The Conspiracy to Scandalize Mayowa’s Family: Unveiling the Actors, Linda Ikeji, Aramide Kasumu, and Toyin

My attention was first drawn to Mayowa’s case through the University of Lagos Alumni Association, when her video soliciting for help was shared with us. I was moved to tears seeing Mayowa’s beautiful face before her sickness and what cancer has made of it. That was nothing strange because I once witnessed the impacts of cancer on the physical wellness of a friend. Hearing Mayowa speak of her troubles saw me break down completely. I wept uncontrollably and couldn’t muster enough courage to watch the entire video. I concluded that our own Mayowa needed all the help in this world to make it through and started working my phone to reach out to friends to help connect me with the family. In the process of doing that, I was told of a gofundme fundraiser set up to save our own Mayowa. I joined effort to support the fundraiser, thanks to the University of Lagos Alumni Association.

            Lucky enough, I was able to reach Mayowa’s family through Mr. Bode. I briefed him of our effort and that Akoka will stand up for Mayowa, one of us. Mr. Bode was glad to hear that but said we should wait to hear from the family before making any effort. He got back to me to say that the fundraiser target was reached and that we should support Mayowa with our prayers. That meant a lot to me as it re-assured me I was dealing with a credible family, more so, in NAIJA.

            I updated the University of Lagos Alumni Association, with others confirming that the fundraiser target was met. Everybody was glad. However, I argued that with cancer, you were not done until the treatment was over, and the patient declared fully recovered. Drawing on my experience with a friend who had a tough fight with cancer, I stated that the money raised may not be sufficient for Mayowa. I proposed that the fundraiser be continued, with many buying into that idea. I shared the same view with the family, but they again said NO. I could sense they may not be too pleased with going public to raise fund for Mayowa’s treatment. I gave up pressing further with the family on this issue.

            A highly regarded Professor at the University of Lagos called me a night to inform me that Mayowa may no longer seek treatment in the US and that she may be headed to Dubai. I heard her out and was mandated to engage the family to have a rethink. I reached out to Mr. Bode for update on Mayowa’s health and her traveling plans. I was briefed of the challenges associated with securing expedited US visa appointment. A case was made for Dubai. I expressed my reservations and we had interesting back and forth conversation. The family had a superior argument. I requested for details of the Dubai hospital and was duly briefed. I offered to double-check the quality of the hospital by reaching out to friends who are medical doctors and with my friends who are citizens of Dubai.

            As I was working in the midnight on a paper review, my phone rang. I initially hesitated to pick the call, but decided otherwise after a second thought. It turned out to be a phone call about our own Mayowa. I was happy for answering the call. My caller asked if I have heard that Mayowa’s story was a scam. I laughed it off and said I hoped someone was not trying to play games with Mayowa’s ordeal. I told the caller I was going to make calls to ascertain the facts of the matter.

I took time to reflect through what I heard. I wrote down questions that would inform the basis of my fact check, among which was that, besides Mayowa’s family, who were the main actors, which were involved in fundraiser. I was hoping there was no NGO involved in the fundraiser. I chose to do the unconventional by googling information about the new development. I discovered that the allegation of scam was associated with Linda Ikeji and Toyin Aimakhu. I took time to analyze the allegation that was broken by Linda Ikeji. It took no time for me to discern that it may be that some actors were not having their ways and may be up to a spoiler.

At first, I was startled that Linda Ikeji authoritatively claimed that Mayowa’s family scammed Nigerians. She stated, “this is such a sad thing for me to report this afternoon. Just two days after we were all happy that Nigerians kindly donated to cancer patient, Mayowa Ahmed, for surgery she needed for ovarian cancer, LIB just learnt that Mayowa and her family scammed kind hearted Nigerians”. I asked how did Linda Ikeji reach such an authoritative conclusion. I was curious to know her facts. She presented her facts as follows: “You see, Mayowa is really sick. She truly has Ovarian cancer. She's admitted at LUTH but she didn't need money for surgery, because doctors had told Mayowa she was beyond treatment and no hospital in the world could treat her as she was extremely far gone”.

I was shocked reading Linda Ikeji saying that Mayowa “didn't need money for surgery, because doctors had told Mayowa she was beyond treatment and no hospital in the world could treat her as she was extremely far gone”. One, I was like no doctor will tell Linda Ikeji any information about Mayowa except otherwise directed to do so. Two, I knew that no doctor would stop or forestall the treatment of a patient because their case is far gone as alleged by Linda Ikeji. My take was confirmed by highly regarded medical doctors that I know. Three, I was completely stunned that Linda Ikeji’s allegation of scam was also based on the claim, “Mayowa had reached stage 4 and doctors, unfortunately, already told her family she won't survive it and had advised them to take her home. Her family instead used her situation to raise money from Nigerians”. That LUTH would advise Mayowa’s family that she be taken home because her case was beyond redemption got me thinking that someone was trying to play games with Mayowa’s life and possibly her family’s integrity. Four, mentioning that Toyin Aimakhu was at LUTH with police officers got me thinking something may be acting out.

I was done with Linda Ikeji and Toyin and went about my fact checking mission. I made attempts to speak with Mayowa’s family but was told that I will be duly updated. I spoke with some reliable sources of information, with one emergent pattern being that Linda Ikeji may have been instrumental to Toyin’s possible attempt to blackmail Mayowa’s family. I came across videos posted by Mayowa’s family and also took time to digest their press release. Equipped with how to handle and decipher truth from conflicting information sources, I was hoping to have video engagements involving Mayowa’s family and other stakeholders’ in the fundraiser.  I already had firsthand accounts from LUTH. Here, Readers attention will be drawn to the face-to-face conversation between Mayowa’s family and Toyin Aimakhu, likewise, with other actors in the fundraiser also cited.

