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Opinion

How Overwhelming Can It Be?

Published

4 years ago

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Sometimes one wonders if some government officials in Nigeria live in the same world with other citizens or their own world is different.
This is because they are often disconnected from the realities and hardly see things from the same perspective as others. Even when every other reasonable person is seeing black, this set of people will claim that the colour is white and will do everything possible to defend their position. At all tiers of government one can see these political office holders and government officials defending the indefensible all in the name of protecting their bosses or their jobs or what?
Last Sunday, former President, Olusegun Obasanjo while reacting to the recent Kaduna train attack said that President Mohammadu Buhari’s administration had been overwhelmed by the security situation in the country and called for more concerted efforts towards tackling the situation.
A few hours after that, the Minister for Information, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, who like “the Presidency” must react to any criticism of the current government, no matter how constructive, took a swipe at Obasanjo, saying that the security situation in the country is far from being overwhelming. As usual, he reeled out all his perceived achievements of the administration, particularly in the area of security – how the government wants to install surveillance and monitoring systems on the Abuja-Kaduna, Lagos-Ibadan and Warri-Itakpe rail tracks and stuffs like that.
I searched the dictionary for the meaning of overwhelming and it says, “very great in amount, profuse, enormous, immense…” Is the minister telling us that the daily killings in the country which has resulted in the loss of many Nigerians is not yet enormous? We hear stories, watch video clips of Southern Kaduna people being massacred every day, the same thing in Niger State; villages are being sacked by terrorists; people can no longer freely travel by plane, train or bus for fear of being kidnapped or killed by the terrorists; Mondays have remained a ghost day in the South East because hoodlums want it so and someone says the security situation is not overwhelming? Pray, how overwhelming can it be?
On Tuesday, no fewer than 11 soldiers, some vigilante men and some civilians were reportedly killed by suspected terrorists in a military base at Birnin-Gwari Local Government Area of Kaduna State. The ragtag terrorists were said to have stormed the facility in several motor bikes, engaged the soldiers in a gun battle for more than two hours before eventually subduing them (soldiers), razing the troops Armored Personnel Carrier and carting away weapons.
Many people have lost their fathers, brothers, husbands and uncles in the military to the endless, senseless battle against terrorism. Just last year a friend of mine was made a widow at a very young age because her husband, a colonel in the army was killed by Boko Haram terrorists while fighting in Maiduguri, Borno State. How many people have remained refugees in this country for many years? How many citizens are dying of hunger today either because their farm lands have been seized by herders and terrorists or they are afraid of going to their farms for fear of being killed, kidnapped, maimed or raped? What about the hundreds of school children that have been kidnapped, some fortunately regained their freedom after huge ransom were paid by their families and others like Leah Sharibu still in captivity till date? And someone is in the comfort of his office or home being maintained by the people’s money, claiming that the situation is not overwhelming?
Was he not the same person that boasted during a media briefing a day preceding Monday, March 28 Kaduna train attack that, “ we are proud that in our time Nigerians are once again able to travel by trains in total comfort and safety.”                                                                                                  That was how the same minister a few days ago blamed the main opposition party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who handed over power to the current All Progressives Congress-led government over seven years ago for the nation’s present economic woes.
I mean, when will all these denials and blame games stop? How will Lai Mohammed be made to know that Nigerians are tired of reading the achievements of the current administration on the pages of the newspapers or hearing them from the government’s mouth pieces without the citizens having a feel of it? How can someone make him realise some Nigerians found loopholes in the former President Goodluck Jonathan’s administration and that paved a way for the APC, who claimed to have a magic wand for all Nigeria’s problems?
What the citizens expect from the ruling party is to make the country better instead of making it worse. The country is more of a hell for many citizens right now.
What the leaders at both local, state and federal levels need to do now is to urgently find lasting solutions to our numerous problems and quit playing politics with people’s lives.
All along, some people have posited that the authorities in the country are not bereft of ideas on how to put an end to the lingering security challenges. That, I believe. The Nigerian army is adjudged one of the best in Africa given their exploits in many foreign missions in West Africa and other parts of the continent. Again, going by the way the leader of Independent People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu was arrested in faraway Kenya, and the stories behind the arrest and detention of the Yoruba activist, Sunday Igboho in Cotonou, Benin Republic, it is obvious that the Nigerian security agencies are not lacking in tactics and effective intelligence gathering. Will they not then know how to deal with the real people that have been terrorising the country for several years, should those in power sincerely deem it fit.
During a television interview a few days ago, a member of Northern Elders Forum, Prof. Usman Yusuf, aptly captured the attitude of some of our leaders to the security problems in the country. Reacting to the question on the threat by the Governor of Kaduna State, Nasir El-Rufai, that he and the governors of the North West may resort to hiring mercenaries from outside the country to come and fight the terrorists in their zone if the Nigerian soldiers fail to do the work, he called it political grandstanding. According to him El-Rufai knows that he has no power to carry out his threat, that he has had security issues in his state but he never does anything about it. And that all he does is talk and talk without taking any action. There under his watch, some ethnic groups have been constantly lamenting about the move by the governor’s ethnic group to wipe them out of the surface of the earth, yet no concrete action is seen to be taken to salvage the situation.
As it is with El-Rufai so it is with our leaders on different levels, particularly the federal government.  How many times have the citizens been told that Boko Haram has been defeated, only for us to hear of more deadly acts carried out by the same group? Can we count the number of times our leaders would talk tough after an attack by herders, bandits, gangs, kidnappers or whatever they choose to call them, claiming that the criminals will be decisively dealt with and nothing happens in the end? One analyst said the government is in love with the terrorists in the north and is romancing with them and that is what it seems to be.

By: Calista Ezeaku

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Opinion

Beyond Physical Intimacy In Relationship 

Published

1 week ago

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June 17, 2026

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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
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Opinion

Yahoo Culture And Nigeria’s Moral Fabric

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1 week ago

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June 17, 2026

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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
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Opinion

Good Health Through Socrates’  Prescription 

Published

2 weeks ago

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June 8, 2026

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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
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