Interview with the Former Alberta Premier

PUBLISHED BY THE IGBO CULTURAL ASSOCIATION OF EDMONTON

InterviewInterview withwith thethe formerformer AlbertaAlberta Premier:Premier: Hon.Hon. EdEd StelmachStelmach

MoonlightMoonlight TalesTales fromfrom IgbolandIgboland

TheThe LifeLife andand TimesTimes ofof thethe PeoplesPeoples General:General: Ikemba Nnewi, Dim Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu

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EDITORIAL BOARD MEMBERS

t is with great excitement that I intro- of how fortunate we are to live in the best  duce this edition of the Ndi-Diaspora country, the best province and yes, the best magazine. This magazine seeks to high- city in the world. We must seize upon these light and promote the cultural, eco- moments to think about the “Igbo enter-  I nomic, educational and professional achieve- prise”. The time has come for us to work ments of Igbos in Canada, reminding us of the together to build a legacy that our children importance of our rich cultural heritage and can be proud of. We must seize these mo-  its immense contribution to Edmonton, Al- ments to be a force to be reckoned with in berta and Canada as a whole. this land we call home.

 The Editorial Board has worked hard to as- I want to thank members of the Editorial semble terrific articles that explore various Board— Mr. Obi Agbarakwe, Dr. Chiemeka relevant themes and articles that are informa- Ihejirika, Mr. Nkem Onyegbula and Mr. tive and entertaining. From our featured in- Okwuchi Nnani for their tremendous con-  terview with the former Alberta leader, Pre- tributions to making this edition of the Ndi- mier Ed Stelmach, which highlights the im- Diaspora magazine a reality. portance of public service, family, and Pre- mier Stelmach’s outstanding contribution to Our special thanks to all of our contributors REVIEWERS the Alberta we love, to Dr. Obiefuna’s and Mr. and to Dr. Peter Obiefuna, Dr. Bede Eke Agbarakwe’s excellent examination of aspects and Professor Philomena Ihejirika for  of our socio-cultural life that are often painstakingly reviewing the articles. “forbidden” from public discourse. The meta-  Finally, I want to thank members and phors and symbolisms in these works are very Board of the Igbo Cultural Association of refreshing. I thank them for their bravery and Edmonton (ICAE) for their support to- beautiful choice of words.  wards the publication of this magazine. As Ndigbo, we must be proud of how far we’ve Mr. Kelechi Madu come and our contributions to Edmonton, and surrounding areas. And even as we con- Editor-in-Chief tinue to witness the dastardly destruction of lives and property by extremist elements in our ancestral homeland, we are reminded of

DISCLAIMER Page 4: Ndi-Dispora Magazine Interview Page 27: Ego My Love:: A Short Story with former Alberta Premier—Hon. Ed The views expressed in the publica- Stelmach Page 31: The Health and Wellness Bene- tion are those of the authors. It fits of Pepper does not represent the views of the Page 8: Moonlight Tales from Igbo Land editorial board Page 34: The Life and Times of the Peo- Page 10: Are we Igbos or Ibos? ples General: Ikemba Nnewi, Dim Chuk- wuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu Page 16: A keynote Address and Tribute to Dim Ojukwu. Fighter of Ethnic and Nige- Page 40: Reclaiming our Cultural His- rian Development Dream tory: Ichokwu and the Messy Logic of Memory Page 20: Igbo Village in America and the Marking of its First Anniversary Page 42: Tackling the Menace of Kidnap- ping in the South East of Nigeria Page 23: The Greatest Holiday: An Igbo Christmas Page 46: Photo Gallery of Igbo Day 2010

he Editorial Board of Ndi- TDiaspora magazine sat down for a ‘one on one’ chat with former Alberta leader, Premier Ed Stelmach at their homestead founded by his grandparents in 1898. Premier Stelmach and his Hon. Ed Stelmach wife Marie continue to live next to this classic and one of a kind house. the province's savings to protect public Q2. Although we were not surprised by programs and service; investing in infra- your decision to give up the premiership Premier’s home in Mundare, Location: structure and ensuring that Alberta's and scale back active and partisan poli- Alberta Canada industries are competitive and continue tics, a lot have been said and written in Interviewers: to attract investment. the press since your January 2011 an- nouncement not to seek another full term Second, we feel that by granting us this Kelechi Madu – Editor-in-Chief, as premier. We wanted to hear it directly interview, every immigrant and non- Ndi-Diaspora Magazine from you premier - what particularly immigrant alike no matter where they compelled you to make the decision to Dr. Brendan Chiemeka Ihejirika may be will have the opportunity of hear- resign as premier? Member, Editorial Board ing directly from the only Alberta politi- Date: May 29, 2012 cian who voluntarily passed up the pre- Response. mier’s job because he understands the First a little background informa- importance of family! I think I made the right decision to retire tion on Alberta’s 13th Premier. as Premier after about 26 years in public We want to thank you - Premier Stel- service, and another term would have put Edward Michael Stelmach completed his mach for agreeing to do this interview for me over 30 years in public life. Quite term as Premier of Alberta on October 7, Ndi-Diaspora magazine. What a great frankly, we had worked hard to put the 2011. He was elected leader of the Alberta honour and privilege it is for us to be Province in very good shape financially Progressive Conservative Party on De- here today. We begin with the following and otherwise. When I look back at my cember 2, 2006 and was sworn in as Al- questions: family, I am quite fortunate and grateful berta's 13th Premier on December 14, that Marie was home with the kids. Al- Q1: We can see that you are really enjoy- 2006. On March 3, 2008, he won an though Marie travelled with me most of ing life after a very successful political overwhelming mandate in a provincial the time, we tried to find time to be with career in this magnificent “small town general election that increased the num- the children. As Premier, I visited com- with a Big Heart”. What are the kinds of ber of Progressive Conservative Members munities in Alberta that have not seen things that keep you busy these days? in the Legislative Assembly. Premier Stel- any of the former premiers visit their mach has a long record of public and Response. town or community. It was very fulfilling community service. He served as a school to be with them, listening to them and As you can see, I am enjoying life after trustee; chair of the Vegreville health unit sharing their life stories with them. I am being the Premier of Alberta. I am having board and a member of the Archer Me- proud of my achievements as Premier a fantastic time with my children and morial Hospital and Lamont Auxiliary from 2006 to 2011 and comfortable with grandchildren. Our 6th grandchild was Hospital and Nursing Home boards; and where Alberta is today. I gave it my very born on March 6th, 2012. Our family is as a councillor and reeve for Lamont best. I think I accomplished things others growing and is located in various parts of County. said I would never be able to and I feel the province – in Edmonton, Devon, Cal- really good about it. I have got my good Mr. Stelmach entered provincial politics gary, Ardrossan etc., and so we are con- health and my family. I accomplished all in 1993 and was elected MLA in the Ve- stantly on the road. Marie and I have the commitments my caucus and I made. greville-Viking constituency. He was excellent children and our oldest child To go for another term, it means we elected to his fifth term as an MLA on lives in Calgary.. I help my 71 year old would have had to come up with another March 3, 2008, serving the people of the brother in his farm. You can see I have vision for Alberta. We had a solid major- renamed Fort Saskatchewan-Vegreville got a large yard here, full of grass, trees ity and were confident my successor will Constituency. Before becoming Premier, and flowers to maintain. I volunteer for a do well and Alberta will succeed. You he held four cabinet posts as Minister of lot of community initiatives. You know have got to realize that when you are go- Agriculture, Infrastructure, Transporta- it’s good to be home and be with the peo- ing for the top job, it’s like going for the tion, and International and Intergovern- ple (family and friends) who gave us tre- Olympic gold. You have got to set aside mental Relations. As Premier, Mr. Stel- mendous support for all these years that everything. Every day is important. The mach was committed to leading Alberta I have been involved in politics. It got other thing is that really after a long time through the global recession and posi- even better when the weather is this in politics, you begin to get tired of some tioning the province for a warm as I got to watch and listen to the of the uncertainties that go with the job. I strong economic recovery by responsibly birds, especially in the evenings. managing government spending; using will give you an example. We were in

Hawaii at one time and the flat wrong and very unpatriotic. Prime Minister called a very im- So you can understand why their portant meeting in Ottawa and comments are due to their desire in order to make sure Alberta is for more electoral seats. Our envi- represented, I had to pack and ronmental record is clear. We are go. That’s the nature of the job as still the only jurisdiction with a Premier of the province. I carbon tax at 15%. We put aside a thought it was time to focus on carbon capture and storage fund my family, as I will be turning 61 of $2 billion, and it is projected to very soon. And although I am in make a return of about $22- 25 great health and shape, I don’t billion. Mind you also, we are the know how long I have left. In the first jurisdiction in North America last few years, a lot of my friends to limit carbon dioxide emissions have passed on - people I know, Former Premier of Alberta, Hon. Ed Stelmach through legislation and place a worked with, colleagues and levy on carbon produced by the school mates. In all and at the end of the all. I feel good about that decision. industry, which has resulted in reduc- day, I am at peace with myself. To me tions of greenhouse gas emissions. Al- that’s very important. Q4. You are often described as "a cau- berta had to position itself in the world so tious, straightforward and hard-working no one could challenge its commitment Q3. You became premier with the largest man with a plan for Alberta's future". to the fight against global warming and majority for a new premier in Alberta’s Given the volatility of the world energy clean environment. history, looking back now; do you ever market, the often political, religious and consider that it was a mistake to not seek social unrests in few oil rich countries, Q5. Although Alberta is recovering from another term? coupled with the concern for a cleaner the last recession and going by recent policy changes and pronouncements by Response. environment, should Alberta be worried about its future? the federal government on immigration, Common sense will tell you – there is life some have called for tougher restrictions after politics. Set aside one’s ego and Response. on the ability of immigrants (including think about yourself and family. I have That’s really a good question. I think their families) to come here, what is your travelled across Canada, all over the there are two components - within Can- view on this? world, seen heads of states and govern- ada and the greater context of the world. Response. ments. So I feel very strongly it was the The social unrest we see in countries in right decision. For me, there are two Middle East and North Africa will give us As Premier I disagreed with this federal measurement of success in politics. One an advantage over the coming years. As government policy publicly and continue is having your family intact and by your regimes change and democracy sets in, to do so. We are not going to grow our side when you leave politics, and the we will benefit from them. The Ameri- economy or fill the jobs from retiring other is to have your personal integrity in cans will be looking to buy oil from Can- baby boomers without immigration. It is the same state when you started out. As ada. Today we supply US 22% of its de- impossible to get the required workers you know, the hardest task as Premier mand. Within the Canadian context, it is from Canada only. The federal govern- was to appoint a cabinet. I often coun- unfortunate what we see from Eastern ment worked to limit our Immigrant seled new Ministers to not allow the and Central Canada. You have got a Pre- Nominee Program. The feds also made it ‘goodies’ that come with the job terrain to mier making outrageous comments link- harder for those immigrants families to get into their heads. It can be amazing ing the problems with the Canadian dol- work here. By 2030, we are going to be how people could easily get used to the lars to Alberta’s oil. Then you got another short of 77,000 workers. We have to real- lifestyle. On a serious note, I have despicable comment by the NDP leader, ize that great things are happening in watched how the “honour, dignity and which in my view is aimed at moving Alberta. What I hear from the feds lately integrity” of our great Legislative Assem- people emotionally against Alberta’s oil is that they are rethinking these policies, bly got diminished by American type just to be able to gain more seats in the and I am hoping there will be significant politics. I have seen folks accusing politi- next federal election. What we hear from and positive changes that will make it cians/public servants of being corrupt these leaders about the value of the dollar easier for Alberta and Canada to have the without an iota of proof of their asser- and loss of jobs is completely wrong. labour force they need. tions. People forget that the Legislative Putting fear in people is not the answer Q6. As a grandson of immigrants from Assembly is the most public court room as they are not sincere about these issues. Zavyche, Ukraine and former premier of in Alberta. It’s sad to see American kind What we need to do is to increase pipe- our great province, do you think the time of politics creeping into our great Cana- line capacity to Asia and possibly other has now come for the Alberta Govern- dian politics. Take for example, in the parts of the world. What needs to happen ment to lift the suspension on the Alberta last election, nobody talked about the is for Ontario and Quebec to buy Al- Immigrant Nominee Program (AINP) real issues – such as the health transfer berta’s oil instead of getting their sup- Family Stream and make it easier for agreements, equalization negotiations, plies from overseas countries. Imagine immigrant family members to join their pipeline capacity, job creation, etc. What that Quebec imports its oil from outside families? do we do about them? No discussion at Canada – Venezuela, Mexico, etc. This is 5

Response. have more educated people. We did not Response. cut programs and services that benefited Yes. It is a very archaic policy. Why I believe there were a number of reasons our most vulnerable citizens. I remember should we be sending people home two why I was successful in politics. One is at that time when oil was $145 a barrel, years after they arrive here on a two years my family. Second, volunteering in com- some economists at the University of visa when they are here and the jobs are munity activities and in the church. This Calgary were saying we were going to here? In fact Minister Thomas Lukaszuk is very important as it provides opportu- have surplus of over $50 billion. You worked so hard to have Ottawa reverse nity to build relationships and bring know I was born and raised in a farm and this policy. The feds settlement support about exposure. You also got to be posi- that upbringing taught me important life fund doesn’t help or come to Alberta. In tive. It’s very hard to succeed in politics lessons. Oil prices could be $140 today fact when folks who immigrate to Canada by only asking people to vote for you, and next year it could be $75 a barrel. I move to say Toronto, they do get a settle- they want to know more about you. There am glad we did not put the money in the ment support fund from the Feds while will be frustrations especially in cam- Heritage fund. We could have lost the Alberta doesn’t benefit from such assis- paigns. When this happens, you’ve got to money in the volatile stock market at the tance. However, they (the immigrants) stick it out and keep working hard and time. People do not understand the dif- quickly realize that there are no jobs for hope for the best. Over time, you will ference between deficits and debts. We them to do and so they then move to Al- have name familiarity. Your ability to are the only jurisdiction that had a net berta where the jobs are. I am glad my knock on doors and listen to people is increase in its assets. When the oil mar- grandparents settled in then Northwest very important. Do not pay too much ket crashed, we lost 75,000 jobs and peo- Territories which is now Alberta. attention to the pollsters because your ple did not know what to do. And so for primary objective is to care for the peo- Q7. Premier, you have always cared every billion we invested on infrastruc- ple, win the election and hopefully have deeply about the plight of our most vul- ture, there were 10,000 people working. the pollsters stunned at the end of it all. nerable citizens. This was evident in the We have to recognize that 50% of our Be yourself and be consistent. You must programs and policies you pursued. No- economy is consumer spending – when know that all politics is local. Look after tably was your refusal to balance the people buy, they spend on the economy your constituency. I was very fortunate to budget on the back of our children, sen- and consequently helps the economy to have a good constituency assistant. She iors and people with disabilities, schools, grow. Because of our approach, we now was passionate about our goals and ob- crumbling infrastructure and the unem- have more schools, refurbished schools, jectives and compassionate. She listened ployed. What advice would you give pub- hospitals, roads & bridges, community to the people and eventually these things lic policy makers when faced with these centres and investments in research, in- helped us to increase our majority. You kinds of policy choices? novations and education to show for it. have to believe in yourself. You know Response. Q8. By all standards, you are a very suc- when I was in grade 1; I broke my leg and cessful politician and community leader. was in hospital for a while. The nuns Alberta is a unique jurisdiction. We have You started off as a city council member taught me arithmetic, English as I spoke the most volatile source of revenue in in the County of Lamont in 1986 munici- solely Ukrainian and I was accused of North America. It takes a strong leader pal election. A year later, you were ap- having accent. You recalled that when we when commodity prices increase dra- pointed reeve (Mayor), until your entry tried to reform land rights, I was accused matically to set aside money for a rainy into provincial politics that culminated in of taking peoples’ property rights away. I day. I was one of the few around the table your being Alberta’s 13th Premier. These would respond by saying, you know dur- in the 1990s when we made drastic cuts are pretty impressive records. What will ing the First World War in 1914, although to programs and services. The idea that be your advice to immigrants who are my grandparents were Ukrainians, their the same government was going to do it interested in politics? What should be passports were Austrian issued. Land all over again was not acceptable. We had their most valuable skills and how can was confiscated from Ukrainian families money in the banks and our sustainabil- they be acquired? during the 1st world war because some ity fund to offset the loss of revenue. And were deemed to be enemies of the state quite frankly, I am glad we did. Today we because their passports were issued by

