Senior Pastor of Salvation Ministries, David Ibiyeomie, has claimed that God revealed secrets to him that can lift Nigeria out of its economic challenges within five years. 

However, Ibiyeomie has stated that he will not share these secrets until he is called upon to do so.

In a video circulating online, Ibiyeomie recalled an instance where he partially shared the secrets, only for a top politician repeat them on television. 

He likened his situation to that of Joseph in the Bible, who only shared part of Pharaoh’s dream and kept the implementation details to himself.

Ibiyeomie emphasised that Nigeria is one of the wealthiest countries in the world, and he believes that with the right approach, the country can overcome its economic woes. 

Ibiyeomie said: “I’m standing before the Holy Ghost, I’ve said it before, if I tell you the secrets of what God told me, Nigeria will come out of her economic woes in five years, but I will never share it. 

“Ask me why. Did Joseph just talk anyhow?. I’m not bragging, I’m telling you before God, I know what Nigeria will do, five years Nigeria will never beg.

“I shared part of it one time, and a top politician went on television and repeated exactly what I said.

“Joseph told Pharaoh the dream, he didn’t tell him how to implement it. He put that one in his pocket, so Pharaoh said come, come and implement it.

“When you want to solve a problem, when you give them a part, keep the other part until they call you to speak.

“Nigeria is one of the wealthiest countries in the world.”

[TheNation]

Supporters of the impeached Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa, stormed the speaker’s Lodge at Joel Ogunnaike Street, GRA Ikeja, Lagos, on Saturday morning.

The PUNCH reports that the supporters, wearing several pro-Obasa vests and caps are currently in their scores at the lodge in the area.

Multiple sources told our correspondent that the supporters were planning a “heroic welcome” for the lawmaker who was recently impeached by a majority of lawmakers in the House.

Obasa was replaced by Mojisola Meranda, the former deputy speaker, who has presided over two sittings since Obasa’s removal, with the former speaker absent from the sittings.

The former Speaker was not in the country when he was impeached.

There is controversy over the choice of the Speaker’s Lodge at 47, Joel Ogunnaike Street, GRA Ikeja, as Obasa’s purported arrival point, given that he is no longer officially entitled to the residence.

“I didn’t expect that the lodge would be opened for them”, a resident was heard saying.

Our correspondent who is currently on the ground and monitoring the development reports that armed security personnel, including the police, are presently in the area to prevent a breakdown of law and order.

As of the time of filing this report, Obasa is yet to be sighted.

[Punch]

Senator Ned Nwoko representing Delta North Senatorial District has triggered a bitter fight in the All Progressives Congress, APC in Delta North Senatorial District with his long time political sparring partner and immediate predecessor in the Senate, Senator Peter Nwaoboshi.

Given the inclinations of the two men no one expects the clash to be a gentleman fight.

The fight has been triggered by the decision of Senator Nwoko to defect from the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP to the APC which is in the opposition in Delta State.

Given Nwaoboshi’s documented antecedents as a political pugilist, few expected Nwoko’s foray into the already factionised APC in Delta State to be a cordial affair.

The reason for the bitterness between Nwoko and Nwaoboshi goes back years with the two men struggling for the ascendancy in the political configuration of Delta North.

In 2019, both men who were ironically in the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP fought for the party ’s Senate ticket. Nwaoboshi prevailed and made a return to the Senate for his second term. That battle continued in 2023 when Nwaoboshi defected from the PDP to join the APC.

Nwaoboshi’s move to the APC was triggered by the fear that the immediate past governor of the state, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa was going to seek a return to the Senate in 2023. That fear prodded Nwaoboshi to defect to the APC, hoping to return to the Senate for a third term. That ambition was thwarted by Nwoko, ably helped by the strong support of the PDP machine which holds sway in Delta North.

Nwoko, whose second term aspiration on the platform of the PDP appears to have derailed even before the second year in the Senate has himself in panic crossed over to the APC after burning the bridges that helped him into the Senate.

It is, however, a gambit that many claim as double jeopardy. He has to contend with his old foe Nwaoboshi and if he prevails against Nwaoboshi, then with the PDP which holds sway in Delta North.

According to reports Nwoko’s move into the APC was negotiated with top party stakeholders in Abuja, a move that many aligned with Nwaoboshi see as despicable.

Nwaoboshi who still dreams of returning to the Senate in 2027 has also seen the emergence of Nwoko as a threat to his aspiration. It was as such no surprise that on Tuesday, he launched a tirade against his old political foe.

In a statement titled “Ned Nwoko’s Attempts to Destabilize the Delta State APC” Nwaoboshi was
unsparing of the Delta North senator describing his move as self-centred and suicidal.

He said: “I have been made aware that Senator Ned Nwoko, who recently announced his planned defection, is secretly plotting with some elements in the Presidency to dissolve the Delta State APC Executives from state to wards before their tenure expires. This move is unacceptable and poses a significant threat to our party ’s stability and unity in Delta State.

“As a former senator who represented Delta North Senatorial District from 2015 to 2023, and a leader in the All Progressives Congress (APC), I strongly condemn Nwoko’s attempt to destabilize the Delta State APC. His actions are unjust and arrogant, particularly since he is not yet a member of the party. It disregards the democratic principles our party upholds and disrespects the rights of the duly elected members of the Delta State APC Executive.

