society
Yes, We (Africans) Seek Justice Without Borders
Yes, We (Africans) Seek Justice Without Borders.
By George O. Sylvester | Published by SaharaWeeklyNG.com
“Why Africa Must Lead the Call for Universal Accountability.”
On September 30, 2025, a military court in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo, sentenced former president Joseph Kabila to death in absentia for treason and war crimes. This ruling sent shockwaves across Africa and the world, as Kabila, who ruled the DRC from 2001 to 2019, has long been accused of profiting from Congo’s bloody resource wars, overseeing massacres and entrenching corruption that left millions dead or displaced. For many Congolese victims, the ruling was a delayed but symbolic form of justice. Yet, it also raises a much larger and uncomfortable question: why is justice so often selective? Why are African leaders punished while Western leaders who committed atrocities walk freely?
The world cannot applaud Kabila’s sentence and simultaneously ignore the crimes of those whose decisions destroyed nations, unleashed wars and killed millions outside Africa. If justice is to be meaningful, it must be universal, not geographical.
Selective Justice: The African Dilemma.
Across Africa, leaders like Charles Taylor of Liberia and Hissène Habré of Chad have faced justice. Taylor is serving 50 years in a British prison for aiding war crimes in Sierra Leone. Habré died in prison after being convicted for atrocities in Chad. Omar al-Bashir of Sudan was indicted by the International Criminal Court (ICC) for genocide in Darfur. Now, Kabila has been sentenced in the DRC.
On one hand, these trials prove that impunity is no longer absolute. On the other, they reveal a painful hypocrisy: the wheels of international justice grind fastest when the accused is African.
When the International Criminal Court (ICC) was established in 2002, it was hailed as the dawn of global justice. Yet in over two decades, almost all of its prosecutions have been against Africans. Meanwhile, leaders from powerful nations who launched illegal wars, bombed civilians or backed occupations have never faced an indictment. Justice, it seems, has a passport and it is not African.
The Crimes of the Powerful: Bush, Blair, Netanyahu.
Consider George W. Bush and Tony Blair, who in 2003 launched the Iraq War on false claims of weapons of mass destruction. The invasion caused the deaths of over 500,000 Iraqis (according to Brown University’s Costs of War project), displaced millions and destabilized the entire Middle East. The war was not sanctioned by the UN, making it a clear violation of international law. Yet Bush now paints portraits in Texas and Blair collects speaking fees, while Iraq lies shattered.
Or take Benjamin Netanyahu, Israel’s long-serving prime minister. Under his watch, Israeli forces have overseen repeated bombardments of Gaza, including the current campaign in which thousands of Palestinian civilians have been killed. The UN and human rights organizations have repeatedly accused Israel of disproportionate force, collective punishment and potential war crimes. Yet Netanyahu is not in The Hague; he is still welcomed in Western capitals as a “PARTNER in DEMOCRACY.”
The question burns: if Kabila deserves a death sentence for enabling war crimes in Congo, do Bush, Blair and Netanyahu not deserve at least a trial for the rivers of blood on their hands? Or is justice only enforceable when the accused is African or from a weaker continent?
Africa’s Burden and Opportunity.
Africa has been the testing ground for global justice, but it must now become the vanguard of a new movement: justice without borders. If Congo can put its former president on trial, then African states can demand the same standard for Western leaders whose crimes have left scars across continents.
The call should begin at the African Union (AU). Too often, the AU has condemned the ICC for “TARGETING AFRICANS” while failing to articulate an alternative vision of justice. That time is over. Instead of rejecting accountability, Africa must expand it.
Let the AU declare: No leader, whether African, European, American or Asian, is above the law. Let Africa push for reforms at the UN Security Council and the ICC, ensuring that the principle of universal jurisdiction is enforced not selectively applied.
Justice as a Global Right.
International law already provides the tools. The Nuremberg Principles, drafted after World War II, state clearly that individuals (including heads of state) can be held criminally responsible for crimes against humanity, war crimes and aggression. The principle of universal jurisdiction allows any state to prosecute such crimes, regardless of where they occurred. Spain once tried this against Chile’s dictator Augusto Pinochet. Why can’t Africa try the same with Bush, Blair or Netanyahu?
Some may argue that the politics of power make this impossible. After all, America, Britain and Israel wield enormous influence. But history shows that moral courage can topple even empires. The anti-apartheid struggle, led by Africans but supported globally, forced South Africa to its knees. Why should the fight for global accountability be any different?
A Justice Manifesto for the 21st Century.
What Africa must demand is not vengeance, but consistency. If justice is to have meaning, it cannot be the privilege of the weak and the punishment of the poor. It must apply equally to all who abuse power.
