Sycophancy on the World's Political Platform

DETESTING THE ERA OF SYCOPHANCY ON THE WORLD’S POLITICAL PLATFORM

Brethren, truth is like oil; no matter how much water you pour on it, it’ll always float. Whilst, anger is like throwing a stone into the river; it creates bigger ripples. Don’t forget, ‘truth and anger’ remain the two most potent tools in the above quotes. We shall be utilizing them as long as this edition lasts.

I’ve always known that, the search for happiness is one of the chief sources of unhappiness. Whatever the situation might look like, I sincerely pray that we would never encounter the pain of death. It’s too painful to feel the pain of death and yet be alive; there’s no agony worse than the pain of death. Frankly, there was a fateful day I experienced such agony. And on that very day, I grew up, I grew old and I died. Though, I later resurrected. Thanks to the Paraclete for the miraculous intervention.

At this juncture, I wish to put up a tangible question. If a dude discovers a girl, a virgin to be precise, and subsequently uncovers her, do you think the chap is covered? Try to unravel the puzzle and answer the question as well.

In fact, let me hit the nail on the head; enough of this beating about the bush. After all, my immunity is assured, therefore I mustn’t be timid. So, it’s high time I condemned impunity. Then, if I’m to write busily, I must face today’s topic squarely.

Sycophancy is an act in which one flatters someone who’s more important than he is, in order to attract favour to himself. In other words, a sycophant is a person who tries to win favour by flattery.

If I must be specific and sincere, then I would boldly and loudly say that, sycophancy is as old as the world. If you’re a historian, or if you’ve been following histories aptly, you would comprehend where I’m actually coming from having stated that sycophancy is as old as the world, if not older.

Believe me, I took my precious and gifted time to undergo a thorough and severe research regarding the genesis/origin of sycophancy, and lately, I succeeded in coming up with the view that the cankerworm is not unconnected to the world’s creation. Maybe, you should initiate yours; I mean, your personal research as regards the genesis of sycophancy, and see where it would lead you to. Nevertheless, that’s not where my paramount concern for today lies. Let’s ride on!

From my singular perspective, sycophancy could be found virtually in all aspects of our endeavours, as it had been existing since the world began or was created. It’s no longer news, according to the Christian religion, that God almost lost His seat as a Supreme being to Lucifer due to sycophancy, which is not unlike that of Jesus whose crucifixion was not unconnected to Judas Iscariot’s destructive ingenuity known as betrayal; just to mention but a few. Presently, the aspect that tremendously beats my psyche is the alarming occurrence of the ill in the world’s political arena, which has recently consumed/sucked unquantifiable innocent blood.

How can one suck up to someone in authority just to achieve his/her selfish desire without minding the number of innocent souls that stand to kiss the ground as a result of such ruthless and barbaric act; for crying out loud, where have our consciences traveled to? Honestly, I’m becoming rancorous with regard to this ugly anomaly because it’s affecting everyone, and it’s widely ubiquitous.

I’m appealing to anyone who indulges in or drives pleasure witnessing such dubious and dastardly act to please turn a new leaf because it would definitely take him/her nowhere. Sycophancy is insincerity and blasphemy; thus, it’s simply evil irrespective of its mode or nature. We can’t continue to fetch up at a deadly scene in every moment of our lives.

The funniest part is that, the idea of betrayal lying in your mind, if being disclosed, would seem far-fetch to the person you intend to hurt/destroy because he/she believes that he has given you the best so far. So, why would you have the intention of plotting the downfall of someone or a fellow who truly wants the best for you?

I wish to use this avenue to urge the respective non-governmental societies to join the activists in this cause. They ought to from time-to-time organize or sponsor seminars to educate and sensitize the minds of their members and the public in general, on the dangers that await such blasphemous and bloody act/habit. The religious institutions are also expected to follow suit. Sensitization is the best nail in the coffin of sycophancy. And, the crusade (sensitization) must not be a one-man show.

I also want to use this avenue to tender my appeal to the parliaments in all the countries in the world. They should individually enact a law forbidding such ungodly and repugnant idiosyncrasy in their respective states. On this note, I suggest that any alleged offender should be meant to face a thorough prosecution in a formidable and reputable criminal court; and a capital penalty ought to be issued to the person in question, if found guilty. Most importantly, such routine must be adhered to or practiced with absolute strictness and sincerity, and must be followed with a dogged approach; in this regard, an impeccable panel comprising people of unquestionable characters is expected to be set up by the concerned government to function as a watchdog.

Please brethren, always endeavour to stick to the truth, even if you’re in high dudgeon with someone over a certain provocation you incurred from him/her. Do not let anger becloud your sense of reasoning. Apply logic in everything you do or intend to do. There’s always room for forgiveness regardless of the gravity of the offence/blunder. Remember, to err is human, whilst to forgive is divine. Embrace divinity at all times because these protracted scenarios are constituting intense pain of death in all nooks and crannies. Why the treachery, if I may ask? Mind you, no matter how long you put up such hidden and sinister crusade, it’s obvious that the truth will surely float someday.

Let’s be reasonable and sagacious for once. We need not grudge our fellow ones their mindless pleasures. I’m afraid, if we continue like this, the future of our entire generation would be colossally at stake. Think about it!

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FDN NWAOZOR

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Interdependence of Science-Oriented Disciplines

INTERDEPENDENCE OF VARIOUS DISCIPLINES IN SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
The relation between different disciplines in Science and Technology has been a thing of enormous interest in the world at large. The aforementioned coexistence of these disciplines ought to be regarded as a worthwhile phenomenon.

On the above note, we’re going to look into some of them such as Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Electronics Engineering, Materials Tech, Polymer Science, Communication Technology, Surveying, Civil Engineering, Regional Planning, inter alia.

Going through the above concise list, one can boldly say that, Mathematics is the basis of Sciences because other disciplines are dependent on it. Suffice to say, Physics known as the most crucial and potent aspect of Science and Technology or otherwise the bedrock of engineering, cannot be comprehended without the knowledge of mathematics. In the same vein, Chemistry as a discipline can’t be dealt with completely, without referring to mathematics.

Generally, engineering as a science oriented field cannot be understood or appreciated without the knowledge of physics or chemistry, or both. That is, virtually all the disciplines in engineering requires a knowledge in physics, some requires a knowledge in chemistry, whilst some requires a knowledge in both physics and chemistry.

While exhibiting the skills/talents acquired in any area of science and technology, we would still experience/witness the interwoven nature of the disciplines in question. For instance, electronic engineers or technologists make use of the items manufactured by materials engineers in their various construction works. After the constructions, the plastic items produced by the polymer engineers/scientists are used for the casing of the already constructed devices or machines. More so, communication and sound engineers make use of the gadgets made by electronic engineers in their respective endeavours; and if any of the devices eventually brakes down while in use, it would be repaired by an electronic engineer/technician.

Furthermore, a mechanical engineer that constructs cars (vehicles) and other engine made devices needs an electrical engineer or knowledge of electrical engineering to construct the electrical phase of the vehicle, for the construction to be completed or for the job to be well done. On other hand, in any structural work, a land surveyor presents (analyzes) the picture of the land or area to be used, while a regional planner elaborates on how the structure would be located on the site. The architectural work would be done by an architect, whilst the design of the proposed building would be carried out by a civil engineer. Lastly, a quantity surveyor quantifies the monetary involvement, after which the job would be executed by a building technologist.

In the medical field, a medical doctor cannot carry out his/her duty accurately without referring the patient to a medical laboratory scientist. In other words, prior to any treatment to be performed by a doctor, a ‘lab’ scientist must carry out the necessary test(s) on the patient to determine the exact nature of the illness.

Thus, for an effective and efficient execution of duty in any given field in existence, one must not take the issue of interdependence of the various disciplines that make up the field for granted. Summarily, the importance of the coexistence of disciplines that constitute a certain field/area of study or life can never be overemphasized. It's interesting; isn't it? Think about it!



______________________

FDN NWAOZOR

frednwaozor@gmail.com

twitter@fdnnwaozor

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FDN

Recent political tempo in Anambra

RECENT POLITICAL TEMPO IN ANAMBRA: MY CANDID NOTE TO ANAMBRARIANS

Brethren, thinking about the future is a form of escapism. And, escapist stories concentrate on pleasant issues and are often intended to entertain an audience rather than involve them in complex or severe themes. Furthermore, an escapist thinks a lot about imaginary things thereby paying less attention to issues at hand. Believe me, there’re more issues attached to life than we presume.

A long life retributive vendetta could be gruesome, but that shouldn’t call for pandemonium among the concerned citizenry, rather, it ought to create an avenue for profound meditation which would surely lead to absolute sanity. Of course, we all know that sanity remains the sole pathway to any proposed societal/individual growth.

Lest I forget, today’s edition focuses solely on Anambra which remains one of the ancient provinces in Nigeria, ‘the giant of Africa’. Currently, the province (state) in question is being faced with high political tempo in line with the forthcoming gubernatorial election scheduled to be held on November 16, 2013.

