AfricaWorld Newspaper e-edition 1-15 August 2015

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IN THE NAME OF JESUS CHRIST...

Healing on the streets of Ireland

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Dr. Chika Nwankpa Named Department Head at Drexel University College of Engineering Dear Colleagues,

Dr. Nwankpa presently serves as the I am pleased to Director for the Cenannounce the apter for Electric Power pointment of Chika Engineering (CEPE), Nwankpa, Ph.D. as which supports the Department Head of research and inElectrical and Com- structional program puter Engineering of Drexel University (ECE). in academic areas associated with Dr. Chika Nwankelectric energy and pa has been with power. In pursuDrexel since 1990, ing these goals, the starting as an AsCEPE works with sistant Professor of electric utilities, Electrical and Com- state and federal puter Engineering. agencies, private He became an Asindustries, nonprofit sociate Professor organizations and in 1995 and a Full other universities Professor in 2002. on a wide spectrum Dr. Nwankpa earned of projects. He his M.Engr.Sc. from has been involved St. Petersburg Poly- in investigating technic State Uninonlinear dynamversity in Russia ics associated with and a Ph.D. from power systems and the Illinois Institute electronics leading of Technology (IIT) to the development in Chicago, IL. He of stochastic modhas been serving as els representative of Interim Department energy consumpHead for the last tion and renewable eleven months. energy sources. In addition, his work

has also led to development of novel real-time computation techniques that capture these dynamics.

The importance of this work lies in the ability to lower energy costs. The benefit to society will be an infrastructure characterized by lower energy costs with increased security and sustainable and secure multiple energy-type delivery systems. elected Fellow of the Institute of ElecHe has authored trical and Electronics 47 refereed journal Engineers (IEEE), an papers and 125 con- honor reserved for ference papers. This 1% of the more than has been the result 400,000 members. of work that has been supported by The ECE department grants totaling over has an enrollment $10 million. of 842 undergraduate and 161 graduAmong his past ate students. Dr. awards has been the Nwankpa has shown prestigious Presiexceptional leaderdential Faculty Fel- ship as interim delow Award. He was partment head and

is well deserving of this permanent position.

Please join me in congratulating Dr. Nwankpa and wishing him well in his new role.

Sincerely, Joseph B. Hughes Ph.D., PE, DEE Dean, College of Engineering

A SWAZI GIANT HAS COME OF AGE – PUDEMO LIVES 32 YEARS ON PUDEMO STATEMENT Thirty two years ago, a determined handful sons and daughters of the Swazi people, having listened and heard the cries of the oppressed Swazi people, who had just witnessed their

much anticipated Freedom cut short and taken away by then King Sobhuza II, through the notorious 1973 royal decree a decade earlier, congregated on the banks of Umbuluzi river to answer

the question; what was to be done. It was after hours and hours of deliberations that these visionaries resolved to form Insika Yenkhululeko YeMaswati (PUDEMO), to fight royal supremacy

and restore the dig- which had otherwise nity and pride of the become too docile and submissive to Swazi people. the dictatorship inThe Peoples United stituted by the ever dodgy monarchy.

Democratic movement is proud to On this 6 day of have provided the seventh month the catalyst to the awaking of a Nation we are again given

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hope that out of the ashes can rise a phoenix to inspire a Nation to rise up against injustices and inequalities. As much as the struggle for the liberation of Swaziland is far from over, on this day, we are yet again reassured of the resilience of the human soul that, a David can surely slay a Goliath if the intention is pure and the will kept alive.

On this day of the birth of PUDEMO we remember President Mario Masuku, who continues to languish in jail in spite of the ridiculous charges he faces. We remember Amos Mbedzi, a selfless internationalist, who chose to leave behind the comforts of a democratic South Africa and resolved to stand with the Swazi people; his suffering is not in vain because louder, and rapidly approaching is the sound of freedom. We remember Zonke Dlamini who is serving fifteen years in the dungeons of Mswati III. We remember Maxwell Dlamini who, for the love of his people languishes in Mswati’s jails. We remember all other political prisoners who continue to suffer persecution in Mswati’s jails.

PUDEMO remembers departed gallant fighters; Dominic Mngomezulu,

the loss of jobs that have resulted out of the loss of AGOA, PUDEMO would like to thank the United States of America for having chosen to do the right thing by being decisive on not giving preferential trade to a regime that continues to be arrogant in its stance of disrespecting human rights. We would also like to thank We would like to The European Union thank the African for having uttered a National Congress no-nonsense con(ANC), and the aldemnation on the liance, which, after attaining liberation, arrest of innocent people. PUDEMO has not forgotthanks the Danish ten the people of people who continSwaziland and has ue to show brotherbeen resolute that liness and are resoSwaziland must be lute that Swaziland democratised. The must democratise. sacrifices and solidarity of the Alliance Legendary is the reputation of the and South African people at large has Danes in fighting against injustices not gone unnoaround the world. ticed, as presently a South African has As much as there been sentenced are those that are in to 85 years in jail the formal struggle, for having dared there are unknown to stand with the Swazi people. Most Swazis who are in the struggle by virencouraging is the tue of being the recent pronounceabsorbers of the ment of the ANC”s poverty and repressecretary General sion that tinkhundla who has said that Swaziland is a police regime perpetrates.

PUDEMO thanks state and reaffirmthese Swazis that, ing the need to be in solidarity with the even though their names may not be Swazi people. verbally pronounced with those that PUDEMO would stomp the streets to also like to thank protest the fury of the International the beast, we know community and that on a daily basis the gallant Swazis who have stood up they have to contend with the reality to say that the repression will not be of poverty and misery that tinkhundla perpetrated in our regime has rendered name. In spite of Dr. Gabriel Mkhumane, MJ Dlamini, Dumisani Khoza, David Mngomezulu, Sipho Jele, Ncane Sikhondze, Thobile Ngwenya, PatricK Singwane, Bonginhlanhla Gama, Alex Langwenya, Malcom Dlamini, and may others who have fought the good fight and departed as heroes.

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a norm in Swaziland.

Many are the gallant people of the world that have stood up to condemn the nonsensical atmosphere that prevails in Swaziland, and PUDEMO would like to thank all, as it wouldn’t be able to celebrate its day of birth were it not for the multitude of people in Swaziland and around the world who have continued to keep the candle light burning in spite of the blowing winds of the brutality of the tinkhundla regime.

Signed by PUDEMO Secretary General NB. The People’s United Democratic Movement (PUDEMO) is a Swazi political movement committed to the creation, protection and promotion of a constitutional multi-party democracy, a transparent and accountable government, an environment conducive to the economic growth and empowerment and the development of a culturally vibrant and tolerant society, based on maximum participation and respect of the will of the people. It is waging a struggle for political freedom in the small kingdom of Swaziland (Africa’s only remaining absolute monarchy). PUDEMO is a banned Liberation Movement

in Swaziland and its leader (President Mario Masuku) is in prison alongside other political prisoners while other leaders are in exile for pursuing these political objectives but the movement remains the leading voice of the poor and oppressed people of Swaziland and enjoys popular support from the broader society (trade union, youth movement and students, church, communities and other civil society formations).

