Saturday, April 4, 2009
DAVID MARK, WHAT A GUFFAW?
The midget of Oturkpo and Nigeria's Senate president David Mark has again stirred the hornet nest of criminality in Nigeria! He unashamedly stated that Nigeria does not apology for the criminality of her citizens? In his own words, as senate president representing Nigeria to a visiting foreign government official, "I have no apology for victims of 419"? Nigeria, David Mark said, does not apologise for her fraudulent citizens' activities; instead she "knights" them for out-smarting their foreigner-victims? According to David Mark, these so called victims are not really victims; rather they are accomplices to fraud? But we are all aware that parents sometimes apologise on behalf of their miscreant children, who may have misbehaved to some other third party? For David Mark, it is inconceivable that Nigeria should apologise on behalf of her not so good citizens? It goes to the veracity and credibility question of Nigerians; and a damage to one is a damage to all. Icheoku says, imagine what the number three citizen of a country, desperate to re-brand, is saying? Particularly so at this time when the Dora Akunyilis' of Nigeria are sweating themselves mad to re-make Nigeria's sordid image? Little wonder David Mark was a no-show at the launching of operation re-brand Nigeria? He does not believe in it, himself being one of the looters of Nigeria, whose thievery as a one time NITEL overseer, contributed to the comatose state of Nigeria, necessitating the current re-branding effort? As we recall, NITEL was bled to death by David Mark's plundering? By logical extension, David Mark, himself is a 419 operative who perpetrated one of the biggest 419 on Nigeria's NITEL; from which the government parastatal never recovered? His 18 holes golf-course, proceeds of his loot from NITEL is there in Dublin-Ireland for the whole world to see; attesting to this man's criminal behaviour of wanton corruption and money laundering. Icheoku asks, was David Mark holding a brief on behalf of his compatriot partisan 419 practitioners, when he made that shameful statement to the Irish delegation? And David Mark was speaking to a visiting Irish economic team, led by that country's Integration Minister, Conor Lenihan, who paid him a visit in Abuja-Nigeria. Icheoku says, the implication of David Mark's statement to that country's economic team, seeking to do business with Nigeria, is that they too can be defrauded and such is acceptable by Nigeria? Where does this David Mark expect the Conor Lenihan led team to find their confidence to proceed with whatever business objective that led them to visit Nigeria; when they could not even be assured by Nigeria's third in command that their investment in Nigeria will just be fine? David Mark is atypical of the problem with Nigeria, - destitutional "leaders" presiding over the affairs of the nation which is the reason why Nigeria is in a perpetual stupor? Instead of re-assuring these Irish visitors that 419 is a scourge which Nigeria is trying very hard to fight, David Mark was busy suggesting that it is the fault of the victim; adding that both the fraudulent Nigerian and the defrauded foreigner, victim are both in-cohoot and equally at fault? What a logic on its head, David Mark style? Does David Mark understand the ramifications of his statement? Does this man not understand that people have been prospecting for gold since the beginning of times and the allure is so great, that many businessmen will hope to make some profit out of every situation? In other words, is David Mark saying that it is ok to appropriate a lost but found item whose owner is obviously identifiable? Did this parasitic worm that brought NITEL down, know that the crime of obtaining by false pretence is in the inducement or baiting of the unsuspecting victim; the reason why it is called victim's crime? How and why on earth, did this man try to rationalise an evil practice? Icheoku is appalled that David Mark went down this road of irrationality! Instead of emphasising the strengths of the efforts being made by the Nigerian government to arrest the situation, through the institution of Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Related Offences Commission (ICPC); he went off the cliff with the biggest guffaw of the century, eulogising Nigeria's 419 criminality? Icheoku demands that David Mark disavows the offensive, thoughtless and undiplomatic statement he made on behalf of Nigeria, to a visiting delegation from Ireland? Better still he can qualify his statement or blame his tongue for the misspeak or even let the press take the fall that he was quoted out of context? It is called damage control! But for him to do nothing to correct this representation, will only fuel what is already known or perceived of Nigerians - bunch of criminal 419 operatives! The already existing intense and negative international publicity which Nigeria gets is damaging enough and so David Mark's uncouth statement only festers the bad rap! If therefore David Mark had nothing to add, why did he open his; mouth knowing fully well that Nigeria will be judged by what comes out of her number three citizen? Simply put, it is regrettable!
Friday, April 3, 2009
SARKOZY, A SORE GRAPE?
If the report reaching Icheoku.com that the French first lady, Mrs Carla Bruni-Sarkozy refused to accompany her husband, French President Nikolas Sarkozy to the G20 economic summit in London is true, then the ex-model cum nudist is a sore-loser?
According to available information, Carla Bruni Sarkozy refused to go to London because she couldn't stand being outshone or upstaged by our very own First Lady Michelle Obama? Icheoku asks, how far is too far for this paparazzi-loving French model whose dalliances with so many notable men of this world is of general knowledge before ending up as France's first lady?
Only recently, a nude picture of her was auctioned of for a whopping $91,000.00 dollars USD and her nakedness is today gracing the living-room of a well heeled man somewhere in this world? Anyway, to Madam Sarkozy, there is time for everything and like the actress you are, Icheoku expected you to know how to pretend and mask your feelings instead of splashing it all over the place. But for you to leave the French President alone and lonely in London does not speak very highly of you. Or who do you expect Mr. Nikolas Sarkozy to share his experience at the G20 with upon retiring for the evening.
Finally, Mrs Sarkozy, Icheoku says, get used to the intimidating presence of the Obamas on the world stage; and as for Michelle, she is already causing waves among fashion avant-gardes! Therefore, advise yourself accordingly!
Thursday, April 2, 2009
G20 SAYS, ONE TRILLION DOLLARS TO THE RESCUE?
As the G20 wounded their world economic summit at the Excel centre in London today, April 2, 2009 there is a consensus, one trillion dollars life-line should be thrown at the sputtering world economy? Icheoku says congratulations to the twenty biggest economies for successfully concluding the summit and pray that their effort yields the desired result.
In the words of valedictory of the host, British Prime Minister, Gordon Brown, "This is the day that the world came together to fight back against the global recession, not with words but with a plan for global recovery and for reform and with a clear timetable for its delivery."
The summit produced a six-point communique as well as two detailed annexes on how a tighter regulatory regime would work. They agreed to have another G20 meeting in due course to check on the progress of the conclusions reached today. The leaders did not take up the biggest point of contention, whether to boost national economic-stimulus packages. Instead, they focused on two other significant areas; the funds available to international institutions to help poor or struggling economies to withstand the crisis, and tougher global regulation of financial markets. 1. The International Monetary Fund $250 billion reserves will be tripled to enable it to better help stricken countries in the developing world - as well as others, like Mexico, who are nervous that their economy could be swept up in the global turmoil through no fault of their own. 2. The leaders also agreed to provide an additional $250 billion in guarantees for export credits and other trade finance, which have dried up in the past few months and led to a drastic drop in global commerce. 3. The other key decision concerns financial regulation and corporate behavior, under which hedge funds and other financial-market players will be subject to far greater and properly coordinated international scrutiny. 4. Big banks with activities in several countries will also be subject to greater and properly coordinated international scrutiny. 5. Tax-havens which are not complying with international standards on exchanging information will be publicly named and shamed. 6. On executive pay and compensation, the gathered world leaders accepted a series of recommendations by their finance experts that would lead to sharper oversight of compensation and bonuses and tie them more specifically to long-term performance. Of all countries in Africa, only South Africa was deemed civilized enough and have its acts together, to be invited to the summit. The hitherto "giant", now clay-footed humpty-dumpty of Africa, Nigeria, has been relegated to the background; having been deemed incompetent, disorganised, directionless, clueless and a total disappointment to the gathered world's finest? How has the mighty of Africa fallen? Only the rudderless leadership of and in Nigeria can supply the answer? It is also instructive that Iran, North Korea and Venezuela were not invited to the summit? Israel was also a no-show; with Saudi Arabia being the only country in the Middle East to be invited to the summit.
