< PROLOGUE The trees swayed left and right as the gentle breeze of the cool Saturday evening drove them on. Bluebirds made lovely noises as they flew by adding extra glory to an already magnificent atmosphere in Eko city. I stood on the verandah of my upstairs home that looked out to the street. I waved to a couple of friends passing by. "Holler bro" Adefemi shouted from the street. He was putting on his black rollerblades and was in company of five of our clique. “What’s up fm" I hollered back” I figure you guys are going to roll" I added. "Yeah, and I’m surprised that you are still perched like a duck up there. The guys from the other street would be waiting." 'I think I would pass on that bro" I replied already knowing what was coming next. Adefemi aka Fm didn’t disappoint as he shot back in an instant. “oh, aha, hear that guys" he laughed as did the other members of the group." don’t tell me the wizard himself is scared of the rolling contest" he continued "Nah bro, I’m kind of still feeling the pain from the fall I had last week. But no p, you guys go ahead, and I wish you luck". "No qualms bro, heal fast and don’t forget you still owe me one race". That said Fm turned on his heels and with others not far behind glided off majestically- as always. I smiled as I watched them roll, twist and jump their way to the entrance of the street before they finally disappeared into tiny dots in the distance. As I continued watching and listening to Bruno Mars’- The lazy song on my beats by dre, a figure came into view. As he drew nearer, I sucked in my breath; it’s a rarity to see a mad man on our street. But the man walking all the more nearer was nothing short of one. His hair was so haggard and unwashed since God knows when, eyes sunken in that a gaping hole replaced it, and worse still, he was putting on clothes that was extremely dirty. He was clutching a polythene bag with holes in a million places. He walked on but the kids playing on the street ran headlong into their marbled compounds amidst shrieks with none chancing a look back. He was dark- I don’t know if it was his natural complexion or the coat of grim strewn all over his body. He wore a gray agbada which helped a bit to conceal the lean and crooked body underneath. He picked an empty bottle here, a can there and both he dumped into the bag which he held so fiercely that I wondered if his heart was inside the bag. The fleeing kids peeped from the slightly open gates. While some still showed signs of visible fear, others resorted to mocking and making derilous remarks at the dirty stranger who was roaming our street. I couldn’t stay out long to see where he went to or what he did next as I was called in by my mum. It was three days later I saw him again, loitering around an empty spot some distance from the entrance of my street. Three weeks later- three weeks of hard labor for the old man-, and the empty spot was transformed into an awkward home. A home which had discarded asbestos roof as its walls, palm leaves made up the roof itself and hard as I look, I could not make out a window. And due to the lax town planning enforcement and environmental management in Nigeria and the tendency to let anything go- the house remained. And the haggard man with the agbada started shoe mending and shining in the front of his shabby home. CHAPTER ONE “what would you like to be son?" my dad asked me on one of the rare days we conversed as father and son, mainly because my dad was hardly ever at home. We were sitting in the expansive living room. "I want to be a journalist dad,” I answered almost without taking a breath, the reason was that I had already made up my mind a long time ago on what I wanted to become- a journalist. If I was expecting my dad to smile about my answer, I was wrong as he wasn’t buying my choice of career. "You want to be a what? “A journalist dad" "But how can son, the son of Mbadiwe can’t be some errand boy!" "No dad. journalism doesn’t mean I am going to start selling papers in some ramshackle stall by the roadside, actually it is a very prestigious profession and I think I would be fulfilled if I dedicated my life to it” it looked I wasn’t convincing enough , my dad didn’t seem to bulge a bit. "why not consider studying law, I know you always like to defend people, so it would be just ok if you made it official, going to court and bailing everyone in the country" my dad said with a smile on his face. I smiled too and pondered it for a while. True, after journalism, law was my next love and with my dad cajoling, I was beginning to tilt towards the gown and the wig. “Ok dad, I would give it a thought. Thanks dad” I went over and sat by his side on the big sofa and he crossed his hands over my shoulders before he muttered “ok son”. I didn’t take as much time as I thought I would before I decided to go for law though it meant jilting my other love. So, knowing law wasn’t a walkover course, I put in extra effort as I prepared for my upcoming final exams in high school. I was returning from school on one particular day, striding along the road and whistling to myself. The sun going down as it was about getting to four in the evening. I was on the road leading to my house which was at Simpson Street, Lekki. Actually this was a longer route to my house and I took it on purpose so as to spend more time before going home- I wasn’t so eager to get home, maybe because I loved the fresh air outside. I hadn’t gone far from the bus-stop when I heard a strange sound. At first I didn’t know where the sound came from, and then my sole of my feet suddenly felt as if I was walking barefooted. On looking down, the sole of my shoe had pulled out; I had even taken a step or two without it. Treading backward I picked it up. I couldn’t go home with one leg uncovered. I was about flagging down a bike to take me the short distance home, when I remembered that there was the cobbler just ahead, so it was better I got the shoe mended than taking it home like that. Actually it was one of my precious shoes, my kid sister got it for me on my last birthday and made me swore that I would wear them till I was sixty, and I was sure Ada would be so mad if she knew I was already going back on my promise after just two months! I trudged along heading to the cobbler, I was certain that I would find him there coz all the while that I have been going through this way to and from school I saw him at the doorstep of his house which also served as his spot for practicing his cobbling act. On getting to the cobblers shade though, I didn’t see him. Pa Mutiu was the cobblers name and apart from that nothing else has been known about him since appearing on our street some weeks back. He had no friends and sought no friendship. Though friendly as can been seen from his ever ready smile, he made it obvious that he didn’t want anyone too close and everyone kept their distance. Pa Mutiu’s gray agbada which I hadn’t seen him change seemed to complement the gray color of his asbestos roof which served as the walls of his home. I looked around but there was no sign of him, so I crossed the road to the mai guard that was operating a kiosk in front of the building opposite Pa Mutiu’s home to inquire about him. “Hi. Good evening" I greeted him "Wetin you wan buy" "Give me two tom tom" While he was still getting it, I asked "Please, this man that repairs shoes over there" I pointed towards Pa Mutiu's home “have you seen him today?" "That old man?" "Yes" "I never see am today. In fact for two days now, I never see am anywhere around" yesterday was a Sunday. "Are you sure' “I sure na, no be dey stay here." “but has he been away like this before" I probed further, the journalist in me taking hold. "no, na just this days e neva come out, but wait, wetin make you dey ask me all this questions sef?" he arched a brow "Don’t worry, I only wanted to mend my shoes' I collected my sweets and left. Deciding to finally take the bike home and try my best to make sure Ada didn’t discover my misdeed- I fear her tantrums more than the mystical Shadrin in my favorite series, Legend of the seeker. but then, I didn’t move too far, before I turned and headed straight back to Pa Mutiu's doorstep, and coming close for the first time, though not a power-filled freak, I picked something up, something real but not visible at the same time. It hit me hard, the pains and despair hanging stiffly around this mysterious abode of a much more mysterious person. I stood at the spot for almost five minutes listening, still no noise from inside. I could feel the eyes of the mai-guard boring into my back; he must have been perplexed by my actions. I was too, but I was more astonished by the fact that I could not stop myself. I tapped gently on Pa Mutiu’s door made up of thin and dirty clothing, no answer, I was now burning with curiosity, and although aware of the fact that going into the home of somebody without authorization was illegal, I just had to damn the consequences; something told me that if he was inside, he was probably in trouble. I didn’t know for sure, but I was such a person that didn’t let things go so easily. Call it over-sabi and you may not be wrong but nothing was stopping me from going inside and satisfying my curiosity. I pushed the curtain aside, and peered into the darkness, my eyes looked left and right, but then, as more stream of light came in through the open curtain, I saw what looked like a log of wood, but then this log had eyes, nose, and mouth that was dripping with spittle, if not for some invisible power that held me back, I would have run out in total fright because Pa Mutiu lying on that floor cut a deadly sight, I stepped in cautiously and went down on my knees, felt his pulse and was relieved he was still breathing, thinking that what how he slept, I turned back to terminate my intrusion into his privacy, then he spoke, faintly at first "water, water" I almost didn’t hear him till he managed to speak more audibly as I opened the curtain and had one of my legs outside, "my son, please water, water" I turned back to behold a sight so horrible I shook my head in a bid to dislodge the imprint of it in my mind, I don’t know how death may look like, but Pa Mutiu at that point could be used as a symbol for death, with his lips slightly open trying to form the words water for the fifth time, the creases on his face became more clearer and his skin all the more whiter. I hushed to him to suspend the idea of repeating his request as I saw he may not survive even the first syllable. I ran back to the mai-guard’s kiosk, "Give me one bottle of Eva water" "Na three hundred naira" "Don’t worry, bring it" I gave him five hundred naira and forgetting my change dashed back to Pa Mutiu, this time he was coughing heavily. “Pa. I have the water here' I said as I knelt back at the spot I discarded some moments ago. He seemed not to hear me but on sighting the bottle of precious liquid there seemed to be sparks across his eyes. I helped his head up and opened the bottle to his mouth; he gulped like I have never seen anybody drink water before. So it was little surprise when emptied the hundred cl. he laid back, closed his eyes and to my horror, his heart stopped.
