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Memories and Imprints

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By Femi Melefa

A Review

There is always the need to relive experiences. The value of this lies in the lessons and inspiration that are derivable for life and living. Memories and Imprints is a fascinating and intriguing autobiographical recreation of the curves and perimeters of the life of the author. In this stimulating archive of the events around this enigmatically configured life of the author, the reader is brought into the crucibles of authentic and cinematographic portrayal of the bits and pieces of the humble beginnings and other stages of life of the author. Following the well-established tradition of the Caribbean magical realism, this memoir reveals the base elements of the abject poverty and deprivation that characterised the rural origin of the writer. Weaved in the narrative mode, the book portrays all essential and minute details of the life of the writer, with illumination cast on the various dimensions and the curves of what has become an exciting and translucent life.

The book not only shed light on the humble beginnings of the author, it also pulps up a ray of light for readers from all spectrums of life and origin. The value of this book is not just in the exhilaration of reading it, but in drawing from the ray of light that it sheds on the thick brambles that poverty and lack have layered on the path of many Nigerians from the rural parts of the country. From the recollections presented in this book, it is evident that the author is drawing the readers into the stark realities and booby trap that rural poverty has set for individuals from such terrains. Of course, the author’s fortuitous escape routes are well articulated for the reader who is poised to churn out life’s lessons that are well embodied in this well written piece. In terms of structure, this elegantly printed 451 paged book comprises two main parts, which are structured into 20 chapters.

Each chapter contains a unique dimension of the composite trajectories of the life and genealogical roots of the writer. Each chapter x-rays the various layers of the life of the writer and the trajectories he had to traverse before ascending this significant seventh floor of life. Chapter One to 19 present a factual recollection of the various dimensions of the life of the author. Specifically, chapter one and two present a kaleidoscopic account of the family and village of origin of the writer. This presentation is significantly reminiscent of the lowliness of the inception and rural beginnings of the writer. These chapters also capture the ethical and ontological values that ensured social harmony and serenity during the tender years of the life of the author. Chapter three, four, and five opens the reader to the various stages of the writer’s pursuit of education and the various stages of ploughing back what has been acquired. In chapter seven, the writer shows the reader his bourgeoning by breaking the limitations of rural entrapments to advancement with education at the premiere University, University of Ibadan.

The same University he recollected returning to for a higher degree in chapter nine. The events recollected in chapter 12 are quite significant as they hinge on his love life and marriage. The highlight of this book is contained in chapter 20, which captures reflections on the writer. You will read first-hand accounts of the writer’s biological children on their father. The renditions contained herein are quite stimulating and a factual account of the writer’s disposition and large-heartedness to his children and his world. Overall, the language of this piece is richly prosaic and well textured, and as such creates effective navigation routes and access for even the average reader. Therefore, this book is an essential historical resource asset for all categories of readers. Without mincing words, therefore, I submit that this book is unarguably a radiance of sophisticated artistry, creative effulgence, which is weaved in an elegant language to serve as a critical reference material and a historical artefact for many generations to come. So, by this book, the writer has provided generations to come with the window to be able to explore his life from the point when it was extremely humble to the point that it blossomed to become a beacon of hope and worthwhile model for others.

Of course, this is the core thrust of memoirs, which is to invite readers to reflect upon the past, the present and to gain a clear vision for tomorrow. I, therefore, recommend this interesting and accessible book as must-read for all, since the recollections therein are factual and indeed thought-provoking.

Dr Omotosho Moses Melefa

Department of English and Literary Studies, UNN

Celebrating Olusunle: A mystery mentor turns 60, impacting lives from afar

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As we all roll out drums to celebrate Prof. Tunde Olusunle, a man who has impacted his generation in many ways, I just realised that I have never met him in person.Yet this man has changed my perception, my reasoning, and my views about life in general. He has also impacted my views about politics and politicians in many ways.How could a man that I have never met impact me so much? What’s thick about him? How did I become one of his fans?It all started with a phone call a few years ago…. “Hello, Seriki, I got your number from your editor, Tunde Rahman, and your MD, Eni B.“I had discussed with them about a job offer that you may like. So, I got your number from them to enable me to reach you.

