OBAMA IN GHANA, WHAT HE SAID!

It is an honor for me to be in Accra, and to speak to the representatives of the people of Ghana. I am deeply grateful for the welcome that I've received, as are Michelle, Malia and Sasha Obama. Ghana's history is rich, the ties between our two countries are strong, and I am proud that this is my first visit to sub-Saharan Africa as President of the United States.

I am speaking to you at the end of a long trip. I began in Russia, for a Summit between two great powers. I traveled to Italy, for a meeting of the world's leading economies. And I have come here, to Ghana, for a simple reason: the 21st century will be shaped by what happens not just in Rome or Moscow or Washington, but by what happens in Accra as well.This is the simple truth of a time when the boundaries between people are overwhelmed by our connections. Your prosperity can expand America's. Your health and security can contribute to the world's. And the strength of your democracy can help advance human rights for people everywhere.So I do not see the countries and peoples of Africa as a world apart; I see Africa as a fundamental part of our interconnected world — as partners with America on behalf of the future that we want for all our children. That partnership must be grounded in mutual responsibility, and that is what I want to speak with you about today.

We must start from the simple premise that Africa's future is up to Africans.I say this knowing full well the tragic past that has sometimes haunted this part of the world. I have the blood of Africa within me, and my family's own story encompasses both the tragedies and triumphs of the larger African story. My grandfather was a cook for the British in Kenya, and though he was a respected elder in his village, his employers called him "boy" for much of his life. He was on the periphery of Kenya's liberation struggles, but he was still imprisoned briefly during repressive times. In his life, colonialism wasn't simply the creation of unnatural borders or unfair terms of trade — it was something experienced personally, day after day, year after year. My father grew up herding goats in a tiny village, an impossible distance away from the American universities where he would come to get an education. He came of age at an extraordinary moment of promise for Africa. The struggles of his own father's generation were giving birth to new nations, beginning right here in Ghana. Africans were educating and asserting themselves in new ways. History was on the move.

But despite the progress that has been made — and there has been considerable progress in parts of Africa — we also know that much of that promise has yet to be fulfilled. Countries like Kenya, which had a per capita economy larger than South Korea's when I was born, have been badly outpaced. Disease and conflict have ravaged parts of the African continent. In many places, the hope of my father's generation gave way to cynicism, even despair. It is easy to point fingers, and to pin the blame for these problems on others. Yes, a colonial map that made little sense bred conflict, and the West has often approached Africa as a patron, rather than a partner. But the West is not responsible for the destruction of the Zimbabwean economy over the last decade, or wars in which children are enlisted as combatants. In my father's life, it was partly tribalism and patronage in an independent Kenya that for a long stretch derailed his career, and we know that this kind of corruption is a daily fact of life for far too many. Of course, we also know that is not the whole story. Here in Ghana, you show us a face of Africa that is too often overlooked by a world that sees only tragedy or the need for charity. The people of Ghana have worked hard to put democracy on a firmer footing, with peaceful transfers of power even in the wake of closely contested elections. And with improved governance and an emerging civil society, Ghana's economy has shown impressive rates of growth.This progress may lack the drama of the 20th century's liberation struggles, but make no mistake: it will ultimately be more significant.

For just as it is important to emerge from the control of another nation, it is even more important to build one's own.So I believe that this moment is just as promising for Ghana — and for Africa — as the moment when my father came of age and new nations were being born. This is a new moment of promise. Only this time, we have learned that it will not be giants like Nkrumah and Kenyatta who will determine Africa's future. Instead, it will be you — the men and women in Ghana's Parliament, and the people you represent. Above all, it will be the young people — brimming with talent and energy and hope — who can claim the future that so many in my father's generation never found. To realize that promise, we must first recognize a fundamental truth that you have given life to in Ghana: development depends upon good governance. That is the ingredient which has been missing in far too many places, for far too long. That is the change that can unlock Africa's potential. And that is a responsibility that can only be met by Africans. As for America and the West, our commitment must be measured by more than just the dollars we spend. I have pledged substantial increases in our foreign assistance, which is in Africa's interest and America's. But the true sign of success is not whether we are a source of aid that helps people scrape by — it is whether we are partners in building the capacity for transformational change. This mutual responsibility must be the foundation of our partnership.

And today, I will focus on four areas that are critical to the future of Africa and the entire developing world: democracy; opportunity; health; and the peaceful resolution of conflict.

First, we must support strong and sustainable democratic governments. As I said in Cairo, each nation gives life to democracy in its own way, and in line with its own traditions. But history offers a clear verdict: governments that respect the will of their own people are more prosperous, more stable and more successful than governments that do not. This is about more than holding elections — it's also about what happens between them. Repression takes many forms, and too many nations are plagued by problems that condemn their people to poverty. No country is going to create wealth if its leaders exploit the economy to enrich themselves, or police can be bought off by drug traffickers. No business wants to invest in a place where the government skims 20 percent off the top, or the head of the port authority is corrupt. No person wants to live in a society where the rule of law gives way to the rule of brutality and bribery. That is not democracy, that is tyranny, and now is the time for it to end.

In the 21st century, capable, reliable and transparent institutions are the key to success — strong parliaments and honest police forces; independent judges and journalists; a vibrant private sector and civil society. Those are the things that give life to democracy, because that is what matters in peoples' lives. Time and again, Ghanaians have chosen Constitutional rule over autocracy, and shown a democratic spirit that allows the energy of your people to break through. We see that in leaders who accept defeat graciously, and victors who resist calls to wield power against the opposition. We see that spirit in courageous journalists like Anas Aremeyaw Anas, who risked his life to report the truth. We see it in police like Patience Quaye, who helped prosecute the first human trafficker in Ghana. We see it in the young people who are speaking up against patronage and participating in the political process. Across Africa, we have seen countless examples of people taking control of their destiny and making change from the bottom up. We saw it in Kenya, where civil society and business came together to help stop postelection violence. We saw it in South Africa, where over three quarters of the country voted in the recent election — the fourth since the end of apartheid. We saw it in Zimbabwe, where the Election Support Network braved brutal repression to stand up for the principle that a person's vote is their sacred right.

Make no mistake: history is on the side of these brave Africans and not with those who use coups or change Constitutions to stay in power. Africa doesn't need strongmen, it needs strong institutions. America will not seek to impose any system of government on any other nation — the essential truth of democracy is that each nation determines its own destiny. What we will do is increase assistance for responsible individuals and institutions, with a focus on supporting good governance — on parliaments, which check abuses of power and ensure that opposition voices are heard; on the rule of law, which ensures the equal administration of justice; on civic participation, so that young people get involved; and on concrete solutions to corruption like forensic accounting, automating services, strengthening hot lines and protecting whistle-blowers to advance transparency and accountability. As we provide this support, I have directed my administration to give greater attention to corruption in our human rights report. People everywhere should have the right to start a business or get an education without paying a bribe. We have a responsibility to support those who act responsibly and to isolate those who don't, and that is exactly what America will do.

This leads directly to our second area of partnership — supporting development that provides opportunity for more people. With better governance, I have no doubt that Africa holds the promise of a broader base for prosperity. The continent is rich in natural resources. And from cell phone entrepreneurs to small farmers, Africans have shown the capacity and commitment to create their own opportunities. But old habits must also be broken. Dependence on commodities — or on a single export — concentrates wealth in the hands of the few and leaves people too vulnerable to downturns. In Ghana, for instance, oil brings great opportunities, and you have been responsible in preparing for new revenue. But as so many Ghanaians know, oil cannot simply become the new cocoa. From South Korea to Singapore, history shows that countries thrive when they invest in their people and infrastructure; when they promote multiple export industries, develop a skilled work force and create space for small and medium-sized businesses that create jobs. As Africans reach for this promise, America will be more responsible in extending our hand. By cutting costs that go to Western consultants and administration, we will put more resources in the hands of those who need it, while training people to do more for themselves. That is why our $3.5 billion food security initiative is focused on new methods and technologies for farmers — not simply sending American producers or goods to Africa. Aid is not an end in itself. The purpose of foreign assistance must be creating the conditions where it is no longer needed.