Sunday, April 7, 2013
AN EXCERPT FROM MY NEWEST BOOK, TITLED: MY GREY HAIRED NEIGHBOUR
< PROLOGUE The trees swayed left and right as the gentle breeze of the cool Saturday evening drove them on. Bluebirds made lovely noises as they flew by adding extra glory to an already magnificent atmosphere in Eko city. I stood on the verandah of my upstairs home that looked out to the street. I waved to a couple of friends passing by. "Holler bro" Adefemi shouted from the street. He was putting on his black rollerblades and was in company of five of our clique. “What’s up fm" I hollered back” I figure you guys are going to roll" I added. "Yeah, and I’m surprised that you are still perched like a duck up there. The guys from the other street would be waiting." 'I think I would pass on that bro" I replied already knowing what was coming next. Adefemi aka Fm didn’t disappoint as he shot back in an instant. “oh, aha, hear that guys" he laughed as did the other members of the group." don’t tell me the wizard himself is scared of the rolling contest" he continued "Nah bro, I’m kind of still feeling the pain from the fall I had last week. But no p, you guys go ahead, and I wish you luck". "No qualms bro, heal fast and don’t forget you still owe me one race". That said Fm turned on his heels and with others not far behind glided off majestically- as always. I smiled as I watched them roll, twist and jump their way to the entrance of the street before they finally disappeared into tiny dots in the distance. As I continued watching and listening to Bruno Mars’- The lazy song on my beats by dre, a figure came into view. As he drew nearer, I sucked in my breath; it’s a rarity to see a mad man on our street. But the man walking all the more nearer was nothing short of one. His hair was so haggard and unwashed since God knows when, eyes sunken in that a gaping hole replaced it, and worse still, he was putting on clothes that was extremely dirty. He was clutching a polythene bag with holes in a million places. He walked on but the kids playing on the street ran headlong into their marbled compounds amidst shrieks with none chancing a look back. He was dark- I don’t know if it was his natural complexion or the coat of grim strewn all over his body. He wore a gray agbada which helped a bit to conceal the lean and crooked body underneath. He picked an empty bottle here, a can there and both he dumped into the bag which he held so fiercely that I wondered if his heart was inside the bag. The fleeing kids peeped from the slightly open gates. While some still showed signs of visible fear, others resorted to mocking and making derilous remarks at the dirty stranger who was roaming our street. I couldn’t stay out long to see where he went to or what he did next as I was called in by my mum. It was three days later I saw him again, loitering around an empty spot some distance from the entrance of my street. Three weeks later- three weeks of hard labor for the old man-, and the empty spot was transformed into an awkward home. A home which had discarded asbestos roof as its walls, palm leaves made up the roof itself and hard as I look, I could not make out a window. And due to the lax town planning enforcement and environmental management in Nigeria and the tendency to let anything go- the house remained. And the haggard man with the agbada started shoe mending and shining in the front of his shabby home. CHAPTER ONE “what would you like to be son?" my dad asked me on one of the rare days we conversed as father and son, mainly because my dad was hardly ever at home. We were sitting in the expansive living room. "I want to be a journalist dad,” I answered almost without taking a breath, the reason was that I had already made up my mind a long time ago on what I wanted to become- a journalist. If I was expecting my dad to smile about my answer, I was wrong as he wasn’t buying my choice of career. "You want to be a what? “A journalist dad" "But how can son, the son of Mbadiwe can’t be some errand boy!" "No dad. journalism doesn’t mean I am going to start selling papers in some ramshackle stall by the roadside, actually it is a very prestigious profession and I think I would be fulfilled if I dedicated my life to it” it looked I wasn’t convincing enough , my dad didn’t seem to bulge a bit. "why not consider studying law, I know you always like to defend people, so it would be just ok if you made it official, going to court and bailing everyone in the country" my dad said with a smile on his face. I smiled too and pondered it for a while. True, after journalism, law was my next love and with my dad cajoling, I was beginning to tilt towards the gown and the wig. “Ok dad, I would give it a thought. Thanks dad” I went over and sat by his side on the big sofa and he crossed his hands over my shoulders before he muttered “ok son”. I didn’t take as much time as I thought I would before I decided to go for law though it meant jilting my other love. So, knowing law wasn’t a walkover course, I put in extra effort as I prepared for my upcoming final exams in high school. I was returning from school on one particular day, striding along the road and whistling to myself. The sun going down as it was about getting to four in the evening. I was on the road leading to my house which was at Simpson Street, Lekki. Actually this was a longer route to my house and I took it on purpose so as to spend more time before going home- I wasn’t so eager to get home, maybe because I loved the fresh air outside. I hadn’t gone far from the bus-stop when I heard a strange sound. At first I didn’t know where the sound came from, and then my sole of my feet suddenly felt as if I was walking barefooted. On looking down, the sole of my shoe had pulled out; I had even taken a step or two without it. Treading backward I picked it up. I couldn’t go home with one leg uncovered. I was about flagging down a bike to take me the short distance home, when I remembered that there was the cobbler just ahead, so it was better I got the shoe mended than taking it home like that. Actually it was one of my precious shoes, my kid sister got it for me on my last birthday and made me swore that I would wear them till I was sixty, and I was sure Ada would be so mad if she knew I was already going back on my promise after just two months! I trudged along heading to the cobbler, I was certain that I would find him there coz all the while that I have been going through this way to and from school I saw him at the doorstep of his house which also served as his spot for practicing his cobbling act. On getting to the cobblers shade though, I didn’t see him. Pa Mutiu was the cobblers name and apart from that nothing else has been known about him since appearing on our street some weeks back. He had no friends and sought no friendship. Though friendly as can been seen from his ever ready smile, he made it obvious that he didn’t want anyone too close and everyone kept their distance. Pa Mutiu’s gray agbada which I hadn’t seen him change seemed to complement the gray color of his asbestos roof which served as the walls of his home. I looked around but there was no sign of him, so I crossed the road to the mai guard that was operating a kiosk in front of the building opposite Pa Mutiu’s home to inquire about him. “Hi. Good evening" I greeted him "Wetin you wan buy" "Give me two tom tom" While he was still getting it, I asked "Please, this man that repairs shoes over there" I pointed towards Pa Mutiu's home “have you seen him today?" "That old man?" "Yes" "I never see am today. In fact for two days now, I never see am anywhere around" yesterday was a Sunday. "Are you sure' “I sure na, no be dey stay here." “but has he been away like this before" I probed further, the journalist in me taking hold. "no, na just this days e neva come out, but wait, wetin make you dey ask me all this questions sef?" he arched a brow "Don’t worry, I only wanted to mend my shoes' I collected my sweets and left. Deciding to finally take the bike home and try my best to make sure Ada didn’t discover my misdeed- I fear her tantrums more than the mystical Shadrin in my favorite series, Legend of the seeker. but then, I didn’t move too far, before I turned and headed straight back to Pa Mutiu's doorstep, and coming close for the first time, though not a power-filled freak, I picked something up, something real but not visible at the same time. It hit me hard, the pains and despair hanging stiffly around this mysterious abode of a much more mysterious person. I stood at the spot for almost five minutes listening, still no noise from inside. I could feel the eyes of the mai-guard boring into my back; he must have been perplexed by my actions. I was too, but I was more astonished by the fact that I could not stop myself. I tapped gently on Pa Mutiu’s door made up of thin and dirty clothing, no answer, I was now burning with curiosity, and although aware of the fact that going into the home of somebody without authorization was illegal, I just had to damn the consequences; something told me that if he was inside, he was probably in trouble. I didn’t know for sure, but I was such a person that didn’t let things go so easily. Call it over-sabi and you may not be wrong but nothing was stopping me from going inside and satisfying my curiosity. I pushed the curtain aside, and peered into the darkness, my eyes looked left and right, but then, as more stream of light came in through the open curtain, I saw what looked like a log of wood, but then this log had eyes, nose, and mouth that was dripping with spittle, if not for some invisible power that held me back, I would have run out in total fright because Pa Mutiu lying on that floor cut a deadly sight, I stepped in cautiously and went down on my knees, felt his pulse and was relieved he was still breathing, thinking that what how he slept, I turned back to terminate my intrusion into his privacy, then he spoke, faintly at first "water, water" I almost didn’t hear him till he managed to speak more audibly as I opened the curtain and had one of my legs outside, "my son, please water, water" I turned back to behold a sight so horrible I shook my head in a bid to dislodge the imprint of it in my mind, I don’t know how death may look like, but Pa Mutiu at that point could be used as a symbol for death, with his lips slightly open trying to form the words water for the fifth time, the creases on his face became more clearer and his skin all the more whiter. I hushed to him to suspend the idea of repeating his request as I saw he may not survive even the first syllable. I ran back to the mai-guard’s kiosk, "Give me one bottle of Eva water" "Na three hundred naira" "Don’t worry, bring it" I gave him five hundred naira and forgetting my change dashed back to Pa Mutiu, this time he was coughing heavily. “Pa. I have the water here' I said as I knelt back at the spot I discarded some moments ago. He seemed not to hear me but on sighting the bottle of precious liquid there seemed to be sparks across his eyes. I helped his head up and opened the bottle to his mouth; he gulped like I have never seen anybody drink water before. So it was little surprise when emptied the hundred cl. he laid back, closed his eyes and to my horror, his heart stopped.
Kelly adventure series
Kelly is a journalist, a sinfully good one, she's got eyes for the big and complicated stories, so often overwhelmed wit nausea if asked to do simple cover ups., she knows her way about, digging up earth and spurning dirt, stepping on toes and staking up foes, bt she doesnt care, she's got a passion, a fire burning within that she must flare out else she may burn within.. Her bosses are eternally grateful for their luck in having in their fold such a rare gem, she practically keeps the media house running, her exposé and scandalous outleaks makes the paper a bestseller. But she's stepping on toes and staking up foes. They get livid, she's catching up on them, her newest quest, they are her newest quest, she must come any closer else they are busted, but she nva stops, she sniffs, she thinks, she ponders, kelly nva gives up until she find her prey.. They know, and so they are jittery,but they swear nva to go under whining, kelly would hav to pay if she comes any closer. But would she stop, would she listen to that odd voice, the voice of her sister whose murderers she was gunning after, would she take her sisters advice to let vengeance avenge itself, would she, ? No, kelly nva fights a personal battle, she gives her job her all and keps her life different, but they fired the first salvo taking what she held dear and they must pay for it. She searches, they employ the hiding game, she knows this may well be her last escapade but stil she dares it,. The search is growing kenner, the net is drawing tighter, the bastards are been roped in and The DANGER IS ON THE INCREASE, stil she forges ahead. The battleground is the basement of a tower, she's made provision for police support, but the evidence to warrant immense commitment from the police is stil lacking, but she must stil go on, no turning back. She steps into the tower, a bit dark and smacking of disuse, a perfect place for d hounds she seek, not knowing their number, she stuffs up wit enuf ammo to kill an elephant., she climbs down d stairs, creaking and eerie sounds, she gaze about at the world not knowin if it would be the last view,gun in hand, she tethers towards the door that led to the group , she could practically feel their heat coming from inside,she was damn sure they were unaware of her presence, she heaves a long laboured sigh and push open the door, .. A tinglying sensation on the back of her head, a wierd feeling running down her spine, just one foot into the room and she spurns around with fingers on the trigger, too late, a group of stern looking men all holding automatics pointing at her tells her shes a gonna... To be continued.
Saturday, January 5, 2013
Trying a little more for a change.
How best to succeed?
Give up hours upon hours upon hours after the last man throws his
hands up in surrender.
Its a new year, its 2013, so many things occured in 2012, but then
that year is all gone in the annals of history never to been seen
again. The only use 2012 would have for us is to enable us do some
really good soulsearching and reflection. How did we spend it? What
was our attitude to life; work, education and the family. Were we
commited to the things that matter most, or were we just nonchalant
about the activities in our life. 2013 beckons, it beckons with the
vigour of a sterling in its prime, waiting for us to exploit it and
achieve so many things in different spheres of our life while
contributing our lil bit to making the world a better place.
How do you want to spend 2013? What plans do you have? Do you have set
goals for the year? Drawn up calenders to align your efforts for the
year with?
These and many more questions need to come readily to our minds as we
start the journey of 360+ new days.
Its 2013! Where would you be found, what would be your contribution to
your sorroundings? Would you be that goal getter who never believes in
impossibilities and limitations? Or would you belong to the group who
sees a mountain in every single challenge? Its 2013! A year we are all
given another chance to chart a new course for a brand new year. What
course do you want to chart for yourself? Is it been less concerned
with academics and work, or dedicating yourself to the things that
matters most.
Is it been distant from families and friends or keeping those who
matters most close.
More importantly, is it keeping God in the background or drawing
closer to the source of all strength?
2013 beckons, its open to all those who really want to get out
something from this great year.
----- my dreams for 2013...
Martin Luther jnr once dreamt, though awake, he dreamt what was deemed
impossible in his time. That's the secret, challenges can limit your
physical efforts but not your dreams, and when your dreams are not
limited, there would be tremendous output since dreams are the little
firewood that fuels the materialization of our every expectation.
My dream for 2013?
