National Conference Advisory Committee; My Memo. The author will limit his memo to three cardinal points, which the national conference advisory committee should take into serious considerations. These points are as follows: 1.Selection Processes/Conference Membership: To reflect true aspirations and desires of Nigerians, selection processes should be transparent. There should not be any government nominations to this conference. This is to avoid bias. All six geo political zones should have equal representations (the author suggests eighteen members each), and this to include all socio-cultural organizations. Professional bodies, NGO’s, CSO’s, religious bodies etc to have representations. All members to be chosen by their people, or their professional bodies, thru a less expensive process. The author suggests the Option A4 System, whereby Nigerians will queue behind the pictures of whom they want to represent them at the conference. Just lately (about March 2013), the Federal Polytechnic Okoh, Anambra State, used this method to elect their students union leaders. Conference members should not receive any pay or any sort of remunerations other than accommodation and feeding. This is purely a national duty. Call to serve the motherland. 2.Agenda: National Conference should ask Nigerians to submit to them, memorandum/topics for their discussions. Nothing like no go areas or grey areas. All topics to be discussed. Deliberations at the conference to be aired live to Nigerians. Decisions to be taken by simply majority of the members. 3. Referendum: Decisions of the conference should be presented to Nigerians thru a referendum. Nigerians should have the final say, either to accept or reject the decisions reached at the conference. A simple referendum should be used to achieve this. A 50% yes on any topic by Nigerians, to be accepted and implemented by the government. It is the author’s view, that if adopted, these 3 points above will help produce a credible result from the conference. Anything in the contrary will be counterproductive. Let’s be bold, face the facts and tell each other the truth for once. Perhaps the “pax Nigeriana” we all are looking for, might start here. But, something in me tells me loud and clear, that this proposed national conference is a diversionary tactics. Please, Mr. President should prove me wrong. C.V.Akuta UK 5/10/13. www.briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com

Owelle Rochas; Where is the Diaspora Village. One of the best policy initiatives, the author had seen and analysed since Owelle Rochas Okorocha came to power, in Imo State, was the proposed Imo State Diaspora Village. This is a project that would allow Imo State indigenes in Diaspora to buy house(s) at home, thru a ten or more year’s mortgage system, whereby you pay little amounts, monthly till one finish paying, say 10 or more years. This was supposed to be, a state government and private sector partnership project. Every person, that has lived or still living abroad will testify and agree with the author, that mortgage system is how over 95% of home owners purchased their houses. As an economist (because yours truly is one), I have analysed the overall benefits, this will bring to Imo State’s economy. More so, as Owelle Rochas himself, promised that all the building materials will be sourced locally. This project will bring in massive inflow of cash and also create employment opportunities among Imo indigenes. Remember that the money remitted from Nigerians overseas, accounts for the second largest source(s) of foreign exchange. Imo indigenes (home and abroad) should set aside, their differences, and rally behind Owelle Rochas, to make sure, this project takes off or its kick started. The multiplier effects of this project will transform the state economy. Moving Forward... It appears that the Americans are copying Owelle Rochas in demolishing kidnappers’ dungeons. Imo State government under Owelle Rochas has a policy of demolishing any house(s), where kidnappers are arrested from. This has generated a lot of controversies. But on Wednesday 7/8/13, state of Ohio in USA, demolished a house where, a kidnaper (Ariel Castro), kept his three female victims (Gina Dejesus, Amanda Berry, and Michelle Knight), for a decade. Is this a justification for Owelle Rochas Okorocha or not? Kindly drop your responses. C.V.Akuta UK 9/8/13.

Questions for Governor Fashola. On 24th July 2013, The Governor of Lagos State, deported about 70 Igbos (not minding their states of origin) to Upper Iweka, Onitsha, Anambra State. Their reason was that, these Igbos were destitute(s), drug addicts, and mentally challenged people. In the face of the above, could His Excellency Governor of Lagos State, Fashola, answer the following questions? 1.Make public the correspondence between Lagos State government and Anambra State Government, regarding the return/repatriation of “these citizens”. Governor Fashola claimed there was an understanding between the two states as regards the above. 2.Could Lagos State Government make public, evidences that these people were “destitute(s), drug addicts, and mentally challenged people as alleged. 3.Could Lagos State Government, explain their action, with respect to Section 41, of the Nigerian 1999 Constitution, that says “Every citizen of Nigeria is entitled to move freely throughout Nigeria and to reside in any part thereof, and no citizen of Nigeria shall be expelled from Nigeria or refused entry thereby or exit therefrom” 4.Why deport/dump these people by 3am in the morning, a very unholy hour. 5.Could Lagos State Governor explain, if he has deported, any Yoruba (from other states), Hausa, Ijaw etc. 6.Could Governor Fashola, explain why he has chosen to open the wounds of the Biafran war, by following the paths of those that drove Igbos away from their regions before, and during the war. Sincerely Yours, C.V.Akuta Leicester-UK 5/8/13.

