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Sunday 26 November 2017

One Party System is not a condition for growth in Nigeria

It was believed that having a centralised form of governance in Nigeria would hasten economic development, unfortunately this is not the case given the experience of nearly six-decades of independence. The current government has successfully exposed the numerous flaws of the unitary centralised system lending support to various accusations of exploitation and domination of one ethnic group over others and widespread agitations for restructuring of the country. Similarly, it has not hidden its actions to foster one-party rule in the country which is interpreted by many as a ploy to deepen ethnic domination and control, the very reason for restructuring. Experience has shown that one party system is an avenue to control, corruption and coercion. According to Margaret Moniyani; "Nation building cannot be achieved where the freedom of members of the legislature, interest groups, local authorities and other avenues of popular participation, the media and the bureaucrats is curtailed". Using Kenya as a case study provides a scenario where the single party system degenerated into authoritarianism and thus becoming a hindrance to economic development. The party became a bud of corruption. Disregard for merit and reward of loyalty manifested in all forms as those that pledged full loyalty to the party and the president ended up holding powerful positions in government. This became a recipe of separatist tendencies especially among the smaller tribes that sought to express themselves through welfare societies. This was in a bid to fill the gap of having no adequate representation in government. This degenerated into some sought of post-colonial struggle which was catalysed by the polarisation of the periphery and most importantly the link between economic rewards and political rewards. Surveillance and the use of watch dogs during the one-party system era in Kenya led to fear and thus no real political competition and debate even within the party itself is allowed"-Margaret Monyani; One Party State: Is it Good or Bad for Governance, May 25 2018. Basically this is what we are currently witnessing in Nigeria. Seeking one-party rule is simply trying to legitimise irrational, unsuitable and unsustainable programmes of this government through the backdoor not minding the future consequences on the society and economy. In the words of  Senator Umar Tsauri, National Secretary of the People's Democratic Party; "Unless Nigerians are under curse, there's no hope for APC in 2023...,the Buhari administration has been given the opportunity to prove itself to Nigerians that the APC is a better alternative to the PDP, but blew its chances of ruling beyond 2023 away, thanks to its dismal performance since coming to power in 2015. No right thinking person would vote for APC, not only in Katsina, but across the country. APC had openly demonstrated its incapability and compounded the woes of the people .Katsina people were disappointed with the grave failure of the ruling party in the state to tackle the prevailing security challenges orchestrated by bandits and infrastructural decay in the state". Luring opposition politicians to the ruling party despite the reality on the ground mocks democracy and citizens who are the victims of misrule: Gross corruption, failed economy, insecurity, land-grabbing, genocidal thrust, economic violence and distress, killings, repression, fear and terror, mass-unemployment, collapsed infrastructure and social services, gerrymandering, destruction of democratic institutions and rule of law, huge debts, devalued Naira, collapsed manufacturing and financial markets, diminished foreign direct investment, ethnic and religious domination, political bias and favouritism, persistence of poverty and stagnation. Of-course, no sane society will reward such a party with a glorified future amidst collosial devastations. The focus should be how to restructure the country to guarantee citizens security and prosperity rather than seeking a one-party state. In the words of Governor Samuel; "the political, economic and security challenges facing the country cannot be solved by people decamping from one political party to another. What is most important at this point is for Nigerians of all walks of life to join hands and surmount the challenges confronting the nation"
 The idea of one-party system is not a condition for performance neither does it offer a path out of misery and disorder that has befallen the country. This is the ideology of ''gutter politicians'' who build their success on hatred using economic and political discrimination as a strategy to remain powerful. A small group of very violent people who are on a mission to grab as much resources as they can by subjecting the rest of the population to unending servitude. Ordinary people need to be properly informed to be on the right side and resist the manipulation by the gods and monsters among us to maintain the status-quo which creates more harm than good. We know in most cases votes don't count however, information is one sure way to provide ordinary people the tool to make the right choices.  The whole idea is very funny. Instead of providing equality of opportunities, restructuring the country to drive equity, social justice and the plurality that comes with democratisation, one-party rules becomes a condition for provision of public goods and services. The people need good governance ,air- hubs, roads, sea ports, improved agriculture, electricity, internet/ broadband, good education and healthcare services,  jobs, security, International Investors, etc, they need social accountability , there is no evidence to suggest that one-party system is fit for the purpose. "there is need to allow some level of freedom and healthy political competition to ensure accountability, transparency, rule of law, equity and inclusiveness, empowerment and broad-based participation"-Nuberger(1974). That's the whole point. The truth is one-party rule deepens autocracy, creates more problems and hastens separatist tendencies. A national dialogue has become very imperative given abundant evidence of what we now know rather than a one-party system. The current political structure is not fit for purpose, the focus should how to change it. Freedom and autonomy agenda not allegiance. The current system is not working and needs changing. A new constitution is required to give Nigeria a "fresh start", this should be the focus.
Uche Okeke is the Founder of The LEAD Project Foundation. He lives in London.

Friday 24 November 2017

[Nigeria] Atiku's resignation to strenghten the democratic system by providing the leadership that is currently lacking in opposition

Former Vice President Atiku Abubarkar has finally resigned from the ruling APC Political Party, alleging a draconian clampdown of democracy, a derailment of its set objectives in governance and abandonment of the Nigerian Youth"- (Vanguard Newspaper, November, 24, 2017).

This  is good for our democracy given the totalitarian ideology we are now witnessing. This could be a good move to give the Nigerians wider opportunity to choose a democratic leader come 2019  as it has become obvious that there will be no challenger to President Muhammadu Buhari for the ruling party's ticket.

Furthermore, it will help to strenghten the democratic system by providing the leadership that is currently lacking in opposition. A sensible opposition is very important in a democracy.

 The reasons he alleged for resigning are quite obvious to most of us who have lent our voices to the need for inclusiveness.
See Also: http://www.theleadprojectfoundation.com/2017/10/the-reality-of-nigerias-subverted.html

I have written about the possible chances for Atiku Presidency in the past . Click on this link to read: http://www.zurumnewsdigest.com/2016/11/apc-begins-search-for-new-presidential.html

The truth is that the country needs empathic leadership that is educated and posseses the skills to drive a 21st century society. The country needs a leader who understands the ideals of freedom, inclusiveness, equality and prosperity, not anarchy and chaos. It may not just be only Atiku. There are loads of other qualified people willing to offer themselves for leadership. Now is the time to do so.

 Let us conclude by saying that in a democracy, everybody has a fundamental right for political association and a right to seek for the highest office in the land. It's left to the electorates to decide the leadership they want.

Uche Okeke.

Nigeria's Corruption War is Dysfunctional as Senate Probes Re-looting of Recovered Assets

Nigeria's Senate has stepped up efforts to probe allegations of the re-looting of recovered assets by the anti-corruption managers. The legislative body has asked its ad-hoc committee to intensify efforts to probe the whereabouts of 222 properties seized from alleged pension funds criminals kept under the custody of the EFCC, after being alerted by the office of the Attorney General of the federation.

 No doubt, this will not be a good news to the government that has  come under heavy criticism from the public and the opposition political parties who have also described the anti-corruption campaign dysfunctional ; a well-intentioned  power strategy to clampdown on opposition and remain long in power.