Let there be peace, not just here in my country Nigeria, but over
there in Somalia, in Irag, in Syria, in every single part of world
where peace is needed.
That's my dream, what's yours?
Give up hours upon hours upon hours after the last man throws his
hands up in surrender.
Its a new year, its 2013, so many things occured in 2012, but then
that year is all gone in the annals of history never to been seen
again. The only use 2012 would have for us is to enable us do some
really good soulsearching and reflection. How did we spend it? What
was our attitude to life; work, education and the family. Were we
commited to the things that matter most, or were we just nonchalant
about the activities in our life. 2013 beckons, it beckons with the
vigour of a sterling in its prime, waiting for us to exploit it and
achieve so many things in different spheres of our life while
contributing our lil bit to making the world a better place.
How do you want to spend 2013? What plans do you have? Do you have set
goals for the year? Drawn up calenders to align your efforts for the
year with?
These and many more questions need to come readily to our minds as we
start the journey of 360+ new days.
Its 2013! Where would you be found, what would be your contribution to
your sorroundings? Would you be that goal getter who never believes in
impossibilities and limitations? Or would you belong to the group who
sees a mountain in every single challenge? Its 2013! A year we are all
given another chance to chart a new course for a brand new year. What
course do you want to chart for yourself? Is it been less concerned
with academics and work, or dedicating yourself to the things that
matters most.
Is it been distant from families and friends or keeping those who
matters most close.
More importantly, is it keeping God in the background or drawing
closer to the source of all strength?
2013 beckons, its open to all those who really want to get out
something from this great year.
----- my dreams for 2013...
Martin Luther jnr once dreamt, though awake, he dreamt what was deemed
impossible in his time. That's the secret, challenges can limit your
physical efforts but not your dreams, and when your dreams are not
limited, there would be tremendous output since dreams are the little
firewood that fuels the materialization of our every expectation.
My dream for 2013?
Let there be peace, not just here in my country Nigeria, but over
there in Somalia, in Irag, in Syria, in every single part of world
where peace is needed.
That's my dream, what's yours?
Tuesday, December 25, 2012
Merry Xmas!!!!!!!
Wow. The sky is aglow with the lights from a thousand sources. The
stars are merry, twinkling with the joy embracing the whole universe.
The songs are loud and gentle all around me, goes straight to my heart
and makes me reflect on the reason for the season- Christ is born, a
new born king, a Saviour for mankind.
Its christmas, and my smile is so easily set on my face as the
happiness within threatens to burst out rending my heart with it. Its
christmas, a time to do what Christ would do on his birthday-
remember, Christmas is all about celebrating our Saviour.
Christmas is all about forgetting ourselves, for once, giving
ourselves out to bringing gladness to the hearts of others. A little
smile there, a kind word here, a nice present there, all add a glow to
christmas and really gives it its essence.
Christmas is a time to let go of all bitterness, strife and hostility,
its a time to let down the hair, play, have fun, but not vulgarly, and
build those bonds that hold us together.
Christmas is a time to reach out to that needy individual, that family
who needs a little help, christmas is a time to show the true essence
of love, as Christ whom we celebrate today is a true embodiment of
Love.
Celebrate, be kind, share Love, have fun, coz its Christmas.
Merry Christmas From the Twinklepad Team.
stars are merry, twinkling with the joy embracing the whole universe.
The songs are loud and gentle all around me, goes straight to my heart
and makes me reflect on the reason for the season- Christ is born, a
new born king, a Saviour for mankind.
Its christmas, and my smile is so easily set on my face as the
happiness within threatens to burst out rending my heart with it. Its
christmas, a time to do what Christ would do on his birthday-
remember, Christmas is all about celebrating our Saviour.
Christmas is all about forgetting ourselves, for once, giving
ourselves out to bringing gladness to the hearts of others. A little
smile there, a kind word here, a nice present there, all add a glow to
christmas and really gives it its essence.
Christmas is a time to let go of all bitterness, strife and hostility,
its a time to let down the hair, play, have fun, but not vulgarly, and
build those bonds that hold us together.
Christmas is a time to reach out to that needy individual, that family
who needs a little help, christmas is a time to show the true essence
of love, as Christ whom we celebrate today is a true embodiment of
Love.
Celebrate, be kind, share Love, have fun, coz its Christmas.
Merry Christmas From the Twinklepad Team.
Tuesday, December 4, 2012
Christmas just around the corner
Wednesday, August 22, 2012
Giving everyone a good life
Seven billion at the last count, and still counting. The population of
the world seem to be increasing by the day, filling up every available
space but not much can be said about a corresponding increase in the
standard of living of this seven-plus billion people around the world
especially in the developing parts of africa.
So much work still lie ahead inorder to stem the tide of pathetic
living conditions and sub-human standard of living in order to give
everyone a slight chance at a decent life.
Some steps I believe need to be taken inorder to control the rate at
which the human population increase inorder to ensure that adequate
resources are made available to cater for the needs of majority of the
population.
Although versed in the african tradition of letting nature have its
way when it comes to the issue of procreation, I honestly think that
time has come for some serious steps to be taken to conciously control
the birth rate to make it possible for the resources available to
cater for the needs of the people.
A situation where a single family gives birth to about ten children is
not advisable when the econmic wherewithal is not there to support
such large family.
It would be most unwise for a man with a monthly paying job of 15000
naira ($10) to give birth to even six children. Add to the mix, the
certain external relatives he would have to take care of then you get
a true picture why reason should be brought in when deciding how many
children one ought to have.
So many stress that one can't decide which children would survive or
do well so validating the need to have as many as possible, but the
truth is, having the number of kids one can give adequate care to
increases the odd of them turning out good in life in contrast to
having so many kids with the inherent lack of economic power to take
care of them raising the chances of them not turning out too well or
going through hardship and deprivation in their formative years.
Then, I know that almost all religion do not agree with birth control
and are solidly behind leaving procreation under the control of
nature, I choose to believe that a time has come when such power
should be taken from nature if we are not to end up in a world where
so many do not live what could pass as a -manageable life.
I read in a book where the author stated that procreation was left
undisturbed under the influence of nature in the old past and so was
the death rate under severe natural control - through wars, famine,
drought, diseases, etc- thereby helping to maintain balance on the
population of the world. Then man learnt to revolt against such severe
way by which nature reduce the population of the world and devised
methods to bring the death rate to the bearest mininum, mission
accomplished, but forgot another important aspect of the puzzle, it
didn't devise a corresponding way to reduce the birth rate at least to
maintain the balance nature was effectively doing while unhindered.
This is what I'm advocating, a sincere way through which birth control
can be established effectively which I believe is for the good of all.
the world seem to be increasing by the day, filling up every available
space but not much can be said about a corresponding increase in the
standard of living of this seven-plus billion people around the world
especially in the developing parts of africa.
So much work still lie ahead inorder to stem the tide of pathetic
living conditions and sub-human standard of living in order to give
everyone a slight chance at a decent life.
Some steps I believe need to be taken inorder to control the rate at
which the human population increase inorder to ensure that adequate
resources are made available to cater for the needs of majority of the
population.
Although versed in the african tradition of letting nature have its
way when it comes to the issue of procreation, I honestly think that
time has come for some serious steps to be taken to conciously control
the birth rate to make it possible for the resources available to
cater for the needs of the people.
A situation where a single family gives birth to about ten children is
not advisable when the econmic wherewithal is not there to support
such large family.
It would be most unwise for a man with a monthly paying job of 15000
naira ($10) to give birth to even six children. Add to the mix, the
certain external relatives he would have to take care of then you get
a true picture why reason should be brought in when deciding how many
children one ought to have.
So many stress that one can't decide which children would survive or
do well so validating the need to have as many as possible, but the
truth is, having the number of kids one can give adequate care to
increases the odd of them turning out good in life in contrast to
having so many kids with the inherent lack of economic power to take
care of them raising the chances of them not turning out too well or
going through hardship and deprivation in their formative years.
Then, I know that almost all religion do not agree with birth control
and are solidly behind leaving procreation under the control of
nature, I choose to believe that a time has come when such power
should be taken from nature if we are not to end up in a world where
so many do not live what could pass as a -manageable life.
I read in a book where the author stated that procreation was left
undisturbed under the influence of nature in the old past and so was
the death rate under severe natural control - through wars, famine,
drought, diseases, etc- thereby helping to maintain balance on the
population of the world. Then man learnt to revolt against such severe
way by which nature reduce the population of the world and devised
methods to bring the death rate to the bearest mininum, mission
accomplished, but forgot another important aspect of the puzzle, it
didn't devise a corresponding way to reduce the birth rate at least to
maintain the balance nature was effectively doing while unhindered.
This is what I'm advocating, a sincere way through which birth control
can be established effectively which I believe is for the good of all.
Thursday, August 16, 2012
Show more kindness and save more lives
The night is cool, almost cold. The stars are out in their numbers but
the moon is hid somwhere in the cloak of dark cloud.
The richness of the earth can be felt with just a faint sniff as the
gentle hum of trees signal the passing of soothing wind on a pleasant
night.
Staring outside my windows, looking transfixed at the peaceful lull of
nightfall, my mind wanders far away, far far away but I don't complain
coz its so much a pleasant trip that leaves me smiling out at the star
filled night, nodding my head in rhythm with the noiseless beat of
swaying palms here and there.
I try to capture the night, to put its perfection in words, but try as
I may, I just don't grasp the right phrases to describe the richness
of tonight.
In midst of such perfection and beauty, I tend to reflect much.
So as my mind wanders I ask myself silently 'How much value do I add
to my world. To the people close around me and to my community. How
much did I add to someone's life today?
How many people smiled because of me and how many lives were
transformed coz of my existence?"
Life sometimes is not just about US. We begin to live life when we
stop thinking of happiness as when we personally don't have any
trouble bothering US.
So many people out in the open are desirous of kindness coz they don't
have any to show them such. That's where you and I come into the
picture. A little kindness here and there do actually add a tremedous
lift to the life of somebody. A kind word, kind smiles, gifts and
sincere love adds a glow to lives that have previously been in
shatters and do in fact help to change a life.
You don't have to be a non-governmental-organisation or own or belong
to one to stretch out hands of kindness to the needy nor own a fat
money-bag to be of help to those in need, what is actually needed is a
kind heart, an open mind and a friendly spirit.
Do you know you can brighten a person's whole day through your smile alone?
Your little act of kindness could be the turning point in the life of
someone who was so very close to losing out in the battle of survival.
I can't stress much on how much a little kindness all around the world
can take care of big problems our atomic bombs, space research & all
can't solve, but what I need you to know is that someone's happiness
out there depends on you.
You would be far happier when so many people draw their happiness from
you. #its a fact I've proved. Love more and show more kindness in
order to bring smiles on the faces of as much people as you can.
the moon is hid somwhere in the cloak of dark cloud.
The richness of the earth can be felt with just a faint sniff as the
gentle hum of trees signal the passing of soothing wind on a pleasant
night.
Staring outside my windows, looking transfixed at the peaceful lull of
nightfall, my mind wanders far away, far far away but I don't complain
coz its so much a pleasant trip that leaves me smiling out at the star
filled night, nodding my head in rhythm with the noiseless beat of
swaying palms here and there.