“The Delta State APC Executive was duly elected and has a mandate to complete their tenure. Any attempts to dissolve the executive would violate the party ’s constitution and create chaos within the party. It has the potential to prevent Delta APC from fielding candidates in the 2027 general elections.

“If Nwoko is genuinely interested in joining the APC, he must follow the same process as any other member. This entails building relationships with party members, respecting the party ’s leadership structure and internal affairs, and adhering to the party ’s constitution and democratic processes. He cannot expect to join the party and immediately dictate how things should be done.

“The APC is a democratic institution with established rules and procedures; therefore, Nwoko must be willing to abide by these rules if he wishes to be a part of our party.

“Nwoko’s actions are clearly driven by self-interest, rather than a genuine desire to serve the people of Delta State. His history of party-hopping and lack of commitment to any particular party or cause are well-documented, indicating that his interest in joining the APC is motivated by personal gain rather than a commitment to the party’s ideals.

“I strongly advise Nwoko to refrain from interfering with the Delta State APC’s internal affairs and to respect the party ’s constitution and democratic processes. Any further attempts to destabilize the party will be met with stiff resistance from me and other concerned stakeholders.

“Furthermore, I urge the National leadership of the party and the Presidency to ignore Nwoko’s demand for the dissolution of the Delta State Executive Committee of the party, as it is unconstitutional and motivated by personal gain. The National leadership should uphold the party ’s constitution and democratic processes, rather than succumbing to the whims of individuals seeking to destabilize the party.

We will continue to defend our party’s integrity and democracy, and we will not be intimidated by Nwoko’s antics.”

Besides Nwaoboshi, Senator Nwoko also has other party figures in Delta North like Engr Victor Ochei among others to contend with in his bid to find relevance in the party.

Meanwhile, allies of Senator Nwoko have accused Nwaoboshi of posing a threat to the success of the party in Delta State and in the Northern Senatorial District in particular.

His supporters allege that Nwaoboshi in a bid to sustain his position as the leader of the party in the zone is determined to spoil the chances of President Bola Tinubu’s second term prospects in the state.

According to them with Nwaoboshi as leader, the party did not make impact, noting that the entry of Nwoko is what is needed to push the party to glory in the North and in the state.

Meanwhile, the PDP which has prevailed in most elections in recent times in the constituency is watching with baited breath as the two elephants trump on the ground of the APC in Delta North.

A leader with an eye on posterity won’t have the appetite for the vanity of naming projects after himself. Because true immortality will be bestowed by history, not monuments that can be renamed. Tinubu needs to submit himself to some clear-eyed, sober reflection. This preoccupation with self-glorification and immortalisation is a telltale sign. 

There is now a Tinubu Barracks in Abuja. It’s a frenzy of self-immortalization. There is a Tinubu Airport in Minna. There is a Tinubu Polytechnic in Abuja. It was approved this week. There is a Tinubu Library at the National Assembly. The NASS wants to establish a Tinubu University of National Languages.  All these naming ceremonies have happened in less than two years. 

Some say it’s not Tinubu. But it’s sleazy. The president can’t watch his aides and subordinates outdo themselves in this sycophancy marathon. There is no virtue in it. Many say this idea of Oba of Nigeria matches Tinubu’s ego. It’s immoral for a leader to spend public funds to build a monument and allow his appointees to hang his name on it. Nigeria  is not a Banana  republic  

Tinubu’s men have defended the immorality. Their defence is that Tinubu didn’t start it. Buhari named a university after himself. Yet that comical defence is shamelessly bold. They are effectively saying that Tinubu, who came to renew hope, is building on the ignoble foundation of a few former leaders. That mischievous defence doesn’t bother to answer the question of propriety. With the rate at which Tinubu eternalisation project is going, after 8 years, his name could be on the river Niger 

Azikiwe built the Federal University in Nsukka. He named it after Nigeria. He only got an airport named after him long after his death. Awolowo built universities. He named none after himself. He only got a university named after him when he joined his ancestors. Obasanjo  presided over the affairs of the country twice. He didn’t name a Federal University or an airport after himself. Tinubu needs a special adviser on ethics. 

Our people say we can know the faces from the fart. A leader committed to such brazen self-aggrandisement cannot save himself from other associated temptations. If a leader can’t resist the urge to name projects after himself, if he lacks the discipline and decency to desist from childish self-immortalization, can he resist the urge to refrain from becoming synonymous with the state? Time will tell. 

There is this joke about Idi Amin. Amin appropriated all the titles in Uganda and named himself the conqueror of the British Empire. The joke was that he flirted with the idea of renaming Uganda. He felt Idi Republic would be a better name. After all, he was Uganda. But he was only stopped when he was told that since the people of Cyprus were called Cypriots, if Uganda became Idi, then Ugandans could easily become Idiots. The joke doesn’t quite capture all of Idia Amin’s vanity. 

At some point during Mobutu’s reign, his name was ubiquitous. The fawning by his aides had gone malignant. Worshipping Mobutu in public became synonymous with patriotism.  Before every News broadcast on TV, an image of Mobutu descending from the clouds would be aired to remind the people of his divine ancestry and mission. People were expected to stop all they were doing to clap. Mobutu was God sent. He was a messiah. He wasn’t a mere mortal. 

Tinubu has to draw the line now. His apparent delight in this self-glorification is ruinous. It’s a sign of moral laxity. It’s a sign of ongoing conflation of public and private political interests. It’s a sign of incipient and paralysing delusions of grandeur. It’s a thing the juvenile juntas in Niger or Mali should be doing. It will attract clowns to surround him. 

