cLOVEr: VGBG

Cheers to the weekend! It doesn't matter if you are a nerd, party girl, from Timbuktu or Tokyo, black or yellow I think very girl deserves a Very Good Bad Guy. So ladies unless you already have a VGBG bagged please start texting and calling (i hope my number is in your contact list :p) its never too late. Enjoy.








#teamnodulling. Y'all have a eventful weekend.

Big Blast, Bloody Bath

Unity and Faith, Peace and Progress? If by now you have no idea about the bombings in Nigeria, it means you live under a rock. I thought it was high time I gave my spiel about everything. A lot of the bombings have been claimed by Boko Haram. The group has claimed 14 attacks so far this year. I am not a nah sayer that the group doesnt not exist. My concern is how much is Boko Haram actually responsible for.

Remember December, 2009 and Mutallab? Nigerians were so outspoken, in total disgust and disbelieve a Nigerian would be a role player in such a despicable act. Now fast forward to fall of last year independence celebration and the months preceding the elections, everything in between is a dark history that has become our reality.

It seems killing innocent lives and putting the fragile security of the nation in jeopardy is the new political weapon. Some disgruntled politicians believe to undermine the current administration capabilities ( which is no doubt questionable) is to be a threat to our security. This is unfortunate and pathetic.  Whatever their repulsive plans are, its definitely not for our good. This is not the way democracy ought to be. It was not designed to kill its people.  I hope the madness stops before it gets out of control.

We celebrated another anniversary this Saturday and people's anxiety could be felt. The uncertainty the bombings have caused is unfair and barbaric. Even if it were for a noble cause, killing of innocent lives and depriving families and children their dreams and opportunities should not be the price. It is wrong. May God of creation direct our noble cause and Guide our leaders right.

Happy Birthday to Nigeria

October is my favorite month of the year. I'm pleased to share birthday month with Nigeria. Happy Birthday Nigeria; stay strong, the best is yet to come. I love you.

                   36 states, 521 languages, 6 religions, 251 Ethnic groups,  11 major festivals,
                                                                    1 country

 Happy celebration and may God preserve our republic.

#teamgreen&white

Despite the ugly and the bad we still need to rep those colors.

True G.O.O.D: New Tenancy Law 2

This is Gov. Fashola video address about the bill that was just passed into law in Lagos. This is a sequel to the one I posted last week.






I hope y'all are having a great weekend.

cLOVEr: Capital FEMI

Happy new month everyone and its also Friday! I have not been in the Nigerian dating market in recent years so I do not have any fresh story to share. However, I have heard gist of how it  takes  more than good looks and brain to woe a girl  this days. Poverty don make every girl sharp for town.  As the saying goes, "if you have it, fluent it" guys if have extra "items" on your marketing skills resume, abeg fluent it this weekend.





Have a great weekend people and be safe.

True G.O.O.D: New Tenancy Law

"Fashola is working, Lagos is working" was the cliche in preparation for the general elections earlier this year and is still is. BRF's achievement in his first four years guaranteed him an easy ride for a second term. The good news is the man doesn't seem to be slowing down. The new tenancy law is long over due but is very welcomed. It is just mere greed and insensibility for anyone to ask for 3 years advance down payment for a house. It is even more annoying to know that most people do not make a quarter of such payment in a year. Our system encourages corruption.

Even though some landlords are losing sleep on this new law, it was the right decision to make. Some opposition leaders think its not good enough. Well, that is really not usual. Politicians are public servants and when they make good decision and protect our rights, they should be appreciated. Good look BRF, other governors take cue.

#foundingfathers

I envision the day the brains of wise men can live on in the heads of dumb ones.

Who Born the Maga: New Federal Universities

"Some ask why we are building new universities. The reason being that when I consider what we spend on subsidizing fuel (about a trillion Naira annually) my heart bleeds and I would rather spend that money subsidizing education because while petrol is burnt up in a car's engine and is gone, your mind never burns up the education it receives. As a leader, I would rather teach Nigerians how to fish (education) rather than only give my people fish (fuel)."  Goodluck Jonathan.

Goodluck Jonathan

 This is the most shallow and irrational statement to defend such enormous expenditure. Politics is very interesting and quite predictable a times. It is fair to say president Jonathan would expect to be named after one of this new universities in years to come.  Building new universities while the premier universities are crumbling and falling apart is ridiculous.  It is nonsensical.  Even a caveman would know it would cost way less to upgrade the universities we have now to world class standards than building new ones. It is appealing to think how difficult it is to navigate any public university's website in Nigeria.

 Instead of spending so much money at a time the whole world is recovering from a financial crisis, there are other issues in the education sector that seeks readdress. Here are a view suggestion;

1. Send bill to the National Assembly to make it unlawful for ASUU to seek readdress through strike.

2. Send a bill to the National Assembly to disunion academic staff of public universities.

3. If ASUU is to stay, a deal must be reached on the certain number of year staff's

   salary would be up for  raise consideration.

4.  A complete overhaul of WAEC, JAMB, Post- JAMB, and NECO. 

The list goes one.  Until meaningful steps are taken towards making the most of what we have on ground, building 12 new schools is fiscal irresponsibility and a sheer political gain-seeking plot.  Its further irritating that a government so devoted to education budgeted 1.2 billion naira  to furnish the residence of the President an amount only 400,000 naira shy of that allocated for each of the new school.  Lucky Jo is official on my Who Born the Maga list!

 

#teamgreen&white

I had TY Bello's Greenland in my head all weekend so I thought I share with y'all. This song was an anthem when it was released and it remains a great song. 