In the words of valedictory of the host, British Prime Minister, Gordon Brown, "This is the day that the world came together to fight back against the global recession, not with words but with a plan for global recovery and for reform and with a clear timetable for its delivery."
The summit produced a six-point communique as well as two detailed annexes on how a tighter regulatory regime would work. They agreed to have another G20 meeting in due course to check on the progress of the conclusions reached today. The leaders did not take up the biggest point of contention, whether to boost national economic-stimulus packages. Instead, they focused on two other significant areas; the funds available to international institutions to help poor or struggling economies to withstand the crisis, and tougher global regulation of financial markets. 1. The International Monetary Fund $250 billion reserves will be tripled to enable it to better help stricken countries in the developing world - as well as others, like Mexico, who are nervous that their economy could be swept up in the global turmoil through no fault of their own. 2. The leaders also agreed to provide an additional $250 billion in guarantees for export credits and other trade finance, which have dried up in the past few months and led to a drastic drop in global commerce. 3. The other key decision concerns financial regulation and corporate behavior, under which hedge funds and other financial-market players will be subject to far greater and properly coordinated international scrutiny. 4. Big banks with activities in several countries will also be subject to greater and properly coordinated international scrutiny. 5. Tax-havens which are not complying with international standards on exchanging information will be publicly named and shamed. 6. On executive pay and compensation, the gathered world leaders accepted a series of recommendations by their finance experts that would lead to sharper oversight of compensation and bonuses and tie them more specifically to long-term performance. Of all countries in Africa, only South Africa was deemed civilized enough and have its acts together, to be invited to the summit. The hitherto "giant", now clay-footed humpty-dumpty of Africa, Nigeria, has been relegated to the background; having been deemed incompetent, disorganised, directionless, clueless and a total disappointment to the gathered world's finest? How has the mighty of Africa fallen? Only the rudderless leadership of and in Nigeria can supply the answer? It is also instructive that Iran, North Korea and Venezuela were not invited to the summit? Israel was also a no-show; with Saudi Arabia being the only country in the Middle East to be invited to the summit.
Just a little G20 factoid:- the group of twenty (G20) represents the most important industrialised states and emerging economies of the world. They include Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Mexico, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, South Korea, Turkey, United Kingdom, United States of America and the European Union. The Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the President of the World Bank, plus the chairs of the International Monetary and Financial Committee and Development Committee of the IMF and World Bank, were also invited on an ex-officio basis. The G20 all together, is home to more than 60 percent of the world’s population, accounts for about 90 per cent of global gross national product and 80 per cent of the entire world trade (including EU intra-trade). Icheoku says, the G20 is by implication, is capable of independent existence devoid of the uninvited "leeches" of the world? Say it ain't so!
Left is Icheoku's most favorite picture of the London 2009 Summit; showing America's Obama, Italy's Berlusconi and Russia's Medvedev in a mood, whose time has come! Because of this picture alone, the world is today much more relaxed that an over-bloated ego somewhere will not start an inferno which it cannot easily quench?
At the end of the summit, every participant was satisfied with the resolutions reached; and in the words of Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd, "People beforehand said there would be a divide, but in fact there was an overwhelming drive toward achieving real action, real commitments and real time-lines." The United States President Barack Obama when asked his take on the summit, quipped "I think we did O.K." Once again congratulations to the world's super dupers!
At the end of the summit, every participant was satisfied with the resolutions reached; and in the words of Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd, "People beforehand said there would be a divide, but in fact there was an overwhelming drive toward achieving real action, real commitments and real time-lines." The United States President Barack Obama when asked his take on the summit, quipped "I think we did O.K." Once again congratulations to the world's super dupers!
LOOSING SECURITY AIDES - an article by Chinedu Vincent Akuta!
The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has decided to withdraw all police orderlies and security aides to those whom the police authorities initially gave the privileges. However some groups will still retain their police orderlies. Those to still enjoy their police coverage includes; the President, the Vice President, Chief Justice of the Federation, State Governors, Deputy Governors, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, President of the Court of Appeal, Head of Service of the Federation and ministers, President of the Senate, Deputy President of the Senate, Speaker, House of Representatives, Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives, Speakers of State Houses of Assembly and Deputy Speakers of State Houses of Assembly.
The following category of Nigerians will loose their Police orderlies according to the Federal Executive Council. They are special advisers, special assistants and other principal staff of the President and Vice President, Secretaries to State Governments, State Heads of Service, Commissioners and Principal Staff of State Governors and their political appointees, Federal High Court, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and State High Courts, Khadis of Sharia Court of Appeal, Judges of Customary Court of Appeal, magistrates, heads of parastatals and extra-ministerial departments, chairmen and members of the Federal and State executive bodies (commissions and agencies.) Chief Judge and Grand Khadi of the States, President of the Customary Court of Appeal, Chairmen of Local Government Area Councils, Chairman of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission.
The following category of Nigerians will loose their Police orderlies according to the Federal Executive Council. They are special advisers, special assistants and other principal staff of the President and Vice President, Secretaries to State Governments, State Heads of Service, Commissioners and Principal Staff of State Governors and their political appointees, Federal High Court, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and State High Courts, Khadis of Sharia Court of Appeal, Judges of Customary Court of Appeal, magistrates, heads of parastatals and extra-ministerial departments, chairmen and members of the Federal and State executive bodies (commissions and agencies.) Chief Judge and Grand Khadi of the States, President of the Customary Court of Appeal, Chairmen of Local Government Area Councils, Chairman of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission.
I support the Federal Executive Council’s idea to withdraw police orderlies from those that do not deserve them. The Federal Executive Council did not tell Nigerians the reason(s) behind this decision, but my guess is that they might want more police people in the barracks due to insecurity in the country. However they might have other reasons for doing this. The Federal Executive Council should also reduce the number of police details attached to those who retained their police coverage. A look at the entourage of some governors, their deputies, ministers etc shows intimidating number of police personnel. I think they have more police protection than they need. Withdrawing some police officers from this group will help make more police personnel available. Be that as it may, the government is simply using the Nigerian tax payers money to provide security to very few, some of whom are corrupt. We are paying to protect those who loot our resources. This is the irony of the Nigerian situation.
Nelson Mandela said that security for few is insecurity for all. The entire country is not secured. Crime rates are too high. All sorts of crime are on the increase. Kidnappings are every day occurrences, robbery, murder, assassinations are too often. Nigerians live in fear. Just recently gunmen attacked the convoy of Delta State Police Commissioner along Benin-Warri road killing about six of his aides.
