Articles of Education

Entrepreneurship: A Mandatory Course for All Universities

noreply@blogger.com (M Hasan) — Thu, 06 Nov 2025 14:11:11 +0000

The Importance of Entrepreneurship Education in Ghana

In today’s rapidly changing global economy, entrepreneurship has become one of the most powerful engines of growth, innovation, and job creation. In Ghana, most governments keep emphasizing that “Entrepreneurship is the engine of growth,” but none of them have ever put in place mechanisms to let entrepreneurship bring the growth they talk about. Some even at the end of their term in government manage to kill the few businesses established by these entrepreneurs.

Ghana, where graduate unemployment continues to rise each year up to the point now that they have an Unemployed Graduate Association, it is increasingly critical for tertiary institutions to make entrepreneurship a compulsory course for all students. This is not merely an academic reform—it is a national necessity to prepare young people for a future that rewards creativity, initiative, and problem-solving.

Some of the institutions teach entrepreneurship as a semester subject, but that alone will not have the necessary effect on the graduates. They will just learn the theory and pass the semester examination and move in as usual.

The Free SHS policy has been a laudable initiative that has expanded access to education, but it has also created immense pressure on tertiary institutions. Overcrowded lecture halls for some subjects and courses now limit opportunities for critical thinking, creativity, and practical application. Consequently, many graduates leave school unprepared for the job market, lacking the entrepreneurial mindset and practical experience needed in today’s competitive environment although they have all the necessary degrees but have no idea what happens in the workplace and even how to prepare themselves for the future.

The National Service Scheme was originally designed to bridge the gap between the classroom and the workplace. However, it has largely fallen short of this goal. Many service personnel spend the year performing repetitive administrative tasks—filing documents, making photocopies, or serving tea—instead of acquiring relevant professional experience. This occurs partly because many institutions are already overstaffed, leaving little space for meaningful engagement or mentorship.

Other countries have successfully restructured similar programs to connect graduates with real-world learning. Singapore has made practical education central to its tertiary reforms, linking every degree to industry needs. Rwanda’s National Employment Program connects graduates to internships and startup funding, while India’s Skill India Mission has trained millions in practical trades—transforming local economies and creating jobs from the grassroots up.

For Ghana to progress, integrating entrepreneurship education into all tertiary programs is essential. It will produce graduates who are not only job seekers but job creators, driving sustainable growth and national development.

Benefits of Making Entrepreneurship Compulsory

Reducing Graduate Unemployment

One of Ghana’s most pressing challenges is the growing number of unemployed graduates entering a saturated job market each year. Making entrepreneurship compulsory will equip students with the skills, mindset, and confidence to create their own employment opportunities. Graduates will learn to identify market gaps, develop small businesses, and in turn, employ others which leads to significantly reducing unemployment across the country.

Promoting Innovation and Creativity

Entrepreneurship education fosters innovation, creativity, and critical thinking—qualities often overlooked in traditional academic settings. Through practical projects, case studies, and problem-solving exercises, students learn how to transform ideas into viable business ventures. This nurtures a culture of innovation that drives technological advancement and economic diversification.

Enhancing Financial Literacy and Management Skills

A crucial component of entrepreneurship is financial literacy—understanding how money works, how to budget, how to design a saleable business plan, how to invest, and manage business finances. By making entrepreneurship compulsory, students will learn to make informed financial decisions, manage resources wisely, and cultivate fiscal discipline—skills that are valuable both in business and personal life. Most of these graduates, complete school hold iPhone 17 while they do not even have what it takes to start a business that will cost them less than Ghs 1,000.00.

Building Self-Confidence and Leadership

Entrepreneurship education develops self-confidence, initiative, and leadership qualities. Students trained to take calculated risks and manage challenges build resilience and belief in their abilities. These traits not only prepare them for business ownership but also for leadership roles in all sectors.

Contributing to National Economic Growth

Entrepreneurial graduates are engines of economic transformation. When they start and grow businesses, they generate jobs, pay taxes, and contribute to productivity and innovation. Making entrepreneurship education compulsory will help Ghana cultivate a generation of job creators, strengthening the nation’s GDP and fostering long-term economic resilience. As the numbers of graduate unemployment increase, this is a national security issue which needs any serious government attention.

Encouraging Problem-Solving and Community Development

Entrepreneurial education trains students to identify and solve real-world problems. Graduates equipped with these skills will address local challenges—such as waste management, agricultural productivity, technology access, and healthcare delivery—thus contributing to sustainable community development and inclusive growth.

Bridging the Gap Between Theory and Practice

Many tertiary courses in Ghana remain heavily theoretical. Entrepreneurship introduces practical application into academia, allowing students to test their ideas, run small ventures, and experience the realities of the business world before graduation. This hands-on exposure bridges the gap between the classroom and the marketplace, making graduates more employable and adaptable.

Instilling a Culture of Resilience and Adaptability

In a fast-paced global economy, resilience and adaptability are key. Entrepreneurship education teaches students to embrace challenges, learn from failure, and adapt to change. Graduates who possess this mindset are better equipped to navigate uncertainty and turn obstacles into opportunities.

Lessons from Global Examples

Thanks to a few institutions that are making critical thinking and problem solving a key part of their institution and I would like to mention Ashesi University, they are the ones I know for now. Making entrepreneurship a compulsory course in all tertiary institutions in Ghana is not just about teaching business, it is about empowering the next generation with the mindset, skills, and confidence to transform ideas into opportunities. It will produce graduates who are innovative, self-reliant, and capable of driving Ghana’s economic and social progress.

The nation’s future will not be determined by the number of certificates awarded, but by the number of minds empowered to create, innovate, critical thinking, problem solver and lead change.

Let’s all look at the nations that are doing so well:

Singapore

Probably one of the best examples. They made entrepreneurship part of their education system from an early stage. Universities have incubators and innovation hubs linked directly to industries, and the government provides strong funding and mentorship for start-ups. It’s a model that connects education, innovation, and business seamlessly.

Israel

Often called the “Start-up Nation.” Despite its small size, it’s packed with entrepreneurs and high-tech companies. Military training there even fosters problem-solving and teamwork that translate into entrepreneurial skills.

Rwanda

In Africa, Rwanda is a shining light. The government actively supports youth entrepreneurship with funding, business incubation, and mentorship through programs like the National Employment Program. They’re deliberately using entrepreneurship as a tool for job creation and innovation.

India

Through initiatives like Startup India and Skill India, millions have been trained in trades and small business management. It’s transforming local economies and reducing unemployment.

South Korea

Another great example of using entrepreneurship and innovation to drive transformation. They invested heavily in education, research, and small business support—turning a war-torn country into a tech powerhouse within a generation.

Summary & How Ghana Can Use These Lessons

Across these cases you’ll see common themes: * Strong policy commitment to entrepreneurship → aligning education, skills, finance and business start-ups. * Tertiary education and training linked to business/industry (so entrepreneurship isn’t just theoretical). * Supporting ecosystems: mentorship, finance, incubation, business services, and removing regulatory/structural barriers. * Targeting youth and women and making sure entrepreneurship is seen as a respected and viable career option. * Aligning entrepreneurship with national development goals — job creation, innovation, export, value-added industries.

For Ghana, these insights reinforce what you’ve been advocating: making entrepreneurship education compulsory is important—but equally important is building the ecosystem to support graduates to turn ideas into businesses and connecting entrepreneurship curricula with real market/industry needs.

Eric is a Chartered Insurer, Financial & Investment Strategist, Climate Change Advocate, Student of Leadership.

Sudan: Schools Under Fire in Northeast Africa

noreply@blogger.com (M Hasan) — Thu, 06 Nov 2025 08:19:26 +0000

The Devastation of Education in Sudan

Education in Sudan is no longer what it once was. The war that erupted in mid-April 2023 has transformed the country’s landscape, affecting its cities, people, and the very foundation of its future. Schools, which were once safe spaces for learning, have become places where children are recruited into armed conflict. This shift has left educators and families in despair.

More than two years into the conflict, field reports have revealed a troubling trend: child recruitment within educational institutions. In response, the Sudanese Teachers’ Committee has rejected what it calls the “war budget” proposed by the Ministry of Finance for 2026. According to the committee, the government’s decision to prioritize military spending over education and health is a clear violation of citizens' rights.

The committee criticized Finance Minister Jibril Ibrahim's remarks about the new budget, stating that the focus on war efforts ignores the fundamental needs of the population. It emphasized that education and health are the pillars of any nation striving for progress and stability. By diverting resources to the war, the government is not only failing in its responsibilities but also jeopardizing the future of its citizens.

The statement from the committee highlighted the dire conditions faced by teachers and students. With schools collapsing and wages insufficient to meet basic needs, many educators are struggling to survive. The committee called for a reevaluation of the budget to ensure fair allocation to the education sector and improved salaries for teachers and public employees.

Learning Under Hardship

Access to public schools has become increasingly difficult, with some regions being disproportionately affected. Suleiman Mohamed Suleiman, a parent from East Darfur, shared his concerns about the challenges faced by students from his region. He reported that dozens of students from East Darfur were detained while trying to pursue university education, and thousands were barred from taking final exams due to their location in areas controlled by the Rapid Support Forces.

This situation has led to a significant drop in student morale, with many abandoning their studies. The war has not only destroyed physical structures but also disrupted the educational process. According to media reports, as the new school year begins, thousands of students are either displaced or dead, and many schools have been reduced to rubble or turned into shelters for displaced families.

A member of the Teachers’ Committee, who requested anonymity, stated that school attendance does not exceed 30%. Most students have either been displaced or joined the battlefronts. Classes are now largely concentrated in private schools in central Nyala, where the government’s delayed and insufficient salaries fail to meet the basic needs of teachers and their families.

Recruitment in Classrooms

In addition to the challenges of access and funding, there are alarming reports of schools being used as recruitment centers for children. The Sudanese National Observatory for Human Rights condemned the closure of schools and the suspension of classes in Nile River State, calling these actions a violation of human rights and international law.

Field reports indicate that security forces have turned several schools into recruitment and training camps, where children are coerced or lured through manipulative methods. These practices are considered war crimes under international humanitarian law and the Convention on the Rights of the Child.

In response to the ongoing conflict, the Supreme Mobilisation Committee in Northern State declared a state of general mobilisation across all seven localities. This includes organizing popular resistance ranks, preparing battalions, and opening mobilisation and training centers. The order also mandates the reactivation and retraining of those previously given military instruction.

Calm Returns to al-Fashir

Despite the ongoing conflict, there are signs of hope. Calm has returned to the city of al-Fashir in North Darfur after the Establishment Coalition Forces took control. Markets and schools have reopened, and the streets have regained a sense of normalcy, according to field reports.

In this context, the Council of Ministers issued Decision No. (7) for the year 2025, expanding the mandate of the Independent National Committee investigating alleged violations in al-Fashir. The decision, based on specific constitutional and legal provisions, added new members to the committee, including representatives from forensic medicine, the Ministry of Interior, and military justice. This move aims to enhance the inclusivity and independence of the investigation.

The decision allows the Prime Minister to appoint additional members at any stage of the investigation and enables the committee to employ administrative staff to facilitate its work. The decision came into effect on November 4, 2025, marking a step toward accountability and justice in the region.

Dr. Ben Carson's Message to UVU: Prayer, Resiliency, and Charlie Kirk's Legacy

noreply@blogger.com (M Hasan) — Thu, 06 Nov 2025 02:00:00 +0000

When Dr. Ben Carson was a young medical student, he struggled greatly on his first set of comprehensive exams. As a result, he was called in to meet with his academic counselor. The counselor reviewed Carson’s records and assured him that there were plenty of other ways to earn a living outside of medicine. Then, the counselor delivered a sobering conclusion: “You’re just not cut out to be a doctor.”

Devastated by this feedback, Carson rushed home, fell to his knees, and prayed for guidance. This moment of prayer inspired him to change his approach. He decided to spend less time in classroom lectures and instead focus on reading, research, and more reading and research.

Carson went on to defy his counselor’s opinion, graduating from the University of Michigan Medical School and starting a world-renowned career. At just 33 years old, he was appointed as the director of pediatric neurosurgery at Johns Hopkins Hospital.

Years later, he returned to the medical school where he had once struggled. This time, he was the commencement speaker. Carson recalled, “I was looking for that counselor because I was going to tell him, ‘You’re just not cut out to be a counselor.’” His words drew laughter from the hundreds in attendance at Utah Valley University’s Ragan Theater during a lecture hosted by the Herbert Institute for Public Policy.

Most people know Carson for his work outside of neurosurgery.

As a Republican, Carson ran for president in the 2016 election, ultimately losing his party’s nomination to the man who would later become his boss, President Donald Trump. After Trump’s victory, Carson was appointed as the 17th secretary of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

A bestselling author, Carson continues to serve as a national adviser for nutrition, health, and housing at the U.S. Department of Agriculture. His appearance at UVU comes at a time of pain and healing across the Orem campus. Less than two months ago, conservative activist Charlie Kirk was shot and killed while speaking to an outdoor crowd of thousands.

“In the wake of the tragic assassination of Charlie Kirk on Sept. 10, we couldn’t have timed (Carson’s) visit any better,” said Justin Jones, the Herbert Institute’s executive director, during his introduction of Carson. “Dr. Carson is a voice of reason in his personal, professional and political life.”

How ‘reasonable people’ find solutions

In a lecture touching on faith, prayer, resiliency, the promise of America, and finding common ground with others, Carson traced his own unexpected path from childhood poverty to renown and influence across multiple communities.

He began Wednesday by paying tribute to Kirk. “Charlie was an incredible person — and he was really the antidote to the radical leftism that is trying to fundamentally change our country. The radical left doesn’t mind so much that people speak about it, but they do mind when people listen. That was the issue with Charlie. People were listening — and he understood that the hearts and minds, particularly of our young people, were being indoctrinated, and he couldn’t just sit by and let that happen without giving the other side of the story.”

Carson added that you could sit the country’s most radical left-wing person across from the most radical right-wing person — and they would agree on 80% of their beliefs. “It’s that 20% that they don’t agree on that we’ve allowed to be massaged into hatred and division — and that’s what we don’t need to do. This is called the United States of America.”

Those who want to fundamentally change us recognize that we cannot be overcome militarily, but we can be overcome internally. And if they can create enough strife and hatred, it will be every bit as effective as a military conqueror.”

Carson challenged his audience Wednesday to “sit down at the table” and have discussions that start with that 80% agreement. Begin by establishing relationships. “And from there, we can talk about our differences and why we feel the way we do,” he said. “Reasonable people will be able to come up with a solution. But the thing I can tell you for certain that doesn’t work is the ‘My way or the highway’ philosophy, coming from either side.”

Overcoming a violent temper through prayer, scripture

Carson said he’s often asked why he’s so calm in an anger-fueled world. “I wasn’t always like that,” he answered. “There was a time when I got very angry.” As a poor youth growing up in Detroit, he battled a violent temper. He would lash out, even assaulting others.

By the time he was 14, he realized that his temper would ultimately place him in jail, reform school, or the grave. “And none of those things appealed to me.” So he locked himself in a bathroom, dropped to his knees, and began to pray — asking God to help him control his temper.

He located his family Bible, picked it up, began reading, and discovered Proverbs 16:32: “He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty; and he that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city.” Young Carson determined then that his anger was fueled by selfishness. He decided to hand his troubles to God.

“When God fixes the problem, he doesn’t do a paint job. He fixes it from the inside. That’s what you have to understand. Develop that relationship with him — and let him work through you.”

Soon Carson found he was doing better in school even while discovering his lifelong love for reading. He devoured biographies of explorers, entrepreneurs, engineers, scientists, and surgeons. “I began to realize something very important: The person who has the most to do with what happens to you — is you. It’s not somebody else. And I stopped listening to all the naysayers and the people who were saying, ‘You can’t do this. You can’t do that. Society is against you.’ I just threw all that stuff in the garbage. I started reading everything I could get my hands on. And in the space of a year-and-a-half, I went from the bottom of the class to the top of the class.”

Carson: Great racial progress happening in the U.S.

Carson also recalled a time Wednesday when one of his public school teachers berated his white classmates because they were being outperformed by Benjamin — “a boy of color who comes from a broken family.” But the kids didn’t buy the teacher’s argument because, he said, “they knew that people are people.”

Carson then challenged notions that the country has made little racial progress. “That’s the wrong message,” he said, recalling a childhood visit to the Deep South and seeing “Whites Only” signs posted across town. But in the space of his own lifetime, Carson added, “you have black admirals and generals and CEOs of Fortune 500 companies and heads of foundations and university presidents and a president of the United States. Don’t tell me that things haven’t changed. They have changed substantially. That doesn’t mean that we don’t have more things to do, because there’s always more things to do. But let’s also look at the progress that has been made.”

Drawing upon Charlie Kirk’s convictions

Carson also spoke Wednesday of the lifelong lessons that performing brain surgery — including the first fully successful separation of Type-2 vertical craniopagus twins — have taught him about faith and trusting God. He’s learned that it’s easy to blame God when things go wrong and ask, “Why?” That, Carson added, is when faith comes in.

“(God) can see the beginning from the end. He can see how failure here sets you up for success there.”

The United States, said Carson, is unique because its founding document says “our rights come from our creator, and not from government.” “This was something that Charlie preached incessantly about — that we were different because of our belief system. It was a belief that you should love your neighbor, not cancel your neighbors if they disagree with you. This is something that we must get over as soon as possible.”

The nation’s strength, Carson concluded, lies in its unity. “If we understand that, it will be very difficult for China or anybody else to overcome us — and we will truly have one nation under God.”

A conversation with Dr. Ben Carson

Prior to his UVU speech Wednesday, Carson spoke to the Deseret News about a variety of subjects.

On speaking at UVU just weeks after Kirk’s murder:

Carson noted that he had been scheduled to speak at the school prior to Sept. 10. “It’s just a coincidence, I guess, that I happen to be here right after that happened, because I like to talk about unity, and I like to talk about the fact that our destination is within our own hands. We get to choose what kind of people we want to be and how we want to react to other people and to other situations. That will determine what happens to our country, and that will determine what happens to the world. This brings it into sharp focus very quickly.”