Time to Occupy Nigerian Senate. Please, make no mistake about it, by endorsing child marriage in Nigeria, the Nigerian Senate has brought us tremendous shame. By this act, Nigerian Senate has sent message across the world that we prefer child abuse to child protection; that paedophiles are welcomed in Nigeria. No child (boy or girl) is safe in Nigeria. In fact, Nigeria will become the capital of paedophiles. This is also an encouragement to those wishing to embark or commit such atrocity. In contrast to the above, if you’re caught in the United Kingdom, watching only child pornography, the person will certainly go to jail. Then, when a person is caught in the act itself, the culprit will certainly spend a very long time in prison. In some countries, any person caught with an underage will be castrated. That is how serious it is. But are we really surprised at what the sin-nators (Senators) did? No I was not surprised at all. The author predicts many more rubbish laws will be passed by them, after all, they don’t have our interest at heart. The nature of the laws made by the senate, tells us the calibre of people there. In fact, the senate is “empty”. On this particular issue, do not blame Senator Yerima alone, but blame all the Senators. What about the female Senators or where were they when this law was passed? Agreed that the law has been passed, what have the first lady/ladies (wife of the president and state governors’ wives) done. May be, they are yet to react. This is the time to set aside our differences and unite to fight this obnoxious act. Every concerned Nigerian should join the crusade. Every action is equal to reaction. Time for action is now. For this and many other sins of Nigerian Senators, the author moves a motion (a) for Nigerians to occupy the Senate till this law is repealed (b) for Nigerians to start the process of recalling some of these Senators (c) for Nigerians to sign/endorse any petition required for to actualize the above. The author pleads with all and sundry to support this call. May God bless Nigeria. C.V.Akuta UK 24/7/13.

Bonglob.com to sell shares at $12, values company at $84bn for Africa

Bonglob.com  will officially begin trading at $12 (£14) per share on november 2013  in what will be the biggest IPO ever from an internet company from Tanzania east Africa.

After a very short time of the social network to be online it have come to attention that the site have over 2 million user in a day and new members over 3000 per day. This have come to attention Mr James Obedi

 the CEO of bonglob company being contacted by the big leading company GOOGLE that the want to buy his site for £2.5 million and Mr.James  has refuse the offer and reveal that he want to sell his company into shares which he think it will boost africa advertisement and the growth of the Africans business

The CEO himself, who founded the company in his house in reading united kingdom, is expected to become an instant billionaire, selling over 10m shares to net over $1bn (£300m).

The $12 shares, which will be available to buy to the public, will see the company valued at a staggering $84 billion (£33bn) overall, with $31 (£41bn) market capitalisation.

Remembering Biafra Declaration Day.

Folks, on this day (30th May 1967), 46 years ago, Biafra was declared, in response to the pogrom, killings and genocide against Igbos in Northern and Western Nigeria. Biafran Republic was declared to provide Igbos, with security and safety of their lives and properties. Nigerian government then, in collaboration with imperialistic British government and other foreign powers, declared war on Igbos. At the end of which, over 2 million of us (Igbos) paid the supreme sacrifice. Till date, Igbos all over Nigeria are still being hunted down and killed, at the slightest excuses, or killed for no reasons or no faults of theirs. Igbos have become endangered species. Please, as you read this message, kindly pause and observe a two minutes silence, for our fallen heroes and heroines, they laid down their lives, that we might have ours today. This day (30th May) deserves to be remembered by all Igbos worldwide. For on the average, every family in Biafra lost, at least one person to the war. To this end, my appreciation goes to Igbo Canadian Community Association that planned their 2013 Biafran war memorial day on Saturday 1st June 2013. Other Igbo communities globally should follow suit. Elsewhere around the world, people remember wars and reflect on it. Igbos cannot be an exception, hence Biafran war is worth remembering, on this day of its declaration. It should be an occasion for soul searching amongst the Igbos, especially a time to bury all hatchets, differences, egos etc and begin to unite. For Igbos to progress as a group, their unity is non-negotiable. Permit me to also thank Igbo Forum UK (This group is made up of delegates of several Igbo Unions in UK, Ireland, and Europe), part of their mission is to unite Igbos. May God bless us. C.V.Akuta UK. www.briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com 30th May 2013.

Funding Opportunity Coming Soon on www.ahadiway.org in july2013

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Compensation
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Owelle Rochas: Teach Us How To Fish.

This message is a direct response to a recent promise made by the Imo State Governor, Owelle Rochas Okorocha, that Imo State Government, will pay her unemployed graduates monthly sum of N20,000 (twenty thousand naira only). This is pure welfare system, but bad economics. The author will illustrate what he means and proffer suggestions. But it’s worthy to note also, that the author is an economist by profession and practice, therefore, the suggestions should be given due considerations, that it deserves. Imo State Government should ask these unemployed youths to offer the state or themselves one form of service(s) or another in return for these monthly payments. By accepting to do any of the listed jobs below, Imo State government would have succeeded in teaching them how to fish, instead of giving them, free fish (free money). The following jobs can be done for the state and also for themselves. (a)Street cleaning/sweeping: Assign some of them to help clean/sweep the streets in Imo State. They also could help to clear the gutters/drainages (where they can). Ask residents of the streets to observe them and certify their work before paying them. A sort of checks and balances. Where there are existing contractors doing these jobs, still assign these unemployed people to them. (b) Beautifying the state: Engage many of them in beautifying cities in Imo State, let them help to plant flowers/trees or help to water trees/plants/flowers, along various streets in different cities of Imo State. Again where there are existing contractors doing these jobs, still assign these unemployed people to them to acquire job experiences. (c) Distribute economic trees and livestock(s) to them: Dear Owelle Rochas, during one of your events/visits to London, last year (3rd November, 2012), at the inauguration of Imo APGA UK Chapter, you asked Imolites (Imo State indigenes) to plant economic trees. This is the time/opportunity for you to actualize this vision. Pay them half of the amount, and use the other half of the proposed amount (N10,000) each month, to buy each unemployed graduate seeds/economic trees to plant. In addition, you can do same by also using half of the proposed amount to buy them livestock(s) to breed. Imagine where about 5,000 youths (this is a conservative estimate) are planting about 10 economic trees monthly or imagine where 5,000 youths are getting livestock(s) monthly to breed. (d) For item (c) above, make sure suppliers are Imo indigenes, so that money will circulate among the indigenes. The multiplier effects will be enormous for the state economy. Where there are no competent local suppliers, others can supply. Japan once practised a closed economic system. (e) Identify the unemployed graduates who are skills oriented, that could be trained to become, bricklayers, carpenters, hair stylists, mechanics, painters, electronics repairs etc. Identify trainers and use half of the proposed amount and pay directly to the trainers, so that they could acquire relevant skills. Subsequent payments to be conditioned, upon progression of skills acquisition. The list above is not exhaustive. By doing any of the above, they would acquire lifelong skills. They could also have working experiences for future job references. These would also engage them productively. There would be added value to Imo State economy. The activities above would also occupy their time. Remember an idle mind is a devil’s workshop. C.V.Akuta UK 22/5/13.