The primary purpose of every government all over the world is to provide welfare and security to its citizens. To this extent the Nigerian leadership (past and present) has failed Nigerians. Parts of the reasons for the high crime rate are poverty, deprivation, unemployment etc. Remember that an idle mind is a devils workshop. The Nigerian government should be blamed for falling to create jobs and also for falling to create an enabling environment for the private sector to create jobs. An example is the failure of the power project. The House of Representative’s probe of the power sector revealed a lot to Nigerians.
To tackle the insecurity problem in Nigeria requires honesty, determination and transparency on the part of federal government. Government needs to stop corruption in high places. They also need to sincerely partner with the private sector to create jobs and the enabling environment. Till the government does this, the crime rates will soar higher. May God bless Nigeria.
To tackle the insecurity problem in Nigeria requires honesty, determination and transparency on the part of federal government. Government needs to stop corruption in high places. They also need to sincerely partner with the private sector to create jobs and the enabling environment. Till the government does this, the crime rates will soar higher. May God bless Nigeria.
The author Mr. Chinedu Vincent Akuta is an activist and leader of “Support Option A4 Group” Leicester-UK and can be reached via akutachinedu@yahoo.com
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
AMERICA'S DAPPER FIRST COUPLE, THE OBAMAS!
America give it up to our first couple, President Barack and First Lady Michelle Obama; as they powerfully represent our great country before the world at the London G20 Economic Summit!
Don't they look resplendent in these outfits? They are the real dapper first couple of the United States of America. Icheoku proudly identifies with this power couple, the very best America has and will for a very long time! Highly educated, both are Harvard-trained lawyers, intelligent, smart and lovable! Simply stated, Barack and Michelle were tailor-made in heaven for each other.
Our kudos also goes to whoever is the present fashion adviser/manager of Michelle Obama; as she has gladly listened to our advise among others, to do away with those her matronly inauguration outfits? With a killer-figure like hers and complimentary fine long legs, she cannot but flaunt them! To First Lady Michelle Obama, Icheoku says, we saw more conservative dressers but chose to have a dashing first lady; and what we bargained for, you have started giving us. Now the real quintessential fashion-essence in you has made a come back to wow the world including the ever dressy Queen of England; who was equally awe-struck with this mesmerising first couple out of America?
To President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama, Icheoku says, keep it up and may the good Lord who made your story possible continue to guide and protect you, in Jesus Christ name, Amen!
The First couple's international debut shows that America judged well when on November 4, 2008 they elected the first African-American first couple of the United States of America, President Barack and Michelle Obama. Alongside his very beautiful, radiant wife and confidant Michelle Obama, President Barack Obama has cast a spell on the watching world and the story has now changed. America is once again the much sought-after darling of the world and every world leader is queuing up to be photographed with our new first couple. Obama has overcome! Icheoku wishes the G20, a fruitful deliberation at their summit and the first couple, a rewarding flawless outing presenting themselves to the world. We pray also that you safely make your way back to the United States of America at the end of the summit! Good call, Michelle on those beautiful outfits! We are loving it!
MADONNA, RESCUING MALAWI ONE CHILD AT A TIME?
Icheoku says, Madonna is the best thing that ever happened to a Malawian child and she should be encouraged to adopt as many of them as her loving heart desires! That some people are even objecting to her latest attempt to adopt another Malawian child is as outrageous as it is unimaginable! Would these 'dogs in the manger' prefer that David Banda, Madonna's first Malawian son, never made the transition which the whole world witnessed this week? We are all happy to see the transformed happy-lucky Americana, David, as Yankee as you can get, happily strutting the grounds of his native Malawi, holding her mother's hand? Anyone, who after witnessing the happy David and still objects to any further adoption/s by Madonna or any other loving person of means, should be checked into a psychiatric ward for evaluation; and thereafter prepare for a burning HELL! Such meddlesome-interloping is simply a devil-induced attempt to frustrate and obstruct God's work through Madonna?
Three-year-old Mercy James (pictured left) should therefore be allowed to enjoy her lucky star which has just shone upon her from the heavens of Lady Madonna? Malawian Adoption Minister Penstone Kilembe, Grandma Lucy Chekechiwa, Uncle John Nglanade and whoever or whatever the bureaucracy in Malawi should yield and make way for an accelerated adoption of Mercy James to enable her begin her lucky break in life. She is a living example of a person who had greatness trust upon her and according to William Shakespeare, our destinies are all tied up in the stars! The Malawian authorities in Lilogwe must understand clearly that if not in Malawi, it could be anywhere, elsewhere and so, why not facilitate Malawi such an honorable benefit? Icheoku says the "Save the Children" charity is a kill-joy that must be checkmated. How dare these fickle-minded and mean-spirited knuckle-heads of a charity open their mouth so wide in what does not really concern them; or are there not enough African orphans already for them to take care of? They would rather have the lucky Mercy James remain in the hunger-riveted African Malawi than to find love, happiness, better life and a secured future in the home of one of the world's richest woman? We strongly feel that this charity is just jealous and would rather Madonna adopted her children from the West and not God-forsaken Africa? Icheoku says the British charity, "Save the Children" statement that "all other options should have been exhausted before taking a child out of a foreign orphanage" amplifies our position that they would have preferred Madonna adopted a British or a Caucasian child but not an African? According to their spokesman, Dominic Nutt, "The best place for a child is in his or her family in their community," but Icheoku asks, where is the family or community of an orphan in an orphanage? It is our opinion therefore that this spokesman, whoever he is, is living up to his name, - he is NUTS! From life at Kondanani Orphanage in Thyolo district, near the commercial capital Blantyre in southern Malawi, to a Madonna's world is one sure transition that should not be stopped by any God fearing, good-spirited person! Icheoku hopes that the judge in this case understands what is at stake here? This adoption means a lot to little Mercy James and no one should constitute a stumbling block to improving the life of yet another Malawian who might grow up to become the Malawian version of Barack Obama? The Malawian government, with over 1.5 million orphans can really use some help from Madonna's removing one mouth from their mind-numbing AIDS-induced mega responsibility. Madonna's charity in Malawi, Raising Malawi, is equally commendable as one of her well intentioned decision to really help out in Malawi. Also her multi-purpose community centre at Mphandula village, 50 kilometers (30 miles) from Lilongwe, which looks after more than 8,000 orphans in scores of villages in the area is also tremendous. Both projects show a generous woman whose actions in adopting Malawian children is not selfish but a passionate desire to really help out. Madonna should be commended and encouraged; and not become the butt of whatever holier than thou organization out there? Madonna should not be condemned or chastised for doing good by and for the Malawian less fortunate orphaned children. Instead, she deserves recognition from the Malawian government; possibly a Medal of Freedom of Malawi?
That Madonna has been a wonderful, superlative mom to her first Malawian-child, son David Banda (pictured left with mom Madonna) is a fact that speaks for itself, as pictures do not lie. From a lonely orphan in an African dungeon of an orphanage to the Americana which she has transformed him into, who still doubts the competency of this loving mother? More-so Madonna is of a very deep pocket and the question of welfare of another extra child is a no brainier? Icheoku says the African Judge in Lilongwe, Malawi should expedite action and let Madonna adopt Mercy James and as many other children as her heart desires; their future is more secured with Madonna than remaining behind in a hopeless and dejected African orphanage. With such adopted children moving on and moving out, there will be room to take better care of those unlucky ones still left behind, whose stars are yet to shine? When these kids grow up, they can always come to visit or trace back their roots to motherland, African Malawi? Their African roots is undeniable and they may even decide to migrate back if they so desire, but to deny them this God given opportunity to have their lives forever transformed for good will be pettiness and wickedness of the utmost meanness. To the Malawian Judge, Icheoku says, let Madonna have her way!