I think the government has to really admit that it has lost the plot given numerous blunders. Few days ago the staff of the State Security Services(DSS) prevented the arrest of some of their bosses by the anti-corruption office(EFCC). This is not a good sign. It simply means that even the State Security Services has lost confidence in the scheme which may endanger national security.

According to Matthew d'Ancona; " this symbolised a much greater dysfunctionalism in a failing government".[Hammond has done his best in a dysfunctional government,- Matthew d'Ancona,  London Evening Standard; P.26, Wednesday 22 November, 2017]

We have argued that the government ought to concentrate on what the country actually needs most- Restructuring the political system which is one major root cause of corruption and poor growth,  and the provision of better public services.

The truth is that anti-corruption is a process which must be seen to be fair , transparent and productive. However, the numerous blunders of the government questions its sincerity, intergrity and commitment in the nation building project of inclusiveness, People will not take that.

Till date corrupt politicians are simply joining the ruling party to escape corruption prosecution and the government is harrassing those who refused to join the ruling party. So the mantra is join the ruling party so that we can put your past behind. You're corrupt if you're not a member of the ruling APC Political Party. What an ideology...

This is gutter politics by politicians who build the success on hatred and discrimination and violence.

Uche Okeke

Thursday 23 November 2017

The next election is an opportunity to see the change you want become a reality


Do not be bullied into silence. Technology has empowered ordinary people as never before to make a huge difference. There is a lot of work to be done. The truth is that today you do not need permission to make a difference.
Lend your voice to the important debate about the future. Listen to each other , that is one major way we can help overcome the challenges ahead. Anyone can make a difference. Democracy must be inclusive.
 The politicians do not invest in policies that will benefit ordinary people , rather they invest in traditional rulers, opinion/community leaders ,religious leaders, pilgrimage and political agents/brokers to help them win the next election because it's cheaper. 
No good education, no investment in research and innovation, entrepreneurship,  no adequate electricity, no internet/broadband, no good healthcare services, no jobs, no pensions, no good drinking water, poor transport network, air ports, sea ports, poor urbanisation, insecurity everywhere, etc. 
They clampdown on dissents and opposition , anyone against the government is an enemy. The Political agents and online supporters are only interested in what they will get. Most times you hear them asking their fans to recommend political offices that will suit them,;"attracted by prospects of power and riches".
The political system is designed to serve the interest of the few, their families, friends and political associates. Now look at this scenario: The President is also the Petroleum Minister, his Chief Of Staff is the Executive Director of NNPC, another, is the Managing Director of the country's apex oil company, etc. That's exactly the whole point. It reduces accountability, often in violation of the country's laws. 
Resources at the local level is marred by elite capture thereby killing development. When one leaves office, he wants his son, brother and in-law to succeed him. They like things the way they are. All these happen because of ignorance. They simply want to determine what ordinary people can hear and see. 
"For our future world to be livable the heroes must win their struggle. But the villains have the guns and the money and to date they have usually prevailed. That will continue unless we radically change our approach"- Professor Sir, Paul Collier: The Bottom Billion.
The only weapon for change is Information. Ensure you register to vote. Guard your voter card to support any political party offering the restructuring of the political system and better public services.
Do not sell your voter card to party agents or local politicians so as not to deprive you the opportunity to vote. Your vote is the only power you have to see the change you want in the society. Selling your voter card or collecting money from the politicians will deprive you the opportunity to vote, so change will not happen.
The next election is an opportunity to make a difference. Be your own man or woman, take a better stand for the future.
         Uche Okeke

Tuesday 21 November 2017

Nigeria's Democracy And Its Crisis Deliberate, Avoidable: President Buhari and APC ruling party salute Goodluck Jonathan at 60.

The politicians never cease to amuse us. Last week the leader of Nigeria's ruling party, Bola Tinubu told all that cares to know that ex-President Goodluck Jonathan's government won gold in corruption. However, he was widely ignored as people believed  he was certainly not the right person to talk about corruption.

This week President Muhammadu Buhari and his ruling party celebrate ex-President Goodluck Jonathan as a great patriot and a role model for democracy in Africa. It's time we face realities and concentrate on how to address our numerous national challenges. The truth is that blame games is a recipe for disaster and undermines intergrity and competence.

We are all witnesses to the numerous blunders of the government so far. The politicians are the same united in a game of resource control. The main difference between the past and present government is that the other is no longer in power. One day we will be confronted with the scale of shock that is now uncovered, perhaps when a new government comes to power.

 Fairness must be a priority in dealing with sensitive national issues such as corruption. If we treat people differently the result is erosion of public trust . The consequences is always experienced at the polls. Today, voters want to elect competent people to do a good job, not endless blame games that has no impact on their lives. Happy birthday, ex-President Goodluck Jonathan.

Uche Okeke

HIV is no longer a death sentence but treatable condition , says Dr. Killian Quinn

Dr Killian Quinn, consultant in sexual health at the Kings College hospital, London has said that HIV is no longer a death sentence but a treatable condition especially with the sophisticated medicines now available. According to the Evening Standard newspaper, the consultant said; one of the most common reasons people develop complications is because they don't know they have the infection. Getting diagonised early is one sure way to tackle the disease.
It says London Kings College hospital  A&E department routinely screen patients for HIV after a pilot scheme found 32 people unknowingly carrying the virus.

Liberia's succession battle threatens it's fragile peace

Inconclusive  Presidential elections in Liberia is becoming a great concern to political observers and the International community keen to see the tiny West African country forge a new future.

 A run-off for the Presidential election was due to be held between the two leading candidates, George Weah and the  current Vice-President Joseph Boaki on November 7, but was postponed by the country's Supreme Court due to allegations of electoral fraud.

 However, the country's electoral commission has formally rejected the allegations of electoral fraud during the presidential election described by the local and international election observers as free and fair, thereby creating further uncertainty.

George Weah -Taylor alliance appears unsettling to power holders who had accused former Liberia's President Charles Ghankay Taylor of meddling in the country's politics from detention in London. Whoever emerges as the winner has ernormous task ahead to rebuild a country highly dependent on donor funds and diaspora remittances.

 There is urgent need for the country's Supreme Court to resolve the current impasse which has the potential to threaten the country's fragile peace. This is supposed to be the country's first democratic transition after a protracted civil war.. The conclusion of the electoral process will help consolidate the benefits of integration and kick-start the urgent task of building a new Liberia. Let the people's choice leads.

Uche Okeke

Kenya's Supreme court leads new opportunity for change.

Kenya has always been a model for democracy in Africa. The peaceful process of handling the country's political impasse is highly commendable as it throws new opportunity for change. On November 28, President Uhuru Kenyatta would be sworn-in for a second term in office following the country's Supreme Court ruling.

This is another opportunity to build a new Kenya by reaching out to the opposition for inclusive government. The people want the benefits of good governance and want the country to move forward. The new government needs to work hard to embrace reforms that will help avoid a repeat of the past mistake. Africa needs political and economic stability to lift its people out of poverty.

Email From Africa: It's only in Africa where clique of old crooks want to determine the future of young people.