Contact Details: Contact person: Brian Ntshangase (National Spokesperson) Tell: +27 81 091 2364 pudemoinfo@gmail. com Facebook: pudemo Tweeter:@pudemo

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Interview

IN THE NAME OF JESUS CHRIST ...Healing on the streets of Ireland

Evangelist Ifey Stanley - See healings on Irish streets in Africaworld TV Facebook page

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Can you briefly tell numerous events us about yourself?

I have prophesied about which came Well my name to pass), I refer to is Stanley; I curmyself as a “serrently live in Naas, vant of The Lord”.

Co.Kildare. I’ve been I’m here to serve, living in Ireland for not to get puffed nearly 11 years. I up by titles and so studied media in on. But one thing DBS for a year, as for sure though, well as Theology is that one of the in JCD Dublin. I’m many gifts that currently an autho- The Lord has given rized agent for LCC, me is THE GIFT OF MONEYGRAM, and PROPHECY. So to RIA, and also an en- answer your questrepreneur. tion, I am indeed an end-time steward I am a HARDCORE of Christ, my duty is FOLLOWER of Jeto go and announce sus Christ, and have the coming of The been called to prove Lord Jesus Christ, to the whole world through signs, wonthrough signs, won- ders, and miracles, ders and miracles as well as to prove that JESUS CHRIST to the world that JeIS REAL. And not sus Christ is exactly only is He real, who He claimed to but also extremely be, and deserves all powerful beyond of our worship and imagination, and adoration as a rethe Creator of evsult. erything visible and invisible. I am well Miracles have often aware that it’ll be accompanied your an uphill battle to evangelism, how get that mission manage? accomplished with When The Lord accurate precision, sends you on a misbut I’m also Fully sion, He will certainaware of the FORCE ly equip you, as it’s behind me, who is found in Matthew responsible for the 10:8, Mark 16:17, awesome miracles Acts 1:8 and numerand transformation ous other scriptures. that’s on going in It should therefore many people’s lives not be a surprise right now. that miracles would accompany me You have been go- when I’m out on the ing about on the streets or ministerstreets of Ireland ing in the churches. preaching Jesus Miracles demonChrist, are you an strate God’s unfathendtime Prophet? omable love for His Well I don’t repeople, as well as ally call myself a serves as witness “prophet” (Although that the gospel I many refer to me carry is pure, true as one, due to the and authentic. In

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Interview other words, the miracles authenticate the message I carry, which is the message of salvation, repentance, holiness, righteousness, and obedience to Christ.

Who are being healed?

There are numerous people who are getting healed. About 99 % of the people I’ve been praying for are getting healed instantly. It is well documented through videos on YouTube and Facebook. The criterion for getting healed is simple – Believing That Jesus can heal you.

Ireland recently voted for same-sex marriage, what can you say about that?

God detests sin, no sin is greater than the other, and every sin leads to death.

Therefore homosexuality is as much a sin as theft, lying etc. But what’s extremely sinful about the vote on the same sex marriage is that the people involved have no remorse whatsoever for their sins, and are priding themselves in it. God forgives sinners who are repentant, and willing to change, but it’ll be extremely difficult for God to forgive anybody who isn’t interested in being forgiven whatsoever.

Critics have come out against your

works, saying they are fake Whenever I pray for people to receive their healings, I always ask them some series of questions such as: “How long have you suffered from this illness?”, “Have you any witnesses?”, “What’s the name of the doctor that’s been treating you, and the name of the hospital you’re in?”.

I ask these questions to prove to people that there isn’t any shady business going on, so that if anyone is in doubts, they can get in contact with the hospitals where the patients have been receiving treatments and so on.

That been established, I now openly invite anyone who thinks these healings are fake to come and investigate. They’re more than welcome to follow us to places and see things for themselves. They can also bring their own families, friends or relatives who are suffering from any kind of pains or illnesses for prayers.

Perhaps that way they’ll see for themselves that what’s happening in Ireland now is REAL!!

You often say there is revival in Ireland, what do you mean?

I believe there is a great revival coming to Ireland, as a matter of fact, the revival has begun, and it’ll surely spread like WILD

FIRE. There’ve been a lot of damages done in this nation by false religious organizations, who are supposed to be representing God. Those damages have led to the grotesque rejection of God that’s so evident in this nation right now. We’re therefore clamoring for revival, so that the people’s eyes will be opened, that they shall get to understand that God is real, and He isn’t what religious organizations and other haters of Him portray Him to be.

This GREAT REVIVAL that is coming will expose the lies and deception that’s been so prevalently perpetuated by the atheist scientists.

People will see and know for sure that they didn’t just evolve from a nonlife pile of dirt into what they are, but that they were perfectly designed by God for a purpose.

What are your plans with your ministry?

My plan is simple, keep evangelizing, keep on winning souls for Christ, keeping on DEPOPULATING HELL AND POPULATING HEAVEN, keep on pushing and pushing and pushing, UNTIL SOMETHING CRACKS, and the STONE WALLS FALL DOWN FLAT!!

And Jesus Christ will be glorified.

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Medical Mission Does It Help or Hamper Healthcare Delivery in Nigeria?

If one is an endorser, fan and sympathizer, of piecemeal approach to development, they will be impressed by the often uncoordinated annual and infrequent medical missions that some Nigerians overseas embark on to their native land. Such mission is commendable, demonstrating care and concern for those who under the current Nigerian checkered healthcare environment hardly get treated. The medical missions in its rough state because there is hardly structured establishment behind it, attempts to mirror reputed organizations like Doctors Without Border. In a nutshell, it is a welcome development; therefore, it helps.

But on a critical public policy review, how does such mission hamper Nigerian leadership from developing robust healthcare system whereby the rights of the patient are protected and entrenched as public policy and access to healthcare is enhanced?

Taking a look at the federal budget provides perspective which when taken to the state levels, shows a dire healthcare sector hardly set up to ad-

dress the need of -/+170m Nigerians.

That so called rich Nigerians go overseas for medical check-ups, is no surprise because in Nigeria going overseas for ailments that can be cured or addressed at home tells everyone, “one is rich and maybe foolish as well”.

The rich in Nigeria do not invest in the system instead they flaunt their riches in such a manner it makes everyone want to be like them. That is not how to develop a nation.

The 2014 Nigeria federal government budget for Health is N262B or 6% of the total budget, behind defense, education and finance, which includes debt service. Interestingly, the 2014 budget is disappointingly less than the 2013 N279B budget; this is when the impact of lower oil prices started to hit the treasury.

