2014 Int'l Day Against Nuclear Tests (Aired News Commentary)

A CALL FOR COLLECTIVE SUPPORT AS THE WORLD MARKS THE INTERNATIONAL DAY AGAINST NUCLEAR TESTS, TODAY FRIDAY AUGUST 29, 2014

       

There is no need reiterating the fact that, humanity in its entirety prays earnestly for a trouble-free society or atmosphere. Suffice to say; every sane being detest imagining the emergence of war or any war-related activity.

Today Friday August 29, the world over is commemorating the 2014 International Day Against Nuclear Tests. The Int’l Day against Nuclear Tests is aimed at capturing global attention and underscore the need for a unified attempt in preventing further nuclear weapons’ testing through educational events and messages.

On 2^nd December 2009, the 64^th session of the United Nations General Assembly declared August 29 of every year as the International Day Against Nuclear Tests. The resolution calls for increasing awareness and education on the effects of nuclear weapon test explosions or any other explosions, and the need for their cessation as one of the means of achieving the goal of witnessing a nuclear-weapon-free world.

The resolution was initiated by the Republic of Kazakhstan, coupled with a large number of sponsors and co-sponsors with a view to commemorate the closure of the Semipalatinsk Nuclear Test site, which had caused an enormous problem to mankind.

The International Day against Nuclear Tests is meant to sensitize the United Nations Member States alongside intergovernmental and non-governmental organizations, academic institutions, youth networks and the media on the need to inform, educate as well as advocate the necessity of banning nuclear weapon tests as a valuable step towards achieving a safer global society.

The inaugural commemoration of the Day was marked in the year 2010. Since then, each year the day has been observed by coordinating various activities throughout the world, such as conferences, exhibitions, competitions, workshops, seminars, publication of periodicals/journals, media broadcasts, among others.

Since the establishment of the International Day Against Nuclear Tests, several bilateral and multilateral governmental level developments as well as broad movements of various civil societies and personal efforts of the UN Secretary-General have helped to facilitate the ongoing crusade regarding banning of nuclear tests worldwide.

In May 2010, all the parties involved in the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, committed themselves towards achieving the peace and security of a world without nuclear weapons and other related instruments. In his candid speech, the current United Nations (UN) Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, stated with great clarity that, “A world free of nuclear weapons would be a global public good of the highest order.”

The International Day Against Nuclear Tests coupled with other related events or actions, has fostered a global society with more optimistic prospects towards a world free of nuclear weapons. The Day has enabled mankind to witness various visible signs of progress in respect to ending this global menace, though challenges remain inevitable in any endeavour.

Surely, it is the hope of the UN that one day all nuclear weapons would be totally eliminated from the entire world. In view of this anticipation, there is need to observe the International Day against Nuclear Tests as we work towards promoting peace and security all over the world.

As the world commemorates the Int’l Day against Nuclear Tests today August 29, there’s need for every sane and peace-loving individual to support the remarkable crusade, which is aimed at initiating a thorough trouble-free atmosphere thereby discouraging the emergence of war or crisis of any kind. And, this support is mostly needed from countries such as Nigeria, Syria, Pakistan, Iraq, Israel, Palestine, Iran, Ukraine, just to mention but a few, that are presently savaged by colossal security challenges.

In this regard, I’m using this medium to urge the Nigerian law makers to pass a strict and grievous law that would ensure that anyone caught in this inhuman act is thoroughly penalized.  On its part, the executive arm of the government is also expected to protect the anticipated law by setting up a formidable corrupt-free monitoring Agency that would serve as an eye of the government towards the sustenance of the said law.

The religious bodies and other relevant non-governmental organizations can also help to promote this worthwhile cause embarked by the United Nations, by organizing seminars, workshops, conventions, conferences, and what have you, that would sensitize the minds of the general public on the dangers of any form of crisis or the use of any war explosive.

A decisive and sincere approach by the Nigerian government regarding the promotion of this annual Int’l Day against Nuclear Tests, would go a long way to eradicate the lingering barbaric actions of the Boko Haram sect and other terrorist groups that are presently on the rampage in the country.

Frankly, without mincing words, this is surely an avenue to prove to the international community that we are indeed, the ‘Giant of Africa’.    

 

      COMR. FRED NWAOZOR

Public Affairs analyst & Social activist

_______________________________

              +2348054719437   

The 2014 Imo Indelible August Meeting (Aired Newstalk)

THE FORTHCOMING VISIT OF THE IMO FIRST LADY TO IMO WEST SENATORIAL DISTRICT (ORLU ZONE) FOR THE ONGOING INDELIBLE AUGUST MEETING, TOMORROW THURSDAY AUGUST 28, 2014

Surely, it has been proven beyond any reasonable doubt that women are like bridges in a nation-building; this is why having a society without a woman is simply not unconnected to seeing a dicotyledonous crop with no tap root.

The month of August every year witnesses a massive homecoming of Igbo women groups residing in different towns and cities across the globe to their respective matrimonial rural hometowns where they unite with their rural-based counterparts for what is known as ‘Mothers’ Summit’.

This Mothers’ Congress popularly known as ‘August Meeting’ was initially geared towards self-help rural-community development, but has in recent times delved into conflict management, peace resolution, as well as human development in rural societies.

The August Meeting, which invariably takes place between August and September every year, has indeed brought absolute unity among women of various communities in South-Eastern Nigeria. This is why several well-meaning individuals in Igbo land have strive both in their individual and collective capacities to ensure that this worthwhile cause embarked by the women would continue to yield an enticing fruit.

