Opinion

Elechi Amadi: A Realist Goes Home

Published

10 years ago

December 2, 2016

Born in Mbodo in Aluu in Ikwerre Local Government Area of Rivers State at a time, period and dispensation when different cultures in different geographical locations and clime were suffocating and reeling from the corrosive Western influences and the struggle against colonialism, social and cultural imperialism, Amadi’s native Mbodo remained flagrantly defiant, impregnable and sacrosanct.

Unlike his pen and pencil contemporaries, Elechi Amadi did not only grow up with the hawk and eagle eyes, but also grew with the scientific microscopic examination and statistical analysis of events and happenings around him. Suffice to say that while his “Ukwu” (Age-Grades) of Mbodo were irresistibly on the seamy side of life as depicted in his trilogy, the destiny-boy, so to speak at this time, decided to go to school to study Physics and Mathematics despite all odds.

But then, the budding latent talent held sway in him and his first novel “The Concubine” which of course happens to be his magnum-opus, came into being. Students of African Literature in diaspora and sub-Saharan Africa tell us that Elechi Amadi’s” The Concubine” is the only African novel that captured and showcased a typical African rural life and rural setting. Also on the trot came “The Great Ponds”, “The’Slave”, “Sunset in Biafra” his war memoir and a plethora of literary genre followed to his credit.

Some literary critics and analysts in and outside Nigeria, the continent of Africa, including the enormously popular British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC), while conducting a review on “The Concubine” had, however, posited that the novel is a work on fiction, but they err, in view of the obvious fact that what Captain Elechi Amadi saw with his eagle eyes and penciled down to his wide audience, avid and voracious readers, are still living and contending with us even as I write this epic tribute, namely the negative attributes of supernatural evil forces and the sheer human follies of greed, jealousy, envy, lust, selfishness, vaulting ambition, unnatural hate or hatred if you like.

The foil, antagonist and flat character typified by Madume in the novel brings to the fore the whole truth of the matter. Madume became a tool, an instrument of fate in the hands of the sea-king or god. Since he could not have Ihuoma as a wife, he became jealous and envious of her husband-Emenike- and consequently squared up with him. Although, Emenike died in the unfolding drama and episode, the coast was not still clear for Madume to marry the alluring village belle, alpha, nymphet and beauty queen. Subsequent attempts and advances made by him were futile and proved abortive. Madume also died and was buried with his recurrent dreams and negative influences.

Is it not for these odious reasons and negative influences and attributes that politicians are plundering and looting our treasury and carting away our oil money into foreign lands? Contract awards are not executed speedily and most times abandoned completely. Salaries of workers are not paid and on time. Paradoxically, we are in a· country blessed with the abundance of human and material resources, yet the rich are flaunting their wealth and living in the lap of luxury while the poor are famishing on the streets and picking their wintry faggot from the thorn.

Other sectors of the economy are no exception in this regard. Hospitals, schools, examining bodies, banks, the military, the para-military, power and energy, our penal and legal systems to mention but a few are at present bursting and bulging at the seams.

In the case of Elechi Amadi’s “The Concubine”, the invisible supernatural sea-king was primarily and ultimately responsible for the catalogue of deaths recorded in the novel as we are made to understand in the falling action and denouement.

But who is responsible for the country’s economic woes, stagnation and myriads of social vices staring the people in the face today -such as-armed robbery, kidnapping, rape, cultism, rising unemployment and inflation? Others include, hunger, poverty, malnutrition, prostitution and miscegenation, the chasm between the rich and poor and fatal deadly tropical diseases ravaging the land. What a faux pas!

Going by his personality profile and biography, Amadi had every opportunity to enrich himself, his immediate family, stack away money in foreign banks, build estates in Port Harcourt, Lagos, Abuja, Ghana, South Africa, become a casanova like some of our legislators and university lecturers, and of course buy houses in London and Dubai, but he could not, rather he trodded on the path of moral rectitude and honour and spent quantum parts of his lifetime at his Mbodo village in Aluu up to his ears writing as a sideline. “A little that a ‘righteous man has is better than the riches of many wicked”, so says the sage and psalmist in the Holy Bible.

