Let me start by condemning in strongest terms, the car bomb blast, which occurred during the 50th anniversary celebration of our independence, on 1st October 2010, few meters away from the eagle square. I wish also to extend my condolences to the families of innocent Nigerians that died, as a result(s) of the bomb blast. May their souls and souls of other departed Nigerians rest in peace. Moments like this, calls for a serious reflection on the security situation in our country, as this bomb blast, is a serious security lapse. Therefore, all the security services must fish out the perpetrators of this crime, expose them and bring them to face justice.
It became highly disturbing, on reading from Thisday Newspaper of 2nd October 2010 (online version), that the British Intelligence warned the Nigerian authorities about the attacks. The questions are? Was it a preventable incident, what did our security services do with the information, and how capable are our security services for security challenges in this 21st century, etc. But a general look at the national security level reveals, a total breakdown of law and order. Crime rates are too high. Kidnappings have reached a dangerous level. Still on the same 1st October 2010, there was breaking news on Sky News (between 8:30am and 9:15am) that kidnapper(s) have released 15 school children at Aba. Hardly any day goes by, without a case of kidnapping been reported.
The national insecurity situation is a pointer to the near failure of government. This is because, the primary purpose of every government is welfare and security of its people. Nigeria and Nigerians must rise up, to put an end to insecurity (crimes, kidnappings, violence, robberies, etc) or insecurity will put an end to us as a nation. Every one (government and people) has a role to play. Firstly, the government should be serious with its fight against corruption. Corruption makes it difficult to; (1) create jobs for the youths, (2) create an enabling environment for the private sector to create jobs, (3) makes it difficult to develop the economy. Unemployment brings idleness, and an idle mind is a devils workshop.
A situation where, “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), will be a recipe for disaster, and high crime rates from those who are frustrated by the system. The government needs to redress so many structural imbalances in the country like the Niger Delta crises, conduct credible elections in 2011, etc. Above all, the government needs to be fair, honest and transparent in her dealings with Nigerians. The government cannot say one thing and do another.
The government should restructure our security services to be more proactive. Emphasizes should be focused more on preventing crimes, meaning that our security services should be more intelligence driven. The security services most cleanse itself of corrupt personnel(s), who have collaborated with criminals, kidnappers, killers etc. Nigerians should volunteer information/intelligence to the security services. For security reasons, Information can be volunteered anonymously, that way the identity of the informants can be protected. Ex governor Buba Marwa of Lagos State, tried this formula when he launched Operation Sweep (a security outfit to fight crimes) in Lagos.
Nigerians can also borrow the techniques used by the former East German Secret Police (Stasi). In the former East Germany, people were spying each other for the good of the state. Cuba used similar method at the early days of Fidel Castro’s revolution. The danger with this method is that people might tip their enemies as suspects. But that will require thorough investigations on the part of the security services, to ascertain who is guilty o not. This method if used effectively will have the potentials of reducing crimes drastically. No sacrifice will be too much for the security of Nigerians.
I will suggest community policing within each community/village by the villagers. I will also suggest a network of, and collaboration of community police with each community. I will also suggest a collaboration of the security services with the community leaders, community police or village vigilante groups. May God bless Nigeria.
Chinedu Vincent Akuta.
An activist and leader of “Support Option A4 Group” Leicester-UK
akutachinedu@yahoo.com
http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/
Sunday, October 3, 2010
Ribadu.
Glad that you have joined the presidential race to contest under the platform of, Action Congress of Nigeria. Last year (May 29th 2009), at the state of the Nigerian nation symposium, held at the London Metropolitan University, organized by the Nigerian Liberty Forum, people at the auditorium started shouting Ribadu for president, after your speech. Perhaps you have decided to answer the call of those Nigerians that shouted Ribadu for president.
You won my admiration after your speech on that day. I became fascinated about your comments on the Niger Delta crises, corruption, Atiku Abubakar (former Vice President), Chief Gani Fawehinmi, etc. You even dared the late Yar Adua’s government when you sneaked into the country to see Gani’s corpse at the mortuary. I have no doubts, that you have won the admiration of other Nigerians, while am also not under any illusion that many will not be comfortable with your presidential ambition.
It gave me pleasure, when I heard about your involvement with the formation of Nigeria shadow government/cabinet in the United States of America. Shadow government/cabinet is also an idea I have propagated in the past. As we prepare for elections next year, let me also ask Nigerians to also prepare for the formation of shadow government/cabinet. Further details can be found on the enclosed web link (http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/2010/02/shadow-government.html).
Your entrance into the presidential race has provided Nigerians with additional choice to make between other presidential aspirants. Though that, you might not have fought corruption completely during your tenure as the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), personally I give you kudos for the extent you reached in fighting corruption in Nigeria. You were quoted saying that, when you fight corruption, corruption fights you back. I will agree with you completely on that. Corruption can only be fought with the active collaboration of Nigerians. No agency can fight it alone, because corruption has grown into a monster in Nigeria.
Giving free and fair election, and the candidate with the most track record at fighting corruption, I believe you stand better chances of wining. However, I am a bit skeptical about some top members of your chosen party (Action Congress of Nigeria), many of whom are corrupt politicians. Be that as it may, am also aware that in politics, there are no permanent friends, or permanent enemies, but permanent interests. Perhaps that could explain your involvement. But I have a different view, which is that corrupt politicians should be declared enemies of the Nigerian state.
