society
Hardship: Igbo Elders Reveal Why Igbo shunned nationwide protest
Hardship: Igbo Elders Reveal Why Igbo shunned nationwide protest
It is no longer news that Igbo, especially in the five Southeast states, did not participate in the End Bad Governance protest that started in other parts of the country on August 1.
However, why the Igbo shunned the protest and the implications for the country are raising issues in the polity.
Across other parts of the country, angry protesters stormed the streets and for more than five days vented their spleen against what they described as bad Governance, hunger and hardship in the country. The protest became riotous in the North as hoodlums looted shops, and business centres among others. Many states declared curfews to contain the mayhem.
But there was pin-drop silence in the South-East leading many to ask if the zone and Igbo are insulated from the prevailing economic downturn in the country.
Ameh fingers inequity, injustice
Speaking on the issue, Chief Peter Ameh, former Presidential candidate and national secretary of the Coalition of United Political Parties, CUPP, said the “absence of equity, justice and fairness is the reason for the political apathy by Igbo in the Nigerian project.”
According to him, “constant and unjust scapegoating of the Igbo ethnic group in Nigeria is the major reason why Igbo abstained from the nationwide protests.”
He continued: “Failure to implement General Yakubu Gowon’s Reconstruction, Reconciliation and Rehabilitation programme is a catalyst for growing lack of commitment by all persons of Igbo extraction within and outside Nigeria in many programmes of the government.”
Chief Ameh also attributed Igbo boycott of the protest to “marginalisation of Igbo in strategic economic and administrative positions under the APC governments, and acts of tribal exclusion mixed with political bigotry.”
He continued: “The main reason why the entire Southeast geopolitical zone of Nigeria was unanimous in their decision not to participate in the ongoing #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria protest across the country is primarily as a result of the easy targeting of lives and property of Igbo whenever there is an uprising or protests in Nigeria.
“Being the only tribe in Nigeria that could be found and visibly seen in the remotest parts of the country, Igbo are always at the receiving end of the consequences of any activity carried out either by the Nigerian government or the public.
A typical example is seen in the 2023 general elections where the Igbo were violently attacked and threatened because they decided to vote for a particular candidate of their choice.
“I may be inclined to justify the decision of Ndigbo to distance themselves from the ongoing protest based on the way and manner they are being treated in Nigeria regarding their engagements in the affairs of the Nation especially under the APC governments.
“Just like other marginalised ethnic nationalities in Nigeria, Igbo remain an integral part and the economic backbone of the Nigerian Nation. The earlier they are fully accepted and given a sense of belonging in the affairs of this Nation, the better and more productive the country will become.
Implications of the boycott
“The entire South-East boycotting protests can have long-term implications and consequences. Boycotting protests can marginalize the voices of those who are already vulnerable or excluded, making it harder for them to be heard and potential for further division between South easterners and their regional allies in Nigeria.
“Boycotting protests can create divisions within them and other regions of the country, potentially leading to further conflict and distrust between them and other ethnic communities of the Nation.
“The region may be further marginalized if they are not actively participating in such national protests, potentially leading to increased exclusion from decision-making processes.
“By ? boycotting the End Bad Governance protests in Nigeria, they may have missed the opportunity to build alliances and negotiate with other sub-national regions that could bring about meaningful future collaboration.
“The boycott may be perceived as a lack of commitment to the plight of others and may be viewed as an act of insensitivity toward others which may further widen the trust deficit in the country.”
Why our people shunned protest —Igbo Elders
Some Igbo Elders shared Chief Ameh’s thoughts.
According to Prof. Obasi Igwe, the Director, Media and Publicity, at the United Igbo Elders Council, UNIEC, Worldwide, the Igbo declared a lack of interest in the protests not because they didn’t know there was bad governance but because the same souls were badly governed have never condemned the isolation of mostly Igbo, and some Middle Belters and Hausa, for slaughter and annihilation.
The Igbo shunned the #EndBadGovernance nationwide protest based essentially on the differential attitude to human rights that the organizers have shown towards the Igbo/East in particular, and other Nigerians as well.
“The Igbo also feel, with experience, that the people who are angry that they did not participate in the protest may turn round halfway to claim it was the Igbo that caused the bad governance protests, with the usual consequences on the Igbo people.
“Easterners, in general, must establish the seriousness of anything before deciding on it, because they desire the salvation of everybody on a common civilizational principle, not ad hoc coalitions to forge ahead against one side today and another tomorrow, ending up with no substantive beneficial change.”