I try to capture the night, to put its perfection in words, but try as
I may, I just don't grasp the right phrases to describe the richness
of tonight.
In midst of such perfection and beauty, I tend to reflect much.
So as my mind wanders I ask myself silently 'How much value do I add
to my world. To the people close around me and to my community. How
much did I add to someone's life today?
How many people smiled because of me and how many lives were
transformed coz of my existence?"
Life sometimes is not just about US. We begin to live life when we
stop thinking of happiness as when we personally don't have any
trouble bothering US.
So many people out in the open are desirous of kindness coz they don't
have any to show them such. That's where you and I come into the
picture. A little kindness here and there do actually add a tremedous
lift to the life of somebody. A kind word, kind smiles, gifts and
sincere love adds a glow to lives that have previously been in
shatters and do in fact help to change a life.
You don't have to be a non-governmental-organisation or own or belong
to one to stretch out hands of kindness to the needy nor own a fat
money-bag to be of help to those in need, what is actually needed is a
kind heart, an open mind and a friendly spirit.
Do you know you can brighten a person's whole day through your smile alone?
Your little act of kindness could be the turning point in the life of
someone who was so very close to losing out in the battle of survival.
I can't stress much on how much a little kindness all around the world
can take care of big problems our atomic bombs, space research & all
can't solve, but what I need you to know is that someone's happiness
out there depends on you.
You would be far happier when so many people draw their happiness from
you. #its a fact I've proved. Love more and show more kindness in
order to bring smiles on the faces of as much people as you can.
Play a part in changing your world.
We know we can't get the whole side of things all the time. That's why
twinklepad is open to articles from our dearest readers.
Do you think there is something you ought to say, an information you
ought to put out to public glare, here is a right platform for it,
send us your articles and join the movement of changing our world.
We value feedback from our readers in way of rejoiners to articles
published, self-authored articles, photos, comments and suggestions.
It you may, feel free to email us via ---> twinklepad@gmail.com
Please ensure that your email contains your name as we don't accept
anonymous emails (unless under special circumstances).
As part of our privacy policy, we strictly don't make available the
email address of our contributors to third parties without prior
consent of the owner of the email.
Also, libelous, racist, adult-content articles or photos are not
considered and is not solicited to be sent to us as they won't be
published on the blog.
Your articles give you full credit and also the responsibility attached.
Send your articles to twinklepad@gmail.com
Signed
The twinklepad Team
twinklepad is open to articles from our dearest readers.
Do you think there is something you ought to say, an information you
ought to put out to public glare, here is a right platform for it,
send us your articles and join the movement of changing our world.
We value feedback from our readers in way of rejoiners to articles
published, self-authored articles, photos, comments and suggestions.
It you may, feel free to email us via ---> twinklepad@gmail.com
Please ensure that your email contains your name as we don't accept
anonymous emails (unless under special circumstances).
As part of our privacy policy, we strictly don't make available the
email address of our contributors to third parties without prior
consent of the owner of the email.
Also, libelous, racist, adult-content articles or photos are not
considered and is not solicited to be sent to us as they won't be
published on the blog.
Your articles give you full credit and also the responsibility attached.
Send your articles to twinklepad@gmail.com
Signed
The twinklepad Team
Saturday, August 11, 2012
A billion reasons to believe in Africa
Coca-cola, the carbonated soft drink giant scored another giant first
with the launch of its- A billion reasons to believe in Africa-
campaign. The timing of this campaign can't be any more perfect. With
the turmoil that africa is going through at the moment,- from
terrorism in Nigeria, military coups and fragile governments in Mali,
border wars between sudan and south sudan,rebel activities in
congo,(and the list goes on), there is every need to remind the
african people that there is still viable reasons to continue to
believe in the dreams of the continent even in the midst of
heart-rending difficulties.
Coca-cola with this have demonstrated that the company is not just all
about making profit and expanding the brand but about giving back to
the african people and supporting them in the midst of the trials
plaguing the continent.
Now, a billion reasons to believe in africa, do you have any? I know
so many people can't even list as little as one, it won't be easy
seeing your loved ones been maimed and still be told to believe in
africa, having to run for dear lives when your homes are been
destroyed for no pluasible reason is enough reason to forget about
africa. The millions of kids still grappling with sickness and hunger
would be justified if they decide to give up on africa.
Though I know all this, (as coca-cola does), I refuse to give up on
africa. Africans continued belief in africa is the first step towards
reforming our continent, the zeal and the commitment must be ever
alive else africa's future is doomed meaning the trevails of the
present would be a child's play compared to what is to come.
The hope of the future generations rest on us, and we can't tell them
we bequeathed a smoldering continent to them because we were facing
diverse challenges, or that we allowed africa to crumble under the
weight of the atrocities ravaging the length and breadth of this
blessed land just because we couldn't stand up to evil, No, the best
option is to rise above these challenges, pool our strength together,
have our resolve rekindled and set a machinery in motion to make good
our land, and this is what coca-cola hope to achieve with this
delightful campaign, its a tool to awaken the true african spirit that
never says never, the african spirit of brotherhood and love,
sincerity and discipline, creativity and genuis.
So I call upon every african to use this campaign as a medium to
double their efforts in order to bring positive growth to africa.
These changes though must start from the top, so, every government in
africa must as a matter of fact begin to put the needs of the african
people ( and I mean in every perspective) before and above their own
personal aspirations. So doing, the chronic corruption, ethnic wars,
bloody struggle for power with its attendant casualties would be
brought to the bearest mininum giving the african people a new lease
of life. The african people must on their part begin to show
commitment in whatever they do, privately and openly, only doing
things which would promote the march to greatness of the african
continent.
Rebels should drop their guns, stop the killings and embrace peace.
Suicide bombers and terrorists should rethink their actions and know
they only hurt their homes which I believe should weigh hard on their
conscience.
There is so many reasons to believe in africa, I have as many reasons
to, do you?.
with the launch of its- A billion reasons to believe in Africa-
campaign. The timing of this campaign can't be any more perfect. With
the turmoil that africa is going through at the moment,- from
terrorism in Nigeria, military coups and fragile governments in Mali,
border wars between sudan and south sudan,rebel activities in
congo,(and the list goes on), there is every need to remind the
african people that there is still viable reasons to continue to
believe in the dreams of the continent even in the midst of
heart-rending difficulties.
Coca-cola with this have demonstrated that the company is not just all
about making profit and expanding the brand but about giving back to
the african people and supporting them in the midst of the trials
plaguing the continent.
Now, a billion reasons to believe in africa, do you have any? I know
so many people can't even list as little as one, it won't be easy
seeing your loved ones been maimed and still be told to believe in
africa, having to run for dear lives when your homes are been
destroyed for no pluasible reason is enough reason to forget about
africa. The millions of kids still grappling with sickness and hunger
would be justified if they decide to give up on africa.
Though I know all this, (as coca-cola does), I refuse to give up on
africa. Africans continued belief in africa is the first step towards
reforming our continent, the zeal and the commitment must be ever
alive else africa's future is doomed meaning the trevails of the
present would be a child's play compared to what is to come.
The hope of the future generations rest on us, and we can't tell them
we bequeathed a smoldering continent to them because we were facing
diverse challenges, or that we allowed africa to crumble under the
weight of the atrocities ravaging the length and breadth of this
blessed land just because we couldn't stand up to evil, No, the best
option is to rise above these challenges, pool our strength together,
have our resolve rekindled and set a machinery in motion to make good
our land, and this is what coca-cola hope to achieve with this
delightful campaign, its a tool to awaken the true african spirit that
never says never, the african spirit of brotherhood and love,
sincerity and discipline, creativity and genuis.
So I call upon every african to use this campaign as a medium to
double their efforts in order to bring positive growth to africa.
These changes though must start from the top, so, every government in
africa must as a matter of fact begin to put the needs of the african
people ( and I mean in every perspective) before and above their own
personal aspirations. So doing, the chronic corruption, ethnic wars,
bloody struggle for power with its attendant casualties would be
brought to the bearest mininum giving the african people a new lease
of life. The african people must on their part begin to show
commitment in whatever they do, privately and openly, only doing
things which would promote the march to greatness of the african
continent.
Rebels should drop their guns, stop the killings and embrace peace.
Suicide bombers and terrorists should rethink their actions and know
they only hurt their homes which I believe should weigh hard on their
conscience.
There is so many reasons to believe in africa, I have as many reasons
to, do you?.
Thursday, August 9, 2012
Why you should read this blog.
What do you guys actually do on twinklepad? The questions have been
endless coming in diverse forms all wanting to know the same thing-
what is this blog all about. For a relatively new blog, its not
unusual to get such requests, people want to know exactly why they
should spend their time reading the posts and the benefits it would be
to them.
Though I cant answer all questions at once , I would try my best in
this post to give answers to the most crucial of questions so that our
esteemed readers would know exactly the idea and philosophy behind
what they are reading and why they should come back to read more.
I have always enjoyed reading newspapers as a kid, even my dad noticed
and I became his right hand man when it came to analysing the dailies.
I enjoyed the reporting a lot but not as much as i enjoyed reading the
columns of veteran journalists over a wide range of subject matters.
I not only wanted to read about facts in the dailies but i wanted to
know the implication of such facts and the views of respected people
concerning it.
I followed a select group of columnists (Dimgba Igwe, Femi Adesina
etc) who I admired not just for their beautiful use and choice of
words but also for their bravery. I'm always mesmerized when I read
how they bear their mind on the issues at stake without caring whose
ox was gored and going ahead to effect positive change and influence
the readers for good.
I believe that so many wrongs can be made right if only they are
brought to light. We here on twinklepad try to shed more light on the
critical issues at stake
globally in diverse areas helping our readers to form better opinions
and give an unbiased analysis of whatever we are commenting on.
Twinklepad is a group of diverse characters who come with different
dimensions so that at any time, the inquisitive mind would have a
right source of information on which to based his or her arguments.
The best part about twinklepad team is that we are all young. We
believe that age should not be a barrier in our quest to make use of
our words to change our world. Though young, we try as much as
possible to give analysis on the basis of strong insight, sincerity
and courage.
We dont believe in defamation or libelous articles so we dont
encourage such on twinklepad but at the same time the twinklepad team
believes in calling a spade a spade and wont hesistate to draw
attention to any event or character we deem unacceptable.
We welcome feedback from our readers in form of comments or articles
which help to enrich the arguments.
endless coming in diverse forms all wanting to know the same thing-
what is this blog all about. For a relatively new blog, its not
unusual to get such requests, people want to know exactly why they
should spend their time reading the posts and the benefits it would be
to them.
Though I cant answer all questions at once , I would try my best in
this post to give answers to the most crucial of questions so that our
esteemed readers would know exactly the idea and philosophy behind
what they are reading and why they should come back to read more.
I have always enjoyed reading newspapers as a kid, even my dad noticed
and I became his right hand man when it came to analysing the dailies.
I enjoyed the reporting a lot but not as much as i enjoyed reading the
columns of veteran journalists over a wide range of subject matters.
I not only wanted to read about facts in the dailies but i wanted to
know the implication of such facts and the views of respected people
concerning it.
