If you think my post is going to focus on President Yar’adua’s death, then no thanks.
I feel for President Yar’adua as a person. We all know he was a pawn in the big power chess board of the destroyers of our great nation. A man who wanted nothing more than to retire back to Katsina and enjoy his family. But the cabal had other needs for him and we all know where the story ended.

Most Africans have not mastered the art of leadership and OBJ as he is called is one of the worst case studies ever to emerge on this planet. He no doubt has a big personality with a huge presence but that has never been an only indication of good leadership. Baba Iyabo is a very good example of a China in a bull shop, a level 4 leader who never attained the height of a level 5. He was never meant to become great!

Rarely can a man have so much opportunity to become a legend and a true elder than Baba Iyabo. But he chose to destroy the goodwill he started to build when he made some nice strides in developing certain sectors of the Nigerian state. First he decided to change the norm, attempting to award himself a controversial 3rd term but huge oppositions won the fight.

Good leaders take their succession plans very seriously. They believe that the strength of their successor is an indication of their own success as a leader. They are never threatened by the possibility of their successor to be more popular or better than them. The continuous greatness of the organization led by them is more important to them than phony records of being the best ever. Obasanjo was never like that.

And then selfishness kicked in and he punished Nigeria and Nigerians; a way of proving to us that we could never have survived without him. The trait carried by leaders of corporations who had the potential to become great but crashed. The kind of leaders depicted by Jim Collins in his book – Good to Great. Obasanjo is a 100% match of the bad leaders Jim Collins painted to us.

Our punishment was Yar’adua. A man who was sick during his campaign. A man with the humorous phone call on his sick bed when OBJ asked him the famous question – Umoru, are you dead? That was on a campaign for Yar’adua done by OBJ. I bet the man didn’t even have any plans for us and the popular 7 point agenda was an afterthought. The last 3 years have been very bad for Nigeria. We practically retrogressed primarily because of a vacuum in leadership.

Obasanjo should be very ashamed of himself at this moment. He should cover his face for giving Nigeria a weak successor, maybe both in health and character. For killing the younger brother of his loyal friend – General Musa Yar’adua. For dragging Nigeria back several years. Posterity will judge him and he should expect some of his punishments right from here on earth.

As Goodluck lives up to his name, I can only hope that he will be a true leader and put Nigeria first in his heart before his personal gains and ambitions. Only when our leaders realize that Nigeria is bigger than their selfish agenda; only then would we be on the road to greatness.

Youths of Nigeria, Citizens of Naija,
Inhabiter of a land so blessed but looks cursed,
Hearken to my joyful tidings
Of the Golden future time.

Soon or late the day is coming,
Tyrant rulers shall be o’er thrown,
And the fruitful fields of Nigeria
Shall be a blessing to us all.

Corruption shall vanish from our land,
Infant mortality shall be a thing of the past,
Democracy shall be a thing of beauty,
Our pride as a nation shall be restored.

Riches more than mind can picture,
Prosperity, good health, good infrastructure,
constant electricity, quality education,
Shall be ours upon that day.

Bright will shine the fields of Naija,
Purer shall its waters be,
Sweeter yet shall blow its breezes
On the day that sets us free.

For that day we all must labour,
Though we die before it break;
Men and women, young and old,
All must toil for freedom’s sake.

Our kids will forget what Up NEPA means,
Water shall flow when taps are opened,
We will have leaders, who truly lead,
In that time that comes so soon.

Youths of Nigeria, Citizens of Naija,
Inhabiter of a land so blessed,
Hearken to my joyful tidings
Of the Golden future time.

(Adapted from George Orwell’s Animal Farm – the anthem titled Beasts of England)

I was in JSS1 in 1991 when I first read the great book Animal Farm. I love the book so much that I have read it a lot of times. It is the story of a revolution. A simple illustration of how a subdued people can team up to achieve emancipation. It is a satire using animals to depict what actually happened in a real country.

This might be our last chance to defeat the cabal that has held us to ransom for a long time. People are angry but we must turn our anger to a positive force that would destroy evil and install good in our land. Enough is truly enough. All aspects of our nationhood is now a mockery and hope is fast fading.

But the question remains: Are we ready to do the rightful? Are we ready to chase out the idiots who have murdered a lot of our own. I speak for those who have died as a result of senseless road accidents caused by potholes? I speak for the mother who died at childbirth because our hospitals are moving mortuaries? I speak for the many that have died in the many barbaric ethnic and religious crises in our nation. I speak for the Nigerian child and youth whose futures are daily mortgaged in the favour of the foreign bank accounts of our moronic politicians.

Even if you are my relative and you have held a political post and as a result destroyed lives; I hereby disown you. Would every sensible Nigerian disown these idiots? Can’t you see they don’t care about us? If my dad and mom as much as vote for any of these idiots in the next general elections regardless of the fact that they are acquaintances in my LGA and State; I promise to go to the extreme and cut ties. Yes it has come to that, many of our parents are guilty of this wrong and they then wonder why many of their children don’t have jobs and are wasting away. They wonder why only 1.8% passed the last NECO examination. They should stop wondering and wake up to reality because they are part of the problem.

Same goes to every young person who will allow intimidation. The young person who won’t register for the Elections. The cowards who are going to sit at home on Election Day. The compromiser who will hurriedly leave the polling center even when he senses the ballot is going to be compromised. Never has there been a time when we can be so angry and justified than now. This might be our last chance to shut out the few who are destroying the rest of us.

It is just months to the elections but there are many things we can do. A few young people have shown example by marching to the National Assembly. The movement must continue and supported and it must not grow cold. We all have a duty to reach out to our communities and let them understand the need for freedom. It is possible! The 500 Naira used by the politrickcians can be rubbished when they are faced with the weight of the consequences of the stupid money.

