society
Politics: The Art of Many Faces, One Story
Politics: The Art of Many Faces, One Story.
By George Omagbemi Sylvester | Published by SaharaWeeklyNG.com
When Mr. Olamilekan, a close friend also known as Baba Elizabeth asked me, “What is politics and do you understand how it works?” my mind did not run to the classroom definitions from textbooks. Instead, I remembered a true life story about Jacob, a Russian Jew who emigrated to Israel. His experience captured politics in its purest form; ONE STORY, THREE AUDIENCES, THREE MEANINGS and ONE ULTIMATE ADVANTAGE.
At Moscow airport, Jacob was questioned about carrying a statue of Lenin. To the Russian customs officer, he described LENIN as a NATIONAL HERO who laid the FOUNDATION of SOCIALISM; an answer that FLATTERED SOVIET IDEOLOGY. At Tel Aviv airport, facing Israeli officers, Jacob described LENIN as the very man who PERSECUTED JEWS, forcing him to flee; a completely opposite narrative that RESONATED with ISRAEL’S POLITICAL HISTORY. Finally, in his new Tel Aviv home, Jacob revealed the true meaning: the STATUE was NOTHING but FIVE KILOGRAMS of SOLID GOLD, smuggled past CUSTOMS as POLITICAL THEATER.
That, in essence, is POLITICS. It is the art of telling the same story in different ways, to different audiences for different benefits. Politics is not always about TRUTH, but about PERCEPTION. It is not about CONSISTENCY, but about ADAPTABILITY. And as Machiavelli once wrote in The Prince (1532): “A wise ruler ought never to keep faith when by doing so it would be against his interests.”
This story is more than a CLEVER ANECDOTE. It is a mirror reflecting the contradictions, manipulations and strategies that define political life across the world.
Defining Politics Beyond the Textbook.
Aristotle called politics “the master science” because it determines how societies are organized, governed and directed. Max Weber, the German sociologist, famously defined politics as “the striving to share power or striving to influence the distribution of power, either among states or among groups within a state.”
In reality, politics is not only about institutions, constitutions or elections; it is about narratives. The power of storytelling, framing and persuasion often outweighs the power of policies or ideologies. A politician who can bend one story to fit three audiences, just as Jacob did, can control hearts, minds and eventually, resources.
The Power of Narratives in Politics.
From ancient Rome to modern-day democracies, the ability to tell stories that adapt to circumstances has defined great political figures. Julius Caesar was not just a general but also a master of propaganda, writing Commentarii de Bello Gallico not for military records but to sway Roman citizens and the Senate in his favor.
In the United States, Abraham Lincoln could speak of freedom and unity in the North while subtly assuring border states that emancipation was gradual; a political balancing act that kept the Union together. Barack Obama’s 2008 campaign slogan, “Yes, we can,” was not policy; it was narrative. It spoke differently to minorities, liberals, youth and even moderate conservatives, yet carried one story of hope.
Politics, therefore, is never just about ideology. It is about packaging ideology to suit different ears. ~ George O. Sylvester
The Nigerian Example: One Nation, Many Stories.
In Nigeria, politics is practiced as a theater of narratives, where politicians tell different stories depending on whether they are in Kano, Lagos, Port Harcourt or Enugu. A politician campaigning in the North may wrap his speeches with religious undertones, while in the South, the same politician may emphasize economic empowerment.
As Chinua Achebe warned in his classic The Trouble with Nigeria (1983): “The trouble with Nigeria is simply and squarely a failure of leadership.”
Leadership failure often comes not from incompetence alone, but from the dangerous art of tailoring narratives for political survival rather than national progress. Politicians, like Jacob, often present themselves as patriots in Abuja, tribal champions in their villages and reformers in foreign conferences; all while smuggling their “SOLID GOLD” in the form of power and wealth.
Politics as DECEPTION or DIPLOMACY?
One may ask: is politics merely deception? Not entirely. Politics is also Diplomacy, the art of managing conflicting interests without descending into chaos. Yet the line between DIPLOMACY and DECEPTION is thin.
Philosopher Hannah Arendt, in her book Truth and Politics (1967), wrote: “No one has ever doubted that truth and politics are on rather bad terms with each other.”
This tension is why politicians must shape-shift. To survive, they must speak the language their audience wants to hear, even if it contradicts what they said yesterday, survival does not always mean progress. A politics built on deception may buy short-term gains but risks long-term collapse.
The Global Stage: Politics Without Borders.
The Jacob story also reflects geopolitics. Nations, like individuals, tell different stories to different audiences.
Russia, for instance, presents itself domestically as a protector of traditional values, while abroad it claims to be resisting Western imperialism.
China promotes itself in Africa as a partner for development, but in the West, it markets itself as an emerging superpower advocating multipolarity.
The United States sells democracy abroad while tolerating political polarization at home.
The art is the same: one statue, many stories, hidden gold beneath.
When Politics Becomes Dangerous.
The danger of politics lies in its ability to manipulate people into believing what suits the political class, not society. In Jacob’s story, the customs officers in Moscow and Tel Aviv were both deceived. They allowed the statue to pass because each believed the narrative they wanted to hear.
