Imo Trumpeta newspaper

Category: Guest Columnist

  •    THE INNER AND OUTER REALITY OF RELIGION PART2

       THE INNER AND OUTER REALITY OF RELIGION PART2

    Religious men, don’t trust the cloud rather trust the sunshine for the sunshine is the inner light that governs all multidimensional activities that oversees the inner and outer (religious) self. The conduct of our life is the true mirror of our various doctrines, I am saying this because I am a man and nothing human is foreign to me.

    Now the idea of evil, Gods, and devils are great deeper religious symbols with profound cosmic values. These ideas become the driving themes of these religious drama of which I shall talk about in other articles. The great actors of same may “return”, time and time again in different roles. In any given historic religious drama, therefore, the actors may have already appeared on the historic scene in our understanding of the past, the prophet of today becoming a traitor of the past drama. This majority may not understand due to their attachment to religious credo and error.

    These psychic entities are real! It is quite true to say that their reality consists not only of the core of their own identity, but also is reinforced by those projected thought and feelings of the earthly audience for whom the drama is enacted. Psychic or psychological identification is of great importance here and is indeed at the heart of all such drama. In one sense, one can say that man identifies with the gods he has created by himself. Man does not understand the magnificent quality of his own inventiveness and creative power; therefore, it becomes difficult how he “made” God/god through the projected vibration of his psychic aura within the thoughtless form of eternal reality. This is difficult because of the definitions we placed on words and values. Though it is obvious that the attributes of the Gods (communicable and incommunicable) are those inherent within man, magnified, and brought into powerful and potential activity. We believe that Gods live forever; men too live forever within the time limit of eternity, of course you do not know that the term “forever” is an organized limitation within psychic space of interplanetary invisibles. To reality itself, forever does not exist in time! This assertion goes beyond the prescribe philosophy of time which has so confused scholars. Nevertheless, man lives forever (for the choice of words) but having forgotten this in this momentary matter, space, energy and time, he then projects this quality or characteristics  to God, though am not against it. Obviously, beyond this earthly historic religious drama the seemingly recurring tales of gods and men, there are spiritual realities upon which inner reality of religious faith is based.

    Behind the actors in the drama, there are more powerful entities that are quite, beyond role-playing. The plays themselves, then, the religions that sweep across the ages these are merely shadows, though helpful ones. Behind the frame of good and evil is a far deeper spiritual value. All religions, therefore while trying to catch “truth” have to some large degree embraced error in its true nature. The inner self alone, at rest, in meditation, can at times glimpse portions of these inner realities that cannot be physically expressed. These values, intuitions, or insights are given each to each according to his understanding and so the stories told about them will often vary.  

    For example the main character in a religious historical drama may or may not consciously be aware of the process by which such information is given to him. Yet it may appear to him that he does know, for the nature of a dogma’s origin well explained in terms that this main character can understand.

    As a matter of fact, the historical Jesus knew who He was, He was aware of the three personalities composing in one entity called CHRIST. To a large extent, He shared in the inner memory of the other personalities. I am not talking of Trinity here because God is one and this one deity functions in many forms and not only three. In many of my books and articles, I have severely mentioned the third personality of Christ which in our material and mundane terms has not appeared though his existence has been prophesied as the “Second Coming“ evident in Mathew 24. Now these prophesies were given in terms of the current culture at that time, and therefore, while the stage has been set, the distortions are deplorable, for this Christ will not come at the end of our world, though He is here  in a new name but certainly must not follow the prescribed theological cum eschatological principles of mundane scholars.                 

    The mystery of the second personality of Christ prophesied as the Second Coming is highly shrouded in some caves of esoteric drama. As a result He will not come to reward righteous and send evildoers ablaze to eternal doom rather He will begin a new religious drama, thereby confusing majority on his marital status. Yes, He the sole spiritual head will certainly continue a high rate of the spiritual cum historical drama of the ancient as it was. As it happened before He will not be generally known for who He is, but as the Bible puts it “for wheresoever the carcass is, there will the eagles be gathered together matt 24:28. Following the above, there will be no glorious proclamation to which the whole world will bow. He has come to straighten our Christianity, which is hitherto in a shambles and to set up a new system of thought as the whole world is sorely in need of him now. His Holiness, the King of Kings and the Lord of Lords is now on earth as a result all religious groups, cult, occult and as many as promote iniquity in one way or the other is in crisis. He is undermining religious organizations- not uniting them as part of his role is not in that direction.

    The message of the King of Kings is that of a supreme individual in relation to ALL That is. He has hitherto stated methods by which each individual can attain a state of intimate contact with the Sole Spiritual head of the universe. Do remember that Nostradamus saw the dissolution of the Roman Catholic Church as the end of the world; this is because he could not imagine any civilization without it, the mysterious appearance of the King of Kings and the Lord of Lords is the dual consummation of Nostradamus prediction in relation to the dissolution of the Roman Catholic Church and keeping to Thursday as his holy day.

    The third personality of Christ will indeed be known as great psychic, for it is He who will teach humanity to use those inner senses that alone make true spirituality possible. Slayers and victims will consequently change roles as reincarnation memories rise to the surface of consciousness. Through the development of these abilities, the sacredness of all life will be intimately recognized and appreciated.

    Following the above, Seth a deity who dictated his esoteric lectures to Jane Roberts who thereafter compiled it into a book, “Seth speaks” confirmed the above assertion on page 371 thus, “now there will be several born before that time who in various ways will rearouse man’s expectations. One such man has already been born in India, in a small province near Calcutta, but his ministry will seem to remain comparatively local for his lifetime. Another will be born in Africa, a black man whose main work will be done in Indonesia… He will lead man behind the symbolism upon which religion has relied for so many centuries. He will emphasize individual spiritual experience, the expansiveness of soul, and teach man to recognize the multitudinous aspects of his own reality”.

  • Reasons Voters in Isu, Njaba, Nkwerre & Nwangele Should Re-elect Rt Hon Ugonna Ozurigbo

    Reasons Voters in Isu, Njaba, Nkwerre & Nwangele Should Re-elect Rt Hon Ugonna Ozurigbo

    As the days for the next general elections draws near, reasons why people should be elected has continued to surface and in this piece, we shall be critically dissecting major facts why constituents of Nkwerre/Isu/Nwangele/Njaba federal constituency should re -elect Rt Hon Ugonna Ozuruigbo “OZB”
    The Rt. Honorable Ugonna Ozurigbo (OZB) is a candidate I believe in, and I am not alone.
    He has engaged a huge movement of people, young and old across economic, social, religious, gender and age lines.
    He has inspired us by standing FOR something, for a future that we all can be a part of, rather than playing the tired game of being better than the alternative.