There is a 1:45 minutes video whereby Toyin Aimakhu was engaged by a lady who supposedly appeared to be a member of Mayowa’s family. The lady was heard telling Toyin, “chill chill, no matter how much you liked her, if doctors tell you should excuse her…” Toyin responded that “so you are recording me now”. Toyin alleged she was called and that she was later chased away. The lady and a guy replied Toyin, “who chased you”. There, it was obvious Toyin’s antics and games were going to be exposed. Toyin was observed in the video trying to defend herself, with the family saying “hold on, let her talk”. Toyin refused to speak any further to substantiate her claims as she walked away. She was followed by those involved in a heated discussion with her, with a guy requesting that, “Toyin, please give me Linda’s number, give me Linda’s number please, give me Linda’s number, give me Linda’s number”.  It was at this point that Toyin turned back to face the crowd following her.

Toyin was heard saying “this is Linda’s number. It appeared she was responding to the accusation that she was the one who misinformed Linda Ikeji, an accusation she denied. In the video clip, Toyin was seen hitting her chest, shouting out, “me, called Linda, me called Linda”. The same guy in the scene told her to hold on, with the scene suggesting a phone call was going to be made to Linda to expose Toyin that she was the one who misinformed Linda. Toyin was heard saying “there is a press downstairs”. Obviously, that was an indication that she went to LUTH with pressmen. Two things were evident from the video, with one being that Linda Ikeji may have acted on misinformation. Two, it was apparent that Toyin Aimakhu was acting out a script well known to her and further that she may not have been contacted with the family to play a “major role” in the fundraiser.

In another video, Bode, a family member of Mayowa was heard swearing that before God, if the family did not lie, all of those who knew about the news of the scam and Mayowa’s travails, “oh God, set them backward in life”. Bode was apparently aggrieved as other members of his family were seen wearing downtrodden looks.

There is a third video involving Bode and supposedly, a lady with a link to Toyin. The lady (forthwith Lady A) was heard attributing faults to Aramide, implicitly agreeing to Bode’s stand that the family’s name was scandalized. Bode interjected pointing to someone not seen in the video, that “that was the person who caused everything”. Bode said Toyin created the whole scene. Bode also stated that he was called by Toyin with the Lady A declaring that Toyin didn’t know how the misinformation got to Linda.

Bode and others shouted down Lady A, insisting that Toyin called Linda. Lady A backed down, wondering why Toyin lied that she didn’t call Linda. Bode and others said Linda cited Toyin’s name and that Linda told them to watch a video after the court section. Linda’s claim to have spearheaded the fundraiser was also discredited. Lady A was heard saying it was Mayowa who led her own fundraiser, no one could claim to have done that. This confirmed what I heard from the family before the news of the alleged scam broke us. The family never wanted a public fundraiser. But Mayowa was pressed and possibly advised by non-family members to seek public support. Lady A said she was the one who advised her to consider that option. Bode told Lady A, they created this scene and that they were not God. Bode said in a dejected tone asking whether they saw a particular medical report. Bode said that they won’t give up on their sister until God elects to kill her. Linda/Toyin was also said to have claimed that the first lady, supposedly, Aisha Buhari called her.

News items through links such as http://www.nairaland.com/3256148/toyin-aimakhu-wanted-part-mayowa have surfaced indicating Toyin is acting a script related to the monetary gains someone intended to make out of the fundraiser. A firsthand account from folks with no affiliation to any of the parties involved in this saga indicated that Toyin never requested any percentage, but that Aramide of Lifestake Foundation did. That confirmed what was reported on Nairaland Forum, likewise by Premium Times (http://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/top-news/207789-nigeria-police-take-savemayowa-campaign-amidst-controversy-drama.html). It was also confirmed that not only did Aramide requested to be given 5% of the fundraiser, but also that her foundation be approved to handle the funds. The family of Mayowa objected to the two conditions. What cannot be ascertained for now is if there is a secret agreement committing certain percentage of the money Aramide was expecting to Toyin. Premium Times sources alluded that, with new waves of information reaching me suggesting that possibility. Soon as the information is confirmed from multiple sources, I will update the whole world. So far, it is reasonable to tentatively conclude as follows.

One, there was no attempt by Mayowa’s family to scam Nigeria. Two, Linda Ikeji misinformed the whole world by wrongly and authoritatively alleging that Mayowa’s fundraiser was a scam. Three, Toyin also played a big role in scandalizing Mayowa’s family. Four, Aramide Kasumu of Lifestake Foundation is the main actor in the attempt to scandalize Mayowa’s family, with her motives being money-driven.

I call on well-meaning Nigerians to stand up for Mayowa’s family. I further call on Nigerian citizens and friends worldwide to join efforts seeking to ensure those behind the attempt to scandalize Mayowa’s family are made to face the full wrath of the laws. I further call on the Nigerian government to take over the treatment of Mayowa by facilitating her travelling abroad with no further delay. Finally, I call on the First Lady, to dissociate herself of any involvement with Linda, Toyin or Aramide.

A. J. Abudugana

Budget Scandal: FG Orders Withdrawal Of Speaker Dogara Security Details

>Barring last minute changes, indications emerged Sunday that security details of the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara may be withdrawn on the orders of the Federal Government over the controversy surrounding the 2016 budget,Vanguard News reports

It was also gathered that a document linking the Majority leader of the House, Femi Gbajabimila with constituency projects worth over N4 billion which is domiciled in Osun and Niger States against the initial N1.8 billion constituency projects allocated to him was in circulation.