For ease of analysis, One Billion Naira is mere $4.45m; to put it in perspective. Using this conversion, the federal ministry of health budget is about $1.166b. Assuming on a straight line allocation for every Nigerian; the budget portends $7.07 per Nigerian or N1,590. Now, if

anyone cheers and chants there is money in Nigeria, walk away from them as they are both naïve as well as marooned. The noise does not measure up to the facts and figures.

Nigerians do not like facts nor figures. They take beer parlor chants and use such to scream ‘There is Money in Nigeria’. Sure. Just prove it.

Shocking aspects of the budget includes N4B ($17m) for National Health Insurance Scheme, which covers less than 4% of the population, mostly federal employees and related political subdivisions. Some obscure agency like National Arbovirus and Vector Research Institute has a budget of N175M. National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control - NAFDAC, has a budget of N4B. For teaching hospitals with UNTH leading the pack, the budget is N10Billion. Comparatively, UCH Ibadan and ABU Zaria respectively get N9B and N6B, and LUTH N6B. In Dollar equivalent, they stand as follows: UNTH $45m, UCH $40.05m, ABU/LUTH - $26.7M. These are

chicken money no matter how anyone looks at them and when about 80% goes for recurring expenses, it shows Nigeria will not be coming up with 21 century innovation in healthcare delivery. With dire strait resources in monetary terms, the skill set need is going to be dangerously absent. It takes serious money to operate robust healthcare sector especially where standards of living is abysmal.

With the above perspective, what does it foretell of Nigeria and what solutions are attainable?

1 Medical Mission – Does It Help or Hamper Healthcare Delivery in Nigeria

by E E OKPA II st A healthy nation invariably is a wealthy one; anyone overlooking such golden rule is probably living in cave/primitive time. It is no surprise that the productivity of Nigerian workers is less than 30%, enabled by poor health of the employees and work ethic that encourages laziness and serious absenteeism.

The piecemeal development fan believes the way

forward for Nigeria is let everyone chip in; build a borehole - not water system, have septic tanks - not wastewater system, have private guards - not effective police, have generators not efficient electric delivery system, etc. While such approach can serve as short term measures, it has become standard practices of federal and state governments, especially State Governors who see Medical Mission as a gap-filler for their absent and lousy public health policy or lack thereof.

For instance, in the core 5 Igbo states, the aggregate total budget of all the Ministries of Health budget is less than $100m; equating on a straight average of say $20m per state or N3-5b. In specific terms, the Enugu State Ministry of Health has a budget of N3.625 billion and ESUT Teaching Hospital, Parklane altogether N481.5 million including money for HIV/AIDS (ENSACA).

Medical missions in all intents and purposes, does not bring in $5m, hardly a drop in the bucket of what is needed.

A welcome addition though given: the-beggar-has-nochoice culture promoted by individuals as well as the political establishments.

Medical mission ex-

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poses Nigerians to uncoordinated and unsupervised treatments by medical personnel whose motives may be other than providing cure and assistance. The drugs used in most instances are hardly checked for their relevance and suitability for the patients. Data collected are not monitored as to where do they end up and what other danger is the patient exposed to.

Without Patient Bill of Rights, the Nigerian patient in this ‘august visit’ is left at the mercy of the itinerant practitioners who looks at the mission from boosting ego as well as appearing as ‘Daniel Comes to Justice’. While a beggar has no choice, I would imagine that the State Ministry of Health come up with stringent conditions and rules under which anyone can conduct a medical mission.

Here are some thoughts: 1. The mission must submit the names of all participants at least 30-60 days ahead of their arrival and their medical credentials vetted for relevance to the mission.

2. All foreign participants in the mission must include information as to why they are participat-

ing and must be accompanied and supervised.

3. Data and information collected on each patient must be checked for accuracy and must never be taken outside of the country without the patient’s approval.

4. Each Medical Mission must tender insurance policy that covers any malpractice as a result of their treatment indemnifying the state ministry of health of any cost incurred as a result of mistreatment and or abuse.

5. All drugs and tools used in the mission must be submitted to the relevant ministry for clearance and brought to the treatment sites before administered to the patients.

Information to be included are drug expiration date, equipment manufactured date, etc.

6. Drugs with close expiration dates, the medical mission must obtain waiver from the drug manufacturer stating that they are aware of the destination of the drug and its use in the 2 Medical Mission – Does It Help or Hamper Healthcare Delivery in Nigeria

by E E OKPA II mission. The purpose of such requirement is to put the drug

manufacturer[s] on notice should there be law suits they cannot be absolved of liability. It will further ensure that dangerous drugs are not administered to patients in developing countries.

7. All patients must have their doctor/ Nurse or healthcare provider available or have a release from their primary doctor that they can attend and any negative outcome from their participation absolves the primary physician from any liability. This is probably a stretch as Nigeria has no meaningful medical malpractice law and the Nigeria Medical Association is a glorified association that colludes and conspires to engage in some questionable conducts.

8. The Medical mission must have a legal adviser based in Nigeria and each patient before treatment must have their rights explained and a form signed indicating what they are about to undergo and the extent of liability or lack thereof.

Medical Mission ‘Father-Christmas or Santa Claus’ approach to healthcare delivery can never be a substitute for robust system. Because one is poor does not mean they have to be subjected to all manner of treatments whether rele-

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vant or not. The idea of one’s trash being another’s treasury needs to be dealt with in the case of this matter if Nigeria is to be seen as a country that cares. Allowing access and permitting all manners of medical missions just so some feel good, does not add any collateral value to the overall wellbeing of a nation. The statistical value of the mission is sketchy and scanty, and in all does not add 1% of the need. While every piece matters, Nigeria must recognize that its perception in the world begins and ends with how the leadership is seen as caring for the people. Healthcare delivery is a crucial aspect of economic development and it cannot be achieved allowing and permitting every Tom, Dick and Harry, to play Santa Claus as in medical mission.

To bolster the meager resources of the federal government on health, the government should consider Regional Health Savings Systems using the six political zones. One must invest in the region they live in regardless of their tribal affiliation. In this savings system, once one turns 18, they must purchase a healthcare savings bond to the tune of N1,000 for

rural dwellers and N5,000 for urban dwellers, annually until they turn 25. All persons 25+, again whether rural dweller and or urban must contribute certain amount until they turn 60.

The federal government in partnership with the state governments in each political zone will provide matching funds to the tune of what is contributed by a certain index. It stands that when such a system is introduced Nigeria will have available billions of dollars for healthcare delivery.

Such regional savings may be used to attract foreign investments in building world class healthcare facilities and research institutes. An effective private-public partnership on regional basis will afford Nigeria a bigger and wider picture to see their health as wealth.

Except some drastic measures are put in place, the current situation of under budget and meager resources only goes to widen the health gap, dampen and deepen conditions that affect the wealth of the nation.

A healthy nation is a wealthy one.

