Truancy Among Government Workers

ALARMING INCREASE OF TRUANCY AMONG GOVERNMENT WORKERS

Greetings brethren! Honestly, even when I don’t think of you, I still see you in my dreams. This is simply because our hearts are connected to each other via covalent bonding.

For those of us who weren’t opportune to offer Chemistry while in Secondary school, you may not comprehend what I meant by “Covalent bonding.” Let me use this avenue to throw more light on that. Covalent bond is a form of bond between two or more atoms or ions of different elements in which the atoms in question share electrons among themselves. That is to say: in covalent bonding, the elements involved benefit from each other.

In biology, such occurrence is known as symbiotic relationship. A symbiotic relationship is one in which the animals or people involved stand to benefit from each other regardless of the circumstance. I want us to note that whenever there’s relationship of this kind, there is always absolute love among the animals/persons concerned. And if you truly love someone, you would end up seeing him/her in your dreams. It is a natural phenomenon.

Penultimate week, I was opportune to be in Akwa Ibom State, Uyo precisely. And during my three-day stay in the state, I discovered a certain anomaly taking place among Nigerian public/civil servants. I was able to fathom the irregularity due to the fact that a friend of mine was personally affected.   

My friend, who works with one of the state ministries, confided in me and told me that one of his colleagues had been away from office for almost a week without any tangible or serious excuse. He made me know that he had been defending the miscreant’s absence with series of lies since he embarked on the uncalled emergency leave. Thus, my good friend was an accomplice and he was really disturbed about it; that was why he disclosed the incident to me. According to him, the young man in question had been known as a truant for quite some time now.

Regarding this recent observation, I’ve concluded that truancy is indeed the order of the day in the Nigerian labour sector having witnessed same abnormality in some other states in the country including Imo my home state.

Most English dictionaries including the Oxford Advanced Learners Dictionary define truancy as the practice of staying away from school by pupils/students without any permission or legitimate excuse. It is worthy to note that truancy can also be applied in other fields of human endeavour, such as civil/public service, teaching, military/paramilitary, political terrain, et cetera. Let’s ride on!

Frankly the current degree of truancy among government workers in Nigeria is a scenario that requires drastic and severe measure towards ensuring that it is allocated to the history book where it rightly belongs. Without mincing words, the ugly phenomenon which seems like an indelible societal cankerworm has really eaten deep in the nation’s socio-economic sector, that, if apt approach is not taken to eradicate it, the nation in its entirety stands to be savaged by famine in no distance time.

Just take a minute and imagine a situation where every worker in the country decides to follow suit as regards the unacceptable practice. Don’t you think that such unimaginable scenario might result to thorough penury amongst the overall populace? I encourage us to think about this.

To this end, I’m using this medium to urge the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) to forward a bill with regard to the termination of this aberration in earnest to the National Assembly. If forwarded, our law makers are expected to encourage the crusade by ensuring that the bill is rapidly signed into law without any iota of delay.

The members of the Executive arm of the government are meant to contribute their anticipated quota in regard to the implementation of the law as soon as it is signed by the legislators. In addition, they must endeavour to release adequate funds that would help to facilitate the said law to ensure that it is not swept under the carpet.

On their parts, other fractional labour unions like National Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) must also play their role towards ensuring that the proposed law or regulation is observed at the grass root.

Inter alia, all hands are equally expected to be on deck as regards the eradication of this socio-economic menace. We must contribute our individual quotas in this regard if we actually pray for the betterment of this country.    

As we benefit from Nigeria, we should also allow her to benefit from us in return so that she would invariably see us in her dreams, because everyone definitely wants to be involved in a covalent bonding or symbiotic relationship.

Mind you; if Nigeria ceases to see us in her dreams, I’m afraid, we would be liable to embrace both physical and economic nervous wreck soonest. Think about it!

 

FDN NWAOZOR

frednwaozor@gmail.com  

2014 World Tourism Day (Aired News-Commentary)

THE NEED TO UPLIFT THE NIGERIA’S TOURISM INDUSTRY AS THE WORLD CELEBRATES THE WORLD TOURISM DAY, TODAY SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 27, 2014

No doubt, observing a beautifully looking environment remains one of the prime desires of every man. This is the reason every able-bodied man works assiduously to ensure that his/her immediate surroundings appear enticingly.

Tourism as an area of life or human endeavour is a sector that has, over the decades, pays an optimum attention to how attractive our surroundings look thereby making the sector to be globally recognized as an avenue for revenue generation.

In a concise term, Tourism is the business activity connected with provision of accommodation, entertainment, and other hospitable services for people who are visiting a place for pleasure. In other words, a tourist can be described as a person who is travelling or visiting a certain locality for the sake of pleasure.

In the past, our heritages were being used by our ancestors as a means of entertaining themselves as well as their visitors or guests. Presently, the tourism industry has shown that these heritages can also be utilized as a business venture having formally upgraded most of them to international standard.

Noting the positive impact of the tourism industry the world over, it is of no need reiterating the fact that it has contributed massively to the ongoing socio-economic development of most nations. Analysts are of the view that, the industry represents about nine percent (9%) of the global Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and that it is a key revenue sector for developing and emerging economies.