How pain and adversity can be catalysts for personal growth:

“Irritation causes the oyster to produce a pearl. If you go through life without the ups-and-downs, and particularly the downs, sometimes you don’t have the incentive or the opportunity to develop some very strong characteristics which prepare you for other things. If you take somebody who’s never had any adversity in their life, and you put them in a critical situation, they’re probably not going to do that well. But somebody who’s been through it is going to provide much greater leadership.”

Does the former HUD secretary see a pathway to the American Dream of home ownership?:

“There’s absolutely a pathway. The technology that has developed in home building has been incredible. … Some of the small homes and some of the things that had been converted into homes, they’re really quite ingenious, and they’re nice. The problem is not that we can’t produce these things economically. The problem is that we can’t get people to live in them because of regulations. We can probably produce a very nice unit for $150,000 but in Los Angeles — but by the time you get to adding all the regulations, it’s $600,000. It’s crazy.”

Carson also addressed the nation’s homeless crisis, saying most of the people living on the streets are dealing with addictions or mental illness. “If they got regular medications and care, they could be perfectly functional individuals.”

Thoughts on where “Making America Healthy” begins:

“It begins in the ground — with the way we treat the soil, with the kinds of pesticides and other agents that we subject the seedlings to, all the way until it gets to your plate and the whole series of processes that go on. And it begins by looking at data. The life expectancy in this country has been stabilized or going down over the last several years — whereas in other industrialized countries and in Europe, it’s going up. What’s the difference? Massive amounts of food processing that they don’t allow. Massive amount of artificial coloring, artificial flavoring and all kinds of things, as opposed to taking whole grains and whole foods that the Good Lord put in all those foods for our benefit. We leach them all out and put substitutes in. Of course, that’s not going to work out well for you.”

Mamdani Triumphs in New York Mayor Race 2025

noreply@blogger.com (M Hasan) — Wed, 05 Nov 2025 07:20:00 +0000

Zohran Mamdani's Victory in New York City Mayoral Race

Zohran Mamdani has emerged victorious in the New York City mayoral race, defeating former Governor Andrew Cuomo and Republican Curtis Sliwa. The 34-year-old democratic socialist has become a prominent figure in American politics, drawing attention from President Donald Trump. His win marks a significant shift in the political landscape of one of the largest cities in the United States.

Democrat Zohran Mamdani has won the New York City mayor race and will replace disgraced incumbent Eric Adams. US President Trump had urged New Yorkers to vote for Cuomo, his former foe. Dozens of other cities have also voted for new mayors. Spanberger becomes first female governor of Virginia, offering first test of Trump's second term. California voters approved a ballot measure to redraw the electoral map intended to counter gerrymandering in Texas.

Here are the latest headlines and analyses from New York City's mayoral election:

Gavin Newsom's Comments on California's Vote

California Governor Gavin Newsom lauded the state for approving the proposal to redraw its electoral boundaries, saying he was proud of the people. "We're proud of the work that the people of the state of California did tonight to send a powerful message to... the most historically unpopular president in modern history," Newsom said as the results came in. Speaking of the Democratic wins in NYC, New Jersey and Virginia, the leader said the Democratic Party was "in its ascendancy." "What a night for the Democratic Party. A party that's in its ascendancy. A party that's on its toes, no longer on its heels. From coast to coast, sea to shining sea," he said. Trump had earlier called the vote in California a "GIANT SCAM" and "RIGGED," without offering proof.

Mamdani's Message to Trump

Mamdani says NYC has shown 'how to defeat' Trump. Freshly off his win, New York City's Mayor elect Zohran Mamdani lauded his supporters for toppling a political dynasty, and took jabs at President Donald Trump. "If anyone can show a nation betrayed by Donald Trump how to defeat him, it is the city that gave rise to him," Mamdani said in a victory speech. "In this moment of political darkness, New York will be the light." "I will wake up each morning with a singular purpose: To make this city better for you than it was the day before," he promised. The newly elected mayor also addressed the US president directly. "Donald Trump, since I know you’re watching, I have four words for you: turn the volume up!" Mamdani said. On the eve of the elections, Trump had extended his support to Independent candidate and former state governor Andrew Cuomo, threatening to cut federal funding to NYC if Mamdani won. While it remains to be seen if Trump acts on his threat, he reacted in a cryptic post on his Truth Social platform after Republicans lost in the mayoral race in New York City and the governors' ballots in New Jersey and Virginia. "'TRUMP WASN'T ON THE BALLOT, AND SHUTDOWN, WERE THE TWO REASONS THAT REPUBLICANS LOST ELECTIONS TONIGHT,' according to Pollsters," the President wrote. In another post, he wrote, "…AND SO IT BEGINS!"

California Voters Approve New US House Map

California voters have approved new congressional district boundaries, delivering a victory for Democrats in the state-by-state redistricting battle that will potentially decide which party wins control of the US House in 2026 and, with it, the power to stymie President Donald Trump's agenda. California Governor Gavin Newsom and his allies asked voters to approve a temporary re-drawing of electoral districts. The green light for Proposition 50 gives Democrats a shot at winning as many as five additional seats, just enough to blunt Texas Republicans' bid to redraw their own maps — at Trump's urging — to pick up five additional GOP seats. Voters approved Proposition 50 by a margin of two-to-one, early official results showed. The result is a major win for Newsom. Last month Newsom said he is considering a run for US president in 2028 and will make a decision after the 2026 midterm elections.

Celebrating the Promise of a Mamdani Mayoralty

The mood among Mamdani’s supporters at the Brooklyn Paramount remains jubilant - with cheers erupting intermittently even after the race was called some time ago. For those celebrating here, it marks a satisfying finish to a race that has energized and excited them. Inevitably, the conversation will eventually turn to whether Mayor Mamdani will be able to deliver on his ambitious promises. But it's a line of discussion that Nicholas Alban, a Mamdani supporter, says he finds irritating. "The fact that those are the things he wants and advocates for, tells me enough about him already," Alban said. "Yeah, it's gonna be hard to get them through legislatively, the fact that he's promising them, that signals to the people that he's on our side, that he cares about what's gonna make our lives better." To him and others here, tonight is about celebrating the promise of a Mamdani mayoralty, but the difficult compromises involved in running the US' biggest city will come soon enough.

Democrats Win New Jersey Governor's Vote

Democratic Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill won the race for the position of New Jersey's governor, marking another loss for Republicans on a day which is being seen as a litmus test for US President Donald Trump's popularity. Most US media outlets have called the vote in her favor. Sherrill is a former Navy pilot with strong national security credentials and has won against Republican candidate Jack Ciattarelli, who was endorsed by Trump. Sherrill, along with Virginia's new governor Abigail Spanberger and NYC's Zohran Mamdani, focused on economic issues during the campaign, especially the rising cost of living.

Mamdani Wins Vote to Become New York's New Mayor

Zohran Mamdani has won the New York City mayoral race, capping a meteoric rise from a little-known state lawmaker to one of the country's most visible Democratic figures. The 34-year-old will become the first Muslim mayor of the largest city in the United States. He defeated Democratic former Governor Andrew Cuomo who ran as an independent after losing the nomination to Mamdani in the primary election. Cuomo also had the backing of Republican President Donald Trump. Mamdani's campaign and subsequent victory may have national implications in terms of the direction for the Democratic Party.

Spanberger Becomes First Female Governor of Virginia

Democrat Abigail Spanberger won the Virginia governor's race on Tuesday, defeating Republican Lt. Governor Winsome Earle-Sears to give the Democrats a key win heading into the 2026 midterm elections. In winning, Spanberger also made history as the first woman ever to lead the state. Spanberger's win will flip partisan control of the governor's office when she succeeds outgoing Republican Governor Glenn Youngkin. Spanberger, 46, a former congresswoman and CIA case officer, won with a campaign focusing on economic issues, a strategy that may serve as a model for other Democrats in next year's elections as they try to break President Donald Trump's and Republicans' stranglehold in Washington.

What Does Mamdani's Democratic Socialism Mean?

Zohran Mamdani describes himself as a democratic socialist. But what does that mean? Galen Druke, the founder and host of the GD POLITICS podcast, told Articles of education that democratic socialism essentially means government-funded programs with more generous funding than Americans currently have. "For a European audience, the policies he is promoting are not that foreign. Government-provided childcare, for example," Druke said. The analyst added that he wouldn't describe democratic socialism as popular, though, because most Americans are negative about socialism and prefer capitalism. "But within the Democratic Party, the concept of democratic socialism is becoming popular," he said.

Will Mamdani Be Able to Implement His Policies?

Druke said that it is likely that Mamdani won't be able to implement some of his proposed policies. "The situation in New York City is complicated, as much of the funding is still controlled by New York state," he explained, adding that New York state is "not nearly as liberal, democratic, or progressive as New York City." According to Druke, Mamdani said he wants to raise taxes on the wealthiest New Yorkers, but the governor of New York state, Kathy Hochul, said she's not interested in doing that. The analyst is sure that the governor of New York and the next mayor of New York City will be able to come to some sort of compromise in certain areas, but this will depend partly on tonight's margin. "If he squeaks by with a narrow victory and it doesn't look like he's walking away with a blowout victory that some of the polls have suggested, I think Democrats will approach him much more tentatively than if he wins in a blowout," Druke said. "Whether or not he wins is a big question, but a manner in which he wins is also a big question," the analyst added.

Fact Check: Will Mamdani Legalize Sex Work?

Democratic candidate Zohran Mamdani is considered the favorite in the New York City mayoral election. If he wins, it will be despite many distortions and false claims circulating about him. Many people, including the current New York Mayor and Democrat Eric Adams, have accused Mamdani of wanting to legalize or decriminalize sex work. Opponents have repeatedly raised the topic, warning that such policies could increase sex trafficking in New York City. But a Articles of education fact check found this claim to be misleading. You can read this and other Articles of education fact checks about the NYC mayoral race here.

Trump Threatens Legal Action Over California Redistricting Vote

US President Donald Trump has turned his attention to California, where voters will decide on a ballot measure to redraw the state's congressional map in favor of Democrats. The move was touted by Governor Gavin Newsom as a way to counteract gerrymandering in Texas, where Republicans redrew districts to give themselves five additional seats — with Trump's blessing. In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump called the vote in California "a giant scam" and baselessly claimed that it was "rigged." He said postal votes in California would be "under very serious legal and criminal review," adding: "STAY TUNED!"

Mamdani and Cuomo Cast Their Ballots

Zohran Mamdani, the frontrunner in the New York City mayoral race, cast his ballot in Queens. "On this beautiful morning in Astoria, I cast my ballot for our city and our future," he said on X. Over the river in Manhattan, his main rival Andrew Cuomo also voted. "I think it's going to be a record [turnout]," he said afterwards. Meanwhile, Republican candidate Curtis Sliwa already cast his ballot during early voting.

California to Vote on Contentious Redistricting Map

Numerous other votes are underway in the US, where the first Tuesday in November is traditionally election day. Dozens of cities will elect mayors, New Jersey and Virginia are having state elections, and Californians will be voting on a controversial new map of voting districts that will essentially cut Republicans out of every district except one. Proposed by Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom, who some say has his eye on a 2028 presidential run, the map was made to counter excessive gerrymandering in Republican-controlled states, particularly Texas. Earlier in 2025, the New York Times reported that Republican leaders in Texas had bowed to pressure from the Trump administration to cut the influence of Democrats in the state's major cities, resulting in an electoral map that will likely give Republicans five more congressional seats in the 2026 mid-term elections.

Dolma Impact Fund Secures Tax Exemption After Mauritius Pact Cancellation

noreply@blogger.com (M Hasan) — Wed, 05 Nov 2025 06:47:00 +0000

Background of the Controversial Tax Exemption

In Kathmandu, a recent decision by the interim government has sparked significant debate. The government granted a tax exemption to the Dolma Impact Fund, which channels its investments into Nepal through a "shell company" registered in Mauritius, a known tax haven. This move has drawn criticism due to the complex legal and financial implications involved.

The government's rationale for the exemption was based on the Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA) signed with Mauritius. However, this treaty has since been annulled, making it invalid for future transactions. Despite this, the government proceeded with the exemption, leading to questions about the clarity of Nepal's Income Tax Act, 2002.

Legal and Financial Implications

The ruling allows the company to pay less tax on its income in Nepal, providing financial benefits to the fund and facilitating the repatriation of dividends abroad. Dolma, which has invested in 14 Nepali companies, had long sought this exemption. The issue had been under discussion between the Inland Revenue Department (IRD) and the Ministry of Finance for years, but successive governments had refrained from approving it after repeated warnings from tax officials.

A senior tax administrator noted that previous attempts to exempt Ncell's income from taxation ended in legal disputes. They warned that granting Dolma similar relief would create another dangerous precedent. The Ncell dispute, rooted in claims of double taxation, reached an international tribunal before Nepal's Supreme Court and the tribunal both ruled that Ncell's income was taxable in Nepal.

Despite this precedent, the finance ministry now chose to grant Dolma a tax waiver. Finance Minister Rameshore Khanal, who previously advocated for taxing Ncell, is now defending the exemption for Dolma. Before finalizing the decision, he sought opinions from retired officials of the Ministry of Finance and the IRD.

Those consulted reportedly reminded him that Dolma's investment entered Nepal through a Mauritius-based "shell company," making it a case similar to Ncell's. They warned that Dolma's income should be taxed under the Income Tax Act and that Nepal otherwise risked losing significant revenue.

Technical and Legal Objections

Despite these warnings, the finance ministry moved ahead and granted the exemption. To justify the decision, it sought legal advice from the Office of the Attorney General, though officials there were reportedly divided.

Nepal and Mauritius had signed a DTAA on August 3, 1999. Dolma, registered in Mauritius, claimed that under the treaty, it qualified for income tax exemption in Nepal. However, the treaty requires that a Mauritius-based company hold at least 50 percent ownership in the investing entity to be eligible for such benefits.

Documents obtained by the Post show that Mauritian investors hold only 0.75 percent ownership in the company that is channeling investment into Nepal, while 99.25 percent belongs to investors from outside Mauritius. Given that imbalance, officials at the Attorney General's Office concluded that the treaty could not serve as a legal basis for tax exemption.

"It is legally untenable for Nepal to offer tax relief under the Mauritius treaty when Mauritian ownership is negligible," said an official familiar with the internal discussions.

Broader Concerns and Reactions

Tax experts warn this could open floodgates for other offshore investors to demand similar exemptions, weakening Nepal's tax base. A senior tax consultant noted that the government seems eager to project a foreign investor-friendly image, but in doing so, it risks undermining the integrity of Nepal's tax system and losing substantial revenue.

Dolma Impact Fund's investors include institutions from Switzerland, Japan, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, and the United States—countries that do not have DTAAs with Nepal. Yet, Dolma has relied on the Nepal-Mauritius treaty to seek exemptions on dividends and capital gains from share sales.

A shell company like Dolma's Mauritius-based entity typically exists only on paper, registered in jurisdictions offering tax loopholes. Such firms lack real operations or assets and are often used to obscure the true origin of investments.

Ongoing Debate and Future Steps

The Income Tax Act 2002 is Nepal's principal tax legislation, according to former finance minister and tax expert Bidyadhar Mallik. He emphasized that the law overrides previous treaties unless they explicitly provide otherwise. Claiming exemption solely on a treaty basis is legally unsound.

Finance Minister Khanal acknowledged that the government had revoked the DTAA with Mauritius but defended the decision to grant Dolma relief under that same treaty. He stated that the DTAA has been annulled, so new investors won't qualify for exemption. But Dolma will enjoy the benefit for existing investments as the treaty remains valid for six months after formal notification of termination.

Khanal rejected allegations of external influence, calling the exemption a legitimate state obligation. He added that the government now plans to amend the Income Tax Act for clarity. "The new law will introduce provisions for DFIs, but not under DTAAs. Income earned abroad will be taxed there, and income earned in Nepal will be taxed here."

IRD Director General Madan Dahal confirmed that the department has already notified Dolma Impact Fund that it is exempt from income tax under government direction. "The treaty has been revoked. The exemption applies to previous investments, not new ones," he said.

Meanwhile, Shabda Gyawali, investment director at the Dolma Impact Fund Advisors, said they had yet to receive formal notice about the treaty's cancellation. "We have only heard informally about the government's decision," he said. "Dolma has not repatriated any money apart from dividends, so it has not benefited from the exemption yet."

Dolma has systematically pursued government agencies to secure tax relief. Following the DTAA, Dolma Impact Fund I wrote to CDS & Clearing on July 7, 2025, seeking tax exemption on the sale of shares in Makar Jitumaya Suri Hydropower Company. CDS sought IRD's advice, which then referred the matter to Nepse, the stock exchange, and the Finance Ministry to clarify whether capital gains tax would apply.

Under Nepal's laws, foreign investors are subject to a 25 percent capital gains tax on profits from the sale of shares. Based on this provision, Dolma would be liable to pay Rs294.46 million in capital gains tax. However, Dolma appears to have sought to sell these shares. And since the government has already decided to grant a tax exemption, the company will now be exempt from paying the stated amount.

Dahal, director general of the Department of Inland Revenue, confirmed that the department has already issued a letter stating that Dolma will not be liable to pay capital gains tax on the sale of its shares in Makar Jitumaya Suri Hydropower. "Whether viewed through the treaty or the Income Tax Act, Dolma is liable to pay tax," Mallik said. "Therefore, the government's decision to grant a tax exemption is not justified."

Furious Travelers Confront Endless Begging at Airports

noreply@blogger.com (M Hasan) — Wed, 05 Nov 2025 02:01:32 +0000

The Persistent Problem of Begging and Touting at Nigerian Airports

Begging and touting remain a persistent challenge at Nigerian airports, despite the efforts by the Federal Airports Authority to curb this issue. However, progress has faced significant resistance, especially from security agencies. This ongoing problem is not only embarrassing for the country but also tarnishes its image on the global stage.

A female Nigerian based in the United States, Mrs Charles, shared her disappointment after her British friend visited Nigeria in January 2025 for her mother’s burial. During their journey through the airport, several individuals approached them, asking for money. Mrs Charles, who had not converted her foreign currency to naira, repeatedly explained that she didn’t have local currency. Her friend found the situation amusing, which deeply hurt Mrs Charles. She emphasized that the behavior of airport staff, who are supposed to represent the country, is disgraceful and reflects poorly on Nigeria.

