Tag: pHONE

For Segun Gbadegesin

 

Re: “Not a task for the self-serving.” I am opposed to Sovereign National Conference and National Conference. With love, we could pass our amendable issues to our National Assembly. Mark could not have been autocratic to mates. He had the duty to listen, moderate and take decision on vital issues to amend. The lawmakers are self-serving since they approved pensions for their leaders and deputies. They also failed to accept local government autonomy. However, there is nothing wrong in amending the Constitution; what is wrong is the dishonest amendment that took vital things out of the existing piece. Next time, rather than giving such an assignment to the self-serving lawmakers, it could be handed over, to any political consultant to review. From Lanre Oseni

“The return of Suntai”. Honestly, the man is unfit to govern the state going by what I saw on television and national dailies. From Azubuike Ekeh, Owerri

You have been a consistent uplifter of our awareness of human rights. Please, continue to educate us on our liberal democracy and federalism rights. I have known you by proxy. From Col. Tony Nyiam (rtd)

Dear Segun, your piece on Mark is light to our blind, cowardly and dishonest leaders. In Nigeria, it is a class war that is playing out. From A. T. Mozie, University of Nigeria, Nsukka

With reference to your article in The Nation of August 30, 2013, I wish to point out that Senator Mark was an inner caucus member of the military elite who annuled the June 12, 1993 election. Either by fair or foul means, he is now a member of the political elite. He is suffering from the hangover of his military background. He is neither a lawyer nor an intellectual. He is only looking at issues from a very narrow angle. He is obviously enjoying privileges not available to 99.9 per cent of Nigerians. The patriots spoke wisely. We need a sovereign national conference. Anonymous

Thanks for the logic of Mark! What must be done is to bring to the awareness of Nigerians the need for a referendum on “Should we have a new constitution?” This should solve the problem of getting the people covering the required sovereignty. I know this can have the desired impact on the people of Nigeria to rise and demand for it. God bless you. From Dr. Iwuagwu, Port Harcourt

Much as the 1999 Constitution is dotted with defects and some irrelevant postulations and with calls for a new one that will reflect the yearnings and aspirations of Nigerians across tribes, it is impotant to note that the attitudinal change of the operators or the state managers of the existing order is of utmost concern to Nigerians in the entire arangement. No written constitution, however, sacrosant, empirical knowledge comfirms, can work if the operators are anti-populist and corrupt; whereas an imperfect constitution can even make a headway in meeting the aspiration of the people with visionary and purposeful leaders as the operators. Either way, it is the attitude of those whom it would always fall on to operate the constitution, in a given period, that actually holds the key to our advancement in this country, no matter how functional, defective or sacrosant the constitution might be, and not the flawlessness of the constitution per se. From Emmanuel Egwu

 

For Olatunji Dare

 

It is particularly painful that our National Assembly is still confused on what to do with the spurious document called the 1999 Constitution. All the dishonest amendments on the document cannot stand the test of time. We all know that the American presidential system is admirable, but if Nigeria wants the American type of constitution and democracy, the thing to do is not to start deceiving ourselves all over again but to ‘import’ Americans to put us through. Our law makers should stop beating about the bush. From O. O. Adegoke, Ikhin, Edo State

As our lawmakers are reviewing the military constitution, let the new constitution reflect the yearnings of Nigerians. We want people-oriented constitution that will move the nation forward. From Gordon Chika Nnorom, Umukabia, Abia state

Why was this fact that the National Assembly lacked the power to review the constitution not canvassed at the inception of the execise or why are the civil organisations not taking action to stop it? What is the way forward now that we have seen that these people are serving themselves? From Akparawa S. Innoh, Calabar

The president of the Senate said they were tricked into voting in favour of child marriage, that sounds funny; may be their attention was divided because there was no money involved. Some senators might be sleeping during the session because a sleeping mind will endorse anything, either good or bad, since there is nothing to share on the table. I urge David Mark to urgenly make provision for the next sitting so that all the senators will vote according to their pocket. From Hamza Ozi Momoh, Apapa, Lagos

Without doubt, I affirm your opinion that Nigeria needs a new constitution to address the shortcomings in the rag-tag document forced on us by the military, to give our beloved nation a sense of porpuse, direction and a future. For that remains the only way we, as a people, can compete among the comity of nations. And not the haphazard window dressing method the National Assembly is using in the name of constitution amendment. From James Anjor-ikom

Sir, David Mark must be joking by saying the Senate was “tricked” on account of Section 29. Who tricked them? Obviously, it is not Yerima that tricked them. From Martins, Asaba

 

For Olakunle Abimbola

 

Your write-up “Again, Sege talks the talk” is a very good one and you are right. If Nigeria is to be great and attain it’s manifest destiny in the comity of nations, the present generation of leaders must shun Obasanjo, all what he stands for and his empty rhetorics. With this, they and the Nigerian State will be free, then Obasanjo would embrace his fate in history. Hopefully, very soon the best in our nation will be ruling us. Thanks! From S. R. Omotayo, Shomolu Lagos

Abimbola, the Ijaws have shown us that no matter how bad your person is, he should always be above board. That is why, to them, Goodluck Jonathan is as infallible as the Pope even though he is so far the worst occupier of Aso Rock Villa. Obasanjo’s most acerbic critics are the Yoruba. I know that your level of education will not allow you to celebrate mediocrity like the Ijaws, but that is the trend now. Let, therefore, OBJ be. From Kwaghfan, Makurdi

For Gbenga Omotoso

 

It is very unfortunate that Suntai’s wife prefers power and money to her husband’s health and peace of mind. He should resign and write his name in golde. From Joe Agah, Makurdi

If the man was able to physically address the people of the state last night, why so concerned about his condition of health? If he says he is ready to return to work, why not wait and see if he is insincere? Afterall, is there any governor in Nigeria today who is 100 per cent healthy? Anonymous

I am afraid that the acclaimed, good for nothing people are playing with the intelligent people of Taraba State. From Ken, Owerri

This is another way of exhibiting our insincerity. Let Suntai subject himself to the Medical Board to prove his fitness and health. Anonymous

Those people trying to block Danbaba Suntai from taking office are disappointed that he survived the accident. They should remember that it can happen to anybody, including them. They should stop creating unnecessary tension in Taraba State for their selfish interest. From Kassem, Jos

The return of Suntai like in the era of the cabal that held the country by the jugular during the times of the late President Umaru Yar’Adua are at it again. Since it is a Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) state, he will continue to enjoy the cover-up to the detriment of the people, by the interest group which is bent on benefiting from his health situation. Allowing him to recuperate outside power will be better than the ill-advised motive to cling to power. God save him! Anonymous

We, in the military and paramilitary, believe in loyalty. If Suntai’s deputy is loyal, he should assist him to run the government not to take over through backdoor. How are we sure there is no sabotage in the crash going by recent desperation? From Esan, Osogbo

We all know Suntai is not yet capable. He may not even be aware of the gravity of what he is doing as he may be acting out a written script. We all could see that he read from a paper. To Mrs. Suntai, do not tell us your husband who could not wave well at the airport and was supported down the jet is now the one drafting and dissolving his cabinet.

From Richard Ebuka Umezurike, Ado-Ekiti

I love your sense of being your brother’s keeper but why not leave Suntai alone. It is always said among the Yoruba that a dog that is destined to get lost will never hear the hunters’ whistle. If he wants to die let him do please. From F. T. Odugbemi, State Of Osun

Daniel’s attitude and recent behaviour justify the level of neglect of our children due to parents’ carefree attitude to their children. The films Daniel watched and put into practice were provided at home. He then felt it was wise to practise them than to study because he was on holiday. He deserves to be remanded in a reformatory home until he is 20. This will teach others like him a lesson. His teacher should be invited. I presume Daniel does not stay in the classroom to learn. Let the parents provide his report sheet. He may be a stubborn child. Anonymous

I really enjoyed reading your piece, “Daniel goes to Lagos”. While I agree with you that Daniel should be allowed to return to his parents to continue “dreaming”, I also feel that such a boy deserves to be treated as a special talent with huge potential. I have a hunch that he is no ordinary kid and should therefore be specially monitored to ensure that he does not end up a waste like others with great talents and potential. We all know that Nigeria has a great track record for wasting talents. From Bola Olugbade, Saapade-Remo, Ogun State

 

For Tunji Adegboyega

Re: ‘The comic tragedy in Taraba’ (The Nation on Sunday, September 1). What I could not understand is why Suntai has been hell-bent on ruling. A three-year-old child knows that the governor remains unfit to continue to govern as his being unwell is too pronounced. Coming back home is not sufficient proof that he can now govern. To worsen matters, he sacked his SSG and Chief of Staff. Are they responsible for his plight? His arrival was just to meet our constitutional requirement of saving his job and not necessarily to govern. The legislators are right. From Lanre Oseni

Tunji, you are becoming a “notorious” satirist. Maybe you should be writing for the depressed and hypertensive patients to relieve them of their situation. Anyway, I admire you. From Yemi Ilori, Oye-Ekiti, Ekiti State.