Indeed, tourism plays a very vital role in building blocks of a more sustainable future for all, which is community development. Above all, it is widely acknowledged for its capacity to respond to global challenges. In view of this, there is an urgent need for Nigeria, which is a nation globally recognized as the “Giant of Africa”, to follow suit towards ensuring that the World Tourism Industry which helps to foster global unity is granted a preferential treatment at all costs.

Nigeria can contribute her quota by ensuring that her socio-cultural heritage is optimally uplifted. This proposed measure would not only help to encourage the world tourism industry, but would also go a long way to elevate the country’s Gross National Product (GNP), thus strengthening her economic prowess.

Nigeria as an independent state is made up of over two hundred and fifty ethnic groups; and each of these groups is tremendously blessed with various socio-cultural heritages. These cultural heritages including dancing, masquerading, dressing, hunting, fishing, wrestling, molding of sculptures, inter alia, if well harnessed, would no doubt help to uplift the nation’s Tourism Industry thereby boasting her socio-economic and political pride.

Today Saturday September 27, 2014, the world over is celebrating the World Tourism Day. At its third session held in Torremolinos – Spain in the year 1979, the United Nations Assembly mandated its Member States to observe September 27 each year as the World Tourism Day, having reached a unanimous resolution.

The day of the commemoration was chosen to coincide with an important historic milestone in the world’s tourism sector, which is the anniversary of the adoption of the UN Tourism Statutes on 27^th of September 1970. The first commemoration of the World Tourism Day took place in 1980.

The timing of the World Tourism Day is particularly appropriate, because it comes at the end of the high season in the Northern hemisphere, and at the beginning of the season in the Southern hemisphere when tourism is of topical interest to hundreds of thousands of people worldwide.

The United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development held in 2012 emphasized that well-designed and appropriately managed tourism can make a significant contribution to the economic, social and environmental dimensions of sustainable development. The Secretary General, Mr. Ban Ki-moon further highlighted that, tourism which remains one of the world’s largest economic sectors, is specially well-placed to promote environmental sustainability, green-growth coupled with human struggle against climate change through its relationship with energy.

As the international community celebrates the World Tourism Day today, we are all expected to contribute our quota towards ensuring that our respective environments or surroundings become globally recognized as attractive and human friendly localities, so that, generations yet unborn would  live to remember that an attractive environment is equally a revenue source.

In addition, the Nigerian government ought to note that it is high time the country’s Tourist Industry is uplifted through the realization of the fact that the Oil and Gas Industry may not last for eternity. To this end; embracing diversification as regards the nation’s revenue generation or source is long overdue. “A word is enough for the wise!”

 

        COMR. FRED NWAOZOR

Public Affairs analyst & Social activist

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               +2348028608056    

   

 

The Need To Support The Imo Civil Guard Corps (Aired Newstalk)

A CALL TO SUPPORT THE ‘IMO CIVIL GUARD CORPS’ ABLY LED BY CHIEF HONOURABLE DONATUS EWE EJIFUGHA

      

Just as he desires to see that everything is complete and as well put in place in Imo State at large in line with the famous Rescue Mission Agenda, the governor thought it wise to institute a uniform arm of the Imo Orientation Agency to ease the fight against various traffic cum environmental vices.

Owing to this fact, on July 26 - 2013, His Excellency Chief Owelle Rochas Okorocha – OON inaugurated the anticipated state paramilitary corps which was named Imo State Civil Guard Corps. An initiative that attracted numerous commendations from all walks of life in the state and in the diaspora.

Subsequently, on Thursday 8^th May 2014, the bill regarding the legal recognition of the aforementioned corps, which was sponsored by Hon. Victor Ndunagu, was duly passed into law by the impeccable members of the Imo State House of Assembly ably led by Rt. Hon. Benjamin Uwajumogu after one week of the official launch of the corps. Such historic gesture was made possible by the law makers in order to encourage the founder of the corps, Chief Rochas okorocha for the remarkable step he took to ensure that such formidable paramilitary organization is formed in the state, and when it is mostly needed.

In the said law, it was categorically stated that the head of the corps – Imo Civil Guard shall be recognized and addressed as The Commandant General, and he/she shall stay in the office for five consecutive years having been appointed by any serving Governor of Imo State.

The fundamental objects of the Imo Civil guard Corps include Crowd and Traffic Controls, and Guard Services. Suffice to say that, activities such as street trading, hawking, illegal parks location, just to mention but few, are expected to be adequately handled by the corps.

Lest I forget, it is worthy to note that the Imo State Civil Guard Corps is working in synergy with other existing military and paramilitary corps in the state, including the Army, Police Force, Civil Defence Corps, NDLEA, Prisons, Immigration, Customs, and the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), in maintenance of law and order in Imo State.

The most enticing aspect of the Imo Civil Guard Corps is that, the amiable and indefatigable governor – His Excellency Owelle Rochas Anayo Okorocha appointed a well experienced personnel of no questionable character and a distinguished worthy son of Oru East extraction, Awo-Omamma precisely, in the person of Chief Honourable Donatus Ewe Ejifugha (Odenjiji) to pilot the affairs of the corps as the Commandant General.