After this call, I will be sending you two email addresses. Please send your Curriculum Vitae (CV) to them, and I will get back to you later.”Of course, I was taken aback. How could a man whom I have never met discuss a job offer for me with my bosses? How did he know me? In these difficult times, if a man has job offers, I thought he should first think about how to get them for his little brothers and cousins, I queried within myself.But the voice that spoke with me sounded too sincere to be that of a fraudster, and the details he gave me about my MD and my editor convinced me that he was out to manipulate me.And if there’s a job for me, should he have called my employers to discuss it with them? Does he want them to sack me? The questions were endless, but I needed to act.I immediately called my wife and told her about my encounter with the strange man, and she advised that I call my MD to confirm and that I should be discreet about it.With nervousness, I picked up my phone and called the MD.

Mind you, my MD is a man of few words. “Sir, a man called me and told me that he had discussed me with you. He asked me to send my CV. Is it true, sir?” He simply answered ‘yes’, and that was all; no further information. Haba!I wasn’t satisfied with that, so I called my editor. His words are not as few as those of the MD. I expected to hear more from him.”My editor, sir, a man called and asked me to send my CV to him. He said he has discussed it with you. His answer, too, was “yes, send.” I tried to ask further questions, but he hung up. His words became few that day.

Well. I took the “risk” of sending my CV to the unknown man, who later turned out to be my advocate.He reconstructed my CV and sent it back to me, and it was like, Wow! The same CV I sent was now looking different and better.I later got to understand that it is a name in Nigeria, especially in the media world. He had worked with former President Olusegun Obasanjo as a special adviser. Had also worked with military and civilian governors in the past.The government of Governor Idris Wada in Kogi State at the time needed to engage someone to work with His Excellency, and Prof. Olusunle was contacted, and it was I that came to his mind, a boy he had never met and indeed has not met even today.He didn’t just submit the CV; he pursued the job for me and kept updating me with every development. The rest is history.But this bulged my mind. How could a man I have never met do this? Who could this man be, and what’s his interest?But that is him, a man with a large heart. He does that for people. He doesn’t have to know you.

I have made several attempts to meet him, but that has not happened yet. But he has continued to share his thoughts and suggestions on salient national issues with me. He has shaped my views on several issues.Reading his articles has also groomed me to write better. A couple of times, he has sent me some cash to help my life.How do I celebrate such a good man as he turns 60 today? My family and I have prayed for him. He can only grow bigger and better. A man who seeks the good of another can never go down.Happy 60th birthday to a man with a heart of gold.

Happy 60th birthday to a man with a heart of gold.

Balling With Bola Tinubu At 73

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The Nigerian presidency is an energizing elixir. It has proven to be very effective in breathing life into dry bones. To old creaky engines, it gives deep cleaning; it replaces worn parts and upgrades the lubrication system. Olusegun Obasanjo went in there and got transformed from an imprisoned stork to a clean-shaven ladies’ egret. The Balogun Owu has since refused to age. Muhammadu Buhari entered the Villa peaky, ill and ailing. He left the place with his engine and chassis reinvented. His successor, super rich Lion of Bourdillon, broke the Internet with gaffes, slips and falls during the 2023 campaigns. He hasn’t yet spent two years in the Villa but he has also had a dramatic TAM (Turn Around Maintenance). The rough idling, vibrations and engine misfires are all gone. His cooling system is now cool and steady. These and many more are what the man celebrated two days ago as he officially turned 73, robust and rounded. He had many nice things said of him by those who seek (or already have) his mercy and favours.Where life expectancy is less than 50, netting seventy years plus is a boon. William Shakespeare rejects the withering properties of age and cuddles the vibrancy of youth. In his ‘The Passionate Pilgrim’, Shakespeare leaves lines of contrasts on ageing for us to read and ponder. He writes that “crabbed age and youth cannot live together.” And he explains why: “Youth is full of pleasure, age is full of care; Youth like summer morn, age like winter weather; Youth like summer brave, age like winter bare. Youth is full sport, age’s breath is short; Youth is nimble, age is lame; Youth is hot and bold, age is weak and cold; Youth is wild, age is tame.” Shakespeare ends those parallels with a yell of rejection and acceptance: “Age, I do abhor thee; youth, I do adore thee.

”Now, who is old, who is young?