This is just as the secretariat of the House Appropriation Committee was on Sunday still under the watch of about four security operatives.

Security sources hinted that the withdrawal of security aides to the principal officers allegedly fingered in the budget brouhaha was ensure that there was no obstruction on the course of investigations.

Investigations revealed that the security personnel that were guiding the appropriation committee secretariat were not the regular operatives from the National Assembly.

Meanwhile about 27 civil society organisations have raised the alarm of alleged conspiracy with external forces against the leadership of the House of Representatives, saying that if nothing was done to apply caution, it would threaten the democracy in the country.

Addressing journalists in Abuja, the national coordinator of Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria, HURIWA, Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko alongside other 26 CSOs, said “It is disingenuous for the sacked Appropriation committee chairman, Abdulmumin Jibrin to make any claims of exposing massive corruption in the House, accusing speaker Yakubu Dogara of moves to personally smuggle N30bn into 2016 budget.”

He said that the understanding of the powers of the National Assembly seems to say that the legislature is constitutionally empowered to vet proposed budget since these elected officials were not rubber stamps of the president.

-NewsPunch.org

BRAKING NEWS: Govt scraps HNDs, merges polys with varsities

From Madu Onuorah, Abuja:
THE Federal Executive Council (FEC) yesterday approved a comprehensive reform of Nigeria's tertiary education system, scrapping the award of the Higher National Diploma (HND) by the nation's polytechnics.
In effect, the award of the HND will be limited to only the students currently admitted for the programmes.
Also, all the programmes currently being run by the polytechnics, which are not technology-based, and which are about 70 per cent,
will be scrapped.
Under the new rule, the polytechnics will now become campuses of the proximate universities with the Vice Chancellors of those
universities appointing provosts for the polytechnics, subject to the ratification of the Universities Councils.
The polytechnics will now be limited to award of the National Diploma (ND) while those desirous of further education will be awarded
the Bachelor of Technology (B. Tech) by the proximate university.
To kick-start the new policy, the nation's two most prominent polytechnics - Yaba College of Technology and Kaduna Polytechnic -
will henceforth be known as City University of Technology, Yaba and City University of Technology, Kaduna.
And to give legal teeth to these approvals, the FEC approved the submission of two Executive bills to the National Assembly for enactment into law.
With education being on the concurrent list, the states may wish to consolidate their tertiary institutions. But if they do not wish to follow the federal example, their programmes will continue to be regulated by the relevant agencies of the Federal Ministry of Education.
The first bill will concretise the setting up of the two city universities while the second will approve the preparation and consolidation
of all federal polytechnics and colleges of education as campuses of proximate universities.
The Ministry of Justice will do the preparation and submission of the two bills to the National Assembly.
Minister of Education, Mall. Adamu, told journalists after the weekly meeting of the council that under the reform measures, her ministry would, however, continue to licence private polytechnics and colleges of education for the award of qualification at ND and National Certificate in Education (NCE) levels.
She said: "There will be no more award of HND.
After we have exhausted the current students under the programme, there will be no more award of HND. This means that there will be no fresh admission for HND programmes. And in addition, any programme that is not technical will be out of the polytechnics. About 70 per cent of polytechnic graduates are in the non-technical courses. It is going to be a rigorous implementation programme."
A ministerial committee to ensure the smooth implementation of all that is required for the take-off of the reform initiatives is to begin work immediately.
Mall. Adamu said: "The HND certificate will remain a legal tender in Nigeria and holders of such certificate will continue to be recognised as the equivalent of first degree holders without discriminatory remunerations and limit to progression in the work place.
The NCE certificate will be retained as the minimum teaching qualification at the basic level of education. Any higher qualifications by
these private or state-owned polytechnics will be only affiliation with a university. So, HND is no longer in existence, but existing HND will be respected and considered legal tender."
The council also approved the Federal Government's formal take-over of the Waziri Umaru Polytechnic, Birnin Kebbi, which will be the College of Technology campus of the Othman Dan Fodio University, Sokoto, as well as the Hussein Adamu Polytechnic, Kazaure,
Bauchi, which will be a College of Technology of the proximate university in the state.
Also, the Alvan Ikoku College of Education, Owerri, Imo State, has been taken over as a campus of the Federal University of
Technology, Owerri.
A state that had never had any federal institution, like Bayelsa, is to have a College of Technology as a campus of the College of Technology of the University of Port Harcourt.
Also, Bali, in Taraba State, is to have a college of technology as a campus of the proximate university.

