NIGERIA NEEDS PEACE NOT ANOTHER CIVIL WAR

There has been so much disquiet in Africa's largest and most populous nation Nigeria, from the day of Mr. Nnamdi Kanu, self acclaimed leader of Indigenous People Of Biafra (IPOB) coming to the public space.

Mr. Kanu a young man who probably didn't see Nigerian soldiers or Biafran soldiers during the civil war in 1967-1970, and probably not having practical knowledge or experience on the bitter consequences of war in the massacre of millionss of souls, bombing, killing, maiming, looting and massive destruction of property, for which, he has for some years been beating the drums of war flagging the organization he calls Indigenous People Of Biafra (IPOB) when Nigeria needs peace instead of war.

Mr. Kanu a Nigerian citizen of the Igbo race who claims to have denounced his citizenship of Nigeria, had come out with a defiance campaign against the Government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, calling himself the leader of a "Biafran Republic" that had been a figment of imagination thus creating division, disharmony and distrust amongst the people of Nigeria, creating much tension in different parts of the nation annually that occasion clashes between his group and the state authority, which in most cases resulted in lose of lives and property.

One cannot count the number of those who had fallen victim to the antics of the UK based propagandist.

 Mr. Nnamdi Kanu operates like a propagandist taking advantage of his controversial radio Biafra station, wherby he gives controversial information, announcements and news that misled many youths to their early graves and others to sorrow.

During the #EndSars protest, Mr. Nnamdi Kanu sounded like, he was the overall Commander giving orders like a man ready for vengeance against perceived enemies, in the manner of an infuriated man, ready to cause a mayhem across the nation.

That was the scenario Nigerians found themselves as the self acclaimed Biafran leader, Mr. Kanu bombarded the airwaves with announcements through his radio Biafra, the new media and other networks. He  commanded the protesters not to leave but to continue their protest. It was just like a battle Some of IPOB activities at EndSARS protest:

In Nnewi it was reported that:

"The leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, and Director of Radio Biafra, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu on Tuesday, lent his voice to the nationwide agitation for ending Special Anti Robbery Squad (SARS), a unit of the Nigerian Police Force, advising the agitators to regist being compromised hear him:

"EndSARS campaign is leading in the right direction. Only three ingredients are needed now. They will throw money at the issue in the hope of buying people off the streets, but they must be registed."

"Consistency is viral at this stage. Don't allow mental fatigue to creep in. Momentum.has a multiplier effect. With momentum the movement becomes unstoppable.

"These three key ingredients will deliver victory. 

After this, things will no longer be the same in Nigeria. I salute your courage..."

This was how Nnamdi Kanu instigated the peaceful EndSARS protesters to violence as recorded in some states.

In Ebonyi State, it was reported that the protest was not peaceful, but violent according to the Governor of the State who imposed curfew to stop 'attacks by hoodlums'.

"Governor of Ebonyi State, David Umahi made the curfew declaration in a State broadcast on Wednesday after several attack by hoodlums who destroyed some government and private properties."

In Abia state, it was reported that the life of the Governor was threatened to be arrested by the IPOB leader, as in:

"Kanu Urges Abia Youths to join EndSARS Protest, capture Gov. Ikpeazu." It reads:

"The leader of the Indigenous People Of Biafra (IPOB) Nnamdi Kanu has urged the Youths of Ohafia, Abia state to join the ongoing EndSARS protest and capture the Governor of the State, Okezie Ikpeazu....".

Threatening to arrest the Governor of a state in a widely orchestrated 'peaceful protest' is suspicious like a 'handshake that went beyond the elbow'. 

In Rivers State, Governor Nyesome Wike frowned at activities of IPOB the organization led by Nnamdi Kanu, and made an open declaration in these words,

 "... members of the proscribed indigenous People Of Biafra ... can't use the State to launch attacks".

Governor Wike: "... recalled that since IPOB was classified as a terrorist organization by the Federal High Court in September 2017 by the Federal Government, the group has carried out intermittent processions in parts of Rivers State especially in Oyigbo and other notorious suburbs  in Port Harcourt Local Government Area ... unleasing violence.

"The Rivers State Government had severally warned and even advised IPOB and it's members to discontinue it's insurrectional  actions in Rivers State. 

Instead IPOB unleashed another urgy of violence and destruction inflicted at Oyigbo area and parts of Port Harcourt City Local Government Area, Tuesday 21st October 2020.

"...this evil, wicked and audacious action resulted in the unnecessary loss of scores of lives, including soldiers and police officers..". Gov.Wike said.

