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Trump is right

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BY: Yakubu Musa

The surveys that place Nigeria among the strongholds of President Donald T​​rump’s endorsement are actually spot on. Nigerians are uniquely appreciative people. And we are among the major beneficiaries of Trump’s kind diplomatic word: “a shithole country”, just as we are also at the receiving end of his benevolent visa/immigration policies—which never discriminate against the people from shi*holes countries.

In Nigeria also, we adulate people with such class and finesse of Trump, and consequently no one will pretend to not appreciating the reason Trump manages to enjoy the cult-figure backing of the people. Don’t we have the proclivity to venerating leaders with history of consistency of contradiction and incoherence like Trump? Of course we do, unless perhaps we opt to dislike their hairs.

Yet if that survey captures only a section of the people, which is conceivably in sync with that outlandish claim that Trump is God-sent to liberalize the caged Israelites in Palestinian land— and of course fast-track the long-awaited biblical rapture—conducting a fresh study now would certainly blow Trump’s head.

A new investigation would surely reveal that a lot of us from the Muslim stronghold north have since switched to Mr Trump’s camp, as we have found a new super hero, who can squarely deal with Iran’s obduracy in the Middle East.

Like many of our Christian brethren who celebrated the death of Major General Qasem Soleimani, a “terrorist” who ironically not only trained but inspired Christians in Syria and Iraq to defend themselves against the ISIS’s blitzkrieg, we too, had a sectarian axe to grind with him.

It therefore goes without saying that with a single strategic shot, Trump’s magic bullet has not only unified all of us but cemented his bourgeoning support base across the country.  

We are not alone though, as even our Holy Land, Saudi Arabia, could not hide its outrage against the Iranians for making good their retaliatory threat by despatching precision missiles to two American military camps in Iraq. How dare they?

The truth is that Iran had not right to lift a finger against the almighty US, which was apparently right to trigger the pervasive fear of Word War 3 with that thoughtful assassination of Soleimani.

After dismantling Iraq, Libya and Syria from the so-called Axis of Evil list, it’s obvious that one thing that will make Trump the Nobel Peace Prize winner is taking the war to the Iranian doorsteps. If Trump’s self-acclaimed, record export of peace to Ethiopia has remained a utopian dream for him, there’s a shortcut to actualizing it in the potential massacre of millions Shiite Muslims in Iran.  

Like Iraq and Syria before it, Iran is due for hundreds of thousands of widows and millions of famished children in refugees’ camps. The tons of American sanctions it has endured over the years, though inimical, have so far failed to provide enough pornographic images and Arabian Nights erotica for the gluttonous lust of American media.  

And we are all witnesses to how fruitful the American expedition was in Iraq, after thousands of children were killed either directly or through starvation.

Like Iraq, Iran, too, has to be invaded for Americans and the rest of the concerned world to sleep with two eyes closed and get uninterrupted supply of cheap oil for our economies. After all, General Wesley Clark (retd) had once let the cat out the bag.  It was him who told us that: “we’re going to take out seven countries in 5 years, starting with Iraq, and then Syria, Lebanon, Libya, Somalia, Sudan and finishing off, Iran”, quoting a source who saw the memo.

I am not surprised therefore that everybody is now convinced that the Ayotallahs in Iran must be stopped from laying their hands on nuclear weapons just like we knew that Saddam Husseini was stockpiling and filling the whole 437, 072 square kilo meters of Iraqi land with weapons of mass destruction.

Indeed the world had to heave a sigh of relief after US- led coalition stopped his evil plan. Indeed, his dangerous link with Alqaeda would have spelled apocalyptic doom for humanity. If the Iranians could heartlessly bomb Hiroshima and Nagasaki, there’s no guarantee now that when they succeed in building the weapons, they will keep them as toys in children’s parks like in the neighbouring Israel or in Walt Disney World, thousands kilo meters away.

But how did we even end up with this massive feeling of de ja vu in the Middle East?

