society
Nigeria at 65: Celebrate or Complain? A Brutal Inventory of a Nation That is Still Waiting
Nigeria at 65: Celebrate or Complain? A Brutal Inventory of a Nation That is Still Waiting.
By George Omagbemi Sylvester
65 years of independence, millions still unfree; is this the PARTY or the PROTEST?
October 1, 2025; Today Nigeria turns 65. Sixty-five years after a proud “GOOD MORNING, NIGERIA” and the handing over of colonial keys, a short, simple question refuses to go away: IS THERE ANY GENUINE CAUSE TO CELEBRATE? If celebration means parading achievements; stable electricity, full hospitals, decent schools, security in every region, a currency people can trust and a population that is not hungry, then the answer is not a cheerful “yes.” It is a complicated, discomforting “NOT YET.”
Let us begin with the cold arithmetic. The economy shows faint green shoots in official statistics: headline inflation has eased from the peaks of recent years to about 20.1% in August 2025 and the IMF has nudged its 2025 growth projection into positive territory (around 3.4%). That is progress; but context matters. For most Nigerians, falling inflation from an unbearable peak to a still-punishing 20% does not translate to cheaper food, affordable medicine or meaningful wage power. The Central Bank’s recent policy tweaks and interest-rate cuts are important, but they are corrective needles, not a cure for a sick system.
On security and civic trust, the LEDGER is WORSE. Regions of the country remain under the blight of insurgency, banditry and kidnapping; civilian life in places is lived with the constant thrum of fear. Political tensions have hardened into institutional distrust: high-profile detentions and contested court processes have become part of the national drama, underscoring that the rule of law is still fragile for many. The recent courtroom orders and repeated legal showdowns involving separatist and opposition figures are a reminder that the crown of sovereignty sometimes feels like a heavy crown of discord.
If independence at 65 were to be measured by civic pride and national ceremony, this year’s official calendar offers an apt metaphor for our contradictions. The federal government declared October 1 a public holiday and then cancelled the central parade that traditionally showcased the best of our military and civic institutions. Symbolically, it was as if the state were saying: “We will mark the day, but with caution.” It is a fine mirror of a nation that wants to be seen as mature but often chooses optics over substantive repair.
Voices on the street and on social media are blunt. Activist Omoyele Sowore (who has made “FREEDOM” his watchword) asks an uncomfortable question: how do you wish people “HAPPY INDEPENDENCE” who are not in fact independent from HUNGER, POOR GOVERNANCE and FEAR? His rhetorical provocation is not nihilism; it is a call to examine the yawning gap between ceremonial independence and everyday liberty. Meanwhile comedians and social critics like Gordons and I Go Dye use ridicule and satire to puncture the pomp: their jokes contain the sting of truth, that our national house was built on shaky foundations and our leaders keep painting over the cracks. Satire here is not frivolity; it is a civic thermometer.
From the technocratic bench, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala (an economist and global diplomat who has repeatedly warned about governance failures in Nigeria) reminds us that structural reform is not optional. Her public interventions and published commentary stress that corruption, poor public goods delivery and weak institutions are the clamps that stifle investment and opportunity. She has argued, repeatedly and patiently, that national wealth alone does not make citizens free; how the state allocates resources, invests in education/ health and attracts responsible capital does. Words from the global stage: PROGRESS requires COMPETENCE as much as cash.
And then there are the politicians whose rhetoric swings between consoling citizens and sparring over blame. Opposition leader Atiku Abubakar (a veteran of Nigeria’s national stage) hailed Nigerians resilience on this anniversary while pointing a finger at the ruling administration for “ABANDONING” citizens to economic pain. His message is part consolation, part indictment: Nigerians have held the country together through courage and improvisation, but representation and accountable governance are glaringly absent.
So: is there cause to celebrate? There is cause to acknowledge endurance. Nigerians are resilient, inventive and endlessly resourceful. From the markets of Kano to tech hubs in Lagos and diaspora remittances that cushion families, resilience is real and worthy of respect. But celebration must not be a substitute for critique. A birthday cake with frosting over rotten fruit is still rotten fruit beneath.
What would genuine celebration (the kind that honors the spirit of independence) actually look like? First, an honest reckoning. The nation must measure itself by lives lived in dignity: lower child mortality, functioning schools, reliable power, safe streets, transparent budgets and a justice system that protects rather than persecutes. Second, a social compact: when citizens pay taxes, they must see public goods. When the state borrows or reformers devalue the currency, the burden should not fall disproportionately on the poorest. Third, inclusion: our democracy must be more than elections; it must be a system where the voices of youth, women and marginalized regions alter policy outcomes.