For the sake of credibility, I would suggest you seek your presidential career with the National Conscience Party (NCP), founded by the late Gani Fawehinmi (Senior Advocate of the Masses). More so, be prepared to disclose publicly all sources of your campaign funding. We will also like to know the following; costs of your campaign, public declaration of your assets and liabilities, medical certificate of fitness, and your manifesto to govern Nigeria, including plans to fight corruption. As you do the above, be sure I will campaign for you. May God bless Nigeria.
Chinedu Vincent Akuta.
An activist and leader of “Support Option A4 Group” Leicester-UK
akutachinedu@yahoo.com
http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/
You won my admiration after your speech on that day. I became fascinated about your comments on the Niger Delta crises, corruption, Atiku Abubakar (former Vice President), Chief Gani Fawehinmi, etc. You even dared the late Yar Adua’s government when you sneaked into the country to see Gani’s corpse at the mortuary. I have no doubts, that you have won the admiration of other Nigerians, while am also not under any illusion that many will not be comfortable with your presidential ambition.
It gave me pleasure, when I heard about your involvement with the formation of Nigeria shadow government/cabinet in the United States of America. Shadow government/cabinet is also an idea I have propagated in the past. As we prepare for elections next year, let me also ask Nigerians to also prepare for the formation of shadow government/cabinet. Further details can be found on the enclosed web link (http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/2010/02/shadow-government.html).
Your entrance into the presidential race has provided Nigerians with additional choice to make between other presidential aspirants. Though that, you might not have fought corruption completely during your tenure as the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), personally I give you kudos for the extent you reached in fighting corruption in Nigeria. You were quoted saying that, when you fight corruption, corruption fights you back. I will agree with you completely on that. Corruption can only be fought with the active collaboration of Nigerians. No agency can fight it alone, because corruption has grown into a monster in Nigeria.
Giving free and fair election, and the candidate with the most track record at fighting corruption, I believe you stand better chances of wining. However, I am a bit skeptical about some top members of your chosen party (Action Congress of Nigeria), many of whom are corrupt politicians. Be that as it may, am also aware that in politics, there are no permanent friends, or permanent enemies, but permanent interests. Perhaps that could explain your involvement. But I have a different view, which is that corrupt politicians should be declared enemies of the Nigerian state.
For the sake of credibility, I would suggest you seek your presidential career with the National Conscience Party (NCP), founded by the late Gani Fawehinmi (Senior Advocate of the Masses). More so, be prepared to disclose publicly all sources of your campaign funding. We will also like to know the following; costs of your campaign, public declaration of your assets and liabilities, medical certificate of fitness, and your manifesto to govern Nigeria, including plans to fight corruption. As you do the above, be sure I will campaign for you. May God bless Nigeria.
Chinedu Vincent Akuta.
An activist and leader of “Support Option A4 Group” Leicester-UK
akutachinedu@yahoo.com
http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/
New Beginning At 50.
On October 1st 2010, Nigeria will become 50 years old as a nation. 50 years, is a reasonable age to record meaningful progress. But the reverse is the case. At present, greater majority of Nigerians are disappointed at the state of the nation/rate of our progress as a country. However, this piece does not intend to further repeat the obvious fact, which is that, we have been very unfortunate, to have both bad leaders and bad followers in Nigeria.
Yes we are bad followers, because in other countries (South Africans dismantled apartheid, Eastern Europeans dismantled communism), followers have resisted being misled. Our strengths as followers are never utilized. Discovering and utilizing of our strengths as followers will be a useful instrument. Lets not forget that, Nigerian leadership (various levels) is too serious a business to be left for leaders alone.
Fellow Nigerians, lets start a new beginning for Nigeria. The new beginning am asking for is, what can we do for our country Nigeria. Former American President (John F. Kennedy) made similar call to Americans when he said, “Ask not what your country can do for you; ask what you can do for your country” in the same manner, what can we do as Nigerians (with or without government) to move Nigeria forward.
Time for action is now. Its also time to prepare for the great challenges of saving Nigeria, because failing to prepare, is preparing to fail our country. Nigeria remains one and our only country. History will surely not forgive us if we fail to take a positive action to save Nigeria. Lets hear from you, ideas/actions to reclaim our dearest country. May God bless Nigeria.
Chinedu Vincent Akuta.
An activist and leader of “Support Option A4 Group” Leicester-UK
akutachinedu@yahoo.com
http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/
Yes we are bad followers, because in other countries (South Africans dismantled apartheid, Eastern Europeans dismantled communism), followers have resisted being misled. Our strengths as followers are never utilized. Discovering and utilizing of our strengths as followers will be a useful instrument. Lets not forget that, Nigerian leadership (various levels) is too serious a business to be left for leaders alone.
Fellow Nigerians, lets start a new beginning for Nigeria. The new beginning am asking for is, what can we do for our country Nigeria. Former American President (John F. Kennedy) made similar call to Americans when he said, “Ask not what your country can do for you; ask what you can do for your country” in the same manner, what can we do as Nigerians (with or without government) to move Nigeria forward.
Time for action is now. Its also time to prepare for the great challenges of saving Nigeria, because failing to prepare, is preparing to fail our country. Nigeria remains one and our only country. History will surely not forgive us if we fail to take a positive action to save Nigeria. Lets hear from you, ideas/actions to reclaim our dearest country. May God bless Nigeria.
Chinedu Vincent Akuta.
An activist and leader of “Support Option A4 Group” Leicester-UK
akutachinedu@yahoo.com
http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
Say No To Quran/Koran Burning.
