms. May God bless Nigeria.

Chinedu Vincent Akuta.
An activist and leader of “Support Option A4 Group” Leicester-UK
akutachinedu@yahoo.com
http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/

Donald Duke

2010-03-06T16:14:00.000-08:00

Presidential Ambition.

Donald Duke (former Governor of Cross River State) has formerly declared his ambition to run for presidential election next year (2011). However, he was silent on the political party of his choice, but certainly not PDP. He made his interest known in an interactive session he held in London on March 5th 2010 at The Congress Hall, Trade Union Centre, 28 Great Russel Street, London. WC1B 3LS.

I had the privilege of being there because of the invitation he personally sent to me. Therefore, if any person(s) know any reason(s) why this man should not contest the presidential election, he or she should forward such concerns to;

yes@donaldduke.co.uk
www.donaldduke.com
Tel: +447515727737
Tel: +234-1-2710823.

At the same time, if any person(s) have any reason(s) to support him or join his campaign organization, he or she should contact the above email addresses/telephone numbers. May God bless Nigeria.

Chinedu Vincent Akuta.
An activist and leader of “Support Option A4 Group” Leicester-UK
akutachinedu@yahoo.com
http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/

End This Political Crisis Before It’s Too Late.

2010-02-28T08:43:00.000-08:00

His Excellency,
Acting President Goodluck Jonathan,
The Presidency, Aso Rock.
Abuja, Nigeria.

Dear Goodluck Jonathan,

As the Acting President and the Commander in Chief, you Must end this political crisis before it’s too late. Its mockery of your good office (The Presidency) that you’re prevented from seeing your boss. The international community will find it difficult to believe what is happening. By the powers conferred on you as the Commander in Chief, you should summon immediately the Chief of Army Staff, The Director of State Security Services, The Director of Nigeria Intelligence Agency etc, these people will in turn obtain relevant information from the Yar’Adua,s Chief Security Officer, his ADC and orderlies. Whatever information obtained should be broadcast live to the nation.

It will be in the best interest of the ADC and Chief Security Officer to Yar’Adua to furnish their bosses and the nation all they know about Yar’Adua. They owe the nation serious obligation to give account of Yar’Adua,s medical condition as longer as it will help to move the nation forward. They (ADC and CSO to Yar’Adua) should draw lessons from what happened to Al-Mustapha (former Chief Security Officer to late General Abacha) who was cross examined several times about his activities during the Oputa Panel. The present (CSO) to Yar’Adua should remember that he does not have immunity from prosecution. However this present crisis will equally affect him as it will affect other Nigerians directly or indirectly. Therefore, every efforts should be made by all to end the current political tension arising from Yar’Adua,s ill health.

President Yar’Adua is, and will not be the only sick president. When Fidel Castro (Cuban President) became seriously ill, he was televised live on his sick bed when Venezuela’s President (Hugo Chavez) visited him. When late Yasser Arafat (The Leader of Palestine Liberation Organization) was taken to a French hospital before his death, the entire world was kept informed of his situation. Also when former Israeli Prime Minster (Ariel Sharon) was taken to hospital, the world was kept informed. I find it too difficult to understand the secrecy surrounding our president’s sickness.

The National Assembly should also summon without delays all the Service Chiefs (Heads of Security Apparatus responsible for guarding Yar’Adua) to come and explain to the nation all the know about President Yar’Adua,s illness. Madam Turai Yar’Adua (first lady) will not have the powers to stop the National Assembly from summoning the Service Chiefs; neither will she have the powers to stop them from appearing before the National Assembly. The National Assembly should take further steps necessary to avoid this political crisis. All their efforts should be televised live to Nigerians.

Mr. Acting President, you should proceed immediately set up a Commission of Enquiry to look into the events that happened while our President was admitted in a Saudi Arabian hospital. The Commission should also look at the suspicious return of our President into the country. Expose those behind this shameful episode. Prosecute if necessary those who might have aided the return of our President without notifying you. This Commission of Enquiry should be televised live to Nigerians just like the Oputa Panel did. The idea is for Nigerians to have their reports themselves because previous reports of several judicial, administrative or commission(s) of enquiry was never made public. Another idea should be to prevent the reoccurrence of similar incident in the future.

You (Goodluck Jonathan) should also disclose to the nation how much the federal government spent on Yar’Adua,s medical trip to Saudi Arabia? I am asking this question because President Yar’Adua did not spend his personal money. Nigerian tax payers money/the oil money would have been used to off set the medical bills. Remember, the President went with his entourage, and they all were in Saudi for the number of days he spent there. Please remember to add the cost(s) of three government delegations to Saudi Arabia, even though they didn’t see Yar’Adua.

The idea of asking how much was spent is because Nigerians deserve to know how their money is being spent. Who knows, the money spent in Saudi Arabia might have been enough to equip at least one hospital in Nigeria. It was the biggest embarrassment that our President went to Saudi Arabia for his medical treatment. To achieve a balance, the federal government should either send every sick Nigerian to overseas for treatment or completely ban overseas medical treatments for government officials, and properly equip our hospitals. I have made this argument several times.

Nigerians at home and in Diaspora should be more than prepared to defend their democracy. Power belongs to the people. This is the time to be on our guard to defend our freedom and democracy. Every effort should be made by Nigerians to stop further political crisis. Political crisis will rather set us back.

Yar’Adua,s issue should not prevent other political parties from starting campaigns for next year (2011) general elections. Opposition political parties should be strategizing by now on how to capture power come next year. Election is less than fourteen months from now; therefore this is the best time for opposition parties to present credible candidates and programmes to challenge PDP led government. I will advice Nigerians to vote credible people and not political party in future elections in Nigeria. Let’s not forget to start shadow government/cabinet starting from next year (2011). May God bless Nigeria.

Chinedu Vincent Akuta.
An activist and leader of “Support Option A4 Group” Leicester-UK
akutachinedu@yahoo.com
http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/

Seeking Saudi Arabia’s Intervention.

2010-02-20T11:03:00.001-08:00

His Royal Highness, King Abdullah,
The King, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Thru Royal Embassy of Saudi Arabia.
30 Charles Street, WIJ 5DZ
Tel: +442079173000
Email: ukemb@mofa.gov.sa
20th February, 2010.
London

Dearest King (Abdullah), the government and the good people of Saudi Arabia, please permit me to make a special appeal for your intervention towards solving a lingering political and constitutional crisis in Nigeria. You might be wondering why Nigerians need your intervention. The good people of Nigeria need your intervention because our President (Yar’Adua) was admitted to a hospital (King Faisai Hospital) in your country since November 23rd 2009. Since our President left Nigeria, he has only spoken once (thru an interview to the British Broadcasting Corporation, but less than a minute) to Nigerians. His medical trip to your country has generated a lot of controversies and political tension.

My appeal/letter is a citizen led diplomacy intended to; (a) coincide with the planned visit to your kingdom of another delegation (six members) from the Executive Council of the Federation, (b) to request your support so that, this delegation can see President Yar’Adua. As you might be aware, previous delegations from Nigerian government were not allowed to see him. Firstly a delegation from the Nigeria’s Lower House of Parliament (House of Representatives) led by Shehu Baba Agaie was not allowed to see him. Secondly, a delegation led by the leader of our President’s political party (People’s Democratic Party) Chief Ogbulafor failed to see him. (c) Bring to your attention that Nigerian people will gratefully appreciate if you could help them know the true health status of their President.

The state of health of every individual should be a private affair, but not when it concerns a president of a country like Nigeria which is nearly 150 million in population. Our country is a complex political entity. When late Yasser Arafat (The Leader of Palestine Liberation Organisation) was taken to a French hospital before his death, the entire world was kept informed of his situation. Also when former Israeli Prime Minster (Ariel Sharon) was taken to hospital, the world was kept informed. Our President’s ill health cannot be an exception. We deserve to know, more so since his absence is over heating our political system.

I am sure your ambassador to Nigeria would have furnished you with the nature and details of the controversies, political and constitutional crisis that our President’s medical trip to your kingdom has caused to Nigeria and Nigerians. It has almost polarized our nation and it is not in the best interest of Nigeria’s image internationally. Whatever affects Nigeria will affect the entire sub region. Besides, we now live in a global village, what happens in one part affects the rest of it.

Your assistance to the above request will surely go a long way towards solving the problems, which resulted from our President’s medical trip to your Kingdom. I will be asking fellow Nigerians to register their concerns on the above subject through the enclosed email/web address (ukemb@mofa.gov.sa or www.mofa.gov.sa) or they should forward their letters/concerns to any Saudi Arabia’s embassy nearest to them.

Thanking You in Anticipation of Your Co-operation,

Sincerely Yours,

Chinedu Vincent Akuta.
An activist and leader of “Support Option A4 Group” Leicester-UK
akutachinedu@yahoo.com
http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/

Key Points For Our Acting President.

2010-02-14T01:57:00.000-08:00

The making of Goodluck Jonathan the Acting President is a true evidence of how Nigerians can exercise their powers. Power belongs to the people. This tempo (massive pressure on the Executive Council of The Federation and National Assembly) should be sustained and if possible, should be exceeded. Let me use this medium to appeal to all Nigerians, particularly the Save Nigeria Group, the elder statesmen, former Nigerian leaders, all protesters in London, New York, Lagos, Abuja, all pro Nigerian groups in Diaspora, etc to join hands together to increase pressure on our leaders to fix Nigeria. Now the actual struggle to fix Nigeria has just started. I did recommend a platform (Shadow Government) to coordinate massive opposition towards checking excesses of the government in power. We could also start shadow sovereign national conference to discuss Nigeria’s fundamental issues.

For our Acting President (Goodluck Jonathan), this is an opportunity for you to write your name in gold. The choice is yours now to either be on the good side of history or be among the garbage heap of forgotten leaders. I have the following agenda for you. First, you must decamp from your party PDP (Peoples Destruction Party). Nigerians have seen the best PDP government can offer. Your party (PDP) helped to derail Obasanjo (former President) in as much as he (Obasanjo) helped derail PDP. To a larger extent, your boss (Yar’Adua) has been derailed by PDP. The Holy Bible in Matthew chapter 7 verses 17-18 said, “Likewise every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, and a bad tree cannot bear good fruit”. PDP is a bad tree that cannot bear good fruit.

This advice is incase your boss never make it back. Assuming your boss (Yar’Adua) never make it back and you still remain in PDP, you will loose focus, because your party will not spare you. They will eventually misguide and misdirect you. But it all depends if you actually want to move Nigeria forward or backward. Remember you will not be the first top government official to decamp from Peoples Destruction Party (PDP). Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar (while still in power) decamped from PDP to Action Congress (AC) when the frustration was too much from PDP.

Remember election is next year (2011) and soon campaign will start for various elective positions in the country including your present office. Your party (PDP) has already zoned the presidency to the North and that means you will not get a ticket/nomination under your party. The best alternative will be for you to move to a better focused and ideological party. Except you’re not interested in contesting election next year. I advise various political parties in Nigeria to make passes to you concerning what I have said above. I will not be surprised if your party (PDP) gives President Yar’Adua automatic ticket to contest election next year (that is if he comes back and still wishes to be president).

Your next agenda should be to dissolve the cabinet without further delays. This is non negotiable because most of your present ministers have outlived there usefulness. They are now liabilities to your government and the people of Nigeria. Some of them deserve to be redeployed to other ministries; an example is your present information minister (Dora Akunyili) should be sent back to NAFDAC or made health minister. Aondoakaa has no business being your Special Duties Minister. He (Aondoakaa) caused a lot of embarrassment to our nation. He will do same in the Special Duties Ministry; therefore he should be relieved of that position.

Rilwanu Lukman should also go because he openly disobeyed you last December when you asked the petroleum minister(s) not to travel for Christmas holiday because of the fuel scarcity. Rilwanu Lukman disobeyed your order and traveled out of the country. This is the time for government officials to take responsibilities, blames, punishments or praises for their actions and inactions. Education, Commerce, Foreign, Power Ministers etc deserves to go. They are no longer fit for purpose.

You (Goodluck Jonathan) promised to strengthen the capacity of anti corruption agencies and give them free hand to prosecute the anti corruption war. The first thing you need to do on this direction should be to pressure the National Assembly to pass the freedom of information bill. You cannot do this lobbying or pressure the National Assembly alone. On this note I will repeat my appeal to all Nigerians to exert more pressure on the National Assembly to pass this bill. We can repeat the same protest marches on the streets of Nigeria and overseas till this is done. No meaningful war can be waged against corruption without passing this bill into law. The freedom of information bill, if passed into law could help to prevent official corruption. Prevention is better that cure.

The Acting President should also make a statement about the corruption case that Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) had against his wife. Charity begins at home. The Holy Bible said in Luke chapter 6 verses 42 that, “How can you say to your brother, Brother, let me take the speck out of your eye, when you yourself fail to see the plank in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye”. (This quote was taken from New International Version of the Holy Bible).

Dearest Acting President, except you want to move Nigeria backwards, otherwise the only choice you have is complete electoral reforms before 2011 general election. My stand on this has been and will also remain the re-introduction of Option A4 System. I want to be proven wrong, Justice Uwais Electoral Reform Recommendations (if passed into law) will not be as good as Option A4 System. However, our law makers are not even keen on passing the Justice Uwais Electoral Reform bill. I will advice the Acting President to mobilize Nigerians towards pressurizing the National Assembly to pass this bill and other relevant laws.

The Acting President should try and brief the nation on the state of health of President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua. Nigerians still deserve to know what is happening to him. I also hope the issue of post Niger Delta amnesty deal will be addressed adequately. My opinion for permanent solution of Niger Delta crisis will be to give them 50% share of oil proceeds, but their leaders must give account of every kobo spent. Mr. Acting President, we are watching how far you will go.

Please remember to plant a tree or sponsor one to plant on your behalf. Turn off your electrical appliances/lights when not in use. Government and companies should send less paper work and do more email, telephone, and sms. May God bless Nigeria.

Chinedu Vincent Akuta.
An activist and leader of “Support Option A4 Group” Leicester-UK
akutachinedu@yahoo.com
http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/

Shadow Government.

2010-02-07T02:18:00.000-08:00

Damn our “leaders” if they like it, damn them if they don’t, the people have spoken. Enough of power vacuum, near constitutional crisis, and over heating of the polity all due to the fact that the ruling party (PDP) does not trust the Vice President (Jonathan Goodluck) to formally act as President until President Yar’Adua recovers from his illness. There is no choice other than to respect the wishes of the Nigerian people, power belongs to the people. Cracks have clearly emerged with the Executive Council of the Federation and the National Assembly due to the pressure from the people. Shadow government will be such that should coordinate massive public pressure (people’s power) to counter bad governance.

This was an idea I recommended in my Christmas message to Nigerians. It simply means forming a government in waiting by the opposition parties. But in the Nigerian case, the shadow government should be formed by opposition parties and representatives from the following; Political Groups, Non Governmental Organization, Civil Groups, Community Groups, Faith Organizations (churches, mosques, etc), Retired Civil Servants, Opinion Leaders, Academic Staff Union of Universities, Labour Unions/Leaders, Students Union Leaders, Non Academic Staff Union of Universities, National Association of Academic Technologists, Nigerian Medical Association, Bankers, Nigerian Bar Association, Members of the Nigerian Press, Nigerian Union of Journalists, Cultural Groups and any other groups, corporate groups or individuals that might wish to join.

Shadow government/cabinet is in operation in the United Kingdom where opposition parties have shadow cabinet members in all the existing ministries, For example Secretary of Defense (Minister of Defense) by the ruling party (Labour Party) has a shadow Secretary of Defense by the opposition parties (Conservative Party, Liberal Democrats etc). The British opposition parties are alive and strong, they provide tough checks and balances on the ruling party (Labour Party).

There will be nothing wrong to domesticate this method (shadow government) and apply it to the presidential system of government that we are practicing in Nigeria. It can be our own home grown democratic system. I have heard past Nigerian leaders talk about home grown democracy. This can be one of it. However, political theories of previous centuries (presidential system, unitary system, federal system, feudal system, theocratic system etc) can be adjusted, amended or combined together to fit in the Nigeria of 21st century, so long as it enhances good governance.

The essence of shadow government in Nigeria is to create a formidable opposition to the government in power. Opposition parties/groups are an important part of every democracy. In nearby Ghana, the opposition party (National Democratic Congress of Ghana) won the ruling party. In both Zimbabwe and Kenya, power is being shared between the opposition parties and the ruling parties. During the Babangida and Abacha era, National Democratic Coalition (NADECO) formed a credible opposition to the military. They fought gallantly till the country was returned to civil rule. Presently our opposition parties/groups need a shadow government/cabinet structure hence my suggestion.

My other reason for recommending so many groups to join the shadow government is because, I agree totally with what former French President Charles de Gaulle said, “Politics is too serious a business to be left for politicians alone”. Shadow government will be able to critically examine every government policy and come up a better alternative for the Nigerian people. Where money is to be spent on projects, the shadow government should be able highlight how and who can do such projects better and at a lesser cost to the Nigerian tax payers. Shadow government will provide a training ground for future leaders. The benefits will be enormous to the Nigerian public.

My suggestion of a shadow system of government is such that, we will have shadow president, shadow vice president, shadow cabinet members, comprising of shadow minister of education, shadow minister of health, shadow external affairs minister, shadow minister of agriculture, shadow minister of finance etc. The same method (shadow government/cabinet) should be created or formed in 36 states of the federation and the 774 local government areas in Nigeria. In the case of states, there should be shadow governors, shadow deputy governors, shadow commissioners. Whereas, in the case of local government councils, there should be shadow supervisory councilors in all departments.

Since we have a bi-cameral legislature (The Senate and House of Representatives) at the federal level, it will be in order, to have one shadow senator from each senatorial zone and a shadow House of Representative member from each federal constituency of the federation. Same should apply to the states and local government areas.

Appointment or Selection Processes: Appointments or selection methods should be strictly by merit and through transparent processes. There will be no issue of putting round pegs in square holes, like what the past and present governments have been doing. I will suggest Option A4 system for selection process. I will also suggest that professional groups should be allocated to relevant shadow ministries, for example if medical personnel’s decides to join the shadow government, they should be assigned to the shadow ministry of health under a shadow minister of health.

Shadow government can commence now and terminate by May 2011 when the tenure of this present government will end. However there should be a transition plan for the shadow government that will start from May 2011. Politicians and people interested in this project can start working out the remaining modalities. Campaigning for different positions should also start. Nigerians in Diaspora can participate actively in the appointment, selection, and the shadow government itself. They can take part from wherever they might be. I will also use this medium to urge the various pro Nigerian groups in Diaspora to come together irrespective of their organizational differences. There are a lot they can achieve by coming together. Joining or co-starting a shadow government will be a good starting point.

The shadow government can start online or partially base online. President Obama, Hillary Clinton, John McCain relied heavily in online strategies during their campaign. During the last French presidential election, the two top contenders (Nicolas Sarkozy and Segolene Royal) generated the highest level of net activism. In Australia, their Prime Minister (Kevin Rudd) has continued to use online presence to keep electorates aware of his government’s activities.

Finally, I wish also to appeal to Nigerians to participate and join the fight against global warming. Turn off your electrical appliances/lights when not in use. Plant a tree or sponsor one to plant on your behalf. Government and companies should send less paper work and do more email, telephone, and sms. May God bless Nigeria.

Chinedu Vincent Akuta.
An activist and leader of “Support Option A4 Group” Leicester-UK
akutachinedu@yahoo.com
http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/

War Against Electoral Fraud In Anambra And Nigeria.