State of Emergency; Matters Arising.

1. On paragraph 1, of President Goodluck Jonathan’s speech, of May 14th 2013 (Declaration of State of Emergency), he mentioned eleven states (Borno, Yobe, Adamawa, Gombe, Bauchi, Kano, Plateau, Bayelsa, Taraba, Benue and Nasarawa) as states with serious security challenges, but he ended up declaring state of emergency on only three states (Borno, Yobe, and Adamawa). He didn’t outline the security measures for the remaining states and the remaining parts of the country. 2. State of emergency was declared before by his government, in most of the affected states. Could the President, please shed more light, on the achievements, gains or otherwise of that previous exercise. 3. On Paragraph 13, the President directed the Chief of Defence Staff to deploy more troops. This is what Mr. President should have done since, and perhaps save more lives and properties. Let me add here that, deployment of troops would not yield the desired results without effective intelligence gathering. 4. President Goodluck Jonathan should have also declared a state of emergency on high rates of kidnapping at the South East, South South, South West etc. 5. On paragraph 6, Mr. President acknowledged that the activities of these terrorists, insurgents (I would add, criminals and kidnappers) amounted to a declaration of war. Therefore, a state of war exists. In war situations, the leader should mobilize the entire citizens, for the common objective of defeating the enemy. Without mobilizing the local and indigenous people, this exercise might not go far. Effective policing is a collective effort(s), it requires the active support and participation of the local communities. He needs to win their hearts, minds, loyalty and support. These, he is yet to do or failed to do. 6. Nigerian Customs and Exercise deserves a state of emergency too, for failing to protect our borders, from where numerous arms and ammunitions have found their way into the country. Nothing short of disbanding the organization will be acceptable. May God bless Nigeria. C.V.Akuta UK 15/05/13.

Self and Safe Defence.

If ever, you have never been worried or disturbed about the security situation in Nigeria, now is the time to get seriously concerned, about the deplorable state of affairs, especially high level of insecurity. First let me start with the most recent been, the Ombatse, in Nasarawa State, where over 100 Nigerian Police and other security officers were massacred in a single incident. Police has identified 2 of their officers who leaked information to the Ombatse cultist, which led to the deaths of their colleagues. (I will come back to issue of police giving out information to criminals). Forty eight (48) hours before this Ombatse incident, more than twenty Nigerian Police officers were also killed in Bama Borno State, by the Boko Haram. Just last month (April 2013), about 12 Nigerian Police officers were killed in the creeks of Bayelsa State, by the militants. Sometime in March 2013, former Commissioner of Police of Kwara State, was shot dead at his residence in Enugu. Lastly, former Inspector General of Police, Mr. Hafiz Ringim is currently seeking asylum in United Kingdom, due to the threats of Boko Haram. When you factor in the political assassinations, unsolved murder cases, high rate of kidnappings, other crimes in different parts of the country, you will then realize the danger facing all. No one is safe, this includes both Nigerians at home and abroad. Directly or indirectly what happens in Nigeria, has a way of affecting those in Diaspora. There is now a total breakdown of security. The most disturbing aspect was the fact that, 2 Police officers were discovered to have leaked information, that led to the killing of their colleagues at Ombatse, Nasarawa. This simply means that the masses will find it difficult to trust the police. If the masses cannot trust the police, how then can they give information to the police to fight crimes, without risking their lives? Police is no longer your friend, but now your enermy. The situation is worse and has resulted in self help, therefore every citizen should, ensure self and safe defence and protection of himself and immediate families. It is highly recommended for all to be at highest level of alert. Treat everyone as a suspect till proven innocent. Avoid unnecessary movements. Spy each other. Keep round the clock surveillance of your immediate environment. Join or start a neighbourhood watch group or a vigilante group. Where possible, villages, communities etc could resort to ancient cultural and traditional methods of crime fighting. Report suspicious movements to your immediate neighbours, or to the community leaders. Alert the police, along with other security services/agencies. Use your facebook, mobile phone/sms, email etc to broadcast any suspected crime. The writer suggests, a synergy between the police and the media, whereby every crime reported to the police, should be broadcasted live by various media houses. Mass media, is a useful tool in crime fighting. The above is not exhaustive. Use all legal means possible to provide yourself a protection from criminals. No price is too much for your security. Also remember that, Nigerians themselves can only solve this problem, no foreign power can do it for us. Just the will is what we need. Remember, where there is a will there is a way. C.V.Akuta UK. 12/5/13.

