News

Politics of Rotation: Yar’Adua Vs Jonathan Debacle

Published

16 years ago

December 13, 2009

No country can equal Nigeria as far as politics is concerned. As paradoxical as this might sound, it is so true that we have made landmark achievements by way of bizarre actions and in other political-show of shame and impunity. So what are we equating with what? We have a whole lot, that no nation can match, when it comes to Nigerian politics.

Indeed right from the first republic, the Nigerian politics has witnessed interesting turbulent moments. The key actors/leaders in the past have taken actions that have put the entire nation in a shambles, all in the name of national interest Yet, no lesson to learn, instead we keep busying ourselves with talks and writings that do not change the rot.

Interestingly, the powerful tacticians and power-brokers have understood the mindset of the voiceless, inactive or passive political advocates, who know how to shout without talking actions to redress the inequities in the country. This set knows that majority of Nigerians are cowards or the proverbial barking dogs that never bites. With the deeply entrenched fear among the Nigerian electorates, these opportunists and power-brokers have always had a field day. The height of impunity with which they demonstrate their high-handedness and tyrannical leadership style keeps one wondering . Little wonder, they apply the rotational political style without considering the interest or concern of the Nigerian masses.

Which country on earth can match this tall political credential of our beloved Nigeria? Well, the answer lies in politics of rotation. It is a pity that these political actors/opportunists/power – brokers have succeeded in rotating Nigeria and Nigerians like a spinning cone, without any hope of falling either with the head or tail. They’ve rotated Nigeria for more than forty years without realizing that a forward step-by-step movement is better than the one-spot, retrogressive circumnavigation/circumlocution. To them, progress doesn’t matter, what is paramount is rotation and their entrenched of treasury looting and reckless mismanagement of our commonwealth.

Why is it that, our dear President’s ill-health and the vacuum so created in Aso Rock, has become a matter of PDP leadership decision, rather than a recourse to the constitution? Why is that Nigerians have become so docile, passive and powerless that just a handful of some selfish, greedy and heartless opportunists or politicians could mortgage our future and toil with it, when we all know that our liberation lies in our very hands?

One thing these actors must know, is that many Nigerians are no longer in the dark days of ignorance, many thanks to Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, whose political activism has brought some ill-intent but positive changes. Thank God, for the Nigerian constitution which has been made available to everyone who cares about acquiring a copy. But it is important that our lawyers assist to educate Nigerians on the content/text of the Nigerian Constitution, so that we would know how to demand for our rights.

Many Nigerians are in desperate need of constitutional and political enlightenment and sensitization to be able to jumpstart the liberation struggle, otherwise, these political opportunists and power-brokers would lead us to lamentable, but avoidable perdition.

Our fears have become their strength and inspiration and their insensitivity to the plight of the ordinary Nigerian has become a norm and a positive value.

It’s foolhardy to rejoice at President Yar’Adua ailing health, after all, none of us can predict or dictate what happens to us the next minute. Nigerians, honestly don’t need this one sided and sentimental style of politics called “politics of rotation”. If PDP doesn’t know, at least those of its members that have conscience and a good sense of judgment should have known the truth.

If for no other reason, at least for the mere fact that, for over forty years, rotational politics has taken us nowhere. It really doesn’t matter, who rules Nigeria, whether a Northerner or Southerner, what should matter is good governance and not political propaganda and sycophancy. Those who have succeeded in rotating themselves in government for over forty years, should have been wise enough to realize that, even though there’s no revolution, what they’ve amassed for those endless and hopeless reign, can take care of their third generation.

Rather than wait, for the wind of change to disgrace them out of office, it is better for them to bury their faces in shame and quit the political scene quietly. The wrath of God is fast coming and when it gets there, the actors will no longer have a hiding place and their cohorts/sycophants will abandon them to their fates.

We all know that, in every bit of rumour, fact elements abound. Again, many Nigerians know the position of the lapses ridden constitution, so the noises coming from the PDP circles and the remorseless cabals about Vice President – Goodluck Jonathan being compelled to resign, and of course, the declaration of 9-day prayer! AsoRock not being vacant, sinks clearly in the ears and minds of Nigerians.