Marie Stelmach with Ndi-Daspora Editor, Kelechi Madu and Committee Member, Dr. Chiemeka Ihejirika 6

Austria. So, in our family, we clearly un- we have got to recognize that infrastruc- around all time – at least more often than derstand what it means to take family ture appreciates and does not depreciate. before when he was the premier of Al- lands and property rights away from peo- berta? Has he been a helping hand or a Q10. We will be having the Igbo Cultural ple. nagging husband? Day on July 21, 2012. We tried twice in Q9. In terms of infrastructure develop- the past to bring you as premier to our bi Response. ment in the province, what are the first -annual Igbo Cultural Day celebration Marie – It feels good! Quite frankly, it three infrastructures you would advise and we are very grateful that you sent really feels wonderful to have him the current Premier invest in now that some representatives. Should we prepare around. You know there were so many the province is projected of generating to host our former premier at this year’s things we put on the ‘back burner’. It good revenue from oil sands? cultural day? affords us the opportunity of doing many Response. Response. things together e.g. visiting and taking care of the children and the grand kids. Successful economies are built on solid Please email me the invitation. We will Being able to take real holidays is very infrastructure. Good rail and road sys- see what we can do. The answer is may rewarding. Ed has always been a great tems for the movement of goods and ser- be. I believe on one of those Saturdays, husband and an outstanding helper and I vices. Education and health are ex- we will be baptizing Benjamin, my grand- don’t think anything will change that. tremely important. I would add pipeline son and Marie’s 60th birthday is on July capacity, and of course no tax dollars are 17. We will see how to make it work. Conclusion: involved as it’s all privately funded. We Question 11. Finally, Premier this ques- We want to thank you and Marie for your should also continue to work with our tion is from one of our lady members and warm hospitality. We hope this will be neighbours in the South to build critical specifically meant for your lovely wife – the beginning of a more fruitful collabo- pipelines. We should continue to build Marie. ration with our community, the Igbo Ca- now because oil prices are still reason- nadians that call Edmonton home. able. The other important point is that How does it feel now to have the Premier

MOONLIGHT TALES FROM IGBOLAND Anayo Valentine Akabugo1

raditionally in Igboland, after from those days say that there was so Unable to bear the pain any longer dinner, families gather around much rain that the belly of the earth had Enuma took to drinking ogogoro, a a bonfire to recount fairy-tales no more space to contain the water that strong gin (Kaikai) made from palm T to wear off the stress of the day came down. It was also said that the wine. One day, he went on that one way and lull children to sleep while sharpen- cause of the rain was because the chil- trip from where the traveller never comes ing their imaginative skills. The family of dren in heaven were about to lose their back. Now Ikoroma was truly alone. The Obiakor is no different. One harmattan best friend and so they cried so much villagers did not know what to do with evening, after bathing and swimming in with the hope that God will change his him. Someone wished that the vultures the village stream and enjoying a dinner mind. But there was also a mystery that would pay him a visit at night. Somehow, of yam porridge garnished with rodent was taking place: Ikoroma's mother, he managed to survive his infancy. meat, they gathered in grandpa's head Ulumma did not get wet from the rain At about the time Ikoroma turned five office called the obi, to share unforgetta- though the rain would not let her get years old, the wealthiest merchant in ble moments of storytelling which leave home. It was so difficult that she was Abana, Chief Ojemba, was blessed with a memories that are cherished all lifelong. only able to get to the village four-road baby girl. A few months after his daugh- Grandpa Obiakor never lacks stories and junction at midnight. This was the place ter’s birth, Ojemba hosted a lavish nam- never disappoints in his dramatization of where, according to myths, spirits hold ing ceremony during which he an- events and suspense creation. Tonight, their meetings at night. There was no nounced that his daughter's name would he had a classic story to share with his help because people could not come out be Nwakego. Nwakego was the most wives, children, grand-children daugh- to search for her because of the rain. It beautiful creature Abana village has ever ters-in-law and even neighbours whose was at that junction, at midnight, under seen. She became more beautiful as the family heads had travelled to farm in the observation of the spirits that she days passed and by the time she became distant lands and are expected to come gave birth to Ikoroma. As soon as he was a woman, Chief Ojemba was playing host back after the harvest season. delivered, the rain stopped and the vil- to suitors from far and near. Her fine lage wooden gong called ikoro in Igbo He cleared his throat, threw a gaze at his jewelry eyes complemented her well set language, started sounding mysteriously. audience and drank in the expectation facial features, completed by a long flow- This was why the boy was named and attention that has always made him ing hair. Her hips and legs were as if they Ikoroma and he was the friend for whom to be at his best in these moments. Once were cast by the best sculptors that ever the children of heaven cried so much. upon a time he began, in the distant past lived. Her penetrating eyes melted the The reason they cried was because he when the years had no numbers and peo- resolve of warlords. The rich, the hand- used to make them laugh with his jokes ple's ages were calculated by how many some and the powerful all filed out with and pranks and they loved him so much. harvest seasons they witnessed, there offers of land, animal and cowries to no Unfortunately, due to lack of help after lived in the village of Abana, a young man avail. Nwakego did not accept any of the delivery, Ulumma died hugging named Ikoroma. Due to events I will them. Her parents were worried. And Ikoroma close to her chest. share with you in this story, everyone in there was another problem: Nwakego has Abana came to regard Ikoroma as a Obviously, the death of his mother left never smiled since she was born. She friend to be kept at a distance or an en- Ikoroma devastated and sad. He did not does not express any form of joy or show emy to be worshipped depending on breastfeed and missed his mother's hug interest in anything. In spite of people's which option appeals to each individual. badly. Worst of all, people were avoiding love for her, she always appeared sad and Abana residents' dilemma with Ikoroma him and describe him as an evil child. her father's lavish gifts and princess' started with events surrounding his birth. His father, Enuma always thought of him dressing by her mother seemed like dis- as a havoc that was visited on his family. turbances. Her heart was burdened by The night he was born, Ikoroma's mother Sometimes, he would starve him and something no one seemed capable of had gone to farm in the evening, to har- secretly wished he had been washed away identifying. vest some vegetables that she needed to by the flood the night he was born. He prepare food for her young family. On Akwaeke was an old lady who claimed to would not stop wondering how he man- her way back, there was a very heavy have been born about 97 harvests ago. aged to survive and refused to forgive rainfall which made it difficult for her to She was childless and was accused of him for taking the life of his beloved wife. see the road clearly. Stories handed down

having killed her husband with rat poison where he started living in hiding. Soon, square. The morning sun was reflecting because he was planning to marry an- word went round that the house was on Nwakego’s teeth. As she stood facing other wife. Though there was no proof, haunted because smoke was coming from the east, she gave Abana the smile they the village ganged up and banished her to there. Witch doctors were hired to exor- have been asking for since she was born. a forest in the peripheries of the village. cise the spirit of the dead that was dis- Words could not describe her beauty. Nobody could visit her just like she could turbing the house. However, when they Radiant and immaculate, she stepped up not enter another neighbour's house. got there, what they saw left them dumb- her voice in song about a prince whose Akwaeke was unable to walk the paths of founded. A handsome, tall and muscular aura would give Abana back her glory. the village except in the dead of the night. young man, every inch a warrior, met She sang about how she has always been It was about this period that she would them at the doorway. They could neither lost in searching, and found what she has overhear the cry of a baby as she walked run nor speak. They did not know what not sought from where she never looked. by. The cry wrenched her heart. She had to think. This young man, a carbon-copy Ikoroma stood with his mouth agape. He almost gotten used to it, but in the last of Enuma cannot be a spirit. lost his tongue and was fixed on the jewel three days, the cry became more compel- before him. Before he could recover from At about this time, Abana village was on ling. She could not bear it anymore. She his shock, Nwakego literally flew above the verge of war with neighbouring silently walked into the compound and the crowd into his arms and whispered Umuowa over a strip of dense forest peeped into the house through a crack on into his ears, "take me my prince, and where no one has farmed in a long time. the mud wall. It was dark and the only safeguard me from harm." Ikoroma was As the Ikoro sounded that night, Ikoroma sign of life was the baby's voice. She holding her like expensive and fragile felt every muscle in his body reverberat- threw some pebbles on the door to be glassware, a python's egg. He refused to ing and interpreting every sound made sure. Nothing happened. Akwaeke qui- squeeze her lest she breaks. She was so by the wooden gong. He could not under- etly opened the door, went inside and feminine. He looked at Akwaeke who stand what was happening to him. But he found the baby alone. She removed her winked at him approvingly. He pulled could also not control his reaction to this loin cloth and wrapped him with it and Akwaeke closer to his right and his py- distantly recognisable sound. That whispered into his ears, "you will cry no thon's egg, Nwakego, to his left, looked at sound, that message, turned him into a more." Immediately, the baby stopped the crowd that was now ecstatic and beast of war. It took possession of every crying. Akwaeke took him to her forest called out to Abana Mba-ike (Abana the cell in his body. When the men of Abana home and cared for him. In this forest town of warriors). He informed them that were gathered in the village square to be home, their neighbours were a clan of the misunderstanding with Umuowa has briefed, an unsolicited presence sent chimpazees whose father Akwaeke had been taken care of and that they were not chills through the crowd. An iroko of a saved from a trap set by the villagers. going to near the forest again. He told man emerged from a shrub-covered path Since then, the Chimpazees never al- them that an era of peace was in Abana. that led to the home of Enuma. You could lowed her to lack meat, fruits or vegeta- He let them know that he has some spe- count the muscles on his body as they bles. When she brought home the baby cial friends in the forest in dispute and were laid out in perfect symmetry. His boy, they took care of him, played with that he was not going to allow any human full eyelids and lashes matched effort- him and taught him tricks like tree being to harm his friends. Henceforth, lessly with his trim physique. He swept a climbing, wrestling and hunting. the forest shall be known as Ohia Ozo glance through the crowd and invited the (Forest of the Chimpazees). He reminded On the 23rd harvest of his birth, Akwaeke sons of Abana to go home and meet again them of the injustice metted out to Ak- told her ward that it was time for him to in the morning - men, women and chil- waeke and what a great woman that she go and repossess his father's land and dren. As he took his leave, everybody was and invited the village to make property. She revealed to him why she turned and went home. That night, he amends so that she can forgive them. was unjustly banished to the forest and did not sleep. He paid a special visit to When he finished, the village head took invited him to go back among his people the king of Umuowa. the stage and announced one market because she fears that she may not live In the morning, as the sun walked its way week of atonement and another market much longer and did not want him to live out of the eastern clouds, the people of week of celebration for the whole town. the rest of his life alone in the forest. That Abana thronged to the village square. No He invited Ojemba who blessed his night, when she took him for a walk of man, woman or child was left at home. daughter before the Chief Priest declared the village, she indicated to him his fa- Every space was occupied and people a month of preparations for the marriage ther's house and name. The young man climbed the surrounding trees to catch a of Ikoroma and Nwakego.

By Chido Nwangwu1

the Igbo nation show, credibly, that our its news staff, especially Mark Barbineck irst, let's state the most impor- language and ethnic nation should al- (bless him!) to change the reference to tant element of this language ways be identified and spelt as Igbo. Igbos as "Ibos" as a minimum standard advisory: the erroneous, incor- for me to do the interviews with AP rect usage and blatant disloca- There's an Igbo alphabet identified as F (same standard was held up for any other tion of the Igbo identity and name is the "gb" as distinguishable from "g" and "b"; media corporation during the pro-bono preference for the colonial spelling and same for "gw" as distinguishable from "g" international multimedia projection ser- reference, lazily spelled as "Ibo". Second, and "w". For the nation, Igbo, the 'gb' is vices and news interviews I offered to the "Ibo" misspelling reflects, essentially, the key. benefit the octuplets and their parents). a post-colonial hangover of British and Many Igbos and other people have mixed Thankfully, this has become the AP stan- Euro-Caucasoid colonial miseducation, up the Igbo identity, name, language, or dard as well as that of almost 30,000 misrepresentations, incorrect spellings people with this colonial misrepresenta- newspapers who subscribe to AP and and (mis) pronunciation preference. It tion as "Ibo(s)." Reuters' news feed to refer to us as Igbo is/was just easier for the White man/ (s). If your local newspaper does the woman to say 'Ibo' rather than 'Igbo.' We must not dilute the correct spelling(s) "Ibo" stuff, kindly write them and de- of the Igbo nation and people; and in fact Such language and cultural impositions mand a correction. ours, individually. Otherwise, we should which are fancifully and farcically all gladly celebrate the backwater hateful- I never heard/read the Azikiwes, Ok- adopted by the colonized natives and the ness encapsulated in the misspelling of paras, Ojukwus, Achebes, Nwangwus, dispirited are still evident across the Afri- Obigbo and Umumasi as (R)umuigbo Nzeogwus, Obis, Emeagwalis, Nwafors, can continent, south and central Asia and and (R)umumasi. It's that important and Ogbalus, or Obicheres refer to us as "Ibo parts of Latin America where colonialist basic, too. (s)". predation was not only economic but a crude decapitation of the languages, mo- We should not give up any Igbo alphabet Hopefully, this modest language advisory res, culture and identities of the ethnic and spellings, in this regard, therefore. It will set the affirmative, conclusive identi- nations they invaded and colonized. is different from abbreviating a long sur- fication on the issue of whether we are name or first name. "Ibos" or Igbos. It is, for me, Igbos, sui Third, and more important, the linguistic generis, as a people, an identity and as a history, autography and anthropological Immediately after the birth on December language. identities of the almost 35 million citi- 20, 1998, of the Houston octuplets, I be- zens of the enterprising, vibrant, relieve one of the better things I've contrib- We must remember the late psychiatrist, sourceful, unduly intra-antagonistic, uted to global Igbo interest was factually pan-African scholar and activist Franz capitalistic, religious, and republicanist and materially causing the world's num- Fanon's mytho-poetic and insightful communities and people who form ber 1 news agency AP through some of words in his 1952 book, Black Skin White

Masks, that "A man who has a language [consequently] possesses the world expressed and implied by that language." Should Igbos and other African nationalities, incrementally and foolishly give up the core of their communal and national identity on the discredited altars of Euro-Caucasoid racist supremacy and colonial predations? My modest answer is No. Before some demagogic and ill-informed "native" comes to the defense of the Euro-Caucasian impositions, let's quickly note that this is not a debate about language accretion and/or adding conceptual properties and descriptive symbols to enrich our language, or any language, for that matter. For example, I argue we should add the words Computer, Internet, etc to the Igbo language, and regarding them in their contextualized Igbo meanings or word(s). I'll state without fear of contradiction that no language today is clinically restricted and strictly reflective of its national borders. None! May God continue to enrich the Igbo nation as we protect, project and defend our heritage and identity into the new millennium. I'll close with the wise words of the same, late African warrior Franz Fanon who wrote, "Each generation must discover its mission, fulfill it, or betray it." On whose and which side are you?

1 Chido Nwangwu, recipient of the Journalism Excellence award (1997), is Founder and Publisher of USAfricaonline.com (first African-owned U.S.-based professional newspaper to be published on the internet), USAfrica, The Newspaper, NigeriaCentral.com and The Black Business Journal. He serves as an adviser to the Mayor of Houston on international business (Africa), has appeared as an analyst on the CNN, VOA, NPR, CBS News, NBC and ABC news affiliates, and South Africa Broad- casting Corporation, SABC.

For Nigeria, for Such Nigeria. Such a great nation! a Great Nation With limitless expectations Flooding with fixation on new aspirations 1 By Chidera Ihejirika Oozing of frustration over leaders’ retardation

Yet filled with hope of future reformation

A culture of elderly authorization

With children of infinite adoration

Songs, a declaration of admiration for such a nation

Dancing, an exclamation of cultural celebration

Yet, still this nation has no destination

What does the future hold for this civilization:

Deprivation, temptation or a finally peaceful nation?