I like reading your Sunday articles in The Nation because we reason alike most of the time. Your piece on Taraba State governor is so funny that I laughed and laughed. I had to read it over again. It was a wonderful piece and I enjoyed your angle to the matter. Though funny, I never missed the message you are passing across. From Femi, Ijebu-Ode.

Cabals in the news again! How could a governor who doesn’t speak well rule? Let us call a spade a spade; the man is not yet fit! Let the truth be told; with what Nigerians saw when he was coming down from the aircraft, Suntai is not okay. He should resign honourably on health grounds to take care of himself. We should not allow the international community to laugh at us with the drama in Taraba. It is very embarrassing and uncalled – for for the cabal to seek to restore him for their selfish interests. We pray and wish the governor quick recovery. From Gordon Chika Nnorom, Umukabia, Abia State.

Great piece! Your apt title, ‘The comic tragedy in Taraba’ says it all. Yar’Adua was a tragi-comedy because it ended happily. But I wager my insurance certificate this one (starting on a comic note) will not, not in the PDP diarchy. From Chux Omessah.

Tunji, I have always had cause to warn you not to write satire. Undiscerning readers will not know the difference. But the article is very funny. From Tony Esho.

Thanks for your realistic “Nigerians as Praying Mantis” on August 25. From Ben.

Tunji, a time is fast approaching in this country when man will start praying to God to help them by giving them direction on how best to loot more of the country’s money and how to spend it. We continue to mock ourselves … but God is watching! Thanks for the write-up. From Simon Oladapo, Ogbomoso.

Re: “Nigerians as Praying Mantis”. Long before now, once issues cropped up, be they religious, political, social or economic, it was always recourse to prayers. That was to dissuade us from resolving the problems fundamentally. Prayers work in countries that are devoid of injustice, corruption, embezzlement, indiscipline and other vices. Here, stubborn sore requires toughened medication … When shall we make vehicles with prayers?

 

For Olatunji Dare

 

The First Lady is the most honest person I have ever known. Under her, Aso Rock Villa has now become a house of excesses; each latest experience must out do the one before. All her qualities, good and bad, are subordinated to one presiding motive, ambition. To her, this world is the only one; it’s prizes seem to her the only objects worth having. Mercifully, her days in the villa are numbered. From O. O. Adegoke, Ikhin, Edo State

On “Only in Nigeria”, I would only say ‘God dey!’ Anonymous

“Only in Nigeria” shows or tells us that the Alawada Travelling Theatre has finally berthed at “Aso Rock.” Remember Bola Ige’s ‘Alawada Senate.’ Mariam Babangida will be green with envy in her grave. Aluta Continua! From Siji Adelugba, Osogbo

Thanks very much for your precise write-up. Yes, you are faultless on your assertion that the power show can only happen in Nigeria. It is a pity that Jonathan cannot check his wife’s excesses. My dislike of the man is not unconnected with the power craziness of the wife. The wife, Okupe, Abati and others are Jonathan’s registered enemies. Our consolation is whatever goes up must certainly come down. But, thereafter, Jonathan should not blame his advisers. From F. T. Odugbemi, State Of Osun

When we voted in the President of Nigeria, we thought that we voted for Goodluck Jonathan. But, of recent, I discovered that we actually voted for Patience. Anonymous

Re: “Only in Nigeria”. As far as I am concerned, there was nothing new in the attitude of the First Lady while hosting the Women Empowerment in Abuja, a week ago. Others, both at the federal and state levels, had always displayed same. No one wrote against the paraphenaliasm. None of the progressives moved a motion against it at the national and state levels! Let us always discuss reality and realities rather than blind criticism of opponents. From Lanre Oseni

Leave Patience and Jonathan alone! Wait for APC to produce the next president (that is, if at all it will happen). Focus more on constructive criticism, please. Anonymous

It is “Only in Nigeria” that we have the wife of the President as the deputy president while the post of vice president is official. In the states, there are constitutional deputy governors whlle the governors’ wives are the vice governors. Surely, it is only in Nigeria that a commissioner of police will confront a governor; where five members of a house could claim to have overthrown 27 members; where 16 is greater than 19 and where the motion of parliament to IGP does not have effect. From Alhaji Hon. ADEYCorsim, Oshodi, Lagos

A nice piece of analytically correct and courageous work. It is high time we opened up and stopped pretending every thing is okay. The conquest mentality of the Eastern brothers will lead to suspicion by their host states! The stage is gradually being set by people like Akubueze with support from those that should have cautioned such nonsensical outpouring of abuse of hospitality of Lagosians. How many people aside from the Igbo can boast of support to attain any meaningful progress in the East from a host state in economic, and political endeavours as it is available in Lagos? What is sauce for the goose is sauce for the gander. The tolerance and civilised attitude of other parts of the country should not be mistaken for stupidity. From Ajibola Onigbanjo, Lagos Nigeria

 

For Segun Gbadegesin

 

An utmost cerebral and thorough thesis. A sane, altruistic and purposeful leader would subject the tenets of the stated set of considered opinions to further research to solve the hitherto intractable ‘Nigerian question’. Welldone, sir! From Omoba Bode Odimayo

Re:”From plurality to what?”

True federalism is really the best for our nation, but it is important that within our federated republic, a citizen of this nation must see him/herself as a Nigerian, first of all, before viewing him/herself from the ethnic/tribal perspective. This is the only way genuine nationlistic zeal and national unity/development can be achieved. From Olumide Soyemi, Bariga

“From Plurality to what?” is spot-on. Fresh arguments for a well-worn proposition. But the problem is: who is this meant for? Who takes action? No one! Anonymous

For the first time we walk the same path. Let us now try to drum it into the ears of our tribal leaders that the path to take is that of inclusion and recognition that God created all humans equal. All must be given equal opportunity. No victor no vanguished. From AEO, Uyo

Re: “From plurality to what?”

You had a very pure and honest mind in the write-up. What about our politicians – old, ioung, Conservatives and the acclaimed Progressives? They are all guilty in this Unity-In-Diversity! How many of them had directly moved the motion of true federalism and thoroughly debated it for a bill since 1979 to date? Yet, they all want decentralisation. This had been and remained the deceit and lip-service they make and cocoon we are put into by the acclaimed Progressives. Most especially, who actually wants decentralisation of everything. From Lanre Oseni

“From plurality to what?” was very interesting and thought-provoking; a must-read for all literate Nigerians. The Nigerian state as presently constituted is a forced/false relationship. An average Nigerian is a tribalist and our politicians are chronic hypocrites. I am a strong advocate for the practice of true federalism in Nigeria. It will solve so many problems. From Ini-Ubong Udosen

Your piece “From plurality to what?” was challenging and thought provoking Please keep it up. From Marshall, Abuja

 

For Olakunle Abimbola

 

Thank you for your write-up “Beware, Eastern brother!”. The genesis of this essay is the deportation of 14 Anambra indigenes. For me, the issue will not strain relationship between the Ibo and the Yoruba rather it will strenghten it. The deportation of fellow Nigerians, whether Ibos, Hausas or Ijaws, is against the Consitution of the land. The fact that deportation has been going on before now does not in any way justify the action of the Lagos State Government. Fashola made a constutional mistake to have aceeded to the deportation of those people. We should do things that encourage the unity of this country. From A. I. Olisadebe

Fantastic piece. Even in Ilorin, some Igbo guys want everyone to note that they are doing the community some unprecedented good with their investments. Yes, I agree, but should they not also consider that it takes deep-rooted tolerance, goodwill and godliness to give ‘strangers’ such accommodation and latitude? This is in the psyche of the average Igbo man. No one can exorcise it, but it can be prudently managed, if they so desire or if they can see reasons in admonition such as yours. You have told the most candid and golden truth. I just hope they listen. From Lanre Tunwon