2010-01-30T04:39:00.000-08:00

I condemn the recent Jos crisis and the assassination of Dipo Dina (former Action Congress governorship candidate of Ogun State in the 2007 election). I wish to commiserate with the families of innocent Nigerians that died in the Jos crisis and also with the families of Dipo Dina. Both incidents will run counter productive for attempts to launder Nigeria’s image abroad. Nigerians at home and abroad are deeply worried about the level of insecurity. Our fear of political assassinations, electoral frauds, electoral flaws, etc have increased as the Anambra election (February 2010) and 2011 general election draws closer.

The entire Nigerians will closely watch what will happen in Anambra election on February 6. Whatever happens in Anambra will further confirm what Nigerians will face in 2011 general election. But before then, let’s look briefly at past governorship elections in Anambra State, which is almost a case of total electoral frauds, flaws, and failures. Understandings of these electoral failures should form the basis to declare war against electoral fraud in Anambra State and Nigeria.

1983 General Election.
The old Anambra State witnessed bitter rivalry between the then governor (Chief Jim Nwobodo) and late Chief C.C.Onoh. Both men (Chief Jim Nwobodo and late Chief C.C.Onoh), had thugs who unleashed violence and intimidation to their opponents. There were serious electoral frauds leading to the “victory” of Chief Jim Nwobodo, but it was later quashed at the Supreme Court. Thus late Chief C.C.Onoh became the governor but his administration was short lived due to army takeover.

1999 General Election.
This election produced Mbadinujo as the governor and his “god father” Emeka Offor. The duo emerged by virtue of electoral fraud. The setback to Anambra State as a result of problems between the governor and his “godfather” cannot be quantified in monetary terms.

2003 General Election.
Serious rigging, electoral flaws and fraud were features of 2003 general elections. Anambra State gubernatorial election was a good example of 2003 electoral fraud. Dr Ngige was imposed on the state as the governor by perpetrators of this electoral fraud. When he (Dr Ngige) had misunderstandings with those that imposed him on the state, (his god fathers) he was kidnapped. Therefore, electoral fraud produced the first case of kidnapping of a sitting governor in Nigeria. Till date no one was prosecuted for that offence. Peter Obi later got his mandate through the court to become the truly elected governor of the state.

2007 General Election.
The 2007 general election witnessed the worst electoral fraud in the history of elections in Nigeria. President Yar’Adua acknowledged these irregularities. Again Anambra State was not left out. Andy Uba was declared the winner and lasted only 14 days in office. The court again restored Peter Obi as the governor. From the above analyses, Anambra State and her people have been victims of electoral fraud.

The Umpire
The same umpire (Independent National Electoral Commission) conducted both 2003 and 2007 general elections with catastrophic results. Why will the same umpire keep conducting further elections in Nigeria especially in Anambra? Why not disband them. If the military government disbanded National Electoral Commission (NEC), that conducted the freest and fairest election in Nigeria, why can’t the civilian administration dissolve INEC for gross misconduct of elections in Nigeria?

Realities of Electoral Fraud.
(a) Violence, destruction of properties, intimidation, killings, kidnappings, etc. Recently, the Inspector General of Police, Mr. Ogbonna Onovo disclosed that intelligence reports gathered by the police in Anambra State ahead of Feb 6 2010 election showed that majority of the politicians contesting the elections have recruited armed robbers, militias, kidnappers etc to cause mayhem.
(b) Post Electoral litigations. Using Anambra State as an example, the present Governor Peter Obi has been to court much more than any governor in Nigeria past or present, all in a bid to reclaim his mandate. Atiku Abubakar (former Vice President) and Dim Odumegwu Ojukwu went to court against President Yar’Adua. This list(s) of post electoral cases are too numerous. Nigerians should wonder how much we are loosing by virtue of all these court cases.
(c) Military Interventions. Politicians usually ask for the military intervention each time there is electoral fraud. 1964/65 and 1983 elections are examples were the military intervened partly because of electoral fraud and corruption. At present (2010) some people have been asking the military to intervene due to the absence of our president. However, the military has proven to be worst than the civilians in corruption and maladministration.
(d) Lack of development, security, welfare, progress and prosperity. The primary purpose of every government is security and welfare of her citizens. Electoral fraud denies the citizens of these benefits.

Counter Electoral Fraud Measures.
The Ideal situation and the way forward should be to put to an end to electoral fraud, otherwise electoral fraud will put an end to us. It will not be an easy task. We should realize that “The history of liberty is a history of resistance” (Thomas Woodrow, 1812). Liberty from electoral fraud will require total resistance to it. Be that as it may, I have the following suggestions.
(1) Electoral Activism. We should all become electoral activist(s). Vote during elections and make sure our votes are counted. Follow your vote till results are announced. Keep your own records and be prepared to defend your votes in courts if need be.
(2) Election Monitoring. Every one should come out and monitor elections in his/her locality. Using your camera or telephone with cameras to record every proceeding in and around your voting centers. These video records could be too useful to counter electoral frauds. Please see further details on; http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/2009/08/digital-cameras-and-mobile-phones-with.html
(3) Surveillance and spying. We should all keep high level vigilance and surveillance of our neighborhoods to spot any suspicious movements. Spying should be used, before, during and after elections. I have details of company that could supply high level surveillance cameras for these purposes.
(4) Every community/community leaders/village head(s), should organize the youths, elders, and women to participate in election monitoring of their locality.
(5) Faith or Religious Organizations (churches, mosques, etc) should get involved and designate groups within their fold that will help to monitor elections. Faith Organizations should draw inspiration from Pastor Tunde Bakare (Save Nigeria Project). I recommend they read an appeal I made to leaders of faith organizations in Nigeria on http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/2009/06/appeal-to-leaders-of-faith.html
(6) Electoral Evangelism. There should be mass production of anti electoral fraud messages in DVD’s, CDs, and Cassettes/audio tapes to be distributed to people, because the media houses owned by government etc might not permit such messages.
(7) Re-introduction of Option A4 Electoral System. This method produced the freest and fairest election in Nigeria. Therefore it’s a preferred system. The weaknesses of Option A4 System are much better than the strengths of the present electoral act.

Long live Anambra State and May God bless Nigeria.

Chinedu Vincent Akuta.
An activist and leader of “Support Option A4 Group” Leicester-UK
akutachinedu@yahoo.com
http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/

Policing Our Budget(s)

2010-01-17T09:31:00.000-08:00

The Abdulmutallab (Flight 253 Jet Bomber) effects and President Yar’Adua’s sickness have the tendency to dominate discussion(s) among Nigerians. This is due to the negative consequences (criminalization of Nigerians etc) Mutallab has caused for innocent Nigerians. In the case of Yar’Adua, his sickness has caused serious political tension and near constitutional crisis. It is because of the above and many more that Nigerians marched under freezing cold to protest on the streets of London on January 15th. For our folks back home, the cold here in like living inside deep freezer. This is no longer global warming, it is global warning.

On the Save Nigeria Protest March; I wish to make a special appeal to Obama (United States President) to reconsider and remove Nigeria from the list of axis of fourteen evil nations. Rather what the United States authorities need to do is to search and scrutinize every dollar coming from Nigeria either through the passengers or through the banks. President Obama should encourage the European Union to do same for every euros or pounds that comes from Nigeria. This will be the best outcome of the Mutallab incident.

Before proceeding, I want to comment on the statement (warning) from Vice President Goodluck Jonathan to some government officials etc. It appears the house (Federal Executive Council) is divided or crack has began to emerge on loyalty or otherwise of some Yar’Adua’s cabinet members. May be the Vice President has started to act as the president with full executive powers since our President is sick? If so, did he follow due process, if not? Then why not? Or the Vice President has decided to learn from Guinea experience, where their leader Moussa Dadis Camara has agreed to let the second in command led the country. Whichever, what we need is good governance in Nigeria.

However, let me remind Nigerians not to get too distracted by Farouk Abdulmutallab’s incident and President Yar’Adua’s sickness. Let us keep one eye on the yearly budgets which various states in Nigeria are announcing. Ebonyi State announced a budget proposal of N72.6 billion; Ogun State announced a budget of N100.7 billion. Kano proposed N110bn for their budget, Kaduna proposed N196.7bn for 2010 budget, Yobe planned N62.42b for 2010 budget, and Anambra proposed N67 billion for 2010 budget. Proper implementation of all these budgets can actually have positive impact on our economy.

We need to police these budgets so as to trap all the money within the system. Moreover, the revelation by the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) should be a recipe for policing our budgets. FAAC reveled that, a total of N4.174 trillion was taken from Federation Account in 2009 and shared amongst the three tiers of government (Federal, state, and local) as allocations. FAAC also revealed that a total of $5.5 billion was withdrawn from the foreign excess crude account in the same year and shared by the three tiers of government. If there are no leakages in the system, the amounts budgeted by various state governments and the federal government can stimulate the economy. We can try our best to block leakages in our system.

The Central Bank of Nigeria, Nigerian banks, bankers, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Nigerian Customs, and Nigerians will need to work in harmony to achieve this. We will also need the assistance of our foreign partners. The Central Bank should monitor the operations of the commercial banks very well. I will suggest That Economic and Financial Crimes Commission should post at least 2 staffs each at the foreign remittance department of every commercial bank in Nigeria. Their duties amongst others should be to verify every remittances leaving Nigeria.

I will also recommend that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission post at least one staff to all finance and treasury departments of all federal, state and local government departments. I will suggest that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), State Security Services (SSS), and The Nigerian Police Force (NPF) to create a covert unit mainly to infiltrate all financial institutions in Nigeria to prevent financial crimes. Proactive measures should be encouraged rather than reactive approaches. Let us remember that prevention is better than cure. Furthermore, I will suggest intense pressure on our law makers to pass the freedom of information bill this year (2010). It will aid the law enforcement agents to do their work and it will empower Nigerians to ask questions about government transactions. It will abolish the official secret act used to commit all sorts of government frauds.

Nigerian banks and bankers have a serious role to play to prevent capital flight. They are in a better position to assist in monitoring movement of states monthly allocations and by extension monitor our budgets. However the recent revelations about activities of some top bank executives (Mrs Ibru, Akingbola etc) does not encourage anyone to even entrust his money with these smart men and women who call themselves bankers. On this note, I will support Sanusi (Central Bank Governor) to introduce tough measures to regulate the banks and restore investors’ confidence.

I also want to ask the bankers (both junior and senior staffs) not to hesitate to alert the authorities whenever there is a suspicious movement of funds. I know it sounds odd or unethical, but that might be a saving grace. I will buttress my point using 2 examples. Recently a total of over 7,000 staffs were, sacked, retrenched, removed or dropped from various banks. But if some of these sacked bankers had alerted the authorities (EFCC, etc) as their bosses were misusing funds, may be things might have taken a different shape. When you keep quiet, be sure to be the next victim. Another example is, had the passengers on the same flight with our own under wear bomber (Farouk Mutallab) not prevented him; all of them would have died.

Henceforth, we should all shine our eyes and not let few people remove food from our table or cause us hardship. It will not be a bad idea if our bankers can volunteer useful information to our authorities. It will be better for the economy and our country if banks can sack one or two people for alerting the authorities than sacking over 7,000 staffs who kept quiet. I just hope we still have patriotic bankers.

The Nigerian Customs need to be awake to their responsibilities, especially with the Farouk incident. I hope the new airport scanners to be introduced should be able to spot those taking the government money overseas. Nigerians need to keep an eye on the Customs. We need to beam our search light on them to be sure they are effectively policing our borders. I also believe there will be patriotic Custom officers who will discharge their duties without fear or favour. Every little thing we do count for or against us as a people.

My concern is for the Nigerian system to trap all the money budgeted this year. My call to police our budget(s) is because our politicians can be clever with our money. Watch it, each time the monthly allocation comes, money/capital starts to fly up and down, in and out of the country and naira will start changing into euros, dollars, pounds, rand, etc.

Nigerians should not hesitate to volunteer information that will prevent capital flights. This is for the interest of the economy and our people. We can gather intelligence or become intelligent agents. There is nothing wrong to spy or do enhanced surveillance.

Finally, let me use this medium to commiserate with the people of Haiti and Nigerians living there over the devastating earthquake. Please let us contribute our quota towards the relief efforts to assist the people of Haiti. The world has become a global village, what happens in one part, affects the rest of the global village. I wish also to appeal to Nigerians to participate and join the fight against global warming. Turn off your electrical appliances/lights when not in use. Plant a tree or sponsor one to plant on your behalf. Government and companies should send less paper work and do more email, telephone, and sms. May God bless Nigeria.

Chinedu Vincent Akuta.
An activist and leader of “Support Option A4 Group” Leicester-UK
akutachinedu@yahoo.com
http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/

Religious Crisis, Terrorism, and Our Security.

2010-01-03T09:54:00.000-08:00

This must be a very difficult time for Nigerians and Nigeria itself, especially with recent events such as; Bauchi crisis (Kala Kato), the attempt to blow up flight 253 by Abdul Farouk Abdulmutallab, the second Nigerian who caused a security concern on the same flight no 253 to Detroit (though he was truly sick), the bomb blast at the Superscreen Television Station, our sick president, fuel scarcity, fire at African Independent Television (AIT) station and farmers/herdsmen crisis in Nasarawa State (a lot of people died while many were displaced).

These are not very good image projectors of our country. It’s simply a public relations disaster for all. Please make no mistake about it, Nigeria and Nigerians will surely pay the penalty for all these image problems. To me, image is every thing. The re-brand Nigeria Project championed by Madam Dora Akinyili (Information Minister) should now be allowed to finally rest in peace, because recent events have rubbished it.

When I wrote about Boko Haram crisis, published on national newspapers, international media and my blog (http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/2009/08/ignorance-is-disease.html), I prayed to God that, let this be the last time I will write about religious crisis. I don’t know if I should repeat that prayer here. However, I wish to express my sympathies to all the innocent Nigerians who were displaced, or who lost people or properties due to this crisis. I condemn all kinds of crisis be it religious or otherwise. I also condemn all acts of terrorism. I will ask all Nigerians to unite and condemn all acts of terrorism and all kinds of crisis (religious etc). In crisis, just like in terrorism, many innocent people die. Am sure Nigerians will agree with me that these twin evils (religious crisis and terrorism) are amongst the biggest threat to us (Nigerians) and all human races.

We have a duty to fight these menace and other societal evils. Alhaji Mutallab (father of the flight 253 bomber; Abdul Farouk Abdulmutallab) has given us a clue on what all of us should be doing. Alhaji Mutallab reported his son to the American Embassy and the Nigerian Security Services when he suspected the strange behaviors of his son. This singular act should be emulated by all Nigerians. Its worthy of commendation. This approach should be used to fight other crimes in Nigeria. Please report any one you’re not sure of his or her motives. This should be applicable to all top officials in both the public and private sector. I was glad when a friend told me, that he went to Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) office personally to hand in a petition about a certain government official.

I remember the tenure of ex Governor Buba Marwa of Lagos State. He launched Operation Sweep (an outfit of the Lagos Police Command tasked with fighting crimes in Lagos State) he asked people living in Lagos (Lagosians) to volunteer information anonymously if they are afraid to mentioned their names. Thus people started volunteering information without their names and it helped the crime fighters (Operation Sweep). In the same manner, Nigerians should volunteer information if possible without their names. This will surely help to fight crimes. If we fail to act, we might end up being the victims. I urge Nigerians in Diaspora to volunteer information on where the wanted bank chiefs are staying in abroad. It might be helpful for the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

If the other passengers traveling with Abdul Farouk Abdulmutallab (flight 253 bomber) had failed to act, all of them would have died. That is the more reasons why, we Nigerians have to volunteer information that will prevent crime(s), corruption, bad governance etc. A better way to know what people are doing might be through surveillance and spying. We can borrow the techniques used by the former East German Secret Police (Stasi). In the former East Germany, people were spying each for the good of the state. Cuba used similar method at the early days of Fidel Castro’s revolution. This method has the potentials of reducing crimes drastically. No sacrifice will be too much for the security of Nigerians. “Security for few is insecurity for all” Nelson Mandela.

On this note, may I inform our people that I have concluded research and now have details of a company here that, deals on specially made security and surveillance cameras. These cameras are ideal for the following purposes; election monitoring, investigative journalism, individual/community protection, home protection, private investigators etc. I recommend these cameras for all those hoping to monitor elections in Nigeria especially the Anambra State governorship election coming up in February 2010. Also these cameras are a must for all Nigeria’s investigative journalist(s).

In August 2009, I did highlight how we can monitor elections using our cameras. Details are on my blog (http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/2009/08/digital-cameras-and-mobile-phones-with.html). Please feel free to pass this information to other Nigerians who might need the facilities mentioned above, but might not have read this piece. These devices (security and surveillance cameras) could be used to enforce accountability on the part of our rulers.

Talking about accountability and as a starting point, Dr Rilwanu Lukman (Petroleum Minister) should tell Nigerians the reasons why he should not be sacked for leaving Nigeria at the heat of the fuel scarcity. This is despite the warning given by the Vice President (Goodluck Jonathan), that the Petroleum Ministers (Dr. Rilwanu Lukman and his junior counterpart Mr. Odein Ajumogobia) should not travel for the Christmas holiday due to the fuel crisis. He (Rilwanu Lukman) violated the order given by the Vice President. By so doing, he disrespected the office of the Vice President. I suggest his removal as a minister. Fuel scarcity creates insecurity for people.

Rilwanu Lukman has truly shown his insensitivity to the plight of the suffering Nigerian masses. He and his likes should understand that Nigeria and Nigerians have changed. Insensitivity of this kind might make people take laws into their hands. Not too long ago, there was a failed attempt to kidnap the education minister (Dr Sam Egwu). One of culprits claimed that they wanted to kidnap Sam Egwu because of his inability to resolve Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) strike. Thank God, the strike has been called off. Remember some Nigerians hijacked a plane when June 12 1993 election was annulled. This was in protest to the annulment. Our “rulers” have to be very careful now. Times have changed. No more taking Nigerians for granted.

Finally, I wish to appeal to Nigerians to participate and join the fight against global warming. Turn off your electrical appliances/lights when not in use. Plant a tree or sponsor one to plant on your behalf. Government and companies should send less paper work and do more email, telephone, and sms. May God bless Nigeria.

Chinedu Vincent Akuta.
An activist and leader of “Support Option A4 Group” Leicester-UK
akutachinedu@yahoo.com
http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/

Flight 253 Jet Bomber.

2009-12-27T10:39:00.000-08:00

Let me start by condemning every act of terrorism and urge the world to unite in the fight against terrorist(s) acts. My special thanks go to the passengers on board Northwest Airline Flight No 253 from Amsterdam to Detroit , who managed to overpower a suspected bomber named, Abdul Farouk Abdulmutallab from Nigeria . The Nigerian suspected bomber tried to ignite a device as the plane began its approach to landing. The suspect took off from Lagos Nigeria with a KLM flight and connected a Northwest Airline Flight from Amsterdam en route to Detroit . This incident happened on Friday 25th December 2009, as the entire world was busy celebrating Christmas with their loved ones. The suspected bomber suffered burns as a result of the fire which emanated from the device he tried to ignite. Unfortunately the suspect was an engineering student at university college London from 2005 to 2008.

This is a serious security concern for all, especially with the fact that the suspect had links with Al Qaeda or other terrorist(s) networks. The other concern is also the fact that he is a Nigerian and he originated his ill fated journey from Lagos , Nigeria . Now the question is? how did he manage to board at Lagos and Amsterdam airports? Perhaps this is a new device that the airport securities could not detect. Three days before the attempt to blow the transatlantic airlines, that is on the 22nd December 2009 a bomb exploded on a man in a particular area of Lagos city ( Ikorodu Road ). Reports had it that a man walked into a building housing Superscreen Television Station carrying some parcels which contained bombs, one of which exploded blowing off his finger and burnt his face. Luckily this suspect did not die.

