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Oh! My Englishness! By Suleiman Zailani (GAMJI) To say that English culture has an effect on our lives is to be stating the obvious. However; the social impact is so endemic especially in our urban centers that it calls for a solemn and sober reflection on negative consequences Details
On President Aliko Dangote Of Nigeria. By Yushau A. Shuaib (GAMJI) Before I am crucified or applauded by those who may think this piece is to highlight the potentials of the business mogul for electoral office, I am only referring to a man who is neither the Managing Director nor the Chairman of his group but is simply, by official designation, the President of Dangote Group of companies. Details
Nigerian Men and their Foreign Wives. By Sabella Ogbobode Abidde (GAMJI) Increasingly, and in greater numbers, Nigerian men are marrying non-Nigerian women. In droves, they are marrying Caribbean nationals, White-Americans and African-Americans. They are marrying, not for the primarily purpose of acquiring “greencard,” but for other noble reasons. Details
Between OBJ, IBB, Atiku and 2007. By J.E. Iyobhebhe (GAMJI) The IBB boys will obviously fight any attempt to ban all ex military rulers from contesting in 2007. They will also battle hard any adverse recommendations from the Oputa Report and attempt to answer uncomfortable questions on Dele Giwa, June 12th, Gulf War Oil windfall as best they can. Details
The Truly Born-Again Obasanjo. By Chika Onyeani (GAMJI) So as I pondered the meaning of what I had just done or said above, I began to question myself as to the real essence of Obasanjo's current corruption crusade. Did I, as I said to the Ambassadors, really believe that Obasanjo has climbed Mount Kilimanjaro, seen the light and become truly born again? Details
Aliyu Tilde And Abdulrazaque Barkindo: Between A Gentleman And A Dubious Personality. By Audu Zango (GAMJI) Buhari is one of the most magnanimous person I have ever known, for example, even when he had rumours that a fifth columnist within the SMC was plotting to to take over power, he had decided not to work on rumours but facts. It had turned out to be the costliest unintentional mistake that Buhari committed. Details
Obasanjo’s Strategy Against Regional Integration in ECOWAS. By Nduka Uzuakpundu (GAMJI) There is now a plan – a plan which is more of a brilliantly informed simulation – to build on the long-existing energy co-operation between Nigeria and her less endowed, northern neighbour – the Republic of Niger. There is another to pump some $5.5 billion – over a five-year period – into the West African gas project. A third, which, until lately, was shrouded in secrecy, has to do with a nuclear power plant. An investigation carried out by some journalists from English- and French-speaking West African states showed that the World Bank and the Chirac administration are already lobbying some statesmen, eminent opinion leaders and industrialists in the sub-region to have the nuclear plant built in Benin Republic. Details
Letter To Wada Nas. By Aonduna Tondu (GAMJI) Let me start by saying that you are not missing much as far as the president’s National Political Reform Conference (NPRC) is concerned. Religious extremists from both the Muslim and Christian camps have been making threats and counter-threats on issues ranging from representation at the Abuja event, the forthcoming census, to so-called marginalisation. Details
Nasir El-Rufai: Peeling the Onions. By Zayyad I. Muhammad (GAMJI) The current steps taken by El-Rufai in restructuring the city back to it original master plan and functions, are in the right direction, if the current non- happy –go-lucky approach is maintained, but is El-Rufai selective in his actions? Certainly without mincing words, one may say no, because many toes were and are continue to be marched on Details
Donkeys to Sweep Kano? By Abdulkadir Badsha Mukhtar (GAMJI) Receiving the recent proposal by Kano state government for supplying or rather importing donkeys to supplement existing exercise of Waste Management and Disposal policy in the state has attracted the attention of many people and it is now the topic of discussion around the state and beyond. Details
Kano's Anti-Corruption Directorate: Any hope? By Abba Anwar (GAMJI) The Kano State Public Complaints and Anti Corruption Directorate should critically understand that whether it is called Agency or Directorate or Commission, the central objective is to get rid of corruption in the state . The issue has not always been with the name, but rather the operationalization process of the task ahead. Details
Somebody Please Stop Chief Okoya! By Abdullahi Usman (GAMJI) On the contrary, however, virtually everyone who had the unique misfortune of being caught up in that Okoya-induced madness that was the traffic situation along the Lekki/Epe Expressway on Saturday, April 16th 2005 will unanimously agree that the conduct of this man on that fateful day could be described as anything but responsible. Details
A Different Take on the Corruption Question. By Tope Fasua (GAMJI) I realized that once again you are what you call yourself. Since these developed countries mentioned above have not tagged themselves all sorts of unsavoury names, then the world’s attention is diverted to the good things they do. USA does not feature on the corruption index despite the fact that it does more volume than Nigeria, and its large corporations go corrupting governments around the world thereby creating a vicious cycle of irresponsibility (See Halliburton’s deals in Nigeria, Iraq etc. Details
Presidential system wrong for Nigeria. By Alhaji Muhammed Ighile (GAMJI) My friends and fellow progressives, this is a ridiculous assertion and cannot be taken seriously at face value. What has the presidential system done for Nigeria, except to promote dictatorship, arrogance, corruption and lack of leadership? Details