America can also do more to promote trade and investment. Wealthy nations must open our doors to goods and services from Africa in a meaningful way. And where there is good governance, we can broaden prosperity through public-private partnerships that invest in better roads and electricity; capacity-building that trains people to grow a business; and financial services that reach poor and rural areas. This is also in our own interest — for if people are lifted out of poverty and wealth is created in Africa, new markets will open for our own goods.One area that holds out both undeniable peril and extraordinary promise is energy. Africa gives off less greenhouse gas than any other part of the world, but it is the most threatened by climate change. A warming planet will spread disease, shrink water resources and deplete crops, creating conditions that produce more famine and conflict. All of us — particularly the developed world — have a responsibility to slow these trends — through mitigation, and by changing the way that we use energy. But we can also work with Africans to turn this crisis into opportunity. Together, we can partner on behalf of our planet and prosperity and help countries increase access to power while skipping the dirtier phase of development. Across Africa, there is bountiful wind and solar power; geothermal energy and bio-fuels. From the Rift Valley to the North African deserts; from the Western coast to South Africa's crops — Africa's boundless natural gifts can generate its own power, while exporting profitable, clean energy abroad. These steps are about more than growth numbers on a balance sheet. They're about whether a young person with an education can get a job that supports a family; a farmer can transfer their goods to the market; or an entrepreneur with a good idea can start a business. It's about the dignity of work. Its about the opportunity that must exist for Africans in the 21st century.

Just as governance is vital to opportunity, it is also critical to the third area that I will talk about — strengthening public health. In recent years, enormous progress has been made in parts of Africa. Far more people are living productively with HIV/AIDS, and getting the drugs they need. But too many still die from diseases that shouldn't kill them. When children are being killed because of a mosquito bite, and mothers are dying in childbirth, then we know that more progress must be made.Yet because of incentives — often provided by donor nations — many African doctors and nurses understandably go overseas, or work for programs that focus on a single disease. This creates gaps in primary care and basic prevention. Meanwhile, individual Africans also have to make responsible choices that prevent the spread of disease, while promoting public health in their communities and countries. Across Africa, we see examples of people tackling these problems. In Nigeria, an interfaith effort of Christians and Muslims has set an example of cooperation to confront malaria. Here in Ghana and across Africa, we see innovative ideas for filling gaps in care — for instance, through E-Health initiatives that allow doctors in big cities to support those in small towns. America will support these efforts through a comprehensive, global health strategy. Because in the 21st century, we are called to act by our conscience and our common interest. When a child dies of a preventable illness in Accra, that diminishes us everywhere. And when disease goes unchecked in any corner of the world, we know that it can spread across oceans and continents.

That is why my administration has committed $63 billion to meet these challenges. Building on the strong efforts of President Bush, we will carry forward the fight against HIV/AIDS. We will pursue the goal of ending deaths from malaria and tuberculosis, and eradicating polio. We will fight neglected tropical disease. And we won't confront illnesses in isolation — we will invest in public health systems that promote wellness and focus on the health of mothers and children. As we partner on behalf of a healthier future, we must also stop the destruction that comes not from illness, but from human beings — and so the final area that I will address is conflict.

Now let me be clear: Africa is not the crude caricature of a continent at war. But for far too many Africans, conflict is a part of life, as constant as the sun. There are wars over land and wars over resources. And it is still far too easy for those without conscience to manipulate whole communities into fighting among faiths and tribes.These conflicts are a millstone around Africa's neck. We all have many identities — of tribe and ethnicity; of religion and nationality. But defining oneself in opposition to someone who belongs to a different tribe, or who worships a different prophet, has no place in the 21st century. Africa's diversity should be a source of strength, not a cause for division. We are all God's children. We all share common aspirations — to live in peace and security; to access education and opportunity; to love our families, our communities, and our faith. That is our common humanity. That is why we must stand up to inhumanity in our midst. It is never justifiable to target innocents in the name of ideology. It is the death sentence of a society to force children to kill in wars. It is the ultimate mark of criminality and cowardice to condemn women to relentless and systematic rape. We must bear witness to the value of every child in Darfur and the dignity of every woman in Congo. No faith or culture should condone the outrages against them. All of us must strive for the peace and security necessary for progress.Africans are standing up for this future. Here, too, Ghana is helping to point the way forward. Ghanaians should take pride in your contributions to peacekeeping from Congo to Liberia to Lebanon, and in your efforts to resist the scourge of the drug trade. We welcome the steps that are being taken by organizations like the African Union and ECOWAS to better resolve conflicts, keep the peace, and support those in need. And we encourage the vision of a strong, regional security architecture that can bring effective, transnational force to bear when needed.

America has a responsibility to advance this vision, not just with words, but with support that strengthens African capacity. When there is genocide in Darfur or terrorists in Somalia, these are not simply African problems — they are global security challenges, and they demand a global response. That is why we stand ready to partner through diplomacy, technical assistance, and logistical support, and will stand behind efforts to hold war criminals accountable. And let me be clear: our Africa Command is focused not on establishing a foothold in the continent, but on confronting these common challenges to advance the security of America, Africa and the world. In Moscow, I spoke of the need for an international system where the universal rights of human beings are respected, and violations of those rights are opposed. That must include a commitment to support those who resolve conflicts peacefully, to sanction and stop those who don't, and to help those who have suffered. But ultimately, it will be vibrant democracies like Botswana and Ghana which roll back the causes of conflict, and advance the frontiers of peace and prosperity.

As I said earlier, Africa's future is up to Africans.The people of Africa are ready to claim that future. In my country, African-Americans — including so many recent immigrants — have thrived in every sector of society. We have done so despite a difficult past, and we have drawn strength from our African heritage. With strong institutions and a strong will, I know that Africans can live their dreams in Nairobi and Lagos; in Kigali and Kinshasa; in Harare and right here in Accra. Fifty-two years ago, the eyes of the world were on Ghana. And a young preacher named Martin Luther King traveled here, to Accra, to watch the Union Jack come down and the Ghanaian flag go up. This was before the march on Washington or the success of the civil rights movement in my country. Dr. King was asked how he felt while watching the birth of a nation. And he said: "It renews my conviction in the ultimate triumph of justice."

Now, that triumph must be won once more, and it must be won by you. And I am particularly speaking to the young people. In places like Ghana, you make up over half of the population. Here is what you must know: the world will be what you make of it.You have the power to hold your leaders accountable and to build institutions that serve the people. You can serve in your communities and harness your energy and education to create new wealth and build new connections to the world. You can conquer disease, end conflicts and make change from the bottom up. You can do that. Yes you can. Because in this moment, history is on the move.But these things can only be done if you take responsibility for your future. It won't be easy. It will take time and effort. There will be suffering and setbacks. But I can promise you this: America will be with you. As a partner. As a friend. Opportunity won't come from any other place, though — it must come from the decisions that you make, the things that you do, and the hope that you hold in your hearts.

Freedom is your inheritance. Now, it is your responsibility to build upon freedom's foundation. And if you do, we will look back years from now to places like Accra and say that this was the time when the promise was realized — this was the moment when prosperity was forged; pain was overcome; and a new era of progress began. This can be the time when we witness the triumph of justice once more. Thank you.

FREEDOM IS NOT CHEAP? - an article by Chinedu Vincent Akuta.

“The history of liberty is a history of resistance” - Thomas Woodrow, 1812.

Freedom of any kind (political, economical, health and freedom from all kinds of oppression) is an expensive project. It does not come easy. There is always a price to pay for freedom. During the Second World War, the allies incurred a heavy cost to defeat Adolf Hitler’s third Reich. A country like Russia lost over 27 million people. This is both the military and civilians. In a single attack ( Pearl Harbor ) American lost over 3684 solders. United Kingdom lost over 400,000 people. In total, the allied forces lost over 60 million people (both military and civilians). The financial cost of this war cannot be quantified. This was the price paid to free Europe and the rest of the world.

During the colonial era, Nigerian nationalist incurred a cost to achieve independence for Nigeria . Starting from Herbert Macauley, Nnamdi Azikiwe, Obafemi Awolowo, Enahoro, Tafawa Belewa, Okotie Eboh, Aminu Kano, etc made both personal and financial sacrifices to liberate Nigeria from the British colonial rule. In South Africa , Nelson Mandela spent 27 years in jail in order for South Africans to be free from apartheid. So many South Africans died in the struggle against apartheid. In Zimbabwe , people like Mugabe and Joshua Nkomo had to wage guerrilla warfare before the British colonial masters were able to grant them independence.

During the military era in Nigeria , many people paid a costly price for speaking against military dictatorship. Gani Fawehinmi was arrested, detained, and sent to jail several times for criticism of military dictatorship. He was beaten several times by the government agents. His international passport was seized on many occasions. Dele Giwa was killed through a letter bomb. Femi Falana was sent to jail for voicing against tyrannical rule. Olisa Agbakoba was interrogated several times by the police. Late Dr Beko Ransome Kuti, late Ken Saro Wiwa, Chief Frank Ovie Kokori, Chima Ubani, Mr Abdul Oroh, Tunji Abayomi, Sylvester Odion-Akhaine, Mallam Shehu Sani, Prof Wole Soyinka, Omoyele Sowore etc had at one time or the other paid a price for speaking out against military dictatorship in Nigeria.