In Imo State, the amazing effort of the wife of the governor – Her Excellency Nneoma Nkechi Okorocha towards ensuring that a formidable and impeccable August Meeting is witnessed in the state cannot be overemphasized. Since the inception of the ongoing Rescue Mission Agenda of her darling husband – Governor Rochas Okorocha, OON, the lovely and loving Imo First Lady has been working assiduously as regards the uplift of the amiable August Meeting.

In the previous years, the Imo State annual August Meeting ceremony which featured numerous cultural and formal activities, took place in each of the twenty-seven Local Government Areas in the state under the supervision of the distinguished First Lady, Nneoma Nkechi Rochas Okorocha.

This year’s August Meeting event is meant to be conducted separately in each of the three zones in Imo State – Owerri, Okigwe, and Orlu respectively, contrary to the initial pattern; and that of Owerri and Okigwe zones have already taken place. This year’s event, which is tagged by the Imo First Lady as an ‘Indelible August Meeting’, is featuring series of activities such as racing known as ‘Oso Mmiri’, Match pass, Cultural dance, Disco competition, Folk song, Beauty pageant, Getting to know husband and wife, Food exhibition, among others, in a grand style.

The most remarkable aspect of the ongoing 2014 Indelible August Meeting in Imo State with the theme ‘Imo women making a difference through commitment and involvement’ is that, the prizes to be won by the participants that emerged victorious in the first, second and third positions respectively, include Hummer buses and other household valuables, in addition to the usual prizes.

Tomorrow Thursday August 28, the Imo First Lady Nneoma Nkechi Okorocha – Eji Ulo Eme Ogo is expected to be in Imo West Senatorial District otherwise known as ‘Orlu Zone’ that consists of 259 Autonomous Communities as well as 137 Wards, for the August Meeting ceremony of the zone, which would take place at Orlu Township Stadium by 8am prompt.

As the amiable Imo First Lady visits Orlu Senatorial Zone, which encompasses twelve LGAs including Ohaji/Egbema, Oguta, Oru East, Oru West, Orsu, Orlu, Ideato North, Ideato South, Njaba, Nkwerre, Nwangele, and Isu, tomorrow August 28, we humbly request the presence of all the well-meaning individuals and stakeholders such as the TC-Chairmen, government functionaries, traditional rulers, Ndi Nze na Ozo, Senior Citizens, Civil Servants, Captains of industries, the school children, traders, commercial drivers/motorcyclists, gentlemen of the Press, the youth, and most importantly – all the women societies, both within and outside the zone.

Nneoma Imo, Eji Ulo Eme Ogo, Ndi Orlu Zone na asi gi, Ibiala!!

 

         COMR. FRED NWAOZOR

Public Affairs analyst & Social activist

_______________________________

                 +2348054719437  

 

The Uncanny And Bilious Bickering Among Imo Politicians

THE ONGOING UNCANNY AND BILIOUS BICKERING AMONG IMO POLITICIANS

Greetings brethren! Frankly I would have forgotten to salute you in our usual pattern of salutation due to the nightmares I’ve been encountering. Honestly I feel uneasy each time I come across anything that seems like a nightmare especially when it has to do with the society I belong to.

Honestly, sometimes the emergence of something strange might make a certain person or society to forget the responsibility he/it is currently faced with. Take for instance: you will agree with me that the Nigerian government no longer pay much attention to the plan regarding the release of the abducted Chibok girls or the Nigeria’s security challenges at large, as a result of the emergence of the dreaded and deadly Ebola Virus Disease (EVD). This is why sometimes one may even forget to greet his parent the moment he wakes up from sleep, if he spent his previous night with the parent in question. Yes, the emergence of a certain strange thing might erase your senses entirely.

Penultimate week, Wednesday to be precise, I was taking a walk along Wetherel road situated at Owerri metropolis, and I overheard a group of street (roadside) analysts discussing some vital issues taking place in the Nigerian polity. It happened that they came to peruse some national dailies and other local tabloids as usual, at one of the newspaper stands located on the aforementioned road. One of the issues of the moment they were discussing had to do with arrogance coupled with impunity of most Nigerian political leaders.

As a Public affairs analyst and Social activist, I’ve taken my precious time, both in the past and present, to tour round Nigeria with the aim of seeing things for myself. At the long-run, I realized there is one common phenomenon occurring in the country’s political sector; and it has to do with the inconsequential and uncalled heating of the polity by our practising politicians. It’s pathetic that my home-state, Imo precisely, has abruptly emerged as one of the states that are taking the lead in the absurdity. Let’s ride on!

For those Imolites whom haven’t spent much time in Imo State, I’m using this avenue to urge you to cough up some tangible time for the state; I’m referring to those who are residing in the diaspora. Sincerely, we all need to experience this anomaly by ourselves because it’s really telling on us, especially the masses.

How can one imagine seeing someone he/she sees as a role-model indulging in an exchange of words that isn’t called-for? Please I want you to answer me with all manner of sincerity; how would you feel if you eventually see your Pastor making passes at a certain pretty damsel along a street? Well, I don’t need to wait for the answer to that candid question because I know for sure that the church being ministers or led by the Pastor in question would be compelled to experience emergence of factions among the worshippers.

I would say that Imolites are really disappointed in most politicians from Imo State owing to the fact that they have embraced derailment profoundly. It is no longer news that the people or group of persons we look up to have derailed intensely. Presently every social or cultural gathering embraced by them would end-up being divided due to their vainglorious posturing. It is even more appalling that this uncalled behavior is mainly found among those in power.

