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Opinion

Verbal Condemnation, Punishment For Terrorism?

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4 years ago

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With last Sunday’s attack on St Francis’s Catholic Church in Owo, the headquarters of Owo Local Government Area of Ondo State, condemnation of the gruesome act has been pouring in from all quarters. The citizens are condemning it,  traditional, political and religious leaders are condemning it. Those in power, whose primary responsibility is the protection of lives and property of the citizens, are not left out in the condemnation galore.
Ondo State Governor, Rotimi Akeredolu, who is from Owo, termed the day, “a black Sunday in Owo.” He said it was a personal loss, an attack to the state, an unexpected, shocking development, declaring that, “We shall never bow to the machinations of heartless elements in our resolve to rid our state of criminals.” President Muhammadu Buhari on the other hand, lamented in a statement by his special adviser on media and publicity, Mr Femi Adesina, that “only fiends from the nether region could have conceived and carried out such a dastardly act.” Adding that “no matter what, this country shall never give in to evil and wicked people and darkness will never overcome the light. Nigeria will eventually win.”
This is a road we have travelled severally in the past and you will be so disappointed if you take these words to the bank and wait to see the government, particularly the federal government, who is in charge of the police and the military swing into action immediately to rid our communities and forests of terrorists because that may not happen. Just a few more days the outburst and resentment will be over and the Owo massacre will be forgotten, just like other similar ugly incidents before it and life goes on as usual.
Apart from the families of some of the victims of March 28, Kaduna – bound train attack, who intermittently carry out protests to remind Nigerians that their loved ones are still in the hands of their abductors and appeal for the authority’s expeditious actions towards their release, who else remembers the attack? We have since moved on as if nothing happened.
Unfortunately, when the issue with killer herdsmen, farmers/herdsmen clashes started, some governors in the South and Middlebelt tried to get the killers out of the forest and to put an end to their criminal activities.  I recall the Southern Governors forum banning open grazing of cattle in their states. What did the federal government do? Through the Minister for Justice and Attorney General, Abubakar Malami, they were asked not to dare it, claiming that the ban contravenes the constitutional right of the herders to freedom and liberty of movement.
Rather than yielding to calls by well meaning citizens for an end to open grazing and that those in the business of cattle rearing should adopt other modern ways of doing the business which will be less injurious to the harmonious relationship between herders and farmers as well as the local populace, the government announced that it was going to embark on the recovery of about 415 grazing routes across the country and has already adamantly commenced the exercise, according to reports.
Each time people spoke against these killer herdsmen, the federal government officials, particularly, the “presidency” rose in their defence and you would see some people or groups challenging the governors for challenging them and going against their members.
Having allowed all these to go on all these years, what do we expect to be the effect?  It is clear knowledge that the consequences to an action determines whether it will happen again or not. Therefore, when a group of people indulges  in negative acts and there are no reactions in terms of punishing them for what they did, of course, they will be emboldened to do more.