One of the most significant deficits of Tinubu’s government is its nonchalance to corruption. It doesn’t feel so dirty. Tribalism, nepotism, cronyism, etc, are all rife and permissible. Corruption is the abuse of power for private gain. In this government, a minister can revoke the title of a plot of land and give it to his inlaw. Nothing is scandalous.  When people complained that Tinubu was so brazenly concentrating power in the hands of the Yoruba, Tinubu heard the complaints and intensified the lopsidedness. Nigerians are resigning to that insensitivity; they no longer care. Their president is tone-deaf. When he chooses a course for personal or group advantage, he gives no damn about public sentiment or opinion. 

But the naming of barracks after living politicians is remarkably naive. Our military institutions must be protected from such flippancy. We must preserve the sacredness of certain institutions. We shouldn’t make them subjects of cheap politics. A barrack could be named after a president who lived, died, and left inspiring military feats. Abacha still has a barrack, too. So why is Tinubu enamoured with his name on a barrack if it puts him in a fairly despicable company? 

So, should we expect more projects to be named after Tinubu? The Lagos Calabar road would fit and perhaps complete that preposterousness. It’s the largest road project on the continent. It was awarded to a friend without due process. It could as well be named after the father of modern  Lagos. Two other prestigious projects would be the universities of Ibadan and Lagos. Since those who built them and those who came after them didn’t have the nerve, Tinubu could as well take them. Perhaps, when he reaches surfeit he will discover the folly of the adventure. 

Tinubu might say he won’t suffer the fate of Mobutu and Idi Amin. I agree with him. But he must remember Wike. When Wike was governor, he named a local government headquarters after himself. His statue was installed. Then, he installed his protege as his successor. It all seemed perfectly immortalised. But soon after, he fell out with his godson. A few months ago, his statue was knocked down, and his name was deleted from the monument. If Tinubu understands the ephemerality of power and the abiding dislike of the masses for terribly presumptuous leaders, why is he setting himself up for a future desecration? 

For the uninitiated, the alphabet BBL might draw a blank. Not so for aspiring and practising socialites in our big capital cities of Abuja, Lagos and Port Harcourt.

For the latter, BBL stands for Brazilian Butt Lift, a procedure that augments the look of your buttocks in addition to removing fat from other parts of your body and transferring it to the buttocks area for a more voluptuous appearance.

Plastic and cosmetic surgeries

Once upon a not-too-distant time, engaging in plastic surgery was almost taboo. There were few practitioners in the country anyway, and most were to be found in the teaching hospitals where they mainly performed corrective surgeries on patients with natural conditions such as cleft lips, club feet and mastectomy patients.

OBGYN Consultant and Surgeon, Dr Loretta Ogboro Okor tells Vanguard that patients of such procedures must exercise caution on many different levels, saying the side effects are not to be joked around with, as they are potentially fatal.

”You will remember that the Brazillians have all these festivals and they are very body image conscious, so they are very focused on all these cosmetic surgeries and BBL is one of such.

“ Before BBL people got butt implants, but BBL became better and more fashionable. In the immediate term there is the risk of bleeding whether we like it or not, because tissues are being cut and incisions are being made”.

A high risk procedure

Ogboro Okoh advises BBL patients to patronise the right practitioners who will carry out proper investigations.

”Some of us bleed a lot more than others and in the Nigerian situation people don’t usually do check ups often so we don’t even know what is wrong with us. Some people even have Von Willebrand disease, where you bleed a lot.

“First few days after surgery are very painful and people are asked not to lie on their back. Imagine if someone already has gastro esophageal reflux disease or cardiac conditions and have to lie on their tummy for the first few weeks. The pain is real, swelling and bruising. Over time the skin may be discoloured”.

Lumps and bumps can appear on the intermediate run and of course, scarring and some form keloids. Blood vessels can become blocked and cause thrombosis, which can be fatal.

You can have fat embolism and that can go into the lungs. You can have fat necrosis. Blood vessels can clot and form a haematoma in the immediate postoperative period and blood will just be gathering there.
A serious skin infection can happen, called cellulitis.

These are the reasons ladies are made to wear compression garments immediately post op”.

Obeying gravity

Ogboro Okoh says infection is a big risk and recommends optimum hygiene before going in for the procedure.

“On the long run, what will your BBL be 10 years down the line or maybe when you are 60 or 70? The fat that is transferred will now start obeying gravity and maybe some fat has necrosed, so before you know, it is drooping on one side”.

Area targeted exercises

“They will tell you that the procedure is safe between the ages of 18 and 55, but I think a moderate lifestyle with proper exercise would help. Even just doing squats can make your bum come out.

I see some people using what they call BBL creams. Some of these creams have hormones. People have risks for certain hormone based cancers. The question is, is it really good for you? “

Targeted family size

The surgeon told Vanguard that BBL should be done when subscribers have completed their targeted family size, adding that moderation is key for best outcomes.

“Some surgeons will tell you it doesn’t matter but these people are looking for their money. You are going to expand during pregnancy, so you have to wait at least two years. You can’t get pregnant immediately.

BBL and fertility

“There is no clear cut link between BBL and fertility. However, there are certain infections that people have had which would make pregnancy a challenge”.