The aforementioned are just 'a tip of the iceberg' compared to all the gruesome incidences of killing and looting that occurred across the nation.

The position of the Rivers State Governor, Nyesome Wike's proscription of Biafrans in that State was widely supported by the Rivers people in view of the fact that Rivers State was never part of the Igbo States that were Biafra Republic, as declared by Odumegwu Ojukwu which led to the civil war in 1967-1970.

COL. OJUKWU APPOINTED AS MILITARY GOVERNOR

It was in 1966, then Head of State, Major General Aguyi Ironsi appointed Col. Odumegwu Ojukwu Military Governor of the Eastern Region,

but according to historical evidences:

" The Eastern Region, felt increasingly alienated from the Federal Military Government under Gowon.

 Ojukwu's main proposal to end the ethnic strife was a significant devolution of power to the regions. The Federal Government initially agreed to this solution at a conference in January 1967 but then rejected soon afterward. 

Ojukwu responded in March- April 1967 by separating the Eastern Regional Goverment's revenues from those of the Federal Government"

That at that point there were:

" Mounting secessionist pressures from his fellow Igbo finally compelled Ojukwu on May 30 1967 to declare the Eastern Region to an Independent sovreign State as the republic of Biafra.."

Consequent upon that divisive development, according to historical evidences, 'a civil war broke out which lasted to January 11, 1970 as Ojukwu surrendered.""But before Ojukwu declared his Biafran State, the then Head of State and Commander-In-Chief of the Armed Forces Federal Republic of Nigeria, General Yakubu Gowon, created 12 States, which occasioned split of the Eastern Region to 3 namely: Rivers, South East and East Central.."

Rivers State was created for the Ijaw People, and an Ijaw man from Nembe, a Naval Officer,  Commander Alfred Papapreye Diete-Spiff was appointed Military Governor of the State and was in the Federal Republic of Nigeria from the beginning to the end of the civil war.

It is also on record that, even that Ijaw freedom fighter of  Kaiama who led a 12 day revolution against the Federal Government, Isaac Adaka Boro was a Military Officer, a Major in the Nigerian army. So, Rivers and Bayelsa States were not and are not Biafra territories.

The civil war was dastardly, many fellow Nigerians were killed, some maimed, blinded, when the Nigerian Military ... launched operation."tail wind" it was unbearable which led to the escape of General Ojukwu to Cote d'Ivore, leaving behind his deputy, Major General Philip Effiong who surrendered to the Federal Government.

 His broadcast:

"I, Philip Effiong do hereby declare I give not only my own personal assurances but those of my fellow officers, and colleagues and of the entire former Biafran people of our fullest co-operation and very sincere best wishes for the future.

"It is my sincere hope the lessons of the bitter struggle have been well learned by everybody and I would therefore like to take this opportunity to say that I, Major General Philip Effiong Officer administering the government of the Republic of Biafra, now wish to make the following declaration:

" That we are firm, we are loyal Nigerian citizens and accept the authority of the Federal Military Government of Nigeria. That we accept the existing administrative and political structure of the Federation of Nigeria.

"That any future constitutional arrangement will be worked out by representatives of the people of Nigeria. That the Republic of Biafra hereby ceases to exist."

In response, Head of State and Commander-In-Chief of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, General Yakubu Gowon declared: 

'No victor no vanquished"

General Gowon in an interview spoke as follows:

Excerpt: from the archive:

How are going to treat the Igbos:

Gowon: As far as I am concerned right from the beginning of this operation, we've never taken the Ibos as enemies as Ojukwu had made them to believe and has made the world to believe, as far as I am concerned, the Ibos will be treated as equal citizens in this country, there will be no secondary citizenship in Nigeria unless by their own behavior and performance, and this applies to any Nigerian whatsoever.

"The head and the heart is the only yardstick which can judge who will be a secondary citizen. Therefore the Ibos have nothing to be afraid of, they can be rest assured that they have a part to play in rebuilding the new Nigeria, which has just been born. Let them come, let them join hands with us, wherever they are and appeal to them, the Ibos at home and areas not liberated. Ibos abroad, Ibos everywhere, not to listen to the propaganda of foreign press, or propaganda of people who really don't care for their welfare. The Ibos have nothing to fear as far as I am concerned.

Let them come back home I have given them my word of honour. There will be amnesty for anyone who tries to come back and with that I am quite convinced, if they are ready to play their role properly, I think we will rebuild a new Nigeria where no man will be oppressed." 

General Gowon in his integrity.received all former Biafrans into the Nigerian family with equal privileges.