This incident highlights the broader issue of unprofessional conduct by airport staff, particularly security officials. For years, both industry stakeholders and travelers have expressed frustration over the manual checks conducted by security agencies at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport. These checks are often criticized as outdated and intrusive, creating an environment where extortion can thrive.

In response to growing complaints, Senator Osita Izunaso from Imo West called on the Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, to caution airport officials against begging travelers for money. He described the behavior as a national embarrassment, undermining Nigeria’s image before foreign visitors and investors.

The Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, Olubunmi Kuku, has repeatedly expressed her disdain for begging and touting within airports. Despite these concerns, the aviation industry, including the minister, has yet to respond to the senator's call for action.

In June 2024, Keyamo acknowledged that the government agencies involved in extortion and begging at airports do not fall directly under his ministry’s control. He emphasized the need for collaboration between ministries to address the issue. His comments came in response to a growing number of complaints from travelers about the persistent problem.

To combat the issue, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria began installing multi-million-dollar machines to scan passengers and luggage in April 2025. These advanced screening devices were intended to replace physical luggage inspections at Customs checkpoints. The new equipment includes six Orion 927DX units, a full-body scanner, and an itemiser, all equipped with cutting-edge imaging technology.

During a tour of the machines, the Director of Aviation Security at FAAN, Igbafe Afegbai, mentioned that the Customs table where bags were physically checked would be dismantled soon. The goal was to enhance security while improving passenger efficiency and overall airport operations.

However, challenges remain. A source close to the meeting between the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, and FAAN MD, Olubunmi Kuku, revealed legal bottlenecks regarding the mandates of security agencies. These agencies operate under different ministries, making coordination difficult. Additionally, the source noted that training and space for monitoring the machines were also issues.

Industry experts, such as retired Air Force officer Group Captain John Ojikutu, argue that bringing all security personnel under one command is essential for smooth airport operations. He suggested revisiting past strategies that proved effective in the 1990s.

Retired pilot Muhammed Badamasi also highlighted the endemic nature of begging in Nigeria. He recalled an incident where he scolded an immigration officer at Kano airport for requesting financial assistance. Badamasi emphasized the need for stricter oversight of staff to prevent such behavior.

Despite these efforts, communication with FAAN spokesperson Henry Agbebire remained unsuccessful. Calls and messages went unanswered, leaving many questions unanswered.

Challenges and Future Steps

Coordination between ministries: The lack of unified command among security agencies hinders effective collaboration.
Training and infrastructure: Adequate training and space for monitoring the new machines are necessary.
Strict oversight: Managers must monitor staff closely and enforce consequences for misconduct.
Public awareness: Raising awareness about the negative impact of begging and touting is crucial for long-term change.

15% Petrol Tariff: Nigerians to Pay N1tn Extra Annually

noreply@blogger.com (M Hasan) — Wed, 05 Nov 2025 02:01:31 +0000

Introduction to the 15% Import Tariff on Petrol

Nigerians are set to face an additional financial burden of approximately N973.6 billion annually due to a new 15% import tariff on Premium Motor Spirit (petrol). This decision, which has been approved by the Federal Government, is expected to increase fuel costs significantly for consumers across the country.

According to a report from the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority, Nigeria imported an average of 26.75 million litres of petrol daily between January and September 2025. At a projected import tariff rate of N99.72 per litre, this would amount to about N2.67 billion in tariffs each day. Over the course of a year, this translates to a staggering N973.64 billion that will be added to the cost of fuel, ultimately borne by Nigerian households, transporters, and businesses.

The introduction of the 15% tariff comes as part of broader fiscal and energy reforms aimed at strengthening the naira-based oil economy, ensuring price stability, and promoting local refining capacity. The policy is designed to align import costs with domestic market realities and prevent duty-free imports from undercutting local refineries.

Policy Implementation and Industry Reactions

President Bola Tinubu’s approval of the 15% import tariff was conveyed through a letter signed by his Private Secretary, Damilotun Aderemi, following a proposal submitted by the Executive Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service, Zacch Adedeji. The proposal sought to apply a 15% duty on the cost, insurance, and freight value of imported petrol and diesel.

Adedeji explained that the measure is part of ongoing fiscal and energy reforms intended to strengthen the naira-based oil economy, ensure price stability, and accelerate the nation’s transition toward local refining capacity. He also advised the government to create a designated Federal Government revenue account managed by the Nigeria Revenue Service, with verification and clearance oversight by the NMDPRA.

The policy is not revenue-driven but corrective, introduced to align import costs with local production realities and prevent duty-free imports from undercutting domestic refineries that are just beginning to recover. Adedeji argued that the new tariff framework would discourage duty-free fuel imports from undercutting domestic producers and foster a fair and competitive downstream environment.

Dissenting Voices and Concerns

Despite the government’s rationale, dissenting voices from industry experts and petroleum marketers have continued to grow louder, with many questioning the timing and potential impact of the 15% import tariff. The Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) expressed reservations over the newly approved 15% import tariff on petrol and diesel, describing it as inconsistent with the spirit of market deregulation.

Chinedu Ukadike, National Publicity Secretary of IPMAN, stated that independent marketers do not oppose the President’s directive but faulted the policy’s design, which he argued undermines the principles of a free and competitive market. He urged the Federal Government to focus on incentivising local refineries rather than imposing tariffs on fuel imports, noting that such measures could distort competition and discourage private participation.

Ukadike warned that any artificial increase in fuel prices would further drive inflation, especially ahead of the Yuletide season when demand for petrol typically rises. He emphasized the need for the government to allow domestic refiners and importers to compete freely without government-induced restrictions.

Economic Implications and Market Dynamics

Jeremiah Olatide, CEO of PetroleumPrice.ng, described the newly approved 15% import tariff on petrol and diesel as a double-edged policy, one that could boost government revenue but also worsen the economic hardship faced by Nigerians. He noted that while the policy represents a strategic move to shore up revenue amid fiscal constraints, it comes at a difficult time for most Nigerians.

Olatide warned that a combination of the 15% import duty and a proposed five percent surcharge could further burden consumers and distort market stability. He urged the government to adopt policies that strengthen local refining and stabilise the upstream oil sector instead.

Support from Industry Stakeholders

Despite the concerns raised, some stakeholders have commended the government’s decision. The Centre for the Promotion of Private Enterprise (CPPE) threw its weight behind the Federal Government’s newly introduced 15% import duty on refined petroleum products, describing it as a step toward reviving Nigeria’s industrial base and promoting economic self-sufficiency.

The CPPE argued that the measure represents a “strategic protectionist policy” designed to safeguard emerging domestic industries, including local refineries, while stimulating productivity, job creation, and foreign exchange savings. It stressed that protection alone would not guarantee industrial success and urged the government to complement the measure with fiscal incentives, low-cost financing, affordable and reliable energy supply, strategic infrastructure investment, and streamlined regulatory processes.

Conclusion

The implementation of the 15% import tariff on petrol marks a significant shift in Nigeria’s energy policy, with far-reaching implications for both the government and consumers. While the policy aims to support local refining and generate revenue, it has sparked debates about its impact on fuel prices, inflation, and market dynamics. As the policy takes effect, the focus will remain on how it balances the interests of domestic producers, importers, and consumers in a rapidly evolving energy landscape.

DSS Updates on Owo Church Attack Prosecutions and Terror Suspects

noreply@blogger.com (M Hasan) — Wed, 05 Nov 2025 01:43:51 +0000

Nigeria’s Security Agencies Continue Prosecution of Terrorism Suspects

The Department of State Services (DSS) has confirmed that several high-profile terrorism suspects are currently facing trial across the country as part of efforts to strengthen national security and ensure accountability. These trials reflect the commitment of security agencies to bringing perpetrators of terrorism to justice in line with the rule of law.

In a recent statement, the secret police disclosed that five men are being tried for their alleged involvement in the June 2022 attack on St. Francis Catholic Church in Owo, Ondo State, where over 40 worshippers lost their lives. The agency also revealed that suspects linked to the June 2025 Yelwata massacre in Benue State, which claimed dozens of lives, are currently undergoing trial.

According to the DSS Director-General, Tosin Ajayi, the ongoing prosecutions reflect the commitment of security agencies to bringing perpetrators of terrorism to justice in line with the rule of law.

Trial of Terror Suspects in Abuja

The Federal High Court in Abuja will continue the trial of two wanted terror suspects: Mahmud Muhammad Usman and Abubakar Abba who were arrested during a high-risk operation in July. The duo, believed to be leaders of the ANSARU terrorist group, face a 32-count charge, including terrorism financing and illegal mining. Usman has already been sentenced to 15 years for one of the offences, while Abba pleaded not guilty.

The agency also confirmed that the prosecution of Khalid Al-Barnawi, alleged mastermind of the 2011 United Nations building bombing in Abuja, is ongoing alongside four others. Al-Barnawi and his co-defendants are facing charges before Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court in Abuja.

Details of the Trial

The DSS provided details of the trial, stating that Usman (aka Abu Bara’a) and Abba (aka Isah Adam and Mahmud Al-Nigeri) were captured in a high-risk, intelligence-led, counter-terrorism operation in July by the DSS after several months of chasing them. The two are believed to be leaders of the Jama’atu Ansarul Muslimina fi-Biladis Sudan, commonly known as ANSARU, Nigeria’s Al-Qaeda affiliate.

Usman, the self-styled Emir of ANSARU, allegedly coordinated various terrorist sleeper cells across Nigeria. He is also believed to have masterminded several high-profile kidnappings and robberies, the proceeds of which were used to finance terrorism over the years. Abba, Usman’s chief of staff and deputy, is alleged to have led the so-called “Mahmudawa” cell, which operated around the Kainji National Park, located on the border between the states of Niger and Kwara, as well as the Republic of Benin.

The Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), in a statement issued on August 16, claimed Mamuda received training in Libya between 2013 and 2015 under foreign jihadist instructors from Egypt, Tunisia, and Algeria. He is said to have specialised in weapons handling and IED fabrication.

Usman and Abba are being tried on a 32-count terrorism charge, and on which they were arraigned in late August. One of the counts related to illegal mining, to which Usman pleaded guilty and has since been sentenced to 15 years. Abba pleaded not guilty to all the 32 counts.

Continued Trials of Other Terrorists

The DSS is also prosecuting another terror suspect, Khalid Al-Barnawi, accused of being the mastermind of the August 26, 2011, bombing of the United Nations Complex in Abuja, in which 20 people were killed and more than 70 others injured. Captured in 2016, Al Barnawi is facing trial along with four other terror suspects – Mohammed Bashir Saleh, Umar Mohammed Bello aka Datti, Mohammed Salisu, and Yakubu Nuhu aka Bello Maishayi.

The trial has been delayed for an extended period due to legal and procedural issues, including the suspects being occasionally brought to court without any counsel appearing for them. The DSS recently requested the court to grant accelerated hearing in the case, a request Justice Nwite granted.

On October 23 and 24, a trial-within-trial was conducted, during which videos of the defendants’ confessional statements were played in the courtroom.

Additional Charges and Arrests

On August 11, the DSS arraigned five men before a Federal High Court in Abuja over their alleged involvement in the June 5, 2022 attack at St. Francs Catholic Church, Owo, Ondo State. The five are: Idris Abdulmalik Omeiza, Al Qasim Idris, Jamiu Abdulmalik, Abdulhaleem Idris and Momoh Otuho Abubakar. Over 40 people died in the attack, while over 100 individuals sustained injuries.

The five defendants were arraigned on a nine-count terrorism charge, marked: FHC/ABJ/CR/301/2025, in which they are accused among others, of being members of Al Shabab terrorist group, with cell in Kogi State. The defendants are also alleged to have carried out the attack in furtherance of their religious ideology.

They pleaded not guilty when the charge was read to them, following which Justice Nwite ordered that they be remanded in the custody of the prosecuting agency. In a ruling on September 10 the judge rejected their request for bail on the grounds that they were not only charged with offences that capital in nature, they are also accused of being members of a notorious terrorist organisation.

Ongoing Trials of Yelwata Massacre Suspects

Also undergoing trial are the suspects arrested in connection with the Yelwata massacre in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State on June 13 2025. The attack, in which dozens of people were killed and 107 injured, drew worldwide condemnation. President Bola Tinubu paid a condolence visit to the state and demanded the arrest of the killers and attackers.

On June 24 2025, the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, announced the arrest of 26 suspects in connection with the massacre. In August 2025, the DSS filed terrorism-related charges before the Federal High Court in Abuja, against nine suspects. Two suspects, Haruna Adamu and Muhammad Abdullahi of Awe local government area of Nassarawa state, who are still at large, were charged with four counts of terrorism, among which is the concealment of information about the attacks, before they were staged in Abinsi and Yelwata villages between June 13th and 14th.

In total, the DSS filed six separate charges against the arrested suspects, who are now undergoing trial. They are Adamu and Abdullahi are Musa Beniyon, Bako Malowa, Ibrahim Tunga, Asara Ahnadu, Legu Musa, Adamu Yale, Boddi Ayuba, and Pyeure Damina. The DSS also charged two other suspects, Terkende Ashuwa and Amos Alede of Guma local government area of Benue State, with three counts for allegedly carrying out reprisal attack against the terror suspects involved in the Abinsi and Yelwata attacks.

Their trial, which is ongoing, before Justice Nwite’s court began with their arraignment in early September, with the defendants pleading not guilty.

Commitment to Justice

Director General of the DSS, Tosin Ajayi, said:

” The various arrests and trials of terrorism suspects showed that Nigeria’s security agencies have been diligent in dealing with the perpetrators of terror in the country. The men we are prosecuting are separate from the hundreds of suspects under the military’s protective custody, whose cases are being handled by the Office of the Attorney General of the Federation. In July last year, 125 of the terrorists were convicted.

“We shall continue to make the suspects accountable for disrupting the peace of our country, in consonance with the rule of law.”

President Tinubu and the Weight of Moral Duty

noreply@blogger.com (M Hasan) — Wed, 05 Nov 2025 01:01:18 +0000

The Legacy of Leadership and the Struggle for Justice

October 20, a day marked by protests and unrest, has come and gone. Nnamdi Kanu remains in detention, and justice is still pending. However, history has already recorded that a man named Omoyele Sowore took on the role of a catalyst, challenging the status quo. He pushed for Nnamdi Kanu’s release for medical treatment, ensuring he receives a fair trial in accordance with the law. His bold words stirred the capital city into chaos, forcing the police to act aggressively with tear gas and batons. Is Sowore a human being, a spirit, or a curse upon corrupt leaders? Or is he a prophet sent to restore the state and its operatives from moral decay?

William Gumedes, in his introductory remarks on Mandela’s “No Easy Walk to Freedom,” provided an insightful analysis of leadership and its evolution. He highlighted how those who once stood for justice can become its adversaries. Gumedes emphasized that leadership is not merely about holding power but about the quality of one’s actions, behavior, and vision.

In his words:
“The failure of most African liberation movements-turned-governments lies in the moral corruption of their leaders and parties, even if they have a just cause and impeccable struggle credentials. Suddenly finding themselves in positions of power, many leaders have succumbed to the temptations of wealth and authority, leading to a loss of moral compass. Mandela was an exception, maintaining his integrity despite the trappings of power.”

Gumedes also discussed democratic morality, which transcends cultural and religious boundaries. It involves ethical behavior, a sense of duty, and governance that serves the broader population rather than personal interests.

President Tinubu: A Leader in Transition

President Bola Tinubu, the 16th president of Nigeria, is often seen as a champion of democracy. His early life in southwestern Nigeria and education in the United States laid the foundation for his political career. He returned to Nigeria in the 1980s, working as an accountant before entering politics. His involvement in the pro-democracy National Democratic Coalition (NADECO) marked a significant turning point in his journey.

Tinubu played a crucial role in advocating for the recognition of Bashorun Moshood Kashimawo Abiola as the legitimate winner of the June 12, 1993 election, which was annulled by the military government of Ibrahim Babangida. On the Senate floor, Tinubu condemned the annulment, calling it a coup d’état and urging Nigerians to reject injustice.

After General Sani Abacha seized power in 1993, Tinubu faced arrest, detention, and threats to his life. He went into exile, continuing his activism abroad as part of NADECO. Upon returning in 1998 after Abacha’s death, Tinubu became a key figure in Nigeria’s Fourth Republic.

The Shift in Ideals

Tinubu once stood for everything his current government opposes: protests, injustice, and the suppression of activists. What changed? Is it the corrupting influence of power or the shifting tides of time?

If Tinubu recognized years ago that the annulment of a credible election could spark unrest, why can’t he see that hunger, ethnic profiling, and resource inequality can lead to similar outcomes today? As the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, is it fair that peaceful protesters are met with live bullets and tear gas?

It is instructive to note that Tinubu may now be facing the same challenges he once opposed. The part of him that once stood for justice is now affected by a "deadly disease" called "power and moral corruption," as described by Gumedes. This shift raises questions about the true nature of leadership and the responsibilities of those in power.

The Role of the People

Nigerians, too, seem to have fallen into this moral corruption. They have begun to support their oppressors, abandoning the fighters who once stood for justice. Despite Sowore’s efforts to liberate Nigeria, many focus more on his escape from tear gas than on his message. What does it take to be an activist? Is it the ability to endure live bullets and tear gas?

President Tinubu can reclaim his role as a leader of change. He has the potential to re-embrace the ideals he once championed, standing up against injustice and protecting the rights of all citizens.

Akingbondere, an author and law graduate, writes from Akure, Ondo State.

Benefits of 'Crony Capitalism'

noreply@blogger.com (M Hasan) — Wed, 05 Nov 2025 01:01:18 +0000

The Impact of Ad Valorem Tariff on Nigeria’s Petroleum Sector

The introduction of a 15% ad valorem tariff on imported petrol and diesel by the Nigerian government has sparked significant debate. This decision, which aims to support local refineries and stabilize fuel prices, is seen as a strategic move to foster economic growth and reduce dependency on foreign imports. However, it also raises questions about potential crony capitalism and the balance between protecting domestic industries and maintaining affordability for consumers.

Ad valorem tax, derived from the Latin phrase "ad valorem" meaning "according to value," is traditionally associated with real estate, where property values are assessed using a Best of Judgment template. While this method is not commonly applied in other sectors, its adoption for petroleum products signals a shift in policy that could have far-reaching implications.