Now back to the Animal Farm. The war was won by the animals. Farmer Jones and his staff were chased off Manor Farm. But the same comrade Napoleon who was part of the change became a tyrant himself. We know there are many with great resemblance to Napoleon but note that the time is up. There will be a spiritual dimension this time around. Be warned and go and watch Agogo Eewo by Tunde Kelani and you will understand. The bells of the gods will sound and the crooks will fall down and die. Nigeria, here comes your emancipation!

Going from the title of this post; I am sure you would think it is another bashing for Big Brother and other reality TV shows. But I am about to shock you because contrary to what you might think; there is really a good lesson that Africa can learn from these shows if we are ready to look inwards.
When I was growing up in Ibadan, there were various game shows on the first Television station in Africa- NTA Ibadan. The most popular of them was anchored by Yemi Ogunyemi, a very nice show called Embalaya (Eni ba laya) which literarily means Who Has The Guts? People came from far and wide to participate in this game show and won various gifts. What made the show stand out were the ingenuity and the wit of the presenter who also sometimes acted in various plays including the masterpiece from NTA Ibadan that made network service – KOKO CLOSE.
The kiddies were not left out of game shows even back then. I have forgotten the name of one presented by Toyin Adegbola (now known as ashewo to re Mecca). It was showing on BCOS Ibadan and I remember she was still married to the late sports presenter also with BCOS – Tony Adegbola. Other shows evolved later including one for the inner-city Ibadan people (Some call them razz, I don’t) called O’n rosy ni galaxy. Gboyega Lawal still presents this show on Galaxy TV in Ibadan (Touted as the first private TV in Nigeria). Yemi Ogunyemi went on to anchor Royco Ladun many years after Embalaya was rested.

Recently, the popular game shows in Nigeria are mostly those imported from other climes but that does not take the fun away from them. Today is not a bash on the dearth of local content even though I am tempted to go that route but that will be the theme for another day. Hence we have shows like Who Wants To Be a Millionaire, Don’t forget the lyrics, etc. The success of these games shows and the rise of the telecommunication industry in Africa prompted the owners of the brands of reality TV shows and some shrewd business people to focus on Africa. And thus, the Big Brother phenomenon, Idols, Dancing with the Stars, etc were all brought to Africa thanks mostly to MNET Africa.

You still don’t know where I am headed with this, but please relax and enjoy the ride. We all know that we are not a very inspired continent with the ways our political and economic climate remains far from being perfect. Reality TV shows have helped to douse tensions. One finishes and another starts. We are even clamouring for Season 2 of West African Idols. Many of us watch American Idols, South African and all other Idols from all over the world. Now I am about to get to the point.

The organisers of the shows make money from various means including adverts, endorsements and SMS revenues. I am interested in the last part and the reason for this post. Take Big Brother as a good example. The housemates nominate their fellow mates for eviction every week. The nominees are then left in the hands of the voting public to determine if they get evicted or remain in the house. I have been in the Telecoms industry for some time and it is mind boggling the amount of votes weekly from these shows. That is in one network alone meaning that the cumulative votes cast weekly in Nigeria only is massive. We are talking about several Millions of votes. Someone in just one network in Nigeria just reported making 20 Million dollars (not naira) in just 100 days from these premium SMS.

The revenue generated is not my main reason for this post but the massive amounts of votes cast. I am wondering if no one has linked this to our election system in Nigeria and other African countries. How would you feel if I tell you that more votes are cast weekly for big brother housemates in Nigeria than for our national elections? That is the bitter truth and the reality on ground. People find it easier to pick their phones and burn between 50-75 naira several times to save their favourite housemates. In fact, MNET was so pleased with the level of participation from Nigeria that it gave 3 slots to Nigeria for the current season. And it is a fact that the three of them are still in the house while other countries with 2 housemates have lost one or both housemates. Shows we are really keen on saving our compatriots, hmmmm. And we also even save people from other countries when our people are not up for eviction.

Two questions arise here. Is it that Nigerians think it is better to save our Big Brother housemates than in saving Nigeria? Or is this an indication that our electoral system has to wake up and embrace technology in voting? I guess it is for all of us to ponder and think about it. We can no longer sit down and think a miracle can save us. It is time to think and move forward by answering those two questions. The right to vote and be voted for are a fundamental right of human beings. Many died for that right in America and today, a black man is on top of the affairs in the White House. We have that right in Nigeria already but we don’t use it citing violence during elections, rigging etc as our excuses. But we all know that even when we don’t go out to vote, the nonentities are elected, they loot our treasuries and indirectly murder us via our bad roads, health facilities etc.
Out technology elite must also collaborate with the political minded ones to bring innovation to the voting process and push for legislations backing such. But meanwhile, the voters registration would soon commence and I hope you will not be found wanting.
God bless Nigeria, God bless Africa.

October 1 1960 – the union jack was lowered as it leaves us for the final time and the green – white – green of the free nation soared high in the sky. Our nationalists and heroes were finally vindicated and their hopes were raised to the heavens thinking their labours of the past will not be in vain. The road to independence was filled with a lot of struggles especially from the acclaimed group of intellectuals that fought the British to a standstill not necessarily with guns but solid ideologies. Little wonder that the products of the political class that evolved from that time were great men both upstairs and in deeds. Anthony Enahoro, Obafemi Awolowo, Tafawa Balewa, Nnamdi Azikwe, et al till today occupy a fond space in our memories till date.