    The voters of Nkwerre/Isu/Nwangele/Njaba have a great candidate that represents them at the Federal House of Representatives with a record of standing on the side of ordinary Imolites and protecting businesses from harmful interests which remains a great contrast to past Representatives. His political base in Nkwerre/Isu/Nwangele/Njaba gives him a strong foundation on which to win absolute majority votes in 2023 elections.

    Think-tank, versatile, intelligent and knowledge-driven, OZB took his search for knowledge to different parts of the globe, certifying and specializing in several fields of endeavors that have made him a rounded professional, business guru, administrator and consummate politician of towering repute.

    OZB is a strong and independent advocate for economic prosperity, social and political justice.  He has taken the advocacy fight outside of the confines of the hall of Abuja and has been a proven leader in the community. His issue based profile and record of standing up for Imolites on issues that directly affect their lives offers him a perfect platform to position his candidacy as a business and consumer advocate standing up for ordinary Imolites at a time when most voters see politicians, even ones they voted for, as only interested in themselves.

    The Right Honorable OZB is a committed community leader. His work in the Federal Assembly on key progressive issues aligns well with the issues priorities of his supportive audience and target voters. He’s legislation addressing families facing difficulties of losing their jobs and businesses, youth unemployment and the COVID-19 that killed many families, victims of kidnapping and domestic violence and promoting a living wage for pensioners, retirees, small business community, among others, shows that he has the strengths and a record focused on real Imolites. These issues also have political teeth –unlike some generic issues that may sound important, but are more difficult to
    address, these problems all show a clear contrast between what’s best for Imolites and what the special interests are fighting for.

    Known for his deep sense of justice and fairness, he will continue to fight for working families and has built a reputation for not accepting the status quo when deciding on important and critical issues. Many political insiders like Rt. Honorable Ugonna Ozurigbo because he is savvy and ambitious

    OZB has a natural advantage on some fundamental issues, namely providing financial resources to help businesses from folding up, protecting children from sexual predators, building roads, stopping domestic violence, which has worked very well for his constituency.  Rt. Honorable Ugonna Ozurigbo has powerful stories of breaking through and delivering hope for ordinary people.

    Chris Odi Osuji
    Ozuoha Abajah, Nwangele LGA, Imo State

  • Ugboma, A Lawmaker With A Difference

    Ugboma, A Lawmaker With A Difference

    If there is one lawmaker that can win award for showcasing independence mindedness in the affairs of the House so far irrespective of party affiliation is the member representing Oguta State Constituency, Hon Frank Ugboma. In the present ninth House, third Assembly, his words while contributing to a debate on the floor of the House was awesome.

    His presence in the House has changed the predominant narrative people had during the eight House of Rochas Okorocha’s administration. It was believed that the era witnessed a State legislature that is akin to a ‘rubber stamp’ of the Executive.

    The wind of change that affected over 23 lawmakers immediately the nation’s apex court declared Hope Uzodinma winner couldn’t affect him, as he remained in the opposition, the people’s Democratic Party, PDP that brought him into power.

    Not only that his stand in the PDP seem unshakable, the soft spoken legal professional exhibited an act of independence mindedness during the last week’s plenary session.

    While the debate on the said bill on relocation of University of Agriculture and Veterinary medicine from Aboh Mbaise, Ngor Okpala to Umuagwo was going on, he took a position different from that of other PDP lawmakers opposed to the amendment of the law.

    Even though the issue at stake has to do with the interest of his colleagues in the opposition front, Ugboma spoke thus; “Being in opposition doesn’t mean opposing good decisions coming from the government, I will only oppose them when they are not for the betterment of the State”.

    His statements on the matter quickly informed all present he has a genuine point to make over the amendment.