President Mugabe should listen to the call of his people. After nearly four decades in power, Mugabe should do the needful; go now. At 93 one wonders what he still wants in politics. The time has come for him to quit the stage and leave the people of Zimbabwe in peace.
The political crisis in Zimbabwe is a great lesson for a continent ravaged by political and economic crisis.

Today, there are so many Mugabes in Africa so this is a welcome development creating new opportunity for change in the continent. People need to be ready for it.
 It's only in Africa where clique of old crooks want to determine the future of young people.
 I have just read on Aljazeera television about the resignation of Robert Mugabe. This is a great news for Zimbabwe and the rest of Africa.

Uche Okeke

 Read More:

Kenya's Supreme court leads new opportunity for change. Read More: http://www.theleadprojectfoundation.com/2017/11/kenyas-supreme-court-leads-new.html

Liberia's succession battle threatens it's fragile peace

HIV is no longer a death sentence but treatable condition , says Dr. Killian Quinn

President Buhari and APC ruling party salute Goodluck Jonathan at 60.

Nigeria's Ex-Vice President Ekwueme dies at 85.

Monday 20 November 2017

Nigeria's Democracy And Its Crisis Deliberate, Avoidable : Question the norm; make your voices be heard.


Do not be bullied into silence. Technology has empowered ordinary people as never before to make a huge difference. There is a lot of work to be done. The truth is that today you do not need permission to make a difference.
Lend your voice to the important debate about the future. Listen to each other , that is one major way we can help overcome the challenges ahead. Anyone can make a difference. Democracy must be inclusive.
 The politicians do not invest in policies that will benefit ordinary people , rather they invest in traditional rulers, opinion/community leaders , pilgrimage and political agents/brokers to help them win the next election because it's cheaper.
No good education, no investment in research and innovation, entrepreneurship,  no adequate electricity, no internet/broadband, no good healthcare services, no jobs, no pensions, no good drinking water, poor transport network, air ports, sea ports, poor urbanisation, insecurity everywhere, etc.
They clamp on dissents and opposition , anyone against the government is an enemy. The Political agents and online supporters are only interested in what they will get. Most times you hear them asking their fans to recommend political offices that will suit their purpose.
The political system is designed to serve the interest of the few, their families, friends and political associates. Now look at this scenario: The President is also the Petroleum Minister, his Chief Of Staff is the Executive Director of NNPC, another, is the Managing Director of the country's apex oil company, etc. That's exactly the whole point. It reduces accountability, often in violation of the country's laws. 
Resources at the local level is marred by elite capture thereby killing development. When one leaves office, he wants his son, brother and in-law to succeed him. They like things the way they are. All these happen because of ignorance. They simply want to determine what ordinary people can hear and see. 
"For our future world to be livable the heroes must win their struggle. But the villains have the guns and the money and to date they have usually prevailed. That will continue unless we radically change our approach"- Professor Sir, Paul Collier: The Bottom Billion.  
The only weapon we have for change is Information. Ensure you register to vote. Guard your voter card to support any political party that guarantees us the restructuring of the present political system and better public services. Do not sell your voter card to party agents or local politicians who are against the change of the status-quo. Your vote is the only power you have to see the change you want in the society. 
          Uche Okeke

        
         

Sunday 19 November 2017

Nigeria's Democracy And Its Crisis Deliberate, Avoidable: Anambara State Rejects the One-Party Plague

Voters waiting to cast their votes during the Governorship elections in Anambara State. Photo: Facebook.

This year's Governorship election in Anambara State is very unique; the sudden visit of the president to the state, defection of Ojukwu's son  to APC, IPOB's sit-at-home order, and other numerous efforts deployed for the battle for the control of the state.  . However, the result is a strong lesson to all of us. We don't need tanks in our streets to decide our future. They have always rejected the old way of doing things.

 The people have sent a very strong signal that they don't need the plague of the centre to reach their full potential. The truth is that states must learn to take their destiny in their own hands in order to reach their full potential. This is one sure way to achieve inclusive, sustainable and economic growth; not the idea of depending at the mercy of an individual weilding federal power to determine the destiny of a people.

The time has come to resist this ruthless political system whose legacy is depeened privilege, hypocrisy, sycophancy, brutality, division and gross misrule. We must learn to reject clique of old crooks; agents of the federal power, greedy and willing tools united only by what they'll gain using ordinary people as "photo opportunities". They have found new allies on social media distorting facts and singing lyrics pleasing to their pay masters instead of seeking for a permanent solution to the generational plague.

Let us do more for the actualisation of independence of states for political and economic success.

Congratulations to the people of Anambara State for leading the way. When we talk about independence of states, weak minds simply see it as an attack on the status-quo which benefits just the few:, the big thugs and their huge army. One major way to achieve independence of states is by rejecting the idea of one party state which simply fosters totalitarianism.

Uche Okeke.

Sunday 12 November 2017

Nigeria's Democracy And Its Crisis Deliberate, Avoidable : Inclusive democracy; a big challenge that's hard to ignore

President Muhammadu Buhari visits Ebonyi State, South-East Nigeria . Photo: Facebook

Suddenly the government has realised we are in a democracy. It has stepped up efforts to build new coalition and reconcile with aggrieved party members. The new Secretary to the Federal Government was quickly dispatched to mend faces with the legislators, amidst numerous blunders. I also learnt the new SGF had just visited ailing Ekwueme in a hospital in London. We're told that the president can now stand for more than ninety minutes to deliver a budget speech and that clears the doubt about his health status. The President has suddenly visited the South-East for the first time in two-years. Everyone wishes the president a good health, that's not the real issue. This sudden self discovery may have come too late.

We have heard of a recent meeting with Christian leaders, despite their opposition to the long list of the country's membership to  some international religious bodies. The government has promised to look into lopsided political appointments. We are also aware of  the various attempts to 'woo' the Igbos, using carrot and stick strategy.  So who is fooling who?.
 This has become very imperative, because we are approaching the next election. So what happens after the next election?  Indeed, this is a time to beware!.

 Inclusiveness is a great challenge that is hard to ignore. However,  what is happening in this dispensation mocks our understanding of democratic governance and questions our commitment to it. We need to be afraid of the future.

 Moving the country forward requires the need to address the gross corrupt relationship between the powerful 'few' and the weaker majority, created by the present political system, but the government seem to hold a contrary view. The Presidency says 'at present the country does not need restructuring as being clamoured for across the country', but the President was leading the voice for the restructuring of the United Nations.

Their preferred option is the status-quo and possibly a one-party state. Every state must bow and belong the ruling party to benefit from the federal power.; a useless and crude ideology sold to ignorant people in the name of crude nationalism that serves the interest of just few people. Anyone that does not agree is an enemy that must be bullied by the federal power.  So why would they earn our trust?

The solution is very simple : 'restructuring 'of the present political system. The government has made it very clear, that it's not going to happen, despite their promise during the last election. The result is obvious. It's up to us to blindly ignore the implications to continue with the status-quo that has denied us a better future. That's the whole point. The choice is obvious. We will all pertake in the devastation. Look around you and see how you have truly benefited from this system.