How can those who call themselves our leaders be indulging in bilious bickering thereby attracting inconsequential uproar or pandemonium in any occasion they found themselves? Isn’t it ridiculous? My annoyance is that, at their levels or statuses, they have failed to understand that such attitude is liable to drastically reduce one’s popularity or fame. Sincerely, someone really needs to call them to order for posterity sake.        

Most pathetically, you would see some of them gossiping or raising propaganda that the present governor of the state never attended any tertiary institution. Come to think of it: If truly that the man in question never attended any higher citadel of learning as presumed by them, how does it affect the leadership of Imo State negatively? For crying out loud; if one with First School Leaving Certificate can lead Imo State effectively and efficiently, what stops him? In the same vein, if one at twenty can do more than what one at fifty does, what stops him?

Personally, I don’t pay much attention to ‘Paper qualifications’ or age as the case may be. My paramount interest lies in what one has upstairs. To be honest; if I happen to be in charge of a an interview crew of a certain firm/company, I will never pay any serious attention to the applicants’ certificates, rather I will concentrate on what the individual has in his/her medulla oblongata or what he/she can offer the company, professional wise.

In other words, my interest is to see that Imo State is being led adequately, and not who leads the state. If an ‘imbecile’ can grant the state what she really desires/needs, what stops him? We should all mind our utterances and face reality; else, we would be subjected to an unimaginable state of doom.

Let’s leave 2015 elections in the hands of God. If He says that he would give us somebody that would do better than the present governor, so be it. Who are you to query the Almighty when He says ‘Yes’ or ‘No’? After all, the emergence of the governor in question was by His (God’s) making.

Please let our interest lie in the well-being of Imo State in its entirety, not who becomes the leader of the state. Thus we ought to allow God to decide; we must surrender everything to Him. All we need is someone that would take the state to the promise-land. Q.E.D.   

At this juncture, I’m pleading with all the Imo politicians or all those involved in this ongoing uncanny and bilious bickering to desist from the ugly act, which is liable to diminish their fame thereby making them appear as nobody to their respective fans.

Therefore I’m urging them to indulge in activities that are interested in only the future of Imo State at large, and nothing less. If they fail to bury their individual interests, I’m afraid ‘Sorry’ is most likely to be their name in no distant time because Imo herself is really frowning at those idiosyncrasies that are uncalled-for. How can elections that we are not even sure that we would be privileged to witness, make us forget the present responsibilities that are facing our individual selves? Think about it!

 

FRED DOC NWAOZOR

frednwaozor@gmail.com   

The Ebola Virus Disease (Aired Newstalk)

OUTBREAK OF THE DEADLY EBOLA VIRUS DISEASE IN NIGERIA

 

A disease is an illness experienced by living things which is usually caused by infectious microscopic organisms such as bacteria, fungi, or virus as the case might be.

There are several diseases occurring the world over, most of which are frightening and deadly. Regarding the mode of transmission of these diseases, some of them are regarded as airborne diseases, while some are known to be waterborne diseases; on the other hand, some of them are referred to as sexually transmitted diseases.

Presently, the world has been placed in a confused state as a result of the recent outbreak of another deadly disease known as Ebola virus. The Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) formerly addressed as Ebola Haemorrhagic Fever (EHF) is a disease caused by a virus popularly known as ‘Ebola’.

Generally, the viruses that cause the disease are classified into four namely: Bundibugyo Virus (BDBV), Sudan Virus (SUDV), Tai Forest Virus (TAFV), and one simply called Ebola Virus (EBOV) formerly referred to as Zaire Ebola Virus. Ebola Virus is the sole member of the Zaire Ebola-Virus species, and the most dangerous of the known Ebola disease as well as being responsible for the largest number of outbreak.

The Signs and symptoms of the dreaded and deadly Ebola virus disease usually begin two to twenty-one days after contracting the virus with a flu-like stage characterized by fatigue, fever, sore-throat, loss of appetite, chest pain, muscle and abdominal pains, and headache. In advanced cases, symptoms like nausea influenza, vomiting, bleeding, diarrhoea, rashes, swelling of the skin, alongside decreased functioning of essential organs such as the liver and kidneys often follow suit.

In the case of bleeding, which typically starts 5 to 7 days after initial symptoms, signs including redness of the eyes, bloody vomit, bleeding inside the skin known as haemorrhage, bloody coughs and faeces are usually noticed. In general, the development of bleeding and other advanced or complicated symptoms often indicate a worse prognosis thereby resulting to death of the patient/carrier due to multiple organ dysfunction syndromes.   

The primary sources of the Ebola virus disease are monkeys, bats, pigs, apes, chimpanzees, and gorillas, just to mention but a few. Going by the recent research, it is widely noted that Bat is the prime host of the Ebola virus due to its ability to live vigorously with the virus or while attacked by it. This singular fact has proven to us that everyone is liable to contract the disease since Bat could be found in any part of the world, especially the African continent. Above all, it would be worthy to note that mosquito does not transmit the Ebola virus.

The Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) was first identified in the year 1976 in Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo. On the average, the disease occurs in outbreaks in tropical regions of Sub-Sahara Africa. According to reports, from 1976 to 2013, about one thousand (1,000) persons per year were infected with the virus; currently the largest outbreak is the ongoing West Africa Ebola Outbreak, which is affecting Guinea, Sierra Leone, Liberia as well as Nigeria. As at August 2014, more than 1,750 suspected cases were reported.

The disease came into Nigeria on July 2014 through the 40-year-old Liberian-American, Mr. Patrick Sawyer who was allegedly en route to a conference in Nigeria on 20^th July 2014 through Asky Airline. Since the death of the foreigner on July 25, 2014, various cases on the Ebola virus disease have been recorded in the country starting from the doctors and nurses who attended to the deceased while he was taken to the hospital from the Murtala Mohammed International Airport when he collapsed upon arrival in Lagos State. Few days ago, it was confirmed by the Minister of Health, Prof Onyebuchi Chukwu that about twelve Nigerians were living with the virus while three have already feared killed.