True G.O.O.D: Eva Alordiah

                                       "Im on the map in a place the keep rap stars
                                        And I aint talking about the city of Alaska
                                       I'm on my grind, speeding up like I'm in NASCAR
                                       My mom's feeling this and you can ask her"

Eva! She needs no introduction if you are a fervent Naija music follower. I decided to feature her because of her continuous excellent delivery and quality. I like the hair style too, simply unique. I developed an interest in her when I watched the Jump Off by DJ Jimmy Jatt on Youtube.  She has the most view among the female rappers.Eva is playful and creative with her lyrics/delivery that it's so enjoyable and entertaining.

Eva

On features and on her own work she hasn't disappointed so far.  With her EP, GIGO, to be released soon Eva might finally seal a spot on my list of favorite Nigerian Hip-Hoppers.

I Done Did It

cLOVEr: Pain Killer

I'm in the mood for some good loving. Enjoy!

Alabukun:

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Who Born the Maga: Gov. Amaechi

It is the same world that the heir to the throne of England lives that Gov. Amaechi is in. However while the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge decides to fly public on their visit to Canada and the U.S the governor finds  that so inappropriate for his office . It is absolutely ridiculous to believe the voice of state governors crying and whining that their state financial muscle can't pull the 18,000 Niara minimum wage can afford a $ 48 million dollar aircraft.

In a radio interview, he said “We promised this state that we will not be reckless, we will be responsible with their funds and we will be prudent.”  With a state with  approximately 45 billion Naira internal revenue ( the website is colorful with dead links!) a  plane costing that much is reckless, irresponsible and imprudent. Due to this financial extravagance and tactlessness Gov. Rotimi Amaechi is hereby inducted to the Who Born the Maga list!

cLOVEr: HarrySong and P-Square

Its another Friday night! I hope everyone had a wonderful and eventful week. I had a long and stressful  one so time to head out and unwind. Today''s cLOVEr feature are HarrySong and the P-Square dual. Good loving doesn't really get any better than this with 2face himself in the house.  So for all the lovebirds staying in tonight with their significant others and everyone else  just chilling in, enjoy!

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Have a great Friday people.

Flygerian: Yinka Shonibare

Hello everyone! I hope y'all are enjoying the new week already. Today is a Monday so its time to celebrate another Nigerian that is excelling and flying high the green white green. Today's feature is a British Nigerian who has made a name for himself in Britain art and all around the world. This artist has described himself as "post colonial" hybrid. The self description is reflected in his works. Without further ado.


YINKA SHONIBARE MBE

Yinka Shonibare MBE

Victorian Philantropist's Parlour

Nelson's Ship in a bottle in Trafalgar Square in London, England 

In 2004, Yinka Shonibare was awarded the decoration of the Member of the "Most Excellent Order of the British Empire." He is a flygerian in all sense of the word. Despite his disability, he as triumphed to be a victor rather than a victim. 

cLOVEr: Asa and Dipo

Hey, i hope everyone is having the best summer yet. The sun is hot, we are young, free and wild. Summer is that time of the year filled with break ups, make ups, hook ups and the start of wonderful beginnings. So whatever everyone decides to get involved with may the beautiful shinny spirit of summer be with you. Okay that was kinda deep. Oh well good luck in short.  For the lover boys and lover girls out there that want to give good loving in the Nigerian way i found two beautiful songs for you. I hope you enjoy them as much as i do.

Asa  needs no introduction. I mentioned in a previous post that I'm obsessed about a her songs. So its no surprise she is premiering this new post. Enjoy!



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Here is Dipo's Be your man. Looks like what my grandfather did to woo his jewel of inestimable value (my grandmother). Smiley.

Flygerian: Cohbams Asuquo

Cobhams Emanuel Asuquo is a song writer, music producer and singer per excellence. Cobhams pursued a law career, but later branched into music full-time. He is into various genres such as classical, jazz and traditional music.  Cobhams is as good as they come. He is creative, experimental and unique. Cobhams is currently signed onto Sony ATV (Sony Publishing) London as a songwriter.

Cohbams

I got to know about him from his Skye Bank commercial when I was in Nigeria. I got to appreciate his work much further when I became a huge fan of Asa (I listened to her while writing this). He co -produced and wrote most of the songs on her debut album. That album is gold and ageless. He worked with various artists and produced numerous songs.  Recently, he has been working with Omawumi.  The first song released is simply top notch.  Enjoy.


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This is a throw back from Asa's debut album:

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Cohbams  has won awards including 2007 Producer of the Year; Hip-hop World Awards 2008, Producer of the Year, 2008 for "Gospel Composer/ Writer of the Year.  Cohbams Asuquo is truly a flygerian with class and difference.  I am sure we haven’t seen everything he has to offer.  I wish him luck. 

True G.O.O.D: BET Nominations

What’s up Blog people? Since the world did not end on Saturday I guess I could keep on blogging. In a recent development, the guy as just postponed the date to October 21. Anyways let us all keep living till then.  Because the world did not end on Saturday we would still be having the BET awards this year. Last year, P-square and the M.I Abaga and Sade were nominated for the awards. Unfortunately, none of them took home with the award. That did not stop M.I from rapping about it in his recent album and Kelly Hansome making a fuss about M.I’s failure. 

This year the nomination is up and Nigerians are on the list.  2face, D’banj, Fally Ipupa, D-Black, Tear gas and Angelique Kidjo.  Irish- Nigerian artiste, Laura Izibor and British-Nigerian artiste, Tinie Tempah were nominated this year in the best International Act UK.

2face Idibia

D'banj

This is a good look for African music and Nigerian in particular. We are finally a step further to the recognition we deserve. Maybe next year we would get Nigerians nominated for the Grammy awards with 9ice’s Bashorun Gaa anticipated album ( no pun intended). The countdown as begun hopefully Nigerians artists would go home this year as BET nominated artists but winners.   Congratulations to all of them that made the list. Regardless of whatever happens they can add that to their resumes.