3 Medical Mission – Does It Help or Hamper Healthcare Delivery in Nigeria

by E E OKPA II

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PUDEMO STATEMENT ON GLOBAL CONDEMNATION OF SWAZILAND’S APPALLING WORKERS’ RIGHTS RECORD PUDEMO STATEMENT The Peoples United Democratic Movement (PUDEMO) welcomes the overwhelming global resolve at the 104th International Labour Organisation (ILO) to again put the despotic government of Mswati III back into the special paragraph for contravening ILO convention 87.

A speech from the Nordic countries at the conference served as a reminder that Swaziland has no excuse for not allowing democracy and cited the example of Norway, Sweden and Denmark which are monarchies that allow democracy. All Nordic countries are democracies where the people enjoy Speaker after speak- freedom of expreser at the conference sion; they organize reiterated that the freely and enjoy the Swazi government right to collective has been tolerated bargaining. This is for far too long for the example they their appalling huimplored Swaziland man rights record. to follow.

The world agreed The USA workers that it is time to representative also take action on the reminded Swaziland blatant disregard on the reasons befor human rights in hind the loss of the Swaziland. Mempreferential agreebers of the ILO have ment known as learned through AGOA. Swaziland experience of the was reminded to tendency of the follow the benchSwaziland governmarks set in order ment to play the to regain AGOA. game of procrastination. The govern- This terrible scorement has made it a card on Swaziland habit to make many comes on the backpromises of reform drop in which Euwhile it continues ropean Union (EU) to clamp down on parliamentarians freedoms of workers have unequivoand civil society. Ac- cally demanded that cording to the ITUC Swaziland change global index survey its tune in regard to launched at the ILO respect for human Conference, Swazi- rights. In May this land ranks amongst year the European the 10 worst workParliament coners’’ rights abusers demned the represin the world. sion of trade union and human rights,

noting the use of anti-terrorism law to intimidate activists, entrench political exclusion and restrict rights to freedom of association and assembly. It referred to the poverty of families surviving on whatever they can grow, in an environment of soil depletion, drought and flooding. And it asked for the immediate release from jail of those courageous campaigners such as lawyer Thulani Maseko and journalist Bheki Makhubu. .

infantile arrogance and ingratitude that the Swazi authorities parade. We also call upon those that continue to remain silent while Swazi people suffer atrocities, that it is never too late to raise one’s voice in condemnation of the cruelty perpetrated by the Swazi royal regime and its cohorts.

Signed by PUDEMO Secretary General

NB. The People’s United Democratic Movement (PUDEMO) is a Swazi poPUDEMO is encour- litical movement aged that the Inter- committed to the national Community creation, protection and promotion is gradually identiof a constitutional fying and correctly multi-party democdefining the abuse that obtains in Swa- racy, a transparent and accountable ziland. It is under government, an the culture of cosenvironment conmetic reform that the ILO has so aptly ducive to the ecodefined, that PUDE- nomic growth and MO has decided to empowerment and distance itself from the development of a culturally vibrant government initiaand tolerant society, tives of insincerity that seek to co-opt based on maximum participation and opposition in purrespect of the will suit of keeping the of the people. It is status quo as it is while grave human rights violations obtain.

We would like to commend and thank all those that continue to hold the Swazi government’s hand in spite of the

waging a struggle for political freedom in the small kingdom of Swaziland (Africa’s only remaining absolute monarchy). PUDEMO is a banned entity in Swaziland and its leader (President Mario Masuku) is in prison alongside other political prisoners while other leaders are in exile for pursuing these political objectives but the movement remains the leading voice of the poor and oppressed people of Swaziland and enjoys popular support from the broader society (trade union, youth movement and students, church, communities and other civil society formations).

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THE ROYAL SWAZILAND POLICE MURDER YET ANOTHER PERSON PUDEMO STATEMENT The Peoples United Democratic movement condemns in the strongest of terms the killing of a Mozambican National, Luciano Reginaldo Zavale, otherwise known as Melusi, in police custody. Zavale was rounded up by the Royal Swaziland Police, for questioning in connection with a stolen gadget he had bought. He later died in police custody.

These arbitrary killings have become commonplace in Swaziland because no action gets taken to bring the guilty to justice. The cold blooded murder of Zavale is just one more statistic in a series of murders that the Swaziland security personnel perpetrate with impunity.

These are a few of murders and attempt at murder committed by Royal Swaziland Police personnel: Noxolo Mdluli, 22 January 1996- S student in Manzini.

Percy Malinga, August 2003- A leader of PUDEMO in the rural Shiselweni region is shot 13 times in what police said was a failed hijacking. Nothing is taken from him but his life. The community apprehends one

of the assailants and a few days he dies in custody!

Bheki Dlamini- A national organising secretary of the Nurses union and member of PUDEMO is attacked by “criminals” who take nothing from him, stabbed several times and recovers in a hospital in South Africa.

Mandlenkosi “Matausand” Ngubane, May 2004- is tortured and dies in police custody Lafakudze, 29 December 2005- A wife to one of the detainees is abducted, tortured to death

by Swazi police for not cooperating in giving details about the activities of her husband who is a PUDEMO member.

Timothy TsabedzeA Regional political Commissar of PUDEMO and a rural development and agricultural officer is attacked by “criminals” next to the royal headquarters in Lobamba. He is stabbed several time. Only his diary is taken from him.

What criminals steal a diary?

Ntokozo Ngozo, August 2007- He was a former leader of the Swaziland Association of Students and the Swaziland Youth Congress which is

the Youth wing of PUDEMO. With only under wears covering his body, with both hands in the air; he is shot several times at close range and is killed.

Dumsani Khoza- a former National Executive Committee member of PUDEMO is involved in a terrible car accident, sustaining fatal injuries. Instead of being taken to hospital police take him to custody. He dies a few days later.

Vincent Dlamini, 1 January 2008 PUDEMO national Commissar and Deputy General Secretary of the Swaziland Federation of Trade Unions is shot at four times in what police say is a failed hijack. Two “criminals” are arrested and they are killed in custody.

Dr. Gabriel Mkhumane, 3 April 2008a former Deputy President of PUDEMO is shot dead in neighbouring South Africa after the Swazi police has gone to his mother several times to tell her that if he did not tell his son to stop this “PUDEMO nonsense” he will come in a body bag. And he did.

Sbusiso Mashaya, May 2009- A trade unionist is shot and killed in what po-

lice say is a brawl in a bar. The killer is identified by police shot at close range.

No case.

Mjomane Msibi, 16 June 2009-A PUDEMO member, who is organiser for the sugar belt is shot dead by police claiming he was running away from arrest.

Sipho Jele, 3 May 2010- A member of PUDEMO and the union SAPWU is abducted by police on Workers Day. Detained and after two days he dies in custody in what police claim was suicide.

These are just a few of those that have died, and which attempts were made on taking their lives.