This mirrors how citizens can be deceived. A politician promises jobs to the unemployed, subsidies to the poor, tax cuts to the rich and reforms to the international community. In reality, he carries only “GOLD” for himself.
George Orwell, in Politics and the English Language (1946), warned: “Political language is designed to make lies sound truthful and murder respectable and to give an appearance of solidity to pure wind.”
In Nigeria, promises of stable electricity, reduced corruption and food security have been recycled for decades. Yet power outages remain constant, corruption thrives and food insecurity deepens. The stories change, the gold remains hidden.
Politics and the Citizen: How Do We Respond?
If politics is storytelling, then citizens must become critical listeners. Blindly accepting political narratives without scrutiny is what allows politicians to smuggle their gold. Democracy thrives only when citizens interrogate leaders’ words with facts.
Nelson Mandela once said: “A critical, independent and investigative press is the lifeblood of any democracy.”
The media, civil society and the people must force leaders to reconcile their different stories into one consistent truth. Otherwise, politics will remain a circus where one man plays three characters while the audience applauds without realizing the trick.
Final Analysis: Politics as the Art of Many Faces.
Politics is not merely about governance, laws or elections. It is about narratives; crafted, bent and reshaped for survival and advantage. Like Jacob with his LENIN STATUE, politicians tell different stories to different audiences while concealing their real treasure.
The challenge of our time is to DEMAND AUTHENTICITY. Politics may always involve some degree of persuasion, but persuasion must not become deception. Nations collapse when politics becomes only about stories without substance. As Abraham Lincoln wisely declared: “You can fool all the people some of the time and some of the people all the time, but you cannot fool all the people all the time.”
Jacob fooled customs officers with his statue. Politicians may fool citizens with their narratives. In the end, truth has a way of emerging and when it does, history judges harshly.
Politics is, indeed, the art of many face; but citizens must insist that at least one of those faces is honest.
society
From Broadcast to Spiritual Renaissance: The Journey of Alọba A. Orisabimbola Ifatomi, Creator of ÒRÌṢÀTV
From Broadcast to Spiritual Renaissance:
The Journey of Alọba A. Orisabimbola Ifatomi, Creator of ÒRÌṢÀTV
In a time when African stories are often misrepresented or diluted, a seasoned voice in Nigeria’s media and creative industry is stepping forward with a bold vision to reclaim, preserve and project the depth of African spirituality through a new wave of cinematic storytelling powered by technology.
Alọba Adewunmi, a respected broadcaster, journalist and creative professional, is the mind behind ÒRÌṢÀTV a groundbreaking platform using Artificial Intelligence (AI) cinematic production to tell authentic Yoruba stories rooted in cosmology, spirituality and cultural heritage.
ÒRÌṢÀTV is not just a channel it is a destination to experience “The Beginning”, a Yoruba cosmology-based AI cinematic series that explores the origin of life and existence through an African lens.
A Career Built on Media Excellence
With years of experience across broadcast and print media, Alọba Adewunmi has established himself as a dynamic storyteller and cultural voice.
He has worked with several notable platforms including OSBC, Orisun FM, Yotomi Cable, Okin FM, Midland FM, Delta Cable, Akede Oodua Publications and Akede Africa.
His professional journey includes:
– Reporter at Alariya Oodua
– Editor at Gbajumo Online Magazine
– General Editor at Akede Africa ( a bilingual news magazine)
Through these roles, he has contributed significantly to journalism, cultural reporting, politics, crime and entertainment.
A Multifaceted Creative Force
Beyond journalism, Alọba Adewunmi’s creative footprint extends deeply into film and storytelling.
He is not just a performer, but a creative architect behind the scenes, serving as:
– A Continuity Director
– Continuity Director of the home video “Tobi (Forgiveness)”, produced by Kola Adeyemo
– A Story Writer and Dialogue Director
– A Scriptwriter
He has also contributed to several home video productions from the late 1990s through the early 2000s, reflecting a long-standing presence in Yoruba film storytelling.
A Spiritual Path and Cultural Mission
Beyond media and film, his journey is rooted in a deeper spiritual calling.
Alọba Adewunmi is a traditional priest, teacher and herbal medicine practitioner, dedicated to the preservation and practice of Yoruba spirituality.
His temple, Obàtálá Alábãlàse Temple of Purity, stands as a sacred center for purity, healing and spiritual guidance.
The Vision Behind ÒRÌṢÀTV
ÒRÌṢÀTV is more than a content platform, it is a cultural revival movement powered by AI-driven cinematic storytelling.
Through this innovative approach, the platform explores:
– The origin of existence
– The roles of divinities
– The structure of human destiny
– The spiritual laws governing life
The debut episode, “The Birth of Ilẹ̀ Àwọn Alààyè”,( Command of Creation ) marks the beginning of the series “The Beginning”.
Blending mythology, spirituality and AI-powered visuals, ÒRÌṢÀTV offers a unique experience that is both educational and deeply immersive.