I read “Beware, Eastern Brothers” and feel disppointed with you over your worrisome streak with your incendiary views about the Igbos. If you disagree that Igbos constitute 46 per cent of the population, let us prove you to taste with your analysis and statistics to back your argument. A prolific writer like you can verify issues before writing. This your article insults the sensiblity of Igbos who have immensely contributed to the Socio-Economic Status of Lagos. From Comrade Nnanna Nwafor, Secretary

This will be a lesson to the Yoruba. How many Yorubas have shop in Onitsa market? Now the north understands. They stop giving them chance. Now Lagos is no man’s land, shameless Igbos leave their village developing another man’s village. Yoruba should stop giving them indigenous certificate. Anonymous

Utuk Motors died as a result of bad management while Inyang Ete faded as a result of the demise of the proprietor and should not be attributed to the Igbos. Where is Abiola’s Concord Airlines and Abiola Babes Football Club? Are their extinction attributed to Igbo dominance? What will you say of the popular Chidiebere Transport Limited? You were very objective at the onset of your write-up but changed at the end. From Victor Ntah

Bitter truth my brother. From Aiyanyo S.E.O, Abeokuta

Olakunle do not mind the Igbo. Come to Benue State and see them acquiring vast land and developing them. The only plot our son Atom Kpera had as governor of Anambra State has been revoked. In Benue, if an Igbo builds a house no person is qualified to rent it except the Igbos. But have we cried foul? From Makurdi.

I have just read your article: “Beware, Eastern Brother!” It seems you know why it is mostly the Igbo that witness tension with their host communities. Using Lagos as an example, could you share with me those things the Igbos do that attract hostilities from their host communities? From Matthew, Abuja

Dear sir. Your column in today’s ‘Nation’ is worth reading thrice by those who think. Anonymous

Even in this 21st century people are still tribalised. Whether you like it or not, Igbo’s hard work and success bring enmity to them, especially from a Yoruba man like you. From Odiraa Ezenwam, Kano

Your comment would have brilliantly laid this raging Yoruba-Igbo storm to rest, were it not for the unseen but diabolic agendas of the many anti-Nigeria fifth columnists in our midst. From Akintayo Akin-Deko, Idanre

Abimbola, thanks for your timely advice to our Igbo brothers. They should not exhaust the patience of their Yoruba hosts. They are treading dangerously. A word is enough for the wise. Baiting ones host is a dangerous game. Anonymous

Hi Kunle, I have read your piece in Today’s Nation newspaper, “Beware, Eastern Brother”. You were come across as a fine writer who knows how to articulate his thoughts and delivers it with a punch. But beyond that, you cut the picture of an unsafe tribal protagonist clearly mindful of the achievements of an unsuspecting rival. Igbos and Yorubas are not in contests about who is better. We all know the stock that has excelled better; both in commerce and academics. Anonymous

You can write whatever you like, but the fact remains that Igbos are hated and envied for their successes above others, hypocrisy apart. Anonymous

You are very articulative. But you missed a point: like the treatment of non Igbos in Igboland is unfounded. Make an extensive research about that. Like in Imo State, Ohakim’s Commisioner for Urban Planning was an Edolite. Igbos care so much for non Igbos in their domain. And they do not make noise over that. Obi and his co-travelers misplaced the issue unnecessarily. From Ike NwaoforThe answer to your hate-filled write-up today is Femi Aribisala’s today’s column in the Vanguard. We are together in this no victor no vanquished Nigeria, no separation. Any attempt to that effect will be stoutly resisted. From P. L. Osuagwu

Re: Beware, Eastern Brother! My Dear Mr. Abimbola, your column is often a delight for me at all times. This piece is a bitter truth for our Igbo brothers. Thank you and keep the ink flowing. From Lanre Bakare

For Dare Olatunji

 

When all the sheep are dressed as wolves, it is difficult to single out the real from the fake. Gen. T. Y. Danjuma (rtd) has not said anything new. ‘The spirit of Zaria’ prevailed because of the regional structure in place then. It would have been a different kettle of fish altogether if he had lent his voice to the dominating calls for the proper restructuring of Nigeria as a true federation. After all, one person with courage makes a majority. From O. O. Adegoke, Ikhin, Edo State

Thank you for your write-up “The spirit of Zaria”. The moment you mentioned St. Paul’s Zaria, I became nostalgic and wished I could turn back the hands of the clock. I remember the strong but healthy competition, between St. Paul’s and my school St. John’s College Kaduna in both academics and sports especially football and athletics. You remember Davies cup and Philips Cup in the 50s and 60s. How I wish Nigeria of today will be like that of the sixties, when Nigerians lived together in harmony irrespective of tribe. Military coups in the sixties, destroyed this country’s match, to greatness. I grew up in Kaduna and I said myself as a full fledged Kaduna State indigene, even though I am from the south by parentage. God help Nigeria. From A. I. Olisadebe

Dare, you deserve to be given a professor of journalism for your scholarstic no false analysis of the truth, historical facts of the status of the ‘spirit of Zaria’. You have spoken the mind of anyone that has lived in that great and respected ancient City. Oh, Zaria of yesterday we need that spirit back because I am a benificiary of St.Endas of those joyful days. More grease to your journalistic intellect. God bless you, keep it up sir. Anonymous

The elders in the North had been told the home truth by their fellow nothern brother. A strategist does not talk too much, he talks less and strategises on how to move his community forward. The region they are shouting to return the power to in 2015 is burning still, they keep on making inflamatory statements and talking from both sides of their mouth. In this respect, I urge all the Nothern elders and the youth to wake up from their slumber and srategise on how to return the North to its original state. From Hamza Ozi Momoh, Apapa Lagos

I observed you never questioned where Danjuma got the N2bn he donated to ABU? This is from a single person, in a country suffering from abject poverty? Anonymous

Dare, thanks. The far north leadership need to sit down and tackle the following: child marriage, birth control for men above 40 or four children per man, not per woman, free primary/secondary education, and delibrate control of islamic teachers. Anonymous

“The spirit of Zaria”, an insight of historical educational institute of an ancient city. Dare keep it up please. Anonymous

T.Y really meant well but the spirit of oppression has disintegrated the union. How many lives has Danjuma touched with his billionaires oil wells? He really means his business of 2015 but Nigerians do not need such old blood with precolonial ideas. This is computer age please. From Abdul, Ikare

Dare, great article as usual. I think Gen. Danjuma should be drafted to run for President in 2015 by the APC. The nation needs him in times like these. What do you think? Anonymous

I read you once in a while without making any pronounced comment. But today’s “spirit of Zaria” is not only historical and instructive, but irresistible. I also love the roll call of surnames as if you were a form master. O kare oga Dare. From Ombugadu Francis, Karu, Nasarawa state

“The spirit of Zaria” is awesome and a dear tonic at this turbulent time which I believe will be over one day. From Edi, Makurdi

Allow Gen. T. Y. Danjuma (rtd) to be the next President and let “the spirit of Zaria” be one of his many points agenda, can such arangement profer any permanent solution to the backwardness of the north or can that be any solution to the present insurgence cum youth restiveness? From Peter Rominiyi, Abuja

“The spirit of Zaria” is an interesting piece. I write to give kudos to General T.Y. Danjuma (retd). What gladdens my heart is that, the respected general has not in any way soiled his good name and reputation. That is why he can speak frankly and bluntly. Can some of the Northern leaders do so? I also praise him for his courage and belief that Zaria just like Nigeria is redeemable. I will implore him not to relent in his struggle to make Nigeria great again. God will surely bless and reward him he is a true patriot and a gallant soldier at that. From Ojo A. Ayodele, Emure Ekiti

You probably would not remember me but I knew you as far back as when I was a staff of the Concord Group, member, editorial board, deputy editor, National Concord and Columnist, Sunday Concord. “The spirit of Zaria”, which I have just finished reading, is excellent by any standard and instructive as well (for the North and northerners), which I understand pretty well as an old boy of St Enda’s Teachers College and Ahmadu Bello University. Remain blessed, always. From HRH Alhaji Ismaila Mohammed, Emir of Karshi, Abuja.

Your write-up on “The spirit of Zaria” is a masterpiece. I also had that ‘spirit’ in me because l went through the Nigerian Military School (1968-1972). We were 60 in my class and the entire country was equally represented. We schooled and lived as one united family irrespective of tribe or religion. We were, and still are our brothers’ keepers. Till today, we still communicate with one another. I wish and pray “The spirit of Zaria” will return. From Momy G. (NMF/506)

 

 

For Segun Gbadegesin

 

Segun, you now make Jonathan your Prugel Kind just like Hitler and his true Aryan although he was a settler in Germany. Do you mean that integration of Yoruba into OPC is not ethnic politics or that being Yoruba you know more than Jonathan? From AEO Uyo.