Having retired from the Police Force as a senior police officer, Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP) to be precise, Hon. Donatus Ejifugha was employed by Chief Rochas OKorocha as his personal Chief Security Officer (CSO) prior to his assumption of office as the Imo State Governor. As soon as he became the Governor of the state, he appointed Hon. Ejifugha as his Senior Special Assistant (SSA) on Security and Advanced Protocols. In the year 2013, he was directed by the Governor to serve as the Sole Administrator of Oru East Local Government Area before he rose to his present position as the Commandant General of the Imo State Civil Guard Corps having been found worthy by his boss to serve in such challenging position.

Among other Senior Officers, the Imo Civil Guard Corps constitutes the Deputy Commandant General, the Commandant, Deputy Commandant, Zonal Commanders, and others too numerous to mention. The offices of the Deputy Commandant General and the Commandant of the corps are currently occupied by Chief Jude Uregbe and Mr. Martins Eke respectively. 

The current recruitment strength of the corps is about 1200. According to the ethics of the corps, after conducting a certain recruitment having undergone an intensive training coupled with thorough orientation, each of the successful new recruits would be assigned to the various established units of the corps that are found in all the twenty-seven (27) Local Government Areas in Imo State, which include the Administrative, Operations, Transport and Provost departments, and as well the Traffic sections; some of them would also be assigned to most of the government offices or parastatals for guard services.

It is no longer news that the officers of the Imo Civil Guard Organization are in all corners of the state and also working round the clock to ensure that their duties are effectively carried out in respect to the directive of the tireless Commandant General, Chief Hon. Donatus Ejifugha. Presently their landmark achievements including the alleviation of illegal parking of vehicles, street trading as well as hawking activities in Owerri metropolis, speak for themselves

Currently, the corps is faced with numerous challenges to include lack of operational vehicles such as Power Bikes, Towing vans, Buses, Hilux vans, and what have you. On this note, I call on all the government functionaries and stakeholders to magnanimously contribute their respective quotas to ensure that the remarkable aim of Governor Owelle Rochas Okorocha towards creating a thorough serene environment in the Eastern Heartland is duly actualized. 

 

                COMR. FRED NWAOZOR

   Public Affairs analyst & Civil Rights activist 

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                    +2348028608056

 

2014 International Day of Peace (Aired News Commentary)

A GLOBAL CALL FOR CONDEMNATION OF HOSTILITY AND CONFLICT AS THE WORLD MARKS THE 2014 INTERNATIONAL DAY OF PEACE, TOMORROW SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 21

 

Hostility is an unfriendly or aggressive behaviour/feelings towards people from other backgrounds. It can also be described as a strong opposition against an idea, a plan or a situation. In the same vein, conflict is a situation in which people, groups or countries are involved in a serious disagreement or argument which often results to violence; it can simply be defined as a state of complete confusion and disorder.

On the other hand, peace is a situation or a period of time in which there is no enmity, violence or war in a certain locality or country. More so, it is the state of being calm or quiet, or living in mutual friendship with others.

Hostility and conflict, or lack of peace, which has subjected mankind to a state of mockery, has indeed arrested the developmental thrives of most nations in the world thereby constituting a severe and uncontrollable poverty among the populace.

Conflict, which is as old as the world, has succeeded in rendering the socio-economic growth of many countries incapacitated due to its cruel and dastardly nature. Conflict or crisis through the emergence of terrorist activities such as assassination, kidnapping, massacre, genocide and what have you, has not only brought endless anxiety to the people, but has contributed immensely to the degradation of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of the countries involved. Above all, the dangers of war or the level of the post-traumatic stress disorder attributed to it cannot be overemphasized.

Statistics show that the root cause of several conflicts are directly related to valuable natural resources such as gold, diamond, oil and gas, diesel, coal, kerosene, timber, water and so on. Needless to say; addressing the ownership, control and management of natural resources or endowments is crucial to maintaining peace and security thereby sustaining an ideal development.

Surely, peace and security are essential foundations for social progress and sustainable development. Thus, we must quench the fire of extremism among us in order to tackle the root causes of conflict, because peace is definitely a long journey that we are bound to collectively embark on. Suffice to say that, we are expected to hold peace in our hearts and minds, and tenderly nurture it so it would grow and blossom.

Regarding the effect of peace to humanity, in 1981, the United Nations (UN) General Assembly through a resolution established the International Day of Peace. The Assembly mandated the UN Member States to observe September 21 of every year as Int’l Day of Peace. The first International Peace Day was celebrated on Tuesday September 21, 1982; the first commemoration was meant to coincide with the anniversary of the United Nations’ opening session, which was held annually on the third Tuesday of September.

In addition to the commemoration, in 2001, the UN General Assembly by unanimous votes adopted resolution which established 21^st September of every year as an annual day of non-violence and ceasefire. By this resolution, the United Nations invites all nations and people to honour a cessation of hostilities, and to otherwise commemorate the Day through education and raising of public awareness on issues related to peace.

It is no longer news that, armed conflict causes untold grief and hardship to families, communities and the entire countries involved. Indeed, too many are suffering today at the brutal hands of war-mongers and terrorists. This is why, from the onset, we must learn to teach our children and wards the essence of tolerance and mutual respect. Let’s invest in the schools and teachers that will build a fair and inclusive world that embraces diversity; fight for peace at all cost, and defend it with all our might.