If Joseph Kabila faces death for crimes in Congo, then George W. Bush must answer for Iraq.
If Charles Taylor sits in a British cell, then Tony Blair must stand in The Hague.
If Omar al-Bashir is indicted for Darfur, then Benjamin Netanyahu must be indicted for Gaza.
Anything less is not justice; it is legalized hypocrisy.
The Moral Power of Africa’s Voice.
The irony is sharp: Africa, long painted as the continent of impunity, now has an opportunity to be the continent of universal accountability. Kabila’s sentence may mark a turning point. By holding one of its own to account, Congo has opened the door for Africa to say to the world: we will not accept double standards.
As Desmond Tutu once said: “If you are neutral in situations of injustice, you have chosen the side of the oppressor.” Africa can no longer be neutral. It must be radical in demanding justice not just for Africans, but for Iraqis, Palestinians, Afghans, Yemenis, Libyans and all victims of imperial violence.
Final Thoughts: Justice Must Have No Passport.
Joseph Kabila’s sentencing may be historic, but it will be meaningless if justice remains selective. True justice must have no borders, no passports, no colors. Africa must lead this charge, not as a victim of double standards, but as the champion of equality before the law.
If the world is serious about ending impunity, then it must confront this uncomfortable truth: Kabila is guilty, but so too are Bush, Blair, Netanyahu and others who bathe their hands in the blood of innocents. Until they face accountability, the promise of “NEVER AGAIN” will remain the biggest lie of the 21st century.
society
Stakeholders Seek Urgent Reforms to Tackle Youth Unemployment at disrupTED EduKate Africa Summit
Stakeholders Seek Urgent Reforms to Tackle Youth Unemployment at disrupTED EduKate Africa Summit
By Ifeoma Ikem
Stakeholders in Nigeria’s education sector have called for urgent and scalable solutions to address the rising rate of youth unemployment, stressing the need for strengthened technical education and increased collaboration with the private sector to bridge existing skills gaps.
The call was made at the disrupTED EduKate Africa Summit 2026, a one-day leadership forum held at the University of Lagos, where participants examined the growing disconnect between education outcomes and labour market demands.
The summit brought together education leaders, private sector operators and development advocates to promote adaptive learning, practical skills acquisition and innovative financing models for Africa’s education sector.
Experts at the summit strongly advocated increased investment in technical and vocational education, noting that training programmes must reflect current industry realities and evolving labour market needs.
Speakers emphasised that Nigeria’s education system, particularly at the tertiary level, must urgently shift from certificate-driven learning to skills-based and experiential education aligned with global best practices.
Among the speakers were Deby Okoh, Regional Manager at Brunel University of London; Ashley Immanuel, Chief Operating Officer of Semicolon; Olapeju Ibekwe, Chief Executive Officer of Sterling One Foundation; and education advocate, Adetomi Soyinka.
The speakers highlighted the importance of continuous learning, teacher retraining and comprehensive curriculum reform to meet the demands of an increasingly technology-driven global economy.
They stressed that apprenticeship programmes, internships and hands-on training should be fully integrated into academic curricula, noting that over-reliance on theoretical qualifications has widened the employability gap among graduates.
In his remarks, Mr Tosin Adebisi, Director of EduKate Africa and convener of the summit, said the event was designed to challenge what he described as the education sector’s rigid attachment to outdated methods.
Adebisi said innovation must remain central to education reform, adding that stakeholders must rethink teaching methods, learning processes and approaches to solving challenges such as access to education, financing and employability.
He expressed confidence that sustainable solutions could be achieved through strong collaboration across education, private sector and development institutions.
Adebisi, alongside co-Director Mr Francis Omorojie, said the summit aimed at connecting stakeholders working across sectors to close existing skills and opportunity gaps for young people.
The summit also urged parents and educators to promote lifelong learning, critical thinking and adaptability among young people, stressing that education systems must evolve in line with global economic trends.
No fewer than 200 students from the University of Lagos, Lagos State University, Ojo, and other institutions participated in the summit, which was initially expected to host the Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa.
In a welcome address, Prof. Olufemi Oloyede of the University of Lagos emphasised the need to shape young minds through innovation and positive thinking, noting that Africa’s development depends on the strategic use of its human and natural resources, as well as a shift towards creativity and innovation among youths.
Turning Point: Dr. Chris Okafor Resumes with Fresh Fire of the Spirit
-Steps onto the Grace Nation Pulpit After a Month-Long Honeymoon Retreat with Renewed Supernatural Power
By Sunday Adeyemi
The much-anticipated February 1, 2026 “Turning Point” service of Grace Nation has come and gone, but its impact remains deeply etched in the hearts of Grace Nation citizens across the world. The significance of the day was unmistakable—it marked the official return of the Generational Prophet of God and Senior Pastor of Grace Nation Global, Dr. Chris Okafor, to active ministerial duty as the Set Man of the commission.
