Nigeria

By Mukhtar Jarmajo

Indeed, when people begin to do things in such a way as to defy their rules or behaviours, it is only proper for scientific research to be conducted to discover the reason(s) behind such behavioural change. In fact, for leaders, it is essential to continuously study the people’s behaviour to decode their actions and inactions in response to government decisions for the sake of the government’s sustainability and continued law and order in the polity. If, however, this is not done accordingly, there is every tendency that, in time, a government may not know it has lost the people’s confidence.

An example of such a situation is that of the present Nigeria, where its people, who in their usual antecedents are most unlikely to protest against hardship and pain, went to the streets to express dissatisfaction with how things are happening in the country. 

Just as the haranguing of the taciturn is altogether a surprise and definitely attention seeking, Nigerians, in unison, going out to the streets to express anger is astonishing and thus a clear message to the government that all is not well in the country. And true to it, most Nigerians are in untold hardship, increasingly perceiving the miasma of hopelessness with each passing day.

The people cannot be well and happy in an economy, with its currency becoming valueless at the end of every business day. This implies that at every sunrise, the Naira in the hands of Nigerians can buy less than what it could have on the previous day. And with the government’s refusal to subsidise fuel and electricity, the economy, which is already unproductive, has nosedived the more, leaving entrepreneurs at the receiving end. The nation’s economy now has no middle class. Poverty is in every corner of Nigeria, with illiteracy buttressing it.

This economic downturn has had a ripple effect on the social fabric of the nation. Crime rates have skyrocketed as young people, desperate for survival, resort to illegal activities. The once vibrant and bustling cities are now ghost towns as businesses close down and unemployment soars. The health sector is already deplorable and is now on the brink of collapse. Hospitals lack basic amenities, forcing patients to purchase essential drugs and supplies. The educational sector is not spared either. Public schools are dilapidated, and teachers are poorly remunerated, leading to a decline in the quality of education.

The political landscape is equally fraught with challenges. The ruling class is more concerned with self-enrichment than the welfare of the people. Corruption is endemic, and public funds are siphoned into private pockets. Irregularities mar the electoral process, and the voices of the people are often ignored. The lack of accountability and transparency has eroded the trust between the government and the governed.

The security situation in the country is also a major concern. Banditry and kidnapping have become commonplace in most parts of the country. The people live in fear and uncertainty, as their lives and property are not safe.

It is evident that Nigeria is at a crossroads. The government must take urgent steps to address the myriad problems facing the nation. This includes revamping the economy, improving the standard of living, providing adequate security, and promoting good governance. The government must also listen to the people and implement policies that are in their best interest.

The time for empty promises and rhetoric is over. The people are demanding action. The government must deliver on its promises or risk losing the trust and confidence of the people. The future of Nigeria depends on the choices made today.

Jarmajo can be reached via dattuwamanga@gmail.com.

By Gaddafi Yusuf Young Journalist 

Someone who stands up for justice and rejects ineptitude and injustice in all facets of his people’s lives is considered a comrade. 

Dan Bello is a well-known character who appears everywhere. He uncovers a secret: the Nigerian government is embezzling and laundering money. Despite being abroad, more precisely, born in the United States of America, where everyone is entitled to freedom, and living in China, the birthplace of major global advancements.

Dan Bello conducts in-depth research and analysis to spit out everything the Nigerian government is doing. He affects all three branches of the government, clerics, and the populace at large.

Although he had few views when posting his skits on social media, his consistency helped him grow over at least two years. He raises awareness of the hardships and unrest occurring in Nigeria, particularly among the northerners, as well as the bribery and corruption that have become ingrained in the country’s citizenry. 

Despite his abundance of knowledge, he made the Nigerian people aware of what was happening outside their doors—the waste and theft of the country’s natural resources and wealth by providing them with factual and empirical reports.

Unfortunately, he is being attacked, mistreated, and vilified by a few ignorant and disloyal young people in the north just because he exposed their political ancestors, who exploited the nation as a prop for themselves and their progeny. 

It touches my heart more, but I understand how our youths have turned to beggars for food without thinking about the consequences in their lives. All they need is their boss’s appreciation and happiness, regardless of how others are torturing and tormenting by their action. 

Even now, our people still find it difficult to embrace the harsh reality of their religious beliefs, political opinions, and relationships with loved ones. 