Weight loss pills, injections

A new class of weight loss medications have suddenly appeared in the horizon. Ozempic is the most favoured by Nigerian socialites, many of whom can now be seen sporting new, unusually slim body frames.

Though this class of drugs has been treated as prescription drugs in other countries and very much available in pharmacies, a false scarcity has been created in the socialite circles, with supplies sold only to the highest bidders. Sources claim a dose can go as high as 500,000 naira, as treatment, once proceeded, must be continued.

Though it can be a highly beneficial drug, Dr Ogboro Okoh warns of potentially harmful side effects.
“These groups of medications were used to manage type 2 diabetes. What was found as a side effect was weight loss. What the world is now trending and using it for is the side effect of these medications. The pharmacological names are Semaglutide with trade name Ozempic, then Tirzepatide, which is called Mounjaro.

“It will reduce your appetite and slow down the movement of the digestive tract and reduces the release of glucose from the liver. It is technically going to decrease your appetite. It also helps the pancreas to create more cells to make insulin”.

Adverse effects

Nausea, vomiting, constipation and jaundice are some adverse side effects of these drugs, according to Ogboro Okoh, who recommends full medical checkup before administering.
“It’s also been found that people who take these medications should not have a history of thyroid problems. In terms of weight loss it’s very effective”.

Fertility

”Anytime we lose weight, we improve our fertility- sperm count in men and ovulation and regularity of cycles in women. In fact in a situation like PCOS, once you lose weight you have treated that condition. We also know that when blood sugar levels improve, fertility increases. Ozempic actually works by decreasing inflammation in the body and when people are trying for babies we tell them to take vitamin E, an antioxidant.

However on the flip side, we still have concerns and research is still ongoing”.

Testosterone

“There has been talk that Ozempic can reduce testosterone in men and that can affect sperm count, but studies have not been concluded on this.

Results are showing that people who don’t want to get pregnant, once they start using Ozempic, they just start being super fertile. We now have Ozempic babies. Look at the side of the fence you are before you start taking these medications.

If you are taking birth control pills and you are taking Ozempic you might be setting yourself up for failure.

Again, she urges users to adjust their diet and lifestyle to get the best benefits, favouring diets rich in fiber to tackle constipation and arresting gastro paralysis and intestinal obstruction.
She also recommends physical activities for sustained weight loss, saying research is still evolving.

For celebs, visibility is currency

Part of being a celebrity is being seen. In the world of Nigerian celebrities, visibility is everything, particularly in this social media age. You must not only play the part and be seen to be playing the part, but you must also look the part. Competition is frenetic and new players are joining the queue every single day.

The recent wedding of afro pop crooner, popularly known as Davido with his long-term partner, Chioma saw video plays as high as one billion views on their official pages alone.

Black might be beautiful, but Nigerian celebs prefer a different kind of beauty, the type that shines even when there is no light.

From Bobrisky to Iyabo Ojo, there is hardly any successful female celeb whose skin tone has not significantly changed over the years. Even the men are not spared, particularly those of Southwestern stock in Yoruwood and indigenous pop music.

Bleaching or toning?

“There’s a big difference between bleaching and toning”, says Anthonia, a youth corper who recently completed her service. “Pimples, sun and things like that change the skin tone, especially poverty.

Many ladies don’t want to bleach but they don’t want different patches of colours on their skin, hence the use of creams”. With a dismissive laugh, she declined to reveal if her own skin tone is natural.
Asked if she is aware of the dangers of using skin colour changing creams, whether for bleaching or toning. Tonia says: “there’s nothing new in these things. The end justifies the means”.
Chemical peels have also become common cosmetic procedures.

Creams containing glycolic acid, salicylic acid, lactic acid or pyruvic acid are applied to the skin in the spa. These acids destroy the upper layer of the skin, called the epidermis and this is subsequently peeled off to reveal a fresher, smoother, lighter layer.

No NAFDAC numbers- NAFDAC

Many of these bleaching or toning creams are mixed by untrained individuals who obtain the ingredients from unregulated black markets in the Agege and Ojota areas of Lagos, according to informed sources.
Pharmacist Ebele Perpetua Anto, Deputy Director, cosmetics and medical devices, drug evaluation and research at NAFDAC, says even those sold on shelves do not all have NAFDAC numbers.

In a sensitization workshop on dangers of bleaching creams and regular controls, Anto revealed that skin bleaching has become an evolving health problem whose patrons believe they will achieve a higher level of relevance and acceptability.

77% of Nigerian women bleach — WHO

According to Anto, the demand for skin lightening products are on the increase, despite sensitization efforts. Due to the negativity attached to the word “bleaching”, she said new words have emerged such as toning, whitening, lightening, fading, exfoliating, peeling, brightening and so forth. The use of bleaching agents is also gaining popularity in baby and children products.

Citing a WHO 2018 study, Anto claims 77% of women in Nigeria regularly use skin lightening creams. The same study claims skin lightening is one of the fastest growing beauty industries worldwide, estimated to be worth $31.2 billion by 2024.

Risk of cancer

Encouraging cosmetic producers to register with NAFDAC, she enumerates the risk of cancer as one of the side effects of using bleaching agents.

Others are premature skin ageing, damage to the kidney, skin burns and skin infection.

“Elevated mercury levels in the hair, blood and urine can damage the nervous system and affect an unborn child. Various agents, including the natural ones, can cause allergic reactions “, she said as she called for the shunning of such products.