The date was particularly symbolic, as Dr. Okafor had taken close to one month away from the pulpit following his wedding late last year. The period served not only as a honeymoon but also as a season of rest, reflection, and intimate fellowship with God in preparation for a greater spiritual assignment ahead.
The atmosphere at Grace Nation was electric as the Generational Prophet and his wife were received with a heroic welcome, accompanied by prophetic praise, joyful dancing, and fervent prayers. It was a celebration of return, renewal, and readiness.
In his opening remarks, Dr. Chris Okafor declared that he had returned to fully pursue the mandate God entrusted to him—winning souls for the Kingdom of God. He issued a strong warning to the kingdom of darkness, stating that light and darkness cannot coexist. According to him, the season ahead would witness intensified spiritual engagement, as the Kingdom of God advances and the forces of darkness lose ground.
“This time,” the Generational Prophet affirmed, “it will be total displacement of darkness, as the light of God shines brighter than ever.”
The Message: Turning Point
Delivering a powerful sermon titled “Turning Point,” Dr. Okafor explained that a turning point is defined as a moment when a decisive and beneficial change occurs in a situation. He emphasized that such moments are often preceded by battles.
According to him, battles do not necessarily arise because one is doing wrong, but because God desires to reveal His power and teach vital lessons through them. Every genuine battle, he noted, carries divine involvement and purpose.
Addressing the question “Why must I fight a battle?” Dr. Okafor explained that individuals who carry extraordinary grace often encounter greater challenges. “When you carry what others do not carry,” he said, “the battles that come your way are usually bigger.”
Characteristics of a Turning Point
The Generational Prophet highlighted that when a person is firmly rooted in God, no storm can uproot them. A strong spiritual foundation ensures that no battle can shake one’s destiny. He explained that prayer does not eliminate battles, but preparation through prayer guarantees victory on the evil day.
“Battles push you into your turning point when you are rooted in the Spirit,” he stated, adding that a prayerful life is essential for sustained victory and elevation.
A Supernatural Service
The Turning Point service witnessed an extraordinary move of the Holy Spirit in a fresh dimension. Deliverance, healings, miracles, restoration, and diverse testimonies filled the atmosphere as worshippers encountered the power of God during the Sunday service.
In a related development, Dr. Chris Okafor officially commissioned the ultra-modern church restaurant, Fourthman Foodies, dedicating it to God for the benefit and use of Grace Nation citizens worldwide.
The February 1 service has since been described by many as a defining moment—one that signals a new spiritual season for Grace Nation Global. https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1B2Eh6B6wo/
Sunday Adeyemi is a Lagos-based journalist and society writer. He writes from Lagos.
Adron Homes Hails Ondo State at 50, Celebrates Legacy of Excellence
The Chairman, Board of Directors, Management, and staff of Adron Group have congratulated the Government and people of Ondo State on the celebration of its 50th anniversary, describing the milestone as a significant chapter in Nigeria’s federal history and a testament to visionary leadership, resilience, and purposeful development.
In a goodwill message issued to commemorate the Golden Jubilee, Adron Group noted that since its creation in 1976, Ondo State has consistently distinguished itself as a centre of honour, intellect, and enterprise. Fondly referred to as The Sunshine State, the state has produced generations of outstanding professionals, administrators, and national leaders whose contributions continue to shape Nigeria’s socio-economic and political development.
According to the company, the strength of Ondo State lies not only in its rich cultural heritage and intellectual depth, but also in the values of integrity, diligence, and excellence that define its people. These qualities, Adron noted, have remained the bedrock of the state’s enduring relevance and national impact over the past five decades.
Adron Group further commended the state’s renewed drive in recent years towards infrastructure development, economic diversification, industrial growth, and youth empowerment, describing these initiatives as indicators of a forward-looking, inclusive development agenda anchored in sustainability and long-term prosperity.
“As a corporate organisation committed to nation-building and sustainable development, Adron Group recognises Ondo State as a strategic partner in progress,” the statement read. “We commend His Excellency, Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, Executive Governor of Ondo State, and the leadership of the state at all levels for their dedication to public service and their commitment to the advancement of the people.”
As Ondo State marks its Golden Jubilee, Adron Group joined millions of well-wishers in celebrating a legacy of excellence, strength of character, and promise, while expressing optimism that the next fifty years will usher in greater milestones in economic vitality, social advancement, innovation, and enduring peace.
The company concluded by wishing the Government and people of Ondo State continued progress and prosperity, adding that the Sunshine State remains well-positioned to shine even brighter in the years ahead.
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