Our flag represented Agriculture from the green land we are excessively blessed with while the white part connotes the peace and brotherhood expected of us. God bless Pa Akinkunmi for that great representation. Agriculture provided a massive export economy for Nigeria. It is interesting to note that we were not only known for our cocoa in the West but also for the groundnut pyramid in the north as well as rubber from the East. Those were the days of true federalism when each region worked hard to make something good come out of their midst. Obafemi Awolowo was a worthy premier in the west and so was Akintola. Even the regional houses of assembly were a model and competition was fierce for seats in those days.

It is very easy to know that Nigeria’s degradation did not start in one day. It was a gradual decomposition that engulfed us due to a number of factors. Ethnicity was the first culprit in this mess. The first coup by the Nigerian military and the next one which happened within a few months of each other was precipitated by ethnic sentiments. We then welcomed the commercial drilling of crude oil with its attendant big revenue. Our sitting head of state saw too much money and he famously made the statement about us having money but not knowing what to do with it.

This era signalled the beginning of the end of our other thriving export commodities like agriculture and mining. Everyone was interested in the oil boom. The Federal government saw the booty and decided to destroy our federalism by appropriating all the proceeds to the center. That was a milestone in Nigeria’s history. I have noticed a syndrome in the black man and I have been praying to God to heal me and all of us of that disease. We lack the ability to simulate the future. We fail to understand that most of our decisions now even if they are gratifying for us as individuals can destroy a nation. I am quite sure most past heads of state would look back today and realize they started the destruction many years ago.

A country that does not look back to its past can never move forward. Decisions made in those days are the ingredients that contributed to the finished product we have today. It is interesting that 20 years ago, we looked back and said things were not this bad. 10 years ago was the same story. Today we mark the 49th independent anniversary of our nation and the only thing on my mind is that we are just 12 months away from our golden jubilee. And I am wondering what the story will be then.

Look around the country and you are faced with same stories of fading hope and distress. It is getting increasingly bad with each day. Best Ogedegbe, who was the green eagles (as super eagles were called then) first choice goalkeeper when Nigerian won the 1st of its only 2 nations cup died in UCH on Monday. It took an eye problem which he wanted to treat to diagnose a brain tumor. Even if he was diagnosed earlier; are there facilities to treat the man? Do we even have adequate health insurance? No. In a good country, a man of Best’s status does not need the state government to pay his hospital bills because his health insurance covers for it.

I am also angry at the middle class as well as the poor who don’t even know that the key to making Nigeria work lie with them. This group of people will still not come out to register for elections when the time comes. Or some even support the thieves during the elections forgetting that it will still affect them or their kids in the future. When change came to France in the 18th century; it was due to the masses that were suppressed for a long time by the powerful and rich. I sense we are about to come to a point when a collective anger will suffice in Nigeria. We are very close to that point now and I don’t support violence but alternative ways of getting what we want. We can resist rigging by petitioning the INEC from now. By turning out to register and subsequently voting at the elections. 1 Million bad people cannot continue pushing us into abyss – 140 million people can decide to defeat the minority in their dirty game. Yes we can.

If you are one of those who think things have not gone so bad, please look at the sorry state of our sport. We have been relegated to the stands and the football that used to make us happy is also a thing of sadness for us now. It is not that we don’t have good footballers but I think this is a way of telling us that nothing is working in our country and a total overhaul is needed to bring change. And also remember that ASUU is still on strike and Nigeria is hosting the world for the U-17 world cup which might be disrupted by NANS. Can you blame them? No. Isn’t it weird that Mr. President who most likely did not pay a dime throughout his glorious educational pursuit is so insensitive to the plight of the Nigerian students who have to go through under-funded universities?

Nigerians do not need much from their leaders. We only need a human face to the whole episode. We need leaders who are ready to work for progress. We understand that things have gone so bad but we know that the journey to redemption can start today. We need leadership that can put a stop to corruption in every way not just by an anti-corruption agency but via effective means and leadership by example. We don’t need feeble point agenda but a real effort towards changing things around.

Even though the story is not so nice today as we clock 49, but there is hope as we still bask in the euphoria of the achievements of men like Governor Babatunde Raji Fasola in Lagos State. We are also confident that many Nigerian youths are still committed to change and are ready to stake all to achieve a new Nigeria. We will not put our pen and mouth to rest but continually excite our peers and even elders about the need to bring about change. And one day, very soon – change will definitely happen.

I am an incurable optimist when it comes to Nigeria. Somehow, I believe that most of us are good people but normally spiced by bad people as is common with even the so called sane state. But thinking deeply; I guess things are worse than we want to believe. There is an urgent need for re-thinking and if we want to erase the label of a failed state which we carry whether we like it or not, then we need to act.

I am not a believer in staying away from Nigeria and that is because I understand the fact that home is the best. You can never be totally free in another man’s country. For example, I can easily register a company in Nigeria and do business if I have the right conditions (a story for another day). In other countries, I will most likely need to have a local as partner before I can do business even if I don’t need their funds or intellectual contribution. But analysing this, it might actually make more sense to do that than start a business in the Nigeria of today.

Perhaps, the only strong point we have is our huge population that ensures patronage even when giving crap services. The cabals who have decided never to make Nigeria work are relentless in their efforts. It is as if they have sworn to an oath to totally destroy our nation. Funny thing is that these people are led by sheer greed and the drive to secure the future of their children and generations to come. The fool thinks he will be alive tomorrow, he who keeps his life will definitely lose it. But I guess they are not meant to even think.

Our fundamentals are greatly flawed. The purpose of having a system of government is such that confusions do not arise. In Nigeria, our claim is that we practise federalism. But it is obvious that we don’t. Federalism ensures each state has first right to their wealth and governance. The centre is only meant to unite the country and have some common front. The Yorubas know that the meaningful developments in that region till date were accomplished during the Western Regional Government when we had true autonomy. Our Cocoa was enough to build us the UCH , NTA, Liberty Stadium, Cocoa House, University of Ife (Africa’s most beautiful campus) as well as other landmarks. Point to a great edifice we have gained from the flawed logic of federation we have been practising after that. Almost none.