Honestly, it is not yet entirely clear how this controversial plague is spread among mankind or animals. But it is believed that it is acquired upon contact with bodily fluids of an infected person/animal which include blood, sweat, saliva, coughs, sneezes, urine, and semen. This implies that the disease could be transmitted through the three major modes of transmission of diseases namely: air, water, and sexual intercourse. The most devastating aspect of the disease is that it could be contracted by merely touching any part of the skin of the infected person. 

Presently, a specific cure or vaccine for this virus that savages humanity is yet to be found; needless to say that, there is currently no specific treatment for the disease. Efforts to help those who are infected by the virus are supportive, and include giving either oral rehydration therapy or intravenous fluids. The disease has a very high mortality rate, often killing between 50 - 90% of those infected with the virus.

Since it is clear that there is no absolute cure or vaccine for the virus, the only way it could be controlled is by observing a holistic preventive approach. Coupled with the ongoing measure being taken by the government, other severe routines are expected to follow suit.

In view of this, a thorough Ebola virus screening ought to be conducted at all the Nigerian Int’l Airports on every individual migrating to Nigeria, irrespective of his/her status. Same measure is expected to be extended to all the borders in Nigeria, and the borders in question must also be thoroughly guarded by the authorities involved.

Secondly, government should set up a formidable team/agency that would monitor all the existing zoos in Nigeria, with the view of ensuring that proper gloves and other protective devices are worn by the entire management and staff of the establishments or anyone who wants to have direct contact with any of the animals.

In addition, individuals residing in various parts of the country are expected to help themselves in order to supplement the ongoing commendable effort of the government. Everyone, especially the health personnel, ought to ensure that appropriate protective clothing and devices are worn while on duty. Also, constant and adequate washing of hands with water and soap/detergent is meant to be observed by all and sundry regardless of occupation, age, or background. Also, constant washing of the entire body with soap and clean water at least twice in a day ought not to be exempted by all concerned.

More so, the caterers or all those who indulge in any form of cooking practices should endeavour to wash any raw meat properly with salt and water as well as ensure that they are adequately cooked. On the other hand, those who consume fruits or vegetables eaten/sucked by bats, birds, squirrels, and what have you, should as a matter of urgency desist from such act, and other related dirty acts.

Above all, the non-governmental organizations as well as various religious bodies should from time to time organize seminars, workshops and what have you, to sensitize the entire public on how they are meant to address the issue. The media community is not left out; they ought to ensure that apt jingles are consistently aired on their respective radios/televisions, while the members of the print media are expected to publish matters that would go a long way to educate their audience in respect to the disease’s sources, mode of transmission and so on.

The aforementioned preventive methods signify that all hands must be on deck towards ensuring that this dreaded and deadly Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) is totally eradicated. I’m strongly of the view that Nigeria will surely come over this societal menace in no distant time if adequate and thorough preventive measures are duly taken, just as we were able to overcome that of bird flu.

 

          COMR. FRED NWAOZOR

Public Affairs analyst & Social activist

______________________________

             +2348054719437               

The Lingering Global Cyber Crimes (Aired Newstalk)

THE LINGERING GLOBAL CYBER CRIME, AND ITS CONSEQUENCE

Computer hacking in a concise term, is the act of breaking into someone else’s computer systems, especially in order to acquire secret information that is stored there. In the same vein, a computer hacker is someone who tries to break into computer systems belonging to others for the purpose of getting secret or confidential information stored in them.    

Frankly, internet/computer hacking which constitutes the most recent cyber crimes, is real and really eating deep in the global internet connectivity, therefore requires an urgent and a drastic measure to ensure that it is totally put to stop.

Apart from internet hacking which is widely in circulation and also seen as a lucrative venture by the perpetrators, there are other many internet/cyber criminal acts taking place globally on a daily basis, which include the ones occurring on the numerous existing social media.

Prior to the invention of the Internet, criminals had to dig through people’s trash or intercept their mails to steal their personal information. Now that all the required information is available online, criminals presently use the Internet to steal people’s identities, hack into their accounts, trick them into revealing the information, or infect their devices with malware otherwise known as computer threat, such as the famous computer virus.

Most cyber crimes are committed by individuals or small groups. Though large organized criminal groups also take advantage of the Internet. These so-called professional criminals find new ways to commit old or ancient crimes. They treat cyber crimes like a business and form global criminal communities. Criminal communities share strategies and tools and can combine forces to launch coordinated attacks. They even have an underground marketplace where cyber criminals can purchase and sell stolen information or identities.

It’s very difficult to track cyber criminals down, because the Internet makes it easier for people to do things anonymously and from any location on the globe. Needless to say that, many computers used in various destinations have actually been hacked and are being controlled by someone far away.

For hackers who want to come clean and turn away from crime out of pretence, one option is to work for the people they used to torment by becoming their security consultants or employees. These set of hackers are referred to as “Grey Hat Hackers”. In the past, they were addressed as “Black Hat Hackers” who used their computer expertise to break into systems and steal information illegally while posing as a friend or dedicated employee/consultant. But presently, some of them are acting as “White Hat Hackers” who specialize in testing the security strength of their clients’ information systems.
  