  • Ohakim’s Clarion Call by Collins Ughalaa

    Ohakim’s Clarion Call by Collins Ughalaa

    OHAKIM’S CLARION CALL
    By Collins Ughalaa
    “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God” Matthew 5:9.
    Various news platforms: the social media and the traditional media, have been awash with Dr. Ikedi Ohakim’s clarion call on his fellow governorship candidates in the just concluded governorship election in Imo State who feel aggrieved and have since filed petitions at the Governorship Election Petition Tribunal, to withdraw their petitions. Igbo people believe that elders do not sit at home and watch the she-goat deliver her kids in the tethers. As the governorship candidate of the Accord party in the election, Ohakim had more than 1,000 reasons to file a petition against the outcome of the governorship election in the state. But as a foremost leader in the state, he could not sit back and watch things go the wrong way, having fought against the impunity that we had as government for eight years.
    Nevertheless, before we go into the meat of this essay, let us digress a little to Governor Okorocha’s change of fortune – which has become an embarrassment to humanity – that the executive governor of Imo State could bring himself so low to be accused of publicly looting petty things such as iron rods. The manner of the carting away of construction materials and dismantling of public properties such as furniture, makes one sick. This is worsened by the lame explanations and shameless counter accusation from the government, that the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and their members and supporters are the ones carting away and looting government property.
    It is utterly disgusting that a government we called ours could be this cheap. Who sold the idea that contractors own construction materials, apart from their machines, and could move them as they wanted? Who says that the contractor handling a building project for someone now becomes the owner of the cement, sand, gravel, iron rods, etc, on the site? If a contractor could move construction materials at his will, why then does the government supervise the contractors/contracts? Truth is, once a contractor has been paid by the government, the construction materials belong to the government. They cannot be moved by the contractor at will.
    It is equally disgusting that the state government is the one defending the unknown contractor. Why can’t the contractor speak up and claim responsibility for his actions? Why was it that when the materials were reportedly intercepted by the police it was the Governor and his aides that were said to have showed up? Why was it that it was the Governor that reportedly made the request for five bundles of iron rods? Sad event as this demonstrates that the Governor’s trajectory from a hero heralded by the people with music and dance in 2011 to a deserted and jeered Governor in 2019 is nothing short of the magical. This is what a leader should not be.
    It should be clear therefore that Ikedi Ohakim is not only a good man, but he served Imo State meritoriously, with clean hands and conscience. The reasons are not far-fetched. Ohakim is a man of integrity. He has character. He is not a looter. He handed over more than N26bn to his successor, Okorocha, in 2011. He also handed over the Imo Roads Maintenance Agency (IROMA) and its asset worth over N12bn. Ohakim also handed over 1,952 water schemes, amongst others.
    No matter what happens, Ohakim considers the interest of the state to be far more important than his. For him, his ambition to be the Governor of Imo State for a second time did not require the blood of any Imo son or daughter. Ohakim noted this during the governorship campaigns when he declared that nobody should kill, snatch the ballot box or fight for him. He added that he would not share money or buy votes. And he kept his word.
    In keeping with his belief in the overall wellbeing of the state as far more important than the political survival of any individual, Ohakim called on the aggrieved governorship candidates in Imo State to sheathe their sword and give peace a chance by withdrawing their petitions from the Governorship Election Petition Tribunal. He made this call on Tuesday, April 9, at the Rockview Hotel Owerri, during the inauguration of the Inauguration Planning and Hanover Committee by the Governor-Elect, Rt. Hon. Emeka Ihedioha. He said that the aggrieved governorship candidates would be helping the state when they withdraw their petitions, saying that he suffered similar fate when he faced more than 20 election suits for the period of four years he was Governor, and therefore would not want Ihedioha to pass through same horrible experiences and distractions.
    Ohakim explained the need for the aggrieved candidates to heed his clarion call in his recent interview where he said: “I had to put my personal interest backwards. I congratulated Ihedioha even before INEC declared him the winner of the election. No sacrifice is too much for the state and we must have a state first before we will be able to run for any elective position. There comes a time when we have to put the interest of the state before ours, because I know what I passed through when I was governor of the state. I faced more than 20 legal battles and escaped four assassination attempts and they were too much distractions. I don’t want Ihedioha to go through the same thing. I want him to concentrate on the core mandate of governing the state with all the support he can get. If we pull down our state, we have no other place to go”.
    As characteristic with politicians, Ohakim’s clarion call has been misunderstood by some of those who are in court. In their responses they argued that what Ohakim preached to them was not what he did in years past. But they did not say that what Ohakim preached to them to do was the wrong thing. Again, they did not take note of the fact that what Ohakim preached to them is what he is doing now. He is not challenging the outcome of the election at the Tribunal. In fact, he has since congratulated the Governor-Elect. He was the first to do that, especially before the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) declared Ihedioha winner.
    Ohakim’s conviction is that the need to give peace a chance is far more important than any other consideration. There is no need to tear down the house if what we are really seeking is peace and progress of the state. That is what Ohakim meant when he warned that continuing with the court cases would be inimical to the progress of the state. He added that continuing with the cases would scare away development partners and other investors because investors do not invest where there are litigations.
    Another seeming misunderstanding of Ohakim’s clarion call is the argument that the aggrieved candidates have the right to table their grievances before the Tribunal. There is no doubt about that. Ohakim understands this. That was why he never argued against it but called on the aggrieved candidates to sheathe their sword in the interest of the state. There is a reason the Americans do not challenge the outcome of their elections in the court. Despite the hullabaloo about Russia’s involvement in the last presidential election in the US, Hillary Clinton never challenged the outcome of the election in court. Not because she did not have the right to do so, but because it was her own immense contribution to the building of the American state. It was a burden, the pain she had to bear.
    No one gets peace and progress from adjudication. The court may give you justice but never will it give you peace, progress and brotherhood. No one buys these things but they abound for free. With the defeat of the Dynasty and Familitocracy Imo people have got their collective justice and peace. They have also got back their shared brotherhood. Any attempt, therefore, to truncate this will no doubt be inimical to the collective interest of the people of the state. Ohakim is living by example and does not want to be part of any move to truncate the hard fought collective victory of the people.
    We want to see a situation where elections are concluded without anyone challenging it. Not because the process was perfect but because we want it to be perfect. We want a situation where the outcome of an election is accepted not because we do not know what to do, but because it is our contribution towards building the Imo State of our lofty dreams. In the pursuit of a peaceful and prosperous state, we try as much as possible to reduce rancor and make as much sacrifice as we can. It is part of building the nation, and posterity will smile on us.
    Ositadimma (meaning, may it become good from today) is a name the Igbo people cherish and give to their children. Claims to rights, or entitlement mentality, does not resolve all issues. What will maintain the peace we all share in the state now is sacrifice from all and sundry. Ohakim captured this point very well in his interview when he said: “Now, the next thing is for us to ensure that the incoming administration is not distracted. After Okorocha, we need not go through another period of uncertainty, for example, where the governor has to face several court cases. Investors don’t go where there are litigations. I am a victim. Our Oak Refinery project could not go ahead because of the court cases I was facing. The investors from Houston withdrew”.
    Collins Ughalaa could be reached via email:ughalaacollins@gmail.com, or via telephone:07066222944Ikedi & Okorocha

  • Ihedioha’s Exciting Plans for Autonomy of LG and Legislature; Matters Arising by Ogu Bundu Nwadike, MA

    IHEDIOHA’S EXCITING PLANS FOR AUTONOMY OF LG AND LEGISLATURE, MATTERS ARISING

    By Ogu Bundu Nwadike, M.A

    In the course of his extended and extensive electionerring campaigns across Imo State, one of the most captivating and exciting assurances by Imo governor-elect, His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Emeka Ihedioha, CON, KSC was his plans to institute autonomy for the Local Government (LG) system administration as well as for the State legislature.

    The proposal has remained very attractive and exciting for various reasons. It is in the character of human beings to crave freedom. Autonomy is a synonym of freedom. It reflects independence. In a nutshell, independence, freedom or autonomy when weighed in real terms is priceless and invaluable. Hence, individuals and groups go the extra distance to ensure their independence, freedom and autonomy.

    There are views that among the many sins of the expiring governor against Imo humanity, his failure to secure autonomy for the LG system and administration cum the State legislature was the most grievous. For eight years, 2011-2019, Gov. Rochas Okorocha did not conduct a single election for the Local Government system and administration in Imo State. Rather, he deployed all sorts of voodoo politics and policies to suppress and subjugate that quintessential statutory third tier of the government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in Imo State.