The government has demonstrated a great lack of understanding of inclusive democracy thus a great danger to the future. Nobody can predict the future, however, another opportunity could be a great misfortune given the blunders so far. It's worst when the government seem to believe that the blunders are normal.

Uche Okeke.

Sunday 5 November 2017

Nigeria's Democracy And Its Crisis Deliberate, Avoidable: When a nation declines to think; The people that benefit the way things are want it to stay that way.


Nigeria is a heterogeneous society,. an oil economy, but struggling with the challenges of inclusiveness given a prevalent ethnic/identity politics, always resulting to violence.The country inherited a power structure that concentrated power at the centre, creating unnecessary dependency culture which retards economic development and growth especially at the local levels.
The polity is dominated by few elites unaccountable to ordinary people and making participation very difficult for them. Participation is limited to elections only often determined by the elites by influencing elections outcome. The elites invest in security for control to hold on to power, resulting to high corruption.
There is mismatch of power and identity as there is no unity of purpose. There is no shared identity, so 'the pull of local identity is very strong relative to national identity', always resulting to tensions and violence especially during elections. When one tribe is in power, the other tribe tries to undermine it. 
The future requires the need for restructuring of the country to move power down to identity, but there is no sincere leadership to effect the reform. The state wants it to stay the way it is as the situation suits the government. Most people choose the safest route- ignorance and sycophancy..
There is poor infrastrcture development due to corruption and leadership is lacking in solving corruption , again , due to a mismatch of power and identity. There is lack of good healthcare and educational services whereas the elites promote medical and educational tourism as they're the only ones who benefit from it,  no good connectivity , no smart city, etc, this affects productivity and quality of life of the citizens.
If young people who are the future leaders decline to think, things will remain the way it is: endless future of uncertainty, conflict, violence.corruption, blame games, conspiracy and power. The people that benefit the way things are want it to stay that way.
Uche Okeke

Thursday 2 November 2017

Nigeria's Democracy And Its Crisis Deliberate, Avoidable: It's time for everyone to listen; We have all voted to end democracy in Nigeria.


Now we have a fuller picture of what our politics has become- deception, tyranny. We have all voted to end democracy in Nigeria. We must beware of vain hope and resist the manipulations of politicians to destroy our collective future. Photo: Uche Okeke

 Restructuring the country is one major way to address our development challenges. If the politicians are keen to maintain the status-quo, they simply want to condem our collective future thereby keeping us in endless conflict. According to Alhaji Atiku Abubakar: "the continued concentration of power and resources in a central government would continue to surpress the advancement of the nation". This is a well established fact.

 The urgent question before us should be how to restructure the country for development , not the next election. 2019 is another opportunity to resist politicians using divisive politics, lies, intimidation and propaganda to commit us to endless future of conflict.
 In the words of Senator Shehu Sani ; "Nobody should decieve anybody and nobody should deceive himself or herself , there will be no restructuring before 2019 elections".

So,if we cannot have restructuring what we will get is the 'grazing bill' with it's devastations of occupation, cruelty and violence.

Now is the time to listen.  Indeed our inability to build a consensus on this policy and put pressure on the politicians will definitely prove that ''powerlessness  paves the road for the acceptance of tyranny'.
Our collective problem continues.

The future recognises the need for restructuring and this requires great leadership, but the leadership has failed to listen to the voice of the majority which is what democracy is about. This will definitely come to haunt them....

Read More: http://www.theleadprojectfoundation.com/2017/09/how-to-restructure-united-nations.html

Tuesday 31 October 2017

Nigeria's Democracy And Its Crisis Deliberate, Avoidable : Igbo Presidency, another conspiracy to remain powerful


It's very sad that we don't learn from history. This slogan - 'Igbo presidency' is another project trap. Ndigbo are already 'stuck' in the Nigerian project so should seek a way out.  The only way out is the restructuring of the country to guarantee economic and political balancing, not Igbo Presidency. If the country is restructured in a fair and equitable manner, every region will have a fair chance at the presidency.

It's time for people to wise up to what is happening, because if we fail to address the issue of restructuring the country now , our children will face the sad consequences in the future. We only hope Ohaneze will not make itself part of a  new conspiracy against Ndigbo. Building our future on 'Igbo presidency' is the most obsolete idea in our quest to address our unfair position in the Nigeria project.

The truth is that recent events in the polity simply confirms what may eventually play out come 2019. The South-West were promised restructuring including the state police etc, to throw their weight to the new government, but such promises are yet to receieve proper attention. There is every tendency that they may not want to become another willing tool come 2019, so the desperate need for a new South-East coalition at all cost.

We've heard that the second Niger-bridge will be ready before 2019, ex-Biafran soldiers and police will  soon be compensated. There is this other story of the government agreeing to compensate the region for landmines. These are inalienable rights not a political favour for political gains.
 We must learn to shift our thinking and put more pressure on the political leaders to seek a better future for the people instead of making themselves willing tool to secure political ambitions.

The future of Ndigbo lies in the equitable restructuring of the country to guarantee economic and political success not on a 'false' promise of Igbo Presidency for political gains. According to Simon Wolley: "The path to power for minorities is strewn with rocks and hurdles".
The political party that is willing to restructure the country in a fair and equitable manner should earn our votes instead of a false coalition to tighten their grip on power.

The unanswered question remains why the issue of restructuring has suddenly become a non -talking point...

Uche Okeke, My View

Wednesday 25 October 2017

Nigeria's Democracy And Its Crisis Deliberate, Avoidable : $2Billion Dollar Niger-Bridge; We are yet to learn the lessons of the past

"Elections are the one time when we have some direct contact with politicians"- Jeremy Paxman, The Political Animal.
They say in politics being deceived is no excuse. Sadly it's always very easy for people to get misled and blindly offer support to politicians who make vain promises to score cheap political points. Today, It's very easy to predict politicians next move. The timing for this project is the Anambara state governorship election.

 I have strongly argued that the government has suddenly built it's future on a new South-East and South-South coalition going by the body language of the activities of the South-West leaders who have maintained their ground on 'restructuring' and given a strong signal that they may not be easily used in the future for political gains.

The second Niger bridge has always been a political scoring point, since 1979, especially when elections are round the corner. We only hope that this is not another political manipulation to secure a desperately needed coalition to consolidate political positions, given the behaviour of a leadership using conquering tactic to further weaken the chances of the region to compete for political power.

  However, this is another golden opportunity to underscore the integrity and sincereity of the leadership. They simply need the votes to advance their career, so they can promise anything to keep their jobs.

The beauty of democracy is that every four years, the politicians will seek to renew their mandate.
This project could be a major determinant of increased public trust in government given it's starategic importance to the economic development of the region
.
 Let us learn not to lend blind support to politicians who peddle vain promises to remain powerful. The government has got two good years to be held accountable for this project, so we are watching.


Uche Okeke

The Reality Of Nigeria's 'Subverted Democracy'

Photo : Uche Okeke
Today we have all woken to the reality of the state our democracy. The picture that is emerging is never going to be a good fit for proper nation building. We are now witnessing a pseudo system that mocks what we were told is a normal "democratic political order"; endless controversies of political manipulations to serve the interests of the few.