Tight fitting garments

For those who cannot afford the luxurious results of BBL and other cosmetic, invasive procedures, there are clever, figure enhancing undergarments to the rescue; but while some are just soft, lush and curve inducing, others are dangerously and viciously tight, putting the ribs, lungs and other body parts in danger.

Cause and effect

Dr Ogboro Okoh offers explanations and alternatives. “That being said, I don’t think it’s really a crime to want to change what is not very good about one’s body. Some lack proper self esteem and think when they do such, it would boost their esteem.

Women need to develop an internal level of self esteem and this can be got from the home growing up from the parents and those around them.

Life is not all about how they look but more about what they have between their ears.

Beauty, naturally…

Quincy Ayodele, a WHO certified naturopathic medical practitioner with decades of experience, has worked with hundreds of celebrities and helped them achieve their goals of slimmer physiques and better skins towards the goal of holistically healthier lifestyles.

In Quincy’s world, there are no diseases eradication, not to mention beauty goals, that cannot be reached by the use of herbs and plants that can be found within our own environment. This includes the attainment of a more voluptuous body frame.

With the World Health Organisation’s official recognition of naturopathic practitioners following their outstanding success in the handling of COVID 19 cases in their respective countries, Ayodele is convinced more Nigerians will begin to embrace their natural and more sustainable procedures, in their quest for beauty.

[Vanguard]

Adams Oshiomhole, chairman of the senate committee on interior, has alleged that retired military generals are behind the spate of illegal mining activities in the country.

According to Channels Television, the senator made the allegation on Friday during the budget presentation by Sampson Ekong, chairman of the senate committee on solid minerals development, to the senate committee on appropriation.

“The ongoing illegal mining across the country is being carried out by retired generals, and we know them. They use helicopters to cart away gold, making billions of dollars, while the country suffers,” Oshiomhole said.

“This issue has been left unchecked for too long. We have the data and surveys showing where these activities are happening. It’s time for the government to deploy joint task forces, just as it has done in tackling oil theft.”

Oshiomhole said he had written to former President Muhammadu Buhari about the situation during his stint as the national chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), detailing how illegal miners arm local groups and use sophisticated equipment to exploit resources.

The senator asked the federal government to take decisive action on the illegal mining crisis, advocating for robust measures similar to those deployed to combat illegal oil bunkering in the Niger Delta.

Last year, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, minister of interior, launched the mining marshals to checkmate illegal mining of solid minerals across the country.

[TheCable]

The administration of President Donald Trump on Friday directed federal agencies to start terminating staffers working in positions related to diversity programs, after placing them on paid leave earlier this week.

The axing of jobs aimed at combating discrimination such as racism and sexism is the latest in a blitz of right-wing measures the 78-year-old Republican has put in place on his return to the White House.

“Each agency, department, or commission head shall take action to terminate, to the maximum extent allowed by law, all DEI, DEIA, and ‘environmental justice’ offices and positions within 60 days,” said a memo from the US Office of Personnel Management, referring to jobs aimed at boosting “diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility.”

Earlier this week Trump had ordered government agency heads to submit a written plan for reducing employees in DEI offices by close of business on Friday.

The reference to environmental justice appeared to be new, however.

The Environmental Protection Agency’s website defined it as “the just treatment and meaningful involvement of all people, regardless of income, race, color, national origin, Tribal affiliation, or disability, in agency decision-making and other Federal activities that affect human health and the environment.”

During last year’s presidential campaign, Trump vilified DEI policies in the federal government and corporate world, saying they discriminated against white people — men in particular.

He also demonized any recognition of gender diversity, attacking transgender people — notably transgender women in sports — and gender-affirming care for children.

Trump has already ended what he called “radical” affirmative action in awarding federal contracts, revoking an order crafted to combat racism that dates back to the civil rights era of the 1960s.

He has also promised to sweep away policies supporting transgender people, insisting that the United States will officially recognize only two genders.

His earlier orders also required federal department and agency bosses to ask “employees if they know of any efforts to disguise these (DEI) programs by using coded or imprecise language.”

[Opinion Nigeria]

In a world increasingly driven by superficial relationships and fleeting connections, the demonstration of genuine friendship by Samuel Eto’o, the renowned Cameroonian football legend, serves as a profound example worthy of emulation. His recent actions, which highlight loyalty, empathy, and a steadfast commitment to an old-time friend in need, resonate deeply with the biblical principle of love and faithfulness in relationships. Celebrities, given their influence and platform, have much to learn from such a powerful display of authentic friendship.

True friendship transcends material gain or fleeting pleasures. It is grounded in loyalty, sacrifice, and an unwavering commitment to stand by each other, especially in times of need. Samuel Eto’o’s actions embody these virtues, bringing to life the age-old saying, “A friend in need is a friend indeed.” His actions remind us that friendship is not just about shared good times but about walking with others through their darkest valleys.

The Bible places significant emphasis on the value of true friendship. Proverbs 17:17 states, “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.” Eto’o’s demonstration aligns perfectly with this scripture. In standing by his friend, Eto’o has shown that true friendship is not conditional; it does not waver in the face of adversity but remains steadfast, embodying the essence of God’s unconditional love.