When Ojukwu returned back to his home country Nigeria, in 1982 he was received directly into  the Government party at that time, the National Party of Nigeria (NPN) and was a staunch member without a jot of discrimination.

The Ikemba (1 ) as popularly called by his kinsmen, friends and well wishers, Chief Odumegwu Ojukwu was elected as a Delegate to the 1994 Constitutional Conference convoced by Head of State, General Sani Abacha of blessed memory.

Under that arrangement, Ojukwu also with his people founded a political party of their own, the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), this shows that the Ibos were well intergrated.

They were also well intergrated in terms of holding high political positions, the Igbo people have received their fair share as it is:

* Commodore Ebitu Ukiwe was Vice President of Nigeria.- 

* Chuba Williams Okadigbo -.Senate President

* Evan Enwerem - Senate President

* Anyim Pius Anyim - Senate President

* Ngozi Okonjo Iweala - Finance Minister

* Oby Ezekwesili - Minister of  Education

* Dora Akunyili Director Genaral NAFDAC and many others.

The Igbo people have been favoured in the creation of States, from two they now have five, so what do they want from Nigeria?

Why is it that none of the Igbo big wigs had said anything against the Indigenous People Of Biafra IPOB or Biafran Republic, which Mr. Nnamdi Kanu has been canvassing on their behalf as their leader over the years?

Why is it that even those big Igbo political leaders, including those in Government are mute over it, are they in support of IPOB or what?

Nigeria had suffered a great lose no doubt from all angles.

We have lost our own children. We have lost so much, we lost our sons in the military, we lost our sons in the police and we lost our sons in the civilian population, yet we have to embrace peace, because  Nigeria needs peace and not another civil war.

A MESSAGE TO THE OIL MINISTER

Your Excellency, when I woke up this morning Tuesday 12th October 2020, it was like I had a great burden in my heart because of the uncertainty facing the people at the boundary area of Nembe Local Government in Bayelsa who's home are allegedly being transferred to Akukutoru LGA in Rivers State, by High Court Order.

There is disquiet in the area, by that Court judgement secured by the Rivers State Governor, Nyesome Wike, behind closed doors.

 According to sources from the border areas, the judgement was a ploy to transfer their families and lands from their original traditional communities, LGA and State to a land that is not their own.

Your Excellency, this matter is connected to your Ministry, the Ministry of Petroleum, because it's all about oil and gas locations and fields, and greed is at work. You know the area, as a son of the soil, and as former Governor, but today, people who have their PVCS in wards and constituencies of Nembe Local Government Areas of Bayelsa are living in fear because of the said controversal Court judgement seeking  their transfer.

Secondly, there is a mounting tension between the people of Nembe and AITEO over OML29.

The Company which according to community sources passed through Shell which aquired lands for the OML29 project with the Nembe Community and with an agreement, refused to involve the  community in the renewal and have been in court with the host community for years, while they continue to do their oil and gas businesses without hindrance.

Your Excellency, you need to intervene in this matter as you did at Kula in Akukutoru, LGA in Rivers State, September, 2019.

Your intervention in the battle between Kula and Shell over billions of naira was settled peacefully. That's a feather on your hat, which you need to replicate in earnest.

 Don't forget the adage: "What is good for the goose is also good for the gander".

Dear Oil Minister you have to take this message serious, visit the area make your personal investgations and see things yourself so that you will know how to fix some of these challenges.

Your Excellency, the Message is delivered.

MESSAGE OF APPRECIATION

The newly appointed Special Adviser to the Governor of Bayelsa State on Local Governments Matters, Chief Kuroghofa W. Ben Wari had sent a message of appreciation to the Governor, His Excellency, Senator Douye Diri for his appointment.

Chief Ben Wari in a chat with Golden Pen News, print and online thanked the Governor and those working closely with him for giving him the privilege to serve in the Prosperity Government.

He used the medium to thank all

those who sent  Goodwill Messages to him from far and near, and wished them well in all their endeavors.

MESSAGE OF APPRECIATION

"I give glory to God Almighty for my appointment as Special Adviser to the Governor of Bayelsa State, for women in politics.

"I also thank His Excellency, the Governor, Senator Douye Diri for giving me the privilege to serve in his administration.

"Permit me also to appreciate my mentor, the Secretary to the State Government, Rt. Hon. Kombowei Benson Friday for recommending me for this position".

These were the exact words of Hon. Josephine Akandi Ekeuwei, the Special Adviser to the Governor for women in politics during an interview with the Golden Pen News print and online in the state capital, Yenagoa.

