RABIATU, MARRIAGE NOTICE!

You are invited to the Solemnization of Holy Matrimony between Rabi'atu Abubakar and Ransome Egunjobi on their very special day. Please stop by and share our joyful day with us.

Event date:May 16, 2009
Time: 10:00 am CST Prompt
Location: Deeper Life Bible Church
Phone: 713-298-4643
Address:
8405 Brook Wulf Drive
City: Houston , TX 77072

Reception follows immediately after the wedding
Location: Double Crown Reception Center
Phone: 281-568-5001; 281-703-0007
Address: 13900 Beechnut Street, Suite C
City: Houston, TX 77083

Registries:
We are registered at Bed Bath & Beyond
Registry #:4711730
http://www.bedbathandbeyond.com/regHome.asp?order_num=-1&

Dillards
Registry #: 123412660
http://www.dillards.com/wishlist/WLMasterServlet?intent=REGHOME

We hope to see you at this great event!

Signed:RabiRans

TURAKI, REJECTED BY OTHER HOSPITALS, FLOWN TO SINGAPORE?

It appears the world is now seriously asking Nigeria to get its acts together and sit up? First they rebuffed Nigeria at the G20 world's economic summit in London by not inviting her. Now it appears they have also refused to take in for treatment in their hospitals, a Nigerian official, Saminu Turaki; who has, despite President Umaru Yar'Adu's preference for a German hospital, been flown to a South East Asia hospital in far away Singapore?

Who knows if he is going to make it or be brought back as a cargo like the others? Either way Icheoku says it does not augur well for a country to be hospital-shopping each time one of her officials has a medical need while refusing to do something to fix her comatose medical system. Saminu Turaki belong to the inept leadership in Nigeria which could not build even one center of medical excellence and are perpetually begging hospitals around the world to take them in, each time they have a need either by sickness or as in this case, involved in an accident? What a shameless bunch of fringed leadership who do not mean well for Nigeria and still hold her in a death vice-grip?

The former Jigawa State Governor and serving Nigerian Senator, Saminu Turaki, was involved in an auto-accident two Saturdays ago, en-route Abuja from Birnin-Kebbi, and was receiving treatment at the Intensive Care Unit of the Nigeria National Hospital, Abuja before his condition necessitated being flown abroad? Saminu Turaki sustained fractures on his right arm and on his skull during the vehicle roll-over accident. Icheoku ponders, what happens to a similarly situated average Nigeria-Joe who does not benefit from such privileged state sponsored air-ambulance trip to a foreign hospital? If only the leadership in Nigeria could be more fore-sighted and do good for and by Nigerians instead of nauseatingly and shamelessly beginning for hospital beds overseas, every time and all the time!

EBENEZER BABATOPE, SHAMELESSLY SYCOPHANTIC?

Who doesn't know this Yoruba Awosit, recently turned political carpet-beggar, whose convictions are now predicated and determined solely by his stomach? He has thrown caution to the wind and now dwells among the dregs of Nigerian political jobbers who engage in all manner of decrepitude things just to remain "relevant"? He served in the infamous midget of Kano, Sani Abacha's government; he praise-sang the evil of Otta, Olusegun Obasanjo, throughout his days in office and still continuing today despite the fact that Obasanjo was his former nemesis? Now his current self-assumed assignment, is eulogising the weakling of Katsina, Umaru Yar'Adua? His mantra, "provided there is something in it for me"?

By way of introduction, please meet the "egunje" master extra-ordinaire, Ebenezer Babatope alias Ebino Topsy! Once again he is on top of his game, having assumed the uneviable position of an unrepentant genuflecting and swivelling centipede for the present lacklustre President Umaru Yar'Adua's government? Why any of this "leaders" of Nigeria does not see through the veil of this scoundrel and still takes him serious, baffles Icheoku greatly. We therefore call on President Umaru Yar'Adua to be wary of this strange fellow's camaraderie? It does not look good and cannot and ain't good!

Our attention was drawn to a recent interview wherein Ebenezer Babatope attributed the recent Nigeria's smacking by the G20 to a colonial-imperialistic tendencies of the western world? Icheoku says, what a statement in buffoonery, since other hitherto similarly colonized countries were invited to the summit bereft of Nigeria? Icheoku asks Ebenezer Babatope to explain if India, Brazil, South Africa, Saudi Arabia, Indonesia, Argentina, Thailand etc are part of his delusional colonial cum imperialistic axis of evil, that conspired to dis-invite his Nigeria to the gathering of the world's finest? The truth of the matter is that Nigeria is so cursed to have people like this despicable son of Osun State in its leadership positions, which explains why everything has been in comatose ever since and now requiring re-branding?

In his unarticulated delusional assessment of the G20 cold-shoulders to Nigeria, Ebino said, "As for the G20 Summit, we should not allow the imperialist world to control us with its own method of approaching matters. Their views on Yar’Adua and Nigeria smirks of world imperialism. So, lets forget G20. Eventually when they decide that Nigeria or any country in Africa should be part of G20, its’s their problem". And one wonders if this is the position of the thieving PDP government of Nigeria on why Nigeria was shunned by the world at London G20 economic summit? What a summation and you are forced to wonder, is such mind that could cough up such a weird explanation or reason capable of providing the desired leadership that will propel Nigeria forward? How can any sane man read the humiliating message to Nigeria, to get her act together, as an imperialist act when nations which started with Nigeria as prospective world powers have since left Nigeria in the dust due to lackadasical rudderless leadership, provided by the likes of this diarrhea-mouth Ebenezer Babatope? Their ilks have succeeded in obstinately holding Nigeria hostage since her coming into being in 1960 and have little to nothing to show for their adventurism? Instead of reading the fine-lines and subliminal message encapsulated in the non-invite, this political harlot is trying in vain to rationalize an indefensible report-card handed to Nigeria; which reads that the world is getting tired of waiting for the child-Nigeria to crawl, talkless of walk or run or even sprint? Who in the world has not left Nigeria behind? India? Brazil? South Korea? Thailand? And even South Africa which Nigeria helped to transition from apartheid to majority rule? This man, Ebenezer Babtope is unabashedly shameless and the family that he goes back to every day, after doing his dirty job for his masters, must be overwhelmed with revulsion at the denigrate who they call their family head? Only the truth shall save this morphed imbecile!