The National Bureau of Statistics says the country's  Gross Domestic Product remains in constant decline. The government says the country's economic recession is over, but how that reflects on the lives of ordinary people is what only the government will provide the answer.

The truth is that instead of fighting the battles for the future, our government is only interested in yesterday's battle with little or no results as outcome.  The country is gradually walking on a dangerous path eroding the little democratic gains it has managed to build in the past, due to personal ambitions and vested interests.

The country is confronted with the highest infrastructural deficit for an oil economy and a booming population, the highest unemployment rate in history, etc. I learnt the transport minister says he needs $36billion dollars to fix railway projects whereas the country is just seeking for $5.5billion dollar  in external loans. This definitely will not add up, so the government is not positioned to deliver.

In few years time most countries in Europe and America will banish petrol and diesel cars, the problem of automation looms large,climate change, education, healthcare,etc. I think these are some of  the social issues that should occupy the leadership not unnecessary controversies that may not add to national growth.

 There is this issue of restructuring, also the forgotten issue of Ken Nnamani election reforms, etc. A good government should intensify efforts on reforms that will help strengthen existing institutions, guaranteeing inclusiveness. In few months time, the life of this government will come to an end, the achievement so far is our collective guess, perhaps the next election.
 According to Nick Glegg, Former, UK Deputy Prime Minister; "Democracy can only be defended if we first understand how it is being attacked".
Keeping the nation standstill is 19th century idea that will take the country to nowhere. It's more embarrassing when young people whose future is endangered become leading online voices lending blind support to the very system that denies them a better future.

 The truth is that even authoritarian leaders can listen if there is a collective pressure, however, ignorance and sycophancy become the only obstacle to challenging the status-quo. Nigeria's corruption involves everybody, and we are now witnesses to the dept of  involvement of some members of the current government, despite conspiracy theories.

I read a newspaper report about a high court judge inviting ex-President Goodluck Jonathan to court. what that means is only for the government to provide the answer, since the law is only for some citizens.
In the words of A.C. Grayling: " Subverted democracy, in short is no democracy. A political order which is meant to translate democratic preferences into sound government; but where the preferences have been manipulated and the government is operated in the interests of only some part of the populace, is not a democratic political order".[Democracy and Its Crisis, P.202]
2019 is another opportunity to invest in our collective future by making the right choices that will that help position us to where the rest of the world is heading to; a new world devoid of tyranny.

Uche Okeke

The LEAD Project Foundation: Nigeria's Electoral Democracy: 'Power. Conspiracy....

The LEAD Project Foundation: Nigeria's Electoral Democracy: 'Power. Conspiracy....: At last we now have a good platform to help build informed citizenry by providing independent analysis of our electoral democracy where a ...

Tuesday 24 October 2017

Friday 20 October 2017

Power belongs to the People; Whenever democracy is threatened, tyranny is resisted.

Authoritarian leaders are always victims of Political Suicide. Democracy is all about inclusiveness and requires leadership with a 'good head and a good heart'. However, this is not the case with authoritarian leaders, as they always resort to crude Political behaviours to see their rivals off. They don't mind the 'blood on the carpet'.

Political witch-hunt is one sure way that marks the decline and fall of a government. The consequences are in the words of the great historian, Anthony Seldon: "loss of confidence, negative image of the leader, a revived and credible opposition, and a strong feeling that it is time for change".

 Today, there is public outrage at the news of the revoking of the license of 'Intel', which has dominated the headlines. In Nigeria,  the consensus seems to be that 'Intel' is a national asset with the experience and expertise to maintain organisational success. Moreso, their workers are Nigerian citizens with families that depend on them, thus revoking their license nay not be a good fit for the economy and our fragile democracy.

I have read the report about the legislators advising the Attorney-General of the federation to reverse the order. I have also read the other report of the Senate recommendations to unfreeze the business accounts of  Dame Patience Goodluck Jonathan.

 Naturally when democracy is threatened, tyranny is always resisted by the people. No individual has a monopoly to drive human progress and the transformation of society.
Political leaders should do more to adjust their governing style to embrace inclusiveness. This is one sure way to avoid conflict in the society.

Uche Okeke.

Monday 16 October 2017

Nigeria's NNPC: The reality of the leaks; Nobody knows what the future holds until the nation decides.

The  recent leaks about the state of the nation which has dominated headlines (NNPC, Aso-Clinic, etc.), has taken a new twist. The  government has finally broken it's silence and their response is everyone's guess. It's now made worst by  making the Minister of State for Petroleum, Mr. Kachukwu to look like enemy of the state who is on a mission to sabotage the anti-corruption government, ''the enemy within''. This has given us 'Pause for thought'.

The government must do anything to guarantee it's future political ambitions, afterall, this is a government that came to power on anti-corruption, so how dare a serving minister accuse it of corruption?  Nobody knows what will be the next steps..

 According to Andrew Marr: "But unsuspected by the electorate, there is a shocking and dangerous secret at the very heart of government..., a group of ruthlessly determined individuals will stop at nothing-including murder to prevent the truth from getting out"[Head Of State- Andrew Marr]

 The truth is that, it is increasingly becoming very difficult to believe anything that comes from the authorities. The whole system is infested, it's glaringly evident. It's in the DNA of the system. The root of the matter is that  the system is designed to be that way, that's the whole point.

The ball is now on the court of the legislators to help the nation ascertain the truth of the matter. The Senate's quick intervention to investigate the leaks has raised some level of hope, even when it's now glaringly clear that it's going to be a difficult task.
The reality is that the probe may never produce any useful results as the system is designed that way.

Sadly, our Politics is beginning to look like 'military occupation', a very dangerous trend in a 21st century. However, nobody knows what the future holds...., until the nation decides...

Uche Okeke.

A look at networked Nigeria; Politicians ranking on social media

Today any politician who is not active on social  media may be missing out as social media has now become the new platform for greater citizen engagement.
We would be looking to analyse the performances of local political leaders on  various social media platforms especially Facebook and Twitter to ascertain engagement levels and popularity of our local politicians.
Read More:

Sunday 15 October 2017

Head of State; the Republic of Imo State.

Governor Rochas Okorocha decorating President Jacob Zuma of South-Africa. Photo: Facebook
I hardly write about local politics, however, recent  frequent state visits to Imo state has actually attracted my attention to the state to see if this could be a bold effort of the state governor to open up the state to the world for competition and greater economic development or for political gains.

 Rochas is one of the few local politicians of interest. His political ideology and style of politics is very entertaining and remarkable. I have just read a comment by the Speaker of the Imo State House of Assembly endorsing the visits to the state, as backed by the state law. It's also interesting to note that there is now a direct flight from South-Africa to Imo International cargo airport.

 No doubt, the state is in great need for economic growth, thus, a good relationship with South-Africa could be of immense benefit to the state given it's assymetry of expertise in Technology, Education, Agriculture, etc..

 We have argued strongly about the need for independence of states. Independence will help states to be in control , competitive, outward looking, and increase strategic partnerships that can help  boost productivity and local economic development. Perhaps this is what the state government wants to demonstrate.