In fact, the lives of celebrities are often marked by public scrutiny and the pressure to maintain a particular image. However, this should not detract from their ability to build and sustain meaningful relationships. Eto’o’s actions serve as a poignant reminder that fame and success should not overshadow the virtues of empathy and loyalty.

To aptly put it, celebrities should always endeavor to prioritize relationships over status.  Celebrities often navigate a world where relationships are transactional, driven by mutual benefit rather than genuine connection. Eto’o’s commitment to his friend underscores the importance of valuing relationships over societal status or public perception. Celebrities should take this to heart, nurturing friendships that are rooted in authenticity rather than convenience.

In a similar vein, celebrities should always be present for their old time friends in times of need. In fact, Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 teaches us, “Two are better than one because they have a good reward for their labor. For if they fall, one will lift up his companion. But woe to him who is alone when he falls, for he has no one to help him up.” Eto’o’s ability to step up and support his friend, even if it is that of a sense of belonging for now, during challenging times exemplifies this principle. Without a doubt, celebrities have the resources and influence to make a significant difference in the lives of those around them, especially their close friends and allies.

Also, celebrities should always endeavor to exude a sense of humility. In fact, in a culture that often glorifies self-promotion, Eto’o’s actions remind us of the value of humility. Not only that, Philippians 2:3 encourages believers to “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility, value others above yourselves.” Celebrities should take a cue from Eto’o, using their platform to uplift and support others selflessly.

The Bible is replete with stories of true friendship that offer guidance and inspiration. Perhaps the most notable is the friendship between David and Jonathan. Despite the political and familial pressures that could have easily turned them against each other, Jonathan’s loyalty to David was unwavering. In 1 Samuel 18:3-4, we read, “And Jonathan made a covenant with David because he loved him as himself. Jonathan took off the robe he was wearing and gave it to David, along with his tunic, and even his sword, his bow, and his belt.” This act of selflessness mirrors Eto’o’s decision to prioritize his friend’s well-being over any potential personal inconvenience.

Similarly, the friendship between Ruth and Naomi in the Book of Ruth exemplifies commitment and loyalty. Ruth’s declaration, “Where you go, I will go, and where you stay, I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God” (Ruth 1:16), underscores the depth of her devotion. These examples offer a roadmap for celebrities to cultivate friendships that are enduring and rooted in mutual respect.

The actions of celebrities have far-reaching implications. Their decisions, whether positive or negative, influence millions of followers who look up to them as role models. By emulating Eto’o’s example, celebrities can inspire a culture of loyalty and compassion among their fans.

James 2:14-17 reminds us that faith without works is dead. Likewise, public declarations of friendship mean little if not accompanied by tangible actions. Eto’o’s support for his friend demonstrates that genuine friendship requires more than words; it demands action. Celebrities must recognize the power of their influence and use it to model behaviors that promote unity, love, and selflessness.

While true friendship often requires sacrifice, it also comes with its rewards. Proverbs 27:9 says, “The heartfelt counsel of a friend is as sweet as perfume and incense.” Beyond the immediate benefits of companionship and support, friendships rooted in authenticity bring long-lasting joy and fulfillment.

No doubt, Eto’o’s actions likely brought immense comfort to his friend, but they also serve as a testament to his character, earning him admiration and respect worldwide. For celebrities, this is a powerful lesson: acts of kindness and loyalty not only enrich the lives of others but also enhance one’s own legacy.

As public figures, celebrities have the privilege and responsibility of shaping societal values. By choosing to prioritize genuine relationships, they can set an example for their followers, fostering a culture that values loyalty, empathy, and love. Samuel Eto’o’s actions serve as a clarion call for celebrities to step up and be true friends, not just in word but in deed.

The Bible’s teachings on friendship are clear and timeless. As Proverbs 18:24 reminds us, “A man who has friends must himself be friendly, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.” By following Eto’o’s example and adhering to these biblical principles, celebrities can build enduring relationships that withstand the test of time.

In fact, Samuel Eto’o’s recent demonstration of friendship is more than just an inspiring story; it is a call to action. It challenges celebrities to evaluate their relationships and strive for authenticity, loyalty, and selflessness. By doing so, they not only enrich their own lives but also set a powerful example for their fans and the wider society. Let Eto’o’s actions remind us all that true friendship is one of life’s greatest treasures, and let it inspire us to be friends who love at all times.

Ever since I started consciously monitoring the business of the government, I have always wondered why Nigeria’s yearly budgets unfailingly allocate astronomical amounts of money to buy the same items—cars, cutlery, furniture, etc.— that should last for years before needing replacement.

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What happens to the items that are replaced every year? Who keeps them? And what necessitates the ritual of replacing items in perfect condition every year, especially for a country that says allocating money for subsidies to make life a little easier for people is too much of a burden?

I never wrote about this because I had assumed that there must be some arcane justification that I failed to grasp for this profligate annual budgetary ritual. 

Not wanting to be an ultracrepidarian (as people who comment authoritatively on subjects they have little or no knowledge of are called), I had chosen to simply wonder in silence— or perhaps ask people in government why they expend scarce resources to change items in excellent conditions, something everyday folks never do.

However, House of Representatives member Bello El-Rufai, who represents Kaduna North Federal Constituency and whose privileged position as the son of a former minister and governor should give him an insider perspective on why this practice happens, piqued my curiosity when he questioned it during a parliamentary debate in December last year.

He quipped that since his boyhood every year's budget has featured new computers, cars, utensils, and furniture even when these items don't expire in a year.