The FBI, Metropolitan Police, and Nigerian security agencies should extend their investigation to the incident at the Superscreen Television Station in Lagos Nigeria . There might be links with the transatlantic attempt to blow off Northwest Airline since it was only three days interval. While the suspected bomber (Abdul Farouk Abdulmutallab) took off from Lagos airport, Superscreen Television bomb attempt took place also in Lagos . Another concern would be, if there are terrorist(s) groups in Nigeria . One might be tempted to think in the affirmative due to incessant religious crises in Nigeria .

In July 2009, Nigeria witnessed one of her worst religious crises named Boko Haram. Boko Haram in English Language translation means western education is a sin. In that crisis over 300 people died. A year before (2008), there was also a religious riot in Nigeria (the Jos Crisis). The Jos Crisis claimed the lives of many innocent Nigerians. Religious crisis occurs regularly in Nigeria . The big one came in November 2002, when some Moslem youths that were opposed to Miss World contest in Abuja led to its cancellation and subsequent relocation of the show to London . About 100 people lost their lives in that incident. Ironically, a lady from Turkey (a Moslem country) won the contest in London .

Authorities in the United Kingdom (the Commission on National Security in the 21st Century which was sponsored by the Institute for Public Policy Research in the UK ) have expressed serious concern about Nigeria . Their concern was reported on the Guardian Newspaper of Thursday November 27 2008 page 23. Part of the report said thus; “The list of 20 failed states is headed by Somalia, where drought and al-Qaeda influences are now compounded by the increasing threat of piracy, and includes Ethiopia, Zimbabwe, Haiti, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Nigeria”.

The report went further to say that “Weak, corrupt and failing states have become bigger security risks than strong states and will remain a highly visible feature of the security landscape for decades to come. They are targets of transnational criminal networks which are expanding their drugs, arms and people trafficking operations”. On reading the above reports, I quickly wrote a letter to the British Prime Minister (Gordon Brown) on the 3rd December 2008, in the letter I proffered some solutions towards supporting Nigeria to elect credible leaders, which is what Nigeria need. Credible leadership will be able to steer Nigeria out of the ship of failed states and thus ensure the proper fight against global terrorism and crimes.

My letter titled; Letter to the British Prime Minister was published on my blog (http://briefsfromak uta.blogspot. com/2008/ 12/letter- to-british- prime-minister. html). I am also attaching the responses that I got from the office of the British Prime Minister on the issues that I raised. Perhaps this incident might give America and European Union an opportunity to ensure necessary political reforms are carried out in Nigeria . America and Britain insisted that Afghanistan should conduct a credible election. The British Prime Minister even threatened sanction against President Hamid Karzai’s government. America , United Kingdom and the European Union should support and insist that Nigeria reforms her political process. It’s only then, that the Western nations will have a popular and credible Nigerian leader to deal with.

Furthermore, I will also appeal to America , European Union and United Kingdom to support the Nigerian people in their fight against corruption. High level corruption is part of the reason why Nigeria was grouped among the failed states. The Western government can render this help by freezing the accounts of suspected corrupt Nigerian officials in their various countries. They should also reveal the properties acquired by corrupt Nigerian officials. There are quite a number of Nigerian organizations both at home and abroad which the Western countries can work with to ensure changes happens in Nigeria. May God bless Nigeria.

Chinedu Vincent Akuta.
An activist and leader of “Support Option A4 Group” Leicester-UK
akutachinedu@yahoo.com
http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/

Seasonal Greetings To Nigerians.

2009-12-20T03:41:00.001-08:00

Let me start by wishing Nigerians who are Moslems a belated Barkar De Salah. To those Nigerians who are pagans, may the almighty God bless you people this Christmas Season. To Nigerians of other faith(s) and religion, may God bless you people as well. To the Nigerian Christians, of which am one of them, I wish you all a happy Christmas and prosperous New Year (2010). Please permit me to also pray for all Nigerians using Psalm 91 verse 11, “For he shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways”. May the good God continue to give his angels charge over our great country.

A lot of activities take place every Christmas period, especially the fact that people at home and abroad visit loved ones. This involves a lot of traveling either by road, sea or air. For those people that will be driving this period, please kindly drive with care and more importantly, avoid drink driving. The state of our road network should be a recipe for careful driving. I expect the Federal Road Safety Commission to do more work in enforcing road safety measures this Christmas period. There is need for the enforcement of road safety measures; this is in order to ensure compliance with the rules or deterrence from committing traffic offences.

For those traveling by the water ways, I urge total compliance with all safety measures. For our airline pilots, please be kind enough to observe all safety rules including observing the alcohol limit. Many airline pilots have violated the alcohol limits. In October 2008, a pilot working for United Airlines was arrested on a flight heading from Heathrow airport (United Kingdom) to San Francisco (America) for having over the limit alcohol level in his system. In May 2009, an American Airlines pilot bound from Heathrow to Chicago was arrested for failing a breathalyzer test. Alcohol can impair pilots’ abilities to operate an aircraft effectively. In the United Kingdom, the alcohol limit for pilots is the equivalent of a glass of beer. It is stricter in the United States of America.

Many airline operators in the developed countries maintain strict alcohol policies. United Airlines claims its alcohol policy is among the strictest in the airline industry. These and many more other safety measures should be replicated by the Nigerian airline operators and pilots. Safety should be the watch word especially now that a lot of people are traveling. Pilots should avoid being under pressure.

This season (Christmas) usually call for reflections on the year (2009) that is almost ended and resolution(s) for New Year (2010). For the New Year (2010) resolution(s), I will urge Nigerians to love one another. Let us love each other and above all, let us love our neighbor like our self. There is so much animosity and hatred in the land. We need to love one another, because love begets love, and love brings peace. Lets preach peace wherever there is misunderstanding. The nation and the people can only prosper in an atmosphere of peace and harmony. Same should apply to various communities/villages that are at war with each other.

I will also advocate togetherness among Nigerians. There are more to gain by being one big country. Nigeria is in no way near the population or the complexity of China and India, yet these countries have not broken up. United States of America is also a multi cultural country but still remains one country. I also know the case of former Yugoslavia and the former Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR). Ironically, most former countries of Eastern Europe/USSR (Poland, Czechs, Hungary, Romania, etc) and Yugoslavia have joined the European Union. The European Union is a typical example of what togetherness can bring. European Union is made up of twenty seven (27) countries, with headquarters in Brussels. Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) is also an example of togetherness in the making. Late Kwame Nkrumah (former President of Ghana) propagated one Africa, whereas late Nnamdi Azikiwe (first Nigerian President) preached one Nigeria.

There are free movement of goods, services and personnel within the European Union. There is a common monetary union and the use of common currency (the euro). Many more countries like Turkey, Ukraine, Georgia, etc have applied to join the European Union, but politics and other strategic considerations are hindering the admissions of these aspiring nations. The European Union remains the main trading partner of all African countries including Nigeria. While advocating togetherness, I will not fail to point out that our togetherness should not be at the detriment of one group/tribe/region or the other. I will want to see justice, fair play, and equity in our togetherness. I had earlier called for the abolition of quota system and federal character. We cannot make a head way as a nation with those systems in place.

I want to see more synergy among Nigerians in business, researches, community services, etc. I believe two heads are better than one, and three should be better than two. I want to see more Nigerians cooperating to build massive business conglomerates so as to create employment opportunities for our brothers and sisters who are unemployed. It will be a good idea to have business mergers that will survive, than having a sole proprietor that will close business. Let us work together to offer community services to our people. There are a lot we can do for our people without the government. Synergy should also apply to our political parties. Let like minded and “true” political groups merge together to form a formidable opposition party. As it is, the opposition parties have not truly taken its position in Nigeria.

I will also propose the United Kingdom form of shadow cabinet for all third tier system of government in Nigeria, that is the local, state, and federal government. I will suggest that all opposition parties should form shadow cabinets in all the 774 local governments, 36 states and also at federal level. The idea will be to provide constructive criticism and provide alternative and better policy framework. Opposition parties/groups are an essential part of every democracy. Lets challenge and change those things that are hindering our development and progress as a people. Let us stop complaining and put efforts together to change our society. Every little effort counts. Let us also remember that its better for us to try and fail than fail to try.

Finally, I wish to appeal to Nigerians to participate and join the fight against global warming. Turn off your electrical appliances/lights when not in use. Plant a tree or sponsor one to plant on your behalf. Government and companies should send less paper work and do more email, telephone, and sms. Happy Christmas and Prosperous New Year (2010) to all Nigerians. May God bless Nigeria.

Chinedu Vincent Akuta.
An activist and leader of “Support Option A4 Group” Leicester-UK
akutachinedu@yahoo.com
http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/

Health Checks.

2009-12-05T16:27:00.000-08:00

Experience is the best teacher and we have no reason not to learn from our past, except we want to play tricks on ourselves. I am writing this piece in respect to the acknowledgement by Aso Rock/Presidency that our president is suffering from acute pericarditis. This has taken the Presidency almost two and half years to admit or to tell Nigerians that their President is ill. Yet this same administration preaches transparency and openness. The health of a leader is not something to be hidden from the people. Every leader or aspiring leaders should understand that, their lives (health, family, finances, etc) will be in public domain. In the United Kingdom, almost every one knows that Gordon Brown (British Prime Minister) has an eye problem. This was an injury he sustained while playing Rugby sports. The dates of all his medical examinations since he became prime minister are reported by the press.

Agreed that the President can be ill just like any other human being, but when the sickness affects his ability to discharge his presidential duties, then something has to be done. The constitution is clear on this. Nigeria is too big, too fragile and too complex not to have an able president. Be that as it may and in view of the fact that our presidents ill health has costs the nation a lot (delays in performing government duties, the costs of which cannot be quantified in monetary terms). I will propose to all the political parties to always do a comprehensive health check in future, before giving any aspirant their ticket/nomination to contest election. Though there is no guarantee against ill health, but an idea of one’s medical history is important. This should be applicable to all elective positions in the country, starting from the ward councilors to the president.

Let President Umaru Musa Yar'Adua,s case be the last for our country. Nigeria witnessed similar episode during the tenure of late General Abacha. Late Abacha was sick and declined to relinquish power to enable him undergo treatment, till he died in office. The national interest should be considered first. The slow down in government activities largely caused by the ill health of our president, should be a big lesson for all political parties to learn in choosing a candidate. However, the leadership of the political parties themselves deserves a health check (mental fitness, etc), because some of their actions (internal party crises, etc) shows that, all might not be well with their health system. It is possible also that they are not normal.

The National Assembly should apply same methods whenever they have to approve ministerial and ambassadorial nominations. All government (local, state, and federal government) advisers should also undergo a health check. Our President might not be the only sick person. It’s possible that some advisers might not be mentally fit to advise him. One wonders the kind of advices that he receives. In an article I wrote to Mr. President titled; My Christmas Present to President Yar’Adua, I challenged his advisers to make public what they have been telling Mr. President in private, with the exception of security issues. The next in line of leaders that need health checks are the present members of the National Assembly. The actions of our lawmakers (inability to pass the freedom of information bill, etc) are reasons why they too deserve health checks.

The private sector (companies, villages, communities, banks, churches etc) should not hesitate to carry out a health check for all their leaders. Banks in particular needs to have their managing directors/directors undergo health checks. Playing with depositors fund is an indication that bank directors deserve health checks. Perhaps a health check would have been able to spot mental fitness or otherwise of the following bankers; Dr Mrs. Cecilia Ibru (former CEO Oceanic Bank Plc. Standing trial for about N160.2Billion mismanage/looted fund), Dr Bartholomew (Former CEO Union Bank Plc), Bassey Ebong, Henry Onyemem, Niyi Albert Opeodu (Ex Directors of Union Bank of Nigeria Plc facing trials for fraud), Erastus Akingbola of Intercontinental Bank Plc(currently being investigated by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission for money laundering cases) etc. It is the writer’s view that more agony can be saved the nation, if the banks can starts health checking immediately and removal of unfit bankers. Prevention is better than cure.

The next question becomes which hospital/laboratory in Nigeria will carry out these checks. Do we have “hospitals” in Nigeria? The answer is no, otherwise our President would not have gone to King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. He used to visit German hospitals, but it appears that he prefers Saudi Arabian hospital this time. I think the choice of Saudi Arabian hospital was a ploy to deceive Nigerians that he goes there on religious grounds. But their lies could no longer hold water, thus the Presidency had to open up.

Yar’Adua is not the first leader that abandoned Nigerian hospitals. Babangida use to go to France for his medical treatments. Just recently, it was all over the news that Maryam Babangida was seriously ill in a cancer specialist hospital in Los Angeles, America. Late Stella Obasanjo (wife of our former President) died in a Spanish hospital. The list is endless. Perhaps the federal government should also sponsor my friends who are in Nigeria to come for a medical check up overseas. After all Mr. President (Umaru Musa Yar’Adua) approved foreign medical treatment (German Hospital) for ex-governor Turaki of Jigawa State and a serving senator, when he was involved in a road accident. Therefore, if Mr. President can approve oversea medical treatment for Turaki and goes overseas for his own medical treatments, he should also sponsor my friends, after all they are Nigerians. What is good for him (Yar’Adua) should also be good for other Nigerians.

The action(s) of people (Musa Yar’Adua, Maryam Babangida, and Late Stella Obasanjo) mentioned above, shows that the federal ministry of health does not exist. These people are, and have been members of the Nigerian first families (Presidents or wives of Presidents). Therefore, if the first families can’t treat themselves in Nigeria, then it is an indictment on the ministry of health (ministry against health). Perhaps, overseas medical trips are a good avenue to launder money. In that case, those Nigerian first families that went in the past and are still going now are guilty of corruption. Nigerians should hold them responsible for siphoning all the money meant for the ministry of health. Can the authorities (Ministry of health, Senate Committee on Health etc) explain what happened to all budgetary allocations to health ministry at least since the last 10 years? Can the federal minister of health (minister against health) tell Nigerians why no hospital in Nigeria can treat our president. Is it not better that he (minister against health) resigns?

May I use this medium to ask God to heal our President so that he can declare a state of emergency at the Ministry of Health. Let us equip at least one hospital that can treat our leaders and hence stop this national embarrassment. Finally, I wish to appeal to Nigerians to participate and join the fight against global warming. Turn off your electrical appliances/lights when not in use. Plant a tree or sponsor one to plant on your behalf. Government and companies should send less paper work and do more email, telephone, and sms. May God bless Nigeria.

Chinedu Vincent Akuta.
An activist and leader of “Support Option A4 Group” Leicester-UK
akutachinedu@yahoo.com
http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/

Exchange Programmes

2009-11-22T07:59:00.000-08:00

The greatest challenge will be how to raise the standard of education in Nigeria with minimal or no government involvement. Please do not ask me why, because events in and around our educational sector has shown us how serious our government can be when it comes to improving the educational standards. Part of the reason why our “rulers” do not give education the required attention is because some of their children are studying overseas. Many are studying in nearby Ghana and other African countries. This reminds me of a suggestion that I made earlier that all government functionaries should have their children study in Nigeria while they are still in government positions. Exception should be for people on foreign services.

It should be an unpatriotic act to have your children studying abroad while you’re holding a government position. Nigerians should take this matter to the National Assembly and all states Houses of Assembly to pass a law prohibiting children of government functionaries from studying abroad while their parents are still holding government positions. Same should apply to health care. Perhaps a policy in the above direction might bring some seriousness on the part of government officials and thus usher in changes in our education and healthcare system.

Having said the above, I want to propose exchange programmes between the private universities and government universities. I want the 41 private universities, polytechnics, and other privately owned higher institutions to design an exchange programmes particularly for the students of public universities. The idea will be to cross exchange ideas, learning skills, study experiences, share books, journals etc. I want the private universities to take up the challenges of improving the standard of education, by assisting the students of public universities using the mechanism of exchange programmes. On the fallen standard of education in Nigeria, private institutions (universities, polytechnics etc) cooperation with government institutions provides a viable option that can improve the quality of education. Exchange programmes should also be encouraged between government and private owned primary and secondary schools.

A lot has gone wrong with the public schools. The lack of funding (below the UNESCO standard of 26% of annual budgets) is a big factor. The industrial disputes between the government, Academic Staff Union of Nigerian Universities (ASUU), Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU), Non Academic Staff Union of Universities (NASU), National Association of Academic Technologists (NAAT) etc, has taken its toll on Nigerian students. Let us also factor in the internal university crisis, like the tussle to become the University of Benin Vice Chancellor etc. All these have negative effects on the students. Obviously, when two elephants fight, the grass will suffer. The grasses in this case are the Nigerian students who are paying the price.

As it stands, I appeal for a rescue plan from the private sector. Education is light and knowledge will forever govern ignorance. Ignorance is also a disease. I want the private sector (parents, teachers, non governmental organizations, business community, churches etc) to embark on a massive campaign to raise the culture of reading. Let the private sector do whatever it will take to get Nigerians reading. We need to read more to improve our standards. Let the Nigerian people take this as a challenge to encourage children and youths to read, as this will have a clear and positive effect on academic achievements in school and outside the school. Another fact we need to understand is that, low levels of literacy can lead to poor outcomes amongst students, which in turn can lead to high unemployment, crimes, etc.

Nigerians need to encourage their children and the youths to read more science and technology courses. It gave me serious concern when I learnt that South African government is recruiting mathematics and sciences teachers from Nigeria. This is an area we need most. This is also another brain drain, but again they will remit foreign exchanges back home. In the absence of our oil revenue, remittances from Nigerians abroad are the second largest source of foreign exchange. Though that I will not blame any teacher that leaves Nigeria, but my advise is, let them fashion a way of transferring their foreign experiences back to Nigeria.

We need also to encourage our people to study skills acquisition in addition to their normal academic programme. We can design skills acquisition courses at the end of every academic year for our children/youths etc. This will take away their mind from crimes etc. An idle mind is a devils workshop. Let us also encourage our people to take overseas distance learning courses. Exposure to overseas distance learning might be a better way for people to experience the standards of education in the western world. Quiz competitions amongst students should be encouraged as well.

I will recommend adult education for parents and families who are not educated. There is need to educate our uneducated parents and families. I have said these because, the child’s first and most important teachers are the parents or the family members. Educated parents will likely engage in their children’s education. Better still, there could be home study programmes if parents are educated. In a report on Time Magazine of November 23 2009 edition, many Chinese students spend twice as many hours doing homework than their United State counterparts, partly due to family involvement. I will ask private educational providers to design programmes whereby tutors can visit people at their work places or business places to deliver lecture. I understand some people might be too busy to leave their offices/business to attend adult education centers, in such situation, tutors can visit such people.

I will also propose the establishment of community libraries and learning centers in every community. This project should be undertaken by the communities. It could be a room or two. Nigerian communities/villages should build community libraries the same way they established community banks. Many communities established community banks, same spirit should adopted to build community libraries. It should be equipped and managed by the communities. Nigerians at home and abroad should donate books to these libraries.

I will recommend an arrangement whereby the federal, state and local governments will grant tax waivers to private institutions in return for them to increase their yearly students’ enrolment, offer scholarships, studentships, funding, etc. Let me also propose more private sector (companies, banks etc) collaboration and funding of research projects in private universities.

Finally, I wish to appeal to Nigerians to participate and join the fight against global warming. Turn off your electrical appliances/lights when not in use. Plant a tree or sponsor one to plant on your behalf. Government and companies should send less paper work and do more email, telephone, and sms. May God bless Nigeria.

Chinedu Vincent Akuta
An activist and leader of “Support Option A4 Group” Leicester-UK
akutachinedu@yahoo.com
http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/

Speed Limits.

2009-11-08T06:59:00.000-08:00

Ever since I wrote my article on: Alcohol And Road Accidents In Nigeria, published on my blog (http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com) and other national and international media outlets, many road accidents have occurred. Thisday newspaper of 10th October 2009 online version, reported that about 70 people were killed in a multiple road accident that occurred at Umunya junction in Oyi local government area of Anambra State . The bigger picture came when Thisday newspaper of 24th October 2009 online version, reported the total number of road accidents in Nigeria as obtained from the Federal Road Safety Commission (F.R.S.C.).