Pause Before the Amnesty.

Following pressures from some Nigerians (Sultan of Sokoto etc), the federal government has constituted a committee for Boko Haram amnesty. The author is concerned about which Boko Haram, the amnesty is meant for? The President has made two contradictory statements on Boko Haram, first, he said, that some are in his government, secondly he referred to them as faceless or invincible. Now if actually they are part of his government, then amnesty is not necessary since they already enjoy financial and other benefits, and if they are faceless and invincible like the President said, then also amnesty is not necessary. This is because you cannot give amnesty to an invincible/faceless group. Except those proponents of amnesty can identify them, otherwise this might become another “Nigerian Project” (conduit pipe for steeling public money). Since the President has gone ahead to constitute a Boko Haram amnesty committee in the first place, then fairness and equity demands that he should also constitute Compensation Committee to pay the innocent victims and surviving family members of those attacked/killed/displaced by the Boko Haram. However, to achieve a balance, this proposed committee should also pay the innocent victims and surviving family members of those attacked/killed/displaced by the MEND etc. A look at the money spent so far on amnesty to, and rehabilitation of MEND members, is an idea on how much that could also be spent on Boko Haram. The author understands that no amount of compensation can replace loved ones etc, but it’s also their right to demand compensation, after all, the primary responsibilities of every government (Nigerian government inclusive) are security and welfare. Failing in these duties, means that the federal government should accept some responsibilities. Both the American and United Kingdom governments paid compensation to the victims of terrorists’ attacks of 9/11 and 7/7. I suggest that innocent families of those attacked/killed/displaced by both MEND and Boko Haram etc should institute a class action against the federal government. This reminds me of the request made by the luxury bus operators Kano Branch to the federal government, asking for N495 million naira, as compensation for the loss of nine buses during the March 18 bomb blasts, at their motor parks in Kano. The Central Bank Governor (Sanusi) did pay some money to innocent victims during an initial terrorists attack in Kano last year (2012). Therefore asking federal government for compensation is in order. This step by luxury bus operator(s) is a very positive step, and also an indication of what others should do. The author will add here, that they also should consider a legal action if the federal government fails. Having accepted amnesty for MEND and Boko Haram, which goes with high monetary inducements, the federal government should be prepared to start negotiations with other groups or new ones that might spring up. Here the author prays to be proven wrong, but other existing or new groups might start agitation, aiming for amnesty. After all, what is good for the goose should be good for the gander? But the truth is, the government might not be better than these groups. The government thru their actions, inactions, wrong policies, corruption etc has directly or indirectly killed more Nigerians. The solutions to our problems, begins when we have determined to solve them, for now, that determination is not there. May God bless Nigeria. Chinedu Vincent Akuta UK 9/4/13.

Pardon for Alamieyeseigha; A Rejection.

Fellow citizens, please join the author and other Nigerians in rejecting the Presidential pardon granted Former Governor Alamieyeseigha. His cases (stealing billions from Bayelsa State treasury, caught laundering money in London, jumped bail from London, served jail sentence in Nigeria etc) are pure criminal offences and does not deserve a presidential pardon. The President has made a mockery of the powers conferred on him to grant pardons. Such action(s), if not reversed, will directly and indirectly encourage corruption. To further complicate issues, the Presidential Senior Special Assistant on Media (Doyin Okupe) was reported to have said, that the President owes no one an apology for granting Presidential pardon to an ex convict. The President appears to be enjoying the company of ex convicts. During his Presidential Campaign tour of Lagos State in 2011, he and Olabode George (another big time ex convict) shared the same VIP stand. One wonders what his numerous advisers are doing. The National Council of State (the body made up of past heads of states and other “eminent” Nigerians) that sat and approved this Presidential pardon, deserves our condemnation. By this singular act, they have added more disgrace to the nation. Therefore, Nigerians should reject this pardon. C.V.Akuta UK 13/3/13.

Chinua Achebe: A Tribute.

Things have indeed fallen apart, with your departure to great beyond (the land of our fore fathers and our ancestors). Your death, though a great loss to the global literary community, is a greater loss to your nation (Nigeria) and your tribe the Igbos, whose culture you proudly put on the world map, through your most popular novel (Things Fall Apart). When the call came to serve your people (Biafrans), you proudly served as a very worthy cultural ambassador, helping also to put Biafra on the world centre stage. The efforts of worthy sons and daughters like you, helped sustain Biafra. Like all heroes, you survived the Biafra war and lived to give us your true accounts of the war through what you know best, a book by the title of; There Was A Country. Thank God, you published this book before your departure. In the course to take Nigeria to greater heights, you worked with the legendary Aminu Kano of blessed memory, whose leadership qualities you extolled. When the nation wasn’t moving forward (and still not moving forward now), you detailed the trouble with Nigeria, in your book titled; The Trouble with Nigeria. (it’s a highly recommended book). I was greatly touched and inspired, when you rejected a national award by a corrupt government of Nigeria. That was principles and courage at display. You were courageous and fearless. Your type of person(s), comes one in a million and once in a century. My generation are grateful, to have witnessed your sojourn thru earth. For the upcoming generations, that could not witness your passage thru earth, no word will be sufficient to describe you. You came, you saw and you conquered the world thru literature. You cannot die because your works/books speak(s) for you. May your soul, and other faithfully departed, rest in peace. Chinedu Vincent Akuta UK 23/3/13.

