Editorial
Contrasting the Peoples’ Democratic Party and the All Progressives Congress Rules: A Clear Difference.
By Admin
In the realm of politics, perceptions often shape the narratives that define a nation’s trajectory. Nigeria, with its vibrant and dynamic political landscape, has seen its fair share of political parties at the helm, but perhaps none more emblematic than the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and the All Progressives Congress (APC). These two entities have held the reins of power, each promising their version of a brighter future for the nation. With the benefit of hindsight, it becomes clear that there exists a profound divergence in the paths taken by these two parties during their respective tenures.
To appreciate the contrast between PDP and APC rule, one must cast their mind back to the year 1999, when the PDP took the reins of power in Nigeria. The country was in a dire state, teetering on the brink of economic and social collapse. Nigeria was viewed as a pariah nation, riddled with challenges that spanned all sectors of society. The railway system lay in ruins, telecommunications were a luxury for the elite, and medical facilities were a far cry from their potential. Nigeria’s foreign reserves were bleak, road infrastructure was substandard, and the country was burdened with massive debts owed to the Paris and London Clubs.
Furthermore, the nation’s power generation was feeble, unemployment among the youth was rampant, corruption had reached alarming levels, and there were no specialized institutions to tackle this pervasive issue. Factories were shutting down, the banking sector was barely surviving, and hope was fading fast.
Yet, in this dire situation, the PDP government under President Olusegun Obasanjo embarked on a journey of transformation. They tackled these multifaceted challenges head-on. They extended access to telecommunications, making it a service accessible to all Nigerians, even including internet connectivity. This move was a revolutionary step in bridging the digital divide.
Despite the modest oil prices at the time, the PDP administration, without imposing undue hardship on Nigerians, embarked on a transformational journey. They swiftly negotiated and repaid outstanding debts, revitalized the railway system, breathed new life into the banking sector, and revamped medical facilities to the point where complex heart surgeries became a reality in Nigeria’s federal medical centers and teaching hospitals. Federal road networks across geopolitical zones were rehabilitated, leading to improved connectivity. The economy thrived, growing at a remarkable pace, and agriculture was invigorated, making Nigeria the leading rice producer in Africa.
Inflation remained in check, and the Naira exchanged favorably against the dollar, with the cost of living more affordable. This was the Nigeria that the PDP aspired to create, and they made commendable progress in that direction.
Under PDP rule, Nigeria was more united, and governance was not subjected to the vagaries of ethnicity and region. The standard of living improved, and even the challenging issue of fuel subsidy was addressed. At the time, PDP had proposed a gradual removal of the subsidy to spur economic growth, a move that was met with opposition from the APC. However, it was the APC, later on, that removed the subsidy, leading to immense economic hardships for Nigerians.
The PDP established institutions like the ICPC and EFCC to combat corruption, regardless of political affiliation. Members of the PDP were prosecuted and imprisoned for corruption. The same cannot be said of the APC’s tenure, where the fight against corruption appears selective.
During PDP’s rule, power generation exceeded 6,000 MW with ongoing projects to raise it further to 16,000 MW. Conversely, the APC government has struggled to add even 200KW to the power grid, resulting in recurrent grid collapses.
Nepotism and tribalism have marred the APC’s administration, and corruption has seen a resurgence, eroding the moral fabric of society. Judicial independence and institutional integrity, especially within INEC, have come under scrutiny.
In the light of these compelling differences between the PDP and APC, it is evident that the PDP represents progress and vision, while the APC has been marked by regression, ineptitude, and a lack of direction. As Nigeria continues its democratic journey, the lessons of the past should guide the nation towards a future where the people’s welfare and unity take center stage.
By: Editorial Team
The United Arab Emirates (UAE), often hailed as a beacon of modern development in the Middle East, is a federation of seven emirates—each with its own distinct history, ruler, and cultural identity. Since its unification in 1971, the UAE has stood as a rare example of how traditional monarchies can collaborate to build a stable and globally respected nation.
At the heart of the federation lies Abu Dhabi, the capital and largest emirate, known for its vast oil wealth and political influence. The Al Nahyan family, which leads Abu Dhabi, has played a central role in shaping the UAE’s national vision and foreign policy. The current President of the UAE traditionally comes from this emirate, underscoring its leadership within the union.