“We need to cut down on costs.,” he said. “The recurrent expenditure issue exists in every budget. Even as a young person like myself, I see that we budget for vehicles every year, utensils every year. To open more revenue streams or block loopholes, we need to scrutinise these ministries’ budgets. If they bought vehicles last year, they should hold off because vehicles do not expire.”

The speech went viral because it resonated with vast swaths of Nigerians who had been caught up in what we call a “spiral of silence” in communication theory, which occurs when people suppress their opinions about an issue because they (often incorrectly) assume that their opinions are in the minority and therefore unwelcome.

That someone who is deeply inserted into the inner sanctum of power by reason of both birth and positional privilege has articulated a thought that had been hibernating in the minds of millions of Nigerians was liberating. It reassured many people that their gnawing doubts about the moral propriety of Nigeria’s ritualized budgetary prodigality are not ill-informed or out of line.

I thought the speech would ignite a soul-searching national conversation about Nigeria’s wasteful budgeting practices. However, it seems it didn’t. If it did, I must have missed it.

But let’s face it. There are not many regular people on the face of this earth who change their cars, computers, utensils, etc. every year. Even wealthy people use these items for a few years before changing them.

Why does a country whose governments routinely proclaim that they are too poor to be able to afford subsidizing the energy consumption of its struggling population spend stratospheric amounts of money to replenish one-year-old items for people in government every single year?

Each time I write about the immorality of visiting avoidable anguish on the Nigerian population through the withdrawal subsidies, the standard retort I get from neoliberal apologists who care more about the happiness of the “markets” than they do about the health and vitality of the people is, “where do you want the government to get the money to pay for subsidies?”

Well, how about from the same place where it gets the funds to change year-old items every year for government officials at the cost of billions of naira?

Just because Bello El-Rufai raised this issue and his fellow politicians didn’t shoot him down, at least to my knowledge, I got curious and researched what happens in other countries.

 It turns out most wealthy nations of the world (who, by the way, extend various kinds of subsidies to their vulnerable populations) don’t replace cars, computers, and utensils every year as a matter of course.  

In the United States, the official vehicles of the president and the vice president are not replaced every year. In fact, “The Beast,” as the presidential limousines of U.S. presidents have been called since 2001, “have largely been on eight-year cycles for the past 30 years,” according to Autoweek.com.

The most recent model of the presidential limousine was introduced in 2018. It replaced the previous version, which debuted in 2009 during President Barack Obama's administration. So, President Donald Trump doesn’t have a brand new car.

Although the official vehicles for the president and the vice president have an eight-year replacement cycle, they undergo periodic upgrades to incorporate the latest security features, including communications, armor, and defensive capabilities. That’s more economical than buying brand new cars every year just for the sake of it.

Members of the U.S. Congress (that is, members of the House of Representatives and the Senate) don’t have funds specifically allocated to them for the purchase of official or personal cars. They only receive allowances and benefits that may cover travel-related expenses.

Most members of Congress don’t buy cars. They instead opt to lease cars using their congressional office budget called “Representational Allowance” for House members and “Senate office funds” for Senators), and lease terms typically range from 2 to 4 years. That means they may switch vehicles periodically based on lease expiration.

Only high-ranking Congressional officials (such as the Speaker and the Senate Majority Leader) or those facing security threats use government-provided vehicles for official duties.

I also found that the replacement cycle for vehicles used by U.S. government agencies ranges from 3 to 5 years.

The guidelines established by the General Services Administration (GSA), which manages the federal fleet, say sedans and light-duty vehicles should be changed every 3 to 5 years or after or after they rack up 60,000 to 75,000 miles, whichever comes first.

Vans and trucks are changed every  5 to 7 years or 100,000 to 150,000 miles, whichever comes first.

Law enforcement and emergency vehicles are replaced every 3 to 6 years or after recording between 50,000 to 80,000 miles, with replacements based on performance, reliability, and safety concerns.

What happens to government vehicles that get replaced? According to the General Services Administration (GSA), most government vehicles, once they reach the end of their service life, are sold to the public through GSA Auctions, which is the federal government's online auction platform.

Auctions are open to individuals, businesses, and local governments. But the vehicles can also be transferred to other government agencies or donated through programs like the Federal Surplus Personal Property Donation Program, which provides assets to eligible non-profits, educational institutions, and local governments.

Similarly, the replacement frequency of official vehicles for the UK Prime Minister and cabinet members is not yearly, as it is in Nigeria.

 Although change of cars for UK government officials is not governed by a fixed schedule as it is in the U.S., the Government Car Service (GCS), an executive agency of the Department for Transport, manages the fleet of vehicles assigned to cabinet ministers and other officials and determines when they need to be changed.

In sum, most wealthy nations of the world don’t allocate funds every year for the replacement of non-perishable items used by government officials. It’s a wasteful practice that should have no place in a struggling country like Nigeria. The funds allocated for the yearly needless replacement of cars, computers, utensils, etc. should instead be invested in programs and policies that bring relief to the people.

I hope Bello El-Rufai will move beyond rhetoric and galvanize support for legislation that will enshrine a 5-year replacement cycle for items that are currently replaced every year in Nigerian budgets. He would write his name in gold if he did that. 