If the interest of the aforementioned set of hackers (White Hat Hackers) is to be paid, they will attempt to hack into a company’s network and then present the affected company with a report detailing the existing security loopholes of the company and how those anomalies could be tackled. The advantage of this is that, they can use their skills for a good cause and help stop other cyber criminals, since keeping up with security and cyber criminals is a fulltime job and many companies can’t afford financially to have someone totally dedicated to it.

Another recent devastating aspect of internet hacking is the “Social Engineering” routine. Social engineering is a tactic used by cyber criminals that use lies and manipulations to trick people into revealing their personal information. Social engineering attacks frequently involve very convincing fake stories to lure victims into their trap. Some of these tricks include:

v Sending victims an email that claims there’s problem with their account and has a link to a fake website.

v  Trying to convince victims to open email attachments that contain malware, pretending to be a network/account administrator and asking for the victim’s password to perform maintenance activity.

v Claiming that the victim has won a prize but must give their credit card information in order to receive it.

v  Promising the victims that they will receive millions of dollars if only they will help out the sender by giving them money or disclosing their bank account details, just to mention but a few.

The recent dimensions of cyber crimes, which are becoming funny, barbaric and deadly, have called for constant and consistent update of advanced anti-hacking computer software by software producers, and the adequate dissemination of the said software to the apt quarters. Presently most developing countries are less-privileged in regard to advanced anti-hacking or anti-malware software.

On the other hand, a strict and grievous law regarding cyber crime ought to be implemented by all the countries in the world. Also, thoroughly equipped Internet Communication Agencies comprising well experienced experts are expected to be established by the respective countries.

The bill regarding Cyber Crime that is presently lying on the floor of the Nigeria’s National Assembly is a way forward and a right step in the right direction, but it should be passed into law in earnest. And when signed into law, ought to as a matter of urgency be implemented by the executive arm.     

Those involved in these criminal acts with the sole aim of bankrupting their victims should endeavour to turn a new leaf to exonerate themselves from the dangers that will surely befall them. 

Above all, the potential victims either individuals or corporate organizations, must also take precautions of the aforementioned internet or computer scams in order not to exclaim ‘Had I known’.

 

     COMR. FRED NWAOZOR

Public Affairs analyst & Social activist

________________________________

              +2348054719437

2014 World Humanitarian Day (Aired Newstalk)

COMMEMORATING THE 2014 WORLD HUMANITARIAN DAY, 
  TODAY TUESDAY AUGUST 19

      

Today being 19^th of August 2014, the world over is marking the World Humanitarian Day. The World Humanitarian Day is an annual and international day dedicated to recognize humanitarian personnel and those who have lost their lives while working for humanitarian causes. The event was designated by the United Nations (UN) General Assembly as part of a Swedish-sponsored General-Assembly Resolution on the strengthening of the coordination of Emergency Assistance of the United Nations.

The World Humanitarian Day is a time to recognize those who face danger and adversity while helping others. The day was set aside by the UN General Assembly to coincide with the anniversary of the 2003 bombing of the United Nations headquarters in Baghdad – Iraq, which claimed twenty-two (22) lives including the live of the then Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General to Iraq – Sergio Vieira de Mello.

The invention of August 19 as World Humanitarian Day was the outcome of the relentless efforts of Sergio Vieira de Mello Foundation coupled with the partnership of the deceased’s family with the Ambassadors of France, Switzerland, Japan, as well as Brazil in both Geneva and New York tabling and steering the draft resolution through the UN General Assembly. All the efforts of the Foundation was to ensure that the tragic loss of Vieira de Mello and his twenty-one (21) colleagues, and all the humanitarian personnel who have made the ultimate sacrifices in relieving the suffering of the victims of humanitarian crises were not in vain.

Sergio Vieira de Mello who was a citizen of Brazil – South America dedicated his lifetime spanning over thirty years in the United Nations, serving in some of the most challenging humanitarian situations in the world to reach the voiceless victims of armed conflict, alleviate their suffering and draw global attention to their plight. His death alongside twenty-one of his colleagues on 19^th August 2003 in Baghdad – Iraq, deprived the victims of armed conflict worldwide of a unique humanitarian leader of unmatched courage, drive and empathy who championed their cause fearlessly and clearly engraved their plight on the world map.

The tragic event also robbed the humanitarian community of an outstanding leader and intellectual whose thought, philosophy, dynamism and courage inspired all, and remains a timeless legacy to emulate by generations yet unborn. Mindful of this legacy, in 2006 the family of the late humanitarian icon and a group of close friends founded the Sergio Vieira de Mello Foundation dedicated to continue his unfinished mission of encouraging dialogue between communities and relieving the predicament faced by the victims of humanitarian crises.

The World Humanitarian Day was commemorated for the first time on 19^th August 2009. Suffice to say that, this year’s commemoration is the sixth of its kind in the history of the worthwhile event. As the international community marks the event today, we are all urged to borrow a leaf from the indelible landmark achievements of the great warrior and legend – Sergio Vieira de Mello.

Surely, the most important thing to any man remains his/her welfare. Welfare could be referred to as one’s well-being; or, organized efforts to ensure the basic well-being of people in need. Since the term ‘Humanitarian’ has to do with human welfare, it is of no need reiterating the fact that this remarkable event widely known and recognized as World Humanitarian Day was set aside to sensitize mankind on the cogent need for people to help one another, and for anyone to support any crusade that is targeted at promoting lending hand to persons that are in need or victimized.       

Since no one ever wishes to be in a community or society made up of only him/her, thus, we ought to ensure that the sustenance of the well-being of our relatives, friends, colleagues or associates as the case may be, is at all times our civic responsibility.  

 

         COMR. FRED NWAOZOR

Public Affairs analyst & Social Crusader

____________________________________

                +2348054719437    

Who's Your Best Friend?