    Ditto, the governor apparently literally procured a giant pocket and herded the Imo State legislature and the legislators into his pocket, turning them into rubber stamp and ceremonial legislators. Imo State House of Assembly never had any iota of autonomy in the straight tortuous eight-year period that Gov. Okorocha held sway as the Chief Executive of Imo State. That was part of his biggest shame.

    It remains incomprehensible how a governor of an enlightened elite State like Imo State could run his tenure for eight years without granting impetus to the statutorily established institutions like the second and third levels of government of the federation – Federal, State and Local Government. For eight painful years, the expiring governor ran Imo State on a strange, unconstitutional, unitary system, collapsing everything else – the legislature, the judiciary and the local government system – into the Executive arm of the Government of Imo State over which he presided.

    It was such an absurd situation that since Rt. Hon. Emeka Ihedioha has been repeatedly repeating his resolve and commitment to grant autonomy to the entire realms of government in the State, the excitement and joy of Imo people has known no bounds.

    The first real signal that Rt. Hon. Emeka Ihedioha will redefine the LG system and administration in Imo State when he becomes governor was sent sometime in early 2018, the Imo State House of Assembly, fully tucked into the big pockets of Gov. Okorocha, brazenly rejected the Bill for LG Autonomy that was passed by the National Assembly and requiring passage by at least 24 State Assemblies to become a law in Nigeria. For that singular show of hatred for the common masses of the State, Ihedioha wept!

    Today, as the governor-elect of Imo State, his tears for the captivity, oppression, suppression and subjugation of the LG system and administration have not been in vain. Indeed, at the rejection by Imo State House of Assembly of the autonomy for the 774 Local Government Areas (LGAs) in Nigeria that was granted by the Senate and the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Emeka Ihedioha intensified his assurances that he will grant autonomy to the LG system and administration when he becomes governor. And God has approved of his people-oriented plans. To God be the glory!

    Instructively, both the legislature and the LG system are constitutionally designed to cater for the rights of the people, the true owners of democracy. The former by way of making laws on behalf of the people whose mandates they represent at the parliament. The latter caters for the basic grassroots developmental needs of the ordinary people. Yet, Gov. Rochas Okorocha still deemed it germane to stiffle and hamper the legislature and the LG. What a tyrannical leader!

    Now, as the Imo governor-elect gets set to mount the saddle of leadership in Imo State, the people must be eagerly awaiting the new lease of life of freedom that Imo legislature and Imo LG will soon begin to enjoy. Rt. Hon. Emeka Ihedioha will do it. His word is his bond. Moreover, he was a national legislator par excellence, who presided over the House Committee on Constitution Amendment which expressly gave nod to the unhindered autonomy of the legislature and LG system in Nigeria.

    His ascendancy on the big leadership and governance seat in Douglas House on May 29 will no doubt establish the milestone in the annals of government and governance of Imo State as the era when autonomy of the legislature and the LG system was re-established after over a decade of its abrogation by the expiring governor, Rochas Okorocha. This is our chance!

    *Nwadike is a journalist, author and public affairs analyst.

  • Imo Ministry of Education Stinks, CGC Teachers to protest against extortion, non- payment of Salaries

    imo-state-logo

    By Okey Alozie

    Heavy scandal is now rocking the Ministry of Education located inside Imo State Secretariat complex Owerri following allegations of fraud.

    Our source revealed that some secret extortion of money complete with omission of worker’s salaries have been alleged to be taking place there since last year.

    Another blunder was that the names of those in accelerated teachers programme were tampered with as names of the beneficiaries listed for confirmation and regularization were substituted name with other names outside the original list. Meanwhile, the community Government council teachers (CGC) who were actually regularized as at November 2017 are now seriously complaining of non-payment of over 4 months salaries after the State governor had dolled out big amount of money to pay the youth must work teachers who have suffered in the system.

    Some of the aggrieved C.G.C teachers stormed Ministry of Education block Tuesday to register their anger to the commissioner and permanent secretary. Our reporter who spotted them at the complex observed that the matter was not settled and as a result the aggrieved teachers have vowed to take the matter up and possibly organize a protest over non-payment of their 4 months salaries.

    Investigation revealed that some of them were frustrated out of the system.

    Moreover, the principals and head teachers who submitted the lists were alleged to be biased on the ground that only those who danced to their tune were favoured.

    Further investigation also revealed that SEMB boss E.O Chukwu and his men did marvelous job by pruning down the list from above 2.800 C.G.C teachers to 1644 who were eventually given confirmation. A source disclosed to Trumpeta that those complaining of extortion and omission are not true C.G.C teachers but ghost workers who want to work in more than 2 establishments. All efforts made to see the Commissioner and the Perm Sec of the Ministry proved abortive. Meanwhile concerned Imolites have called on those in authority to set up investigation panel to ascertain the true position of the matter.

    Trumpeta also gathered that top government officials were fingered in the alleged fraud which is now brining bad image to the Ministry of Education.

    We also gathered that most of the substitution and extortion happened immediately governor Okorocha dissolved his cabinet last year. Information revealed that most activities of the ministry was hijacked in the absence of a commissioner. After her appointment, Mrs Getrude Oduka fought back to correct all the mistakes made in her absent.

  • Why I am in the Guber Race

     

    This article was written in 2015 when I ran as a Deputy Governorship Candidate in UPP with Dr. Osmond Ukanacho being the flag bearer. It is republished here to remind Imo people of the choice they missed. UPP still stands the chance of changing things in Imo come 2019. Be informed that I am not in the guber race now and do not intend to be for now unless the divine wishes otherwise. I am from Orlu zone and my stand is that no Orlu person should run for Imo guber race. Orlu zone stands for justice and equity and it must be maintained. Refresh your memories once more with this 2015 article.

     

    What will you do when your immediate human society is in disarray- When virtually every palm that stirs its leadership, bows to same ancestral credo, irrespective of vows and promises to change the story? Will you fold your arms, close your eyes and have your forehead elevated to the blue skies, irritating the ever present God that has to our mortal eyes made himself the Hidden and Absent God? Will you like the Psalmist, keep your eyes up there, asking: “From where shall come my help?” Will you like Carlos Mesters, ask “Deus, Onde Stas” (God, where are you)? Or, will you like the Shakespearean Macbeth, ask: “why must I play the Roman fool and die while I see my sword and gnashes do them better?” Or perhaps you may be more inclined to St Peter in your Christian approach to challenging realities and thus “stand up to him, strong in faith?”