Option A4 Group, Leicester-United Kingdom condemns the attempt by Rev. Terry Jones of the Gainesville, Florida-based Dove World Outreach Center to burn Qurans on September 11 2010. Such action if carried out, will have serious negative consenquencies globally, and might likely spill over to our beloved country, Nigeria.
The negative experiences, deaths and huge losses arising from a Swedish cartoon of Prophet Mohammed, is an example of what Rev Terry Jones wants to plunge the world into. The world needs peace now more than ever before. Therefore, we call on all faith leaders in Nigeria, security services, political leaders, state governors, regional leaders, village heads, community leaders, opinion leaders, etc to hold an emergency meeting(s) on how to prevent a spill over effects, should Rev Terry Jones proceed with his plans to burn Qurans on September 11 2010. May God bless Nigeria.
Chinedu Vincent Akuta.
An activist and leader of “Support Option A4 Group” Leicester-UK
akutachinedu@yahoo.com
http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/
The negative experiences, deaths and huge losses arising from a Swedish cartoon of Prophet Mohammed, is an example of what Rev Terry Jones wants to plunge the world into. The world needs peace now more than ever before. Therefore, we call on all faith leaders in Nigeria, security services, political leaders, state governors, regional leaders, village heads, community leaders, opinion leaders, etc to hold an emergency meeting(s) on how to prevent a spill over effects, should Rev Terry Jones proceed with his plans to burn Qurans on September 11 2010. May God bless Nigeria.
Chinedu Vincent Akuta.
An activist and leader of “Support Option A4 Group” Leicester-UK
akutachinedu@yahoo.com
http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/
Friday, July 23, 2010
Attahiru (Prof) Jega.
Attahiru (Prof) Jega, Chairman,
Independent National Electoral Commission,
Plot 436 Zambezi Crescent,
Abuja, Nigeria.
Email: contact@inecnigeria.org
23rd July 2010.
Dear Attahiru,
This letter is in direct response to the Independent National Electoral Commission’s request for N72 billion naira, to produce fresh voters register. I will ask Nigerians to support this request, only on one condition. That condition is that, you Must introduce biometric voter registration. Otherwise whatever you do, will be dead on arrival. Alternatively, part of this money INEC has requested, should be used to purchase forensic equipment(s) and personnel to track multiple voter registration. The use of technology is inevitable if INEC wants to conduct free, fair, transparent and credible elections in 2011 and onwards. Please make this known to the President (Goodluck Jonathan).
The use of biometric (finger prints) is not new in Nigeria. The Nigerian immigration service is a good example (epassport, etc). It was also used during the failed identity card project. This technology can be used by INEC. I will suggest that all the security agencies in Nigeria, (Nigerian Police Force, State Security Services, Customs, Immigration, Prisons etc) should have access to whatever biometric database, INEC should have in future. This will make it easier to track offenders.
Dearest Attahiru, I will also not congratulate you on your new appointment (INEC Chairman). I will equally ask Nigerians not to congratulate you. Rather, I will ask Nigerians to commend or condemn you at the end of your tenure, and especially after conducting 2011 general elections. Remember your immediate predecessor (Maurice Iwu), who has been condemned and consigned to the garbage heap, of forgotten electoral fraud chiefs. Humphrey Nwosu (Still your predecessor) defied Babangida’s intimidation, threats, and manipulation and conducted the June 12th 1993, presidential election which became the freest and fairest election in Nigeria.
You are at the threshold of history. You either use technology or be prepared to face whatever consequences. Aside from the use of technology in electoral register/voting, you should also be thinking on how to re-introduce the Option A4 methods and how to enable the Nigerians in Diaspora to vote. Other small countries in Africa have achieved this (Diaspora voting) feet.
Special Appeal To Nigerians.
Please support this letter to Attahiru (Prof) Jega by adding your name and resending it to INEC (contact@inecnigeria.org). Also follow this link (http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/2010/07/protest-for-nigeria.html) to sign a petition (Protest For Nigeria).That is, if you have not already signed. The only choice we have is to take action(s) now to save Nigeria. Pass around to your friends and friends of Nigeria to do so. May God bless Nigeria.
Chinedu Vincent Akuta.
An activist and leader of “Support Option A4 Group” Leicester-UK
akutachinedu@yahoo.com
http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/
Independent National Electoral Commission,
Plot 436 Zambezi Crescent,
Abuja, Nigeria.
Email: contact@inecnigeria.org
23rd July 2010.
Dear Attahiru,
This letter is in direct response to the Independent National Electoral Commission’s request for N72 billion naira, to produce fresh voters register. I will ask Nigerians to support this request, only on one condition. That condition is that, you Must introduce biometric voter registration. Otherwise whatever you do, will be dead on arrival. Alternatively, part of this money INEC has requested, should be used to purchase forensic equipment(s) and personnel to track multiple voter registration. The use of technology is inevitable if INEC wants to conduct free, fair, transparent and credible elections in 2011 and onwards. Please make this known to the President (Goodluck Jonathan).
The use of biometric (finger prints) is not new in Nigeria. The Nigerian immigration service is a good example (epassport, etc). It was also used during the failed identity card project. This technology can be used by INEC. I will suggest that all the security agencies in Nigeria, (Nigerian Police Force, State Security Services, Customs, Immigration, Prisons etc) should have access to whatever biometric database, INEC should have in future. This will make it easier to track offenders.
