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APC + APGA = APC? A Call for Ideological Foundations in Progressivism for 2027

Overview During President Tinubu’s visit to Anambra, the governor, Professor Soludo emphasized that All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) and All Progressives Congress (APC) share ideological foundations in progressivism and called for unity among progressive political forces in Nigeria. He stated that APGA has historically collaborated with the government at the centre, reaffirming its support for Tinubu’s administration and suggesting that 2027 should be a time for all progressives to unite. While some viewed this as a signal that APGA might align with APC in the future, Soludo later clarified that APGA remains committed to its independent identity. His remarks sparked discussions about whether APGA would formally merge with APC or simply maintain a cooperative stance. This analysis examines Professor Soludo’s comments, critiques the APC administration, and explores the connections between APC (the tablets), APC (the political party), and APGA (the political party). Outline:...

A Deeper Dive: Disability (Down Syndrome) within Igbo Tradition - Navigating Equality, Responsibility, and Lineage

Introduction Igbo society, rich in cultural heritage and deeply rooted in communal values, places a significant emphasis on family, lineage, and the interconnectedness of its members. The proverb "Onye aghala nwanne ya" (one should not abandon their sibling) encapsulates this core principle of mutual support and responsibility within the extended family system. However, understanding how individuals with disabilities, specifically Down syndrome, were traditionally perceived and integrated within this framework requires careful consideration, as direct historical accounts focusing on specific developmental conditions may be limited. The Backdrop A wealthy Igbo family, deeply committed to their Catholic faith, had only one son, who lived with Down Syndrome. While they loved and cared for him deeply, they also strongly desired the continuation of their family lineage, a significant cultural value. When their son turned 19, they arranged a marriage for him with a beautiful...

The Garbage President – after the Storm

Overview In the aftermath of the November 2024 presidential elections, a controversial candidate, along with his vice president emerged as winners. In no uncertain terms, the president-elect rebranded the country he’s to become the commander-in-chief as the United States of Garbage (USG). He declared that America was a “garbage country” plagued by internal enemies who posed a threat not only to the nation but to the entire world. According to him, the true danger lay within, not from external adversaries. The old and newly elected president a.k.a the “garbage president” embraced this moniker, even going so far as to dress like a garbage man and drive a garbage truck. He proclaimed that America was the root cause of global conflicts, a statement that resonated with his supporters but drew widespread condemnation from others. Adding to the controversy, the garbage president had a criminal past. He had been convicted of various crimes, including fraud and other misdemeanors. More g...

Wealth Before Welfare: Nigeria’s Tale of Misplaced Priorities

The quote “when wealth is first, the people are destroyed” suggests that when the pursuit of wealth becomes the primary focus of a society or its leaders, it can lead to the detriment of the general populace. This idea is rooted in the belief that prioritizing material wealth over the well-being of people can result in social and economic inequalities, corruption, and the erosion of moral and ethical values. One nation rich, one nation poor. “ Okpa Aku Eri Eri (The Miser) ,” written by Ude Odilora in 1981, is an Igbo novel that presciently forecasts Nigeria’s trajectory over the years. It delves into Nigeria’s deeply ingrained obsession with accumulating wealth and material possessions, almost to the point of veneration. In the preface, Odilora asserts that desiring wealth and possessions is not inherently wrong, but when it becomes an obsession that overshadows essential values, it leads to tragedy. While hard work is commendable, the relentless pursuit of wealth at the expense of...

Musesophy – The Concept of Ajambene in Igbo Culture

Overview The term ‘Musesophy’ was first used in Osita Osadebe’s Agadi Nwanyị na Inine to describe the Musesophy of his  (Onye bili ibeya ebili)  ‘Live and Let Live.’ The author describes Musesophy as “the art of communicating wisdom or inspiration through songs, stories, or literary works.  In the context of Igbo highlife musicians, it is the ability to use songs to communicate words of wisdom, guidance, or knowledge to the people.” Etymologically, the word “Muse” is rooted in different ancient languages: in Latin, it is Mūsa , a derivative from the ancient Greek word Mousa . Based on various Greek dialects of the word Mousa (for example, mōsa and moisa ), it is argued that the word Mousa might have originated from an earlier form, montwa . As a noun, the word Muse can be viewed as a source of inspiration, especially for creativity or intellectual achievements. And as a verb, it can mean to think deeply or meditate about something. It is in this context that the...

Twenty-First Century immigrational Utterances: Nationalists vs Internationalists Peripheralism.

Overview The twenty-first century has witnessed unprecedented levels of global migration, reshaping demographics, economies, and cultures worldwide. This phenomenon has sparked intense debates and divergent perspectives on immigration, often polarizing societies into two distinct camps: nationalists and internationalists. Nationalists advocate for stringent immigration controls, emphasizing the preservation of national identity, security, and economic stability. In contrast, internationalists champion open borders (with controls), celebrating cultural diversity and the economic benefits of a globalized workforce. This writing delves into the complex discourse surrounding immigration in contemporary society. It explores how these opposing viewpoints manifest in political rhetoric, media representations, and public opinion. By examining the peripheralism inherent in both nationalist and internationalist narratives, it aims to uncover the underlying motivations, fears, and aspirations t...