People in the sciences say every person has two ages. They call one chronological age (number of years a person has lived); the other they say is biological, a person’s functional age. The Yoruba have a third category; they call it Atubotan (the after-death years). Short or long, the first is guaranteed for all; the second is a factor of luck and choice; the third is largely determined by how we spend the first two. Very few are blessed with all three.Less than two minutes from a town called Iragbiji in Osun State is another called Ikirun. It is about ten minutes from my own Eripa. Long gone Oba Lawani Adeyemi was Akinrun of Ikirun. The oba gathered fame across Yorubaland for the audacity of his longevity. He thought it was his right to live long and he loudly claimed it. When courtiers and all who courted his mercy wished him long life, Oba Adeyemi’s standard response was “Ó di dandan” (it is compulsory). At well over 70 years, Adeyemi’s people made him oba in 1945. His enemies thought him already at the departure lounge. They said he would soon vacate the space for them to take. There are legends that say with every rumour of his death came the actual death of the rumour mongers. Soon, no one warned no one again before they stopped wishing the oba dead. As years rolled into decades, the oba’s enemies dried out, the ones still alive became his friends. They had to; Ó di dandan.

Adeyemi stayed put on that throne until 1989 when he bowed out quietly. His people still celebrate the years in his reign not because they were unusually long, but because they were largely positive in the life of the community. He had the years, he was functional. More importantly, he had Atubotan. The oba had many children; he did not spoil them with palace spoils. They do not need unmerited honorary doctorate degrees from backwater universities to remain tall. The oba trained all his children such that the late king continues to live long after his death. His grandson was a Head of Service of the Federation; another is one of the richest in 2025 Ibadan. The rich needed no paternal imposition before he became the ‘Babaloja’ of his trade. President Tinubu very well knows Crystal Hospital at Akowonjo in Alimoso Local Government area of Lagos, it belongs to one of the eldest of Oba Adeyemi’s children. One of the youngest is a veteran in Osun State House of Assembly.Where I come from, we rejoice with the joyous which is why I join incongratulating our president on his 73rd birthday. But as he celebrated that occasion with pomp on 29th March – a day to Villa’s sumptuous Sallah, I hope he reflected on what his presidency has meant to the Nigerian outside official powers. Many are stranded on the rough, dusty road to survival. They trace their misery to the leader’s mirth; their poverty to the president’s pleasure. They think their agony is power’s easement. It is not funny.A democracy that repairs only the leaders is roguish and immoral. Yet, as we tell all these things, wisdom dictates that we march seven steps near the king, and six steps in nuanced back off. In Alex Danchev’s ‘Waltzing with Winston (Churchill),’ we are told that “the loyalties which centre upon number one are enormous.

If he trips, he must be sustained. If he makes mistakes, they must be covered. If he sleeps, he must not be wantonly disturbed. (But) if he is no good, he must be pole-axed.” Literally, to pole-axe is to attack, strike, or fell with or as if with a poleaxe. That is the price all who claim “number one” must pay when they are not acting good.The president preached sacrifice on his birthday but his birthday table showed assorted, sumptuous surplus, everything. His wrongheaded policies he described as “the right thing to do for our nation’s future.” His wife is a pastor, she should blow into his ear that only the living praises the Lord. Can a leader whose subjects wallow in want get blessed with their prayers? Among the Bantu of Eastern, Central and Southern Africa are a people called the Mashona. Anthropologist Denys Shropshire in a 1931 journal article tells us that in that place is a bird called Mukaranga wa Mambo. The storyteller says this bird “begins by making excited, shrill, chattering cries until she is attended to, after which, flying with contented chirps from branch to branch, she brings the traveller to the promised nest of honey.” A starved, marginalised citizenry has neither honey nor applause for unfeeling, feasting rulers.The vulture is Yoruba’s totem of longevity; a symbol of death and rebirth. The Yoruba say igúnnugún (vulture) would not die unless it is old. But they celebrate more than the years. What a man put in his age is more important than the years. Which is why I find Yoruba’s view of ageing and old age somewhat intriguing. There is an ambivalence here. They despise the ugliness of vulture but they covet vulture’s enduring agedness. They say because the vulture does not die young, they too must live longer than life. But they qualify it: The years must be years of peace and plenty.

They covet what they see as vulture’s longevity but not its unsightly totality. They want long life but not ageing with the debilities it connotes. They ask if you’ve ever seen a nestled sick bird. They want life without its co-morbidities.Nigerians see their government as a colony of vultures. In ageing and eating, the vulture is a bird of patience. It does not nurse the sick back to health. Instead, it waits for the hungry to die; it insists that rotten flesh is good food. Vulture is also a bird of opportunity. Nigeria is a vultures’ field. You ask why? I wonder too and I ask vulture biologists (ornithologists). They tell me that vultures approach dead or dying beings from openings – mouth, eyes, nostrils etc. And, Nigeria has many of such loopholes. Our vultures start the gutting from the guts, they then go to other inner organs for lunch. They move to the muscles and tear at the tissues. For supper, they access smaller spaces for tendons, they chew at other body parts; they clean out the carcass and move on to the next meal. When their earth completes its yearly revolution, they roll out the drums in celebration of their victory over their own people and land.When vultures surround you, make sure you stay alive, do not die.