Anambra State Governor, Charles Soludo, is not one to shy away from tough decisions, especially when the stakes are high. His recent crackdown on fetish practices and misuse of supernatural powers has drawn parallels to the biblical King Hilkiah, who rediscovered the Book of the Law and led Judah in sweeping reforms to restore moral and spiritual order. By introducing Clause 18 of the Anambra State Homeland Security Law, 2025, Soludo has declared war on practices that many believe are deeply embedded in the cultural fabric of the Igbo people. But does this bold move mark him as a modern reformer, or is it a misstep in navigating the complexities of tradition and governance?

For the sake of clarity, clause 18 of the Anambra State Homeland Security Law, 2025 is a comprehensive legislative effort targeting harmful and fraudulent activities involving supernatural powers.

First and foremost, the law stipulates that using charms or supernatural powers for crime or wealth are criminal acts.  This is as it clarifies that individuals employing charms or promoting wealth through supernatural means, popularly known as practices like “Okeite” or “Eze Nwanyi”, now face up to six years in prison, a ₦20 million fine, or both.

Concerning sacrifices and charms in public spaces, the law says public spaces are no longer dumping grounds for sacrificial items or charms, and specifies that offenders caught leaving such items on roads, rivers, or other communal areas face the same penalties.

In a similar vein, false claims of supernatural powers, such as fraudulent claims of supernatural abilities, particularly those aimed at deceiving or defrauding others, will lead to prosecution with severe penalties.

Also, on the aspect of proving supernatural claims, the law says those suspected of misleading others with claims of supernatural powers must provide proof of their abilities during investigations.

Also in a similar view, from the perspective of the Attorney General’s Review, the law states that before prosecutions can proceed, police findings must be reviewed by the Attorney General of Anambra State for legal advice.

Without a doubt, the rationale behind this law, according to the state government, is to safeguard public morals, ensure community safety, and promote lawful means of livelihood.

Given the backdrop of the foregoing views, it is not a misnomer to opine that Governor Soludo’s bold move evokes the story of King Hilkiah, who, upon rediscovering the Book of the Law, sparked a wave of reforms that saw Judah return to the worship of Yahweh. Much like Hilkiah, Soludo is on a mission to sanitize the land of practices he views as detrimental to the moral and economic progress of Anambra State.

However, while Hilkiah’s reforms were rooted in religious revival, Soludo’s actions are framed as a quest for social and economic transformation. By outlawing activities that promote fraudulent wealth accumulation and harm public safety, Soludo aims to dismantle systems of exploitation and fear that have taken root over decades.

Without a doubt, the misuse of supernatural powers has far-reaching consequences in Anambra. Practices like oath-taking in shrines, charms used for personal gain, and public displays of sacrifices are not just symbolic; they often perpetuate fear, control, and manipulation. These practices have crept into business dealings, community leadership, and even politics, undermining trust and ethical standards.

By targeting these activities, Soludo seeks to restore a sense of order and accountability. His message is clear: success and wealth must come from honest work, not dubious rituals or fraudulent practices.

Despite its merits, the law has not been universally welcomed. Critics argue that Soludo’s approach is an affront to Igbo culture, where traditional practices hold deep spiritual and communal significance. They see the law as an attempt to erase aspects of the Igbo identity in favor of Westernized values.

Yet, a critical distinction must be made between cultural preservation and harmful traditions. While culture is worth preserving, practices that exploit or harm individuals have no place in a progressive society. Soludo’s crackdown is not an attack on Igbo culture but a necessary step toward refining it for the modern era.

To fully address the issues driving the misuse of supernatural powers, the government must go beyond enforcement. Many turn to these practices out of desperation, poverty, and a lack of access to legitimate opportunities. Soludo’s administration must pair this legislative crackdown with initiatives that promote economic empowerment, education, and awareness.

For instance, creating vocational programs, supporting small businesses, and investing in education could reduce the allure of fraudulent rituals. When people see tangible pathways to success, the dependency on dubious practices will naturally wane.

In fact, Governor Soludo’s decision to criminalize these activities is as bold as it is contentious. The inclusion of provisions requiring individuals to prove their supernatural abilities is particularly intriguing. While it serves as a deterrent to fraudsters, it also raises questions about how such claims will be evaluated and the potential for misuse of this clause.

Moreover, the penalties, six years in prison and a ₦20 million fine, are severe. They send a strong message but may also alienate segments of the population who view these practices as integral to their identity. Balancing reform with cultural sensitivity will be key to the success of this initiative.

Labeling Soludo as a modern-day King Hilkiah is both apt and contentious. Like Hilkiah, he has taken a stand against entrenched practices, risking backlash from those who benefit from the status quo. However, skeptics question whether his focus on supernatural practices addresses the root causes of Anambra’s challenges, such as unemployment, insecurity, and infrastructure decay.

For Soludo to truly embody the spirit of Hilkiah, his reforms must extend beyond punitive measures to fostering a culture of integrity, trust, and opportunity. Reforming hearts and minds is a gradual process that requires dialogue, education, and economic transformation.

Governor Charles Soludo’s crusade against the misuse of supernatural powers is a bold and necessary step toward creating a more ethical and prosperous Anambra State. By tackling practices that perpetuate fear, fraud, and exploitation, he is positioning himself as a reformer with a vision for progress.

As Anambra State navigates this transformative period, one question lingers: Will Soludo’s crusade be remembered as the spark that ignited a moral and economic renaissance, or will it be seen as an ambitious overreach? Time, as always, will be the ultimate judge.