Few days ago, one of my old time friends who resides in Holland, whom happens to hail from Anambra State called me on phone to verify the exact countenance of the ancient state as regards the aforementioned election. Candidly, albeit humourously, I told him that the state was receiving intense maltreatment from its subjects due to variety of interests.

By origin, I’m from Imo State, or a fully fledged Imolite; but interestingly almost twenty two percent (22%) of my Nigerian friends, if I’m not mistaken, hail from Anambra State, and this was what prompted my innermost motivation to present this piece. Above all, I’ve known right from my childhood, or as a toddler, that Anambra is a neighbouring state to my home state (Imo); thus, both are like sisters from the same mother. In other words, whatever affects either of the states, negatively or positively, has the tendency to affect the other. Let’s ride on!

According to the records lying on the desk of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the election in question would be accommodating four substantive contestants ranging from Chris Ngige, Ifeanyi Uba, Willie Obiano to Tony Nwoye whom are affiliated to the All Progressives Congress (APC), Labour Party (LP), All Progressive Grand Alliance (APGA) and the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP) respectively.

There had been numerous interests amongst the electorates regarding the personalities involved. This attribute is natural due to individual differences, because you shouldn’t expect everyone to dance to the tune of a particular candidate. But, the devastating aspect of these diverse interests phenomenon is that, a lot of the people concerned has chosen to embrace escapism thereby throwing realism to the dustbin.

In some quarters, I learnt the people are not widely in acceptance with the APC which remains Ngige’s political umbrella, whilst some of them believe Uba can trade on them if given the chance because they’re of the view that he possesses the mentality of a typical ‘Igbo’ tycoon who believes his money can acquire anything he desires. On the other hand, a faction believes Obiano is ‘Peter Obi’s boy’ therefore his paramount stride if he becomes the governor would be to protect Obi’s interests which would resurface the evil occurrence of god-fatherism in the state; and above all, it (the faction) sees the candidate (Obiano) as an inexperienced politician. Among all, considering PDP as one of the running parties, most of the electorates are immensely occupied with a view that Nwoye’s emergence as the state’s governor would create another avenue for the party’s reign of impunity as it’s allegedly noted by most Nigerians.

At this juncture, I sincerely urge the entire Anambrarians to wake up from their respective slumbers and embrace reality to the fullness if they truly want a genuine transition in Anambra come November 16. On this note, everyone is expected to pocket his/her selfish desire and reconsider what the state as a whole stands to benefit from anyone who happens to succeed the present governor. Thus, the interest and well-being of the entire state ought to be placed first before any other can come up.

For the above note to be upheld, the electorates must concentrate on individuality of the candidates’ idiosyncrasies, therefore, they’re expected to reason and vote as individualists. They ought to individually, not collectively, access the accomplishments and unique qualities coupled with background of each of the contestants; and while doing this, must not allow him/herself to be influenced by any external force/tool. So, you shouldn’t be an inertia.

Brethren, let’s inculcate the habit of embracing profound meditation especially at this moment of political trial. Don’t be an accomplice, and never you allow that miscreant to succeed. The ball is wholly lying in your court. Mind you, do not be deceived by a façade. Think about it, while I continue praying for Anambra!

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COMR. FRED NWAOZOR
frednwaozor@gmail.com
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Inflation on the Rampage

THE UNTOLD NATURE OF INFLATION IN NIGERIA


Have you ever taken time to study the Nigeria’s market sector? Well, as for me, I’d severally taken my precious time to digest the sector with respect to the galloping pattern of the prices of goods and services, inter alia. Without mincing words, the last time I checked, the scenario was quite more devastating and alarming. An observation/research that almost took my life due to a social haemorrhage I abruptly suffered from. Thank God for my resilient posture afterwards.

Lest I forget, do you like smiling? As for me, a sincere smile remains the greatest idiosyncrasy that would be witnessed or dished out by mankind. But, try to imagine a situation whereby your smile ceases to showcase or has been seized by something or someone else. Apparently, such could be deadly if I’m not mistaken. Pardon the digression, though, it was consequential. Let’s ride on!

Previously, I did a work on ‘sadism’. And, in that piece I unequivocally stated that, sadism is when one drives pleasure (excitement) seeing others being hurt, or, by hurting other people. I must tell you; what we’re yet to acknowledge is that, sadism could be classified into several numbers. In this edition, I sincerely promise, I’ll take time to throw more light on that. Please don’t be in haste because we’ve a long distance to cover as regards this edition.

Penultimate two weeks, I got a message on my e-mail address/account from one of my female fans who happened to mail from Aba in Abia State, Nigeria. After her appreciation both in retrospect and in anticipation in regard to my writing prowess and stride, she urged me to do a work on the ongoing abrupt rise of commodities in our various markets, with the view that it was a deadly scene. Honestly, she sounded bitterly concerning the anomaly. You needed to see the mood of the message; it bore asperity.

Brethren, as you can see, we’re discussing the ugly trend (inflation). I wish to commence with a finite and concise definition. Inflation is a general increase/rise in the prices of goods and services in a country. Here, my paramount interest lies in the general causes of the market ill, taking Nigeria as a case study.

Firstly, inflation could be instigated by high fuel price. A rise in petroleum products is a pathway to inflation since all the existing vehicles use all the products as the case may be, as their energy source. It’s no longer news that the commodities in the markets are being transported from one place to another before they arrive at their final destinations; and the transportation in question is by the aid of the aforementioned vehicles. So, if the prices of fuel and/or other petroleum products rise, it would as well negatively affect the cost of transportation thereby resulting to general rise in prices of all commodities.

Secondly, high import duties fee had also been noted as one of the most causes of inflation in Nigeria. In most cases, the charges imposed on imported goods are at the high side. The price at which the goods are sold to the final consumers bears the consequence of such ruthless act. This syndrome is often attributed to lack of patriotism amongst the consumers, which mostly leads to low Gross Domestic/National Product (GDP/GNP)

Thirdly, the negative impact of lack of power supply on Nigeria’s industrialization sector cannot be overemphasized. Suffice to say that, the anomaly has caused an enormous damage. Often times, the existing firms in the country operate with their respective power generating sets (machines). The prices of the manufactured goods accommodate the burden of such discouraging scenario.

Inter alia, greed cannot be left out when discussing the issue of inflation in Nigeria, and other African countries in general. In numerous occasions, the sellers dubiously impose overwhelming prices on the goods just to suit their selfish interest. This dubious act of the sellers, if properly checked, had constituted the greatest nuisance in our markets.

At this juncture, I urge the concerned authorities to do something drastic towards putting this menace to the history book. To begin with; by now, Nigeria ought not to be discussing incessant rise in fuel price. This simply means, we’re still living in the past. On the other hand, fees attached to import duties should be made affordable or reduced to the barest minimum by the apt authority; I know, the Nigerian Custom Service is answerable to such actions, therefore, it has a greater role to play here. In the same spirit, the Nigeria’s power sector ought to be wholly privatized to create room for rivalry which would ensure greater productivity in the process.

Above all, considering greed, I suggest that a distinct agency should be set up by the government to continually monitor the prices of goods and services in our existing markets. I’m also of the view that, the Consumers’ Protection Commission (CPC) has a very cogent impact to make in this aspect. In the same vein, the law makers should enact a formidable law stating that anyone caught in any dubious act as regards inflation ought to be arraigned by a mobile court and if found guilty, should be meant to face a capital punishment.

All hands must be on deck to ensure that, this absurd aberration that had succeeded in seizing our smiles is brutally murdered, because the panacea lies in our hands. Or, would you like your precious smile to cease for eternity? Think about it!

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COMR. FRED NWAOZOR

frednwaozor@gmail.com

'Sorting' on our Campuses

‘SORTING’: SOCIO-ECONOMIC VIRUS ON OUR CAMPUSES

Grammatically, sorting can be defined as an act that involves the arrangement of things into groups according to their common features or characteristics. On other hand, in respect to the above topic, it’s a way through which the tertiary schools’ students give what they have, either in kind or cash, in exchange for what they want or desire.

For many years now, this ugly trend has been occurring on our various campuses and has created a very big vacuum on our socio-economic platform. The cankerworm can occur through so many avenues based on the lecturer’s choice(s).

Most times, the concerned students would be ask to pay some certain amount through the Personal Assistant (PA) to the lecturer. Or, in some cases, the lecturer may decide to collect the money through the course/class representative (‘rep’). The method of disclosing the P.A, whom would definitely be a student at the higher level, to the students might be through a direct or indirect means. The lecturer may ask the concerned students or any student that happens to meet him for ‘sorting’ to see a particular student by disclosing his/her name, department and level to them. Or sometimes, if the lecturer wants to make a general and indirect notice, he’d never leave a class without mentioning the name of a student at the upper level as the best student in his course; on this note, the informed students would definitely like to meet the so-called best student with the interest of finding out the secret behind making a good grade in the lecturer’s course.