Ebenezer Babatope who was once a proven social defender from his days at University of Lagos before he was kicked out by the first military government of Olusegun Obasanjo over the "Ali Must Go" affair; to his time as National Director of Organization of the defunct Unity Party of Nigeria, UPN, under the leadership of Papa Obafemi Awolowo; is now cavorting with the north as a member of Board of Trustees of the much despised Peoples Democratic Party just for mere sustenance? (Note that we said Obasanjo's first military government because his second coming was nothing different, both in autocracy and ruthlessness). How is the mighty Ebino fallen so low and become destitutional, that it forces the question, what would Awolowo do or say about this turn-coat who has traded everything Obafemi Awolowo stood for, for a piece of the proverbial porridge from the pot of the PDP? Ebenezer Babatope once quoted Awolowo telling him as saying to him "any day you find me asking you how are you running your department, don’t wait for me to follow it up with asking for your resignation." To this Icheoku retorts, your remaining admirers and the entire Yoruba race, on behalf of Pa Awolowo, are asking Ebino what has come over him and expect his long overdue resignation from the PDP? In the alternative he should talk only when necessary and like a man whose faculties are still in tact!

Ebenezer Babatope's assertion that Papa Awolowo would not have frowned at his joining the PDP is evidence that the circuit in this man's brain is either misfiring for age-related infirmities or he was not really an accomplished ardent understudy of the late Yoruba sagely avatar as he erroneuosly believes? Admitted he later qualified his statement, acknowledging being in the wrong party, when he followed it up with "and in any case, my joining the PDP was based on protest which the leaders of Awo Organisation know about!" Whether this addedum makes him a conniving schemer of the highest kind, who will fox his way through any thing is anybody's guess? On his further claim that, were Awolowo to be alive today that he would be in the PDP was equally debunked by a commentator as a hallucinatory ranting of a confused man, stating that Obasanjo would never be qualified to lead a party wherein Awolowo belong? Icheoku concurs that the deity of Otta was once apositely described by Godwin Daboh as only good enough for his village headship? That Olusegun Obasanjo is still leading the PDP after all the trouble he put Nigeria and the PDP through, is simply an aberration, tolerated by unconcionable and voiceless party faithfuls who like sheep are being flocked according to the shepard's whims. Their orders is "never ask why should you jump, simply ask how high and salute!"

In the same offensive interview, Ebenezer was asked about Olusegun Obasanjo remaining as the life chairman of PDP Board of Trustees? To which he responded that there is no life chairman of BOT of the party at any time and nobody is being elected this time - meaning their upcoming convention? Surprise, surprise? Which now begs the question, has the monster of Otta once again out-foxed the sick man of Katsina? Has the master tactician, military mechanic deployed his experience from the military to draw Yar'Adua into a fox-hole for close combat hostilities? Icheoku says, President Umaru Yar'Adua retains Obasanjo as the BOT chairman at his own risk as Obasanjo never forgives nor forgets and will surely out manoeuvre Yar'Adua at the appropriate time. With the recent mending of fence between Obasanjo and Atiku as a hindsight, President Umaru Yar'Adua has another thing coming if he allows Obasanjo to stick around in such a powerful position as the PDP's BOT chairman. It will be the height of political naivety ever displayed by the Katsina native, to allow a conniving devil-maycare Olusegun Obasanjo to be around to determine who goes to Aso Rock in 2011? Talk of a weakling president, a Shehu Shagari without an Umaru Dikko? Anyway back to the denigrate son of Osun, Ebenezer Babatope!

The once columnist, director of party organization, senator, minister of transportation has been acting and talking strangely of late that a date with a psychiatrist may not be out of the ordinary. One commentator was so moved by the camelionic display of the Ebino Topsvy, that he was forced to observe concerning Ebenezer Babatope, "he once wrote derisively about Bola Ige and has joined camps with the men who he used to verbally attack as dangerous to the good of Nigeria"? Any you ask yourself what has come over this man? Another commentator wrote, "The crudity, brutality and despotism of the military have often been reflected or demonstrated by retired General Obasanjo and his party? It is a big ‘mis-message’ that Babatope who once suffered military brutality in the hands of Obasanjo chose to ignore the truth by clinging to the People’s Democratic Party by all means just for whatever crumbs can fall off the table". Sumarising, he noted, Ebino is not doing what he used to do for the right group with credibility but is now working for the wrong group with no credibility; adding, he served in the inglorious regime of Abacha and rightly or wrongly refused to get out of the junta even when Yoruba leaders of thought directed him to? Icheoku says, greed may as well be this man's middle name? Not to be outdone in performing "autopsy" on this man, another commentator quipped, "Ebino Topsy has assumed the role of a laundry master, strenuously struggling to whitewash and then decorate certified vermin with a veneer of credibility. He has become an unrelenting mouthpiece for those who have long demonstrated their immutable commitment to exploitative rule" .

Icheoku summarizes, a man who has descended to such a lowly ridicule by his kiths and kins, former comrades, friends and admirers would in a civilzed society, where honor is valued, put a bullet to his temple or take a hike in an evil forest never to look back! No, Ebenezer Babatope is a Yoruba-Nigerian and as far as he is concerned, candour and dignity can take a back-burner as the sucre is one heck of a sweet thing to forgo? Ebenezer Babatope is an unrepetantant sycophant who should be really ashamed of descrating Obafemi Awolowo's long established principled stance by genuflecting to those vermins who Awolowo spent his entire life trying to educate? Ebenezer Babatope is not a good ambassador of the late sage and the sage's effort at educating him on political sagacity and dexterity was merely wasted!

YOUR SUNDAY WITH PROPHET MKO TIBETAN!

Brethren in Christ the sermon for today is TIME:- According to Ecclesiastes 3:1-8, there is time for everything under heaven; a time to be born ..................!

When you look at the life of Zechariah in Luke 1:18-20, he has been in the temple for several years worshiping the Lord with fasting and prayers; but he did not boast that he is a prayer warrior? However when it was the time scheduled by God, his petition was answered as God sent angel Gabriel to deliver him. Brethren let us try and keep to time; the white people do not have any special God for themselves alone but they respect time, they honour time and they keep to time! But the reverse is the case with our black people, whose attitude to time leaves so much to be desired; and the resulting inability to get anything or much accomplished timely, is there for all of us to see.