A Mission Beyond Entertainment
For Alọba Adewunmi, this project goes far beyond entertainment.
It is a mission to preserve indigenous knowledge, educate future generations, correct misconceptions about African spirituality and restore pride in African identity.
The Man Behind the Vision
Despite his wide experience and creative influence, Alọba Adewunmi remains a naturally private and introverted individual.
He is known more for his work than for public appearances moving quietly between his professional responsibilities and personal space.
Rather than seeking the spotlight, he has consistently chosen to let his talent, creativity and impact speak for him.
Those who encounter his work or collaborate with him understand the depth he brings a reminder that true substance is not always loud and presence is not always public.
Looking Ahead
With Episode 1 now released, anticipation continues to build as “THE BEGINNING” prepares to explore deeper aspects of creation, human destiny and spiritual alignment.
This is not just a project it is a legacy unfolding through culture, spirituality, and innovation.
Watch Now
THE BEGINNING
Episode 1
The Birth of Ilẹ̀ Àwọn” Command of Creation)
Available on YouTube.
Media & Contact
For interviews, features and collaborations:
08125883088
© 2026 ÒRÌṢÀTV
All Rights Reserved
TY BURATAI HUMANITY CARE FOUNDATION COMMENDS GOVERNOR ZULUM FOR HELPING MILITARY FAMILIES
The TY Buratai Humanity Care Foundation has commended Borno State Governor Babagana Umara Zulum for his generous donation of ₦150 million to the families of three military officers who were tragically killed in recent attacks. Each family received ₦50 million as part of the state’s continued commitment to supporting fallen heroes and wounded personnel involved in counter-insurgency operations.
The commendation was contained in a statement signed by the foundation’s chairman, Ibrahim Dahiru Danfulani Sadaukin Garkuwan Keffi/Betara Biu, and made available to the press.
The foundation expressed gratitude for the governor’s compassionate gesture, which included personal visits to the families of the late Lieutenant Colonels Umar Farouq, Salihu Iliyasu, and Aliyu Saidu Paiko in Abuja, Niger, and Kano States. During the visits, Governor Zulum offered his condolences and praised the service, sacrifice, and patriotism of the fallen officers.
The foundation’s Grand Patron, His Excellency, Lieutenant General Tukur Yusufu Buratai, CFR (Rtd), personally commended the governor’s dedication to improving the lives of Borno State residents. He also extended his condolences to the families of the officers and soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to the nation.
During his visits, Governor Zulum reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting bereaved families, which includes offering scholarships to the orphaned children of fallen personnel. He pledged to extend similar visits to other affected families, underscoring a compassionate approach to addressing the needs of those who have suffered in the line of duty.
society
Queen Amb Dr. Nwamaka Cordelia Anyatonwu Appointed Minister of Humanitarian, Culture, and Kingdom Affairs, United Kingdom of Atlantis
*Queen Amb Dr. Nwamaka Cordelia Anyatonwu Appointed Minister of Humanitarian, Culture, and Kingdom Affairs, United Kingdom of Atlantis
Her Majesty Queen Amb Dr. Nwamaka Cordelia Anyatonwu, Queen of the Aches Empire under the jurisdiction of the United Kingdom of Atlantis (UKA), has been appointed as the Minister of Humanitarian, Culture, and Kingdom Affairs, effective immediately.
This appointment comes as the UKA takes decisive steps to strengthen its humanitarian efforts and protect its citizens from unauthorized activities. In light of recent developments, the UKA has issued an official public disclaimer cautioning citizens, followers, and the general public about the activities of individuals promoting and operating a coin or platform not officially recognized by the Atlantian Gold Coin (ATC). This follows the hijacking of the 5 billion humanitarian project, a move that has been met with concern and condemnation from the international community.
As the newly appointed Minister, Queen Amb Dr. Anyatonwu has announced that all matters pertaining to the 5 billion humanitarian project in UKA should be directed to her office. This includes the newly captured NGOs, which are now required to report to the Office of Humanitarian Affairs, ensuring transparency and accountability in the management of humanitarian resources.
“We are committed to transparency and accountability in our humanitarian efforts,” said Queen Amb Dr. Anyatonwu. “We urge all stakeholders to work with us to ensure the success of our initiatives and protect our citizens from unauthorized activities. We will not tolerate any form of exploitation or mismanagement of humanitarian funds, and we will take all necessary measures to ensure that those responsible are held accountable.”
The UKA has assured its citizens and the international community that it is taking all necessary measures to recover the hijacked funds and bring the perpetrators to justice. The appointment of Queen Amb Dr. Anyatonwu is seen as a significant step towards achieving this goal and ensuring that humanitarian efforts are aligned with the UKA’s values and principles.
For more information. Please contact the Office of the Minister of Humanitarian, Culture and Kingdom Affairs.
*About the United Kingdom of Atlantis*
The United Kingdom of Atlantis is a sovereign nation committed to promoting peace, prosperity, and humanitarian values. The UKA is dedicated to working with international partners to address global challenges and improve the lives of its citizens and people around the world.
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