We have fed these criminals to this point where they have become monsters. Remember, it is not the day you take your goat to the marketplace to sell it that you start feeding it. The process must have started long before then. Right now, we are stuck.  These killers are in our forests, they have migrated to different parts of the country. Nowhere is safe anymore. You are not safe in your home. You are not safe to travel by land, rail or air. The children are not safe in their schools. Even in your worship place you are not safe. Haba! We are losing Nigerians gruesomely every day in horrific manners that are difficult to comprehend. We have written, we have condemned, we have screamed, shouted and the situation instead of improving gets worse by the day. Some security experts have even told the populace to braze up for more security challenging days as next year’s elections draw  nearer.  Now we want to beg the president and the governors to do all they can to ensure that the people are protected. The political parties are done with the election of their flag bearers for the 2023 election, can we now begin to see more effort channelled to the solving of the numerous problems facing the country?
During the just concluded party primaries, we heard the contestants, including those from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) revealing what they would do to make Nigeria a promised land, if elected. The Vice President, Yemi Osinbajo, in particular called out the potentials of various regions and states of the country and promised that if elected, he would turn things around for the better in the country.  And the question many people have not stopped asking is why the ruling party had not unveiled all these potentials in the past seven years they have been in power instead of constantly blaming the main opposition party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the nation’s woes. The elections are here, what is being done to protect the people and forestall a repeat of the Owo incident in any other part of the country?
Are there plans to better equip the police to enable them discharge their duties effectively? Is it not high time the issue of State Police that has been discussed in different fora is considered since it is obvious the federal government cannot fund the Nigerian Police? There is no doubt that if the police are well equipped and working as expected,  people would not come into a church, kill scores of people during Mass and fade into thin air. And almost a week after the incident, we cannot say for sure who the masterminds and perpetrators were, because no arrest has been made.
A few days ago, following the Owo attack, a group, the Committee on Charter of Protocol (CCOP) asked south-west governors to launch “Operation Sweep Terrorism out of Yorubaland”. They demanded for arrest and diligent prosecution of the suspects, ban of commercial motor cycles, residency registration programme of all security personnel in the south-west states among others. While the courageous move of this group must be applauded, it is advisable that rather than a regional or state approach to insecurity challenges in the country, there should be a holistic approach where no state or region is left out.
No state or region exists in isolation. They are usually bordered by other states and regions. And if a particular state or region is safe, there is the tendency of criminals from other unsafe places migrating to those areas and causing havoc.
It is also pertinent that the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria be reviewed with the aim of reducing the numerous items in the exclusive list so as to give the state governors more powers to administer the states better. We cannot continue to have a huge federal budget for security, transportation and other things year in, year out, yet there is nothing to show for it. Similarly, the state governors and local government chairmen should begin to make use of their huge security votes which are hardly accounted for, for the right purpose of ensuring security in their domains.
Traditional leaders, youth leaders and other members of our communities need not be reminded that they all have roles to play in ensuring a secured society. After all, security is everybody’s business. How proactive the people and the leaders are to the security intels at their disposal will go a long way in determining whether there shall be a repeat of the Owo massacre or not. And the way the criminals will be handled if they are ever arrested will send a big signal to other criminals out there.