Our politicians are not prepared to do the right things and that is because of their love for money and power. If we start practicing true federalism; their gold pot -Oil will mostly be available to the Niger Delta. But in being greedy and despondent; there arises even worse consequences. I have said that the only real solution to the power problem is to grant each state autonomy to generate power. Nigeria is a very big country and it makes no sense that an agency of government as epileptic as PHCN could solve our problems. Kwara State has played politics to another level and I think other states should ask Bukola Saraki how we was able to convince the Federal Government to implement the Ganmo Power plant which has ensured stable electricity supply for their state. As far as I know, that is the state industries should be moving to now in Nigeria.

It is very clear that some powerful people do not want electricity supply to work in Nigeria. These are the fifth columnists who import diesel and generators. They are the power brokers and are supported by corrupt people in the private sector too. Imagine how much diesel is used by the GSM companies in Nigeria daily to power their base stations. It is also known that top guns of some companies using diesel make a lot of money by inflating the price per litre. Now, will they be happy for normalcy to return? I guess no.

We are a very funny people and we are selective in our remembrance. How can we not understand a simple principle called cause and effect? Coca Cola has only 2 concentrate plants in Africa – one in Nigeria and the other in Swaziland. Swaziland is a country of just about a Million people while Nigeria as more than 140 Million but guess where a plant is closing? Nigeria of course, due to power problems as well as a tense business environment. Now, those thinking of getting jobs should wake up to reality – the jobs will be getting scarce per day. Where is Dunlop, where is Michelin, where are the car factories, even chocolate. They are nowhere to be found. Ghana is claiming them in droves and I won’t be surprised if Coca-Cola moves there. You are jubiliating about the Glo Marine 1; please don’t celebrate yet. Where is the power go with it or it will just run on its own? How will data centres work when there is no electricity?

Must we all lose hope before we know things have totally gone bad? Today I woke up with bad news again. An assistant news editor (Politics) with Guardian News – Bayo Ohu was brutally killed in his home yesterday in Egbeda Lagos. Notice the keyword – politics. 2011 is here, many politicians are embroiled in a lot of saga but they want to be back by all means. The killings have started. How long will this continue and will our children ever be proud of their country? I guess the answers are obvious but it is not a done deal as I know that we are almost nearing the brick wall and then hope arises.

No one person can help us. We cannot get a leader who will be a lone voice in the wilderness leading us to salvation. Every man has to be serious about salvaging Nigeria out of these shackles. We must be prepared to rise up and take action. Look around and count the number of graduates around you looking for jobs. Check your inbox and tell me you have not received an email from Interswitch recently asking you to divulge your ATM details. Tell me you are happy with the noise coming from the numerous I Pass My Neighbour around your house. Tell me the sticky and acidic airs you breathe are good for you. Life expectancy is reducing everyday due to stress level, bad roads and the likes.

You are asking me what we can do. I think it starts from our minds. From the little things we do in our private corners. From the way we treat our colleagues and family. From the little bribe you just collected or paid. And then we graduate to the level of enlightening others to rise for change. Swaying one or two votes in the next elections. Talking to our fathers and mothers, siblings and friends about the need for change. I am doing that. Are you? Change starts with you!

If there is any country that can claim to be very blessed, Nigeria qualifies. No one can dispute the fact that we have a lot to thank God for – natural resources in abundance, great agricultural lands, intelligent citizens, nice climate, etc. But it seems most of these things are more of a curse to us than blessings considering the suffering and total hopelessness exhibited by most of the populace.

Some people tend to think that our problems are ethnic in nature but we all know that each ethnic tribe has fifth columnists who seem to have made up their mind to plunder the Nigerian state to non-existent. It is a very emotional side of me writing this post early on a Monday morning. Events have proven that if we are not careful – the house which has already fallen will totally be annihilated!

When former President Olusegun Obasanjo forced a relatively unknown governor (Outside his Katsina State and environs) on 140 Million people in 2007 to become our President; some of us knew we were heading for the same dance of shame. A lot of people were happy that an incorruptible governor was coming into power but I bet we now know that Nigerians need more than that. A president who comes into office through a flawed electoral process can never rule us with the conscience required of such a leader. It is also a fact that his election came with a price – he dined with the Iboris of this world so how can we prove his innocence?

Let’s look at his performance in more than 26 months in power. Electricity which is the major problem we thought his government was going to solve is worse now. The panels he constituted to probe past power projects are all dead and the noise is no more resounding. Now, his 7 points agenda are more like a puppet show than a reality. We all have doubts that they will ever come true and can you blame a pessimistic Nigerian or a Naija woman/man? Nopes.

Form everything I have seen of this man; he is more stubborn than OBJ and he has proved it because he is tending towards being worse than military heads of state when it comes to human feelings. It is on record that President Umar Musa Yar Adua has not offered the government and people of Lagos State a condolence message after the Atlas Cove Jetty disaster. Something makes me think he shares the thoughts of Jomo Gbomo when he said that the attack was on a Federal Government property and not aimed at Lagos State.

Now to think that the same President wrote a letter to the Lagos State government ordering them to revert back to the 20 local government format says much of the kind of leader or let’s say Boss he is. That was very untimely and it is times like these when he makes such decisions that I question if Mr. Segun Adeniyi is truly his aide or just one of his play things in Aso Rock. When Yar Adua appointed Adeniyi, we were so happy that to some extent; the level of decisions taken at the top would have some sanity but we have been proved wrong on all sides. I remember the cerebral column on the back page of This Day every Thursday that ensured some of us scrambling for a copy of the newspaper. I remember a man we missed when he decided to join government but I also remember we were happy that we are missing him to perform better at a more advanced stage but I guess that was a wish. Don’t get me wrong, we all know Yar Adua might not even listen to people like Adeniyi but then his continuous stay negates the personality we know if his advise is being ignored. I choose to believe that Adeniyi is not happy with most of the decisions or am I wrong?