Three-year-old Mercy James (pictured left) should therefore be allowed to enjoy her lucky star which has just shone upon her from the heavens of Lady Madonna? Malawian Adoption Minister Penstone Kilembe, Grandma Lucy Chekechiwa, Uncle John Nglanade and whoever or whatever the bureaucracy in Malawi should yield and make way for an accelerated adoption of Mercy James to enable her begin her lucky break in life. She is a living example of a person who had greatness trust upon her and according to William Shakespeare, our destinies are all tied up in the stars! The Malawian authorities in Lilogwe must understand clearly that if not in Malawi, it could be anywhere, elsewhere and so, why not facilitate Malawi such an honorable benefit? Icheoku says the "Save the Children" charity is a kill-joy that must be checkmated. How dare these fickle-minded and mean-spirited knuckle-heads of a charity open their mouth so wide in what does not really concern them; or are there not enough African orphans already for them to take care of? They would rather have the lucky Mercy James remain in the hunger-riveted African Malawi than to find love, happiness, better life and a secured future in the home of one of the world's richest woman? We strongly feel that this charity is just jealous and would rather Madonna adopted her children from the West and not God-forsaken Africa? Icheoku says the British charity, "Save the Children" statement that "all other options should have been exhausted before taking a child out of a foreign orphanage" amplifies our position that they would have preferred Madonna adopted a British or a Caucasian child but not an African? According to their spokesman, Dominic Nutt, "The best place for a child is in his or her family in their community," but Icheoku asks, where is the family or community of an orphan in an orphanage? It is our opinion therefore that this spokesman, whoever he is, is living up to his name, - he is NUTS! From life at Kondanani Orphanage in Thyolo district, near the commercial capital Blantyre in southern Malawi, to a Madonna's world is one sure transition that should not be stopped by any God fearing, good-spirited person! Icheoku hopes that the judge in this case understands what is at stake here? This adoption means a lot to little Mercy James and no one should constitute a stumbling block to improving the life of yet another Malawian who might grow up to become the Malawian version of Barack Obama? The Malawian government, with over 1.5 million orphans can really use some help from Madonna's removing one mouth from their mind-numbing AIDS-induced mega responsibility. Madonna's charity in Malawi, Raising Malawi, is equally commendable as one of her well intentioned decision to really help out in Malawi. Also her multi-purpose community centre at Mphandula village, 50 kilometers (30 miles) from Lilongwe, which looks after more than 8,000 orphans in scores of villages in the area is also tremendous. Both projects show a generous woman whose actions in adopting Malawian children is not selfish but a passionate desire to really help out. Madonna should be commended and encouraged; and not become the butt of whatever holier than thou organization out there? Madonna should not be condemned or chastised for doing good by and for the Malawian less fortunate orphaned children. Instead, she deserves recognition from the Malawian government; possibly a Medal of Freedom of Malawi?
That Madonna has been a wonderful, superlative mom to her first Malawian-child, son David Banda (pictured left with mom Madonna) is a fact that speaks for itself, as pictures do not lie. From a lonely orphan in an African dungeon of an orphanage to the Americana which she has transformed him into, who still doubts the competency of this loving mother? More-so Madonna is of a very deep pocket and the question of welfare of another extra child is a no brainier? Icheoku says the African Judge in Lilongwe, Malawi should expedite action and let Madonna adopt Mercy James and as many other children as her heart desires; their future is more secured with Madonna than remaining behind in a hopeless and dejected African orphanage. With such adopted children moving on and moving out, there will be room to take better care of those unlucky ones still left behind, whose stars are yet to shine? When these kids grow up, they can always come to visit or trace back their roots to motherland, African Malawi? Their African roots is undeniable and they may even decide to migrate back if they so desire, but to deny them this God given opportunity to have their lives forever transformed for good will be pettiness and wickedness of the utmost meanness. To the Malawian Judge, Icheoku says, let Madonna have her way!
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
NKECHI, BREAST CANCER VICTIM, NEEDS YOUR HELP!
Please do not let her die! Give her a fighting chance, donate to her appeal funds! Her diagnosis is grim but she is a fighter, gallantly standing eye-ball to eye-ball to cancer of the breast! Your help is all that she has now as her treatment so far has depleted her family's life savings; and there is no insurance coverage for cancer in Nigeria, hence she brings her case to your world for help! Her name is Nkechi Nwagbo. She is a 31 year old married mother of one two year old son. Nkechi does not want to leave her son without a mother and she dotes on her son so much. But all the love of mother for a child will come to naught if this ravaging breast cancer is allowed to have its way without a fight? Nkechi counts on your loving help, support and prayer to see her through the present ordeal . She wants to live, so please help her realise her dream to see her son grow up; contribute today to her appeal funds. If international, through "Icheoku Donates" below left and if locally in Nigeria, at Save Nkechi Account Fund; Nkechi Nwagbo, Account Number 4111406119, Zenith Bank, Lagos-Nigeria.
So far Nkechi's breast cancer is being treated at Lagos State Teaching Hospital (LUTH) since her diagnosis; but the prognosis is not good enough hence the need to explore treatment overseas? But the funds are not there, hence this appeal! The good news so far is that the cancer has not spread to her left breast or metastasized to any other part of her body. Pictured here left, is the ebullient Nkechi Nwagbo before her life was interrupted by cancer. Worldwide, breast cancer is the fifth most common cause of cancer death (after lung cancer, stomach cancer, liver cancer, and colon cancer) and it is taking a toll on women in Nigeria due to the epileptic medical care therein? Breast cancer is the number one killer disease of women in Nigeria. Icheoku asks, Nigerian women would you let Nkechi also die and add to the statistics? In 2005, breast cancer caused 502,000 deaths (7% of cancer deaths; almost 1% of all deaths) worldwide. In the United States, breast cancer is the third most common cause of cancer death (after lung cancer and colon cancer). American Cancer Society, Nkechi asked that we particularly mention her case to you and hereby appeals for your assistance, regarding her plight. She walks too! Nkechi Nwagbo, a journalist by profession can also be reached on telephone number 011-234-8027609618.
Monday, March 30, 2009
INCEST, COLOMBIA THUMPS AUSTRIA?
As if the world was not already outraged enough by the Austrian incestuous father, Josef Fritzl, left, who was both a father and a babies-daddy to his own very biological daughter; the report coming out of South American Colombia seems to have shattered his records, as a father there, has fathered 11 children by his own daughter? Icheoku says, against the above back-drop, may be Nigeria's Olusegun Obasanjo should be "forgiven" for his incestuous misbehaviour since he only had sex but did not father any known child with his son's wife, Mojisola Gbenga Obasanjo? Mr. Arcedio Alvarez, 59, was taken to court, accused of imprisoning his daughter and fathering 11 children by her; which incestuous relationship started when the daughter, now 30 plus years old, was just a little nine year old innocent girl, possibly running around naked? Icheoku says, this is lunacy, for lack of any better word or adjective to qualify such animalistic behaviour? In a twisted logic from Hades, Mr Alvarez is denying rape and incestuous misbehaviour; stating that he cannot be accused of incest since his daughter was merely "adopted" and not his biological child? According to his argument, "We agreed to have a romantic relationship because we really loved each other. But she was not my own child"! Icheoku asks Mr. Alvarez, can a 9 year old really agree to anything meaningfully and as serious as a love affair? Like most of these monsters, Mr Alvarez employed the God's antics in seducing his daughter, deceiving her that it was God's will that they slept together? Oh Heaven, where are thy brimstone for the Mr. Alvarezs of this world?