During the struggle to actualize the victory of June 12 1993 presidential election, many Nigerians died in the riots that ensured. Kudirat Abiola was assassinated on June 4 1996, by the government agents. Abiola himself died in detention. The country was plunged into a political crisis, the magnitude of which was unprecedented. NADECO opposed the Abacha regime and other oppressive governments. They suffered loses both financial, material and brutal torture in some cases. G 34(group of 34 eminent Nigerians) added their voices for Abacha to hand over power to civilians. But the truth is that, without the prices paid by these heroes and heroines, Nigeria would have been worst than it is today. Therefore their efforts yielded positive results.

When Obasanjo was campaigning for both his first and second terms in office, many Nigerians donated money to his campaign machinery. Former governor of Abia State claimed publicly to have given Obasanjo $1 million dollars before the 1999 elections that brought Obasanjo back to power. Dangote also donated money to Obasanjo campaign organization. People’s Democratic Party (PDP) has organized fund raising events several times. Even though the use their money to subvert the will of the people. They use their money to rig elections. It’s also a price paid by some people but on a negative way.

The whole idea of this article is to highlight to patriotic Nigerians that there would more prices to pay to get Nigeria on the right track. I am also aware that so many Nigerians want change. Change is possible in Nigeria but we have to work hard to get that change. There is no democracy yet in Nigeria which means that, there is no political freedom as well. This makes it imperative for us to gear up and pay whatever price it requires to get us to the promise land. It also means that we should resist all forms of bad governance and speak out against such. I will like to remind fellow Nigerians that no one will save our country except us. Quoting John Maxwell, “the only person that can stop you from becoming what God intends for your life is you”. There are a lot Nigerians can do to help our great country bounce back to the right track. The Nigerian people have got so much power individually. These our political oppressors do not want us to realize.

I wish to suggest few ways Nigerians can take their destinies by their hands. Please look for a genuine civil society group, or form your own group and the join the campaign clamoring for political changes. Form alliances with existing political groups/civil societies groups. Identify yourself or your group with honest Nigerians. Support credible Nigerians to acquire political power. Ask the civil society groups or any sincere political group to assign you role to undertake. Be an active participant. Make token donations to these civil society groups. If our political oppressors can donate millions of naira to the PDP in order to capture power through undemocratic means. We the other ordinary Nigerians should be able to donate our token to the civil societies, NGO’s, political groups, etc to use in checking the political oppressors. Justice can be expensive to obtain especially within the Nigerian system.

No amount will be too small to donate to genuine political groups in order for them to continue the struggle to better Nigeria . When President Obama was campaigning for elections, his campaign organization accepted even $1 dollar donation from people. Some groups in Nigeria headed by Mrs. Ndi Okereke (DG Nigerian Stock Exchange) raised money for Obama campaign, but it was declined. In addition to this, about 30% of Obama campaign team was Nigerians. If Nigerians can do this for Obama, then they can do more for their motherland. Before the 1991 Gulf war, all the Palestinians working in Saudi Arabia had their taxes sent to the Palestinian Liberation Organization (PLO) headquarters for their liberation struggle.

There will be no gain without pain. There will be no political freedom without a political struggle. The Nigeria ’s political environment requires more positive sacrifices from us. There will be no full democratic governance in Nigeria without complete resistance to corrupt and inefficient system that we have in Nigeria . Our sacrifices will enhance the demand for our rights (good governance) and not to beg for them. We need to fight for our rights (democracy, good governance, etc) and not plead for them. May God bless Nigeria .

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

SANUSI, DISMANTLING SOLUDO'S LEGACY?

Armed with a full mandate from the President Umaru Yar'Adua, Arewa Consultative Forum and Northern Forum, Nigeria Central Bank governor, Mallam Sanusi Lamido Sanusi is marching on, moving ahead full-speed to dismantle what took Professor Chukwuma Soludo, PhD., five years to put together at the Central Bank of Nigeria?

Icheoku.com, in our earlier editorial on his appointment, especially the cavalier manner he was nominated and confirmed, pointed out that Mallam Sanusi Lamido Sanusi is on an Arewa assigned-mission at the central bank and it does not require a soothsayer to prove us right? Icheoku had postulated that he was solely put in the central bank for a reason, since his Masters degree in Islamic Studies does not make him most qulaified and suitable for the number one economic job in Nigeria? More-so he was replacing a PhD holder in economics in this position and as predicted, Nigerians are about to realize that the Hausa-Fulani of Northern Nigeria does not mean well for Nigeria?

It was the Islamist Muhammadu Buhari, during the hey-days of the then much-touted Aremu Olusegun Obasanjo so-called economic reforms, who said that those reforms are irrelevant as all it takes is just one day of power-switch to the north and every thing will be cancelled? True to type, these mullahs keep to their threats judging from the only thing the snail-speed government of Umaru Yar'Adua has accomplished - cancellation of virtually all that Olusegun Obasanjo toiled to put together? Now, the only recuperating Nigerian entity, its financial system managed by the Central Bank is once again being wheeled to the ER; as the arrow-head of Arewa Consultative Forum has engaged the gear, and in full throttle, his bulldozer is demolishing all that Chukwuma Soludo toiled for five thankless years trying to establish at the Central Bank? Who says that Nigeria stands a chance with these mullahs at the helm of affairs? Not Icheoku, and the evidence on the ground these past 49 years buttresses our position that the northern mullahs are not the solution to Nigeria traumatised!

The other day, Sanusi Lamido Sanusi threatened to sack Managing Directors of some Nigerian Banks who fails to meet certain benchmarks and you wonder which Nigerian Banks will have to loose their Managing Directors? Which of them made the list, especially the top five? While Nigerians are still waiting for this shoe to drop, Mallam Sanusi Lamido Sanusi has put some higly commendable policies of his predecessor, Chukwuma Soludo under his chopping block? Icheoku says, why try to fix something which has not broken; instead of formulating policies to augment what is already in place for continuity, this mallam is doing what comes naturally with their people of northern Nigeria, dismantle just to spite! We say, who can stop these mullahs from all this frequent 'one step forward, two steps backwards' jerking-motion which they continually subject Nigeria to? Really, if they do not want progress, no one is stopping them from just moving further away into the Sahara desert and live in their 19th century world of a lifestyle; but they must please leave the rest of other progressive minded Nigerians alone to chart their destiny in peace.

Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, made his threat during a recent interview with the Financial Times of London; saying that every bank executives who are found to have been “cooking the books” will be removed? And he has since commenced this his witch-hunting audit to unravel the bad-cooks? In Sanusi's own words, he said “I have launched it (the bank audit). What I would like to do is have CBN and NDIC to go into every bank, including those we don’t think have problems. Icheoku says, why treat a healthy patient? Here in red-ink is the key to the destination of whatever audit Sanusi & Co are undertaking; in Nigeria, such action always have their intended targets in mind before they begin. Remember Nuhu Ribadu EFCC and the delineation of who is innocent and guilty? Icheoku advises all Nigerian banks currently not under the vice-grip of the Northern mallams, to watch their backs as heads will certainly roll within their families as the northerners want it all and are proving unstoppable? What a greedy set of human-dregs these people are, who could careless that other people exist in Nigeria?

Now the mother of all northernization of the Nigerian financial system and upping his operation dismantle Soludo's legacy, Sanusi Lamido Sanusi has decreed the cutting of MPR to 6%, Liberalises interbank forex, end the chains on forex market and bring bureaux de change operations back into CBN trading? While reversing several key policies of his predecessor, Professor Chukwuma Soludo, Mallam Sanusi Lamido Sanusi announced the liberalizing of the inter-bank foreign exchange, reduction of the country’s benchmark interest rate from 8 percent to 6 percent, pegging lending rates and deposit rates to 8 percent and 4 percent respectively; the removal of all restrictions imposed recently on the foreign exchange market; and the direct participation of all Class ‘B’ Bureaux – de- Change in the CBN window and reduction of capital requirement for Class A Bureaux-de-Change from 500 to 250 million Naira.