Dearest Attahiru, I will also not congratulate you on your new appointment (INEC Chairman). I will equally ask Nigerians not to congratulate you. Rather, I will ask Nigerians to commend or condemn you at the end of your tenure, and especially after conducting 2011 general elections. Remember your immediate predecessor (Maurice Iwu), who has been condemned and consigned to the garbage heap, of forgotten electoral fraud chiefs. Humphrey Nwosu (Still your predecessor) defied Babangida’s intimidation, threats, and manipulation and conducted the June 12th 1993, presidential election which became the freest and fairest election in Nigeria.
You are at the threshold of history. You either use technology or be prepared to face whatever consequences. Aside from the use of technology in electoral register/voting, you should also be thinking on how to re-introduce the Option A4 methods and how to enable the Nigerians in Diaspora to vote. Other small countries in Africa have achieved this (Diaspora voting) feet.
Special Appeal To Nigerians.
Please support this letter to Attahiru (Prof) Jega by adding your name and resending it to INEC (contact@inecnigeria.org). Also follow this link (http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/2010/07/protest-for-nigeria.html) to sign a petition (Protest For Nigeria).That is, if you have not already signed. The only choice we have is to take action(s) now to save Nigeria. Pass around to your friends and friends of Nigeria to do so. May God bless Nigeria.
Chinedu Vincent Akuta.
An activist and leader of “Support Option A4 Group” Leicester-UK
akutachinedu@yahoo.com
http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/
Friday, July 16, 2010
Protest For Nigeria.
Fellow Nigerians,
The only choice we have is to take action(s) now to save Nigeria. No price will be too much to save Nigeria. In doing so, we also need to take action(s) beyond the Nigerian boarders, especially now that the world has become a global village. It is on this note that, we are calling on all Nigerians to join and protest for Nigeria at the international arena.
Next Steps: (a) simply sign the petition online by visiting this web page http://www.PetitionOnline.com/4Nigeria/petition.html (b) copy the petition below and send/email to the lists of the contacts below. Surely our cumulative action(s) will yield results.
Dear Sir/Ma,
Part of Nigeria’s biggest problem is capital flight, occasioned by massive top level corruption. At present, “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). These stolen funds are usually kept in European, American and other oversea banks, while some are used to buy properties in the same countries. The cumulative effects, being high unemployment, poverty, crimes, insecurity and the near collapse of the entire Nigerian system. Little wonder United Kingdom Guardian Newspapers of Thursday November 27th 2008 page 23, grouped Nigeria among the list of 20 failed states. A failed Nigeria, with a population of about 150 million will be the greatest challenge for the international community.
Therefore, time to take action is now. Kindly use your good office to effect a policy change that will deny corrupt Nigerian officials and their family members, access to your country. Where such law exists like the, United States Presidential Proclamation 7750 of January 12, 2004, authorities should commence full enforcement. Those on dual citizenship with your country should be placed on crime watch lists. Investigate properly every money transfer originating from Nigeria to, or through your country/banks. For lists of corrupt Nigerian officials, please contact your embassy in Nigeria, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), and Interpol. Furthermore, sign an extradition treaty with Nigeria if none exists.
This is a non governmental, but a citizens/groups led request for your government’s assistance. The Nigerian masses will be highly grateful if your government could oblige the above request.
List of contacts/recipients.
President Barack Obama,
The White House.
http://www.whitehouse.gov/contact (click on the web page and send this petition).
Committee On Foreign Relations.
U.S. Senate.
Tel: +1-202-224-4651.
Tel: +1-202-224-6797
Fax: +1-202-228-3612
Committee On Foreign Affairs,
United States House of Representatives,
http://foreignaffairs.house.gov/contact.asp (click on the web page and send this petition).
The British Prime Minister, (David Cameroon)
No 10 Downing Street, London.
https://email.number10.gov.uk/Contact.aspx (click on the web page and send this petition).
Foreign Affairs Committee,
House of Commons, London.
SW1A0AA
Telephone:+442072196394/6105
Fax:+442072195365
Email: foraffcom@parliament.uk
patersona@parliament.uk
European Parliament,
Committee on Petitions,
The Secretariat, Brussels.
https://www.secure.europarl.europa.eu/parliament/public/petition/secured/submit.do?language=EN (click on the web page and send this petition).
Secretary-General,
Association of Southeast Asian Nations
Jakarta, Indonesia.
Email: termsak@aseansec.org
Please be kind enough to send the above petition to other international NGOs, Other countries/governments, various regional organizations etc. May God Bless Nigeria.
Chinedu Vincent Akuta.
An activist and leader of “Support Option A4 Group” Leicester-UK
akutachinedu@yahoo.com
http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/
The only choice we have is to take action(s) now to save Nigeria. No price will be too much to save Nigeria. In doing so, we also need to take action(s) beyond the Nigerian boarders, especially now that the world has become a global village. It is on this note that, we are calling on all Nigerians to join and protest for Nigeria at the international arena.
Next Steps: (a) simply sign the petition online by visiting this web page http://www.PetitionOnline.com/4Nigeria/petition.html (b) copy the petition below and send/email to the lists of the contacts below. Surely our cumulative action(s) will yield results.
Dear Sir/Ma,
Part of Nigeria’s biggest problem is capital flight, occasioned by massive top level corruption. At present, “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). These stolen funds are usually kept in European, American and other oversea banks, while some are used to buy properties in the same countries. The cumulative effects, being high unemployment, poverty, crimes, insecurity and the near collapse of the entire Nigerian system. Little wonder United Kingdom Guardian Newspapers of Thursday November 27th 2008 page 23, grouped Nigeria among the list of 20 failed states. A failed Nigeria, with a population of about 150 million will be the greatest challenge for the international community.