Zach Adedeji, who proposed the idea to President Bola Tinubu, argues that the tariff will encourage the development of local refineries, ensure price stability, and strengthen the naira. This aligns with broader goals of economic self-sufficiency and resilience against global market fluctuations.

Aliko Dangote, CEO of the Dangote Group, has remained relatively quiet on the matter, but his Chief Branding and Communications Officer, Tony Chiejina, has publicly endorsed the government's decision. Chiejina highlighted the refinery's achievements, including daily production of 45 million litres of petrol and 25 million litres of diesel. He emphasized the refinery's commitment to efficient nationwide delivery and collaboration with regulatory agencies.

Experts suggest that the Dangote Refinery could save Nigeria over $12 billion annually in foreign exchange while creating thousands of jobs. This potential economic boost underscores the importance of supporting local industries through strategic policies like the ad valorem tariff.

The tariff is expected to protect domestic refineries from unfair competition, ensuring they can thrive in a competitive market. It also serves as a signal to investors that Nigeria is open to opportunities in the downstream petroleum sector. The Dangote Refinery’s plan to expand its processing capacity to 1.4 million barrels per day by 2028 further highlights the potential for growth and investment.

Bayo Ogunlesi, Chairman of Global Infrastructure Group, noted that Nigeria is a vast gas province, suggesting that the country has significant untapped resources. While he did not explicitly state plans to establish a refinery, his comments reflect the potential for future investments in the energy sector.

Dangote must maintain consistency in his commitments to avoid repeating the missteps of previous administrations. The failure of the NNPC to operate its refineries effectively has left many Nigerians skeptical. However, the Dangote Refinery’s successful operation in 2024 offers hope for a more reliable and efficient petroleum sector.

Despite delays in the planned initial public offering (IPO) of Dangote Refinery shares, the company continues to generate interest among institutional investors. The potential listing on the Nigerian Exchange Limited could bring much-needed transparency and accountability, ensuring that the company operates in the best interests of shareholders and the nation.

If the IPO proceeds, it could democratize ownership of Nigeria’s downstream petroleum sector, allowing citizens to benefit from the country’s natural resources. This would mark a significant shift from the monopolistic practices of previous state-owned enterprises like the NNPC and NNPCL.

The success of the Dangote Refinery also raises questions about the need for similar strategies in other sectors. For instance, imposing tariffs on imported textiles could help revive Nigeria’s once-thriving textile industry, which was a major employer before government policies led to its decline.

The fragility of the Nigerian textile industry was evident when Western economies withdrew their support following the turmoil under General Sani Abacha’s regime. This highlights the importance of stable governance and supportive policies for industrial growth.

Imposing tariffs on strategic sectors like textiles, food processing, and petroleum refining can protect domestic industries and promote long-term economic development. This approach mirrors the strategies used by countries like the United States, where tariffs have been employed to safeguard national interests.

In addition to tariffs, the government must address other critical areas such as electricity supply, steel production, railway expansion, and agricultural development. These sectors are essential for building a resilient and diversified economy.

By implementing comprehensive policies that support local industries and infrastructure, Nigeria can position itself for sustainable growth and economic independence. The ad valorem tariff on imported fuels is just one step in this broader strategy, but it represents a crucial move toward a more self-reliant and prosperous nation.

Redefining the Future of Work: A Public Sector Vision

noreply@blogger.com (M Hasan) — Wed, 05 Nov 2025 01:01:18 +0000

Understanding the VUCA World and Its Implications

The world as we know it is in a state of complex flux. This shift has led to the concept of a VUCA environment—vulnerable, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous. This understanding has significant implications for how we perceive our lives, relationships, organizational dynamics, and the way work is organized and performed. As we navigate this new reality, it becomes crucial to reimagine the intersection of management, work, workplace dynamics, and disruptive technologies.

This theme was particularly relevant during the 57th Annual International Conference of the Chartered Institute of Personnel Management of Nigeria held in Abuja. The conference aimed to explore how public administrators, personnel, and human resource managers can rethink traditional notions of what an organizational workplace means in the new normal. With the rapid emergence of new technologies, traditional management and bureaucratic borders are being dissolved and disrupted at an increasing rate.

The Role of Technology in Shaping Workplaces

Knowledge, information, and data are now mediated by artificial intelligence and the Internet of Things, with enormous computing power enabling new forms of interactions between humans and machines. These developments complicate and transform the tasks of managers in the workplace, especially regarding human resource functions, decision-making, and policy architecture.

Another dimension of this complex flux often overlooked is the sociological implications of the transformation of the nature of work and workplace conditions. The impact on value orientation, identity construction, tradition, and experience, as well as communal ethos and social inequality, must be considered in policy action and management research.

The Impact of the Pandemic on Public Sector Resilience

The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the structural weaknesses in the Nigerian public sector's capability readiness. It exposed the fragmentation of work in public sector workplaces and the near-absence of policy innovation and creativity. This situation raises urgent concerns about public sector institutional resilience-building and the capacity to manage emergencies, early warning signals, and crisis response.

The People-Issue: A Central Concern

In the face of these transformations, the most urgent workplace consideration is the people-issue. This involves ensuring that persons and personnel remain the focus of any reforms, changes, and adjustments driven by information, data, knowledge, and technologies. It also includes regenerating the public service workplace to mainstream technologies and new managerial procedures that place citizens at the center of service delivery.

Open Government Initiatives and Public Administration

Open government initiatives play a crucial role in the new managerial revolution in the public service. They refocus the significance of the people as citizens and insist on addressing the challenges of where, when, and how people work. Digitally-enabled platforms and technologies assist the government and public service in measuring institutional and administrative successes in humane and transparent ways.

Public managers are compelled to focus on work-life balance and articulate best practices that involve participatory budgeting, co-creation of public values, delegated authority, and real-time strategic communication dynamics within bottom-up planning frameworks.

Evolving Roles of Public Managers

Traditionally, public managers were seen as experts, regulators, engagers, and reticulists. However, within the new knowledge and technology environment, they must also be critical, discretionary, and proactive jugglers, balancing human-machine components of the workplace.

Challenges in Nigeria

Two variables are critical in configuring the workplace in Nigeria. The first is the damaging effect of the brain drain, or japa syndrome, leading to the search for better living and working conditions abroad. The second variable is the increasing incidence of machine or artificial intelligence displacing humans in roles such as bookkeeping and payroll processing.

These challenges are further complicated by the growing informalisation of wage employment, affecting social protection systems and labor regulations.

Reimagining Public Administration

Reimagining and reforming public administration systems and public sector institutional dynamics is essential. The interplay of knowledge, data, information, and technologies reconfigures the nature and meaning of work in the twenty-first century, impacting human capital development, productivity, and national development.

Institutional Reform and Education

Institutional reform begins with rethinking the intellectual bases of work, jobs, skills, pay, and employment policies. Adapting to the changing nature of work requires a value reorientation and cultural readjustment program that helps the workforce adapt to a technology-enabled environment.

A constant programme of re-professionalisation, training, and upskilling will become important for both workers and public managers. The new workplace operating under the new normal will task the administrative and managerial acumen of public managers.

The Need for Proactive Educational Initiatives

The Nigerian government must become proactive in developing educational and administrative curricula in public administration and public management. Activating administrative training institutes across the country to focus on skills development that cannot be easily replaced by machines is essential.

Conclusion

The fundamental key to transforming the workplace is the willingness to continuously educate the workforce and build their capacity for “learning to learn” the dynamics that keep changing the workplace. This will require equipping future employees through creating new knowledge based on intelligent prospecting of future work and the future skills requirements the national economy will need to keep performing productivity.

US Targets Persecutors, China Supports Tinubu

noreply@blogger.com (M Hasan) — Wed, 05 Nov 2025 01:01:17 +0000

The United States Designates Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern

Following its designation of Nigeria as a ‘Country of Particular Concern’, the United States has indicated it will work with the Federal Government to take decisive actions aimed at arresting perpetrators of religious violence, protecting Christians, and rescuing those held hostage. This move comes after the Chair of the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF), Vicky Hartzler, recommended that President Donald Trump blacklist Nigeria for violating religious freedom. Hartzler welcomed the US leader’s decision, commending him for addressing what she described as the persecution of Christians in Nigeria.

However, China expressed strong support for Nigeria and criticized what it called foreign interference in the country’s internal affairs. Trump had announced Nigeria’s designation as a Country of Particular Concern on his Truth Social platform, alleging that Christianity in Nigeria faces an “existential threat” and claiming that thousands of Christians have been killed by radical Islamists. He warned that the United States could take decisive measures—including possible military intervention—if the Bola Tinubu administration failed to act.

The Federal Government rejected the US claim, describing it as inconsistent with facts, and reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to combating violent extremism, protecting citizens, and promoting religious freedom and inclusiveness. As part of its response to Nigeria’s alleged violations, the United States Congress is considering a bill that would impose severe sanctions on state governors, public officials, and non-state actors involved in enforcing the Sharia Penal Code. The bill, sponsored by Republican Senator Ted Cruz, has passed second reading and been referred to the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations for further consideration.

Legislative Measures and International Reactions

The draft legislation, S. 2747, titled ‘Nigeria Religious Freedom Accountability Act of 2025,’ directs the US Secretary of State to designate Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern, impose specific sanctions, and take other related measures. It also targets terrorist groups and individuals implementing or supporting Islamic laws in the country. Under the draft law, penalties would extend to judges, magistrates, prison officials, and other judicial or law enforcement officers found complicit in terrorism, corruption, or the enforcement of blasphemy laws. It specifically includes anyone responsible for prosecuting, convicting, imprisoning, or otherwise depriving individuals of their liberty on charges of blasphemy.

Reacting to the executive action, the USCIRF chair, Vicky Hartzler, stated, “USCIRF applauds President Trump for speaking out on the religious freedom crisis in Nigeria and making Nigeria a Country of Particular Concern.” She added, “The US Government can now develop a tough plan with Nigeria to ensure that perpetrators of violence are held to account, people of faith are protected, and those held hostage are rescued.”

The USCIRF vice chair, Asif Mahmood, also told The PUNCH that the commission would ensure the Trump administration implements a series of executive actions against Nigeria, which it described as a serial violator of religious freedom since 2009. During Trump’s first administration, the US State Department had placed Nigeria on its Special Watch List in 2019 and designated it as a Country of Particular Concern in 2020, citing recurring violent attacks against religious communities.

Regional and International Responses

In addition to the US actions, the People’s Republic of China strongly criticized the US action against Nigeria, describing it as a flagrant interference in the country’s internal affairs. At a press conference in Beijing, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said China stood firmly with Nigeria in pursuing its own development path and opposed the use of religion or human rights as tools for political pressure.

Meanwhile, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, said President Bola Tinubu was taking concrete steps to ensure the safety of lives and property across the country. He noted that the President had called for calm, assuring Nigerians that his administration remains focused on strengthening national security and promoting unity amid growing international scrutiny.

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) dismissed claims that the recent surge in terrorist attacks across the region, including Nigeria, amounts to genocide. In a statement, ECOWAS urged the United Nations and other international partners to continue supporting member states in their efforts to counter violent extremism. The European Union also reaffirmed its commitment to protecting religious freedom and promoting peaceful coexistence in Nigeria.

Concerns Over Foreign Interests and Internal Security

A former Chief of Army Staff and ex-Minister of Interior, Lt. Gen. Abdulrahman Dambazau (retd.), alleged that the United States might be seeking to establish a military base in Nigeria under the pretext of protecting Christians from persecution. Dambazau questioned the motive, recalling that despite hosting two US military bases for over a decade, Niger Republic still suffers severe insecurity.

Leaders of the Southern and Middle Belt Forum described the development as a “wake-up call” for the Federal Government to urgently tackle insecurity and the persistent killings across the country. They urged the government to disarm and prosecute armed militias, killer herdsmen, and terrorists, and to restore “occupied lands to their rightful owners” across several affected states.

In a related reaction, the Yoruba Ronu Group criticized Trump’s remarks accusing Nigeria of “killing Christians,” calling them “false and dangerously provocative.” The National Civil Society Council of Nigeria also criticized the Federal Government for failing to appoint ambassadors amid the crisis, describing the lapse as “unhealthy and unthinkable.”

Wike's Move as Oyo Court Lifts PDP Convention Ban

noreply@blogger.com (M Hasan) — Wed, 05 Nov 2025 01:01:17 +0000

Legal Rulings and Political Tensions in the PDP

The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) is currently embroiled in a complex legal and political battle, with conflicting court rulings and internal power struggles threatening to destabilize the party. The situation has escalated following recent judicial decisions that have created confusion over the legality of the party’s upcoming national convention.

On Tuesday, an Oyo State High Court granted an ex parte motion filed by Folahan Adelabi, which sought to prevent the PDP from holding its proposed national convention in Ibadan on November 15 and 16, 2025. The judge, Justice Ladiran Akintola, adjourned the case for further hearing on November 10, 2025. This ruling contradicts a previous judgment from the Federal High Court in Abuja, delivered on Friday, which had restrained the PDP from proceeding with the convention until it complies with its constitution, the Nigerian Constitution, and the Electoral Act.

In the Abuja case, Justice James Omotosho issued a ruling in suit number FHC/ABJ/CS/2120/2025, directing the PDP to follow due process before holding the event. The judge also ordered the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) not to accept or recognize any results from a convention conducted without proper adherence to the law. The suit was filed by three aggrieved members of the party: Austin Nwachukwu (Imo PDP chairman), Amah Abraham Nnanna (Abia PDP chairman), and Turnah Alabh George (PDP Secretary, South-South).

The Oyo court ruling, however, appears to support the PDP’s plans to proceed with the convention. Justice Akintola granted all interim orders sought by the claimant, including a directive that the defendants—comprising the PDP leadership, INEC, and others—must not interfere with the event. The judge also ordered INEC to monitor the convention as per the Electoral Act.

Despite these developments, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has dismissed the Oyo ruling, arguing that the Abuja judgment should take precedence. Through his Senior Special Assistant, Lere Olayinka, Wike questioned the validity of the ex parte order, suggesting it is temporary and not binding. He raised concerns about the hierarchy of court rulings, stating that the Abuja judgment explicitly barred INEC from participating in the event, while the Oyo court’s decision appeared to contradict this.

Internal Struggles Within the PDP

The legal challenges are compounded by internal power struggles within the PDP. Umar Damagum, the factional National Chairman, has taken decisive action against former members of the National Working Committee (NWC). On Tuesday, he wrote to INEC Chairman Prof. Joash Amupitan, notifying him of the suspension of several officers, including Senator Samuel Anyanwu, the National Secretary.

Damagum’s letter, dated November 1, 2025, outlined the suspension of four officials based on alleged anti-party activities. The move follows the assumption of acting national chairman by PDP Deputy National Chairman Mohammed Abdulrahman, who was backed by Wike and supported by Anyanwu and loyalists. Damagum vowed to reposition the party by “returning power back to the people.”

However, the suspension has drawn criticism. Timothy Osadolor, the Deputy National Youth Leader of the PDP, blamed the party’s governors for the ongoing crisis. He highlighted Governor Ahmadu Fintiri of Adamawa as the only exception, praising his consistent leadership. Osadolor criticized the lack of proper procedures followed in suspending Anyanwu, calling the move “null, void, and illegal.” He urged the governors to step down from their positions and engage in negotiations to resolve the turmoil.

Osadolor also defended Damagum, describing him as a capable leader who could bring stability to the party if given full authority. However, he accused the governors of “hijacking” the party’s leadership, leading to the current state of chaos.

The Road Ahead

As the PDP faces mounting legal and internal challenges, the outcome of the upcoming national convention remains uncertain. The conflicting court rulings and power struggles between factions threaten to further divide the party at a critical time. With the judiciary playing a pivotal role in determining the legality of the event, the PDP must navigate these complexities carefully to avoid further instability.

CPC: Reclaiming Truth, Restoring Trust, Resetting the Global Narrative

noreply@blogger.com (M Hasan) — Wed, 05 Nov 2025 01:01:17 +0000

The U.S. Designation of Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern

On October 31, 2025, the United States reclassified Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” (CPC) under the International Religious Freedom Act (IRFA), citing “years of Christian persecution.” This designation, which requires the U.S. Congress to investigate and report with recommendations, has created significant diplomatic and economic challenges for Nigeria. The country, still working to rebuild its global reputation after years of instability, corruption, and reputational damage, now faces a powerful label that could define it as a nation hostile to faith.

President Bola Tinubu’s administration, focused on economic reform, debt restructuring, and attracting foreign investment, is now confronted with an uphill battle against this label. However, designations are not final. With clear strategy and courage, Nigeria can transform this crisis into an opportunity to reclaim its narrative, restore trust, and reaffirm its leadership as Africa’s moral and democratic compass.

Under IRFA, the U.S. designates countries as CPCs if they are found to have engaged in or tolerated systematic, ongoing, and egregious violations of religious freedom. The implications of such a designation include potential sanctions, visa bans, aid restrictions, and reputational damage. As of the 2023 U.S. State Department list, other CPC countries included China, Iran, Russia, North Korea, Saudi Arabia, Eritrea, Pakistan, and Nicaragua. These nations face persecution as state policy, enforced by laws, police, and courts.

Nigeria, however, does not fit this profile. It has no state religion, and its Constitution explicitly guarantees freedom of worship. The violence in Nigeria stems from terrorism, banditry, and governance failures, not from state-sanctioned persecution. This makes the latest CPC designation legally questionable and politically suspicious — more a reflection of external pressure and internal mismanagement than genuine evidence of religious oppression.

Understanding Nigeria’s Security Challenges

Nigeria’s security crises are well-documented but often poorly interpreted. Insurgent groups like Boko Haram and ISWAP terrorize the North-East, targeting both Christians and Muslims who oppose their extremist views. Bandit groups in the North-West conduct mass kidnappings and ransom-driven killings, attacking schools, mosques, and markets. Farmer–herder conflicts in the Middle Belt are rooted in resource competition and climate stress, not theology. Urban criminal networks exploit ethnic and religious divides for political or financial gain.

In each case, victims span both faiths. Muslims have died in church bombings just as Christians have died in mosque raids. Nigeria’s challenge is lawlessness, not sectarianism. The international narrative that singles out Christian suffering while ignoring Muslim and other victims distorts the full picture and unfairly brands Nigeria as a faith-oppressive state.