With the killing of Zavale and many others, it is clear that the culture of torture and beatings as a form forcing confessions and instilling fear on the populace is still very much encouraged within the Tinkhundla government.

PUDEMO demands an independent investigation into the death of Zavale, and that the perpetrators be brought to justice and be punished for the appalling act of murder.

Signed by PUDEMO Secretary General NB. The People’s United Democratic

Movement (PUDEMO) is a Swazi political movement committed to the creation, protection and promotion of a constitutional multi-party democracy, a transparent and accountable government, an environment conducive to the economic growth and empowerment and the development of a culturally vibrant and tolerant society, based on maximum participation and respect of the will of the people. It is waging a struggle for political freedom in the small kingdom of Swaziland (Africa’s only remaining absolute monarchy). PUDEMO is a banned entity in Swaziland and its leader (President Mario Masuku) is in prison alongside other political prisoners while other leaders are in exile for pursuing these political objectives but the movement remains the leading voice of the poor and oppressed people of Swaziland and enjoys popular support from the broader society (trade union, youth movement and students, church, communities and other civil society formations).

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CAPTURED IN PICTURES The Barack Obama trip to Kenyan fatherland

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THE GATHERING OF THE ANOINTED Noel & Jenny McKinney were the Guest Speakers while Pastor Anthony Iria of God’s Sent Ministries Sanctuary, 3 Monread Industrial Estate, Naas, hosted it.

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OBONO, OBONO & ASSOCIATES

(Legal Practitioners & Consultants) SOLICITORS: Chief Okoi Ofem Obono-Obla Justina Oka Obono-Obla (Mrs.) Abam Okoi IfereEsq. (Deceased) IbiangMgbe, Esq. Magdalene M. Aggrey, Miss D. C. Ibeawuchi, Esq. Phone: 08033303287, 08033490404 oblatyn@gmail.com

Abuja Office: Trinity House (2nd Floor), Mabushi, Abuja; Ugep Office No. 11 Ejika Lane, Letamkpankom, Ijiman, Ugep, Yakurr Local Government Area, CRS. E-mail:okoi_advocate@yahoo.com

The Chairman Economic and Financial Crimes Commission Abuja, Federal Capital Territory, Nigeria.

Dear Sir, REQUEST FOR THE INVESTIGATION OF THE INVESTMENT SUM OF N10 BILLION INVESTED BY THE GOVERNMENT OF CROSS RIVER STATE TO ACQUIRE PORT HARCOURT ELECTRICITY DISCO BUT WHICH HAS BEEN CONVERTED BY LIYEL IMOKE AND COHORTS AND THE WHEREABOUT OF THE SUM OF N10 BILLION PAID BY THE ASSETS MANAGEMENT CORPORATION OF NIGERIA TO THE GOVERNMENT OF CROSS RIVER STATE REMAINS UNKNOWN We are Legal Practitioners & Consultants based in Abuja, Federal Capital Territory.

As responsible and socially conscientious citizens, we humbly request the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission to launch an investigation into the purported investment of the sum of N10 Billion (Ten Billion Naira) by the Cross River State Government under the leadership of Governor, Liyel Imoke, to acquire Port Harcourt Electricity DISCO which is for the distribution of electricity in the South/South Region under the Privatization of Distribution of Electricity Power Supply of the Power Holding Company of Nigeria.

President Obama taking a selfie with his sister Auma Obama at the Safaricom Indoor Arena.

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THE NEW NIGERIAN FORMULA Leading and supporting change When the Napoleon Institute was formed in 2012, it was designed to be the most influential, most quoted and most trusted think tank in Nigeria. The founder, Dr Okey Napoleon Iwunwa who envisioned change through the pursuit of intelligence and passion for excellence did his best to work with the past civilian administration but did not get the desired nod from the ex-president’s team.

His aim was to focus on high-quality research, capitalizing on his convening power to generate innovative, practical solutions to today’s challenges, especially in Nigeria and the surrounding regions. He stated that the purpose is to drive the conversations and debates in the country over rural development, agriculture, military, law enforcement, politics, conflict negotiation, business and finance, government policies, education, healthcare systems, culture and the people, law and justice, peace and security, technology, economic development, social and religious development, and or urban strategy.

Dr Iwunwa is probably one of the most intelligent but

undiscovered young Nigerians whose ideas and approach to solving society and human problems need to be heard. His utterances are near prophetic, sometimes poetic as he is a word composer like the old Greek scholars. He has written several articles on religion, morality, contemporary culture, philosophy, and has published four books, including Economics of Employment, Un-bonding Africa’s Economic Bondage and Thought Provoking ThoughtsThe Power of the Mind. He displays a fondness for metaphor and irony.

Okey is a student of Entropy school of thought. His radical approach to contemporary problems, and his conviction remains substantial. His ideas of individual overcoming and transcendence beyond structure and context have had a profound impact on how he thinks that Nigerians can tackle Nigeria problems.

His belief that life is simple and that society creates its own fates and world reflect that of the early philosophers and scholars who shaped our modern reasoning. When you talk to him, he leaves you with the

feeling that Nigeria is a complex society that can and should be fixed with simple methods, beginning with mind-change.

He laid out the formula to achieve such beginning and makes you see the likely future outcomes if only we can embrace it.

He said his institute, if allowed to help, will provide innovative and practical recommendations that advance three broad goals: strengthen democracy; foster the economic and social welfare, security and opportunity of all Africans; and secure a more open, safe, prosperous, and cooperative international system. He believed that by engaging in the above areas, the institute will achieve will inspire, promote and propel change through learning, research and information sharing.

Okey believes that in order to make Nigeria work, everyone must changeboth the politicians and the citizens.

He stated that it is not enough to have a good leader but that good citizenship is equally needed for the country to do well. The Napoleon Institute is a center to achieve such responsible change.

Since 2013, he set out several initiatives for development in Nigeria and have tried to get other African governments involved.

While he met success in other countries, he said that getting access to the immediate past Nigerian government was hectic. He hopes that things will be different with the new administration.

The institute itself has over 40 programs and initiatives designed specifically for Nigeria and African nations. Each program is tailored to answer an important need of the people. Their overall hope is to get involved and get people involved in national development. While speaking to Dr Okey, he mentioned four key programs he wants to initiate in Nigeria if the government will support and allow him to help in those areas. His only fear is for anyone to politicize his efforts and visions. He suggests a federal government socioeconomic campaign: NIGERIA FIRST and through such vehicle he can run the following Nigerian Women Micro-Finance Bank National Reconciliation & Mobilization Program - Focus on

relationship building and mind-set development National Youth Endowment Fund – Focus on Technology, Agric/Agro-Allied and Small Scale Manufacturing National War Against Unemployment Program- a special Napoleon Project which Dr Okey branded, EACH-1-HELP-5 enterprise model that could reduce unemployment by 75% in 6 years.

