society
The Nigeria of Now, by Idegu Ojonugwa Shadrach
The Nigeria of Now, by Idegu Ojonugwa Shadrach
Acutely, Nigeria under democracy has not gotten anything reasonable to compare under the military. Most of Nigerians are old enough to be sign-posts of history. Likewise, we have written documents that serve as histories. In all these, we see clearly how Nigeria is becoming a failed nation in the course of democracy. Seriously, this is a great pandemic that needs swift attention before we have no Nigeria to defend. No one is happy going back. But, if the democratic governance continues this way, other system of government may test-run to see where real problems are – as the political leaders blame citizens for misfortunes of the nation. And same way, citizens blame political leaders for the nations’ misfortunes. However, democracy is the best for us at this time. So, we as citizens and political leaders must put things together to save our dear nation.
Relatively, there should be democratic parameters to checkmate democratic workings under the government. Above all, in various measures, if a nation doesn’t have this, it can be simply termed, relegated governance. This should be operationally identified to project meaningfulness of our democracy. Hence, if all developmental features are in standard oblivion, we have no hopes and on that note, it is as good as calling all well-meaning Nigerians to work towards good future of our dear Nigeria in all corners in order to safeguard ourselves and the loved ones as our government never put us in standard consideration.
Bribery, corruption and insecurities should be top notches for consideration; the government must desist from laying blames on past governments and to work tirelessly to amend where necessary, government should be enveloped with high-profiled selfless and dignified politicians; and politicians who are well-groomed on how to verbally and practically – on stylish mannerisms; buy and trade time for the attentions of the poor masses; an administration shouldn’t reward evil-performed politicians and the qualified and noble ones are to be fixed in political offices -and basically, in the wake of this, we can see our nation growing and developing. Be as it may, Nigerians wish the government to re-strategize on time to bring the peoples’ mandates. Nigerians are tired of empty hopes and attractive speeches. A working is what Nigerians need at this moment that the country is seriously sinking. So reasonable things must be scaled before happiness and joy of the citizens can showcase.
However, government to do greatly, it should listen and always create platforms to interact with activists and intellectuals within and outside government. Most importantly, government must grant rooms to journalists to disseminate original information so that issues raised can get fair solutions.
Sincerely, to regulate political and democratic governance, our political leaders must change for good and better. Doing this would definitely help them and the citizens. That is why; it is always advisable to discharge primary duties of dedicated offices. Our politicians must shun antagonistic ways for societal-oriented attitudes that could make good progress for the national values. Our politicians should learn of their great counterparts in the developed and developing countries to do alike or better so that we can have a stable and good economy. If they can do this, no one is ready to fight them. Note; now that everything is happening under quick manners, Nigerian political leaders must prepare to change for better. The growing generations do things faster without consulting and checking attached results. It is on this note, our political leaders must wake up to do greatly in offices before unusual begin to happen from all angles. Enough of embezzlement and open insult, please. Therefore, youths must carry fearless and unbiased human rights activists, and intelligent investigative journalists to help penetrate these wicked politicians as soon as possible, if only, they are not ready to work on dividend of democracy. Hence, youths have no reason to relent under government that has no control over insecurities and unemployment.
In a more cordial way to get this development, well-mannered and productive Nigerians must get ready to join politics. Their aspirations and plans are to be tabled in royal palaces and intellectual, influential and wealthy citizens in the villages are to be summoned by council of elders for support and sponsor of possible ways. Oaths can play good games in constituting this as all planning and supporting committee members manage such affairs under the oath. This should be recommended as quite numbers of individuals come into agreement with hidden agendas. I believe so much on how politics and religion are the great pillars of societal growths and developments. It is therefore a thing of joy to see good people on the affairs of the state.
Again, in order to make up to this development on time, I have always advised our youths to put aside cybercrimes to face our ill-hearted politicians. I have severally encouraged them to create light atmosphere within one another so as to get stronger bound for effective and effectual collaboration. Our youths need to shun jealousy, backbiting and the host alike so they can work with one another to fight the evil politicians parading on the natural resources. We all know how these politicians are strongly connected to one another on a goal of trading our efforts and all we have for their interest. That they always achieve because of strong collaboration. Youths should equally embrace such so that we dismantle their evil practices only if we want to secure our future and that of our children in the nation. These politicians have already done theirs. Our youths should be apprehended with a fact that these politicians have managed all means to make unproductive activities sponsored and promoted so as to keep little-minded youths busy; and to a length that they do use some of these activities to initiate hatred and problems between the little-minded and able-minded youths so they have enough time to keep stealing. On that note; Nigerian youths are encouraged to do well to get into government properly.