The South-East Immunization; Good Intentions turned out badly

Politicians truly live in a different world. They only think one way. What occupies their mind is simply how to win public support at all costs even in the face of  chronic failure. There is a lot of lessons to be learned from this recent govenment blunder.

This immunization programme is another 'careless mistake' in pursuit of a political objective, but causing a collateral damage of trust. The people of the South-Eastern Nigeria are still battling the devastations of the Nigeria military's 'operations in their territory. Trust is already eroded given daily gruesome tales of horror they encounter in  a country they call home.

 Till date the government has failed to address the core national issue of inclusiveness rather using divisive tactis in pursuit of its political objective. Naturally, this will give critics the cause to question every motive of government.

The consensus that emerged is that this programme should not have been carried out by this time. Furthermore, in a democracy, government activities should demonstrate less military interventions. Active military interventions is the tactic of totalitarian regimes and this is what we are now witnessing.

Our government needs to do more to change it's style, address inclusiveness instead of creating the continuous condition that give sceptics the key to question their everyday motives. A good government programme intended to save lives is now treated with suspicion and a wave of hand because of governmental failure to address diversity issues, very disappointing.

There is urgent need for our government to change it's style, less military intervention and active citizen engagement is needed to avoid this kind of incident occurring in the future. Local leaders and public health officials should be in the lead of such sensitive intervention programmes, if possible in partnership with the providers to achieve the desired result.

The only way forward is to learn not to repeat the mistakes of the past, the people come first. This is the time for true local leadership instead of succumbing too easy to unending intimidation and brutality that has now defined our existence. The signs are very obvious; a very dangerous trend for the future.

I welcome the recent bold delegation of the South-East leaders to Abuja . This will help remind the leadership of the need to change tactis.

Uche Okeke; My View.

Monday 9 October 2017

Most Nigerians believe that Facebook is the Internet


Facebook app only provides free access to Facebook, Facebook Messenger and a handful of other services. According to  Timothy Garton Ash, Quartz Magazine reported that,  "In Nigeria, Indonessia, India and Brazil, more than half of those asked in a poll commissioned by Quartz magazine agreed with the statement: Facebook is the Internet.
 "Surveys have found a large number of respondents saying they use Facebook than they use the Internet".
 
The future of work depends on the Internet. Our governments at various levels must step up their commitments to providing this 21st century infrastructure to enable its citizen key into the new way of work and living.  Democracy is not just about elections.

 The Internet enables creativity and innovation, entrepreneurship. 'Wherever there is internet connection there is a potential enterprise'.  Facebook is working very hard to reach disadvantaged societies with internet through their https://info.internet.org/en/ project, however, it provides more free access to their services.

 Our political leaders should do more to provide internet access and facilities to young people especially in the rural areas to kick-start innovation and enterprise instead of deploying them to various Social Media platforms to advance party lines and attack those that disagree with them.  We must have political leaders who invest in the future of its young people not just the next election.

Uche Okeke.

The illusion of a broken system Part 2 : 'Nigeria probes into oil deal'


The system is not broken, it is designed that way. This is not a partisan issue, PDP or APC political parties, i.e. whichever political party that happens to  be in power, but the political system that concentrates power and national resources at the centre, resulting to greed, identity politics, vested interests, unnecessary competition, winner takes all, and expensive election costs.

The country's political culture is sick. "The mindset is wrong" and this affects behaviour. Again this throws more weight on the pertinent issue of restructuring the country for greater development.
We have argued several times about this. There is great reluctance for inclusiveness, reluctance to concede, even the ministry of petroleum in a country blessed with abundant human resources, skills, etc.

 Until the political leaders do the needful, our polity will continue to remain business as usual: 'Power. Conspiracy. Corruption. The blunders of our government is as a result of the way they designed the system.- Winner takes all, and the 'few'.

"A broom immersed in oil cannot sweep clean"- Senator Shehu Sani.
 He said the President should disengage from being Petroleum Minister and appoint a substantive Minister whom the nation can hold accountable to the happenings in the nation's oil industry.


Uche Okeke.

Liberia is set to have its first transfer of power from one elected president to another

Liberia is set to make history on October 10, 2017 with the election of a new President. This is a very remarkable event as this democratic exercise will mark the country's first transfer of power from one elected president to another since 1944. Read More:

Nigeria Probes into $25 billion oil contract; "Pot calling kettle black"

The recent NNPC leak by the Minister of State for Petroleum, Mr Kachukwu which has provoked headlines around the world has now exposed our government for what it is: "Pot calling the kettle black". This is a wake up call.

The picture now emerging is not good for our democracy. This is another dangerous exploitation of natural resources by 'Kleptocratic despots and Pseudo-democrats' we rely on. The truth is that these people don't care about ordinary people.

Our education system is collapsed, no solid plans for innovation and enterprise. No electricity and internet infrastructure to help create the jobs of the future, ordinary think that facebook is the internet. Facebook is not the internet. No good health care services, rather they fly overseas at the slightest symptom of headache and feed ordinary people with false information that things will soon get better.

Our governments at various levels have failed to honour their primary duty of care to the nation. Non -compliance with due process in the award of contracts is gross corruption, unbefitting of a government that rode to power to fight corruption. The Minister of State for Peteroleum says he only reads about the activities of his department on the pages of the newspapers, yet no official  condemnation/ action by the state.

This is not a good fit for our democracy.  Fair democracy requires that each citizen has not just a vote but a voice. This is my view.

Uche Okeke.

Voters need the right Political news and information to make the right choices

Photo: Uche Okeke
Ordinary people need to be equipped with the right information to help them make good decisions instead of listening to 'distorted facts'. A weak government thrives on a population which is easy to dupe.
 Social media has become a new avenue to drum support and spread misinformation using online fans to peddle party interests , deploying  smear tactis to intimidate anyone who wish to share their thoughts with others.
 We will continue to do our best to be actively researching and writing to help bring the best practices to limelight, that's the only way we can have the proper change.
Today, our politics is divisive and thrives on conspiracy, lies and propaganda. It's self evident that our democracy is far from being called a success. It's only those with good eyes that can see clearly that we are threading on a slippery path.
Uche Okeke
Read More: http://www.theleadprojectfoundation.com/p/about-us.html

Thursday 5 October 2017

No Politician can claim to be a better role model


"The notions we harbour of political men and women are a poor guide to reality"-Chris Matthews.

Politicians always come in disguise , pretending to be 'genuinely' concerned with ordinary people's welfare and the country's longterm future. This is not true especially in young democracies.
 This democratic dispensation has really demonstrated the grave damage the military constitution and totalitarian democracy has done to the country.

'They are not subject to the law of the land like every other citizen. They resort to crude demagoguery, always seeking special advantages for themselves, their families, their friends , lovers, and associates. They exploit public property for their own private purposes.' Corruption is for political opponents and those considered huge threat to personal  ambitions.

 The recent NNPC scandal that has hit the headlines has just helped to confirm the fears of many that  politicians cannot be trusted, it doesn't matter who is involved, no one can claim to be a model, because they are all prone to the same blunders. It's only those who want to be fooled...