When you look at the life of the Israelites particularly how they walked into slavery in Egypt, Genesis 15:12-16 tells us that it was a time which has already been preset by God for them to be enslaved. And when it came time for their release, at an appointed time, God raised Moses for that purpose so that they could be delivered. See generally Exodus 2; 3; 4 and 12. All these are what the Bible tells us, and if you know you talk recklessly or you are too proud of yourself, it is not too late for you to change your ways as the Lord can still work on you and with you. Read 1 Peter 5:3-7; Genesis 5:16-32 Galatians 3:1-3; 1Samuel 14:14; Psalm 49; Isaiah 38; 39.

When you look around you today you will see the way people acquire wealth like they can buy death over and live forever; but they forgot that death is inevitable and that they will drop all they have one day and depart from this earth. If you must be once reminded, all mortals are on transit on this earth and we will surely die one day at their appointed time!

Therefore, brethren in Christ before we round up today, adjust yourself in order that you may stop boasting of things of this world or your worldly possessions. Some will say they are prayer warriors, some will say they are serving God; but you cannot serve God by simply calling yourself a Pastor as everybody under heaven is a Pastor. You can only praise God according to his dictates in Psalm 100. He even confirmed it in the book of Psalm127 when he said, except thy Lord build a house ............! Brethren be nice to your neighbour; be good to them and use everyday as if it is your last day on earth, because delay is dangerous.

Once again be judicious with your time and do the things that is pleasing before God with it. Until next Sunday when we shall get together again to see what the Lord reveals to us, stay well and may the Almighty God bless your household, Amen!

ROXANA SABERI, EVIDENCE OF IRAN'S UNCLENCHING FIST?

A recalcitrant Iran dealt the world and United States of America a blow with the incarceration of the Iranian-American journalist Roxana Saberi. When the whole world is warming up to the new administration in Washington with a view to starting afresh, Iran is walking away into the cold? Icheoku says, this is not the kind of overture a willing peace partner exhibits.

Why should the Iranian regime continue to present a clenched fist when a hand of fellowship has been extended to it by Washington? Even Venezuela's Hugo Chavez understands that it is a new day and things are no longer what they use to be! With the firm handshake between President Barack Obama and Hugo Chavez, one would have expected the Mahmoud Ahmadinejad's regime in Tehran to act in this case, in a way suggestive of a regime desirous to press the reset button with the United States? But no, they jailed a reporter for allegedly spying, after a trial in camera?

Icheoku says, admitted it is hard to teach an old dog a new trick but the henchmen in Tehran should understand that those who make peaceful change impossible make violent change inevitable. They ought to know that the hand of friendship extended by America will not hang out there in perpetuity, should they refuse and not take it now. There is always a span of life for everything as President Barack Obama might not forever retain the support and goodwill of the American people to continue to woo an unwilling suitor? Iranians, show President Obama that there is reason to hope and try, otherwise the America patient might run out and pretty soon too? The Iranians should be very much aware that, should the inevitable occurs and their obstinacy results in a show-down, that they cannot win the ensuing antagonism or confrontation.

Icheoku says, the proper thing for Iran to do in the spirit of the new quest for friendship with Washington, is not to convict Miss Saberi behind closed doors as the apparent lack of transparency defeats whatever evidence of culpability that may exist. Justice they say, must not only be done but must be seen to be done; and such was not the case under the present advisement. Because of the bamboozled nature of the trial, any resulting sentence should not have been as harsh as eight long years for a young Iranian woman whose future has been greatly compromised by this sentence, assuming she serves it in full. Other alternatives exists for the Iranians which they would have exercised, such as deport Miss Saberi back to the United States, declare Miss Saberi a persona-non-grata in Iran, revoke her Iranian passport, denude her of her Iranian citizenship or to clear all the cloud of illegitimacy hanging over this conviction, conduct her trial in the open so that the world can appreciate the degree of her "covet operations" in Iran? But to simply rail-road her into prison on a trumped-up charge of espionage smacks of a regime which is not prepared to change its repressive ways; or for lack of a better word, smarting for confrontation? As a wise counsel posits, the Iranian regime should beware of what they wish for as they might eventually get it?

Roxana Saberi, 31, who shares dual American and Iranian citizenship (daughter of an Iranian father and a Japanese mother), has been studying for her third masters degree and working in Iran for the past six years. The also former Miss North Dakota and a top 10 finalists in Miss America 1998 was arrested in January 2009 for allegedly spying for her naturalised country, the United States of America? Now the Iranians have jailed their daughter for eight long years after convicting her for espionage, in a trial held behind closed doors by Iran's Branch 28 of the Revolutionary Court? A trial that could at most, be characterised as a kangaroo trial? It is regrettable that whatever evidence of the alleged espionage was not made public for veracity, despite a possible claim of state security and secrecy? Such was the secrecy of Roxana Saberi's trial that not even her father was allowed to attend his daughter's trial? And this is justice?

Iranians shifting of the goal-post from the initial accusation of buying alcohol and later of working as a journalist without a valid press card to the final whammy of spying, shows a regime fishing for a reason and desirous of making a confrontational statement? Icheoku says, such attitudinal idiosyncrasy of the Iranian government is unwholesome and simply reflective of a warped doomsday-harbinger, that is both daft and dumb! Iranians should understand that friendship requires sacrifice in the spirit of give and take, geared towards meeting of the minds which their current action does not buttress. It is with this background that Icheoku calls on Iranian government to use this God given opportunity to soften its image and release Roxana Saberi forthwith. The Iranians can ask Miss Saberi to leave Iran if they feel so impassioned, but to imprison this woman for eight long gruelling years, with no apparent convincing evidence of her complicity in an espionage, is not a cordial move especially at this time of a thawing of relations between Tehran and Washington!

BARACK MEETS HUGO!

Picture right shows the United States of America's President Barack Obama in a handshake with Venezuela's Hugo Chavez, in what many observers see as the thawing of the frosty relationship between the two Americas?