Icheoku asks, what monetary problems are these changes meant to solve, protect or guard against; that they are being instituted so soon after Sanusi's coronation as the CBN governor? What has disproportionately impacted the Nigerian financial system that they require a dose of Sanuis's immediate vaccine as announced? The answer is none, which explains why Soludo was removed because Nigeria does not value achievers; Nigeria does not feel good if something defiles the odds and appears to be working? Nigeria does not celebrate success-stories but humiliates such ground breakers while glorifying the retrogressive elements therein. Ngozi Okonjo-Iwealla proved the naysayers wrong in the finance ministry and was removed without the simplest courtesy being extended to her? Same with Soludo and so manay other unsong heros of Nigeria. But were it NEPA or whatever nomenclature has replaced it, it is Nigeria typified; a land where nothing apparently works and no one touches the nincompoops running the place and providing Nigeria with perpetual darkness. For whose benefit is the present action of Sanusi one may ask? - definitely not the Nigerian economy, but the northern currency traders of Nigeria - the Hausa-Fulani? This is the core of Sanusi's mission and once again, the northern currency traffickers can thrive in their lackadasical fashion, regardless of the pangs of pain to be suffered by the Nigerian economy.

Icheoku says, Chukwuman Soludo barely survived his first term at the central bank, so we knew renewing his contract was a no brainier. He had stepped on certain toes when he went head-on to fix the problematic dual monetary policies hitherto operating in Nigeria? One regulated financial system for other Nigerians and another laissez-faire bureaux-de-change enterprise, owned by the Hausa-Fulani high and mighty and operated by the Hausa-Fulani talakawas? Soludo wanted to level the playing field but in doing so, so many Hausa-Fulani ex-generals, oil-bunkerers and cement re-baggers were effected as they saw the goose which laid their golden eggs being trampled upon by these brilliant fiscal policies. Soludo must pay a price, they decreed, and he was let go; despite his preminent qualification and the good work which he did at the central bank. Now their boy and a future oligarch Sanusi Lamido Sanusi has been put in the saddle with express instruction to right the 'wrongs' of Soludo and this mullah has sure set off to work! Only God knows how far back his policies will set Nigeria financial system back into the doldrums? Until then, pray that these mullahs will one day change their ways and remember that Nigeria is not their exclusive preserve; but that every Nigerian is in it for the common good! God save Nigerians from the Hausa-Fulani north!

MICHEAL JACKSON, A GOLDEN EXIT!

Readied in a bedecked $25,000 dollars golden casket, befitting of an accomplished man of his status, the king of pop, Micheal Jackson, went out in a blaze of glory! His family and over ten thousand close friends and admirers were inside the packed Staples Center in Los Angeles California to bear witness to the triumphant exit of a man, whose short life touched so many lives! Adieu Micheal!

Of all that could be said that was said about Micheal Jackson, the most far-reaching of all paid tributes and the whole world agrees, came from an eleven year old innocent girl. A girl, not enmeshed in all the political-drama associated with the deceased greatest entertainer of all times! In the most humanising of all tributes, Micheal Jackson's 11 year old daughter, Paris Micheal Jackson tearfully surmised what her father meant for her and her brothers thus, "I just wanted to say ... ever since I was born, Daddy has been the best father you could ever imagine. And I just wanted to say I love him — so much"!

Icheoku says, the most painful of being a minority in a discriminating society is that irrespective of your accomplishments or the money you may have stashed in the bank in the process, the society still sees and treats you first and foremost as that black-man! The pain grows bigger when you see under-achievers or people you have far out-excelled or who you know you are better off than, being accorded special privileges just because of the paler-color of their skin? That was the society that sent MJ to his early grave, all the crocodile out-pouring of grief, being presently exhibited, notwithstanding! His offence:- he over achieved; he became too successful, surpassing all hitherto known musical idols and proceeded to marry a priceless daughter of one of such their idol? This last act was simply too much to put up with, hence a bulls-eye was put on his back and the attack dogs kept gnawing, and gnawing until the events of today. This forced one of his brothers, Marlon Jackson to say, 'how much pain can one take, may be now, Micheal, they will leave you alone'! Rest in peace Micheal!

Rev. Al Sharpton, sent the salvo to the direction where it fits most when he said to Micheal Jackson's children, "Your daddy wasn't strange — what he had to deal with was strange." On this note, we draw the final curtain on our coverage of the mega-drama of the past two weeks! Goodbye Micheal!

MICHEAL JACKSON, MOLESTATION ACCUSER CONFESSES TO LYING?

Icheoku asks, now that the Micheal Jackson's 1993 child-molestation accuser, Evan Chandler has finally come clean, confessing that his devilish allegation then, was simply a plot between him and his father, Jordan Chandler, to exhort Micheal Jackson; and wherein they fleeced Micheal Jackson of his 22 million dollars in ransom; why have the authorities not arrested this duo for prosecution?

Also is it possible that the other 2005 child-molestation accuser, Gavin Arvizo and his deranged mother were on a similar mission, before their allegation fell apart under well marshaled out forensic cross-examination? Further, had Micheal Jackson elected to litigate his innocence in 1993 without his out of court settlement, could he have been exculpated as well, then?

These are some postulations founding our present commentary that Micheal Jackson was harangued to death by a brutal people who could not accept his fame and popularity, over-shadowing all they have known and believed was unbreakable record set by their supposed idol/s? How can a nigger be this famous and wealthy?

In 1993, Eva Chandler told a psychiatrist and police that he and Micheal Jackson had engaged in acts of kissing, masturbation and oral sex, and gave a detailed description of what he alleged were Micheal's genitals? Admitted the case was settled out of court for a reported $22 million, the magnitude of the allegation was simply too much for Micheal to bear, that it led him straight to the arms of painkillers from which grip he never freed himself from, until the tragedy of June 27, 2009. In his confessional, Eva Chandler said, "I never meant to lie and destroy Michael Jackson but my father made me to tell only lies. Now I can't tell Michael how much I'm sorry and if he will forgive me." "Now for the first time I can't bare to lie anymore. Michael Jackson didn't do anything to me, all was my father lies to escape from being poor." Icheoku says, Eva Chandler should shove his belated remorse into his behind and shut the f**k up. As far as we are concerned he is a Judas who betrayed and killed for money; and now, we pray that he drown in the blood-money which he exhorted from Micheal Jackson?

Again in 2005, another hatchet-man was found in Garvin Arvizo, pictured here left with Micheal Jackson? With his deranged mother as a willing accomplice, his detractors tried unsuccessfully to once again exhort Micheal Jackson of his money; but when rebuffed they colluded with an over-zealous prosecution to bring unfounded charges of child-molestation, which was vigorously shut down a deliberative smart lawyer, Tom Mesereau. He was found not guilty; but this took the biggest toll from this fragile piece of humanity, who was then trying assiduously to recover from his traumatic past? It lead him closer to increased dosage of painkillers and other pain-masking drugs that he became fully addicted. Two questions however, if Micheal was a child molester, why was it just one or two children that he abused throughout his career spanning over thirty years? Secondly, if Micheal was a child molester, why must it be a poor sick Hispanic child suffering from cancer that he will molest? Icheoku says, it does not add up but the rest is now history as he has since succumbed to death; a death forced on him by an unforgiving evil-doers including Eva Chandler and Garvin Arvizo.

Icheoku says, if you have never been accused wrongly and falsely of a deed, you may not fully appreciate the subject of our current discussion. Jesus Crucified was hung on the cross at Calvary based on a falsehood and his accusers were many and vociferous? This blogger was also once falsely accused of swindling an association's funds and not even hitherto 'friends' stood up in defence of what they know to be abject falsehood? So in a cruel irony of fate, we fully understood why Micheal Jackson would withdraw into his cocoon after the last allegation of the Arvizos! It is his death-fear of everyone, with nobody to really trust anymore, that forced him into the hole he remained until death yanked him away from this world. If you were in his shoes, who would you trust again after such a hellish ordeal, being accused and persecuted for something you know you are very innocent of? In a way, Micheal's demise is a somewhat relief that he may now rest and no longer be hounded by evil people who wished him no good, but evil.

The most painful aspect of such false accusation is the usually associated grand conspiracy of it all? An 'accused', strung out to dry without any sympathetic ear whatsoever; and who looking left, right, back and front to find no one person who understands his innocence? Either direction, are hysterical lynch-mob, calling for the head of the 'accused' in the same manner as the plebeians in William Shakespeare's Julius Caesar? The less vociferous of the mob would be locked in a deafening silence, while avoiding any eye contact with the 'accused' to avert betraying their underlying emotions? It happened to so many people from our Lord Jesus Christ to Micheal Jackson, to Mike Tyson to Kobe Bryant, to OJ Simpson and to this blogger. The count of wrongly accused people are legion and even in the penal system, reports of wrongly accused and imprisoned and even executed people abound.