Nigeria on the verge of collapse, shall we run? Soonest Nathaniel

 No! This is not a pro-Biafran publication, it was not sent by some members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) or those from the Movement for the Actualization of the Sovereign State of Biafra (MASSOB) this is a piece for Nigeria by a true Nigerian. Share on Facebook Share on Twitter petrol The state of affairs in Nigeria, calls for serious deliberations, so much tends to be going wrong. Nigerians have for too long been known to bear under the worst of conditions, however, the present situation in the country is one that tends to be breaking their backs and shattering their resolve. There are many issues besetting the nation, so many that Nigerians can only but contemplate running from this place they call home. A proper analysis of some events in recent times, would give one a clearer picture of why we need to be more concerned, lest this nation goes up in smoke. Legislation of shame I have said and will continue to reiterate that the current this 8th National Assembly records the worst legislation Nigeria has seen in all its years. It is not out of place to say the we are being led by the worst legislators in our own history. To make case for the current legislative arm, one finds out that there is no valid point, there tends to be nothing that one can say is the good that has come out from the Nigeria’s hallowed chambers.  From the onset of this dispensation, the legislators showed their incompetence and have continue day-by-day to give Nigerians reasons to fear. Where shall one begin to speak of the ills in this very important arm of government? Shall we begin from the many allegations against the Senate President, Bukola Saraki or shall we start from the forgery case leveled against him (Saraki) and his deputy Ike Ekweremadu.  It is troubling to see the leaders of the upper chamber appear every other day in court to stand trial for things which should not be heard of them, and though they remain free without any convictions yet, still, it wont be wrong to say that this drama has caused so much harm to legislation in Nigeria at this time in our history. How will the House be able to pass laws that will affect Nigerians positively when those who lead are in and out of court for allegedly breaking the rules, flouting laws and operating not in accordance with the rule of law. Still in the Upper Chamber, the show of shame between Senator Dino Melaye and Senator Remi Tinubu, is reason enough to panic, in that the saga only spells it clear that we are led by people with the lowest of moral values.

 The kind of words and details of acts which was seen upon that sacred floor of the Senate, makes one fear that Nigerians might have placed their fate in the hands of those who will thrash them. In the same vein, the Lower chamber is not left out of this show of shame, as the news of three representatives who went soliciting for sex in the USA, calls for sober reflection. Though we have not heard the last of that case, still to even have such allegation labelled against those who represent Nigeria at the highest level, is sickening. Still in the House of Representatives, the case for and against those who padded and did not pad the national budget, shows that we might in the end be fantastically corrupt, it might mean that we are led by plunderers, ravaging the country right there from their exalted positions. Only recently, the embattled ex-chairman committee on appropriations, Adulmumin Jibrin revealed details about the budget padding, he claimed that Yakubu Dogara the House of Reps Speaker allegedly convinced him to ship over N20 billion into the budget through Service Wide Vote. This again is an accusation again the leadership of the legislature, and though claims and counter claims are being made, and investigations are still ongoing, yet how can we Nigerians be at ease with what we have heard so far? Documents have revealed how top officials of the National assembly padded the 2016 budget to the tune of N481billion, the national assembly also unilaterally jerked the votes meant for constituency projects from N60 billion to N100 billion. I fear that which such assertion as this, this nation risks the chance of an implosion. Impeachment dilemma There has been rumours and speculations that the Senate is seeking to impeach President Muhammadu Buhari, and though this seem to have been played down with many hinting at the limits of its possibility, still it is an issue that calls for concern.Senate president Bukola Saraki at CCT, there are speculations that a move for Saraki’s unsaeting is in the works. With a legislative arm that Nigerians cannot vouch for, one cannot but note that there is no smoke without a fire. It must be noted that the mantra of impeachment has for quite sometime lingered by the doors of the National Assembly, with many calling for the unseating of the Senate leadership; it is this chaos that stirs unease in the hearts of Nigerians. This is because, the Nigerian Senate remains unstable and continue to tussle for power, and the servant leaders in those sacred courts continue to do the masses no good. The Senate is not in anyway helping the cause of President Buhari, some critics claim, there tends to be a silent rift between the presidency and the legislature. One fears that the more the diverse parties cannot come to agree for the common good of the people, then Nigerians will be in for another era of promises which will never see the light of day. Religious war Reports of violence borne of religion are making headlines again, with death and destruction of property recorded in certain parts of the country. We have toed this line before and we surely know that if there is an issue that ticks people off to war the most, then religion it is. At a time when speculation has it that Nigeria is about to be made an Islamic nation, when the government is trying to assuage the fears of the people regarding such a move, killing incited by religion is not a welcomed development.Christians, especially those in the northeastern region and Muslims in the southeastern region stand the greater risk in the wake of violence borne of religious rifts, a subject matter which could be said to have played a major role in the bloody civil war which Nigeria experienced between 1967 and 1970. Experts have said that some clerics within the northern region are to blame for the killings carried out by their followers, this is because they preach and teach those who follow them to see others who are not of their faith as infidels. With these deadly ideologies behind their their minds, religious fanatics much about on the edge, waiting for the slightest form of provocation and they strike in the name of God. Wave of terror, storm of militancy and the dying economy The Nigerian government deserves some praise for the war against the dreaded Boko Haram sect within the troubled northeastern region of the country. According to the Nigerian army, the jihadists have been ousted and all that is left is but a fragment for which the gallant soldiers must remain focused to erase without a trace. However, Nigeria seem to have a system in which when one situation is about being fixed, something else springs up to take its place. The advent of marauders in the guise of herdsmen, has given the nation cause not to close one eye while she sleeps. The re-emergence of vandalism and militant activities in the South-south and Southeast regions is yet another cause for which the people are troubled. Nigeria’s dwindling economic growth has been closely linked to the troubling affairs within the Niger Delta, even the militants have promised to cripple the nation. Share on Facebook Share on Twitter pipeline bombing File: Pipeline bombing in the Niger Delta The Nigerian government has said it is in talks with leaders of the region and lords of the militant groups, however, some very powerful groups within the region are of the opinion that the government cannot get the desired result with the way they are handling the affairs. This assertion has led groups like the Niger Delta Avengers to keep at blowing up pipelines and destroying facilities belonging to oil firms within the south-south and southeast. These are trying times, not only for people within the Niger Delta but Nigerians as a whole as the masses most especially will have to face harsh market prices and crazier living conditions till a truce is brokered. A truce seem far from the issue, now that the military has launched a new operation to counter the militancy within the region. For many, this move is a ‘no good’ as it will only stir more hostilities and in the end lead to no positive outcome. Run! To where? Nowhere is the answer, there is certainly nowhere that can serve as our home. Shall we run to America where the news of hate induced violence is rampant, shall we run to Europe which itself is threatened by terrorism? Share on Facebook Share on Twitter usa-orlando-shooting Scene from Orlando shooting We cannot abandon this ship to founder, it is our collective duty to see that the nation set on the right part again, though that position is a very hard one. Nigerians have become wiser, and we have become more outspoken, those in power understand that Nigerians will not fail to unseat them if they do not perform. The present administration has alot to do in restoring faith to the Nigerian people who they have promised change, for if the promise is not fulfilled, then the people will change their attitude and ideologies. As regards those in the Nigerian legislative arm of government, I will say that a total over hauling is necessary and as regards their move for an immunity that covers their ills and absolves them of all wrong doings for a life time, I say it must not stand. Nigerians have been looked at as a people that are ready to bear with whatever comes their way, however, when the dog is pushed to the wall, there are other actions that follow other than just barking. The masses must not be pushed too far so that the implosion which is feared does not come to pass. Urgently, the APC-led government must chart a course for bringing Nigeria out of its financial mess. Job creation is of the essence, that is the only way by which the teeming Nigerian youths can be rest assured that fleeing this land which they for too long have called home, is not the best. It surely looks greener on the other side, however, what becomes of our fatherland if we all flee? As regards the violence stirred by religion, and the agitations for a divided Nigeria; we broker a truce, and that can only be done by showing respect for all sides of the divide. The government must fashion out a process by which the aggrieved are pacified, compensate where it is necessary, we can come to perfect agreement if truly we are for the good of the people and not for our personal gains. For it seem that so much that has been done in guise of seeking justice for a relegated set of people, has been done for the benefit of only a few. According to the Niger Delta Avengers (NDA), there is more to be done to restore peace and come to agreement with the militants in the Niger Delta Region; though I believe that not all the demands of the militants can be met or should be met, still I believe that if they could be stilled during the last dispensation, then they can still be calmed in this era, approach is all that matters. Share on Facebook Share on Twitter france attack Terrorist attacks recorded in France In conclusion, we all Nigerians must begin to look for different ways to make the best of what we have which to many now is “nothing”. Necessity they say is the mother of invention, and we must look deep within us to find that which can profit not just ourselves, but the world around us. Most importantly, for this nation be as great as we want it to be, we must think Nigeria first, not our tribes nor our religion. While we cannot shove our cultures, traditions and religions aside, we must exercise our rights in such a way that it does not infringe on the rights of others. Our society in the end, is a reflection of who we are as a people, there is no doubt that this nation can be great again, to take its rightful place in the affairs of the world.
Naija.com