Between Dangiwa Umar And Governor Sani. By Suleiman Ahmed (GAMJI) Vituperations have been pouring out against Abubakar Dangiwa Umar especially from Zamfara State quarters over his published opinion in the media about the current face off between president Obasonjo and the Northern elders with regards to the ongoing confab. Details
The Ribadu’s EFCC And 2007. By Emeka Oraetoka (GAMJI) The consensus among Nigerians is that Mr. President must be supported in his determined efforts at eradicating corruption in our body polity. Most informed Nigerians have also reasoned that Mr. President’s media broadcast on the 55 million Naira scam currently rocking the National Assembly was rather untidy. Details
Of Biafra, Warmongers And The Rest Of Us. By Francis Kizito Obeya (GAMJI) How much of biafraland .com does the Federal government know about? If she does, has the United States Government been informed of these persons of interest who are waiting in the wings to cause further destabilization in West Africa? Details
Tilde: Rogue Writer or Jobber? By Abdulrazaque Bello-Barkindo (GAMJI) Tilde condemned the current presidency without reservation. We know he is entitled to do so and no one can take that from him but, to cleverly exonerate the 20 months Buharriyya which began in January 1984 until IBB ended it on August 26 the following year is a cardinal crime both intellectually and journalistically. Details
EFCC, The Law and Posterity. By Moses K. Gadol (GAMJI) Only a few days ago, a local BBC Hausa service listener called to know more about the man Nuhu Ribadu. In response, Ribadu narrated his background history, talked of the law degree he received from ABU Zaria, eighteen months of police training and about eleven years of police duties, much of it in Alagbon Close Ikoyi, under Zakari Biu, one of late General Abatcha’s notorious henchmen. To his credit Ribadu claimed he never knew the president, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo before his appointment, and that he is carrying out his duties sincerely with the fear of God. Details
Ribadu and the 'Clean Sweep Ignatius' Syndrome. By Francis Kizito Obeya (GAMJI) Questions people are asking now are: “Who’s next?”, “who’s safe?”, “will they open the file on the Evil Genius with a Gap tooth?”, “Who is this Ribadu sef that dares to go and pull at the beards of the untouchables?” “Were those who have fallen really scapegoats or are there no sacred cows on this round?” And so on the questions go. Details
Honour Among Dishonoured. By Umar Tanimu Umar (GAMJI) Some years ago we witnessed on the famous NTA Network how Ghana must go full of Nigerian currency was displayed in the Lower House. The money was said to be sent by the Presidency as bribe to members of the House. Now the tables were turned, and the illegal business as practiced in our legislature has came to our knowledge. Details
British Visas in Nigeria. By Wale Akin (GAMJI) It’s rather very appalling and highly disgusting to read over the weekend that the British High Commission in Nigeria will this day being the 11th of April 2005 stop the issuance of visitor’s visas till 2006 to prospective Nigerians wanting to travel and aged between 18-30 years old....Details
No to Shifting Sand Democracy. By Garba A. Isa (GAMJI) The "National" or "Democratic" questions in Nigeria in my humble opinion, should not be about how to break up the Country; but how to fine tune the Federation to achieve a just and balanced society in which no group (Tribal, Religious or Sectional) feels alienated. It is a pity though, even before the unfortunate June 12 crisis, a well orchestrated campaigned was on against the Hausa-Fulani or core Northerners, winning the presidency again. Details
(GAMJI) The 55million naira drama, with Senator Wabara, Adighije, and Professor Fabian Osuji as major characters, is no longer news. What will probably be news, is the outcome of the whole drama. Who will be disgraced, and who will be elevated. Who will lose his office, and be compensated with monetary rewards. What we all know is that nobody will go to jail. Details
Senate Presidency & Sundry matters: Call for Serious Concerns. By Wale Akin (GAMJI) I am beginning to get highly worried at the spate of changes associated with the seat of the senate president over the last six years and thus this call for serious concerns before this latent and volatile issue gets out of hand. The seat of the senate president is the third highest position in Nigeria and thus should be given to a more matured person not giving to tribal sentiments and personal enrichment. Details
Beyond the NUC Accreditation Exercise. By Victor E. Dike (GAMJI) Lack of proper regulation and supervision is part of the problem bedeviling Nigeria’s educational system. Despite of their inability to provide the necessary resources for effective teaching and learning most of the existing universities are offering programs in the areas they are not properly equipped to handle. Details
The War On Corruption In Nigeria: Lessons From The Us War On Terrorism. By Dr. Emmanuel Ojameruaye (GAMJI) Fifthly, we must be willing to tolerate some “breaches” of human rights, personal freedom or due processes in the WOC such as handcuffing of suspects like the ex-IG to the court, summary dismissal, detention without trail for a long-period (during investigation). Details
Marginalisation and Religion. By Crispin Oduobuk (GAMJI) ...inasmuch as one agrees with Sanusi Lamido Sanusi that the elite on both sides (Christian and Muslim) exploit religion to secure personal patronage and privilege, one is of the view that it is better to at least make an honest attempt at balancing this volatile element of our lives, than to pursue what is at best a dubious meritocracy, ...Details