I followed a select group of columnists (Dimgba Igwe, Femi Adesina
etc) who I admired not just for their beautiful use and choice of
words but also for their bravery. I'm always mesmerized when I read
how they bear their mind on the issues at stake without caring whose
ox was gored and going ahead to effect positive change and influence
the readers for good.
I believe that so many wrongs can be made right if only they are
brought to light. We here on twinklepad try to shed more light on the
critical issues at stake
globally in diverse areas helping our readers to form better opinions
and give an unbiased analysis of whatever we are commenting on.
Twinklepad is a group of diverse characters who come with different
dimensions so that at any time, the inquisitive mind would have a
right source of information on which to based his or her arguments.
The best part about twinklepad team is that we are all young. We
believe that age should not be a barrier in our quest to make use of
our words to change our world. Though young, we try as much as
possible to give analysis on the basis of strong insight, sincerity
and courage.
We dont believe in defamation or libelous articles so we dont
encourage such on twinklepad but at the same time the twinklepad team
believes in calling a spade a spade and wont hesistate to draw
attention to any event or character we deem unacceptable.
We welcome feedback from our readers in form of comments or articles
which help to enrich the arguments.
Sunday, August 5, 2012
Feeding africa and saving african kids.
'Would african slum kids ever escape malnutrition?' this is a question
that rings in my head each time I think of the millions of kids who
live a painful life due to the challenge of non availability of
adequate food. Though it is no news that famine is ravaging parts of
africa at the moment, what should be news is that the governments of
these african countries are not doing enough to curb these ugly trend.
In a situation where emphasis are placed on urban
beautification,sophiscation of government procedures, inter-tribal
wars,struggle for power and overdependence on non-agricultural sectors
of the economy, at the detriment of intensive agriculture, its not
surprising that millions of kids still go hungry.
Now, if we add the alarming rate of desertification and adverse
climatic conditions to the mix, it shows how imperative it is for
african leaders as a matter of moral obligation to do more than they
are doing now in order to ensure that quality food is made available
to the african people.
Through efficient planning and correct placement of priority, I
believe africa can attain self-sufficiency in food production within
the next decade. African leaders ought to invest adequately in modern
farming techniques, encourage local farmers with farming inputs and
friendly policies. Also, farming should be made attractive to the
african urban youth inorder to have as many hands tilling the ground.
It does no side good ( the government and the masses) when the whole
'army' of african job seekers are gunning after white collar jobs or
office appointments when they could do well as farmers earning a
decent income while contributing their quota to eradicating the evil
called malnutrition in africa.
Efficient storage and processing facilities should also be built in
order to ensure that only minimal produce are lost to spoilage.
African governments should at this point begin to 'think' agriculture
because no matter how technologically advanced africa become, if the
children continue to remain malnourished in their formative years, the
future still remains bleak.
The african union, ecowas and every regional body on the continent
should harp it upon each country to begin an intensive campaign into
boosting the food production on the continent in order to save these
kids who are going through hell for no fault of theirs.
that rings in my head each time I think of the millions of kids who
live a painful life due to the challenge of non availability of
adequate food. Though it is no news that famine is ravaging parts of
africa at the moment, what should be news is that the governments of
these african countries are not doing enough to curb these ugly trend.
In a situation where emphasis are placed on urban
beautification,sophiscation of government procedures, inter-tribal
wars,struggle for power and overdependence on non-agricultural sectors
of the economy, at the detriment of intensive agriculture, its not
surprising that millions of kids still go hungry.
Now, if we add the alarming rate of desertification and adverse
climatic conditions to the mix, it shows how imperative it is for
african leaders as a matter of moral obligation to do more than they
are doing now in order to ensure that quality food is made available
to the african people.
Through efficient planning and correct placement of priority, I
believe africa can attain self-sufficiency in food production within
the next decade. African leaders ought to invest adequately in modern
farming techniques, encourage local farmers with farming inputs and
friendly policies. Also, farming should be made attractive to the
african urban youth inorder to have as many hands tilling the ground.
It does no side good ( the government and the masses) when the whole
'army' of african job seekers are gunning after white collar jobs or
office appointments when they could do well as farmers earning a
decent income while contributing their quota to eradicating the evil
called malnutrition in africa.
Efficient storage and processing facilities should also be built in
order to ensure that only minimal produce are lost to spoilage.
African governments should at this point begin to 'think' agriculture
because no matter how technologically advanced africa become, if the
children continue to remain malnourished in their formative years, the
future still remains bleak.
The african union, ecowas and every regional body on the continent
should harp it upon each country to begin an intensive campaign into
boosting the food production on the continent in order to save these
kids who are going through hell for no fault of theirs.
Thursday, August 2, 2012
The Right type of Media.
In a world where news evolve by the second, and spread round the world
in a time even less, information falls on the laps of anybody who
wants to know.
But on the other hand, a right perspective to the issue at stake is
not as rampant and widespread as the distorted version that prevails.
This is more reason why I don't get swayed by what is ruling the
airwaves until I'm certain that it is no hoax or a media hype.
I am an avid reader of newspapers both local and international and I
know for certain that 'bad news is good news', but what is getting me
scared is the crave for going after WRONG NEWS!! Clearly,this is not
right and should not be encouraged in any way. So many strifes and
needless hostilities have been started due to the needless publication
of tainted stories.
A good journalist worth his salt should know how to source for good
information and great news, sniff around at the right place, the right
way and at the right time without having to resort to self-immolation
by going ahead with a story he knows has no base.
I'm not against journalists going on an adventure during reporting or
speculating on THE NEXT BIG NEWS, but as in other professions, such
speculation should have a water-tight reason behind it and not just
the desire to be the next biggest name in the journalism universe.
Moreover, to me, I would say the media is the most powerful tool in
righting the wrong that is prevailing all over the world. It behoves
of us to keep the people enlightened on what is really happening,
how,when, by whom, and most especially how it affects their overall
well being, but when such responsibilities are negated when
journalists go in search of ridiculous pieces (such as the kate
meddleton's case in which she was protrayed with a decaying tooth by a
US magazine), the people who scan through their papers and browse
through the internet would have nothing and no one to tell them of
what is really going on.
There are so many issues heating up the world at the moment that
requires tact and professionalism to handle- the syrian case is a good
example. With the syrian government ban on forieign media presence in
the country, it is very hard to verify reports on many media platforms
that are supposely the true representations of events in syria. I know
at this moment that it is a hard case reporting on syria( having to
depend on amateur photos and videos of residents) , but the case still
remains the same, setiments should not be brought to bear while
reporting.
Though as a person, I can't wait to see the bloodshed end and Assad
vacate the Leadership position since I still haven't been able to come
up with any logical reason why a man would want to end the lives of
the people he claims to serve.
Another case that requires caution is the IRAN nuclear dispute
involving much of the world (Isreal and US at the forefront) against
Iran over their alleged nuclear weapons production.
Sensational reports on issue of this magnitude would not in anyway
shed greater light on the matter but would only help to inflame the
polity further bringing about destruction that was avoidable.
Journalist should not misquote me as saying that I am against been
daring while reporting, I'm just a new comer into the journalism
affair, but I choose to believe that there is always a right way to do
the right thing... That is just to get the RIGHT information out and
NOtHING else.
in a time even less, information falls on the laps of anybody who
wants to know.
But on the other hand, a right perspective to the issue at stake is
not as rampant and widespread as the distorted version that prevails.
This is more reason why I don't get swayed by what is ruling the
airwaves until I'm certain that it is no hoax or a media hype.
I am an avid reader of newspapers both local and international and I
know for certain that 'bad news is good news', but what is getting me
scared is the crave for going after WRONG NEWS!! Clearly,this is not
right and should not be encouraged in any way. So many strifes and
needless hostilities have been started due to the needless publication
of tainted stories.
A good journalist worth his salt should know how to source for good
information and great news, sniff around at the right place, the right
way and at the right time without having to resort to self-immolation
by going ahead with a story he knows has no base.
I'm not against journalists going on an adventure during reporting or
speculating on THE NEXT BIG NEWS, but as in other professions, such
speculation should have a water-tight reason behind it and not just
the desire to be the next biggest name in the journalism universe.
Moreover, to me, I would say the media is the most powerful tool in
righting the wrong that is prevailing all over the world. It behoves
of us to keep the people enlightened on what is really happening,
how,when, by whom, and most especially how it affects their overall
well being, but when such responsibilities are negated when
journalists go in search of ridiculous pieces (such as the kate
meddleton's case in which she was protrayed with a decaying tooth by a
US magazine), the people who scan through their papers and browse
through the internet would have nothing and no one to tell them of
what is really going on.
There are so many issues heating up the world at the moment that
requires tact and professionalism to handle- the syrian case is a good
example. With the syrian government ban on forieign media presence in
the country, it is very hard to verify reports on many media platforms
that are supposely the true representations of events in syria. I know
at this moment that it is a hard case reporting on syria( having to
depend on amateur photos and videos of residents) , but the case still
remains the same, setiments should not be brought to bear while
reporting.
Though as a person, I can't wait to see the bloodshed end and Assad
vacate the Leadership position since I still haven't been able to come
up with any logical reason why a man would want to end the lives of
the people he claims to serve.
Another case that requires caution is the IRAN nuclear dispute
involving much of the world (Isreal and US at the forefront) against
Iran over their alleged nuclear weapons production.
Sensational reports on issue of this magnitude would not in anyway
shed greater light on the matter but would only help to inflame the
polity further bringing about destruction that was avoidable.
Journalist should not misquote me as saying that I am against been
daring while reporting, I'm just a new comer into the journalism
affair, but I choose to believe that there is always a right way to do
the right thing... That is just to get the RIGHT information out and
NOtHING else.
Wednesday, July 4, 2012
I'm A PROUD MEMBER OF AMNESTY WORLDWIDE.
Even as a kid, I had always wanted to be part of something that
promotes the well being of every person living around the world. You
may think it weird, but it was my childish obsession which I held so
dear to myself.
So growing up and experiencing all the atrocities been perpetuated
everywhere and anyhow- in the middle east, africa, america, europe -
the fire was rekindled to an extent I felt like bursting into flames.
But sadly, I had no let out, no conduit through which I could channel
my energy into helping the world become a better place, no way to let
the fire burning in me come out and achieve something positive.<br />
All those periods were times of frustration, despair with the
thoughts of my inability to do something ravaging my mind.
Then sometime in 2009 ( I've been out of high school for some few
months), I received a mail from amnesty. To say I was surprised is
saying the least, I was apprehensive as I opened the mail and viewed
their invitation to me to join their letter writing campaign. I
grabbed it with both hands as at last I had found something worthwhile
through which I could contribute my iota to building a safer world and
since then I have not looked back.
Its been awesome, taking part in all amnesty's activities not for
personal glory or vain pride but because its really what I wanted to
do. You know, it tears my heart to see the MILLIONS of children,
women, and men been destroyed by the wickedness of FEW callous
individuals around the world.
Imagine what would happen if we all stand up and join the fight in
saying NO! to all these barbaric acts. Imagine the change we would
effect if we resist in our little ways the selfishness of these
individuals.
Been a member of amnesty (and newly a member of one.org/africa ) has
been one of the most fulfilling achievements of my life knowing the
fact that I am not just complaining of the ills in the world but I am
also doing something to stop them.