Just a few days ago, the governors of the Niger Delta region openly dared Yar Adua about the amnesty deal and the quack decision of the FG on PTI Effurun Warri / Kaduna school. One begins to wonder how the mind of our President works? How can he pretend to be committed to the Niger Delta peace process and in the same breath make such blatant decisions? It beats me. Remember also that he calls our bluff at all times. He doesn’t see anything wrong in having his Ministers of finance, Finance Advisers and the CBN all coming from one part of the country.

This is not a Yar Adua bashing exercise. It is actually a bashing exercise for all political post holders who are destroying our nation. The shameless brats who I can liken to the proverbial bastard – the one who uses the left hand to describe his father’s house. I also liken them to murderers, yeah because the blood of those who die on our coffin roads, bad hospitals and even in some cases – poverty will cry on their head.
I think we should be tired of their acts by now when we see a few silver linings like Fashola and the other few fiscally responsible state governors.

Right now, the global economic meltdown is biting deep into our country. Jobs are being lost. None are created. Each successive NYSC set is like an addition of more jobless youths into the polity. The banks that used to be the biggest employers have cut down on their recruitment processes. Telecommunication was seen as an untouchable sector but that has been proved wrong. Oil companies were never big employers of labour and it will get worse now that the Niger Delta agitation is on a higher pedestal with operation Moses (God save us from the plagues). Oil production is down to about a quarter of our capacity and it is all looking very bad.

I am one very optimistic Nigerian but I guess today is a day for telling the truth and preparing our minds for what is to come. I cannot see an end to our travails with the bunch of comic acts who call themselves leaders. Leadership is not a small word that can be used by the jokers we have in power from the ministries to LG to States and federal governments. Though the cloud looks thick but I know that all hope is not lost. It will just need some commitments and hard work from us all.

We have a vibrant generation that can turn things around. The era of sidon look has finished. The countries we used to run to a la United Kingdom, USA, etc are managing their resources now and are giving the good jobs to home boys regardless of the foreigners capabilities and qualifications. Ask our young people who just finished MBAs in top business schools around the world. It used to be a gate for automatic entrance into the wonderful 6-figure dollar salary but now the story has majorly changed as the stimulus package granted to the organizations that used to recruit such talents mandated they recruit Omo-Oniles. So, home will be the best to come back to. Now, can we all afford to leave things the way they are? Where our roads are death traps, health care non-existent? Unemployment rife, strikes everywhere, generator wars? I guess no. We deserve a better Nigeria.

I know you hate politics but love a good life. So, I am imploring that for the first time since you turned 18 – realize you are key to evolving the Nigeria of your dream. I cringe when I think that we might have the same set of politicians coming back in 2011. I am afraid when I think that this looting will continue for decades. And I will blame the young brainy Nigerian who sees no faults in the way things are just because of his/her comfortable salary which is rubbished by the environment he/she passes through everyday and even ‘cos that job is no longer safe.

I am young and I am proudly Nigerian. My parents understand that my age has nothing to do with my sensibility. I can sway them and their friends if I have the right words. I know that the 18-40 age bracket has a lot to do in the next elections starting from when the voters register opens. We need a class action to get things going. There is a group of young people already talking about registering a new political party with sound ideologies. I have committed myself to finish a research I started on how the Republican, Democratic, Labor and Conservative parties evolved which shows them as ideological bodies unlike our own baba-suwe likened parties in Nigeria and most of Africa. If you think you can join me in this research so we can help the party that is going to be registered to have a firm footing and not turn into a joke – mail me : me@ayooladejo.com.

I am going to beg you all. We have a part to play in the national rebirth. I want my kids to comfortably live and enjoy in their country. I want to see my people enjoy a good life. I am tired of the nonsense and I know you are. But can we turn this anger into a productive edge? That is the question raging in my head. If we call you to action, would you answer? Can you stop being pessimistic and see that WE CAN for a moment? If yes, we will know when you answer the clarion call.

It was TIME magazines edition of May 11 2009, a special edition to intimate us with the 100 most influential people in the World. Though it is based on parameters defined by the most famous news magazine in the world but we can never fault the integrity of the process as they have made their name.

I glanced at the names of the 100 that are shaping the destinies of our fragile world. I saw some names that were always going to be there – Obama, Oprah, Michelle, Hillary, twitter guys and other big wigs. I also saw some names for the first time – Norah al-Faiz; the first female minister in Saudi Arabia, Lang Lang, classical musician and a host of others. TIME made sure controversies arise by including the name of the villain and criminal – Bernie Madoff – I concur he deserves a mention as his deeds have thrown thousands into eternal financial damnation. Goes to show influence has two sides, positive and negative.

All that did not move me as much as a name and the citation that went with it. Rick Warren is a well respected church leader in the USA. He is also known to be courted in the corridors of power and he is highly respected. I still remember that debate he conducted for the American presidential election between Obama and McCain. He is also known as the author of the bestseller – purpose driven church. So it was a great honor seeing that this wonderful man was chosen to write the citation for one of the best influences of our time – Paul Kagame. What he wrote about Kagame moved me so much that I decided it must be echoed. Please read it in his own words as published by TIME magazines.

Paul Kagame

Rwanda’s President, Paul Kagame, is the face of emerging African leadership. His reconciliation strategy, management model, empowerment of women in leadership and insistence on self-reliance are transforming a failed state into one with a bright future.