Love him or hate him, one thing is clear, President Barack Obama's charm disarms the worst of the worst? Icheoku prays that the ongoing diplomatic effort to burnish America's strung-out image will yield the desired result; so that instead of spending money building up weapons inventory, we can start some serious nation building both from within and outside our shores.

Icheoku says, this handshake is what Uncle Sam ordered and it sure marks the beginning of things to come with this administration! Good job, Mr. President!

PROPHET MKO TIBETAN'S PROPHESY COMES TRUE!

In his book of predictions for the year 2009 titled "Prediction 2009" and published September 2008, the Nigerian Nostradamus of our time, Prophet (Dr) Marcus Koredele Oluwatosin Tibetan, on page 134, predicted that "Mexico is at the brink of obtaining international loan"!

Icheoku now confirms that Mexico has obtained the sum of $47 billion dollars from the International Monetary Fund (IMF); thus fulfilling this seer's prophesy as recorded.

While Icheoku awaits the other prophesies contained in the said book to come true, may we use this forum to congratulate this man of God and urge Nigerians and the world in general to closely listen to this specially gifted man of God!

See link:- Mexico granted $47bn IMF credit

CATHOLIC BISHOP FATHERS A CHILD, WEARING ROBE?

As if they already do not have enough scandals to contend with, the Roman Catholic church is once again reeling in a scandal? One of their Bishops, Fernando Lugo of San Pedro, Paraguay has finally admitted to fathering a 2-year old love-child with his mistress, Viviana Carrillo; after denying for a long time until a treat of a paternity test forced his confession.

Bishop Lugo acknowledged that he has not been truthful with the people of Paraguay and/or the Roman Catholic church; as he has been a deceitful philanderer, while adorning the cassock and other paraphernalia of a Bishop and pretending to live a life of chastity and celibacy? Icheoku says, the simple solution for these lecherous men in cassock having sex with alter boys and/or making babies while wearing the priestly collar, is for the Vatican to change its rule and allow these guys to just marry! They are human and human wants and needs are equally theirs, including sex!

The 26-year-old paramour, Viviana Carrillo said she began having sexual relations with the 57 year old bishop since the past ten years when she was just a 16 year old innocent child? Icheoku says, were this bishop to be in the United States of America, he will be serving a prison term for statutory rape of a minor? According to the mistress, she first met Bishop Lugo when she was studying in preparation for the sacrament of Confirmation in his church at San Pedro, and that their intimate personal relationship began one night thereafter. Continuing, Ms. Carrillo said the Bishop began to pursue her "until, because of my youth and inexperience, I was seduced by the way he talked, his pretty words, his beautiful expressions and by his promises that he would resign his position for me, that he would spend his life with me, that we would have many children together and form a household" Concluding, she said Bishop Lugo had been "my first and only man."

Pictured left is the Delilah, Viviana Carrillo who was seduced by the man of God, Bishop of San Pedro and now president of Paraguay? What is her place now that her then Bishop boy-friend is the president of Paraguay? What future awaits this young woman now that it has become public knowledge that she made her body available to an ordained bishop of God? Icheoku would encourage the two love-birds to formalize their relationship in the spirit of forming a household?

Fernando Lugo served as the bishop in Carrillo home town of San Pedro for ten years, until his resignation in December 2006, to campaign for president; which he won in April 2008. In July 2008, Pope Benedict XVI relieved Bishop Lugo of his chastity vows when he formally accepted his resignation from the Roman Catholic church? It is note-worthy that the Vatican had previously rejected his petition for a layman's status, citing that his ordination was a lifelong sacrament? However, it changed its position after Lugo won the election, when the pope granted an unprecedented waiver to allow him to serve as president without violating church rules.

Icheoku says, the Vatican is known for its equivocation once it fits their template; from allowing some catholic divorcees to re-marry, to doing business with rogue oppressive governments around the world, to gun-running in Rwanda, to supporting porous border advocacy in the United States just to feed and augment their depleting flock of parishioners with new arrivals from down south across the fence. But the same catholic church keeps mum when other immigrants from the other side of the union are interceded in Florida and deported back to Haiti and Jamaica etc?

In his "I did have sex with that woman" moment, Bishop Lugo conceded, "Here and now, before my people and my conscience, I declare with absolute honesty and a sense of duty and transparency in relation to the controversy provoked by the paternity suit, that there was a relationship with Viviana Carrillo. I assume all responsibilities . . . and recognize the paternity of the child." Icheoku says, like the usual line with cheating people, Bishop Lugo claimed that his initial stone-walling was simply to protect the privacy of his son, Guillermo Armindo Carrillo, who was born on May 4, 2007.

It will be recalled that Bishop President Fernando Lugo took over as president of Paraguay, from an institutionalized ruling party, the Colorado Party, the first time an outsider achieved that feat in Paraguay's 197-year history; with the ruling party willingly ceding power to an elected opposition.

However the present scandal ends, the catholic church has lost a lot of grounds with her faithfuls who are continuously questioning everything they have ever heard or learnt from the church somewhat due to conflicting character flaws of her ministers? Whether in the United States of America or now in Paraguay it has been 'do what I say but not what I do'? Anyway, the race for heaven is an individual effort and Icheoku encourages you not to put your salvation in the hands of such ministers of the church but in God who will reward each according to his/her deeds!

GOVERNOR RICK PERRY OF TEXAS, THE FACE OF RACIST AMERICA?

His kinsman and the guy he succeeded as governor of Texas was in Washington for eight long hellish years and he kept his mouth sealed! His fellow Texan drove the economy into the toilet, but he looked the other way! While the foibles of the last administration lasted, this loud-mouth mad-dog of Texas, never uttered a word? He remained mute and even hosted a welcome back to Texas, pat on the back, party for his "brother" for ruining our nation?

Suddenly a man who has been referred to as "that one" is barely in office for about seven weeks (75days) and who do we have shouting rabid anti-government sentiments, Governor Rick Perry of Texas! If this guy is not a racist-bigot hiding under unfounded patriotism, no one else so qualifies in America? Sometimes Icheoku wishes that all these racists rednecks pretending to be what they are not, could be as courageous and as brave as the Republican Party honcho, Rush Limbaugh and tell America what they are really feeling and thinking? If only they could speak their mind always and not try in futility to be politically correct, whenever they have a recording device in their face, then Icheoku will have no beef with them.