The Role of Domestic and International Actors

Nigeria’s predicament was not solely created by Washington. It was worsened by Nigerians themselves — politicians, activists, and diaspora influencers who shaped a one-sided narrative abroad. Over the past three years, some individuals, often aligned with opposition movements or personal grievances, cultivated relationships with U.S. evangelical groups, human-rights lobbyists, and congressional offices. They presented selective data, sometimes unverifiable, to portray Nigeria as a failed religious state.

Several diaspora campaigns, operating under “Christian advocacy” banners, directly lobbied members of the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) and faith-based caucuses in Congress. Their reports exaggerated Christian deaths, ignored Muslim casualties, and framed Nigeria’s violence as state complicity. This echo chamber found fertile ground in the American right-wing ecosystem, where religious freedom narratives often intersect with political ideology.

The Need for Strong Diplomatic Engagement

While this campaign gathered momentum, Nigeria had no ambassador in Washington. Several key embassies and consulates were either vacant or led by acting officials with limited access to senior policymakers. Without professional diplomacy and real-time lobbying, Nigeria’s rebuttal to USCIRF reports and advocacy briefings never reached Congress. The result: a vacuum filled by others.

In diplomacy, silence is never neutral — it’s surrender. Nigeria’s international communications infrastructure has been practically non-existent. Neither the Ministry of Information nor the foreign affairs press corps launched a coordinated campaign to shape global perception. Consequently, international outlets published stories centered solely on persecution claims, without context from Nigeria’s own data or security briefings.

To correct this, Nigeria must mount a global media offensive — not of denial, but of balanced storytelling. Local media can collaborate with international agencies to publish investigative features, interviews, and human-interest reports highlighting multi-faith victimization and the government’s security initiatives.

A Path Forward for Nigeria

Vietnam (2004–2006), Sudan (1999–2020), and Uzbekistan (2006–2018) all achieved removal from the CPC list through engagement, reform, and communication. Those that resisted — Eritrea, Iran, North Korea — remain trapped under sanctions. Nigeria’s best path forward is to prove progress with evidence, not emotion.

Trump’s new declaration carries strategic undertones. Nigeria’s rising geopolitical independence — ties with China, India, and BRICS partners, talk of new military cooperation outside traditional Western channels — has drawn attention. CPC designation becomes a pressure tool, a soft-power signal to force compliance or weaken non-aligned tendencies.

Washington’s moral rhetoric often masks political intent. Nigeria must recognize this, not with confrontation, but with strategic sophistication.

Strategic Steps for Nigeria

Nigeria must fill its Washington post immediately with a seasoned, non-partisan, retired diplomat respected on Capitol Hill — ideally someone with prior service in Washington or at the U.N. The ambassador must be empowered, not ornamental — armed with data, talking points, and authority.

A high-powered delegation should land in Washington within weeks, led by the Foreign Minister and including the attorney-general and director-general of NIA, a prominent Muslim cleric, Bishop Matthew Kukah, and Pastor E. A. Adeboye, to showcase interfaith unity. A retired diplomat like Prince Bolaji Akinyemi, the president of the Nigerian-American Chamber of Commerce, and two respected media strategists should also join.

Their objective: negotiate a 180-day Action Plan with the U.S. State Department to suspend punitive measures while reforms are verified.

Nigeria must retain reputable lobbying firms that understand Capitol Hill, faith-based caucuses, and U.S. think tanks. These professionals can organize congressional briefings, facilitate meetings with USCIRF, and align Nigeria’s facts with the policy language American legislators understand.

Rebuilding Trust and Reputation

The government should create a Presidential Task Force on Religious Freedom and Human Rights. This inter-ministerial body should include representatives from justice, interior, police affairs, information, and civil society. Its mandate would include investigating and prosecuting religious or communal killings, protecting worship centers, publishing monthly security and justice metrics, and serving as the domestic evidence engine for international diplomacy.

Nigeria should deploy security units to churches, mosques, and schools in high-risk zones, review blasphemy and discriminatory laws at the state level for constitutional compliance, establish fast-track courts for sectarian crimes, and support interfaith councils and community peace initiatives.

Nigeria should hire a premier communications consultancy — such as Fraser Consulting — to rebuild its global reputation. The firm should coordinate op-eds in major U.S. and European outlets, brief editorial boards, and synchronize messaging between Abuja and Washington.

Public diplomacy is no longer optional; it is national security.

The Power of Interfaith Unity

Nigeria remains one of the world’s few nations where major religions coexist in near parity and interdependence. From Sokoto to Port Harcourt, from Lagos to Maiduguri, Muslims and Christians live, trade, and mourn together. Every family knows both faiths. Every tragedy touches both sides.

This lived reality is Nigeria’s greatest argument before Congress and the world. The inclusion of Muslim and Christian clerics in the proposed delegation is not symbolism — it is truth in motion.

A Structured International Communications Plan

Immediate phase — issue factual press kits to U.S. and European media, clarifying that CPC narratives ignore Muslim victims and the non-state nature of violence.

Medium-term phase — coordinate exclusive features on CNN, BBC, and Al Jazeera, highlighting interfaith cooperation in rebuilding attacked communities.

Long-term phase — produce documentaries, organize town-hall tours through diaspora communities, and engage influential U.S. churches and think tanks.

Every headline affects capital flows. CPC designation signals instability to lenders, investors, and rating agencies. It undermines Tinubu’s painstaking economic reforms and deters diaspora remittances.

To restore credibility, Nigeria must communicate governance, not slogans. Publishing quarterly reform scorecards — on justice, security, and human rights — will reassure global partners that this is a government willing to confront its weaknesses openly.

Silence allowed this crisis to grow; engagement can now reverse it.

Nigeria must speak with one voice — confident, factual, and humble. It must demonstrate that while insecurity persists, the state neither condones nor targets any religion.

If Abuja acts swiftly — politically, diplomatically, and communicatively — the U.S. Congress could reconsider or suspend CPC enforcement before the next IRFA review.

In diplomacy, facts matter — but presence matters more.

The CPC designation is not a final verdict on Nigeria; it is a wake-up call. It exposes the cost of silence, the price of weak diplomacy, and the danger of internal sabotage. But it also provides a rare opportunity: to rebuild trust, to demonstrate unity, and to showcase Nigeria as a democracy that learns and reforms.

If Nigeria speaks with evidence, protects with justice, and leads with integrity, Washington will have no moral basis to keep it on the CPC list.

The world respects nations that act, not argue.

International diplomacy punishes silence but rewards engagement.

Nigeria must now engage — not defensively, but decisively — to prove that it is not a Country of Particular Concern, but a Country of Particular Courage, Conviction, and Conscience.

CPC Listing: Tinubu, Tackle Nigeria's Crisis!

noreply@blogger.com (M Hasan) — Wed, 05 Nov 2025 01:01:17 +0000

The US Designation of Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern

Since last Friday, October 31, 2025, when US President Donald Trump redesignated Nigeria as a country of particular concern, a sort of blacklist, I have been interviewed on the controversial listing by several media platforms. Trust TV; LN247 Television; Galaxy Television; Citizen 93.7 FM, Abuja; Asaase Radio 99.5 FM, Accra, Ghana; Impact Business Radio 92.5, Ibadan; Channels Television and The Pinnacle (online newspaper) have all sought my opinion on the issue.

I am steadfast in my belief that while there may be concerns about persecution of the Christian minority in some states in Northern Nigeria, it cannot be categorised as a genocide. The dictionary definition of genocide is “the deliberate and systematic killing or persecution of a large number of people from a particular national or ethnic group to destroy that nation or group”. I am of the considered view that both Christians and Muslims have been victims of insecurity, particularly insurgency.

Insecurity Across Nigeria

While there have been killings as a result of herders/farmers clashes in parts of Plateau and Benue states for some time now, so has there been similar unrest, killing and maiming in Sokoto, Kebbi, Kaduna, Zamfara, Katsina, Borno, Yobe, and Adamawa orchestrated by insurgents and bandits. Indeed, there is no part of Nigeria that is not feeling the heat of insecurity.

Can we say in good conscience that the Indigenous People of Biafra and its militia wing, the Eastern Security Network, are Hausa Fulani people killing Igbos who are predominantly Christians? Governor Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra does not feel so, likewise all right-thinking Nigerians. The Niger Delta militants who routinely vandalised pipelines, kidnapped for ransom and caused unrest in the Niger Delta region are mostly sons and daughters of the region and not the Hausa Fulani Muslims. They were seeking economic justice, and since 2009, when they were granted amnesty as well as some other perks, such as 13 per cent derivation, South-South Development Commission and the Niger Delta Development Commission, the militancy has been brought under control.

Global Terrorism and Local Challenges

Nigeria is a victim of the global terrorism challenge, worsening by the insecurity in the Middle East countries, such as Iraq and Syria, as well as the collapse of the administration of Col. Muammar Gaddafi in Libya. ISIS and ISWAP found an ally in Boko Haram and have jointly been terrorising Nigeria since 2009. I concede that our leaders, especially ex-President Muhammadu Buhari, were lethargic in their approach to dealing decisively with the issue of insecurity, which is why it lingered. Not a few people believe that, being a Fulani, Buhari wasn’t ruthless against the perpetrators of killings in Benue and Plateau.

When $2.1bn security fund was mismanaged by Col. Sambo Dasuki as National Security Adviser under ex-President Goodluck Jonathan, the trial of the dramatis personae in that heist has not been conclusive.

US Actions and Nigerian Response

I must say that relisting Nigeria as a ‘Country of Particular Concern’ by the United States of America is within its prerogative. Remember, this is the second time Trump is doing that, having first listed us in December 2020 before the Joe Biden administration delisted us in November 2021. I welcome the visa ban, travel restrictions, naming and shaming and freezing of accounts of sponsors of terror in Nigeria. I, however, vehemently object to the launching of military operations in Nigeria.

Not a few Nigerians, including myself, see this CPC blacklist as a buildup to some frosty relationship between Nigeria and the US. First, America wasn’t happy that Nigeria was invited to join BRICS as a “partner country” in October 2024 and formally became the ninth partner country in January 2025. Secondly, in July 2025, Nigeria rebuffed the US request to come and dump some Venezuelans who are termed Third Country Deportees in our country. Our Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, also criticised Israel’s genocidal attack on Gaza in his speech during the UN General Assembly in September 2025.

Allegations and Implications

Remember, the US has been unflinching in its support of Israel in all military operations in the Middle East, whether in Lebanon, Iran, Palestine or Yemen. Is it not surprising that a US congressman, Scott Perry, in February 2025, said that the United States Agency for International Development, or USAID, has been funding Boko Haram and other international terrorist organisations in Nigeria? Although the United States has firmly rejected allegations. Yet, there is no smoke without fire.

According to TRT Afrika of November 3, 2025, “Some US politicians and experts are suggesting the establishment of an emergency US military base in Nigeria’s oil-rich region of the Niger Delta to tackle alleged ‘massacres of Christians’ by Boko Haram terrorists. In a social media post on 2 November, an advisor to Donald Trump and the Co-Secretary-General of the Transatlantic Parliamentary Group, Dr Walid Phares, claimed that establishing a US base in Port Harcourt, the headquarters of Nigeria’s oil resources, will help to “deter Boko Haram”. This is preposterous! It has also raised a claim of ulterior motive to the US listing of Nigeria on its CPC. Could it be for the US to access and annex our natural resources?

Contradictory Statements and Historical Context

Interestingly, Trump’s claims sharply contradicted comments by his Senior Advisor on Arab and African affairs, Massad Boulos, who rejected allegations that a genocide against Christians was taking place in Nigeria. “We even know that Boko Haram and ISIS are killing more Muslims than Christians. People are suffering from all sorts of backgrounds. This is not specifically targeted at one group or the other,” Massad Boulos said in mid-October 2025. Lest we forget, in May this year, Donald Trump, allegedly on the petition from Elon Musk, claimed that the South African government was committing a “genocide” against White farmers, falsely showing photos from the DRC conflict to visiting President Cyril Ramaphosa in Washington to back his widely discredited claims.

Recommendations for Addressing Security Issues

There is no point agonising over the false claim by the US on Nigeria. What President Tinubu needs to do is to seek an audience with Donald Trump and clear the air on the issues of insecurity and what the government is doing. I am glad there is a step being taken in that direction.

Secondly, the President should, without further delay, appoint ambassadors and High Commissioners to our foreign missions (embassies, high commissions and consulates). If we had a substantive US ambassador, perhaps this step by Donald Trump would have been averted. Three, the President should incentivise our armed forces to perform their tasks better. While he is right to have rejigged the service chiefs, the troubling situation in the country needs more than tokenism. Our armed forces need lethal weapons, hi-tech security gadgets, such as satellite surveillance and all-weather drones, CCTV cameras, forensic laboratories, etc. The National Assembly also needs to expedite work on the constitutional alteration to establish state police. Nigeria’s security challenges cannot be solved by a centralised policing system.

Something must be done to rein in and interdict the free flow of small arms and light weapons circulating across Nigeria. Judiciary (lawyers and judges) should fasten the prosecution of arrested terrorists being prosecuted. Lastly, there should be improved governance and delivery of democracy dividends to ease the rising cost of living which is pushing many Nigerians into crime.

Nigeria's Democracy Redefined: The Vision of 82-Year-Old Author Olafusi

noreply@blogger.com (M Hasan) — Wed, 05 Nov 2025 01:01:17 +0000

A Life of Service and Reflection

Pa Fidelis Olafusi, an 82-year-old Knight of the Roman Catholic Church and retired Chartered Accountant, has recently authored two books: ‘Democracy: Demos or Demons?’ and ‘Peace from Pieces (Incorporating Biafra: A Parody of Conflicts).’ In a conversation that delves into his life, experiences, and views on Nigeria’s future, he reflects on his journey and the challenges facing his homeland.

Early Life and Education

Born in a time when opportunities were limited but aspirations were high, Pa Olafusi's early years were marked by a strong educational foundation. He attended the University of Lagos, where he studied Business Administration with a specialization in Accountancy. During his time at university, he shared classes with notable figures such as Foluso Giwa and Prof Oladimeji. His academic pursuits led him to join an international firm, Messrs Peat Marwick C.E & Co, for a three-year training in Accountancy. After several years in various roles, including trading and public service, he established his own accountancy practice in 1980.

Career and Political Involvement

Throughout his career, Pa Olafusi held prestigious titles, including Associate of the Institute of Cost and Management Accountants, United Kingdom, and Fellow of the Chartered Association of Certified Corporate Accountants (UK) and the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria. His involvement in party politics saw him vying for an elective post in the National Republican Convention in 1987. After retiring from his private practice, he relocated to the United States, driven by a desire to be closer to his children.

The Civil Service Era

Reflecting on the civil service of his time, Pa Olafusi recalls a period marked by efficiency and dedication. He describes it as “excellent; in fact, it couldn’t have been better.” However, he notes that partisan politics eventually eroded these gains, leading to a decline in the effectiveness of governance.

Nigeria Then and Now

When comparing Nigeria of his time to the present, Pa Olafusi expresses concern over the country’s current state. He recalls a Nigeria filled with hope, where the currency was stronger than the dollar and the discovery of petroleum brought new opportunities. However, he believes that mismanagement and political instability have led to a loss of self-respect and confidence among citizens. The “Japa syndrome,” where many leave the country, is now a significant issue.

The Impact of Mismanagement

Pa Olafusi attributes much of Nigeria’s struggles to mismanagement. He points to the relocation of the Federal Capital Territory from Lagos to Abuja as a key example. He criticizes the lack of collaboration with private enterprise and the neglect of other regions during this process. This, he argues, has had long-term consequences on the country’s development.

A Vision for the Future

Despite these challenges, Pa Olafusi remains optimistic about Nigeria’s potential. He emphasizes the country’s natural resources, human capital, and strategic location. He believes that Nigeria must develop its own unique form of democracy, one that reflects its people and serves their needs. Democracy, he states, should be “the government of the people by the people for the people.”

Advice to President Bola Tinubu

If given the opportunity to meet President Bola Tinubu, Pa Olafusi would advise him to focus on the people and prioritize economic stability. He highlights the importance of the Naira’s value and the need for policies that promote development. He believes that a strong economy is essential for the well-being of citizens.

Stabilizing the Naira

To stabilize the Naira, Pa Olafusi suggests that Nigeria must become a producer rather than a consumer. He emphasizes the need for a strong economic team composed of experts who can formulate effective monetary and fiscal policies. He also encourages the country to embrace technology and increase exports to generate real value.

Maintaining Health and Well-being

Despite his age, Pa Olafusi maintains a healthy lifestyle, exercising regularly and avoiding junk food. He credits his longevity to his faith in God and his commitment to living without grudges or anxiety. As a Knight of Saint Sylvester the Pope, he finds strength in his spiritual beliefs.

Conclusion

Pa Fidelis Olafusi’s journey reflects a lifetime of service, reflection, and hope for Nigeria’s future. His insights offer a valuable perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing the nation. As he continues to share his wisdom through his writings, his message remains clear: Nigeria has the potential to rise again, but it requires the right leadership, policies, and a renewed sense of purpose.

UK Lawyer Fired After Spending Legal Funds on Jets and Parties

noreply@blogger.com (M Hasan) — Tue, 04 Nov 2025 23:59:40 +0000

The Rise and Fall of a Legal Titan

Thomas Goodhead, a prominent figure in the legal world, has found himself at the center of a scandal that has shaken his own law firm. As the co-founder of Pogust Goodhead, a high-profile law firm, Goodhead has been accused of misusing funds meant for legal battles on extravagant expenses, including private jets and lavish yacht parties.

The allegations have led to a dramatic shift within the firm, with Goodhead being forced out of his position. The accusations came to light through an internal investigation conducted by DLA Piper, which revealed that money intended for litigation was allegedly spent on luxury travel and entertainment. This has raised serious concerns about the firm's financial management and its ability to continue representing its clients effectively.

A Lavish Lifestyle Amidst a Tragedy

The controversy centers around the 2015 Mariana dam collapse in Brazil, one of the country's worst environmental disasters. The incident resulted in the deaths of 19 people and left thousands displaced. Goodhead, who was overseeing litigation against mining giants BHP and Vale, was reportedly enjoying the comforts of a five-star hotel while the affected communities struggled.