True G.O.O.D: Mansur Muhtar

Whats up people? I hope everybody as started to enjoy their summer.  This is my first true G.O.O.D post since the beginning of summer. Many of us don't need  a reminder of who Mrs. Okonjo- Iweala is. She was the finance minister during President Obasanjo tenure that helped Nigeria receive debt pardon and relief from Paris club and the World Bank. She was appointed Foreign Minister in 2006. She later resigned and returned to World Bank. She is a Managing Director of the World Bank. Mrs Okonjo- Iweala was considered to replace the then World Bank President Robert Zoellick. However, this post is not about her but I thought it was neccessary to brief you about her.  This post his about another  former Minister of Finance of Nigeria that was recently appointed to the World Bank board of executive directors. The major responsibilities of the board include setting strategic directions and approving policies and programs of the bank. I present to you Dr. Mansur Muhtar.

Mansur Muhtar

African countries have three constituencies at the world bank this include Angola, Nigeria and South Africa. The appointed of Dr. Muhtar would give Africa a stronger voice in the decision making of the board.  Nigeria would be able to benefit more as a result of this.  The competition for an appointment is high ans its truly a great honor to be appointed. Having an another African on the boards means he would be able to influence decision making and gain better supports for his constituency and Africa at large.  The appointment is for an initial period of two years, and is subject to renewal by the bank.  I wish him the best of luck because to whom much is given much is expected. Do not disappoint sir.

We can't all be Minister of Finance but we can be great and diligent in anything we decide to dedicate ourselves to.  The lesson to be learned from these exceptional people is to be hard (smart)working and be excellent in all that we do. You never know who is watching.  If you think whatever you are doing now doesn't seem to be right for you, change your direction and do a course correction before it is too late.  If you are not being recognized for your good job and diligence do not be disappointed there might be a "World Bank" searching for or spying on you.  So people go out there and start taking over!

Flygerian: Darey and Siji

Hey everyone, school is over and summer as begun. I’m back. I have not been able write because of school engagements. However, I promise to put everyone in the circle this summer. Since this is my first official post for the summer I’m plugging you two dope music coupled with terrific and creatively directed videos. My pick are Darey and Siji. They are indeed flygerians they are doing it big.

Darey is one artist that delivers both lyrically and in terms of outstanding videos (if you have seen any of his videos I suggest you do). His works are simply good quality. Darey just drop a double album titled “Double Dare”. The video is not the regular we get to see often and overdosed with. It is dopely flygerian. This single is “Ba Ni Kidi”. Watch, dance and enjoy!


Darey - Ba Ni Ki Di from Darey on Vimeo.

Siji is an artist I just came under my radar. I have listened to few of his work and I’m a fan already. I’m a big fan of Asa, Beautiful Nubia and Lagbaja (in that order). It feels great to add another person to that list. Siji is a young Nigerian who spent his early years in Nigeria and London before moving to the US to pursue his music ambitions. The video and the storyline of his song is beautiful. Maybe I would name my daughter Morenike. Enjoy.


SIJI - "Morenike" (Official Video) from SIJI on Vimeo.

Darey and Siji are great artists that are in love with the art. Their music is great. I hope you find them outstanding as I do. I really suggest you listen to songs like this. There is a flygerian in all of us. Happy summer

Who Born the Maga? : Blame the opposition

     Elections are almost over after almost 4 weeks.  The winners are smiling and the losers are mostly accepting results while some are not satisfied with the outcome.  The major players of the election were the ACN, ANPP, APGA and PDP. It makes me wonder why these parties can't just reach agreements with the relative invisible parties to merge. Most of those parties could not even win a councilor position. Talk about benchwarmers and spectators; it all comes down to greed. That brings me to the subject of the post. Prior to the general elections, many behind-the-scenes talks were going on about a coalition to face to the PDP. The PDP’s rating was down nationally and a lot of people thought it was the end of the party as we knew it. However, all the plans broke down and the parties held on to their flag bearers. 

      The PDP presented its charismatic candidate Goodluck Jonathan (who suddenly became the right candidate to so many within few months), the ACN presented its marketable and youthful Nuhu Ribadu, the CPC presented its 3 time runner Gen. Buhari and finally, the ANPP held on the Gov. Shekarau who presented Kano as his lab rat and success story. The election appeared it was going to be the most competitive in a long while. Numerous debates colored the preceding weeks and the stake got high. The results were counted and out the window went the competition. What happened? Isn’t Ribadu the change the youth wanted, a break from the norm? What did Gen. Buhari get wrong this time? Isn’t 3 tries enough to get the rules of the game right?

      Blame it on the opposition! Despite the fact that ethnicity or region should not be the most prominent factor to decide who to vote for, it is sometimes relevant. This played out in the election. The three main oppositions were Northerners.  These from the beginning divided the vote of the region into three. Different analysis compared Gen Buhari and Ribadu as having the same moral standard and approach to public office. Gen Buhari just being the older version of Ribadu or the other way around.  These development further divided swing voters. These comparisons created confusion. The ACN and the CPC could not make up their mind and decided to go separate ways. The presence of Gov. Shekarau further split the votes.  In addition, it is worthy of note to remember that the CPC is a creation of the fallout of Gen. Buhari with the ANPP.  In reality, there is really nothing unique about these parties’ ideologies that could not have welcomed a coalition if truly they love Nigeria more than their personal ambitions.

       I put the figures from the presidential election obtained by the ACN, CPC and ANPP and they were enough to rewrite the whole election results. The PDP is really the only national party despite their failure and setbacks.  Despite the marketable profile of Ribadu he only won Osun State. The rest of the states were divided between the  CPC and PDP.   Click here. 

      This greed among political parties also is reflected in the National Assembly  election results. The seats won by the opposition parties all put together are enough to challenge the PDP supremacy.  Sometimes I wonder if these political parties actually conduct simple research and understand simple basic political rules. The PDP has survived again!