If supper patriots like Aminu Kano, Akanu Ibiam, former governor of the then Eastern Nigeria,Gani Fawehinmi, etc, were to come back to life to talk about Nigerian economy being in tatters due to leadership failure, Nigerians are bound to listen to them with rapt attention, because we knew them. Not Danjuma and his likes.Those who, because of their proximity to the nation’s wealth, converted it to their private property should not be the same turning round to talk of leadership failure and poverty in the country and be taken serious. Nobody is deceived. Until a convincing explanation is given to us on how the same General who has spent his entire life in public service suddenly turn Nigerian Billgate, Danjuma should have no moral justification to talk about the masses of the people chained down in dehumanising and grinding poverty consequent of bad leadership of which he is an intergral part. Enough of that deceit. From Emmanuel Egwu

Your opinion on Ethnicising Politics was not only timely but was powerful. More grease to your elbow. From Dele Oyewole

Re: Ethnising politics. All the political parties are guilty of ethnic politics most especially, the old ACN with we must hold on to our West dance! Opalaba should look beyond Mr President for critique. From Lanre Oseni

On this count, Opalaba was right; you were wrong. Have a great weekend Prof. Regards. From Olu.

Re: Ethnicising politics. Well done my dear Opalaba, I really missed you, my thought was that you have chickened away, and I do not see reason why you should when you did not during Abacha time. I have decorated you with Ayekoto of this time, oye a mori o. From Pastor Esan Ajibola JP, 2 Academy road, Ibadan

APC is the party we know. I will make sure APC win in Futo and environs..a party with a posulating desire that trascends everthing that the masses want. Anonymous

Yes I believe in all what you have said, it is true it is good to be good, God bless you and God bless Nigeria. Anonymous

Nigeria’s problem is that we play tribal and religious politics, it will not augur well for development. Carrying along is answer for transformation. From Gordon Chika Nnorom

 

For Gbenga Omotoso

 

Re: Allah-De: A aaster’s passage. I am most happy for your realism as stated in the last paragraph of your write-up. That had always been my quarrel with your co-columnists as if governments are isolative! Late Papa Allah De loved and was loved. He was upright and transparent. Such a person, we pray, will inherit and be placed in Al-janah Firdauz. From Lanre Oseni

I have just read your column in The Nation: Allah-De: A master’s passage. I must confess that it was well written sir. You make me buy The Nation on Thursdays. From Abiola

“Allah-De: A master’s passage” was prolific sublimity. Savored every drop. From Dapo Ogunwusi

Dear Gbenga, I read your thoughtful and incisive article titled ‘Allah-De: A master’s passage’. All the masters mentioned were indeed great. But how do we rate ‘Ayekooto’ – Olabisi Onabanjo, Dele Giwa and Tola Adeniyi. From K. W. Mustapha, Ibadan

Good piece by you on the back page of The Nation. Surprised, you did not mention late Dele Giwa’s Sunday paralax in the defunct Sunday Concord.

It is like you did not like and still do not like, even in death, Dele Giwa. He was a master of prose, and his contributions to contemporary Nigerian journalism, both as a columnist and a media administrator, remain indelible. He should have also been mentioned in your “Allah- De: A master‘s passage”. From Jamgbadi, Benin City

Gbenga, I went through your write-up on late Alade Odunewu in The Nation. To be sincere, the topic “Allah-De: A master’s passage” arose my passion to read about the man’s deed, as a great journalist worthy of emulation, considering your atractive opening paragrph. But from ‘the colunm’s agenda’ to the end, the focus changes, depicting passages of the old and new columnists and their worth. Odunewu’s prediction on Bonfere’s apointmnt is the only place, correlating (1%) with the topic. In short, the gist of your topic is in contrary to what you put down. many people and I will be glad to read about his own passage. From Muili A. D., FRSC

For Olakunle Abimbola

 

Sir, yet again this past Tuesday you have delivered another powerful sublime write-up. May God bless you. From Ada Chukwuma, Sapele

With the registration of APC, 20l5 general election is going to be a war of titans between APC and PDP. l just pray the better side wins so that the nation will move forward. From Gordon Chika Nnorom, Umukabia, Abia state

Yesterday’s ripples very very logical. God bless you. From Tunde Akingbade

On your “Neither Jonathan nor the North”, I really want to let you know that, if President Jonathan had wanted to toe the ways of Baba Obasanjo, he would have frustrated the effort of INEC to register your party, APC. So you and your opposition party should try and commend him for once. Afterall you people say anything that happens in Nigeria, the President caused it. Oga and madam at the top, including Governor Amaechi and his house of assembly palaver. From General Vic Marine, Port Harcourt

Re: Neither Jonathan nor the North. Beautiful piece with decorous balance. Personally, I am very happy at the birth of the APC but beyond the euphoria lies the reality of Nigeria’s political situation that needs urgent disection and drastic solution. For this to happen, the shareholding parties need to have a ‘sovereign national conference’ among themselves to sustain their co-habitation, then agree on the best way to fix Nigeria to the benefit of the majority at the shortest possible time and use this as a launching pad. Some parties will not want this to happen and would do everything to make sure APC fails. May God not allow that to happen because the crash or failure of APC together with Nigeria’s political temperature equals the crash and/or failure of Nigeria. The APC should start working its talk. From Kayode A., Abeokuta.

Thank you for your write-up “Neither Jonathan nor the North”. We haven seen the birth of APC, let see how it will be nurtured. The national convention of the party will provide the first test of its decision making strength. From A. I. Olisadebe

Thank God the APC was finally registered. But just as you reflected on, let the organisers be told in clear terms that Nigerians are not just looking for a viable alternative to PDP for the fun of it. We do not need any longer the government of the progresive GDP in paper that can only end up producing more rural and urban poor. Nigerians eagerly await to embrace the people-oriented party anyday,for the better. That is if APC is it. Every Nigerian is entitled to call for power shift to his own territory or any region of his interest. Nobody is deceived. The people are no fools, having suffered enough deprivations and hardship amidst plenty over the years, courtesy of our purposeless leadership. Jega has really done well by registering the APC at last but he and Jonathan government stil have to complete the circuit by providing a level-playing ground for all d participants failure of which the registration of the party turns farcical. From Emmanuel Egwu

 

 

For Olatunji Dare

 

Pa Alade Allah De lived a life that is worth emulating. He was a very hard working man and a detribalised Nigerian. May his gentle soul rest in peace. Papa, as we remember you, may the mercy of God be upon you. Sleep well. From Hamza Ozi Momoh, Apapa, Lagos

Re:”Allah De: A model, and a monument.” For a non-corrupt, diligent, fearless and honest Nigerian; our prayer is paradise – Al-Jannah Firdaus. May his gentle soul rest in peace. From Lanre Oseni

Re:”Allah De: A model, and a monument” personified. Surely, there is no greater tribute. From Alhaj Hon ADEYCorsim, Oshodi, Lagos

 

For Segun Gbadegesin

 

The PDP said the presidency is not jittery over the new born baby APC but they are murmuring. With the birth of APC, the funeral rite of the PDP is being conducted everyday by its members. It is obvious that the ruling party sponsored another party with the same acronym to scuttle the merger. But yet, the presidency said it is not threatened. Though the presidency might not be jittery now but when the new born baby grows up and becomes a landlord, the PDP will know the meaning of jittery. From Hamza Ozi Momoh, Apapa Lagos

I read your article titled “A big deal”. It is educative. I pray that the birth of the new child APC will bring an end to authoritarian rule and purposeless leadership. From Rotimi Felix, Kabba, Kogi state

This is a big deal and it is heart-warming. The birth of this new baby – APC – has brought a lot of fresh air and hope to our people. It will also bring about the rise and fall of many. I agree with you completely that internal democracy should be the key word that will make the difference. I salute the irrepressable courage and doggedness of the founding fathers, particularly, our own visionary leader and political master-strategist, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu. It is the dawn of a new era in Nigeria’s democratic voyage. Congratulations to all true progressives. From Dr. Abiola Ajijola, Lagos

There are many forces against a newly born baby; there are evil spirits, evil illnesses, wicked/envious persons and baby thieves, waiting to cause one harm or the other to the new baby. So, it may be, today, with APC. Therefore, it is wrong to ascribe to one individual the successful registration of APC. It is too early to do that. Besides, doing that would be unfair to other APC leaders. That we do not become the forces against our newly born baby – APC – please, let every person, commentator or writer check his/her tongue. From Ekere, Lagos