 Iraq and Iran have a striking resemblance. Like Saddam who was the mastermind of 9/11 terror attacks, which brought down the famous New York’s twin towers, Soleimani was the major sponsor of terror in the Middle East.  Wasn’t he the brain behind the rise of ISIS and its unmatched bellicosity in the region before his timely death?

At least someone would have been courageous enough to make this convincing argument at the US congress all in a bid to convince it about the dangers of Iranian threat.

Some of us can still not fathom the wisdom behind swarming in Libya with the locust of Alqaeda elements. We heard that they got exclusive aerial cover by the Western liberators. In any case, we have been counting the gains of that significant regime change in the once promising North African country.

From Nyamai to Timbuktu, from Guandare to Gusau, we have been enjoying unprecedented stability and economic prosperity in our sub-region since Libya sneezed. Perhaps all these years we were so docile to discern the fact that Muammar Ghaddafi and his Libya were seriously holding us back. Now thanks to Barrak Obama and Nicolas (Cage) Sarkozy, the dictator, the major hindrance to our development is no more and all our perennial problems are solved once with erecting of the Libyan Eldorado.

I still don’t know whether when next we are doing the Muslim census in the world the Iranians are eligible for our head count,  otherwise I would have suggested that since we are already too many, we should encourage Trump to be courageous enough to finish the job he started.

But my concern is that as soon as he wipes them all from the face of earth, a “Hunting-tone” in Washington may remind him of his policy declaration: “Islam hates us” which will impulsively trigger a fresh list. Yes because there would be over a billion who would survive.

Malaysian leader, Muhathir Mohamad, the only visionary doctor in the house, has already expressed his fears that anyone can now be a target of American drones of death. The interesting thing is that the rest of the Muslim World is very comfortable with the alarming situation. We seem to perfectly depict the mentality of a heard of buffalo we see in those videos which big cats prey on.

The paradox is that once these buffaloes decide to come together to resist big cats their collective safety is guaranteed. But they will always watch helplessly as one of them is isolated and attacked by their eaters. Unfortunately, the buffaloes have more sense than us. They only run away and leave one of them to be mauled by their predators. The Muslims applaud as one of them is attacked. We asininely assist our attackers if we are not directly decimating ourselves.  

Musa wrote from Abuja

GrassRoots.ng is on a critical mission; to objectively and honestly represent the voice of ‘grassrooters’ in International, Federal, State and Local Government fora; heralding the achievements of political and other leaders and investors alike, without discrimination. This daily, digital news publication platform serves as the leading source of up-to-date information on how people and events reflect on the global community. The pragmatic articles reflect on the life of the community people, covering news/current affairs, business, technology, culture and fashion, entertainment, sports, State, National and International issues that directly impact the locals.

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Atiku Abubakar’s Coalition on a Path to Failure after Struggles

By: Prof. Ojo Emmanuel Ademola

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Atiku Abubakar

In Nigeria’s political landscape, Atiku Abubakar’s coalition stands as a significant challenger to the status quo but faces challenges like internal disputes, regional divides, and distrust among stakeholders. To succeed, the coalition must present a clear economic vision resonating with an informed electorate. Fostering unity, transparency, and inclusivity while addressing internal conflicts and regional disparities will enhance trust and strengthen its position in Nigerian politics.

Atiku Abubakar is leading a coalition of major political parties, including the APC, PDP, and Labour Party, to challenge President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 elections. The coalition aims to tackle regional insecurity and economic issues, which Atiku believes the current government is mishandling. In response, President Tinubu is employing a carefully crafted strategy, termed a divide-and-rule approach by some analysts, to weaken this coalition. However, analysts suggest that Nigerians are increasingly focused on economic solutions rather than divisive politics.

Political analysts assert that Atiku Abubakar’s coalition faces immense challenges, indicating it is “dead on arrival.” Atiku Abubakar’s coalition is plagued by internal conflicts, particularly between him and Peter Obi over leadership and the presidential candidacy. Regional divisions have weakened the coalition, with the PDP losing influence in the South-South and South-East to Obi’s Labour Party. Trust issues persist as members question Atiku’s motives and whether the coalition serves a collective purpose. Amid Nigeria’s economic and political instability, the coalition struggles to gain support and maintain unity, highlighting the need for cohesion to navigate upcoming challenges, especially ahead of the 2027 elections.