     

    For more than a decade now, I have been adjudged and called the greatest enemy and critic of every Government in power in Imo State.  Certainly, I have been, I am and I remain still ever vital to criticise any government that is in power and in so being grossly and consistently errs. I am certainly vital and will criticise myself if our sure entrance to Douglas House leaves the expected route and errs. The fact obviously is that I have not been an enemy or critic to any Government or Governor but to mal-governance, misappropriation of our communal fund, deceitful projects and agenda, which whenever the principal changes for good as desired by the society, I cease to criticise and appreciate the stride.

     

    Every person created by God has proper charisma as well as apertures through which the inclinations to serve humanity via the proper charisma are realised. Realising mine, and being faithful to the vocation, great many audience in the State instead of pillorying me as they used to do in the past, have suddenly turned to be fans to the unknown but ever heard mouthpiece. The greatest of these come from the youths, elitist civil servants, men and women of God’s altar and services, military and police officers, etc. This service to mankind gradually and through unnoticed but consistent natural unfolding of events, led to various men and women, youths organisations and the elderly, as well as many media bodies in the State and beyond, taking my service as divine intervention, and had thither been the triadic voice calling Samuel to present himself and lead the people.

     

    Certainly, many of my audience and friends may be surprised and also happy that at last I succumbed to their appeal and pressurising plea to come and take up that position that I criticise always. Many urge me to come and put to practise that which I canvass than being always behind the media voice and screen, ratiocinating and philosophising. Many too, bet and assure me that they will secretly and massively vote any party I enter into power, but assure me that I will be the most corrupt Governor Imo will ever have. Great many also, notably the youths, have en masse cling to me as not only their best friend, brother and co-youth elite in the State, but by what unknowingly to me as a group of 64 apex youth organisations in the State in August 2014 came to me and pleaded that I have been assessed by all and proven over worthy even to rule Imo State. This made them to make me the Mayor of Orlu Zone (to the envy and counter claims of Rochas Okorocha), Mayor of Niger Delta Youth Movement (NDYM), Imo Youths Mayor, etc.

     

    I have never nursed to be a politician but the recent drive, philosophy, visions and revolutions of the Coalition of Imo Youths Organisation (CIYO) that comprises of 86 different youth bodies, wings, organisations and structures who resolved that youths are no longer the leaders and future of tomorrow, but of today and must be given 50% affirmative positions in the 2015 government of Imo State; which include: The office of the Deputy Governor, as well as 25% appointive positions in State Cabinet and 25% elective positions in the State House of Assembly. These youths whose Mayor I am, saw me as the most worthy of all Imo Youths to vouch for the welfare of all the youths (today) and help them resolve that their quest to be in any government that rules Imo this 2015.

     

    Having emerged through these circumstances, with over 86 youth structures, each with an average of 7,400 sure registered voters behind me, with many most populous churches, my media fans, audience and colleagues, as well as the great multitude about Dr Osmond Imo Ukanacho, the Douglas House for sure awaits our arrival. Certainly, the rank and file of NAISS, the multitude of youths in the CIYO, all dancing hidden behind me for the secret ballot of February 28, and who virtually constitute about 65% of the 1.3 million registered electorates in the State, the unusual and unexpected will again happen in Imo State for the UPP as it was for PPA in 2007.

     

    Arnold Toynbee was right in his thesis on the cyclic nature of history. In 2007, the PDP in Imo State had itself in a quagmire that has replicated and resurged after 8 years. Today, same actors and realities are on stage that give credence to the cyclic nature of history. There is same Senator Ifeanyi Araraume who then fought it with Engr. Charles Ugwu (who had the PDP gubernatorial flag, while the ticket was contested in the Court) on stage again. Today, Rt. Hon. Ihedioha replaces Engr. Charles Ugwu, while Capt. Ihenacho of the APGA replaces Chief Martin Agbaso, and the incumbent Governor Okorocha, replaces Chief Uwaezuoke Nwajiuba. All these then on stage were, but Chief Ikedi Ohakim of the PPA became the Governor of Imo State. Same events that played offstage, in Owerri and Abuja, play now and all have Dr Osmond Ukanacho and Prof Protus Uzorma set for the glorious climb. Every PDP and APGA structure that have been messed up, toyed about and frustrated, pump into UPP for resolution and ways forward, and with these, the victory stands by.

     

    These historical realities notwithstanding, from the spiritual domain, it is a verifiable and over-proven fact that no politician who has ruled Imo before will be in Government House this 2015. Certainly, Gov. Ohakim having fallen to this category is over privileged yet to have in stock an equivalent of his desire again in Imo State. Certainly too, Rochas like him is in this category of behind divine drawing but very unfortunate as the evils behind his success in 2011, have been unveiled and most of his the henchmen have abandoned him, even the catholic clergies and prelates. Same story, simulated events turn and their counter realisations are les enjeux de la politique d’aujourd’hui en Imo.

     

    Why will Ukanacho and Uzorma not win if about 1.3million registered voters are at present in Imo State? If perhaps, an average of 4,500 are indisposed (dead, travelled, lost PVCs, etc) and an average of 17,000 of the registered voters are in the military, police and paramilitary that will be in election monitoring; thus, not going to vote. It is obvious too that great many of the 1.3million will be INEC ad hoc staff or self-determined individuals who are resolute to vote nobody but Jesus. Thus, having a coalition of assured 636,400 voters, excluding my media fans, audience and Dr Ukanacho surprising multitude and structure, churches, organizations, homes, friends and well-wishers behind us, as well as the unresolved crises in the PDP and APGA, the divine mandate is mandated.

     

    On another hand, if thus, about 76% of the 1.3million registered voters (that is, about 936,000 electorates) will be disposed for the election and about 65% of the 936,00 (that is, 608,400) are these ready youths alone for the UPP in the secret ballot system that goes beyond money doling, and with about 8-10 serious gubernatorial candidates in next months general elections, Governor Rochas Okorocha is already out of Douglas House and on his way to Afghanistan as he wished and threw Chief Ohakim; after all, defeating the incumbent Governor and public servants has come to stay in Imo State. Imo for sure will be better under another palm, steering the affairs of the State.