According to the DLA Piper report, Goodhead's trips were marked by 'unnecessary lavish travel and entertainment' and 'excessive, uncontrolled spending.' The report highlighted that funds meant for litigation were allegedly used for personal expenses, including private flights, yacht parties, and other luxury perks.

Between September 2023 and February this year, Goodhead is said to have ordered over a dozen private jet and helicopter trips across Brazil, costing approximately £82,000. Some of these trips were to remote locations, while others were well-served by commercial airlines. Invoices cited in the report show a £5,600 private plane journey from Vitoria to Rio de Janeiro, and another from Sao Paulo to Rio costing £5,900.

The report also details two yacht parties in Rio in August and December 2023, with one featuring a 'premium package churrasco (Brazilian BBQ) and open bar,' according to the newspaper. Another gathering in September cost £3,900. A former employee noted that the 'optics issue' was a concern, as the firm was supposed to be client-first rather than focused on lavish celebrations.

Financial Mismanagement and Corporate Culture

The firm's financial practices have come under scrutiny, with reports indicating that over £5 million was spent on travel in 2023 alone, a year in which the firm suffered a £91 million loss. Additionally, the firm reportedly invested over £100,000 in producing a documentary about its work in Brazil.

Goodhead's alleged extravagance extended to personal expenses, with more than £500,000 of personal expenses processed through the firm's director's loan account. These included a driver's awareness course, accommodation during home renovations, and business-class tickets to Sydney for Goodhead's parents.

The firm's debts exceeded £500 million, and auditors warned of 'material uncertainty' regarding its ability to continue. Investigators claimed that the firm's credit agreements with funders were breached. However, Goodhead's lawyer insists that all spending was legitimate, settled through the director's loan account, and fully known to funders.

A Cultural Reset and Leadership Change

In early August, lawyers at the firm reportedly found themselves added to a WhatsApp group titled 'hostile takeover.' Within days, Goodhead was suspended and replaced as CEO by chief operating officer Alicia Alinia, who pledged a 'cultural reset' with a 'robust governance structure.' By September 12, Goodhead was officially out of the firm, calling the move a 'boardroom coup.'

Several senior figures have since left the firm, including chief legal officer Chris Neill, who claims he was unfairly dismissed. Another partner, Ibar McCarthy, also left amid misconduct allegations, though he denies wrongdoing.

The DLA Piper report has been sent to both the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) and the Bar Standards Board, though it remains unclear whether formal investigations have begun. The SRA confirmed it is 'monitoring the firm closely.'

The Ongoing Legal Battle

Despite the turmoil, the Mariana dam case continues. Damages could run into the billions, with Pogust Goodhead entitled to claim up to 30 per cent of the payout under a 'no win, no fee' arrangement. When the dam burst in 2015, the wave of toxic sludge traveled 370 miles across Minas Gerais, destroying communities, poisoning rivers, and displacing thousands.

Goodhead's team accused BHP of offering victims as little as $200 each - 'insulting offers,' he said at the time - and his legal fight helped force greater scrutiny of corporate accountability in Brazil. A judgment is expected before Christmas.

Educated at Oxford and Cambridge, and raised in south Wales, Goodhead once seemed destined for political as well as legal stardom. At 24, he announced plans to stand for the Welsh Assembly for the Conservatives - despite claiming to be a descendant of Labour legend Aneurin Bevan, founder of the NHS. Bevan's family denied knowledge of the connection, though Goodhead insisted it existed through his mother's side.

His early career was modest - handling supermarket slip-and-trip claims - before he co-founded Pogust Goodhead with the aim of challenging corporate wrongdoing on a global scale. The firm notched victories against Volkswagen, Uber and British Airways, and grew rapidly with backing from major US funders such as Gramercy and NorthWall Capital.

When Goodhead secured a record £450 million investment from Gramercy in 2023, he hailed it as fuel to 'take on corporate giants across the world.' But the mood inside the firm was shifting. Staff complained of a toxic workplace and blurred lines between professional and personal spending.

Daily Mail has approached Thomas Goodhead and Pogust Goodhead for comment.

DSS Reports Progress in Terror Cases, Trials Resume Nov 19

noreply@blogger.com (M Hasan) — Tue, 04 Nov 2025 22:02:29 +0000

Overview of Ongoing Terrorism Prosecutions in Nigeria

The Department of State Services (DSS) has provided a detailed update on the ongoing prosecution of several high-profile terrorism cases across Nigeria. The agency has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring accountability and justice under the rule of law, emphasizing that all actions are conducted within the framework of legal procedures.

One of the most notable cases involves two internationally wanted terrorism suspects, Mahmud Muhammad Usman and Abubakar Abba. Their trial is set to continue on November 19 before Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court in Abuja. This information was disclosed by the DSS’s Deputy Director, Public Relations and Strategic Communications, Favour Douzie, in a statement released on Tuesday evening.

Background on the Suspects

Usman, also known as Abu Bara’a, and Abba, also referred to as Isah Adam and Mahmud Al-Nigeri, were arrested in a high-risk, intelligence-led counterterrorism operation in July after months of surveillance. They were captured following a prolonged investigation into their activities.

The DSS revealed that these two individuals are believed to be leaders of ANSARU, Nigeria’s Al-Qaeda affiliate. Usman, who is self-styled as the Emir of ANSARU, is alleged to have coordinated various terrorist sleeper cells across Nigeria. He is also accused of masterminding several high-profile kidnappings and robberies, which were used to finance terrorism over the years.

Abba, serving as Usman’s chief of staff and deputy, is said to have led the so-called “Mahmudawa” cell, which operated around the Kainji National Park, located on the border between the states of Niger and Kwara, as well as the Republic of Benin. According to a statement from the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), Mamuda received training in Libya between 2013 and 2015 under foreign jihadist instructors from Egypt, Tunisia, and Algeria. He is said to have specialized in weapons handling and IED fabrication.

Legal Proceedings and Charges

Usman and Abba are being tried on a 32-count terrorism charge, with Usman pleading guilty to one count related to illegal mining and receiving a 15-year sentence. Abba, however, pleaded not guilty to all 32 counts.

In another case, the DSS is prosecuting Khalid Al-Barnawi, who is accused of being the mastermind behind the August 26, 2011, bombing of the United Nations Complex in Abuja. The attack resulted in 20 deaths and over 70 injuries. Al-Barnawi, captured in 2016, is facing trial alongside four other suspects. The trial has faced delays due to legal and procedural issues, including instances where the suspects were brought to court without counsel. Recently, the DSS requested accelerated hearing, which was granted by Justice Nwite.

Other Terrorist Cases

Another significant case involves five men standing trial for their alleged involvement in the June 5, 2022, attack on St. Francis Catholic Church in Owo, Ondo State. The attack left more than 40 people dead and over 100 injured. The five defendants—Idris Abdulmalik Omeiza, Al Qasim Idris, Jamiu Abdulmalik, Abdulhaleem Idris, and Momoh Otuho Abubakar—are charged with being members of Al Shabab, a terrorist group with a cell in Kogi State. They pleaded not guilty when the charges were read to them, leading to their remand in custody.

Justice Nwite rejected their request for bail, citing the severity of the charges and the strength of the evidence against them. The judge noted that the DSS's argument about the likelihood of the defendants jumping bail was deemed credible.

Additional Trials and Investigations

Other ongoing trials include those connected to the Yelwata massacre in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State on June 13, 2025. The attack, which resulted in dozens of deaths and 107 injuries, drew global condemnation. In response, President Bola Tinubu visited the state and demanded the arrest of the perpetrators.

On June 24, 2025, the Inspector-General of Police announced the arrest of 26 suspects in connection with the massacre. In August 2025, the DSS filed terrorism-related charges against nine suspects, with two others still at large. These suspects are now undergoing trial, with the defendants pleading not guilty.

Commitment to Justice and Accountability

Director General of the DSS, Tosin Ajayi, emphasized the agency’s resolve to combat terrorism through lawful means. He stated that the arrests and trials reflect the diligence of Nigeria’s security agencies in addressing terrorism. Ajayi also highlighted that the cases being prosecuted by the DSS are separate from those handled by the military’s protective custody, with the Office of the Attorney General of the Federation managing those cases.

The DSS remains committed to making all suspects accountable for their actions, ensuring that justice is served in accordance with the rule of law. This ongoing effort underscores the agency’s dedication to maintaining peace and security in Nigeria.

BBC uncovers illegal migrant labor in UK mini-marts via crime network

noreply@blogger.com (M Hasan) — Tue, 04 Nov 2025 22:00:52 +0000

The Hidden Network of Illegal Migrant Labor on UK High Streets

A complex criminal network is enabling migrants to work illegally in mini-marts across the United Kingdom, according to a recent investigation. This system involves fake company directors who are paid to put their names on official paperwork, while having no real involvement in running the businesses.

Two undercover reporters, both Kurdish, posed as asylum seekers and were told how easy it would be for them to take over and run a shop, making significant profits from illegal vapes and cigarettes. The investigation has linked over 100 mini-marts, barbershops, and car washes, operating from Dundee to south Devon, to this crime network. A financial crime investigator believes the network extends much further.

Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood responded to the investigation, stating that "illegal working and linked organised criminality creates an incentive for people to come here illegally. We will not stand for it."

For the first time, the inner workings of a criminal system that allows asylum seekers to work openly on UK High Streets have been revealed. One man claimed weekly takings from illicit tobacco at his shop could reach up to £3,000. The men facilitating this—so-called "ghost directors"—each have dozens of businesses listed on Companies House but are often not involved in running them.

"The shop doesn't belong to me, it's just under my name," one of them told our undercover reporters. Many of these businesses are dissolved after about a year and then re-opened with minor changes to official paperwork.

These businesses exhibit "all the red flags" associated with organized criminality, according to a financial crime investigator. During the investigation, several concerning findings were uncovered:

An asylum seeker, whose claim was rejected, attempted to sell a shop to our undercover reporter for £18,000
A Kurdish Facebook group listing dozens of mini-marts, barbers, car washes, and takeaways for sale
"Ghost directors" charging illegal workers up to £300 per month to register mini-marts in their names
Kurdish builders offering to construct elaborate hiding spaces for illegal cigarettes and vapes that could fool sniffer dogs
Asylum seekers, who said the Home Office had left them in legal limbo, working 14-hour shifts in mini-marts for as little as £4 per hour

The two Kurdish journalists involved in the investigation are aware of the tensions surrounding immigration. They worry that such coverage of illegal activities within the Kurdish community could inflame hostilities. One of them is a former asylum seeker himself, and he stated, "I wanted to play a role in uncovering these illegal activities [...] to say loudly that they don't represent us."

Over four months, the team monitored a Kurdish Facebook group where businesses across the UK were listed for sale. New adverts appeared every week. The reporters contacted three individuals who listed mini-marts for sale in Crewe, Hull, and Liverpool. They expressed interest in running a mini-mart and trading illegal cigarettes.

In Cheshire, the man running a Crewe mini-mart called Top Store offered to sell his shop to one reporter for £18,000 cash. Surchi, the shopkeeper, assured the journalist that "you don't need anything" to own and run a mini-mart as an asylum seeker. He claimed to be a Kurdish asylum seeker who arrived in the UK in 2022, but whose claim had been refused.

Asylum seekers generally do not have the right to work in the UK while their claim is being processed. Permission to work is only granted in limited circumstances and is subject to strict conditions. If asylum seekers are granted permission to work, they can only apply for eligible jobs on the Immigration Salary List, which do not include being a shop manager or shop assistant.

Surchi mentioned paying someone named "Hadi" around £250 a month to be named on official papers. This arrangement allowed him to avoid scrutiny by authorities and sell whatever he liked. He also claimed he had never paid any council tax and that the undercover reporter would not need to officially register the company.

Trading Standards had raided the shop once, Surchi said, and he had been fined £200 for selling illegal cigarettes and vapes. Shop owners caught selling these items can be fined up to £10,000, but the profits from such products far exceed the penalties.

During a tour of the premises, Surchi showed the reporter a so-called "stash car" where he hid the bulk of his stock until 17:00 each night. He also demonstrated how he tampered with the electricity meter to avoid paying utility bills. Surchi sold vapes to a group of teenagers while the reporter was present, claiming he had no issue with customers as young as 12 years old.

Customers paid via a card machine into a bank account, which belonged to his cousin, who owned a mini-mart 15 miles away in Stoke.

'Fine craftsmanship' to fool sniffer dogs

On Facebook, the team discovered Kurdish builders willing to help conceal illegal vapes and cigarettes. One reporter posted that he had bought a mini-mart in Manchester and was looking for "a specialist to build a space to hide cigarettes in the shop." Six builders responded. One sent a video showing a vending machine for illegal cigarettes hidden in a loft, which, when pressed, pinged packets down a chute to a concealed vent below.

This "fine craftsmanship" cost £6,000 and was guaranteed to fool Trading Standards' sniffer dogs, the builder claimed.

A network of ghost directors

As the investigation delved deeper, a network of ghost directors began to emerge. One name that kept appearing was Hadi Ahmad Ali, a Birmingham man to whom Surchi claimed to pay a monthly fee. Mr. Ahmad Ali was listed on Companies House as being from Iraq, in his 40s, and a director of more than 50 other businesses—mini-marts, barbers, and car washes.

When one of the reporters called him pretending to be an asylum seeker looking to buy the Crewe business, Mr. Ahmad Ali confirmed he could keep it in his name for a fee of between £250 and £300 a month. He also claimed he could provide a bank card for the shop.

Mr. Ahmad Ali is still listed as an active director on several businesses on Companies House. However, in October 2024, he was disqualified from being a company officer for five years. The ban followed illegal cigarette sales at a shop in his name in Chorley, Lancashire—including to a 16-year-old. Separately, he pleaded guilty to his involvement in the sale of illegal cigarettes in Lincolnshire and was sentenced to six months in prison, suspended for 18 months.

When confronted by the team, Mr. Ahmad Ali denied all allegations, stating that the mini-marts were nothing to do with him and that he had contacted Companies House to get his name removed from the businesses.

Ghost directors and their connections

The team also linked Mr. Ahmad Ali to another man, Ismael Ahmedi Farzanda, who was identified as a ghost director responsible for 25 mini-marts. Mr. Farzanda’s name came up because Companies House filings showed he had taken over as company director from Mr. Ahmad Ali at seven mini-mart businesses. The pair also shared a co-directorship on one shop in Blackpool.

One of the reporters managed to call Mr. Farzanda using the same cover story as he had used with Mr. Ahmad Ali. Mr. Farzanda stated, "I just put the shops under my name for people." He explained that an "accountant" would handle the paperwork, bank accounts, and payments to him, and that he would have no problem with the illegal cigarette sales.

Mr. Farzanda was fined £4,500 in August after one shop, registered in his name in Haslingden, Lancashire, was caught selling illegal vapes to a 14-year-old, according to local media reports. Seventeen shops registered under the names of Mr. Ahmad Ali and Mr. Farzanda have been raided since 2021, with illegal tobacco and vapes seized, according to Trading Standards sources.

Despite being registered on official documents as being from Iran, Mr. Farzanda claimed to be from the Sharazoor district in neighboring Iraq. Both reporters noted that some Kurdish people arriving in the UK on small boats pretend to be Iranian, believing their asylum claims would have a better chance of success.

When presented with evidence, Mr. Farzanda denied all allegations.

Evading Scrutiny and Criminal Activity

The team found that companies would be set up for a year, dissolved, and then re-established with slightly different spelling of the business names. The men's names and birthdays would also be changed slightly. Financial crime investigator Graham Barrow noted that this pattern is likely an attempt to evade tax and scrutiny by authorities.

The network of businesses identified by the team could stretch even wider across the country, according to Mr. Barrow. "I certainly think it's hundreds. It could easily be bigger than that," he said.

The team visited more than a dozen mini-marts linked to this network of ghost directors. Every location was on rundown High Streets in some of the UK's most deprived areas, such as Blackpool, Bradford, Huddersfield, and Hull. All but one of the shops sold counterfeit or smuggled cigarettes for about £4 per pack instead of the average UK price of £16 for a pack of 20.

In addition to Surchi's story in Crewe, the investigation revealed details of other Kurdish asylum seekers being employed illegally. A mini-mart worker in a Blackpool shop linked to one of the ghost directors described working 14-hour days at the shop, earning £60 to £65 per day. He had been interviewed by the Home Office four months ago but had not heard anything since.

The shop had been raided by Trading Standards three times, but he described it as "nothing." "Just give them any name and they will walk away," he explained, saying that whenever he was asked who he was, he would give the name of a famous Kurdish singer, Aziz Waisi.

Another Kurdish shopworker in a Salford shop registered under Ismaeel Farzanda's name said he was in legal limbo. "I've been here for six months and I still haven't claimed asylum," he said. The 42-year-old claimed he had first come to the UK as a teenager before returning to Kurdistan. He returned this year and "they found my previous fingerprint records but nothing came of it." He was staying with friends and said, "Honestly, we're all struggling here and don't know what to do."

The government claims it has increased raids by 51% and raised fines for businesses to £60,000 per person found working illegally. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood added that the government has "seized millions of pounds worth of unlicensed goods, banned dodgy directors and removed more than 35,000 people with no right to be in the UK."

Additional reporting by Phill Edwards and Kirstie Brewer

'Endless battle': Fighting the crime gangs taking over the high street

The sale of illegal cigarettes signals a deeper problem with UK high streets. Police raid barbers and vape shops suspected of being fronts for crime gangs.

A Genocide That Awakens Global Conscience

noreply@blogger.com (M Hasan) — Tue, 04 Nov 2025 18:51:16 +0000

The Genocide Against the Tutsi: A Mirror to Humanity’s Deepest Fears

The Genocide Against the Tutsi in Rwanda is more than a historical event; it is a profound reflection of what can happen when humanity's moral compass is shattered. This tragedy, which unfolded in 1994, serves as a stark reminder that hatred, propaganda, and fear can transform even the most intimate relationships into instruments of destruction. It is not merely an African story but a universal one, one that challenges the very essence of human conscience.

A Global Threat

The kind of hatred that erupted in Rwanda has no nationality. It is a global threat that demands the attention of historians, lawmakers, philosophers, psychologists, theologians, educators, media houses, activists, and ordinary citizens alike. The world must confront this reality with both ears and open hearts. What happened in Rwanda is not just a matter of continental proximity or cultural familiarity—it is a lesson for all of humanity.