Public opinion plays a crucial role in the success of political coalitions like Atiku Abubakar’s, influencing political dynamics significantly. Support from the public can enhance a coalition’s credibility and momentum, making it a stronger alternative to the current government. As politicians are attuned to public sentiment, aligning coalition goals with public concerns can motivate them to join or support the coalition. Positive public opinion leads to greater media coverage and supporters while mobilising essential resources for campaign efforts. Ultimately, electoral success depends on the coalition’s ability to connect with voters, making it imperative for Atiku’s coalition to engage with and address public concerns effectively.

Prioritising youth engagement, economic growth, and sustainability is essential for any administration aiming for progress. With Nigeria’s large youthful population, active involvement can enhance political participation, spark innovation, and build a strong workforce. Addressing the youth’s needs through targeted policies on education, job creation, and inclusivity is crucial.

Additionally, focusing on economic development is vital to tackle unemployment, poverty, and regional disparities, requiring policies that promote entrepreneurship and attract foreign investment. Emphasizing sustainability ensures economic progress while protecting the environment; this includes investing in renewable energy and eco-friendly technologies. President Tinubu’s commitment to these areas is key to fostering a more inclusive, prosperous, and sustainable Nigeria.

It’s an interesting perspective that Atiku Abubakar’s coalition might be seen as a distraction rather than a genuine attempt to address Nigeria’s challenges. In the digital age, where information flows rapidly and citizens are more informed, such strategies can indeed face significant hurdles. Here’s an expanded view on why this approach might struggle and what could be more effective:

Challenges of Distraction Politics in the Digital Age:

In today’s digital age, Nigerians have greater access to information through social media and online news, making traditional political diversion tactics less effective. This increased transparency allows citizens to monitor government actions closely and hold officials accountable. The youth, who are active online, prefer practical solutions over distractions, highlighting the need for meaningful policies to drive genuine progress and change.

Effective Strategies for Democratic Development:

Focusing on economic empowerment through sustainable initiatives such as job creation, small business support, and investment in technology can significantly improve citizens’ well-being. Enhancing education and skills for youth prepares them for the job market and strengthens the economy. Inclusive governance that addresses regional disparities fosters national unity and stability. Additionally, promoting environmental sustainability through green technologies and renewable energy ensures long-term prosperity and a healthier future for everyone.

Inspiring Examples:

Digital innovation has transformed governance and public services in Estonia, highlighting transparency and efficiency. Nigeria should adopt similar strategies to enhance its performance. Youth-led initiatives are crucial for economic growth and support young entrepreneurs. The tech industry in Nigeria is booming, with start-ups gaining global recognition.

Community engagement is vital for effective political movements, requiring grassroots involvement to address diverse needs. Leaders who connect with communities foster strong support, essential for successful governance. Nigeria can build a brighter future by embracing innovation, empowering youth, and engaging communities.

Distraction politics may have worked in the past, but the digital age requires more transparency. By focusing on real solutions and engaging with an informed electorate, leaders can foster democratic development and a brighter future for Nigeria.

Atiku Abubakar and his coalition have faced challenges in developing winning strategies. Let’s examine some democratic perspectives on the reasons behind this and potential alternatives.

Challenges Faced by Atiku Abubakar and His Coalition:

Progress in Nigeria’s political landscape hinges on overcoming formidable hurdles such as the lack of a unified vision, deep-rooted trust deficits, and intricate regional and ethnic divides. The coalition must navigate complex agendas and historical disappointments to present a cohesive front and inspire confidence among voters. Addressing Nigeria’s diverse societal scope requires inclusive strategies that bridge demographic disparities and deliver tangible solutions to pressing economic and social woes. By forging a unified vision, rebuilding trust, and fostering cohesion among varied communities, the coalition can chart a path towards transformative change and sustainable development in the nation.