    Prof.Nathan Protus Uzorma

     

     

  • How Imo Governor Dazzled House Members With “Television” Budget .Lawmakers move for speedy passage

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    Wednesday, the 13th day of December 2017, will be a major day of remembrance to members of the Imo State House of Assembly, especially, those of the present state legislature who were dazzled by the Chief Executive officer of the State, Owelle Rochas Okorocha, during the 2018 Budget Presentation.

    The event which took place at the chamber of the House saw Okorocha consume more than two hours of the time to showcase his achievements since he became governor in 2011, than reel out contents of the figures and projects his administration.

    On arrival into the complex for the presentation, Okorocha was ushered into the Speaker’s office for Executive session. Through, it was a closed door meeting; Trumpeta learnt that crucial issues affecting the welfare of the members were discussed and grapevine sources revealed that the governor promised to handle the “grey” arrears they are not comfortable with before he was allowed to be ushered into the plenary session.

    It would be recalled that a rumpus was witnessed weeks ago, when the lawmakers not only shunned the earlier scheduled Budget Presentation, but also moved for the suspension of the Clerk of the House, Chris Duru, thereby indicating that the impeachment of the Speaker and Governor Okorocha was in the offing.

    At the plenary after Okorocha was granted permission to present the budget, the Imo governor started by using a projector-like audience view structure to showcase his achievements. The documentary showpiece took over the Budget presentation. Instead of listening to the figures, programs and details of the amount for next year, what the lawmakers got was Okorocha’s achievements thereby indicating that the House members could be foreigners who are not conversant or not in touch with events and developments in the State not to record his giant strides as claimed in the projection.

    Our team of reporters who observed the proceedings disclosed that majority of the lawmakers were seriously taken aback when the video documentary dominated the proceedings. Some of the lawmakers, including the leadership, were spotted sending notes and signals to the governor to end the video show and present the budget, but to no avail as the governor allegedly turned a deaf ear to their overtures.

    At the end of the show, the governor merely submitted the Budget after few highlights that were not in details for the lawmakers to know the projects earmarked for 2018 fiscal year and the amount attached to each of it for approval.

    Rather, the governor presented a budget of N190,921,464,290 for 2018 FISCAL year in what it tagged “Budget of consolidation and continuity 111”.

    The 2018 budget which is higher than that of 2017 of N131, 143, 144, 277, by N59, 778, 320, 013 representing 45.58% is tagged “Budget of Consolidation and Continuity III”, and out of the 2018 budget, N132.98 billion is for Capital expenditure representing 69.70% of the total budget while N57.943 billion is for recurrent expenditure which represents 30.30% of the total budget.

    Governor Okorocha said “The 2018 budget will not only Consolidate our development efforts but will ensure prudence and efficiency in our expenditure programmes”.

    He added “This administration intends to use the limited resources at our disposal to achieve maximum impact. We intend to achieve synergy through collaboration and integration of Programmes and projects at all levels in order to realize our vision of making Imo better. All relevant agencies of government will be strengthened to gear up towards their Constitutional responsibilities to ensure that all programmes and projects are being monitored at all times”.

    In the breakdown of the budget, Works and Transport has the bulk allocation with N39,811,300,000 and followed by education with N13,500,000,000. Agriculture and Environment has N7,622,990,049, while the least is culture with N440,244,096.

    Reviewing the period before his administration in 2011, Governor Okorocha said “The State was characterized by excessive traffic congestion in Owerri, Orlu, and Okigwe. Insecurity particularly in the areas of kidnapping and armed robbery were highly prevalent across the 27 Local Government Areas of the State”.

    He continued “All these Constituted part of the major challenges the administration faced when it came on board in 2011. However these problems have been progressively addressed and drastically reduced”.

    His words, “A quick review of our journey since the creation of Imo State 41 years ago will reveal that the achievements so far recorded in Imo State since this government assumed office in 2011 have been remarkable. I give glory to Almighty God for this. It is part of the hallmarks of democracy to unmask the potentials of the citizens and properly channel resources towards economic growth”.

    He explained that “The government shall consolidate on the gains already made in areas such as Security and Safety of every Citizen, free education at all levels of learning, completion of all on-going projects, massive road Construction to reach the rural areas, provision of HealthCare facilities, develop the tourism industry, ensure food security, and so on”.

    The governor also hinted that his administration has paid Compensations worth over N2.11 billion to land owners at Naze, Irete, Orji. Agum Avu and New Arugo as well as Imo Modern Market Extension, Irete. These include traditional rites and Compensatory plots. Meanwhile, additional N233.32 million has been earmarked for payment to other land owners for various land acquisitions in the State.

    In his speech, Speaker of the Assembly, Rt. Hon. Acho Ihim said the Assembly members would continue to work in collaboration with the Rescue Mission government for the good of the State and her people and assured that the members would give the budget the attention it deserves.

    Similarly, the budget according to the governor promises to carry all sectors along. To this fate, Local Government Areas of the State are to be given N1,000,000,000b each with the CGC inclusive.

    Okorocha hinted that all relevant agencies of government will be strengthened to gear up towards their constitutional responsibilities to ensure that all programmes and projects are being monitored at all times. He added that such will be actualized through the collaboration of State and Local Government Audits.

    The LGAs on receiving their cash are however expected to embark and complete any project they decide on without further disturbance on the State Government and to be completed within a specified duration

    At the end, the Budget was given a second reading stamp and verifications from the House indicate that normal Budget handling like defense of allocations by Ministries, Parastatals and Departments may not be observed as the Appropriation Bill may be passed into law Dec 19, 2017.

  • Protus: GOVERNOR OKOROCHA, KNACK ME ONE STATUE

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    Image-making is one act in which man participates in continuous creation and duplication of being, and therewith becomes co-Creator with the primordial Creator. The Jewish-German philosopher and anthropologist, Martin Buber (in Between Man and Man), noted that art creation or image-making is an encounter between the art-creator and the looming image that hangs on the abstract perception of the artist. Only him knows how, why and to which extent the encounter impels demands of the creator. Our own brother and worldwide literary icon, Prof Chinua Achebe (in The Anthills of the Savannah) said that every artist contains a multitude.

    This image-making is as old as man. It serves as occupation and source of income for the art-creator, as gift and gratitude, praise-singing and memorabilia for the presenter and receptor, as object of immortality for the art-appreciator and history-minded man living in what Prof Olufemi Taiwo called knowledge community, and as an aperture for squander-mania, etc., for the running of unquantifiable miscellaneous expenses meant for siphoning public puss by sleaze-minded public servants.