Our Lord Jesus Christ was wrongly accused of planning to destroy the temple and in their hurry to get rid of him, his accusers failed to distinguish the temple being referenced by Jesus Christ; and 'crucify him, crucify him' rented the air and he was put to death? World heavy weight, Mike Tyson, at the peak of his career was accused of raping a woman - Desiree Washington? And you ask yourself, what was a young woman, who is not a man's mother, sister or any other close relative doing in that man's hotel suite in lingerie without under-panties, by such ungodly hour of the night, 2.00AM? Yet he was adjudged guilty and made to serve some term of imprisonment for an offence, which Icheoku believes till date, was a trumped-up charge? Then enter NBA's Kobe Bryant, who once again fell victim to man's inhumanity to man, a conspiracy which nearly sent him to prison for a long time? His offence, he was accused of raping an over-sexed waitress, which would have heralded the end of his career, but for some smart lawyering which freed him? Icheoku asks, why would such a rich and famous vibrant athlete like Bryant rape any woman, when he can score any girl of his choice without much effort? Why would such a superstar Kobe force his way through a woman, when countless number of groupies will readily stripe naked even in the mall just to make out and possibly get some with their idol, Kobe Bryant? Which young girl will not give it up for such a superstar? But the rest is now history as the shame and public odium will stigmatize him forever. The enter OJ Simpson episode and the story as always, was the same? He was now an armed robber? The allegation was that 'OJ Simpson robed his friends of his own stuff'? Icheoku says, wonders shall never end as this man is presently serving a term of many years for stealing his own property? The conspiracy was so deep and they were on a vengeance mission for the Nicole/Ron murders which he was found not guilty of; that they rail-roaded an innocent man for an offence which he did not commit; otherwise wherein lies the guilty intent to deprive another of that other's property?

Now pivoting back to the main gist of this discussion, Micheal Jackson and his accusers. Icheoku says he was killed by a vicious people who never gave him a listening ear while he was alive, to hear his side of the story? He is now dead and suddenly the whole media is trying to sing his eulogies, a media which never gave him any break during his lifetime ordeal? Our only regret is that Micheal Jackson was too fragile and succumbed easily to these evil machination and too early in life. However, we shall take solace that every one shall die; and in his own half century of existence, he had etched his name in granite, for all time, through eternity as the king of all kings in the music world!

On this occasion of his funeral, Tuesday July, 7, 2009, Icheoku once again says, Micheal Jackson was taken full advantage of; - they used him and they killed him! Adieu Micheal and may you now finally find the eluded rest! Sleep on in the Lord and let your traducers now fall on their sword of shame for accelerating your end. So long Micheal!

THE FIRST COUPLE, LOOKING RESPLENDENT AS EVER!

Our editorial staff are off today, hence could not bring to you our soul-searching riveting commentary for Monday, July 6, 2009. As a gap-filler, please welcome to your home and/or office the American first couple, President Barack and First Lady Michelle Obama; and may they bring you joyful happiness this week!

HONDURAS, THE IRONY OF 'DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE CHARTER'?

After reading once again, the American 'Declaration of Independence', we have come to the conclusion that the people and army of Honduras did the right thing by stopping an emerging, prospective despot in their midst! The removal of former president Zelaya was in order and duty bound.

The referenced document stated that 'to secure these ensconced rights, Governments are instituted among men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed. That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness. Icheoku says, this is exactly what the people and army of Honduras did; they were right in altering or abolishing and stopping their former President Manuel Zelaya from destroying their constitutional government; which action, if allowed would most likely have effected their safety and happiness? This is a man who wanted to prolong his tenure by all means necessary and unconstitutionally, despite the objection of the Supreme court, the attorney general, the army and the people of Honduras? Icheoku says also, that such intended illegal and drastic change of Honduras Constitution by former President Zelaya is not such a 'light and transient causes' for which the declaration of independence forbade rabid change of governments? Constitution is the basic fundamental backbone of any society and anything detrimentally impacting it, is very egregious, for which the people should rise up and defend their manhood! Hondurans did exactly that and should not be penalized by anybody, including governments of the world.The people of Honduras have chosen not to suffer such evil but to do right for themselves by abolishing the form of government intending that evil.

Continuing the Declaration of Independence stated 'but when a long train of abuses and usurpations, pursuing invariably the same object, evinces a design to reduce them under absolute Despotism, it is their right, it is their duty, to throw off such Government! Icheoku says, again the people of Honduras have answered this call, they rose up to the occasion, exercised their right and duty and threw off such government of President Zelaya. The whole world should encourage them but not despise them.

During last Iranian election, President Barack Obama said it was the internal affairs of the people of Iran to determine their destiny as to who governs them? So Icheoku asks, what changed with the people of Honduras who are now being harangued for taking their own destiny in their hands as well, by saying 'NO' to an emerging despot? If we recall correctly, Panamanian President Noriega was once removed by America so there is nothing wrong in the people of Honduras removing their errant president? Icheoku says nothing is wrong in the action of Tegucigalpa, in rebuffing the attempt to reinstate the deposed despot-in-the-waiting former president and supports them fully. Congratulation Hondurans!

If suspended from the Organization of American States as threatened, Honduras should not panic but take solace in the fact that Cuba survived for over 40 years without its membership, so what? Icheoku says the world should butt-out and let the people of Honduras determine who governs them, instead of waiting to see another Robert Mugabe enthroned in Telgacigalpa? The present row could have been avoided by the new men of power had they, instead of flying the deposed president to exile in Nicaragua, put a bullet in his head? Guinea Bissau and Gambia just did that and heavens have not fallen; perhaps, the Honduras military were disciplined enough not to covet the presidency; but installed a civilian head, the former president of Congress, Mr Roberto Micheletti pictured here right, to midwife the next November election.

Why must Zelaya push forward a referendum on constitutional reform, thinking that he knows more than the Supreme Court, the attorney general and Congress who had all said such action was illegal? Icheoku hates despots with acid-passion and their arrogance rubs us on our very sour side. If the person such despot succeeded was such a despot, how on earth could they ever have had the opportunity to assume power? Zelaya, for tilting the way of Venezuela's Hugo Chavez was becoming a despot in the making but he forgot that Hondurans are not Venezuelans; that the people of Honduras were smarter than that as they nipped his plans in the bud.

Today they have saved their country from becoming a fiefdom of a maniac, just like Venezuelans who are now subjects of 'Emperor' Hugo Chavez! Should they be punished for this proactive measure of protecting their constitution by sending away former President Manuel Zelaya pictured left, to exile? Icheoku says, we don't think so; not in the least!

Instead of penalizing Honduras for their brave action, the world should support them provided an election is called very soon to formalize and legalize the new order. But to impose trade blockades, cut aid, halt joint military operations and recall ambassadors is not productive? Why not bless the people of Honduras nipping the crisis in the bud now, before an over-bloated egomaniac civilian-dictator emerges in Honduras? Zimbabwe's Robert Mugabe is enough reason d`eter for the world to back the people who removed a creeping dictator in Honduras. To Hondurans, Icheoku says, BRAVO!

SARAH PALIN, WHY DID SHE JUMP?

In adherence to the proverbial expression, 'if you cannot stand the heat, then get out of the kitchen', the all beauty and no brains Alaska Governor, Sarah 'Beauty-Queen' Palin bailed out on the people of Alaska, who elected her their governor in 2006?

By ditching Anchorage government house, effective July 26, 2009, Governor Palin has proved that she is not the stuff leaders are made of; especially when leadership is not a beauty contest but serious business. Her action has once again proved that she was just rattling her mouth oblivious of what the vice presidential office entails, admitted she confessed to not knowing what the duties of the office embodies.

Icheoku asks, what caused the mother of Bristol, who had a child out of wedlock, to abandon the ship of Alaska mid-stream; since she is just in the middles of her first term in office? What cataclysmic happenstance occurred to put out the wind on her sail of her political boat? She is not saying and neither is her husband Todd or Bristol, her over-sexed, unwed, teenage-mother daughter who is presently nursing Sarah's grandchild. All that we are left with are mere speculations as to what turned the tide of her political voyage; and until she opens up to let the world in, it shall remain a mystery wrapped inside the closeted space of her bosom! Icheoku asks, was she pushed or did she jump?

Governor Sarah Palin announced Friday July 3, 2009 that she is resigning from the office of governor of Alaska at the end of this month, sending an aftershock still reverberating throughout the political world especially her wing of the Republican party! Can a governor of remote state of Alaska who abandoned the state government house in Anchorage mid first-term, ever contemplate seeking the White House in 2012? Icheoku says, we do not think so; since if Alaska is a big fish for Sarah Palin to fry, then the White House is a whale incapable of being fried in Sarah's little skillet? In one commentator's note, "It's absolutely bizarre, and I think it eliminates her from serious consideration for the presidency in 2012"!

