Opinion

State Police And Food Security In Nigeria

Published

2 years ago

February 9, 2024

As part of the measures to address the increasing prices of food and hunger in the country, the federal government on Tuesday disclosed its plan to release food from the storage facilities across the country. Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, who made this known after a meeting of the Presidential Committee on Emergency Food Intervention in Abuja, said President Bola Tinubu is concerned about the pains Nigerians are going through as it concerns food availability and affordability and is taking concrete steps to alleviate the suffering. Nigerians need to be thankful to the women and youth of Niger State, who earlier in the week took to the streets of the state capital, Minna, to protest against hunger and hardship in the nation. That action has awoken the authorities from their slumber and they are now running helter skelter to see that more food is made available to the citizens.
Incidentally, even the government knows that the release of food from the National Food Reserve is just a stopgap measure to the serious problem and that the sooner actions that will bring about permanent solutions to that challenge and stop Nigerians from dying of hunger and starvation were taken, the better for the country. How long will the food to be released last? And what is the assurance that when it is released it will get to poor masses? How are we sure that the politicians and those in the chain of distribution will not divert a greater quantity to themselves and release just a handful to the public? The federal government needs to show more commitment to the challenges facing the country. There should be sincere efforts towards dealing with the deplorable state of security across many parts of the country, including the Federal Capital Territory. It is no news that many farmers can no longer access their farm lands for fear of being killed or kidnapped by terrorists and bandits. Consider the latest attacks in Plateau and Benue States which left hundreds of people dead, their houses destroyed and bags of their harvested grains carted away by the bandits.
A particular farmer from Kaduna State recently told a story of how, upon losing his job in a furniture company in Abuja, he borrowed money from a money lending institution to go into farming. It was a bumper harvest for him as he got over 40 big bags of maize and beans. He had negotiated with the buyers and was waiting for them to come, pay and carry them when bandits invaded his village and carried all the bags of grains, including his hoes.The most painful thing is that he, just like many other farmers who take the risk of going to farms to produce food for Nigerians to eat, “settled” the bandits heavily to enable him access his farms and do any farm work. So, it is imperative that the government sincerely deals with insecurity in the nation to enable farmers to go back to their villages and farms. And with the current level of insecurity, the sophistication and all that, it is obvious that the 370, 000 federal policemen can no longer cater for the security of the over 200million Nigerian population. Police devolution is absolutely important now more than ever before to ensure adequate security of lives and property of Nigerians. The clamour for state police must be considered now. Yes, over the years, there has been an argument that Nigeria is not ripe for state police because governors, politicians and well-to-do people in the states will abuse the police and use them for the oppression and intimidation of their opponents and the poor.
Valid as that proposition may be, it lacks substantive weight when weighed against the gains of state police in the present daunting security challenges in the country. Last week, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governors forum, for the umpteenth time, made a case for state police, saying that the decentralisation of the security apparatus, including the police, will go a long way in addressing the current security challenges facing the country. Speaking during a visit to Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State, the governors noted that “The ratio of police to the citizens is very low and the governors know the peculiarity of their states and how to tackle this challenge.”Similarly, the governor of Anambra State, Chukwuma Soludo, during a book launch a few days ago, noted that decentralisation of the police, strengthening of the institutions and a review of the 1999 Constitution are inevitable steps to take towards addressing insecurity and other challenges facing the country. Some past leaders like Olusegun Obasanjo, Ibrahim Badamosi Babangida, some notable religious, ethnic and professional groups have also lent their voices to the clamour for decentralisation of police as a way of stemming insecurity in Nigeria
. It is important that authorities, particularly the National Assembly set politics aside, reconsider the traditional centralised law enforcement model and explore the benefits that state police could bring to the table and take necessary steps to actualise it.One of the benefits of state police is depth of localised expertise. Nigeria is a nation with distinct cultural, social, and economic differences among its states. State police forces, intimately familiar with the dynamics of their respective regions, are better positioned to address and prevent crime effectively. This local knowledge can enhance community policing initiatives, fostering trust and collaboration between law enforcement and the public. A major advantage of state police is quick response. In almost all the attacks in communities across the country, the survivors narrate how the late arrival of the police or other law enforcement to the scene resulted in more damage and deaths. In a country as vast and varied as ours, response time is crucial. State police can provide quicker responses to incidents within their jurisdiction, minimising the impact of criminal activities. Moreover, the flexibility inherent in state police allows for the development of tailored policing strategies, addressing specific challenges unique to each state. Also, State police, by virtue of being closer to the communities they serve, have the potential to build stronger relationships with residents.
This proximity not only facilitates better understanding of local issues but also encourages citizens’ participation in crime prevention efforts. Increase trust between law enforcement and the public can contribute significantly to maintaining peace and order.Many times, we have heard some state governors lament over their inabilities to curtail raging crime and insecurity in their domain because the state police commissioners would not take instructions from them rather they wait for directives from Abuja. Most times, before the directive comes a great harm must have been done. It therefore makes a great sense that the police are decentralised to give the governors more power over the security affairs of their states. It is a known fact that the bulk of the financing of the federal police is done by the state governors. So, financing the state police might not be a big issue as being speculated by some people. Rather, as State police allow for a more localised approach to resource allocation, states can tailor their budgets and resources to address specific security challenges prevalent in their regions. This ensures that law enforcement agencies are equipped to handle the issues most pressing to their communities, leading to more efficient resource utilisation
However, despite the immense benefits of state police, the concerns about potential abuse of power, political interference, and coordination issues between states must be addressed. Implementing robust oversight mechanisms, strict adherence to professional standards, and fostering inter-agency collaboration can mitigate these risks. Conclusively, the establishment of state police in Nigeria represents a crucial step towards enhancing the nation’s security apparatus. Recognising the unique needs of each state and empowering local law enforcement to address these needs directly can lead to a more effective and responsive policing system. Striking the right balance between local autonomy and centralised coordination is key to navigating the challenges and reaping the benefits of a state police system in Nigeria. It is time for the nation to embrace this reform and work towards a safer and more secure future and availability of food at affordable prices for all its citizens.

Calista Ezeaku

Opinion

Beyond Physical Intimacy In Relationship

Published

1 day 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

1 day 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