You too can, you can stand up to evil and say enough is enough. We
all don't need to be armed to the hilt with ak 47s, grenade launchers,
bamsookas, uzi sub-machine guns to be able to make a impact in our
world, we don't need to wield the highest power to make a change, what
is needed is the zeal, the commitment and preseverance that no matter
the circumstance and challenge, you would not allow evil to
continue.
I have decided on what I wanted a long time ago - fighting for the
well being of people wherever and however I can- you too can decide
now and join the crusade of healing our world.
promotes the well being of every person living around the world. You
may think it weird, but it was my childish obsession which I held so
dear to myself.
So growing up and experiencing all the atrocities been perpetuated
everywhere and anyhow- in the middle east, africa, america, europe -
the fire was rekindled to an extent I felt like bursting into flames.
But sadly, I had no let out, no conduit through which I could channel
my energy into helping the world become a better place, no way to let
the fire burning in me come out and achieve something positive.<br />
All those periods were times of frustration, despair with the
thoughts of my inability to do something ravaging my mind.
Then sometime in 2009 ( I've been out of high school for some few
months), I received a mail from amnesty. To say I was surprised is
saying the least, I was apprehensive as I opened the mail and viewed
their invitation to me to join their letter writing campaign. I
grabbed it with both hands as at last I had found something worthwhile
through which I could contribute my iota to building a safer world and
since then I have not looked back.
Its been awesome, taking part in all amnesty's activities not for
personal glory or vain pride but because its really what I wanted to
do. You know, it tears my heart to see the MILLIONS of children,
women, and men been destroyed by the wickedness of FEW callous
individuals around the world.
Imagine what would happen if we all stand up and join the fight in
saying NO! to all these barbaric acts. Imagine the change we would
effect if we resist in our little ways the selfishness of these
individuals.
Been a member of amnesty (and newly a member of one.org/africa ) has
been one of the most fulfilling achievements of my life knowing the
fact that I am not just complaining of the ills in the world but I am
also doing something to stop them.
You too can, you can stand up to evil and say enough is enough. We
all don't need to be armed to the hilt with ak 47s, grenade launchers,
bamsookas, uzi sub-machine guns to be able to make a impact in our
world, we don't need to wield the highest power to make a change, what
is needed is the zeal, the commitment and preseverance that no matter
the circumstance and challenge, you would not allow evil to
continue.
I have decided on what I wanted a long time ago - fighting for the
well being of people wherever and however I can- you too can decide
now and join the crusade of healing our world.
Monday, July 2, 2012
Mysterious Things You Need To Know About!
I do love mysteries, I surf and search (google, wiki, yahoo,
answersdotcom)the web trying to get new information especially old
ones. Below are 5 worldwide mysteries that would not just surprise you
but educate also. Why I chosed these 5 among the batallions of myths
around is mysterious even to me, but you can find out after the 5th
mystery.
»
»
Top 5 Unsolved Mysteries
This list comprises the most famous unsolved mysteries known to man
that really defy rational explanation or are just outright strange.
1. Shroud of Turin
The shroud of Turin is a linen cloth bearing the image of a man who
had apparently died of crucifixion. Most Catholics consider it to be
the burial shroud of Jesus Christ. It is currently held in the
Cathedral of St John the Baptist in Turin, Italy. Despite many
scientific investigations, no one has yet been able to explain how the
image has been imprinted on the shroud and despite many attempts, no
one has managed to replicate it. Radiocarbon tests date it to the
middle ages, however apologists for the shroud believe it is incorrupt
- and carbon dating can only date things which decay.
Prior to the middle ages, reports of the shroud exist as the Image of
Edessa - reliably reported since at least the 4th century. In
addition, another cloth (the Sudarium) known even from biblical times
(John 20:7) exists which is said to have covered Christâs head in the
tomb. A 1999 study by Mark Guscin, a member of the multidisciplinary
investigation team of the Spanish Center for Sindonology, investigated
the relationship between the two cloths. Based on history, forensic
pathology, blood chemistry (the Sudarium also is reported to have type
AB blood stains), and stain patterns, he concluded that the two cloths
covered the same head at two distinct, but close moments of time.
Avinoam Danin (a researcher at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem)
concurred with this analysis, adding that the pollen grains in the
Sudarium match those of the shroud.
2. Mary Celeste
Mary Celeste was launched in Nova Scotia in 1860. Her original name
was âAmazonâ. She was 103 ft overall displacing 280 tons and listed as
a half-brig. Over the next 10 years she was involved in several
accidents at sea and passed through a number of owners. Eventually she
turned up at a New York salvage auction where she was purchased for
$3,000. After extensive repairs she was put under American registry
and renamed âMary Celesteâ.
The new captain of Mary Celeste was Benjamin Briggs, 37, a master with
three previous commands. On November 7, 1872 the ship departed New
York with Captain Briggs, his wife, young daughter and a crew of
eight. The ship was loaded with 1700 barrels of raw American alcohol
bound for Genoa, Italy. The captain, his family and crew were never
seen again. The ship was found floating in the middle of the Strait of
Gibraltar. There were no signs of struggle on board and all documents
except the captainâs log were missing.
In early 1873, it was reported that two lifeboats grounded in Spain,
one with a body and an American flag, the other containing five
bodies. It has been alleged that these could have been the remains of
the crew of the Mary Celeste. However, the bodies were apparently
never identified.
3. The taos hum
The âTaos Humâ is a low-pitched sound heard in numerous places
worldwide, especially in the USA, UK, and northern europe. It is
usually heard only in quiet environments, and is often described as
sounding like a distant diesel engine. Since it has proven
indetectable by microphones or VLF antennae, its source and nature is
still a mystery.
In 1997 Congress directed scientists and observers from some of the
most prestigious research institutes in the nation to look into a
strange low frequency noise heard by residents in and around the small
town of Taos, New Mexico. For years those who had heard the noise,
often described by them as a âhumâ, had been looking for answers. To
this day no one knows the cause of the hum.
4. Black Dahlia
In 1947 the body of 22 year old Elizabeth Short was found in two
pieces in a parking lot in Los Angeles. According to newspaper reports
shortly after the murder, Short received the nickname âBlack Dahliaâ
at a Long Beach drugstore in the summer of 1946, as a play on the
then-current movie The Blue Dahlia. However, Los Angeles County
district attorney investigatorsâ reports state the nickname was
invented by newspaper reporters covering the murder. In either case,
Short was not generally known as the âBlack Dahliaâ during her
lifetime.
Many rumours and tales have spread about the Black Dahlia, and the
investigation (one of the largest in LA history) never found the
killer.
5. Comte de Saint Germain
The Count of St. Germain (allegedly died February 27, 1784) was a
courtier, adventurer, inventor, amateur scientist, violinist, amateur
composer, and a mysterious gentleman; he also displayed some skills
with the practice of alchemy. He was known as âDer Wundermannâ â âThe
Wondermanâ. He was a man whose origin was unknown and who disappeared
without leaving a trace.
Since his death, various occult organizations have adopted him as a
model figure or even as a powerful deity. In recent years several
people have claimed to be the Count of St. Germain. (Note that St
Germain was never regarded as a saint by the Roman Catholic Church -
the âst.â before his name refers to his alleged home).
answersdotcom)the web trying to get new information especially old
ones. Below are 5 worldwide mysteries that would not just surprise you
but educate also. Why I chosed these 5 among the batallions of myths
around is mysterious even to me, but you can find out after the 5th
mystery.
»
»
Top 5 Unsolved Mysteries
This list comprises the most famous unsolved mysteries known to man
that really defy rational explanation or are just outright strange.
1. Shroud of Turin
The shroud of Turin is a linen cloth bearing the image of a man who
had apparently died of crucifixion. Most Catholics consider it to be
the burial shroud of Jesus Christ. It is currently held in the
Cathedral of St John the Baptist in Turin, Italy. Despite many
scientific investigations, no one has yet been able to explain how the
image has been imprinted on the shroud and despite many attempts, no
one has managed to replicate it. Radiocarbon tests date it to the
middle ages, however apologists for the shroud believe it is incorrupt
- and carbon dating can only date things which decay.
Prior to the middle ages, reports of the shroud exist as the Image of
Edessa - reliably reported since at least the 4th century. In
addition, another cloth (the Sudarium) known even from biblical times
(John 20:7) exists which is said to have covered Christâs head in the
tomb. A 1999 study by Mark Guscin, a member of the multidisciplinary
investigation team of the Spanish Center for Sindonology, investigated
the relationship between the two cloths. Based on history, forensic
pathology, blood chemistry (the Sudarium also is reported to have type
AB blood stains), and stain patterns, he concluded that the two cloths
covered the same head at two distinct, but close moments of time.
Avinoam Danin (a researcher at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem)
concurred with this analysis, adding that the pollen grains in the
Sudarium match those of the shroud.
2. Mary Celeste
Mary Celeste was launched in Nova Scotia in 1860. Her original name
was âAmazonâ. She was 103 ft overall displacing 280 tons and listed as
a half-brig. Over the next 10 years she was involved in several
accidents at sea and passed through a number of owners. Eventually she
turned up at a New York salvage auction where she was purchased for
$3,000. After extensive repairs she was put under American registry
and renamed âMary Celesteâ.
The new captain of Mary Celeste was Benjamin Briggs, 37, a master with
three previous commands. On November 7, 1872 the ship departed New
York with Captain Briggs, his wife, young daughter and a crew of
eight. The ship was loaded with 1700 barrels of raw American alcohol
bound for Genoa, Italy. The captain, his family and crew were never
seen again. The ship was found floating in the middle of the Strait of
Gibraltar. There were no signs of struggle on board and all documents
except the captainâs log were missing.
In early 1873, it was reported that two lifeboats grounded in Spain,
one with a body and an American flag, the other containing five
bodies. It has been alleged that these could have been the remains of
the crew of the Mary Celeste. However, the bodies were apparently
never identified.
3. The taos hum
The âTaos Humâ is a low-pitched sound heard in numerous places
worldwide, especially in the USA, UK, and northern europe. It is
usually heard only in quiet environments, and is often described as
sounding like a distant diesel engine. Since it has proven
indetectable by microphones or VLF antennae, its source and nature is
still a mystery.
In 1997 Congress directed scientists and observers from some of the
most prestigious research institutes in the nation to look into a
strange low frequency noise heard by residents in and around the small
town of Taos, New Mexico. For years those who had heard the noise,
often described by them as a âhumâ, had been looking for answers. To
this day no one knows the cause of the hum.
4. Black Dahlia
In 1947 the body of 22 year old Elizabeth Short was found in two
pieces in a parking lot in Los Angeles. According to newspaper reports
shortly after the murder, Short received the nickname âBlack Dahliaâ
at a Long Beach drugstore in the summer of 1946, as a play on the
then-current movie The Blue Dahlia. However, Los Angeles County
district attorney investigatorsâ reports state the nickname was
invented by newspaper reporters covering the murder. In either case,
Short was not generally known as the âBlack Dahliaâ during her
lifetime.
Many rumours and tales have spread about the Black Dahlia, and the
investigation (one of the largest in LA history) never found the
killer.