Therefore, time to take action is now. Kindly use your good office to effect a policy change that will deny corrupt Nigerian officials and their family members, access to your country. Where such law exists like the, United States Presidential Proclamation 7750 of January 12, 2004, authorities should commence full enforcement. Those on dual citizenship with your country should be placed on crime watch lists. Investigate properly every money transfer originating from Nigeria to, or through your country/banks. For lists of corrupt Nigerian officials, please contact your embassy in Nigeria, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), and Interpol. Furthermore, sign an extradition treaty with Nigeria if none exists.
This is a non governmental, but a citizens/groups led request for your government’s assistance. The Nigerian masses will be highly grateful if your government could oblige the above request.
List of contacts/recipients.
President Barack Obama,
The White House.
http://www.whitehouse.gov/contact (click on the web page and send this petition).
Committee On Foreign Relations.
U.S. Senate.
Tel: +1-202-224-4651.
Tel: +1-202-224-6797
Fax: +1-202-228-3612
Committee On Foreign Affairs,
United States House of Representatives,
http://foreignaffairs.house.gov/contact.asp (click on the web page and send this petition).
The British Prime Minister, (David Cameroon)
No 10 Downing Street, London.
https://email.number10.gov.uk/Contact.aspx (click on the web page and send this petition).
Foreign Affairs Committee,
House of Commons, London.
SW1A0AA
Telephone:+442072196394/6105
Fax:+442072195365
Email: foraffcom@parliament.uk
patersona@parliament.uk
European Parliament,
Committee on Petitions,
The Secretariat, Brussels.
https://www.secure.europarl.europa.eu/parliament/public/petition/secured/submit.do?language=EN (click on the web page and send this petition).
Secretary-General,
Association of Southeast Asian Nations
Jakarta, Indonesia.
Email: termsak@aseansec.org
Please be kind enough to send the above petition to other international NGOs, Other countries/governments, various regional organizations etc. May God Bless Nigeria.
Chinedu Vincent Akuta.
An activist and leader of “Support Option A4 Group” Leicester-UK
akutachinedu@yahoo.com
http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/
Friday, June 25, 2010
My Speech To Edo Global Organizational Conference.
Preserving Unity And Sustaining Democracy In A Multi Ethnic Nigeria. Date 19th June 2010.
This speech is dedicated to the Nigerian masses, whose pains, sorrows and hardships were occasioned by government neglect. Your plight has necessitated my continued campaign and struggle for good governance. To you I pledge my loyalty.
Great Sons and Daughters of Edo,
Other Distinguished Guests.
I am humbled to be invited, to come and speak in your Edo Global Organizational Annual Conference in Barcelona, Spain. Please permit me to express my gratitude to the organizers of this event, for considering me worthy, to be made a speaker in this special gathering. When I realized that I will be speaking at the same event with John (Prof) Ebohon, I immediately sent him a text message, asking for his permission to accept the offer to speak. The reason for my action is simple. John (Prof) Ebohon is a man I consider as my father, and he also consider me as his son. I consider myself too young to speak at the same forum with him, hence my request for his permission. As a father he obliged my request. Unfortunately for John (Prof) Ebohon, his mother passed away on 28th May 2010. May her soul and other departed souls rest in peace.
Let me start my speech by referring us to the few words written on the Nigeria’s coat of arms; Unity and Faith, Peace and Progress. From these few words, our founding fathers realized the importance of preserving unity, in our multi ethnic society. Ironically, our “rulers” have intentionally or unintentionally used various policy instruments, to sow seeds of disunity in Nigeria, hence the numerous threats to our unity and our democracy. They (our rulers) simply uses the divide and rule methods. On our part, Nigerians also have their own share of the blames. Regrettably, time and space will not permit me here, to list all the government actions and inactions which have disunited us. But I will mention few and discuss them briefly.
Post Civil War Policy of Awarding 20 Pounds To All Igbo People/Abandoned Properties Saga.
While the Gowon’s government declared no victor, no vanquish policy and launched his 3Rs (Reconstruction, Rehabilitation, and Reconciliation), his administration also implemented the policy of awarding every Igbo person, 20 pounds, in exchange for any amount of money the Igbo person(s) had in the bank. What this policy did was to seize all the money that Igbo people had, and in return pay them only 20 pounds. This was implemented immediately after the war ended. One can only imagine the pains and hardships this would have caused the Igbo people, after suffering economic and food blockades during the war. Nigerians should ask Gowon, what this policy was meant to achieve, unity or disunity? Integration or disintegration? Lets remember the issue of abandoned properties in Port Harcourt where the government failed to act. Please note; the above is not intended to reopen the wounds of the war.
Federal Character/Quota System.
Personally, I think this is the worst constitutional provision any country can have in their statute books. Federal Character principle was adopted during the 1977 constitutional Drafting Committee and it became part of the 1979 constitution. The federal character principle was established to solve the problems of (a) “inequality and marginalization” as expressed by certain part of Nigeria, (b) because of differences in the socio-economic development of different parts of Nigeria, (c) because of disparities in the levels of educational developments in different parts of the country. But since its adoption, the question of merit and competitiveness among Nigerians, have been replaced with quota system. The system (federal character/quota system), chooses mediocre in place of merit.
This policy does not support equal opportunities. I am yet to see a multi ethnic country that has similar policy. America is a multi ethnic country, established on the foundation of liberty, freedom, equality, human rights, and democracy. Quoting the former President of United States, late John F. Kennedy, “Let every nation know, whether it wishes us well or ill, that we shall pay any price, bear any burden, meet any hardship, support any friend, oppose any foe to assure the survival and success of liberty”. Because America is a free a society, the emergence of Barack Obama as the United States President became possible.