She used the medium to thank all that graced her reception at Biogbolo and wished them well in all their endeavors and peaceful journeys back to their destinations.

WHICH WAY NIGERIA???

WHICH WAY NIGERIA???

By Victor Otonye Evans

Nigeria popularly known as the Giant of Africa has the highest population of the black race. became independent on the first of October 1960 from British colonialism.

But since the Independence up to this very moment this country, Nigeria has been wallowing in poverty, lack and limitation despite the abundance of natural resources the nation is proud of. And that has result in economic stagnation, because of the selfishness and corruption of those who, the Nigerian masses elected and or appointed to oversee the affairs of the Nation.

 The situation of things are so devastating, and seriously affecting the masses because the most common needs of the masses are not met with ease. Nigeria is rich in crude oil and gas which are the major export products, the Nigerian Government sell and you can imagine that some of the countries that buy oil and gas from Nigeria, are not as rich as Nigeria; but are far more developed and have booming economies.

At sixty, Nigeria, with the abundance of resources is still struggling to survive, and shamelessly having her name in the list of indebted nations. This is unbelievable, what about the hundreds, thousands, millions of thrillion upon thrillions accruing into the nation's coffers from all the sectors?

Whereas many nations across the world, in their war against corrution have given zero tolerance to the menace, in our country Nigeria, corruption has become a tradition, which needs to be put to an end. 

 Nigeria is a Democratic Nation but her citizens are not exercising their civil rights, that is true and it is so, because majority of citizens are no longer interested to know about the day to day running of the  country, due to the high level of corruption whereby even anti-graft personnel were fingered of widespread allegations of corruption. The highest level of corruption in Nigeria is in the elections. Electoral victories were transferred to the wrong persons, denying the right persons their victory, while some others are lobbying around for brown envelopes.

It is a common knowledge that corruption is deadly because it has grievous effect in the life of the people and we as Nigerians  have to, in one voice fight this commom enemy.

 The present administration led by His Excellency, Muhammadu Buhari had dedicated itime and commitment to fish out corrupt people in the Government system, but the EFCC has to do more because the situation of things are not getting better for the people in question.

Some are looting the treasuries, some are diverting public funds to their private accounts and using it to acquire property abroad and ignoring the chronic hunger suffered by the people and poor infrastructure that Nigeria is going through.

What about unemployment? There are countless graduates out there, that have been searching for employment but have not found one , some are seeking for good education but because of the poor situation of things they cannot afford it and this brings the citizens to  reason that NIGERIA, as an oil and gas rich nation, should have at least been able to invest in the educational sector but nothing is being done what about the provision of the basic social amenities like water,good roads, healthcare, housing etc. All these monies we entrust in the hands of these corrupt politicians have been embezzled and put into the pockets of the executive looters , participation in political activities is good but our problem is that all our politicians have alterior motive  other than the agendas in their manifestos . It is pertinent to emphasize that our problem is that, we the masses vote incompetent persons, looters and after voting them face severe hardship for as long as they are in power  our PVC is our right and voting is our responsibility but voting competent leaders is the beginning of wisdom in this case because voting someone that is corrupt and after being elected they do nothing to improve the lives of the citizens. It is foolishness if Nigerians continue to vote the wrong people into office, the people must be wise to put all the challenges into consideration and try to make sure that whoever should be selected for any political office is competent and God fearing because if reverse is the case Which way Nigeria???

BAYELSA: THE SORRY SIGHT OF A STATE

    When Bayelsa biforcated from Port Harcourt the capital of Rivers State to Yenagoa,the capital of their state,it was with great expectations.

    The then Yenagoa motor park built by the LGA was venue from the historic reception with the founding fathers telling the story of how they fought for the creation of Bayelsa State, expressed joy for the fulfillment of their dream to have the only Ijaw State in the Nigerian federation.

     The 1st military administrator Navy Captain Philip Ayeni, patiently listened to the welcome address presented by the Bayelsa forum led by Dr. Amba Ambaowei who graphically told the state's creation and the great expectations for rapid development with much oviatons.

     It was an historic occasion full of hopes for the people of the state who went on with celebrations, thanking God and appreciated, General Sani Abacha for creating the state, and gave kudos to the founding fathers as heroes of the Ijaw nation and of Bayelsa State.

    The military Navy administrator Captain Ayeni took I'll and left even without constituting a cabinet, which made way for another Navy Captain, Omoniyi Caleb Olubolade as 2nd military administrator of the State, who kick started the state, embarked on some viable projects.

Amongst which were:

(1.) The present sports complex

(2.) The Bayelsa Radio station called Radio Bayelsa.