But there’s a limit to everything.

Those who mean well for Nigeria, should quit talking and confront these cabals, who tell lies even on oath, who have toiled with our future for countless years. They should be told about empathy, and the fact that nothing last forever except change and that God is watching everyone of us. Thus, the fear of God, will herald the wisdom that will save them from the wrath or sledge hammer hanging in the air. Rather than campaign or lobby for who occupies the seat in AsoRock, we should rather pray for Mr. President because, whatever happens to him will affect every Nigerian.

Indeed a situation where Nigerians don’t have a say in the determination of the affairs of the state by true representation, spell danger for our unity and development. The choice of liberating Nigeria from evil men is a collective and compulsory task. If we can’t take the initiative by telling our parents, uncles, friends, associates, party members and “representatives” the gospel truth, then we had better quit complaining and shouting and do the politics of rotation instead.

Icha us a guest to the Edior

Clement Icha

News

Rivers Govt Hails Anglican Church’s Role In Peace, Development

Published

1 day ago

May 18, 2026

The Tide

The Rivers State Government has commended the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) for its outstanding contributions to the development of Rivers State, particularly in the areas of peacebuilding, education, healthcare, and moral development.
Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, stated that the Church has remained a dependable partner in promoting peace, unity, justice, moral discipline, and social harmony across society.
The Governor, who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Dagogo Wokoma, made the remarks during the thanksgiving service marking the 30th Anniversary and First Session of the 11th Synod of the Diocese of Niger Delta North, held at St. Peter’s Anglican Church on Sunday.
Governor Fubara described the Synod’s theme, “Kingdom Advancement: The Priority of Every Believer,” as timely and relevant, considering the prevailing realities in society.
According to him, the Church continues to play a vital role in shaping societal values and inspiring hope among citizens.
“The Church remains a vital partner in promoting peace, unity, justice, and moral discipline. Its role in shaping values and inspiring hope cannot be overemphasized,” he stated.
The Governor further acknowledged the Anglican Communion’s contributions in education, healthcare delivery, youth empowerment, humanitarian services, and spiritual guidance across communities in Rivers State.
“The Rivers State Government appreciates the invaluable contributions of the Anglican Communion in education, healthcare, youth development, humanitarian support, and spiritual guidance. Your impact across communities in Rivers State continues to strengthen families and promote peaceful coexistence among our people,” he added.
Governor Fubara reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to building a peaceful, united, and prosperous Rivers State where all citizens can thrive irrespective of religion, ethnicity, or social background.
He also urged the Synod to continue praying for sustainable development and progress in Rivers State and Nigeria at large.
Earlier in his sermon, the Guest Minister, Joseph Olushola, spoke on the topic, “Kingdom Investment and Internal Rewards,” urging Christians to remain faithful stewards of God’s blessings and committed to advancing God’s kingdom through service and generosity.
The cleric emphasized that believers are custodians of the virtues and resources entrusted to them by God, stressing that divine rewards are based on faithfulness and impact rather than material possessions.