Youths in the Niger Delta Region and Oil/Gas Company. By Samuel Uwhejevwe-Togbolo (GAMJI) As youth violence, acrimony, and confrontation is not the way forward to solve problems of this magnitude; youth should be all embracing and sort for legal means in order to articulate their intention. No doubt, if neglected for too long one would want to exhibit some level of stubbornness. Be that as it may, we should try as mush as possible to follow due process in the pursuit of our fundamental rights. Details
Governor Oyinlola as the "Gary Hart" of the ongoing Corruption Scandal in Nigeria. By Dr. Wunmi Akintide (GAMJI) Governor Oyinlola has blatantly told Nigerians he is not different from you and me. I don't know about you. I have never, in all my life in Nigeria, been privileged to perform the kind of feat the Governor was able to perform with Wema Bank, just for the asking. Details
Of Manipulation And Illusion. By Reno Omokri (GAMJI) Nigeria’s Obasanjo has been a leader in Africa and the non-aligned world. He has promoted democracy in Nigeria and in the West African sub region (most recently in Sao Tome and Principe and Togo). He has brought the conflict in Liberia to an end. He is on first name basis with Western leader and has a permanent observer status in the G-8 meetings. Is it obvious to only me that if he cannot get debt relief, then probably no one can? Details
Nigeria Must Fight Corruption. By Adekunle Ajisebutu (GAMJI) When you closely examine the huge amount, N13 billion, that Balogun was accused of embezzling you begin to imagine how Nigeria and Nigerians have been short changed by the people placed in position of authority. Imagine how far N13 billion, an equivalent of US$93 million, will go in infrastructure development. Details
Of Sleaze And The Last Messiah.By Aonduna Tondu (GAMJI) The widespread misgivings Nigerians have harboured for some time now regarding President Obasanjo's soi-disant anti-corruption war are bound to deepen further with his handling of the scandal at the Housing ministry. The manner of acquisition of public property by the dictator’s allies and relatives of which Ikoyigate is only but the latest example does also call into question the entire reform philosophy of his regime. Details
Misplace Indignations: Corruption War In Nigeria, And Handcuffs Use. By Paul I. Adujie (GAMJI) In Nigeria, the series of crisis that have been bedevilling the Federation since independence are rooted in the lack of dominating cultural identity, underlining unity base, and philosophical attribution. From 1957 to date Nigeria has had the cause to convene a constitutional conference amending its constitution seven times with the coming of this National Political Reform Conference (NPRC) to be the eight, making it to be ones at the average interval of six years and more than any other nation of the world ever had in modern history. Details
The Federal Republic of Nigeria: Towards a More Perfect Union. By Ibraheem A. Waziri (GAMJI) It is my humble submission that the antics of history and the bold lesson drawn from Soviet Union’s experience are telling enough to make the wise ones among us see the truth that it is not only reason of having same experience under colonial rule and promise of economic prosperity that are required to build up a prosperous state. Details
Curbing Corruption In Nigeria: Exploring Alternative Strategies. By Madaki O. Ameh (GAMJI) Corruption thrives in Nigeria, largely because the most basic things of life are not immediately accessible, and the fear of poverty drives people in positions to ensure that, not only do they liberate themselves from the menace, but also store up enough for their generations yet unborn. Details
Beer Parlour Radicals. By Dahiru M. Maishanu (GAMJI) At first I thought this group of Nigerians were over shooting the boundary of decent criticism. However, as my visit to the restaurant became more frequent and my involvement in the discussions became more intense, I found some wisdom in the rather harsh arguments that prevail in the bar. Details
Why Nigeria is on the Rebound. By Abdulrazaque Bello-Barkindo (GAMJI) Courtesy of Obasanjo, our nation is on the rebound even though some people are urging us to congratulate Obasanjo with cautious introspection. To my mind encouragement is what we should be talking about at this moment. Any other thing is an unnecessary distraction from the path of truth and social justice because the national treasury is no longer the privileged patrimony of a selected few any more. Details
China and Nigeria: Seeking Partnership and a Symbiotic Relationship. By Dr. Lawal M. Marafa (GAMJI) China and Nigeria have seen their relationships grown from exploratory trips of the 1970s, to political errands and now to seeking to boost economic and investment potentials, at least this is what everyone does as they set foot on China mainland....as you go in and out of dialectic diplomatic discussions, the public will be waiting to see what has been achieved and will be eager to see how such deliverables can be translated into projects, jobs, quality of life and ultimately a better society that Nigerians have been promised since the advent of the democratic government. Details
Pope John Paul II – Matters Arising. By Abbas Liman (GAMJI) One of the achievements attributed to the late Pope was his contribution towards the end of Communism in USSR. I would want to say that I would continue to remember him for helping to bring us to the present situation we have found ourselves without his intention. The situation is that in which a rogue nation, the USA, has become a lone super power in this world. In the past the presence of USSR has served to check some excesses of the US. Ever since the USSR collapsed, we have all become subjects of the USA. She decides on regime change and she does it without a second thought. Details
“Brain dead or Brain Alive”: A Comment on Usman Yerima’s comment. By Muhammad Jameel Yusha’u (GAMJI) On the other hand if “Mr Usman “Yerima is using a pen name”, let me smile a little and salute him for being bold enough to be too shy to disclose his identity and shield himself by using the name identified with the people he termed as “brain dead”. If Dr Tilde as claimed by “Yerima” can not scientifically substantiate some of the claims he made, how scientific is the swift statement by “Yerima” that Muslims of northern origin lack any capacity to reason with logic. Is “Yerima’s” brain not alive? Details