Dubai, the shining star of the federation, represents ambition and innovation. Under the leadership of the Al Maktoum family, Dubai has transformed from a desert outpost into a global hub for finance, tourism, and technology. Its breathtaking skyline, led by the Burj Khalifa, has become a symbol of Arab progress and resilience.
Moving beyond the two powerhouses, Sharjah distinguishes itself as the cultural and educational capital of the UAE. Led by the Al Qasimi family, it has preserved the emirates’ artistic heritage while promoting academic excellence through its numerous universities and museums.
The smaller emirates-Ajman, Umm Al-Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah-each add unique character and strength to the federation. Ajman, the smallest, thrives on trade and manufacturing; Umm Al-Quwain offers a peaceful charm along its quiet shores; Ras Al Khaimah, nestled against the Hajar Mountains, is known for its natural beauty and growing industrial base; and Fujairah, facing the Gulf of Oman, plays a strategic maritime role in the region’s economy.
Despite their differences in size and resources, the seven emirates remain bound by shared values, mutual respect, and visionary leadership.Their collective success story reflects not only unity but also the ability to balance tradition with progress.
Over five decades after its founding, the UAE continues to prove that cooperation among monarchies can yield a modern, forward-looking state-one that honors its past while boldly stepping into the future. The federation’s model of governance offers an enduring lesson in leadership, stability, and nation-building in a region often defined by division.
Photo Credit: shuterstock
Editorial – IduwiniVoice
Government Oweizide Ekemupolo is 4th Century descendant of The progenitors of the Oru tribe, the archetypal Ijaws, who settled in the central Niger Delta and over time, who developed and spread to the entire Niger Delta. He his an embodiment of the ancient and modern ways and forces of the ijaw ancestral greats, ruled my ancient spiritual and human laws, a man and a superman.
Prior to 1600 AD, the Ijaws first and formally formed city-states on their island of abode in Central Niger Delta. The city-states were named Agadagba-bou, Isomou-bou, and Opugla-bou. The popular city-state was called Agadagba-bou, which, according to history, flourished for 400 years until it got abandoned in 1050 CE. That was the period Ijaw people migrated within the central Niger Delta and spread to the Western and Eastern Niger Delta.
Agadagba-bou, Isomou-bou, and Upugla-bou, which represented the Ijaw civilization at the historical island, long before it was named Wilberforce Island, had cultural, spiritual, linguistic, and occupational homogeneity.
They were all worshippers and believers of the sky God. The sky God that the Ijaws call today, even from ancient times, is Egbesu. It is believed that the Wilberforce Island was known as a forest named after Agadagba, the most powerful chief priest of Egbesu, who also doubled as the military general of the Izon nation.
Agadagba-bou, as a nomenclature, derives its bearing from Agadagba, the chief priest and generalissimo who once reigned on the Wilberforce Island. It is certain that the island hosted the Ijaw nation long before the time of Agadagba because Agadagba was appointed a chief priest and military general during his time by a potentate ruler of Ijaw nation.
In the primordial mists of time, Agadagba, the illustrious military general and chief priest of Egbesu, strode forth from the hallowed grounds of Agadagbabou, his footsteps echoing through the annals of Ijaw history. This revered figure, a paragon of martial prowess and spiritual wisdom, embodied the dual essence of his people, wielding the sword and the sacred staff with equal aplomb. The whispers of the ancients tell us that Agadagba’s reign predated the 1600 AD, a bygone era when the Ijaw nation thrived in harmony with the rhythms of the Niger Delta.
Agadagbabou, the cradle of Ijaw civilization, slumbers beneath the weight of centuries, its sacred soil serving as the final resting place of the ancestral spirits. Here, the venerable dead lie entombed, their ethereal essences lingering, awaiting the supplications of their descendants. Alas, the diaspora of the Ijaw people has occasioned a lamentable disconnection from these archetypal forebears, a severance that has hindered the unfettered flow of ancestral blessings, those numinous benedictions that are the birthright of every society.
For it is an immutable truth that the progress of a people is inextricably linked to the approbation of their ancestors.
The epochs have passed, and Agadagba’s terrestrial sojourn has long since drawn to a close, yet the imperishable essence of this legendary figure endures, awaiting reification in the mortal coil. Behold, 4.18 CENTURIES AFTER AGADAGBA, PRICESELY FOUR CENTURIES PLUS, in this our age, Government Oweizide Ekemupolo, a worthy scion of the Ijaw nation, has arisen, invested with the sacred mantle of Egbesu’s chief priest and military general. The symmetries are striking, the correspondences unmistakable: Ekpemupolo stands forth as the avatar of Agadagba, a reincarnation of the primordial hero, reborn to reclaim the lost patrimony of his people.
