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What Nigerians must do to defeat COVID-19 By Ezrel Tabiowo

Published

5 years ago

April 26, 2020

Barely days to the end of a four-week lockdown declared by President Muhammadu Buhari to stem the spread of the coronavirus disease in Nigeria, I’ve seen a few number of “pots and pan protests” on various social media platforms.

This left me with some questions, amongst which is why a few Nigerians would choose to protest in the face of a pandemic that has shaken the very foundations of advanced healthcare systems in developed countries of the world.

I also wondered why some other desperate few felt the need to trend online by politicising the COVID-19 situation through unwarranted criticisms of government initiatives and directives. Could this be due to lack of patriotism from a preference to feed the ego over putting the country first?

My observation from the videos I’ve seen so far is that those championing this protest are not even hungry and poor.
The reality on ground is that the poor ones still go about making their daily earnings. Just yesterday morning, my electrician came all the way from the Lugbe axis – a satellite town not far away from the Abuja metropolis – to fix an electrical problem I had in my house. Three days ago, my plumber also came to attend to a plumbing problem in my kitchen.

Somehow, the poor have been able to find their way around despite the lockdown. At least, I can say this with all certainty about those I know personally with a source of income, but not the unemployed. It, therefore, becomes imperative for the Federal Government and citizens to identify the unemployed so as to ensure that government’s palliative trickles down rightly.

Where this has not been done properly, those superintending over the local government councils must immediately engage their representatives at the State Houses of Assembly and the National Assembly to ensure that the poor are beneficiaries of the scheme.

Reverting to my assessment on the impact of the lockdown, it is common knowledge that markets are open to the public, and I can tell you that some businesses have found a way of rendering online services that deliver goods, ranging from electronics supply to furniture at your doorstep. So, what is the protest for, really?

We are at a time when we need to contain the spread of a disease. So far, those behind this protest are just calling out the government without even coming up with suggestions and proposals needed to address the fear of community spread of the dreaded virus should the lockdown be lifted. To be candid, this reeks of hypocrisy and puts to question the motive behind the protest.

In any case, I think on another count that this swings both ways. If President Buhari decides to lift the lockdown and we see a significant increase in number of infections and deaths, I can guarantee you that these same persons would be handy to advance another anti-government scheme to discredit the administration. Who knows, they would most probably come up with a ‘head-pan and cement’ protest to denigrate the government over the insufficient number of isolation centres and ventilators in the country. And the condemnation goes on in a vicious cycle that helps no one.

In my view, this moment of emergency calls for collective cooperation and mutual understanding on the part of citizens and the Federal Government, and not attempts to disrupt the activities or sabotage the efforts of the latter.

Nobody is finding it easy at this time, including myself, but we must continue to harbour optimism that the decision of the Federal Government to be conveyed in a nationwide broadcast by the President on Monday, would again grant us some weeks of reprieve in the face of the grave danger the world currently faces.

As it stands, the only available and efficient option in the fight against the pandemic for now is the introduction of a partial lockdown to reduce the rapid spread of the disease, while allowing government time to identify infected persons and isolate them from the population.

To compliment government’s initiatives, let us get on board to propose ways in which the fight against COVID-19 can be made more effective. The Presidential Task Force is there to take note of concerns and observations made by Nigerians, and the National Centre for Disease Control helplines are equally available for this purpose.

It is my hope that we all make it out of this pandemic without recording high number of deaths, whilst at the same time noting the need to develop our health institutions to sufficiently deal with a reoccurrence in the future.

Ezrel Tabiowo, MBSC, Fsca, wrote this piece from Abuja
April 26, 2020

Sports

Oleksandr Usyk Defeats Tyson Fury Again, Solidifies Legacy Among Boxing Greats

Published

21 hours ago

December 22, 2024

Sahara Weekly

Oleksandr Usyk Defeats Tyson Fury Again, Solidifies Legacy Among Boxing Greats

Ukrainian boxing sensation Oleksandr Usyk retained his heavyweight championship titles and cemented his place in boxing history with a unanimous decision victory over Britain’s Tyson Fury in their rematch on Saturday night.

The judges scored the bout 116-112 in Usyk’s favor across the board, marking his second consecutive win over Fury. This victory extended Usyk’s flawless professional record to 23-0, with 14 knockouts, adding another chapter to a career already highlighted by Olympic gold and an undisputed cruiserweight championship.

A Masterclass Performance

Usyk, 37, showcased his signature precision and relentless pace, repeatedly catching Fury with clean left hooks and dominating the latter stages of the fight. Fury, at 6ft 9in (206cm) and weighing a career-high 281 pounds, attempted to impose his physicality but was unable to break Usyk’s composure.

The fight, held in Saudi Arabia, saw Usyk wearing traditional Cossack attire during his entrance, while Fury entered the arena dressed in a festive Santa-inspired robe to Mariah Carey’s “All I Want For Christmas Is You.”

