Editorial
The Remarkable Legacy of Thomas Fuller, the African “Virginia Calculator”
The Remarkable Legacy of Thomas Fuller, the “Virginia Calculator”
By Admin,
In the annals of history, there are individuals whose brilliance shines so brightly that it transcends the limitations society imposes upon them. Thomas Fuller, an African who was sold into slavery in 1724 at the tender age of 14, was one such extraordinary individual. He came to be known as the “Virginia Calculator” for his unparalleled ability to solve complex mathematical problems in his head, defying the norms of his time. Fuller’s incredible story serves as a testament to the untapped potential within us all, regardless of the circumstances of our birth.
Imagine the scene: a 14-year-old boy, taken from his homeland and forced into a life of servitude, separated from his family and stripped of his freedom. It was under these deplorable conditions that Thomas Fuller’s innate mathematical genius emerged. He was not just a person who could perform mathematical calculations; he was a prodigy, a phenomenon. His ability to process numbers in his head was nothing short of extraordinary.
One of the most famous anecdotes about Fuller’s genius involved a question that would baffle most mathematicians even today. He was asked, “How many seconds are there in a year and a half?” In about two minutes, he calmly responded with an astonishingly accurate figure: 47,304,000 seconds. His answer left those around him in awe, struggling to comprehend the complexity of the task he had effortlessly conquered.
In another instance, someone in the room doubted the accuracy of Fuller’s calculations. They were attempting to work out the same problem on paper and came up with a significantly smaller answer. Fuller, not one to be easily daunted, swiftly retorted, “‘Top, massa, you forget de leap year.” It was at this moment that the world realized the full extent of Fuller’s mathematical prowess. When the leap year was accounted for, the numbers matched precisely, leaving no room for doubt.
Thomas Fuller’s abilities extended far beyond mere calculation. He demonstrated a deep understanding of the intricacies of time and its nuances, even when the answer seemed to elude those around him. His incredible accuracy in resolving these mathematical challenges set him apart as a rare and exceptional individual.
Fuller’s story is a reminder that the human spirit can triumph over the harshest adversity. Born into a world that sought to diminish him, he defied the odds, rising to greatness through the sheer power of his intellect. He serves as an inspiration to all, especially to those who face seemingly insurmountable obstacles in their own lives.
As we reflect on the legacy of Thomas Fuller, we must acknowledge the profound injustices of the past that denied him the recognition he truly deserved. His story is a reminder that we must never underestimate the potential of any individual, irrespective of their background or circumstances. The “Virginia Calculator” was not just a mathematical marvel; he was a symbol of resilience and the indomitable human spirit.
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