Its people cry out for a placid population

For a governmental sanctification

O! Nigeria hear our recommendation

Return to your days of heavenly rejuvenation

If not for the people, then for the population

For Nigeria, for such a great nation

1Chidera Ihejirika is 14 years old, and will be in Grade 10 in September, 2012

The Three Most Important Influencers (Outside My Family) on My Life Nesochi Ihejirika

Henry Ward Beecher once said, “The humblest individual wasn’t, she was only trying to show them that success doesn’t exerts some influence, either for good or evil, upon others.” go to a good-for-nothing slouch who thinks quitting is the an- My Influences have helped me get through so many hard swer to every problem. If it wasn’t done next to perfect then it times and taught me that hard work is the only thing that will had to be done again and once it was perfect it was done again get you success. The three major influences on my life so far to have it perfected. have been my children’s pastors (at my church), one of my Finally, Dan has been a really good influence on me. He’s like dance teachers and Dan Gold. an older brother to me. I met him when he and Katherine Firstly Pastor Debbie has helped me through my spiritual started dating; I was about 9 at the time and was still light walk in my faith in Jesus. When she taught my first session of enough to jump on someone’s back without them falling back. Sunday school I recognized some spark about her. She had a He would never ask for me to jump down, he’d without protest growing passion in her walk with God and a strong unmoving walk around the church like he never noticed me up there. faith in Jesus. She’s always been so close to my heart in the 5 We’d play this game where I’d be invisible and he’d try to find years of my life at Evangel. She has such a soft heart but she me. I can talk to him about anything and he’ll understand knows where to put discipline where it is needed. She knows what I’m talking about. I barely see him these days because how to handle children because she’s had some of her own he’s studying to become a medical doctor but occasionally he and she treats us like we are her kids. comes and we still talk about schools and him going to med school. My dance teacher Jenna has also taught me that slacking is not a path that you want to go on. There were some kids in Charles R. Swindoll once said, “A family is a place where my class that thought a kick didn’t have to be flawless and principles are hammered and honed on the anvil of everyday they could pass doing sloppily. They soon quit that class be- living” and I think of all these people more like family than cause they thought Jenna was being so hard on them. But she anything else.

1Nesochi Ihejirika is 12 years old, and will be in Grade 8 in September, 2012

1038. Some theological scholars have CHRISTMAS IN maintained that He was born in Octo- ber, while a strong majority stick to he village is in a celebration December 25. Biblical historians have Tmood. There are people everywhere, EASTERN added their two cents worth to the dressed in various cultural, semi- debate, placing the date of the first cultural and western garbs, the young Christmas at about January 6, a day and the old alike. A variety of food and NIGERIA— equally observed as an official Roman drinks, even money in some cases, holiday. This was from A.D. 534, be- change hands as people move from one A COMMUNAL fore Pope Julius 1 changed the date to household to another. Many of the December 25. The debate rages and affluent though, make their homes an the over-stretched arguments of op- entertainment center, for both city HOME COMING position sides if as the majority of dwellers and villagers. The celebration Christendom celebrate Christmas is also carried into the little road-side By every December 25th. bars, the sound of their generating For most Nigerians, but especially plant adding to the fanfare. Majority of CHINAKA OKORO1 Igbos, who are well known sojourners the villages do not enjoy public electric found in sizeable numbers in every supply, or let’s put it this way, the gov- Nigerian city, this historical debate ernments made the installations but and news travel at the speed of light, makes little or no dent on what the sea- the supply could be once in a week, a awaiting the reaction of relatives and son stands for. Of course, ardent Chris- month or simply when it comes. But the friends who have not seen each other tians observe the sacred preparations government and its ineptitudes are never since last Christmas or two ago, some leading to the homecoming. They go allowed to interfere with the joy of home probably more than 5 years ago. From through the Advent, a four-week period coming. The churches are filled up for the about the 18th of December, peaking on known which literarily means "a com- Christmas and New Year services. There Christmas Day, and into a few days of the ing." This glorious period, for Christians, is a need, all agree, to thank God for the New Year, even a newborn can feel this ends on January 6 which is the Epiphany blessing of seeing another year. But for frenzy engulfing the village. The Christ- – a Christian festival commemorating the some, however, this must be matched mas Igbos of Eastern Nigeria yearn for all manifestation of Jesus Christ to the Magi with consultations with elders and seers, year round. (The three wise men). Christmas has for words of knowledge and blessings come to structure their lives as it has for from the spiritual world. For Igbos, Christmas signifies homecom- other Nigerians, including the Moslems, ing for those who have left their villages The villagers are happy; their sons and and the world over. It is the most impor- to reside in the cities and towns away. daughters from the city have returned. tant celebration in the country. The en- Even though they live most of the time in The dancers, masquerades, and musi- tire country eagerly looks forward to De- the cities, Igbo families consider their cians are in their full regalia, everywhere cember 25 every year to be soaked in fun houses in the village their true abode, the decked in colours. Relatives and friends and festivity. But for Igbos, its homecom- real home. From December 14, most Ig- as well prepare choreographies for ten- ing flare never wanes. bos look forward to traveling home. That dering their financial requests, individu- is when the last minute preparations are Over the past three decades, however, ally or at the assembly of Ummuna, Um- carried out. From then the volume of Christmas celebrations have gained con- munwany or Indi Nwunyedi. This is the activities in the car parks begin will in- siderable notoriety, attracting biting criti- time to receive - from the more fortunate. crease. The sheer volume of travelers in cism within and outside the church. You get your share before others beat you any park in big cities such as Lagos, Echoing the view of many Nigerians to- to it! But it all depends on the fortuejs Abuja, and Port Harcourt, where vehicles day, Dr. Ariri Chidomere, a Prof. of Old available for distribution. On their part, plying the Eastern routes of Nigeria load, Testament Studies, Lagos State Univer- city dwellers balance the ‘pain’ with the can be overwhelming. Christmas is called sity (LASU), recently opined, "Christmas joy of being in one’s own your own tough, kresimesi or ekeresimesi in Igbo par- should be a reminder to mankind of where you’re recognized right down to lance. Every child is raised to savor this those unequaled virtues of Christ Jesus your place among siblings, extended fam- season, a time to share far more than the whose birth we celebrate. But contrary to ily, and age-mates. Whatever you are - joy of Christ’s birth. Santa Claus has ab- this, we perceive Christmas as a period to civil servant, privately employed workers, solutely no place in this picture. dine and wine with friends and relations and the majority – and engage in some untoward activities." ‘businessmen’ (anything from established Christmas is primarily the season for all In his view, "the way we go about cele- merchants to food hawkers), you don’t Christians to celebrate the birth of Jesus brating Christmas tends to suggest that arrive for this season empty-handed. Christ, the originator of Christianity. the whole essence of Christ’s redemptive Anything from newly purchased cars and Derived from an old English phrase coming is lost on mankind. We celebrate recently built house, to newlyweds are Christes Maesse, which means Mass of Christmas in such a manner that more celebrated. The village is a small place Christ, the term was first used in A.D

sins are committed than...before we were redeemed by Christ. Our entire actions smack of Christianity without Christ." But this trend is hardly limited to Igbo- land, Nigeria or even the country. As Bishop Kevin Manning, Catholic Bishop of Parramata, Australia, sadly argues, "many modern-day approaches to Christ- mas tend to paganise, manipulate or dis- miss the mystery by trivialising, commer- cialising, or banalising the Nativity. It requires tiny effort to overlook a tiny child lying in a manger, but one can hardly do so when it is God’s way of ac- complishing salvation." These critics definitely capture something of the ‘bad rap’ which surround 25th December across the world. The western world witnesses a good deal of unrealistic spending for gifts to family and friends every Christmas season with the use of credit cards. In today’s Nigeria, one major problem associated with the season is a higher than usual crime rate. The spirit of giving to the underprivileged also seem to have weakened somewhat. And the rising cases of kidnapping the affluent for ransom, especially in Igboland, is equally becoming very troubling. But to heap allusions of greed and competition on the Igbo man because of these concerns does not make sense. These emerg- ing concerns cut across all ethnic groups. Moreover, to attribute the ‘sins’ of a tiny minority of Igbos who engage in crummy lifestyles in order to have enough, which they would flaunt at their peers and the underprivileged when they go home, bears a parallel resemblance to the bad name all Nigerians carry abroad for a proportionally miniscule handful who engage in 419 frauds. It is also a failure to adaptive and immensely competitive. Christmas in Igboland is a celebration of life recognize the impact of global economic with our families, friends and neighbours." woes that have descended harder on the developing world. Those with the mate- Even with the bleak economic picture which has placed on damper on Christmas, it rial currencies are literally worshipped still remains one, if not the most important celebration in Igboland – for sojourners not minding the source of their wealth. It and those at home alike. The Igbo people are very enterprising. They are the only eth- is not solely an ethnic or national phe- nic group, it can be argued, that leave their families and homes en masse to live in the nomenon. It needs to be emphasized that cities to seek for ways to better their lot. They could live in the cities for almost the the fundamental meaning of Igbo Christ- whole year or more, but one a small majority is left behind in the cities when Christ- mas is far removed from these negative mas arrives. Chief (Dr) Patrick Iroegbu, points out that Christmas provides an unoffi- trends. As Chief (Dr) Patrick Iroegbu, the cial invitation for Igbos to gather; for Ndigbo to embark on self-help projects, private Ezumezu I of Agbaja-Mbano of Igbo land, and public alike. As he further explains, "...families discuss...pressing issues, settle strongly argues, "...Igbos [do not] work grudges or disputes and grievances. Christmas is not merely a season to show off but a hard in order to flaunt [their] wealth. season to show your people that you have returned home alive after being... away in Rather, they work hard to bring develop- the city and you have to share your success ... with your people.” The world over, every ment to their families and villages. The community has its peculiar way of celebrating Christmas. For the Igbos, it is in every- Igbos are migrant-entrepreneurs...solidly where, it is in every way, a communal celebration of life and all it brings.

1Chinaka Okoro, a social commentator, is based in Nigeria and writes from there.

Dr. Patrick Iroegbu

being a teacher in a University or any In the 1990s. No one in Nigerian history college of the time. Truly, gifted students had been offered such a perception to like him were quickly sent to schools to secure and respect him as a top Odegwu r. President and Board, teach – to produce and transmit knowl- nwoke or a high sacred kinsman. MMembers of ICAE, Nigerian community edge skills. Moreso, with the wealth of his We are here to salute – a man of the peo- and friends in Edmonton, I want to thank father, he could have continued to work ple; one who chose to work selflessly in you especially for your time and presence for an academic Ph.D. in any choice uni- defense of his people. The job of a soldier to grace this unique memorial service in versity in the world. But that was not his is what? I ask you. To govern or to defend honour of General Dim Chukwuemeka calling. I am sure in England and having the vulnerable population, provide them Odumegwu Ojukwu. As a keynote been a student of modern history, he with security and to say to them, I am speaker, my duty is to unlock the theme knew what sacrifice and honor can mean here as your soldier to fight for you, to and relate it to the issue of our gathering from military culture and society with die to make sure you live. So Ojukwu we today. It is with both the key and remark- regard to nation building. He knew that know did that when it became necessary able note of recognition and appreciation Nigeria needed a strong and educated in the full context of UN’s convention and that I open the memorial service for Dim army to work on Nigerian unity and de- human rights principles of survival and Ojukwu to be well deserved from our part velopment. He gave Nigeria that glimpse existence. here in Edmonton of Canada. of purpose and action. He mattered to the army. And indeed, before, during and He is the man we have gathered tonight Truly, here is a man, Dim Ojukwu who after the Nigerian Biafran civil war in to celebrate; one who understood Nigeria was born in Zungeru of Niger State of which he was a key person, Ojukwu re- deeply with ideals bothering on giving to Northern Nigeria about 78 years ago. He mained relevant anywhere and any time. the other. Late Prof. Pantaleon once emerged into a top rate millionaire fam- He never let his people down. He stood framed it this way: Ojukwu was a helper ily, his father a transport guru and great- by them and for them. In doing so, he and defender of justice for the people est investor of his time. Ojukwu subse- shaped for himself an excellent place in who were denied, not a hinderer. History quently did not allow himself to be car- history of which we have gathered here to has spoken, seeing him as a man who ried away by the wealth and fame of his share for inspiration and to offer him our lived beyond his time. Ojukwu’s likes father. He studied and carved out an tributes. Dim Ojukwu should best be were hanged when they proved so pro- identity for himself to change his people described as an agent of transformation phetic and challenging to the powers that and society for the better. This he did by for Nigerian history. Up until his death be. But he became a security risk. Touch becoming a district community organizer on Nov. 26 2011, and his burial and Ojukwu, you will touch disaster, an eth- for liberation from poverty and injustice. mourning, on March 2, 2012, Ojukwu nic tsunami-earthquake. Dim Ojukwu schooled in Lagos and Eng- stayed fighting and promoting the cause land and graduated with first class in Let me quickly mention that at the end of of Nigerian unity. Three times, he con- modern history at Oxford University. He Nigerian civil war, General Gowon pro- tested to be president and that shows played sports of all kinds and won cov- nounced the war as a “no victor, no van- how genuine and historic he was to the eted awards in the midst of discrimina- quished” situation. What does that cause of promoting Nigeria. In 1982 tion and sometimes with controversy. mean? Social scientists, war scholars and when he was granted full pardon to re- historians have interpreted the sagacity After his studies at Oxford, he returned turn home, after 13 years in exile in Ivory of that pronouncement in diverse ways. I to Nigeria, and as I said already, served Coast, he was given a hero’s welcome. will say one; it highlighted the national as a district officer in Aba and Udi. A year Other incidents reflect how much Dim indulgence to be Nigeria. If one side be later, he joined Nigerian army even at a Ojukwu was loved for giving his all to his made to feel or look defeated, conquered, low recruit level against the wishes of his people as a hero. There was a story testi- restrained and controlled, Nigeria will influential father – as the first Nigerian fied by his wife Queen Bianca Ojukwu of fail to be. The Igbo were not defeated; with a First Class MA Degree. If Ojukwu how market sheds were pulled out to let but were forced to return to be Nigeria. had not been called up by destiny Ojukwu pass when traffic hold up caught Immediately the Igbo re-migrated and re (akaraka ya), he would have ended up with his journey in one inland Igbo area -occupied Nigeria as it is today. It signi-

General Dim Chukwuemeka Odumegwu

fied that Ojukwu knew it all as a just war to save lives being wasted in the North of Nigeria in the 1960s. Saving lives and community of people to have a life is a good thing. Any governor in Nigeria today who cannot save lives and properties in his state should be impeached, jailed or even killed to give peace and development a chance. It is strongly cultural to restore lives and dignity of a cultural community. From General Ojukwu, a four starred general, buried and mourned by the whole Nigerian world, in particular the Igbo, Nigeria has experienced the sacrifices necessary to forge a common unity. Ojukwu modeled a dream for Nigeria. His Ahiara dream speech com- parable with that of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. of America also in the 1960s shared similar wisdom and dream of libration from injustice, inclusion, security and opportunity. Dim Ojukwu handed to Nigeria the Ahiara Declaration of 1969 to surge to unity and development. Ladies and gentlemen, all Nigerians, friends and Canadians, we have gathered to give honour to whom it is fully due. We have come to celebrate the life and times of an outstanding, visionary, pragmatic and collective and distinguished Igbo and Nigerian ICON, Dim Ojukwu. What Nigeria is today, was an outcome of Ojukwu’s making through the circumstances of the 1960s ethnic injustices. Ojukwu is a symbol of life and culture, a national and intergenerational hero. Dim Ojukwu received the best funeral in history. On’est jamais vu. He did because he satisfied many things through his personhood and ideals. Ojukwu was a business mogul like his own father whom I encountered through my cousin in Lagos in the shipping business. An orator, philosopher, historian, politician, family man, ardent Catholic, soldier, people’s leader, chief, Eze Igbo gburu gburu. I invite all of you to open up and embrace history in Ojukwu and Ojukwu in history. His place is assured and we truly stand to learn and endure. Na mbo ka-obidoro; O si n’akara aka ya. Thank you all for your time. May his gallant soul rest in Peace! Adieu Dim Ojukwu.