The early rounds were competitive, with Fury landing powerful jabs and body shots. However, Usyk’s endurance and tactical brilliance began to shine in the middle rounds. The Ukrainian landed sharp combinations and dictated the tempo, including a stunning uppercut in the final round that left little doubt about the outcome.

“I thought I’ve won both fights,” Fury said post-match, sporting a bruised right eye. “But I’ll always believe until the day I die that I won that fight.”

A Legacy Sealed

Usyk’s victory solidified his standing as one of the greatest heavyweights in history. Already the first undisputed heavyweight of the four-belt era, Usyk joins the ranks of legends like Muhammad Ali, Joe Louis, and Mike Tyson.

The bout, reported to have a prize purse of $190 million, also underscored Saudi Arabia’s growing influence in global sports. Usyk, who served briefly as a soldier during Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, celebrated his victory by hoisting a symbolic sabre belonging to Ukrainian nationalist hero Ivan Mazepa.

Fury’s Uncertain Future

The defeat leaves Fury’s future in doubt. Once unbeaten across 35 fights, Fury now stands at 34-2-1. His attempt to reclaim glory after a brief retirement in 2022 has been marred by back-to-back losses to Usyk.

Usyk, on the other hand, continues to add to his already remarkable resume, leaving fans and critics alike in awe of his technical skill, resilience, and determination. As the heavyweight division looks ahead, Usyk’s reign appears unshakable, and his place among boxing’s all-time greats is firmly secured.

celebrity radar - gossips

Testimony Jaga Redefines Gospel Music with Fuji Rhapsody

Published

1 day ago

December 21, 2024

Sahara Weekly

Testimony Jaga Redefines Gospel Music with Fuji Rhapsody

Renowned gospel artist Testimony Jaga has set a new standard in the genre with the release of his highly anticipated album, Fuji Rhapsody. This innovative project masterfully blends the electrifying rhythms of Fuji music with uplifting gospel messages, offering a unique and transformative musical experience.

With a runtime of approximately one hour, Fuji Rhapsody takes listeners on a continuous, spiritually enriching journey, brimming with energy and inspiration. The album is available for streaming on popular platforms, including Spotify, iTunes, Audiomack, Boomplay, and more.

Whether you’re a fan of vibrant Fuji beats or seeking soul-stirring gospel tunes, Fuji Rhapsody is an album that promises to inspire and uplift. Press play and let its powerful melodies rejuvenate your spirit today!

Stream Fuji Rhapsody Here:

https://hypeddit.com/testimony-jaga/fuji-rapsody

celebrity radar - gossips

Governor Monday Okpebholo C.O.N Celebrates His Grace, Bishop Desmond Osazuwa, on His Birthday – December 21

Published

2 days ago

December 20, 2024

Sahara Weekly

His Excellency Governor Monday Okpebholo C.O.N Celebrates His Grace, Bishop Desmond Osazuwa, on His Birthday – December 21

The Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo C.O.N., has extended warm birthday wishes to His Grace, Bishop Desmond Osazuwa Amasihohu, in recognition of his remarkable contributions to the state and his unwavering support during the Governor’s electoral victory.

In a heartfelt message, Governor Okpebholo expressed his profound admiration for Bishop Amasihohu, acknowledging his steadfast leadership, spiritual guidance, and commitment to the well-being of the people of Edo State.

“I am delighted to celebrate Bishop Desmond Osazuwa on his special day,” the Governor stated. “His tireless prayers and invaluable support during my election campaign played a significant role in our collective success. His dedication to the spiritual and physical growth of Edo State is a testament to his purposeful leadership and unwavering faith.”

Reflecting on the Bishop’s years of service, the Governor added, “On behalf of my family and the entire Edo State, I extend my heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to Bishop Desmond Amasihohu on his birthday. He is a true son of Edo, whose contributions continue to enrich our lives. Today, we celebrate not just his birthday but also his enduring impact on our state and beyond.”

Governor Okpebholo emphasized the importance of honoring individuals who dedicate their lives to service. “Recognizing Bishop Desmond Osazuwa aligns with our shared values of inclusivity, unity, and gratitude. His contributions to the spiritual and social fabric of Edo State are invaluable, and we are truly blessed to have him among us.”

Bishop Desmond Osazuwa Amasihohu has spent decades spreading the gospel and transforming lives both within Edo State and across the globe. His birthday celebration drew dignitaries, community leaders, and well-wishers who gathered to honor his life and legacy.

The occasion stands as a powerful reminder of the values of faith, service, and unity that guide the Governor’s vision for a stronger Edo State.

“Happy birthday, my Bishop,” Governor Okpebholo concluded. “Your wisdom and contributions to the development of our state are deeply appreciated. May the Lord Almighty bless you with good health, strength, and continued prosperity.”