Therefore, from time to time, we are meant to sensitize our children, relatives, friends, colleagues and associates towards emulating the habit of the UN Messengers of Peace, or the likes of Princess Haya, Daniel Barenboim, Paulo Coelho, Michael Douglas, Jane Goodall, Edward Norton, Steve Wonder, Charlie Theron, Elie Wiesel, just to mention but a few, whom remain distinguished individuals carefully selected from the fields of art, literature, science, entertainment, sports and other fields of public life, who have agreed to help focus worldwide attention on the work of the United Nations as regards promotion of peace. These prominent personalities or icons volunteer their times, resources, energies, talents and passions to raise awareness of United Nations’ tireless efforts to improve the lives of billions of people worldwide.

The International Day of Peace offers people globally a shared date to think about how they can contribute towards ensuring that natural resources are managed in a mature and sustainable manner, thus reducing potential for disputes as well as paving ways for a sustainable future, which is no doubt the future we want.

As the world over commemorates the Int’l Day of Peace tomorrow, I’m using this avenue to call for a global condemnation of hostility and conflict lingering all over the world in order to sustain a formidable peace needed for both individual and national developments.

 

      COMR. FRED NWAOZOR

Public Affairs analyst & Social Crusader

_______________________________

              +2348028608056   

    

 

2014 Int'l Day For The Preservation Of The Ozone Layer (Aired Viewpoint)

COMMEMORATING THE 2014 INTERNATIONAL DAY FOR THE PRESERVATION OF THE OZONE LAYER, TODAY TUESDAY SEPTEMBER 16

       

Both in the past and present, mankind have been bewildered by so many environmental hazards and challenges. Presently the worst of these challenges is mainly attributable to depletion of the Ozone Layer.

      

The Ozone Layer is a fragile shield of gases that protects the earth from the harmful ultraviolet radiation or rays of the sun thereby helping to preserve lives on the planet in question.

       

A number of commonly used chemicals like halocarbons and/or organic compounds have been found to be extremely damaging to the Ozone layer. Halocarbons are chemicals in which one or more carbon atoms are linked to one or more halogen atoms such as fluorine, chlorine and bromine. The halocarbons containing bromine usually have much higher Ozone-Depleting Potential (ODP) than those that consist of chlorine.

       

The man-made chemicals that have provided most of the chlorine and bromine for Ozone depletion are methyl bromide, methyl chloroform, carbon tetrachloride, and families of chemicals known as halons, chlorofluorocarbons and hydro-chlorofluorocarbons. In the same vein; the damaging impacts of organic compounds like carbon monoxide on the Ozone layer, cannot be overemphasized.

        

The scientific confirmation of the depletion of the Ozone layer prompted the international community to establish a mechanism for cooperation to take drastic action to protect the Ozone layer. This was formalized in the Vienna Convention for the Protection of the Ozone Layer, which was adopted by twenty-eight (28) countries on 22^nd March 1985. In September 1987, this led to the drafting of the Treaty on The Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer, which was duly signed by all the United Nations Member States.

        

The fundamental aim of the Montreal Protocol is to protect the Ozone layer by taking severe measures to control total global production and consumption of substances that deplete it, with the ultimate target towards their elimination from the basis of developments in scientific knowledge and technological information.

       

In view of the steady progress made under the Montreal Protocol, in 2003, the former United Nations Secretary-General Mr. Kofi Annan stated, “Perhaps the single most successful international agreement till date has been the Montreal Protocol.” His views were shared widely among the international community.

       

In respect to the sustenance of the widely observed Montreal Protocol, on 19^th of December 1994, the United Nations (UN) General Assembly proclaimed September 16 of every year as the International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer. The UN annual Int’l Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer focuses on the importance of protecting human health and the environment in general.

         

The phase-out of controlled uses of Ozone depleting substances has not only helped to protect the Ozone layer, but has contributed immensely and significantly to global efforts of addressing climate change. This year’s commemoration of the Int’l Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer is calling for greater awareness regarding the Ozone Layer’s preservation in order to fully actualize the aim of this remarkable globally recognized crusade.

       

During the 2013 commemoration of the Day, which was marked with the theme “A healthy Atmosphere: the Future we want,” in his message to the world, the current UN Secretary-General Mr. Ban Ki-Moon commended all who had made the Montreal Protocol such an outstanding example of international cooperation. He went further to urge governments, industries, civil societies, and other partners to apply the same spirit to the other great environmental and developmental challenges of our time.

        

As the world over celebrates the 2014 Int’l Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer, today Tuesday September 16, we are expected to contribute our quota towards actualizing an atmosphere or environment that is totally free from any harmful substance.

       

Nigeria as a country can encourage this annual event by implementing drastic and severe measures that would help to eradicate all the activities contrary to the preservation of the Ozone layer such as bush burning, use of generators and other household mechanical devices in open places, coupled with other industrial practices that exhibit Carbon Monoxide or smoke as well as other substances that negatively affect the Ozone layer.

       

It is worthy to note that all hands are equally expected to be on deck towards the actualization of a society completely free from any form of environmental hazard or degradation.