Keynote Speech Delivered on Saturday, March 3, 2012 at St. Edmund’s Catholic Parish Hall, Edmonton, by Dr. Patrick Iroegbu on the occasion of memorial service for late Igbo leader, Dim Chukwueemka Odimegwu Ojukwu organized by the Igbo Cultural Association of Edmonton, Alberta Canada. Dr. Iroegbu can be reached at patricki- [email protected]

2Dr. Iroegbu is also a past President of the Igbo Cultural Association of Edmonton.

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IGBO FARM VILLAGE IN AMERICA AND THE MARKING OF its 1ST ANNIVERSARY WITH PROF. AKUMA- KALU NJOKU1

Introduction Chido Nwangwu/USAfrica: Congratulations for your dedication and work on the Igbo Farm Village in Staunton, Virginia. On this first anniversary of the Igbo Farm Village this weekend of September 17, 2011; may I respectfully ask that you share with the he following is a report by Chido Nwangu, featuring a readers of USAfrica, USAfricaonline.com and Igbo talk with Prof. Akuma-Kulu Njoku on his Igbo Farm project T Events the major significance of this historic pro- (see inset). Prof. Njoku is a is a Professor of Folklore Studies ject? and Anthropology at the Western Kentucky University in Bowling Green, Kentucky, where he is making waves with a Njoku: Thank you very much for this opportunity to share cultural renaissance that is transplanting Igbo life in North with your broad readership the joy and excitement I feel about America in its various traditional foliages. The Interview below the first anniversary of the Igbo Farm Village at Staunton, by Chido Nwangu sets out to capture this transnational renais- Virginia. The Igbo Farm Village, it is important to mention, is sance in Prof. Dr. Njoku’s own words. a part of the American Frontier Culture Museum of Virginia established to acknowledge the contributions of the Old World Mr. Nwangu is the founder and publisher of the highly re- cultures to the development of the American frontier culture, spected and widely read USAAfrica among other projects. He which began from Virginia. has played a crucial role in establishing various channels of communication for Igbos abroad. Mr. Nwangu has worked The American Frontier Culture Museum had already con- relentlessly with many notable Igbo sons and daughters within structed four other farmsteads (in Igbo, that will translate to and outside Nigeria to help create something of the ‘home’ Ulo Ubi)—the English Farm, the Irish Farm, the German Igbos, Nigerian and Africans yearn for in the Diaspora. Re- Farm, and a Colonial American Farm—before building the ferred to as America's largest African-owned multimedia com- Igbo Farm Village. Therefore, the Igbo Farm Village is a tangi- pany, USAAfrica has received many awards across the globe. ble recognition of the African (especially those from West Af- Ndi-Diaspora expresses its appreciation for the permission to rica) who, though forced to migrate to the New World, helped reprint the interview to its audience. to build, prosper, and populate what is now known as the United States of America starting from the 1700s. That, in a The Highlights of Igbo Farm Museum nutshell, is the historical significance of the Igbo Farm Village. J. Akuma-Kalu Njoku, Ph.D., a diligent and soft-spoken man, is a Professor of Folklore Studies and Anthropology.many ways, Prof. Njoku’s intimate insights and unique knowledge of Igbo ethno-folklores and tradition –especially the historical foundations and sites of the Arochukwu/Ohafia/Bende region of the Igbo nation, have set him part, in my view, as the major resource on pre-colonial Igbo life, the slave trade and folklores of south eastern Nigeria. I met Prof. Njoku, born on June 16, 1946, for the first time during his research work on the Aro- chukwu heritage in 2006 in Houston, Texas. He is an associate Professor at the Western Kentucky Univer- sity in Bowling Green, Kentucky. He recently established the West African Cultural Heritage Education and Training (WACHET) Institute in Bowling Green. Prof. Akuma-Kalu Njoku as in the photo shown is a name on the Igbo Farm Vil- lage project in Staunton in Virginia, which he has championed.

What does it mean for the youth of the Igbo nation, We are no longer just a homogenous Negroid. And I have no and the African-American communities? doubt on my mind that the Museum will continue to let us use the exhibit to keep our Igbo community traditions alive in the The early days of work at the Igbo Farm Village saw the arrival United States. Of course, the property belongs to the Com- of the first volunteers, a group of Igbo men from the Washing- monwealth of Virginia, which means continued funding the ton, D.C. area.As the project progressed, the number of volun- maintenance of the structure. teers and the level of their support and enthusiasm increased rapidly. The Museum hosted groups of volunteers from the USAfrica and Igbo Events networks will like to know Igbo communities in Chicago; Nashville; Bowling Green, Ken- the level and scope of funding and financial support tucky; Washington, D.C. and New Jersey. Individuals from your team and the foundation have received from cities without large numbers of Igbo residents also came from the Igbo leaders/Governors and well-to-do folks virtually all over the country. Many came with their children from the Igbo communities across the U.S.? and young adults to volunteer in the construction. Now to Par- Great Question! The Frontier Culture Museum has yet to get ticipating in the construction of the Igbo Farm Village pro- the kind of financial support that is expected of Igbo leaders / vided the Igbo and African American youth a once in lifetime Governors.Mr. John Avoli and I went to Nigeria to meet the opportunity to get a firsthand experience in the techniques of Igbo Governors and stakeholders in Delta states.I know that Igbo traditional architecture. They helped to puddle and knead sometimes the political imperatives of governance in Nigeria mud, built adobe walls, helped to smoothen the walls, and do not allow the Igbo leaders to be the Igbo we anticipate, but indoor mud seats. They also watched their parents construct I cannot begin to tell how extremely important it is for the wooden frames for the thatched roofs. While many were en- Igbo leaders / Governors to commit funds to the Igbo Village gaged in such activities, others were roasting either yams or in Staunton, VA.The Igbo Village needs all the funding it can corns, or cooking soup and making foo foo and, and in the get, especially now that attention of the Board of Trustees and evenings, occasionally playing moonlit night games. Board Directors of Frontier Culture Museum and the Ameri- I do believe that the learning and growth that have come from can Culture Foundation is shifting from the Igbo project to the these firsthand experiences and from the summer cultural Native American Farm. Some well well-to-do members of the immersion classes and weekend institutes that I run in the Igbo communities in the United States have made substantial Igbo Farm Village mean a great deal to Igbo youth and to other donations and sacrifices. Two of them spend their own monies peoples of African descent. traveling to Board of Trustees and Board of Directors meetings.I do not want to mention them by names. The Frontier In terms of replicating the fundamentals of a typical Culture Museum has the records—just in case. Igbo village, give anyone who has not visited a pic- turesque profile. What are your hopes and projection for the Igbo Farm village in Virginia and possibly elsewhere. There are four raffia palm thatched houses enclosed in a semi- What about Louisiana? circle mud fence also thatched. The first house you see as you enter the Ulo Ubi Igbo (Igbo Farm Village) is the Obi.Directly The Igbo Farm Village, being an outdoor museum exhibit pro- behind the Obi are the other three houses—a man’s house vides a context very close to the Igbo cultural environment for flanked by two mkpuke (female) houses; those of his two experiencing and learning Igbo culture in America. Although wives. There are, in addition, two outdoor shelters one for my presentations at the Igbo Farm Village are Igbo-centered, I cooking / frying (say gari) or processing oil-palm produce, the also draw from my 20 years’ experience in teaching cultural other a goat shed. There is a space for a yam-barn right behind diversity in the United States to anchor them (my presenta- the man’s house.You know what? Next summer, in anticipa- tions) within the greater American multiethnic and multicul- tion of the Iwa / Ike Ji (Yam Harvest Festival) scheduled pre- tural heritage. Because the Igbo Farm Village is in the midst of cisely for Saturday, September 15, 2012, we shall raise the yam English, Irish, and German Farms that also showcase Old barn. World Cultures, there could not be a better location in the United States for achieving my goals. About 50 days ago, I spoke with Eric Bryan, the As- sistant director of the Frontier Culture Museum What about Louisiana? Of course an Igbo Village could be Foundation. He, in fact, went to Igbo land in Nigeria, built there, but it probably will not be as good as the one that as part of the effort to make the best of this village. is surrounded by the existence of four other farms—English, How would you assess the roles of the Museum and Irish, and German farmsteads. Quite frankly, I would like to the Virginia communities in making the village a see a Congo Farm Village in Louisiana.How about building one worthy reality? where the Place Congo / Congo Square used to stand or at least close by that almost invisible historical marker com- Yes, I went with Eric Bryan and another Museum staff, Ray memorating that historic the former Congo Square. Wright to Nigeria. Eric is the administrative brain behind what is going on in the Igbo Farm Village initiative. He under- What does this village need? stands the vision and strategic plans of the project more than The roofs are leaking. Therefore, there is an urgent need to get any other person. Regarding the role that Museum has played fresh raffia palm mats from Igboland to fix the leaks. It will in making the village a worthy reality, what comes first to cost far less to do this than any other alternative that has been mind is that Museum has placed the Igbo on the map the so far considered from the United States. The Village needs United States, which is a land of enormous ethnic diversity. traditional tools and decorative objects. We need to decorate 21

the walls with Uli. The village also needs more and more Igbo communities to come and use the compound. Tell us about your scholarship and works. Why and United States to recruit volunteers. Igbo people responded in how did you get involved in the project? large numbers and helped to build the farm village. Reverend Dr. Ogbonna directed the building process, and in the process, My broad research interest is the folklore of forced historical trained Museum staff and volunteers in traditional Igbo build- population movements resulting from the depletion of farm- ing methods and techniques. lands, the Atlantic slave trade together with the issues of forced relocations and settlement patterns, and reestablish- What next for the Igbo diaspora? ment of community traditions on both sides of the Atlantic, Since my research has led to the construction of an Igbo Farm and genocide and war in the affairs of Ndi Igbo. Since 1999, I Village (Ulo Ubi Igbo) at the Frontier Culture Museum of Vir- have been researching and writing about the forced transatlan- ginia and to establishment annual reconnection program for tic journeys of the Igbo people. the peoples of African descent long separated by the forced Specifically, I am working on the slave journeys from the hin- transatlantic migration, it is now time to take the research one terland villages and towns in Igboland to Virginia and, more step further. I have self-consciously established a Free- through the Underground Railroad, to freedom in the United dom to Freedom Trail for pilgrimages from Virginia to Aro- States. While on sabbatical and doing fieldwork in 2002, I was chukwu and the greater Igboland. allowed to enter an ancient cave temple complex the Ovia It is hoped that peoples of African descent in the United States Chukwu in Arochukwu which was a secret slave dealing loca- that celebrate the long journey from slavery to freedom in the tion and a definite starting point of numerous Igbo slave jour- month of February will be journeying from Freedom to Free- neys from the hinterland to the coastal towns of Calabar and dom. This will be a symbolic journey from the state of freedom Bonny. That is before the Middle Passage. In addition to the won in the United States back to the state of freedom that was Arochukwu cave, I found cave outlets in Ututu, and another in Africa before the Atlantic slave trade started. The experi- that provided safe haven for the people of Alayi and Igbere or ence of this ritual quest, I can tell you from my journeying Igbo ereghi (those who were never sold by the Aro Oke Igbo). back, can be overwhelming and the story bitter. But it will be I presented my findings at the annual conference of the Ameri- the experience of a shared memory of pain and the truth that can Folklore Society in 2003, and Professor John Vlach, a dis- must be told in order to begin to make a physical reconnection tinguished American folklorist, after hearing my paper recom- with Africa—the ancestral home. It is the truth that will help mended me to American Frontier Culture Museum of Virginia. to heal the deep-seated wounds of the Atlantic slave trade and slavery on both sides of the Atlantic. At the time, the Museum was planning a West African exhibit to complement the English Farm, Irish Farm, German Farm, I also wish the Igbo people in the United States will help sup- and the American Colonial Farm already in existence. I be- port the TICHA (Teaching Igbo Cultural Heritage Education in came a member of the advisory board and later, since 2004, the Americas) Fund Drive that I will announce during the cele- the principal consultant for the Igbo Farm Village project. bration of the anniversary on Saturday September 17, 2011. The TICHA fund will help me to continue proving the summer Initial attempts to get builders from Igboland to construct an Igbo cultural immersion class and weekend institutes. We Igbo farm village that will be faithful to Igbo traditional archi- need to continue to reacquaint with ourselves with our culture tecture failed. The American Embassy in Nigeria refused to so that we can effectively pass them on to our American born grant them visa. I asked Reverend Dr. Maduawuchukwu Og- children. bonna, a member of the Igbo Studies Association and a Holy Ghost priest with a surpassing talent and practical experience in Igbo vernacular architecture to help. Fr. Ogbonna came to This article is culled from USA Africa: http:// our rescue. And with the able assistance of Dr. Kanayo K. www.usafricaonline.com/2011/09/16/igbo-farm-village-jaknjoku2011.Further information on USAfrica can be found at http://usafricaonline.com/ Odeluga I got in touch with Igbo hometown associations in the

The Greatest Holiday: An Igbo Christmas

Sharon Agbarakwe1

When a Canadian thinks of Christmas, they imagine cold temperatures, red and green decorations and most of all, snow everywhere. Any Canadian would imagine Christmas lights hanging, and they would be singing well-known Christmas carols. Of course, they would never forget the Christmas turkey along with a large spread of food, which would leave leftovers until New Year. This is what December in Canada is like! When I was younger, I always wondered how my relatives in Nigeria could have a “white” Christmas because there is definitely NO snow back home. I also didn’t believe they bought Christmas trees and sang the songs like my friends here would. So I wondered, what exactly do Igbos do during the Christmas period? I found my answer firsthand when my family traveled back home for Christmas 2012. I wasn’t shocked to see no snow, no Christmas trees or any mainstream items like so. What was relaxing was the feeling of belonging that was relaxing and exciting for my brother and me. I felt at home among my numerous cousins and seeing my grandma made the trip a wonderful experience. Of course we do have a house and home in Canada, but what we didn’t have was my cousins, new friends or memories to last a lifetime! In our home my dad built, I got to visit my Dad’s mom daily, which was great. Even so, it wasn’t only these experiences that were great and so much fun. I mean of course, Canadians also have family get-togethers but the most fun is in how different the celebrations are. In Canada, I found most kids found joy in sitting on Santa’s lap in an overcrowded mall on Christ- mas Eve. As much as I used to love this as a kid, Canadian traditions do not compare to those in Igboland. For example, the masquerades they have. There are no words to describe what one is like, except a person just has to experience it. They usually resem- ble the picture to the left; a man is dressed up as some sort of non- human being and is led by a group of men “chasing” it away. The sight is interesting, sometimes funny, sometimes frightening. I’m certain the whole event represent the riddance of any evil spirits or demonic influences that may be near during a memorable or thanksgiving event. Also, similar to Canadians, a large spread of food is cooked during the Christmas period. This is also one of the greatest parts of coming back home; the food! Never lacking, the food is delicious coming from someone with a taste for Igbo cuisine. During Christmas time a lot of feasting with family is involved, it is the greatest experience by far. There is no doubt; a Christmas in Nigeria surpasses that of Canadians because of the deeper meaning behind it. A Christmas in Nigeria stresses the importance of family, something one cannot live without. Even though it is summer in Canada, I remember our trip as if it was just yesterday and Christmas in Nigeria has become the best holiday of the year for me personally. Igbo Kwenu!