The European Union is multi ethnic, with freedom, equal opportunities, human rights and democracy as its basic principles. Quota system gave rise to zoning formula being used by the ruling party (PDP) in Nigeria. Zoning formula gave rise to the emergence of Obasanjo and late Yar’adua. (I will leave you to judge how far this zoning formula has united or disunited us, and whether it’s sustaining or threatening our democracy).
Resource Control.
Many of us do not agree with the resource control formula being used by the federal government. All the regions producing mineral resources should retain 50% and remit 50% to the federal government. The present formula used by the federal government is retrogressive and a serious source of conflicts, particularly in the Niger Delta. Let’s remember that our government hanged Ken Saro Wiwa in 1995 for issues relating to resource control and environmental pollution by oil companies. Any further crises in the Niger Delta will not only be a threat to our unity, but also to the international oil prices. Japan has no mineral resources but only human resources. Today Japan is a united country, with strong economic and political foundations.
Religious Crises.
In 2009, the Director General of the State Security Services (SSS), Afakriya Gadazama, revealed publicly that information about numerous religious crises (Boko Haram, Jos crises etc) and other crimes such as kidnappings in Niger Delta, armed robberies in South East was passed to the appropriate quarters. However, actions were never taken to prevent these crises. In conformity with the above statement was the fact that, the father-in-law to Boko Haram’s sect leader (Mohammed Yusuf), had before the crisis alerted the Borno State governor of Mr. Yusuf’s activities, but actions were never taken.
Let us remember that, the primary responsibility of every government is security and welfare of its people. To show his insensitivity to the security and safety of Nigerians, late President Yar’Adua embarked on a two day state visit to Brazil, the day Boko Haram crisis started. In July 2009, the Chinese President (Hu Jintao) left the G8 Summit in Rome Italy back to China, the moment riots broke out in Northwest part of China.
Electoral Frauds.
Perhaps, this is among the greatest source of disunity and instability in Nigeria. Our chief electoral fraud officers are usually the government and her agencies, example Independent (Dependent) National Electoral Commission (INEC). Obasanjo’s government conducted the worst election in the history of Nigeria. In Edo State, it took the present governor (Adams Oshiomhole) 18 months or so to reclaim his mandate to govern. We saw the mess in Anambra State. A sitting governor (Dr Ngige, ex governor of Anambra State) was even abducted. Joy Emordi from Anambra North Senatorial District, remained at the Nigerian Senate (upper legislative chamber) till May 2010 with a stolen mandate. June 12th 1993 presidential election was annulled by the then head of state (Babangida). June 12 saga almost destroyed the unity of Nigeria. Many people were killed during the June 12th 1993 protest in Nigeria. In Algeria, the cancellation of election in 1992 led to war that claimed over 150,000 lives.
Genocide (Odi and Zaki Biam Massacre).
No amount of provocation can justify government’s (Nigerian Armed Forces) massacre in Zaki Biam, Odi, Ogoni communities etc. Am doubtful how relatives of innocent people killed in Odi, Zaki Biam, Ogoni, etc will embrace the issue of Nigeria’s unity.
Corruption.
“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). Over 80% of corrupt cases emanate(s) from top government offices/officials. Corruption has simply set the quest for the scramble and partition of the national cake. No one is interested to bake the national cake. The level of corruption in Nigeria will continue to pose a serious threat to our unity and democracy.
The lists of our government’s atrocities are endless. These confirm my main argument, which is that, our government has been the greatest source(s) of disunity in Nigeria. Unfortunately Nigerians have offered little or no resistance to our government actions and inactions. However, to reverse the trend (preserve unity and sustain democracy) will be a very difficult task.
Preserving Unity and Sustaining Democracy.
There are prices to pay in order to preserve our unity. But we will have higher prices to pay for disunity. Remember, the reason federal government did every thing to stop Biafra from seceding was to maintain the “unity” of Nigeria. In the Biafran war, over 1 million people died. Sudan, Congo DRC, Somalia, Rwanda, Angola, former Yugoslavia etc are examples of countries where there were, or are still serious issues of disunity. United we stand, divide we fall. A house divided among itself cannot stand. Democracy itself cannot flourish in a disunited country. I have the following suggestions.
Apology/Compensation.
As a matter of necessity, the federal government must apologize to Nigerians for her past evil deeds, and also pay adequate compensation for all the wrongs done to Nigerians. The Australian government under Prime Minister (Kevin Rudd) apologized to the Aborigines for, laws and policies of previous administrations that inflicted pains, grief, and sufferings on them. The British government under Gordon Brown also apologized for child migrants sent abroad by previous governments before him. A government of true national unity should be constituted. Genuine and transparent reconciliation processes should be commenced.
Shadow Sovereign National Conference.
Various ethnic groups, NGO’s, CSO,s and pro Nigerian groups in Nigeria need not wait for government, but rather should convoke a shadow sovereign national conference. The Nigerian people should decide how to be governed. The people must also produce the constitution of how they should live in unity. True federalism or confederal system is preferable. Unity should not be at the detriment of any tribe, region or state. In addition, I suggest a coalition of all the groups mentioned above to strengthen the opposition parties in order to safeguard and sustain our democracy. Every democracy needs a strong opposition to function properly. Shadow government/cabinet will be a fantastic idea and it has my highest recommendations.