Mr Alvarez (pictured here left in a white brimmed hat and shirt), the "Monster of Mariquita" (his moniker for the area he comes from), is standing trial in a central Tolima province court, Colombia and could get a life sentence if convicted. Icheoku implores the court not to let Mr. Alvarez off the hook for his criminal lechery on a nine year old; whether or not she is his daughter? This lame defense of "not my biological child" should not be allowed to stand, if ever entertained? As you may know, Colombia is that country under the thumb of Mr. Hugo Chavez!
Mr Alvarez (pictured here left in a white brimmed hat and shirt), the "Monster of Mariquita" (his moniker for the area he comes from), is standing trial in a central Tolima province court, Colombia and could get a life sentence if convicted. Icheoku implores the court not to let Mr. Alvarez off the hook for his criminal lechery on a nine year old; whether or not she is his daughter? This lame defense of "not my biological child" should not be allowed to stand, if ever entertained? As you may know, Colombia is that country under the thumb of Mr. Hugo Chavez!
FROM INDIA WITH HATE, A MURDER-SUICIDE?
It was only recently that the whole world rejoiced with the Indian based movie, Slumdog Millionaire for its overwhelming success at the Oscar Tony Awards in the United States of America! Indians in America have also recorded so many successful stories and milestones from Hi-tec to medicine to science. But last Sunday, the good trait was punctuated when an Indian IT Professional with Yahoo, Raghavan Devarajan ran amok and dispatched to eternity six other Indians, of the same family, in a San Francisco suburb of Santa Clara? A strange alien culture, one may say; not really as one other notable Indian had preceded him in this type of killing orgy? On Monday, October 6, 2008 a Bangalore Indian native, Karthik Rajaram, 45, also shot his mother-in-law, wife and three children to death before killing himself at their home on Como Lane Sorrento Pointe, California; - a gated community about 23 miles from downtown Los Angeles. Rajaram was a former financial analyst at PricewaterhouseCoopers and Sony Pictures.
It is not good to always swallow another man's culture, hook, line and sinker? Imagine an Indian just committed the most heinous of all crimes, murder and of of his entire family including in-laws? If this is not selfishness on the part of the Indian lunatic who dispatched his family members to the world beyond, nothing else so qualifies! If this killer of family was tired of living, why did he not just jump off the bridge, instead of taking other people alongside; after-all the Golden Gate Bridge is just thirty minutes drive away from his home in Santa Clara? Anyway, the whole world is merely adumbrating on an after the fact situation where it is now too late to save the victims? The murder-suicide in an upscale neighborhood of San Francisco area of Silicon Valley, left three children and three adults dead; with one deathly-injured victim, wife of the killer still clinging to life at an area hospital. The victims died from multiple gunshot wounds, fired from two handguns which were recovered at the scene. Picture above left shows the deranged family-killer with his killed son!
Officers discovered in the home's kitchen and dining room area, the bodies of a 10-year-old boy, a 4-year-old girl, a man in his 30s and a woman in her early 20s scattered inside the three-story town house in Rivermark, Santa Clara, a seven-year-old planned community with a shopping center, playgrounds and a mix of town houses, condominiums and Spanish-style houses that go for upwards of $1 million — all of them shot dead. The suspected gunman, a man in his 40s, was found on the top floor, dead from a self-inflicted wound. (The killer is seen in this picture above right with his killed wife, son and child). A toddler was still alive when paramedics arrived but died overnight at a hospital. Police were called to their town home at 4350 Headen Way around 8:30 p.m. Sunday March 2009 after a woman stumbled on a side-walk, bleeding from the home and asked a neighbour to call for help, saying her husband had shot her and that other victims were inside. The woman was later identified as Abha Deverajan, 34, wife of the alleged gunman, 42-year-old Devan Kalathat, aka Raghavan Devarajan. Among the victims were the couple's 11-year-old son, Akhil Devarajan and 4-year-old daughter Negha Devarajan; his brother-in-law and his wife's brother, Ashok Appu Poothemkandi, 35 and his sister-in-law and Poothemkandi's wife, 25-year-old Suchitra Sivaraman both couple were visiting from their homeland India; as well as the couple's 11-month-old daughter Ahana Ashok, who later died from her injuries at the hospital.
His weapon of choice were two .45-caliber semi-automatic pistols which he bought as recently as in February and about two weeks to the murders, respectively. Icheoku says, it appears that this lunatic planned and had time to meditate about his blood-letting? The victims were all members of the Malayalee tribe of India Angur Pradesh and their family lives at Ayyankollai in Nilgiris district, 550 km southwest of Tamil Nadu capital Chennai. Icheoku says people should not allow material things to enslave them, and what you cannot afford to loose, there is no reason acquiring it? Like many suicide-murderers, Mr Raghavan Devarajan walked himself into a rabbit hole of a fantasy life-style which he found himself inextricably trapped in; and being so far removed away from the reality, like a coward he chose to end it when the going went sour? Our only regret is that this madman took others' lives instead of just going out the way he came in - alone! May the families of the victims find solace in the certainty of death and they have gone to a better place.
It is not good to always swallow another man's culture, hook, line and sinker? Imagine an Indian just committed the most heinous of all crimes, murder and of of his entire family including in-laws? If this is not selfishness on the part of the Indian lunatic who dispatched his family members to the world beyond, nothing else so qualifies! If this killer of family was tired of living, why did he not just jump off the bridge, instead of taking other people alongside; after-all the Golden Gate Bridge is just thirty minutes drive away from his home in Santa Clara? Anyway, the whole world is merely adumbrating on an after the fact situation where it is now too late to save the victims? The murder-suicide in an upscale neighborhood of San Francisco area of Silicon Valley, left three children and three adults dead; with one deathly-injured victim, wife of the killer still clinging to life at an area hospital. The victims died from multiple gunshot wounds, fired from two handguns which were recovered at the scene. Picture above left shows the deranged family-killer with his killed son!
Officers discovered in the home's kitchen and dining room area, the bodies of a 10-year-old boy, a 4-year-old girl, a man in his 30s and a woman in her early 20s scattered inside the three-story town house in Rivermark, Santa Clara, a seven-year-old planned community with a shopping center, playgrounds and a mix of town houses, condominiums and Spanish-style houses that go for upwards of $1 million — all of them shot dead. The suspected gunman, a man in his 40s, was found on the top floor, dead from a self-inflicted wound. (The killer is seen in this picture above right with his killed wife, son and child). A toddler was still alive when paramedics arrived but died overnight at a hospital. Police were called to their town home at 4350 Headen Way around 8:30 p.m. Sunday March 2009 after a woman stumbled on a side-walk, bleeding from the home and asked a neighbour to call for help, saying her husband had shot her and that other victims were inside. The woman was later identified as Abha Deverajan, 34, wife of the alleged gunman, 42-year-old Devan Kalathat, aka Raghavan Devarajan. Among the victims were the couple's 11-year-old son, Akhil Devarajan and 4-year-old daughter Negha Devarajan; his brother-in-law and his wife's brother, Ashok Appu Poothemkandi, 35 and his sister-in-law and Poothemkandi's wife, 25-year-old Suchitra Sivaraman both couple were visiting from their homeland India; as well as the couple's 11-month-old daughter Ahana Ashok, who later died from her injuries at the hospital.