Then, the route through which the students dream would be actualized might take different dimensions after he/she must had paid the required sum of money; and such payment would be made few days after the exam has been taken. The exam would be written for the student(s) in absentia on a different answer script(s) by the PA(s) to the lecturer, after they (the problem students) must had sat for it during the usual exam period. The purpose of sitting for the exam is to ensure that his/their name(s) is/are written on the attendance list, and also, to avoid any future problem/query. In some cases, if there are insufficient answer scripts, the concerned students would be asked to steal some of the unused answer scripts at the examination hall during or immediately after the exam. This method of writing the exam on a different exam script is to make a tangible reference in future; peradventure, if any problem occurs, the lecturer could prove beyond any reasonable doubt that the students in question deserved the grade allocated to them. And, the advantage of this routine to the serious students is that, they’d stand to make the respective grades they deserve because other/their scripts would never be tampered, rather, the lecturer would take time to mark all the scripts. But if a lackadaisical lecturer is involved, he may decide to allocate excellent grades to the students that had sorted for his course, without rewriting the correct answers on different answer scripts in their respective names, thereby allocating any low grade of his choice to other (the serious) students without minding to mark their scripts or any script whatsoever. In this methodology, the so-called lecturer would only participate in what could be regarded as a rough marking without considering the consequence of his actions. Such lecturer may only not be seen as an unserious staff, but also, ought to be seen as a callous person.

Secondly, sometimes a corrupt lecturer may decide to delay the students’ results before forwarding them to the apt quarters, or in some occasions, he might give an excuse that, the results are missing. By so doing, the students would be propelled to meet him either individually or collectively, or better still, through the course ‘rep’. in the process, the students would be informed that, their performances were very bad; on that note, each of them would be asked to pay a certain fee to ensure that better and excellent grades are allocated to them.

Thirdly, lecturers filled with perversion end-up molesting their female students in order to sleep with them in exchange for a good grade in their respective courses. This aspect of ‘sorting’ has taken a new dimension at recent time; the lecturers don’t only molest or threaten the corrupt/indecent female students, but they go a long way threatening the decent (morally dressed) ones in their midst just for the purpose of reducing their ego. This’s extremely blasphemous and perilous.

Moreover, this (sorting) is no longer attributed to a lecturer that teaches/lectures a certain course but it’s also attributable to one (a lecturer) whom advises/counsels any of the classes of a particular department he/she belongs, or otherwise known as a Class Adviser. In some departments, the Class Adviser(s) upgrades a student’s GPA/CGPA as the case may be, after he/she must had paid a certain sum of money required by the lecturer (class adviser). The most disgusting aspect of it is that, it has become a joint venture or ‘business’ that, in most cases it appears to be a deal between the Head of Department (HOD) and the Class Adviser.

This menace has contributed immensely to the rapid increase of quarter baked graduates littering all over the nook and cranny. Most of these graduates cannot even write a letter of employment, talk less of defending what they claim to have studied or acquired. Thus, most are unemployable and this syndrome has led to the alarming rise in vices or quackery. Needless to say that, it’s the sole reactant of the daily occurrence of inconsequential industrial/office hazards. These dismays had generated an indelible decay in our economic system.

Paying a close attention to this collusion (sorting), we’d find out that nobody is to be exempted while dishing out blames. Suffice to say that, anybody could be held responsible.

The school authorities have failed to look into the paramount cause of this aberration which should have been the preliminary or fundamental aspect of their activities/policies, because, any school that is known for the production of low quality graduates would be recognized by the public as a citadel that’s only interested in moneymaking; therefore, it would be better the school in question does not exist. Sometimes when a lecturer is reported to the school authorities by a student for his selfish attitude, the student may end-up losing his/her studentship. This’s appalling and disgusting!

On the other hand, most parents no longer give attention to their children’s social or moral lives, rather, they believe the children’s only plight is money. On that note they keep on sending money to them once they asked for it without minding how often this is done and how much is involved. This anomaly is often observed amongst wealthy parents/guardians. Even, at recent time, most secondary school students no longer sit for or write SSCE exams by themselves, rather, their parents would sponsor/encourage the hiring of ‘machinery’ for them. Due to all these lackadaisical attitudes of most parents, the students at the higher institutions would be left with no other choice or any option than to depend solely on sorting. And the female ones would end-up seducing their lecturers by dressing half-naked or putting on diaphanous clothes to their lecture classes.

Inter alia, the only object of most lecturers at the citadel of higher learning is just to make money, thereby overlooking the basic aim of the citadel in question. Frankly speaking, the sole interest of this set of lecturers is to sell their textbooks or handouts to their students, through their course rep(s); and this guarantees an automatic pass mark or excellent grade as the case may be. The lecturers in question may only appear in the lecture-class once or twice in a semester; and subsequently his textbooks/handouts would be introduced towards the examination period, so the students would be left with no choice. Even if the students decide to create a choice, he/she might be faced with a threat that, anyone whom fails to purchase the book/material would definitely fail the course. And to make the mandate look severe, a list of those whom purchased the material would be taken by the course rep and forwarded to the lecturer as instructed by him/her. To the lecturers involved, this is the most mature aspect of sorting, because it bears less stress/risk.

The appointment of some persons that never passed through a university/polytechnic or as the case may be, as members of the governing body/council of the respective institution by the government should also be seen as a barrier, because these appointees may not be familiar with the nature of activities/contingencies that are often encountered or likely to occur at the place(s) assigned to them.

The government, through the universities/polytechnics/colleges’ regulatory bodies should, from time to time visit the schools with the primary aim of ascertaining how the standard or ethics of the respective schools are maintained/observed by the employees/staff. Also, the Senate of the various schools should be assiduous and sincere in terms of employment to ensure that, standard and reliable lecturers or officers are employed. The Heads of Departments should also ensure that the class/course reps are democratically elected by the concerned students and not to be appointment by any lecturer or person whosoever.

On the other hand, the decent lecturers in the midst ought to be extremely conscious at all times. Most lecturers entrust so much confidence/responsibility on the course reps, that, they could leave their respective offices for elsewhere while a course rep is still in the office sorting out one of two things that has to do with his/her class. And in such process, he/she (course rep) could do anything to please/satisfy his/her selfish desire. These lecturers should note that, the offices in question were allocated to them as an official apartment; so they ought to ensure that the place is being used officially as the rule stipulates.

And, the serious minded and responsible students who fall victim to this circumstance (sorting) should always bear in mind that, nothing is above God; if you encounter such hurdle, go on your knees and seek the face of the Almighty instead of succumbing to a mere cheap threat. Above all, you are required to report such ruthless lecturer/officer to the apt quarters; don’t be deterred by anything whatsoever while taking such step because it’s your duty to act aptly.

More so, parents ought to as well endeavour to devote more of their time to their children’s/wards’ social and moral lives right from their childhood till their adulthood. They should find time to visit them at their respective place of learning to see how they’re faring. Thus, they should not solely depend/rely on phone calls which is often the tradition among most parents/guardians.

Brethren, we should all help to fight this virus that’s eating deep into our socio-economic system, so that, the country will not wake-up one morning to exclaim ‘Ebee woo!’ And to the students, always remember the famous saying, ‘As you lay your bed, so you lie on it.’ Believe me, it’s better late than never. Kindly turn a new leaf without further ado. Think about it!

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COMR. FRED NWAOZOR

frednwaozor@gmail.com

My Only Choice (Poem)

Professionalism in Journalism & Broadcasting

ENHANCING PROFESSIONALISM IN JOURNALISM AND BROADCASTING


Journalism is the job of collecting, writing and publishing news in newspapers and magazines, and on television and radio, while broadcasting is the act of sending out information by radio waves, so that it can be heard on the radio or seen on television. In other words, the former is the bedrock of the latter.

Both professions are interwoven, and had been existing for over the years. From my point of view, there’re certain issues that should be taken more seriously by the concerned professionals.

I shall begin with the issue of independence. Every practising journalist should emulate the habit of being independent; try to be yourself and don’t work to make a particular person(s) happy. Your paramount interest should be the joy of your audience or fans. Don’t work for money, rather let the reverse be the case.

On the other hand, each time you write or gather your report, try and listen to yourself. Ask yourself these questions: Is it the truth; and, will it be fair to all concerned? As you try to answer the question, promise to tell yourself nothing but the truth. Thus, you have to be sincere to your soul and mind. That’s where conscience comes in.

Confidence is another basic tool we must not forget. As a journalist, you must be courageous. Don’t be intimidated by mere threats, or don’t be scared of being threatened. Strictness should always be applied in your line of practice. And, while gathering your press report, don’t be shattered or deterred by people’s countenance. Be defensive at all times.

Most importantly, as a professional, you must abstain from gossip/propaganda. You shouldn’t take meaning from what the men of the underworlds or the laymen say, even if he happens to be your closest friend. But you can give a listening ear. Your focus/aim should be to give your audience what they need, and not what they want.