 

   

      COMR. FRED NWAOZOR

Public Affairs analyst & Social activist

_______________________________

              +2348054719437    

    

Overheating Of The Polity By Political Aspirants

ADDRESSING THE UNBEARABLE OVERHEATING OF THE POLITY BY NIGERIAN POLITICAL ASPIRANTS

 

Greetings brethren! It’s preposterous to ask how was, or how you spent your weekend, because apparently, your countenances or physiognomies are a tangible proof that you had a splendid week break. Notwithstanding, there’s need to ask, even when we are aware of the answer to the question. In other words, there’s absolutely no harm in asking.

Honestly, little did I know that virtually everywhere in Nigeria is currently faced with same slogan until I recently embarked on a trip to Delta State, Isele-Ukwu to be precise. Few days ago, Saturday September 6 precisely, I alongside members of my household was in the said locality for a traditional wedding ceremony. On my way to the place, every nook and cranny was loaded with unquantifiable bill boards, posters, banners, wall stickers, and what have you; all in the name of ‘political aspiration’.

Having noticed the aforementioned scenario, I was compelled to ask myself some certain questions. One of the questions was: how could someone indicate the position he/she is aspiring-for on the bill board, prior to the anticipated lift or declaration of campaign era by the INEC? The most devastating aspect of the anomaly is that most of them, if not all, end up writing ‘Vote for Mr A for Governor’ or as the case may be. What impunity!

The case is similar in all the states in the federation that are awaiting elections come 2015 or thereabouts. Considering the ongoing abuse or violation of electoral laws, even a-day old child would be subjected to a mood of thorough and frank meditation. And unequivocally, the kid in question might end-up exclaiming that Nigeria is indeed suffering from ‘Paranoia’. But, God forbid!

The abnormality doesn’t even stop at mounting bill boards and other campaign materials; it has transcended to other crazy and ridiculous practices such as antagonism, enmity, inconsequential rivalry, social derailment during occasions, childish media utterances, just to mention but a few, thereby leading to overheating of our innocent and noble polity. It’s really absurd. Let’s ride on!

Frankly the last time I checked, Nigeria in her entirety was regarded by all and sundry as one of the funniest countries the world over. Why wouldn’t she be seen as a very funny nation when those tagged as role-models have started acting like ‘role-cowards’? It is really disheartening to see one to whom writing meant so much suddenly becomes blind. In the same vein, it’s quite appalling to see a musical giant becoming dumb or physically challenged.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) really need to do something drastic towards addressing this absurdity or madness before it leads to something cruel and inhumane. The INEC, which remains the only legitimate ‘Spy’ to all political aspirants in Nigeria, ought to as a matter of urgency wake up from its slumber in respect to these ongoing unacceptable melodramas taking place on our polity almost on a daily basis.

The INEC is expected to enact a strict and severe bye-law that would help to checkmate or contain this odd. If any bill board or poster is mounted/pasted on the roadside by any aspirant, the write-ups or the written words on it must be plain; therefore mustn’t contain any fowl or campaign language. Also, a formidable team comprising trustworthy and illustrious individuals should be set-up to monitor any gathering/occasion irrespective of its nature or the activity of all the aspirants, to ensure that utterances regarding campaign are not dished out during the occasion by any aspirant or his/her supporter. Thus, any social, cultural, political, or religious ceremony occurring anywhere is meant to be duly spied by the team.

In regard to the above suggestion or proposal, I’m using this medium to appeal to INEC to ensure that any one (aspirant) regardless of his/her political position, who by any means violates the stipulated regulation, is sanctioned as well as suspended from any future political aspiration/tussle till further notice.  

I’m also using this avenue to plead with these so-called aspirants to endeavour to play politics with absolute maturity. Politics is a game meant for mature minds, thus, shouldn’t be abused by those who are yet to comprehend the game. I’m of the view that, it’s the immature minds that invariably see it (politics) as a dirty game.

The truth of the matter is that, politics is never a ‘dirty game’; rather, it remains the sweetest game on earth because it is the only game that requires thorough meditation, consultation, planning coupled with proper implementation of ideas and strategies, if the person in question really wants to embrace victory at the polls. Think about it!

 

FRED DOC NWAOZOR

frednwaozor@gmail.com   

 

2014 Int'l Day of Democracy (Aired Newstalk)

A CLARION CALL FOR ERADICATION OF CORRUPTION AS THE WORLD MARKS THE INTERNATIONAL DAY OF DEMOCRACY, TODAY MONDAY SEPTEMBER 15, 2014

Everyone detests with passion seeing his/her voice or speech swept under the carpet. In the same vein, it’s extremely painful and devastating for one to be deprived of his freedom of speech in any circumstance or arena he finds himself. And, this characteristic known as ‘Freedom of Speech’ remains the most distinct feature finds in democracy.

According to BBC English Dictionary, democracy is ‘a system of government or organization in which the citizens or members choose leaders or make other important decisions by voting.’ The Oxford Advanced Learners Dictionary defines it as ‘a fair and equal treatment of everyone in an organization or any group of persons, and their right to take part in making decisions’.

In Political Science, democracy is defined as ‘the government of the people, by the people, and for the people.’ From my personal perspective, democracy is the slogan or anthem of a certain organization that is being cited or sung, and understood by the entire members of the organization or union.