Nigeria on the verge of collapse, shall we run? Soonest Nathaniel Yesterday 143341 Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Send email No! This is not a pro-Biafran publication, it was not sent by some members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) or those from the Movement for the Actualization of the Sovereign State of Biafra (MASSOB) this is a piece for Nigeria by a true Nigerian. Share on Facebook Share on Twitter petrol The state of affairs in Nigeria, calls for serious deliberations, so much tends to be going wrong. Nigerians have for too long been known to bear under the worst of conditions, however, the present situation in the country is one that tends to be breaking their backs and shattering their resolve. There are many issues besetting the nation, so many that Nigerians can only but contemplate running from this place they call home. A proper analysis of some events in recent times, would give one a clearer picture of why we need to be more concerned, lest this nation goes up in smoke. Legislation of shame I have said and will continue to reiterate that the current this 8th National Assembly records the worst legislation Nigeria has seen in all its years. It is not out of place to say the we are being led by the worst legislators in our own history. Share on Facebook Share on Twitter FIGHT-IN-THE-SENATE To make case for the current legislative arm, one finds out that there is no valid point, there tends to be nothing that one can say is the good that has come out from the Nigeria’s hallowed chambers. READ ALSO: Enjoy surfing with the fastest browser – UC browser From the onset of this dispensation, the legislators showed their incompetence and have continue day-by-day to give Nigerians reasons to fear. Where shall one begin to speak of the ills in this very important arm of government? Shall we begin from the many allegations against the Senate President, Bukola Saraki or shall we start from the forgery case leveled against him (Saraki) and his deputy Ike Ekweremadu. Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Saraki Forgery 5 It is troubling to see the leaders of the upper chamber appear every other day in court to stand trial for things which should not be heard of them, and though they remain free without any convictions yet, still, it wont be wrong to say that this drama has caused so much harm to legislation in Nigeria at this time in our history. How will the House be able to pass laws that will affect Nigerians positively when those who lead are in and out of court for allegedly breaking the rules, flouting laws and operating not in accordance with the rule of law. Still in the Upper Chamber, the show of shame between Senator Dino Melaye and Senator Remi Tinubu, is reason enough to panic, in that the saga only spells it clear that we are led by people with the lowest of moral values. Share on Facebook Share on Twitter melaye Sanata Remi Tinubu and Sanatar Dino Melaye The kind of words and details of acts which was seen upon that sacred floor of the Senate, makes one fear that Nigerians might have placed their fate in the hands of those who will thrash them. In the same vein, the Lower chamber is not left out of this show of shame, as the news of three representatives who went soliciting for sex in the USA, calls for sober reflection. Though we have not heard the last of that case, still to even have such allegation labelled against those who represent Nigeria at the highest level, is sickening. Still in the House of Representatives, the case for and against those who padded and did not pad the national budget, shows that we might in the end be fantastically corrupt, it might mean that we are led by plunderers, ravaging the country right there from their exalted positions. Only recently, the embattled ex-chairman committee on appropriations, Adulmumin Jibrin revealed details about the budget padding, he claimed that Yakubu Dogara the House of Reps Speaker allegedly convinced him to ship over N20 billion into the budget through Service Wide Vote. This again is an accusation again the leadership of the legislature, and though claims and counter claims are being made, and investigations are still ongoing, yet how can we Nigerians be at ease with what we have heard so far? Documents have revealed how top officials of the National assembly padded the 2016 budget to the tune of N481billion, the national assembly also unilaterally jerked the votes meant for constituency projects from N60 billion to N100 billion. I fear that which such assertion as this, this nation risks the chance of an implosion. Impeachment dilemma There has been rumours and speculations that the Senate is seeking to impeach President Muhammadu Buhari, and though this seem to have been played down with many hinting at the limits of its possibility, still it is an issue that calls for concern. Share on Facebook Share on Twitter mazaje Senate president Bukola Saraki at CCT, there are speculations that a move for Saraki’s unsaeting is in the works. With a legislative arm that Nigerians cannot vouch for, one cannot but note that there is no smoke without a fire. It must be noted that the mantra of impeachment has for quite sometime lingered by the doors of the National Assembly, with many calling for the unseating of the Senate leadership; it is this chaos that stirs unease in the hearts of Nigerians. This is because, the Nigerian Senate remains unstable and continue to tussle for power, and the servant leaders in those sacred courts continue to do the masses no good. The Senate is not in anyway helping the cause of President Buhari, some critics claim, there tends to be a silent rift between the presidency and the legislature. One fears that the more the diverse parties cannot come to agree for the common good of the people, then Nigerians will be in for another era of promises which will never see the light of day. Religious war Reports of violence borne of religion are making headlines again, with death and destruction of property recorded in certain parts of the country. We have toed this line before and we surely know that if there is an issue that ticks people off to war the most, then religion it is. At a time when speculation has it that Nigeria is about to be made an Islamic nation, when the government is trying to assuage the fears of the people regarding such a move, killing incited by religion is not a welcomed development. Share on