Letter To Atiku Abubakar: You Were Too Naïve. (1). By Mahdi Shehu (GAMJI) As an Assistant controller general (ACG) you were given the mandate of presiding over a large scale operation with a three month time frame. Swiftly you had a close door meeting with other members of your squad wherein you mapped out your strategies. You may recall how a Judas among you compromised and leaked your plans to your targets mostly made up of people of his tribe. You may also recall how you recorded and reported dismal performances, not on account of incompetence but because you were betrayed by somebody who you believed in so much and preferred over even people who come from your geographical zone. Details
Nigeria Population – Is It A Problem In The Context Of Our Development? By Sulaimon Salau Certsocsci (GAMJI) I presumed not, “if population can be defined as the measure of yardstick in the economic stability and development on which a society rest upon”. Nigeria population to me then, and from my perspectives of what development is, is rather not the problem of Nigeria. Details
The Youths in the Corridor. By Ikenna O. Ezenekwe (GAMJI) No one refutes the open secret that Igbo families living in America pay an immense price for the promises of American dream. Sadly, the reality has been that historically Igbos in America has relentlessly lost her youths to the African American community with careless disregard in return for the American dream. Hence, the youths find themselves stuck withering in the outer corridors of the Igbo community. Details
In Quest of Another Liberal Pope. By Isa Muhammad Inuwa (GAMJI) A more catchy description of late Pope John Paul II astutely captured by Marco Politi in 2003 was thus: “His engagement as Pontiff was not only to spread out the gospel, to spread out the faith, but also to transform the Roman Papacy into the spokesman of human rights”. Details
Why We Want OBJ to Continue. By J. E. Iyobhebhe (GAMJI) The majority agree that the mission cannot be completed in 24 months. That it is imperative the mission is successful if Nigeria is to fulfil her potential as a proud representative of the Black race in the global scheme of things. That the crusade ( I better use Jihad as well before I am accused of having a hidden Christian Crusader agenda) against corruption must continue beyond 2007 to achieve its full impact and benefit for the Nigerian people. Details
Prohibition of Interest: A Unity Between Christianity and Islam. By Muhammad Sani Liman, mnse (GAMJI) To many people especially the history students, money is the root of all evils. But one thing all of us agree with is that, money has a contaminating control over our lives. It is sought after, fought and prayed over, never has one word meant so much to so many people. Details
Tony Blair Wins Again. By Dr. Wunmi Akintide (GAMJI) The Nigerian President has now publicly admitted he is being pressured by a cross section of Nigerians to stay put beyond 2007. Here was a President who in 1979 had voluntarily handed over to a civilian Government in strict adherence to the time table his predecessor, Murtala Mohammed had crafted, before his painful assassination in 1976. It is the same President who is now flying a kite to prolong his leadership of the Nation, even though he has already gone down in history as the longest serving Head of State Details
Islam And Whistle Blowing: The Modus Operandi. By Nasir Wada Khalil (GAMJI) Thus, we can see that there is no room for egoism in Islamic ethical values as manifested in the concept of relativism, no room for profit maximization as in the micro economic approach, and no room to the ideology of "the end justifies the means" as in the universalism. Details
A Comment on Dr. Aliyu Tilde's Pope John Paul II. By Usman Yerima (GAMJI) As I read Dr. Tilde's commentary, the so called tribute shifts dramatically in the third paragraph to what appears to be undermining the credibility of the Christian faith. Dr. Tilde began by ignorantly stressing that in the past 500 years, christianity has declined sharply. He never bothered to provide, as most knowledgable intellectuals would do, statistics, data, number or proof to substatiate his claims. Details
Obi Nwakanma’s Defense of Graft. By Osita Chidoka (GAMJI) You can then imagine my shock and disappointment when Obi writing in his column, Orbit in Vanguard Newspaper of Sunday April 2nd averred that Osuji’s bribe of 55million Naira to the National Assembly is comparable to “lobbying” and should be applauded...I wonder why Obi Nwakanma who lives in the US did not tell his audience about congressmen that have been expelled from the House and sentenced to jail for corruption. Obi should have told his audience about congressman Rostenkowski who served 17 months in jail and fined 100 thousand dollars for misusing thousands of public funds in the operation of his congressional office. Details
Why Obasanjo Should Purge His Cabinet. By Hassan S. Indabawa (GAMJI) By sacking Prof. Fabian Ngozi Osuji and the Simultaneous dethroning of “Senator” Adolphus Wabara, Mr. President has unwittingly stirred a hornet’s nest, full of sleazes, both of who were operating either as “Hon Members” of the house, or, as members of the federal Executive Council (FEC). In spite of the fact that his action was received with mixed reactions from many observers; however, most commentators and analysts had reasoned that for Obasanjo to be taken serious, especially by international community, he need to be more assertive by widening his anti-corruption dragnet to rope in more of his cabinet ministers, who were believed to be suspected and or indicted for corruption.