 What i'm yet to figure out is why the government has declined to try Dezieani in Nigeria, when they've told all that care to listen that the woman has got the country's wealth?.
There is this issue of social insurance trust fund,etc.

 We must learn not to shout loud especially when the government simply wants public support giving people the impression that they are taking 'prompt and decisive action' when in reality they are doing no such thing.

It's business as usual, ''applying thick layers of cosmetics'' to deceieve those that want to be fooled. Senate says they have set up a committee to probe the NNPC leak, but what of the recommended report for the National Social Insurance Trust Fund, etc.

2019 election is round the corner. How the politicians will fund the election is our collective guess. We must remember every politician wants to retain his seat come 2019. However, it is your choice to vote for direct poverty allieviation , ( i.'e for your stomach ) or vote for true democrats who will guarantee long term democratic dividends to ordinary people including respecting human rights.

Uche Okeke My View.

Wednesday 4 October 2017

INEC now ready for Anambara Governorship Election

INEC says it's now ready for Anambara Governorship Election. The INEC Chairman, Professor. Mahmood Yakubu said this during a quarterly consultative meeting with the media in Abuja., on  the following discussions:

*The Preparation for 2019 General Election,
*The Ongoing Nationwide Continuous Voter Registration (CVR),
*Preparation For Anambara Governorship Election

 The INEC Chairman said, Nigerian citizens in Anambara state will receieve their PVCs in good time as the commission will start distributing at least 30 days before the election.

He said the election office will deploy 6500 smart card readers for the state election and have some spares in case of malfunction or failures. "The credibility of an election depends on the credibility of the voter register",  he remarked, and emphasised that, the card reader has become the standard for elections since 2015.

I visited INEC's facebook page, the commission indicated that the Anambara Governorship Election tops agenda at the recent  Resident Electoral Commission's (REC) meeting, at the commission's office in Abuja.

Tuesday 3 October 2017

Nigeria has spent over N90billion on Power, says Lai Mohammed


Nigeria's Information Minister, Alhaji Lai Mohammed has stated that the current government has spent more than N90billion Naira on Power.  Photo: Google Images.

According to the Nation newspaper, In a recent NTA television programme : 'Good Morning Nigeria', the information minister absolved the current federal government from infrastructural deficit in the country,  rather blaming the previous governments .

"The last administration spent only N5billion on power, this administration has spent over N90billion. When this administration came in May 2015, only 2690 megawatts was generated but today the country is generating over 7000 megawatts".

He urged Nigerians to judge the administration on  the contest of what it inherited from previous administration and where the country is today.

 The truth is that Pointless blame game will not bring the desired change promised to the electorates. The people want to see massive investment in public infrastructure to help create job opportunities. The power sector is about the most vital sector in today's economic transformation as a whole lot of industries depend on it including today's internet and liberation technology.

 Victory comes with responsibilities. Ordinary people want to see progress not blame games. The government has got almost two years before the next election to deliver on their promise of improving the lives of Nigerians, of which the power sector is a test case.

 A good government does not require four years to fix such a very important sector of the economy to drive development. The people want to see results not blame games.

Welldone, but please do more. We need urgent revolution in the power sector.

Uche Okeke

Monday 2 October 2017

Independence day verdict; Now is the time to make our democracy work for all


Yesterday's 57th indepedence anniversary again was one of the most quiet in history. There were mixed reactions from various quarters. The verdict is not unpredictable: 'our democracy seems set in the past'. The consensus is that this democratic dispensation is a very old fashioned way of running a country with total disregard to the way the world is moving- 'the darkest' democracy in history, very divisive.; 'a huge turn-off'.

 We need new leaders with modern ideas and with 'an ear to change', not a totalitarian regimentation already rejected globally. People are tired of living in fear and are now wondering when this will be over.

 We have mentioned the need for reforms, and independence of basic democratic institutions and greater devolution of power especially to states and local government areas to reduce unnneccssary dependency culture and creation of  more opportunities for ordinary people.
The country's population growth is of great concern to all due to inadequate infrastructure to cope with the challenges.

Some of the so-called leaders who created the mess we are in for will soon be no more, so the onus is on the younger generation to embrace a new society that guarantees inclusiveness and total freedom by laying greater emphasis on knowledge-economy.

  We deserve to have politicians that face up to the challenges we have not the ones that live in a 'fantasy' of business as usual. This is a period of self-examination. The time to build a new society that is liberal, inclusive and open , ready for modernity, willing to provide the basic needs of ordinary people and help them progress in life.

Uche Okeke

Read More: http://www.theleadprojectfoundation.com/2017/10/nigeria-57-comments-from-home-and-abroad.html

The LEAD Project Foundation: List of work I used for this project

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Governor Wike accuses INEC of compromise and sabotage


The Governor of Rivers State, His Excellency Yesom Wike has called for the building of strong institutions for our fragile democracy to thrive. He lamented the illegal activities of the Independent National Electoral Commission and the police in conduct of elections in Rivers state and stressed that the so called democracy in Nigeria is in great danger if there are no strong institutions to support it. Photo: Getty.

 In his words: "Unfortunately instead of advancing our democracy and protecting our liberties , some of our most important national institutions especially, Independent National Electoral Commission and the Nigeria Police have become the undertakers of their destruction by acts of deliberate compromise, partisanship and even sabotage in the discharge of their constitutional responsibilities.
How else can we attribute INEC's misfeasance and criminal complicity in the emerging but strange jurisprudential contraption in election disputes, where fake results produced and procured from the custody of terribly partisan police agency were validated and accepted as evidently superior to its own results by the electoral tribunals to overturn the returns it genuinely and rightly made in respect of the outcome of the 2016 legislative re-election returns in Rivers State".  

The Independent National Electoral Commission has just announced the time table for 2019 national elecions. There is urgent need for reforms to strenghten our democratic institutions to guarantee inclusiveness and transparency and accountability.

We have always argued that we can only enjoy the dividends of democracy if relevant institutions remain truly independent of the government in the conduct of elections so that ordinary people can elect their true choice.  As long as these vital institutions remain under government control, it will definitely be very difficult to conduct a free and fair elections without unnecessary interferance. 

What's the point of an election if the votes don't count?

Uche Okeke.

The amalgamation of Northern and Southern protectorates in 1914 took place in Niger state, says Gov. Sani Bello

#Nigeria@57: President Buhari's Independence Day Speech



"As we enter the second half of our term of office , we intend to accelerate progress and intensify our resolve to fix the country's challenges and problems". Click on this link to read the full text: http://zurumnews247.chayns.net/tapp/index/91958?M=63959920

Sunday 1 October 2017

Nigeria @57: Comments from home and abroad


PUNCH
"Nigeria, a failed state: Nigeria is in the wrong direction. The country is not doing well. The indices of good governance are clear worldwide. The only way to stop agitations is to engage the youths in meaningful ventures. The world is selling knowledge not baggage economy. Nigeria needs to embrace knowledge- based economy. With such an economy in place, by the year 2020, the country will join the world to create 25million job opportunities for the youths."- Peter Obi

LEADERSHIP
"ACF therefore salutes the governments and people of Nigeria for their determination, perseverance, patience and hope in our nation and urges most especially our leaders both elected and appointed at all levels to re-examine their social contract with the electorates and do the needful"- Arewa Consultative Forum

DALIY  POST
"The single threat to Nigeria development is that most Nigerians don't think and act as people who believe in this country that is why you see people loot this nation like Nigeria will vanish from the surface of this earth. Some leaders are more united in looting than developing the country"-APC Chairman Cross River State.