Though, sometimes their wants might correspond with their need, but you still need to depend on investigative reporting. Whatever information you receive, you still have to go an extra mile to find out the fact(s) behind the message. This’s a very great caution needed to uphold the recently approved Freedom of Information (FOI) law in Nigeria and such similar laws existing in other countries. We must say no to upheaval as we discharge our journalistic/writing prowess.

The editors are not left out. They also need to play a very vital role while applying their editorial skills or guidance. Bribery should be seen as a sadist or terror towards actualizing journalistic excellence. They must also be extremely independent. I must commend most of them; they’re really doing the job.

Please my fellow writers, let’s always apply diligence and caution in our respective endeavours; that is, in anything we write, do or say. If we see this as a priority, I bet you, the sky would always be our stepping stone; and we shall live to be honoured by all and sundry.

On the side of broadcasting which’s the product of journalism; the broadcasting firms should be independent in terms of power supply, most especially during news time. Even if there’s power supply from the national source, during the news time, they should switch over to their power generating sets. If possible, the power generators should be on as long as the station is open or available. This would drastically reduce the rate at which the broadcasters discharge apologies while in the life (transmission) studio. The above measure/approach is often required in a country where steady power supply is a mirage.

The culture of airing local news before the international ones should also be adhered to. Some of the broadcasting stations in most of the countries in the world are used to the reverse, and personally, I don’t think it’s fair to all concerned. We must learn to start from home before considering abroad.

The use of telecommunication gadgets, such as the mobile phones, in the transmission studios should be totally abolished because such act is an aberration. Most times, when news and other matters are being aired, a cell phone would be heard blaring at the background of the transmission studio (room) in use. This’s quite appalling! Even if a phone is eventually taken to such arena by the broadcaster, it should be switched off. One fateful day, I was listening to a very talented and educative programme over the radio, and along the line, a phone rang at the background. Immediately, I got disgusted and quit my interest. I believe most other people may also have such listening attitude.

The use of apology should not be undermined in event of lateness, mistake, or mispronunciation of words. ‘I beg your pardon’ might seem small or insignificant, but the truth is that, it makes a great sense (meaning) to the ears of your audience.

Airing of radio/television commercial jingles with respect to their languages ought to also be considered. A radio or television jingle built with a certain language ought to be aired when a programme of such language is on air or taking place. For instance, a jingle recorded with Igbo language should go on air when a programme of Igbo language is taking place, and not in the midst of a programme of English/Hausa language, or as the case may be.

Inter alia, both professionals (journalists/broadcasters) need to acknowledge the importance of punctuality. A gentleman of the press should arrive at the venue of an event before the stipulated time of the occasion; a second late could create a big loophole (lapse) in his/her reportage. In the same vein, a broadcaster whom was assigned or is supposed to air a particular news/programme ought to be at the studio at least thirty minutes prior to the news/programme time; he/she must take time to rehearse the news bulletin to ensure that accuracy becomes the case at the end of the day. This would also give the person in question more confidence/courage while on the microphone. More so, we shouldn’t keep our audience waiting; the news time should not be demeaned, therefore ought to be taken seriously by anyone involved. Commencing the airing of news a second after the news time could be dangerous. So, we must adhere to discipline to the core. The potential journalists/broadcasters should also take note of  all these facts.

Above all, every journalist or television broadcaster should cultivate the habit of good/decent dressing pattern. Let’s dress well to an event if we’re assigned to cover the event. On the other hand, if you have a programme to present or you need to broadcast news on the television, your dressing culture should be strictly considered. The radio broadcasters/presenters may be exempted in this case, but we all must be conscious of how we dress because millions of people out there are looking up to us. Your countenance counts!

Honestly, I must commend the practising journalists and broadcasters in most developing nations; most of them are really putting in their best in spite of the low salary syndrome faced by all. I think, this’s where the government comes in. The concerned governments should not turn their back on the people that maintain peace, unity and progress in any society where they are found. Either as an individual or as a group, if you’re not informed, you would definitely be deformed. And, journalists and broadcasters are the only answer to this, information dissemination. So, such set of people/workers ought to be honoured with tremendous working incentives such as wardrobe or transport/mobility allowance. Even those at the private sector should not be ignored; their employers should be supported by their respective governments from time to time.

For our society to be, or remain great, we must endeavour to attain perfection; though no one is or would be perfect. Think about it!

_____________________

FDN NWAOZOR

frednwaozor@gmail.com

The Wrath of Prostitution

THE WRATH OF PROSTITUTION IN OUR SOCIETY


The act of having sexual intercourse in exchange for money has become a talk of the day in our noble society at large. In Nigeria as a case study, about twenty four percent (24%) of the entire population of the youths are into this ugly scenario. And if a drastic measure is not taken by the government or the concerned authority to stop this deadly act, in the next twenty years or thereabouts, about forty eight percent (48%) of our youths would be involved in the practice.

In this edition, our interest does not only lie on those who market their bodies in chalets, but also, on those who parade themselves on the streets, and in any public transport systems they found themselves. So, the edition is concerned with all aspects of prostitution.

About three weeks ago, I was in a luxurious bus heading to Abuja. My closest neighbour happened to be a very pretty young lady, in her early twenties. She clad in a hot mini-skirt and round neck polo. Along the line, I initiated a conversation and she responded accordingly. For over four hours, she remained my sole companion. After some minutes, she dosed off, or pretended sleeping, leaning her head on my shoulder. I tried to readjust her body, but she insisted unknowingly, or knowing. Only God could tell the actual fact. I frowned at the incident. May be, I was enjoying it; who knows? Only God could tell too. But it wasn’t funny at all. I kept reading the magazine I had in my hand, pretending we were playing the same wing. Due to my pretence, everyone around who observed the drama thought we were together I presume. Just a hypothesis; I’m just thinking aloud, because, going by the look on their faces, they weren’t embarrassed by the unending drama. After more two hours, the day ushered us into the long awaited night. This time, my companion loss her control. Her two legs became too distant from each other. Brethren, you wouldn’t believe what I saw with my naked and vulnerable eyes, which introduced an abrupt shock. Believe me, to make it brief, the lady in question wasn’t putting on any underwear. I felt abashed, though I smiled under false pretences. A disgusting moment indeed! You needed to see things for yourselves. At this point, I needed not a prophet to interpret the whole scenario.

The causes of prostitution are enormous that, one cannot easily state the major cause of the blasphemy. It may be caused by an accident or nature, such as, the loss of a job, benefactor, or a breadwinner of a family, unemployment and poverty.

A lady who loses her job or a benefactor may decide to embark on prostitution, out of agony or frustration. This would be considered by her as the only means (medium) to seek for refuge, since it requires no capital or skill. Because, if a certain skill should be acquired prior to embarking on the practice/’business’, a period of apprenticeship would automatically be the basis; and such would take a long duration before income would be ascertained or anticipated. Similar step would also be seen as the only available option by one (a lady) who loses a breadwinner of her family.

A graduate of a certain higher institution who had been in search for a white collar job for a long period of time to no avail, may end-up a prostitute due to loss of optimism. To her, the indulgence in any business that involves capital certainly means that, the years she exhausted in the university/polytechnic or as the case may be, were nothing but a waste.

The female members of a family that experience ardent poverty are not left out in such silly decision since every income generated from the so called business is regarded as profit. Out of vulnerability, they would be left with no other choice than to join the chorus.

On the other hand, many had also fell victim of circumstance due to vulnerability. For over the years, millions of vulnerable ladies had been cajoled into prostitution by various pimps. The pimps disguise themselves to prove to the ignorant ladies that, their intentions are genuine. They would promise to send them abroad, after which they shall be occupied with promising white collar jobs. Out of ignorance, the ladies would dance to their tune. Then, when they have succeeded in sending them abroad, the drumbeat would change.

From my point of view, the above circumstances should not be considered as the major causes of prostitution, rather, apathy should. As an analyst, my long lasted research in the aforementioned scenario has ushered me into my recent point of conclusion. Honestly, laziness is the fundamental cause of prostitution, because, those young ladies ought to had considered involving in a better and decent unskilled labour instead of indulging in prostitution that would do them more harm than good. Of course, there are many unskilled labours that don’t even require any piece of capital or period of apprenticeship. Even, those that were cajoled fell victim due to idleness; because, if they had been occupied with something reasonable no matter how little, there wouldn’t be room for such mockery.

I wish to remind the actors of this rotten act that, the major consequence of such unlawful and indecent indulgence is death. If the major cause of the increase in death rate among the youths in our society is to be taken into consideration by the government or concerned individual(s), it would be revealed that, prostitution is one of the basic answers.

The death of the victims are usually as a result of a Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) contracted by them. Some of these STIs are gonorrhea, syphilis, candidiasis, chancrous, genital warts, herpes genitals, herpes virginals, granuloma inguinal, publiclies, lymphogranuloma venenum, Human Immune Virus (HIV), just to mention a few. Inadequate/non treatment of any of the above diseases (infections) could lead to mental disorder, cancer, abnormality of the reproductive organs, or death. The worst of all the infections is HIV which does not have an absolute cure, but could be controlled if discovered on time.