Unity, Strength & Development in Our Diversity. By Johnson Odesola (GAMJI) As the unnecessary and tragic events at various quarters and sectors are showing us, our narrowness of vision in condemning Nigeria to disunity. We should be celebrating our differences and learning from them, not using them to divide and to kill. Underneath it all, we all flow from the same source – the timeless unity of life. Details
The Verdict of a Soldier. By Anthony A. Akinola (GAMJI) Abacha may be history, but there are other actors of a debased era still wanting to impose their wills on the rest of us. Only foolish people refuse to learn from the past, and the history of a not-too-distant past has been competently summarised for all of us by Brigadier-General Oluwole Rotimi – it is about the brazen robbery of our nation’s resources by privileged military officers between 1985 and 1999. Details
Obasanjo Makes 34 Million Naira a Day From Ota Farm. By Kunle I. Sowunmi (GAMJI) The statement credited to the President of Nigeria Aremu Olusegun Obasanjo through one of the news media that the president’s farm makes an average of $250,000 a day calls for celebration and a thorough review. ..The above analysis makes the farm one of the most lucrative businesses in Africa. This writer will like to believe the staff of this farm must be one of the best paid in Africa. If not the reason cannot be money because the Boss just confirms the liquidity of cash ratio of the farm. This writer will also like to believe that the road leading to this farm is tarred, the staff of this company are enjoying lots of added benefits, housing, transportation, good medical facilities, and medical insurance, medication aid and medic-care for the families of the staff because money should not be the problem the Boss just confirms it. Details
(GAMJI) Professor Osuji, Professor Njoku, Professor Okebukola, and Professor Prince Charles (I beg I’ll rather remain without the title Professor than to be one amongst such characters). After disgracing the academic community the sixty-something year old man fell sick, I have never wished anyone dead but I do not think many people would miss the man if he chose to die. Details
Again, Obasanjo’s Men Bite Dust. By Ugochukwu Ejinkeonye (GAMJI) Now, Osuji is being hounded today because he had paid a bribe (not received) to get a bigger vote for his ministry’s operation (bad enough), but what about the people who had downloaded millions and billions of public funds into their pockets? Some of them were graciously retired and left to go in peace with their massive loot. Okay, Afolabi is dead, but are the others involved the multi-million naira ID card scam not free people today? Details
Northern Political Dilemma. By Dr. Shehi Ali Abubakar (GAMJI) There are times in the past when the north always act in one voice and manages to rally around a common candidate in period of democracy, which made it a political monolith feared and respected by all. Presently, the ambition of individuals supersedes the interest of the region and egos are raised on a higher pedestal than the development of the region Details
Saint Matthew’s War On Corruption. By Max Gbanite (GAMJI) If by any chance you fail to render proper account of your stewardship or fail to provide answers to the issues raised before the end of your term in 2007, when you leave office, you will notice that you were admired by a handful, feared by many, and respected by your cliques only (apology to General Danjuma), and disliked by the majority; alas, rendering your ‘Sainthood’ useless.. Details
Corruption: The Bane Of Nigeria’s Problems. By Sani Tukur (GAMJI) Nigeria may be having one of the most corrupt systems in the world, but recent incidents offer a glimmer of hope. The arrest of Tafa Balogun and the dismissal of Osuji from his post as Minister of Education have set a milestone for a comprehensive campaign against corruption in Nigeria. This is possible aside from the forceful reasons for skepticism, as corruption still remain ingrained in all facets. Details
Letter to Tafa Balogun. By Aloy chibueze (GAMJI) Pardon me for not using all your known titles to address you. I am not sure which is still tenable. But the one that will stick forever is that of Tafa the thief, all other titles, including the last one bestowed on you by your good friend Obasanjo; are no longer valid...Now you are given a dose of what you gave others, do you now understand why we have activist? Do you now understand why it is important to use whatever power you have for the general good?... Details
In Memory Of Malam Ummaru Gwandu: A Great Islaamic Poet. By Dr. Abubakar A. Muhammad (GAMJI) Malam Ummaru Gwandu [of the blessed memory] in the poem: “Tafarkin Muhammada” [the path of the Prophet] throws in the first salvo of warning: “Kama addin da gaskiya; kulfa ka jisa ka kiya; ka zuba kanka gobara.” [Hold fast the religion with sincerity; beware if you learned it but fail to practice it Details
IkoyiGate and More. By J.E. Iyobhebhe (GAMJI) You see why I now Love Mr Prez, he is a no- nonsense man all the way. Even when it affects his wealthy in-laws, the Abebe’s of Ekpoma or is it Iruekpen - he speaks his mind and it is public. Please Nigerians, tell me. Which Civilian President, Military President, Head of State or Dictator has ever sent a Memo to his Housing Minister or any Minister for that matter, questioning why prestige Federal Government property was allocated to his in-laws and other BIG and MIGHTY citizens without Due Process. Details
A Papal Experience. By Osita Chidoka (GAMJI) The visit of the Pope was a tasking and daunting assignment which had very serious implications for the government of General Abacha. First, the Pope had just gone to Cuba were a listening device was found in one of the rooms he occupied and that had reinforced the negative image of Cuba in the eyes of the World. Details