     A look at the INEC list of political parties on their website just makes me think how many possible ways can actually exist to approach government.  63? I do not think so. Nigeria has way too many political parties. The big players should swallow up the benchwarmers. This would create a stronger and more serious political system. It is just ridiculous an aspirant could create a political party over night right after failing to secure a major political party’s ticket.   The show is almost over and little or nothing can be done now. However, this year’s elections have successfully done one thing; make Nigerians more anxious and prepared for 2015. Many must have learnt their lessons. Best wishes to the political class of 2011. We are watching!

True G.O.O.D: May 29

I was contemplating on writing this post after the governorship election but I could not exercise the patience.  Millions of people including myself were nervous, anxious and eager for the presidential elections.  The day came and people went for accreditation and subsequently voted.  I lost count how many times I goggled “Nigeria elections” on Saturday.  I was hyped to see the how the voters were going to decide.  That is the beauty of democracy and politics.  The biggest contenders were known and likewise the cheerleaders.  A certain candidate went to the Polling station with his wife and 3 other members of his family. The result for the Ward where he cast his vote returned only 1 vote for him. Better luck next time sir and file for a divorce sir.

The PDP would add another 4 years to the 12 year rule. Do you remember their 40 year rule prophesy? How did GEJ become the right man for the job within a year? Didn’t the people hear about him ignoring public debates with other candidates?  How about the obviously scripted interview with D’banj?  These questions I might not get answers to. The biggest news now is that we have a president-elect. Presidents across the globe are sending in their congratulatory letters.  In 2008, Obama preached change. He brought a new hope but 2 and a half years down the road many are disappointed and disgruntled.  In 2015, God willing we shall all be here to grade Lucky Jor.   Despite the hate for PDP, their candidate won.  Maybe our politics is moving away from party politics to the individuals.  Ribadu’s blueprint for change didn’t seem to have convinced too many people and the saying  “twice bitten, quite for life” didn’t register with Gen Buhari.  He is truly the cat with a million lives.  Congratulation Mr. President. 

Goodluck Jonathan

The election is over now. Everything being equal, Goodluck Jonathan would lead till 2015.   Nigerians have highlighted tactical issues that needs to be solved; Electricity, Unemployment and Public corruption.  I should also add the Niger Delta.  I also use this medium to speak against the post election crisis.  Accept the results or go to courts. Violence is never a solution.  God bless our Country.

On a different note,Governorship election is this weekend. Vote wisely!

“Lagos is working, Fashola is working... Ogun is sleeping, Daniel is snoring... Akala is bleaching, Oyo is fading. Vote wisely oh!” - Anonymous.

Flygerian: Tu face Idibia and TY Bello

Clover circles is officially starting a new trend on the blog. This section I have decided to name flygerians. This name joined a lot of people’s list of vocab a couple of years ago. It is used to describe an extraordinary, dopely different and on point individual. Flygerian is the Nigerian swag.  Subsequently I would feature individuals that I think are living up to the word.  

As a premiere edition I decided to pick two unique artists that are amazingly talented in what the know how to do best.  Their music is soothing and their messages are  always crystal clear.  They are both conscious singers.With no further ado I present the already known Tu face Idibia and TY Bello.

Tu face is one of the few artists I could listen to any of their albums without skipping a single track.  On his recent effort Tu baba in conjunction with NAFDAC released an outspoken video against fake drugs in Nigeria titled Man Unkind. The video is simple and authentic. Watch the video below and spread the message.

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When TY Bello released her debut album with the song Greenland it was simply epic in entirety.  TY is back with a new song titled The Future. The song is one of those very rare songs that preach hope for Nigeria. She is an optimistic Nigerian; one who, despite the current political and economic situation in Nigeria, still believes there is hope for a better tomorrow. I hear an album is cooking.

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I hope you enjoy the songs and appreciate them as much as I do.

True G.O.O.D : A wind of Change

I sincerely want to thank everyone for your supports so far.  Despite the postponement of the National Assembly election last week to this weekend there was a huge turnout of voters.  The results are being announced as I write. Many surprises hit the media last night. It seems the ACN is sweeping the south west while the PDP is neck to neck with the CPC in the north. LP is not giving up the home advantage in Ondo State while APGA’s fate in the east is yet to be known.  The Biggest losers so far are Sen. Omisore, Prince Oyinlola ( former Governor of Osun),  Rep. Dimeji Bankole and Iyabo Obasanjo-Bello.  The defeat was grand as President Obasanjo’s party did not win in his ward.  V. President Sambo also could not deliver his ward to his party in Kaduna. 

Dimeji Bankole

The first phase of the elections revealed that Nigerians are tired of the state of the country and are disappointed in the ruling party. People voted, and waited behind to witness the counting and collation of votes; media stations ran a live coverage of the elections while it lasted, and very importantly, young people influenced the exercise with the flood of information available via twitter, Facebook and BlackBerry messaging. Nigerians are saying enough is enough.  Many people are hoping this is a sign of what is to come in the following election weekends.  

I am proud to be Nigerian. Our democracy is still young and I respect and salute the courageous and innocent lives sacrificed in the past few weeks.  I believe in the new Nigeria. Regardless of a few lapses recorded in some places across the country it was a huge improvement from the 2007 elections.

In a related development, the outgoing Speaker of the House of Representatives as congratulated his opponent and accepted the election results.  Follow the news here.

Clover Circles on Facebook.

Who Born the Maga: National Assembly

  Happy new month people. Thank you for the support thus far. Clover Circle finally got more than a 1000 hits yesterday. I really appreciate it. This post is timely because tomorrow is the National assembly election.  Did you know that seat in the House or Senate guarantees at least $100,000 a month in salary and allowances? I promise this is not April fools. The pay check is arguably one of the highest in the world. The PDP controlled chambers passed 59 bills throughout their tenure. According to observers of the National Assembly most of these bills were not sponsored by PDP Senators or Representatives. The PDP advantage was used for selfish motives.  For instance the National Assembly raised this year’s budget by 17 percent after the President had cut 29 percent from the recurrent expenditure.  I should add that 1.12 trillion naira went to pay 17,474 officials in federal, state and local governments, according to the Revenue Mobilization Allocation and Fiscal Commission in Abuja.  Nigeria has 109 members of Senate and 360 members of House of Representatives. The PDP had a 54 per cent majority in the National Assembly. 