As we gaze upon Ekpemupolo, we behold the rekindled flame of Agadagba’s indomitable spirit, a fiery essence that refuses to be extinguished. The mythopoeic imagination whispers secrets in our ear, intimating that this modern-day embodiment of Ijaw valour and spirituality is, in truth, a Priest of the ancient mysteries, a hieratic vessel ordained to restore the pristine glory of Agadagbabou and reestablish the vital link between the living and the ancestral dead.
Thus, the epicycle of time turns full circle, as the reincarnated Agadagba, in the person of Ekpemupolo, strides forth to reclaim his rightful place within the sacred precincts of Ijaw tradition. The word is a witness to his spiritual and endeavours which catalyse a renaissance of the Ijaw spirit, rekindling the ancestral fires that burn bright within the collective unconscious of this venerable people, and guiding them toward a future illuminated by the radiant glow of their archetypal forebears.
As Tompolo’s efforts continue to bear fruit, Nigeria’s economic landscape is transformed, and the nation’s people reap the benefits of his tireless endeavours. His legacy will forever be etched in the annals of Nigerian history, a shining testament to the power of visionary leadership and unwavering dedication to the nation’s progress.
Benedict Binebai is a Professor of African Literature, a Social Conscientizer, and a Critic of outstanding repute.
(c) IduwiniVoice
Editorial
A Magnificent Gesture of Philanthropy: Tompolo’s Landmark Donation 10 Billion Naira to Delta State Government
Editorial
Chief Tompolo’s most generous bestowal of 10 billion naira upon the Delta State Security Fund is a magnificent affirmation of his steadfast devotion to the betterment of his beloved homeland. This munificent act not only underscores his profound solicitude for the well-being of the citizenry, but also serves as a sonorous confirmation of his dedication to the edification of the nation.
This magnificent donation bespeaks Chief Tompolo’s perspicacious vision for a Delta State wherein the territorial integrity, individual safety, and proprietary rights of its inhabitants are zealously safeguarded and protected. For it is an immutable truth that security constitutes a fundamental pillar for peaceful and progressive human existence, and a people that get security right are a people who enjoy prosperity, stability, and tranquillity. His largesse constitutes a clarion call to all right-thinking Nigerians to emulate his exemplary conduct, thereby contributing to the realisation of a more stable and prosperous nation.
As a private individual, Chief Tompolo’s remarkable munificence distinguishes him as a true architect of society, a philanthropist of discerning taste, and a stalwart champion of both private and public institutions. His actions evince a profound comprehension of the intricate nexus between security, patriotism, and nation-building, and serve as a shining exemplar for others to follow.
In the pantheon of benevolent figures, Chief Tompolo’s deed resonates with the selfless generosity of mythical beings like Prometheus, who defied the gods to bestow the gift of fire upon humanity, or Hercules, who cleansed the Augean stables to bring prosperity to the land. Like these fabled heroes, Chief Tompolo’s philanthropy emanates a profound sense of altruism, illuminating the path towards a brighter future for the people of Delta State.
By this singular act, Chief Tompolo has floated a most compelling narrative that the Ijaw nation, and indeed all ethnic groups in Nigeria, have a critical role to play in shaping the country’s destiny. His donation is a puissant statement that the resources and talents of Nigerians, regardless of their region or ethnicity, can be harnessed to forge a more united, secure, and prosperous nation, and that the Ijaw people, in particular, are committed to contributing to the construction of a brighter Nigerian picture.
Chief Tompolo’s unprecedented gesture inaugurates a new paradigm of leadership for the Ijaw nation, one that radiates an unparalleled aura of generosity, vision, and selflessness. This luminous exemplar of leadership kindles a guiding light, illuminating a path towards a more prosperous, equitable, and enlightened future for the Ijaw people, and serves as a resplendent model for leaders across Nigeria and beyond, demonstrating that true greatness is measured by the ability to uplift and empower one’s community.
Benedict Binebai is a Professor of African Literature, Public Speaker, and a renowned critic of intellectual acclaim.
(c) IduwiniVoice