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Memo to All Progressive Congress.

Please, permit me to send you a memorandum, particularly now that you have inaugurated your constitution and manifesto committees. The author, prays that his memo, be given due considerations. The list below is not exhaustive. Federal Character Principle/Zoning/Quota System: Please for the sake of Nigeria, make sure this retrogressive clause is never included in whatever constitution/manifesto that you’re preparing for APC. The inclusion of this principle in the constitution of Nigeria is one of the strong reasons, why the nation has never moved forward. This system never promotes merit but rather elevates mediocre(s). That is to say that, our best never occupies their rightful positions. We are witnessing a situation, were the least qualified people are leading the best/rest of us, courtesy of quota/zoning. Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP) adopted the zoning principle, and we are living witnesses to what the party has done to Nigerian entity. For people, like us, this system defiles all logic. No sane person should expect anything positive from the above principle. “Quota system means injustice as far as am concerned. Apologies to its beneficiaries. The mere existence of this charter in our law books means that the country has been established on the paths of injustice”,,,“America was established on freedom, equality, human rights and democracy. They live by it and they also export it to the whole world”. (http://www.briefsfromakuta.blogspot.co.uk/2009/05/abolish-quota-system-or-quota-system.html) As a result of American system, the emergence of President Obama became a possibility. In the United Kingdom, there is also an equal opportunities act. These are indeed true progressive societies. Not only should this clause not be included on APC constitution and manifesto, but APC should champion the removal of this from our law books (The Nigerian Constitution). Removing Immunity Clauses. Section 308 of the 1999 constitution shields the President, his Vice, the Governor and their Deputies from criminal and civil prosecution during their term in office. This is another retrogressive clause in our constitution that needs removing. It’s simply a recipe for abuse of office and also the abuse of Nigerians. The author strongly suggests that, APC should seriously consider fighting for the removal of this clause from the nation’s constitution. Therefore, removing immunity clauses should form part of your party’s (APC) manifesto. Imagine a situation where the President, Vice President, Governor, and Deputy Governor can be prosecuted while in office. Then they will sit up and take Nigerians very serious. True Federalism. There is so much concentration of powers at the centre. The Presidency is so powerful, that it has actually become a threat to the survival of our democracy. There is urgent need to devolve powers among the federating units of the country. The various states and local government areas have to be truly independent to an extent. The author prefers confederalism. The units that make up Nigeria need a reasonable level of autonomy. More so, there is need for competition amongst the various units that make up Nigeria. Competition brings out the best in us. Therefore there is need for all the 6 zones (SE, SW,SS, NE,NW,NC) to compete among each other. Various zones/parts of the country should be allowed to develop at their own pace. The nation needs restructuring; therefore, the author suggests that APC should take this into consideration while preparing their constitution and manifesto. Total War Against Corruption. It is the author’s view that corruption is the biggest obstacle to the development and progress of Nigeria. Except a total war is waged against corruption, nothing meaningful can be achieved. According to the former Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) Chairman, Nuhu Ribadu, “when you fight corruption, corruption fights back”. “We are internationally recognized for corruption, inefficiency, business uncertainty and infrastructural decay”. Gen. Muhammadu Buhari, Ex Head of State. “The World Bank estimates the country’s generals and gangster politicians stole $300 billion in the three decades to 2006” (Time Magazine, May 3rd 2010 Edition, Page 42). From 2006, when the World Bank captured the figure above till now, a lot more has been stolen. It therefore requires wo/men made of steel or a determined political party to wage an effective war on corruption. Thus APC, has to take cognisance of this monster, and accord it an important place in their constitution/manifesto. That is also if, APC wants to clean the mess in Nigeria. Internal Democracy. All Progressive Congress must lead by example. Internal party democracy and discipline is non negotiable. Charity begins at home. APC must not only have internal democracy, but it must be seen to exist within it. Any party without these two points (internal democracy and discipline) is not worthy to be voted into power by Nigerians. It is the author’s prayer, that this be included in your constitution. It would also be appropriate, for APC to consider waging a war against indiscipline in the country, thus it should be included in your manifesto. The author is neither under any illusion nor delusion that the above points might or might not be accepted by the All Progressive Congress. But if you do, that would be truly in the nation’s interest. May God bless Nigeria. C.V.Akuta UK. 26th February, 2013.

APGA, APC and Matters Arising.