    When Israelites were bitten by fiery serpents in the desert, God instructed Moses to “knack them one statue of serpent” as salvific image to look upon when bitten by the fiery serpents and be saved. Medical doctors and pharmacists today use it as the Rod of Asclepius (the snake image twisted on a cross), without remembering the initiator or to knack him one statue in Imo State.

    Also, when Israelites felt disappointed by God and Moses whom they waited for long without returning, they decided “to knack themselves one statue” and began adulation and cult. They danced happily in the presence of the unknown god, in which backdrop Karl Marx called religion as das opium des vokes (the opium of the people). God vex for this one because no be him say make dem knack am.

    When President Desire Kabila of Congo Democratic Republic snatched power off from their national tyrant, Lord Mobutu Sese Seko, he quickly “knack Congolese a statue of the grand national patron, Patrice Lumumba” at avenue victoire at Mboloko-Limitete junction in Kinshasa. Lumumba though of good human size became a monumental Goliath that befits the height of his nationalism in the country. There were no exaggerations.

    Shortly after the Nigerian-Biafran war, Enugu citizens in commemoration of the coal mining mass-killing, “knack a statue of the miners as memorabilia.” Similarly, shortly after Owelle Rochas Okorocha was sworn in as the 5th Executive Governor of Imo State in 2011, he quickly knack Dim Odumegwu Ojukwu one statue and a square, remembering Ojukwu’s oil on his head before the Igbo nationalist bowed to mother earth.

    The examples are endless, because to knack statues to individuals, is highly biblical, spiritual, sociological, psychological, aesthetic, self-enriching and highly encouraging, and it characterises the cheerful giver whom, the biblical St Paul said that the Lord loves.

    In Imo State today, at Ogbaku-Oguta junction, directly opposite Henri Marine filling station, poses an advert board with the image of the African icon and world acclaimed icon for morale, President Nelson Mandela, in comparison with Governor Rochas Okorocha and an Oguta LGA TC Chairman. The great Mandela of South Africa is on a bill board; perhaps his statue is now ready, waiting for unveiling at Spillbat.

    The tallest African President, Jacob Zuma, of South Africa don get his own, on a short image of a dwarf and a road dedicated to his name. The first West African female President, Ellen Johnson Sheriff of Liberia, must have seen her new road and statue. The first world international footballer to become President, George Weah, has got one statue in Imo State and a new road ready for dedication. The Liberian international Ebola importer to Nigeria, Patrick Sawyer, has already one statue and a new lane ready to be dedicated to him.

    General Achuzia, late Admiral Anthony Onyearugbulem of Mbaise, General Aguyi Ironsi and Samuel Okwaraji (of old Imo State), late Senator Evan Enwerem, late Dr Sam Mbakwe, late Mrs Flora Nwapa, late Bishops Anthony Nwedo and Mark Unegbu, Bishops Gregory Ochiagha, Lucius Ugorji and Victor Chikwe, even Rev Fr. Eustace who Governor Ohakim allegedly slapped in 2011, Eze Cletus Ilomuanya and late Eze Emenwonu Emmanuel Njamanze, Sir Jude Agbaso, Captain Emmanuel Iheanacho, and many others that I have been shown their statues at Spillbat are really blessed in Imo today to have got theirs.

    Owerri is indeed an aesthetic State capital. No one can deny this very fact.

    This made me puss and puzzle, and like my French friend, say “Tiens,” as a long, relentless and elastic unpaid adviser cum critic of Governor Rochas Okorocha, I too need, desire and will appreciate the erection of a statue with my image and also the dedication of a road in Owerri capital territory with the inscription-SOCIAL CRITIC-PROF PROTUS NATHAN UZORMA LANE. Please your Excellency, do me a favour, knack me one statue for my relentless admonitions cum criticism in Imo State and in your administration. The Reformer deserves one too. Yes, there are some already moulded ones without heads on them kindly mould my head and fix it on one of the statues that fits my body structure. Statue governor! You are not ashamed that in the face of hardship afflicted on ndi Imo by your ungodly administration, you are busy moulding irrelevant statues with our money while pensioners are dying on daily basis. Payback time is very close.

    Knacking me one statue takes out nothing from His Excellency, notwithstanding the present economic situation of the country. Freely, he gives and knacks statues and lanes in the capital city. Freely he has been giving since and of recent statues and road dedications. God loves cheerful givers, and givers never lack.

    I pray Governor Rochas Okorocha to knack me one statue, for blessed is the hand that giveth than the one that taketh, said the reggae guru, Lucky Dubey. It will not only be a memorabilia and insignia for me, but for the future generations of critics of best governors in an impoverished State. Let the shearing Governor knack me just one statue, I will be very glad for life, withdraw all I have written, rest my pen and stitch my lips. Please, knack me just one statue.

    By Prof. Protus Nathan Uzorma

  • Protus ERECTION OF STATUES AND POLITICAL MEDIOCRITY IN IMO

     

    According to Plato in his metaphoric and poetic way of expressing higher reality, he told a story about Er, a warrior who came back to life on the funeral pyre, after having been believed dead. Er according to Plato, was said to have seen many things in the afterlife, but he was told that he must return to physical life to tell others what death is like.

    The story continues that just before he returned, he saw souls which were being prepared to be born into the physical life. They all journeyed to the Plain of Oblivion, through terrible and stifling heat, for according to Plato, “It was bare of trees and all plants, and there they camped at eventide by the River of Forgetfulness, whose waters no vessel can contain.” In accordance to the keeping of the internal cosmic laws, all the souls coming to the physical were all required to drink a measure of the water, and those who were not saved by their good sense drank more than the measure and each one as he drank forgot all things.

    At a time, the souls fell asleep and at the middle of the night, there was a sound of thunder and a quaking of the earth and the souls were set upward to their birth like shooting stars. Er himself according to Plato was not allowed to drink of the water, yet how and in what way he returned to the body he said he did not know, but suddenly recovering his sight he saw himself at dawn lying on the funeral pyre.

    Following the above, the major theme here is that before returning to life either through reincarnation or otherwise a certain kind “forgetting” of knowledge one has in the eternal state must take place. This philosophy is shared among esoteric scholars of different organizations; this however is not my major concern here but I want to emphasize that anyone who was not saved by his good sense, who drank more than the required measure is prone to more forgetfulness than any other who was guided by his good sense. I think this is where Gov. Rochas finds himself. He may have drank more than necessary on his journey to the physical life hence he has lost both moral and political direction.