His weapon of choice were two .45-caliber semi-automatic pistols which he bought as recently as in February and about two weeks to the murders, respectively. Icheoku says, it appears that this lunatic planned and had time to meditate about his blood-letting? The victims were all members of the Malayalee tribe of India Angur Pradesh and their family lives at Ayyankollai in Nilgiris district, 550 km southwest of Tamil Nadu capital Chennai. Icheoku says people should not allow material things to enslave them, and what you cannot afford to loose, there is no reason acquiring it? Like many suicide-murderers, Mr Raghavan Devarajan walked himself into a rabbit hole of a fantasy life-style which he found himself inextricably trapped in; and being so far removed away from the reality, like a coward he chose to end it when the going went sour? Our only regret is that this madman took others' lives instead of just going out the way he came in - alone! May the families of the victims find solace in the certainty of death and they have gone to a better place.
WAGONER, OUT!
As he falls on the sword of the downturn, Japanese-style, the chairman and chief executive of United States of America automotive maker General Motors (GM), Mr. Rick Wagoner has joined the ranks of other non-performing chief executives who once were? But Icheoku asks, will his leaving the position at GM, turn things around for the hyper-ventilating car maker, since people are not just buying cars or trucks these days? Icheoku says, GM makes good vehicles, admitted they are gas-guzzlers, but their Jeeps, Hummer, Chevrolet, Corvette, Cadillac and Buick are some of the most favorite brands plying many roads in many countries of the world. Personally, I have driven a Chevy before and it served me well; and a Jeep is a prospective future vehicle. The question should be why are people not buying vehicles, since even the peoples' beloved Toyota is also suffering the present draught in world vehicle sales?
Were Icheoku to be advising, it would have been better to allow Rick Wagoner implement whatever re-structuring programme that may be recommended by those knowledgeable both in the White House and Wall Street? Like Defence Minister Robert Gates, who was allowed to stay on and help tidy up affairs regarding the two on-going wars, Wagoner should have been allowed to re-organize GM instead of bringing on board a total stranger into such a complex corporation with a world-wide operations to try and figure out what is obvious? It is all about gas-consumption and gas-price, period! Anyway, the deed is done, the decision has been taken and Rick Wagoner is now, a former General Motors chief executive? Let us hope that the decision makers have their game plans right, otherwise it will be a disappointment galore to let Wagoner go without achieving the desired result?
Icheoku believes that as an insider, Rick Wagoner, would have been a better fit to lead GM through its present crisis? Whether there have been several years of missteps, mistakes and arrogance by the Detroit Three automakers, is not sufficiently a reason to throw away such a knowledgeable individual except there is a compelling reason to do so. All that Washington would have done was to compel a re-tooling and re-structuring of the auto industries instead of forcing one of their chief executive to fall on his own sword? That Wagoner relied for too long on sales of pickup trucks and sport utility vehicles for GM's profits should not be used against him; after-all that was what the market wanted until the surprised astronomical gasoline pricing that forced the two brands off the cliff? It was not only GM that was unprepared for the high gasoline price induced drastic market shift; as everyone was taken by surprise when gasoline prices hit $4 per gallon last year and it became too expensive and uneconomical to own and operate one such SUV or truck?
Were Icheoku to be advising, it would have been better to allow Rick Wagoner implement whatever re-structuring programme that may be recommended by those knowledgeable both in the White House and Wall Street? Like Defence Minister Robert Gates, who was allowed to stay on and help tidy up affairs regarding the two on-going wars, Wagoner should have been allowed to re-organize GM instead of bringing on board a total stranger into such a complex corporation with a world-wide operations to try and figure out what is obvious? It is all about gas-consumption and gas-price, period! Anyway, the deed is done, the decision has been taken and Rick Wagoner is now, a former General Motors chief executive? Let us hope that the decision makers have their game plans right, otherwise it will be a disappointment galore to let Wagoner go without achieving the desired result?
Icheoku believes that as an insider, Rick Wagoner, would have been a better fit to lead GM through its present crisis? Whether there have been several years of missteps, mistakes and arrogance by the Detroit Three automakers, is not sufficiently a reason to throw away such a knowledgeable individual except there is a compelling reason to do so. All that Washington would have done was to compel a re-tooling and re-structuring of the auto industries instead of forcing one of their chief executive to fall on his own sword? That Wagoner relied for too long on sales of pickup trucks and sport utility vehicles for GM's profits should not be used against him; after-all that was what the market wanted until the surprised astronomical gasoline pricing that forced the two brands off the cliff? It was not only GM that was unprepared for the high gasoline price induced drastic market shift; as everyone was taken by surprise when gasoline prices hit $4 per gallon last year and it became too expensive and uneconomical to own and operate one such SUV or truck?
Mr Rick Wagoner, 56, assumed the now ex-position at General Motors in May 2003. He joined GM in 1977 and had previously served in various capacities for GM in the United States of America, Brazil and Europe. He became president and chief executive of GM in 2000 and chairman and CEO in 2003. It is also note-worthy that France's biggest car maker, Peugeot-Citroen, recently fired her chairman Christian Streiff, for reason of "extraordinary difficulties" in the automotive industry? Toyota Motor Corp.'s president, Katsuaki Watanabe, equally announced that he would be stepping down as a result of the meltdowns.
With his ouster, Rick Wagoner has become a member of former chief executives club, who were similarly forced out after the government took over their companies last year. The CEOs of mortgage giants Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac readily comes to mind and so also is Robert Willumstad, the former CEO of American International Group Inc., (AIG) who was booted out last September 2008, a day after the government pumped $85 billion into the insurer to keep it afloat. Icheoku while wishing Rick Wagoner good luck, also hopes that the Obama administration finds the answer they are looking for in revamping the auto industry, by his firing!
Sunday, March 29, 2009
WORLD CUP QUALIFERS, DISASTER IN ABIDJAN
A soccer fans' stampede at a World Cup qualifying match in Ivory Coast has killed at least 22 people with additional 132 wounded? Fans at the Felix Houphouet-Boigny sports arena in Abidjan pushed against each other at the entry turnstiles, shortly before the game between Ivory Coast and Malawi started, causing a wall to collapse, which set off a panic leading to a fatal stampede. Many of the Ivorians football fans, had trudged to the stadium to behold their soccer idol, Chelsea England's striker Didier Drogba who eventually scored twice in the 5-0 Ivorian defeat of visiting Malawians; before a 36, 000 stadium capacity crowd? The tragedy occurred shortly before the game began but the match was allowed to go on, notwithstanding the loss of lives? Whether even a minute of silence was observed for the departed was not ascertainable at the time of writing this commentary? Icheoku says if the death of 22 fans was not enough reason to postponed a match, how many more deaths therefore will it it take? Does it mean that African lives are not as valued as that of other peoples of the world to warrant a world cup qualifying match deferment; even for one day in honour of the fallen? Is the African life a lesser life that its loss has no effect in the thinking of FIFA, the world cup qualifiers organizing body? Icheoku condemns unequivocally, the non postponement of this match in respect of the dead as a wanton disregard for an African life? Whoever is the sports minister in Ivory Coast should resign his office in shame, for not doing enough to guard against such a disaster and for failing to persuade FIFA to defer the match in the honor of the dead fans?