Given the choice between endorsing GEJ/PDP again and merging with the All Progressive Congress, the author suggests that All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA) should merge with the APC. The reason is very simple; you cannot do the same thing, over and over again, and expect different results. Since 1999, Peoples Democratic Party has been in power at the centre and more of South Eastern States, but there is nothing to show for it, examples are as follows, (a) Obasanjo promised the Igbos, second Niger Bridge but failed to deliver. Rather he helped to cause havoc in Anambra State using Chris Uba. Remember the attempted kidnap of a sitting Governor (Chris Ngige of Anambra State) happened during Obasanjo regime. Till date, no one was prosecuted. (b) No federal presence in Igbo land, (c) No good roads (d) High level insecurity (e) President Goodluck Jonathan also promised building second Niger Bridge, but has failed to initiate the project. The list is endless. After all these failed promises, then tell me if APGA should still trust PDP to deliver? Remember, APGA endorsed President Goodluck Jonathan during the 2011 Presidential election and nothing has been done in the South East, except the individual efforts of the Igbos. Personally, I will never trust someone who has failed me several times. First fool no be fool, but second fool, na proper foolish. APGA leadership claimed that they were never consulted nor invited to the negotiating table, before the merger took place. However, there has been a counter claim that APGA leadership was involved with the negotiations (after all, Imo State Governor and others were there). Whatever is the true situation, the author thinks/suggests that APGA/Igbo interest will be better served under the new party. This should also serve as an opportunity for the leaders of the new party (All Progressive Congress) to restart negotiation with APGA leadership/other Igbo leaders. Politics is more about negotiations, alliances, consultations, etc. In doing this, the new party (All Progressive Congress) should find a way of reaching out to the Igbo masses and indeed Nigerians masses to connect with them, this is very important. This is because; most times “our” so called “leaders” are only concerned about themselves/families. My prayer and that of other Nigerians is for All Progressive Congress to provide a credible alternative to PDP and fashion a way to move the nation forward. Strong opposition parties/groups are very essential for the survival of every democracy. Nigeria cannot be an exception. Great Zik of Africa once said, show the light and the people will find the way. Hoping that, APC will provide the light/directions for Nigerians to find their way. Chinedu Vincent Akuta UK. www.briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com

Nigerian Judiciary is A Big Joke.

Please, take a look at these laughable convictions from the Nigerian Judiciary. A former director of the Police Pension Board, John Yakubu Yusuf, was sentenced to two years in prison by an Abuja High Court for the embezzlement of N23.3bn pension fund or option of fine of N750,000. Olabode George committed a fraud of over N85 billion naira and was only given 2:5 years imprisonment. (We all know what happened when he was released. In case you didn’t know what happened, his release was televised live on a national Television network thru to where he had a party. At his party, Ex President Obasanjo attended. After two days he (Olabode George) appeared on the same VIP stand with our current President (GEJ), during his campaign tour of Lagos State). Mrs. Cecilia Ibru (former MD/CEO of Ocenic Bank was jailed 6 months for stealing N54 billion naira. Former Inspector General of Police, Tafa Balogun was convicted of N20 billion naira fraud, and was sentenced to only 6 months in prison. Both Tafa Balogun and Cecilia Ibru had their sentences spent in their homes or chosen hospitals. Another Ex Inspector General of Police, Sunday Ehindero was caught trying to smuggle out N200 million naira, out of Abuja. Sunday Ehindero was not even sent to court, so the case died like that. So many Ex Governors between (1999-2011), have been granted bails on their alleged corrupt cases, some have court injunction (Peter Odili) stopping their trial on corruption cases. James Ibori (Former Governor of Delta State) was discharged and acquitted in Nigeria, but was sent to jail in UK, for the same offences, he was acquitted from in Nigeria. The list is endless. What is worrisome is that poor Nigerians are left to rot in Nigerian prisons, for little or no offences, compared to what the "big and mighty" Nigerians are doing. Corruption is all over the world, the difference is how various countries approach it. In China, the penalty is capital punishment. Another example is America, where for instance, Bernard Madoff, who committed a fraud of $65 Billion Dollars (£38bn Pounds Sterling) was sentenced to 150 years in jail. Nigerian judiciary, is no longer the last hope of a common man, but rather, the destroyer of the Nigerian hope. “The greatest incitement to crime is the hope of escaping punishment” Marcus Cicero. The Nigerian Judiciary is aiding and abetting crimes, by handing little or no sentences/jail terms. Make no mistake, the destruction of Nigeria (by whatever means) will affect all and sundry. Take a look at the insecurity situation (which is a failure of the government and partly the people), no one is safe/saved any more. Emirs, chiefs, ministers, commissioners, judges, lawyers, ex this, ex that, etc can be attacked or kidnapped. High crime rates are partly the fault of our judiciary also. Therefore, this should serve a wakeup call, because a lot of damages have already been done. C.V.Akuta UK www.briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com

New Year Message; Solutions and Synergy.

Happy New Year (2013) to you all. As usual, may the New Year (2013), bring us progress and prosperity. But the author has always wondered, how this old time saying(s) alone, can bring us prosperity without action. It looks more like a yearly rhetorical ritual. My New Year message will in addition to the above, also include thus; please, start now to apply solutions to the challenges facing our society. The author believes, we know our problems from the individual, village/community, local government, state to the national level. Therefore, next rightful steps, would be to start applying/contributing our quota towards the solutions. Please, do not expect any prosperity and progress in 2013, if no positive actions are taken. Next is synergy. Kindly, consider to synergize wherever possible. Two heads are better than one and three heads better than two. There are more to be accomplished as a team. As we do the above and more, progress and prosperity will be assured in 2013. I thank you all. Happy New Year. C.V.Akuta UK. 1st January, 2013.

Kaduna State Govt., Azazi et al, Vs Nigerian Navy.