5. Comte de Saint Germain
The Count of St. Germain (allegedly died February 27, 1784) was a
courtier, adventurer, inventor, amateur scientist, violinist, amateur
composer, and a mysterious gentleman; he also displayed some skills
with the practice of alchemy. He was known as âDer Wundermannâ â âThe
Wondermanâ. He was a man whose origin was unknown and who disappeared
without leaving a trace.
Since his death, various occult organizations have adopted him as a
model figure or even as a powerful deity. In recent years several
people have claimed to be the Count of St. Germain. (Note that St
Germain was never regarded as a saint by the Roman Catholic Church -
the âst.â before his name refers to his alleged home).
Wednesday, June 20, 2012
What is going on?
As the reports of the recent killings in kaduna, northwestern Nigeria
filter into my ears, I just think 'Its just absolutely crazy'.
Everyone should join in fighting this madness of killing innocent
citizens whether christians or muslims. This should not happen, we
ordinary citizens should not allow the callous and selfish leaders we
have use us as pawns in exterminating ourselves. I live in the midst
of hausa muslims in lagos and I don't feel threatened in their midst.
We can live together in peace only if we seek to find the true cause
of this atrocity prevailing in Nigeria instead of chasing mundane
issues and inflaming the polity further. Flipping through pages these
days is akin to read obituaries, editors no longer consider as big
news reports of 10 or less people dying. So much essence of life has
been eroded that life in itself now means little or nothing in
Nigeria.
The outraging thing about all these is that it was never this way.
Though I grew up knowing Nigeria to be a place where anything goes, I
never knew it would one day come to this sorry pass, where no one is
sure of seeing the next minute anylonger. The more I try to do the
analysis of the situation unpartially and passionately as my creed as
a de facto journalist behoves of me, the more hazy the situation
becomes.
Come to think of it. If the boko haram fundamentalists insist that
they are fighting for the entronement of sharia in their region, does
it entail exterminating others who are not inclined to their faith?
Though I'm not too versed in the Quran, I'm quite certain that no
where was it written by the Holy Prophet Mohammed (peace be unto him)
that arson, carnage, annihilation and destruction of lives and
properties without cause are proper ways to propagate the sacred
teachings of islam.
Its is also with much aghast I listen and watch the almost.
Irrelevant leaders we are unfortunate to be governed by comment
on the series of atrocities been committed in the country. I do
suspect that they may even have written their 'comdemnation' and
'consolation' speeches in advance since the killings are now a routine
affair akin to a past time or a recreation to the beasts who carry
them out.
Under no circumstances can the wiping out of whole families and
extinguishing lineages be justified. At the moment, Nigeria still been
a united nation gives every Nigerian the right to reside and interact
wherever he or she chooses so far no laws are been broken.
Come to think of it, we all cry of racism we suffer in some part of
the westen world, is what is happening in Nigeria not akin to racism
of blacks against blacks?. My recent travels around the south east
afforded me opportunities to experience so many things I had hitherto
seen only on tv. In the north, you hear of sabo gari otherwise known
as stranger's quaters, in the east, just after entering Abia state,
there is a settlement populated by northerners which can be rightly
termed as a strangers hub as no easterner resides there.
All these are the root of the conflicts since the country is already
polarised not just along religious lines but also along tribal
lines.the yorubas are gunning for regional autonomy, igbos fighting
for the actualization of biafra, northerners seeking a free state or a
untied Nigeria where sharia reigns. Its now scary since so many
Nigerians don't care about whatever happens to the country. Speaking
to so many people on the state of the nation, I could rightly say that
they all are frustrated if not completely hopeless on the state of
affairs in the country. Though I'm still an ardent believer in a
united Nigeria (just like PM Cameron is stuanch believer in the United
Kingdom), my hope is continaully be weaned of its potency that at the
moment I only hope that Nigeria survives beyond 2015.
On the last note, reading the comments made on so many online
platforms, I appeal to evryone, use your words well, as almost all of
what is happening is the fallout of a wrong word said and a wrong
meaning read into it.
(To be continued)
filter into my ears, I just think 'Its just absolutely crazy'.
Everyone should join in fighting this madness of killing innocent
citizens whether christians or muslims. This should not happen, we
ordinary citizens should not allow the callous and selfish leaders we
have use us as pawns in exterminating ourselves. I live in the midst
of hausa muslims in lagos and I don't feel threatened in their midst.
We can live together in peace only if we seek to find the true cause
of this atrocity prevailing in Nigeria instead of chasing mundane
issues and inflaming the polity further. Flipping through pages these
days is akin to read obituaries, editors no longer consider as big
news reports of 10 or less people dying. So much essence of life has
been eroded that life in itself now means little or nothing in
Nigeria.
The outraging thing about all these is that it was never this way.
Though I grew up knowing Nigeria to be a place where anything goes, I
never knew it would one day come to this sorry pass, where no one is
sure of seeing the next minute anylonger. The more I try to do the
analysis of the situation unpartially and passionately as my creed as
a de facto journalist behoves of me, the more hazy the situation
becomes.
Come to think of it. If the boko haram fundamentalists insist that
they are fighting for the entronement of sharia in their region, does
it entail exterminating others who are not inclined to their faith?
Though I'm not too versed in the Quran, I'm quite certain that no
where was it written by the Holy Prophet Mohammed (peace be unto him)
that arson, carnage, annihilation and destruction of lives and
properties without cause are proper ways to propagate the sacred
teachings of islam.
Its is also with much aghast I listen and watch the almost.
Irrelevant leaders we are unfortunate to be governed by comment
on the series of atrocities been committed in the country. I do
suspect that they may even have written their 'comdemnation' and
'consolation' speeches in advance since the killings are now a routine
affair akin to a past time or a recreation to the beasts who carry
them out.
Under no circumstances can the wiping out of whole families and
extinguishing lineages be justified. At the moment, Nigeria still been
a united nation gives every Nigerian the right to reside and interact
wherever he or she chooses so far no laws are been broken.
Come to think of it, we all cry of racism we suffer in some part of
the westen world, is what is happening in Nigeria not akin to racism
of blacks against blacks?. My recent travels around the south east
afforded me opportunities to experience so many things I had hitherto
seen only on tv. In the north, you hear of sabo gari otherwise known
as stranger's quaters, in the east, just after entering Abia state,
there is a settlement populated by northerners which can be rightly
termed as a strangers hub as no easterner resides there.
All these are the root of the conflicts since the country is already
polarised not just along religious lines but also along tribal
lines.the yorubas are gunning for regional autonomy, igbos fighting
for the actualization of biafra, northerners seeking a free state or a
untied Nigeria where sharia reigns. Its now scary since so many
Nigerians don't care about whatever happens to the country. Speaking
to so many people on the state of the nation, I could rightly say that
they all are frustrated if not completely hopeless on the state of
affairs in the country. Though I'm still an ardent believer in a
united Nigeria (just like PM Cameron is stuanch believer in the United
Kingdom), my hope is continaully be weaned of its potency that at the
moment I only hope that Nigeria survives beyond 2015.
On the last note, reading the comments made on so many online
platforms, I appeal to evryone, use your words well, as almost all of
what is happening is the fallout of a wrong word said and a wrong
meaning read into it.
(To be continued)
Wednesday, June 6, 2012
My tribute to the victims of the DANA air crash of 3 june 2012.
They may be gone but not forgotten, their lives cut short but definitely their memories live on. The passengers of the ill fated dana flight, and the occupants of the building that the plane crashed into on the 3rd of june 2012 though dead, deserve not to have died. The nationals from different countries but chiefly from Nigeria who perished in the crash did so because of the endless sleaze going on in Nigeria's aviation sector. Though I am not one of the many bloggers or columnist who just go on to apportion blame to whoever their pen or pad falls on, but in this case I think the actual cause of the crash that claimed a whooping 160 lives and still counting at the time of writing this report is NEGLIGENCE, on the part of the airline authorities, the aviation ministry and its attendant comatose (except in the area of collecting bribes) agencies, and the government.
Though, they are gone and can't be brought back, their memories should serve a worthy purpose, if not for anything but to make sure their souls find peace. To start with, a thorough investigation should be carried out to ascertain the culpability of everyone who is involved directly or indirectly with the crash. There should be severe consequences for anyone found wanting no matter how highly placed since none of the late victims of the crash was worth nothing-everylife been precious.
I am not advocating for a witch hunt but a thorough overhauling of the aviation sector, the team at the helm of affairs at the agencies should take the noble path and resign to pave way for those who would do a complete clean up inorder to avoid such carnage again.there should be upgrading of the facilities at our airports, its as shame for Nigeria despite its enormous resources to still be using outdated technology. The lives of the so many more who would travel through our airports should be protected starting from now. The victims of the crash should be given a fitting farewell not by the millions been paid to their relatives(though required to ease the pain) , but by an improvement in Nigeria's aviation sector so their untimely and most gruesome deaths would not be in vain.
Sent from my BlackBerry® Smartphone, from Etisalat. Enjoy high speed internet service with Etisalat easy net, available at all our experience centres
Though, they are gone and can't be brought back, their memories should serve a worthy purpose, if not for anything but to make sure their souls find peace. To start with, a thorough investigation should be carried out to ascertain the culpability of everyone who is involved directly or indirectly with the crash. There should be severe consequences for anyone found wanting no matter how highly placed since none of the late victims of the crash was worth nothing-everylife been precious.
I am not advocating for a witch hunt but a thorough overhauling of the aviation sector, the team at the helm of affairs at the agencies should take the noble path and resign to pave way for those who would do a complete clean up inorder to avoid such carnage again.there should be upgrading of the facilities at our airports, its as shame for Nigeria despite its enormous resources to still be using outdated technology. The lives of the so many more who would travel through our airports should be protected starting from now. The victims of the crash should be given a fitting farewell not by the millions been paid to their relatives(though required to ease the pain) , but by an improvement in Nigeria's aviation sector so their untimely and most gruesome deaths would not be in vain.