The culprit, poor crowd control, which triggered the disaster at Abidjan was an avoidable happenstance, had the authorities in Abidjan put their acts together? This is a sign of what could possibly happen in South Africa 2010 but we hope the planning authorities for the 2010 sports fiesta will take a cue in crowd management to avoid similar fate as befell these Ivorians. Icheoku prays their bereaved families find the strength to bear the loss; and since the deceased died doing what they love, being fans to their home football team, possibly they wouldn't wish otherwise? Hopefully, the Ivory Coast national team makes it to the world cup football tournament, at least to honor their fans who perished today.
YOUR SUNDAY WITH PROPHET MKO TIBETAN!
Today, Sunday March 29, 2009 we shall be speaking on the two word sentence, "WHY ME?" There are people who are fond of crying why me whenever a problem comes their way. Many Christians too are fond of saying this whenever they meet challenges in life or are confronted with problems of life. But I say to you, who are you and why not you? If not you, who? If you really know who you are, upon facing any problem or challenge, your recourse is to talk to God and not question why you? You can talk to God, because he is the author; the good Lord is the author and the finisher of one's fate. He was the one that formed you in the womb; from the milk to the breast that provided your nourishment while growing up was by His grace! From a little dot of an embryo to your adulthood, He took care of you! The good Lord in Exodus 20:1-7 gave us laws before you were born, but did you grow to obey these laws? When you went to interview for the job you are doing today, did you consult Him? When you decided to pick up your spouse (husband and wife), you never consulted Him to see if your choice was agreeable to Him? But now that the job or whatever you were doing has disappeared as a result of the global recession, you are now querying God “WHY ME?” Now that your beautiful wife has eloped with your best friend, again you wasn't to know from God, why you? Where was God in your plan in the first place when you went to buy that first home of yours which has now been foreclosed? Before you take any first step in life, you should seek the face of the Lord to see if He approves of your plan. It is before and not after the fact that you should call upon God to intervene, and it is having done this and only then do you reserve the right to know why things later went awry. But you must know that whatever God say yes to nobody can say no and if He approved of your plans, He will be there to see you through and He will never disappoint you. When you wanted to take that job, which you have now lost, you should have consulted God to see if He will approve of your plans? Like people who are supposed or ordained to be teachers that went with the career of being lawyers; or you that you are suppose to be a doctor went into politics? So why are you now blaming God for a failed pursuit when you never put him first before and in your pursuit? There are some people, for example, who once they lose their job, make their next career move as pastoral wanna-Be's; but these people fail to realise that pastoral work is by calling of the On High, Mighty God. If God didn’t call you, you can’t call yourself; because when you call yourself it will be disastrous at the end; and as always, remember the saying that the end justifies the means and not every means is justified at the end? Those that were not called by the Almighty are full of many tricks which they use to milk people dry. They live a none serious life, deceiving their flock until their end because they cannot reason otherwise. Please read for comprehension, the following Bible verses:- Psalm 127:1-3; Psalm 128; 1 Timothy 3:1-3; 1 Peter 5:1-10, Genesis 39:15-23; Philippians 4 : 5-6, 1 Corinthian 12; Revelation 3:1-10, Romans 1:10 - 32; Ecclesiastes 12 : 1-6; 11 Samuel 14:14; Psalm 39; James 1:19; Deuteronomy 28:1-3. Brethren, with all that we have studied today, it is not good to ask the Lord, why me so stop using this language of self righteousness “WHY ME”. Also remember that from that we have read in the Bible that a family curse is a terminal disease! Read for comprehension, Jeremiah 6:16; Jeremiah 5:20-25; Jeremiah 17:1-10; Proverb 11:20-24; Lamentation 3:22-41. There is nothing that have happened to you that has not happened to other people before you and is most likely to happen to people coming after you. All that have happened and are yet to happen to anyone including you are all know to God, because he is the all knowing God! God is omni-science and because he is the all knowing God, all you are going through, he is aware of. So stop asking the question “WHY ME” as God already knows what you are going through; but rather, thank God for all he has done, because he knows best. Change your ways today so that God will guide your decisions in order that you will know the right thing to do; also don’t waste time to do it, do it toady as tomorrow may be too late! Until next Sunday when I come to you, please read in addition, Hosea 12:1-9; Joel 2 :12-17, 28; Joel 3:17-21, Job 42 :10-14. Have a wonderful week.
Saturday, March 28, 2009
REBECCA EZEOHA, A NIGERIAN NURSE KILLED IN USA!
Rebecca Ezeoha 44, was found dead by her co-worker, lying face down in a bath-tub, in her own pool of blood, at her work-place. Until her violent death, Rebecca was a direct-care giver at a mental-health home, Dickens Drive Group Home, of 113 Dickens Drive in Raleigh, North Carolina, United States of America. The police were investigating to unravel her cause and manner of death; - whether she was shot dead or bludgeoned to death is yet to be determined by the police. A search warrant released Thursday listed the cause of death as possible murder; indicating the deceased, had a laceration on the left side of her face. The police have also searched 113 Dickens Drive and a Volvo 940 and Chevrolet van belonging to Thompkins' boyfriend (she was a divorcee)? Investigators obtained blood and other physical samples from the counselor who found her dead, six residents of the group home, her boyfriend, the group home, bedding from residents' bedroom, the victim's shoes and cell phone. The police also seized tire tools, candle holders, an ink pen and caulking tool. Police also found credit cards belonging to the deceased in her boyfriend's car. However the Raleigh Police have not commented on a motive or any possible suspects in the case; and Icheoku will keep you posted as development on her death, unfolds.
Late Mrs. Rebecca Ezeoha, a native of Akpugo was once married to one Mr. Nwaokike Ezeoha from Amechi -Awkunanaw; both in Nkanu, Enugu State, Nigeria! Rebecca has become yet another Nigerian nurse to be killed in the United States of America? May her soul find peace with the Lord, Amen!
Late Mrs. Rebecca Ezeoha, a native of Akpugo was once married to one Mr. Nwaokike Ezeoha from Amechi -Awkunanaw; both in Nkanu, Enugu State, Nigeria! Rebecca has become yet another Nigerian nurse to be killed in the United States of America? May her soul find peace with the Lord, Amen!
Friday, March 27, 2009
EMEKA ANYAOKU, POLITICS OF NO ISSUES!