Frankly, democracy of any country is the prerogative of the people that make-up the country; therefore ought to be duly sustained because it’s no doubt a welcome development. Thus, any democratic state is expected to be maintained at all costs, owing to the fact that any practice that gives peace to those concerned requires adequate sustenance.

It is appalling that in most developing nations such as Nigeria, Zimbabwe, Cameroon, Rwanda, Guinea, Burkina Faso, Kenya, and what have you, democracy has suffered from enormous maltreatment due to corruption. Without mincing words, corruption has remained a blood-sucking cankerworm in the democratic dispensation of numerous countries in the world.

Corruption has indeed hampered the socio-economic and political growth of several nations thereby constituting nuisance to the available human and natural resources of the nations in question. Surely, the various lingering uncalled and questionable attitudes such as personal aggrandizement, nepotism, election rigging, abuse of human rights and rule of law, misappropriation of public funds as well as impunity of most political office holders in a country like Nigeria is solely attributed to corruption. In a nutshell, unequivocally, corruption has obviously rendered so many countries incapacitated, all in the name of ‘democracy’.

Democracy is a universal value based on the freely expressed will of people to determine their own political, economic, social and cultural systems, and their full participation in all aspects of their lives. On the contrary, Nigeria as a country has failed to uphold this philosophy. This is why the youth are no longer the major dominance of the country’s political arena, as it was during the postcolonial era.

In spite of Nigeria’s bureaucratic nature, the youth cannot boast of at least twenty-five percent (25%) participation in her political strive. Rather, the old men who started the game have vowed to die in service thereby endangering thorough participation of the youth that are regarded as the most productive class, which is purely contrary to the mandate of the United Nations. These and many more factors presently found in the democratic setting of many nations in the world are products of corruption.

Today Monday September 15, the world over is commemorating the 2014 International Day of Democracy. The Day which is annually celebrated was adopted on November 8, 2007 by the United Nations (UN) General Assembly. In its resolution in 2007, the General Assembly, which believes that human rights and the rule of law are best protected in democratic societies, encouraged governments to strengthen national programmes devoted to the promotion and consolidation of democracy and also decided that 15^th of September of each year should be observed as the International Day of Democracy.

The Int’l Day of Democracy was first celebrated in the year 2008. The UN General Assembly recognized that the year 2008 marked the 20^th anniversary of the first International Conference of New or Restored Democracies, which gave people a chance to focus on promoting and consolidating democracy worldwide. The event which featured various activities was used to raise public awareness about democracy.

The theme of this year’s commemoration which is tagged ‘Engaging young people in Democracy’ is expected to highlight the challenges and opportunities of young people engaging in democratic processes. It is obvious that people between the ages of 15 and 25 constitute a fifth of the world’s population; statistics has that the proportion is even higher in many developing countries. Yet, several studies show declining faith among young people in politics, with decreasing levels of participation in elections, political parties and socio-cultural organizations across the globe. This apathy applies to both established and emerging democratic states.

As the world marks the Int’l Day of Democracy today, I’m sincerely calling on all concerned civil societies or institutions for total eradication of corruption in our democratic system, through sensitization of the youth as well as promotion of freedom of speech among the electorates, so that, the citizenry of every democratic state shall live to benefit the real dividend of democracy. The time to act is now!

  

      COMR. FRED NWAOZOR

Public Affairs analyst & Social activist

_______________________________

              +2348054719437  

 

              

Demise of Constituency Briefing By Legislators

 THE ABRUPT DEMISE OF CONSTITUENCY BRIEFING BY NIGERIAN LEGISLATORS

Greetings brethren! Believe me; sometimes, Dementia which is a serious mental disorder caused by brain disease or injury that affects negatively the ability to think, recollect, and behave normally, could be attributed to a mark of spell or spiritual origin.

In the same vein; Stroke which is a medical condition mainly caused by the disorderliness of the nervous system of the sufferer could as well be as a result of an evil/insincere deed committed by the patient, which is generally referred to as nemesis or repercussion.

Surely, it is no longer news that insincerity has suddenly become the order of the day among most Nigerian politicians. This is the reason most of them will never give you ‘A’ having emerged victorious at the polls, in spite of the fact that they had promised to give you ‘A’ during the campaign era.  Suffice to say; various Nigerian politicians could be referred to as ‘Wolves under sheep clothing’ or, ‘green snakes under green grasses’. In a nutshell, they are unpredictable; therefore, could be regarded as Chameleons.

I’ve always wondered in my lonely mood why we’ve decided to murder or crucify our consciences. Right now, I’m thinking aloud so that anyone with a reasonable and tangible answer could kindly tender it to me, because I can’t continue to feel pains in silence. I’m of the view that, dying in silence ought to be tagged as one of the worst sins ever.

But is it true that some persons’ consciences are dead, or could it be described as a countenance parading a false pretence? Though personally, I don’t think one’s conscience can be murdered in any way or by any means. Thus, every conscience lives till the death or eternal demise of the bearer. If you have a contrary view, please feel free to disprove my opinion; after all, we’re all bound to encounter ignorance.