The Fragility of Human Conscience

This genocide is still unknown in its deepest wounds. It has not been studied enough, mourned enough, or understood enough. More dangerously, it has not been feared enough. The Genocide Against the Tutsi challenges our moral vocabulary and our capacity to imagine the breakdown of human boundaries in ways previously unrecorded. Unlike most genocides, this one weaponized intimacy itself, turning families against each other in a grotesque internal logic.

A Philosophical, Psychological, and Sociological Mutilation

What occurred was not only a physical extermination of over a million people in a hundred days—it was a philosophical, psychological, sociological, and moral mutilation of humanity’s deepest bonds: kinship, motherhood, love, and shared belonging. There were cases of auto-genocide in its truest form—killing of one’s own, not merely in social or national terms, but genetically, spiritually.

A Mirror Held Up to Civilization

Rwanda under Hutu-power must be studied—not only as a humanitarian failure—but as a mirror held up to a civilization too confident in its moral evolution. This genocide tore through families not as collateral damage but as its primary goal. The classroom became a site of indoctrination, where children memorized hatred that would one day be used against their own cousins. The genocide did not unfold solely through state orders or military strategies—it was born in soft voices, glances, church homilies, bedtime stories, and neighborhood gossip that evolved into declarations of death.

The Unimaginable Betrayal

How does one process the fact that the final farewell to life, for tens of thousands of Tutsi children, came from the hands of people who once fed them porridge? That is why Rwanda’s story is not merely an African tragedy—it is the human soul’s most damning confession. And still, the world refuses to read it.

A Question That Reverberates in Infinity

Sometime in 2024, a close relative asked me what I had learned in my years of studying the Genocide Against the Tutsi. My answer was simple: I have come to realize that what happened in Rwanda in 1994 is a special case of genocide, one the world must study more closely. She asked, “Uncle, why?” And my answer, I must admit, was foggy. How do you put into words what defies comprehension?

The Horror of Maternal Betrayal

I told her about a Hutu woman who, along with her brothers and uncles, killed her Tutsi husband and all eight of her children. Her own children. Not enemies on a battlefield. Not strangers. Her children. She carried them in her womb, fed them, sang to them, perhaps once kissed their bruises and soothed their fears. And then she killed them. Or worse: watched them be killed and gave the killers her blessing.

A Societal Collapse of Moral Architecture

This is not enough to call this “incitement.” It is the erasure of nature by culture—a triumph of manufactured hate over maternal instinct. The Genocide Against the Tutsi took the tools of propaganda, persuasion, theology, anthropology, and turned them all into tools of death. It was the culmination of everything gone wrong with modernity: the corruption of education, the betrayal of religion, the abuse of science, the manipulation of psychology, and the silence of diplomacy.

The Death of Conscience

To understand how this horror was made possible, we must go back to the architects of modern persuasion. Edward Bernays, a nephew of Sigmund Freud, was the pioneer of mass manipulation. He famously said: “The conscious and intelligent manipulation of the organized habits and opinions of the masses is an important element in democratic society.” In the hands of Hutu Power ideologues, Bernays’ principles became implements of extermination.

The Sanctified Despoiled

I say to theologians and moral philosophers: if Rwanda does not force a revision of your doctrines, then your doctrines are not rooted in reality. How does Christianity, with its emphasis on love, allow nuns to lock men, women, and children in burning churches? Where was the dignity when bishops and priests sided with militias?

A Global Case Study Ignored

We have to accept there is a global case study which has been ignored. The Holocaust became a foundation for countless human rights conventions, memorials, museums, films, and educational curricula. And rightly so. But what of the Genocide Against the Tutsi? It remains neglected, often mislabeled, or confused.

Humanity’s Duty to Respond

This is why I say to the world: Rwanda’s genocide is your case study. Not for Africans. For everyone. To the United Nations: You failed in 1994. But will you now fund multidisciplinary research into the psychology of genocidal families? To the African Union: Will you protect truth across Africa, or let revisionism become the new liberation ideology?

A Word for a Napping World

To every think tank, university, pulpit, parliament, and boardroom that has yet to consider Rwanda as a case study of modern evil—shame on you. Shame on your comfortable ignorance. Shame on your selective memory. Shame on your curriculum that ends with Auschwitz but starts nowhere else. Shame on your silence in the face of voices that deny this genocide today, in broad daylight.

Patti Smith's Love Letter to Her Influences

noreply@blogger.com (M Hasan) — Tue, 04 Nov 2025 18:48:39 +0000

Patti Smith, a legendary figure in the world of music and literature, has always been a beacon of artistic integrity. Her influence can be seen in the works of many contemporary artists, including Dua Lipa, who referenced her in her track "The Tortured Poets Department," singing: "You're not Dylan Thomas, I'm not Patti Smith." Fifty years after the release of her groundbreaking album Horses, Smith is making a return to the spotlight with a new memoir titled Bread of Angels. This book offers an intimate look into her life, filled with vivid memories and reflections on her journey as an artist.

A Dream That Became a Book

The idea for Bread of Angels came to Smith in a dream, a moment that she describes as both magical and meaningful. The memoir serves as a portrait of an artist who was deeply embedded in New York's counter-cultural scene during the 1970s. She was surrounded by icons like Bob Dylan, Bruce Springsteen, and poet William Burroughs, all of whom shaped her creative path. During this time, she performed at CBGB, though she recalls that the club wasn't yet legendary—it was still largely unknown.

Smith was known for her refusal to compromise her artistic vision to male record producers. "I had a lot of armor and it wasn't easily pierced," she says, reflecting on her early career. Her first album, Horses, resonated with those who felt marginalized, especially in a time when being openly gay could lead to being disowned by family. New York, she notes, was full of people who had been cast out from their homes.

A Legacy of Resistance and Love

Smith’s work has always carried a message of resistance and empowerment. Her song People Have the Power, written with her late husband Fred 'Sonic' Smith, was a call to action for future generations. "It was his concept," she explains, "and it was for the people of the future, for marches, for protest, for just feeling some strength." Even today, she hears the song sung spontaneously by crowds, a testament to its enduring impact.

The loss of Fred, who passed away over 30 years ago, remains a profound sorrow for Smith. Yet, she finds solace in knowing that his vision lives on. She also reflects on another iconic song, Because the Night, which was inspired by a moment of waiting for Fred to call. The lyrics, including lines like "Have I doubt when I'm alone? Love is a ring, the telephone," capture the emotional depth of their relationship.

A Life Shaped by Loss and Love

Smith’s memoir is more than just a recounting of her career; it is a love letter to the people who shaped her life. She dedicates the book to her parents, siblings, husband, and others who played a role in her journey. However, her life has been marked by deep losses, including the deaths of her best friend, photographer Robert Mapplethorpe, and her beloved brother Todd. These experiences have left a lasting mark on her, but they have also fueled her creativity and resilience.

A Journey Through Art and Memory

In Bread of Angels, Smith writes about her early life with vivid detail. She grew up moving frequently, living in unstable conditions, and facing health challenges from a young age. Despite these hardships, she developed a passion for art and poetry. At just seven years old, she was captivated by Vogue magazines and the world of contemporary photography. Later, during a bout of illness, she found solace in listening to Puccini's Madame Butterfly, which she believes helped her recover.

Her father, who took her to the Philadelphia Museum of Art, introduced her to the works of Picasso, sparking a lifelong love for visual art. Smith also shares a surprising revelation about her heritage. After her parents’ deaths, she discovered through a DNA test that her biological father was different from the man she had always known. This discovery, while emotionally challenging, gave her a deeper understanding of herself and her roots.

An Uncompromising Spirit

Throughout her career, Smith has remained true to her artistic vision. Her photographs from the 1970s, often described as gender-defying, captured the essence of countercultural cool. When we met, she revealed a warm and thoughtful side, one that is deeply rooted in her love for family and art. Her losses have shaped her, but so has her poetic artistry, which continues to inspire generations.

A Voice for the Next Generation

Smith is also a strong advocate for younger female artists, including Dua Lipa and Taylor Swift. She praises them for their contributions to the music industry, noting that it is now dominated by women. "They're doing a good job," she says, referring to the resilience and strength of these artists.

Bread of Angels by Patti Smith is published on 4 November.

UK Tax Rise Could Severely Affect Scotland - Robison

noreply@blogger.com (M Hasan) — Tue, 04 Nov 2025 17:52:48 +0000

A potential £1 billion reduction in Scotland’s financial resources due to changes in UK tax policies could significantly impact public services, according to Finance Secretary Shona Robison. The SNP minister has not ruled out the possibility of increasing income tax to address any funding gaps, especially after Chancellor Rachel Reeves hinted at potential tax hikes across the rest of the UK.

Reeves emphasized that she would take whatever measures are necessary to safeguard public finances when the Autumn Budget is unveiled in three weeks. While changes to UK income tax rates would not directly affect Scottish taxpayers, an increase could lead to a corresponding reduction in the block grant provided by the Treasury to the Scottish government.

The Scottish government has utilized its devolved powers to establish a distinct income tax system separate from the rest of the UK. This means that the UK government can deduct funds from the block grant based on the amount it estimates it would have collected if tax-raising powers were not devolved to Holyrood.

Despite these concerns, First Minister John Swinney has consistently urged the UK government to raise income tax, arguing that this could reduce the need for budget cuts. Robison warned that Scotland must not be treated as an "afterthought" in the chancellor's Budget planning, stating that the current fiscal framework is not "fit for purpose."

The Fraser of Allander Institute, an independent economic research unit at the University of Strathclyde, estimates that a 2% increase in UK income tax could result in a £1 billion reduction in Scotland’s block grant over the next three financial years. Robison expressed disbelief that a UK Labour government would intentionally cut Scotland’s budget by such a significant amount, emphasizing that this would have a "massive impact" on the NHS and local government.

Robison clarified that her government does not want to raise tax rates to fill a funding shortfall but has not ruled out the option. She stated that the government will explore all available options to ensure fairness for taxpayers while maintaining essential public services. Additionally, she called for increased funding for public services and the removal of the two-child cap on benefits payments.

Earlier, when asked about the Scottish government's stance on UK income tax increases, the first minister’s spokesperson confirmed that there had been no change in position. The question of how Scotland's tax system differs from the rest of the UK remains a key point of discussion.

Following a pre-Budget speech at Downing Street, speculation persists that the chancellor might increase income taxes while reducing National Insurance contributions for workers. Although rises in National Insurance or VAT would directly affect people in Scotland, changes to UK income tax would not. Westminster sets the personal allowance, but the Scottish government can set its own bands and rates beyond that. SNP ministers have used these powers to create what they describe as a fairer, more progressive system.

Critics argue that Scotland's income tax regime, which includes seven bands compared to the UK's four, is more complex and penalizes medium and high earners. In Scotland, individuals earning below approximately £30,300 pay slightly less income tax than in other parts of the UK, with potential savings of up to £28. However, those earning above this threshold pay progressively more, with someone earning £50,000 paying £1,528 more than in the rest of the UK, and someone earning £125,000 paying £5,207 more.

A rise in UK income tax would trigger an automatic deduction from the block grant due to the block grant adjustment (BGA) mechanism. This is designed to compensate the UK government for lost revenue from transferring tax-raising powers to Holyrood. If the chancellor raises income tax in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, the UK government would collect more in Scotland, leading to a larger BGA deduction from the Scottish government’s funds.

According to the Fraser of Allander Institute, a one percentage point increase in the basic UK rate would result in a £486 million deduction from the Scottish Budget in 2026-27. This figure would rise to £972 million if the basic rate increased by two percentage points, with more than £1 billion in cuts to the block grant over the following two years. A two percentage point increase in the UK higher rate would lead to a £225 million deduction in 2026-27, rising to around £300 million in the subsequent years.

Labour’s 2024 general election manifesto pledged not to increase income tax, VAT, or National Insurance. However, the chancellor cited factors such as inflation, trade tariffs, poor productivity, Brexit, and increased defense spending as reasons to consider tax hikes. She emphasized the need to protect families from high inflation and interest rates, ensure public services remain secure, and build a stable economy for future generations.

The Institute for Fiscal Studies has warned that Reeves will likely have to raise taxes to address an estimated £22 billion shortfall in government finances. The Office for Budget Responsibility is also expected to lower its productivity forecasts, potentially adding as much as £20 billion to the amount the chancellor needs to cover.

Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar acknowledged uncertainty about whether the chancellor would break her manifesto promise not to increase income tax in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. He noted that the Scottish government is responsible for income tax in Scotland and highlighted that John Swinney has been advocating for tax increases in England and Wales.

Scottish Conservative finance spokesman Craig Hoy criticized the SNP for relying on tax hikes to address funding shortfalls, accusing them of imposing high taxes on hard-working Scots. Meanwhile, Scottish Greens co-leader Ross Greer urged Reeves to focus on taxing the extremely wealthy, stating that it was time for them to contribute their fair share.

When is the Scottish Budget?

The UK government Budget, scheduled for November 26, will be a month later than last year, affecting the timing of the Scottish Budget, which will be announced on January 15. MSPs will have a shorter period to scrutinize the budget before the end of the financial year in April. The Scottish Budget will also be announced ahead of the Holyrood election in May, with considerations for voters likely influencing the final decisions on tax and spending plans.

Reeves' pre-Budget speech fails to rule out tax rises
Ministers lack plan for £5bn black hole, auditor says
Robison warns of 'difficult choices' as Budget date set

Liberia's Carbon Conundrum - Promise vs. Peril

noreply@blogger.com (M Hasan) — Tue, 04 Nov 2025 17:41:05 +0000

Understanding Carbon Harvesting

Liberia's forests are more than just a collection of trees; they are the lifeblood of the nation, home to diverse wildlife, vital water sources, and communities that rely on them for sustenance, medicine, and economic activities. From the misty highlands of Lofa to the mangroves of Maryland, these green spaces play a crucial role in the global fight against climate change.

In recent years, the world has turned its attention to these forests through a new concept known as carbon harvesting. This involves programs that compensate countries for protecting their trees and reducing deforestation in exchange for "carbon credits." These credits can then be sold to companies or nations aiming to offset their emissions.

At first glance, this seems like an ideal solution: the planet benefits, Liberia earns money, and communities gain new opportunities. However, as demonstrated by the controversial Blue Carbon deal in 2023, the reality is far more complex. Questions about fairness, ownership, and transparency continue to cast a shadow over Liberia's carbon future. The critical question remains: can carbon harvesting truly help Liberia, or will it become another story of promises that benefit everyone except the people who live closest to the forest?

What Carbon Harvesting Really Means

Carbon harvesting, also known as carbon trading or forest carbon, is part of a global effort to combat climate change. Under systems like the REDD+ initiative (Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation), developing countries can earn payments for keeping their forests intact. Each ton of carbon dioxide that a forest absorbs or prevents from being released becomes a tradable "credit."

Liberia, with over two million hectares of dense tropical forest, has enormous potential. In theory, the country could sell millions of tons of carbon credits every year. Even at a modest rate of five dollars per ton (the same price Ghana recently received), Liberia could earn tens of millions of dollars annually. But there's a catch: success depends not just on how many trees stand, but on how fairly and transparently the process is managed.

The Promise: Why Carbon Harvesting Could Help Liberia

A Greener Way to Earn

For decades, Liberia's economy has relied on logging, mining, and plantations—industries that bring quick profits but leave lasting scars on the land. Carbon harvesting flips that logic: it rewards protection rather than destruction.

By valuing trees for the carbon they store, Liberia could create a new source of sustainable income. The funds could support schools, roads, clinics, and livelihood programs for forest communities, providing both environmental and economic stability to rural areas.

Fighting Climate Change and Gaining Global Respect

Carbon harvesting strengthens Liberia's efforts under the Paris Agreement. The country has already pledged to reduce emissions by 64% by 2030, and protecting forests is a key part of achieving this goal.

Beyond climate commitments, successful carbon projects could raise Liberia's profile as a regional leader in green development. A credible carbon program could attract partnerships, technology, and investment from around the world.

Protecting Nature and People Together

Liberia's forests are teeming with life: from the pygmy hippopotamus to rare bird species found nowhere else. They also provide clean water, fertile soil, and non-timber products that sustain thousands of households.

When managed responsibly, carbon harvesting can strengthen these ecological and social benefits. Some projects, for instance, fund community wells, micro-businesses, or sustainable farming programs that help people live better while preserving forests. Done right, it can make environmental protection pay for itself.

The Peril: The Risks of Carbon Harvesting

A Weak Legal Foundation

Liberia still doesn't have clear laws defining who owns the carbon in its forests. Is it the state, private landowners, or local communities? This legal grey area creates confusion and opens the door to exploitation.

The Blue Carbon agreement was a vivid example. The deal, which aimed to lease a vast portion of Liberia's forest to a foreign company, was negotiated with little or no public input. Critics argued it violated the Land Rights Act of 2018, which gives communities authority over customary lands. The backlash was so intense that it sparked a national conversation about what carbon ownership truly means, and who should benefit from it.

Governance and Transparency Issues

Carbon markets depend on trust. Every credit must represent a real, verifiable reduction in emissions. That means rigorous monitoring, scientific verification, and honest reporting, and as we know, these are things Liberia's institutions have historically struggled with.

Risks to Communities

For people living in and around forests, carbon projects can be both a blessing and a burden. When they restrict farming, firewood collection, or hunting without fair compensation, families can lose their primary source of survival.

Uganda's experience is a warning. In some carbon projects, villagers were displaced, and promised payments never came. Liberia must avoid that path by ensuring that Free, Prior, and Informed Consent (FPIC) is genuine. Let's abolish this sign here on a formality. Communities must fully understand what they are giving up and what they stand to gain.

Technical and Market Uncertainty

Measuring and verifying carbon storage is expensive and complicated. Satellite imagery, field surveys, and third-party audits can eat up 30-40% of project revenue.

Even after certification, market prices are unpredictable. The voluntary carbon market has experienced significant fluctuations, ranging from over $20 per ton to under $5, mainly due to shifts in buyer confidence. A sudden price drop could make projects financially unsustainable, leaving both government and communities disappointed.

Development Trade-Offs

Protecting large tracts of land for carbon storage often means restricting agricultural activities, mining, or other forms of development, which can leave rural Liberians feeling like they must choose between survival and sustainability.