Engaging Democratic Views:

To succeed, a coalition must first establish a unified vision that transcends individual ambitions and resonates with the broader public. Rebuilding trust is key, requiring transparency, accountability, and consistent communication to demonstrate a commitment to democratic principles. Inclusivity in policymaking is vital, necessitating engagement with diverse groups to address regional and ethnic needs effectively. A strong focus on the economy, with clear and practical plans for job creation and infrastructure investment, is essential for garnering voter support. Additionally, prioritizing youth engagement through education, skills development, and political participation initiatives can ensure a more inclusive and sustainable political strategy.

Inspiring Examples:

Building grassroots movements is essential for a coalition’s success, as local networks create strong support. Digital campaigns via social media and online platforms can broaden the coalition’s reach. Collaborative leadership fosters voter confidence, as united leaders convey solidarity and commitment.

Atiku Abubakar and his coalition have struggled to meet essential foundational criteria. Despite the challenges they face, there are effective strategies they could implement to enhance their prospects. However, various reasons limit their ability to adopt these strategies. Instead, they should foster unity, trust, inclusivity, and economic development. By doing so, they can craft a compelling vision that truly resonates with the Nigerian public.

In conclusion, Atiku Abubakar’s coalition is at a pivotal moment, with the potential to either reshape Nigerian politics or struggle with its challenges. To succeed, the coalition must present a unified vision that resonates with all Nigerians. It needs to rebuild trust through transparency and accountability while addressing the diverse needs of the country’s various regions and demographics. By focusing on economic empowerment, youth engagement, and sustainable development, the coalition can provide a compelling alternative to the current administration. In a time when voters seek genuine solutions and meaningful change, the path to success lies in tackling the real issues facing Nigeria and engaging the public in a transparent and inclusive manner.

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Insecurity In Zamfara – Hold Lawal Accountable, Not Matawalle

Writes Nasiru Aliyu, Media Advisor to the Hon. Minister

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Zamfara and Bandits

The recent protest organized by the All Progressives Congress (APC) Akida Forum raises significant questions about political motivations and accountability.

Led by Musa Mahmoud the APC AKIDA group staged a demonstration at the Abuja headquarters of the Department of State Services (DSS), demanding an investigation into the Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Mohammed Matawalle, amid allegations linking him to banditry in the state.

The protest, predominantly featuring hired women and youths from Abuja, was framed as a response to escalating security concerns in Zamfara.

However, the underlying motives appear to be rooted in political rivalry rather than genuine concern for public safety.

The leader of the APC Akida Forum Tijjani Ramallan claims that Governor Dauda Lawal has accused Matawalle of collusion with bandits, suggesting that such ties have perpetuated the insecurity plaguing the region.

A critical point overlooked by Mahmoud and his supporters is that Matawalle is no longer the executive governor of Zamfara.

The current governor, Dauda Lawal, now holds the title of the state’s chief security officer, and therefore, he bears the primary responsibility for addressing the security crisis.

Instead of engaging in a blame game, Lawal should focus on implementing effective strategies to combat the rampant insecurity and provide the dividends of democracy to the people of Zamfara state.

The animosity towards Matawalle seems to stem from his previous role as the Director General of Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s campaign in the Northwest, where he played a pivotal role in securing significant electoral support for the current president.

This success has reportedly fueled envy among some political figures like Tijjani Ramallan, including Musa Mahmoud and others who may feel threatened by Matawalle’s rising profile.

It is noteworthy that allegations against Matawalle have been investigated by the National Security Adviser’s office, which found no evidence to support claims of his involvement in banditry.

This investigation contributed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s decision to retain Matawalle in his ministerial position, where he has reportedly managed security matters in the Northwest with professionalism.

Adding to the complexity of this situation, a Kano High Court recently issued a restraining order against Governor Lawal and others, prohibiting them from continuing their smear campaign against Matawalle. This legal development underscores the court’s recognition of the potential harm caused by unfounded allegations and the need for accountability in political discourse and the state government has found an ally in APC AKIDA led by Tijjani Ramallan.