First, my condolence goes to the families of; Lt Adeyemi Sowole, Commander Murtala Mohammed Daba, Dauda Tsoho, Warrant Officer Mohammed Kamal, Gen. Andrew Owoye Azazi and Mr. Patrick Yakowa (Ex Governor of Kaduna State) that died in the helicopter crash of 15th December 2012. May their souls, and other faithfully departed, rest in peace. This crash is one, too many. It has left more questions than answers and more conspiracy theories/theorists. The author is more particular about litigations that will follow this crash. Except Kaduna State Government, and families of those that perished in the helicopter crash do not wish to seek redress at the law court. The norm is usually a court case, compensation or settlement after every air crash. How will this case play out in court? How much compensation will the Nigerian Navy pay Kaduna State government etc, and that is, if ever they will pay? From whose purse will the money come from? Upon hearing the shocking news of the helicopter crash, I asked myself (the same questions, Nigerians are asking themselves) what was a Nigerian Navy helicopter doing in a private event? Who authorized its uses on that day? What are the job roles/specifications of the air wing of the Nigerian Navy? This brings me to the question of litigations that might likely follow this crash (as a matter of fact, a court case(s), concerning this helicopter crash will be in the national interest). What will be the defence argument for the Nigerian Navy? The author thinks that the Nigerian Navy owe Nigerians a lot of explanations. Whatever explanations provided by the navy, would determine further questions that would be asked by Nigerians. But the author is also worried, that Nigerians forgets easily, and never learn from their pasts. This issue can easily be swept under the carpet. I pray to be proven wrong. As expected, the government has set up a probe panel, the National Assembly and Naval authorities have also set up their investigative panels. But in Nigeria, we never get to know the causes of air crashes. Despite past, numerous “federal government” constituted air crash(es) investigating panels, their results have never been made public or at best doctored. Are there any assurances that, the causes of this helicopter crash will be made public? My answer is NO. Perhaps a court case(s) by victims’ families might compel authorities to disclose publicly, whatever caused the crash. Till then, let’s wait and see. It’s a waiting game. C.V.Akuta UK.

Palm Oil is Better Than Crude Oil.

One of the best speeches I heard this year, was on Saturday, November 3rd 2012, in London, at an audience with the Governor of Imo State, Owelle Rochas Okorocha, when he said that, palm oil was better than crude oil, and urged us to plant a palm tree each. Without a single doubt, the writer agrees 100% with Owelle Rochas Okorocha. Before, the advent of crude oil, the former Eastern region survived mainly thru proceeds from palm oil plantation. Then Eastern Region recorded a lot of progress and developments. The writer has also visited the Adapalm Plantation at Ohaji Egbema, Local Government Area. This plantation was inherited by Imo State from the old Eastern Region, being that Ohaji/Egbema is in Imo State. This is one of the, if not the greatest investment of the present Imo State government. Yes, palm oil can yield sufficient revenue for both the state government and the indigenes. More so, since there are species of palm trees that could mature and start yielding in 3 years. I remembered my late grand uncle, who used to deal with palm oil/nuts etc. He was self sufficient and employed some women in the village. One good thing, about palm tree plantations and palm productions are that, there are so many by products associated with it. I understood thru the Governor, that the palm seed cost about N200 (two hundred naira). The message by the governor, to plant a palm tree, is in agreement, with my earlier campaign for tree planting, way back, before Owelle became the governor of Imo State. Hearing the governor, preach plant a palm tree, re-echoed a deep passion in me. Most importantly, let’s remember that global warming is real. Take a look at the floods that happened in Nigeria this year (2012). Look at the hurricane sandy that almost destroyed America. Then we should take this message of tree planting very seriously. Tree planting is a way to fight global warming. To make it better, let’s plant economic trees (palm trees etc) that will yield revenue for us in the near future. May God bless Nigeria. C.V.Akuta UK.

Gowon Again!