1Sharon Agbarakwe is 14 years old, and will be in Grade 10 in September, 2012. 23

TheThe UltimateUltimate AltruismAltruism MakesMakes MeMe AA LoserLoser

Peter Obiefuna, PhD

we were together when you were a student, it turned out that I got pregnant and have a son for you.” The woman may not even have told me at all. It doesn't really matter. Either way, am a man. I am a composite of all men. So, in a sense there is a person older than my oldest kid waiting to pop up I I am you, your husband or your dad. either now or when I die. Like I said to you, I am you. If you ever had a thing with any girl before you got married, then I The loss of two am definitely you. I knew a man from long ago named Donald. Donald was 31 As a family man, I put off childish ways. It is no more about when his dad died. Donald was the oldest of his father’s male my fears, my noble ideals, my dreams of life uninterrupted, children; and the man was a highly respected, wealthy man. and my need for approval from a vindictive society. It is now Two weeks before the funeral, this closely knit family of a dev- about creating and supporting a family. It appears that the astated mother and 4 distraught grown children were planning natural order of things is that when we put off childish ways, it the burial of their beloved dad. Then it happened. A 50 year- behoves on us to put on altruism. A self-call to altruism seems old accomplished business man from Lagos arrived to an- to be the bane of responsible adulthood. You are forced by nounce that he was this late Chief’s son. It turned out that in- your role and the circumstances of your life to become increas- deed, Donald’s father had a son about 20 years before he met ingly altruistic as you grow up. We begin life as the kid who Donald’s mom. So goes the short true story of how my friend only cared about when he was hungry, when he was wet, when lost not only his father but also his birthright in one short he was sick and when he didn’t like your face; and morph into week. Predictably, Donald, siblings and mom did not hide the person who has very little care about oneself, little care their frustration and resentment. I would never have thought about one's phobias and curiosities but place greater care on that Donald’s dad was such a shady character. “How can a the greater good. man be so loving to his family, so loved by many and yet so ... evil inside?”, I wondered. But this story is not about him. It’s The greater good about me. What does that even mean? The altruism of manhood has When I was a child come upon me. The altruism of a householder who has vowed to protect his family even unto death has visited me. Now, I I had relationships with one or more girlfriends. Occasionally, have a choice to make. What is the higher calling in all this, they got pregnant and told me. When they did, the brain of an considering that there are no half measures? Should I arrange Igbo kid whose sights are set on higher ideals would process, to introduce my family to the child of this woman; the yoke of “CALAMITY! MAYHEM! ABORT!” I would think of my par- my philandering of yesteryears? Should I, on the other hand, ents, her parents, my friends, her friends, society, my every- protect and insulate my family; the ones with whom I have a body; about judgment, punishment, derision, scorn; about a contract of protection and an informed consent? Remember dream cut short; about premature parenthood in torn clothes. there are no half measures in this order of things. Society does All these would inform my advice and I would take an option not care if the child came about by trickery, by sleigh of hand that protected me from all those. or by consent. There are no half measures. Once that door is Then, it happens that one of those women did not tell me of opened, everything comes in. It does not just crack open wide her pregnancy. She did not want me to know. Maybe, she had enough to douse curiosity or placate moral platitudes; It just her sights on someone who at the time would more apparently opens. Should I, on the other hand, do everything to protect make a better provider. The outcome being that somewhere my family by unequivocal actions while I am alive and an un- out there, there is a child carrying my DNA. equivocal written will when I am dead? Then I become a man So I am faced with conflicting ideals: On the one hand there are values whose voices echo like so, "What man would not I decide that I should get married, start a family, love my wife, arrange to endorse his own biological child? He is wicked, love my family and be devoted to it even unto death. This selfish, heartless and inhuman." I would say, “Good point.” other girl, now a woman comes up to me and says, "That time Others will wonder, "How can he, after making us these prom- ises and pretending to love us all this much all this time, have 24

always lived a lie, all along knowing that he has this other child case, I find that the highest altruism is the altruism of self- out there who is truly his first child. Our lives, our family, eve- denial; not just selflessness. Selflessness is easy. You get rything as we knew it has been a lie!" I would also say, “Good praised by some for selflessness. Denying yourself of a place point.” Which of these pursuits of the greater good would be even in the halls of honor and still living out your days with more altruistic? I wonder. some purpose that aims at the greater good of some who you know will mock you at your death for the same reason for Resolved to be the loser which you lived and died for them; yet you do it anyway. That So, I am resolved. I have determined that whatever I do in this is the ultimate altruism. life, I will be a byword to many. So, I give up trying to win for I was a child. Much as I did not choose this path for myself, I everyone. I find that life is like a football match for most peo- choose to walk it gladly. The ultimate altruism makes me a ple. You choose the side to play for and just play to score on lost cause. I find fulfillment in that and wonder if that is what that side. For the same actions some people in the audience Donald’s dad was thinking just before breathing his last. will cheer; some will jeer. I find that when all the stark naked- ness of it is revealed, life has dealt me worse than a footballer's fortune. The footballer even gets cheers from some. So, in my

Obi Agbarakwe1

brother for twelve years. Although origi- She was three years younger than I. It nally white and Canadian, she was one of was love at first sight. Never mind that the best Igbo women I had ever met. I none of us mentioned the word “love” all hat night was different. I could have lived with her and my brother, and evening. May be because where we come Tnot sleep. All I could think of was the first their three children since I came to Can- from, love is not a word but an act. You time we met. I remembered the long legs, ada for my doctoral program. Our home usually show love and seldom say it. the sample fingers, the crafted nails, the was a typical Igbo family except that ini- Ego was the best thing to happen in my inviting eyes, and the central perfect tially, it was odd when I saw my brother life and everyone noticed soon enough. curve that challenged the limits of deco- cooking and washing plates. Stella told We engaged in all adult activities, includ- rum. I rolled over and checked the time. me that my brother wanted me to help at ing a wonderful weekend together in It was 3:45 am. It can’t be true! I thought the bar. Banff. One early morning, my brother about our first night in Banff. No one has I stood up to go to the bar and decided to woke me up and told me how happy he ever made me so happy. Ego was a girl steal one glance at Ego. She smiled at me was that I had a girlfriend. That was odd. with a difference. “Emeka”, I heard and and my heart skipped a beat. I cannot Our men hardly talk to their younger turned around but no one was in the remember what I did, and every time I ones about their relationships, unless room. thought about it, I always hoped that I there is something wrong or they have She was not like any other girl I knew. did not do anything foolish. My partner ran out of patience waiting to hear some Her humility was graceful; her confi- at the bar was a guy named John - a very ‘good news’, as we call it (which simply dence, intimidating; and her smile infec- jovial guy, a typical African. When he means wedding plans). tious. When she spoke, her speech was asked me if it was true that I was not I noticed that some young men from our measured and her voice was a delight. I married, I knew right away that he was community were more amiable to my remembered seeing the two reverend up to something. I told him that I was company. I was almost a loner. My only gentlemen beside me, Pastor Ude and single. I expected a follow up question, friend until then, even at the university Rev. Father Chika, stealing some glances. but was surprised at the bluntness. John was a guy who wore earrings on both Even the elders were not spared. Engi- asked if I was gay or unable to find a wife. ears.. I was so happy to associate with my neer Okeke went to his car four times, I asked him if he has a sister and he said, people. One day I was at dinner with and on each occasion, he seemed to have “Yes.” I teased, “Well, ask your sister to Stella and her children. My brother had been bewitched to look at her table. I come find out from me if I am gay. And travelled out of town for work. Stella even overheard his wife ask twice, “What he said, “Sure.” asked me some personal questions about did you see there you are looking at?” After the brief exchange, we settled to the Ego. I was shy and uncomfortable to an- Engineer Okeke replied that he was only routine of the night. I wondered how swer. However, I obliged impulsively. It looking around (anam elepuru anya) much drink people could take in one was all about Ego, the centre of my life. I “What if she snubs me? What if she is night. John was fun to work with. We ran did not see it coming. Stella asked, “So it married?”, I wondered. I saw that she out of Guinness® Stout twice. John had is a lie that you are gay?” I froze and was wearing a ring, but what do I know to go to the liquor store to buy more. I starred at her. She noticed my amaze- about rings? People wear rings if they are nearly had a heart attack when I looked ment and continued. “There had been a married. Others wear rings if they are up and saw John with packs of Guinness rumour in the community and your engaged. And better still, many girls I stout walking back to the bar with her. brother had been worried that you are know wear fancy rings even though they “This is my sister. I have asked her to gay”, she explained apologetically. I told are neither married nor engaged. I know find out if you are gay”, he said casually her that I was not gay, but that my best those who are married, but wear no as he walked away. friend was. rings. I don’t know the difference. I greeted her sheepishly and noticed that It was December 15. I had not heard from I looked at her again and my heart started she was also nervous. Before we realized my father about a date for the traditional pounding. Stella said something to me. Stella it, we were sitting on a bench outside wedding. I looked at Ego that evening is my sister-in-law. Her husband, my elder Northgate Seniors’ Lion Centre. Ego and something looked pleasantly differ- brother, was the president of Igbo Asso- came to Canada a few weeks prior to pur- ent. She looked extraordinarily beautiful. ciation. Stella had been married to my sue a postdoctoral study in paediatrics. Something about her face was shining 26

and smooth. For some strange reasons, I Christmas and for the traditional wed- riage and the condition of your girl- remembered Ahmed my childhood ding. friend, I have been torn with emotions. friend. May be because of his regular The Church wedding was scheduled for That child is the daughter of Uloaku expression. Usually, when Ahmed saw January at Ego’s church because she was from Umueze. Uloaku is the best friend beautiful girls, he used to say that they an usher in her church. of your mother. If the land is level, we had “potato face” even though I doubt that we knew what a potato was then I was so frustrated with my father’s ap- will all be happy to see two of you as hus- (except for sweet potato). That was how I parent lack of sensitivity to the situation. band and wife. But the land is not level. felt. Ego had a potato face. She was be- He had failed to fix a date for the tradi- During the war, Uloaku’s husband went having like a child and needing extra tional wedding. On December 24, I threw to war and she spent most of her time in attention. And when she said that she has all traditional modesty to the winds and our place. The war created many emo- something to tell me, I had read about woke him up early morning. I demanded tions for many of us and we tried to ease that expression several times that it was an explanation. Unlike my father I knew, them in different ways. I tried to help as good as she said it. he was calm and calculative. He called for Uloaku in many ways. I may have gone his brother (my uncle) and my elder With my brother’s permission, on De- too far. War is not good. That girl may be brother. When everyone was present, he cember 18 we were married at the office Said your sister.” of a marriage commissioner. My brother- and Stella were the only witnesses. We all “Emeka, since you sent the message “Ego, my love!”, I exclaimed. travelled home on December 19th for about your intention for traditional mar-

1Mr. Obi Agbarakwe is the current President of the Igbo Cultural Association of Edmonton.

CBN to succeed as a world economic player rather than as a domestic religious Developing Nigeria with Islamic trigger. The latter indulgence as a role will neither create jobs nor an international reputation needed to attract investors to Nigeria. Permit me to ask this Banking Economy and CBN Sharia question. How many people in Nigeria living in USA, Canada, Australia, Britain, Germany, Switzerland, Japan, Hong Council: The Stand of the Issue Kong, or even in South Africa, etc., rely on Islamic banking to transact their fi- nances and economic interests? Have 1 Dr. Patrick Iroegbu such Nigerians, including Muslims from different Arab nations, lost their moral lives because they do not go to Islamic to use religion to monetize Nigerian banking machines and counters to do economy. It is the impact of science on business? Those I know have not. religious faith and belief that politicians Therefore, why is the role of the clergy, e-branding Nigeria, as a are often questioned about such concerns ordained persons, the Imams, charged to Rconcept, was commissioned to launder as abortion and killing. Politicians are minister to their followers in the the image of Nigeria abroad to re-connect made to show views that reflect their Mosques being taken over by the CBN? with and bring investors to it. Apparently stand on religious matters, humanity and There is an underlying critical religious this was the brainchild of the former society, in particular how they can deal agenda that is making the public nervous Minister of Information, Prof. Dora Ak- with related issues with their votes in the and therefore traumatized about the inyili. The vision of that politics of mar- legislative house. It is bizarre to waste move to establish and force Islamic bank- keting and its consequences in the con- our precious time debating religion and ing on Nigerians. The CBN Chief, Mr. text of re-branding are not likely to end banking in a circular state such as Nige- Sanusi Lamido Sanusi is under fire and soon. This time, it is being applied to the ria. Let religion, particularly Islamic re- will continue to promote the notion of banking domain to re-focus, re-launch, re ligion be left for those who worship in Islamic banking in Nigeria. I am sure he -baptize, re-faith, re-brand and re- Islamic tenets and find their identity now knows this to be so. Any writer feel- market Islamic religion and make it bear through it. What have non-religious per- ing the Islamic banking trauma and frus- fruit on the long warring footprint of the sons or church-going persons got to do tration as I currently do should not hesi- financial health and mood of Nigerians. with Islamic banking associated with non tate to let the anxiety out so that CBN Re-branding Nigeria can cause culture -interest elements? Is it not to exert a operators can listen and act right. Our shock – and even lead to disinvestment pull on them to convert and benefit from Federal Lawmakers – House of Reps and contrary to its original intent and ap- this ideologically motivated CBN’s Is- Senate -- should educate themselves and proach. I can see that adding up in the lamic religious instrument of give and work with the people they represent to re context of putting and prioritizing relig- conquer? What else can it be other than -fashion or kill the so-called Islamic ion above banking business life and cul- this? banking policy in Nigeria. Allowing Is- ture. It appears many observers, includ- It is also critical to observe some huge lamic banking in Nigeria is bigoted, short ing this writer, that the politics of bank- write-ups whose authors have put for- sighted and misleading and should be ing is central to everything else and that ward arguments for or against Islamic resisted by none Muslims in Nigeria. The the Central Bank of Nigeria if captured by banking in Nigeria in recent times. As only alternative as some bloggers and Muslims - will capture Nigerian psyche to alarming as the articles are, one is start- tweeters including this writer would like convert to Islam. That is to say, in the ing to get more worried whether polariz- to have is to rename it and disassociate long run of Islamic banking, if it is al- ing Nigeria with religion is all we can the non-interest banking from any form lowed, will be modelled to lay claim to now put our energies to. Of the write-ups of religious canons and incentives. Nigerian plural religious diversity in its as I have observed, it seems to me, entirety and declare it as a financially Apparently, reading some news reports though, that there is an underlying pow- conquered Islamic state. in some Nigerian online dailies, one will erful message we ought to take note of come across reports showing the mood Can the religious players in the field of and painfully understand. That message and anxiety of Nigerians. One of such Nigerian financial economy hear us? De- is that ‘there is something fundamentally arguments was taken by Journalist Omoh tach religious faith from politics so that wrong with using religion to play mone- Gabriel’s report in Vanguard online edi- our elected leaders will know that they tary and banking policy politics in Nige- tion (see Monday, August 1, 2011). have a job to do – to research, connect ria’. Why is using Islamic religion to be Omoh’s report was captioned: and debate issues and shape the educa- considered the right thing to do in ar- “Guidelines for non-interest banking tion and development of Nigerians and ranging our banking system? Operators require a Shariah Council within the Nigeria. I do not think that we elect poli- of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) CBN”. With this, it becomes not only ticians to go and debate religion and how should think big and global and position clearer but also disturbing to understand