But to wear a mask of Zorro and pine away internally in a deceitful, conceited manner rubs us on the wrong side. It was only last week that Icheoku learnt that the neighbourhood where the last president now calls abode, was just recently, a "white-only" community and this is Dallas, in Governor Rick Perry's Texas? Governor Rick Perry of Texas should have publicly acknowledged that the idea of having someone who does not look like one of them, in "their" White House is causing his ilks sleepless nights; and when any sleep comes at all, it is just a nightmare? This would have been the noble thing to do, but instead, he is calling for drawing of a line in the sand, an acronym for secession? Icheoku asks, but where will the boundary lines be, Mr Governor Perry?

President Barack Obama was sworn in on January 20, 2009 and less than three months in office, these bloodhounds led by Texas Governor Rick Perry are inciting and instigating other bigots like them to rise up against the federal government in Washington? A government elected by an overwhelming majority of rational Americans who vetted Barack Obama and found him to be exactly what the doctor, Uncle Sam, ordered! Over half of the voting population elected the current government, which is still enjoying very high approval rating in the polls? These bigots should understand that an all inclusive new majority has emerged in America and that the world in which they live, only exist in their minds! But when the world thought that the "curse" of a George Bush was more than enough for America to live with, here comes the arch-devil himself! A racist bigoted governor of Texas, Rick Perry inciting his compatriots and fellow travellers to their lonesome island of hate, against the Barack Obama government? All mankind should condemn the subterfuge Teabag rallies of today, Wednesday, April 15, 2007 as an event organised and attended by those folks who do not wish America well; and who have bluntly refused to understand that it is a new day in America and that America has since moved on from the 1950s?

Before now, they thought that "that one" has no chance on earth, winning the Democratic Party's nomination? Surprise, surprise! They thought that his vice presidential pick will be inadequate, once again surprise, surprise! The White House too? Holly molly! They thought he will fumble with his cabinet selection, but they were once again the fools! His first appearance on the world stage as president of the United State of America was a resounding success, so they cringed! Then came the 3.00AM red-phone call and he succeeded in retrieving our captured captain while dispatching the little minions of Somalia to their makers. What did the right wing say, Oh, no! he just killed three young black boys of Somalia? Icheoku says, so daft are these fundamentalist American-Talibans that in their hate-filled world, they failed to understand that Somalians are not blacks but Arabs of Africa? They also forgot and willfully though, that boys do not play in adults league and that piracy is one heck of an adult crime! Governor Perry, it should be noted is a governor in the state of Texas that is notorious for putting to death convicted young criminal offenders, especially if their color is ebony? What a world of Araby these people live and exist in? Even the hypocritical Pharisees will be ashamed that these lunatic right-wingers smashed their records? Hopefully the economy is on track to recovering and while we await their next move; let us watch out for what they will throw at the wheel of progress of this administration before that time.

Icheoku advises the Governor Rick Perrys of America, including their Joe-Plumber, to get over it and instead plan for the next 2012 election! Alternatively, they should all proceed on self-imposed exile to the Australian-outbacks and wait-out this President Barack Obama's administration. It is called protesting the government which you cannot tolerate? But for you to remain within the United States shores and be very unruly and/or try to intimidate the will of the majority will not work. Hopefully a crazed-out lunatic amongst you will not rise to try something stupid, as such will not be acceptable and may be the beginning of the end for every ongoing frustrations within the populace.

Looking at the spotty crowd that gathered in several places today for their infamous teabag-disguised racists rally, Icheoku wonders if these loonies think America is still a "Whites Only" country? To the Teabagers of American right, Icheoku says, please take a deep breath as we are in a new dawn today! Learn to live with the reality of a new America that is a potpourri of humanity, the real strength of our Union. May the Good Lord have mercy on this hateful lunatic-fringed Americans and please Dear God, remove the wool covering their eyes that they may behold a new day, Alleluia, Amen!

NIGERIA, NEITHER CHECKS NOR BALANCES? - an article by Chinedu Vincent Akuta

Nigeria needs a credible and strong opposition parties at the National Assembly and all state Houses of Assembly. I wish the Nigerian opposition parties could take a look at how the opposition Parties in the UK (especially the Conservative party) tackles the Labour party. The British Prime minister faces a lot of challenges and questions during the weekly Prime Minister Questions session at the House of Commons. Same applies to other advanced democracies. In Africa, Ghana has shown that opposition party can be very active. Am so sure that the National Democratic Congress of Ghana was able to win the ruling party because of their activeness. Same can happen in Nigeria .

In Senegal , the opposition defeated the president’s party in the local elections in the capital Dakar and other key cities. The son of the president of Senegal (Karim Wade) lost election as a result of this defeat. In Kenya and Zimbabwe , the opposition has made a serious in road into the government. Active opposition parties are an essential part of every democracy. In Nigeria , it appears the opposition parties do not have any bite on the ruling party. The minority leadership at both houses (Senate and House of Representatives) are supposed to be the arrow head of opposition. However it appears the opposition parties are not in existence. Even though the opposition party members are only small in number, their impact should be felt in the National Assembly and the nation at large.

Thanks to the Nigerian judiciary for some of their checks on the executive arm, including all their efforts at saving the nations democracy. They have done us proud, especially with the installation of the rightful candidates that won various elections. Nigerians would wish that the legislature could borrow a leaf from the judiciary and provide enough checks and balances on the executive. More of these checks should be provided by the opposition parties. The essence of every opposition is to form a shadow government. That is a government in waiting. They opposition parties in Nigeria should be able to speak the minds of the masses since the PDP (Peoples Destruction Party) has compromised itself.

The Nigerian press (print and electronic) has done marvellously well too, for without them a lot would have gone wrong. We are grateful to them for exposing all corrupt politicians. Nigerians are also happy for their own checks and balances on other arms of government. More is needed from them. The government at all levels need to be checked. This will help avoid excesses on the executive, the legislature or the judiciary. The extent of the decay in our polity requires that many Nigerians should get involved with the checks and balances. The condition in Nigeria is critical. Therefore I suggest all and sundry to start the process of checks on our government. Nigerians can do this in some many ways.