In the middle of these present chronic issues surrounding our dear Nigeria, we are yet to get some of the intellectuals questioned and interviewed. Good government must summon intellectuals for public opinions, analyses, suggestions and recommendations on things that can make a state forward and governable. It is by thoroughly working on demanding issues. Because, a government is the most insightful organization to identify gifts and talents of her citizens who have demonstrated themselves in past and in present – as a good government must initiate possible ways to deal with economic and security matters to set standards for living.
Former heads of states and presidents need to have a reconciliatory committee to ensure these groups come in terms with one another with loudable rewards. After that, our intellectuals at home and abroad should be invited for economic review; our wealthy Nigerians should contribute financially; our religious leaders to work on peace and collaborative spirits and many more. As a matter of urgency, online medium should be created to communicate one another due to factors of personal engagements. However, there is no singular reason that can credit someone who fails to attend to his or her family in critical time like this.
Our journalists, academics, innovators and activists must get ready to do more in order to have a progressive nation. Misinformation and misrepresentation of information is the mother of societal destruction. Until we learn how to resourcefully manage our information, we barely understand our score of economy and security – the two vitals of societal workings. So, we must learn how to manage information for and against the present government.
Definitely, I do urge our youths to make patriotic criticisms which are constructed with solutions and not baseless criticisms that can plug our dear Nigeria into a laughable and unrest state. Hence, collective bargaining and ideologies of the youths when channeled appropriately would help the government and citizens. If we don’t work together in peace and unity, the good Nigeria we ever desire wouldn’t come to stay on time. I do know the powers of youths and that is why, I have ever advocated for youth inclusion in government. I am certain, this government would make the way as the youths are committed to work closely with the government for the comfort and advantage of Nigerians.
Our problems are within. It is better we tackle it together. We must learn to do our own things now. Nigeria is one of the most hated nations due to our surplus natural resources. So, no nation is ready to help us make economic alignments without exploitation. Politics and religion can’t help us manage these, except humanity and technology. We should give prime concerns to these so we have human and infrastructural growths and developments in this time of economic shutdown.
Now that everything is accompanied with high prices, our religious leaders must continue to preach endurance, peace and unity to their members – they should teach them how though times don’t last. Our political leaders must cut expenses on things that couldn’t speak well to human and infrastructural developments. Our political leaders must not keep distance and disconnection from the poor masses. And, our political leaders must show and talk how they are seriously working ways to curb present sufferings. If steps to curb this are apprehendable, the promissory future would encourage and force angry citizens to exercise patience. Additionally, I do encourage my dear Nigerians to dwell in peace, unity, courage and efforts even in the middle of our sufferings. Certainly, and sooner than later, we would have our desirable Nigeria.
Our community leaders are encouraged to preach humility, endurance and morals to villagers. Insecurity which is one of the dangerous effects on agriculture must be addressed. Preaching of love which should highlights needs to be to kind and generous to one another, and harmless to one another is so paramount at the time. Hence, it is needed to destabilize antagonistic groups that terrorize humans and properties in societies.
If we can achieve the above highlighted points, Nigeria is fast moving to a standard state. Note; agriculture, electricity, technology, roads and companies should be given maximal attention. Then, schools and churches should be regulated in order not to keep plenty graduates unemployed and keep religionists lazy – as handiwork and diligent cover educational workings and love, obedience and orderliness cover religious workings. Together, we can do this easily and cheaply.
I am so certain that, if the government can yield to effective suggestions from our intellectuals both home and abroad, it would help Nigeria grow a bit under the government.
Why Gen. Buratai will always remain in the minds of Nigerians-Enyioma
From………
Lance Corporal Chikere Vitus Enyioma, an admirer of the former Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt. General Tukur Buratai has given reasons why Nigerians would not forget the retired Army boss in a hurry.
