GROpinion
[OPINION] My Boarding School Experience
By Azuka Onwuka
Since last week when 11-year-old Sylvester Oromoni, pupil of Dowen College, Lagos, was reported to have died from injuries allegedly sustained from the bullying meted out to him by some senior students of the school, there has been an outpouring of outrage against the management of the school. The videos of the pain the little boy went through before he died broke many people’s hearts.
There were allegations that the boys who bullied him were members of a secret cult group and that they did that to him because he refused to join them. Another version of the story was that they visited their anger on him because of an earlier issue with him that led to them being reported to the school authorities. The school had earlier said that Sylvester injured himself while playing football. This seemed to be what he told the school authorities because of the fear instilled in him by his attackers that if he told anyone what they did to him, they would kill him.
The incident has also elicited condemnation for the boarding school system, with many painting scary pictures to show the boarding school system as dangerous to pupils. The argument has been that children are meant to stay close to their parents until they are about 16 years old and ready to go to a university or leave home to start working. During that period, parents are supposed to mould them into what they want them to be until they become mature. There is merit in this argument but some of us who went to boarding are eternally grateful for the boarding school system despite all its challenges. Consequently, we also sent our children to boarding school.
Growing up, the best thing that happened to me was the fact that I spent some years in boarding school. Even though our parents were not well educated, they ensured that all six of us went to boarding school, including those of us whose schools were about three kilometres away from our home. Being in boarding school transformed certain things in me. I went into boarding school at 12 years old. Until I got into boarding school, I didn’t know that normal human beings could sleep during the day. I thought it was for those who were ill or plain lazy. There was so much playing to do that sleeping during the day was not an option. There were streams to visit for swimming. There were football and table tennis to play, kites to fly, motorcycle wheels to roll, bicycles to ride, wrestling bouts to hold, okoso games to play.
Then there were trips to different bushes to search for wild fruit. During the season of certain fruit like udara (African star apple) and mango, we would go from tree to tree to pick the fruits and finally pitch our tent under the one that produced the sweetest fruits and had the best terrain for play. Intermittently a fruit would fall and we would make a dash for it.
Then there was the cream of excitement: funeral ceremonies of men. At that time in the late 1970s and early 80s, the churches had not demonized masked spirits called mmanwu as idolatry. After the church funeral service and interment, the church priests and choir would depart and different mmanwu would perform. If the dance troupe Egededge would perform, then the event was even more colourful.
When I got to boarding school, I learnt that we must wake up by 5.15 am once the rising bell rang. We would light our lamps right in the darkness, even before the generator came on. Then we would run to the middle of the hostel with our hymn book before the count of three by the house monitor who was one year below the house prefect. We would sing a hymn, a junior would pray, then we would listen to the announcements and run off to a spring about one kilometre behind the school to fetch water for our senior as well as have our bath. We passed through a footpath in that darkness with our torches. Thankfully, nobody was bitten by a snake. Upon our return, we would sweep our duty areas, dress our beds for inspection, and then go to refectory for our breakfast.
I was shocked when after having our lunch, a bell rang and I was told it was time for siesta. The prefects went round with canes to ensure everybody was in bed. I lay on my bed in broad daylight wondering what a healthy, active human being should be doing in bed at a time like that. I asked those around me what if I was not feeling sleepy. They told me to just lie down there and keep calm for the one hour. Surprisingly, after some minutes of boredom, sleep took over me. It was only the bell for afternoon prep that woke me up. I was surprised that I slept in the afternoon!
That evening and later at night when we had our night prep, I noticed that I was strong and alert while reading. Those who didn’t have their siesta slept off in class after some minutes. Because of that, I took it upon myself to have my siesta every afternoon. It has been a tradition I keep till today as much as humanly possible. Any day I take my siesta, reading or writing at night becomes easy and fruitful.
I also learnt in boarding school the proper use of cutlery for eating. In addition, it stuck in me from then till now that one should not go around bare-footed, even within the compound. It was an offence to be seen in school after school hours moving around without your flip-flops.
It was also in boarding school that I first learnt how to manage my provisions and money from one week to another and from one month to another. I devised means to hide my money in my cupboard that even if someone broke into my cupboard, the person would not see where my money was hidden. Consequently, my money was not stolen for once. When I found out that my first school father would take my keys while I was sleeping and take my beverages, I devised a means to hide my keys while sleeping. I also learnt that junior lights out was 9.30 pm weekdays and 9pm weekends, while senior lights out was 11pm.