Nigerians have really tried not to die for the vultures of power to rejoice over. Now, if food avoids Vulture, what will Vulture eat? The human being called Yoruba says in a proverb that when what is edible is not available, what is not edible becomes edible. Vultures feed on vultures if that is the only available carrion. What you feel in Rivers and Lagos and Kano are hungry vultures circling weak vultures for food.We celebrate the president at 73. He will live life longer than his presidential tenure. But we must tell him that his government retains its painfulness; the NYSC corps member’s description of his reign as terrible was apt. The town is bitter; the city is unpleasant.How then do we take back our country – if we ever had one? I am not the only person asking this question. But I am going to risk adding that if you are not satisfied with where your feet have taken you, the rational direction is to walk for change. Ask those who know the ways of vultures. If you do not want vultures around you, the effective way is to show them that which scares them: The effigy of a dead vulture.

Meet Dr. Abdul Karim Bangura: Africa’s Most Educated Man

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Dr. Abdul Karim Bangura is a Sierra Leonean-American scholar, researcher, author, and scientist, widely regarded as one of the most educated individuals in the world. He holds five PhD and speaks 17 languages.He holds the following degrees: B.A. in International Studies – American University (1982), M.A. in International Affairs – American University (1982), Fil. Mag. (Master’s equivalent) – University of Stockholm (1983), PhD in Political Science – Howard University (1987), M.S. in Linguistics – Georgetown University (1989), PhD in Policy Sciences – University of Maryland at Baltimore (1990), PhD in Linguistics – Georgetown University (1992), PhD in Computer Science – Columbus University, New Orleans (2001), PhD in Mathematics.

He speaks 17 languages, including English, Temne, Mende, Krio, Fula, Kono, Limba, Sherbro, Kiswahili, Spanish, Italian, French, Arabic, Hebrew, German, Chinese, and Swedish.He has served in various academic roles, including American University – Professor of International Relations, Researcher-in-Residence, Coordinator of the Islamic Lecture Series, Howard University – Adjunct Professor and Lecturer, Georgetown University – Schiff Summer Program Professor, Bowie State University – Assistant Professor of Political Science, Founding Director of the Center for Success, University of Sierra Leone – Advisory Board Member for the Center for Development and Security Analysis, Brookings Institution – Research Assistant in Middle Eastern Affairs, Atlantic Council of the United States – Academic AssociateDr. Bangura is a prolific author, having written or edited 35 books and over 250 scholarly articles covering topics in political science, linguistics, computer science, mathematics, African studies, international relations, and Islamic studies. Some of his notable works include Multilingualism and Diglossia in Sierra Leone, Black Political Thought, Chaos Theory and African Fractals, Islamic Peace Paradigms, and United States-African Relations: The Reagan-Bush Era.His research has been published in prominent journals, including the Journal of Third World Studies, Africa Today, and the International Journal of the Sociology of Language.

He is also the Editor-in-Chief of the African Journal of Languages and Linguistics and the Journal of Research Methodology and African Studies.Dr. Bangura is a member of numerous academic and professional organizations, including the African Studies Association (Chair of Research Methodology and African Studies Section), Association of Third World Studies (President, 2001-02; UN Ambassador, 2002-04), American Political Science Association, Linguistic Society of America, Mathematical Association of America, Policy Studies Organization, Awards and RecognitionsDr. Bangura’s contributions have been widely recognized with numerous awards, including: Distinguished Scholar Award – Middle Atlantic Writers Association (1995), African Excellence in Scholarship Award – African Studies and Research Forum (2001), the Dubai International Award (2006), Outstanding Scholar Award – Association of Third World Studies (2006), Multiple grants from the U.S. Department of Education and National Science Foundation.

POLICE CONSTABLE RECRUITMENT : SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATES TO RESUME TRAINING 12th APRIL, 2025 –PSC

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By Ebinum Samuel

 

The Police Service Commission and the Nigeria Police Force have approved 12th April, 2025, as the resumption date for the commencement of training for all successful candidates in the ongoing 2022 Recruitment of Constables into the Nigeria Police Force. Applicants who participated in the recently concluded Medical Screening Exercise held between February 26th to 12th March, 2025 are to log-on to the recruitment portal https://apply.policerecruitment.gov.ng to check their application status and print their Training Call-up slip.