Elechi Amadi’s career profiling has it that he was first-a Commissioner for Education and later Permanent Secretary in the same Ministry. Second, Commissioner -Ministry of Lands and Housing, Chairman – Rivers State Scholarship Board, Dean – Faculty of Arts in the upgraded College of Education, Rumuolumeni, Port Harcourt, Sole Administrator Port Harcourt, Rivers State and a Captain in the army during the thirty month internecine war between Nigeria and Biafra. Perhaps, it would be an element of self parody if there is a wall of silence over his leadership prowess in championing the cause of Ogbakor-Ikwerre – a socio-cultural group or organization.

The group under him witnessed tremendous changes, came to limelight and reached its acme and apogee of greatness. If I may ask a fundamental question at this juncture, what on earth could have precluded this realist, this idealist, this literary colossus and guru, this unassuming philosopher of Ikwerre extraction from amassing wealth and making fast quick mega bucks and talk like the rich fool in the Bible who forgot that “we brought nothing into this world and it is certain we can carry nothing out?” Succinctly put and indeed, Elechi Amadi’s philosophy of life is a pointer to the biblical injunction that we are pilgrims and strangers on the earth.

In projecting and portraying the culture, customs and traditions of his people, Amadi’s works of literature speak volumes and are of a truth living oracles to this assertion. This was made possible by the skilful and artistic infusion of Ikwerre proverbs, adages and wise sayings in’ his novels and plays. “Isiburu Ekperi,” for example, is a play depicting the rich cultural heritage of Ikwerre ethnic origin or background. Even as I write, the annual wrestling festival which usually comes up in the second half of the year is still being celebrated with fanfare, elation, pomp and pageantry amongst various communities in Aluu and Ikwerre land as an entity.

“Death is inevitable, an appointment and a necessary end”. According to William Shakespeare, “it will come when it will come.” It has come for Captain Elechi Amadi and regrettably “Ikwerre Agwuru Asa Notu” will miss him. Friends, relatives, family members, colleagues, fellow countrymen, his audience, Africa and the entire world will miss him so dearly as he joins his counterparts and men of timber and calibre in the literary arena Senator Obi Wali and Chief Okogbule Wonodi of blessed memories. Nevertheless, that he lived and died naturally having fulfilled his destiny on earth is indisputable. This is our consolation and hope that another Elechi Amadi, another Obi Wali and another Okogbule Wonodi will emerge from the same native soil and fill the vacuum created by the icy cold hands of death. Otherwise, finding another replacement would be a tall order and a tall story.

Good night Captain Elechi Amadi.

Owhorji wrote from Omademe.

Christian Owhorji

Opinion

Beyond Physical Intimacy In Relationship

Published

10 hours ago

June 17, 2026

The Tide

Quote:”Love is not sustained by sharing the same bed or displaying affection in public; it is preserved by the daily investment of trust, understanding, empathy, and meaningful conversations. Two people can be physically close yet emotionally distant, because lasting relationships are built not merely on intimacy, but on the consistent nurturing of hearts that remain genuinely connected.”

In an age where relationships are often measured by appearances, social media posts, and outward displays of affection, many couples are discovering a painful truth: physical closeness does not always translate into emotional connection. Two people can share the same bed, hold hands in public, and even maintain a seemingly happy home, yet remain strangers to each other’s deepest thoughts, fears, dreams, and struggles. This reality is captured in the thought-provoking message that emotional intimacy goes far beyond physical intimacy. While physical attraction may ignite a relationship, emotional connection is what sustains it. When emotional bonds weaken, relationships begin to suffer quietly, often long before any visible signs of trouble emerge.