The birth of APC has put the ruling party in disarray. All the antics of the PDP were futile. It is now clear to the party and its members that there is no champion forever. From Hamza Ozi Momoh, Apapa Lagos

Registration of APC as a political party is a welcome development. 20l5 general election will be interesting because APC is on ground. Two-party system is knocking on our door. It is a good thing. From Gordon Chika Nnorom, Umukabia, Abia State

Re: “A big deal”. The struggle and registration of APC is the begining of democracy in Nigeria. Now, it is strength for strength, power for power, Naira-Dollar for Naira-Dollar and tactics for tactics. Credit goes to all those who persevered. Expecting good elections in 2014 through 2015. From Lanre Oseni

Congrats on the registration of APC. But sir, with due respect, you seem to be one-sided in your article. I expected you to give credit to others’ efforts. Please, do not let us take off with this error. Thank you. From Dr. Maxwell Ugwanyi, Enugu

Sir , may the good Lord give you strength, good health and long life. “A big deal”’ is history for mature politians. Thanks, for keeping hope alive. From Igboko S. C. (A Librarian)

Interesting, it is a nice development. I strongly believe that APC will give us the best. From Ebiowei Orufa, Bayelsa state

Sir, good talk for Nigerians, hope they will listen. From Ola Balogun, Lagos

Thank you for the beautiful piece. APC needs our prayers. The nation desperately deserves the options that this platform can provide. From Oriakhi K. O. Benin

Sir, do not let us harp much on Asiwaju’s contribution to the success of the merger. The enemies of progress will always want to make a meal out of it. Even if we do not sing it, Jagaban deserves all the praises. But we just need to be cautious so that reactionaries will not start their antics by potraying APC as a one-man show. From Olu

Asiwaju Tinubu is the kind of leader we need in this country. He is somebody who believes in progressivism and welfare of the people. In Nigeria today, the birth of APC has brought so much hope. APC can give our lower class a relief and provide working families with a road to opportunity. From Benjamin Bem Akaa, Benue State.

Sir, there is nothing to rejoice about in the emergence of APC. Nigerian politics is bestrode with visionless leaders. The beautiful ones are yet to be born. All we pray for is divine revolution and a benevolent leader who will do the right things. We do not need a democracy that slows down progress. Nigeria is not ripe for democracy. We need good leaders with iron hands to rule us and not charlatans that call themselves democrats. From Napoleon

Congratulation! But it is necessary for APC to check new member, especially the those from the PDP who feel APC is the alternative platform to express their grievances with PDP. I assure you that they will bring down APC. From Opeoluwa Leji, Abuja

 

For Olakunle Abimbola

 

Your write-up “Of leaders and dealers: Soyinka vs Clark” was thought provoking. Honestly, people like Clark are no longer useful to Nigeria. He may be useful to the Ijaws but at the national level he is an irritant. If only our society were like that of the Greeks, he would have long been a candidate of hemlock administration and would not be missed at all. From Kwaghfan Tarnongo, Makurdi

Let the Muslim far North take over the goverment come 2015 and let me see if our Yoruba people will be well represented in that goverment, do you think a leopard can change its colour? Let me tell you if you do not know, the Muslim far North remains the Yoruba no one enemy politicaly. Think with your brain. From Mudashiru Adeleye

Olakunle, is it not better the northern governors face their Boko Haram problem? Is the suspension of Obioakpor Local Government Chiarman democratic? Please, leave Jonathan alone. Anonymous

It is good to call a spade by its name. There are politicians reaping from where they did not son. I keep wondering at their line of reasoning. Can Ijaw votes alone give Jonathan 2015? They have forgotten the role played by illustrious Yoruba sons, when Jonathan was treated like a second class citizen when Yar’Adua was sick and even after his death. Well, we are watching the melodrama going on. From Monday Peter Iyara

Absolutely, I guess you are living in a different country and not Nigeria. Is the Rivers’ crisis more threatening to democracy than the Boko Haram genocide in the North? What have you and your so-called four governors done to stop the madness? Anonymous

Oh my God! Please repeat your Republican Ripples of 30/07/13 two times more and remind the ‘agbaiyas’ that the Yoruba contributed more than 80% to win the war for democracy and even fought to make sure their godson was rescued from the strangulation of the Yar’Adua cabal. From Wole

I loved your comments. Tell those ‘dealer elders’ what they should know. In fact, it is a shame that ethnic and tribal sentiments have completely eroded their sense of good judgment, thereby metamorphosing them into sycophants who defend and uphold impunity by the executive. What a shame! From John O.N. Port Harcourt

Your article on Soyinka vs Clark was thought provoking. It is quite unfortunate that Clark and others see Jonathan as an Ijaw President rather than the President of the country. A Yoruba saying says: gbogbo nkan lo njo ara-oko loju (A villager is always carried away by anything new. Jonathan, unfortunately, is a novice in the art of politics, given his antecedents. There is a limit to goodluck which is now his albatross. Soyinka has advised, and rightly too. It is left to those who have ears to hear. As for Clark, I pity him because he is getting old and probably suffering from amnesia which has beclouded his sense of judgment because of pecuniary obligation. He is not sure of the next meal after the exit of Jonathan. From Chief Arise Oyediran, Ilesha

Kunle, thanks for bringing us back to memory lane. The case of Edwin Clark and Jonathan can be likened to Six and Half a dozen. The problem is either they do not read newspapers or they are mischievous or both. But thank God Soyinka is not like the duo. From Babatope Odugbemi, State Of Osun

Re: “Of leaders and dealers, Soyinka vs Clark.” Edwin Clark came to limelight only with the presidency of his protege and he will remain there for as long as Jonathan is the landlord of Aso Rock. The man is a political contractor, a dealer fighting for his own survival and not even for the Ijaws, let alone the Southsouth. Soyinka’s pedigree is a testimony to the trials of truth under agressive focus. He is a leader. The presidency and some renegades are probably mistaking ‘Kongi’ for some ‘local champion’. They do not know that Soyinka’s voice is equal to that of NTA, FRCN, VON, and others. Any doubts? Ask Abacha. By the time ‘Kongi’ is through with these people, they will be sorry. Soyinka has already informed us of the ‘She-ppo’ and the ‘He-ppo’ in the Delta. May God help the restive ‘Obokun’, ‘Catfish’ and innocent ‘fingerlings’ in the troubled Delta. From Kayode A., Abeokuta

 

 

For Tunji Adegboyega

 

Thank you, Tunji, for your article, ‘From ‘The Dikko affair to Dikko committee’. You don’t expect a snake to give birth to a short and dwarfish child. PDP is the grandson of the NPN. From the governors’ forum election result, you don’t need to forecast what the result of 2015 will be. Where is Ayo Salami, the appeal court judge? The impeachment crisis in Rivers State is the colour of the PDP methodology. Anything that has a beginning must have an end. From Ichipi Sam.

I agree that many bad people are running the country because the social order rejects the good ones. Unless the social system is changed, the imperialists will continue to rule Nigeria. The Dikkos and Obasanjos represent the brutal social system. Thanks. From Amos Ejimonye, Kaduna.

I agree with you on PDP and Dikko. A man who is not disciplined is now a disciplinarian; anything is welcomed in PDP. Anonymous.

Tunji, what is the rationale behind the PDP making Alhaji Umaru Dikko head a disciplinary committee, considering his role in the Second Republic? What has Alhaji Dikko to offer that made the PDP appoint him to such important position? When are we going to stop recycling never-do-wells in government? Is this how to move Nigeria forward? So, there is no other person in the party that can do the job assigned to Alhaji Dikko? When are we going to learn from our past record? It is enough evidence that PDP is not serious about fighting corruption. From Gordon Chika Nnorom, Umukabia, Abia State.

Tunji, you wrote well, particularly in telling the younger generation about what took place in the Second Republic. But are you saying that Buhari is better than Umaru Dikko? You may be wrong … Take Obasanjo back to 1976 when he was running away from becoming the head of state after the assassination of Gen. Murtala Muhammed. And capture this same Obasanjo who wanted an unprecedented third term in office that was not entrenched in our constitution . Tunji, if it is stealing of public funds, then look to the Hill Tops of Niger and you will find them. Sometimes people change. Leave Umaru Dikko alone. From M. Agbede of Bayelsa State.