"Whichever way it is viewed, wheather region, zone or state, Islam or Christianity , we all have comparative advantages of living together . We must contribute towards making our dear country a better place"-David Mark

"Nigeria@57, an entity of tribalistic nepotism and democratic falsism. "- Agwah Michael

PULSE NG
"After nearly 18-unbroken years of democracy and despite positive assertions to the contrary, our democracy keeps floundering under the watch of the federal government just as the vast majority of Nigerians are alienated from the state and estranged from the development process and denied the dividends of democracy. If economic progress is the test of our democracy then we have failed as a nation. We all crave for strong national institutions to support our democracy, protect our freedoms and advance our development"-Governor Wike . Rivers State.

The Nation
"Most people forget that in the next 10  or 20 years this country will be one of the most populous nation on the face of the earth. You cann't have that kind of density of human population arguing everyday and everytime about injustices and imbalances. There will be an implosion"- Gov. Seriake Dickson of Bayelsa State.

ZURUMNEWS247
"I agree with Asiwaju Ahmed Bola Tinubu that breaking Nigeria into small insignificant units would not solve our challenges, rather it will diminish our regional , continental and global profile. Nigeria is envy of all nations based on its size and huge potentials"-Gov. Sani Bello, Niger State.

BNN
"We must do away with generational hatred that has been handed over to successive generations making them hate or dislike or be suspicious of the other . We must learn to view ourselves as citizens who matter to its country and nation"-Aisha Yesufu. Activist, Co-convener of Bringback our girls group, BBOG

"We believe that  at 57 Nigeria should be restructured and should be done now. We need to allow the states own more of the activities of government. We need to allow power to be devolved from the centre to the states, so that states can work ,because many of our states are dead."-Samuel Nwanosike, PDP Publicity Secretary, Rivers State.

PUNCH
"Therefore those asking for the opportunity to negotiate their existence within the Nigerian state based on their ethnic or cultural identities have a right so to do, as captured in the international convenant on economic, social and cultural rights to which Nigeria is a signatory. President Buhari has a responsibility to make it happen. "- Tunde Bakare

Media Nigeria
"The entire national day broadcast by President Buhari on the occassion of Nigeria's 57th independence is quite disappointing in all ramifications. It was very Un-Presidential and Un-Reconciliatory . The president celebrated mediocrity and edified his government's non-performance two and half years down the line. I geniunely wondered if he was discussing the same country Nigeria that I am in or another utopian planet mars"- Mike Ozekhome.

News Agency of Nigeria(NAN)
"Our nation is at a point where we as christians have to rise up and teach our nation the virtues that Jesus Christ taught us : loving our neighbours, praying for even our enemies uniting the body and uniting all at the centre. we will live in this nation to declare the wonderous works of God, we will prosper in this nation and we will hand to generations yet unborn a better country"-Professor Osibanjo, Nigeria's Vice-President

Read More: http://www.theleadprojectfoundation.com/p/quotes-good-words-that-enlighten-world.html





Friday 29 September 2017

We need new leaders, not old fashioned people resolutely stuck in the past

The world has changed and need new leaders with new ideas to confront today's problems. We must commend Governor Ayo Fayose for his courage,and vision, to always challenge the status-quo. No single individual possess monopoly of ideas especiially in a democracy. This is a bold and honest attempt to confront the status-quo.

"In a world where prejudice remains all too real, where many doors to opportunity remained blocked from inside; if you dare to knock, you will discover that not every door was bolted"-Chris Matthews.

Governor Ayo Fayose has made it convincingly clear his determination to win and his desire for public support. We all know he possess  good education, experience, 'knowledge of and concern for social issues and a homegrown devotion to the people'.
I Iistened to his achievements in the last four years, especially in the education sector, very inspiring and commendable.

We need more people to join the presidential race to make it more competitive instead of the status-quo where it's believed to be a prerogative right of the few. We truly deserve to have new politicians well equipped to face up to the challenges we have not the ones that live in a 'fantasy ' world of business as usual.

Uche Okeke.

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Thursday 28 September 2017

Informed and motivated citizens are powerful agents of sustainable change

Nigeria is a case study where natural resources create enormous opportunity and curse. Evidence on citizen engagement highlight the challenges posed by elite capture, violence and coercion.

Participation in a representative democracy should not be confined to voting in elections, joining interest groups, and getting involved in local civic or political affairs.

"Informed citizens are better equipped to take advantage of opportunities, access services, excercise their rights, negotiate effectively and hold state and non-state actors accountable"-Narayan(2002).

Question the norm. Citizen engagement opens the door to empowering people to demand greater accountability and better services from the people they elected to represent them.

Nigeria's Olajide Olatunji is one of the world's most successful YouTube stars.

"When I first told people I was a YouTuber, they'd say, That's not a real job. What are you doing, you weirdo?"- Olajide Olatunji. Photo : Getty. Much as we talk about politics, we will also find time to celebrate young people who are inspiring new leaders. Olajide Olatunji, 24, who lives in London is one of the world's most successful YouTube stars. He is an internet and YouTube celebrity, rapper, commedian and video game commentator. He has more than 17 million subscribers to his channel, almost twelve-times bigger than BBC News. According to Shortlist, UK ; Olajide Olatunji  known by his YouTube name as KSI, said he uploaded his first video on to YouTube when he was 15. Today YouTube has helped him become self-employed giving him the freedom to become whoever he wanted. He has encouraged other young people to take advantage of today's liberation technology to take creative risks and become successful. In his words: "If you do it right you can make lots of money..., If I hadn't done this, i'ld have worked in Mcdonald's". However, he cautioned that the YouTube success is not without challenges. "Being a YouTubeer's not easy. You have to constantly think of new ideas, constantly post. You have to be director, commentator, cameraman, star". He concluded that YouTube generation has succeeded because they understand social media. Today anyone can leverage the internet to post his or her thoughts and photos, video's online,  to become a publisher, with the potential to reach billions of people around the world and earn advertising revenue. As of 2015 there are around three billion internet users and that number is growing rapidly. The fastest growth will come in the non-Western world. There are perhaps two-billion smartphones across the world and that is projected to reach 4billion by 2020"- Timothy Garton Ash; (Free Speech : Ten Principles For A Connected World) . This is a new opportunity for young people to learn new things, and learn to profit from their passion. Use the social media for good and not just numbers by the politicians to advance party positions. "The world wide web has enabled anyone to access revenue-generating audiences from anywhere with an internet connection at anytime 24/7. The world's information, products, people and opportunities are openly accessible to all"- Cheryl Rickman; The Digital Business Start-UP Wookbook) The digital revolution has made it possible for anyone to operate even from the comfort of your bedroom and open up your skills and passion to the world. Turn your passion, expertise to new wealth
Uche Okeke.

The LEAD Project Foundation