MONDAY QUARTER-BACKING: 10 Top Corruption Cases – and A “Cutlass” to Cut the Snake’s Head, Please! (GAMJI) The N38 billion-COJA (8th All Africa Games) of October 4-18, 2003: COJA chieftains and their romance with German auto industry, BMW, in preference to the local assembly plant, PAN; as well as the company JVC through Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) winning a contract for $21million and later having it re-awarded to Ace Computers/Thompson Broadcast International System for $51million without invalidating the first contract; with an allegation that one of such contracts was said to have been awarded to a company owned by Mrs. Stella Obasanjo, the said contract awarded for N6 billion for furniture for the Games Village. Detail
The Fight Against Corruption. By Ahmed Borodo (GAMJI) I honestly support President Obasanjo intention to stem corruption, but I have a problem with his approach. It is not about bringing people to book, this can bring him down from the way things are going. Stemming corruption is about finding out why are people corrupt in order to tackle the problem. Details
Shango Is Superior To Yahweh. By Ibrahim ka-Almasih (GAMJI) History has shown that no one has ever bastardized the Holy Bible or the person of Christ and get away with it except some very few that were lucky to repent in time. Details
In search of the Real Professor Omo Omoruyi. By Okechukwu E. Asia (GAMJI) As the countdown to 2007 approaches, weird characters are beginning to emerge from their often-irrelevant corners to make foolish speeches on Nigerian politics. They claim to be experts in democratic dispensation and scholars of Nigerian external affairs. They target a likely candidate to go out to make speeches on behalf that candidate even when the candidates disassociate themselves from these characters. Omo Omoruyi is one of these weird characters. Details
A Simple Census Challenge! By Ndubụeze Godson III (GAMJI) As one who was in Nigeria during their rush to crown Obasanjo King, Queen and Yeoman all combined I saw no reasonable excuse then for the haste. Deep inside me, I knew the political and military rogues were again missing a golden chance to positively seal Nigeria’s fate. Detail
No One Is Above The Law- EFCC: No Need To Apologize! By Paul I. Adujie (GAMJI)
Nigeria’s Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC,
is doing a fine job!
(GAMJI) I have watched recent events in Nigeria and the continued irresponsible utterances of some Muslims of northern extraction with a keen interest. These so-called messiahs and champions of northern Nigeria have filled the air-waves and print media with their message of hate and destruction to score cheap political points. Details
(GAMJI) Below are 21 cases of corruption enumerated for your perusal. If properly uncovered and the culprits are purnished accordingly, I assure Mr President that our respect and national diginity will be restore and our rating will surely change. Nigeria will not be among the first 100 in the TI rating list. Details
ISPAT, LIKE SOLGAS?By Emeka Oraetoka (GAMJI) With the current Macabre dance between Federal Government and SOLGAS, at the international chamber of commerce, London, Nigerians should not be surprised if at the end of the day, we are told that government has paid N414 billion to SOLGAS as penalty or compensation for the termination of the concession agreement Details
From Budgetgate to Ikoyigate: Unending Scandals in Nigeria. By Victor E. Dike (GAMJI) We do not mean to give the impression that there are not corrupt activities in other societies. Yes, there are, but the strange thing about Nigeria is that at each scandal those implicated would claim that it was outright false, even if the evidences were being dangled on their faces. Details
Anyaoku and Gambari: Poor Homeless Patriots. By Tatabonko Orok Edem (GAMJI) May I through this medium congratulate the ‘life’ president of the federal republic on the allocation of choice government properties in Lagos, built during colonial times with government money to Anyaoku and Gambari, who are homeless patriots. Details
The Role Of Police In A Democracy. By Ishaq Salihu (GAMJI) The police are a necessary evil its absence in any given society pushes that society to chaos and anarchy where as too much of police makes for despots and dictatorships to sprout and blossom. Details
Putting the Nigeria Police Under Focus. By Pamela Ambe (GAMJI) When I was growing up, my dream then was to join the police force and become a crack detective. The dream has long fizzled out with the image that has become of the Nigeria Police. The spate of police brutality and ineptitude is becoming a cause for concern, because the police that are supposed to protect and serve her citizens resort to extortion and intimidation. I am writing in respect of two incidents that happened in the Federal Capital Territory involving the Nigeria Police. Details
Nigeria’s National Interests: A Moratorium And Change Of Tactics. By Paul I. Adujie (GAMJI) We Nigerians are acknowledged by many non-Nigerians, as intelligent, even brilliant goal getters and overachievers, how then, is it that we tend to under estimate our own abilities and the powers of our ideas? Particularly, as we act as if we do not appreciate how our ideas can and must be positively brought to beneficial effects and impact on Nigeria? Details
Democracy Without Dividends. By Stephen C. Onuoha (GAMJI) Nigeria evokes images of vastness. Everything about her strikes one as big. Not only does the landmass dwarf other African nations’ but also the population, abundant human and natural resources, fertile land and aquatic life all offer tremendous gifts of human values, talents and nature’s blessings on the people. Unfortunately, Nigeria is never far from the pages of newspapers, magazines, radio and television both local and international. Paradoxically, these news are more often bad than good. Details