I suggest a coming together or a coalition of all the opposition parties, all related NGO’s, Civil Organizations, Trade Unions, Students Union, political activist(s), patriotic Nigerians, and Regional groups etc. with their combined skills and strengths, they can help in putting back Nigeria in the right track. I was glad when I saw the former governor of Lagos State , Lateef Jakande forming a coalition of about 30 opposition parties. I suggest all the groups mentioned above to unite and rally behind this coalition. There is an urgent need to work together at this critical stage in Nigeria politics. Please let all the groups mentioned above set aside their ideological differences and unify to provide a strong support base and lifeline to the minority parties/minority leadership at the National Assembly, including the states Houses of Assembly.

More Nigerians should start to speak out or send petitions to the authorities. Writing letters/petition can change policies. The pen is mightier than sword. Amnesty International members’ worldwide uses letter writing to lobby for improvements in human right conditions. More Nigerians need to start doing this. Send a petition to whoever is representing your constituency at the House of Representative or your Senator. If for some reasons some people cannot speak or write, I suggest they should identify themselves with NGO’s, groups, civil organisations etc which will project their views to the authorities. Non participation is the worst. It’s better for us to try and fail than not making any efforts.

All capable hands need to be on deck in reshaping Nigeria . The task of doing this will be too enormous for a little few to do. No changes can take place except Nigerians work for it. We should not expect a miracle without making efforts. With our combined efforts, the present leadership will have no choice but to yield to popular demand which are, electoral reforms, passing of freedom of information bill, removing immunity clauses, regular power supply, etc. May God bless Nigeria .

Chinedu Vincent Akuta is an activist and leader of “Support Option A4 Group” Leicester-UK

SLOW DOWN, LIFE IS TOO SHORT! - a poem by a dying girl!

Have you ever watched kids

On a merry-go-round?

Or listened to the rain

Slapping on the ground?

Ever followed a butterfly's erratic flight?

Or gazed at the sun into the fading night?

You better slow down.

Don't dance so fast.

Time is short.

The music won't last.

Do you run through each day On the fly?

When you ask "How are you"?

Do you hear the reply?

When the day is done

Do you lie in your bed

With the next hundred chores

Running through your head?

You'd better slow down

Don't dance so fast.

Time is short.

The music won't last.

Ever told your child,

We'll do it tomorrow?

And in your haste,

Not see his sorrow?

Ever lost touch,

Let a good friendship die

Cause you never had time

To call and say,'Hi'

You'd better slow down.

Don't dance so fast.

Time is short.

The music won't last.

When you run so fast to get somewhere

You miss half the fun of getting there.

When you worry and hurry through your day,

It is like an unopened gift....

Thrown away.

Life is not a race.

Do take it slower

Hear the music Before the song is over.

Slow Down is a poem written by a terminally ill young girl in a New York Hospital. It was sent to Icheoku for publication by Dr. Dennis Shields, Professor, Department of Developmental and Molecular Biology 1300 Morris Park Avenue Bronx , New York 10461. The poet, whose family would rather she remain anonymous, had requested we pass it on to you and that you pass it on to someone else? Her dying wish is for everyone to live life to the fullest as life is too short; and since she will never have that opportunity herself? She will also never make it to her prom, or graduate from high school, or be given away in marriage or have a family, she can call her own. All she now have is you and her request is for you to pass this poem on! Don't let her dream of reaching mankind, die prematurely like her!

UCHE EKWUNIFE, AN OBASANJO MISTRESS?

She recently came under our radar after a mouthful of thoughtless and baseless praise-singing of one of Nigeria's most despicable person. Not surprising, the man she was pouring ecomiums on is a man reputed to be a human he-goat among the Nigerian community, especially in Yoruba land? The man once boasted that he likes women very much; and that the test of every female employee's loyalty is to sleep with the boss? This man had so many women "employees" during his both terms in office, that Icheoku wonders aloud if he slept with all of them just to test their loyalty? The postulation is the basis of one of our upcoming article. With this premise, Icheoku asks, is there any scintilla of likelihood that this woman under advisement here was also a victim of Olusegun Obasanjo prowling philandering?

Her excited praise of the world's least favorite person and Icheoku's most disgusting human being to ever walk the face of Nigeria; undeniably caught our attention and we went to town to find out more about this woman? Icheoku asks, is it possible that Olusegun Obasanjo approved of the "selection" of this woman as a member of the Nigeria House of Representative, after conditional dalliances with her? Did she compromise her marital statehood by adultery just to prove her loyalty to the monster of Otta, before she was "put" in the House of Representatives? What is baffling in this matter is that this very woman found something palatable to say about Olusegun Obasanjo, which every other average Joe Nigerian could not see, standing on top of a big Iroko tree? What is her inducement? Why would she be the lone voice in the wilderness of Nigeria singing alleluia for Olusegun Obasanjo and swearing by his name?

According to Uche Ekwunife, “Obasanjo was a noble President and one of the best Presidents this country has ever had". Icheoku says the head that arrived at this benumbing conclusion deserves a special observation at the intensive unit of a psychiatric ward? Such a person as vomitted this sacrilegous contemptible praise of Olusegun Obasanjo needs an emergency head-intervention by a shrink; and because of this, Uche Ekwunife has now joined issues with Icheoku.com, and how it will be resolved might as well be anybody's guess? Our conclusion is either this woman is mental or her assessment of the worst leader ever to walk the earth in Nigeria is beclouded by certain perculiarites which no other Nigerian understands? Madam Obasanjo-Mistress, Icheoku asks, what is the basis or road travelled to reach the conclusion that Olusegun Obasanjo is both "noble" and the "best"?