Quoting Thisday newspaper (online version) of 24th October 2009, “The number of reported cases of road accidents on the country's highways has reached 8,553 between January and first week of October. According to a road traffic situation update obtained by THISDAY from the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC) in Abuja, about 4,120 persons lost their lives while 20,975 other were seriously injured in the fatal accidents that involved 11,031 vehicles across the nations”. By any standard or measurements, these figures are too high. I am not sure that our country can sustain this number of deaths occasioned by road accidents. Therefore, this is a drastic situation that needs drastic action. Nigerians, the Federal Road Safety Commission, the Nigerian Police, private and commercial transport companies, and all road users have a role to play to minimize road accidents. But the Federal Road Safety Commission has more roles to play.

As a suggestion and armed with figures above on death caused by road accidents, the Federal Road Safety Commission should push for legislation that will set up approved speed limits in urban roads, rural road, and high ways/express ways. The same legislation should outline stiff penalties on offenders and authorize the Federal Road Safety Commission to use speed cameras and other means to catch offenders. Then the next stage should be enforcement. As a starting point, the Federal Road Safety Commission should introduce the use of mobile speed cameras.

There are many types of mobile speed cameras that could be fixed on the road safety vehicles. The Federal Road Safety Commission should combine this process with massive awareness campaign on the introduction of these devices. They can mount these cameras on both unmarked vehicles and marked vehicles. This is a highly effective method to control speeding by motorists. Speed camera was originally invented by Maurice Gatsonides in the 1950,s as a technology for automatic speed measurement of vehicles. This was hijacked for speed control purposes by the authorities in Netherlands .

The mobile speed cameras are portable, such that it could be moved from one point to another. It can be hidden behind a parked vehicle or inside a vehicle. Other types of mobile speed cameras can also be carried by hand. All that the road safety officers need to do is to mount this camera and station their officers few meters away to stop any one caught over speeding. This is not rocket science. It is a very simple technology used by all developed and developing countries. Nigerians should ask for these devices to enforce speed limits. Accidents can kill and devastate people. I understand that speeding alone is not the only cause of road accidents in Nigeria . But if we can enforce speed limits and apply the recommendations on my article on; Alcohol And Road Accidents In Nigeria then we might see some reductions on road mishaps.

It is very much in the interest of Nigeria and Nigerians that speeding is controlled on all roads. The whole idea will be to reduce to the lowest minimum, the rates of road accidents. Private and commercial transporters should enforce speed limits. I remember traveling on ABC Transport and on stopping at Benin , we were giving questionnaires to answer if the driver was speeding and how he drove. This practice should be sustained. Let other transporters device a means of enforcing speed limits on their drivers. Firstly, let passengers know that there is a speed limit applicable. This might help reduce pressure from passengers asking drivers to go faster.

Next advice to the Federal Road Safety Commission should be to ask all driving instructors in Nigeria to register with them. Refresher courses and leaflets should be handed to them. Fitness test should be carried out on them. The Federal Road Safety Commission should produce an updated driving code which every driving instructor should buy. All vehicles for driving schools should be examined and certified by road safety officials. All driving schools should be registered and recognized by the road safety commission. All new drivers should undergo health checks, theory test, and practical test before being allowed to drive. As a way to avoid manipulation, I suggest that the theory test should be online so that the road safety officials will not have a control over it. The practical test should be examined by road safety officials to be randomly selected through balloting. A candidate should be expected to pass all three tests (health checks, theory and practical tests). All parts of the driving test should carry equal marks.

I know that the Federal Road Safety Commission has enough personnel to undertake the above tasks. Otherwise they can call for volunteers whom they should be able to give references as having acquired a working experience from them. Alternatively, the road safety commission can contract out some of these responsibilities to reputable Nigerian companies. I suggest a change of our driving license to a bio-metric system, whereby people should give their finger prints and complete details. The same methods that, the immigration is using to issue the new international passport. The Federal Road Safety Commission, the Nigerian Police, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission and other law enforcement agencies can share date base together.

The idea of bio-metric driving license is to avoid obtaining driving licenses by proxy. It will make it easier to track road traffic offenders. It will also help to fight other types of crime. This takes me to another article that I wrote; Reforming Police and Policing Reforms, in that article, I argued for the police to start taking finger prints of suspects. I wish to quote a part of the article here; “DNA fingerprinting will be a valuable tool in the fight against crimes in Nigeria . It will help in investigating cases. Similar technology has been deployed before by the Nigerian government during the registration of ID card scheme. The current e-passport system in Nigeria takes our finger prints. So what the government needs to do is to transfer the national database to the police or the police can share this data base with all relevant government departments. So as soon as a suspect is caught, the DNA fingerprinting should be taken and stored or checked with the ones already in the system”.

Let’s remember that DNA samples are very useful to identify the culprits and the guilty. It also helps to exonerate the innocent. The road safety commission should not forget to come up with vehicle carbon emission level in Nigeria . They (FRSC) should turn the above information with others into decisions. With will, determination, and vision, the road safety commission can accomplish this project. We should remember that no society or country will develop without making efforts. If we don’t do anything, we have to accept what happens. But if we act, we have a chance to improve things.

Finally, I wish to appeal to Nigerians to participate and join the fight against global warming. Turn off your electrical appliances/lights when not in use. Plant a tree or sponsor one to plant on your behalf. Government and companies should send less paper work and do more email, telephone, and sms. May God bless Nigeria .

Chinedu Vincent Akuta
An activist and leader of “Support Option A4 Group” Leicester-UK
akutachinedu@yahoo.com
http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/

George And Judgement.

2009-11-01T04:22:00.000-08:00

This was another “celebrity case” and what I may call another “celebrity sentence”. In Nigeria, it is becoming a norm to give “high profile people/politicians” a soft sentence, for example Tafa Balogun (former Inspector General of Police). This is not the first time neither shall it be the last. Our dear George was given only two and half years imprisonment for his disservice (N85 billion naira fraud) to his motherland. I am sure that if it’s an ordinary Nigerian that committed this crime, he might be given a very long sentence. So sure also that, some people who have spent more than two and half years or more in detention or awaiting trial did not steal up to N1 million naira, but someone that embezzled N85 billion was given only two and half years. This is an indication that, laws are like cobwebs, strong enough to detain the weak and too weak to hold the strong.

I will not question the wisdom of Justice Olubunmi Oyewole in giving two and half years as the punishment for Olabode George, but as an ordinary person, I think that only two and half years might be too small for an offence of this magnitude. I also think that this judgement might be counter productive in that people might not be deterred enough from such offences in the future, knowing that the penalty will not be much. We have to remember that the greatest incitement to crime is the hope of escaping punishment. Also the actions of people like our Olabode George runs contrary to what the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo said, “Don’t enjoy in public office what you cannot legitimately enjoy in your private life” He abused office and public trust.

Nigerians will like to see the plans made by the court to recover the money, because this amount (N85 billion naira) can do a lot in terms of generating electricity or providing direct employment. On the other hand, N85 billion can deny and deprive millions of Nigerians what would have been their means of survival. One wonders why many of our people have taken to crime etc as a means of survival. Many people (Olabode George & Co) are actually responsible for the sufferings of Nigerian masses. He (Olabode George) has nothing to loose. He has retired from the Nigerian Navy and a former governor of Ondo State. Became the deputy national chairman (South West) of Peoples Democratic Party and later chairman of board of directors of Nigerian Ports Authority where the abuse of office took place. Simply speaking, this imprisonment will be a good way for him to start his over due retirement.

This now throws a big challenge to Nigerians, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), our judiciary and our government. Nigerians should keep pressure on the government to be serious with her fight against corruption. I understand the frustration encountered by many people who do not see any serious commitment on the part of the authorities to tackle corruption. Nigerians should never, never give up but rather think of how we as individuals or groups can contribute to the fight against corruption. People should volunteer any information that will support the fight against corruption. Though that majority of corrupt cases emanates from top government offices, Nigerians can still do a lot in this struggle against corruption.

The present situation at home (bad roads, unemployment, fallen educational standards, irregular power supply, high crime rates, etc) should be a recipe for all of us to join the fight against corruption. We should realize that these societal problems mentioned above, have direct or indirect linkages to embezzlement of funds. Do we fold our hands and watch while the country collapses? My answer will be no. Lets say no and continue to say no to corrupt officials. I also understand that Nigerian authorities are partially deaf, that means we have to shout out louder till our voices are heard. Let us also take our case to our law makers and our representatives. Who is representing us/our constituency at the House of Representatives? Does he have any contact address (constituency office, telephone, fax, web addresses etc) it might be a good idea to engage our representatives, perhaps put pressure through them. Good people will emerge or bad ones might be converted through our actions.

Things must work in Nigeria because the alternative will be worst than disaster. Every one has a role to play. Politicians must constantly be reminded not to mess about with the future of millions of Nigerians. Each stolen national wealth sends Nigeria and Nigerians backward. I need to remind Nigerians that there is nothing the civil society cannot do, more especially now that we are in civilian rule in Nigeria. With our join efforts, a lot could be achieved.

The Economic and Financial Crime Commission (EFCC) owe Nigerians a duty to seriously and honestly fight crime, irrespective of who is involved. EFCC should strengthen their commission and be able to catch the big fishes. I need to remind them of what President Obama said in Ghana, that Africa needs strong institutions and not strong men. They (EFCC) are trying but Nigerians expects more considering the level of our decay. Without doubts, the EFCC has the resources to carry out their jobs, but they also need the support of Nigerians. But the problem might be on the will power of their leadership. As it is, the EFCC will have no other excuses to give especially now, that our president has promised not to interfere with their duties.

As a way forward, I will suggest the EFCC to increase their surveillance over banks and other financial institutions. The emphasis should be on crime prevention. As you will agree with me that, prevention is better than cure. The EFCC should infiltrate the financial institutions overtly and covertly. The EFCC should initiate legislation were necessary to boost their operations. The law requiring banks to declare certain amount of monetary transactions should be strictly enforced. Nigerians should try as much as possible to volunteer information to the law enforcement agencies. The authorities cannot do their work very well without the public participation and support. I will suggest that the EFCC should undertake training in China as to how best to fight corruption. Chinese experiences might be a useful one.

The Nigerian judiciary remains the last hope of common people. The efforts of our judiciary have gone a long way towards saving our democracy. Examples include judgement that restored Peter Obi (Anambra State governor), Amaechi (Rivers State governor), Adams Oshiomhole (Edo State) etc. Nigerians will appreciate if the same spirit could be applied to deliver judgements on several corrupt cases against former leaders who looted the national treasury. Justice delay is justice denied. In future, let the Nigerian judges draw lessons from how Justice Olubunmi Oyewole discharged Olabode George’s case in record time (14 months), compared to other Nigerian cases. The Nigerian judiciary should also look at how the American judiciary sentenced Bernard Madoff. He was given over hundred years to serve in prison. This will obviously deter people from committing such crimes in future.

The Nigerian government should listen to the yearnings of the people to make corruption a capital offence. Also the Nigerian government should realize that there is one way to restore the confidence of Nigerian people, and that is through political will and absolute determination to get things done. Former British Prime Minister (Margaret Thatcher) is an example of a leader whose determination transformed the United Kingdom. Finally, I wish to appeal to Nigerians to participate and join the fight against global warming. Turn off your electrical appliances/lights when not in use. Plant a tree or sponsor one to plant on your behalf. Government and companies should send less paper work and do more email, telephone, and sms. May God bless Nigeria.

Chinedu Vincent Akuta
An activist and leader of “Support Option A4 Group” Leicester-UK
akutachinedu@yahoo.com
http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/

My Christmas Present to President Yar’Adua.

2009-10-25T08:05:00.000-07:00

Mr. President (Musa Yar’Adua), please permit me the fact that I am sending you an early Christmas present. I want to be the first Nigerian this year (2009) to send you this seasonal gift. That is, if you have not started receiving presents. I don’t have gold neither do I have silver, but what I have is what I will give you. My present is simply my piece of advice below. I have decided to make my advice known to Nigerians because, I want to follow the examples of what Obama said in Egypt. When President Obama gave his speech on June 4 2009, at the Cairo University, he said that the advice he gave to Israeli leaders in private, that he will say it in public before his largely Moslem audience. He went ahead and told the audience what he has been telling the Israeli leaders.

May I also challenge your advisers to tell Nigerians what they have been telling you in private. But sensitive issues, particularly on national security should not be shared publicly. My argument is that, Nigerians have the right to know the quality of advice that you have been getting. After all, you’re our president and it will not be a bad idea to know how you govern the most populous black nation in the world. I know that you’re not under any obligation to accept their advices. Ex President Obasanjo once said that, it was not compulsory for him to take the advice of his advisers.

Mr. President, with due respect to you and your office, I think that you owe Nigerians an apology for some of your past and recent conducts. I will comment on very few of such conducts. In your last year’s (2008) sallah message to Nigerians, you confirmed your administration’s determination to reform the electoral process in order for us to have transparent elections. Your actions and inactions during the Ekiti re-run election and your attempts to doctor the Justice Uwais electoral recommendations spoke volumes of your actual intentions. Please you can prove me wrong by reforming the electoral process or give it the kind of attention that you’re giving the Niger Delta amnesty deal. Nigerians are getting negative signs of what will happen in Anambra governorship election come next year 2010. This will be another test for you. If Anambra State governorship election goes the way of Ekiti, then we should prepare for the worst in 2011

Mr. President, you betrayed Nigerians when you embarked on a two day state visit to Brazil when the Boko Haram crisis started. I watched you on the television in April of this year (2009) as you expressed sadness that Nigeria was not invited to the G20 summit in London. I did advise you on an article I wrote which I titled; London G20 Minus Nigeria, published on my blog; http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com and other media outlets. Part of the advice that I gave was that, “Mr. President (Musa Yar’Adua), since you have expressed regret over the exclusion of Nigeria from the G20, the task is now on your desk to put Nigeria on the right track so that the outside world would take us serious. Another G20 summit is coming up again in September 2009, perhaps if you can steer the ship of Nigerian state with transparency, honesty and selflessness the world might decide to invite Nigeria”.

Your deliberate absence from the just concluded United Nations summit showed that the sadness you expressed about the exclusion of Nigeria from London G20 summit in April 2009 was not a true one. After all there was another G20 summit in Pittsburgh America, immediately after the United Nations heads of state meeting. With good arrangements, Nigeria could have at least attended as an observer in this last G20. As number one public servant in Nigeria, you should always be sensitive to the yearnings of Nigerian people. The people whom you’re supposed to be serving. I suggest you use the coming Sallah, Christmas or New Year celebrations to apologize to Nigerians. The mood of the nation will be most ideal to forgive you.

Mr. President (Musa Yar’Adua), you will do Nigeria and Nigerians a great service if you could stop going overseas for your treatment. Why can’t you equip our hospitals to international standard? Or is it that Nigeria cannot build a specialist hospital that can take care of you with all the oil money, if the answer is in the affirmative which I doubt, it then means we have finally failed as a nation. It’s even a security risk having our president treated abroad or don’t your security advisers tell you this. These and more are why Nigerians deserve to know the quality of advice that you get.

Not too long ago, the director general of the Nigeria Intelligence Agency (NIA) Mr. Emmanuel Enaruna Imohe was relieved of his duties. I was expecting you to do same to some of your cabinet members/ministers. Sincerely speaking, your present cabinet is long overdue for reshuffling. Many of your ministers have outlived their usefulness. Your attorney general and minister for justice (Anodoakaa), education minister (Egwu), information minister (Dora) etc are no longer fit for purpose. Information minister (Dora) in particular has no business in that ministry. Mr. President, if you love Nigeria like you claim, you should have left Madam Dora Akunyili to continue with NAFDAC. The greatest disservice you did to Nigeria was to remove her from the fight against fake drugs. Her war on fake drugs was far more important than the information ministry that she is mismanaging.

Some of your ministers are actually liabilities to you and the country at large. I understood that, you ordered the probe of the sacked Nigeria Intelligence Agency boss (Mr. Emmanuel Enaruna Imohe). Mr. President, Nigerians have lost count of how many probe panels you have constituted. Amongst many probe panels your administration has set up, may I ask you only about the Halliburton? Please could you tell Nigerians what happened to Halliburton’s probe?

The federal government claimed that the proposed deregulation of the oil sector will be done to help fight corruption in this sector. Interpreting this further, means that larger population of Nigerians will simply bear additional economic hardship, because government could not fight a small cabal in the oil sector. You should consider a stimulus package for people who will suffer from petroleum poverty as this measure will increase the number of people in that category. This takes me to another point that I want to let you know. Your seven point agenda should be narrowed down to only one point agenda and that should be the fight against corruption. As you know, corruption has ruined all government ventures. Even your emergency as the president were through corrupt process which you acknowledged. Other examples are; Independent National Electoral Commission, former Nigerian airways, Nigerian National Shipping Line, Halliburton, and National ID card project etc. Space will not permit here to list failed government projects owning to corruption.

May I also remind you to champion the course of saving the environment in Nigeria. You should know the dangers of desert encroachment by virtue of your state of origin and the larger Northern region. You have to physically and actively lead the campaign to plant trees in Nigeria. May I advise you to always switch off lights at Aso Rock when not in use. Introduce energy saving bulbs. Give instructions to your numerous subordinates to do so. Nigerians must be able to see you going green. Fidel Castro of Cuba was televised live, for many hours where he was cutting sugar cane. May God bless Nigeria.

Chinedu Vincent Akuta
An activist and leader of “Support Option A4 Group” Leicester-UK
akutachinedu@yahoo.com
http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/

Green Techniques.

2009-10-18T02:38:00.000-07:00

Climate change is real. There is no doubt that the earth is becoming warmer than it was. This is not a conspiracy theory. Most people you meet will tell you that, there have been noticeable changes in the climatic conditions. Experts are warning that the consequences of global warming will be catastrophic. Coastal cities and towns are at greater risk because of rising sea levels. The entire globe including Nigeria is under serious threat of the dangers, which accompanies global warming. The time for action is now. There are little things we can start doing that can help to save the planet.

As a starting point, the Nigerian government, the Niger Delta states and various stake holders in the oil industry should dialogue with the oil companies in Nigeria to stop gas flaring and adopt green technology. As the world is preparing for the December 2009, Copenhagen conference on climate change and global warming. The Nigerian delegates to the conference, should take the issue of gas flaring to the conference and table it before the international community. The idea will be for the entire world to see how the western owned oil companies are both damaging the environment in Nigeria where they drill the oil, and also how their gas flaring is contributing to global warming.

At present, experts are of the opinion that about 60% of all carbon emissions emanate from the developed countries, while 40% comes from the developing countries. My argument has always been that, most multi national companies have production plants in the developing countries. These multi national companies are owned by the western countries, therefore who takes the blame for their gas emissions? The host country or the country of ownership where the profit goes to. Coca cola for example has plants in almost all the countries of the world. The greenhouse gases which coca cola plants emit from their plants in the developing countries should be the share of America’s greenhouse gas emission. This is because coca cola is owned by America. Going by my calculation, I believe that the percentage share of the greenhouse gases from developing nations will be lower than 40% as estimated by experts.

At present, the campaign to save the planet is gathering momentum in the western world. Just recently (October 11th 2009), about 40 Greenpeace environmental campaigners climbed on the roof of British Houses of Parliament in protest to call for action on climate change. Most companies in the west are seriously considering green technology. There have been serious campaigns, and sensitization of the people through various adverts on the need to go green. ExxonMobil (a major oil company) has an advert, part of which read thus, “ExxonMobil is working to help meet the world’s energy challenges, investing more the US$100 billion in additional supplies over the next four years, developing efficiency technology options like lithium-ion battery film to speed the adoption of hybrid vehicles, and testing new carbon capture technologies that could reduce emissions significantly”.