I felt compelled to appeal to Dan Bello because it hurts to fight for the people you love and those people to fight back because they are self-centred and ignorant. But I beg of you, Dan Bello, and your men, including Barr. Bulama Bukarti, Jafar Jafar, Salisu Zango, Barr. Abba Hikima and the rest of your team have taken me as mentors and role models for journalism and freedom fighters, not to mention them. I promise to work tirelessly alongside you and your team to uncover the truth no matter where it may be found, all the way to the end of this incredible journey to liberate ourselves from the oppressive leaders that rule us.

I pray to Almighty Allah to provide you success, direction, and safety wherever you are. I hope that my beloved Nigeria will soon be restored and revitalised.

Gaddafi Yusuf is a Mass Communications student from A.M.T Massive College and can be via gaddafiyusuf240@gmail.com. 

By Uzair Adam 

The global internet user base has grown consistently in recent years, with countries with larger populations leading the charge. 

However, some smaller nations also boast impressive online activity.

According to Exploding Topics, here are the ten countries with the largest number of internet users:

1. China – 1.05 billion: With its massive population, China tops the list with an estimated 1.05 billion internet users, accounting for 74.36% of its population.

2. India – 692 million: India ranks second, with 692 million people online, representing 49.15% of its population.

3. United States—311.3 million: The U.S. has 311.3 million internet users, which translates to a high penetration rate of 93.79%.

4. Indonesia – 212.9 million: Indonesia has 212.9 million people online, with a penetration rate of 77.76%.

5. Brazil – 181.8 million: Brazil has 181.8 million internet users, covering nearly 85% of its population.

6. Russia – 127.6 million: Russia follows with 127.6 million users, almost 90% of its population.

7. Nigeria – 122.5 million: Nigeria ranks seventh globally, with over 122.5 million internet users, more than half of its population.

8. Japan—102.5 million: Japan has 102.5 million internet users, which is more than 80% of its population.

9. Mexico – 100.6 million: Mexico has 100.6 million people online, with nearly 80% penetration.

10. Pakistan – 87.35 million: Pakistan rounds out the top 10 with 87.35 million internet users, despite only 40% of its population being connected.

By Muhammed Bello Umar

Nepotism is a long-standing problem in Nigeria that has plagued the country for several years. It is the practice of favouring family or friends over others, typically without regard for their qualifications or abilities. This practice is widespread in Nigeria and has manifested in various sectors of the economy, including politics, education, and the job market.

Nepotism is common in the political arena, as politicians appoint their relatives or friends to positions of power or influence, regardless of merit or qualifications. This practice has resulted in appointing unqualified individuals to high-level positions, leading to the underdevelopment and poor performance of many sectors in the country.

Nepotism also exists in the education sector, as students are often admitted into universities based on connections rather than merit. This practice has led to a decline in the quality of education and has hindered the sector’s growth.

Similarly, nepotism is widespread in the job market, and family or friends of employers are often given preferential treatment over more qualified candidates, resulting in high unemployment rates and low job opportunities for deserving individuals.

Overall, nepotism undermines Nigeria’s growth and development by promoting mediocrity over meritocracy. Nigerian leaders must prioritise meritocracy and ensure that positions of power and influence are given to the most qualified individuals, irrespective of their connections. Only then can Nigeria progress towards prosperity and sustainable development.

Muhammed Bello Umar wrote via princemub28@gmail.com

By Abdulsalam Alkali

Mr President, when you contested for the presidency of this country, many Nigerians believed that you were a democrat. This made you endearing to Nigerians who believed that democracy was the only way to bring about the desired change for the country. Hence, Nigerians supported you in actualising your long-term dream of becoming the president of this country. 

For over 14 months that you have been the President of this country, Nigeria has been engulfed by economic instability, high inflation rate, insecurity and gross poverty. Due to some of your policies and programs, Nigeria has never had a bad situation like this before.

These aforementioned challenges have forced Nigerian Youth, including those of older ages, to protest in the hope of finding a panacea to the problems that bedevilled us as a country. Unfortunately, your recent broadcast failed to address the issues being raised by Nigerians. It was a plea and assurance, as usual. Mr. President, we need action because, at this point, people have virtually lost hope in your government.

Mr President, I want to remind you that the issues facing Nigerians require your immediate attention. It is your responsibility to take swift action to lift this country out of the dire situation it finds itself in and set it on the path to peace and prosperity. 

Poor Nigerians’ only concern is for the government to make things more affordable and work toward reducing the price of food and other basic necessities of life.