In a statement, Enyioma explained “I joined the Nigerian Army in 2014 with the full intention of serving my country diligently. My first posting was to 1 Division Kaduna, where I was influenced by a common belief among the junior ranks—that our generals didn’t care about us.
“However, that perception changed when Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai assumed full command and began to truly work and serve both Nigeria and the Nigerian Army.
“Later, I was transferred to Abuja and had the rare opportunity to serve directly in his office as an office orderly. I witnessed firsthand the incredible demands of serving as the Chief of Army Staff. I remember a specific week when he worked day and night without rest. During a particularly intense period of operations against insurgents, he broke down after a night of nonstop work and back-to-back high-level meetings.
“I was sent by his MA and I had to rush downstairs to get the medical representative, who administered treatment to help him recover. To my surprise, as soon as he regained his strength, he returned immediately to his desk to continue working.
“Throughout my time working in his office, I never saw him take a leave or even a break. Under his leadership, long-forgotten allowances were restored, Many non-commissioned officers were promoted or commissioned. Soldiers were given access to both military and civilian education programs—of which I was a beneficiary.
“He also expanded housing schemes and introduced mortgage opportunities for personnel. Lt. Gen. Buratai redefined what it meant to serve with commitment and vision, and every other Staff officer under him was equally busy.
“Under Buratai’s leadership, the Nigerian Army successfully reclaimed large swathes of territory previously under Boko Haram’s control in Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe States. Major highways like the Maiduguri-Bama and Damaturu-Maiduguri roads were reopened, allowing for the restoration of civil governance in formerly overrun regions.
“He initiated the creation of vital commands and formations to improve rapid response, including Nigerian Army Special Forces Command, Army Aviation Corps. These formations enhanced operational flexibility and strengthened counter-insurgency efforts.
“Under his tenure, the Army acquired modern armored vehicles, artillery systems, and combat drones, significantly increasing its firepower and tactical capabilities.
“Establishment of Nigerian Army University Biu (NAUB). Founded in 2018 in Biu, Borno State, NAUB focuses on advancing military education and research, supporting innovation and technology in military operations.
“Buratai championed soldiers’ welfare by introducing; Housing initiatives and educational opportunities.
Enhanced healthcare services which gave birth to one of the Best hospitals in Abuja ( COMMAND AND NAOWA HOSPITAL). These improved the morale and effectiveness of the troops.
“Promotion of Civil-Military Relations: He emphasized mutual trust and understanding between the Army and civilians, strengthening nationwide collaboration and public support.
“Support for Democracy; During election periods, Buratai ensured the Nigerian Army upheld constitutional order, playing a neutral and stabilizing role in Nigeria’s democratic processes.
“Nigerian Army Farms and Ranches; established agricultural projects to boost food security for soldiers and provide alternative welfare support for their families.
“Nigerian Army Institute of Technology and Environmental Studies. He founded this institute to train soldiers in technical and environmental disciplines, supporting their post-service careers.
“Advocacy for Cultural Integration in Security; after his retirement, Buratai actively promoted using Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage to enhance national security, emphasizing that no indigenous culture supports criminality.
“Army Structural Expansion Under Buratai. New Divisions
6th Division (Amphibious)– Port Harcourt, Rivers State
8th Division – Sokoto State.
“New Brigades and Units:16 Brigade– Yenagoa, Bayelsa State
17 Brigade – Katsina State
63 Brigade – Delta State
2nd Brigade – Akwa Ibom State
42nd Engineering Brigade
Fort Muhammadu Buhari Forward Operating Base – Daura, Katsina State
331 Artillery Tactical Forward Operating Base – Buratai, Borno State
Forward Operating Base, Okene – Kogi StaSpecialized Institutions and Facilities.
“Nigerian Army Aviation School,
Nigerian Army War College, Nigerian Army Resource Centre (NARC)– Abuja
Muhammadu Buhari Cantonment, Giri – Modern military housing in Abuja
“Here is a list of some infrastructural projects constructed or initiated under Lt. Gen. Tukur Yusuf Buratai during his tenure as Chief of Army Staff (2015–2021). These projects span military bases, educational institutions, healthcare facilities, roads, housing, and operational commands, reflecting his strategic focus on capacity building, welfare, and professionalism.