Below are only a few of the many initiatives that Dr Iwunwa is currently getting ready to launch in Nigeria and which he is seeking collaboration with the new government. In his recent social media utterances, he has been hinting on the need for citizenship participation as the only sure way to achieve sustainable growth. Asked if he is interested in politics, his answer is a clear no BUT points out that a nation that wants to grow must not castigate political leaders but seek to play their parts around them to seal every leak and development oversights. Dr Okey is also advocating all year round youth conferences to educate reform and transform human mind-set. If the mind-set of the citizens is not reset, that which suppressed growth in the past will likely suppress growth to-

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day and tomorrow.

The people matters and the early we include them, the better. He is calling on the new government to support his initiatives for the youths. In this case, he wants to launch a global campaign for Nigerian youths and use the platform to create future leaders and a future nation that is free of ethnic doctrine. This is what he calls THE NAPOLEON FORMULA. The Nigerian Women Micro Finance Bank This program will not only help women of all class to save money but will also educate rural and urban women about banking through a network of volunteers/youth Corpers posted serving under this program. Through this banking system, women will, Earn and save money – Women learn basic business skills and a vocational skill with earning power in their local markets. They begin to save and receive support to establish cooperatives after graduation.

Develop health and well-being – Women learn how to manage their health, including reproductive health and stress management.

They also learn about the importance of good hygiene and nutrition for their families.

We connect women

with local healthcare providers.

Influence decisions in their homes and communities – Women learn their fundamental rights and those recognized in their countries, and are encouraged to educate other women.

They learn the importance of civic participation, voting, and negotiation.

Connect to networks for support and advocacy – Women build support networks. They share ideas and resources, invest in business together, and help each other find solutions to common challenges.

Beyond the homes, women become catalysts for progress and change, creating ripple effects in their families and their communities.

The overwhelming majority invest their savings in growing their small business and in their children.

By launching this bank, this administration is starting a movement to Pass The Light Of Sustainable Change Dr Okey added that his objective to get Nigerian government to support the idea that is focused on promoting economic prosperity and self-reliance in women of urban and rural areas by driving the forces of economic and social integration.

Transforming the status of women from passive ben-

eficiaries of social / economic infusion to dynamic agents of change Promoting asset ownership, through its unique credit policies Promoting entrepreneurs through Computer Literacy and Business centers for skill enhancement, product development and business management Facilitating their access to financial services by providing support through its Financial Services Desk on Corporate Affairs, Credit Management and Trade Finance activities and advice on Legal, Taxation and Marketing issues Providing extensive banking training through Napoleon Institute and collaboration with other Banking Institutes of repute

economic growth in some of the poorest countries rely heavily on women.

Small and medium scale enterprises (SMEs) with female ownership represent 30 per cent to 37 percent of all SMEs (8 million to 10 million women-owned firms) in Nigeria and other emerging markets. These businesses, according to a recent World Bank report, have unmet financial needs of between $260 billion and $320 billion a year across the globe. This therefore is women’s biggest barrier to growth and development. Access to credit can open up economic opportunities for women, and bank accounts can be a gateway to the use of additional financial services.

However, women entrepreneurs and employers face Here is how and significantly greater why Dr. Iwunwa challenges than wants to empower men in gaining acNigerian women. In cess to financial his words: services. The Global The Plight of NiFindex, a compregerian Women hensive database and Benefits of a measuring how dedicated bank for people save, borwomen developrow, and manage ment: risk in 148 counGlobally, women tries, revealed that disproportionately women are less face financial access likely than men to barriers that prevent have formal bank them from particiaccounts. pating in the econ- In Nigeria and many omy and from imother developing proving their lives. economies, women Women make up are 20 percent less 40 per cent of the likely than men to world’s workforce. have an account at Many of the sectors a formal financial that are critical for institution and 17

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percent less likely to have borrowed formally in the past year. Even if they can gain access to a loan, women often lack access to other financial services, such as savings, digital payment methods, and insurance. Restrictions on opening a bank account, such as requirements for a male family member’s permission, restrict women’s access to accounts.

Dr Okey pointed lack of financial education as limiting women from gaining access to and benefitting from financial services.

Nonetheless, as part of efforts to offer women exclusive access to banking services as well as a wide range of lifestyle-oriented value added benefits and privileges, the idea for Nigerian Women Community Bank arose.

The initiatives promoting gender equality and fosters greater economic development. Reducing genderbased barriers in the business environment; creating business opportunities for institutions and in the private sector to improve working conditions for female employees, market segmentation, and inclusion of women in community relationships; supporting business skills and financial capability trainings for wom-

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en; and building the business case for equal economic opportunities for men and women, would help stimulate inclusive growth in the Nigerian economy.

This bank will form part of the privileges for women and their families under the Napoleon initiative includes access to a comprehensive range of loan product and credit facilities; access to entrepreneurial community with helpful advice on family and finance matters, home and family articles and details of special offers; access to a wide range of great discount, special offers and freebies on health, beauty and fitness. Others include early savers club for children, access to maternal health support, family protection as well as access to seminars on family planning and parenting.

Dr Okey Napoleon Iwunwa believes the initiative would also support SMEs owned by women.

SMEs contribute to improved living standards, bring about substantial local capital formation and achieve high level of productivity and capability.

They have also been identified as a vehicle for employment generation and providing opportunities for entrepreneurial sourcing, training, development and empowerment.

The second and most important thing is that by supporting women and the businesses that they do, it would lead to economic growth in this country. This initiative is necessary because a country grows by supporting SMEs, and if Nigeria must grow greatly, women must be supported.

He stated also that this the first banking solution that allows an entire family to bank and benefit together, while also operating their individual accounts.

The initiative is all about women that desire to be inspired, connected and empowered. It is commitment to banking women.

The bank will also introduce a product called, ‘WOMEN Life Plan’. - a scaled down health insurance program for women- designed to help women overcome financial barriers while supporting them in their quest for health and motherhood. This scheme supports local and international treatments for fertility, natal support, other specialist procedures include -Hysterectomy (Uterus Removal), myomectomy (Fibroid Removal), dental, bariatric and orthopaedic Dr Okey’s approach to banking women will provide banking solutions to

meet the lifestyle needs of the identified sub-segments: young professionals, woman and family and women in business. Purely, they are banking products bundled to meet their financial and lifestyle needs e.g. family banking for the woman and family.

2. NATIONAL RECONCILIATION AND MOBILIZATION PROGRAM Introduction: We cannot deny anymore that Nigeria is broken. Conversations and trends on social media have proven that even though we are still one nation, there is no trust for one another. It shows in every election and even in the recently concluded election.

But the good news is that there is hope now to get things right and rebuild the nation more than ever before in the past sixteen years, Dr Okey said.

The answer is NRMP – a multi-ethnic bridge program for grass-root change.