By: Calista Ezeaku

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Opinion

Curbing Youth Unemployment In Nigeria

Published

2 weeks ago

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March 30, 2026

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Quote: “A nation that fails to empower its youth risks mortgaging its future.”
Youth, generally defined as individuals between the ages of 15 and 35, represent a critical phase of human development—a transition from adolescence to adulthood marked by ambition, energy, and the pursuit of purpose. In Nigeria, this demographic constitutes a significant proportion of the population, making it one of the country’s greatest assets. However, this strength is increasingly undermined by a persistent and troubling challenge: youth unemployment.
Unemployment, the condition of being without gainful employment despite the willingness and ability to work, remains a major global concern. In Nigeria, however, it has reached alarming levels, particularly among young people. With estimates suggesting that a substantial percentage of Nigerian youth are either unemployed or underemployed, the consequences have become deeply embedded in the nation’s social and economic fabric.
The impact of youth unemployment is both widespread and severe. Economically, it leads to increased poverty levels and reduced productivity. Socially, it fuels frustration, hopelessness, and disillusionment among young people. This often manifests in rising rates of crime, cyber fraud, substance abuse, and involvement in political violence. When young people are unable to find legitimate means of livelihood, they may become vulnerable to negative influences, posing a threat not only to themselves but to society at large.
One of the primary drivers of youth unemployment in Nigeria is the inadequacy of the educational system. While many young Nigerians graduate from tertiary institutions each year, a significant number lack the practical and technical skills required in today’s job market. The disconnect between academic curricula and industry demands leaves graduates ill-prepared for employment, thereby widening the gap between education and employability.
Furthermore, Nigeria’s heavy dependence on the oil sector has contributed significantly to the unemployment crisis. Over the years, this reliance has led to the neglect of other critical sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, and technology—sectors that have the potential to generate large-scale employment. The failure to diversify the economy has limited job opportunities and stifled innovation, leaving many young people without viable career paths.
In addition, rapid population growth continues to put immense pressure on the labor market. Each year, thousands of graduates enter the workforce, but the number of available jobs remains insufficient to absorb them. This imbalance creates intense competition for limited opportunities, leaving many qualified individuals unemployed for extended periods.
Access to finance also remains a major barrier for young Nigerians who wish to venture into entrepreneurship. Despite the creativity and entrepreneurial spirit that many youths possess, the lack of access to credit facilities, mentorship, and business support systems makes it difficult for them to establish and sustain their own enterprises. This challenge is further compounded by infrastructural deficits, such as unreliable power supply and limited access to technology.
Security challenges across various parts of the country have also worsened the situation. In some regions, economic hardship and lack of opportunities have made young people susceptible to recruitment into violent or extremist activities. This not only exacerbates insecurity but also diverts the energy of the youth away from productive engagement.
Addressing youth unemployment in Nigeria requires a comprehensive and collaborative approach. The government must take the lead by implementing policies that promote economic diversification, particularly by investing in agriculture, manufacturing, and the digital economy. These sectors hold immense potential for job creation and can absorb a large portion of the unemployed youth population.
Equally important is the reform of the educational system to emphasize skill acquisition, vocational training, and entrepreneurship. Schools and institutions must align their curricula with market needs, ensuring that graduates are equipped with relevant and practical skills. Public-private partnerships can play a vital role in facilitating internships, apprenticeships, and job placement programs.
The private sector also has a crucial role to play in driving job creation and innovation. By investing in youth-focused initiatives and supporting startups, businesses can help unlock the potential of young Nigerians. Additionally, financial institutions should develop more accessible and youth-friendly credit schemes to support small and medium-sized enterprises.
On an individual level, young people must embrace self-development, adaptability, and continuous learning. In an increasingly competitive and evolving global economy, acquiring digital skills, engaging in vocational training, and exploring entrepreneurial opportunities can significantly improve employability.
In conclusion, youth unemployment remains one of the most pressing challenges facing Nigeria today. However, it is not an insurmountable problem. With deliberate policies, strategic investments, and collective action from government, the private sector, and individuals, Nigeria can transform its youth population into a powerful engine of growth and development. By empowering young people with opportunities, skills, and resources, the nation can secure a more prosperous and stable future.
IVARA Favour Isaac is a student of Pan-African Institute of Management and Technology.
By:  Ivara Favour Isaac
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Opinion

Ozoro Festival: Tradition or Tyranny?