Kagame, 51, is one of few leaders who have successfully modeled the transition from soldier to statesman. During the 1994 Rwandan genocide, the world watched in horror but did nothing. Kagame was responsible for ending the slaughter. After the genocide, the nation was in shambles. Kagame and others began the slow process of rebuilding. That process moved into hyperdrive when he was elected President in 2000. He launched a series of reforms and reconciliation strategies that have caught the attention of investors worldwide.

Kagame’s leadership has a number of uncommon characteristics. One is his willingness to listen to and learn from those who oppose him. When journalist Stephen Kinzer was writing a biography of Kagame, the President gave him a list of his critics and suggested that Kinzer could discover what he was really like by interviewing them. Only a humble yet confident leader would do that. Then there is Kagame’s zero tolerance for corruption. Rwanda is one of the few countries where I’ve never been asked for a bribe. Any government worker caught engaging in corruption is publicly exposed and dealt with. That is a model for the entire country — and the rest of the world too.

Culled from www.time.com

If you are not impressed by this citation, then something is wrong. His leadership style is now touted as being worthy of emulation to the whole world. His listing in the TIME 100 is not the only attestation to his good works. Our own Dr. Reuben Abati was also in Rwanda recently and he confirmed the fact that the country looks no close to the one that was in genocide a few years ago. That is the hallmark of good leadership.

I am going somewhere with this and I will make it clear just now. It is shameful that the simple principles used by this leader eludes many African countries. An American mentioned that Rwanda is one of the few countries where he has never being asked for bribe. This same man of God has traveled widely to other European countries I guess. When are we going to stop making excuses for our sloppy governance? If any country should be in self pity mode, it should be Rwanda.

I am of the opinion that our leaders are a shameless bunch and I hope they read good magazines like TIME to confirm their ineffectiveness and comic dispositions. Kagame is a good breath of fresh air for those of us who believe in the African dream. At least we have a reference point and a beacon of hope to the younger generation. I challenge every young person aspiring to change the stereotype associated with Africa to have a rethink and follow the footstep of this wonderful man. History has a way of remembering everything no matter how covered. We still remember with disdain the memories of the Mobutus, Idi Amins, Abachas and all other despots who turned our continent to a looting ground.

We also remember with pride men of honor like Nkrumah, Sankara, Awolowo and all others who despite their flaws still had a good contribution to the emancipation of the black man. There is no more excuse for bad leadership and corruption – Kagame was a soldier like Obasanjo. This is the time to wake up. Rwanda has limited resources compared to what God has blessed us with. Stories like Kagame’s will go a long way in shaping our thoughts as Africans and make us to demand good deals from the so called leaders.

I must not close this without asking Kagame to remember the likes of Robert Mugabe of Zimbabwe who started very well but has now led his country to ruins due to the sit tight syndrome. The world will remember Kagame for good for eternity if he evolves a way to avoid this trap so common to African leaders. Then he will attain genuine greatness.

1. Babangida finally gave reasons for annulment of June 12

General Ibrahim Badamosi Babangida is a man we can not forget in a hurry in Nigeria. As far as I am concerned; he committed crimes of the heinous category whilst he was the head of state and the commander in chief of the armed forces, federal republic of Nigeria. According to This Day newspapers edition of February 5 2009- Babangida finally opened up on his reason for canceling the most peaceful and fairest election in the history of the Nigerian political landscape. He ‘confessed’ at the unlikeliest of platforms – The Moments With Mo show.

Sincerely, if I heard that Mo invited Babangida to her show, the first thing that would cross my mind is WHAT!!!!! But a certain pronouncement made during the interview was enough to attract my attention. See below in his own words:

Babangida, who described the annulment as “unfortunate” and revealed that he would launch a book on the saga next year, said having been on the steering wheel of government at the time, he and the Armed Forces Ruling Council (AFRC) knew that the new democratic government to be installed would sooner than later be toppled through another military coup deta’t, which he said his government wanted to avoid.

What a reason for setting Nigeria back at least 3 decades. It is also very unfortunate that this man who is described as the evil genius thinks so little of the intellect possessed by the average Nigerian. How dare he come more than 15 years after the crime to give us this stupidly crafted old wife’s tale? The first insult we suffered from him was his intention to come back as President of our country but this latest insult just confirms how he is wired. He should spare us the crap and know that even of the Kings of this earth are unable to judge him – the one who rules from heaven surely would. The full story can be found here.

2. Lucky Dube was killed ‘cos we thought he was Nigerian says his killers

It was with shock and disbelief that I heard this news on a South African news channel yesterday. The dusts raised by the xenophobic attacks are still not totally cleared; hence hearing this news brings back memories of those who died during the senseless and unfortunate attacks. The news also confirms once again that Africa has a long way to go in integration and the dream of Gaddafi and his supporters in the US of Africa state is taller than the tower of babel. Many might be tempted to say that some Nigerians are the cause of this issues or a tendency to blame the economic condition of our country; but relax, a lot of South African nationalities and companies are repatriating Millions of dollars from Nigeria monthly. I am yet to hear of any plan of Xenophobic attacks on SA citizens in Nigeria. Yet, the balance of trade between the two countries ultimately tips to the SA side from Telecoms to Retail stores and even entertainment.

This backward mindset should be condemned by the authorities in South Africa and is worthy of a diplomatic intervention from the Nigerian government. But to be sincere again, enlightened South Africans have been condemning the summation by the killers wondering if being a Nigerian is a passport to death. The sanctity of human life is not respected by this hoodlums and once can not but ask if the 2010 World cup won’t be a mistake judging from the human traffic that will descend on South Africa. Security of life is a major challenge for Mzansi’s government but with the elections that have started generating violence – one can only hope that the rainbow nation will not lose its shine. Story can be read here.