  The attractiveness of public office is one of the reasons why some people go the extreme of killing. According to Amnesty International more than 50 people have died since July. This including the 10 that died in at the President’s campaign in Suleja. I am a believer of commending labor and good service however I don’t advocate unjust prosperity amidst unwarranted poverty.
I checked the Speaker's Website and I was amazed by the level of duplicity on his staff. These people are heartless and do not deserve to represent us. Check it out.

David Mark

Dimeji Bankole

By the end of tomorrow we would know the new National Assembly. Are they going to be Legislators or Legislooters? Just an aside I think we should consider mid-term election in Nigeria.  Till then let us vote the right people into power.

So Far... So GOOD?

School has been overwhelming so I apologize for not creating time for blogging.  Every time I read about Nigeria online its intriguing to see how much attention the April election is getting. The month is almost over so I would highlight the major event thus far.  This month was painted with campaigns and most importantly the series of debates. Even though I missed the debates when it aired live I am proud of myself that I took time out to watch the clips on YouTube. I encourage y’all to do the same.

The question is so far…so good? I watched the debate hosted by NN24 and the “What about us” which aired on Channels. Most of the front runners honored the invites but the GEJ ( the facebook  president) did not show up for both debates. If you remember the Vice President did not show up for NN24 debate.  Gen. Buhari, Mallam Ribadu, Bashorun Momodu and Mallam Shekarau all presented their cases.  I was neither too impressed by their responses nor disappointed. However it’s a gleam of hope that 2015 would be an interesting year.  I respect their confidence to speak to Nigerian unedited and unscripted unlike some GEJ.  Here are highlights from both debates:

                     
Most of the responses were not concrete and it left me wondering what kind of people they have on their campaign teams.  Mallam Shekarau based on some polls was declared winner of both debates.  The man is an incumbent Governor and he exploited his position by mentioning Kano in most of his answers. Look out for him.  His strategy (situational resource) was likewise employed by Gov. Fashola in the Lagos debate. 

In a related development, there is another debate to be conducted by BON (a government agency). President Jonathan is the only candidate to have honored the invitation.

Please check out the clips about and watch the full debates on YouTube.   Let me know what y'all think.

P.S

True G.O.O.D: So fly around the web

   It’s being an interesting month in Nigeria.  I read about different campaigns going on around the country almost every day.  Today’s True G.O.O.D is on the different websites and pages that I found this month.  Even though all these websites and pages have different administrators they all have something in common. They are creating awareness and getting youth home and abroad to get involved in the political atmosphere of our country. This I find absolutely great.  It has become obvious that the next election in Nigeria is about the youth. We make up 70% of the population.  We can achieve anything with the power of our thumbs. It is time we claimed charge of our destinies.  Every one of these sites is dope and on point. Without any further ado here are my picks in no particular preference:

Vote or Quench

   Vote or Quench is simply brilliant. This website was founded in 2010. It is managed by 4 like minded individuals who apparently haven’t being in the same place at the same time together.  The main objective of the Vote or Quench initiative is to have grassroots campaigns to empower, engage and involve Nigerian youth - at home and in the Diaspora –in the political process.   The founder  Nosarieme Garrick  wrote an open letter to the leaders of Nigeria on the CNN  program Amanpour. She is in the US but express her wish to return to a peaceful and safer Nigeria.  She has a great passion for a better Nigeria.   Not everyone can vote but we can always spread the word.  Are you going to Vote or Quench?

http://www.voteorquench.org/

Sleeves Up!

This website is about the saying do more talk less.  Sleeves up is a non-governmental, non-profit and non-partisan organization that presents a platform young Nigerians home and in Diaspora to get involved.  They are committed to making CHANGES driven by the simple notion that the youth ( 70% of the population) have the capacity to affect the state of affairs in Nigeria, if they stop TALKING and start DOING. Just as the name implies Sleeves Up! advocates for a more active role by the youth. Let us roll up our sleeves and win the future for and by ourselves!

 http://www.sleevesup.org/about-us.html

Enough is Enough

Enough is Enough  is an alliance of individuals and youth organizations around the globe committed to establishing  a culture of good governance and public accountability in Nigeria through advocacy, peaceful activism and the mobilization of the youth population .  Enough is Enough is focused on Nigerians that are between the ages of 18 and 35. There message is: Register, Select, Vote and Protect (R.S.V.P). The alliance has a vision that by 2015 10 million young Nigeria would be actively involved in the electoral process.

http://www.eienigeria.org/about-eienigeria

What About Us?

   There  is no doubt that Nigerian youth rock and since we  make up 70% of the population a coalition of various Nigerian Youth empowerment groups have come together to call for the first ever youth-focused Presidential Debate. The organizations are based in Nigeria and the Diaspora and represent a wide range of interests.  "What about us ?" as scheduled a debate for March 25 2011. This debate would be between Mallam  Nuhu Ribadu (ACN), Bashorun Dele Momodu (NCP), Pat Utomi (SDMP) and Chris Okotie (FDP). The President and candidate of the PDP as not made any comment about participating likewise Gen. Buhari. If the men need our vote, we need to be engaged in their plan for a better Nigeria. The debate is to be hosted by prominent writer  Chimamanda Adichie and Ebuka Ibe.
http://whataboutusnigeria.org/

Please spread the message. Say no to clueless politicians. Take time to check the sites out.  The future begins now with the youth of Nigeria.