At 45, Sarah Palin still has a very promising future including the presidential bid, if wishes were horse? But the haste with which she made the announcement was suggestive of someone under pressure or duress? But until she opens up no one will know what pushed this American Amazon into such a political doldrums? At least she was getting free press and accompanying privileges as a governor which will all go away with her resignation so why would this beauty queen suddenly decide to take a back bench? The Lieutenant Governor Sean Parnell will step in to replace her as she steps down July 26, 2009. be inaugurated at the governor's picnic in Fairbanks.

Her resignation announcement was described by one commentator as 'a jittery, hyper-kinetic news conference that rambled between self-congratulation and bitter accusations at the foes she says are eager to destroy her'? One other commentator surmised it thus, "At the heart of these conflicting interpretations, is a woman who is herself deeply conflicted about her brief past in national politics and how to leverage her sudden fame for the future"? If she had announced that she was not going to run for a second term, that will be more understandable, but to so suddenly resign from office, without any prior whiff whatsoever, is the crux of the matter. Which prompted one school of thought to posit she was under somewhat pressure of either family or politics?

A source close to the soon to be ex-governor, confirmed that Sarah Palin confided that "the pressures of a job that had become consumed with freedom of information act (FOIA) requests and ethics investigations and the demands it taken on her family and national political prospects". Another intoned that “Things had piled up pretty steep on her?” One other commentator said, “There is just no good way to say quitting has made her more qualified to run for higher office”. Another observed, “I think Sarah Palin is on the verge of becoming the Miami Vice of American politics: Something a lot of people once thought was cool and then 20 years later look back, shake their heads and just kind of laugh”.

But whatever happens, Icheoku says Governor Sarah Palin should make haste to clear the fog surrounding her sudden departure from Anchorage and save the world of the rash of speculation trailing her exit. Until then, we are glad she quit because she is not grounded enough for the rigours and challenges of the chief executive, talk-less of a C`N`C! What a good riddance of an air-head!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, AMERICA!

On the occasion of America's 233rd birthday, Icheoku felicitates with her and wishes her many more superlative years ahead, leading the world in all spheres of human endeavour!

To President Barack Obama, Icheoku says, thank you for providing the able leadership which America needed this time in our lives, as it tackles the worlds numerous challenges. To every great and proud American, Icheoku says as you enjoy your barbecue, please treasure what the Declaration of Independence bequeathed on you - unparalleled freedom! Happy 4th of July!

It was in July 4, 1776 that the unanimous Declaration of the then thirteen states formally founded what we know today as the United States of America! Men with vision, assembled in Congress authored what has blossomed into the freest freedom-loving nation on the face of the earth.

Now, Icheoku presents to you, once again, the Declaration of Independence; read it and imbibe its tenets towards helping build a stronger America:-

"When in the Course of human events it becomes necessary for one people to dissolve the political bands which have connected them with another and to assume among the powers of the earth, the separate and equal station to which the Laws of Nature and of Nature's God entitle them, a decent respect to the opinions of mankind requires that they should declare the causes which impel them to the separation. We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.

- That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed. - That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness. Prudence, indeed, will dictate that Governments long established should not be changed for light and transient causes; and accordingly all experience hath shewn that mankind are more disposed to suffer, while evils are sufferable than to right themselves by abolishing the forms to which they are accustomed. But when a long train of abuses and usurpations, pursuing invariably the same Object evinces a design to reduce them under absolute Despotism, it is their right, it is their duty, to throw off such Government, and to provide new Guards for their future security. - Such has been the patient sufferance of these Colonies; and such is now the necessity which constrains them to alter their former Systems of Government.

The history of the present King of Great Britain is a history of repeated injuries and usurpations, all having in direct object the establishment of an absolute Tyranny over these States. To prove this, let Facts be submitted to a candid world:- He has refused his Assent to Laws, the most wholesome and necessary for the public good. He has forbidden his Governors to pass Laws of immediate and pressing importance, unless suspended in their operation till his Assent should be obtained; and when so suspended, he has utterly neglected to attend to them. He has refused to pass other Laws for the accommodation of large districts of people, unless those people would relinquish the right of Representation in the Legislature, a right inestimable to them and formidable to tyrants only. He has called together legislative bodies at places unusual, uncomfortable, and distant from the depository of their Public Records, for the sole purpose of fatiguing them into compliance with his measures. He has dissolved Representative Houses repeatedly, for opposing with manly firmness his invasions on the rights of the people. He has refused for a long time, after such dissolutions, to cause others to be elected, whereby the Legislative Powers, incapable of Annihilation, have returned to the People at large for their exercise; the State remaining in the mean time exposed to all the dangers of invasion from without, and convulsions within. He has endeavoured to prevent the population of these States; for that purpose obstructing the Laws for Naturalization of Foreigners; refusing to pass others to encourage their migrations hither, and raising the conditions of new Appropriations of Lands. He has obstructed the Administration of Justice by refusing his Assent to Laws for establishing Judiciary Powers. He has made Judges dependent on his Will alone for the tenure of their offices, and the amount and payment of their salaries. He has erected a multitude of New Offices, and sent hither swarms of Officers to harass our people and eat out their substance. He has kept among us, in times of peace, Standing Armies without the Consent of our legislatures. He has affected to render the Military independent of and superior to the Civil Power. He has combined with others to subject us to a jurisdiction foreign to our constitution, and unacknowledged by our laws; giving his Assent to their Acts of pretended Legislation.

For quartering large bodies of armed troops among us: For protecting them, by a mock Trial from punishment for any Murders which they should commit on the Inhabitants of these States: For cutting off our Trade with all parts of the world: For imposing Taxes on us without our Consent: For depriving us in many cases, of the benefit of Trial by Jury: For transporting us beyond Seas to be tried for pretended offences: For abolishing the free System of English Laws in a neighbouring Province, establishing therein an Arbitrary government, and enlarging its Boundaries so as to render it at once an example and fit instrument for introducing the same absolute rule into these Colonies: For taking away our Charters, abolishing our most valuable Laws and altering fundamentally the Forms of our Governments: For suspending our own Legislatures, and declaring themselves invested with power to legislate for us in all cases whatsoever, He has abdicated Government here, by declaring us out of his Protection and waging War against us. He has plundered our seas, ravaged our coasts, burnt our towns, and destroyed the lives of our people. He is at this time transporting large Armies of foreign Mercenaries to compleat the works of death, desolation, and tyranny, already begun with circumstances of Cruelty & Perfidy scarcely paralleled in the most barbarous ages, and totally unworthy the Head of a civilized nation. He has constrained our fellow Citizens taken Captive on the high Seas to bear Arms against their Country, to become the executioners of their friends and Brethren, or to fall themselves by their Hands. He has excited domestic insurrections amongst us, and has endeavoured to bring on the inhabitants of our frontiers, the merciless Indian Savages whose known rule of warfare, is an undistinguished destruction of all ages, sexes and conditions.

In every stage of these Oppressions We have Petitioned for Redress in the most humble terms: Our repeated Petitions have been answered only by repeated injury. A Prince, whose character is thus marked by every act which may define a Tyrant, is unfit to be the ruler of a free people. Nor have We been wanting in attentions to our British brethren. We have warned them from time to time of attempts by their legislature to extend an unwarrantable jurisdiction over us. We have reminded them of the circumstances of our emigration and settlement here. We have appealed to their native justice and magnanimity, and we have conjured them by the ties of our common kindred to disavow these usurpations, which would inevitably interrupt our connections and correspondence. They too have been deaf to the voice of justice and of consanguinity. We must, therefore, acquiesce in the necessity, which denounces our Separation, and hold them, as we hold the rest of mankind, Enemies in War, in Peace Friends.