3. When the Unknown unknowns happen; then the dissidents are praised.

Father of communism and a fiery fighter of the principle of free markets a la Capitalism – Karl Marx was a man hated by many especially those who thought his ideals were too narrow and unrealistic for the modern World. At a point in time, his ideals were defeated especially with the rise of free markets in the developed world and the craze for privatization in most developing countries. His schools of Marxism and Hegelian ism was thus subjected to ridicule by many modern day economists. Although, one cannot be totally in favor of all that he represents, but one is also amazed at how his ‘faulty’ ideas is now haunting the World today. Many are now praising his works for being a very objective critique of the Capitalist regime.

This post is not an expose of his Communists Manifesto but just a reminder of how men quickly change their opinions in the twinkle of an eye. As governments battle to save the World from a total economic collapse; lets see how the Works of men like Marx and Engels can bring some sanity back into the system. Though I don’t see the World totally shifting to that side, but some lessons could be learned from these great minds.

The human mind is a deep one with an ability to create and destroy. From the mind – man has been able to invent things, write blockbusters, start World wars and destroy their nations. Each man has a choice to either use his cortex for good or bad; some times, the concept of good and bad can be very confusing for some people who selfishly mix up these two concepts. Nigeria is a great case study when it comes to the issue of checking what goes on in a man’s mind. It is very clear now that almost all strata of the Nigerian society have an absurdity in their thought process.

It starts from the top. From the so called leaders who do not have the good of the country at heart. This usually permeates down the strata to the lowest ebb of the society even as far as school children who have very little or no inclinations towards contributing to the common good. Why is it that just a few of us want to queue up at eateries, few of us throw finished sachet water packs in dustbins (are there dustbins around?) and just very few will not repeat the same corrupt tendencies of the present political class?

However, I will not agree to the notion that it is a lost war and that nothing good can ever come out of Nigeria. That is a fallacy of hasty generalization. We cannot just come to that conclusion. What I have noticed is that those who usually preach that gloomy message are not ready to change and are part of the nuisance destroying our polity. The change we need will start as a personal journey to redemption, one person at a time. I cannot but keep using that phrase as I understand what one changed person can do.

We also have to get to a point when the ridiculous smells bad to us all. A point where we cannot just agree to continue the decay of our country. A point where we are just tired of the stereotype and a craving for sanity ensues. That is when we are truly ready to start a new phase of our lives. It is going to be a major shift in our paradigm but it is very possible. Almost all facets of our society is sick as at present but a collective resolve to start doing the right things will be the answer to the question.

Let’s analyze it this way. Our generation will no doubt want a better future for our children and the coming generations. Can we sincerely allow the present madness to continue thereby allowing the protegees of the present political class to continue raising the looting armies for the next generations? Is it not time for an awakening to happen to us all with the view to taking over from those murderers? I sincerely believe that influence is what we need to overcome this major barrier. It is clear that politics is a game of numbers and a lot of Nigerian youth are rising up to the challenge of mentoring others. Those are the people who should start preaching change and passing on the right values.

The political class is already digging their own graves and what a good thing to do. The national assembly just supported the bill sponsored by some Nigerians in the diaspora to allow them use their suffrage even outside the country during the elections. The man Iwu vehemently opposed the bill but he has been put in his place and for the first time – an army of voters who would most likely vote objectively will emerge. The logistics might be hard but this is where we all come in again. The plan is to use all Nigerian embassies and High Commission abroad as voting centers; it is time to start educating our brethren in diaspora about this opportunity for change.

For those at home; I am sure we all know we can not afford to keep quiet anymore and think miracles will happen. The global economic crunch which was supposedly not going to impact our country has been taking a huge toll on our nation. We suddenly found out that we have no insulation to the global crisis and the recently concluded forum in Davos did not even find a solution to the challenges. It is thus clear that leadership of each nation will be responsible to liberate their people from these woes. We can no longer look up to the World powers as they have suddenly become very vulnerable themselves.

I am not sure what else God or man needs to show us to confirm that we can get it right in Nigeria? The Lagos example is the best sign I have ever seen in my life. Not even the inauguration of Barrack Obama inspires change in Nigeria like this. Obama is more of an inspiration to America, we should also find our local equivalents of people who are ready to be the change. Governor Babatunde Fashola has proven a lot of people wrong concerning Lagos and its governance. Lagos State is the hardest state in Nigeria to govern due to its population and the degradation it suffered from previously insensitive governments. If anyone told me that a man could make noticeable changes in that state in less than 2 years; I would have said NO. I wish he will continue this good work and not slip into irrelevance (He has become relevant in our nation due to his good works).

I think Fashola’s performance should be enough to spark protests in other states where the governors are a bunch of irresponsible citizens. Now we know it is possible, so why can’t we have good governance? 2011 is just around the corner and the same men have started their campaigns for a second term or preparing their parties to maintain control for the next 60 years. I guess this is a good time for the emergence of a new political class that will be motivated by the young at heart (Not necessarily young in age) and supported by all. This movement should seek to have proper manifesto rather than bring people of strange ideologies together who are just strange bed fellows. I am a believer in the emergence of a new Nigeria where every good thing is possible. The question is – are you also ready to be a part of the change?

I will not just be involved in rhetoric – but I have decided to be a part of the change in any positive way. We cannot fold our arms and think better days will come. My questions to us all are – can we leave our comfort zones and decide that only those with empathy for our nation will rule us? Can we use the high population of young people in Nigeria to our advantage? Can we stop being pessimistic and do something for once? There is an opportunity to change our nation using the Internet as a medium to drive numbers. Please visit http://www.thefuturemovement.org/register to register. It will be a good idea to join. They are not political parties but groups that might become powerful enough to sway the votes and install conscientious leaders for us.