One of the greatest misconceptions about love is the belief that affection alone is enough to keep a relationship healthy. In reality, genuine love requires much more than romantic gestures and physical presence. It requires understanding, communication, trust, empathy, and the willingness to be vulnerable with one another. Without these elements, couples may coexist rather than truly connect. Many relationships today are experiencing a silent crisis. Couples are spending more time together physically but less time engaging meaningfully. Busy schedules, work pressures, financial challenges, digital distractions, and personal ambitions have reduced many conversations to routine exchanges about bills, children, responsibilities, and daily survival. The deeper conversations that nurture emotional intimacy are gradually disappearing.

As a result, many partners feel unseen, unheard, and misunderstood. They may be present in the relationship physically, but emotionally they feel isolated. This emotional distance often creates frustration, resentment, and loneliness. Ironically, a person can feel more alone in a relationship lacking emotional connection than when they are physically alone. The danger of emotional disconnection is that it rarely announces itself loudly. Unlike dramatic conflicts or public scandals, it develops gradually. It starts when couples stop sharing their feelings openly. It grows when assumptions replace communication. It deepens when one partner feels consistently ignored, dismissed, or taken for granted. Over time, the relationship loses its warmth and vitality.This explains why some marriages and relationships that appear perfect from the outside eventually collapse unexpectedly.

Observers are often shocked because they only saw the physical togetherness, not the emotional distance that had been growing for years beneath the surface. Relationships do not usually break down overnight; they deteriorate through the accumulation of unresolved emotional gaps. Building emotional intimacy, therefore, requires deliberate effort. It is not a one-time achievement but a daily commitment. Emotional connection is built through consistent acts of attention, kindness, and understanding. It develops when partners genuinely listen to each other without judgment. It grows when people feel safe enough to express their fears, disappointments, and aspirations without fear of criticism or rejection. Trust plays a crucial role in this process. Emotional intimacy flourishes in an environment where honesty is valued and confidentiality is respected. When trust is broken, emotional walls quickly rise.

Rebuilding those walls requires patience, sincerity, and a willingness to heal together. Another important ingredient is empathy. Every individual wants to feel understood. Sometimes partners do not necessarily need solutions to their problems; they simply need someone who listens and acknowledges their feelings. A relationship becomes stronger when both individuals strive to understand each other’s perspectives rather than merely defend their own positions. Quality time is equally important. In a world dominated by smartphones and endless digital distractions, couples must intentionally create moments of genuine interaction. Simple activities such as sharing a meal, taking a walk, discussing personal goals, or praying together can strengthen emotional bonds significantly.

These moments communicate an important message: “You matter to me.” Respect also forms the foundation of emotional closeness. Partners who consistently speak respectfully to each other, even during disagreements, create a healthier environment for intimacy to thrive. Emotional connection cannot flourish where there is constant criticism, ridicule, or contempt. Perhaps the most important lesson is that emotional intimacy is not built by grand gestures alone. It is cultivated through small, consistent actions repeated over time. A thoughtful conversation, a sincere apology, a word of encouragement, or a genuine expression of appreciation can have a profound impact on the health of a relationship. Ultimately, the strength of any relationship lies not merely in physical proximity but in emotional accessibility. The question is not whether two people occupy the same space, but whether they truly know and understand each other.

Lasting love is sustained when hearts remain connected even amid life’s challenges. As society continues to grapple with increasing relationship difficulties, couples must remember that emotional intimacy is not optional; it is essential. Physical attraction may bring people together, but emotional connection keeps them together. It is built daily through communication, trust, empathy, respect, and intentional effort. When emotional intimacy is nurtured, relationships become more resilient, fulfilling, and meaningful. And when two hearts remain genuinely connected, love does not merely survive—it flourishes

By: Sylvia ThankGod-Amadi

Opinion

Yahoo Culture And Nigeria’s Moral Fabric

Published

10 hours ago

June 17, 2026

The Tide

Quote “A society that celebrates wealth without questioning its source gradually breeds a generation that despises hard work, glorifies fraud, and ultimately destroys itself from within.”