The Commission’s spokesman, Ikechukwu Ani disclosed that the portal will open from tomorrow, Monday, 31st March, 2025. Successful candidates are to report at designated Police Training Institutions on date and time indicated on their Training Call-up slip for documentation. The Documentation period upon resumption at the Training Schools has been scheduled for 12th – 19th April, 2025. Candidates who fail to report within the time-frame will be considered to have declined the offer. Successful candidates are to report in clean white T-shirt and Short with the following: Training Call-up slip, Application Form submission slip, NIN slip, BVN slip, original and photocopies of certificate/credentials as well as other requirements listed on the recruitment portal.Chairman of the Police Service Commission, DIG Hashimu Argungu rtd mni, has congratulated the successful candidates and enjoined them to be committed to President Bola Tinubu’s desire to give Nigeria a Police Force capable and equipped to ensure the security of lives and property and defend the nation’s democracy.

DIG Argungu who wished the President a happy and joyful 73 birthday said the recruitment of these young Nigerians is obviously a birthday gift from Mr. President. He noted that they should not take this kind gesture for granted. DIG Argungu said the Commission will continue to ensure that its recruitment process is merit based and equitable and in line with the Federal Character policy.

PSC CHAIR GREETS MUSLIMS AT EID el-Fitr, PRAYS ALLAH ACCEPTS THEIR FASTS AND ANSWER THEIR PRAYERS -calls for support for our leaders

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By Ebinum Samuel

 

Eid el Fitr marks the end of a month-long special dedication to Allah’s commandment and the Holy Month of Ramadan. The Chairman of the Police Service Commission, DIG Hashimu Argungu rtd, mni, in his sallah message to Nigerians and especially Staff of the Commission and Officers and Men of the Nigeria Police Force, prayed that Allah in His infinite mercy accept “our fasts and answer our prayers”.

According to Ikechukwu Ani, the Commission’s spokesman, DIG Argungu also prayed that all the lessons learnt during the Holy Month continue to reverberate in our lives adding “May Allah in His infinite mercy continue to bless our homes, families, friends, loved ones and our country Nigeria”He called for genuine love for our nation and support for our leaders at all levels.

The PSC Chairman wished all Muslim Faithful and Nigerians at large a blessed Eid el Fitr celebration.

Lekki, Italy based businessmen arrested over illicit drug shipments to Nigeria, Europe. As NDLEA destroys 13,198 kilograms skunk in Edo forests; busts drug repackaging factory in Katsina village, recovers 86,000 pills of opioid, arrests 4. Marwa commends personnel, prays for safer and drug free society on eid-el-fitr

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By Ebinum Samuel

 

Operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, have arrested a Lekki-based businessman and proprietor of Damillionz Takeout, Arokodare Damil Ebenezer in connection with the shipment of 60 parcels of Loud, a strong strain of cannabis, from the United States of America to Nigeria.The 43-year-old businessman was arrested at Bay Lounge, Admiralty Way, Lekki area of Lagos where he does his illicit drug business on Monday 24th March 2025 while he was expecting to take the delivery of his latest drug consignment. His arrest followed the seizure of his cargo that arrived Nigeria in seven big cartons at a logistics company in Lagos on 12th March by NDLEA operatives of the Directorate of Operations and General Investigation.After his arrest, he was taken to his Lekki home for a search during which 94grams of the same psychoactive substance, cannabis crusher and other drug paraphernalia were recovered.

This brings the total weight of the drug seized from him to 32.24 kilograms.In his statement, he claimed he started the illicit drug business in 2017.Attempt by another businessman Omoruyi Terry to export 1,400 pills of tramadol 225mg weighing 800 grams to Italy has also been thwarted by NDLEA officers at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Ikeja Lagos. Omoruyi was intercepted at the screening point of terminal 2 of the Lagos airport on his way to Italy via a Qatar Airways flight. Investigation reveals the suspect is an Italy based frequent traveler and logistics agent. In Katsina, four suspects: Baraka Abubakar, 40; Haruna Alitine, 23; Muhammad Babangida, 20; and Hamisu Lawal, were arrested on Friday 28th March during an intelligence led raid operation at Godai village in Daura LGA where 684 blocks of compressed skunk, a strain of cannabis weighing 423kg and 86,000 pills of diazepam were recovered from them. The three male suspects were arrested while repackaging the diazepam tablets into other containers while Baraka, the female suspect was apprehended with the heaps of skunk in her house.Not less than 13,198 kilograms of cannabis sativa were destroyed in Edo forests across parts of the state between Monday 24th and Friday 28th March by NDLEA operatives who also evacuated 158kg of same substance for possible prosecution. The forests where no fewer than four cannabis plantations were discovered and destroyed include: Uhen forest, Ovia North East LGA; Sobe, Owan West LGA; and Amahor forest in Igueben LGA.In Niger state, NDLEA officers on patrol along Mokwa-Jebba road on Friday 28th March intercepted a black Toyota Corolla car marked SLM 137 SV and arrested the two occupants in possession of 179 blocks of compressed skunk with a total weight of 77.6kg concealed in false bottom of the vehicle.