(3.) The Yenagoa ekeki motor park.

(4.) The 1st Bayelsa State Secretariat.

(5.) The Bayelsa State Assembly complex.

(6.) The Bayelsa State legislative quaters.

(7.) The creek motel now abandoned.

(8.) The 1st commissioners quarter.

(9.) The state Legislators quater.

(10.) The first traditional rulers Secretariat amongst others.   But olubolade did not enjoy a peaceful environment to remain in office to do more Projects, due to a challenging security situation that terminated that administration, for his successor, Lt. Col. Paul Edor Obi who midwifed democracy in the state in 1999 for the first democratically elected Governor of Bayelsa State Chief D.S.P Alamieyeseigha to kick start Democratic administration

After Alamieyeseigha, came Goodluck Jonathan, after him came Timipre Sylva and after him came Henry Dickson, now we have Douye Diri.

But going through the streets in the Bayelsa State capital Yenagoa it is indeed a pity, a sorry sight, the shame of a oil/gas rich state, living in a pitiable condition of poverty, whereby many have no homes to live, no job, no pay and have become so lean by reason of hunger, like the seven (7) lean fleshed cows Pharaoh dreamed in the book of Genesis.

A.state capital that is like a village, a 24 years old state has nothing tangible to appreciate or to be proud of, with all the thrillions received from the federation account, from ecological funds, from derivation funds, from Paris Club refunds, from flood donations, from Internally Generated Revenues (IGR) etc; but regrettably nothing to show.

It is the shame of some of those enthrusted with the well being and prosperity of the State, if not all who while piloting affairs of the ship of state turned buccaneers who turned the state government to their PLC, and the state treasury to their private accounts.

It is a sad commentary, Bayelsa which burbled years with visitors trooping in and out Yenagoa across the nation with their exotic cars through the East/West Road for politics, for businesses etc. can now be proud of only tricircles instead of the choice cars.

There were the good days, when the stories of Bayelsa were told  some dignitaries either as Special Guests or invited Guests in commemoration of Bayelsa State anniversary, Democracy Day, AMAA Award were welcome to Bayelsa, but today, even investors who came in with good intentions have relocated from the last two years, turning the city to a dejected land.

    

CHRISTIAN S SHOULD LOVE ONE ANOTHER-PASTOR EBI ALFRED

The founder and leader of the Mightier Than All Deliverance Ministry (MTADM), Pastor Ebi Alfred had called on Christian leaders to love one another and stop discrimination and unnecessary competition amongst themselves.

He stated this while delivering a sermon titled:

"GOD'S THOUGHTS FOR MANKIND NOT OF EVIL"   during Sunday Service at the Church's Headquarters Ekenfa in the Bayelsa State capital, Yenagoa.

He explained that Pastor don't love themselves because of jealousy, they criticize and condemn  themselves for no reason, emphasizing that it aught not to be so..

He referred to the book of Jeremiah:11 reads:

" For I know the thoughts I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace and not of evil to give you an expected end.'

He made it clear that whereas the thoughts of God are good the thoughts of the enemy are always evil for which mankind need to hold fast to God for their salvation, because God is more powerful than the enemy.

He therefore called on the Christians to love another to receive the blessings of the LORD Jesus!

ELECTION OF A KING, NOT ACADEMIC EXERCISE, BUT DIVINE AND TRADITIONAL

INTRODUCTION: First of all, it is important to say, that in the history of our kingdom; especially on the tradition of choosing a King, there had never been presentation of papers by academicians and or professionals to teach, educate or elighten the traditional Council, which members are the custodians of the tradions and customs of the land, who are not ignorant of how an AMANYANABO was elected or should be elected before going on.

King Collins Festus Amaegbe - Eremienyo Ogbodo VII

At the freak of circumstances 

resulting in the election of a new king, since the passing on of our former king, H.R.M (DR.) RALPH MICHAEL IWOWARI,.MEIN VII, the Amanyanabo of Nembe Bassambiri seven.(7) years ago, and in response to demands, the Chiefs Council gave approval for presentation of papers, which was a welcome development.

The first two groups of persons that presented papers to the Chiefs Council in an emergency meeting were:

1. The " OPU - NEMBE CONCERNED INDIGENES"

2. The "OPU - NEMBE (NEMBE - BASSAMBIRI CONSCIENCE GROUP"

Both groups put forward their positions and agreed on harmonization of dynasties, OGBODO and MEIN to one. In view of the fact that each dynasty counted up to the 7th King, totalling 14 if harmonized.