Another avenue through which they lose their lives is ritualism. Many of them had died, and their corpses were nowhere to be found by their relations. While, some were found dead with some parts of their bodies missing, because, they passed a night with cultists or men hired by them.

The concerned authority ought to consider this deadly trend that would culminate to an alarming level of death rate and as well drastically reduce the number of available labour force in any society that’s involved, in the nearest future. The issue of the eradication of this blasphemous act should be the basis of their interest. The authority in collaboration with various Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) and other concerned groups/individuals should, from time to time organize seminars and workshops to enlighten and empower the youths respectively.

Also, messages should be properly disseminated to apt quarters, to inform them that, such act would not only end their lives, but as well, would tarnish the image/reputation of their respective lineages. ‘A stitch in time saves nine!’

_____________________

FDN NWAOZOR

frednwaozor@gmail.com

Immorality in Schools

RAPID GROWTH OF IMMORALITY IN OUR SCHOOLS


As a social analyst/crusader that considers education as a paramount tool towards any societal development, I’ve taken time to visit most of the schools in Nigeria with the object of ascertaining if students and pupils are actually practising/doing what they were supposed to practise/do. From my diligent research, I observed that, the state at which students in our various citadels of learning do not believe that some behavior is right and acceptable while others are wrong and unacceptable has become the talk of the day in our noble society. Is this the way forward?

Some of these vices practiced by the students are theft, bribery, fornication, cultism, examination malpractices, disobedience, improper dressing, disguise, drinking/smoking habits, prostitution, and what have you. Some are practised by the female students, and some are being practised by the male students, while most are found among both genders. We shall be discussing each of the ills listed above one after the other. I would be frank and discursive in my presentation for the reading pleasure of my fans whose unending text/e-mail messages remain my motivation; and for posterity sake.

Most students prefer bribery the lecturers to reading for their exams since they stand the greater chances of coming out with flying colours than those who read for the examination. More so, most of them who sit for exams end up cheating in the exam hall, which they see or consider as the only way to pass their courses because they never read for the exams. This aspect of cheating is also common amongst the secondary school students. On the other hand considering theft/larceny; some of the students live by collecting what belongs to their neighbours or fellow students. This is mostly common among the students who reside in the school hostel.

Secondly, most students in the tertiary schools see sexual intercourse as a way through which one can catch his/her fun, without acknowledging that this is only ideal for the married men and women. This ugly situation has contributed to the incessant occurrence and rise of unwanted pregnancy and Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) in several societies. Sometimes it’s also found amongst the secondary school students. In the same vein, most female students in the higher institutions prefer walking naked to putting on their well cultured dresses. Also, wearing of ear rings and plaiting of hair has been a common phenomenon observed among the male folks. The female and male students in our various secondary schools have also joined the chorus. It doesn’t even stop at that; most of our female students live by opening their private parts for men, for the sake of receiving money from them. What is this?

Nowadays virtually every male student on campus depend on drinks and smokes on a daily basis. Most times they end-up being drunk. Some indulges in driving while drunk which has been the cause of most accident recorded on our roads. Some of the female ones are not left out. What a world!

It’s no longer a new story that most of the pupils and students in primary/secondary schools respectively don’t even listen or adhere to their parents’ instructions or advices. And to worsen the situation; the parents in question don’t even care to implement their instructions strictly. Most of them have suddenly become lousy. What’s happening to us?

Going through the above bad omens, anyone could boldly ask of where we’re actually heading to. And if such question eventually comes up, I’ll boldly respond that, we’re heading nowhere. Of course it’s boldly written that there’s no definite destination we’re actually aiming at considering the lackadaisical attitude of those concerned.

This high growth of immoralities witnessed on an hourly basis is not unconnected to lack of home training or inadequate upbringing of children. Those days, parents took it as a priority to monitor every bit of their child/ward’s movement, speech or activity. But nowadays, the reverse becomes the case; most parents utilize most of their times looking after their respective business ventures without minding the moral status of their children/wards. They believe that money answers everything; not knowing that, having a well behaved child is far better than riches.

Improper or non-disciplinary measures taken by the teachers should also be noted as one of the causes of the occurring deviance. Apart from inadequate upbringing of the kids by their parents, the teachers in their respective schools are also one of the major causes of the porosity discovered in their moral lives. Sometimes the pupils or students are being overlooked when they exhibit some characters that are not called for. By so doing, an enormous lapse would be created in the child’s moral attitudes (behaviours). This is what prompted the popular saying that says, “Spare the rot and spoil the child.”

Most of the teachers/parents are yet to acknowledge the fact that, the foundation of a child’s training lies in his/her home and nursery/primary schools, which are vital instruments to one’s educational background.

Provision/availability of mobile phones is another recent cause of the ongoing scenario. It has created an avenue for the secondary school students to indulge in ‘love affairs’. With the use of the mobile phones, and exchange of phone numbers between the students of opposite genders, they go extra miles keeping indoor appointments in which they end-up kissing and romancing each other thereby becoming randy. They don’t only use the phones to keep an appointment among themselves; they also use them to send some immoral text messages. They also make use of the so called midnight calls for their longtime emotional discussions instead of indulging in a useful conversation that would be of good help to their academic pursuits. Also, the children who have access to camera phones end-up occupying the phones with some pornographic pictures and/or films.

More so, the abuse of the use of other telecommunication equipment such as televisions and video gadgets, has contributed immensely to this moral leakage (decadence). Those days, the television and video machines were used at home by the children strictly for news and viewing of some holy films respectively. But today, the machines are being used to watch films that do not impact any reasonable knowledge on the children’s minds. To worsen it all, some parents do join their offspring whenever they see them watching the so-called films. What a tragedy! At recent times, no child even remember to listen to news, the parents don’t ask them to either.

Lack of sudden or frequent visit of the parents/guardians to know the welfare of their children/wards in higher institutions cannot be left out. Parents no longer take time to visit their children in the school to know their moral/academic status. Also, funding of the students by their parents without minding how the money is being spent has created a social vacuum in the society at large.

To wipe out these lackadaisical and blasphemous acts, the grass root of a child’s upbringing ought to not be taken for granted. The parents/guardian should devote large percentage of their time to their children’s/wards’ activities and welfare; and they should not fail to take a proper disciplinary action if they notice any character that’s uncalled for. The same measure should be taken by the teachers. The Holy Bible says in Proverb 23: 13-14, “Don’t hesitate to discipline a child. A good spanking won’t kill him. As a matter of fact, it may save his life.”

Secondly, a dressing code ought to be implemented by the Senate or the concerned/apt authority of each tertiary institution in Nigeria and across the globe in general. A tangible penalty or capital punishment should be issued to any student who fails to stick to the rule.

Thirdly, the government in collaboration with each of the schools’ board should set-up various panel to ensure that, each of the students sit for his/her respective exams without seeking for or hiring any external candidate. It should be applicable to both the secondary and tertiary schools. Furthermore, the Senate of all the higher institutions should strictly make expulsion (rustication) the only penalty for examination malpractices.

Fourthly, adequate measure should be taken by the government to monitor the activities of the students, to ensure a cult-free learning environment, and to eradicate stealing and prostitution wholly. A capital punishment like the one mentioned above should also be implemented if anyone is found guilty of any of these crimes.

The last but not the least, the parents/guardian should from time to time visit their children/wards in their various schools to enable them to be always conscious of any immoral act, or to desist from them/any if they are already party to the game. Above all, bars or beer parlours ought to be duly banned on or within the campuses to create a decent environment for learning.

And to the people in question; mind you, “An unexamined life is not worth living.” Think about it, while I continue to pray for you!

_____________________

COMR. FRED NWAOZOR

frednwaozor@gmail.com

Sadism

SADISM: GRUESOME SCHOOL OF THOUGHT


Brethren, sometimes one may choose/prefer to remain a mere onlooker over an ongoing ugly scenario, because, some discussions or deliberations might warrant an unprecedented wanton action. It’s in the same vein that an individual or a group accepts a certain humiliation in good faith; simply because, vengeance is likely to have the tendency/potential of constituting a third world war. Suffice to say that in the eyes of many, some anomalies are better left untreated.

The last time I checked, fanaticism and extremism remained the order of the day in the global society. During the investigation (inquiry), I also fully understood that the founders or prime (key) actors of the untold bloody activities resulting from the aforementioned global scenario were among our apex ‘leaders’. A moment that almost brought me to a comatose state. Believe me, when I tried to unravel the mystery, it appeared I was nearly close to the forbidden ‘six feet’. Nevertheless, I’ll continue to abide by the truth because I’ve already taken an oath not to be discouraged by any circumstance I might find myself.