I learnt how to plan my day in boarding school. I learnt that there was a time to sleep, to wake up, to pray, to do your chores, to eat, to rest and to read. I learnt how to have a timetable for reading. I learnt cleanliness. The weekly inspection result was announced every Friday during the house meeting. I was afraid of ever coming last and getting the pig trophy. Therefore, I ensured that my clothes, hair, nails, shoes, bed, and corner were always clean.
Before boarding school, I was not confident to address any group of people. Stage fright was my companion. In my primary six when I was chosen to attend the birthday of our state governor, I returned to school and was called upon to tell the school my experience. I stood before the school, tongue-tied, looking at the ground where my right foot was creating some amazing abstract artwork only a handful of art aficionados could interpret. When I got into boarding school, it became a tradition to stand before the house members every Friday night to introduce yourself or explain what you understood from the bible passage read that night. After doing it repeatedly, all fears of standing before a crowd evaporated.
However, life in boarding school was not all rosy. Life was harsh for many of us as junior students. There were days we wished we ran away to our homes. The punishment was too much. If you turned left, you were guilty of one thing. If you turned right, you were guilty of another thing. If you turned back, it was a problem. If you went straight or remained still, you were guilty. And most times, you were told to obey before any complaint. In addition, you were regularly punished for no reason or for the errors of others.
There were deviants in boarding school. There were boys who engaged in homosexualism. There were boys who paid for rooms called bunks around the school where they hosted girls. There were those who would hide behind the hostel and smoke cigarettes. Some were said to even smoke weed. There were those who sneaked out of school to attend night parties or nightclubs or visit brothels. But students knew that once they were caught, the punishment was expulsion. The fear of bringing shame to your family was a huge deterrent.
Also there were seniors who were unnecessarily wicked to the juniors. They were power-drunk and acted like demi-gods. Juniors said silent prayers of harm for them. Some daring juniors played expensive pranks on such seniors like rubbing some devil bean pods on their bed. And when the itching started, everybody laughed at them silently except their classmates who laughed boldly. Such students never received success cards from juniors during their final exams. If they failed their external exam and returned to the same school for their “second missionary journey”, they got a taste of their wickedness.
There were also good seniors who stood up in defence of juniors when they were unduly maltreated. School fathers also ensured that no senior was unduly wicked to their school sons.
However, it is one thing to complain about wicked seniors; it is another thing not to be a wicked senior. Ironically most of the so-called victims of wicked seniors later became wicked seniors themselves without even knowing it. To many, such callousness is nothing but “school life”. But that is not true.
Bullying exists in Nigerian schools, but what happened to little Sylvester at Dowen College was outrageous, if the accounts in the public domain are anything to go by. If Sylvester was sleeping in his hostel when those boys came in at night to physically assault him, does that mean that no member of staff of the school lived in the hostel with the students? So if students start fighting at night and using dangerous objects against one another, there would be no adult to stop them or even know the story behind the incident? Today’s boarding school cannot be run like that of our era. There is no reason why a hostel master or mistress should not live by a male or female hostel to always know what is happening there.
In this modern age, there are many things schools should put in place to ensure that what happened to Sylvester at Dowen College does not happen to another child. One is that schools must create rules against bullying and enforce them strictly. The problem is that many private schools fear the parents of their students too much. They fear that enforcing rules strictly will make them lose many students. But it works the other way round. When parents trust that their children are safe from bullying and that no offending student will be allowed to go scot-free, they trust your school more and feel happy to send their children to your school.
Schools should also have sources through which they know when some untoward things are happening under their roof. It can be a teacher sexually molesting a student, or a student sexually molesting another student, or a case of physical molestation or whatever. Principals and teachers cannot be aloof while running a school where parents have entrusted their children in their care.
Whatever the reason that caused the death of Sylvester Oromoni, his death should not be allowed to go like others. If the investigation indicts any group or individuals, they should be punished. No parents like to send their children to school only to lose such children under questionable circumstances.
Columnists
Atiku Abubakar’s Coalition on a Path to Failure after Struggles
By: Prof. Ojo Emmanuel Ademola
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.
GROpinion
Insecurity In Zamfara – Hold Lawal Accountable, Not Matawalle
Writes Nasiru Aliyu, Media Advisor to the Hon. Minister
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.
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.
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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