Well said, Chief Emeka Anyaoku! Nigeria plays politics of no issues and Icheoku adds, most likely of touts, by touts and for touts? The highest bidder who could mobilize the most thugs to intimidate everybody, usually hijacks the office. What a perversion of democracy? Nigeria's politics is not for decent God-fearing men and women. Chief Emeka Anyaoku is one such savvy, urbane, decent, God-fearing world-class citizen of Nigerian-Igbo extraction; and should not be found participating in Nigeria's gutter-politics of abject shrivelling, excessive wheeling and dealing? His performance at the Commonwealth of Nations Secretariat and testimonials from his native Obosi, Anambra State, Nigeria and the world in general, attest to this accomplished Nigerian; and also buttresses our assessment. Emeka, Icheoku says you are not alone as there are millions of other Nigerians whose convictions would rather they stayed out of Nigerian politics as presently played, by a very contemptible part of the populace? People who most times, have to mortgage their souls to the Devil just to get along and be allowed in the corridors of power. People who do not give a damn about the welfare and wellbeing of Nigeria and Nigerians? On Emeka's advise that Nigeria should devise and conduct a new foreign policy that would arrest the growing marginalisation of the country in international circles, Icheoku says Nigeria's bad rap-sheet is the reason she is being treated like a pariah. Until the baptism of re-branding really takes root, no one among the comity of nations would be favorably disposed to a country whose president was imposed on the population; whose leadership are bribe-takers; whose citizens are known criminal 419 operatives and which cannot be trusted or taken into confidence to keep faith with reached contractual agreements? The former Commonwealth Secretary General, stated at a book launch, that he will not participate in the nation's politics until it becomes issue and policy based. In Chief Emeka Anyaoku's own words, "The nature of politics as it is played in this country is such that I could not be happily involved. If it is politics of issues and policies, I would have been interested and involved. "I am concerned about issue-oriented politics; politics of service to the community and the electorates, and not seeking power for power sake. I think it is time for us to change our orientation and practice politics with its abiding principles of providing real service to the people." Icheoku says, a civilized man has spoken and hopefully Nigerian politicians will hearken and amend their ways?
Thursday, March 26, 2009
MEDVEDEV, SHEAT YOUR SWORD!
President Dmitry Anatolyevich Medvedev of Russia, Icheoku says, sheat your sword as it is a new day; the days of saber-rattling is over! The United States of America now has a new president who is a constitutional law professor and who understands how you feel, being the under-dog of the world? Good enough you are also a lawyer and as you know, lawyers fight with words and not bullets. So now that both the United States and Russia are being led by lawyers, the world looks forward to a better, convivial, congenial resolution of issues rather than the present marching orders from Moscow to re-arm? Icheoku says, President Medvedev is on the wrong trajectory with his recent announcement that Russia will embark on a massive nuclear re-armament as well as other ancillary weaponry acquisition; beginning from 2010? Icheoku says, bombs do not make friends or attract tourists, except a few rogue states whose leadership perpetuates itself in power with such instrument of terror. Institutions are the key magnet for people and were Icheoku in your shoes, the billions being projected for the new defence spending, shall be channeled to building jaw-dropping landmarks in mother Russia. Take a cue from United Arab Emirate's awesome wonder in the arid Arabian desert! An unsmiling president is neither cool nor affable, but drives a wedge between himself and the people as well as potential friends. President Medvedev, please the world can use more of your smiling face, after-all you are one heck of a handsome dude! One thing is certain, despite your hoofing and puffing, as assured as the cold-war era MAD, there can never be a shooting conflict between the United States of America and Russia! The world will not allow it to happen because when two elephants fight the grass suffers and the world will be better off without such a burden. In case of the unexpected and an accident of conflict happens, Russia can never win or over-run the United States of America; and any foreseeable likelihood thereto will see practically the rest of the world queuing up behind America to fight alongside. The possibility of even some Russians fighting against the motherland exist as nobody who has ever tested the bountiful freedom and ways of the west would want to go back to the east(ry) ways?
Cold war did not knock out America? Hitler and Japan failed to do so? Comrade Vladmir Putin with all his former KGB security expertise couldn't, so why does President Medvedev think otherwise? The reality is that there can never be a fire-fight war between Washington and Moscow; and now that a new Washington Sheriff is extending an olive branch, bragging about nuclear pile-up is not the way forward. Assuming Russia has so much oil-dollars that needs to be spent, our advise is for you to use it to buy for every Russian, a Lamborghini or a Ferrari; they will be much happier citizens than preparing for a war that will never take place. On a more serious note however, there are a lot of issues bedevilling the world which the putting of heads together between Washington and Moscow could help resolve, including the Iranian debacle. Just like the world is witnessing the technological marvel of the Space Station under construction as a result of such anticipated cooperation here, between notable world powers, that is how other endless possibilities are within reach under our new initiative. The problem is that Russia is still smarting from their loss of the cold-war, but Icheoku says, it is about time, you get over it that the world may fully move forward as one. Be that as it may, there is nothing wrong with a second position in a world of over 258 countries; immediately after the United States? Russia should work hard to join organisations such as NATO, European Union, World Trade and every other mutually beneficial organisations in the interest of world peace. Icheoku appeals to Russia to convert more of her military industrial complex to some life-saving beneficial use like massive research of diseases including cancer, HIV/AIDS, malaria, diabetes, and the list is endless. Icheoku was watching America's Amazing Race reality show last time on television, which edition was filmed in Siberia, Russia; and came to the conclusion that Russian can use some modernity, tweaking of their Lada cars as well as much needed face-lifts, landscaping and road construction. Their de-icing machine also looks like something from the last civilization and what is wrong from fully pivoting away from Soviet-era stuff? There is nothing wrong in gentrifying Russia, building a new, post-soviet Russia from grounds up to wean it completely of its communist look! Icheoku must however admit that those ornate doors of your Great Kremlin Palace as well as Saint Petersburg historic buildings are awesome. You could replicate these in other parts of Russia or better still build your own Las Vegas, may be in Sochi after the coming Winter Olympics? In summation, Icheoku asks President Medvedev to work more closely with President Barack Obama for a new, more peaceful world order. A world where the population and its beautiful minds can spend less time worrying about possible conflict and concentrate on finding answers to a myriad of problems facing the world. This is a chance the world cannot afford to miss, two learned gentlemen who are not products of the military establishment, presiding over the two most powerful nations on earth! If not now, when, Mr. President? As they say in Russian, "Udachi i khoroshego nastroeniya", President Medvedev!
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
NWADIALO, YET ANOTHER FIRST!
Icheoku extends our warm congratulations to Dr. Bernard-Shaw Nwadialo on his appointment, by President Umaru Yar'Adua, as the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs! With the confirmation of this son of the soil, to a well merited and deserved position in a Nigerian institution, Icheoku says, the much awaited reintegration of the people of the South East of Nigeria, formerly of Biafra, has finally begun in earnest? As the first Nigerian of Igbo extraction to ever hold this position, CG Nwadialo now joins the ranks of the other doctor on the console at Nigeria's central bank, Dr. Chukwuma Soludo? The President of Nigeria, Umaru Yar'Adua shares in this congratulation for not caving in to some feudal pressure to permanently domicile the office of the Comptroller General to a particular section of the country? Our faith is on CG Nwadialo to deliver and set an example that Nigeria could attain any height, if only the right people are given the opportunity to run affairs therein. CG Nwadialo's appointment also telegraphs that meritocracy has once again triumphed over crass tribalism and nepotism. By confirming this formerly substantive position, President Umaru Yar'Adua correctly placed a round peg in a round hole; and let the healing continue. With one down, one more to go, Icheoku asks, how about the Nigerian Police's Ogbonnaya Onovo, Mr. President? With a PHD in soil science, CG Nwadialo joined the Customs service as deputy comptroller, in 1988 from the University of Nigeria, where he had lectured. CG Nwadialo was promoted to a comptroller in 2000 and then Assistant Comptroller General in charge of Finance, Administration and Technical Service in 2004 and later to Deputy Comptroller General in charge of Strategic Research and Policy, a position he held until his present appointment as the over-all head of the Nigeria Customs, The Comptroller General! Once again, our congratulations!
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