The duo took different positions on the title the new king should bear. The " OPU - NEMBE INDIGENES" proposed "OGBODO MEIN" or "MEIN OGBODO" dynasty, while the"OPU - NEMBE CONSCIENCE GROUP" proposed "OGBODO" as the title.

Both groups agreed on the list and names of the 14 kings that have ruled the kingdom in this order:

1. King Ogbodo ------- Ogbodo 1

2. King Gbolowei ----- Ogbodo II

3. King Wari ------------  Ogbodo III

4. King Aladede -------  Ogbodo IV

5. King Tamuno -------   Ogbodo V

6.King Kariyai ----------  Ogbodo VI

7. King Mein ------------  Mein.I

8. King Dugiriyai ------  Mein Ii

9. King Arisimo -------   Mein.III

10. King Ebifa  ---------  Mein.IV

11. King Oguara ------   Mein.V

12. King Ben Wari ----  Mein VI

13.King Eremienyo -- Ogbodo VII

14. King Iwowari -----  Mein     VII

The two.groups.also.agreed that the new king should be numbered as the XV.

While these proposals were before the Chiefs Council, to be delibrated upon to take a position, a third Group, "SONS AND DAUGHTERS OF OPU - NEMBE" forwarded a "Letter of Notification, which gave ultimatum to the Chiefs Council to elect a King from 12th of August to 30th of October, 2020.

In a related development a 4th group, "OPU - NEMBE THINK TANK" presented a proposal to the Chiefs Council in an emergency meeting held on the 2nd of October, 2020.

THE CONFLICTING ISSUES

The presentation of papers introduced some controversies too dangerous to accept as part of the Nembe traditions and customs which our progenitors practiced and handed down to us, to pass onto future generations.

A careful observation reveals that some of the papers were far from the norms and traditions of our  Nembe ancestral kingdom, founded by King Obiaiyai Ogbodo  called Bassambiri Nembe,

Nembe Bassambiri or Opu - Nembe.

King Ogbodo existed in the pre-literary era, far before. colonialism. It was a traditional government, a monarchy like every other monarchy in Africa and the world. The kingdom existed from generation to generation, and kings were chosen according to lineage, as tabulated, started with the founder of the Kingdom, King Ogbodo to his son Gbolowei to his son Wari  and to his son Aladede, and to his son Tamuno and to his grandson Kariyai, then came King Mein, Mein to his son Duguruyai, to his son Arisimo, to his son Ebifa, to his son Oguara and to his grandson Ben Wari. Then was the long interlude of 14 years without a King.

When in 1978 it was time to elect a new king, It was CHIEF COLLINS FESTUS AMAEGBE-EREMIEMYO from the stalk of Ogbodo who emerged as King Ogbodo VII, when he joined his ancestors, it was from the stalk of Mein, RALPH MICHAEL IWOWARI emerged as King Mein VII.

King (Dr) Ralph Michael Iwowari Meim - VII

  No stranger was ever chosen as King in the history of Bassambiri Nembe, Nembe Bassambiri or Opu - Nembe. Kings had always emerged from dynasties and not any personality who has no blood lineage to the throne ever elected.

The controversies identified in the presentations revealed that some of the groups don't seem to understand that the issue or topic under discussion was about the tradition of electing a king in Nembe. 

And because of that missing link, their recommendations sounded alien and untraditional.

For instance, the first group, "OPU - NEMBE CONCERNED INDIGENES" said:

"That from our observations, limiting the choice to just one Royal dynasty at a time as it has been the practice since the1978 decision is no longer in the interest of majority of the indigenes of our kingdom; if sustainable development remains our ultimate dream."

This position was supported by the "OPU- NEMBE THINK TANK" which said: "This group   expresses the view that the dual dynastic tradition shall remain, and the kinship shall rotate between the two dynaties. But for the shake of getting the best available candidate in the kingdom at every point, the candidacy should be open to people from both dynasties. In other words, anyone can be the Amanyanabo at any point in time..."

This position by the above mentioned groups is baseless, because such a position does not have Divine or traditional backing. God said:

"Be sure that the man you choose to be King is the one whom the Lord has chosen. He must be one of your own people; do not make a foreigner your King." GOOD NESS BIBLE

DEUTRONOMY 17:15

God also said in Ezekiel 21:27 reads Amplified:

"I will overthrow, overthrow and overthrow it, this also shall be no more until he comes whose right it is to reign in judgement and righteousness, and I will give it him."