Such fanatical assessment of Olusegun Obasanjo is evidential of an obsession of a raving lunatic romantic; and Icheoku asks, is this "whore" the only person in Nigeria who have not heard that Olusegun Obasanjo is corruption personified? What is noble in a person who sleeps with his son's wife and daughter-inlaw? The people of Odi and Zaki-Ibiam also disagree with Uche Ekwunife that Obasanjo is the best thing to ever happen to Nigeria? Olusegun Obasanjo ceded Bakassi Nigerians to Cameroon, so Uche Ekwunife tell these Nigerians from Bakassi that your Olusegun Obasanjo is it? Uche Ekwunife, tell Nigerians that Olusegun Obasanjo, who spent $16 billion dollars on electricity and all Nigeria got was darkness, is the best president they ever had? Uche Ekwunife, where did your "noble" Olusegun Obasanjo get the capital to resucitate his moribound Obasanjo Farms into its present multi-billion naira conglomerate? Uche Ekwunife, take your gospel of Olusegun Obasanjo to Bola Ige's family and tell them that Olusegun Obasanjo who had their Attorney General Bola Ige killed, is the best thing to ever happen to them? Icheoku needs a suspension of disbelief to agree with Uche Ekwunife that Oulsegun Obasanjo, under whose presidency over 20,000 Nigerians perished, including the bomb victims in Lagos, is the best president Nigeria ever had? And if these forgoing criminalities of Olusegun Obasanjo were not enough to otherwise persuade the opinion of this Uche Ekwunife, what about Olusegun Obasanjo's imposition on Nigeria of the deathly sick weakling from Katsina, President Umaru Yar'Adua?

Madam Towncrier-Obasanjo, what are the facts or basis for your forlorn praise-singing of the deity of Otta, Olusegun Obasanjo? Were Nigeria to be Pakistan, where family's honor is forcibly maintained, this lying daughter of Anambra would have met an entirely different fate for such a ridiculous and shameful misrepresentation of a bold-faced lie? Hopefully she will retract her odious statement before it becomes her nemesis in the next election; except her people of Njikoka/Dunukofia/Anaocha Federal constituency of Anambra State are in tandem with her assessment of the monster of Otta? The people of her contituency must disavow this woman's vile statement and have her recalled or vote her out of office to put a distant disclaimer that she spoke under the influence of her love for Obasanjo and/or may be some other substance; but definitely not on behalf of their constituency.

Our searchlight on this woman, shows that she is the deputy chairman of the public accounts committee, in the Nigerian House of Representatives? What perfect fit in a congress known for its rancid corruption? According to this lecherous daughter of a goon, the House of Representatives should not have indicted the former president for the $16 billion dollars power contract corruption; but should take a second look at the indictment of President Olusegun Obasanjo by the Report of the Ndudi Elumelu-led Committee on Power? In her own butt-naked shameless words, “ the Committee (on power) shouldn’t have indicted Obasanjo, because the projects were not directly handled by him. Obasanjo, instead of being indicted for what he didn’t handle directly, needs to be commended”?

Icheoku says, this woman must be in a hallucinatory cocoon where the reality around her is warped otherwise what efforts did Olusegun Obasanjo make to advance the fortunes of the country, for which Nigeria should be grateful to him? Nigerians do not need to learn to appreciate such a village headmaster as Obasanjo who caused more calamities than any good during his eight years of infamy in Nigeria. And assuming Obasanjo did his best according to this Madam Obasanjo Mistress , Icheoku says, his best was not good at all, talkless of being good enough?

Uche Ekwunife is also, borrowing a phrase from Rush Limbaugh, a Femi-Nazi " to the core! According to her, at the rate women are going, very soon the men would surrender to them. I believe that women are more articulate and coordinated? Icheoku asks, does this woman have a real-man or a girlie-man house-boy for a husband?

Uche Ekwunife believes in the mundane and the superstition. According to Uche Ekwunife, the people of Dzuma Town should undertake serious prayers and fasting in order to avert future occurrence of the fire-spitting volcanic eruption? If such heart that speaketh on this lowly terms merited her position, it must be for lack of any competent and capable opposition? But no, as the area in Anambra State has a reasonable qualified manpower which adds impetus to the snippets that Olusegun Obasanjo had to approve her candidacy, in the manner which only Olusegun knows how? Like Olusegun Obasanjo's advocacy to use African Black magic (Juju) to fight then apartheid government of South Africa; Uche Ekwunife now advocates unorthodox means, prayer, as a panacea to ward off volcanoes and stop future occurrence of the phenomenon ? She spoke against the backdrop of the volcanic eruption in Dzuma Town in Hong Local Government of Adamawa State? And this slot represents some people? Icheoku asks this woman to please throw more lights on how anyone can stop such a mother-nature's rage?

Uche Ekwunife is also an anti-gay federal legislator in Nigeria! She was a co-sponsor of a bill outlawing homosexuality in Nigeria, which the then president Olusegun Obasanjo had sent to the National Assembly to prohibit same-sex marriage in Nigeria! Uche Ekwunife also co-sponsored House Bill 150,( A BILL FOR AN ACT TO PROHIBIT MARRIAGE BETWEEN PERSONS OF SAME GENDER, SOLEMNIZATION OF SAME AND FOR OTHER MATTERS RELATED THEREWITH).

Uche Ekwunife is also a no-respecter of the law, judiciary or judicial process? Reacting to a court notice to cease and desist from further action on the Elumelu Power sector probe, a matter pending before the house, Uche Ekwunife said, "the House was not aware of any injunction and no court injunction can stop us from considering the report even if there is one”. And this is the woman serving as a federal legislator when she has absolutely no regard for the rule of law, which laws she was "elected" to make?

Uche Ekwunife also supports Maurice Iwu, the election-truncator? She wants the INEC chairman's stay in office to be elogated ? Anyway, this would appear understandable as she is felicitating with the hatchet man who facilitated her "selection" into the House of Representatives in a quid pro quo fashion?

Icheoku wonders how many federal presence and developmental projects she has so far attracted to her constituncey ever since she was "selected" to represent them in Abuja? In fact this woman's reality is so strangely different from that of the majority of rational Nigerians that she deserves to be confined to a lunatic asylum.

PHIL SPECTOR, GUILTY!

The jury this time did not deadlock as they reached a verdict! Phil Spector 69, is guilty of second degree murder in the shooting to death of his companion, actress Lana Clarkson six years ago on February 3, 2009? Lana Clarkson, 40, star of the 1985 cult film "Barbarian Queen," died of a gunshot wound, fired through her mouth as she sat in the foyer of Phil Spector's mansion. The deceased had met Spector only few hours earlier to her death, at a nightclub House of Blues, where she worked as a hostess. At his first trial, a jury deadlocked with 10 favoring and 2 against his conviction in 2007.