It’s inconsequential to remind us of the topic of today because I’m personally of the view that it’s boldly written, therefore it’s expected to be legible in the sight of all and sundry. Notwithstanding, I wish to inform you that we’re discussing one of the gruesome school of thoughts in existence. Lest I forget; in subsequent to my immediate previous edition which laid emphasis on ‘courtship’, someone (a colleague) jokingly called to remind me that I was still single, therefore wasn’t licensed to write on that (courtship). Well, I thanked him for reminding me that I needed to settle down. Let’s ride on!

Sadism is a behaviour in which a person drives pleasure from hurting other people and making them suffer. It could also be addressed as an excitement felt from hurting/humiliating other individuals or groups.

At this juncture, I humbly asked; how can one in his/her real senses drive pleasure/excitement from seeing other persons being hurt, even if he/she wasn’t the cause. Then, considering the fact that you were the one that hurt them and still drive pleasure from such act; isn’t it absurd, or doesn’t it sound inhumane?

Though if properly checked right from our respective childhood stages, we would understand that we all have sinned in one occasion or the other, ignorantly or soberly, as a result of such ridiculous/evil act; but the situation whereby some persons indulge in the act on a daily basis or has taken it to be their way of life is a point this edition is actually driving at. How can one wake up in the morning from his/her bed and decides or makes up his mind to ensure that his neighbours live to regret their existence on earth.

The other day, I was privileged to glance at a certain home movie. The bone of contention of the story line was that a certain young man’s fiancée was snatched from him by his so called best friend while he was on a three-year study leave overseas. On the other hand, barely two days ago, I came across the news of one barbaric act on social media, facebook precisely; I learnt that a man in his early thirties drugged his girl friend who was still a virgin in his personal lodge, and subsequently the lady in question was raped to a state of coma. According to the news, I understood the lady regained her consciousness in the process and started screaming, but unfortunately the man persisted till she fainted.

Of course, all these wanton destruction of lives and property such as massacre, genocide, arson and what have you, taking place on a daily basis in all nooks and crannies are attributable to this aforementioned gruesome school of thought known as sadism. The most painful and devastating aspect of these deadly scenes is that some of those we entrust our collective future on, are the major constituent of the group of sadists.

Brethren, where have our consciences gone, that we find it very difficult to comprehend the efficacy of fellowship, unionism and absolute sincerity? Mind you, one who chooses to murder the happiness of others have as well chosen to murder the entire members of his/her fourth generation to come. Think about it!


______________________
COMR. FRED NWAOZOR

frednwaozor@gmail.com

Tools for Human Coexistence

FOUR VITAL TOOLS AVAILABLE FOR HUMAN COEXISTENCE


Brethren, for human beings to coexist harmoniously irrespective of the nature of the relationship and their individual status, there must be certain tools/parameters that should not be taken for granted. And they are: kindness, appreciation, commendation, and apology.

During the creation of mankind, he was furnished (garnished) with various idiosyncrasies that discharge the above spices/recipes to ensure the sustenance of human existence.

Let’s take our time to factor out the basic definitions of the stated tools considering the context this edition is representing, or where the writer is coming from. Kindness is the quality of being gentle, caring, and helpful. Appreciation is the expression of gratitude over a certain kind gesture displayed by someone. Commendation is the praise(s) someone receives from someone else or group of persons due to the remarkable act displayed by him. While, apology is something that you say or write in order to tell someone that you’re sorry for having hurt him or caused him trouble.

Let me begin with kindness. In a nutshell, this really has to do with caring; and caring is affection, help, and sympathy. So for one to be referred to as a caring person, he must be affectionate, helpful and sympathetic. We must try to showcase our caring quality to each other at all times. That’s where love comes in. Thus, we should ensure that we love our fellow creatures. This’s why the Holy Bible instructs every living soul to love his neighbour like himself (1Jn 4:7-8). We must respect the Almighty because He’s the Supreme Being, and as well good. In other words, if you truly love yourself, you must ensure that everyone around you is treated with kindness. You shouldn’t be selfish or greedy. You can only boast that you love someone when his/her happiness is very important to you. And, it’s only love that can ascertain unity. If we don’t love ourselves, we can’t be united. Frankly speaking, most social ills or deviant acts experienced in our society today are not unconnected to lack of love. Therefore, we must cultivate the habit of being kind for the betterment of any society we find ourselves.

I wish to switch over to appreciation. This factor may carry a definition different from the one stated above depending on the context of the debate or deliberation. In this edition, we actually mean, the discharge of gratitude. Many are yet to embrace the importance of this tool (appreciation). Phrases such as, “Thank you, God bless you, or may God reward you,” may seem meaningless to us, but they’re deeply meaningful. If you receive any gift from someone, don’t hesitate to say, thank you or any of the above. You’ll lose nothing if you discharge such phrase, rather, it’ll add a lot to what you already have. Believe it because it’s a fact. Honestly, a sincere gift comes from the heart. And anything that comes from or lies in the heart is being controlled by love because love is an action of the heart. So no matter how little a gift might be, don’t fail to appreciate it. Even if you don’t like the gift, do not allow your countenance to inform the donor that you’re not comfortable with it. In this case, the most mature thing to do is to accept the gift with a cheerful look which would automatically shows that you welcome the kind gesture. Having collected the gift, you may have someone else around you who would cherish the item more than you expect. We all are not same or equal, by choice or material possession respectively. That’s how we were created; naturally, we’re being guided by such rule or phenomenon. Such approach (appreciation) is also applicable if one does something nice to you or any of your relatives.

Let’s talk about commendation. The similarity between this and appreciation is that both lay emphasis on eulogies. But the difference lies in the language, and the occasion at which they’re required. Commendation is used when the effort or kind gesture is received either directly or indirectly. That is, sometimes you may not have any personal dividend from the effort (gesture). For instance, when a brother or cousin of yours just finished building his home or place of residence, courtesy demands that you go to him and say, well done! Such effort could only be beneficial to you indirectly. But the fact remains that, there’s no personal benefit attached to it. Thus, unlike appreciation which goes or comes up only when the gesture in question is beneficial to your person, commendation could be used/cited in various circumstances. In other words, commendation could be used in several kinds of circumstances. Summarily, we ought to continually commend (appreciate) one another; our siblings, parents, children, and/or leaders. You can even commend yourself each time you undergo something challenging.

Let’s take a ride to apology; the last on my list, but not the least. In the same vein, the phrase “I’m sorry,” should be the action of the mind and heart, and not that of the mind alone. Meaning; it has to do with reasoning and total submission. Apology usually comes or set in when one must have done something wrong. And, it’s only a reasonable person that realizes when something is or goes wrong. That’s where mind comes in. But there’s more attached to the action of the mind, which is honesty and compassion. And, this’s the action of the heart. You don’t just say ‘sorry’ each time you go wrong because you feel that would soothe the mood of the recipient. In addition, you’ve to express that with extreme sincerity. It’s only a sincere apology that showcases true remorse. And a true remorse shows that, such would not repeat itself. Let me quickly draw your attention to a very remarkable scene of one of the American (Hollywood’s) seasonal films, Prison Break, I took my time to watch; in that scene, one of the characters states that, “If you wanna restore dignity, you need to take action. Making amends requires much more than saying, I’m sorry. It means learning to change. The most important thing is that, you display honesty, courage and compassion when you extend your apologies. You need to earn your forgiveness…” Let’s always embrace the use of sincere apology which has the tendency of saving many from apoplexy. More so, one can say that he’s sorry even when he truly knows that he never did something wrong to the partner in question. Mind you, ‘I’m sorry’ doesn’t really mean that you were wrong; it simply means that you adore the friendship/relationship and would never want to lose it.

Brethren, I bet you, our entire existence here on earth can never be successful and fruitful as we anticipate if we fail to embrace the four tools/parameters discussed above. Honestly I’m not here to mesmerized your mood, but to put you in the right direction. Think about it!

_____________________

FRED D.N NWAOZOR

frednwaozor@gmail.com

Politics & Society

POLITICS AND SOCIETY: INTERWOVEN HERITAGE


According to BBC English Dictionary, “Politics is the actions or activities which people use to achieve power in a country or organization.” It is also “your beliefs about how a country or society should be governed.” On the other hand, “A society is an organization for the people who have the same interest or aim.”

The above definitions have proven to us that, politics and society are intertwined. This is possible because, they have something in common which is ‘people or man’.

Any given society is dominated by man, and politics is experienced or practised by man. Therefore, we could simply say that, both phenomena have something in common. This analogy makes politics to be closely related to any given society in the world. In a nutshell, politics or politicking can only take place in a society, and nowhere else. Thus, any society witnesses the impacts of politics on every bit of man’s struggle, because, politics as a discipline takes place only in a society and it’s being practised by man who is the major constituent of any society.

Furthermore, politics is strictly dependent on a society, and vice-versa because, a society will never be accommodating if politics which is aimed at achieving man’s wants or desires is not being practised in it. So, man whom is known as one who has a dominant position in a society is in a better point to determine or predict the subsequent nature of his immediate society. And , this cannot be achieved without the application of politics. In other words, politics and society are interdependent.