some of the hidden notes of turning the that “What the Apex Bank has failed to tary false path. Can he hear us and heal Nigerian apex bank into a religious wing- disclose is the guideline for non-interest our mental stresses on this entire non flyer and wind-mobile for Nigeria. The banking that requires the CBN to set up a gambling Islamic crusade on banking one orchestrated tennis player and um- Sharia Council within the Apex Bank”; and development in Nigeria as it is sup- pire who is turning our necks from left to which reads as follows, "There shall be an posed to? right in all of this is the CBN Governor advisory committee on non-interest Furthermore, I have had the chance to Mr. Sanusi Lamido Sanusi. No wonder banking within the CBN to be called the comment on Salim Salihu Muhammed’s therefore that the idea of an Islamic CBN Sharia Council (CSC), which article of August 1, 2011, captioned banking policy rightly provoke religious will be out-sourced. That is to say, the “Sustaining Competition in Banking Re- fears with respect to the public interest CSC shall advise the CBN on Islamic laws forms”. The pointer came with the claim and the need to protect bank users, espe- and principles for the purposes of regu- that "the Islamic banking will encourage cially given recent events in Nigeria. lating non-interest banking business." It the mass public (90 percent) of banking is unfortunate to say how the setting up According to Omoh Gabriel, the CBN customers with zero based banking prod- of such Sharia Council to operate as a Governor, has been lacking the courage ucts that will boost free enterprise, and in Counsellor or Advisor to CBN with a long to come out plainly and speak the under- turn reduce unemployment". It should term expectation to transform Nigeria lying truth-hood and falsehood associ- not be quickly forgotten that Islamic re- into an Islamic State is cowardly hidden ated with the Islamic banking or so- ligion is feared by Non-Muslims in Nige- from media publicity and transmission to called non-interest banking or non- ria; it is doubtful how the hostility it or- other religious denominations in Nigeria. gambling crusade. In his report, Omoh chestrates will augur well with making I am thinking that if the so-called Islamic cautioned that “The debate going on financial banking a peaceful culture to banking is true and fair to its intentions, about whether the non-interest banking promote stable investment, uplift spiritu- a multi-religious council to advocate for is religious would not have arisen if Nige- ality as well as enhance ethical and ethnic CBN would have been the better take for rians had taken the pains to go through harmony. The unstable violent religious it. the guidelines the CBN circulated and relationship that exists casts doubt on posted on its website before issuing li- It is important to reiterate the fact that a how to win about 90 percent of Nigerians cences to those who applied for the intro- non-interest bank as it should be said, vis to buy Islamic banking products both in duction of the non-interest bank in the -a-vis Islamic banking in this respect will the short and long terms. I have tried to country”. But how many Nigerians read be, as provided in the CBN’s guideline, "a show that no matter how it is argued, the CBN’s website or can access the non-interest bank for Muslims only, Islamic banking will by this writer’s own Internet? This is a view not weighed on which means a bank which transacts estimation promote Nigerians to convert the level of access Nigerians have to elec- banking business, engages in trading, to Islam and benefit up to 90% of zero tronic governance and posting of infor- investments and commercial activities, as participation requirements. And that is mation on policy and the banking system well as the provision of financial products exactly what religion and spirituality is in Nigeria. This reporter further stated and services in accordance with the prin- all about. Religion must be able to offer that “It becomes a deliberate insult on ciples and rules of Islamic commercial to its adherents risk free and puritan the collective intelligence of Nigerians jurisprudence." Furthermore, that it is a dimension from interest gambling and when the National Assembly, which is banking activity where "transactions and therefore elevate them to feel that they supposed to be the voice of the people contracts under this type of banking are have gained freedom to enter into para- that elected them, could not engage the non-permissible if they involve: interest; dise. The substantive point is that Nigeria CBN Governor when he appeared before uncertainty or ambiguity relating to the can offer the needed banking products them” recently to explain what non- subject matter, terms or conditions; gam- without tying it to religion, unlike Islamic interest banking portfolio is all about for bling; speculation; unjust enrichment; or banking. I have asked, “Why not?”. I will the entire Nigerians and friends of Nige- exploitation/unfair trade practices." continue so to ask. ria, if it is not a serious religious crusade. My take on the run down of this dis- I have also found it interesting to stress And moreover, that “The guidelines put course based on Mr. Omoh’s analysis is that we commonly understand that Presi- forward by the CBN for setting up a non- that the CBN Governor has got a lot of dent Olusegun Obasanjo approved Nige- interest bank indicate very clearly that it explaining to do. It has just begun. Will ria’s full membership of the Islamic De- is an Islamic banking concept to be ad- he be able to face and douse the anger velopment Bank (IDB); which I think in ministered according to Islamic jurispru- and trauma raised by his Islamic banking itself does not convert Nigeria and Nige- dence”. imbroglio or embarrassing and trauma- rians to come to terms with Islamic bank- “Religion”, as Karl Marx once said, “is the tizing situation? And will he coura- ing conditions. It then goes to say that his opium of the masses”. It radicalizes and geously attend to Nigerians, particularly move can help drive home the point that has every potential to do harm or peace. none Muslims with the need to reduce IDB can do more. Other than limited Religious banking of any sect can do all the critical bias and misguided policy in development programs and to appease of the above especially when it is fraught the field of religious faith, commerce and the Muslims who sought for it as a politi- with red iron light to segregate, burn and economic development? Nigeria is not an cal gift from President Obasanjo, I would kill rather than coalesce, illuminate and option for Sanusi now and Nigeria can- suggest that IDB may go ahead and offer inspire harmony and growth. Journalist not be re-arranged and re-branded banking products to Muslims in Nigeria Omoh has put this well when he argued through a lopsided religious and mone- for whom it is intended to enhance.

Whether at this juncture the proponents of Islamic banking will agree or disagree, one thing we ought to know is that religious banking will become tragic and therefore is unripe for Nigeria unlike other religious based institutions such as universities and colleges.

In general, the anxiety Islamic faith banking system is raising in Nigeria and among Nigerians abroad is enough to advise and call the back- ers to order. Is there any good reason why non-interest banking cannot be offered without processing it along religious rhetoric in Nigeria? If non-interest banking is what we are explained it can offer, banks in Nigeria can non-religiously customize it accordingly and serve the public without the faith based fanfare. By so doing, Nigeria’s apex bank can be saved from this prevailing religious attitude and polarizing approach so as to focus on finding more useful ways to develop Nigeria.

Dr. Iroegbu is a commentator on social and cultural issues, as well as past President of ICAE and can be reached at [email protected]

NOTIFICATION OF NAME CHANGE

I, previously known as Nnanna Ebele OKERE do hereby notify the general public that my legal name is now Innocent Ahukanna DOMINIC and do wish to be referred to accordingly. The general public should take notice!

Dr. Brendan C. Ihejirika1

Many people have always been asking me inhibitor of substance P, a neuropeptide cooked white rice also have a neutralizing why I like pepper and my food spiced to associated with inflammatory processes. effect on the natural alkaloids of capsai- the max each time we meet for social The hotter the pepper, the more capsaicin. Alcoholic beverages are just about gatherings. My response has always been cin it contains. The hottest varieties in- the worst thing to drink when consuming that I just love it and my food does not clude the Cameroon pepper, habanero hot peppers because they tend to increase taste the same without it. However, upon and Scotch bonnet peppers. Jalapenos the absorption rate of capsaicin within further research I found out that pepper are next in their heat and capsaicin con- the body. has very many health benefits other than tent, followed by the milder varieties, Peppers have a bad--and mistaken-- making my food taste better. In this arti- including Spanish pimentos, and Ana- reputation for contributing to stomach cle, I will try to explain the chemical heim and Hungarian cherry peppers. The ulcers. Not only do they not cause ulcers, properties found in peppers and their properties of the hot peppers are the rea- they can help prevent them by killing health implications. sons why it is beneficial to our health. In bacteria you may have ingested, while a document that appeared in 1493 to- Some very famous people Like Hillary stimulating the cells lining the stomach gether with Columbus' travels, the hot Clinton like her food hot. She swears by to secrete protective buffering juices. pepper is said to be a spice. hot peppers for energy and good health. Pepper does not just burn your tongue, But some decidedly don't like it hot, Originating from Central and South tummy and the rest of them down the Queen Elizabeth II for one. Christopher America and Africa, the hot pepper is path, it burns the diseases, the bacteria, Columbus was one of the first Europeans nowadays cultivated worldwide for its the bad mood, and helps our body boost to encounter them (in the Caribbean), food and therapeutic qualities. It has got its level of immunity. Here are the other and called them "peppers" because they, different variants, both with a sweet taste health benefits of pepper. like black and white pepper of the Piper and especially with a hot taste. Explorer genus known in Europe, have a spicy hot Ferdinand Magellan is credited with in- Peppers for your Prostate. Good taste unlike other foodstuffs. troducing peppers into Africa and Asia, news Gentlemen! Researchers found that continents that have since incorporated when they applied capsaicin to prostate The potent chemical found in hot pep- them into their cuisines and pharma- cancer cells, they were able to trigger cell pers is called capsaicin. This is the sub- copeias. Peppers are now grown on all death and slow down tumour growth. A stance that puts fire on your tongue and continents; however, China, Turkey, Ni- recent study found that increased con- maybe even a tear in your eye when you geria, Spain and Mexico are among the centration of capsaicin, the compound eat spicy/hot Mexican, simmering largest commercial producers. that makes peppers hot, caused more Szechuan, smoldering Indian, or torrid prostate cancer cells to freeze in a non- Thai food. They belong to the family of The best antidotes to combat the fire of proliferative phase. Researchers con- foods bearing the Latin name Capsicum. hot peppers are dairy products such as cluded that capsaicin had a severe anti- This stuff can survive both cooking and milk, yogurt, or even ice cream. Starchy proliferative action on human prostate freezing processes. Capsaicin is a potent foods like white bread, mashed potato or 31

cancer cells in culture. The cancer cells ies of pain management for diabetic neu- up the nose, will offer some sufferers literally committed suicide. In addition, ropathy have listed the benefits of topical effective migraine relief. capsaicin lessens the expression of pros- capsaicin to alleviate disabling pain asso- Mood Elevation tate-specific antigen (PSA), inhibits the ciated with this condition. In a double- ability of the most potent form of testos- blind placebo controlled trial, nearly 200 Capsaicin triggers the brain to kick out terone, dihydrotestosterone, to activate patients with psoriasis were given topical flood of endorphins, those natural pain PSA, and directly inhibits PSA transcrip- preparations containing either capsaicin killers that promote a sense of well being tion, causing PSA levels to plummet. or placebo. Patients who were given cap- and stimulation which are released when saicin reported significant improvement performing aerobic exercise. Hot Peppers Zesty Decongestants for Flu or Res- based on a severity score which traced increase endorphin production – those piratory Problems. You know the feel- symptoms associated with psoriasis. In mood-elevating substances Endorphins ing: you bite into something spicy, and the same way that your mouth's pain are natural opiates. your nose starts running. Call it the spicy receptors can get desensitized, nerve sniffles. Capsaicin, the part of peppers Lose Weight receptors in the body can also be desensi- that gives them their hotness, is an irri- tized. This is the theory behind using tant. When it hits your nose, throat, or The best way to shed weight fast capsaicin and pepper extracts as pain lungs, it stimulates secretions and loos- and naturally (besides getting proper relievers. ens up mucous. Eating hot peppers can nutrition & exercise) is to increase your metabolism. Having a faster metabolism reduce the discomfort of the flu (in part, Hot “heart” helpers and its Cardio- is what will help you lose pounds, burn by promoting sweating). It also opens vascular Benefits clogged breathing passages, and func- fat, and so much more. What's even bet- Red, yellow, green, chili peppers, such as tions as an effective expectorant. That's ter is that you will be doing so consis- cayenne, have been shown to reduce pretty hot & ‘cool’: you can get a yummy tently, quickly, and permanently. All that blood cholesterol, triglyceride levels, and plate of enchiladas and relief from your heat you feel after eating hot and chili platelet aggregation, while increasing the stuffy nose! peppers takes energy--and calories to body's ability to dissolve fibrin, a sub- produce. Even sweet red peppers have Pathogen Protection. Because of the stance integral to the formation of blood been found to contain substances that modern fusion of global cuisines, you can clots. Research Studies have shown that significantly increase thermogenesis now find the vibrant, waxy-skinned pep- cultures where people enjoy lots of food (heat production) and oxygen consump- pers of the capsicum family in foods all laced with spicy flavour and hot pepper tion for more than 20 minutes after they over the world. This wasn't always the have a much lower rate of heart attack, are eaten. case. Native to the Caribbean and the stroke and pulmonary embolism. Could Herpes Simplex Americas, these peppers have long been capsaicin be the heart-helping ingredi- Application of the topical capsaicin added to foods, and not just for their ent? Many researchers think so! spicy/pungent flavor. It's now thought cream Zostrix helps to reduce Herpes High Blood Pressure that the heat of the peppers protects Simplex flare-ups. A fresh, cut-up pepper Researchers once thought that capsaicin those who eat it from food-borne patho- is applied to the area in question. Erup- would send blood pressure sky-high, but gens and microbes, which thrive very tions are usually gone within 24 hours the opposite could be true. The consump- well in warmer tropical climates. (as compared to 12 – 14 days if left un- tion of hot peppers increases peripheral treated). This treatment may also work Sweltering Source of antioxidants. circulation and lowers blood pressure. on shingles (Herpes Zoster). You wouldn't think a kiwi fruit would Peppers, high in vitamins A and C and Overactive Bladder/Incontinence have much in common with a bell pep- bioflavonoid (all necessary nutrients for Capsaicin dripped into the bladder by per. But they are both fruits (peppers healthy cell growth), help strengthen catheter desensitizes hyperirritable, aber- may not taste like fruits, but they are!), blood vessel walls. This helps the vessel rant neurons in the bladder for extended and they're both mega sources of vitamin walls to become more elastic and better periods of time. This activity blocks the C. In fact, raw bell peppers provide more able to adjust to differences in blood premature bladder contractions which vitamin C than pretty much any other pressure. Peppers are also excellent scav- cause an unpredictable loss of urine. food. As for vitamin A, bell peppers rank engers of free radicals; provide a momen- right up there with the darker leafy tary boost to the metabolic system; and Immunity Booster greens, like kale and spinach. Cayenne the sweating which occurs while eating The bright colors of peppers are a signal peppers, better known as the red hot hot peppers causes a loss of fluid, which pepper, are bursting with these two anti- temporarily reduces overall blood vol- of its high content of beta-carotene or pro oxidant vitamins. Red bells also contain ume. -vitamin A. Just two teaspoons of red lutein, an antioxidant that helps to pro- chili peppers provide about 6% of the Cluster Headaches and Migraines tect your eyes from macular degenera- daily value for vitamin C coupled with Zostrix (a commercially available product tion. more than 10% of the daily value for vita- & a topical capsaicin cream), has been min A. Searing pain soother and a Natural found to relieve the pain of cluster head- Lower Risk of Type 2 Diabetes Pain Reliever - Topical capsaicin is aches when applied inside the nostrils now a recognized treatment option for 2x/day. Research is on-going for mi- Making pepper a frequently enjoyed osteoarthritis pain. Several review stud- graine treatment, but one researcher spice in your Healthiest Way of Eating

could help Lots of peo- reduce your ple avoid risk of high pepper and blood levels spicy food of insulin —a because they disorder associated with type 2 diabetes. they could worsen the effect of the dis- say it gives them indigestion or heart- In a study published in the July 2006 eases, considering that they are irritating. burn, or because their tongues just can't issue of the American Journal of Clinical take the heat. Capsaicin can be a shock to 1. If you bite off more heat than you Nutrition, Australian researchers found your system at first, but over time, you can handle, drink milk. The protein that the amount of insulin required to can get used to it. in milk will put out the fire. lower blood sugar after a meal is reduced In conclusion, if your health permits - if the meal contains hot or chilly pepper. 2. Always thoroughly wash your hands and if your tongue can take it - you really When pepper-containing meals are a after handling hot peppers and avoid should try acquiring the taste for one regular part of the diet, insulin require- putting your fingers anywhere near certain sort of spicy peppers from the ments drop even lower. Again, pepper’s your eyes & other sensitive mem- capsicum family, including cayenne and beneficial effects on insulin needs get branes. chili, and even the sweeter, less-spicy even better as body mass index (BMI, a 3. Stand clear if you're cooking with range of colourful bell peppers. You don’t measure of obesity) increases. In over- peppers. Cooking can release some have to be a hot pepper enthusiast to weight people, not only do pepper- of the qualities into the air, which enjoy its health benefits. All forms of containing meals significantly lower the irritate your eyes and throat, too. pepper offer some if not all of the health amount of insulin required to lower benefits of the super-hot! blood sugar levels after a meal, but pep- 4. Some studies have also suggested per-containing meals also result in a that eating hot peppers too often References Available upon Request lower ratio of C-peptide/ insulin, an indi- may increase your risk of stomach to [email protected] cation that the rate at which the liver is cancer.

clearing insulin has increased. 5. Symptoms of certain conditions , Caution: Handle the Hot Pepper “heat/ including menopause symptoms, hotness” with care: heartburn, and migraines can also be triggered sometimes by eating very Consuming hot peppers is forbidden in hot/spicy foods various stomachs, liver, urinary tracts disorders and in hemorrhages, because