The recent protests may have subsided, but if the current situation persists, it will undoubtedly affect your chances and, by extension, disrupt the fragile peace we currently enjoy. Food security is crucial in maintaining a nation’s stability and ensuring national security. 

Abdulsalam Alkali writes from Maiduguri, Borno State.

By Kabir Fagge Ali

Throughout its history, Nigeria has allowed political figures who have failed to meet public expectations to remain in or return to positions of power. This trend of political recycling has not only stifled progress but also perpetuated a cycle of inefficiency and corruption.

Nigeria ranks among the most corrupt countries globally, consistently near the bottom of the Transparency International Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI). In 2023, the country was ranked 145 out of 180 countries, with a score of 25 out of 100, reflecting minimal improvement from previous years. The country’s persistent corruption is deeply rooted in its political culture, where high-profile politicians frequently escape serious consequences for their actions. 

For instance, despite numerous corruption allegations, former officials often receive minimal penalties or are pardoned altogether, as seen with former governors pardoned by former President Muhammadu Buhari.

Over the years, the Nigerian government has established institutions like the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) to combat corruption. However, these bodies often face significant challenges, including political interference and inadequate resources, which hinder their effectiveness.

Since gaining independence in 1960, Nigeria has seen a recurrent pattern of political leaders re-emerging in positions of power despite their previous failures. This trend spans various administrations and political parties, often characterised by a lack of accountability and transparency. One prominent example is the Senate leadership. David Mark served as President of the Senate from 2007 to 2015. 

Despite controversies surrounding his tenure, including allegations of misappropriation of funds and lack of transparency, often re-emerged in various political capacities. Similarly, Bukola Saraki, who served as Senate President from 2015 to 2019, faced numerous allegations of corruption and asset declaration discrepancies. Despite these issues, he continued to wield considerable influence in Nigerian politics, running for the presidency and remaining active in politics.

Similarly, state governors in Nigeria have also exemplified this trend. James Ibori, the former Governor of Delta State (1999-2007), was convicted of corruption and money laundering. Despite his conviction and imprisonment, he remains influential in Nigerian politics, with significant support and influence within his home state and beyond. 

Another example is Diepreye Alamieyeseigha, the former Governor of Bayelsa State (1999-2005), who was impeached and later convicted of corruption. Despite this, he remained an influential political figure until his death, and his family remains politically active.

These cases highlight how political figures, even after being held accountable for significant misconduct, continue to wield influence and often return to positions of power.

This trend is not limited to high-ranking officials. Ministers and other political appointees in Nigeria also exhibit this pattern. For instance, Diezani Alison-Madueke, the former Minister of Petroleum Resources, was implicated in numerous corruption scandals. Despite being under investigation and facing charges, she remains a prominent figure, and her case highlights the challenges of holding high-ranking officials accountable.

The re-emergence of such figures in the political scenery perpetuates a cycle of inefficiency and corruption, preventing new and potentially more effective leaders from taking the helm.

On the contrary, in stark contrast to Nigeria and many African nations, political accountability in the United States often results in swift removal from office for leaders who fail to meet public expectations or are involved in scandals.

For example, Rod Blagojevich, the former Governor of Illinois, was impeached and removed from office in 2009 after being charged with corruption, including attempting to sell a Senate seat. His removal demonstrated the U.S. system’s ability to hold officials accountable.

Similarly, Anthony Weiner, the former U.S. Representative, resigned in 2011 after a scandal involving inappropriate online behaviour. Despite attempts to return to politics, his repeated misconduct prevented a successful comeback. 

Another U.S. Representative, Katie Hill, resigned in 2019 amid allegations of inappropriate relationships with staffers and other ethical concerns. These resignations highlight the high accountability standards for U.S. public officials.

The recurrent emergence of previously unsuccessful leaders in Nigeria has major implications.

One major consequence is the stagnation of progress. Recycled leaders often bring back old policies and approaches that have already proven ineffective, hindering progress and innovation. This stagnation is evident in various sectors, including the economy, education, and infrastructure development and even the introduction of our dear nation’s old national anthem. The lack of new and dynamic leadership prevents implementing fresh ideas and solutions that could drive the country forward.

Additionally, another life-threatening implication is the erosion of public trust. The public’s faith in the political system diminishes when leaders who have failed to deliver on their promises can return to power. This erosion of trust leads to apathy and disengagement among the electorate, further weakening the democratic process. When citizens feel their votes do not lead to meaningful change, they are less likely to participate in elections and other civic activities, perpetuating a cycle of ineffective governance.