Nigeria’s battle against insecurity is not limited to terrorism. Another destructive force—popularly known as “Yahoo”—has steadily eaten into the nation’s moral and social fabric. Internet fraud, which has become synonymous with “Yahoo” in local parlance, poses a grave threat to Nigeria’s image, economy, and future. The activities of internet fraudsters have tarnished the country’s reputation globally. As a result, many law-abiding Nigerians abroad or seeking legitimate opportunities overseas often face suspicion and discrimination because of the notoriety created by these criminal elements. Originally, Yahoo was merely the name of an internet search engine created in 1994 by Stanford graduates Jerry Yang and David Filo. In Nigeria, however, the term has evolved into a culture driven by greed and materialism. It has become a disturbing subculture with its own language and values.

Expressions such as “mugu fall, guy man chop” celebrate the exploitation of unsuspecting victims, portraying fraud as intelligence and deceit as success. Yahoo boys are notorious for flaunting their ill-gotten wealth. They parade expensive cars, spend lavishly, and often display arrogance towards elders and society. Their extravagant lifestyle has even been blamed for rising rents and increased cost of living in cities such as Port Harcourt. Following crackdowns in Delta and Edo states, there have been concerns over the growing presence of these elements in Rivers State. What is particularly disturbing is that many of these young men and women, some as young as teenagers, have no legitimate source of income yet live in luxury. Their actions have ruined businesses, impoverished victims, and in some cases pushed people into depression, heart attacks, and suicide.

Yet, they continue to operate openly with frightening confidence. The prevalence of Yahoo culture reflects the deep moral decay in society. Sadly, some families not only tolerate the illicit activities of their children but celebrate and pray for their success. Anyone who condemns the practice often becomes the target of abuse and ridicule. A Port Harcourt-based pastor once experienced fierce backlash from Yahoo sympathisers after speaking against the menace. Nigeria’s permissive environment has unintentionally allowed the practice to flourish. Weak institutions, compromised law enforcement, and families unwilling to question the source of sudden wealth among unemployed youths have all contributed to the problem. The virtues of patience, diligence, and integrity are steadily being replaced by greed and a desperate desire for quick riches.

Perhaps one of the greatest casualties of Yahoo culture is education. The value of years of hard work and academic excellence has been diminished. Many young people now dismiss formal education as a scam, while apprenticeship and vocational training are increasingly looked down upon. The obsession with easy money has encouraged school dropout rates and undermined the culture of honest enterprise. An even more disturbing dimension is the emergence of what many describe as “Yahoo Phase II”—a phenomenon associated with ritual practices and occult beliefs. Although stories surrounding these practices are often difficult to verify, reports of ritual killings, organ harvesting, and other horrific crimes have heightened public fears. Young people seeking wealth at all costs are said to subject themselves to bizarre and inhumane instructions from self-styled spiritualists, resulting in unimaginable tragedies.

Regardless of the myths and realities surrounding these claims, one fact remains undeniable: the pursuit of wealth without values has devastating consequences. Society is increasingly witnessing cases of substance abuse, mental instability, and mysterious deaths among youths whose lives are built on criminality and desperation. Nigeria cannot afford to remain indifferent while a generation is consumed by greed and moral bankruptcy. Combating Yahoo culture requires more than arrests and prosecutions. Families must instill values of honesty and hard work. Religious leaders, educators, and community leaders must consistently promote integrity. Government institutions must strengthen the rule of law and ensure that crime does not pay. Above all, society must stop celebrating wealth without questioning its source. No nation can attain sustainable development when fraud is admired, hard work is ridiculed, and criminality is rewarded.

The future of Nigeria depends on raising a generation that values character above riches and integrity above material possessions. If this dangerous culture is left unchecked, the consequences will be severe. But if the nation collectively chooses the path of morality, accountability, and industry, there remains hope that the tide can be reversed and the country’s dignity restored.

By; Confidence Adoo

Opinion

Good Health Through Socrates’ Prescription

Published

1 week ago

June 8, 2026

The Tide

Quote: “In an age of advanced medicine and endless health information, the greatest prescription may still be the oldest one: know yourself. True health begins when we understand our bodies, emotions, habits and choices.”