This write up is in response to the Gowon’s comment on both the civil war and Chinua Achebe’s new book (There Was a Country). His comments were published by Daily Trust Newspapers, online version,(http://www.dailytrust.com.ng/index.php/other-sections/lead-stories/179824-biafra-i-have-no-regrets-gowon). According to this publication, “Former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon, says he has no regrets over the roles he played during the 13[30] months Civil War”. The author is at lost why, Gowon made such a statement to daily trust news media, when he (Yakubu Gowon), had during the Oputa Panel, rendered apology over the genocide committed in Asaba during the war. Below was what he said. “it came to me as a shock when I came to know about the unfortunate happenings that happened to the sons and daughters...of Asaba domain. I felt very touched and honestly I referred to [the killings] and ask for forgiveness being the one who was in charge at that time. Certainly, it is not something that I would have approved of in whatsoever. I was made ignorant of it, I think until it appeared in the papers” (Chinua Achebe, There Was a Country, Page 134). Gowon had also given second apology when he said, “Nigerians and indeed the children who suffered during the war should forgive us” He made this statement in May 2012,during a posthumous awards on the tripod of Nigeria’s independence and first Republic leaders, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Sir Ahmadu Bello and Chief Nnamdi Azikiwe. According to daily trust, “Gowon, who spoke to newsmen in Minna after a courtesy call on Governor Mu'azu Babangida Aliyu, also dismissed allegations that the Federal Government under him maltreated the Igbos, saying that those who accused him of crime against the Igbos were talking out of ignorance. Perhaps, Gowon is hoping to rewrite history. The facts of his atrocities against Igbos are overwhelming and it is public knowledge/record. Just to ask Gowon, who/whose government imposed economic blockade against Igbos, that led to the death of over 2 million Igbos (mostly women and children). Awo, who acted like Gowon’s deputy then, accepted responsibility of both economic and food blockade in one of his interviews, carried by Punch Newspapers, Awo said, “So I decided to stop sending the food there. In the process the civilians would suffer, but the soldiers will suffer most”. Another statement credited to Awo, as captured by Chinua Achebe in his book, “All is fair in war, and starvation is one of the weapons of war. I don’t see why we should feed our enemies fat in order for them to fight harder” (Chinua Achebe, There Was a Country, Page 233). Gowon and his cabinet, clearly, knew they violated Geneva Convention on war, part of which prohibits starvation, economic and medical blockades, yet Gowon etc did it to Igbos. This is simply a war crime and a crime against humanity. Then came, the £20 policy and the abandoned properties, which Gowon himself spearheaded and supervised. Shortly after implementing these policies, Gowon was announcing to the world, that the problem with Nigeria, was how to spend her money. Therefore, one can conclude that, it was the money, properties he seized from the Igbos, that made him to make such statements. He followed it up with the indigenization decree, whereby the federal government sold share of foreign companies to Nigerians, knowing that they Igbos, wouldn’t have the money to participate. This is a clear case of genocide committed after the war. Genocide can also be committed during peace time. This is United Nations definition of genocide, in part as; “Genocide is a crime of intentional destruction of a national, ethnic, racial and religious group, in whole or in part”... “The coverage of crimes against humanity expanded to include acts perpetrated in time of peace, and to a broad range of groups, not to mention an ever-growing list of punishable acts inspired by developments in international human rights law” Gowon also said, “In fact, if there was no secession by the South Eastern part of the country, there would have been no civil war because right from the beginning of the crises the war would have been averted if not for the secession. It was something I believed we could have stopped” Could Nigerians ask Gowon, why he and his government failed to stop the pogrom/massacre/genocide before the war, in the Northern Nigeria that killed over 30,000 Igbos. It’s on record that his government, rather collaborated in killing the Igbos then. Secondly, could Nigerians also ask Gowon, why he failed to honour the Aburi Accord, reached at Aburi, Ghana. Gowon, also made the following statement then, “suffice it to say that putting all considerations to the test, political, economic as well as social, the basis for unity is not there” Nigerians should also not forget the fact, that this same person (Gowon), masterminded the killing of one time Nigerian Head of State, Gen, Murtala Mohammed, thru a failed coup, he organized with Dimka etc. Since the death of our Great leader, Ikemba Nnewi, Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu, Gowon, has been making so many statements, apparently trying to twist facts. One continues to wonder, why Gowon didn’t make these statements when Ikemba was with us. Most of the statements Gowon has been making, are self contradictory. What then, is the essence of his prayer ministry (Nigeria Prays). However, history will judge every one according to his/her deeds. May be he knows, history will not be kind with him. C.V.Akuta UK. Note: Please, click on this web link and sign the petition, requesting the United Nations to apologize to Igbos. http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/united-nations-must-apologize-to-igbo-people-of/

There Was A Genocide Against Igbos;Wole Soyinka.

“Writing in certain environments carries with it an occupational risk. When I was imprisoned, without trial, it was as a result of a position I took as a citizen. Of course I used my weapon, which was writing, to express my disapproval of the [Biafran] civil war into which we were about to enter. These were people who’d been abused, who’d undergone genocide, and who felt completely rejected by the rest of the community, and therefore decided to break away and form a nation of its own”. Wole Soyinka,Mexico,Oct,2012. http://www.telegraph.co.uk/culture/hay-festival/9600954/Wole-Soyinka-If-religion-was-taken-away-Id-be-happy.html Note: Please, click on this web link below and sign the epetition, requesting the United Nations to apologize to Igbos. http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/united-nations-must-apologize-to-igbo-people-of/ Thanks Chinedu Vincent Akuta Leicester, UK.

Biafra: Chinua Achebe and Wole Soyinka.

The question begging for answers are, why are people, criticizing Chinua Achebe for speaking the simple truth in his latest book (There Was A Country).Well people are entitled to their opinion/views. For me, Chinua Achebe simply reinstated the obvious truth about the genocide committed against the Igbos, before, during and after the war. Some have gone as far as calling him all sorts of name, etc. Greater majority of this name calling and criticisms are coming from my Yoruba brothers etc, simply because Chinua Achebe blamed Awolowo in his book for most of the pains and problems that the Igbos went thru. The same critics of Chinua Achebe have forgotten that our own Kongi, Wole Soyinka was jailed by the Gowon government (which Awololo was the part of), for crossing over to Biafran side during the war and for speaking out against the atrocities, committed against the Igbos. Hope people could still find Wole Soyinka’s book about the civil war and also read it. Glad also that Soyinka physically went to Enugu to pay his last tribute to our leader, Ikemba Nnewi, Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu. Perhaps, Gowon should come out and tell the world his role in the genocide against the Igbos. Since he is leading a prayer/praying group, this would be a better opportunity for him to lay the matter to rest, that is, if he is serious with this praying project. It’s never too late, after all, Chinua Achebe just released his Biafran war memoirs. C.V.Akuta UK. Note: Please, click on this web link and sign the petition, requesting the United Nations to apologize to Igbos. http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/united-nations-must-apologize-to-igbo-people-of/