News

Shell, MAN Back Rivers’ Drive For Expanded Gas Supply To Industries

Published

1 day ago

May 18, 2026

The Tide

The Shell Nigeria Gas Limited, in partnership with the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), has reaffirmed support for efforts to expand gas distribution infrastructure in Rivers State as part of initiatives aimed at improving access to affordable, cleaner and more reliable energy for industries across the South-South region.
The commitment was highlighted during the SNG–MAN Business Forum held in Port Harcourt, where stakeholders from the industrial and public sectors examined the role of natural gas in driving industrialisation, boosting local production and strengthening energy security.
Speaking at the forum on behalf of the Managing Director of Shell Nigeria Gas Limited, the company’s Head of Gas Distribution, Mr. Chukwuka Amos Ejesi, described natural gas as a critical component of Nigeria’s energy mix and a key driver of sustainable industrial growth.
According to him, Nigeria’s gas development agenda has reached a stage where policy direction must be matched with practical implementation capable of addressing the energy challenges confronting manufacturers.
He noted that pipeline gas offers industries a cleaner, more dependable and cost-effective energy alternative capable of supporting uninterrupted operations, reducing emissions and improving production efficiency.
“Gas is the backbone of manufacturing, and we are encouraged by the growing recognition among stakeholders of the need for cleaner and more reliable energy solutions,” he said.
Ejesi stressed the need for sustained collaboration among energy providers, government institutions and industrial stakeholders to maximise the country’s gas resources for economic development.
He added that improved gas infrastructure would strengthen manufacturing value chains, enhance productivity and promote more competitive industrial operations across Rivers State and the wider South-South region.
Participants at the forum also emphasised the importance of expanding energy infrastructure as a pathway to unlocking industrial capacity, reducing operating costs and promoting sustainable industrial development.
Representing Governor Siminalayi Fubara, the Director-General of the Rivers State Investment Promotion Agency, Dr. Chamberlain Peterside, reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to partnering with private sector investors to revitalise industrial activities in the state.
He identified key projects targeted under the initiative to include the revival of the Ahoada Industrial Park, the New Port City project and the proposed Bonny Industrial Park, all aimed at stimulating economic growth and expanding industrial opportunities along the Bonny corridor.
According to the governor, the long-term vision is to position Rivers State as a leading manufacturing hub in Southern Nigeria through strategic public-private partnerships.
Governor Fubara also commended Shell Nigeria Gas and MAN for sustaining engagements geared towards improving industrial energy access, noting that gas infrastructure development remains central to the state’s economic recovery plans.
He further observed that the gas sector presents enormous opportunities for economic growth, especially as global energy systems continue to shift towards cleaner energy sources.
The governor called on stakeholders to work collectively towards developing a practical and sustainable gas framework capable of supporting the state’s industrial and energy development objectives.

By; Kevin Nengia

News

Odu Charges Newlyweds To Build Marriage On Love

Published

1 day ago

May 18, 2026

The Tide

Rivers State Deputy Governor, Prof. Ngozi Nma Odu, has charged newlywed couples to build their marriages on the virtues of love and submission as taught in the Word of God.
Prof. Odu gave the charge at the wedding ceremony of Amblessed Favour Sunny-Cookey and Samson Jesuganji at Lifegate Power Ministries, Dominion Cathedral, in Port Harcourt on Saturday, 16th May 2026.
The Deputy Governor congratulated the couple on beginning a new phase of life together and prayed for God’s blessings upon their union, noting that the couple had been raised by godly parents and encouraged them to uphold the Christian values instilled in them.
Referring to the sermon delivered during the ceremony, Prof. Odu emphasized that the principles of love and submission remain fundamental to a successful marriage.
According to her, genuine love reflects the nature of God, stressing that love should remain the foundation of the couple’s relationship as they journey through life together.
Prof. Odu further prayed for enduring peace, happiness, and progress in the home, expressing confidence that the marriage would continue to flourish under God’s guidance.
The Deputy Governor also commended the families of the couple for their support and upbringing, while urging the newlyweds to always remember the significance of the day and the commitment they had made before God and witnesses.
In his sermon at the wedding, the Founder and Presiding Pastor of Salvation Ministries, Pastor David Ibiyeomie, stated that marriage did not originate from Western culture, traditions, or human ideas, but from God, whom he described as the “manufacturer” of marriage.
According to the cleric, couples seeking lasting and peaceful homes must rely on biblical principles rather than societal trends or assumptions.
He explained that many marital crises and rising divorce rates stem from ignorance and failure to apply scriptural teachings in family life.
Drawing from the biblical parable of building a house on a rock, Pastor Ibiyeomie said the Word of God remains the only solid foundation capable of sustaining marriages through challenges and difficult times.
He noted that marriage naturally comes with unexpected realities and pressures, stressing that religious ceremonies or cultural practices alone are not enough to sustain a home without proper understanding of God’s instructions.
The pastor further warned that ignorance of scripture remains one of the greatest weapons against believers, urging Christians to study and practice the Word of God rather than merely attending church services.
It would be recalled that the bride is the daughter of Pastor Sunny Cookey the Founder and Presiding Pastor of Lifegate Ministries. The Ceremony had lots of Ministers in attendance which includes Apostle Zilly Aggrey, Pastor George Izunwa, and Bishop Winston Iwo