WHO’S YOUR BEST FRIEND?

Greetings brethren! Honestly I dreamt of you last night. And believe me; what I saw in the dream disclosed to me that we were almost close to the point where the best is kept for us.

I’ve reiterated the fact often times that everyone needs to be faced with an option so he/she can make a choice; because if there’s no option, one may think, albeit ignorantly, that what he has is the best. In other words, ‘best’ is a superlative adjective which comes up after thorough comparison.

Two weeks ago during my business stay in Jos –Plateau State, I used the opportunity to meet one of my old time friends residing in the city. The young man in question recently took a woman to the altar barely three months ago, and I wasn’t opportune to attend the remarkable ceremony. The moment I entered his sitting room, he ushered the newest bride for a formal introduction. Having introduced me to her, he began by saying, “Engineer Fred, meet my best friend and soul mate…”, referring to the woman of the moment. That is by the way; please pardon the digression.

The topic before us is “Who’s your best friend?” The topic might seem or sound trivial but frankly speaking, it bears a very critical issue that requires to be treated with all manner of seriousness coupled with thoroughness.

In one of my previous publications titled “Commemorating the 2014 International Day of Friendship…” which had to do with the annual anniversary of the Int’l Day of Friendship as mandated by the United Nations (UN), I took my precious time to analyze extensively the real meaning of a friend. I made it known that, a friend is a person one likes and knows well. Furthermore, I stated that it could be defined as a supporter of a cause or a staunch fan of a certain organization.

The above definition implies that, a friend is the first person(s) you wish to call whenever you receive good news. Needless to say; a friend is that person or fellow that would like to accompany you on the most boring errands or trips and make them seem fun.

Significantly, going by the aforementioned statement, your best friend is one of your friends in whom you’re well pleased and wish to share all your blessings or burdens with. Mind you, one could boast of more than one best friend. But the problem we invariably face is how to know who is/are truly our best friend(s). Or in a nutshell, the qualities that make one your best friend. This is where the interest of today’s edition lies. Let’s ride on!

Beloved, there are certain distinct idiosyncrasies that a friend, brother, or sister bound to possess before he/she can be referred to as your best friend. Or, before you regard him/her as your ‘best friend’. You can see that I made mention of a brother or sister, because your relative can also be regarded as your friend; yes, one can be introduced as your brother or sister as well as your friend. You must be mindful of the fact that, not all your relations are your friends, considering the definition of ‘a friend’ stated above.

We have already made it clear that, one can never make a choice or acquire the best if there are no options. So for you to acquire the best, you must be placed with an option. The option would enable you to compare or contrast between the things or persons involved.

Let’s go straight to the point regarding who you’re meant to be seen or addressed as your best friend. Since your friend is that first person you wish to call whenever you receive any good or bad news as the case may be, then your best friend is that person who wishes to call you whenever he/she receives any good or bad news, this signifies that, there must be reciprocation in the kind of affection or feeling you have for the person you call your best friend. Therefore, as you wish to hear from him or her come rain come shine, he/she is also expected to wish that he/she hears from you in any circumstance. There’s no two ways about it.

Suffice to say that, anyone you regard as your best friend is expected to be there for you just as you are there for him or her. Summarily, the kind of affections that exist in best friendship must be reciprocal. The two or more parties involved must be there for each other regardless of the circumstance. We must have this at the back of our minds, so that, we won’t continue to derail as regards whom we regard as our ‘best friend’.

Regarding the above analyses, the first person that ought to be seen as one’s best friend is his/her mother, husband or wife as the case might be, because friendship between a child and his/her mother remains the best ever, likewise that of a man/woman and his or her wife/husband just as my bosom friend in Jos introduced his darling wife as his best friend.

At this juncture, I ask once again: who’s your best friend? Think about it!

 

FRED DOC NWAOZOR

frednwaozor@gmail.com

Abuse Of The Beauty Of Dress Among Mankind

 ABUSE OF THE BEAUTY OF DRESS AMONG MANKIND

 Greetings brethren. I’m immensely glad you are looking happier than before. That is exactly what every man prays for; yes, we all pray for increment or growth in our respective worthwhile endeavours. I’m also glad we’re all gorgeously dressed as if we knew what we would be discussing today. All the same; we’re highly welcome as usual.

I put it up to you that everyone prays to be faced with an option so he can make a choice, because if there’s no option, one may ignorantly think that what he has is the best. Of course ‘Best’ is a comparative adjective; thus, you can never tag something/someone as the best if there are no things/ones regarded as the ‘good’ or ‘better’ as the case might be. Suffice to say; ‘best’ is a superlative comparative adjective that’s being used after good and better respectively.

Barely three days ago, Friday August 8 to be precise, I was opportune to be in Asaba – the capital Territory of Delta state. During a tete-a-tete section with some of my associates in a certain hotel, I learnt from one of us who resides in Warri that, as regards dress (clothing) competition, Warri as a locality would take the last position. Though it was his personal opinion, but as an analyst, I tried to ascertain want prompted the perception. The man in question unequivocally ended-up saying that, on the average, a resident of Warri was nothing to write home about in regard to dress, because they were of the view that it doesn’t really speak for someone’s personality.

Dress, in a nutshell, is the kind of clothes someone is putting on. Generally, it is someone’s outfit or clothing in a given circumstance or occasion. In other words, one’s dress is the combination of all the wears he/she is putting on simultaneously. Take for instance; if you’re putting on a pair of knickers, T-shirt, face cap, and a pair of sandals at the same time, the combination of the aforementioned wears is your dress.