Please, kindly pardon my digression, for I’ve derailed in this edition. The theme of today’s crusade remains, ‘The abrupt demise of Constituency Briefing among Nigerian Legislators.’ Demise is simply the end or non-existence of something/someone. In the same spirit; Constituency briefing is a situation whereby an elected member of a certain House of assembly gives his/her score-card or informs his/her electorates on what he/she has been able to achieve within a given period of time, which usually takes place annually or as it pleases the elected officer. Let’s ride on!

Frankly, without mincing words, it is disheartening to notice that most of the present days legislators or law makers in Nigeria have thrown constituency briefing to the dustbin contrary to how the practice was being observed in the past, thereby endangering the healthiness of their constituencies.

Constituency briefing, in its real sense, was initiated by the past politicians (legislators) to enable them create a cordial relationship with their respective electorates. Also, it is an avenue through which the legislator is expected to know and note the pressing needs of his/her electorates or constituents. But presently, the remarkable scenario (platform) has been abused profoundly due to the selfishness or self-centeredness of most of the politicians in question.

Why should there be constituency briefing when the constituency allowance or the allocation granted for the developmental thrives of a particular constituency is now comfortably utilized with impunity as a fund meant for the development of the immediate family of the legislator? It is even more pathetic that a legislator cannot boast of having sponsored or co-sponsored just a bill or motion on the floor of the House. So why should there be a constituency briefing when the legislator involved has virtually nothing to tell his/her constituents, or to boast of?

Brethren, why have our Representatives in the Upper and Lower Chambers as well as Members of the State House of Assemblies chosen to bring disgrace to our polity? Most of them have spent over twelve years in the House without a single Constituency briefing. Legislation which I personally consider as the most respected arm of government has abruptly been reduced to a thing of mockery by many of our politicians or so-called law makers. It is really quite appalling.

At this juncture; I urge every one of us to wake up as we are about embracing another era of elections. The members of the various recognized political parties are expected to search their consciences while selecting the flag bearers of their parties. And mind you; I would advise you to concentrate on the personality and background of the aspirants while taking this decision.

Above all, those who would be legible to vote come 2015 ought to ensure that they are not disfranchised in any way because their votes remain their prerogative. And while casting their votes, they must also ensure that they vote wisely, and that their votes count. Thank God, the masses are now the prime determinant of the fate of any election. Needless to say; we now have the chances of electing who we actually want.    

Beloved, since the era of thuggery is gradually coming to an end, please do not make any attempt of selling your vote to anyone, so that, you won’t have the chances of encountering an unforeseen state of spiritual dementia. Think about it!

 

FRED NWAOZOR

frednwaozor@gmail.com

   

        

2014 International Literacy Day (Aired News-Commentary)

CHECKING THE DANGERS OF ILLITERACY AS THE WORLD COMMEMORATES THE INTERNATIONAL LITERACY DAY, TODAY MONDAY SEPTEMBER 8, 2014

   

According to BBC English Dictionary, Literacy is ‘the ability to read and write’. Over the years, there have been several definitions of literacy by various schools of thought. In some quarters, it is described as a fundamental right and a foundation for lifetime learning, better well-being and livelihoods. 

Surely, literacy is a driver for sustainable and inclusive development. It is a tool for personal empowerment and a means for social and human development. In the same vein, it is an instrument of empowerment to improve one’s health, income and his/her relationship with the world.

Literacy is at the heart of basic education for all, and essential for alleviating poverty, eradicating child mortality, curbing population growth, achieving gender equality, as well as ensuring sustainable development, peace and functional democracy. Thus, educational opportunities and other academic prowess depend solely on literacy.

Honestly, we need to be able to read and write in order to get through our basic daily tasks or activities, such as writing a shopping list, gaining admission into any school, and securing a job opportunity. No doubt, literacy opens up a window of opportunities to every one of us; and it is very essential to our individual and national developments.

Since it is only a literate community otherwise known as a dynamic community that has the ability to exchange ideas and engage in debate, it is of no need saying that literacy is the only tool that can guarantee a healthy and hearty living, and an encouraging development among mankind.

Illiteracy, however, is an obstacle to a better quality of life. As a societal cankerworm, it has yielded several uncalled and inconsequential stigmatizations among humanity, both in the past and present, thereby leading to series of unimaginable and uncontrollable violence or crises.

Indeed many people in the world have derailed in their various pursuits due to illiteracy. An illiterate person, whom is considered as a vulnerable being, is exposed to numerous maltreatments or abuses, including humiliation, stigmatization, intimidation, extortion, drug abuse, just to mention but a few.

Frankly, the dangers of illiteracy cannot be overemphasized; it has led to several social, economic, cultural, religious, and political mayhem at various levels of human endeavours. Unequivocally, illiteracy has subjected humanity to uncountable vices, and has remained the major cause of the increasing rate of abject poverty as well as several severe illnesses which often result to the death of the victims.

Taking cognizance of the fact that over 775 million adults in the world lack minimum education, coupled with the acknowledgement of the real dangers of illiteracy in any society, the commemoration of the International Literacy Day came into existence by the effort of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).

The International Literacy Day was proclaimed on November 17, 1965 by UNESCO; it was first celebrated in 1966. The aim of adopting the initiative was to highlight the importance of literacy to individuals and the international community at large; and to raise public awareness on the extraordinary value of the written words coupled with the necessity to promote a literate society.