True G.O.O.D: Short Film

  I discovered that I have started a trend of true G.O.O.D posts.  On Friday while surfing online to get my daily dose of Nigerian gist I found a very interesting video.  It came from one of the best stand up comedians out of Nigeria. It is no one but Julius Agwu.  The short film also features a veteran rapper and a nollywood artist.  It is an awesome feeling to see our celebrities getting involved in this movement for establishing good governance in Nigeria.

  In the video  Julius Agwu plays a role of a frustrated Nigerian who is apathetic to politics.  The rest is in the video. Take time to watch it.  I found it interesting!



Here is also a video for a song off his The Genius Album titled Good People Great Nation released sometimes last year.  It is quite deep and emotional. Enjoy.

Let me know what you think on this one. There is power in our thumbs y’all.

Who Born the Maga: Thanksgivers

Here is the sequel to the "Who Born the Maga?" i posted a couple of weeks ago. When Olagunsoye Oyinlola  took over in 2003 it was a relief for many from the  AD/Bisi Akande government. The Akande Administration had relieved a lot of workers of their jobs and in 2003 pay back was a b*. Workers don’t forgive was the lesson I got out of that one. Oyinlola/Erelu  victory gave Osun hope. He fulfilled his campaign promise to reemploy. However the goodwill did not last. Osun sought a change but Aregbesola was denied his mandate.  We all know the story mind the mass rigging storm that took over in 2003. Litigation went on for 3 years and Aregebsola won the appeal. The whole process is history now. Let me get back to the point! Who born the Maga?

 On Sunday December 5 2010, PDP members from South West and other parts of Nigeria including former President Obasanjo, Governor Alao Akala of Oyo State, and Governor Gbenga Daniel of Ogun State were in Osun State for a thanksgiving service. It was Oyinlola’s thanksgiving service.  He was giving thanks for the privilege to rule on stolen mandate. He got paid by the tax payers of Osun for almost four years on a stolen mandate.  Oyinlola is not the only one.  Edo, Ondo, Ekiti, had similar experience yet all the removed governors are free men today. No legal liability whatsoever for their actions.  Chief Obasanjo the initiator of EFCC and the brain behind the rigging storm was there to support his boy. Nigeria is truly waging war against corruption.

Recently, the George of the Jungle was released.  Apparently that is the new nickname for Olabode George. After sucking the Nigerian Port Authority resources he was sentenced to 2 years in prison. I really don’t think it was for the corrupt act but for some within party punishment. I say so because it was the same PDP government that sentenced him that celebrated his release.  Almost the same party members that attended Oyinlola’s thanksgiving were at George’s. The only difference is the president sent a representative. Is that an endorsement of corruption?  

Why haven’t we prosecuted any electoral officer since the court of appeal rulings last year? What about the governors (mostly PDP’s)? Nigerians are not fools and I take it as an insult if we are treated as one.  Who born the maga? Nigerians are not smiling! If the administration is really committed to a fight against corruption there should be a punishment for electoral mal practice. Imagine Oyinlola plansof going to the senate? Why should anyone be scared of rigging or stealing public fund if Oyinlola makes it to the senate or George being the new celebrity in town? Abeg  activate the power of  the thumb in April. Nigerians are not fools.

True G.O.O.D: Debate

   If it is true that a child’s name has influence on his behavior and actions then Lagos state is truly the center of excellence.  Lagos’ current political atmosphere is on another level compared to other states in Nigeria. I mean that in the most non-partisan way.  I watched the YouTube upload of the Governor’s debate held in Lagos last night.  If elections were to be conducted tomorrow the debate clearly paints the underdogs and the top dogs.I do not know of any other state that has conducted a debate. 

    

   Regardless of any further campaigns that might be conducted by each candidate, the debate last night has boosted some egos and almost killed some ambitions. Lagos is Nigeria’s industrial capital and it doesn’t come to me as a surprise that they are doing things differently. A lot is at stake in Lagos.  Lagosians I know for sure are smart people; they are active in government and seek for the best.  Lagos as passed that stage of shouting and directionless campaigns.  Professionals are taking charge. Every candidate is a professional.

     

   The debate gave Lagosians an opportunity to experience firsthand the candidates. Real issues were discussed. Some people woefully fumbled! Governor Fashola is certainly not the best individual Lagos can produce.  However, if other political parties can not present candidates that do not understand the dynamics of his policies and administration ACN will remain the dominant party. An example is the tax issue that kept coming up. Other candidates could not provide the percentage of the tax rate . All I remember is “harsh tax regime.” As an example,What about saying it was 6% four years ago and now its 13%? Attack his administration with concrete arguments! I don’t even get me started on Mr. Randle or the Divine revolution candidate.  Dr. Ade Dosumu and Dr. Dominic were more responsive and I respect their ambition.

   Even though the debate got personal at some points I enjoyed every bit of it.  Mr. Randle accused Mr. Fashola of not being accessible and the governor put the man’s business out on national television. Mr. Randle could not stop taking us back memory lane and telling us about his family history. Mr. Fashola reminded Dr. Dosunmu that there is a court order preventing him from presenting himself as a candidate.  Dr. Dosunmu didn’t let that slide by asking the incumbent governor how a 1km road costs 1 billion naira. It is a much to see! It is informative and dramatic! Here is the concluding part of the debate. Take note of what Mr. Randle calls BRF towards the end.