Furthermore, the preservation of corruption is another significant consequence of political recycling. Leaders who have previously engaged in corrupt practices will likely continue such behaviours, further entrenching corruption within the political system.

This persistent corruption undermines the rule of law, hampers economic development, and exacerbates social inequalities. The lack of accountability for corrupt leaders creates an environment where corrupt practices are normalised and even expected, making it difficult to establish a culture of integrity and transparency in governance.

Consequently, to break this cycle of political recycling and foster more accountable and effective leadership, Nigeria should consider several measures. Strengthening democratic institutions is crucial. Enhancing the independence and capacity of institutions like the judiciary, electoral bodies, and anti-corruption agencies can help ensure that leaders are held accountable for their actions.

The leadership should ensure that these institutions are empowered to investigate and prosecute corruption and other misconduct without political interference.

Additionally, promoting political accountability is another essential step. Implementing mechanisms to hold leaders accountable for their actions and ensuring transparency in governance can help restore public trust in the political system. This includes enacting and enforcing laws that prevent individuals with a history of corruption and misconduct from holding public office. Also, the media and civil society organisations play a vital role in holding leaders accountable by investigating and reporting corruption and other issues to the general public. 

Moreover, encouraging political renewal is also necessary to foster effective leadership. Creating opportunities for new leaders to emerge by promoting political education and participation, especially among the youth and marginalised groups, can help bring fresh perspectives and innovative solutions to governance. Of course, this includes investing in civic education programs that teach young people about their rights and responsibilities as citizens and encouraging them to participate in the political process.

Ultimately, political recycling in Nigeria has hindered the country’s development and eroded public trust in governance. By learning from global examples like the United States, where political accountability is enforced more rigorously, Nigeria can adopt strategies to ensure a more accountable and effective political leadership.

This, in turn, would foster a more prosperous and stable nation. The journey towards breaking the cycle of political recycling will not be easy. Still, with concerted efforts and a commitment to accountability and transparency, Nigeria can pave the way for a brighter future.

Kabir Fagge Ali is a Youth Corps Member with PR Nigeria centre and wrote via faggekabir29@gmail.com.

By Maimunna Katuka Aliyu

Understanding blood types and genotypes is crucial for emergencies, such as blood transfusions during accidents. However, knowing one’s genotype, particularly before marriage, is equally important to avoid having children with Sickle Cell Disease (SCD).

Blood genotypes determine an individual’s blood type, inherited from our parents and remain constant throughout our lives. The four main blood types are A, B, AB, and O, classified based on the presence of antigens in red blood cells. The Rh factor can also be present (Rh-positive) or absent (Rh-negative), further defining blood types.

Blood genotypes play significant roles in the following:
– Blood Transfusions: Ensuring compatibility between donor and recipient blood.
– Pregnancy: Preventing complications like haemolytic disease of the newborn.
– Organ Transplants: Matching donor and recipient blood types for successful transplants.
– Disease Susceptibility: Influencing susceptibility to diseases like sickle cell anaemia.

Sickle cell disease is a genetic disorder affecting haemoglobin production, leading to abnormal red blood cells. These cells become crescent-shaped and rigid, causing a range of health problems. The genotype responsible for SCD is known as HbSS or HbSβthal, resulting from a mutation in the HBB gene.

Individuals with sickle cell disease have two copies of the mutated gene (HbSS), while those with one normal gene and one mutated gene (HbAS) have the sickle cell trait but generally remain healthy. Understanding an individual’s genotype is crucial in determining their risk of developing SCD or passing it to their offspring.

The symptoms of sickle cell disease can vary in severity and include:
– Anemia
– Fatigue
– Shortness of breath
– Pale skin
– Yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice)
– Painful episodes (crises)
– Swelling of hands and feet
– Increased risk of infections

While there is no cure for sickle cell disease, several management options help alleviate symptoms and prevent complications:
– Pain Management: Medications like acetaminophen and ibuprofen.
– Blood Transfusions: Increasing healthy red blood cell levels.
– Hydroxyurea: Reducing the frequency of painful episodes and improving anaemia.

Aisha Mahmud, a sickle cell patient diagnosed at age three, shared her experiences. As she grew older, the frequency of her crises reduced, occurring only once every three months. She regularly visits Primus Hospital in Karu, Abuja, and FMC Azare for checkups. Aisha emphasises that emotional stress often triggers crises, highlighting the importance of therapy over medication. Remarkably, her genotype changed from SS to AC, bringing immense joy to her family.