Prof. Igwe also stated that Igbo were suspicious of the whole arrangement of the protest, saying: “You are protesting against your oppressors, and you have time to negotiate with the same oppressors on how you talk, where to talk, how, where and when to assemble, and other such pretences as discussing how to present your case to a starving and dying populace with the same people responsible for your ordeals! And, you will be presenting your case, the “protests,” in concealed corners where you would only be talking to yourselves while “life” or “bad governance” goes on outside the walls, and, you are protesting!”
Added to that according to Prof. Igwe, is “You start looting the shops and markets of those you wish to join you. That was why the Igbo refused to participate, without this being any form of acquiescence to bad governance, of which, by the way, the Igbo have all along been the worst targets in Nigeria.”
He also said Ndigbo did not only shun the protest but they equally opened their markets and demanded unconditional release and rehabilitation of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, and others.
“Also, the Igbo shunned the #EndBadGovernance nationwide protest because of the loud silence, signalling acquiescence, of some of its organizers to the extremely targeted injustices against the Igbo/East and, for the last nine years, orchestrated killings, with countless evidence of official involvement or connivance, with no sympathy from anywhere.
“Right now, even before the August 1 date the protest started, the Ndigbo were already being threatened, attacked and molested in Lagos with no word of condemnation by those said to be fighting against bad governance.
“Nevertheless, the Igbo population, being the major victims, understand the Nigerian situation very well, and know what can be done to address it, starting with ending the unparalleled oppression of Easterners.”
*Oyo Teachers Hold Solemn Assembly, Pray for Peace, Security*
Teachers in Oyo State have been urged to be steadfast in prayers for the State Wing Executive Council of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) and Oyo State.
The Chairman, NUT, Oyo State wing, Comrade Raji Oladimeji made the call on Thursday during a Solemn Assembly held at the Union’s headquarters in Ibadan.
The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) holds an annual Solemn Assembly in Ibadan to commit the union’s activities, teachers’ welfare, and Oyo State into God’s hands through prayers led by Christian and Muslim clerics.
Comrade Oladimeji said the programme was designed to draw the leadership of the Union and the entire members closer to God, stressing that nothing was impossible with God.
Comrade Oladimeji said: “We pray to God to lead us, and to teach us what we need to know and what we need to do. We are here today to surrender our petitions to the Lord God. We believe He will hear us and our demands will come to pass”.
The NUT Chairman revealed that a lot was being done to improve the welfare of Oyo teachers, expressing confidence that Governor Seyi Makinde’s administration in improving on the welfare of teachers in the state.
He applauded relevant government agencies, such as Oyo State Universal Basic Education Board, OYOSUBEB, Oyo State Post-Primary Teaching Service Commission, TESCOM, and the Ministry of Education for prioritising the welfare of teachers.
Oladimeji equally appreciated the National President, NUT, Com. Audu Titus Amba for his relentless advocacy for improved teacher welfare, and his efforts in ensuring better working conditions across the country.
He therefore charged the teachers to be role models to their pupils and students.
Oladimeji also emphasized the need for teachers to seek the face of God in their lives to be able to discharge their duties aright.
In their separate sermons, Pastor (Mrs) Margaret ‘Dayo Akinrinde, from the Redeemed Christian Church of God, RCCG Oyo Province 2, Ibadan and Comrade Alh. Haroon Lawal, a retired Permanent Secretary likened teachers to a Shephard who dedicated much of His time to caring for His flock, further describing the teachers as the “shepherds of our generation”.
Consequently, the Union also donated welfare materials to teachers in the 33 local government areas of the State.
The items which include customized clothing materials and other items were distributed to NUT leaders for onward distribution to the teachers.
While distributing the items, the Chairman, Com. Raji Oladimeji informed members that the materials were given to appreciate the efforts that teachers have been putting into the education of students.
The event, which was attended by relevant authorities, and teachers from across the state, featured Quran and Bible readings, prayer session for the leadership of the NUT at all levels, for teachers across the country, for Union staff and for the entire workforce of Nigeria, amongst other prayer points.
PRESIDENT BOLA TINUBU AND GENERAL CHRISTOPHER MUSA: A NEW ERA OF SECURITY AND PROGRESS
By Prince Sunday Joshua Bako
President Bola Tinubu has made significant strides in addressing Nigeria’s security challenges since taking office, with notable important appointments and initiatives aimed at stabilizing the nation. One of his key important appointments is General Christopher Musa as the Minister of Defence, who has brought a wealth of experience and strategic thinking to the role.
General Musa, a seasoned military leader, hit the ground running, launching a series of bold operations to tackle the Boko Haram insurgency and other security threats. His approach has been characterized by speed, agility, and a deep understanding of the complexities of modern warfare.
In his first few months in office, General Musa has achieved significant milestones, including the liberation of over 1,500 hostages and the reclamation of strategic territories in Borra, as well as the introduction of mobile strike teams equipped with night-vision capabilities and armored vehicles.