"Carbon Colonialism" Concerns

Many critics fear carbon harvesting could become another form of exploitation. Wealthy nations continue to pollute but pay poorer countries to absorb their emissions. Suppose most profits flow to foreign consultants or developers while Liberians see little benefit. In that case, it won't be a climate solution, but rather a new form of inequality/environmental injustice.

Learning from Ghana and Uganda

Ghana's Cocoa Forest REDD+ Programme offers hope. It integrates forest protection with cocoa farming, rewarding farmers who keep trees on their land. The benefit-sharing formula is 50% for the communities, 30% for implementation, and 20% for the government, ensuring fairness and trust. Payments are verified by the World Bank, which lends credibility to the program.

Uganda, by contrast, faced backlash when poorly managed carbon projects displaced farmers and damaged its reputation. These two examples illustrate the distinction between success and failure, highlighting a lack of transparency and the absence of local community consent.

The Way Forward

Liberia can make carbon harvesting work, but only with integrity and inclusion. Moving forward, the government should:

Pass clear laws defining carbon ownership and benefit-sharing.
Create a national carbon registry to track and approve all projects.
Ensure real FPIC so communities fully understand and agree to all terms.
Adopt a fair benefit-sharing model ensuring locals receive a meaningful share.
Build technical capacity for monitoring and verification.
Work with reputable partners like the World Bank and LEAF Coalition.
Integrate carbon initiatives with local development, so conservation also means better livelihoods.

Conclusion

Carbon harvesting could mark a turning point for Liberia, providing an opportunity to protect its forests, combat climate change, and empower its people. However, it could also repeat old mistakes if not handled carefully.

Liberia's forests are among its most valuable assets. The question is whether they will once again be exploited or finally managed as a shared inheritance that benefits every Liberian.

The future depends not just on the price of carbon, but also on the value Liberia places on justice, transparency, and community empowerment. The forests are ready to do their part, but the country must now do its own.

The Rise of Better Men - A New Approach to Raising Boys and Ending Gender Abuse

noreply@blogger.com (M Hasan) — Tue, 04 Nov 2025 10:18:04 +0000

A Quiet Revolution in Ugandan Classrooms

On a bright Tuesday morning in Wakiso District, laughter fills the schoolyard of Divine Mercy Junior Primary School. Boys and girls chase one another across the dusty compound, their blue-and-white uniforms fluttering in the breeze. In one corner, a group of pupils crowd around their teacher, acting out a short drama. One boy snatches a girl's exercise book and mocks her. Before the teasing escalates, the teacher halts the play and asks softly, "How do you think she feels?" The chatter fades. Then Moses, a shy 11-year-old, raises his hand.

"She feels bad... maybe angry," he says. "I think it's not good to treat her like that." The teacher nods. What began as a playful skit has turned into a lesson on empathy, respect, and equality. What looks like a small classroom activity is part of a quiet revolution spreading through peri-urban community schools like Divine Mercy. Teachers are helping boys unlearn harmful behaviours and understand why respect matters.

In the past, most lessons about safety focused only on teaching girls how to protect themselves. But now teachers have realized that real change must also come from boys. By helping boys unlearn harmful behaviour and understand why respect matters, teachers are addressing the root cause of the problem, not just the symptoms. When boys learn empathy, equality, and respect, schools become safer and fairer for everyone.

Turning Classrooms into Change Hubs

Uganda continues to grapple with alarming levels of gender-based violence (GBV). According to a report by the Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS) and UN Women, over half of married women and girls aged 15-59 have experienced physical or sexual violence from a partner. For decades, interventions focused on teaching girls to stay safe. Girls learn how to report and avoid violent encounters, placing the burden of safety on the girl child before she is old enough to understand sexual violence.

These lessons never focus on teaching boys how not to harm or where the responsibility of a second gender may lie in the perpetration of gender violence. This is what headteacher, James Immekus, plans to change through the "Raising Respect in School" model. A model that employs respectful behaviour, setting clear expectations, and actively teaching and practicing empathy and social skills as prevention against future occurrences of gender-based violence.

"We realized we were always telling girls how to protect themselves, but we rarely told boys why respect matters," he says. "So we flipped the script." In Luweero, Luweero Seventh-Day Adventist (SDA) Primary School is experimenting with a prevention-first approach. Here, the focus is on boys—not because girls don't matter—but because changing boys' attitudes early could stop violence before it begins.

Senior teacher Peter Mugisha says, "We don't just tell them violence is bad. We ask questions, listen, and let them think. It's about changing how they see themselves and others." At Divine Mercy, the curriculum now includes role-plays, peer mentoring, and group projects that explore fairness, empathy, and gender roles. Pupils debate chores, discuss how to walk home safely together, and learn to resolve conflicts without aggression.

According to Immekus, respect was a big challenge in schools so they had to look for other avenues to make boys understand gender abuses while at school. "We rarely talked to boys about why they should not harm girls in the first place. That had to change."

Visible Change in Attitudes

Twelve-year-old David, grinning as he sweeps the classroom, says the lessons reshaped his mindset. "Before, I thought girls should do all the cleaning. Now I help too. It's fair," he says. Teacher Jane Nansubuga confirms the difference. "We used to see boys pulling girls' hair or calling them names almost every day. Now, other boys step in to stop it. That's progress."

Every afternoon, the pupils end the day in a circle, holding hands for prayer. To visitors, it looks ordinary. To headteacher Sarah Namatovu, it is transformation in motion. "If even half of these boys grow up believing girls deserve respect, then we've already changed the future," she smiles.

Wakiso District's experiment builds on proven success stories. In Mityana District, the Good School Toolkit reduced teacher-to-student physical violence by 42%, emotional or sexual violence by 41%, and bullying by 30%, according to a randomised controlled trial. Before the introduction of the Good School Toolkit into schools curricula, about 52.7% of students reported experiencing physical violence from school staff.

Elsewhere in the sub-region, similar approaches are showing results. In Kenya, school-based gender programmes cut bullying by nearly a quarter. Studies show that boys trained in respect and empathy are twice as likely to intervene when they witness harassment.

Education specialist Samuel Okello of Teach for Uganda says the model's strength lies in its repetition and visibility. "Boys change when they see role models behaving differently. When they hear the same message consistently from teachers, parents, and peers, it becomes part of who they are."

Tabitha Suubi, the Violence Against Children Prevention Programme Manager at Raising Voices, says to sustain these ideas, the Good School Toolkit encourages the school administration to develop an anti-sexual violence policy. When effectively implemented, such policies can transform the school culture, promote the safety of all learners, and ensure the long-term sustainability of the programme.

Change Beyond the Classroom

Parents have noticed a ripple effect at home. Esther Nanteza beams as she recalls her son's transformation. "He used to refuse chores, saying they were for girls. Now he helps his sisters. He told me, 'At school we are all the same.' That touched me deeply," she says.

In nearby Mityana District, father of three, John Ssemanda says he's determined to raise sons who see equality as strength. "I grew up where women had no voice. I don't want my sons to inherit that thinking," he says. "When boys respect their sisters and classmates, they will respect their future wives."

For David Kato, a boda boda operator and community youth leader, the lesson is practical as it is moral. "Teaching boys kindness is cheaper than repairing the damage caused by violence," he says. "If we plant respect now, we won't have to fight abuse later."

Local church elder, Rev. Williams Tomusange, adds, "When we teach boys that girls are equal, we are saving both our daughters and our sons from becoming victims or perpetrators."

According to Dr Harriet Nanyonjo, a psychologist with Makerere University, early intervention is crucial. "Children form ideas about gender very young, by age seven many already believe boys are stronger or more deserving," she explains. "If schools correct that early, we can reshape entire generations."

A Ministry of Education official, Margaret Aciro, acknowledges that initiatives like Wakiso and Luwero District's could be integrated nationally. "Our new gender-responsive education policy supports programmes that promote equality. What we see in Wakiso gives us a model that can scale if we invest in teacher training and community engagement," she says.

Building the Foundation Early: The Parenting For Respectability Programme

The Parenting for Responsibility programme (PfR) is another model that aims to build respectful and empathetic young men against gender violence, this time, at home. It is a 16-session group-based parenting programme developed in Uganda, with families in mind, to address intimate partner violence, and violence against children on a community and national level, emphasizing the reorientation of fathers as much as it does mothers.

Teachers like James Immekus have found that combining this approach with teaching respectability in schools provides a more effective and well-rounded adoption process for young boys. "We realized that teaching them respect at school alone is not enough, so we decided to work hand in hand with parents under their programme, parenting for Responsibility, which is a home-grown, culturally-relevant parenting intervention that aims to prevent violence against girls and so far the change is visible."

A seven-year pre- and post evaluation study by the Child Health and Development Centre—sponsored by the Sexual Violence Research Initiative (SVRI), Bernard van Leer Foundation (BvLF), the Netherlands OAK Foundation, and Glasgow University—assessed the program's impact on parent-child relationships; partner relationships; and sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV); it showed that the program reduced "harsh parenting" and spousal violence in semi-rural Ugandan communities.

Dr Godfrey Siu, lecturer and researcher, Child Health and Development Centre, Makerere University, and former team leader for this program, says; "The initiative was designed to tackle four key family-related drivers of gender-based violence (GBV): weak parental bonding and attachment; harsh parenting and corporal punishment; gender-biased child socialisation; and parental conflict."

Challenges That Persist

Despite the progress, execution hurdles remain within these programs. For the Raising Respect in Schools program, teachers are overstretched, funding is limited, and at home, patriarchal attitudes often undo school lessons. "We can teach them here, but if the message at home is the opposite, it's hard to make it stick," admits teacher Mugisha.

Some parents even resist, claiming such lessons make boys "weak." But teachers counter that respect is not weakness, it's strength. A scientific evaluation of the Parenting for Respectability program conducted in 2021/22, in semi-rural Ugandan communities, reported a reduction, nearly by half, in domestic violence from parents to children and a decrease in the rate of spousal abuse and intimate partner violence in parents who attended more than 60% of the program.

Sustainability is another concern. Many past initiatives lost momentum once donor funding ended. Posters from the Good School Toolkit still hang, faded, in some classrooms—a reminder that social change takes time. Also, these initiatives had other limitations in scope. The Community Sensitisation and Legal Awareness campaigns implemented by the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development (MGLSD) and NGOs such as FIDA-Uganda and Uganda Women's Network (UWONET) focused on teaching communities about women's rights, the Domestic Violence Act (2010), and the need to report abuse but they rarely addressed how family dynamics contribute to violence.

Child protection and social welfare programs where organizations like UNICEF, Save the Children, and World Vision supported community child protection committees and trained social workers to identify and report child abuse, often worked independently of parents, with limited focus on strengthening parent-child relationships.

Gender rights advocate Lydia Tumusiime warns: "You don't change attitudes like planting maize and harvest in three months. It takes years of consistent effort."

The Beginning of Change

Still, there are reasons for hope. District Education Officer Fredrick Kiyingi Kinobe believes what's happening in Wakiso could be the start of something bigger. "If each district adapted this model, we could see a national shift. It starts with boys but it changes everyone," he says.

It is encouraging to see that these two programs run on similar core values. On the surface, they might seem different: Parenting For Respectability Programme works with families to address intimate partner violence and violence against children on a community and national level, while Raising Respect in School is a model that centers respectful behavior, setting clear expectations, and actively teaching and practicing empathy and social skills at school.

However, these two programs share the same related core values; promoting respect, limiting violence, and building empathy. For real change to happen, these programs are most effective when rolled out side by side, reinforcing each other's goals.

Across Continents, Educators Are Rethinking How Boys Learn Respect. It is important to note that these measures in Uganda fit in seamlessly with the global search for a solution against toxic masculinity, made accessible by social media and online access to the so-called manosphere. Most young boys now tend to violence and aggression towards girls in schools and online, fuelled by misogynistic "men's rights" influencers.

This learned behaviour experts have said are consequences of toxic masculinity and gendering spreading in online communities. Headteacher, James Immekus, is not aware of the Teaching Respect programme by the Thrive Alliance Group and their downloadable reference guide, but it is encouraging to see educators are organically connected—from East Africa to North America—in their resolve to create a kinder and empathetic generation.

For Brian Matovu, now 15 and in secondary school, the lessons linger. "I told my friends that insulting girls isn't right. Some laughed, but I don't care," he says proudly.

As the sun sets over Wakiso, pupils gather in a circle, hands linked, voices rising in prayer. To some, it's routine. But to their teachers, it's proof that a quiet revolution is underway.

In a country where more than half of women endure violence as indicated by UN Women, the simple act of boys holding hands with girls, not as rivals, but as equals is more than a ritual.

The Seven Forces of Magnetic Writing Revealed

noreply@blogger.com (M Hasan) — Tue, 04 Nov 2025 01:02:33 +0000

The Power of Magnetic Writing

Although I always received accolades for my writing skills, I knew something was missing. I was not satisfied. I wanted something deeper. Praise felt good, yes – but it was not enough. I did not just want people to like my writing. I wanted them to feel it. To surrender to it. To read the first sentence and lose their ability to stop. To be pulled, carried, held – helplessly, willingly, eagerly.

For years, I wrote well. Competently. Even beautifully. Yet, beauty was not my goal. I wanted writing that acted, not writing that waited politely to be noticed. I wanted words that did not knock for permission but walked in, took a seat in the reader’s mind, and refused to leave.

And then, one quiet morning – without drama, without lightning, without fanfare – it happened. I discovered it. My writing shifted. My sentences stood taller, leaned forward, and seized attention. They stopped informing and started commanding. They did not ask for time. They possessed it. And in that moment, I realised something deep: writing could do far more than communicate. Writing could captivate. It could control. It could transform.

Most writing informs. Some writing intrigues. Plenty of writing entertains. However, there is a rare kind of writing that does something far deeper. It bypasses the intellect and heads straight for the bloodstream. It grips the mind, squeezes the heart and anchors itself in memory. This kind of writing does not wait for the reader to decide. It does not negotiate. It pulls. It holds. It refuses to let go. I call it magnetic writing.

What Is Magnetic Writing?

Magnetic writing is not merely persuasive writing. It is not poetic writing. It is not dramatic writing. Magnetic writing is writing that wakes something dormant inside you – that inner spark you sometimes forget you carry. It is writing that feels alive, as if every sentence has a pulse. When you encounter it, you do not stroll through the words. You sprint. You are helpless before it. The first sentence steals your choice. The second sentence tightens the grip. And before long, you find yourself breathless at the end, not because you were forced, but because you could not stop.

You do not merely remember it. Like the helpless pull of first love, you come back, again and again, willingly and joyfully, because it touched parts of your soul you did not even know were reachable. It stirs something deep. It rouses the sleeping giant within. It speaks to the version of you that wants to act, to rise, to become.

I did not become a student of this brand of writing because I desired applause. I did not choose to dedicate my life to this craft because I wanted to sound clever. I became devoted to magnetic writing because I saw what it could do. I saw how a well-crafted sentence could crack open a closed mind. How a powerful paragraph could restore hope. How a well-told story could change narratives, heal wounds, ignite ambition and call greatness by name. I realised that writing is not simply communication. Writing is energy. Writing is influence. Writing is a movement in written form.

People have called me many things – writer, teacher, storyteller, communicator, etc. But there is one title that keeps echoing around me, offline and online, across social media platforms and in conversations: The Apostle of Magnetic Writing. When Google agrees with your identity, you know the world has seen something you may still be trying to fully articulate. This title is not about ego. It is about mission. I do not write to decorate paper. I write to awaken spirits. I write to stir giants who have been sleeping inside themselves for too long. I write to change destinies, one sentence at a time.

The Purpose of Magnetic Writing

Writing, to me, should not merely be read. It should be experienced. It should travel into the reader’s mind and leave footprints. It should enter the heart and rearrange furniture. It should live in memory long after the page is closed.

That is why, after years of refining this approach quietly, I am now ready to open the vault publicly. A movement is being born – not a trend, not a momentary flare, but a discipline, a philosophy and a craft. I am unveiling the seven forces of magnetic writing, a framework that explains why certain writing grips us, why certain sentences resonate in our bones, and why some words refuse to leave us long after we have encountered them.

Over the next few weeks, I will reveal each force – not in haste, not in academic dryness, but in the same spirit that birthed them: with fire, clarity, curiosity, and respect for the reader’s intelligence. If you have ever wanted to make your writing unforgettable, this is your moment. If you have ever felt that your words were capable of more – more impact, more depth, more beauty, more influence – then stay close. If you have sensed that language is not merely a tool but a weapon, then welcome to your awakening.

I am committing. It is neither a casual one nor a convenient one, but a purposeful vow. I commit to teach, to guide, to expand minds and to revive the art and power of writing. And this will not be through gimmicks or shortcuts, but through mastery and intention. Magnetic writing is not magic. It is a technique rooted in the soul. It is a structure infused with fire. It is clarity wrapped in emotion. It is truth delivered with rhythm. And once you understand it, you will never see writing, reading or communication the same way again.

The Impact of Magnetic Writing

Imagine your words stopping the scroll in a noisy world with a short attention span. Imagine your message captivating the mind of someone who barely wanted to read. Imagine your ideas piercing hearts, shaping decisions, inspiring action and living in memory long after the screen goes dark, or the page is turned. That is the power of magnetic writing. It does not end when the reader stops reading. It continues in their thoughts. It breathes in their reflections. It bears fruit in their behaviour.

This is why I invite you to join this journey. If you would like to be among the first to receive each lesson directly, to sit in the front row of this unfolding revelation and to apply these forces to your own communication, then join me. Lean in. Stay close. Let us build writers who do not simply write, but writers who move nations, nurture confidence, build businesses, heal minds, elevate identities, inspire futures and create legacies.

Magnetic writing is not a technique for writers alone. It is for leaders, entrepreneurs, speakers, teachers, professionals, parents, and dreamers. It is for anyone who understands that words build worlds and shape destinies.

A movement has begun. Welcome to magnetic writing – where words do not just exist, but live, breathe, act and bear fruit. The future belongs to those whose words can move hearts and change history. Let us rise to that calling together.

If you would like to receive each lesson by email, you can subscribe here: http://eepurl.com/jqTUsw
See you soon – and welcome to the revolution of words.
X: @BrandAzuka