Electoral Activism.
Leadership means a lot to a society like us, and we have seen how our past rulers have sowed the seeds of disunity amongst us. Therefore it makes sense for us all to participate in the process of election to avoid electing the wrong people. To that extent, I suggest we vote the right candidates, guide our votes, monitor elections and make sure our vote counts. Let us ask questions/do proper investigation before voting any candidate. Let us ask political aspirants/parties to make public a list of requirements, set by the Save Nigeria Group (UK) Branch.
Awareness Campaign.
The Holy Bible said in Hosea 4 verse 6 that, “My people are destroyed from lack of knowledge”. Therefore, various cultural, community, states, regional, ethnic and pro Nigerian groups should commence awareness programmes/political evangelism to educate our less educated folks. We need to propagate voter education, opposition/civil resistance to bad governance/policy. We also need to educate our people to realize the dangers of disunity. Knowledge is power, let share knowledge and empower each other. As we do the above, may God continue to bless Nigeria.
Chinedu Vincent Akuta.
An activist and leader of “Support Option A4 Group” Leicester-UK
akutachinedu@yahoo.com
http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/
This speech is dedicated to the Nigerian masses, whose pains, sorrows and hardships were occasioned by government neglect. Your plight has necessitated my continued campaign and struggle for good governance. To you I pledge my loyalty.
Great Sons and Daughters of Edo,
Other Distinguished Guests.
I am humbled to be invited, to come and speak in your Edo Global Organizational Annual Conference in Barcelona, Spain. Please permit me to express my gratitude to the organizers of this event, for considering me worthy, to be made a speaker in this special gathering. When I realized that I will be speaking at the same event with John (Prof) Ebohon, I immediately sent him a text message, asking for his permission to accept the offer to speak. The reason for my action is simple. John (Prof) Ebohon is a man I consider as my father, and he also consider me as his son. I consider myself too young to speak at the same forum with him, hence my request for his permission. As a father he obliged my request. Unfortunately for John (Prof) Ebohon, his mother passed away on 28th May 2010. May her soul and other departed souls rest in peace.
Let me start my speech by referring us to the few words written on the Nigeria’s coat of arms; Unity and Faith, Peace and Progress. From these few words, our founding fathers realized the importance of preserving unity, in our multi ethnic society. Ironically, our “rulers” have intentionally or unintentionally used various policy instruments, to sow seeds of disunity in Nigeria, hence the numerous threats to our unity and our democracy. They (our rulers) simply uses the divide and rule methods. On our part, Nigerians also have their own share of the blames. Regrettably, time and space will not permit me here, to list all the government actions and inactions which have disunited us. But I will mention few and discuss them briefly.
Post Civil War Policy of Awarding 20 Pounds To All Igbo People/Abandoned Properties Saga.
While the Gowon’s government declared no victor, no vanquish policy and launched his 3Rs (Reconstruction, Rehabilitation, and Reconciliation), his administration also implemented the policy of awarding every Igbo person, 20 pounds, in exchange for any amount of money the Igbo person(s) had in the bank. What this policy did was to seize all the money that Igbo people had, and in return pay them only 20 pounds. This was implemented immediately after the war ended. One can only imagine the pains and hardships this would have caused the Igbo people, after suffering economic and food blockades during the war. Nigerians should ask Gowon, what this policy was meant to achieve, unity or disunity? Integration or disintegration? Lets remember the issue of abandoned properties in Port Harcourt where the government failed to act. Please note; the above is not intended to reopen the wounds of the war.
Federal Character/Quota System.
Personally, I think this is the worst constitutional provision any country can have in their statute books. Federal Character principle was adopted during the 1977 constitutional Drafting Committee and it became part of the 1979 constitution. The federal character principle was established to solve the problems of (a) “inequality and marginalization” as expressed by certain part of Nigeria, (b) because of differences in the socio-economic development of different parts of Nigeria, (c) because of disparities in the levels of educational developments in different parts of the country. But since its adoption, the question of merit and competitiveness among Nigerians, have been replaced with quota system. The system (federal character/quota system), chooses mediocre in place of merit.
This policy does not support equal opportunities. I am yet to see a multi ethnic country that has similar policy. America is a multi ethnic country, established on the foundation of liberty, freedom, equality, human rights, and democracy. Quoting the former President of United States, late John F. Kennedy, “Let every nation know, whether it wishes us well or ill, that we shall pay any price, bear any burden, meet any hardship, support any friend, oppose any foe to assure the survival and success of liberty”. Because America is a free a society, the emergence of Barack Obama as the United States President became possible.
The European Union is multi ethnic, with freedom, equal opportunities, human rights and democracy as its basic principles. Quota system gave rise to zoning formula being used by the ruling party (PDP) in Nigeria. Zoning formula gave rise to the emergence of Obasanjo and late Yar’adua. (I will leave you to judge how far this zoning formula has united or disunited us, and whether it’s sustaining or threatening our democracy).
Resource Control.
Many of us do not agree with the resource control formula being used by the federal government. All the regions producing mineral resources should retain 50% and remit 50% to the federal government. The present formula used by the federal government is retrogressive and a serious source of conflicts, particularly in the Niger Delta. Let’s remember that our government hanged Ken Saro Wiwa in 1995 for issues relating to resource control and environmental pollution by oil companies. Any further crises in the Niger Delta will not only be a threat to our unity, but also to the international oil prices. Japan has no mineral resources but only human resources. Today Japan is a united country, with strong economic and political foundations.
Religious Crises.