Facebook Share on Twitter rccg pastor wife murdered while preaching abuja RCCG pastor’s wife murdered while preaching in Abuja Christians, especially those in the northeastern region and Muslims in the southeastern region stand the greater risk in the wake of violence borne of religious rifts, a subject matter which could be said to have played a major role in the bloody civil war which Nigeria experienced between 1967 and 1970. Experts have said that some clerics within the northern region are to blame for the killings carried out by their followers, this is because they preach and teach those who follow them to see others who are not of their faith as infidels. With these deadly ideologies behind their their minds, religious fanatics much about on the edge, waiting for the slightest form of provocation and they strike in the name of God. Wave of terror, storm of militancy and the dying economy The Nigerian government deserves some praise for the war against the dreaded Boko Haram sect within the troubled northeastern region of the country. According to the Nigerian army, the jihadists have been ousted and all that is left is but a fragment for which the gallant soldiers must remain focused to erase without a trace. However, Nigeria seem to have a system in which when one situation is about being fixed, something else springs up to take its place. The advent of marauders in the guise of herdsmen, has given the nation cause not to close one eye while she sleeps. The re-emergence of vandalism and militant activities in the South-south and Southeast regions is yet another cause for which the people are troubled. Nigeria’s dwindling economic growth has been closely linked to the troubling affairs within the Niger Delta, even the militants have promised to cripple the nation. Share on Facebook Share on Twitter pipeline bombing File: Pipeline bombing in the Niger Delta The Nigerian government has said it is in talks with leaders of the region and lords of the militant groups, however, some very powerful groups within the region are of the opinion that the government cannot get the desired result with the way they are handling the affairs. This assertion has led groups like the Niger Delta Avengers to keep at blowing up pipelines and destroying facilities belonging to oil firms within the south-south and southeast. These are trying times, not only for people within the Niger Delta but Nigerians as a whole as the masses most especially will have to face harsh market prices and crazier living conditions till a truce is brokered. A truce seem far from the issue, now that the military has launched a new operation to counter the militancy within the region. For many, this move is a ‘no good’ as it will only stir more hostilities and in the end lead to no positive outcome. Run! To where? Nowhere is the answer, there is certainly nowhere that can serve as our home. Shall we run to America where the news of hate induced violence is rampant, shall we run to Europe which itself is threatened by terrorism? Share on Facebook Share on Twitter usa-orlando-shooting Scene from Orlando shooting We cannot abandon this ship to founder, it is our collective duty to see that the nation set on the right part again, though that position is a very hard one. Nigerians have become wiser, and we have become more outspoken, those in power understand that Nigerians will not fail to unseat them if they do not perform. The present administration has alot to do in restoring faith to the Nigerian people who they have promised change, for if the promise is not fulfilled, then the people will change their attitude and ideologies. As regards those in the Nigerian legislative arm of government, I will say that a total over hauling is necessary and as regards their move for an immunity that covers their ills and absolves them of all wrong doings for a life time, I say it must not stand. Nigerians have been looked at as a people that are ready to bear with whatever comes their way, however, when the dog is pushed to the wall, there are other actions that follow other than just barking. The masses must not be pushed too far so that the implosion which is feared does not come to pass. Urgently, the APC-led government must chart a course for bringing Nigeria out of its financial mess. Job creation is of the essence, that is the only way by which the teeming Nigerian youths can be rest assured that fleeing this land which they for too long have called home, is not the best. It surely looks greener on the other side, however, what becomes of our fatherland if we all flee? As regards the violence stirred by religion, and the agitations for a divided Nigeria; we broker a truce, and that can only be done by showing respect for all sides of the divide. The government must fashion out a process by which the aggrieved are pacified, compensate where it is necessary, we can come to perfect agreement if truly we are for the good of the people and not for our personal gains. For it seem that so much that has been done in guise of seeking justice for a relegated set of people, has been done for the benefit of only a few. According to the Niger Delta Avengers (NDA), there is more to be done to restore peace and come to agreement with the militants in the Niger Delta Region; though I believe that not all the demands of the militants can be met or should be met, still I believe that if they could be stilled during the last dispensation, then they can still be calmed in this era, approach is all that matters. Share on Facebook Share on Twitter france attack Terrorist attacks recorded in France In conclusion, we all Nigerians must begin to look for different ways to make the best of what we have which to many now is “nothing”. Necessity they say is the mother of invention, and we must look deep within us to find that which can profit not just ourselves, but the world around us. Most importantly, for this nation be as great as we want it to be, we must think Nigeria first, not our tribes nor our religion. While we cannot shove our cultures, traditions and religions aside, we must exercise our rights in such a way that it does not infringe on the rights of others. Our society in the end, is a reflection of who we are as a people, there is no doubt that this nation can be great again, to take its rightful place in the affairs of the world.
Read more: https://www.naij.com/894371-danger-this-nigeria-is-about-to-explode-run.html