    If he that drank more is born into the physical realm of human consciousness, if such a person finds himself in any political office, he could be regarded as a mediocre. Yes, such must fulfill the principles of his karmic records by obeying the voice of mediocrity as was contained in the water of forgetfulness in the realm beyond

    I may sound as a determinist, whom I may not be, but the truth is that people have their destinies and must fulfill them whether they are aware of them or not. In the words of Homer, “No man of woman born, coward or brave, can shun his destiny.” Yes, no one can shun his destiny, not even a mediocre in political leadership. No degree of mystical incantations at any roundabout and knowledge attainable by man will be able to set him above the decree contained in the water of forgetfulness which has hitherto determined his future.

    I know I will die one day, but I am not afraid of death now because I am alive in HIM in other to speak the truth to humanity. I wish to inform my readers however that a mediocre is a naïve person, one who is often very loud, over confident and small-minded who on the other hand, may not realize his deficiencies while over praising his works. The mediocre small-mindedness is very conspicuous and unless he is made to realize it politely, he will cast his unconditional wrath on whoever lampoons and criticizes him.

    It becomes very difficult to correct a mediocre as a result of his low political leadership quality, the Shakespearean admonition, “Speak low, if you speak love” does not make any logical meaning in the working encyclopedia of a mediocre hence he sits very complacently on a serious issue of state or national interest and ends up personalizing it.

    A political mediocre finds it very difficult to curtail reckless expenses as he prefers molding of statues of corrupt leaders to payment of salaries, gratuities and pension. Mediocrity is a serious disease and may finally lead to serious disaster. In Imo, the show of political cum economic deficiencies occasioned by ignorance, incompetent and mediocrity in leadership speaks volume. The execution of China projects is the product of mediocrity in leadership. This is causing us more harm than good and something has to be done fast.

    A mediocre is always rash and abrasive and can easily be faulted when it comes to exerting true leadership qualities and being focused on life-impacting projects. A mediocre sense of judgment is usually hampered by his obvious limitations as he is usually loquacious always meaning “B” when he says “A”. He is always on a defensive and unaccommodating side in so far as it projects and favors his noxious and illicit ambition in enmeshing wealth.

    Wait a moment; Owelle has wasted a lot of money than any other previous administrations in Imo state. The facts are there to verify by anyone who is interested to do so. Last year, it was alleged that Gov. Rochas spent more than #700 million hosting the First Lady during her visit, the same year, Gov. Rochas as was also alleged by some people spent over #650 million on Christmas road decorations. It takes a mediocre and a visionless leader to spend such among of money on frivolous decoration while owing pensioners and workers. As if such meant nothing to Gov. Rochas, he used a huge and enormous amount of money as was alleged (#520 million) and erected a statue of a well known world corrupt leader. O mediocrity is a disease! All these are happening in my dear state Imo and some elites are keeping sealed lips.

    A mediocre may not be bordered on how he spends states money on his personal and selfish interest while the masses are dying of hunger. The youths are neglected and denied of their job opportunities in their homeland while money circulates only around them and their family members. I was rushed to the hospital last week as a result of shock when it was again alleged that more than #520 million was used to erect the statue of Liberian outgoing President in Imo State. I make bold to ask, what are all these statues for? Do they have more spiritual meanings than we could imagine? Are the statues representation of some higher cosmic forces aimed at caging, hypnotizing and mesmerizing Imolites the more?

    Any government that does not have the interest of the poor masses at heart is led by a mediocre. I saw this mediocre coming years ago, and I kept shouting but nobody listened to me. Today, we see them making very phony and prosaic remark on their puny economic policies which have given many food for thought. Some, both at the state and federal levels sing their glory as a result consolidating the hell fire we have seen.

    A mediocre leader does not want to initiate new policies and even when he does; it must be hampered by his limitations thereby foreclosing the possibility of growth or progress. To a mediocre, progress is always adjusted to suit his limited horizon; this makes it easy for him to paint pictures of his puny deeds in a large and voluminous book and on different media, in order to inform the world that business is fine while the poor masses in his state are dying of hunger occasioned by unemployment and bad governance.

    A mediocre lacks the proper knowledge required for the effective usage and management of both human and material resources. The utilization of human resources constantly confuses the mediocre to the extent that any bright and brilliant person is a threat to his position and authority. Any constructive criticism is an invitation to intimidation and threat which he uses his executive office to issue. He will always use his office to persecute and frustrate the people under him.

    Greatness to a mediocre is all about looting both the state and the local government treasury in as much as his selfish interest is satisfied. A mediocre chief executive work to impoverish others and mislead them. He does not obey court ruling; he is unjust and reacts to opposition the way Pentecostal deliverance Pastors react to demons. His distorted approach to the issues of justice makes him a bully. In the words of Thomas Aquinas, “Justice means rendering to each one his right.” St. Isidore on the other hand infers that “A man is said to be just because he respects the rights of others.” The administration of a mediocre does not have respect for the rights of others. This is absolute moral evil.

    This {moral evil} according to philosophy of religion is evil purposely or consciously perpetrated by man on his fellow men. In the description of Reichenbach, moral evil is all the instances of pain and sufferings physically and mentally and all states of affairs significantly disadvantageous to the organism which are caused by actions for which {a mediocre} human agents can be held morally blameworthy. It is indeed the case of moral evils according to Professor Pantaleon that the reality of God is most put to question.

    Today almost everybody in Imo State is asking God certain questions that only God himself can answer. Why O God have you allowed us to be subjected? Are you still there O God? What wrong have we done? It appears that the gods of our various Local Governments whose allocation monies are constantly manipulated have joined Imo people to question God thus “what wrong have we done too?”

    Dear reader, do remember that every great truth begins as blasphemy. There is an order even in the colony of ants. Like the sayings of Brahmana, “ Any man may make a mistake, but none but a fool will continue in it.” For Thomas Aquinas, “When the conscience is purified, the will is strengthened.” The chief executive should bear in mind that a leader is one who, out of madness or goodness; volunteers to take upon himself the woe of the people for no government can remain stable in an unstable and hungry society.

    Prof. Protus Nathan Uzorma