You have to know that God also rules on the earth, He chooses Kings by Himself, hear this:

"This sentence is by  the decree of the (heavenly) watchers and the decision is by the words of the holy ones, to the intent that the living may know that the most high God rules in the kingdom of mankind and gives it to whomever He will and sets over it the humblest and the lowliest of men." DANIEL 4:17

1. So the position of these two groups "THE OPU - NEMBE CONCERNED INDIGENES" and "OPU - NEMBE THINK TANK" saying that the kingship of Nembe Bassambiri, Opu - Nemby should be thrown open, in the search, so as to elect anyone no matter where he comes from is not supported by God.

2. That position is also not supported traditionally, because in the history of Nembe the search for a King was never thrown open for all commers regardless of dynasty or dynaties, lineage or lineages, because it was strictly hereditary, you must have the Royal blood to be elected King.

WHAT TITLE SHOULD BE GIVEN TO THE NEW KING

This was discussed by three groups, two going one side and one going the other side. Just like the former the "OPU - NEMBE CONCERNED INDIGENES" and the "OPU - NEMBE THINK TANK" advocated for "OGBODO - MEIN or "MEIN - OG ODO" dynasty." While the "OPU - NEMBE (NEMBE BASSAMBIRI) CONSCIENCE GROUP" came out with " OGBODO" as the title.

The OPU - Nembe Concerned Indigenes which proposed modification of an existing dual dynastic system recommended:

*That the current dual dynastic system of monarchy in Opu Nembe be modified.

*That in it's place, a single, unified dynasty system be instituted.

*That in terms of nomenclature, therefore, it should be known and referred to either as the"OGBODO - MEIN dynasty" or the "MEIN - OGBODO" dynasty."

The "OPU - NEMBE.THINK.TANK" also supported this position thus: "We.appreciate this position for more than two reasons. First, this position is elegant in appearance. Again the numbering of the monarchs such that the next amanyanabo should be "OGBODO - MEIN XV presents the long history of the monarchs such that the next will only be VIII (e.g. OGBODO VIII) when most of our neighbors will be counting higher figures."

But the OPU - NEMBE (NEMBE BASSAMBIRI) CONSCIENCE GROUP" came out with the position that Ogbodo is the most appropriate for the King of Nembe Bassambiri to bear. Hear this:

"More than sufficient evidence abound to the authenticity of OGBODO as the only and sole founder and ruler in his time and children. Opu - Nembe has ever been and still OGBODO AMA.  Both ancient and contemporary undeniable records, oral traditions and the folklore all accede this fact...

"Our candid aspiration and heartfelt desire is that we wholly and warmly consider the understated noble recommendation:

"Ogbodo should be the name for the kingship title."

The OPU - Nembe (Nembe Bassambiri) Conscience Group raised another pertinent issue, an extant fact that Mein was a son of Ogbodo by his mother Ina, therefore whatever belonged to Mein belonged to the Ogbodo family. The Group spoke extensively on marital tradions in Nembe whereby a man who married a none native in big dowry, herself and whatever comes out of her, belongs to the man who married her. In line with the Nembe traditions and customs, the group has this to say:

"If all that we have discussed here are true then we can establish the fact that Mein is of the lineage of Ogbodo through Ina his mother of whom Ogbodo married with big dowry from Ekpetiama and also the custom of matrilineal dependence, as Ina (King Mein's Mother) belong to the Ogbodo family."

This means that there was no need for division in the first place between the Ogbodo family and the children of Mein. What happened in the past was an error that needed to be corrected, they said. But the "OPU - NEMBE THINK TANK" came with another position that the status quo of the two dynasties should be retained.

In page 5 they talked about the  'status quo' (maintaining the dual dynastic tradition).

 Briefly, this position is that the 1978 agreement (Appendix IV) be respected, the kingship should remain rotational between the two dynasties. The two dynasties should present the Amanyanabo when it is it's turn. This is what has been the status quo with Ogbodo VII and Mein VII":

"We appreciate this position because it is true to history and underline the wisdom compromise, and patriotism demonstrated in 1978. It has also ensured peace and mutual understanding since then".

The THINK TANK group in their position paper made references to history repeatedly with 1978.

Page 5 paragraph 2,3,and 4 they talked about history and it was 1978, read:

"We appreciate this position mainly for it's feature of being true to history and respecting the historic settlement of 1978".

"... briefly, this position is that the 1978 agreement be respected..." 

Page 4 paragraph 4 the group attempted to say something different but still ended up with 1978.

"The weaknesse of this argument is that it fails to fully appreciate the historic circumstances that led to the "decapitation" of Mein from the Ogbodo lineage and the circumstances that led to Mein's emergence as the Amanyanabo. We believe that history must not be distorted."