Published

2 weeks ago

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March 30, 2026

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Quote:“These images are not merely disturbing; they represent a direct assault on human dignity, bodily autonomy, and the rule of law.”
In recent days, national attention has turned to the small community of Ozoro in Delta State, where what was once described as a cultural fertility rite—the Alue-Do Festival—has become the subject of outrage, grief, and urgent national reflection. According to accounts from notable indigenes of Ozoro and the Isoko ethnic group, the festival was originally conceived as a symbolic ritual intended to bless couples struggling with conception. In theory, it was meant to celebrate life, continuity, and communal identity. However, what reportedly unfolded on March 22 bore no resemblance to any noble cultural ideal. Videos circulating widely on social media show groups of men chasing women, forcibly stripping them, and subjecting them to sexual assault in public spaces. These images are not merely disturbing; they represent a direct assault on human dignity, bodily autonomy, and the rule of law.
They compel us to confront a difficult but necessary question: when does tradition cease to be culture and become tyranny? It is encouraging that prominent voices—including the First Lady, the Minister of Women Affairs, human rights organisations, and women’s advocacy groups—have condemned these barbaric acts. The Delta State Government has since banned the Alue-Do Festival, while law enforcement authorities have reportedly made arrests. Yet beyond the immediate outrage lies a deeper and more uncomfortable conversation—one that communities across the country must confront honestly: the thin line between culture and abuse. “Culture is not static—it evolves, or at least, it should.” Culture is often described as the soul of a people, encompassing traditions, beliefs, and practices passed down through generations. Nigeria is richly endowed with diverse cultural heritage, much of which we rightly celebrate.
 However, when culture becomes a shield for harmful practices, it loses its moral authority. When actions that violate fundamental human rights are justified in the name of tradition, we must ask: whose culture is this, and at what cost? The events in Ozoro illustrate how a practice that may once have held symbolic meaning can devolve into something deeply harmful. Even if the Alue-Do Festival began as a benign fertility rite, its present manifestation—marked by violence and coercion—cannot be defended. “Culture must align with dignity, consent, and respect—anything less is not tradition, but abuse.” One of the most persistent arguments in defence of controversial practices is that they are “part of our heritage” and therefore beyond criticism. Yet harmful practices—child marriage, inhumane widowhood rites, and domestic abuse—have long been justified using this same reasoning. This argument is not only flawed; it is dangerous. No culture is above scrutiny, particularly when it endangers the rights and safety of its people.
History reminds us that many practices once considered “normal” are now widely condemned. Societies progress by questioning and reforming such practices—not by clinging to them. Nigeria is not exempt from this reality. As a nation governed by law and constitutional principles, we cannot afford to tolerate practices that undermine the rights of citizens—especially women. At the heart of the Ozoro incident lies a broader societal issue: the perception of women as objects rather than autonomous individuals. The actions of the perpetrators were not isolated—they were enabled by a mindset that sees women’s bodies as accessible, controllable, and, in some contexts, communal property. “Women are not possessions, prizes, or objects of exploitation—they are individuals with rights, agency, and dignity.” This mindset reflects a deeper systemic problem often described as “rape culture,” visible in victim-blaming narratives, the dismissal of harassment, and the silence that frequently surrounds abuse.
 For meaningful change to occur, this mindset must be confronted directly. Parents, religious institutions, government agencies, and the media all have critical roles to play in reshaping societal attitudes. Traditional institutions also wield significant influence, particularly in rural communities. With that influence comes responsibility—not only to preserve culture but to ensure that cultural practices align with contemporary standards of human rights and decency.The reported denial by the Ovie of Ozoro Kingdom of knowledge of the recent festival raises important questions about oversight and accountability. Community leaders and members alike must rise to their responsibilities. Cultural practices are sustained by collective acceptance. Silence, indifference, or complicity only perpetuate harm. While cultural reform is essential, it must be accompanied by accountability. The arrests made in connection with the incident are a step in the right direction, but they must lead to tangible outcomes. “Justice must not only be done—it must be seen to be done.”
 Allowing perpetrators of sexual violence to go unpunished sends a dangerous message—that such actions are tolerable. This fosters a culture of impunity. The law must be clear and unequivocal: sexual assault, in any form and under any guise, is a crime. It is not a cultural expression—it is a violation.It must be emphasised that calling for the abandonment of harmful cultural practices is not an attack on tradition, but a call to refine it.  Culture, at its best, is dynamic—it adapts while preserving its core values.“Tradition should uplift, not oppress.” Modernising culture does not mean erasing identity. It means ensuring that traditions remain relevant, inclusive, and respectful of human dignity. As Nigeria continues to evolve, it must decide what kind of society it aspires to be: one that hides behind tradition to justify abuse, or one that embraces progress while honouring its heritage responsibly. The outrage over the events in Ozoro is justified—but outrage alone is not enough
. It must translate into action: legal, cultural, and educational. We must state, without ambiguity, that no tradition justifies the violation of human dignity. We must hold perpetrators accountable and challenge the attitudes that enable such acts. True development is measured not only by infrastructure or economic growth, but by how a society treats its most vulnerable members. “If a cultural practice dehumanises, degrades, or endangers, it has no place in a modern society.” Where tradition fails to uphold dignity, it ceases to be culture. It becomes tyranny.
By: Calista Ezeaku
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Opinion