The challenges faced by sickle cell patients are immense, impacting them physically, psychologically, emotionally, and financially. Crises can occur unpredictably, causing significant distress to patients and their families.

Researchers are continuously exploring new treatment options for sickle cell disease. Some of the latest developments include:

– Hydroxyurea: Reduces pain crises and acute chest syndrome, decreasing the need for blood transfusions.

– Voxelotor: Approved for people age four and older to reduce pain crises and improve anaemia.

– Crizanlizumab: Approved for people age 16 and older to reduce pain crises.

– L-glutamine: Approved for people age five and older to reduce pain crises.

– Bone Marrow Transplant: Can cure some individuals with SCD but requires careful consideration and a suitable donor.

– Gene Therapy: Genes are used to correct the mutations that cause sickle cell disease.

– CRISPR Technology: A gene-editing tool that corrects the mutation causing SCD.

In conclusion, sickle cell disease is a complex and debilitating genetic disorder affecting millions worldwide. While there is no cure, management options help alleviate symptoms and prevent complications. Ongoing research and new treatment options offer hope for improved treatment and potentially a cure in the future.

Maimunna Katuka Aliyu wrote via munat815@gmail.com.

By Anwar Usman

Mr. Wale Edun, the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, has debunked reports suggesting an increase in the Value-Added Tax rate from 7.5 percent to 10 percent.

In a statement signed by him on Monday, Edun clarified that the VAT rate remains unchanged at 7.5 percent, as stipulated in the nation’s tax laws.

Edun reiterated that “the current VAT rate is 7.5%, and this is what the government charges on a spectrum of goods and services to which the tax is applicable. Therefore, neither the Federal Government nor any of its agencies will act contrary to what the laws stipulate.”

He further explained the importance of maintaining a balanced tax system, emphasizing that Nigeria’s tax framework is built on three key pillars: tax policy, tax laws, and tax administration.

While addressing concerns over government actions perceived as anti-human, Edun reassured Nigerians that fiscal policies are designed to promote sustainable economic growth and alleviate poverty, not to hinder them.

The Minister also stated, “Our focus as a government is to use fiscal policy in a manner that promotes and enhances strong and sustainable economic growth, reduces poverty, and makes businesses flourish.”

By Uzair Adam

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar have issued warnings that the recent increase in petrol prices by the Federal Government is pushing many Nigerians to a breaking point.

This comes as prominent human rights lawyer Femi Falana, SAN, calls on the government to complete the rehabilitation of the nation’s refineries by September 2024 or take legal action against contractors for failing to meet project deadlines.

The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) also urged President Bola Tinubu to order the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) to reverse the price hike, labeling it as “illegal and unconstitutional.”

While the NLC advocated for public resistance to the fuel price increase, Atiku highlighted that the government’s plans to raise Value Added Tax (VAT) would further worsen the economic strain on citizens.

NLC President Joel Ajaero, represented by Prince Adewale Adeyanju at a Labour Writers Association of Nigeria workshop, decried the combination of fuel price hikes, naira devaluation, and rising electricity tariffs as policies that have deepened the struggles of ordinary Nigerians.

Atiku also voiced concerns that the VAT increase, following the petrol price surge, would severely impact the country’s already fragile economy and the livelihoods of Nigerians, compounding the existing cost-of-living crisis.

By Uzair Adam

The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has urged President Bola Tinubu to take swift action in reversing the recent increase in the price of premium motor spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol, at Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) outlets.

In an open letter dated September 7, 2024, signed by SERAP Deputy Director Kolawole Oluwadare, the organization deemed the price hike unlawful and a violation of constitutional and international human rights obligations.

SERAP also called for a thorough investigation into allegations of corruption and mismanagement within the NNPC, specifically regarding the reported $300 million bailout funds received from the Federal Government in August 2024 and the company’s $6 billion debt to suppliers.

The letter highlighted concerns over NNPC’s failure to remit oil revenues to the treasury, despite the company’s significant financial issues.

The group expressed concerns that the petrol price increase, which has pushed prices up to N855 per liter at some outlets, is exacerbating the already severe economic hardships faced by Nigerians.

SERAP further noted that the price hike disproportionately impacts the most vulnerable citizens, jeopardizing their living conditions and undermining their basic human rights.

SERAP warned that if no action is taken within 48 hours of the receipt of the letter, it will consider taking legal measures to compel the government to address the situation.