We, therefore, the Representatives of the united States of America, in General Congress, Assembled, appealing to the Supreme Judge of the world for the rectitude of our intentions, do, in the Name, and by Authority of the good People of these Colonies, solemnly publish and declare, That these united Colonies are, and of Right ought to be Free and Independent States, that they are Absolved from all Allegiance to the British Crown, and that all political connection between them and the State of Great Britain, is and ought to be totally dissolved; and that as Free and Independent States, they have full Power to levy War, conclude Peace, contract Alliances, establish Commerce, and to do all other Acts and Things which Independent States may of right do. - And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of Divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes, and our sacred Honor".
Signed:

New Hampshire:- Josiah Bartlett, William Whipple, Matthew Thornton

Massachusetts:-John Hancock, Samuel Adams, Samuel Adams, Robert Treat Paine, Elbridge Gerry

Rhode Island:- Stephen Hopkins, William Ellery
Connecticut:- Roger Sherman, Samuel Huntington, William Williams, Oliver Wolcott

New York:- William Floyd, Philip Livingston, Francis Lewis, Lewis Morris

New Jersey:- Richard Stockton, John Witherspoon, Francis Hopkinson, John Hart, Abraham Clark
Pennsylvania:- Robert Morris, Benjamin Rush, Benjamin Franklin, John Morton, George Clymer, James Smith, George Taylor, James Wilson, George Ross
Delaware:- Caesar Rodney, George Read, Thomas McKean
Maryland:- Samuel Chase, William Paca, Thomas Stone, Charles Carrol of Carrolton
Virginia:- George Wythe, Richard Henry Lee, Thomas Jefferson, Benjamin Harrison, Thomas Nelson Jr., Francis Lightfoot Lee, Carter Braxton
North Carolina:- William Hooper, Joseph Hewes, John Penn

South Carolina:- Edward Rutledge, Thomas Heyward Jr., Thomas Lynch Jr., rthur Middleton
Georgia:- Button Gwinneth, Lyman Hall, George Walton

WAWALAND AND FRIENDS BURY CHIEF (DR.) CC ONOH!

July 3, 2009 is a date to reckon with in history of Nigeria as the father of Enugu State, Chief Christian Chukwuma Onoh is laid to rest in his country home Ngwo, Enugu State, Nigeria.

His loss is monumental to his family and people of Ngwo, Enugu State, Igboland and Nigeria in general.

However, we thank God for preserving CC's life to the good old age of 82. We pray that his burial ceremony will go smoothly and without any disruptive hitch. We also pray that the almighty God will reward him according to his good deeds.

Bye-Bye CC! We love you, particularly for what you stood for! ADIEU, ANINEFUNGWU OKAA-OMEE 1. Icheoku says, so long Oke-Nmadu!

"CC, THE MAN" - An eulogy of Chief Christian Chukwuma Onoh, delivered by Professor CN Okeke, Ph.D!

Facilitator's note:- This eulogy was delivered on the occasion of a prayer-vigil held on June 14, 2009 at Oakland, California, USA; in celebration of the man CC! We are publishing it today on his burial for the interest of those who did not make the United States of America event. Happy reading and may the soul of CC rest in peace.

Ladies and gentlemen, good-evening and welcome! We are here gathered for a prayer-vigil in honor of a great man, a Nigerian of Igbo extraction, Chief Christian Chukwuma Onoh, alias CC.

In this world, it is not necessarily how long one lived or how much wealth one acquired that is important. No, it is how beneficial one's life has been to his or her fellow humanity:- the people, the co-travellers in this journey called life that really counts. For the man in whose memory and honor we are here assembled, he had it good both ways! He lived long, very long life; and for an African, with our not so long life span, he lived a very, very long life! His life was distinguished as it was extra-ordinary; and highly beneficial to his people - the Igbo people of Nigeria. Many of you have heard about him; some had met him and even shook his hand; some merely sighted him; some had spoken to him; some dined with him and above all, few possibly have had the privilege of being invited into his home? Not many of us here however, experienced all the mentioned encounters with CC; which begs the question, how many of us here really know the enigma, CC?

Ladies and gentlemen, I happen to be privileged of CC's full acquaintance! We shared common struggles together, having come from the same geographical area of Igboland. We also worked together on several issues and corroborated on many more others! We are both lawyers and have held several meetings both professionally and otherwise! We have shared confidences and counsels! We attended many weddings and celebrations together! In short, I have heard, seen, met, shook his hand, spoken to him, and have shared his homes and have also hosted him in my home too. I also had the singular privilege of writing his citation when he was conferred an honorary doctorate degree in Law by the Enugu State University of Science and Technology in 1993. Simply put, I know CC Onoh very well:- he was a brother and friend of mine! For this, I shall forever treasure his memory. Now permit me to bring CC to you, on this occasion of a prayer-vigil in honor of his memory; holding at Oakland, California, USA. My name is Professor Christian Nwachukwu Okeke, Ph.D and I teach law at Golden Gate University in San Francisco, California. I now present to you, his eulogy, titled "CC, THE MAN"!

Aninefungwu-Okaa Omee 1 of Ngwo; husband, father, grandfather, lawyer, civil-servant, community-organiser, leader, author, influential, wealthy, war-hero, administrator, businessman, politician, activist, statesman, parliamentarian, great philanthropist and former governor of old Anambra State, Nigeria; Chief (Dr.) Christian Chukwuma Onoh, deceased, was born on 27 April 1927 at Ovim in the present day Abia State of Nigeria and died in his country home, Ngwo, Enugu State on May 4, 2009. The very essence of this eulogy is most aptly reflected in one of my most favorite biblical verse:- Romans 13:7.

“Render to all, their dues;
Tax to who tax is due;
Toll to who toll is due,
Reverence to who reverence is due; and above all
Honor to who honour is due!”

To CC, we have gathered this evening, to honor! As I stand here before you tonight, I am humbled with memories of deep, mixed feelings of a personal nostalgia about CC. On April 4, 1993, as the Chairman of the Ceremonials Committee and University Orator of the Enugu State University of Science and Technology, I delivered a momentous citation on CC. The event was the 9th Convocation Ceremony of the University, where CC was awarded an honorary doctorate degree. CC was so moved by the citation that he paid me a personal thank you visit, a week later at my independence layout home in Enugu. He said to me, "Prof Nwa Nnaa, do not bother attending my funeral whenever I die, as you have already performed my funeral rites with your very moving citation of last week. I am very pleased with what I heard you say concerning me and I thank you very much for doing that, it means so much to me. I shall never forget"! That is the nature of the man we are here gathered to honor; a man who would take out time to go and express appreciation for a heart-felt gratitude!

Today, the 14th day of June 2009 in Oakland California, several thousands of miles from Enugu; what a providence and somewhat coincidence, that once again, I am playing similar role as did in 1993, reading an eulogy for CC? The only difference being that his citation was witnessed by him and today's eulogy is post-humous! To CC, provided you can hear me from the land beyond, tonight, Nigerians of Igbo extraction resident in Northern California, United States of America, and their numerous friends, have assembled to salute and honor you, for what you represented. You were such a great, illustrious son of Wawaland, Enugu State, Nigeria, and indeed, Africa!

CC went to Umuabi Udi and St. Peter’s Primary Schools, Ogbete-Enugu. He attended the College of Immaculate Conception also in Enugu. On leaving C.I.C. he took up a job briefly as a produce inspector with the Department of Marketing and Export at Ibadan between1949 and 1951; and later left to start his own business at Zonkwa, Plateau State, trading in produce including ginger, groundnuts, palm oil, coconuts, e.t.c. CC later left Nigeria in December 3rd, 1952, for Harlech Colllege, North Wales where he studied law at the University of Aberysworth Wales and graduated in 1957. He was admitted to the Honorable Society of the Middle Temple in Wales and upon his return to Nigeria in September 1957, was enrolled as a Barrister and Solicitor of the Supreme Court of Nigeria.

A son of a man of means, CC was born with the proverbial silver spoon in his mouth; he became a millionaire at 30 upon the reading of the Will of his late father who had left him a moderate fortune. He opened a law office at No. 7 Silver Smith Avenue, Coal Camp, Enugu immediately upon his return, from where he engaged in active legal practice before duty called, and he entered politics in 1958. In 1959, CC contested and won a seat in the Federal House of Representatives Lagos, from where he voluntarily resigned to return to Enugu to be closer to his people; preparatory to the beginning of his fight for their liberation; which continued till God called him home. During his lifetime, CC served in various capacities including, first indigenous Chairman of the Nigerian Coal Corporation in September 10, 1959; Chairman, Enugu Market Authority during Ajie Ukpabi Asika administration, Sole Administrator of then East Central State. He was elected Chairman of Enugu Urban Council; Member of Nigeria Constituent Assembly; Appointed Chairman of Associated Ore Mines in 1982; Elected Executive Governor of the then Anambra State in October, 1993; Fellow of the Institute of Management and Technology, Enugu in 1992; Chancellor of the Anglican Diocese of Enugu; Awarded LL.D. Honoris Causa by the Enugu State University of Science and Technology in April 4th, 1993.