1Dr. Brendan C. Ihejirika is the President of PharmaCare Solutions Intl Corp based in Edmonton, Canada. Prior to his entrepreneurial venture, Dr. Ihejirika served as a Di- rector of the University Hospital Clinic Pharmacy and a professor at the Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Alberta. Dr. Ihejirika is also ICAE’s founding Secretary and former President 33

the North targeting the Igbos. Shops were destroyed, people killed and dumped on the roadside. There were eneral Dim Chukwuemeka Odu- killings at motor parks and in the train Gmegwu Ojukwu, Eze-Igbo gburu gburu stations as the Igbos struggled to escape. was born on 1st November 1933 at Unger, Dead bodies and injured Igbos started Northern Nigeria. He schooled in Nigeria arriving in the East. In Lagos some till the age of 14 years, when he was sent school teachers were dragged out of to boarding school in England -Eton Col- school and killed. People started visiting lege and later attended Oxford University some Igbo officials at night and slaugh- where he earned his BA in history. He tering them. Igbo officials in Lagos Chief (Dr.) EzejiOkoye spoke five languages fluently, Igbo, started not to sleep in their houses for to crush Biafra in 48 hours. The war Hausa, Yoruba, English and French. fear of the nocturnal butchers lasted 30 months. On his return to Nigeria from the United For a time my family and I were sleeping When the war Kingdom, he ended our great served as the leader went into District Officer a 14 year self- in Udi, Umuahia THE LIFE AND TIMES OF THE imposed exile in and Awka Divi- Cote d'Ivoire. On sion, now Anam- PEOPLES GENERAL: his return to bra State. He Nigeria he has did not serve remained the long in the civil Ikemba Nnewi, Dim Chukwuemeka Igbo leading service but went figure in their to join the army Odumegwu Ojukwu fight for equal as the only uni- rights and to versity graduate 1 Dr. Ezeji Okoye stop the margin- military officer. alization of the In 1965, there was a general election in Igbos. He has spoken without fear, about at the convent where my wife taught until Nigeria. The massive vote rigging that what is actually wrong with the govern- the nuns warned us that since they have took place resulted in unrest throughout ance of Nigeria. With the present Boko Hausa watch nights, they might reveal Nigeria but more so in the Western Re- Haram in the north killing the Igbos and our presence which might result in our gion. The country as a whole was adrift demanding that they leave the North, demise. At this point I and eight other and people were praying for a miracle. there has been no strong Igbo protest physicians decided to escape back to the That miracle came in the form of the from any of our present leaders. His East, with the full pogrom taking place famous coup d’état of January 1966 led death at this time has left a big vacuum in the North and Igbos fleeing from all by Major Chukwuma Kaduna Nzeogwu that is difficult to fill. other parts of Nigeria without any pro- that saw the government change from tection whatsoever from the authorities. As we mourn the huge loss of Dim Chuk- civilian to military with General Ironsi as wuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu, the the Head of State in Lagos. Ojukwu became a legend when circum- Ikemba of Nnewi, our condolences go to stances thrust upon him the leadership of General Ironsi then appointed Lt. Col. his family. He was a figure of major im- Biafra. As you know from history Ojukwu Fajuyi to govern the Western Region, Lt. portance in the history of Nigeria. The never started the war and never sup- Col. Hassan Usman Katsina the North, story of his life holds an important sym- ported the killing of anybody. He en- Lt. Col. Ejoor the mid-West and Lt. Col. bolism that should be understood in the couraged the Igbos not to seek reprisals. Ojukwu the Eastern Region. In July efforts to cement Nigerian Unity. Ojukwu He never supported any coup, either the 1966, my cousin Major (later Col.) was the center pillar of Igboland, a kind first or the counter coup. General Orogbu got married at Apapa, Lagos. His man, a charitable man, a friendly man, Ojukwu made all efforts to reconcile with close friend Lt .Col. Gowon was his best and a man with big heart. The tallest and Nigeria but failed. He negotiated the man and the toastmaster for the bache- greatest Iroko tree of Igboland has fallen. Aburi Accord in January 1967 as a way lors. We danced and drank not knowing You have fallen but you still live on in our forward, but when Gowon and the Fed- that a week later Gowon’s counter coup hearts. Alas, it is true that our great eral Government reneged on the agree- would see almost all the Igbo Officers at leader has passed on to eternal rest. ment for a looser Federation, he had no the head table dead. Gowon was now the choice but to succumb to the pressures of MAY HIS SOUL REST IN PERFECT Head of State. his people for a state of our own. Biafra PEACE! After the Gowon coup in July 1966, there was born on May 1967 and then the Fed- was lawlessness and rioting throughout eral Government went to war promising

Chief (Dr.) Ezeji-Okoye Practiced medicine in Nigeria during the war and in Canada post civil war and writes from Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.

Chris Aniedobe

Avoid making unfounded accusations of anyone, Neither lay devices to secure your life No matter how guilty you think they are. For even the best laid devices fail in time Be humble even in condemnation, And a man who trusts in himself worries much … and fails. It is a world of many infirmities. Above all be confident and less eager to think Be charitable with commendation, That it is a world full of conspirators. We all have strengths and weaknesses. No one has ever been killed by another Be reluctant to alienate anyone, Whom his God did not first kill You are not as good as you think you are … no one is. For those who trust in God fear no evil Be humble in showing how much you know, Even though they walk through the valley of death. Wisdom does not mean happiness, And when in time your own time comes, accept death And many wise people find instructions in the lives of the un- We all have to make room for others wise. Just as others made room for you. Show some humor, As it did not matter to you how they died, Life is not as serious as you sometimes portray it, It does not matter by what manner you too will die. And until the end of time, it will always be an imperfect world. As sad as it may appear, the earth will be just fine without you. Respect and honor the Church Not more is required than you play your part and move on Not because of the people in it, Whilst the earth remains as imperfect as it was meant to be. But because of who owns it. This is your story, this is your song. Be kind to those who make mistakes, This is the truth of your life set in perfect stone. Sooner or later you will make your own. As the Lord covers your sins, So be not so eager to uncover the sins of others. Even as an activist, be gentle and compassionate So that your own measure before God be not harsh. Understand that we are all passing through in an unreal life And many generations hence, The earth will exist as if none of us ever lived. And the Sun will keep rising to mark the days of a renewed earth. Be cheerful for your own good But do not seek to be happy over much For the pursuit of happiness is itself a burden. Do not hope for a well provided life, Why must your life be uninteresting?

disrepute to Nigeria and Nigerians by investing heavily in keep wondering these countries by Iwhy Nigeria cannot move STATE OF OUR NIGERIA way of buying big forward after 50 years of and luxury homes political independence, over there, paying even though we are abun- taxes to foreign na- dantly endowed with natu- NATION tions as well as spon- ral resources, adequate sor their children manpower, and notable and children’s chil- intellectuals scattered all dren to attend ex- over the world. How is it Udemezue Ugochukwu pensive schools that we cannot excel high abroad and buy above far less endowed economies? Per- a result the people are not law abiding or them expensive cars and homes of their haps, our failure is traceable to our nu- patriotic. own to live, just to mention a few. These merous problems, prominent among politicians and businessmen and women Recently, I was in Nigeria for a brief them being “lack of patriotism”. do not seem to emulate anything good study, and to collect some data for my and install them in Nigeria. In Malaysia According to Dictionary.com, the term degree thesis. I encountered several peo- for instance, what they do is to go to Ja- patriotism means “devoted love, support, ple and experienced some ugly occur- pan, China, Europe and America’s to and defense of one's country; national rences in the course of my visit. In one of copy ideas of community and national loyalty”. This definition suggests that my encounters, I entered an office where development. Back in Malaysia, they majority of Nigerians today are not patri- I went to sign a document. After I was gather these ideas together into one fold otic. But why do we the hate our beloved told the processes involved, I filled the and call it theirs. Today, Malaysia, even “Fatherland”? Sometimes I hear people form that was given to me and in the ad- though a growing economy like ours, is condemning the “Colonial Masters” for dress area, I mistakenly wrote my Cana- far ahead of Nigeria in terms of economic bringing different people (Hausa, Igbo, dian residence address (which I development, technology advancement, Yoruba and Minorities) who have noth- dreaded), and the rest was story. In sur- environmental development and mainte- ing in common in terms of culture, be- prise, the officer in-charge exclaimed, nance, education, and has maintained liefs and tradition to become one nation. “Chinekeme, oshi alabekeooo; nnuk- stability in all grounds of national devel- In this respect, I must ask, “Is the fact wanum anu, Kanada” (My God, he came opment. Where are we today after 52 that we have social origins truly the prob- from overseas; seeooo, Canada). The years of self-rule and independence? lem or is lack of patriotism the right an- officer reverted and gave me a detailed swer? list of what I should bring before the Furthermore, the issue of power genera- document will be signed for me, since I tion is one of the biggest problems in I recall the years of military administra- came from overseas. Why should this be Nigeria after corruption. Nigeria, the tions and their coups when the Generals the order of the day in Nigeria? Nothing acclaimed Africa’s giant remains one of repeatedly reiterated their goal to change goes the way the government pro- the countries where electricity supply is Nigeria; to bring in a better Nigeria. But grammed it. In all facets of the country’s rationed. Presently, there are 3 existing they end up being worse than the previ- administrative offices, bribery and cor- hydroelectric stations with additions of 3 ous administration they usurped power ruption has gone into the marrows of more in 2012, 2015, and 2016. Non- from. We decried the military and officers and civil servants. In the private renewable power stations such as Afam blamed them so much for the birth of sector, there is no safe ground as corpo- and Egbin stations put together generate corruption in Nigeria. Well, it’s been thir- rate executives continue to loot monies to 1,740 Megawatts (MW) of electricity to teen (13) years since the dawn of democ- buy expensive four wheel drives and the people. These power stations supplies racy in Nigeria, what have we done to houses within and outside the shores of far below average electricity to end bribery and corruption? I was think- Nigeria. When will this end? Of course, 150,000,000 people in Nigeria. I will not ing that the birth of democracy will bring the answer is farfetched. go into the details of the benefits which the death and an end to these canker we are being deprived of by shortage of worms of bribery and corruption, in- Senior government officials, cabinet min- power supply including self-employment stead, it seems like it has replaced our isters, members of National Assembly, and manufacturing of products which beautiful national anthem “arise oh com- head of government paratatals, ministry investors have become so afraid of due to patriots, Nigeria calls to obey”. I noticed permanent secretaries, government con- liquidating power system in the country. that as bad governance of these admini- tractors, businessmen and women etc., While I was in Nigeria during my visit, I strations continue to be on the increase; travel oversees often. They buy and shop could not sleep well mostly at night due the masses in the society also grow in expensively in big shopping malls and to the incessant noise from toy genera- greed and avarice resulting to the spread stores abroad, but they bring absolutely tors around where I lived in the city and of mass corruption and bribery. There nothing of repute in terms of copying even in the village. Majority of the people are practically no checks and balances in those ideas they experience while abroad resort to individual electricity supply the country’s national government and as to Nigeria. Instead, they bring things of rather than relying on “up NEPA” slogan

they usually sing when NEPA decides to Nigerians learn to be patriotic. America was built by Americans, Britain have mercy on them. by the British, Australia by Australians, Germany It is shameful to the country by Germans, Canada by at large, but particularly, to Canadians, and Holland those in government, politi- by the Dutch. Our cians, and businessmen and women who go abroad for own fatherland Nigeria holidays, buys homes, and will be built by none other does some expensive pur- thank Nigerians both at chases for their families. home and in Diaspora. There are millions of gaping Therefore, let us put mouths to feed, roads to hands together and fight repair, salaries to be paid not as indivisible parts of and so much more to be tribes, ethnic groups, peo- done, yet, our leaders and ple of different cultures the well to do in the society and traditions, but as a travel overseas as big time people with common goal spenders. Tribalism, ethnic- and understanding. Let us ity, religious differences etc fight off the scavenger of are not our main problems. bribery and corruption for Our main and foremost posterity and for our fu- problem is corruption, ture generations to come. which if curbed will make

REGULATION OF DIRECT-TO-CONSUMER GENETIC TESTING (DCGT): PROTECTING THE PUBLIC OR RESTRICTING INNOVATION

Chinedu Ogbonna M.Sc., Certificate in Regulatory Affairs and Laboratory Quality Management, MLT

enomics research has evolved rapidly in the past decade; the consequence of this growth is that the translational tech- Gniques have outpaced the corresponding regulations. The burgeoning field of direct-to-consumer genetic testing (DCGT) has been triggered by swift advancement in genomic technology. Individuals now seek to control their medical information, rather than rely on their healthcare providers. The common concerns raised by healthcare professionals are: Does the genetic analysis done by start -up firms have enough predictive value for its subjects to take action? Are the results of tests communicated by persons authorized by the Health Profession Act? Are there regulatory frameworks and policies that ensure compliance of the testing facilities or the applicable techniques to best practices for testing and interpretation? Are the devices being used for these tests approved and regulated by the appropriate authorities? Single-Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs) as Risk Factors in Disease Development The general approach adopted by DCGT firms is to analyze parts of a chromosome known as single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), which are evolutionarily stable and useful for population studies, rather than the entire genome. This approach is based on the assumption that variation of the SNPs is associated with certain diseases, and supported by results of peer-reviewed scientific studies. Undoubtedly, SNPs are associated with certain diseases, but there is a strong likelihood that other yet unknown genes exist which might lower the risk of predisposition to these diseases. Most disease conditions are predicted by a complex combination of various factors, including genes, life-style patterns, epigenetic factors and environmental factors. This makes genetic testing very complex process. The main problem associated with the approach adopted by direct-to-consumer genetic testing firms is the limitations in the results of association studies that these predictions rely on. The sample sizes are often small and the claimed positive association is often not reproducible.. Furthermore, the majority of these studies use inadequate control groups -- the controls are not usually family-based to reduce population stratification, and the studies are conducted on diverse ethnic groups. SNPs can differ widely in different populations. Advertising and Communicating Direct-to-Consumer Genetic Testing Results Traditionally, diagnostic or genetic tests are ordered by healthcare providers who determine the clinical validity and utility of such tests and interpret the test results for consumers. However, DCGT can be advertised and sold directly to consumers, and the results of these tests released directly to consumers. This approach of releasing test results and advertisement has become subject of in- tense controversy. If the adverts for these tests are not regulated, there is a strong possibility that the claims could be embellished and exaggerated, causing panic and anxiety. Providers of DCGT have argued that their procedure does not equate with practicing diagnostic medicine, and that an individual should have the freedom to access their own DNA data without restriction. They also argue that DNA-analysis is not medical testing but personal genetic “informational services” and should be classified as over-the- counter tests. In my opinion, if the providers are telling people that they are likely to develop a severe disease condition, then this information should be assumed to be a medical advice and diagnosis. In most jurisdictions in Canada, communicating a diagnosis is controlled by Act and can only be performed by a person authorized by a Health Profession Act A majority of doctors still rely on people with adequate knowledge and training to provide quality genetic counseling to their patients who have undergone genetic tests. If doctors who have been highly trained require assistance in genetic counseling, then the level of ambiguity and complexity of information that consumers of DCGT are dealing with can only be imagined. What Regulations are in Place for Direct-to-Consumer Genetic Testing Kits and Facilities? Most regulations and guidelines on genetic testing were set up in the 1990s and there was no indication that genetic testing would

be offered directly to consumers. In the US, the federal government has oversight of In-Vitro Medical Devices (IVMD) and labora- tories perform these diagnostic tests under the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments of 1988 (CLIA) and the Federal Trade Commission Act (FTCA). The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) categorizes commercially marketed IVMDs in terms of their complexity, and assesses the safety, effectiveness, quality and design of these devices. CLIA regulations focus on the quality of the clinical testing process. This includes laboratory quality control. None of the genetic tests offered directly to consumers has undergone premarket review by FDA to ensure that the test results being provided to consumers are accurate, safe and clinically useful. Similarly, there has been no report of inspection of the sites where these genetic samples are processed to ensure compliance of their procedures to good laboratory practice. This includes home-use saliva collection kits that were being sold in several pharmacies in the US. These tests were intended to report the presence or risk of more than seventy health conditions, prescription medication response, and other information that will guide the consumers to modify their lifestyles, perhaps to live a healthier and longer life. In Canada, in-vitro diagnostic devices are regulated under the Food and Drugs Act (FDA), and as high-risk Class III medical devices if intended for genetic testing. Medical devices cannot be sold or imported without a license, and manufacturers need to provide evidence of safety and effectiveness of the device before approval. However, Health Canada has classified DCGT kits as personal kits which are neither prohibited by any statute, nor subject to federal regulation. Consequently, there is currently no li- censed over-the-counter in vitro diagnostic device for genetic testing in Canada. The only regulatory safeguard at this time would fall under the Customs Regulations which may restrict the importation of such kits, especially the ones ordered over the Internet. There is no doubt that genetic testing is a huge breakthrough in science and has a remarkable potential for preventive medicine. Direct-to-Consumer Genetic testing appears to be an excellent business model and would provide new business opportunities in pharmacogenomics and nutrigenomics if properly regulated. However, by considering the potential indirect harm that the consumers of DCGT might be exposed to; there is a strong need for a regulatory framework to protect consumers. At least the following minimum codes of practice should be defined: laboratory accreditation and proficiency testing requirements; qualification of staffs to interpret the results and offer counseling services; legislation to ensure enforcement of the appropriate claims; acceptable evidence of gene-disease association.