The two suspects are: Paul Christopher, 46, and Lucky Star Anumie. In another operation, 50kg skunk was on Saturday 29th March recovered from the home of a suspect, Isa Iliya, who is currently at large, in Wawa village, Borgu council area of the state.While 108.5kg of skunk was recovered from lockup shops at Aria New Market, in Enugu metropolis, Enugu state by NDLEA operatives on Tuesday 25th March, 25kg of same substance was seized from a suspect Abdulrazak Saka at Kilako Area of Ilorin, Kwara State on Monday 24th March. Another suspect Suli Saheed, 50, was nabbed with 2.5 kilograms of Ghanaian Loud and 515 grams of Colorado, at Olomi Academy area of Ibadan, Oyo state. With the same vigour, Commands and formations of the Agency across the country continued their War Against Drug Abuse, WADA, sensitization activities to schools, worship centres, work places and communities among others in the past week.

These include: WADA sensitisation lecture to students and staff of Blessed Martins International School, Abakaliki, Ebonyi state; Model Ideal College, Enugu; Oto-Awori Senior Secondary School, Ijanikin, Lagos state; and Command Secondary School, Numan, Adamawa state, among others.While commending the officers and men of MMIA, DOGI, Edo, Kwara, Niger, Enugu, Oyo and Katsina Commands of the Agency for the arrests and seizures, Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd) stated that their operational successes and those of their compatriots across the country especially their balanced approach to drug supply reduction and drug demand reduction efforts are well appreciated. He extended eid-el-fitr greetings to them, their families, other stakeholders and Nigerians at large. “May the spirit of obedience and sacrifice that defines this special day guide and strengthen us as we remain steadfast in our pursuit of a drug-free society. May Allah continue to bless and guide us and may our collective efforts bring us closer to a safer and healthier society for all”, the NDLEA boss added.

The Silent Pandemic: How Misogyny is Crippling Our political culture

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By Halima Abdulazeez

Despite the complexities, it’s important to recognize that pre-colonial African traditions and values celebrated women’s power, contributions, and importance in ways that challenge simplistic narratives of female subordination. Understanding this history is crucial for building a more equitable future.Women held positions of power, respect, and influence often overlooked in historical narratives dominated by colonial perspectives. There were Queen Mothers and Royal Women in many kingdoms; women held significant political power, often serving as advisors to the king or ruling in their own right. Examples include the Queen Mothers in Ashanti (Ghana) who played a crucial role in selecting chiefs, Queen Nzinga of Angola who led resistance against Portuguese colonization and Queen Amina of Zauzau who ruled in the mid-16th Century.

The Dahomey Amazons (Benin) are a well-known example of an all-female warrior corps that played a crucial role in the kingdom’s defense.Nigeria, a nation with potential, is being quietly eroded by a destructive force: misogyny. Our headlines may scream of corruption and insecurity, but the insidious impact of deeply ingrained misogynistic values creeping into our politics is being tragically overlooked. It’s time to shine a light on this unseen pandemic, this slow poisoning that debases women and, in turn, threatens to cripple our entire societal structure.This isn’t simply about individual men “hating on women.” In Nigeria, misogyny is a deeply rooted systemic issue, a web woven into the fabric of our society. It manifests as a persistent belief in male superiority, a subtle devaluation of women’s vital contributions, the insidious objectification of women, and a prevailing justification for controlling their freedom and their bodies. This toxic ideology isn’t confined to remote villages or antiquated traditions; it thrives in our bustling cities, within the walls of our homes, and even within the hallowed chambers.The constant, often subtle, barrage of messages telling girls they are somehow less valuable than boys relentlessly chip away at their self-esteem and confidence. This insidious erosion makes them far less likely to pursue leadership roles, to challenge harmful societal norms, or to realize their inherent potential.

