Opinion

·We Dared, Creditably!

Published

3 years ago

June 12, 2023

As Special Assistant to Secretary to the Government (SASG) of ·We Dared, Creditably!Rivers State in the early 1980s, I was one of the foot soldiers of Governor Melford Okilo in his bid for the ticket of National Party of Nigeria (NPN) towards the 1987 presidential race. In the North-South zoning arrangement of NPN, the presidency was billed for the south following the anticipated completion of eight years by Alhaji Shehu Shagari. It was speculated that Shagari would favour Okilo who worked harmoniously with him under the Prime Minister of Nigeria during the First Republic, Alhaji Tafawa Balewa. In a survivalist strategy, NPN Rivers State prepared National Vice Chairman South, Chief Ranami Abah, as the alternate wannabe in the presidential bid, which was christened “Project RR”. Conveniently, RR provided an effective decoy: it created the impression of having to do with Rt Honourable Rossbury R. “RR” Briggs, the Speaker of Rivers State House of Assembly while it actually meant Ribadu Road, which was the seat of power in Lagos. Sadly, that dream was aborted by the military coup of December 30, 1983, which birthed the Buhari/Idiagbon military regime.
Informed by the above experience and consistent study of the Nigerian political firmament and the mindset of the politicians over the years, I advised my friend, Governor Peter Odili, not to vie for the presidency in 2007. I based that opinion on the conviction that, given the prevailing primordial sentiments and geopolitical realities of Nigeria, it would be highly objectionable and therefore improbable for the North to support another southerner to occupy Aso Rock at the heels of Obasanjo’s eight years. Assertively, I added that even the position of Vice President (VP) would be highly unlikely for him due to the fact that, given the vested interest of Europe and America in the oil and gas of Niger Delta vis-a-vis the volatility of the region, the West would be favourably disposed to a VP that speaks the language of the militants. I also referred to the statement by Governor DSP Alamieyeseigha of Bayelsa State thus: “the VP position is for a blue-blooded Niger Deltan”, pointing out that the inference of “blue blooded Niger Deltan” is Ijaw.
Furthering on the unsolicited advice, I opined that he should run for Senate and angle for Senate Presidency or take ambassadorial appointment and cool off overseas for sometime. Unfortunately, that well-meant advice was construed as not supporting the presidential bid of my friend. Eventually, my heart bled profusely and, in my characteristic softness, I shed tears as I watched the scene at Eagle Square on television during PDP primaries on Saturday, December 16, 2006. I prayed fervently that God should give Peter the strength to deal with the unnerving and highly emotional situation. Thank God, the “rock” essence of the name, Peter, manifested and he survived the ordeal. Commenting on that episode, former Senate President, Ken Nnamani, offered that “all serious contenders vying for the PDP ticket were hounded out of the way or convinced to withdraw…Peter Odili was the most prepared of the lot”. Writing in Vanguard Newspaper on December 19, 2006, columnist Pini Jason “wonder[ed] if, in all honesty, President Obasanjo and his cronies would describe what transpired at Eagle Square [that day] as a credible convention and primary election”.
The columnist furthered that “the national convention, which produced Umar Yar’Adua as the presidential flag bearer, would go down in history as the most disgraceful charade of all times”. PM News held that 24 hours to the National Convention, Governors Donald Duke of Cross River State and Ahmed Makarfi of Kaduna State withdrew from the race on the instructions of Obasanjo. These moves were informed by the awareness that the convention may just be a mere formality. The party leadership had conceded the post to Governor Umar Yar’Adua of Katsina State whose elder brother, General Shehu Yar’Adua was Obasanjo’s deputy during the military dispensation of 1976–1979. Till date, political pundits and social critics maintain that if the primaries had been conducted fair and square, Peter Odili would have conveniently clinched the coveted crown. Alluding to the treachery in politics, a man of God in Port Harcourt, referred to PDP as Papa Deceive Pikin. Now, you can say anything about Peter Odili but you cannot accuse him of not having the guts to try. He dared, creditably.
During the 2023 presidential primaries of PDP and All Progressives Congress (APC), two sons of Rivers State were simmering hot in pursuit of the tickets; Governor Nyesom Ezenwo Wike in PDP and Rt Honourable Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi in APC. By happenstance, if both Wike and Amaechi had clenched the tickets of PDP and APC, respectively, it would have been “Head, we win; tail, we win” for Rivers State baring a political revolution at the polls. Rivers State would have been at the centerstage of global attention. The point being made here is that both sons of River State dared, creditably. Yes, they lost but the truth remains that it was Rivers State that lost, not Nyesom Ezenwo Wike and Chibuike RotimiAmaechi. It is said that the greatest failure is failure to try. Therefore, you can accuse Peter Odili, Nyesom Wike and Chibuike Amaechi of whatever suits your fancy but you can not accuse them of failure to try. Try, they did and they acquitted themselves creditably. If PDP had provided a level playing field on December 16, 2006, Odili would have coasted home with the ticket.
If Wike’s political associate and friend had not succumbed to primordial sentiments of religion and ethnicity, he might have shared northern votes with Atiku thereby giving Wike the needed edge to clench the PDP ticket. Like Odili and Wike, Amaechi put in so much in his bid. Having built a University of Transportation in Daura, taken a traditional title from there and vigorously attempted to rationalise the irrationality of constructing a railroad to a foreign land while no two states or cities in the Niger Delta are connected by rail, Amaechi seemed the anointed one. In my congenital optimism, I would say that these three worthy sons of the Niger Delta have taken turns laying a formidable foundation from which Niger Deltans, especially Rivers State politicians, can draw psychological and political steam and lessons towards eventually breaking the glass ceiling of presidency. The point remains that we did not fail to try; we dared and stayed focused till the end. We may not have taken the trophy but we were the hottest contenders in the three cases. Our ascendency to the exalted office of President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria will not be an accident.
A censorious reading of the literature of Judeo-Christian theology informs that God (whoever or whatever He, She, They or It may be) regretted some actions; this means acknowledging mistakes. Therefore, who is man not to make mistakes? To His Excellencies Peter Odili, Nyesom Wike and Chibuike Amaechi, I salute your courage for making that weighty political statement for and on behalf of us all from Rivers State. They can take the presidency from us but they cannot take away the spirit to try and the fact that we dared and that we acquitted ourselves creditably in the process. We hold tenaciously to the fact that in daring, we spoke eloquently and volubly of our indisputable stake-holding in the Nigerian enterprise.

By: Jason Osai

Osai, is a Professor of Development Studies Rivers State University, Port Harcourt.

Opinion

Beyond Physical Intimacy In Relationship

Published

2 days 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

2 days 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

2 weeks 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