have fond but very unreliable Imemories of Ichokwu, a gut-splitting comedy program that ran for several seasons in the 80s on NTA Enugu. When I share stories about the show with others, I am usually unsure whether my recollec- tions are what actually transpired on the show, or just a continually evolving script that my adult mind has contrived to explain a childhood experience. Which all seems fitting, because my fondest memory of the show centres on the sub- Ubaka Ogbogu version of power, authority and testi- Assistant Professor and Katz Research Fellow, mony through the mediums of experience and opportunity. For me, to have Faculty of Law, University of Alberta seen and heard it, and to be the one to [email protected] interpret and tell it, means I can tell it my way. In Ichokwu, the narrative of colonial rule and power in Igboland is numerous Google searches), the court both can be marshaled as tools for resis- subverted years after the fact by clever clerk filtered the facts and verdict tance in the face of oppressive rule? Or scriptwriters and impeccable actors. Ac- through the lens of his own views and perhaps all this and more? cording to this subverted version, British beliefs, and sometimes with a little help Several years after the end of colonialism, colonization of customary law and justice from not-too-discreet bribes offered by I recall reflecting on these matters while was nothing but a farce: the white Dis- litigants. sitting in a customary court in some vil- trict Commissioner may have been the As with every good comedy, this result lage near Orlu, where, as a newly minted customary court judge, but real authority was sometimes unintentional; the clerk’s barrister, I was appearing on behalf of a lay in the hands of the bilingual Igbo poor grasp of the intricacies of the Eng- client. To practice customary law in mod- court clerk/interpreter, who transmitted lish language resulted in mistranslations ern day Nigeria, knowledge of local cus- translations of testimony and verdict and hilarious gaffes. But for the most toms is not a requirement. Instead, we between judge and litigants. The judge part, the clerk (or more precisely, the are taught in law school to help our cli- heard what the interpreter wanted him writers) knew exactly what he was doing. ents present their version of the facts, to hear, and the litigants got the verdict This was evident from how the clerk and more importantly, to ensure that the the interpreter wanted them to get. would argue incessantly with litigants customary rule we pray the court to apply In a typical episode of the show, litigants over facts, or stubbornly refuse to trans- is not “repugnant to natural justice, eq- appear before a customary court modeled late the District Commissioner’s com- uity and good conscience.” The latter after British district courts (but with a ments and commands. He would quite standard is a relic of colonial rule and colourful cast of characters that include a often get frustrated with the Commis- justice; it was invented by the British and witchdoctor, local chiefs in full attire, and sioner for failing to understand a ridicu- is essentially the same lens through an overzealous and power-obsessed court lously inaccurate translation offered in which the District Commissioner as- messenger who doubled as court en- broken English, and commence a long sessed and applied customary law in forcer) to resolve a dispute involving the invective-laced rant in Igbo against the Ichokwu. Today, the standard remains, interpretation and application of local clueless white man (played by a light- and is relied on by lawyers and judges to customs and norms. As each side pre- skinned Igbo actor), much to the enjoy- assess the legitimacy of a customary law sented their case in the local dialect, the ment of the audience. rule (or as I see it, as reason to substitute court clerk would translate for the Dis- opinion and belief for custom). It seemed Throughout my legal career, I have re- trict Commissioner, and would do the deeply ironic to me at that time (and still mained deeply fascinated with trying to same with the District Commissioner’s does) that even as we celebrate the recla- understand the logic of the court clerk (or comments for the benefit of the litigants mation of our cultural identity and inde- writers’) reaction to colonial justice. Was and audience. The show featured numer- pendence from colonial hands by having it to point out the fallacies in the notion ous hilarious moments, both in the story Nigerians preside over customary justice, that an ignorant but powerful white man lines of the dispute and in the interac- and as we mock the misguided legacy of could preside over Igbo customary jus- tions between litigants, court officials colonial rule through programs like tice? Or an attempt to right the wrong of and the audience. However, the comedic Ichokwu, we have not fully come to terms colonial rule by turning the narrative of highlight was the court clerk’s role. with how that legacy is deeply embedded subjugation and racial superiority on its Played by an astute and highly talented in our modern cultural psyche. head? Or a testimony to the power of character actor (whose name I cannot language and opportunity, and to how Over the years, I have come to realize recall, and have been unable to find in

that my relationship with Ichokwu points to a higher calling of prior importance: and reenergize this history. I consider the resources and opportunity to pursue the need to rescue our cultural history this a matter of some importance, mainly these sorts of projects, but also serves up (and more specifically, the history of pre- because I think an interest in our past is some frustrations (I have been trying to colonial justice) from the messy imper- something of a lost art among Igbos. Be- locate the Ichokwu recordings for the fection of memory. As a legal academic ing in Diaspora (away from the “only my past two years to no avail). Still, there’s interested in legal history, I feel a sense daily bread” mentality that living in Nige- reason to persist, if only to save my fam- of mission to find, evaluate, disseminate ria tends to inspire) affords many of us ily and friends from the messy logic of

where and what they eat and drink. But Consequently, community projects in the growing up in the village, and having villages across the South-East are suffer- returned from the city after leaving the ing great setbacks. If the situation contin- t has been couple of years now village for years, I did not witness this, ues unchecked, it will just be a matter of Isince the spate of kidnapping for ransom and it was not something that deterred time for the community development was added to the layer of insecurity in the people from trooping to the villages dur- gains in the South-East villages to be South-East of Nigeria. Prior to this addi- ing festive periods. People used to leave reversed. In the cities such as Aba, it had tion, a sense of insecurity felt by the peo- the doors of their homes open, and go to threatened to cripple business activities. ple of South-East was mainly from armed visit neighbors without fear of insecurity. These are some of the many ugly conse- robbery and road accidents. Since this Armed robbery was more of a city and a quences of this new layer of insecurity in new layer was introduced, all the five highway incident than that of a village. the South-East that the people have been states in the South-East have witnessed forced to live with. However, this new layer of insecurity is incidents of this crime that alarmed vic- more felt in the villages than in the cities The nature of this crime is so horrible tims, close and distant observers, and today. It is scaring away people who live and the frequency of its occurrence even

in the cities and the diaspora from re- makes it more frightening. Since kidnap- governments. Most of the stories of this turning to their villages to enjoy a quieter ping was introduced in the South-East, it crime have left people in shock and dis- and more peaceful environment. People has made fear the common companion of belief, and a lot of people are very angry are no longer enthused to travel to the most people especially those perceived to at the turn this has taken with no end in villages in the South-East for fear of be- be in the middle and upper classes. When sight. Individuals have been traumatized, ing kidnapped. Those who live outside this crime was launched, Abia State be- families have been devastated, communi- the country that, out of necessity, have to came a major focus. Businesses in Aba ties have been weakened and wrecked, travel home to the South-East are been took a great hit. Many business men and and governments seem confused and advised to stay in the city and avoid the women were targeted for kidnapping, inadequate in the face of this ugly trend villages for fear of being noticed easily in and indeed were kidnapped for ransom. just to say the least! This article applies a the village. Even those who have built big Ransom was paid in millions of naira in critical assessment of the menace with a homes in the village are afraid to stay in almost all the cases. Some victims sur- view to offering some alternative strate- their own homes whenever they visit. vived the ordeal while others were not so gies for addressing the challenge. Some have contracted the services of lucky. Within a short period of time, In the past, most of the violent crimes security personnel to guide them and many businesses in Aba were shut down, were committed in the city, and the vil- their family member throughout their and business owners were forced to relo- lages in rural areas were relatively peace- stay in the village. The impact of this new cate to Lagos or other areas outside of the ful. Security of life and property was not state of affairs is gradually being felt. South-East. It took the combined efforts part of what people in the villages were of the police and the army (the Joint Throughout Igboland (South-Eastern concerned about. The village was a place Taskforce) to bring the situation in Abia Nigeria) self-help community projects to go when one wants to get away from State to normalcy after one of the notori- are crucial to community development. the hassles of life in the city. During fes- ous kidnapping gang leaders, Osisi- Communities and villages organize fund- tivities, people dreamt of the opportunity kankwu, was tracked down, shot and raising initiatives in which money is do- to travel to villages in order to celebrate killed on December 2010. But since then, nated openly in a competitive manner to with their people and communities in a it seems the stage of the assault by these execute projects. But today, given the loving, peaceful environment. One thing faceless hoodlums has shifted to spate of kidnapping for ransom, most I have heard people say that made vil- neighboring Imo State, and sometimes people would no longer honor invitations lages in the South-East somewhat less Anambra State. The list of kidnapping for such open fundraising, and would not attractive to some people in the city was incidents has continued to grow in Imo be willing to donate large sum of money the rumored diabolical practices by few State from the time of the administration for fear of exposing themselves to kid- old people in the villages who could poi- of Governor Ikedi Ohakeem to the pre- nappers. Their donations could become son a successful person returning from sent administration of Chief Rochas an attraction for kidnappers who would the city. For that reason, there used to be Okorocha. In most of the cases in Imo like to abduct them and subsequently a note of caution to people traveling to State Kidnappers collected ransom and demand large sums of money for ransom. the village so that they would be cautious killed their victims in circumstances that

tingles the ears that hear about them. For not trust the police to do their job profes- been collected. With provision of this space, the stories cannot be retold here. sionally without being compromised. new law in mind, a kidnapper who sus- That is why they would tell the victims pects that his victim may have known his The question in the mind of many people and their family members never to con- identity or may give a clue as to how he is what can be done to stop this cancer tact the police, and they would obey until could be apprehended would prefer not from spreading further and further? Un- it was too late. Whether it is just a rumor to allow the victim live. As a rational ac- fortunately, the strategies adopted by the or a fact, the story that highlighted a sce- tor, he would know that he has more to governments of the South-Eastern states nario in which a kidnapped victim con- lose if he lets his victim go with possible have been reactionary at best. That is tacted the police after his abductors re- evidence that would potentially link him why irrespective of such strategies, the leased him, and lied to the police about to a crime punishable with death! But if menace has continued unabated espe- how much he paid in ransom only for the the penalty for the crime was less, say 20 cially in Imo State. Although there have kidnappers to call him back after a while years in prison, the perpetrator may not been few instances where the police ar- and told him that he lied to the police be so inclined in killing the victim as a rested or killed suspected kidnappers, it about how much ransom he paid. This way of destroying potential evidence that has not curbed the menace. One reac- kind of story is easily believed by the links him to the crime. Since there al- tionary strategy that every state in the public who fears that the bad elements in ready exists a law that recommends South-East has adopted is the passing of the police force may be covertly working death penalty for murder, if a kidnapper legislation that makes kidnapping a with the kidnappers. In this kind of mis- kills his victim and happens to be appre- crime punishable by death which effec- trust environment, the kidnappers have hended, he will be prosecuted with the tiveness is under question. No carefully minimized the risk of being confronted already existing murder law. The state thought-out proactive strategy has so far by the police since their victims’ families does not need a new law in such case. been adopted in places like Imo, Anam- are not likely to contact the police. The new legislation would have targeted bra, Enugu and Ebony States. The Abia the confiscation of perpetrators’ and their State measure has yielded positive result Second, the willingness of the victim’s accomplices’ property and any proceed due to the constant presence of the mili- family to pay ransom serves as a high from the crime in addition to a maximum tary in the area mostly affected. The aim incentive for the crime. So far, of 20 years in jail assuming that the kid- of this article is to highlight new strate- “successful” kidnappers have become napped did not die as a result of being gies to solving this problem that have the millionaires overnight thanks to the ran- kidnapped. It is the recommendation of potential for maximum positive result. som being paid out. Being rational actors, this paper that the offices of the Attor- Most articles written about kidnapping in those who kidnap for ransom would find neys-General of the five South-Eastern the South-East have been descriptive in the crime unattractive if the likelihood of States should, as a matter of urgency, approach; telling the gory stories of the paying ransom is diminished. In that send proposals for an amendment of this victims and lamenting about the sad de- case, kidnapping can only happen if kid- new law to their various states’ Legisla- velopment. Articles that critically assess nappers have been hired and paid by tive Assemblies. the menace and proffer workable solu- someone to commit the crime, which was tions to the challenge are almost non- the case in the past when it was never Fourth, governments should be proactive existent. This is the gap this article aims rampant. But to tell a victim’s family not and intentional in their effort to combat to fill. There are critical observations to pay ransom without giving them the the menace. It is time for all the state worthy of making in order to proffer ef- support adequate enough to believe that governments in the South-East to inau- fective solution to this challenge. something is being done to save their gurate a joint taskforce (JTF) of the po- loved one may not be productive either. lice and the military with capacity for First, it should be noted that those com- But with trusted police cooperation, the collecting intelligence and acting on such mitting this crime are human beings and ransom can serve as a trap to catch the in a timely manner. The JTF team should also rational actors. They would like to kidnappers. The victim’s family needs to be composed of police and military offi- minimize risks while maximizing gains. be sensitized and properly advised to cers of proven integrity (through thor- So, the incentive for this crime lies in the understand that if the kidnappers intend ough background check and history of fact that the perpetrators have so far suc- to kill their loved one, they would do so non-compromise behavior) whose iden- ceeded in maximizing gains while mini- regardless of the ransom paid. It would tity should be protected. The government mizing risks. They have done so by ex- be better not to pay someone who may should be prepared to invest heavily in ploiting the security lapses in the system eventually kill your loved one. Letting such operations by providing needed that include the ineffectiveness of polic- them know about cases where people logistics (bullet-proof vehicles, bullet- ing, the mistrust between the police and paid ransom but still their loved ones proof vests, automatic rifles, helicopters, the public, and fear they have conjured in were killed may give them a sober information tracking devices that can the minds of the public due to the fact thought. locate cell phone caller locations, and that they carry deadly weapons. It is very other devices). The government should obvious that effective policing is lacking Third, the death penalty law passed in also organize a training program to equip in Nigeria. The police is inadequately- the South-Eastern States is ill-informed. the officers with skills needed to carry trained, inadequately-motivated, and Instead of serving as deterrence (which out this kind of non-conventional opera- inadequately-equipped to track down presumably was the intent), it may have tion. A special hotline number should be kidnappers and engage them. The kid- created an incentive for the kidnappers to created and given to the public. The nappers understand that the public does kill their victims even after ransom had

number, when dialed, should elicit a rapid response from a team of the JTF anywhere in each state. Interstate coordi- nation and cooperation of this JTF that creates an alert system in all the South- Eastern states can facilitate effective response in a case where kidnappers have taken their victims across state borders. The offices of the states’ Governors and Attorneys-General should assume the responsibility to ensure that the interstate JTF is properly coordinated. Some- one may be thinking how possible would these suggestion be; do we have the resources to embark on such sophisticated operations? The answer is yes. There is a saying that “where there’s a will there’s a way.” The funds to undertake such operations cannot be compared to the amount being misappropriated or stolen by government officials every year. A venture as critical as the safety of life and property should be the priority of any well- meaning government regardless of the cost. Finally, government should also mount a media campaign urging the public to report individual suspected of having wealth that is very questionable. Kidnap- pers are not ghosts; they live in the communities. People know who they are. With adequate protection of informant’s identify by the police, the members of the public will be willing to give out information about suspicious individuals in their communities especially youths without well-paying job but suddenly become very rich. There should also be jingles in the television and radio telling the public never to pay ransom to kidnappers in secret which can be a very strong tool to run kidnappers out of business. If the aforementioned strategies are carefully implemented, I believe that we will begin to see a drastic reduction in the occurrence of this crime in the short run, and an eventual disappearance of the menace especially in cases where the sole motivation is ransom payment. It should be noted however that if the government becomes complaisant in tackling this destructive ‘leviathan,’ our Igboland will be a shadow of itself in the future. This is the one crime we cannot afford to allow become our new norm in the South-East!

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