I read your comment on the Umaru Dikko committee. Quite interesting and I appreciate the write-up on the stupidity and poor administration of the ruling party. In the next few months, Nigerians will start moving towards the right path in an attempt to have a good government. From Alhaji Y. Abubakar, Kogi State.

A pity you did not give Dikko his full compliment by adding that he was the NPN’s boy wonder as his choice words were unique and the president may find them handy now. Or, have you forgotten that he expressed his disappointment that he had not seen us eat from dustbins then. Alhaji, over to you jare, and don’t mind my ‘ngbati’ brother. Anonymous.

Re: ‘From the ‘Dikko affair’ to the Dikko committee’. Papa Umaru Dikko of rice and people were yet to eat from the dustbins? Then, that committee and the party, PDP are taking existing jokes too far against 2015! A serious committee such as disciplinary committee is not to see Dr Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu as a member not to talk of Dr Umaru Dikko as its chairman. Hearing names of the two may seriously dissuade voters for their party in 2015. Who is misadvising Mr. President? The gentle president should redirect whoever constituted that committee to reconstitute it to avoid party dent. From Lanre Oseni.

I enjoyed your tonic on ‘The’ Dikko affair’ to the Dikko committee’ One thing you left out was that Dikko insinuated that Nigerians have not started to eat from dustbins, when he was asked about the state of our economy in the Second Republic. But on a serious note, is Dikko still alive or are you referring to his son or junior brother? If he is still alive, then the PDP must be very sick and confused. From Chief Iorte Johnson Gboko, Benue State.

For Segun Gbadegesin

 

Good morning sir, your article this morning is commendable but Mr. Governor should not relent on his transformation agenda. Thanks! From Kolawole, Ibadan

Thank God for your observation of this good work going on in Oyo State cum West in general. Please do access other states and zones. From Myke, Enugu

“Anikura baba omokomo, Akanmu baale jibiti.” The days of the hirelings are over in the West. Something good is happening in Oyo State. God bless Ajimobi and his fellow Southwest governors. From Akande, Ojoo, Ibadan

Re: I see; therefore I know. Although before now, my flair was for Chief Rasheed Ladoja in sympathy for 2006 impeachment saga! With dramatic and sporadic infrastructural explosion by two year old administration of Governor Isiak Ajimobi, I am anxiously waiting to cast my vote for him and his candidates in the next elections; no controversy. From Lanre Oseni

“I see; therefore I know” is reasonably encouraging to provoke further development of Oyo State.’yinni yinni,ki a le se mi in’. But the government must not rest on false glorification of acclaimed performance. We must continue to push him beyond limit, and above his vision or dreams. This will surely benefit, not the indigenes alone but all and sundry. From Alhaji Hon. ADEYCorsim, Oshodi, Lagos

I cannot wait to read the good strides in terms of performance by some PDP governors analysis like this by you. From Fryo, Jos

Not for publicity, Dr., l agree with you, it is very customary with the highly placed Nigerians attemping the distortion of facts weather deliberately or falsely, but the record will not lie, IBB or anyone can say anyting, but the record is there. Thanks for refreshing our memories, bravo sir! From Omo Oba, Lagos

Dear Segun, to be candid, the Yoruba people are very wise for rejecting PDP. We in the South-south are hoping that INEC will register APC so that APC will deliver south south from the grip of the PDP. From Chuks, Delta State

Opalaba would do well to visit our State of Osun and see wonders. Here is a state that has little or no financial resources, but is still being able to embark on monumental projects all across the state. It is indeed, ‘Government Unusual’, going by our indefatigable Governor’s slogan. May God continue to guide him. Anonymous

Good day, sir. I read your interesting piece on the backpage of Friday’s edition of The Nation Newspaper. It was a good testimony about the good work embarked upon by the Ajimobi administration. However, I want to enjoin you to take a look at greater projects going on in neighbouring Ogun State where the entire state has been turned to a huge construction site with 17 major roads being reconstructed and expanded. Each of these roads have six lanes and about 10 overhead bridges are ‘growing up’ simultaneously. The first overhead bridge to be constructed by the state government in 37 years of existence had been commissioned in January with a six lane 2.4 kilometre road having all accompanying road furniture. I will be happy anytime you are chanced if you come around to see this massive reconstruction being executed under the Mission to Rebuild Ogun State of the Ibikunle Amosun administration. From Yusuph Olaniyonu

For Olatunji Dare

 

Its been 20 years now but you seem to nurture the general disaffection of June 12 to personal   bitterness. Castigating IBB everyday will not reverse the tide of history. Do you ever scrutinise the roles played by OBJ and others? Please grow up, after all, MKO was no saint. I hope you will be courageous enough to publish this text. From Suleiman Nwobasi, Port Harcourt.

The truth of the matter was that IBB was not prepared to vacate office, but was forced by the Nigerian people. He cannot run away from the fact that he annulled the best election ever held in Nigeria and he created the foundation for the current political crises in the country. From Abdullahi Danja, Abuja

Dare, good morning and thank you for your piece. What an apt title! But for your piece the self acclaimed evil genius would have succeeded with blue murder. All of us cannot be afflicted with collective amnesia. Anonymous

Buhari and his northern parasites will still treat Asiwaju and his southern brothers, the way they treat Abiola and Awo. Dare, tell me what did Awo did not do to please these people? May history not repeat itself. Anonymous

We have learned a lot from the annullment of June 12. As we all know, nobody is a custodian of knowledge except God. The deed had been done by the then military government headed by IBB, and consistently we keep on dragging on the same issues which is very dangerous to the unity of our nation. The man said he has taken responsibility of all that happened, so in that respect, let us forgive and forge ahead. If a man is running and he is looking behind, he is bound to fall. IBB is human not God, He is bound to make mistake. Let us forgive him. From Hamza Ozi Momoh, Apapa Lagos

Thanks for your comment “IBB: A tormented mind at work”. If IBB has nothing new now Nigerians know better he should shut up. Anonymous

Why does IBB think Achilles, the sleek Greek God- Man is most remembered for his heel? It is because that was his greatest weakness that ended his life. Insatiable love of power is IBB’s greatest weakness

(Achilles’ heel), which was his reason for the annulment of June 12. That was his greatest offense against Nigeria as a nation. He will, forever, be remembered for June 12. From Jerome A. Adie, Calabar

Your piece “IBB: A tormented mind at work” was another arrow well pieced at the man right at his heart if he has one at all. He is lucky he can be talking so sensely only in a nation like ours. For if it was like the Middle-east, one bad guy would have blown his head with just a bullet for what he has caused Nigerians. But let arrows like this continue to pierce through his heart. From Ayoga Obemnkpang

I used to be an ardent and strong supporter of IBB before the anulment of June 12, 1993 Presidential Election. But, despite all the appeals and counsels from different quarters for him to de-annul the election, he refused, we need to pray to God on his behalf for forgiveness and failure to do that, posterity will judge him. From Laide Oguntimehin, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State

Uncle Dare, reading through your article, “IBB: A tormented mind at work” reminds me of what my History teacher said in my class one as,”History is the record of important events which has taken place in the past.” June 12 can never be wished away from Nigeria as generations will hear and read about it. From Akinlade Esther, Lagos.

 

For Kunle Abimbola

 

‘Presidential anarchy’ has been the order of our govermental pattern. Our constitution intends a tyrannical democrat for our president. In Nigeria, the president, directly or indirectly appoints INEC, IG, CJN, COAS, and other notable appointments. So what do we expect? The National Assembly should rise up to her responsibities and save the nation. From Alhaj Hon. ADEYCorsim, Oshodi, Lagos

Re: Presidential anarchy. Dear Abimbola, you raised some topical issues in your essay. President Jonathan, Mrs. Jonathan, Onyesome Wike, Mbu should tread carefully. Like every other things on earth, power is transient. They should tread carefully. Jonathan is moving to the wrong side of history so fast. Today is not for ever. Who will deliver us from this monster call PDP? Anonymous

Olakunle, your Republican Ripples on presidential anarchy, hit the point. But, the jonathan presidency is suffering pschopatic lunacy, neurotic disorder inherited and political hallucination. But hear the prophetic truth; Jonathan’s presidency is doomed. It will keep sliding down until it expires in complete disgrace. Mark my words. From Samuel

Kunle, God bless you for today’s. We are watching where this lunacy we take us to. This is just the first stanza of a story of perfidy that can easily destroy a nation. From Tunde Akingbade