Germany’s Volkswagen is converting part of a car engine plant to produce green electrical generators. The government of Maldives held it’s first under water cabinet meeting, underneath the Indian Ocean to highlight the dangers of global warming. In Nottinghamshire United Kingdom, over a thousand activists protested against a coal energy plant, because coal is the biggest source of greenhouse gas emission.

I want to believe that this ExxonMobil pledge above will be applicable to their operations in the developing countries. At present, I think different rules apply to their operations in the developing countries and the developed nations. Foreign companies tend to be more accountable and responsible in their home countries. I am sure that gas flaring which the oil companies are still doing in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria will be highly resisted or not allowed in the European Union for example.

Prominent global personalities have given their support to saving the earth. Al gore (former American Vice President) has won a Noble Peace Prize for his efforts towards saving the planet. I did advise Atiku Abubakar (former Nigerian Vice President) in one of my articles titled;(Atiku Abubakar and His Nigerian Leadership Project) to follow the footsteps of Al gore. I was glad when I saw former President Shehu Shagari on the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) news of Monday October 5th 2009 preaching about tree planting to caution desert encroachment. Ojo Maduekwe (current external affairs minister) had in the past asked Nigerians to ride bicycles. Both advices from ex president Shagari and Ojo Maduekwe are in line with saving the planet. However I will need to point out here, that Nigerian urban roads are not bicycle friendly and also not bicycle compliant.

Nigeria suffers from deforestation. People cut trees for different reasons. According to Marcio Santilli, (a Brazilian environmental rights activist) “tropical deforestation accounts for about a fifth of annual greenhouse gas emissions and it’s the largest source of emission in the developing countries”. Greenhouse gases are emitted when forests are burnt or logged. Mostly we cut trees and burn the forest for traditional farming purposes. We also use the trees for furniture making and for cooking. This method might be too difficult to stop. What I will add is that, we should start planting trees. For every one tree we cut down, let’s plant at lease three trees for replacement.

Most trees we are cutting today were planted by our great grand fathers, grand fathers and our fathers. It will be cruelty on our part if we fail to plant trees for our children, having used the ones planted by our grand fathers and great grand fathers. If for any reasons (for example people too busy at their offices or Nigerians in Diaspora) we cannot plant a tree, let’s sponsor someone to plant on our behalf. We owe ourselves this responsibility. We do not need the government or the international community to do this for us. Tree planting should be so easy for us to do. Tree planting/saving the planet contradicts what the late musician (Oliver de Coque) sang in one of his songs that, tenants should not plant flower when they are renting a house. I suggest a daily tree planting routine. Besides we owe our lives to nature and our environment. Ironically, the colour of our national flag is green white and green, which should encourage us to be a greener nation.

As a recommendation for going green, please let companies, banks, the government and other establishments in Nigeria send less paper work and do more emailing or telephoning/sms. This has a small way of saving the planet. Nigerians should start using energy saving bulbs. Also we should form the habit of switching off all electrical appliances and bulbs when not in use, for example leaving the electric bulbs/lights on during day time should be stopped. It’s a very common practice for you to see electric bulbs switched on during the day time. During my last visit to Nigeria (January 2009), my folks were laughing at me when I was busy switching off all lights during the day. The Federal Road Safety Commission owe Nigerians a duty to come up with vehicle carbon emission level permissible on Nigerian roads. May God bless Nigeria.

Chinedu Vincent Akuta
An activist and leader of “Support Option A4 Group” Leicester-UK
akutachinedu@yahoo.com
http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/

Our Resources.

2009-10-11T03:48:00.000-07:00

The questions of our abundant human and natural resources are no longer in doubt. What is in doubt is how to harness these potentials for the greatness of our people, and the development of the country and the continent at large. I have mentioned the larger African continent because, the development or under development of our country will have a spill over effect on the rest of the continent. Nigeria is huge with massive potentials. There are more the Nigerian people can do to harness these resources without necessarily depending on the government. The civil society groups have got more work to do in this aspect. Also there is need to disseminate proper information, so that people can become aware of what they can start doing both individually and as group.

Nigeria has massive solar energy, courtesy of the abundant sun. Just recently, Time international magazine of September 28th 2009, reported that Europe aims to cover a considerable proportion of their electricity needs over the next decades using solar power from Africa. This is not another colonization or neo-colonization, it’s simply that we do not value what we have or that we do not know how to explore our God given resources for own good. Nigeria is also blessed with abundant strong winds. Strong winds can be used to generate energy. India, Germany, United Kingdom etc are already using wind turbines to generate electricity. Niger Delta States including other coastal regions in Nigeria will be well suited for wind turbine plants. This is because of presence of strong winds emanating from the ocean. Having observed this, let the Nigerian private sector go into researches and partnership to explore these untapped resources. Am sure a lot of energy can be generated from these sources.

Power is very crucial to the development of any country. That was why many Nigerians became disappointed, when the National Assembly revealed the amount of money wasted on power without any mega watt added to the national grid. Solar and wind energy can be a better alternative source of energy. More so, it’s equally environmentally friendly since the world is going green. There is need for wider private sector lead researches into this area. There are more to gain from these sources of energy. There is no point folding our hands while the Europeans come over to use the African solar to supplement their energy needs. Solar and wind energy can produce power cheaper. The question of distribution like laying electric cables, electric poles etc will not be an issue. Thus homes, individual, groups and communities too remote to be reached by power cables, can generate on their own without depending on the national grid. In the United Kingdom, there over 100,000 installed solar micro generation. This figure is set to rise, especially with the increased campaign to save the planet. With this method in place, we might begin to have steady power for both home and industrial needs.

Lets not forget our pleasant whether conditions (tropical climate), which I consider to be one of the best in the world. Our whether supports the cultivation of most cash crops and farm products. Nigeria can become the food basket of Africa if we want. You will begin to appreciate our whether more, when you live in countries with adverse whether conditions. Most western and other foreign countries (United Kingdom, Canada, America, Germany, China, etc) can record between -1 to -20 degrees. Our whether is also quite suitable for tourism, as most western tourist(s) prefer warm climates.

There is also need for us to start recycling our waste products. This is an area that requires more researches and more investments. The private sector/business leaders should look more into this process of converting waste to wealth. Nigeria has more waste to be converted to wealth. In 2008, the city of Leicester in United Kingdom recycled 33% of its waste. This city is the size of Enugu city/town. I have heard about the project by the Ekiti State government to generate electricity from waste. This is good idea. May be other states, local governments and private sectors should copy from Ekiti state waste to energy project.

The level of recycling waste in Nigeria is low. There is more wealth to be created by our waste. A lot of employment opportunities can be created through this venture. The following waste can be recycled, paper, cardboard, newspapers, catalogues, magazines, glass bottles, plastic bottles, jars, aluminum, car batteries, cans, CDs, metal, electrical equipment, fluorescent tubes, ink jet cartridges, used engine oil, video tapes, unused paints, asbestos materials, used cooking oil etc. We can export our waste products like scrape metals etc.

At present, some researchers from Hokkaido University Japan in partnership with a business firm have produced the world’s first biodiesel from used cooking oil. The product is called, Vegetable Diesel Fuel. This product (Vegetable Diesel Fuel) has been used to generate electricity in some events in Japan. We can borrow this technology and domesticate it in Nigeria. The major raw material (used cooking oil) can never be in short supply in Nigeria. Since it can generate electricity, it will be highly needed to substitute for the normal diesel and fuel, which is currently being used to generate power.

From the above paragraphs, Nigerians can begin to discover or add to what they know already that we have far more resources to exploit. There is no point to wait for all these resources to continue wasting. What we need are domestic investors to explore these areas. We also need further feasibility studies, researches and dissemination of information to empower people towards recycling abundant waste products in Nigeria. There are many individuals, families, friends, groups, churches, NGO’s etc that could carry out researches on the above or fund people to do same. Interestingly the cost(s) of doing feasibility studies and researches on recycling our waste might be cheaper than we think.

Added to the above are our abundant human resources. Our population is one of our biggest assets as a nation. Our big population has created large market, which is indirectly the investors’ paradise. MTN Nigeria (mobile phone Communication Company) is a good example of a company that has benefited from the large Nigerian market. Our market/our large size accounts for why there are so many Chinese, Lebanese, and Indians in our country. They are doing business as well benefiting from our large population. Our economic planners, business leaders, entrepreneurs etc should explore our size to its fullest. If not for economic problems, energy instabilities (regular power failures), insecurity etc, am sure many more foreign investors would have come to Nigeria.

We also need to add skills acquisition to our academic pursuits in order to boost our human resources. When President Clinton came to Abuja for a symposium/seminar after handing over to Bush, he asked Nigerians to copy the Japanese who do not have any natural resources beneath the earth but up in their brain. We can earn more money with our skills overseas if we choose to work abroad. An example is a plumber, electrician, and a motor mechanic earns more than 30 pounds per hour in most cities in United Kingdom. May God bless Nigeria.

Chinedu Vincent Akuta
An activist and leader of “Support Option A4 Group” Leicester-UK
akutachinedu@yahoo.com
http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/

I.B.B. Should Lead This Struggle.

2009-10-04T04:55:00.000-07:00

Thisday newspaper of Wednesday 23rd September 2009, reported that former Nigerian military ruler, General Ibrahim Babangida has called for the re-introduction of Option A4 electoral system in Nigeria. This is a welcome development. It is also an indication that he wants to be part of the solution to the problems he caused. He annulled the June 12 1993 presidential election, which was judged by national and international observers as the freest and fairest election in Nigeria history. By annulling this election, he also annulled the system (Option A4) that produced it.

Babangida’s comment did not come as a surprise to me because I was actually expecting it. The only surprise to me was that, this comment came a little bit late. In February of this year (2009), I wrote an article which was specifically directed to Ibrahim Babangida himself. The title of the article was; IBB, This is My Response to You. The article was published on my web blog (http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com), including some other media outlets. In the said article, I made some comments, part of which I have quoted below.
“However, no person is above mistake. Many world leaders have at one point or the other made mistakes. In your own case, a window of opportunity exists now for you to redeem the mistake you made in 1993. That window of opportunity is for you to use your influences to campaign for electoral reforms. Nigerians will forgive you and be more glad if you could help to reintroduce Option A4 Electoral system in Nigeria. Option A4 system was your brain child, therefore you need no explanation that it should be the best system for Nigeria. Nigeria has derailed largely because of our corrupt electoral system. I am appealing for your support in this campaign for the reintroduction of Option A4 system”
There are many benefits that Option A4 can give to Nigeria, at least it guarantees openness, transparency, fairness etc. But one of the greatest advantages of Option A4 electoral system is the fact that, post electoral litigations are avoided or reduced to the lowest minimum. It’s too frustrating when people have to undergo lengthy litigations before claiming their mandates. In Edo State, it took Adams Oshiomhole 18 months to reclaim his victory. I did a write up on this issue as well. It was titled; Post Electoral Litigations In Nigeria, Which Way Forward? It was published on my blog (http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com) plus other national and international media outlets. I wish to share some interesting points from that article. I have quoted those paragraphs below;
“Only God knows the legal costs of all these litigations. The time wasted on all these cases cannot be captured on monetary terms. The setbacks to the nation as a result of these cases cannot be quantified. This is also a serious threat to our democracy and nation at large. It is an unwanted distraction on the part of government. The effects of all these are that the masses are denied the dividends of democracy. Government abandons its primary responsibility and only face litigations”…, “Without doubts, an average Nigerian is simply too tired for this kind of setbacks. The solution is simple, adopt the Option A4 electoral system and we will have a smooth, transparent and fair elections. Nigerians are yet to see a system better than Option A4”.
Following the manner that some Senators spoke against the attempt, to introduce a bill for the establishment of electoral offenses commission at the national assembly on Wednesday 30th September 2009, it becomes imperative to seriously consider the option A4 methods. From the debates on the floor of Nigerian Senate on 30th September 2009, it became obvious that some senators were not comfortable with the proposed bill. This can be avoided using Option A4.
Now that Ibrahim Babangida has called for the re-introduction of Option A4 electoral system, the next step should be how to actualize this noble idea. This would have been easier for him to achieve under his military regime by using a decree. But since we are in a democratic dispensation, it will involve a lot of political lobbying, media campaign, sensitization of the Nigerian masses, debates etc. Campaigning to re-introduce Option A4 will require total commitment. Therefore Ibrahim Babangida should come out and lead this campaign with all his might. Am aware that he still has some influences over some political elites and some law makers, therefore the National Assembly will be a good place to start mobilizing law makers towards actualizing Option A4 electoral system.
Next will be to organize debates, symposiums, lectures and sensitization of Nigerians on the need to go the way of Option A4. As a follow up to the above, I will advocate for a formation of Option A4 political party or the merging of some existing parties to form Option A4 political party. The singular purpose of this party (Option A4 party) should be to seek power only to re-introduce this system back to our statute books. Some parties exists overseas mainly for a particular purpose. In the United Kingdom, the Green Party exists mainly to promote social and environmental justice. The seek power through campaigns and electoral processes in order to actualize their main purpose of existence. Many Nigerians have argued several times for the re-introduction of this system back to our electoral methods.
Babangida could also use his influences to convince his state government (Niger State) to introduce the Option A4 electoral method into their state electoral commission. This might be easier to achieve. Besides, charity begins at home. If Niger State can adopt this method, chances are higher that other progressive states in Nigeria might copy them. By canceling the freest and fairest election in Nigeria and by extension the Option A4 system, Babangida became heavily indebted to Nigerians. His pay back time starts when he sincerely commits his time and resources towards working for the re-introduction of Option A4 system to Nigeria.
He (IBB) and Humphrey Nwosu (former National Electoral Commission Chairman during the 1992/93 elections when this method was used) are among the top qualified people in Nigeria to lead this campaign. I have said so because; introduction of Option A4 method was their brain child. Since Babangida has spoken in favour of re-introducing this method, Humphrey Nwosu should please make a comment on this as well. The truth should always be spoken. Thank goodness that Babangida has at least spoken the truth.
Our group (Support Option A4, Leicester-UK) will be willing to partner with Ibrahim Babangida only if he is ready, to lead the campaign in Nigeria, for the re-introduction of option A4 electoral system. Am sure other groups might be ready to join forces to actualize this electoral method. Transparency and fairness is what we need in our electoral process. May God bless Nigeria.

Chinedu Vincent Akuta
An activist and leader of “Support Option A4 Group” Leicester-UK
akutachinedu@yahoo.com
http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/

Nigeria’s Date With China on October 1st.

2009-09-27T05:10:00.000-07:00

The People’s Republic of China does not need introduction. Co-incidentally both countries (China and Nigeria) are celebrating their anniversaries on the same date of the same month (October 1st). While China will be celebrating her 60th anniversary, Nigeria will be celebrating her 49th independence anniversary. Nigeria also shares an important date (June 12) with the Islamic Republic of Iran. Both countries had very controversial presidential elections on the same date of the same month (June 12). I will use this medium to congratulate both countries on their anniversaries.

Anniversaries of these nature calls for reflections, stock taking, and plans to advance the cause of nationhood or nation building. Be that as it may, it will be interesting to point out the similarities, differences, and lessons to be learnt from this massive Asia tiger (China). Nigeria and Nigerians stand to copy a lot from China in order to start the process or journey of rebuilding Nigeria. There are also more to discard from China, like her bad human rights records, undemocratic system of governance, restricting the freedom of information etc. However, there will be nothing wrong to make China a development model in certain aspects of our economic planning and implementation.

Starting with the similarities, Nigeria is a multi cultural country as well as China. Both nations have large multi ethnic groups. Also both countries have large population. Chinese population is about 1.3 billion people. Nigeria is approximately 140 million. China is the most populous country in the world, whereas Nigeria is the most populous African country. Going by the population figures, Nigeria is slightly above being the one tenth of the population of China. There are serious ethnic tensions in both countries.

In July 2009, serious riot broke out in the Xinjiang region of China. The riots were between the Uighur tribe and Han Chinese tribe. About 140 people were killed and almost 800 people were injured. Nigeria has witnessed several ethnic clashes in the past. Co-incidentally, Nigeria also had a serious crisis in the same month of July 2009. The Boko Haram riots took place around this time in the Northern parts of Nigeria. In the case of the Northern Nigerian crisis (Boko Haram), estimated death toll were over 300, while thousands were displaced.

The Xinjiang region of China is largely populated by minority Uighur tribe who are mainly Moslems. Northern Nigeria is largely populated by Moslems. Interestingly, while our president (Umar Yar’Adua) embarked on a two day state visit to Brazil when the Boko Haram crisis started, the Chinese President (Hu Jintao) left the G8 Summit in Rome Italy back to China, the moment riots broke out in Northwest part of China. Also at the just concluded United Nations summit in New York, our president was absent whereas the Chinese president was present.

China and Nigeria are trading partners. There are many Chinese business people in Nigeria, so also do so many Nigerian business people in China. The Sino-Nigeria trade tends to be in favour of China. That is, there are more Chinese products in Nigeria than Nigerian products in China. There is no equilibrium in trade. China is never to be blamed for this. The reason might be because, Chinese products are far cheaper. Most market penetration is done easily through cheap product prices.

In United Kingdom and other European Union nations, Chinese products are every where. In 2005, the European Union imposed a restriction on the importation of Chinese textiles. The reason was because; textile manufacturers in the European Union faced stiff competition from low priced textiles from China. Presently, the United States of America has imposed a 35% tariff on Chinese tires. According to US government, the cheap tires from China is harming its tire industry.

China has witnessed unprecedented economic growth since the 1980, s. She became the first major economy to recover from the present global economic recession. According to Time International magazine of September 28 2009 page 18, “China is the world’s most populous and industrious nation, is the world’s third largest economy and trading nation, has become a global power innovator in science and technology, and is building a world class university system”. Nigerians can copy China is this aspect. Let the Nigerian entrepreneurs start massive small scale industrialization. I will commend the existing Nigerian industrialists. Small scale industries are the engine of every economic growth. More small scale industries are needed in Nigeria because we are very vast, with abundant labour and available markets.

The emphasize should be on very small scale industries like garry processing industries, palm oil mills, palm karnel cracking industries, etc. Farming should be highly considered by Nigerians. I remember watching on the television, attempts by the Kwara State government to bring white farmers, whom President Mugabe ejected from Zimbabwe. Before the advent of crude oil, agro allied products helped to develop the country. The first time I went to Ohaji, Egbema in Uguta Imo State, I was amazed at the large numbers of palm trees. (The place is called Adapalm) These palm trees were planted by the former Eastern Nigerian Government. Palm products from these trees were the source of revenue for the then Eastern Nigerian government. There will be nothing wrong for Nigerians to revisit agriculture. Kenya exports large quantities of tea to the United Kingdom. Agriculture would be a good area for our banks to explore.

Much of Chinese growth came through trading and massive exportation. Its economy is export driven. Nigerians need to follow China in this regard. Nigerians have the potentials to trade. Let’s try and take our trading beyond the shores of Nigeria. Many are already doing that, but many more should join. There are a lot to export from Nigeria, examples include, cassava, garlic, ginger, groundnut, palm oil, cocoa etc. Less attention should be paid to oil and gas which has brought more pains than gains to Nigerians. As a matter of fact, the Guardian newspapers (United Kingdom version) of Wednesday, 26th August 2009 page 21, described the Nigerian oil proceeds as a petroleum curse.

China is the world’s largest recipient of foreign direct investments because of its cheap labour. Time International magazine of September 28 2009 reported that 450 out of the Fortune 500 American companies have production lines in China. This is an area that needs the attention of credible Nigerian business people. Every effort should be made to attract foreign investors. Companies that could depend on solar energy should be on the priority list. Foreign farmers should be sort after. Nigeria could also ask China how to fight corruption. This could be our moment to start. May God bless Nigeria

Chinedu Vincent Akuta
An activist and leader of “Support Option A4 Group” Leicester-UK
akutachinedu@yahoo.com
http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/

Alcohol and Road Accidents in Nigeria.