Clarkson had accepted a chauffeured ride to Spector's home for a drink and three hours thereafter, she was killed. Icheoku asks, did Phil only brought this woman home so that he could kill her? Why would he do such a dumb thing or was it simply a prank that went awry? But a loaded gun in the mouth must be one heck of a prank? If it were suicide as the defence claims, who owns the gun and why would the deceased chose to kill herself after an evening out with Phil Spector and in his home? Luckily the chauffeur that brought them back home from the nightclub, was still within ear-shot when the shot was fired and upon racing back to the mansion, saw Spector emerge holding a gun and heard him say: "I think I killed somebody." Icheoku says what an overwhelming piece of evidence as this limo-driver do not have any reason to lie against Phil Spector, his loyalty is more weighted in Phil's favor than the lady's; after-all it is Phil who pays his tab?

The defence plans to appeal the verdict based on their assumed judge's erroneous ruling, that allowed five women from Spector's past to testify that Spector had a history of threatening women with guns when they tried to leave him. Unfortunately for Phil Specter, he could not ride the co-tails of other Hollywood celebrities' unexplained acquittals including O.J. Simpson, Robert Blake and Michael Jackson? Icheoku says justice appears to have been finally served in a celebrity case, after so many other celebrities who beat apparent water-tight raps? May the soul of Lana Clarkson find rest in this conviction; and now her killer will be put away to do some quiet time introspection of what went down on that early hours of February 3, 2003!

SUSAN BOYLE, NEVER JUDGE A BOOK BY ITS COVER?

If this is not one of the biggest surprise from a previously unknown quantum of a singer, then such a search will go on for a very long time. Icheoku says Ms. Susan Boyle is the best thing to happen to Simon Cowell's Britains Got Talent 2009.

She is a music protege! Despite all the low expectations that heralded her appearance at the talent-hunt show, that she is simply a wanna-be singer whose fifteen minutes of fame will so soon evaporate, the reality TV show got their biggest pay-day talent. Today, the reality show and the world are standing up for this hitherto undiscovered music genius, Susan Boyle.

Icheoku says, congratulations to Susan Boyle for the stellar performance she put up at the Simon Cowell's Britains Got Talent 2009. We also felicitate with Simon Cowell and crew for discovering this golden voice of Susan Boyle.

Now see why the world of music is talking, click the link below and be mesmerized: http://rds.yahoo.com/_ylt=A0oGkldo0uNJ3uYA2P1XNyoA/SIG=120bglcnk/EXP=1239753704/**http%3a//www.youtube.com/watch%3fv=9lp0IWv8QZY

FINALLY, THE FIRST DOG IS HERE!

The long awaited and much anticipated First dog has finally arrived the Obama's White House, courtesy of Massachusetts' Senator Ted Kennedy. Uncle Ted gave the Obamas, a gift of the black cuddly waterdog! She is ebony jet-black with some white legs and fully covered in hairy furs.

The arrival of the 6-month-old Portuguese water-dog already named BO, is in fulfilment of President Barack Obama's campaign promise to his daughters, that they will get a puppy at the White House?

Icheoku says, Sasha and Malia will surely like this new addition to their lives in the White House! To the First dog named BO, happy dog's life in the White House! Hopefully, your dog-house will be as splendid!

SOMALIA RESCUE, A GRATEFUL CAPTAIN AND A GRATEFUL NATION!

When we wrote our op-ed last Thursday April 9, 2009 we warned that the Somalian pirates have taken a ship once too many; that they have bitten more than they can chew? We figured that they messed with the wrong country as no one messes with the United States of America and gets away with it, including the rag-tag Somalian pirates. True to our assessment, the American Navy rescued the held captain, dispatched three of the hostage-takers to meet with their creator and one surrendered, wimping and possibly peed in his underpants.

In the said op-ed, titled "Somalia Pirates, President Barack Obama's 3.00am red-phone call", Icheoku warned "these pirates might have taken their last ship in life; as their lives may end with this or they will forever be put out of commission as a consequence! Either way, they deserve their fate, as they brought the mighty American searchlight to beam on them menacingly"? We were right on the money; what a read of the situation and today, the offending pirates of Somalia are no more with three dead and one a prisoner!

This is exactly what Icheoku recommended to put to an end this pirates-nuisance along and off the coastal waters of Somalia. These dead Somalians have learnt their lessons although rather too late; but Icheoku is hopeful that how this encounter concluded will wise-up other pirates of Somalia not to mess with America! They should now be afraid, really afraid of what havoc their stupid misadventure can bring upon them. Hopefully, Maersk Alabama will be the last of an American registered ship for any Somalian pirate to approach, talk-less of attempting to hijack? As always, no one messes with the Yankees and we are today, all one heck of proud Yankees!

From a grateful captain held hostage for some days, to a grateful nation, Icheoku joins in congratulating the United States of American Navy for executing an assigned mission so flawlessly and clinically. They showed that they have learnt very well and that Uncle Sam's investment is money well spent. Well done US Navy, we are proud that you made us proud with this successful rescue, and we shall now continue to sail the waters of the world, including Somalian coastal waters, freely with knowledge that you will be there for us should the unexpected happen.

Icheoku says, bravo to the Commander -in-Chief of the United States of America, President Barack Obama for following through with his 3.00AM red-phone call and successfully bringing it to a deserving conclusion. A hostage, the captain of Maersk Alabama Richard Phillips was successfully rescued from his captors, three Somalian pirates who are now dead and one who has been taken a prisoner of the United States? It is a proud moment for a proud nation and we are grateful!

KUMUYI, DEATH CLAIMS WIFE!

Mrs Biodun Kumuyi is dead! The wife of Pastor William Folorunso Kumuyi, the General Superintendent of Deeper Christian Life Ministry Nigeria, has lost her battle to live? Mrs Biodun Kumuyi was just 57 years old; and died on Saturday April 11, 2009 at her residence in Lagos, after a brief illness.

Biodun was survived by her husband, Pastor Folorunso William, two sons, Jerry and John Kumuyi and her aged mother.

Icheoku prays that she find solace according to her work while here on earth! And to the family, prayers shall see you through this period of great sorrow and give you the fortitude to bear the loss of a dear wife, a loving mother and a saintly church matron? To die in the Lord is not death, so do not mourn like the hopeless sinners; heavens will rejoice at her home-coming especially with our Lord Jesus Christ during this period of Easter!