In 2009, the Director General of the State Security Services (SSS), Afakriya Gadazama, revealed publicly that information about numerous religious crises (Boko Haram, Jos crises etc) and other crimes such as kidnappings in Niger Delta, armed robberies in South East was passed to the appropriate quarters. However, actions were never taken to prevent these crises. In conformity with the above statement was the fact that, the father-in-law to Boko Haram’s sect leader (Mohammed Yusuf), had before the crisis alerted the Borno State governor of Mr. Yusuf’s activities, but actions were never taken.
Let us remember that, the primary responsibility of every government is security and welfare of its people. To show his insensitivity to the security and safety of Nigerians, late President Yar’Adua embarked on a two day state visit to Brazil, the day Boko Haram crisis started. In July 2009, the Chinese President (Hu Jintao) left the G8 Summit in Rome Italy back to China, the moment riots broke out in Northwest part of China.
Electoral Frauds.
Perhaps, this is among the greatest source of disunity and instability in Nigeria. Our chief electoral fraud officers are usually the government and her agencies, example Independent (Dependent) National Electoral Commission (INEC). Obasanjo’s government conducted the worst election in the history of Nigeria. In Edo State, it took the present governor (Adams Oshiomhole) 18 months or so to reclaim his mandate to govern. We saw the mess in Anambra State. A sitting governor (Dr Ngige, ex governor of Anambra State) was even abducted. Joy Emordi from Anambra North Senatorial District, remained at the Nigerian Senate (upper legislative chamber) till May 2010 with a stolen mandate. June 12th 1993 presidential election was annulled by the then head of state (Babangida). June 12 saga almost destroyed the unity of Nigeria. Many people were killed during the June 12th 1993 protest in Nigeria. In Algeria, the cancellation of election in 1992 led to war that claimed over 150,000 lives.
Genocide (Odi and Zaki Biam Massacre).
No amount of provocation can justify government’s (Nigerian Armed Forces) massacre in Zaki Biam, Odi, Ogoni communities etc. Am doubtful how relatives of innocent people killed in Odi, Zaki Biam, Ogoni, etc will embrace the issue of Nigeria’s unity.
Corruption.
“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). Over 80% of corrupt cases emanate(s) from top government offices/officials. Corruption has simply set the quest for the scramble and partition of the national cake. No one is interested to bake the national cake. The level of corruption in Nigeria will continue to pose a serious threat to our unity and democracy.
The lists of our government’s atrocities are endless. These confirm my main argument, which is that, our government has been the greatest source(s) of disunity in Nigeria. Unfortunately Nigerians have offered little or no resistance to our government actions and inactions. However, to reverse the trend (preserve unity and sustain democracy) will be a very difficult task.
Preserving Unity and Sustaining Democracy.
There are prices to pay in order to preserve our unity. But we will have higher prices to pay for disunity. Remember, the reason federal government did every thing to stop Biafra from seceding was to maintain the “unity” of Nigeria. In the Biafran war, over 1 million people died. Sudan, Congo DRC, Somalia, Rwanda, Angola, former Yugoslavia etc are examples of countries where there were, or are still serious issues of disunity. United we stand, divide we fall. A house divided among itself cannot stand. Democracy itself cannot flourish in a disunited country. I have the following suggestions.
Apology/Compensation.
As a matter of necessity, the federal government must apologize to Nigerians for her past evil deeds, and also pay adequate compensation for all the wrongs done to Nigerians. The Australian government under Prime Minister (Kevin Rudd) apologized to the Aborigines for, laws and policies of previous administrations that inflicted pains, grief, and sufferings on them. The British government under Gordon Brown also apologized for child migrants sent abroad by previous governments before him. A government of true national unity should be constituted. Genuine and transparent reconciliation processes should be commenced.
Shadow Sovereign National Conference.
Various ethnic groups, NGO’s, CSO,s and pro Nigerian groups in Nigeria need not wait for government, but rather should convoke a shadow sovereign national conference. The Nigerian people should decide how to be governed. The people must also produce the constitution of how they should live in unity. True federalism or confederal system is preferable. Unity should not be at the detriment of any tribe, region or state. In addition, I suggest a coalition of all the groups mentioned above to strengthen the opposition parties in order to safeguard and sustain our democracy. Every democracy needs a strong opposition to function properly. Shadow government/cabinet will be a fantastic idea and it has my highest recommendations.
Electoral Activism.
Leadership means a lot to a society like us, and we have seen how our past rulers have sowed the seeds of disunity amongst us. Therefore it makes sense for us all to participate in the process of election to avoid electing the wrong people. To that extent, I suggest we vote the right candidates, guide our votes, monitor elections and make sure our vote counts. Let us ask questions/do proper investigation before voting any candidate. Let us ask political aspirants/parties to make public a list of requirements, set by the Save Nigeria Group (UK) Branch.
Awareness Campaign.
The Holy Bible said in Hosea 4 verse 6 that, “My people are destroyed from lack of knowledge”. Therefore, various cultural, community, states, regional, ethnic and pro Nigerian groups should commence awareness programmes/political evangelism to educate our less educated folks. We need to propagate voter education, opposition/civil resistance to bad governance/policy. We also need to educate our people to realize the dangers of disunity. Knowledge is power, let share knowledge and empower each other. As we do the above, may God continue to bless Nigeria.
Chinedu Vincent Akuta.
An activist and leader of “Support Option A4 Group” Leicester-UK
akutachinedu@yahoo.com
http://briefsfromakuta.blogspot.com/
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