The motto is ‘Nigeria First’ The theme is: Defining Our Moments & The Movement For New Nigeria.

This all-embracing program focuses on building trust and partnership among Nigerians through entrepreneurship, sports, mass orientation knowledgebased workshops,

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national dialogues on socio-political matters, national youth debates and quiz, cultural exchange exercises, promotion of intermarriages and intertradition education, inter-faith crusades among youths and young adults, open mind media dialogues (print and visual), film/movies, entertainment, new media projects, and television campaign.

NRMP will engage Nigerians and create jobs for youths and graduates.

Most importantly, it will challenge Nigerians to rethink and to engage in peace seeking endeavours as against self-interests and regional benefits.

UNTIL EVERY NIGERIAN BEGINS TO FEEL LIKE A NIGERIAN, THERE IS NO NIGERIA. NRMP was created by the Napoleon Institute as an extension of the National Conference – A RELATIONSHIP BRIDGE It will draw people together by challenging and changing their mindsets.

It promotes nationalism and gradually eliminates sectionalism It engages people to participate in nation building It empowers citizens It rebuilds confidence in people It promotes self respect, discipline and service It promotes love

and peace and keeps citizens busy It creates jobs and wealth and a healthy nation It replaces ethnic reasoning by building partnership shells among people.

It is designed to make people develop their skills, talents and reap the rewards of hard work.

MASS MOBILIZATION- This problem will also work hand in hand with the present administration to educate the citizens about government policies and programs. This will make it easier for people and the government to stay in touch.

It is focused on doing grass-root jobs for the governmenta bridge where information, skills development, regional and state grass-root empowerment flow through between government and the people It will engage the people—- with the key objective to change their mindsets. It is a program designed to recognize the power of the people across the nation.

Dr Okey explained that NRMP will promote national campaign on positive change through education, entrepreneurship development, people development in both rural and urban areas across the nation. The overall

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objective is to bring people together and build a nation that citizens believe in.

This is one of Napoleon Institute signature programs that is designed for national change.

For further details contact him at: napoleon.okey@ gmail.com.

in order to map out the course of national youth enterprise programs that define the future of Nigeria An endowment is a permanent fund that produces investment income.

The permanent fund is never touched -- only a portion of the fund’s interest National Youth is used for qualiEndowment Fund fied programs. The – Focus on Technol- balance is then reogy, Agric/Agro-Al- invested to ensure lied and Small Scale the fund’s growth, Manufacturing providing a source Endowment of income in perpeJust as a firmly-laid tuity. This ensures foundation is the that future generabasis for any build- tions of Nigerian will ing, a consistent enjoy the enterprise supply of resources development tradiis vital to sustaintion intended by ing that building, Nigerian founding and expanding its fathers. growth into the fu- The Endowment is ture. This is the job invested through of NYE Foundation professional in– sustaining the vestment advisors. foundation in the Foundation policy present, and proprovides a specific viding a permanent level of spending source of revenue each year, while to youth empowpreserving principal erment and other and allowing future programs that carry, growth. Endowment sustain, and grow monies can only the youth enterprise be used for their A healthy, expandstated purposes, to ing endowment assure donors that allows for bold de- their investment will cisions to be made always be directed

towards the eligible programs originally designated. In this case, we will focus on technology, small scale manufacturing and agro allied and agricultural businesses, including food processing, marketing and distribution of food.

To meet the variety of constituencies and educational program needed to manage this successfully, Dr Okey said that the Napoleon Institute will establish 6 different endowment categories within its overall endowment fund.

1.Tech Endowment provides support to the technology programs – (software development. Hardware, telecoms, internet, securities and web development) -training and development . This sector has the capacity to provide employment for over 300,000 graduates and skilled Nigerians within 6 years.

2. Agro- Endowment helps to ensure continued operation and growth of agricul-

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ture among youths and graduates. The aim is to encourage LAND2LIFE Farmry System and food processing, sales, marketing , storage, and distribution… all these have the capacity to provide gainful careers for over 100,000 graduates and other skilled/unskilled job seekers.

3. Manufacturing Endowment supports programs promoting small scale manufacturing by graduates…from plastic products, household goods, transportation products, fabrications and soft engineering. This is aimed at turning Nigeria into China of Africa in less than 10 years.

4. Arts & Craft Endowment supports youth programs in arts, cultural development- promote those engaged in inter-faith related businesses which preserves Nigerian cultures and traditions. This fund will invest in the NIGERIAN DIGITAL MUSEUM OF MOVING IMAGES. 5. Engineering En-

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dowment invests in programs that teach the basics of investments on young engineers who wants to start own businesses- such as building constructions, road construction and maintenance, structural designs, industrial designs, electrical and automotive. Etc. This endowment can create jobs for over 50,000-100k Nigerian graduates.

6. Named Endowments A named endowment can be established within an endowment category for a minimum gift of $100,000 by any Nigerian, subject to certain criteria.

This allows a donor and their friends, family, company, or institution to leave a lasting legacy for the particular program area in which they have an interest in perpetuating.

Named endowment donors receive an annual report of their earnings, along with a report on disbursements from their specific endowment.

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In The New Drive to Replace Oil As A Source of Revenue

By Chibuzor O. Obiakor In the new drive, prompted by global dynamics, to replace oil as the major source of revenue in Nigeria, we must be careful to not throw away the baby with the bathwater. This danger is more glaring at the States and Local Government Areas levels; where the governments have taken to increasing their Internally Generated Revenues (IGRs) by “any and all means possible” to the detriment of those they govern. This drive for increased IGR could be described as the unintended consequence of the global slump in oil price. How did we get here, and why were we caught so unprepared for such slump in oil price?

Does it mean that we had no forecasting economic models that predict trend in oil price?

If we do not have such models, why not? If we do, why did we not make haste while the sun was shining? I ask these questions to illustrate a clear example of the lack of leadership in our nation’s life, and point to our penchant to ignore, or gloss over things in our characteristic boisterous and hu-

bristic ways only to get caught in a panic at the last minute.

The Stone Age, which at its time was “hi-tech” era, became extinct, not because the people, at the time, no longer had uses for stone, but because they found better ways of doing things. Just as the world today is increasingly finding better ways for its energy needs than oil. Although stone is still useful today, hundreds of years since the Stone Age era; as oil would continue to be useful, but in this age of smart chip phones, I-pads and other computers of Nano and Pentium technologies; and of rocket and nuclear sciences, stone is not what it used to be. We use stone to build houses, to fight erosion and for a host of other purposes that add to the livability of our lives in this 21st. century, but that does not mean that the Stone Age era would be making a comeback anytime soon. The same fate awaits oil.

Then, stone was not just useful by itself, for example, to start fires and build houses, but it was a tool used to fashion other useful tools.

Thus the universality, and seemed

indispensability of stone then. Exactly what we have been thinking of oil, but oil is fast going the way of stone.