There is another painful truth: the conversation about Nigeria at 65 is also about choices. For decades, elites have rationed national opportunity through patronage and short-term deals. Artists and satirists, from Gordons to I Go Dye, have lampooned that pattern because laughter sometimes reaches where speeches fail. Activists like Sowore insist that citizenship requires agency, not just slogans. If independence is to mean anything, it must mean the removal of systems that convert public money and trust into private gain.
So how should the citizen respond on this October 1? Not by blind rejoicing. Nor by despair. By demanding accountability, by voting with courage, by supporting institutions that strengthen rather than erode the social fabric and by insisting that our leaders stop treating the country like a family business. If the state cannot deliver the basics, then the people must reform the state.
Nigeria at 65 is not a simple story of failure or triumph. It is a liminal nation; one foot in a painful inheritance, one foot in an uncertain future. There are measurable gains and stubborn, systemic failures side by side. The choice for every Nigerian and for every member of the diaspora who loves this country, is whether this anniversary will be a moment of self-congratulation or a day of recommitment to fundamental change.
If we are honest, we will do both: PAUSE to HONOR the SACRIFICES that BIRTHED the NATION, then get to WORK. The party must end early enough for the real work of nation-building to begin again and with CLARITY, COURAGE and CONSCIENCE.
— George Omagbemi Sylvester, SaharaWeeklyNG.com
society
Stop Means Stop”: Legal Experts Warn Ignoring ‘Stop’ During Intimate Acts Can Be Criminally Punishable
“Stop Means Stop”: Legal Experts Warn Ignoring ‘Stop’ During Intimate Acts Can Be Criminally Punishable
By George Omagbemi Sylvester | Published by SaharaWeeklyNG
“Grounded in international law and consent principles, legal authorities stress that continuing sexual activity after a partner withdraws consent may constitute sexual assault and lead to imprisonment.”
A growing body of legal interpretation and expert opinion reaffirm that consent in intimate encounters is not a one-off event but an ongoing requirement; withdrawn at any time by either participant. Legal practitioners and rights advocates are increasingly warning that if one partner clearly says “stop” during sexual activity and the other continues, this conduct can constitute a criminal offence with significant penalties, including imprisonment.
Consent must be “a voluntary agreement to engage in the sexual activity in question,” and crucially can be revoked at any stage. Once a partner expresses withdrawal of consent (by words like “stop” or by unmistakable conduct) the other party is legally obligated to cease all activity immediately. Failure to respect this is widely recognised in multiple legal jurisdictions as sexual assault or rape.
Professor Deborah Rhode, a prominent authority on legal ethics, has stated: “Respect for autonomy and bodily integrity lies at the core of consent law. Ignoring a partner’s withdrawal of consent undermines basic personal freedoms and is treated as a serious offence in criminal law.”
According to experts, this legal principle is not limited to strangers but applies equally to long-term partners and spouses. The Criminal Code in many countries explicitly rejects implied or blanket consent based on relationship status.
Human rights lawyer Amal Clooney has similarly emphasised that clear communication and mutual agreement are essential, and that “once consent is withdrawn, any continued sexual activity crosses the line into criminal conduct.”
This means that in places where consent law is well-established, ignoring an explicit “stop” can lead to charges of sexual assault, with courts interpreting such conduct as a violation of an individual’s autonomy and dignity.
The issue has gained media and legal attention in recent years across numerous jurisdictions (including Canada, parts of Europe, and reform discussions in U.S. states) as courts and legislatures clarify that sexual consent is continuous and revocable at any time. Although no globally consolidated database exists of individual cases tied specifically to a news report on this warning, reputable legal frameworks consistently reinforce that continuing after “stop” is unlawful.
The subject engages legal scholars, criminal law practitioners, human rights experts, and statutory bodies advocating sexual violence prevention. Law enforcement agencies and prosecutors may pursue charges when clear evidence shows that consent was withdrawn and ignored.
In practice, consent frameworks require that the person initiating or continuing sexual activity take reasonable steps to ensure ongoing affirmation of willingness. Silence, passive behaviour, or failure to stop when asked cannot substitute for ongoing consent.
In summary, the legal maxim is clear: verbal or unambiguous withdrawal of consent must be respected. Ignoring it shifts the encounter from consensual to criminal, potentially resulting in serious legal consequences including imprisonment.