Any society in which politics is not being practised should be referred to as a dead society, because a society with zero-politics would not experience leadership struggle, or man’s struggle for survival which is done with political acumen. More so, a society without a leader is aimless. So there is no atom of possibility of having a society with zero-politics.

The above fact would be what led to the popular quote of the late famous philosopher, Plato, which states that, “Every human being is a political animal.” As we all know, every society is made of human beings and other creatures, as the case may be. Thus, a society with zero-politics or with no trace of politics does not exist. Q.E.D!

Politics in many ways, has impacted positively towards the betterment of any society. By it means, life has been easier for mankind to pass through. It has made him to be able to pursue his goals by the means of a wonderful plan or strategy. If a proper or adequate plan towards the attainment of a certain height/point is being initiated and carried out, you will agree with me that, there would be a near possibility of taking the dream in question to the history book. Since we all have dreams, therefore in one way or the other, we tend to embrace politics knowingly or unknowingly.

Apart from the positive impacts of politics on mankind, and the society at large, it had also impacted negatively to the well-being of man on earth. In the world today, politics has been abused in the highest order. It is through politics or by politicking that most of the global crises take place. It has led to so many calamities such as election rigging, the use of politics as a business platform, hiring of thugs during elections, insecurity experienced by many genuine aspirants, to mention but a few. Though the above societal odds are mainly caused by the institutional (practising) politicians. That is, those who have been accustomed to politicking, or whom politics has become their way of life.

Institution of politics has led to loss of millions of lives. In any existing country in the world, each day there’s a tendency of losing a soul due to politics because there’re thousands of organizations in each of these countries. Of course, virtually all organizations practise leadership struggle; except family whose leader has already been ordained by God. In addition, any organization comprises of several desirous individuals; the aim of every desirous person is to become a leader. And, leadership cannot be achieved without observing politics.

Therefore I put it up to you that, politics is not just a developmental instrument but as well a menace to any society. In other words, it can also be referred to as a dirty game. Nevertheless, for the fact that politics/politicking has led to so many social-vices should not make us forget so soon that, our entire welfare is strictly dependent on it. That is, politics has proven to us that without it, we cannot properly articulate our ideas or feelings which is the most fundamental means to any societal development; because without an idea, one cannot have a plan. Suffice to say that, an idea is the bedrock of the implementation or initiation of any plan/project, system, or law as the case may be. And it’s only by proper implementation of a certain plan that, a better or conducive society could be actualized/witnessed.

On the above note, one ought to at all times acknowledge the fact that, anything that seem to have an advantage must surely have a disadvantage. Thus, merit and demerit are also interwoven.

At this juncture, I wish to state unequivocally that we have succeeded in coming up with a fact that, every individual on earth is an initiate in the world of politics. Or what do you think?



FRED D.N NWAOZOR

frednwaozor@gmail.com

Unemployment in Nigeria

THE DEVASTATING EFFECT OF UNEMPLOYMENT


Please if I don’t say, “welcome,” don’t forget that you’re highly welcome. Such necessary and very important approach (welcome) could easily skip one’s mind due to the mood of this edition. Though going by the caption of the edition, any full-fledged Nigerian might decide to overlook the context because it’s no longer news. But believe me, it sounds horrible to the ears of those who know where we’re from and where we’re actually heading to.

Barely two days ago at about six thirty in the morning (6:30 am), I received a phone call from a good friend of mine after saying my usual morning prayers. After our usual phone interactions coupled with some jokes, he hurriedly informed me that the Nigerian President, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan lacked adequate advisory crew; thereby, had failed Nigerians. He added that, as the President of the country, he (Jonathan) was visionless. Still on the phone conversation, I tried to understand the angle he was coming from by asking him to expatiate his hypothesis. You know as an analyst, you shouldn’t expect me to be informed in a hurry.

My friend went further to back-up his antagonistic theory with few facts. Though he concluded by telling me that, he loved Goodluck Jonathan, as a person, with tremendous passion; stating that he had been following his foot-steps right from his (Jonathan’s) class/lecture room days. In his opinion, one of the vital points he made was that he anticipated that, Mr. President’s primary aim would be to revive the education sector since he had been in the system. He said that if the issue of education decay and power instability could be adequately tackled, the reoccurring scene of unemployment would be a thing of the past. He added that, from his imagination or experience, there would be no time Nigeria as a country could boast of employing all youths/graduates in the country because the available manpower or labour force will continue to supersede the existing industries (ventures) due to overpopulation and rapid increase of immigration. From his view, the only answer to our plight is self-reliance which could only be actualized by sustaining adequate education coupled with skill acquisition, and above all, power stability. Due to time frame, he promised that there would be a second phase of the discussion in regard to unemployment.

Injecting antagonism/criticism in any existing system may not mean that you’re against any individual rather, a particular administration or policy just like that of my friend as stated above. Thus, a certain criticism could be positive/constructive or negative (destructive). If the former becomes the case, mind you, it helps to strengthen a given system or administration; and that is the angle where most activists are, or had been, coming from. So don’t be myopic. At this juncture, I wish to begin my analysis based on the context of this edition.

Unemployment is a situation or circumstance in which people are willing and able to work, but there is no available job for them. In a concise sentence, someone who is unemployed wants to work but cannot get a job. For over the years, Nigeria has been singing this chorus that is detrimental to the health of her citizenry. In other words, a deadly catastrophe.

As a patriotic analyst, my optimum interest in any existing societal ill which I’m deliberating on lies in the cause(s), and the remedial measure(s) that ought to be taken. On this note, I wish to unequivocally state that, the basic causes of the aforementioned disease/phenomenon are lack of adequate education or skill acquisition and insufficient (inadequate) power supply. I quite agree with my friend; he was really coming in the same direction with me. Brethren, many had spoken on this issue (unemployment), many are still speaking, while many are yet to speak. It’s my time to analyze. Yes, I had been watching like a watch dog or mere onlooker; it’s high time I spoke as an Apostle of God.

On one fate occasion, I was privileged to interact with one of the participants who happens to be my old time friend right from my university days. Along the line, we ventured into the issue of unemployment. From his point of view, nepotism is one of the major factors that have been posing threats the Nigerian labour market. He further stated that if nepotism is not duly eradicated, the issue of unemployment would generate an untold scene in the nearest future. As an analyst, I wasn’t meant to disprove him, rather, give him a listening ear and as well create a cordial and harmonious relationship throughout the discussion.

Yes, nepotism has been a cankerworm in our labour market. But frankly speaking, it should not in any way be considered as one of the causes of unemployment in Nigeria; needless to say, it’s the major cause as it was viewed by my dear friend. Because, if there’re millions of job opportunities available for the unemployed youths/individuals, unemployment would never in any way be attributed to nepotism. The only avenue it (nepotism) affects the economic system or our labour market is that, most time jobs meant for qualified individuals/graduates are being provided for less qualified applicants thereby promoting quackery.

Due to over-population and its consistent tremendous increase in Nigeria, the only answer to the reoccurring question(s) on unemployment is nothing but ‘self- reliance’. Yes, if every able and reasonable youth in the country can boast of being an employer of labour instead of an employee, then the problem of unemployment has been solved. Making individuals to be job creators rather than hunters is the best and simplest way the above economic predicament could be put to stop, because the actualization of concentration (establishment) of industries/firms owned and managed by the government remains a mirage. Even in the advanced or western nations, it has never worked. For instance, about seventy-five (75%) of the industries in Germany are owned and maintained by the citizens or individuals. But how can this be actualized in Nigeria? Let’s ride on!

For one to be self-employed, he/she must acquire a certain skill. And if such skill leads to possession of a certain venture or enterprise, it can’t be adequately or effectively managed if instability of power supply is experienced in the system. Believe me, total overhaul is required in the Nigerian educational and power sectors. And, complete revolutionary theory must be applied or adhered to, to ensure that tangible result is yielded. On this note, I recommend the book, 'Scentic Scenarios' by Fred Nwaozor to the concerned authorities/agencies. The book gives an insight on the most suitable avenues that ought to be followed by the Nigerian government to ensure that Nigeria witnesses a better and developed socio-economic state/arena.

Nigeria ought to tell herself the truth and embrace a worthwhile scenario that would lead to the nation’s paradise that is long overdue. Most importantly, a collective effort is intensely and drastically required to insert a full stop to this persistent jaundiced appellation that has caused many to live far below the poverty line, one dollar per day, as was stipulated by the United Nations (UN). Think about it!

_____________________

COMR. FRED NWAOZOR

frednwaozor@gmail.com

The World as an Institution

THE WORLD: AN INSTITUTION WHERE EVERYONE IS A STUDENT

Most times when one intends to narrate a story that seems vague or broad, he may begin with a clause, “I don’t know where to start.” And, if one of the audience happens to be a funny person, he shall react by saying, “Start from somewhere.” Same is applicable here.

Since any story or analysis, be it comprehensive or concise, must have a beginning; so I must start from somewhere. But the question remains, where do I start from; …world, institution, everyone, or student? Though, the aforementioned terms are familiar to people irrespective of their educational backgrounds; even to most children. But their usage here might sound a bit vague. Please pardon me if that becomes the case.