Nigeria on the verge of collapse, shall we run? Soonest Nathaniel Yesterday 143341 Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Send email No! This is not a pro-Biafran publication, it was not sent by some members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) or those from the Movement for the Actualization of the Sovereign State of Biafra (MASSOB) this is a piece for Nigeria by a true Nigerian. Share on Facebook Share on Twitter petrol The state of affairs in Nigeria, calls for serious deliberations, so much tends to be going wrong. Nigerians have for too long been known to bear under the worst of conditions, however, the present situation in the country is one that tends to be breaking their backs and shattering their resolve. There are many issues besetting the nation, so many that Nigerians can only but contemplate running from this place they call home. A proper analysis of some events in recent times, would give one a clearer picture of why we need to be more concerned, lest this nation goes up in smoke. Legislation of shame I have said and will continue to reiterate that the current this 8th National Assembly records the worst legislation Nigeria has seen in all its years. It is not out of place to say the we are being led by the worst legislators in our own history. Share on Facebook Share on Twitter FIGHT-IN-THE-SENATE To make case for the current legislative arm, one finds out that there is no valid point, there tends to be nothing that one can say is the good that has come out from the Nigeria’s hallowed chambers. READ ALSO: Enjoy surfing with the fastest browser – UC browser From the onset of this dispensation, the legislators showed their incompetence and have continue day-by-day to give Nigerians reasons to fear. Where shall one begin to speak of the ills in this very important arm of government? Shall we begin from the many allegations against the Senate President, Bukola Saraki or shall we start from the forgery case leveled against him (Saraki) and his deputy Ike Ekweremadu. Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Saraki Forgery 5 It is troubling to see the leaders of the upper chamber appear every other day in court to stand trial for things which should not be heard of them, and though they remain free without any convictions yet, still, it wont be wrong to say that this drama has caused so much harm to legislation in Nigeria at this time in our history. How will the House be able to pass laws that will affect Nigerians positively when those who lead are in and out of court for allegedly breaking the rules, flouting laws and operating not in accordance with the rule of law. Still in the Upper Chamber, the show of shame between Senator Dino Melaye and Senator Remi Tinubu, is reason enough to panic, in that the saga only spells it clear that we are led by people with the lowest of moral values. Share on Facebook Share on Twitter melaye Sanata Remi Tinubu and Sanatar Dino Melaye The kind of words and details of acts which was seen upon that sacred floor of the Senate, makes one fear that Nigerians might have placed their fate in the hands of those who will thrash them. In the same vein, the Lower chamber is not left out of this show of shame, as the news of three representatives who went soliciting for sex in the USA, calls for sober reflection. Though we have not heard the last of that case, still to even have such allegation labelled against those who represent Nigeria at the highest level, is sickening. Still in the House of Representatives, the case for and against those who padded and did not pad the national budget, shows that we might in the end be fantastically corrupt, it might mean that we are led by plunderers, ravaging the country right there from their exalted positions. Only recently, the embattled ex-chairman committee on appropriations, Adulmumin Jibrin revealed details about the budget padding, he claimed that Yakubu Dogara the House of Reps Speaker allegedly convinced him to ship over N20 billion into the budget through Service Wide Vote. This again is an accusation again the leadership of the legislature, and though claims and counter claims are being made, and investigations are still ongoing, yet how can we Nigerians be at ease with what we have heard so far? Documents have revealed how top officials of the National assembly padded the 2016 budget to the tune of N481billion, the national assembly also unilaterally jerked the votes meant for constituency projects from N60 billion to N100 billion. I fear that which such assertion as this, this nation risks the chance of an implosion. Impeachment dilemma There has been rumours and speculations that the Senate is seeking to impeach President Muhammadu Buhari, and though this seem to have been played down with many hinting at the limits of its possibility, still it is an issue that calls for concern. Share on Facebook Share on Twitter mazaje Senate president Bukola Saraki at CCT, there are speculations that a move for Saraki’s unsaeting is in the works. With a legislative arm that Nigerians cannot vouch for, one cannot but note that there is no smoke without a fire. It must be noted that the mantra of impeachment has for quite sometime lingered by the doors of the National Assembly, with many calling for the unseating of the Senate leadership; it is this chaos that stirs unease in the hearts of Nigerians. This is because, the Nigerian Senate remains unstable and continue to tussle for power, and the servant leaders in those sacred courts continue to do the masses no good. The Senate is not in anyway helping the cause of President Buhari, some critics claim, there tends to be a silent rift between the presidency and the legislature. One fears that the more the diverse parties cannot come to agree for the common good of the people, then Nigerians will be in for another era of promises which will never see the light of day. Religious war Reports of violence borne of religion are making headlines again, with death and destruction of property recorded in certain parts of the country. We have toed this line before and we surely know that if there is an issue that ticks people off to war the most, then religion it is. At a time when speculation has it that Nigeria is about to be made an Islamic nation, when the government is trying to assuage the fears of the people regarding such a move, killing incited by religion is not a welcomed development. Share on