The General established a dedicated Cyber Warfare Command to fortify Nigeria’s defenses against emerging threats, and introduced comprehensive health insurance for soldiers, covering combat-related injuries. Additionally, he has increased allowances for frontline troops by 20% in 2024, a move aimed at boosting morale and improving the welfare of security personnel.
President Tinubu has made historic and significant strides in addressing Nigeria’s security and economic challenges, implementing policies aimed at boosting growth and stability. His administration has launched initiatives to address banditry, kidnapping, and terrorism, and has invested in infrastructure projects to improve connectivity and economic development.
The headlines speak for themselves what it was during the last tenure of President Muhammadu Buhari’s tenure and the giant strides we have made now under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and General Christopher Musa as Defence Minister.
1. Boko Haram Insurgency: 55 people killed in two raids near Maiduguri (2015)
2. Takum Taraba State Attack: 21 people killed (2015)
3. Agatu Massacre: Thousands displaced in Benue State (February 29, 2016)
4. Akure Cult Attack: 103 people killed (2017)
5. Ogbagi Akoko Bank Robbery: 20 people killed (2017)
6. Boko Haram Attack on Military Base: 66 personnel killed in Geidam (2018)
7. Kpanche Attack: 40 people killed in Kogi State (2018)
8. Izi Communal Clash: 85 people killed in Ebonyi State (April 2019)
9. Anguwan Aku Attack: 78 people killed in Kaduna State (April 2019)
10. Kankara Attack: 96 people killed in Katsina State (April 2019)
11. Safana, Dutsinma and Danmusa Attack: 67 people killed in Katsina State (2020)
12. Baga Convoy Attack: 30 people killed (2020)
13. Effium Attack: 14 people killed in Ebonyi State (2021)
14. Kurebe Ward Attack: 77 people killed in Niger State (February 2021)
15. Ebenebe Burial Attack: 20 people killed in Anambra State (February 26, 2022)
16. Owo Church Attack: 40 worshipers killed in Ondo State (June 5, 2022)
17. Aba Military Patrol Attack: unspecified number of Soldiers killed in Abia State (2022)
18. Niger State Terrorist Attack: Over 380 people killed (2022)
19. Ogun State Cult Violence: 8 people killed (2022)
20. Katsina Bandit Attack: 87 bandits killed (2022)
21. Northeast Nigeria Islamist Militant Attack: 340 people killed (2022)
22. Boko Haram-Related Violence: Over 5,000 fatalities (2016)
23. Herder-Farmer Clashes: 794 died in violence in middle belt region
24. Kidnapping: Growing industry flourished with high-profile cases
25. Niger Delta Militancy: Attacks on oil installations
26. Pro-Biafra Movement: Tensions and violence in southeast region
27. Islamist Insurgency: Thousands killed and displaced throughout northern Nigeria
28. Banditry: Increased attacks in northern Nigeria
29. Armed Robbery: historic threat to citizens
30. Cult Violence: Frequent attacks and killings during 8 years.
31. Terrorist Threats: US warns citizens in Nigeria to flee (2022)
32. Security Personnel Attacks: 238 police officers killed (2022)
33. Impeachment Attempts: Lawmakers try to remove Buhari (July 2022)
34. Boko Haram Amnesty Program: Controversy over government’s handling
35. Deradicalization Programs: Initiatives to reintegrate former militants who later rejoin insurgency
36. Operation Safe Corridor: Program to rehabilitate Boko Haram members end in controversy
37. National Counter Terrorism Strategy: Updated in 2016 failed
38. Military Campaigns: Operations against Boko Haram and other groups collapsed
39. International Cooperation: Support from US, UK, and other countries
40. Humanitarian Crisis: Displacement and economic impact
41. Economic Consequences: $100 billion disappeared or lost due to insecurity
42. Agricultural Impact: Farming disrupted in northeast and North West region
43. IDP Crisis: Over 4 million displaced
44. Security Budget: Increased spending with mixed results
45. Corruption Allegations: Questions over security fund management
46. Leadership Criticism: Analysts question Buhari’s approach
47. Ethnic and Religious Tensions: Ongoing conflicts
48. Porous Borders: Security challenges due to border control issues
49. Armed Groups: Rise of non-state actors
50. Civilian Casualties: High numbers reported throughout Buhari’s tenure
– Prince Sunday Joshua Bako Danborno is an All Progressive Congress Stalwart and Real Estate Merchant
society
King Of Knossos, His Imperial Royal Eminence Archbishop King Benny Terry Danson Received Allocades from UKA.
King Of Knossos, His Imperial Royal Eminence Archbishop King Benny Terry Danson Received Allocades from UKA.