2009-09-20T15:14:00.000-07:00

I don’t have the statistics of road accidents caused by drunk driving in Nigeria. I also doubt if the authorities (Federal Road Safety Commission, Nigerian Police Force, Ministry of Health etc,) have such records. Am sure, some road accidents in Nigeria might have been caused by drunk driving. But since these statistics are not available, it becomes difficult to actually ascertain the number of road accidents that are as results of drunk driving. Many other reasons can be adduced as factors causing road accidents in Nigeria. Some of these are bad roads, narrow roads, heavy dependence on road transport, government neglect, poor state of vehicles on Nigerian roads, careless driving/careless drivers, excessive speeding, drugs and alcoholism effects etc.

While most of the factors mentioned above, are partly as a result of systemic failure in Nigeria. It will be pertinent to examine in great details, the aspect of drunk driving. Nigerians are also aware that, other factors causing road accidents in Nigeria can be as serious as drunk driving. But most of these factors like bad roads etc cannot be fixed in the short run. But enforcing the laws on drunk driving and careless driving will be easier to achieve, than repairing all the bad roads in Nigeria. Effective and enforced regulation on drunk driving could reduce the rates of road accidents, and thus save lives. Many lives have been lost due mainly to road accidents.

Drunk driving is a serious offence in most developed countries including South Africa. This is because western governments attach more importance to issues which affects people’s lives. Road transportation is one of such issues. In the western countries, very low percentage of alcohol is permissible. In the United Kingdom, the alcohol legal limit for any driver is 80mg per 100 milliliters of blood. Any thing above this limit carries a serious penalty. An offence of careless driving in the UK carries a maximum penalty of two thousand five hundred pounds sterling. Causing death by dangerous driving has a maximum penalty of 14 years in jail. Whereas causing death by careless driving carries a maximum punishment of five years in prison, but where aggravated factors such as drink is involved, then the penalty rises to a maximum of 14 years in prison. The penalty acts as a deterrent from committing such road traffic offences.

The Nigerian government has at one time shown interest in saving the lives of her people. An example was during the fight waged by Dora Akunyili against fake drugs. NAFDAC made positive impacts on checking the menace of fake drugs. In the same manner, Nigerian government could also save her people by making drunk and careless driving an offence with stiff penalties. Nigerians travel a lot, and road transportation remains the popular means of transportation in Nigeria. In addition we are entering the ember months (September, October, November and December), when too many people travel for Christmas holidays. Much of our goods are hauled to their various destinations using the road transport system. Therefore it makes much sense for the issue of drunk driving to be taken seriously.

Most drivers (commercial and private) drink alcohol before driving. Even “okada riders” take alcohol. Many people have lost their limbs, legs etc due to okada accidents. Alcohol could make drivers feel high behind the wheels. It could cause drivers to have less concentration while driving. Above all, alcohol could cause drivers to take risks not minding the lives of the passengers they are carrying.

The Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC) and other law enforcement agencies should enforce all laws on drunk driving. Where none exists, the Federal Road Safety Commission should work with relevant authorities and stake holders, to introduce a bill to the National Assembly to make careless and drunk driving an offence punishable with stiff penalties. As a means of enforcing any legislation on drunk driving, the Federal Road Safety Commission, the police and other state law enforcements agencies should introduce the use of a breathalyzer test.

Breathalyzer is a simply machine or devise used to measure the amount of alcohol in the breath of a driver. Where a driver declines a breathalyzer test, a blood sample might be taken and analyzed in a laboratory. This is a very simple technology which Nigeria can deploy. Nigeria and Nigerians have deployed more superior technology which is at par with international standards. An example is the new system of international passport issuance adopted by the Nigerian Immigration Services. Before this time, Nigerian International passport could be obtained by proxy or in absentia. Now the system has changed. In the private sector for instance, Nigerian banks have almost the latest information technology. Therefore, introducing a breathalyzer to check alcohol level will not be a big deal.

Various state governments with transport companies, example Imo Transport Company (ITC) etc can enact a law to make drunk driving by their employees (drivers) an offence. They can regularly check their drivers by administering a regular breathalyzer test. Private transport companies like ABC Transport, Ekene Dili Chukwu, The Young Shall Grow, Chisco Transport etc can subject their drivers to breathalyzer test before allowing them to drive passengers. On the other hand, compelling drivers to breathalyzer test could act as a marketing strategy to some private transport companies. Passengers’ patronage can be won when they see that drivers are subjected to alcohol test.

Passengers on their own should always raise this issue with drivers or managers of various transport companies. The last time (January 2009) that I traveled with ABC Transport to Lagos, all the passengers including myself were scanned and photographed before we were allowed to board our bus to Lagos. I understood this was a security measure. Therefore to achieve a balance, passengers should also demand to know whether their driver is drunk or not. This is also for their own safety and safety of the nation.

Unless somebody can find a way to change the nature of careless and drunk driving in Nigeria, we will have more crises. Careless and drunk driving can cause accidents. Accidents devastate lives and can cause deaths. Deaths are losses to the nation and our various families. Therefore a stitch in time save nine and prevention is better than cure. May God bless Nigeria.

Chinedu Vincent Akuta
An activist and leader of “Support Option A4 Group” Leicester-UK
akutachinedu@yahoo.com
http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/

Vacancies for Revolutionaries in Nigeria.

2009-09-13T08:15:00.000-07:00

Nigeria is in dire need of fundamental changes in all her systems (political, economic, social, etc). Therefore vacant positions have arisen in all parts of Nigeria and in all sections/sectors of our lives for positions of revolutionaries. These positions exist in our families, villages, communities, ward levels, all local government areas, all ministries (state and federal), and all government agencies and in all private sector concerns etc. The entire Nigerian system needs a complete overhauling. Therefore, the Nigerian would be revolutionaries should start with him or herself. Firstly he or she needs to change, then change the families and change his/her immediate environment. Charity begins at home.

Revolutions need not be bloody, but bloody revolutions are preferable. However since the demise of communism, and the collapse of Soviet Union, the prevalence or the rate of occurrence of bloody revolutions have been on the decline. Most revolutions were inspired by Marxist ideologies. Previously former Soviet Union was seen as beacon of hope for people with revolutionary’s ideas. Many revolutionaries at some point or the other had some kind of backing, contacts, training or indoctrinations from the former Soviet Union. Examples are as follows; Late Chairman Mao of China, Fidel Castrol of Cuba, Raul Castro (present Cuban leader following the ill health of his elder brother Fidel Castrol) late Che Guevara, late Salvador Allende (former socialist president of Chile) etc.

Other countries like Libya, Cuba etc have sponsored revolutions at different stages, in different countries of the world. These revolutionary supports took place mainly during the 1970’s and 1980’s. Libya supported Charles Taylor of Liberia and was deeply involved with shipping arms to the Irish Republican Army (IRA). The Irish Americans also supported the Irish Republican Army in Ireland. Cuba had their forces in Angola to support the MPLA.

Other forms of revolution have taken places around the world. Here I will comment briefly about the Islamic revolution in Iran and the Orange revolution in Ukraine. In 1979 Ayatollah Khomeni led an Islamic revolution to topple the Iranian monarchy. Through the revolution led by Khomeni, Iran became an Islamic Republic and introduced theocratic constitution. The Orange revolution took place in Ukraine from November 2004 to early 2005 when the people of Ukraine resisted the attempt by Russia to install a puppet as the leader of Ukraine. The people of Ukraine overwhelmingly voted a pro western government.

Previously colonization, neocolonialism, the struggle for independence, cold war, Apartheid in South Africa, and capitalism (greed and exploitation) were among the motivating factors for revolution in most countries. Ironically these factors do no longer exist, except capitalism and neocolonialism. In Africa, greed, corruption and bad governance exists in greater proportion. However some revolutionaries have emerged in Africa to clean up their societies. People like Jerry Rawlings of Ghana who was nick named Junior Jesus because of his initials J.J. (Jerry John) Rawlings. He cleansed the Ghana politics and retrieved all stolen government monies from corrupt Ghanaian politicians. He laid down the foundation of the present democratic system of government in Ghana. He preached to Ghanaians to demand accountability from their leaders. The Libyan leader (Col. Gadaffi) once said that it was the Rawlings revolution that saved Ghana.

In Nigeria we have had people like late General Murtala Mohammed, General Buhari (both military ex heads of state) and General Tunde Idiagbon. They tried to clean up the Nigerian system but their administrations were short lived. Many Nigerians are revolutionaries in their own rights, and revolution can take place in any sector or start from any segment of our society. Here I will mention Chief Gani Fawehinmi (Senior Advocate of the masses), Gani’s efforts have changed the Nigerian landscape. Many other Nigerians too, have brought outstanding changes in various spheres of Nigerian society. Internationally we have people like Nelson Mandela, Martin Luther King etc. I consider these people revolutionaries in their own rights.

Many of us, who are praying for change to happen in our motherland, are advised to start the change process wherever they are. Let’s change for good. I will agree with late Michael Jackson when he sang in one of his songs (Man in the mirror) that if you want to make the world a better place, take a look at yourself and make a change. In the same way, Nigerians should first take a look at themselves and start the change. We have role models to copy or follow their ideas. If a small percentage of us start this change process wherever they are and be consistent, then there could be hope to revive Nigeria. We have to remember that we have a choice to either save Nigeria or sink Nigeria. To save Nigeria we have a duty to start the change process immediately. Every little positive effort will matter a lot. Failure to save Nigeria will be disastrous.

But I must caution people that, there will be no quick fix to Nigeria’s problem. Changing the entire Nigerian system will be a difficult project; therefore we should be prepared for a tough project. Many of us will resist changes. Change itself is difficult. Many of Nigerians who are below 40 years have known no other system except the present day Nigerian system. Therefore changing more than half of the population will be tough and challenging. This is the more reason why any person that desires change should start changing his/her environment in any small way that is possible.

The grassroots will be a good starting point for changes. Change comes not from the top down but from the ground up. Management of people at the grassroots is very essential for any successful change. Revolutionaries all over the world have high sense of patriotism and have introduced positive changes to the lives of their people. Same should apply to Nigerians seeking to start quiet revolution or change. Henceforth it will be ideal for Nigerians to be thinking of individual/private sector led change of the Nigerian system. There are a lot of changes that the civil society can spearhead. Also changing Nigeria is burden for all of us, therefore the earlier we start changing our nation the better for all of us. May God bless Nigeria.

Chinedu Vincent Akuta
An activist and leader of “Support Option A4 Group” Leicester-UK
akutachinedu@yahoo.com
http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/

Chief Gani Fawehinmi is Not Dead.

2009-09-05T16:37:00.000-07:00

“For those who know him, no word is necessary; for those who do not know him, no word is sufficient” W.T. Horngren. (An American Author)

For people who know Chief Gani Fawehinmi, no word is necessary, for those who do not know him, no word is sufficient enough to describe him. Ever since the poor health of Chief Gani Fawehinmi, I was praying and asking God to spare us this man of justice. When his illness became serious, a noticeable vacuum existed because none can perform his role. I consider my generation a lucky generation having lived to see his excellent works. Without doubt, you (Chief Gani Fawehinmi) inspired millions of Nigerians including my humble self. You showed Nigerians that we can pursue justice despite the odds. Nigeria and Nigerians have indeed lost a giant. You were like a jewel of inestimable value.

You were like a rock to Nigerians, no wonder why the Nigerian people whom you represented very well, gave you the title of Senior Advocate of the Masses. The International Bar Association did not forget you. The also honoured you. You cannot die because your legacies and ideas will live forever. According to late John F. Kennedy (former American President) “A man may die, nations may rise and fall, but an idea lives on”. Your legacies are carved in stone and you will forever remain in the minds of Nigerians. The greatness of a man is measured by what he lived and died for. You lived your life for the oppressed Nigerians. You stood for them and fought their battles for them. We cannot forget you.

As a young man, I was amazed and inspired by the way you pursued the case of Dele Giwa’s death. I remembered how you presented the case of Dele Giwa’s death at the Oputa Panel. Am glad about the fact that many of us have decided to follow the path which you have shown us. That is the path of justice, equality, activism, and fair play. As a human right crusader, your achievements are outstanding. Your contribution to the Nigerian Bar speaks for itself. I am not a lawyer but I know that you wrote a lot of law books. These books are highly rated and sort after.

I will not forget to mention when on a television interview (Charley Boy Show), a former military head of state (General Ibrahim Babangida) said that, you Chief Gani Fawehinmi was the only Nigerian he respected. I watched the kind of respect you were given at the Oputa panel by Oputa himself. I was moved when on May 29th 2009 at the state of the Nigerian nation symposium held in London Metropolitan University, where Mallam Nuhu Ribadu (former Executive Chairman of Economic and Financial Crimes Commission) said that, he considers you (Gani Fawehinmi) as his brother much more than Atiku Abubakar (Former Vice President of Nigeria), who comes from his own village.

Gani Fawehinmi showed us the path of honour when he turned down the offer of a national award (Officer of the Federal Republic) which president Yar Adua wanted to confer on him in 2008. Among his reasons were that the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) led government has betrayed the Nigerian people.

I will not forget your numerous charity projects all over the country. You are an exemplary philanthropist. I remember encouraging one of my cousins to apply for your scholarship scheme. Many Nigerians irrespective of tribes or religion benefited immensely from your scholarship scheme. I will not forget to mention the cases you handled free of charge (pro bono) for many Nigerians, of particular mention here was the cases of some expelled students whom you made sure they were reinstated. You were a source of hope to so many students’ union leaders through out the country. I am sure that without your efforts Nigeria would have been worst than it is today.

You fought all the military governments in Nigeria using the instrumentality of the law. You understood the law and the law understood you. Am sure all the military leaders sent you to jail. You were detained and jailed for more than 30 times. On a particular instance Gashua prison became the choice of the military junta in an attempt to break your spirit (apologies if I spelled Gashua wrongly). You proved them wrong. You came out stronger. You became a torn in the flesh of all military leaders. Infact the fear of Chief Gani Fawehinmi became the beginning of wisdom for those ex military leaders. You became a rallying point for resistance against military and civilian dictatorships. You were fearless and forever bold. You were the people’s hero

You were also a symbol of democracy having won the case against Independent National Electoral Commission’s decision not to register more parties. You freed the Nigerian political terrain by this singular landmark judgment. Your National Conscience Party epitomized the aspirations of Nigerian people. I thank my God for being a member of this party (NCP). When you contested the 2003 election as the presidential candidate of National Conscience Party, Nigerians wanted you, but the establishments were not comfortable that you were a candidate for that election. You remain the best leader that never occupied the seat at Aso Rock Villa. Had you won the election to become the president of Nigeria, may be our oppressors would either be in exile or behind bars.

Your death on Saturday 5th September 2009 has left a vacuum too big to be filled. None can ever fit into your shoes. Be that as it may, what died was the body. However the spirit, ideas, and legacies will continue to live. That is why I said you have not died, when I title this attribute to you. I will take solace in the fact that you have shown us the light and we will find the way. The struggle to better Nigeria, which you were the champion, will still continue by virtue of the ideas you left behind.

I owe my activism to Chief Gani Fawehinmi. Am also sure that millions of Nigerians owe theirs to this wonderful Nigerian who has inspired many of us. We will celebrate your wonderful life and achievements. May your soul rest in peace and may God help us to produce many Gani Fawehinmi’s in our country. May God bless Nigeria.

Chinedu Vincent Akuta
An activist and leader of “Support Option A4 Group” Leicester-UK
akutachinedu@yahoo.com
http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/

Landmark Elections and the Winning Formula

2009-08-31T14:22:00.000-07:00

Globally some elections have left behind some landmark features. In some cases, these features were responsible for wining the incumbent or the ruling party, an example is Ghana. In other places (Kenya and Zimbabwe) it has led to the sharing of power between the opposition leaders and the incumbent president. These landmark characteristics can be a winning formula, an example was the last American presidential election. In some instances, these features have been responsible for many controversial elections worldwide (June 12 Iran and June 12 Nigeria). Be that as it may, these notable qualities are worthy to be examined and many lessons can be learnt from it.

The key appears to be the selection of the right candidate(s). That is the popular candidates and people’s choice. During the 1993 presidential election in Nigeria, the Social Democratic Party (SDP) won the presidential election because of the selection of Abiola and Kingibe. It was obvious that Abiola was more popular than Tofa who was the presidential candidate of National Republican Convention (NRC). Tofa was no match to Abiola. Both political parties (SDP and NRC) won different electoral positions in the country due mainly to their choice of candidates. (I have used the 1992/1993 elections in Nigeria as a reference point, because it was the only free and fair elections in Nigeria.).

In Iran, the entrance of Khatami in the presidential campaign of Musavi provided him with enough supporters. Opinion poll suggested Musavi will win the incumbent, but the hardliners didn’t want that. (As at the time of writing this article, Musavi is still contesting the Iranian presidential election result). In Ghana the selection of Atta Mills by the National Democratic Congress contributed to their winning. In Zimbabwe, the electorate voted Morgan Tsvangirai of the Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) because he was popular and was a symbol of change. Morgan Tsvangirai won the election, but the incumbent (Robert Mugabe) refused to quit office. After much negotiation, Morgan formed a joint government with the incumbent president and became the prime minister. Similar incident happened in Kenya. Selecting the right candidates will be instrumental towards wining the incumbent especially in the developing countries where the incumbents have unlimited access to the resources of the state.

A closer examination has revealed that most landmark elections witnessed large voter turnouts. June 12 1993 presidential election in Nigeria had large voter turnouts. Same happened on June 12 2009 presidential elections in Iran. The 2008 Ghana elections where the opposition party won the party in power witnessed large voter turnouts. The last American presidential election witnessed a 64% turnout. The highest since the 1960’s and in terms of sheer numbers was the largest ever. A high voter turnout is a function of effective political mobilization. The last South African election that brought Jacob Zuma to power had a larger voter turnout.

Education, experiences and exposure of candidates have roles to play. President Atta Mills of Ghana is a university professor of law. Before this time he was the vice president under Rawlings regime. Many Americans believes that Sarah Palin (ex Republican Vice Presidential candidate) was instrumental to McCain lost of election to Obama. Sarah Palin was not able to mention a name of a single newspaper or magazine which she has read. She was unaware that Africa was not a country but a whole continent. She could not also name the countries that are members of the North American Free Trade Agreement which are (US, Mexico, and Canada).

Nigerians were discussing about the fact that President Musa Yar’Adua is the first university graduate to rule Nigeria. Academic certificates are now a big factor in politics and elections. On the other hand, forgeries of academic certificates have brought many down from high political positions. In Iran, former interior minister (Ali Kordan) was sacked for faking a law degree from Oxford University United Kingdom. In Nigeria, Salisu Buhari (former speaker of the House of Representatives) was forced to resign after discovering that he forged his certificates.

Information technology (internet, sms/text messages, mobile telephones, etc) have shaped elections. In America, the Obama campaign organization made use of over 1 billion text messages during his campaign. Obama campaign team maintained contacts with supporters largely through the internet. In Ukraine, the Orange revolution has been described as the internet revolution. This is because of the roles internet played in ushering in pro western/pro capitalist administration. In Iran, information technology enabled the opposition leaders to continue disseminating information to the outside world about the controversial June 12 2009 presidential elections. It’s worthy to note here that the Iranian authorities tried to restrict the flow of information when people started protesting the election result. Gordon Brown (the United Kingdom Prime Minister) uses the youtube (an internet facility) for his campaign.