Hopefully the debate initiative spreads across Nigeria. I would like to see a presidential debate.  It is time we stopped business as usual.   Such debates would make Nigerians vote wisely.  The Lagos debate has given us the chance to evaluate each candidate regardless of party affiliation. Debates such as this would make parties do better research on who to present for elections. This reminds me of the Kennedy/Nixon debate ( I wasn’t around then o). Nixon was sweating! Kennedy’s victory cannot be mentioned without that debate.  Who knows what would happen if we had one in Nigeria.  please take time out to watch the Lagos debate. As an aside, I see Lagos producing the first female governor ( if the Sarakis don't  bet them to it). Here is the link to Channels YouTube page; http://www.youtube.com/user/channelsweb

True G.O.O.D: Ad

Is it me or the month is flying by so fast  like it’s on steroids. Today I was just surfing internet je je li because I was bored after class when I came across these campaign ads. I must say I was impressed.  It is good to see how politics is changing in Nigeria. Maybe not in the core areas we need but at least these political machines are trying to appeal to the voters. Even if they are going to manipulate the elections they have to put up a show they won. It is almost becoming a thing of the past where politicians just go about calling each other names and reinstating Awolowo words (Southwest politicians). With no further ado, here they are:

This first one is very appealing to me, thumbs up to the director of this advertisement. The main purpose is to connect GEJ to the people. Make us feel he is actually human like us. This is what they call the American Dream in the U.S. He tells his life story from poverty to presidency.  It is the belief that a success story is achievable in Nigeria. It is a statement to the average Nigerian that “he is the being there done that kind of candidate” in terms of poverty and hardship. The use of the kids is eye catching too. Good job to the united Nigeria group.

Nuhu Ribadu for President 2011.  While the campaign advertisement of  GEJ seemed to have been channeled mainly for the average Nigerian Ribadu ad crossed across from elementary school kids to office workers to mechanics and okada riders. The song reminds me of Super Sports.  Maybe it is time we stood up for Nigeria finally. Maybe it is time we all go out to vote on April 9. Nuhu Ribadu’s campaign since he declared to run as being centered on a New Nigeria.  He has a blueprint on his website and the ad here also is on that general theme. It is a good ad overall and the song sticks too.

What do y'all think? I sincerely apologize to the other Presidential candidates and their party. I tried to find a good video for them but none was really worth it.   Maybe this would give a nudge to their media coordinators.   If anyone as a good one please feel free to leave the link. Thank you.

Who Born the Maga: Vision 2015

When John F. Kennedy was assassinated in November of 1963 the United States mourned. Lyndon Johnson his vice President became President on board of Air Force 1 less than three hours after JFK passed. President Johnson went on to finish JKF’s term. In 1964 he ran for office and he won. LBJ however didn’t win a reelection. LBJ withdrew from the race! His foreign policy and the war in Vietnam affected his popularity. Can you see where am going with this? Alright I will make it clearer. On May 5, 2010 President Yar’Adua died in Aso Rock after returning from a medical trip in Saudi Arabia. On May 6, 2010 President Jonathan was sworn in to complete his boss’ term. Haven said that you might think am advocating GEJ to be president. You are dead wrong!

Before JFK took office in the States, he was preceded by a two-term Republican President; Dwight Eisenhower. In Nigeria, President Yar’Adua was preceded by a two-term PDP president; Chief Obasanjo. During his tenure in office between 1999 and 2007 his party had a majority in the National Assembly. That means that he could have passed any legislation with no difficulty whatsoever. I would leave the details of that administration to the experts. However like any administration Obasanjo’s tenure has a basket full of criticism.

                        

When Yar’Adua became President little was known about his deputy on a national scale. Every political position he ever took was achieved on the mandate of a boss. Dramatically after the death of Mr. Yar’Adua many Nigeria started beating the drum that the name of the new president will be bring good fortune to Nigeria. GEJ suddenly became the right man for the job. That is just absolutely ridiculous. I wonder why he didn’t run in 2007. I guess this absurd notion gingered the president ego. He declared to run for office. This is his first ever. Now that is where I have a problem.

Mr. President wants to rule Nigeria in his own right. He has promised not to seek a reelection in 2015. Nigerians are easy believers. Mr. President I personally do not understand how you would complete your campaign promises in 4 years considering they are the same your party promised through 1999- 2010. As I said earlier, PDP have had a majority in the National Assembly since 1999. In the forth coming election, the opposition parties are not smiling. The chances of PDP winning absolute majority is slim. So Mr. President the task would be more difficult taking that fact into consideration.

In true democracies around the world, the presidency often rotates. This makes for fresh ideas to come into government. GEJ has promised to deliver what the PDP has failed to do in 11 years in 4 years. I do not see it happening. Do you? Egypt with 80 million people generate 25,000 Giga watts of power; and South Africa with a population of 35 million generate 40,000 megawatts while Nigeria with a population over 150 million people, can only generate 3,000 megawatts of power.

The point am trying to make is simple. In soccer a coach subs an underperforming player for someone on the bench even if was to be his best. Alright that might not apply to politics.lol. Nigerians should seek what is right for once. What does a candidate’s name have to do with governance? Nigerians have tried the ruling party since 1999. Are we satisfied? No. Is there enough public goods? No. Are we performing at our optimum? No. Is there enough employments for our annual University graduates? NO. Is there constant power and security? NO. Nigerians do we have a choice? Yes! Let’s make a change. We owe it to our generation.

True G.O.O.D: Election Theme

You know the saying “some songs just pop up to define ones mood”? It’s true. I have listened to a few songs in the past couple of days. These songs are perfect and on point for this season; election season.
Different issues have been unfolding since the New Year within and between Political Parties. I guess it’s not yet time for this candidates (especially Presidential) to start talking to us. All the songs have so much to do with Nigeria. I bet it’s a good way our musicians can ask questions without any fear of arrest or harassment. Without no further a due here are my picks.

This is from 2baba’s 2006 Grass to Grace Album. The song speaks for itself. Political candidates, not peculiar to Nigeria, make several promises during campaigns. However, not all of them keep to their words; in this case Nigeria is a big example. It’s as if they no know shame. Every election, they come out again to perform the same act. Are we going to be fooled again?

E Be Like Say by 2face




This is a strong one. 9ice and Asa speak some bitter truth on this track. 9ice challenges the youth for not speaking and fighting against our struggling system while the elders are too greedy to speak out against it. They make nostalgic preferences to early years after independence. Is it too late now? I hope not.