CC was a man of honesty and courage; of singleness of purpose and steadfastness of conduct; of tenacity and endurance; and of zest and activity. He was a dogged fighter of good causes. A human pit-bull, of sort? His life exemplified the creative dialectic of opposites often seen in politics. His was a bold prudence, a lively sobriety, a complex simplicity, an inelegant elegance, a rough civility, and an everlasting immediacy. He believed in both armed conciliation and/or armed peace; CC also believed in natural artifice and in creative compromise. He was a reforming conservatist, a skeptical believer, and a pluralistic moralist; shrewd and innocent; firm and gentle; magnanimous and friendly; but you must earn his trust. In short, CC cannot be fully explained or completely understood; and borrowing the words of Sir Winston Churchill, CC was a man, who like all great men in history, was “a riddle wrapped in a mystery inside an enigma.”

His name, whenever mentioned, either evoked the profoundest respect or the deepest disgust or the most shattering trepidation; and sometimes, a mixture of the three in varying degrees. But never none of them, as he had a name which commanded unyielding reaction. CC, easily calls to mind memories of such other leaders of nationalist struggles and/or freedom fighters movements, and reformists of great nations of the world who were regarded by their people as their gods and goddesses because of the good they did to free their people from the shackles of oppression and bondage. This breed of humanity are rare, but permit me on this occasion of remembrance of CC, to mention just three of them: -

1. Irish native Daniel O’Connell, like CC, was a landlord, a lawyer, a nationalist and a member of Parliament. He made speeches in and outside Parliament that were more stirring and more intoxicating than the strongest wine. He was the heart and soul of the Irish Independence Movement in the 1920s. However, unlike CC, who lived his full life and died peacefully in his home; Daniel was arrested, probably tortured, tried and executed for “treason against his Majesty, the King”, by the British authorities. But to his Irish people, Daniel O’Connell lives on and forever remains "THE RESCUER OF THE IRISH"! Daniel helped free the Irish from the shackles and oppression of British Imperialism; and CC shared this trait in helping the Wawa people of Igboland attain some dignity.

2. Next is the Frenchman, Orgetorix. What a great French nationalist, Orgetorix was and still revered as, till this day. He was the arrow-head of the French nationalistic opposition movement to the then Roman occupation of France. To the French or the Gauls (as they were then so called), Orgetorix was, and still remains "THE SAVIOR OF THE FRENCHMAN". CC will forever be as well remembered as the man who empowered the Wawaman!

3. What Napoleon Bonarparte was to the French, Onoh represents for the Wawaman. Napoleon, a military genius that defied accurate analysis, was the mentor and stimulus of the French wars against the rest of the European powers in the early 19th century. To the French Napolean will, until Doom’s Day continue to represent "The Ultimate in French patriotism".

CC was a man of deep and probing energy. He was the Bravest of the Brave. He was as controversial as he was famous. He will forever remain as elusive at capture as the mirage in the desert or the objective reality; – the “nounmenon” of Emmanuel Kant articulation, what a great German Philosopher, Kant was? CC was arguably one of the most incorruptible of all men Nigeria have ever seen; and he waged his own one-man's war against corruption. He fought like a man, a general with courage, relentlessly, both against corruption as well as injustice; a fight he continued till death. He won some and surely he did lose some; but he took them heads-on, against both military and civilian governments as well as private citizens, provided he had reasonable basis to go after such person. He fought also within his locality to preserve his honor and maintain his family's very many realties and not yield any inch to would-be land-poachers? He worked hard and expected same of all.

He reputedly to forgo his tenants December rents as Christmas bonuses. He was quite at home with peace but never shies away from wars. C.C.’s name is synonymous with Enugu State; and in the protracted struggle for the creation of Enugu State, he with other illustrious sons of Enugu State, including Chief Barrister Charles Abalu Abangwu, the Ezeigwe of Eha-Alumona in Nsukka, Enugu State constituted themselves the arrow-head of the struggle and they were handsomely rewarded when the state was created in August 1991. He equally had his fair share of political detentions in Nigeria as a result of his unabashed activism, on behalf of his people.

As they say in Igboland, there is a reason why the ceremonial’s flutist calls a particular person by his flute for public recognition and acknowledgment! "Onye Oja Na akpo nwelu ezigbo Ife oma ona eme. Opi ike ada akpo onye mpkumkpu na nkiti"! CC was severally called during his life time, which continues in death; as we join his numerous fans and mourners the world over, in again calling his name in death, and for a reason. C.C. had admirably played his part in life and can rightly exclaim, like Julius Ceaser, “Veni, Vidi, Vici – I came, I saw, I conquered”! Also, like Horace, the Roman poet, he may chose to scream, “Exegi monumentum aere perennius” “I have put up a structure that would outlast metal.” Further, if he so desired, he can take the voice of Saint Paul the Apostle, and shout, “Bonum certamen certavi. Cursum Consumavi. Fidem servavi” - I have fought a good fight. I have completed my assignment creditably. I was weighed in the balance but was found not wanting in loyalty.”

Permit me to also share with you some of the interesting obituaries so far written for the departed CC:- He was a hero who died still fighting for the betterment of his people! He should be praised for his doggedness and courageous spirit! His life ran on a vortex of struggles! He was a philanthropist extraordinaire, an iconoclast and a controversial figure! With CC you know where he stood, no man intimidated him! He criss-crossed the political firmament like a colossus! Ndi-Igbo and Nigeria have lost a great man! He was a moving history of Enugu, the city, the people, their culture and their lives! He lived and died for Enugu, and it was something he could never have been ashamed of or pretend it was an unworthy cause! Love him or hate him, but there was never any doubt about where this man stood on any issue! He was an astute and fearless politician who genuinely criticised all governments without reservation!

In closing, cold lay waiting for burial on July 3, 2009 at his country home, Ngwo, Enugu Nigeria; a man whose complexities are such that even his detractors acknowledge, albeit grudgingly, his tenacity, sagacity, magnanimity and generosity. For his effort, many peoples life were greatly improved; by his watch-dog attitude, many governments were extra-cautious! CC gave life, his all! He left his giant footprint in the sands of time and such a phenom seldom comes by. With his exit, Nigeria, South-East, Igboland and Enugu State in particular have lost a real patriot! A man who always spoke his mind irrespective of whose ox is gored, and who once blamed the numerous problems facing Nigeria today on an existing structural imbalance in her 48 years of existence. It was his believe that Britain is the root cause of Nigeria's problems as not only did they unwillingly grant Nigeria Independence in 1960, but went on to rig the 1962 election to produce a Northerner as Prime Minister; when the Sardauna of Sokoto Ahmadu Bello, leader of the North then, never wanted one Nigeria! This, according to him, began Nigeria's problems, - an unwilling leader leading a reluctant people!

Simply put, CC was a man! Like Igwe Charles Abangwu rightly surmised of CC, and I affirm, "He fought for the people and I hope that the people will remember him"! Like Ikemba Nnewi Odumegwu Ojukwu said of CC, and I concur, "Everyone knew where he stood, unlike some of our present leaders"! A website www.icheoku.com wrote of CC, an "Iroko tree has fallen and politics in Enugu State will never be the same again, with the exit of this indefatigable leader of the people". I couldn't agree with this apt description more?

Finally, like the elephant the six blind men of Hindu went to see, Chief Christian Chukwuma Onoh was so many things to so many different people; but above all, he was CC, the man! CC was a man of be-numbing complexities whose detractors, and they were really many of them, was unable, incapable and failed woefully to decode until he transmuted into eternity, thus becoming a legend. Like all legends, he yet again defied everybody, died on his own terms and in a place of his choosing, his country-home. He took his password with him unto the land beyond, still not fully understood or explained; and now lives in the minds and memories of his people, who loved, adored and owe him a dept of their gratitude! He was simply put, one of a kind! A quintessential being!

Heyi! Heyi! Agu Anaa!; Heyi! Heyi! Heyi! Okosisi Enugu Adaa!; Heyi, Heyi, Heyi, Agada Gbachiliuzo Ndigbo Anwuo! Chi ejie noke efifenabo!! May his tireless soul now find perpetual, peaceful rest with the Lord, Amen! Adieu C.C., Naa nke oma, Amen!!!

CC will be laid to rest in his country-home at Ngwo on July 3rd 2009. Please I urge you all to remember him in your prayers!

Thank you,

_________cno__________________________

Professor Christian Nwachukwu Okeke, Ph.D.
Osuofia of Obinofia, Ezeagu Local Government Area, Enugu State, Nigeria.
Dated in June 14th, 2009 at Oakland California, United States of America.