Oil, a hydrocarbon fuel, that has driven economies and wars in the world for the foreseeable past, has been a blessing to Nigeria, but our leaders have been so busy basking in the glut of oil wealth that they perpetually relegated to the background futuristic economic modeling that ought to have guided our preparation for today’s realities of declining oil prices. The closest we came, and as economically rudimentary as it is, was to come up with “The Excess Crude Account (ECA)”. I call the ECA idea rudimentary because all it does, in principle, is to warehouse money which are intermittently withdrawn from and shared among the tiers of government in Nigeria. There are no long term uses of the ECA money despite the knowledge that “warehoused money” attracts attention of those in charge; fueling imprudent spending and white elephant projects. Thus, the rudimentality of the ECA idea. If Nigerians understand this point, then the mal-

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feasant withdrawal stories concerning the ECA ought not to be surprises. But, I digress.

For us in Nigeria, because oil is fast becoming not the better way of doing things, we must think differently.

With the sharp and sudden falls in oil price, the revenue bottom of governments in Nigeria is falling out. The managers of these governments are in a panic; showing their fright, lack of imagination and planning, by running from pillar to post, scratching their heads and wringing their fingers looking for answers. It has become not embarrassing for different governments in Nigeria to be indebted to their workers for salaries, pensions and to owe contractors for work done.

The lubricator of governance in Nigeria, money, has become thin, thus making governance frictional on several fronts, including in unimagined areas, such as the political gimmick of heads of governments voluntarily cutting their own salaries. This might be said to be altruistic on President Buhari’s part given his integrity and frugal lifestyle, but can the same be said of others?

At the States and Local Government levels, the seeming fashionable

outcome of the head-scratching and finger-wringing is multiple “Revenue Task Forces” that descend on hapless citizens extorting all kinds of levies.

There are Revenue Collectors for “Business Permits; Tenement Rate; Business Premises, Sanitation, Environmental and Infrastructure Levies, Canopy Tax, etc”. Often, these collectors collude with the police, engage unemployed youths and mount illegal roadblocks to collect the variety of taxes. Some make repeat visits to the same business premises wearing different uniforms to collect a different tax than the last one collected from that establishment.

Usually, they are unkempt, rude, aggressive and intimidating. If they are not paid promptly, they would confiscate televisions, computers, furniture or any movable properties that they could find. The dangers of maiming and loss of lives are ever clear and present on every occasion when these gestapo armies descend on business premises as fights often ensue with instances of injuries involving loss of blood, and in one known case, induced labor in a pregnant woman.

There is no gainsaying that this has become profitable

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gigs for criminal elements of all kinds.

This craze is stifling sustenance businesses across Nigeria.

My take is that legitimate taxes must be paid by all that ought to pay them.

And all efforts must be made, within the ambits of the law, to collect taxes that are due from whomever to lubricate the wheels of governance. However, governments are

better off thinking of tangible ways to expand business opportunities in their locales than depending on sweating and taxing barely surviving citizens to death. Insisting on forcefully extorting N500, N1,000, N5,000, N10,000 and N15,000 from Recharge Card Sellers, Tipper Drivers, Firewood Sellers and neighborhood Provision Stores is not appreciable or

sustainable ways to earn IGR for any government.

Most regions in Nigeria are endowed with untapped mineral resources. There are so many possible small to medium scale agricultural, manufacturing and assembly plant opportunities in different locales; there are numerous natural wonders in this beautiful country of ours that provide ample opportunities

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for culture and tourism that could make so many states and local government areas holiday and fun destinations for local and international tourists. Areas that governments in Nigeria can encourage small to medium business development are endless.

But, are those in charge thinking right?

Secure environments and friendly government policies

attract businesses to places where their bottom lines would be improved. In the process, they reduce unemployment, generate needed IGR and make our governments less dependent on oil as its use becomes less attractive. What is needed, in our quest for Change in Nigeria are different thinking and the right hands at the tills of governments.

Chibuzor O. Obiakor

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NEWLIFE WOMEN CONFERENCE 2015 ENDS

NewLife Ministry ended its maiden Women Conference with a glorious Sunday Service in Tallaght Dublin. Apostle Valerie Roggers from the United States was the Guest Speaker.

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Nigeria’s new regime – a decree of anarchy

Governmental events in Nigeria is swiftly drawing the country closer to unrestrained anarchy. In world’s political history, Nigeria has now becomes the only country where an elected President ferociously assumed the position of the Vice President, Chief Prosecutor, Prison Director, Chief Judge, Petroleum Chief – then sits down on the constitution with unchallenged authority, undermining the powers of other segments of the government.

President Muhammadu Buhari’s current turbulent marriage with Nigeria is not new, and in fact represents a bizarre homecoming. As an army major general, Buhari dealt with Nigerians as a dictator from 1983 through

Today, over two months in office, Buhari has not changed, and might have even gotten worse. He has assumed a dictatorship role, and He relied heavdeceitfully claimed ily on decrees and special tribunals to to be too busy to regulate communal name a working life and chastised a team. Yet, he had selection of law of- the time to make multiple trips to fenders with a killcountries in Europe, er- axe. Subjective orders and decrees America, and Africa, were his only gover- bringing back no nance tools, and as development strateof July 1984, Buhari gies but stacks of photo albums for had promulgated as much as twenty- image campaign. two decrees, radiWorse, this Presiating widespread dent while undercontroversies and mining the constiinternational condemnation. He sub- tutional process, jugated the judiciary single handedly with special military made key appointments, including a tribunals, whereas restructure of his the state security agency, the National nation’s intelligence and military system.

Security OrganizaHe had ordered tion, was accorded several arrests of greater powers. presumably past These were in the political foes, and mid-80s. commandingly 1985 in a nightmarish retributive rule, where he projected himself like a Roman god and ruled like the Taliban.

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The worst damage of Buhari’s governance is a total disconnection with both his subordinates in the government, party colleagues, and the masses

moved detained terror-suspects on trial around different prisons outside their judicial precincts. He has no clue about how to handle a democracy, but sits down in an undisclosed secluded government location and issued orders by the hours.

leaving only a few voices who stood back to save face.

Nigeria is not looking too good at the moment, and the truth is that the regime has been busy celebrating failures and lying to the masses about the disconnection of their CommanderThe worst damin-Chief with both age of Buhari’s aphis subordinates proach to issues and the masses: of governance is his sightlessness a total disconnecto issues of govertion with both his nance, including a subordinates in the total disrespect to government, party the rule of law. The colleagues, and the worst failure is a masses. Buhari has failure before a beremained the only ginning and Buhari arm of the system, has demonstrated whereas his supthat ineptitude. As porters chokingly a remedy, the new struggle in the soleader may consider, cial media to defend as a beginning, reca regime that jump- onciling issues with started into action his first major obwithout any platstacle – himself. form. Consequently, the Sai-Buhari mantra has totally died in the public domain