“Army Headquarters Command Structures. Remodeling and modernization of Army Headquarters Complex in Abuja.Renovation and expansion of Command Officers’ Mess in Abuja
“New Divisions and Formations Infrastructure. 6th Division Headquarters– Port Harcourt, Rivers State (including barracks and support facilities). 8th Division Headquarters – Sokoto State (administrative blocks, housing, operational centers).
“Brigades and Units Infrastructure:
16 Brigade Complex– Yenagoa, Bayelsa State.17 Brigade Complex– Katsina State.63 Brigade Complex– Asaba, Delta State.2 Brigade Forward Operating Base (FOB) – Ikot Abasi, Akwa Ibom State
1 Brigade Headquarters Complex – Gusau, Zamfara State.13 Brigade Complex– Calabar, Cross River State
“Specialized Institutions: Nigerian Army University Biu (NAUB) – Biu, Borno State
Nigerian Army War College– Abuja
Nigerian Army Resource Centre (NARC) – Abuja. Nigerian Army Aviation School– (location development under construction). Nigerian Army Institute of Technology and Environmental Studies – Makurdi, Benue State
“Medical Infrastructure: Renovation and expansion of 44 Nigerian Army Reference Hospital – Kaduna
Upgrading of Military Hospital – Port Harcourt, Establishment of new medical facilities in several divisions including Lagos, Abuja, and Maiduguri
Field hospitals were constructed in combat zones in the Northeast.
“Barracks and Residential Housing Projects; Muhammadu Buhari Cantonment, Giri – Abuja (state-of-the-art barracks and officers’ quarters)
Army Housing Estate – Kurudu, Abuja
Massive renovation and new construction of soldiers’ accommodation across all 6 geo-political zones
Construction of Forward Operating Base (FOB) Barracks– Buratai town, Borno State
“Forward Operating Bases (FOBs): FOB/171Bn Daura – Katsina State
FOB Okene – Kogi State
FOB Buratai– Borno State
Numerous FOBs in the Northeast, enhancing real-time response to insurgency.
“Army Farms and Ranches: Establishment of Nigerian Army Farms and Ranches in several divisions, providing food and economic support for troops.
“Roads and Internal Transportation; Construction of internal road networks within new barracks and cantonment
Upgrading of military access roads and connecting roads in conflict zones for logistics and troop movement
“Training and Capacity Building Centers: Modernization of Depot Nigerian Army – Zaria, Establishment of Command Science Secondary Schools in multiple states, Construction of training ranges and simulation centers across Army divisions, Renovation of military churches and mosque.
“These infrastructure projects were executed as part of Buratai’s vision to professionalize the Nigerian Army, improve troop welfare, and enhance operational readiness. They also reflect a balanced focus on education, healthcare, housing, logistics, and combat efficiency.
“Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai’s legacy is not just in what he built but in how he inspired countless soldiers, myself included, to believe in the military institution again.
“He served tirelessly, restored honor to service, and laid a strong foundation for future generations of the Nigerian Army.
“I recalled how Harvard University Boston USA became an annex of the Nigerian Army in building and shaping the intuition of military officers across the rank beyond the traditional strategic institution like the Defense College NIPSS etc. I am a beneficiary and can proudly be rated. Allah bless our legend of yesterday, today, and tomorrow”.
society
NBA Ikorodu condemns systemic pressure on rape victims, says justice must never be negotiated
NBA Ikorodu condemns systemic pressure on rape victims, says justice must never be negotiated
By Ifeoma Ikem
The Nigeria Bar Association (NBA), Ikorodu Branch has condemned the systematic pressure on rape victims and also added that justice must not be negotiated no matter who is involved.
In a statement signed by Tessy Osakwe, the
alternate chairman of the committee against Domestic violence, child’s rights and persons living with disabilities of the Nigerian Bar Association, of the ikorodu branch,noted that there has been troubling tales of rise in the withdrawal of rape cases by victim’s parents before justice is served.
She said that the branch through its Domestic Violence Committee, Child’s Rights Committee, and Persons Living with Disabilities Committee, expressed deep concern over this disturbing trend which happens due to societal, family, institutional, or even economic pressure.
“Our committees have observed, with alarm, that many survivors particularly children, women, and persons with disabilities are often compelled to abandon legal proceedings due to threats, shame, victim-blaming, or interference from influential individuals seeking to shield perpetrators from accountability.