A Master piece Abimbola even though you took a swipe at one of our revered elderstatemen Balewa. Dele Giwa timeless quote in one of his incisive article is still apt to this day: “power will serve as a burial ground for those who misuse it”. And to Gulak, Abati and co., a review of Ola Rotimi’s play may teach a lesson but truth is they never learn as those whom the gods will sacrifice will first make them mad. From A. A. Umar

I hope the press will certainly save this country from sliding into anarchy. The press today has become trhe conscience of the natiom. It seems the President and his Dame have learnt nothing. Anonymous

Sir, there is no other word that captures the heading other than presidential anarchy. You speak in metaphor which makes it an interesting reading. All what that are said therein are facts and facuals. Keep it up brother. Anonymous

Dear sir, I enjoyed your write-up on presidential anarchy. There is no other word to describe it other than that. The truth is that Jonathan and his wife are very desperate for 2015 forgetting that no amount of compulsion or intimidation can earn him re-election if rigging is ruled out. He has performed so absmally bad that he does not deserve a re-election. Only time will tell. Anonymous

You cannot be in Lagos and claim to feel the heat than we the Rivers people, leave Jonathan out of this! The truth is that we are tired of the tyrannical nature of Ameachi. He should stop using our allocation to water your likes! From Daboye Briggs esq., Port Harcout

Re: Presidential anarchy. The Presidential rascality as being displayed in Rivers State’s issue must not be allowed to go unchecked. The President, his wife and some worthless politicians are the harbinger of the crisis. The Rivers’ issue is a replica of Bayelsa’s. The President is suffering from power madness/intoxication. 2015 and States elections are around the corner hence his excesses must be curtailed. The IG is a robot and ever prepared to play the script of his master and the reason the President is against state police. He must not be allowed to continue with his numerous undemocratic and insensitive actions, stop this monster. From Past Odunmbaku

 

For Tunji Adegboyega

 

Re: ‘The tragedy of victory’ (The Nation on Sunday of July 21). I commend General Alabi-Isama (rtd) for putting the records straight on the Civil War. However, why did he wait till now since ‘My Command’ was written? Hatred, envy and unnecessary cheap publicity which have made Nigeria to retard? A plus for the book. Finally, on the publicity for great contributors to Nigeria who linger in suffering – General Adekunle and Pa Taiwo Akinkunmi, I hope Mr Senate President and Speaker, House of Representatives read their story at the book launch. Please help. From Lanre Oseni.

Tunji, notwithstanding Brigadier-General Alabi-Isama’s misgivings about Adekunle and Obasanjo’s military exploits during the Civil War, the duo remain war heroes for their sagacity and military prowess. Please let the south-west governors come to the aid of General Adekunle before it is too late. From Barr. Moronkeji.

You spoke our minds on Alabi-Isama’s book. But I wonder why the author failed to invite Obasanjo to the occasion; that aspect is faulty if he wants the public to believe him. OBJ is not a fool; he will reply him at the appropriate time. We need to appeal to Generals Gowon, Danjuma and Akinrinade to release their own memoirs and not go to their graves with the stories like Ojukwu. It is a shame the way the Federal Government treated Pa Akinkunmi and General Benjamin Adekunle. How do they expect to abate corruption? Let’s give kudos to Alabi-Isama for bringing one of the ills of the society- injustice – to the fore. Anonymous.

I agree with you and I also said it at the book presentation that the real tragedy of the civil war victory is the neglected heroes. To the war veterans, it is survival of the fittest; it’s a nation’s waste of fine skills rather than opportunity for them to impart it. This used to be the desire of my late husband and war commander, Col Edet Utuk from Ikot-Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State. General Alabi-Isama should lecture young military personnel. They need what he carries. It is well. From Mrs Grace Utuk.

The real tragedy of victory in war also includes the opportunity for opportunists to make egocentric distortion of facts. That, as I understand is the spur for Alabi-Isama’s pictorial account. From Kuteyi, R.R., Ondo.

Your article on ‘The tragedy of victory’ is an interesting piece. However, I am surprised by your claim that Gen Benjamin Adekunle fought gallantly to preserve the country whereas he had been adjudged to have fought gallantly on both sides by killing …! My dad was a soldier under the 3 Marine Commando; was it not the same Adekunle that was quoted as saying he will shoot anything that moves in Biafra, including women, children the Red Cross, etc! A soldier without care for unarmed civilians! Gallantry indeed! As a journalist, you have access to information; so, correct me if I am wrong. Alani Akinrinade was a gallant soldier who demonstrated great gallantry to the extent that the Biafrans nicknamed him “Chinese” because they felt he was a hired Chinese mercenary. I am disappointed that Obasanjo abandoned his men. It’s a shame. Anonymous.

Well done, Tunji for putting a soft side to the hard facts in your column last Sunday. Please help list out the ‘lies’ in My Command as exposed by Alabi-Isama’s new book on the Nigeria Civil War. From A. Oyeniyi.

Your piece on Alabi-Isama’s Civil War memoirs is thought-provoking. It was a bourgeoisie war and not a class war which could have produced a society without the existing striking poverty. Nigeria under the present socio-economic order is a paradise for the bourgeoisie and an abyss of pain and penury for the toiling masses. From Amos Ejimonye, Kaduna.

It is not in our leaders’ character to remember or take care of past heroes. They are only after how to enrich their own pockets. From Gordon Chika Nnorom, Umukabia, Abia State.

For Olatunji Dare

Labaran Maku is displaying the inefficiency of his boss and his party. If Maku is blind, I believe he can hear. He is not in a position to tell Lagosians that Fashola is not working. He should seek people’s opinion first before the assessment. Maku should realise that there is no need to destroy others to make him popular. I believe Labaran is learning because a learner is a novice wherever he goes. He is not in the position to assess Fashola because he has indicted himself by saying the media is not showing Federal Governments projects. If what he said about the Federal Government is true, there is no need for the media to be compelled to show it. Labaran, stop jetting around if you want to know the truth. Next time, board a bus. From Hamza Ozi Momoh, Apapa Lagos

“Haba Labaran” is quite interesting. I salute the courage of governors Oshiomole and Fashola in refusing Maku’s road show cum circus. His NGGT circus will not serve any useful purpose, and it cannot improve the lives of the people. In all the states he toured, what is the level of completion of projects there? To me, the NGGT is a waste of time and the tax payers money. From Ojo A. Ayodele, Emure Ekiti

Re: “Haba, Labaran.” This is a masterpiece, I have been expecting something on the so-called NGGT by Aso Rock megaphone. From Saheed Ottun

I like your piece “Haba, Labaran.” It is only in Nigeria that people like him are made to represent the goverment. In China, he would have been in the gaol. Anonymous .

It is not so upsetting for the blind to lead the blind, more jarring is the blind trying to lead the sighted. Labaran Maku should have limited his trivial tours to states controlled by his political party. Are we not operating a federal constitution? The most disturbing feature about today’s politicians, particularly those in the PDP, is not the issues they raise nor even some of the things they do, but the spirit in which it is done – the mood of uncritical self-righteousness and unbriddled anger towards those who oppose them or who do not share their point of views. Will they ever change for the better? From Adegoke O. O., Ikhin, Edo State

Thanks for the PDP’s new mathematical fomular “19 is less than 16”. It is only but the beginning of their calamity. Men of honour are very scarce. From Peter, Enugu State

“Haba, Labaran”. NGGT/Maku, all the controversies or whatever are between monopoly of power and sentiment. However, Maku’s statement remains partisan prone, baseless, absurd, flacid and obnoxious. From Comrade Johnson Kotin, Ajara Vetho, Badagry Lagos State

It was not the spokesperson of Maku that said Fashola did not do anything in Lagos as claimed in your article of today but Maku himself. I watched him live saying it. I am not proud as a Nigerian that Maku is our Minister of Information. Thanks for the beautiful article. Anonymous

The man Labaran Maku is a full-time PDP man, who goes about giving false information to the public about their Transformation Agenda! Haba, Labaran, indeed! Anonymous

Maku came to Aba, noted it as the dirtiest city with the worst road network in Nigeria and went back to score Orji very high in development. From Jones

Why waste your time on Labaran. Ask my 13- year-old son to tell you who Labaran Maku is and he will simply tell you “Minister for noise making”. Empty barrels make the loudest noise. From Comrade O. O. Ezekiel, Ilorin

Mr Labaran Maku is an unserious character. Anybody who claims that “At the moment there is an average of about 18 hours per day of constant power supply to different parts of the country……” is a liar. Having touted this nonsense for such a long time in the newspapers, it takes an idiot to take his view on Lagos State seriously. He is like Wamba in Ivanhoe. Anonymous