Today Monday September 8, 2014, the world over is commemorating the International Literacy Day as stipulated by the United Nations. It is a day that calls for the promotion of literacy at all levels in order to totally eradicate the lingering dangers of illiteracy across the globe.

For over sixty-six (66) years, UNESCO has worked tirelessly to ensure that literacy remains a priority on national and international agendas through its formal and non-formal literacy programmes worldwide. Till date, the organization is earnestly striving towards realizing the vision of a literate world for all.

Part of the Millennium Development Goals regarding Universal Education is aimed at ensuring that every human being, especially a child, has the opportunity to make a better life. Unfortunately, too many children in the world today grow up without this chance because they are denied their basic right to even attend nursery or primary school.

Lessons learnt over recent years have shown that, meeting the goal of universal literacy calls not only for more effective efforts but also for renewed political wills, and for doing things differently at all levels – locally, nationally and internationally, irrespective of the challenges that might be faced.

As the world marks the annual Int’l Literacy Day today being September 8, we are expected to contribute our quota towards ensuring that everyone around us understands the essence of having a literate society which would go a long way to combat the various dangers of illiteracy that is earnestly tarnishing our socio-economic image. ‘A stitch in time saves nine!’

  

      COMR. FRED NWAOZOR

Public Affairs analyst & Social activist

_______________________________

              +2348054719437    

2014 Int'l Day of Charity (Aired Viewpoint)

THE NEED TO END THE UNKIND ATTITUDES AMONG MANKIND AS THE WORLD MARKS THE INTERNATIONAL DAY OF CHARITY, TODAY FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 5, 2014

It is widely noted that ‘God loves a cheerful giver’, which simply implies that one who gives freely and cheerfully will definitely receive his/her reward from God, in abundance.

Charity, in a concise term, is a kind or generous attitude towards other people. In the same vein, it can be defined as money, gift, or time given to poor or less-privileged people. Some typical examples of charity include:

v Raising funds for the benefit of a certain person or cause.

v Contributing manual labour to help build a house for a low-income family.

v Setting aside half of your coffee money per month and granting that money to an organization that helps the needy.

v Donating food, clothes, and other basic requirements to the motherless-babies homes, from time to time.

v Asking friends and family to donate money to a specific charity organization rather than getting you gifts for birthdays and other anniversaries.

No doubt, charity contributes to the promotion of dialogue, solidarity and mutual understanding among people. Thus, it is the duty of everyone to live toward its uplift since it helps to foster a society filled with peace and harmony.

Today Friday September 5, 2014, the world over is marking the International Day of Charity. In recognition of charity’s key role in alleviating humanitarian crises and human suffering, in 2012, the United Nations (UN) General Assembly designated September 5 of every year as the International Day of Charity.

The date was chosen in respect to the anniversary of the death of Mother Teresa whose life and good works for some of the poorest of the poor and the downtrodden while on earth inspired several people across the world. In other words, the adoption of the day for the commemoration of the International Day of Charity was in honour of the Late Mother Teresa, because the deceased Amazon dedicated her life to the poor and other disadvantaged people around the globe.

The idea of the International Day of Charity was proposed by Hungary with the aim of creating a universal platform to raise awareness on the importance of benevolent giving. Upon the initiative of Hungary, the UN General Assembly adopted a resolution by consensus to designate 5^th of September, the anniversary of the passing away of Mother Teresa, as the International Day of Charity.

The resolution was co-sponsored by the forty-four (44) Member states representing all the five regions of the United Nations. The cross-regional support of the initiative reflects the universal recognition of charity and the apparent relevance of selfless giving or services in today’s world.

In his introductory speech, the Permanent Representative of Hungary to the UN – Mr. Csaba Korosi, highlighted that charity as a way of thinking, provides real social bonding and contributes immensely to the creation of inclusive and more resilient societies. According to him, ‘Charity can alleviate the worst effects of humanitarian crises, supplement public services in health care delivery, education, housing, and child protection. It assists the advancement of culture, science, sports, and natural heritage. It also promotes the rights of the marginalized and the underprivileged, as well as spreads the message of humanity in conflict situations.’

The first commemoration of the Day was held in the year 2013 at the UN Headquarters in New York, U.S.A; the event featured various panel discussions on the role of charity in poverty alleviation and in promoting access to clean water and sanitation in general, with distinguished guest speakers from the philanthropic community including the United Nations Foundation.  

Therefore, the International Day of Charity is a day to remember those who are less advantaged, and to take appropriate actions to help them. The UN set aside September 5 of every year as that day, so that, we all would act collectively in order to alleviate the suffering and pains of the less-privileged around us.

However, bear in mind that many people are doing charitable work every day, either individually or collectively. Needless to state unequivocally that, everyday is a golden opportunity to assist those in need; devoting our time coupled with money, would help to end these lingering unkind attitudes found among mankind.

As the world marks the second commemoration of the annual International Day of Charity as well as the anniversary of Late Mother Teresa, today September 5, I urge every individual and organization worldwide to use this opportunity to promote their own projects and encourage charitable activities in their respective communities or societies.

 

      COMR. FRED NWAOZOR

Public Affairs analyst & Social activist

_______________________________

              +2348054719437