This sense of inferiority, fostered by a culture of ingrained misogyny, can have devastating lifelong repercussions, profoundly impacting their relationships, their career aspirations, and their overall well-being.Perhaps the most alarming consequence is the heightened risk of violence and abuse that Nigerian women face. Violating a woman or a girl’s right to speak out against any form of injustice or abuse has become, appallingly, almost commonplace. Consider the disturbing case of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who is battling to return and retain her seat in the Senate simply for daring a system that would rather keep her silent. Even though we may not always agree with how she expresses her frustration, it is our collective responsibility to listen, to investigate her claims, and to hold the guilty parties accountable. Yet, instead of seeking the truth, the Senate, seemingly desperate to protect a figure, slammed her with a suspension. Meanwhile, the opposition in Kogi State also launched a shady recall process, clearly aimed at silencing her voice permanently.As if that wasn’t choking Nigerians enough, fast forward to March 26th 2025. Mrs. Oby Ezekwesili, the respected former Minister of Solid Minerals, appeared before the Senate Ethics Committee as Senator Natasha’s witness in the harassment case.

She inadvertently ignited the fury of the Senate Deputy Chief Whip, Onyekachi Nwebonyi, who has never made any secret of his animosity towards Natasha and her accusations of sexual harassment and intimidation against Senate President Akpabio and, by extension, the entire Senate. Senator Nwebonyi’s overtly defensive and wholly inappropriate reaction to Mrs. Ezekwesili’s insistence to be heard only confirmed the disturbing truth: that Nigeria is, indeed, sliding dangerously into deeply ingrained misogynistic tendencies. As Kurtis Adigba rightly observed, “What else does anyone watching need to know that the men in the Senate have no tolerance for women?”This disturbing pattern is further underscored by the alarming surge in reported cases of gender-based violence across the nation, too often fueled by social media platforms and a pervasive culture of victim-blaming, which together paint a grim picture of the challenges facing women in Nigeria today. But the damage doesn’t stop with girls and women.

Tragically, Nigerian boys are also victims of this insidious ideology. From a young age, they are pressured to conform to rigidly defined masculine stereotypes, forced to suppress their emotions and denied the fundamental human right to express vulnerability. This enforced emotional repression can lead to profound difficulties in forming healthy relationships, significantly increased aggression, and a drastically higher risk of developing serious mental health issues later in life.The deeply ingrained belief that men are inherently entitled to dominance and control over women breeds a pervasive sense of disrespect, contributes directly to the perpetuation of harmful behaviors, including sexual harassment and domestic violence.

Tragically, boys who are raised to believe that women are primarily objects of sexual desire rather than fully realized human beings are far more likely to engage in exploitative and abusive relationships.We must, as a society, acknowledge that the unseen wounds of misogyny are crippling our politics and jeopardizing out values. Only then can we begin to heal and build a more just and equitable nation for all.

©Halima Abdulazeez

Halima Abdulazeez is a Lagos-based poet and writer known for her poetry collection, ‘Soul Rants: A Journey from Within’. She also dedicates her time and expertise as Treasurer of PEN International’s Nigerian Center and as a Communications Officer at Caprecon International Development Foundation.

Ogun govt official frustrates police murder trial in Lagos

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The trial of five murder suspects in Lagos state by police officers recently met a brickwall after attempts to carry out thorough investigations were allegedly thwarted by a top government official in neighbouring Ogun state.The murder suspects, Hammed Olayiwola, 45, Taofeek Ajasa, 47, Samuel Ajose, 39, Segun Elijah, 54, Segun Dada, 54, and Elijah Adeogun, 43, were earlier arrested by the police at Zone 2, Onikan, Lagos over the fracas that took place in Osuke village in Ado-Odo, Ota in Ogun state, following a petition to the Inspector General of Police by one Lanre Balogun and Co on behalf of Ileke family descendants against one Adeogun Elijah and others.The petitioner alleged criminal conspiracy, unlawful possession of firearms, causing grievous harm, attempted murder and murder.