Politics and Political Godfatherism. By Samuel Uwhejevwe-Togbolo (GAMJI) Politicians in Nigeria should wear a human face in pursuing their political ambition. Politics in Nigeria has become an investment where the investors are set to make profit at all cost, as a result, political brutality is pervading the society. Details
Northerners, Obasanjo and Orkar’s Agenda (National Dialogue). By Audu Zango (GAMJI) The most unfortunate aspect of it is that some members of the Northern leadership who are intoxicated by selfishness are quick at forgetting that there are still some misguided Northerners as well as some enemies outside our great region who are still biting their lips and bent on destroying the North especially by strangling infrastructural development and also using religious victimisation to provoke communal conflicts. Details
Bribe-For-Budget Scam: What Nigerian Lawmakers Wanted. By Abdulrahman Muhammad Dan-Asabe, Ph.D. (GAMJI) Nigerian lawmakers have shown beyond reasonable doubt that they are not interested in fighting any war against corruption. They are now accusing EFCC of taking action when investigations are inconclusive, but was there any conclusive investigation before the lawmakers swiftly suspended Dr. Haruna Yerima for having the courage to allege that some lawmakers demand and receive bribe before discharging their official duties? Details
Is National Conference Boycottable? By Abba Anwar (GAMJI) It was also on record that Chief Obasanjo selected 47 members, the Muslims ware only 17 while the remaining 30 are full fledged Christians. In addition," out of the total number of 409 delegates the Muslims were only 160 while Christians are 249. There are 89 more Christian delegates than there are Muslims at the Conference. Details
AREWA: Beyond the Marginalization Hysteria. By Isa Sanusi (GAMJI) Northern governors were putting a dance of shamelessness by failing to perform in the abundance of huge allocation form the federation. They are rather busy enriching their wives and their relatives and buying choice properties all over the world. They left our schools in shambles and sent their wards to best schools in Europe and US. Details
Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC). By Dr. Is-haq Akintola (GAMJI) We condemn this disrespect for the faith of more than half of Nigeria's population. Appointments in a country like Nigeria are expected to take cognisance of ethnicity and religion. Most of the crises which have taken heavy tolls in this country have been caused by either factor. Details
"John Paul The Great": An Uncommon Man of Steel, A Great Communicator and Survivor, An Uncommon Pope with a Mission. By Dr. Wunmi Akintide (GAMJI) He had spent his life traveling to no less than 133 countries, spreading the gospel far and wide, and more or less reclaiming or redeeming the reputation of the Catholic Church as the universal church, and the Pope as the father of all Faith on this Earth. Details
"Success At Fighting Corruption". By Dr. Wunmi Akintide (GAMJI) You have to wonder where they are getting that kind of money from, to begin with. If you take 10,000.00 dollars to any Bank in America at any given point, the Bank's first reaction is to have you explain your source of that money. By the same token, if you are buying a property for multiples of one million, it behooves Government to find out your source and how much you pay by way of taxes. Details
(GAMJI) I am not an alarmist, nor extremist, but lately I have been forced to follow the path of ‘extreme’. In the words of Gani Fawehinmi “nothing good except chaos” would come out of this exercise in futility. Details
Nigeria: The Beautiful Ones Are Not Yet Born And He Ugly Ones Have Refused To Die. By Dahiru M. Maishanu (GAMJI) Competence and qualification have been thrown to the dogs in Nigeria. You do not have to be competent, qualified or possess at least a semblance of them to become a governor, minister, commissioner or local government chairman. All you need is to be lucky to have a former this or former that as your father, godfather or mentor. Once you are there, you do only the bidding of your sponsor, not the people, shikenan. Details
National Conference And Nigerian Youths. By Samuel Uwhejevwe-Togbolo (GAMJI) The names of delegates I read on the pages of Newspapers from various states were impressive. Men of integrity and women of virtue. I will be quick, to add that I saw some names of suicide bombers among the list, people who ruined the economic base of the country in the past. Details
Money Politics and the Lure of Corruption. By Victor E. Dike Rhetorical exaggeration aside, the recent clash of the kings and the assault on paradise does not mean that Mr. President is serious with the anti-corruption crusade because his antecedents throw some doubt on the validity of his claim. Details
AREWA: Beyond the Marginalization Hysteria. By Isa Sanusi Of recent Northern traditional rulers and their religious fellows have taken it upon themselves to fight the government of Olusegun Obasanjo who has since 1999 being pursuing an agenda of making the Northern leadership hegemony to taste what it feels and costs to be out of power. Details
Prof. Osuji as the Smokescreen. By Pius Isume (GAMJI) It really is sad that in Nigeria, people applaud the President for sacking a Minister over N55million, a crime in itself but fail to wonder why the same man could not go on air to announce the crime committed by his electoral crimes buddy Inspector Balogun when that case mentioned was for a mind killing N4billion Naira! Yet the “Anti corruption” President “seriously dealt” with Balogun by retiring him and not sacking him! Details