“This act of silencing victims not only denies them justice, but also emboldens offenders, perpetuates impunity, and weakens public confidence in the justice system.
“We remind the public that rape is a criminal offence under Nigerian law, and its prosecution is not subject to private negotiation or family settlement’’.
“Every victim has the right to be heard, protected, and supported throughout the legal process,’’ she added.
The branch, therefore, called on the law enforcement agencies to act with independence, integrity, and diligence in rape investigations and ensure survivors are not intimidated.
“Judicial officers and prosecutors should offer timely and trauma-informed legal support to victims; traditional and religious leaders should refrain from encouraging “out-of-court settlements” in rape cases and instead support survivors in seeking justice.
“The Lagos State Government, through the Ministry of Justice and Office of the Public Defender should expand survivor support services, including safe shelters, psychological care, and legal aid.
“The media to maintain sensitivity in reportage and protect the identities and dignity of survivors.
“And the Civil society and community groups create safe spaces for survivors to report abuse without fear or shame’’.
She promised the survivors and their families that they are not alone as the NBA Ikorodu Branch stands with them.
“Justice may be delayed, but with courage, support, and advocacy, it must not be denied,’’ she assured.
ICAN Members Set To Drag Institute To Court Over Disputed Election Rule
– Members cry foul over third-party payment ban, seek High Court injunction
By Temitope Adeyemi, Legal Correspondent
The Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) is at the centre of a brewing legal storm following the issuance of controversial election guidelines that could bar numerous members from voting in the upcoming 2025 council elections.
In a formal pre-action notice dated 23 May and addressed to the ICAN Registrar, the law firm Abimbola & Abimbola, acting on behalf of Mr [Name Withheld] and a coalition of affected members, challenged the legality of a new directive which prohibits the payment of annual membership fees via third parties in an election year.
Describing the guideline as “illegal, unconstitutional, and ultra vires”, the solicitors argued that it is inconsistent with the ICAN constitution, codified in Chapter 185 of the Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 2004.
“Our clients are troubled by the lack of constitutional authority for such a sweeping restriction,” wrote A.J. Arinze, Esq., the lead counsel.
“This directive appears designed to disenfranchise legitimate members from exercising their constitutional right to vote in the ICAN elections scheduled for Tuesday, 27 May 2025.
”The legal notice further demands that ICAN provide specific statutory backing for the controversial clause and cease enforcement immediately. Failing a satisfactory response by 1:30 p.m. today, the claimants intend to approach the High Court for an injunction and other reliefs.
Claimants seek immediate court protection
The members are preparing to seek:A declaration that the guideline is void and unconstitutional; An interim and interlocutory injunction restraining ICAN from implementing the directive; A ruling affirming members’ right to pay fees via any lawful means, including by proxy, friend, employer, or association; An order of perpetual injunction barring ICAN from delisting members over such payments; And ₦10 million in damages for emotional distress caused by the publication and enforcement threat.
The notice cites the “Supreme Court decision in Ojukwu v. Governor of Lagos State (1985) 2 NWLR (Pt 10) as a caution against executive overreach and unilateral action pending judicial review.
Awaiting ICAN’s response
As at the time of going to press, ICAN had not issued an official statement on the matter. However, sources within the institute indicate the new rule has caused internal concern, particularly with less than a week to the council elections.
Legal experts say the case, if filed, could have far-reaching implications for how professional bodies in Nigeria regulate internal elections and member participation.
“This dispute goes beyond procedure,” noted Dr A. O. Okoye, a lecturer in corporate law. “It touches on constitutional rights, transparency, and the democratic integrity of professional associations.”
The High Court filing is expected if no response is received before the deadline. Members are watching closely to see whether ICAN will revise its stance or face a protracted legal battle.
-
society5 months agoNAPS Presidential Aspirant Lauds Tinubu’s ₦3.5 Trillion Education Budget, Advocates for Polytechnic Investment
-
Entertainment5 months agoAliu Gafar delivers stellar performance as Esusu in Femi Adebayo’s Seven Doors
-
celebrity radar - gossips5 months agoAlbums Reviews : Saheed Osupa’s Latest Release : A 2-in-1 Musical Experience
-
society1 week agoOGUN INVESTS OVER ₦2.25 BILLION TO BOOST AQUACULTURE