Facebook Share on Twitter rccg pastor wife murdered while preaching abuja RCCG pastor’s wife murdered while preaching in Abuja Christians, especially those in the northeastern region and Muslims in the southeastern region stand the greater risk in the wake of violence borne of religious rifts, a subject matter which could be said to have played a major role in the bloody civil war which Nigeria experienced between 1967 and 1970. Experts have said that some clerics within the northern region are to blame for the killings carried out by their followers, this is because they preach and teach those who follow them to see others who are not of their faith as infidels. With these deadly ideologies behind their their minds, religious fanatics much about on the edge, waiting for the slightest form of provocation and they strike in the name of God. Wave of terror, storm of militancy and the dying economy The Nigerian government deserves some praise for the war against the dreaded Boko Haram sect within the troubled northeastern region of the country. According to the Nigerian army, the jihadists have been ousted and all that is left is but a fragment for which the gallant soldiers must remain focused to erase without a trace. However, Nigeria seem to have a system in which when one situation is about being fixed, something else springs up to take its place. The advent of marauders in the guise of herdsmen, has given the nation cause not to close one eye while she sleeps. The re-emergence of vandalism and militant activities in the South-south and Southeast regions is yet another cause for which the people are troubled. Nigeria’s dwindling economic growth has been closely linked to the troubling affairs within the Niger Delta, even the militants have promised to cripple the nation. Share on Facebook Share on Twitter pipeline bombing File: Pipeline bombing in the Niger Delta The Nigerian government has said it is in talks with leaders of the region and lords of the militant groups, however, some very powerful groups within the region are of the opinion that the government cannot get the desired result with the way they are handling the affairs. This assertion has led groups like the Niger Delta Avengers to keep at blowing up pipelines and destroying facilities belonging to oil firms within the south-south and southeast. These are trying times, not only for people within the Niger Delta but Nigerians as a whole as the masses most especially will have to face harsh market prices and crazier living conditions till a truce is brokered. A truce seem far from the issue, now that the military has launched a new operation to counter the militancy within the region. For many, this move is a ‘no good’ as it will only stir more hostilities and in the end lead to no positive outcome. Run! To where? Nowhere is the answer, there is certainly nowhere that can serve as our home. Shall we run to America where the news of hate induced violence is rampant, shall we run to Europe which itself is threatened by terrorism? Share on Facebook Share on Twitter usa-orlando-shooting Scene from Orlando shooting We cannot abandon this ship to founder, it is our collective duty to see that the nation set on the right part again, though that position is a very hard one. Nigerians have become wiser, and we have become more outspoken, those in power understand that Nigerians will not fail to unseat them if they do not perform. The present administration has alot to do in restoring faith to the Nigerian people who they have promised change, for if the promise is not fulfilled, then the people will change their attitude and ideologies. As regards those in the Nigerian legislative arm of government, I will say that a total over hauling is necessary and as regards their move for an immunity that covers their ills and absolves them of all wrong doings for a life time, I say it must not stand. Nigerians have been looked at as a people that are ready to bear with whatever comes their way, however, when the dog is pushed to the wall, there are other actions that follow other than just barking. The masses must not be pushed too far so that the implosion which is feared does not come to pass. Urgently, the APC-led government must chart a course for bringing Nigeria out of its financial mess. Job creation is of the essence, that is the only way by which the teeming Nigerian youths can be rest assured that fleeing this land which they for too long have called home, is not the best. It surely looks greener on the other side, however, what becomes of our fatherland if we all flee? As regards the violence stirred by religion, and the agitations for a divided Nigeria; we broker a truce, and that can only be done by showing respect for all sides of the divide. The government must fashion out a process by which the aggrieved are pacified, compensate where it is necessary, we can come to perfect agreement if truly we are for the good of the people and not for our personal gains. For it seem that so much that has been done in guise of seeking justice for a relegated set of people, has been done for the benefit of only a few. According to the Niger Delta Avengers (NDA), there is more to be done to restore peace and come to agreement with the militants in the Niger Delta Region; though I believe that not all the demands of the militants can be met or should be met, still I believe that if they could be stilled during the last dispensation, then they can still be calmed in this era, approach is all that matters. Share on Facebook Share on Twitter france attack Terrorist attacks recorded in France In conclusion, we all Nigerians must begin to look for different ways to make the best of what we have which to many now is “nothing”. Necessity they say is the mother of invention, and we must look deep within us to find that which can profit not just ourselves, but the world around us. Most importantly, for this nation be as great as we want it to be, we must think Nigeria first, not our tribes nor our religion. While we cannot shove our cultures, traditions and religions aside, we must exercise our rights in such a way that it does not infringe on the rights of others. Our society in the end, is a reflection of who we are as a people, there is no doubt that this nation can be great again, to take its rightful place in the affairs of the world.
Read more: https://www.naij.com/894371-danger-this-nigeria-is-about-to-explode-run.html