Mallam Nuhu Ribadu; Nigeria’s WMD On Corruption War. By Paul I. Adujie (GAMJI) As falls of high profile corrupt Nigerians continues, the word is out, to the effect that the war on corruption is a full-blown and full-scale war! And that Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, chairperson of Nigeria’s Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, the EFCC, has gone global with the battle to rid Nigeria of this evil and debilitating scourge. Details
OBJ Should be Supported to Continue His Good Work. By J.E. Iyobhebhe (GAMJI) The only time the elites and those in positions of power in Nigeria remember Allah or God or North and South is when we are talking about resource allocation, derivation, ministerial and other senior government appointments, location of infrastructural development projects etc. In other words, when the resources and political power in Nigeria is to be apportioned (shared). That is why I have no time for those champions of the ethnic and religious card in Nigeria Details
Governor Boni Haruna And 2007. By Aminu Iyawa (GAMJI) Governor Boni’s alleged third term bid (should the courts declare it possible) will certainly mar things for the Vice President; and if he lacked the needed home base support, he will have nothing to sell at the party convention that will choose him as its presidential candidate. No, Boni should not listen to such sycophantic tales of third term that will only further inflame the political ill feelings amongst the peoples of the state. Details
Adversary And Kukah In National Dialogue. By Ahmadu M Sabo (GAMJI) The recent worst damage to the Nigerian project is the prolonged Nigeria media propaganda which has succeeded in presenting one region of the country as a parasite and blood sucking Leech that is constituting an impediment to modernity and growth of Nigeria. Agreed that the North has produce one or two rulers legendary in their stealing (not sterling) qualities, but that is not enough reason to assume that the average Northerner is a beneficiary of the loot. Details
(GAMJI) Finally, the Daily Trust editorial board has a right to decide who writes in their paper, but they also have a responsibility to their local population. We have a lot of respectable and competent public health professionals in the north (despite Mr Adalat’s insinuations to the contrary) who can match their southern counterparts. This is the time for such people to come out and save us from the clichés of people like Mr Adalat Details
"I told you so" The Oil for Food Probe Has Cleared Kofi Annan of Wrong Doing. By Dr. Wunmi Akintide (GAMJI) I saw Kofi Annan as playing his role as Secretary-general with equanimity, courage and finesse that are rare to find in most African leaders. Without pulling punches, he had made a forceful argument that, the war in Iraq, despite its seemingly victorious outcome was an illegality. Details
Stories From The Bus Stop. By Uche Nworah (GAMJI) Chief Arthur Nzeribe (Ogbuagu Damanze), remember him? His antics, brashness and spanner-in-the-works with his Association for Better Nigeria (ABN) in the June 12 1993 elections has made him the most misunderstood and controversial politician in Nigeria, however his prophetic remarks to Nuhu Ribadu of the EFCC in 2004 appears to be coming round in circles now. Hear the Ogbuagu; …“EFCC goes after "small thieves" and spares bigger thieves in government.”… Details
PEOPLE AND POLITICS BY MOHAMMED HARUNA. By The Politics of Nigeria’s Head Count II (GAMJI WRITER) Lar, as we all know, is the official No 1 champion of the Middle Belt. Nearly two years ago, he told a MBF reception for Lt. General T.Y. Danjuma who had resigned as Obasanjo’s minister of defense, that the political Middle Belt was now “the new majority” in the North and Nigeria. He defined this Middle Belt by its perceived Christian identity. Its people, he said, were “all the marginalized minority groups in Northern Nigeria” who had resisted “feudalism, political oppression, injustice, religious discrimination and economic emasculation.” Last Friday, Dara joined the growing league of those who claim Northern Christians are now the “new majority” in Nigeria. Dara made this claim in his interview of last Friday’s Vanguard which I mentioned at the beginning of this piece. There are, he said, more Christian Northerners in both the House of Representatives and the Senate. “There are”, he also said, “more Christian Governors than Moslem Governors. Go and count it. The new reality is that there is a Christian majority in Nigeria. Those who don’t want to face it, the reality will confront the outcome”. Details
Muslim Leaders And The Myth Of Marginalisation. By Sanusi Lamido Sanusi (GAMJI WRITER) On Easter Monday, Muslim groups met in Kaduna under the aegis of the Jama’atu Nasril Islam and the chairmanship of His Eminence, the Sultan of Sokoto, to decide on a collective line of action in response to the “marginalisation of Nigerian Muslims” by the federal Government under Olusegun Obasanjo. According to newspaper reports, the meeting was rowdy and passionate. A leading Emir called for a Jihad by Nigerian Muslims against the Federal Government, before storming out of the meeting. Indeed so high was the temperature inside the Kaduna International Trade Fair Complex that, according to one newspaper, a leading northern politician, Second Republic minister and traditional title-holder from Bauchi state was slapped by a delegate. Every one who was present at the meeting reports that there was a charged atmosphere and that Muslims were angry at their alleged marginalisation. Details
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