In the same vein; a piece of clothing worn by a woman or girl, which covers her body and extends down over her legs, can also be referred to as her dress. Summarily, one’s dress is anything or group of things he/she is wearing at a certain time or occasion.

The above definitions have clearly specified that one’s dress contributes immensely to his/her beauty. Believe me, dress plays a very vital role in someone’s beauty; frankly dress can make a Chimpanzee look like a fox. But it’s appalling to notice that the beauty of dress among mankind has been profoundly abused by all and sundry, especially in the African society.

Those days during the time of our ancestors, no doubt, there was originality with regard to the dress pattern they were used to. In fact, there was what could be regarded as ‘dress code’ among them. On the contrary, nowadays it’s quite disheartening to observe the enormous abnormality taking place amongst the human race, all in the name of ‘fashion’.  No one pays attention anymore to what he or she intends to wear to an occasion due to the present culture widely known as ‘Individual liberty’. Let’s ride on!

Individual liberty is the situation whereby one has the right to indulge in any social activity or behaviour without the intervention of his/her parents or guardian, let alone that of other members of the society he/she belongs. Considering dress, such culture or way of life simply signifies that anyone has the right to dress in a particular style as it pleases him/her.

The above stated culture is one of the negative side-effects of civilization. Frankly, civilization has endangered so many African cultures that were speaking volume in the continent. For instance, take a walk to the various campuses in Nigeria; you would see for yourself that there is tremendous decay in the pattern of dressing among the so-called students of the campuses.

Before now, everyone was of the view that the type of attire one is clad in, has to do with the nature of the occasion he/she wants to attend or the activity he/she intends to indulge in. But today, the reverse is completely the case. The youth no longer dress to suit the occasion or activity in question; rather, to suit the devil as well as his agents. It is even pathetic and disgusting to acknowledge the fact that, the elderly ones have followed suit. Hour of deliverance, brethren!

I’m using this medium to urge the law makers to enact a law bearing capital punishment in regard to throwing this rubbish to the waste bin where it rightly belongs. We can’t fold our hands and continue watching our society dying gradually out of negligence. It is our civic and collective responsibility to put this uncalled social deviance to the history book.

On the other hand, I wish to throw a sign of warning at this point. Those, especially the female folks, who continually derive pleasure from dressing either half-naked or totally nude, ought to wake up from their respective slumbers. I want to disclose to you that one’s dress is automatically his/her identity, contrary to the alleged believe of a typical Warri resident as reported by my associate. In fact, your dress is your first identity because it is what is being noticed the moment you present yourself.

At this juncture, I’m issuing you an ultimatum to turn away from your lackadaisical and evil ways, unless you don’t wish to appear happier than this by tomorrow. Mind you; you’re not faced with any option as regards this ultimatum. Think about it!

 

FRED DOC NWAOZOR

frednwaozor@gmail.com

   

The Imo State Nneoma Women Organization (Aired Newstalk)

PROPOSED VISIT OF THE IMO FIRST LADY TO ORU EAST LGA FOR THE INAUGURATION OF THE NNEOMA WOMEN ORGANIZATION – ORU EAST CHAPTER, TOMORROW TUESDAY AUGUST 12 – 2014

No doubt, women are like food condiments in any society in existence. No wonder it is widely in circulation that, any society without a woman is of no taste.

Since it has been proven that women are the essential catalyst in the democratic developmental process of any society, there is a cogent need to inculcate them into governance in order to achieve sustainable progress at all the levels of government which encompass local, state, and federal.

Considering this singular fact, there is an urgent need to reposition women towards utilizing their potentials in building a better society through the use of their respective families as the building block. This is exactly what the Imo First Lady is doing in Imo State via the establishment of various women groups.

Tomorrow being Tuesday August 12 - 2014, the Imo State First Lady –Nneoma Nkechi Rochas Okorocha would be in Oru East LGA ably led by Hon. Barr. Obinna Amagwula to inaugurate the “Nneoma Women Organization” of the council. The ongoing inaugural project, which commenced few weeks ago, is meant to take place in all the twenty-seven (27) Local Government Areas in Imo State.

The Nneoma Women Organization is aimed at repositioning and equipping Imo Women thereby sensitizing them to effectively discharge their duties in their respective homes and the society at large, as well as urging them to contribute their quota in the ongoing developmental strive of the Rescue Mission Agenda of the present Imo State government led by Governor Owelle Rochas Okorocha, OON.

The Nneoma Women Group is an association of good spirited women whose objectives includes: serving as a medium for encouraging and promoting peace, unity, coexistence, spiritual growth in various families and communities, coupled with the discovering and harnessing of hidden talents among women.

The Oru East Nneoma Women Organization, which has distinguished women like Evang. Esther Obong Egbuna, Dr Mrs. Akwuabia Nzeribe, Mrs. Ugonna Amagwula, Hon Mrs. Nma Michaels and Mrs Stella Udogwu as the leaders, is presently piloted by Mrs. Catherine Boniface and Hon. Mrs. Cecilia Okafor as the Chairperson and Secretary respectively.

Indeed the well-being of any family, society or nation anchors on the behavior of women, who are invariably regarded as the integral part of the global community. Suffice to say that, the Nneoma Women Group requires the collective support of all and sundry.

Surely just like salt, women help to preserve adequate value in the society. This fact is not unconnected to the speech made by Prof Mrs. G. G. Agulanna on the topic “Woman: Salt of the Family” during the recent Conference of the Nneoma Women organized by the amiable Imo First Lady, which took place at Ahiajoku Convention Centre – New Owerri on Thursday February 27, 2014.