"Furthermore, this position has the potentials of provoking the Mein section of the community, and possibly, even make them rethink the patriotic concession they made in 1978".

These show that the

 "OPU - NEMBE THINK TANK" doesn't have any other history or another historical date handy except 1978.

The public was interested to know the so much orchestrated facts on the historical circumstances that led to Mein's emergence as amanyanabo.'

Well, they deserved commendation for at least coming out with the truth they also know that Mein and his descendants belonged to the Ogbodo family.

But if they had any history about "decapitation" that could have made a good reading, but that expectation was not met. Rather they were dwelling on the rotational agreement of 1978.

CONCLUSION: 

Reading through the documents presented by the various groups the "OPU - NEMBE CONCERNED INDIGENES" "OPU - NEMBE (NEMBE BASSAMBIRI) CONSCIENCE GROUP" and the "OPU - NEMBE THINK TANK", one can say it is worthwhile experience to talk about our traditions on the election of a King and related issues.

Just for the records: the "OPU - NEMBE THINK TANK" said:

"We note that it has been more than seven (7) since our kingdom witnessed the transition of our monarch, HRM KING (DR) RALPH MICHAEL IWOWARI, MEIN VII, the amanyanabo of the Opu Nembe kingdom...."

The observation here is that, King Iwowari was not Amanyanabo of Opu - Nembe, but Amanyanabo of Nembe Bassambiri.

The position paper by the "OPU - NEMBE THINK TANK" was so aggressive to the extent that the Ogbodo group was undermined with some uncomplementary assertions such as:

"The main rationale for this position is that restricting the search for a new amanyanabo to one dynasty has delayed the discovery of a suitable candidate. It is also likely to eliminate suitable candidates because such candidates are not from the dynasty whose turn it is to produce the king".

1. This is very unfair, the Ogbodo family has great people, all class of people who are eminently qualified to hold even the highest office in this country, so we take exception to that.

2. It is unfair and unjust to present Mein as equal to Ogbodo, by suggesting "Ogbodo-Mein" or "Mein-Ogbodo as titles for the throne of the Kingdom founded by Ogbodo himself.

This aught not to be in view of the fact that, Mein did not see Ogbodo, neither did Ogbodo see Mein, because the gap was unimaginable. The question is, if Mein was born during Ogodo's time, do you think he could have disrespected King Ogbodo his father? That's not possible.

The point worthy of note is that, it was not because the Opu - Nembe Council of Chiefs which is the traditional Senate of this Great Kingdom did not have ideas of how a King should be elected, but just to accommodate stakeholders who have the zeal to rapport with the traditional Senate on issues of common interest.

The presentation of position papers is not part of the tradition and customs of the election of a King.

FINALLY, IT IS NOTE WORTHY THAT THE ELECTION OF A KING, NOT ACADEMIC EXERCISE, BUT DIVINE AND TRADITIONAL.

By

Chief Otonye Evans Tubonah

DIRI WILL SPRING A SURPRISE IN DEVELOPMENT - PAUL YEIGBA

The General Manager of the Bayelsa State Housing and Property Development Authority, Mr. Paul B. Yeigba (JP) had said that the Restoration Governor of Bayelsa State Senator Douye Diri will spring a surprise in the development of Bayelsa despite pressing challenges.

The General Manager stated this during an interview with the Golden Pen Newspaper print and on-line which called on him in his office in the Bayelsa State capital, Yenagoa.

Mr. Yeigba spoke well on Senator Diri's passion to transform the State; especially in the area of Housing and Property Development in these words:

"As Senator Douye Diri came onboard, he looked at the abandoned Housing projects and said NO! we have to do something right now, and I can tell you that he is q taking the housing and prosperity development sector to a new level.

"For now you can see that Okaka phase 2, a housing project which had been under construction since 2012 - 2013, we considered necessary to complete.

 As soon as the Douye Diri Government came onboard, because he has a passion for development of the State; especially in Housing, he emphasized that the state will have a new look with housing and property development."

Mr. Yeigba went further to say that, to this end, the Governor had given a matching order that the phase 2 Okaka Housing Estate be completed without further delay to provide accommodation for the teaming population in the State; expressing the hope that in his one year in office the Phase 2 Okaka Housing Estate Project shall no doubt be counted in the list of achievements of his

administration's first one year in office.

Meanwhile the General Manager of the Housing and Property Devolopment Authority, Mr. Yeigba had expressed optimism for a timeous completion of the project judging from the speed of work done and urged those at the site to redouble efforts to achieve the desired deadline..