Despite the court’s intervention, Governor Lawal continues to leverage media platforms to tarnish Matawalle’s reputation, linking him to banditry and corruption without substantiating evidence.

Such tactics appear to be desperate attempts to undermine Matawalle’s credibility, likely motivated by Lawal’s desire to solidify his political standing.

The ongoing campaign against Matawalle by Lawal and his associates raises serious concerns about the integrity of political discourse in Zamfara.

It is imperative for the public to remain vigilant against misleading narratives and to recognize the broader implications of such political maneuvers.

The Kano High Court’s ruling serves as a reminder of the importance of due process and the need for responsible governance.

In conclusion, the focus of accountability in Zamfara should shift towards Governor Dauda Lawal, who now holds the reins of security in the state.

Instead of casting blame on former officials, Lawal must take ownership of the security situation and work towards tangible solutions that prioritize the safety and well-being of the people of Zamfara.

Furthermore, since Matawalle operational visit to sokoto led to the elimination of Bandit leader Halilu Sububu who is alleged to have died with the treasure of the sponsors of banditry in zamfara state, the pain propelled them to further embark on campaign of calumny.

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Exposing the Malicious Sabotage of MoMo PSB Project in Enugu Ezike

By: Cyprian Nwodo

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MoMo Payment Service

The recent activities of some individuals with one Davids Iyida attempting to sabotage the MoMo Payment Service Bank project intended to benefit, especially  Enugu Ezike people, have raised significant concern and outrage within the community.

Davids Iyida
Davids Iyida

Such actions aimed at undermining a project with immense potential to uplift and empower the people of Enugu Ezike can only be described as malicious.

The MoMo PSB project is designed to bring financial services closer to the people of Enugu Ezike, facilitating easier access to banking and financial transactions.

This project is expected to create jobs, stimulate local businesses, and provide a much-needed boost to the local economy. In a region where such opportunities are rare, the MoMo PSB project represents a beacon of hope for many residents.

It is particularly baffling and disheartening to witness a member of the community collaborate with outsiders to hinder the progress of their own people.

The reasons behind such alliances remain unclear, but the impact of these actions is evident and deeply troubling. Working to obstruct the project is not only delaying progress but also actively working against the welfare and advancement of Enugu Ezike.

The efforts to destroy Kingsley Ifeanyi Adonu’s good intention, despite all the positive contributions he has made, are nothing short of wickedness.

Adonu, a visionary entrepreneur and the leading MTN Partner in the South East, has dedicated significant resources and efforts to bring the MoMo Payment Service Bank project to fruition.

His vision for the community includes economic growth, financial inclusion, and overall development. Attacking his vision is an attack on the progress and future of Enugu Ezike.

The question that lingers in the minds of many is: Why sabotaging our own benefits? In a time when unity and collective effort are paramount for the community’s advancement, such actions of sabotage are counterproductive and harmful. The community needs all hands on deck to drive development and improve the quality of life for its residents. Internal conflicts and malicious actions only serve to set back these efforts.

Despite the challenges and the malicious attempts to derail the project, it is important to reaffirm that S Mobile Group vision for establishing a MoMo Payment Service Bank in Enugu Ezike will prevail.

The community stands behind this vision, recognizing the immense benefits it promises to bring. Efforts to hinder progress will ultimately fail in the face of collective determination and support.

The actions of these ungrateful individuals, aimed at sabotaging the MoMo PSB project, are grave disservice to the community of Enugu Ezike.

In a time when progress and development are desperately needed, such malicious activities are deeply regrettable.

However, the vision and determination of Kingsley Ifeanyi Adonu and the community’s support ensure that the project will succeed, bringing much-needed growth and prosperity to Enugu Ezike.

Let it be known that no amount of sabotage can dim the light of progress and unity.

Nwodo, a public commentator writes from Enugu State

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