Pete Pete by 9ice ft. Asa


I was surprised when I heard this on Wande Coal’s debut Album. Just like the previous song he makes preferences to the early 60s. He makes some sad comments about the reality today.

Se na like this by Wande Coal


I added this to the list because this is what our government as turned must of our youth into; common criminals. Let us forget about the “tosh” names “yahoo boys” or “magas”. Employment is always on the list of serious political candidates in the West. How many jobs did the last administration create? How many did the previous create? How many are the present political candidates proposing to create? All this questions should be asked. It’s a shame! Did you hear about the real estate Nigerian fraudster at large in the U.S? Enough said.

Maga No Need Pay by Banky W, Bez, Cobhams, MI, Modele, Omawumi, Rooftop MCs, Wordsmith

Sound Sultan is one of my favorites. He is one of the consistent artists I know that speak about real issue; from government to society. On this song, he addresses the failure of the administration. Proposed constant electricity project by 2010 failed. Would that be the same by the end of 2015?

2010 by Sound Sultan

Asa on her debut Album had a lot of dope songs. Fire on the mountain is one. There is really fire on the mountain for Nigeria. Let us face it. You all have heard about Tunisia and Egypt. April election is the decisive moment. I hope we quench the fire. Get Daddy Showky.lol

Fire On The Mountain by Asa


The last on my list is eLDee’s One day. I have a dream in Nigeria. It’s a strong one. Hopefully the election in April favor the people and we can begin to write the history of our beloved country on the path of greatness and prosperity.

One day by eLDee

I am nervous about the election. Let us all go out and perform our civil duty. Each vote must count. It is our commonwealth! I believe in Nigeria. It’s not too late to get to work people.

Beauty with Brain

I took a 2 hour nap today. When I woke up I had random thoughts in my head. The one which stood out was Nigerian women; Nigerian women and their intellect and beauty.  Back in High school (secondary school) girls competed for the tops in every subject.  Our women and girls are smart hands down.  On several occasions did I get tutoring from them.  Our females are always ready to defy the odd if given the chance.  Unfortunately, like most world of history, our women are not always painted to the best of their elegance and splendor.  There are only a few to be mentioned in the Nigerian history.  These women are sparingly mentioned in schools. These are women our girls could look up to, these are women with beauty and brain.

I believe someday Nigeria would have a female president.  20 years ago many would have doubted.Nigeria to have so many female deputy governors today.  That is the new political trend these days. Very soon our females would take over the banking, oil, and "everything" sector (lol). I believe in the Nigeria to come.  Our females are standing tall in movie and music industry.  Watch out for our females!

This is my little way of celebrating our women. You all rock.  You are supportive, caring, intelligent, hard working, and beautiful. You are the pride of Nigeria. When the super eagles failed us, you lifted our sprites.  You all rock. Someday you will be given the due chance to excel. Never give up.  Shout out to my wonderful mother. You rock ma!

Word War III

I always thought of him as an out of the box politician but not in a good way.  He definitely put his constituency on the map. I consider that an achievement in my book. But he didn’t consider them when firing must of his out of context vocabulary.  I wasn’t surprised when I learnt he lost the parties primaries a couple of weeks ago. House representative Patrick Obahiagbon is also a YouTube sensation among Nigerian internet users.  However I can't believe an individual like him is one of the many that run our national affairs.  There is a thin line between trying to prove to be an intellectual and a mere joke. He unfortunately falls to the latter part. Most of his interviews I couldn't take seriously.

My concern in particular is how such a man could be accountable to his people if they can’t even make out his words. And don’t even give me the excuse “he would speak to them in his indigenous language”. How about his fellow House representatives? Notable Nigerian literature scholars do not even communicate like that. It’s a distraction. Unfortunately in most of the interviews he seemed to take much pleasure in his act.  

Even if House representative Obahiagbon intention and political career was for the people, his indulgence in ambiguous vocabulary as marred it.  As we march towards election day let us not be cocooned or be put in a state of orga moga by political Homo sapiens. Let us pray to the grand architect of the Universe to save us from a Word war IV.     

The Fantastic Five

The Presidential primary elections of most parties are now over. We have the names of our candidates for the general election. The questions from now on till April are what these men have in stock for us. Internal party politics time is over.  Over the years, candidates have usually not presented any concrete plans to the Nigerian public before the election. It is time for them to face the Nigerian people as a whole. As we all experienced a week ago the April polls is not necessary all about the candidates’ zone. Also, this election is regarded as one of the most competitive since the beginning of the current democratic dispensation.  Without further ado, here are our five prominent candidates for the April polls.

Name : Chief Dele Momodu, Party: National Conscience Party (NCP) Age: 50  Current Occupation: Entertainment Magazine Publisher   Website: http://www.delemomodu2011.com/dm2011/

Name: Mallam Ibrahim Shekarau, Party: All Nigerian  People's Party (ANPP),  Age: 55, Current Occupation:  Governor of Kano State, Website: http://ibrahimshekarau.com/

Name: Dr. Goodluck Jonathan, Party: People's Democratic Party (PDP), Age: 53, Occupation: Incumbent President, Website: http://www.goodluckjonathanfor2011.com/

Name: Maj.-Gen. Muhammadu Buhari, Party: Congress for Progressive Change ( CPC), Age: 68 Occupation: Retired  Major-General, Website:http://buhari4change.com/

Name: Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, Party: Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), Age: 50 Occupation: Retired Police Officer/ Lawyer, Website:  http://ribadu2011.com/


The webites and campaign videos are pretty much what these men have provided to us to evalutate them. Please check out their websites and read about them. Contrary to popular believe these men actually have some good information on their sites. Get to know them! Hopefully in the following weeks we would get to know them more. People, these faces are not going away any time soon. Let us get use to them.