The 21st century has ushered in extraordinary progress in science, technology and medicine. Diseases that once claimed millions of lives can now be prevented or treated. Information is available instantly, while fitness applications, health trackers and modern healthcare facilities have become part of everyday life. Yet, despite these advances, many people continue to struggle with physical illnesses, emotional stress, anxiety, depression and lifestyle-related diseases. This contradiction raises an important question: Why are people becoming increasingly unhealthy in an age of remarkable medical advancement? Part of the answer may lie in the timeless wisdom associated with the ancient Greek philosopher Socrates: “Know thyself.” Though spoken more than two thousand years ago, these words remain profoundly relevant today. They remind us that genuine wellbeing begins with self-understanding.

Knowing oneself goes beyond knowing one’s name, occupation or social status. It involves understanding one’s body, emotions, habits, strengths, weaknesses and aspirations. It means recognizing how daily choices affect physical, mental and emotional health. In many respects, self-knowledge forms the foundation of healthy living. One of the greatest health challenges today is the tendency to ignore warning signs until serious problems emerge. Many people neglect symptoms such as persistent fatigue, poor sleep, chronic stress, unhealthy eating habits and lack of physical activity. Because they are disconnected from their bodies, they fail to recognize that their health is gradually deteriorating. A person who truly knows himself pays attention to these signals. Such an individual understands which foods nourish the body and which habits undermine health. They recognize when rest is necessary,

when stress levels become dangerous and when professional medical attention should be sought. Self-awareness encourages preventive action long before illness develops. The same principle applies to mental and emotional health. Modern life is filled with pressures. Social media often encourages unhealthy comparisons, while economic challenges, family responsibilities and workplace demands create enormous psychological burdens. Many people suffer silently because they have not learned to understand or manage their emotions. Knowing oneself means recognizing emotional triggers, vulnerabilities and sources of stress. It involves identifying feelings of anxiety, sadness, anger or frustration before they become overwhelming. Self-aware individuals are more likely to seek support, adopt healthy coping mechanisms and maintain emotional balance.

Self-knowledge also promotes discipline. Many of today’s health problems are linked to lifestyle choices. Excessive consumption of processed foods, alcohol abuse, smoking, substance misuse, physical inactivity and poor sleeping habits contribute significantly to disease burdens around the world. Most people are aware of these risks. The challenge is often not a lack of information but a lack of self-understanding. Individuals who understand their motivations, weaknesses and tendencies are better equipped to resist harmful habits and develop healthier routines. In this way, self-knowledge becomes a powerful tool for self-control. Socrates also taught that “the unexamined life is not worth living.” While philosophical in origin, this statement has practical implications for health. Examining one’s life encourages honest reflection. Are we eating wisely? Are we exercising enough?

Are we sleeping adequately? Are we managing stress effectively? Are we maintaining healthy relationships? These are not merely philosophical questions. They are essential components of a healthy lifestyle. Honest answers can reveal habits that require improvement and inspire positive change. Ironically, while technology has made health information more accessible, it has also made self-understanding more difficult. Many people spend hours following social media trends and public personalities while paying little attention to their own health. They know more about celebrities than they know about their blood pressure, sleep quality or emotional wellbeing. A healthier society will require more than modern hospitals and advanced medications. It will require citizens who actively seek to understand themselves. Preventive healthcare begins with personal awareness.

Parents, educators, religious leaders, healthcare professionals and policymakers all have important roles to play in promoting self-awareness. Young people should be taught not only academic subjects but also emotional intelligence, self-reflection, healthy lifestyle habits and personal responsibility. Ultimately, Socrates’ ancient wisdom remains as relevant today as it was centuries ago. A person who understands himself is more likely to make healthy decisions, maintain emotional stability, build resilience and seek help when necessary. The journey to good health does not begin in a hospital, pharmacy or gymnasium. It begins within. As the world continues to confront complex health challenges, perhaps the most powerful prescription requires no expensive technology or medication. It is the enduring wisdom that has stood the test of time: know yourself. In understanding ourselves, we discover one of the surest paths to healthier, happier and more meaningful lives.

By: Sylvia ThankGod-Amadi