Lagos Family Property Dispute Turns Violent After Death of Chief Omotayo Ojo
By Ifeoma Ikem
A festering family dispute over property has escalated into a series of violent attacks in Lagos, leaving residents of a contested apartment in fear for their safety.
Mrs. Omotayo-Ojo-Alolagbe (Nee Omotayo-Ojo) the third child and first daughter of the late Omotayo Ojo, has alleged repeated assaults and destruction of property by her siblings from her father’s other marriages.
According to her account, hostility against her began while her father was still alive, allegedly fueled by the affection and support he showed her. She claimed that tensions worsened after his death in 2019.
Mrs. Alolagbe stated that her late father had given her a particular apartment during his lifetime, assuring her she would not suffer hardship, especially after her husband left the marriage. She said the property became her primary source of livelihood and shelter.
However, she alleged that her siblings had sold off several other family properties and were determined to dispossess her of the apartment allocated to her by their father.
The dispute reportedly turned violent on Nov. 15, 2025, when unknown persons allegedly attacked the building. She said the incident prompted her to petition the Chief Judge of Lagos State and the Commissioner of Police.
Despite the pending legal proceedings, she alleged that another attack occurred on Jan. 21, 2026. During that incident, parts of the building were vandalised, including the walkway and the main gate, which was reportedly removed.
A third attack was said to have taken place on Feb.18, 2026, during which the roof, gates, and sections of the walkway were allegedly dismantled. Residents were reportedly assaulted, and some were allegedly forced to part with money under duress.
Tenants in the apartment complex are said to be living in fear amid the repeated invasions, expressing concern over their safety and uncertainty about further violence.
Mrs. Alolagbe alleged that the attacks were led by a man identified as Mr. Alliu, popularly known as aka “Champion,” whom she described as a political thug. She claimed he arrived with a group of about 50 men, allegedly brandishing weapons and breaking bottles to intimidate residents.
She further alleged that the group boasted of connections with senior police officers, politicians in Lagos State, and even the presidency, claiming they were untouchable.
According to her, some arrests were initially made following the incidents, but the suspects were later released. She expressed concern that the alleged perpetrators continue to threaten her, making it difficult for her to move freely.
She also disclosed that during a meeting on Feb. 23, 2026, an Area Commander reportedly told her that little could be done because the matter was already before a court of law.
The development has raised concerns about the enforcement of law and order in civil disputes that degenerate into violence, particularly when court cases are pending.
As tensions persist, residents and observers are calling on relevant authorities to ensure the safety of lives and properties ,while allowing the courts to determine ownership and bring lasting resolution to the dispute.
Adron Homes Introduces Special Ramadan Offer with Discounts and Gift Rewards
As the holy month of Ramadan inspires reflection, sacrifice, and generosity, Adron Homes and Properties Limited has unveiled its special Ramadan Promo, encouraging families, investors, and aspiring homeowners to move beyond seasonal gestures and embrace property ownership as a lasting investment in their future.
The company stated that the Ramadan campaign, running from January 20th to April 6th, 2026, is designed to help Nigerians build long-term value and stability through accessible real estate opportunities. The initiative offers generous discounts, flexible payment structures, and meaningful Ramadan-themed gifts across its estates and housing projects nationwide.
Under the promo structure, clients enjoy a 30% discount on land purchases alongside a convenient 36-month flexible payment plan, making ownership more affordable and stress-free.
In the spirit of the season, the company has also attached thoughtful rewards to qualifying payments. Clients who pay ₦200,000 receive a Provision Hamper to support their household during the fasting period, while those who pay ₦400,000 receive an Automated Prayer Mat to enhance their spiritual experience throughout Ramadan.
According to the company, the Ramadan Promo reflects its commitment to aligning lifestyle, faith, and financial growth, enabling Nigerians at home and in the diaspora to secure appreciating assets while observing a season centered on discipline and forward planning.
Reiterating its dedication to secure land titles, prime locations, and affordable pricing, Adron Homes urged prospective buyers to take advantage of the limited-time Ramadan campaign to build a future grounded in stability, prosperity, and generational wealth.
This promo covers estates located in Lagos, Shimawa, Sagamu, Atan–Ota, Papalanto, Abeokuta, Ibadan, Osun, Ekiti, Abuja, Nasarawa, and Niger states.
As Ramadan calls for purposeful living and wise decisions, Adron Homes is redefining the season, transforming reflection into investment and faith into a lasting legacy.
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