Finance is another issue. As at October 15th 2008, before the November 4th 2008 American presidential election, the United States Federal Electoral Commission revealed that McCain campaign organization had spent $262 million dollars while Obama had spent $564 million dollars. Interestingly, bulk of Obama’s funding came from donations from ordinary Americans that needed change. As little as $1 dollar or less were donated to the Obama campaign organization. Funding might likely be a problem in the developing countries where the incumbents use state funds to campaign against the opposition. In Nigeria, the incumbent buy the voters or bribe voters.

Ages of the candidates seeking political offices are becoming very big determinants. In the western world, voters tend to follow younger leaders. David Cameron (leader of the Conservative Party in the UK) is tipped to be the next prime minister much due to his younger age. Usually ages 30 to 50 years old is more preferable. McCain (the last Republican Presidential candidate of America) was 72 years when he contested. Many voters felt he was well over the retirement age. Political parties in Nigeria should follow this example by choosing younger people to vie for elective positions.

Anti incumbency sentiments or in the case of Nigeria anti god father sentiments can alter the voting pattern. Voters can a times choose a candidate or vote against a candidate on sympathy basis. People can do this either because they hate the sponsors or god fathers in the case of Nigeria. In the South Eastern part of Nigeria, many candidates lost elections because their god father was Chief Arthur Nzeribe. Similar incident happened in America when people got fade up with Bush administration and his Republican Party, as such McCain suffered for it. Economic issues like high unemployment, rising national debts of a country etc can change the direction of elections. The defeat of the Japanese ruling party after nearly 54 years in power were partly as a result of Japanese economic problems.

Finally, the corrupt electoral system in Nigeria might be a hindrance to some of the features mentioned above from working in Nigeria. However the remain the winning formula for credible Nigerians seeking elective offices. May God bless Nigeria.

Chinedu Vincent Akuta
An activist and leader of “Support Option A4 Group” Leicester-UK
akutachinedu@yahoo.com
http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/

Nigeria’s Weekly Woes.

2009-08-23T15:01:00.000-07:00

In Nigeria, its one week one trouble or even more. Some authors have described Nigeria as a theatre and Nigerians the actors. Less than a month ago we were talking about the Niger Delta crisis, the militants, and the federal government amnesty. Hardly have we finished talking about the above, did the Boko Haram crisis erupted. As the Boko Haram troubles were about to die down, then came what I call the “Nigerian banking crisis” (Central Bank of Nigeria’s sacking of five bank chiefs and the astonishing in house revelations). By the time this crisis will die down, another national crisis will come up. I want to be proven wrong.

The Central Bank Governor (Lamido Sanusi) has simply done his job by sacking some bank executives for what I call gross misconduct. However for him (the Central Bank Governor) to complete this job, he need to also sack those Central Bank officials that continued to grant these banks facilities, despite their ailing financial state. Will this exercise started by the Central Bank Governor lead to another banking reform or full blown banking crisis? I will believe the later. Be that as it may, I know there will certainly be changes with the commercial banks. I wish to use this medium to suggest to the Central Bank Governor (Lamido Sanusi), to use his position and stop our commercial banks from sending young ladies and men running after people begging for cash to be deposited in their banks. The amount of targets given to banks staffs to get is simply outrageous.

It appears that the special units at the Central Bank of Nigeria, who are responsible for monitoring commercial banks, have failed in their duty or they are part of these non performing loans. Otherwise why didn’t they prevent this mess from happening? Who and who were responsible for this unit at the Central Bank? Why did the ex Central Bank Governor (Chukwuma Soludo) told the Nigerian Senate and Nigerians that all were good with all commercial banks in Nigeria?. Why did the past Central bank management connive to misinform the Nigerian public by deliberately covering these banks? Nigerians deserve a lot more explanations.

The Central Bank has also published the names, companies and their directors who have put these banks and the nation in this crisis. However this detailed list of these bank debtors has equally shown that, these are men and women who frequent the corridors of power, for example Dangote, Otedola, etc. Let’s not forget that this same Dangote was unanimously voted the chairman of the Nigerian Stock Exchange. Transnational Corp of Nigeria Plc, who has Prof Ndi Okereke-Onyiuke as one of their directors, is also heavily indebted. Prof Ndi Okereke-Onyiuke is the Director General of the Nigerian Stock Exchange.

The Central Bank has asked these bank debtors (Dangote, Ndi Okereke-Onyiuke, Alhaji Arisekola Alao etc) to pay their debts or the CBN will take appropriate legal actions to ensure payments. Could the Central Bank be kind enough to tell Nigerians what these legal actions would be? Could this be a criminal case? Can the Central Bank move against these directors? Will the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission arrest these debtors? Which reminds me, I read that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested some of the sacked former bank chief executives. To achieve a balance and fairness, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) should arrest immediately the debtors and those Central Bank officials who failed in their duties to spot this. There is no point arresting or declaring only the bank executives wanted. The debtors and some Central Bank officials should also face the music at the same time.

The Central Bank should make public the financial state of the remaining banks. The federal government and the National Assembly should intervene immediately on this matter. The affected banks should also be nationalized pending when these debts will be recovered, and that is if it will ever be recovered. Those bank executives who have gone into hiding should report themselves to the EFCC immediately. Nigerians should volunteer information to the law enforcement agents on the whereabouts of these people. Going underground means they have something to hide. Those that have relocated to abroad should remember the case of three British Natwest Bankers (David Bermingham, Gary Mulgrew and Giles Darby) that were extradited to the United States to face charges connected to Enron fraud case. The Nigerian authorities should sign extradition treaties (if there are none already) with western countries so that Nigerians who commit crimes at home and run away can be extradited back home to face charges.

The pains of this mess will eventually be borne by the innocent Nigerian masses that already have too much problems. The Central Bank should also use their privileged position to expose other shady financial transactions by all ministries, government departments and agencies, especially the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation. These revelations by the Central Bank might be a child’s play if the Central Bank should expose other sectors. Obviously this has made a mess of the banking reforms carried out by former Central Bank Governor (Soludo) who is also a beneficiary of the non performing loans that is causing this banking crisis in Nigeria.

The sacking of these bank executives and subsequent revelations about their financial state might trigger a ripple effect like mass withdrawal of funds. Nigerians know the pains of collapsed banks. Many innocent bank customers have died in the past as a result heart attacks occasioned by collapsed banks. Businesses have closed and many families made destitute as a result. I see no reasons why there will not be mass cash withdrawals as experiences have taught Nigerians bitter lessons.

On the international scene, this will further drive away foreign investors. Even the Nigerians in Diaspora will be reluctant to invest at this rate. Investor confidence is no more. Am sure local investors in Nigeria will be too scared which bank to do business with? Events are made worst due to global economic recession. Many sectors of the Nigeria’s economy will suffer as a result of this banking crisis. The “government’s economic policies” like vision 2020 might also be affected.

The Guardian newspaper of Wednesday August 19th 2009 (online version) reported that the Central Bank of Nigeria is planning a road show in the United Kingdom to explain its action and the soundness of the Nigerian banking industry to the international community. I think this might be a waste of time and resources because the international community will ask the Central Bank that is organizing the road show, why didn’t they spot these problems earlier and why did the (CBN) continue granting these five banks facilities when their books were not in order. The Central Bank should concentrate on cleaning up the banks. The positive impact of your (CBN) sanitization exercise in the banks will convince the international community. May God bless Nigeria.

Chinedu Vincent Akuta
An activist and leader of “Support Option A4 Group” Leicester-UK
akutachinedu@yahoo.com
http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/

Digital Cameras and Mobile Phones with Camera.

2009-08-15T23:55:00.000-07:00

The ideal situation would be free, fair and transparent elections in Nigeria. Presently, except there is a miracle and the National Assembly passes the Justice Uwais recommendation on electoral reforms, there will still be rigging (I want to be proven wrong). Assuming the National Assembly passes this bill, it still needs to be tasted with an election so as ascertain its efficacy or determine if its fowl proof or not. For me and my group, Option A4 remains the best electoral system, because it has been tasted and trusted. The present electoral system gives enough room for electoral fraud and manipulations, which in turn produces long and painful post electoral litigations. (I did a detailed article on post electoral litigations published on my web blog; briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com and other national and international media).

Am sure that as 2011 general election approaches, many corrupt politicians will be strategizing on how to rig elections. Patriotic Nigerians should also be thinking of how to counter electoral fraud or at best how to provide evidences to the law courts that will count against fraudulent electoral victories. Both the ruling party and the opposition parties might find my advice very useful. I will suggest that Nigerians buy digital cameras and mobile phones with camera as part of our preparation for the 2011 general election. The whole idea will be for people to record every event that happens around each pooling booth, more especially to record on tape the actual number of voters that will turn up for voting. This method will automatically contradict any manipulation of numbers at the collection centers or when the authorities decide to announce something different.

Video records of elections should then be posted to all media houses, and those with internet access should upload to YouTube or other internet websites so that it will be transmitted worldwide instantly. Video evidences can change situations and force accountability. The video recording of where the leader of Boko Haram (Yussuf) was captured alive and his subsequent death in police custody has forced the Nigerian President (Musa Yar’Adua) to order immediate probe. The video recordings of Yussuf’s interrogation by the Nigerian law enforcement agents are already on the YouTube. As a matter of fact, the African Independent Television (AIT) showed clips of the YouTube video of Yussuf on Friday 7th August 2009 during their politics and current affairs programme (Focus Nigeria).

In the West Bank, B’tslem (an award winning human rights organization) distributed about one hundred video cameras to its activists to secretly record Israeli shooting of innocent Palestinians. The video evidences compelled the Israeli Defence Force to order investigations and offer explanations. In the United Kingdom, a New York investment banker recorded a violent police action against a newspaper seller (Ian Tomlinson) just before he died during the G20 protest in London on April 1 2009. Scotland Yard (UK police in charge of policing the G20 summit are under serious investigation as a result of the video footage).

Citing the importance of video evidences, the British government installed more than five million close circuit televisions (CCTV) all over the country. There are more close circuit televisions (CCTV) in the United Kingdom than any where in the world. In addition speed cameras are every where in the United Kingdom and other western societies. These devices have proven very useful in the fight against crimes in the western societies.

In Iraq, Blackwater employees (staffs of a contracting firm that works for American diplomats in Iraq) who were on vehicle escort duty in central Iraq shot dead about seventy civilians whom they claimed threatened them. A key element that contradicted their claim was a video shot by someone who happened to be there. The video was broadcast to people and it immediately raised questions about the credibility of Blackwater. The video footage became a key factor for the political tide that turned against the Blackwater contractors. Within few months five Blackwater personnel were facing manslaughter charges in the US, and the State Department advisory panel recommended that Blackwater be dropped as a contractor for American diplomats in Iraq.

This equipment (digital camera and mobile phone with camera) can be pocket sized and within reasonable cost, meaning that many people can lay their hands on them. This method can reveal institutional vulnerability. Using the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) as a case study, video recordings on each pooling station can mar attempts to rig elections or at least provide evidences that could give victory to actual winners. The entire Nigerian public needs to give serious thoughts to this advice.

Non Governmental Organizations (NGO’s), community groups, labour unions, political parties, students groups etc should teach themselves and others how to record events using this simple technology (digital cameras and mobile phones with camera). This should be in preparation for the coming 2011 general elections. People might take for granted this digital technology, whereas in actual fact, it could do a lot to force accountability on the part of government and most influential people. It will also guarantee information transparency.

Another method to enforce accountability on our rulers will be for Nigerians to increase their surveillance of our rulers. Rulers are public servants; therefore their lives should be a public concern. Nigerians should be free to spy and expose their rulers. In the western societies, spying on leaders are very common. It’s a good mechanism to put leaders on check. In May 2009, spying on British MPs’ led to revelations about their expenses scandal. Over 182 MPs’ from all parties were indicted. British MPs repaid nearly half a million pounds in expenses money claimed since 2003. Many MPs are no longer standing for election due to this scandal. In a related development, Alan Duncan (a member of British House of Commons) was secretly filmed complaining about MPs’ pay and expenses. He apologized to the nation over his behavior.

Nigerians can adopt the measures outlined above in our efforts to build a better nation. The key to succeeding in the above ventures will be when all of us become active participants or support one another to undertake the ideas so expressed. May God bless Nigeria.

Chinedu Vincent Akuta
An activist and leader of “Support Option A4 Group” Leicester-UK
akutachinedu@yahoo.com
http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/

Authorities Have Indicted Authorities.

2009-08-08T21:36:00.001-07:00

Authorities in Nigeria have started to indict themselves, through their various actions, inactions, statements, evidences, submissions etc. International authorities have also handed their indictments. Truly, this will give Nigerians legitimate reasons to worry about their future. Events in and around Nigeria lends credence to this very fact. The sources of these comments are from top Nigerian government officials and internationally from credible sources. It’s actually an issue for concerns especially were the security and welfare of Nigerians are concerned. Let’s remember that the primary responsibility of any government any where in the world is welfare and security of its citizens. It becomes absurd and an abnormality when governments’ action(s) or inaction compromises the security of its citizens.

Starting with the Director General of the State Security Services (SSS), Afakriya Gadazama, he has warned that the 2011 elections will be bloody. He also indicated that the way the government ignores security reports will worsen the deplorable insecurity situation in the country. He revealed that information about numerous crises (Jos crisis, Boko Haram, kidnappings in Niger Delta, armed robberies in South East etc) was passed to the appropriate quarters. However, actions were never taken to prevent these crises. According to him, the high level of insecurity in the country is fallout of the political system which disconnected people from government and our porous borders.

According to Guardian newspapers of Saturday August 8th 2009 (online version), the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the Northern States and Abuja, has blamed the federal government and state governments in the Northern region (especially Borno State) for the outbreak of the Boko Haram crisis. In the western societies these revelations by the Director General of SSS and allegations by the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), are enough for the authorities involved to resign or publicly apologize to the nation. Same can happen in Nigeria.

On the question of porous borders, the Guardian newspapers (online version) of July 17th 2009 captured the candid revelations from the Customs. According to the Nigerian Customs Service (NCS) “smuggling had become difficult to check because of the involvement of privileged citizens and poor facilities for the operations by its personnel”.
The Inspector General of Police (Ogbonnaya Onovo) on his part said the Nigerian Police have problems of inadequate vehicles, shortage of personnel and outdated equipment to work with. A quick reminder here to Ogbonnaya Onovo that the former IGP (Balogun), embezzled a reasonable amount of police fund, which would have gone a long way in providing these amenities. Balogun’s successor as IGP (Sunday Ehidero) was also involved with attempts to steal large sums of money from police headquarters. All these information are in public domain.

The Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mrs. Farida Waziri has said the Freedom of Information bill currently being delayed by the National Assembly will boost the fight against corruption and other forms of economic crimes. Many Nigerians have complained about the deliberate delay in passing this bill. I wrote an open letter to our law makers published on my blog, (briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com) and other media outlets both nationally and internationally. The actions of our law makers (failure to pass the freedom of information bill) might become a stumbling block to EFCC’s fight against corruption. However the comment by Farida is an indictment on our law makers. Even Mallam Nasir el-Rufai (former Federal Capital Territory Minister) accused the federal government of insincerity in the fight against corruption.

The United Nations gave their own indictment on the state of Nigeria corruption last year (2008). According to the United Nations (UN), “Nigerian kleptocrats have milked the nation to the tune of about $100 billion dollars thorough various acts of grand corruption, the cost of which it lamented by far exceeded the damage caused by any other single crime” (Daily Sun, Wednesday, December 3, 2008 page 9). Last year (2008) the National Assembly indicted the power ministry when it revelled that $16 billion dollars was invested in power sector without anything to show for it. This investment was made without any single megawatt being added to the national grid.

Quoting the Guardian newspapers (online version) of Monday August 3rd 2009, the United Nations Children Education’s Fund (UNICEF) disclosed that almost one million children in the country still die from preventable and curable diseases. The UNICEF spokesperson (Ann Veneman) noted that more Nigerian children die from preventable diseases than any other country in Africa. Nigeria is also a country where the president and top government officials seek medical attention abroad. Thisday newspapers of Tuesday 14th April 2009 (online version), reported that the president (Umaru Musa Yar’Adua) approved foreign medical treatment for ex-governor Turaki of Jigawa State and a serving senator to be flown to Germany. Senator Turaki was involved in a road accident where he was injured. This is an evidence of total neglect of the federal and state ministries of health.

According to Thisday newspapers of Monday 8th December 2008 (online version), President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua said, “I want to assure all Nigerians that the federal government is fully resolved and committed to the electoral reform programme so that we can have peaceful and transparent elections in this country”. Several indictments came the way of the presidential promise on electoral reforms. Firstly was the attempt by the president himself to doctor the Justice Uwais recommendations. Secondly the way federal government conducted the Ekiti re-run election. Thirdly many notable Nigerians (Former Nigerian Head of State, General Muhammadu Buhari, former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar etc) have all accused the president of not being serious with the electoral reforms. Lastly ex President Obasanjo said one time that he was not aware of any electoral reform being undertaken by the Yar’Adua government. Obasanjo’s comment was reported by Thisday newspapers of Saturday 2nd May 2009 (online version).

President Yar’Adua has ordered a probe of the killing of the leader of Boko Haram (Yussuf) while under police custody. Meanwhile the president gave orders to both the military and the police for this group to be destroyed. Yussuf was the head of this group, so the group was destroyed as ordered by the president. Finally the president indicted himself as the chief security officer of the country when he embarked on a two day state visit to Brazil when his country was on fire due to the Boko Haram crisis. In July 2009, the Chinese President (Hu Jintao) left the G8 Summit in Rome Italy back to China, the moment riots broke out in Northwest part of China.

It is high time our rulers start to take responsibilities, praises and punishments for their actions and inactions. Nigerians need to demand this from our rulers. May God bless Nigeria.

Chinedu Vincent Akuta
An activist and leader of “Support Option A4 Group” Leicester-UK
akutachinedu@yahoo.com
http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/

Ignorance Is A Disease.

2009-08-02T03:53:00.000-07:00

Less than a year ago, I found myself writing about a crisis in Northern Nigeria (Jos Crisis), this time around its about the Bauchi religious crisis (Boko Haram Crisis). While am not trying to be a prophet of doom, I know that I might find myself again writing about another Northern Nigerian crisis after this, but I pray it never happen. Firstly my sympathies go to all the innocent Nigerians who were displaced, or who lost people or properties due to this crisis. Secondly I wish to condemn the group (Boko Haram or education is sin) that started this crisis. Religion should be peaceful and by choice. No group should seek to impose its religious beliefs on the rest of the country. Religion should not be a vehicle for violence. Islam is a peaceful religion.

Religious crisis has become a regular occurrence in the Northern part of Nigeria. Crisis of this nature usually spread to other Northern states and might have a spill over effect to some southern states. We have seen some reprisal attacks before in some south eastern and south western states. Be that as it may, the spread of this crisis to other Northern states did reveal the strength and network of this group. However, since religious crisis has become a common feature in the Northern Nigeria, the question is where next and how many innocent Nigerians will die?

These menaces (religious crises) have become a very big embarrassment to Nigeria and her citizens. In November 2002, riots from some Moslem youths that were opposed to Miss World contest in Abuja led to its cancellation and subsequent relocation of the show to London. About 100 people lost their lives in that incident. Ironically, a lady from Turkey (a Moslem country) won the contest in London. All these religious disturbances run contrary to all “efforts” of the federal government to boost tourism. The talk of attracting foreign investors in the face of regular religious mayhem might be a total waste of energy and resources.

Local investors are even tired of the instabilities in the Northern Nigeria. I know a number of Ibo business people that have relocated completely to the Owerri, Onitsha, Aba, Lagos etc due to these riots. Many have completely lost their means of livelihood. Remember a single religious crisis will have a negative multiplier effects on other sectors of the economy. Some people might become armed robbers when their means of livelihoods are destroyed. Many innocent non Moslems pay costly prices for these religious crises. My simple advice is that people should relocate their businesses outside these volatile northern states. That is the only way to guarantee safety. Prevention is better than cure.