Sent from my BlackBerry® Smartphone, from Etisalat. Enjoy high speed internet service with Etisalat easy net, available at all our experience centres
Thursday, February 16, 2012
laying my phone to rest
adieu mobile mi, one mistake too many.
just got back from the technician's, finally getting to see him after checking up for three agonizing weeks. i was full of high hopes stepping into the slightly crowded IT store that also served as a clinic- for phones. i had expected to take home in health a patient i placed on admission at the reputable health clinic, but alas it was not to be, the verdict from the renowned doc? my phone was gone, dead, damaged beyond redemption, my nokia 2700 classic was no more, all hopes shattered, i stared in utter amazement at everyone except my dead pal. you know, it would have been so bearable if the reason for my phone going to the doc was logical, but hell, it wasnt, and there the pain lies. i just got this particular phone not just long ago, actually just some few weeks back, it was kinda God answering my request after my incessant banging on his door. i had the hope of having fun with it, i saw us doing so many things together for some time to come. we actually did, for its brief life, we had so much fun, i did my literary work with so much ease and glee, not forgetting the excitement i got speeding away with the games, and blaring the music quite loud. but it didnt last,yeah, remember they say good things dont last, but i realy wanted to make this last, but i ended been the one to make it not last. i keep thinking, why the silly mistake, why that little moment of gross negligence, why the brazen -i-dont-care- disposition on the day my classic bit the dust, why was i crazily careless,. the questions still come in droves, i seem to ask more questions than provide answers for them. you know, i miss my phone, its one thing to have a big beautiful house, but its another ball game to own a home, with my phone , i had a home, a friend, a companion i confided in, i told it the very thoughts of my hearts, i wrote my heartbeats using the keypads of my classic, but then its no more. im sad, not because i cant afford another, i could get two brand new classics any moment or something better, but then i would have to start all over again, building the cordiality i shared with this one. i lost so many things when my classic was laid to rest, my contacts, all, i didnt get the drift to upload a backup coz i got so much carried away that i cared for nothing else, my pics, so many tender memories you cant relive again, faces i may not see again, smiles i may have lost forever and moments that you experience once in a lifetime, i lost them all,my classic died with them without giving me a shot at trying to salvage any. now the big one, and the most painful of my lot, i lost my poems and my collection of short stories which was already bulging, i still grieve and lament coz im yet to come to terms with this aspect, chief amongst my lost poems was my tears, my tears in ink, the poem i wrote crying over the grave of my neighbours, i am growing mad with the singular thought that i may have lost the one thing that reminds me so much of my departed neighbours and good friends.
okay, so much for lamentation, you may be asking yourself, what exactly happened to my phone, what did i do. now i would tell you, i killed my phone, as in killed, the kind that would make the cops charge me for negligent manslaughter if it wasnt just a phone. it happened thus, the day was a really bright day, nothing suggesting that ill luck was lurking around the corner. i was in the study of my house, engross in a brain wacking analytical manipulation, i had been in this position for hours and hadnt taken as much as a rest. so before i got my brains blown out, i decided to take a break, to do something less stressful for some few minutes. naturally, i took up my phone, opened my games tab, and started playing soduku, which i conciously choosed so as to be involved in something not so differing from what i was taking a break from inorder not to lose concentration. the soduku playing went on fine, i was amazed how fast my brains could work, so i continued playing with gusto when a sudden thought ran through my mind - i had laundry to do- and it wasnt to pass to the next day coz i had already put it off for too long already. i got up, phone in hand and went into my room to get the dirty clothes, then something happened, i just couldnt remenber where i kept the phone when i got into the room, but knowing it would be somewhere around, i decided to come check it out later after doing the laundry. i was to handwash the clothes, so i took them outside to the yard, got some water from the tap, poured in my detergent and worked it into a foam.
since they were all coloured, i just packed the whole of them into the basin at the same time to soak for some few minutes, in the meantime, i used the few minutes to have my lunch with no premonition of something untoward happening . i returned to my soaked clothes and commenced washing, it was easy,stess free washing, i got out the first shirt, the second , the third, and then, my hand which was suppose to pick up the fourth touched something hard.it was sleek, too smooth and hard to be a clothing, i picked it up and raising my hand out of the foaming water,behold i was holding my classic dripping hard of water,then it hit me, i had gotten my phone mixed up in the clothes when i was checking out their pockets. to say the least, i was dazed,shocked and confused, for the past forty five minutes, my phone was buried in a watery grave while i stood, or better still bent over and supervised its death. i administered first aid, opening the phone to the very panel and getting it free of the water that had eaten deep into it. you know the story of the medicine administerd after death?, yeah, that what i was trying to do, trying to do the impossible. but my phone was no more, dead, gone, my taking it to the doctor was just to put my little faith to work, but alas it wasnt strong enough to bring my phone back from the dead, maybe if i had a stronger faith, maybe,just maybe.but for those who dont know, any circuit board no matter the device that comes in contact with a salt solution is rendered permanently damaged in five minutes. the detergent i used, just like every other, contained two powerful salts, the sodium trioxocarbonate and the sodium tetraoxosulphate, and worst still, my phone was in the midst of this circuit killers for good forty five minutes. i keep telling myself to look on the bright side, but then, does death have a bright side?, i guess no. my classic is gone, gone for good, but life must go on, still, i would remember the fond memories we shared and of course the memories i lost. so in the least, i owe my phone this piece and i say adieu mobile mi, one mistake too many.
Wednesday, January 4, 2012
hi my blogpeepz.
sunny day, nice weather, spending the whole day watching 24, n d
previous night too. its weird coz ive got college exams coming up, buh
al the same, it was heaven curled up in a cozy sofa watching jack
bauer tear the bad guyx into shreds. yhu watched 24? it would b
surprising if yhur answer is negative coz i bliv evrybody should have
gotten a glimpse at 24.... wella 24 isnt why i posting diz, ive got
something else in mind., buh first, do you like books? i mean, novels,
short stories?. if you do then we are even cos i could skip a meal to
create time to appease my reading hunger..al my time reading, ive read
countless books, fiction n non-fiction,
romance,thriller,horror,action, n lots more. ive shown strong emotions
reading some books buh ive nva cried twice on a single book. when i
read a book, if it draws tearz, i cry, buh reading it again wont draw
tearz since ive already created a shield by reading it d first time..
then came -talabitha- ,a story of teenage friends, true friends and
undying friendship,i really cried reading this book, buh i never
expected to cry reading it the second time,buh i did, n even cried
when i picked it up a third time... talabitha is a book i would truly
recommend to a sincere reader, you learn much n you come out better at
the end. the writing is just unique n surprisely, there iz enuf humour
to balance the emotions,. you would want to get it for your child or
loved ones, it teaches true friendship and love.
previous night too. its weird coz ive got college exams coming up, buh
al the same, it was heaven curled up in a cozy sofa watching jack
bauer tear the bad guyx into shreds. yhu watched 24? it would b
surprising if yhur answer is negative coz i bliv evrybody should have
gotten a glimpse at 24.... wella 24 isnt why i posting diz, ive got
something else in mind., buh first, do you like books? i mean, novels,
short stories?. if you do then we are even cos i could skip a meal to
create time to appease my reading hunger..al my time reading, ive read
countless books, fiction n non-fiction,
romance,thriller,horror,action, n lots more. ive shown strong emotions
reading some books buh ive nva cried twice on a single book. when i
read a book, if it draws tearz, i cry, buh reading it again wont draw
tearz since ive already created a shield by reading it d first time..
then came -talabitha- ,a story of teenage friends, true friends and
undying friendship,i really cried reading this book, buh i never
expected to cry reading it the second time,buh i did, n even cried
when i picked it up a third time... talabitha is a book i would truly
recommend to a sincere reader, you learn much n you come out better at
the end. the writing is just unique n surprisely, there iz enuf humour
to balance the emotions,. you would want to get it for your child or
loved ones, it teaches true friendship and love.
Monday, December 12, 2011
Kelly's adventure series.
Kelly is a journalist, a sinfully good one, she's got eyes for the big
and complicated stories, so often overwhelmed wit nausea if asked to
do simple cover ups., she knows her way about, digging up earth and
spurning dirt, stepping on toes and staking up foes, bt she doesnt
care, she's got a passion, a fire burning within that she must flare
out else she may burn within.. Her bosses are eternally grateful for
their luck in having in their fold such a rare gem, she practically
keeps the media house running, her exposé and scandalous outleaks
makes the paper a bestseller.
But she's stepping on toes and staking up foes.
and complicated stories, so often overwhelmed wit nausea if asked to
do simple cover ups., she knows her way about, digging up earth and
spurning dirt, stepping on toes and staking up foes, bt she doesnt
care, she's got a passion, a fire burning within that she must flare
out else she may burn within.. Her bosses are eternally grateful for
their luck in having in their fold such a rare gem, she practically
keeps the media house running, her exposé and scandalous outleaks
makes the paper a bestseller.
But she's stepping on toes and staking up foes.
They get livid, she's catching up on them, her newest quest, they are
her newest quest, she must come any closer else they are busted, but
she nva stops, she sniffs, she thinks, she ponders, kelly nva gives up
until she find her prey.. They know, and so they are jittery,but they
swear nva to go under whining, kelly would hav to pay if she comes any
closer. But would she stop, would she listen to that odd voice, the
voice of her sister whose murderers she was gunning after, would she
take her sisters advice to let vengeance avenge itself, would she, ?
No, kelly nva fights a personal battle, she gives her job her all and
keps her life different, but they fired the first salvo taking what
she held dear and they must pay for it. She searches, they employ the
hiding game, she knows this may well be her last escapade but stil she
dares it,. The search is growing kenner, the net is drawing tighter,
the bastards are been roped in and TheDANGER IS ON THE INCREASE, stil
she forges ahead.
The battleground is the basement of a tower, she's made provision for
police support, but the evidence to warrant immense commitment from
the police is stil lacking, but she must stil go on, no turning back.
She steps into the tower, a bit dark and smacking of disuse, a perfect
place for d hounds she seek, not knowing their number, she stuffs up
wit enuf ammo to kill an elephant., she climbs down d stairs, creaking
and eerie sounds, she gaze about at the world not knowin if it would
be the last view,gun in hand, she tethers towards the door that led to
the group , she could practically feel their heat coming from
inside,she was damn sure they were unaware of her presence, she heaves
a long laboured sigh and push open the door, .. A tinglying sensation
on the back of her head, a wierd feeling running down her spine, just
one foot into the room and she spurns around with fingers on the
trigger, too late, a group of stern looking men all holding automatics
pointing at her tells her shes a gonna...
To be continued.
Wednesday, December 7, 2011
A night reading Sidney sheldon
smiling words, lovely twists, suspense and bated breath, the drama unfolds in an amazing way, the words opened up into a new world, far above earth, more real, so beautiful. I read like a guy enchanted, im immersed into this oasis of ordinary words turned gold, the hero comes out of the pages, searches for his princess right in my presence, i see it all, the whole spectacle, he's a young handsome prince, troubled but still with heart to love. He searches for her, transversing the length and breadth of dis magic world, sometimes, he asks me to help heal his ache, to find his jewel, bt hell, i dont know where she is too, sidney craftily hiding the prized artifact, i join him in the search, our hearts beating in unison, we become friends and allies wit one aim- finding the love he deserves, we flip pages and read between the lines, But sidney is just uncooprative, he takes her away wheneva we come a little closer, the suspense is killing, not just my novel friend, but me. We prod, we look, we scheme just to get to the end of this scripted twisted lane., slowly, we begin to find a rhythm, we are beating sidney to his tricks, we've tracked d jewel to a store in manhanttan, "no jupiter can take her away from me now, " the hero says btween clenched teeth, staring at sidney wit liquid fire in his eyes, my breath is hung up, he approaches her, the sky is changing, d clouds are coming over, its been years he last saw her, i agree with him he cant let her slip this time, but sidney had a trick, d diva gets lost as a convoy of buses pull up in front of her hero, he's bitter, he swears, i curse, he rages, i fume, bt sidney smiles, he laughs, he enjoys tormentin us, maybe thats why he's a bestseller,
"why did you come for me" the lost jewel spoke from behind her hero, she had seen him, al hopes arent lost now, i see sidney hiding a knowin smirk,he winks at me.
Sidney Sheldon
"why did you come for me" the lost jewel spoke from behind her hero, she had seen him, al hopes arent lost now, i see sidney hiding a knowin smirk,he winks at me.
Sidney Sheldon
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