It is worthy to remind us that the theme of that remarkable One-Day Conference, which featured series of lectures, interactive session, documentary presentations, among others, was “The Woman: Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow”. During the aforementioned conference, the Imo First Lady – Nneoma Nkechi Okorocha who delivered a lecture on “Etiquette and Courtesy”, stressed the importance of adopting polite and acceptable manners or attitude in every aspect of human endeavours. She went further to educate the women on social behavior, table manners, home management, just to mention but a few; and urged them to imbibe the culture of self-improvement.

As the lovely and loving Imo First Lady, Nneoma Nkechi Rochas Okorocha – Eji Ulo Eme Ogo, visits Oru East tomorrow 12^th of August 2014 to inaugurate the Oru East wing of this impeccable organization known as Nneoma Women Group, we humbly request the presence of all the stakeholders and well-meaning individuals of the council both home and in the diaspora, including the Traditional Rulers, Ndi Nze na Ozo, Civil servants, Senior citizens, Commercial drivers/motorcyclists, various party leaders, the youth, school children, gentlemen of the Press, and most importantly all the women organizations in Oru East LGA.

 

         

        COMR. FRED NWAOZOR

Public Affairs analyst & Social activist

_______________________________

              +2348054719437

Paedophilia: A Blood-Curdling Societal Canker

PAEDOPHILIA: A BLOOD-CURDLING SOCIETAL CANKER
    

Greetings brethren! I welcome you all to another special edition of this ongoing divine crusade widely known and recognized as ‘Fancy Facts’. Please sit tight on your respective seats as we unfold the content of today’s edition to the fullness.

       
Before I proceed, I want you to note one fact: a bad attitude can literally prevent love, blessings, and destiny from finding you. So don’t be the reason you won’t succeed. In the same spirit, let me notify you unequivocally that, you were born to be real, not to be perfect; you are here to be you, not to live someone else’s life.

        
Most times I spend my precious time pondering over some certain occurrences taking place around us. I know as a prolific writer, I’m meant to be in a pensive mood virtually at all times, but it is worthy to note that some meditations are indeed thought-provoking, which is tantamount to causing a nervous wreck to the person involved.

       
Let me quickly share a tale with you before I proceed. Penultimate week, I was opportune to be in Abuja, the Nigeria’s Capital Territory. While I was having a drink with some of my associates who based in the city, I was told that a certain young man in his late forties residing in Abuja, Garki to be precise, was arrested by the police for allegedly raping a six-year old girl who lives in his neighbourhood with the parents.         

       
I learnt that the incident was a product of deceit invented by the miscreant. The report disclosed that on one fateful afternoon, the man in question drove to the kid’s school during the dismissal time, with the aim of taking the kid home. He told the head teacher that the child’s father pleaded with him to bring her home since the child’s school is situated very close to his office, with the excuse that the father had an emergency call to report somewhere. The child having confirmed that the man who posed as a ‘good Samaritan’ was her neighbour coupled with the fact that the man had accompanied the kid’s father to the school on a certain occasion, the teachers was left with no other choice than to release the kid to him.

      
There’s no need stating that the alleged rape took place in the man’s car. This and many more similar tales occurring virtually on a weekly basis, if not daily, are not unconnected to the fact that paedophilia is considered as a worthwhile practice by most of us. Let’s ride on!

       
Paedophilia, in a precise term, is a situation whereby one is being sexually attracted to children. In other words, a paedophile is a person who’s sexually attracted to a child. Summarily, paedophilia has to do with one who has the urge to ‘sleep’ or have sex with a child.

        
It is no longer news that the aforementioned societal menace has deeply gained ground in our divinely created polity. Considering this fact, one may be tempted to ask: what is actually happening to the entire human race? Frankly concerning the above mentioned race, there are several questions that are needed to be asked regarding most current occurrences that could be tagged as ‘absurdity’.

       
In regard to sexual abuse, we are no longer discussing homosexuality, lesbianism, masturbation, and what have you; presently, the most devastating one remains ‘paedophilia’. In the last paragraph, I said that ‘one may be tempted to ask what is actually happening to the human race’; but the truth of the whole matter is that the overall human race, if I’m not mistaken, is profoundly infected with an indelible ‘spiritual disease’.

       
Yes I’m strongly of the opinion that the cause of this anomaly is strictly spiritual, because I can’t see the reason a sane person would be sexually attracted to a little child under normal circumstance. The condition is similar to seeing a man in his right senses having a sexual urge for a mad woman walking helplessly on a street.

       
Often, the ridiculous practice is attributed to ritualism. The outcome of my research is that most of the cultists indulge in any of the above acts in order to tender sacrifices to their respective secret confraternities. Such act is usually the first sacrifice that would be required from them the moment they become members of the cult. And, they are always faced with no option than to do as demanded by the deity.

       
 On the other hand, it could be as a result of a spell. I want you to note that anyone who’s under a spell is liable to indulge in any form of blasphemous or sacrilegious act. In this case, the victim of circumstance doesn’t have an option either. This is why we ought to be very careful in whatever we do with our friends, relatives or colleagues to ensure that we do not attract any curse to our persons.

       
The bone of contention as regards silencing this ‘blood-curdling societal canker’ is that everyone must search his/her conscience to ascertain if there’s any way he or she has wronged the Almighty. Mind you; no one can cheat on nature and go scorch-free because she (nature) remains the omnipotent and omniscient. In fact, no one can successfully cheat on nature.

       
Beloved, it’s better late than never; don’t allow your bad attitude to prevent your destiny or blessings from locating you. Think about it!

          

FRED DOC NWAOZOR

frednwaozor@gmail.com