But why are there always a religious crisis in the north and what are the measures to minimize it or stop it. Anger, poverty, ignorance, hatred, frustration, tribalism, politics etc are among the reasons, and without doubts some people benefits from such incidents. The whole incidents speak more of the failure of the system. According to the Director General of the State Security Service (Afakriya Gadazama), information before this crisis started and others were passed to the appropriate quarters. If what the SSS boss said was the truth, why did the appropriate quarters not prevent this from starting?

If no solution is found to these problems then the country will be seriously at risk. Past experiences have shown that Christians and non Moslems can easily become targets, and when Christians are attacked they usually fight back which makes the matter worst. The Zango-Kataf crisis of 1987 and Kaduna religious crisis of 1992 are typical examples. It shows that no tribe or group(s) has monopoly of violence and violence begets violence. Religious crisis can destroy a nation. Another example is Lebanon where fighting between Christians and Moslems devastated the country.

Ironically one of the reasons (say no to western education) why this group (Boko Haram) rioted and fought can also be one of the reasons, which could bring solutions to Northern Nigerian religious crises. Exposure to western education will obviously reduce this problem. Education is light. An educated people will make a better society. High level illiteracy rate makes it possible for people to be used for religious killings. Ignorance is a very serious damaging factor. Ignorance is like a disease. Until this disease is cured and our government becomes effective, Boko Haram crisis will be a child’s play compared to what will happen in the future. Illiteracy constitutes a danger to the development of our country.

Lessons have not been learnt from previous religious riots in Northern Nigeria. This is typical of our leadership problems. By now, our leaders should have known that those street boys and girls who are willing tools for these types of crises should have been educated or trained to engage in productive ventures. Had our been leaders been serious and visionary since over 30 years the religious crises have been repeating itself, efforts would have been made to educate the less privileged Nigerians. Knowledge is power. Mass education (western education) is needed. On the other hand, one will wonder why there has not been highest level of enlightenment in the north, despite the quota system which was meant to bridge the gap between the “educationally advantaged south” and “educationally disadvantaged north”.

Following incessant religious crises, I want to use this medium to appeal to the authorities of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) and other federal government establishments to reconsider posting non Moslems and non northerners to the north. Sending Christians and non natives to the north might mean their death warrants. This is because no person knows where and when the next riot will start. It does not give any notice and government has never paid any compensation to people that died through religious crises. There is no need to risk peoples life.

In the same manner, companies, banks, financial institutions, international and national NGO’s should consider posting only northerners to northern states. No person would like to die or no one would like to loose a family member or a loved one to religious crisis. To Ibo merchants and traders, you people have paid the heaviest price each time there is a crisis. The choice is yours to either continue to pay the costly price or relocate your business and family to a safer part of the country.

The Nigerian Police Force, the State Security Services (SSS), and other law enforcement agencies should ask for more powers that will enable them prevent future crisis. Where necessary, the State Security Services (SSS) could follow the examples of the FBI in America and MI5 in the UK that do preemptive arrests and prosecution of suspected terrorists. The Nigerian government should grant the law enforcements agents’ adequate powers to prevent such incidents in the future. Nigerians also owe the security services a duty to report suspicious groups or people to them. May God bless Nigeria.

Chinedu Vincent Akuta
An activist and leader of “Support Option A4 Group” Leicester-UK
akutachinedu@yahoo.com
http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/

Patriotism and Patriotism only.

2009-07-25T21:51:00.000-07:00

Let us start with economic patriotism. On Friday the 17th July 2009 the Guardian newspapers online version reported about the N500 billion naira stimulus packages for the industrial sector. This stimulus package is known as comprehensive industrial revival fund to help solve the problems faced by the real sector of the nation’s economy. It’s a good idea, just that the federal government should prevent corrupt practices from hindering this noble objective. Corruption remains the only obstacle to effective implementation of all government projects.

The Federal government should insert a clause in this stimulus packages mandating all government agencies and ministries to buy made in Nigeria goods. The United States of America inserted a “buy American” clause in the $787 billion stimulus package. Beijing inserted its clause “buy Chinese” on its own $586 billion stimulus package. Though it might look like protectionism but an economy like ours needs to protect certain sectors of their economy. Am aware that the government is almost the biggest spender in the country. Spending these huge sums strictly on made in Nigerian goods can stimulate growth and create employment opportunities. It could as well prevent capital flight and will also have a multiplier effects on other sectors of the economy.

If government can successful achieve this task of strictly buying made in Nigeria, then efforts should be geared towards encouraging the entire population to buy made in Nigeria. I watched former president Jerry Rawlings of Ghana on an interview when he said that his constant wearing of Ghana made cloths increased the sales of those materials. Former president Obasanjo wore a lot of Nigerian designed cloths during his eight year tenure as a civilian president. The federal government can use policy instruments to encourage made in Nigeria. Higher tariffs are suggested to discourage importation of goods that could be sourced at home. Outright ban on such commodities might be a preferred step.

The Nigerian Customs and Excise has a big role to play in policing our boarders if the above objectives are to be achieved. Smuggling will run counter to the above idea. I was taken aback when the Guardian newspapers (online version) of July 17th 2009 reported what the Nigerian Customs said about smuggling. According to the Nigerian Customs Service (NCS) “smuggling had become difficult to check because of the involvement of privileged citizens and poor facilities for the operations by its personnel”. This is like the Police force telling us that they can no longer enforce the laws or that they can only enforce the laws partially. This revelation is a disaster for the country. If the Customs cannot police our boarders, then our lives and properties are no longer safe. No wonder there small arms all over the country.

There is a positive correlation between what the Customs said and the high rate of crimes in the country. On the same newspaper, the Director General of the Standards Organization of Nigeria (SON) Dr John Akanya said that his life was being threatened by people opposed to his efforts to combat the importation of fake products to the country. Not long ago, over 80 Nigerian children died after being given a contaminated teeth medicine. NAFDAC under Dora Akinyuli fought a serious battle to clear the country of fake drugs etc. These and many more have made Nigerians an endangered species. Little wonder Nigeria is classified as a failed state.

Cultural patriotism is an area which can benefit Nigeria. But the question is, are we good ambassadors of our culture? The answer is both yes and no. We can export our individual, state and regional cultures to boost tourism. Tourism is a lucrative business all over the world. Tourism is estimated to be the world’s largest industry with revenues of over $500 billion dollars. It remains under developed in Nigeria. Employment opportunities can be created in this sector of our economy. Positive promotion of Nigerian cultures can yield revenues.

Our films (Nollywood) have actually taken Nigeria to a level unimaginable to us. It’s ranked the third largest film industry in the world. At a point in time, Zimbabwean government owned television was showing more of Nigerian firms. In the United Kingdom, many channels on the sky digital show Nigerian programs. Our home videos might be more popular outside the country than in Nigeria. Other Africans enjoy Nigerian films so much. Let us always watch and patronized our films industry etc. lets watch more Nigerian programs on the television. After all charity begins at home.

We can also record and export various cultural dances of our people. There are a lot of art and cultural festivals going on around the world that Nigerians can participate in. A positive image of our country will be in the national interest. Nigerians will be amazed to discover how far we could convert our rich cultural heritages into a money making ventures. Locally we can promote our cultures amongst Nigerians, this way we will get to understand our individual differences. Am not sure we know each tribes culture too well. We can build our nation by understanding our differences (cultures, traditions, religion etc) bias and stereotypes will be removed if we understand each other.

Sports patriotism remains one of the unifying forces in Nigeria. Nigerians exhibit a strong sense of unity each time there is a sports tournament or competition. The greatest of them all is whenever Nigeria is playing an international football match. Nigeria is a football nation. Nigerians love football. At such times everyone forgets whether he is Ibo, Efik, Ibibio, Yoruba, and Hausa etc. All that will matter is for Nigeria to win. All support goes to the motherland. Such unity in sports can be extended to other sphere of Nigerian life. May be we can use such avenues to heal some of the nations wounds. FIFA uses international football matches to campaign against racism. These days FIFA will beam to people their campaign message which is “Say No To Racism”. Nigerian authorities can use those moments to work towards uniting the country.

In addition to the existing sporting competitions in Nigeria, more needs to be organized. More sporting tournaments need to be introduced since it might have the tendency to unite us. Rugby, Horse racing, car racing, biking, surfing, sailing, baseball, hockey, darts, etc can be introduced. Nigerians might produce world champions if well exposed to these sports. The government might not be able do this. Therefore the private sector and corporate bodies in Nigeria could take up this challenge. Our patriotic acts will advance the course of our nation building. May God bless Nigeria.

Chinedu Vincent Akuta
An activist and leader of “Support Option A4 Group” Leicester-UK
akutachinedu@yahoo.com
http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/

The Truth

2009-07-19T03:35:00.000-07:00

The truth is the same whether spoken by Barack Obama (US President), Wole Soyinka, Gani Fawehinmi, Femi Falana, Olisa Agbakoba, late Fela, Odumegwu Ojukwu (Ikemba Nnewi), Bala Usman, late Martin Luther King etc. The truth is also straightforward and progressive. Therefore when nations are prosperous, there are relatively high degrees of honest approaches to governance. Leadership can be smooth using the sincere approach to issues. People like honest societies. In the Nigerian situation, only the truth shall set us free and move us forward as a nation. Nigerians owe the country and our rulers the duty to tell them the truth. This is because truth is like a shining sun which will prevail over darkness. Honesty brings transparency which is a vital instrument in nation building. What Obama spoke in Ghana was simply to re-emphasize the obvious necessity for truth and to energize all the people fighting for change in Nigeria and Africa.

The truth is that the world has changed and will continue to change. Infact change is the only permanent thing in life. Nigerian leaders need to be aware that Nigeria is changing and that the present generation of Nigerians will hold them accountable for whatever they do. No matter the number of years, Nigerians will hold them accountable and where necessary put them behind bars or where they rightly belong. No one can destroy the future of Nigerians and expect to go free. The world is witnessing the trial of 89 year old John Demjanjuk in Germany for an alleged offence (Nazi camp guard) which was committed over 60 years ago. John Demjanjuk was deported in May 2009 from America to Germany where he is standing trial. Therefore when Obama said in Ghana that we have the power to hold our leaders accountable, he meant that Nigerians and African should take justice to the oppressors or bring our corrupt rulers to justice no matter the time it takes (I will not advocate jungle justice). It also means that leaders should be careful knowing what awaits them if they misgovern.

The truth is also that those who make democratic transitions and changes impossible make violent resistance inevitable. In 1992 when an election in Algeria which was won by Islamic Salvation Front was cancelled, it plunged the country into war. By the time the crisis ended, over 150,000 died. Attempt to manipulation elections in Kenya saw the deaths of over 1,000 Kenyans. The instability in Cote d Ivoire is connected with attempts to subvert the people’s will. In Honduras, people are protesting the military take over of government. America is supporting the Honduran people, even though the ousted president is trying to pursue a different political and economic ideology (socialism) from America. As we approach 2011 elections, our “oppressors” either play by the rule or be ready to face the wrath of the Nigerian people.

Nigerians have been pushed to the wall for a long time and no more taking Nigerians for granted. Enough is enough. Nigerians want a good future and this is the time to start claiming that good future. History will be on the part of Nigerians who partake in the course of rebuilding Nigeria. I for one will do my best in this journey of rebuilding Nigeria. Am sure Nigerians will be willing to give their best when there is positive line of direction in this regard. A better Nigeria is in the best interest of all. Hopefully the west will support the struggle for good governance in Nigeria since what happens in Nigeria will have direct and indirect impact all over the world. Quoting part of Obama’s speech in Ghana, “What we will do is increase assistance for responsible individuals and institutions, with a focus on supporting good governance”

Another truth is that our Nigerian leaders are afraid of the people they lead, otherwise there wouldn’t be massive security personnel around them each time they move around. It’s also another reason why they rig elections, because they can’t stand the Nigerian masses. Tell me who among the present rulers will win any election under free and fair elections? Just recently the Senate President was campaigning for automatic ticket for all senators who are members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). The simple reason is that given a level playing field they might not come to the Senate. The deputy Senate President (Ike Ekweremadu) in a separate interview said that the automatic ticket which members of the National Assembly are seeking, is for continued stability of the country. Nigerians know the truth.

It’s also a basic truth that our rulers (past and present) are deaf and partially blind. They also surround themselves with sycophants who tell them what they want to hear. There is a big gap between the people and the government. Our rulers do not feel the pains and misery which they make ordinary Nigerians go through. They usually rent crowd or pay people to come to events to appear as if they are popular. Because they are deaf, they require a great deal of shouting and gesticulation. Because they are partially blind, that’s why the country is being misled. Now is our time to start making changes. Just like Obama said in Ghana that, “Africa’s future is up to Africans”. We the present generations of Nigerians must take our future in our hands.

Our opposition parties in Nigeria have not done very well, though I have to commend their plans to form a mega party to challenge the ruling party. But the truth is that there are still more jobs to do. Political parties need to outline programs they have for states and local governments. They need to mobilize Nigerians and increase electoral awareness. There is nothing wrong in educating people on how to checkmate rigging. After all there were some elections that could not be rigged in Nigeria. Proper voting could turn things around for the masses.

Another vital truth is that Nigerians have not fully realized the powers they have, both as individuals, collectively and as civil groups. Together and with a unity of purpose there is nothing the people of Nigeria cannot change. It’s only that our elites who are part of our problem will always use divide and rule methods on the Nigerian people. Many of our elites are only after there selfish interest while pretending to be serving the interest of the majority. The civil society groups have so much they can do. In Thailand anti government protesters stormed the gathering of ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) leaders in April 2009. The meeting ended abruptly and the ASEAN leaders fled. In Indonesia, the persistent street protest of students’ partly led to the fall of former president Suharto. In Nigeria, the effects of NADECO were widely felt. In Rumania, peoples protest helped to change the government of Nicolae Ceaucescu. At the height of the cold war in Poland, the trade union activities helped to open up the country.

The knowledge and application of the truth will both benefit the leaders, the people and the country at large. Any thing short of it will still be the continued journey of deceit which is the order of the day in Nigeria. Hoping that all have listened. May God bless Nigeria.

Chinedu Vincent Akuta
An activist and leader of “Support Option A4 Group” Leicester-UK
akutachinedu@yahoo.com
http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/

G8 Leaders Should Forget Africa.

2009-07-12T07:59:00.000-07:00

The G8 or group of 8 world richest nations (America, United Kingdom, France, Italy, Germany, Canada, Japan and Russia) at their 2005 summit in Gleneagles pledged to increase financial aid to Africa and other poor countries. The G8 leaders in 2005 pledged to raise up to $50 billion dollars in aid by 2010. At the just concluded G8 summit (July 7th to July 10th 2009) which took place in L’Aquila Italy, Gordon Brown (the United Kingdom Prime Minister) and other G8 leaders called on the group to honour the promise they made in 2005 to help Africa and other poor countries. As their summit ended in Italy, the G8 pledged another $20 billion for efforts to boost food supply to the hungry.

Reacting to the above summits as it concerns Africa, I do not think that Africa needs financial aid from the G8 countries. What Africa needs is the reparation of stolen wealth stashed in western banks, economic transparency, true democracy and peace. Therefore the G8 leaders should forget about aid to Africa and work on returning all the stolen wealth to Africa. African leaders have milked the continent dry by looting their treasuries. Many leaders (past and present) are guilty of this offence. These stolen wealth are taken to Europe, America, Asia and Middle East. Using Nigeria as a case study, “The United Nations (UN) says Nigerian kleptocrats have milked the nation to the tune of about $100 billion dollars thorough various acts of grand corruption, the cost of which it lamented by far exceeded the damage caused by any other single crime”(the Daily Sun, Wednesday, December 3, 2008 page 9). Please note that the Daily Sun mentioned above was published in Nigeria.

The figure quoted above by the United Nations is more than the total amount of aid that the G8 promised the entire African countries and other poor countries. Therefore without corruption, Nigeria would have been an economically powerful nation and thus help other African nations. Most of the Nigerian stolen wealth are scattered all over the Western countries especially the Swiss, Liechtenstein, and Luxembourg Banks. The late Nigerian Head of State, General Sani Abacha kept most of his stolen wealth in Swiss Bank. He stole over $3 billion dollars. Till date, all the money has not been recovered. Am sure the Swiss Banks are still accepting corrupt money from most corrupt African leaders.

Just recently the Nigerian government traced the Halliburton $150 million dollar bribe money to Zurich. The total amount was $180 million dollars. $30 million dollar is yet to be traced or found. A lot of corrupt Nigerian leaders have used the state money to acquire personal properties in Europe and America. Other corrupt African leaders like, late Mobutu Sese Seku (former president of Democratic Republic of Congo), Charles Taylor (former Liberian President) Ibrahim Babangida (former Nigerian Head of State) etc have most of there stolen wealth all over the world.

The G8 countries have a complete dossier or can easily obtain data on all corrupt money and properties of corrupt African leaders. If the G8 is sincere about giving aid to Africa, they should repatriate this money back to the people whose leaders have made poor and miserable. Bob Geldof has done marvellously well to bring the G8 leaders attention to the plight of poor people of Africa. His project of making poverty history will be more meaningful if he can re-strategize his campaign and ask the G8 leaders to return all the stolen wealth in their countries or else where in world back to Africa.

The World Bank should also consider stopping financial aid to Africa particularly where there is a proven case of corrupt leadership. In a recent World Bank consultation in London (Wednesday, June 17th 2009), I asked about their criteria for disbursing aids and loans to developing countries. Though that the World Bank might want to help the poor, but in most cases the problems they are trying to solve were caused by corrupt leaders. The World Bank should devise a means of working with other international financial institutions, to make it difficult for corrupt African leaders to keep their looted money any where in the world. Reparation of the already stolen wealth should be on the agenda of the World Bank. This is the best way the can help the poor people of Africa.

Africa cannot develop by relying on western aid. Also the Western countries cannot continue giving aid to Africa. The present global economic down turn is a pointer that financial aid from the G8 might not be sustainable. “According to Action Aid, Italy is on course to fall $1.037bn short of its Gleneagles pledge to double financial support to Africa, while France is $1.249bn behind, Germany $497m, the United States $263m, Canada $186m and Japan $138m” (the Independent newspaper, Wednesday, 8TH July 2009, page 2). Please note that the independent newspaper mentioned above is published in the United Kingdom

African leaders should learn to develop their economy with minimal foreign reliance. They should look at a fellow third world country like Cuba. Cuba has survived worst economic blockades from the west for over 40 years. Not withstanding the western economic blockages against Cuba, no third world country has approached or even come closer to the Cuban high standards in health and education. At some point, there were more than 15,000 (fifteen thousand) Cuban medical doctors working in over 25 countries of the third world. This should be a model for other countries to copy and not waiting for financial aid. It’s better to teach and tell Africa to be self reliant than giving aids.

What the G8 should do for Africa is to stop the flow of small arms to the continent. Angola, Congo DRC, Somali, Eritrea etc are examples of the havocs these small arms have done to Africa. The G8 should consider withdrawing recognition of dictators like Omar al-Bashir of Sudan for his complicities in the Darfur crisis. The G8 should also consider tougher sanctions for countries with poor human rights records, for example Burma, Zimbabwe, etc. Any assistance or partnership should be tied down to transparent democratic process.

Finally if for any reason(s) the G8 decides to go ahead with giving financial aid to African countries. Strict conditions have to be met. A country like Liberia should be considered, this is due to their improvement on curtailing corruption. Ghana and Botswana should be considered for being the beacon of democracy in Africa. Nigeria should never be given any assistance or further loans. This is because it ends up in private pockets. Nigeria is sufficiently rich to solve her problems. May God bless Nigeria.

Chinedu Vincent Akuta
An activist and leader of “Support Option A4 Group” Leicester-UK
akutachinedu@yahoo.com
http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/