It was reportedly referred to Assistant Inspector-General of Police in Zone 2, Onikan, Lagos, for discreet investigation after which detectives attached to the Zone swung into action and arrested the suspects.It was learned that the allegations were based on the invasion of Osuke village with sophisticated weapons by some masked criminals who engaged in shooting and causing a breach of peace after which one Saheed Shoboyede Jinadu, 24, was fatally shot and was later confirmed dead.Police sources said the Zonal Tracking unit at the Zone waded into the matter and all the necessary legal steps including letter of investigation sent to the Magistrate court in Ota, High court in Ilaro, Court of Appeal in Ibadan for verification of documents, MTN and Airtel communication services in order to generate call log and other useful information to assist the investigation.Reports said detectives succeeded in recovering two expended AK-47 rifle ammunition shells, two expended cartridge at the crime scene and later transfer them as exhibits after arresting the suspects.

The case, however, took a different dimension after detectives made frantic efforts to obtain court papers for their remand in Ogun state pending the conclusion of their investigations but their efforts were thwarted by the top government officials said to be a member of the church that bought the land which caused the bloody fracas in Osuke village.Furthermore, police sources said their efforts to also get the result of the autopsy to know the cause of the death of the deceased, get result of the recovered empty shells for forensic analysis and arrest other suspects implicated in the murder case, were also hampered by the government official whom they alleged was busy taking all necessary steps to use his office to release the suspects who are known as notorious land grabbers in Ogun state.However, the case came to the open after the Attorney General of Ogun state, Oluwasina Ogungbade, SAN, released a statement indicting the investigating officers and the AIG of being used by land grabbers. He also reportedly accused the AIG of attempting to preempt a review of misconduct and criminal enterprise of the policemen under his watch.

In the statement, the AGF stated that from the errors made by the police investigators, it was clear that his ministry was being unwittingly used to perpetuate injustice and persecute a citizen hence it discontinued the false charges in court.Meanwhile, Police sources said the case and suspects have being transferred to Force headquarters, Abuja for further investigations while discreet efforts are being made to arrest other fleeing suspects the matter.

IGP Egbetokun Decorates Disu, Ojajuni, Ogedengbe, Others With New Ranks

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By Ebinum Samuel

 

The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Egbetokun Olukayode Adeolu, has decorated the newly promoted Assistant Inspector General of Police, AIG Tunji Disu with his new rank.

Ace Police spokesman, Bode Ojajuni said to be one of the best police spokesmen Lagos state police command ever had, was also decorated with the Commissioner of Police rank alongside other newly promoted Senior officers.

The rank decoration of the new officers was done by the IGP with other dignitaries, on Tuesday at the Goodluck Jonathan Peacekeeping Hall, Force Headquarters, Abuja amidst cheers from their families, friends, and professional colleagues.

The officers affected by the promotion included 20 Commissioners of Police (CPs) to the rank of AIG and 19 Deputy Commissioners (DCs) to the substantive rank of CP.

This is sequel to the recent promotion approved by the Police Service Commission at the request of the IGP, and a continuation of the innovative policies implemented by the IGP which has recorded the most promotions in the Force within the shortest time frame.

Other newly decorated officers are AIGs Fasuba Olabode, Musibau Ajani, Aliyu Abubakar, Patrick Adedeji Atayero, Gyogon Grimah, Olaiya Victor Mobolaji, Chukwudi Ariekpere, Abubakar Sadiq Aliyu, Olaolu Adegbite, Godwin Eze, Alausa Tolani, Kareem Musa, Mohammed Shehu Dalijan, Dan-Mamman Shawulu, Clement Robert, Musa Auwal Mohammed, Thomas Abraham Nabhoni, Abel Jangnap Zwalchir, and Ifeanyi Uka.

In addition, the decorated officers from the rank of Deputy Commissioners of Police to Commissioners of Police are CPs Usman Tahir, Sunday Okoebor, Ayodeji Faniyan, Saka Adewale Ajao, Omole Ola, Hope Okafor, Ajo Geofrey Oroue, Olufunke Ogunbode, Stephen Ogedengbe, Iyabode Oluwatoyin Agbaminoja, Adebowale Lawal, Ojo Adekimi, Yemi Oyeniyi, Obasi Okereke, Moses Ottah, Felix Nnebue, Gazali Abdulsalam and Fidelis Ogarabe.

In attendance was the Former Senate President, David Mark; the Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented by Dr Ayodele Ogunsan; the former Governor of Ekiti State,

Otunba Niyi Adebayo; former speaker Akwa-Ibom House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Onofiok Luke; members of the Force Management Team; serving and retired Senior Police Officers, families of promotes and other dignitaries.

The Inspector-General of Police while congratulating the newly promoted officers, charged them to adopt a strategic and progressive approach towards policing, as well as propagating the ongoing positive reforms aimed at enhancing the operational effectiveness of the Force.