It is your choice!

200 Level – Room 295, Obafemi Awolowo Hall

The moment I resumed 200 level; I knew it was going to be one enduring session because I left home without any hope of an accommodation and my parents were not buoyant enough to provide money for me to buy such expensive bed spaces. Also, the general financial state of the family was very grim at that time; hence normal upkeep was going to be another uphill task. It was with such relief that the same Bro Kayode I mentioned in the first part of this series offered to to squat me (As we called it then) in his room – 295 Awo Annex. It was a kind gesture because later two of his brothers came to Ife – one to study a short time computer diploma course and the other for JAMB lesson. So, you can imagine four of us in that tiny space.

My room mates in 200 level were diverse. Binuyo Kayode who was my senior in the department, family friend and my ‘landlord’; Binuyo Michael. his brother, my classmates from School of Science, Ile-Ife; Binuyo Busola, their younger brother. Bode Okegbade – who we still maintain contacts till today and who later sold me parts of the hardware used for my first computer. He was attending Deeper life then and he was a very good room mate and by the way, he was the first person I knew who used to play Fela’s music . Segun Madamidola studied accounting, a very quiet fellow and a cool guy. In those days, one babe that is now a regular face in the Yoruba Nollywood scene used to visit him. I hope he will get to read this. Ezimokhai is from Auchi, Edo state, a perfect gentleman who I respect so much. He is a doctor and I am wondering where he is right now. I remember that afternoon when his dad came to visit him and I also remember how shocked we all were when news came that the man died.

Peter Akindeju – Ondo man and my fellowship mate. We agreed on things but I remember we also argued a lot. Baba Ilaje was another wonderful character, a Geology student who was elderly and took his books with seriousness. The other bedspace was occupied by some Muslim brothers who were executives of the MSS in those days. Good news was that it was a peaceful room with everyone respecting the faiths of the others. The room brings so much memories as that session marked my most painful in OAU as regards my financial well being. Looking back today – I can ask myself how I survived with my integrity still intact. There were times when I had tests and exams and no food to eat but now I understand that God was developing a MAN and preparing me for the challenges of the future.

I also wonder how with my very few shirts, trousers and a pair of shoes – I managed to exude confidence in the sight of people and no one really noticed I lacked things. I still paid my offering and tithe in fellowship and contributed to special projects. Most of my friends till today don’t remember that phase of my life in Ife because they always saw a vibrant me. Room 295 was a room where I was not judged by what I did not have and I thank those room mates who made it easy for me to express myself. It was there when I was with Bro Kayode who was President of my departmental association that I understood I could lead. He and his friends encouraged me to run for Secretary General of the association and I got it. I wondered what they saw in me then, only God knows. As usual, I thank all members of Room 295 Awo Annex in the 97/98 session and I pray that the almighty will continue to bless and nourish them. Amen.

Room 261, Adekunle Fajuyi Hall – 300 Level
I will say that this room was the beginning of a good life for me on OAU campus. For the first time – I had a space to myself. That room is linked to Niyi Oladeji again as I bought it from him but at the official price. His brother was doing his Post Graduate and had a room in PG hall and so I advised him to stay with the brother and let me pay for his own space in Fajuyi Hall. It worked out and so I got the space. Fine, I also had to squat a part one student out of respect for my wonderful guardian whom I will write about in a wonderful story dated back to my 100 level days. I cannot forget my room mates – Dayo Adetutu (Elvis D); a man who is much older than me. I was in 300 level and he was in 500 and his final year but he was so relaxed with me and we became good friends. It was his heroics combined with Yomi’s from my 100 level room that ensured my victory in the Faculty of Agric during the SUG election in 98/99 session despite the backstabbing I got from people I called friends/fellowship members from the same faculty. I was his best man when he got married in March 2008.

Joseph Ejuetueyin was in my faculty and same level. He is a man after God’s heart and I respect his affinity for the word of God and his plainness. We discussed all sorts of things – from spiritual to politics and even babes. He is that down to earth. We are still friends till date. Femi came from the same neighborhood in Lagos as Joseph and they stayed together. He was also a very nice guy and I still remember his love for a classmate that turned sour – I still remember the name of the lady but I won’t mention it here and if you are reading this Femi — her name starts with A and ends with an A. LOL.
Lekan Babalola aka Fragle was the first guy who impressed me with labels. He had baffs men …. some for class and some for fellowship runs as he would say. He was also into perfumes and deodorants. This young man introduced me to contemporary christian musicians like Kirk Franklin, Mary Mary etc and I got hooked on his many collections. He can be very frank but I like that in him. Niyi Osunbade, a prince of Igbon land in Oyo State is a lesson in humility. Despite his princely background; he was one of the boys throughout. I visited him in their mansion in Ogbomoso years later and he was a good host. If I see him now – I would have asked where Joy is?

My first entrepreneurial journey started from this room. In collaboration with Niyi Oladeji, I started a small provision store in the room and it was a good business as guys around our room preferred to buy from me than go to the buttery. The money I used for my SUG campaign came from this venture lol. I also got the boldness to go into politics from this same room and it was generally a very good session for me compared to the previous ones. It was also the room I could have died in if not for God’s love and mercies. One night, I had a dream where God warned me to leave the school next day because it was about to burn. The night I left was to be a date Great Ife and Nigeria would never forget – July 10, 1999. A post is coming that would pay justice to this encounter.

To all my room mates in 98/99 session. I salute you all and I wish for you God’s love and favour in all you do. You guys were/are the bomb.