Bazia  EXCO @ One: NUJ Rivers Reawakened

Published

3 weeks ago

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March 23, 2026

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Quote: “For the first time in years, Rivers journalists are not just hearing promises—they are seeing a union that works.”
The first year in office of the Paul Bazia-led executive of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), has offered something many had almost given up on—renewed confidence in union leadership. For a body as critical as the NUJ, whose responsibility goes beyond professional coordination to include the welfare, protection, and continuous development of journalists, expectations are always high. Unfortunately, past experiences had conditioned many members to expect less—less action, less visibility, and less impact.This is why the past twelve months stand out. Within a relatively short period, the Bazia-led administration has demonstrated a level of drive that distinguishes it from its predecessors. There is a noticeable shift from inertia to activity, from routine administration to purposeful leadership. Initiatives captured in the one-year report point to an executive that understands both the urgency of its mandate and the frustrations of its members.
Particularly commendable is the renewed attention to journalists’  welfare. For too long, welfare issues have lingered without meaningful resolution, leaving many practitioners feeling unsupported. The current leadership’s efforts—through engagement, structured support, and timely interventions—signal a welcome change in priorities. Equally important is the push toward professional development. In an era where journalism is rapidly evolving, capacity building is no longer optional. The administration’s commitment to training and skill enhancement reflects an understanding that a stronger union must be built on more competent and competitive professionals. There is also something to be said about visibility and voice. A vibrant NUJ must not only serve its members internally but also stand as a credible voice in the public space—defending press freedom, promoting ethical standards, and constructively engaging critical issues.
Encouragingly, the current executive appears more present and responsive, giving the union a renewed sense of relevance. Perhaps what resonates most, however, is the sense of movement. For many members, the difference between the present and the immediate past is not subtle—it is clear. Where there was once stagnation, there is now direction. Where there was doubt, there is growing belief. Beyond the visible strides recorded within this first year, what perhaps deserves even greater applause is the restoration of institutional confidence within the Nigeria Union of Journalists. For a long time, many members had grown disenchanted, viewing the union more as a ceremonial body than an active force capable of defending their interests and advancing their welfare. That narrative, however, is gradually changing. The Bazia-led executive has not only initiated programs but has also rekindled a sense of belonging among members.
 Meetings appear more purposeful, engagements more intentional, and decisions more reflective of collective interest. This psychological shift—subtle as it may seem—is one of the most critical achievements of the past year, because a union that its members believe in is already halfway to effectiveness. It is also important to underscore the contrast with the immediate past, not as an exercise in criticism, but as a necessary context for measuring progress. Where previous administrations struggled to translate plans into action, the current leadership has shown a greater bias for execution. Projects that once lingered in discussion stages are now seeing tangible movement, and issues that were previously deferred are receiving attention. This difference in approach—moving from prolonged deliberation to decisive action—has helped reposition the union as a more responsive and relevant institution.
While no administration is without its shortcomings, the willingness to act, even in the face of constraints, marks a significant departure from what members were accustomed to. Looking ahead, the expectations of members—and indeed the wider public—will only grow stronger. With a solid first year behind it, the Bazia-led executive now carries the burden of consistency. Members will expect deeper welfare interventions that go beyond immediate relief to more sustainable support systems. They will look for expanded training opportunities that prepare journalists for the rapidly changing media landscape. They will also expect a firmer, more courageous voice on issues affecting press freedom and professional integrity. Above all, they will demand continuity—assurance that the progress recorded so far is not a fleeting phase but the beginning of a sustained transformation.
Meeting these expectations will not be easy, but it is precisely this challenge that defines enduring leadership. That said, this moment of applause must also serve as a moment of reflection. A strong first year inevitably raises expectations. Journalists in Rivers State will now look beyond initial achievements toward consolidation. Welfare interventions must become more structured and far-reaching. Training programs must be sustained and expanded. Advocacy must become more consistent and impactful. Most importantly, the unity of the union must be strengthened, ensuring that all members feel included and carried along. Transparency will also be key. Continued open communication about finances, decisions, and challenges will deepen trust and set a standard for accountable union leadership. The task ahead is clear: to convert early momentum into lasting institutional progress.
For the Bazia-led executive, the opportunity is significant. It has, within one year, reawakened belief in what the NUJ Rivers State Council can be. The next step is to ensure that this renewed energy does not fade, but instead becomes the foundation of a stronger, more responsive, and more respected union. For the members, the message is equally clear—expect more, demand more, and support what works because in the end, a vibrant union is not built by leadership alone, but by a collective commitment to progress. And for now, under Bazia, that progress has truly begun.
By: Sylvia ThankGod-Amadi
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