His Imperial Royal Eminence Archbishop King Benny Terry Danson, President Of International Council of Archbishops And Bishops for Charismatic And Pentecostal Churches. A citizen of United Kingdom of Atlantis (UKA), King Of Knossos in Greece.
While he was installed as King of Knossos promised sustained development and a lasting legacy for the island kingdom, assuring citizens that his reign will bring “a lot of things” for the benefit of the people.
Pledges Development and Lasting legacy.
Adding that his administration would focus on building the island to his taste, driving growth and progress, stressed that his reign would harness the full potential of the Knossos Kingdom, promising to introduce new infrastructure, attract investment, and strengthen the kingdom’s socio-economic standing. “We stand to gain a lot of things because the king is going to build that island to his taste, bringing development, bringing a lot of things,” he said.
The monarch expressed confidence that his leadership would open opportunities for growth while upholding the traditions of the kingdom.
A visionary leader, King Benny Terry Danson brings decades of transformative leadership to the role. As King of Knossos, Greece, he spearheaded initiatives that:
– *Revolutionized infrastructure*, driving economic growth,
– *Attracted global investment*, boosting the kingdom’s profile,
– *Strengthened socio-economic standing*, uplifting citizens.
_“We stand to gain a lot of things because the king is going to build that island to his taste,”_ he declared, emphasizing growth with tradition. His leadership in Knossos serves as a model for the UKA’s aspirations.
As President of the International Council of Archbishops and Bishops for Charismatic and Pentecostal Churches, King Danson wields global spiritual influence, aligning faith with progress. He has:
– *Fostered interfaith dialogue*, promoting unity,
– *Championed humanitarian causes*, aiding vulnerable communities,
– *Guided spiritual growth*, inspiring millions worldwide.
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In a landmark royal decree, the Office of the Minister of Information & Culture of the United Kingdom of Atlantis (UKA) has announced the appointment of *His Imperial Royal Eminence, King Sir Benny Terry Danson*, as the _Acting Admin King_ of the UKA Throne. The nomination was issued through an official directive from the UKA Throne and is intended to pave the way for King Sir Benny Terry Danson’s eventual ascension to the title of *Official Emperor Admin* of the Throne, subject to the completion of necessary formal and constitutional processes.
The UKA Throne emphasized that the appointment underscores its unwavering commitment to *competence, dedication, and integrity* as the guiding principles for all administrative functions within the government structure. Officials stated that the decision is a strategic move to reinforce national leadership and accelerate the kingdom’s vision of becoming a more efficient, progressive, and unified nation.
The new Acting Admin King will oversee initiatives aimed at fostering sustainable growth, improving public service delivery, and promoting collective national development among citizens and followers of the UKA. The government expressed deep appreciation for the continuous love, loyalty, and support shown by the populace, noting that public engagement is essential for the kingdom’s shared prosperity and advancement.
Further details regarding the formalization of the appointment, including ceremonial schedules and administrative timelines, will be released to the public in due course through official communication channels.
*Report Highlights:*
– *Nominee:* King Sir Benny Terry Danson, Acting Admin King.
– *Objective:* Transition toward becoming Official Emperor Admin of the UKA Throne.
– *Focus:* Strengthening governance through competence, dedication, and integrity.
– *Impact:* Expected to drive national efficiency, progress, and unity.
– *Next Steps:* Official ceremonies and constitutional procedures to follow.
The United Kingdom of Atlantis (UKA) is a sovereign entity dedicated to fostering global unity, humanitarian progress, and financial innovation. It operates under a regal framework that blends imperial tradition with futuristic economic strategies, including asset-backed digital currencies and sustainable development programs.
Emperor Nobiliis Solomon Winning is a transformative leader of the United Kingdom of Atlantis, driving innovative projects in finance, humanitarian efforts, and global development. His reign focuses on merging traditional monarchical values with modern technological advancements, exemplified by initiatives like the ATC digital currency.
The United Kingdom of Atlantis looks forward to achieving new milestones in governance and global impact under the stewardship of Emperor Solomon Winning to His Imperial Royal Eminence Archbishop King Benny Terry Danson.
His Imperial Royal Eminence Archbishop King Benny Terry Danson has advised politicians contesting in the upcoming elections to maintain peace and ensure stability in the country.
In a statement, Archbishop Danson also appealed to the President of Nigeria to consider the plagi situation of citizens and ease the burden of fuel price hikes, which have led to soaring transportation costs and inflation ¹ ² ³.
“With the current fuel price hikes, Nigerians are facing unprecedented economic hardship. It’s imperative that the government takes immediate action to cushion the impact on citizens,” Archbishop Danson said.
The Archbishop’s call comes as petrol prices hit around ₦1,300 per litre, with diesel prices exceeding ₦1,500 per litre, sparking concerns of inflationary pressures and economic instability.
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