Maku is working hard to save his job. l did not see why he should criticize the government of Fashola. From Gordon Chika Nnorom

Labaran Maku tells lies like the wind. He is just another aberation in this country. From Hon. Bankole Alex

What a good piece on Abuja propaganda! If the media failed to report projects did the eyes of the users fail to see them, also. Anonymous

Maku is an opportunist who misinforms to satisfy the whims and caprices of his Abuja paymasters. The Federal Government should learn the art of good governance from Fashola instead of dancing naked in the market square. From Comrade Daniel Sati Tanko, Jos

“Haba, Labaran!” is a story of a man gullibly named ‘Maku’, which means ‘do not die’ in Yoruba language. Who will not die? Why are Nigerian ministers loyal to the president but disloyal to Nigeria and Nigerians? Problem of what to eat? May God save us. From Alhaji Hon. ADEYCorsim, Oshodi, Lagos

Labaran is another federal appointee. Nigerians are watching the melodrama of the information minister. Anonymous

I thank you for observing well the deceit in that NGGT by Maku. We were rejoicing in Abia State, particularly Aba, that that tour will expose the lies of the governor on environmental sanitation and the condition of the roads and other infrastructure, but to our greatest disappointment, Maku never set his foot inside Aba Township let alone driving through the roads to see things himsel. He ended up dinning and winning with the Governor and their collaborators. Enough of this infrastructural propaganda. We are not fools. From Joseph, Aba

“Haba, Labaran” is a nice piece. I passed through Lokoja-Abuja Road the other day. I was ashamed with the level of work. Enugu-Awka Road is the worst; in fact, the expressway is now less than one lane. To continue calling that road expressway is the biggest lie of the century. I feel insulted as a Nigerian whenever I see people like Labaran deceiving fellow Nigerians. Anonymous

 

For Gbenga Omotoso

Having read “Let’s watch the amber lights,, I am reminded of how our leaders play the ostrich.The other day, the governor of the Central Bank justified the increment in petrol pump price without knowing the cost of a litre. This insulation from reality is what makes being in government juicy. It is unfortunate that the president allows himself to be decieved by the lot. Having been without shoes before, all he needs to do is go back to his root, check the feet of children and count how many have shoes on. That explains reality.

I am beginning to realise that one does not have to be a rocket scientist to understand the dynamics of poverty and how to solve the problem. Too much learning is making our egg head administartors deny reality. From Aiyanyo S.

It is very unfortunate that our leaders see the truth but refuse to tell the truth. When Abacha was alive, somebody went to his office and complained to him about power outage in Nigeria and he made the man understand that, there was light in Aso Rock. Adesina presented an award to the president for reducing hunger in Nigeria and he was happy doing that. How many homes has he visited since he was appointed a minister? I will rather call the award given to the president a sycophant award because, it is Nigerians that should say, yes, our president has done well; let us give him an award notthe minister appointed by the president. The president and the minister should not play politics with the lives of Nigerians because of selfish interest. The minister should walk from street to street, interview people, and see how they live. From Hamza Ozi Momoh, Apapa Lagos

Who will save us from the hands of our leaders who want to suck our blood to live? A minister gave an award to the president for reducing poverty in Nigeria and the so-called reducer of poverty collected it and said ‘yes, I have done well.’ What a leader! If the president pretends not to know the level of poverty in the country, I will call him an incompassionate president. From Hamza Ozi Momoh, Apapa Lagos

Please, tell our shouting ministers that Nigerians are neither deaf nor blind. However, what we hear do not describe what we see. From Dr. C. Y. Nwanodi, Port Harcourt

Is it only now that you know how Nigerians live in self-deception or what you call clash of figures and reality? What about the Yoruba calling themselves majority with only 20 per cent of the population in the 1963 census? Why not write to condemn that? From A. E. O., Uyo

“Let’s watch the amber lights”. Whenever I read your column, I wonder if I can meet you. Anyway, I cannot wait to lay my hands on any of your compilation. Thanks! Anonymous

Due to insecurity in some parts of the North, the price of beans has soared. This is an indication that all parts of Nigeria are indispensable – a big lesson for pro-secession. From Esan Ayegbaju, Ekiti

Indeed, the amber lights are on. Lifting the people urgently out of poverty is essential. The clock is ticking. From Ayodele A. Ojo

The judicial reform bill is a mere kangaroo bill to deceive Nigerians which will not see the light of the day. The government in power will never allow it unless, it suits its interest. The institution has been monetised by the class, a problem which will be very difficult to reform. From Hamza Ozi Momoh, Apapa Lagos

If not for people like you who know the truth and are able to say it, where would we have been? Your exposition is faultless. From Idongesit Inyang

 

For Tunji Adegboyega

Re: “Visa bond: before casting the first stone” There is no first stone for anyone to cast. Thank you for your verdict. I do not see how the UK-proposed 3,000 pounds visa bond should bother any non-corrupt Nigerian. Fix your own country and get pounds sterling, dollars, yen Lira, Deutsche mark and others. from visits and tourism. Perhaps if we fail to revolutionise and develop at all cost, let UK’s drastic measure of restriction of wastage develop us by blocking our wastage of foreign exchange and leakages. Haba, what is our headache? Consumption always, no baking! UK, thanks. From Lanre Oseni.

The boxed quote in your column is apt. We should fix our country instead of thinking about 2015, 2019, 2023 and the voodoo mathematics that makes 16 greater than 19. Long live, Britain and its national interest-inspired immigration law. From Amanze.

Whatever the British does with their migration laws would not be our headache if we put our house in order. If we utilise our resources well and half as well as Malaysia or Singapore, the Brits will be angling for patronage in their tourism industry; in which case the visa will be free. But, right now, they know most of us will give an arm and a leg to escape the hell hole that Nigeria has become. They have their own challenges and have identified Nigerian immigrants as part of their problems that should be solved. At the height of petrol dollars/oil boom in Nigeria, the Nigerian immigration staff were busy collecting bribes at the land borders and letting illegal immigrants have unfettered access into the country. We all saw the results. Nigeria is nothing but a nation of ignorant fools where people think with their stomachs and of personal gains before anything else. Anonymous.

The piece is interesting. The problem is that many Nigerians know not that Nigeria is a pariah state and that only the disinherited can change the situation. What it means is that whores become members of the workforce when the time for change is ripe. Thanks. From Amos Ejimonye, Kaduna.

David Cameron has done the best thing for his country as a good leader. Nigeria’s government is fighting a lost battle. I believe the British government is trying to protect its citizens and the country just as the Nigerian president is protecting the interest of 16 instead of 19. The government should cover its face in shame rather than crying like a hungry lion. From Hamza Ozi Momoh, Apapa, Lagos.

The proposed visa bond of 3,000 pounds is another avenue through which the UK wants to tell Nigerians and other nationals that their services are no longer needed in the UK. They want everybody to stay in their country. I believe that the bond is targeted at stopping Nigerians from going to the UK. It is now left to our leaders to sit up and deliver good governance to make Nigerians stop travelling; after all, we have what it takes to make Nigeria a better place to live in if not for bad governance and bad and self-centred leaders who think only of enriching themselves. What is in London that we cannot develop in Nigeria if we have sincere leaders at the three tiers of government? Now that the UK has introduced visa bond to checkmate Nigerians, our government should also bring out a policy against the British government too. After all, no nation is an island unto itself. Britain must need something from Nigeria or those other nations. From Gordon Chika Nnorom, Umukabia, Abia State.

It is good to tell it to our leaders the way it is. What a country! We ought to cover our faces in shame at the level of degeneration. Britain has the right to say no to those who want to pollute the way we have polluted our own country. Anonymous.

Your article on the British visa bond is another masterpiece; a message to them to keep quiet and start doing the right thing. May God open their ears to listen to wise sayings. From Festus.

Your article “Doing it gay or straight” in The Nation on Sunday of June 23 refers: Please while you took on a very serious topical issue with catalystic effects on humanity generally, you, however, handled it with such levity! The Holy Scripture is very clear on what they claim is a fundamental human right; or, have you forgotten Sodom and Gomorrah? Cameron and Obama and their cohorts are running out of time. When Third World countries are literally struggling to feed their growing populations, Mr Cameron is idly mouthing gay rights! The world, as we know it today, is headed to eternal destruction. From Gagara Nehemiah, Kwablang, Jos.