Apart from my talent in writing, by profession I’m a practicing engineer. The talents/trainings which I acquired in engineering were gotten from a certain institution (university). But, there’s another institution that supersedes the above. On this note, let’s take a look at the dictionary meaning of the word ‘institution/institute’, based on the context of this edition.

According to Oxford Advanced Learners’ dictionary, “An institute (institution) is a society or organization for special, usually a social or educational, purpose.” It can also be defined as an organization where knowledge is acquired. Since an organization is a society/group of people of the same aim or motive, the world could be regarded as an organization because, the day-to-day struggle for survival remains the major common aim of everyone in the world. In other words, it (the world) is an institution.

Of course you will agree with me that, not only human beings belong to the aforementioned organization (the world). Other animals also participate in the organization, and they’re also struggling for survival. Since biology as a subject has succeeded in grouping every living thing that moves continually as ‘animals’; thus, this edition shall be discussing both the advanced animals (human beings) and the lower animals (others). Let’s begin with mankind (advanced animals).

A student is a person who is studying/learning at a college/institution. Here, the student in question doesn’t imply to only the learners in various colleges/universities, but also to those in nursery/primary schools; that is, the kids and children inclusive. Since everyone (mankind) is learning in the world which has been stated as an institution, apparently, we all are students.

Someone may ask if everyone is really learning. Yes, we’re all learning. Regardless of one’s age, level, class or status, he/she is bound to learn in a given circumstance (occasion) or the other. It could be in office, bed/sitting room, formal/informal gathering, playing ground, or while driving or operating a computer gadget to mention but a few. Thus, everywhere is a classroom. Most times we learn from our, or other persons’ mistakes. In this case, anyone/anything stands as a teacher/tutor; your child, father/mother, siblings (younger/older), uncle, aunt, fate, and above all, experience. Sure, you can be taught by your experience. In fact, that is where the best teachings lie. This is why it’s often cited by many that, “Experience is the best teacher.”

Brethren, search yourselves and see if you’ve been taught by any experience you had encountered in the past. I bet you if such holds in your life, it’ll continue to stick to your brain no matter how little it (the brain) is. And, it shall remain for eternity. But if you, in one event or the other, had been taught by any other tutor different from experience, there’s a certain tendency that at a point, you may forget the lessons (teachings).

One may also ask how fate teaches or impacts knowledge to mankind. In the last two editions, we took our time to discuss ‘fate and faith’ which were tagged as two fancy facts. Fate actually teaches. For instance, if your fate drags or takes you to a moment of sorrow, then, it’ll enable you to be spiritually fortified irrespective of your religion/faith. That is, it will not tentatively, but definitely bring you closer to your creator (God/Allah) where your faith lies. By so doing, you’ve automatically learnt of the efficacy of faith, and as well, endurance/perseverance. You will also learn that, the Almighty is powerful and good.

Other animals are not left out in the above analysis as regards learning or studentship. Therefore, all animals fall under ‘everyone’ as it’s used in the topic. But the difference lies in their level of reasoning or understanding due to the nature of their brains. So you shouldn’t expect them to learn as fast or tangible like human beings (advanced animals).

In the world as an institution, the only factor that obstructs or marks the end of our studentship is death. In other words, everyone remains a student till his/its death. In a nutshell, as long as any person/animal lives, he/it is recognized as a bonafide student of the globe.

Brethren, conclusively and convincingly the world is an institution where everyone is a student. We must continue to have reverence for our creator for making us privileged to be part of this enormous and wonderful institution known as the world. Think about it!

____________________

FDN NWAOZOR

frednwaozor@gmail.com

Courtship towards Marriage

THE ESSENCE OF COURTSHIP TOWARDS MARRIAGE


Brethren, often times most people indulge in strenuous thought that doesn’t really worth it or which may be contrary to the issue at hand. Please before I proceed, in advance I wish to sincerely beg for your pardon because I’m of the view that I might be strident in this edition. I therefore pray that such intention won’t warrant a strife. Believe me, I truly don’t intend to hurt any soul, rather my paramount motive is to resurrect many.

At about eight O’clock in the morning (8.00 am) penultimate Monday, September 23 to be precise, I was about heading to the bathroom to have my usual morning shower in my family residence in Lagos State; I embarked on a trip to Lagos for some business transactions. Immediately my cell phone rang and the caller happened to be one of my friends residing at Owerri in Imo State. According to him, he actually called to inform me that he was about heading to my personal residence (lodge) in Owerri to discuss a very critical issue with me. Unfortunately I told him that I was presently in Lagos State; an information that suddenly brought a sad mood to his person. Yes I felt it because he sighed in subsequent to the notice. Having sensed the urgency of it, I promised to call him back after some minutes so we can have the discussion on phone; he was so delighted to receive the pledge. And by God’s grace, I fulfilled the promise.

As soon as I called him, he exclaimed that there was fire on the mountain. A statement that ushered in a question, “How?” which was the only word that managed to escape from my mouth. In response to my question, he hurriedly said that he just lost his fiancée to someone else; to the best of my knowledge, this is a woman he was about taking to the altar in few weeks time, and they just met about two months ago. I tried to ascertain what actually transpired between the two parties that has led to such ugly moment. The summary of the ordeal was that he caught her red handedly in her own bed with another man. They were making ‘love’ to each other I presume, because he thought it was inconsequential to give me the detail on a phone conversation. I really felt sorry for the poor man, thereby I pledged that I would come to his place the very moment I arrive at Owerri so we can round off the discussion one-on-one. Though I urged him to be a man and never allow the plight to disorganize him.

The bone of contention of whatever sermon I would be dishing out today is that, in anything we do, we must endeavour to consider time. If we fail to create time in respect to the prospects of any worthwhile activity we find ourselves, definitely the activity is liable to be found in shambles irrespective of the nature of the venture/activity. In other words, time remains the most vital tool when it calls for success in any of our respective strides. Honestly, you have no choice in this aspect; thus, it (time) remains a threshold whenever the issue of success/progress is in question

It beats my psyche intensely each time I watch people who live with the ideology that money can withstand or buy any situation one wishes. Such ideology is simply a fallacy; if not a daydream. Frankly, money can never buy intimacy. The only man that has the true potential to buy the aforementioned tool (intimacy) is no other person than ‘Time’. Q.E.D. Let’s ride on!

If you’re into a certain relationship and you think that with your money/wealth the woman in your life is all yours, then apparently you’ve been living with a deadly misconception. At this juncture, I put it up to you that if you are into any affair with a man/woman as the case may be and you desire to settle down with him/her, you must devote your time to such relationship if you sincerely want your wish to metamorphose into reality. Believe me, you can never bribe time; you must follow the due process whenever the issue of time is at hand or being considered. In other words, no one can maneuver it regardless of how powerful or wealthy he/she is.

I keep on telling people that the best thing that would happen to a man/woman is to marry his/her sister/brother as the case may be. Please don’t get me wrong; when I say getting married to your sister/brother, I meant getting married to your best friend. The best friend anyone can have or boast of, is someone who has/shares the same blood with you. Even if someone is not your sister/brother, he/she can share same blood with you if you both are devoted to each other. And such situation can never be possible if you fail to accommodate time to the fullness. In a nutshell, time can make a total stranger in your life to emerge as your bosom brother/sister in future.

One who shares same blood with you can never think of hurting you under normal circumstance unless he/she is being placed under a certain spiritual influence. This is the reason prayers are very essential in any relationship. Thus, if you are into a relationship you adore so much, you must endeavour to create time for it for the interest of its successs and as well your happiness. In addition, both of you ought to inculcate prayers.

If you’re dating someone and you wish to settle down with him/her, there’s need to experience intimacy prior to such eternal/everlasting union (marriage). And, this is where courtship sets in.

Courtship is an activity in which a man and a woman spend a lot of time together because they intend to get married. Going by the above definition, you will agree with me that courtship can never be successful if time is not adhered to. Devoting precious time to a relationship brings absolute understanding and trust amongst the partners involved which automatically yields true/genuine love. On this note, I wish to state unequivocally that the efficacy of courtship in any relationship cannot be overemphasized. If you’re still single and intend having/establishing a happy home in future, then I urge you to embrace this fact today; and I bet you, you would be glad you did.

Mind you, courtship coupled with sex is likely to ruin your intention/plan. Such attitude might make your partner to detest you at the long run with the aim of wanting to taste something different as regards sex/romance. But if you totally abstain from such act, your ultimate prayer would be to have/witness a day whereby you both would taste each other; therefore you would be earnestly yearning for a moment of marital vow. Above all, premarital sex is evil.

Brethren, many homes have collapsed because the partners involved failed to embrace courtship. The worst thing that would happen to a man/woman is to end up settling down with a stranger. Think about it!

_____________________

COMR. FRED NWAOZOR

frednwaozor@gmail.com