Continuing Story Of Nigeria’s Undemocratic Posture

 By Tonnie Iredia

No democratic nation is expected to undermine any of the easily recognizable 5 pillars of democracy.

These are: (i)the sovereignty of the people in which government functions only on behalf of the people (ii) the rule of law which presupposes the absence of arbitrariness in a society where everyone is equal before the law iii) free and fair elections, that is, periodic contests which throw up political leaders that are truly determined by only the electorate (iv) majority rule in which government is formed by the political party which has the highest number of lawful votes and (v) minority rights in which government is obliged to protect the rights of the vulnerable and powerless segments of society.

As Gov Uzodinma Runs Imo State From His Back Pocket!

 By Steve Osuji

Conquered Territory, Burial Industry: It’s all quiet over there in Imo. The quiet of a conquered people. People move about sombrely, not unlike sheep. Death stalks the land quite proactively and burial ceremony is the most thriving business. The emerging economics of burials becomes avenues for one big meal and a quaff of beer in many communities. Not much more seems to go on in Imo State these days than misery, ailments, certain demise, then burials... and more burials. 

*Ihedioha and Uzodinma 

Meanwhile, our dear governor, Hope Uzodinma, seems to abide in the clouds these days. He’s grown more chubby and rosy-cheeked; his visage looking supple and lush like the tenderloins of a nubile damsel.

He's on top of his game as governor of a vassal territory. Now and then, Abuja sends him on serf errand around the southeast – an emissary to a state burial or to the more tacky task ‘managing’ difficult election. 

Toxic Dust On Orlu-Owerri Road

 By Ugochukwu Ejinkeonye

Recently, I visited Imo State and was on the Orlu-Owerri road. It is heartwarming that the road is being rehabilitated because in August when I used it on my way to a wedding, it was in such a dilapidated state.  

But, sadly, the insensitivity of the firm handling the reconstruction work is turning what is otherwise a laudable project into a traumatic experience for the people. The dust that envelopes that road all day is so thick that even though most vehicles switch on their headlights on bright afternoons, it is still very difficult for drivers to see oncoming vehicles just a few meters away.

*Gov Uzodinma flags off the reconstruction of Orlu-Owerri Road

And because of this thick cloud of dust, the motorists practically “drive blind”. One wonders what it is usually like driving at night when the dust and darkness merge to compound the situation. I shudder to imagine the implications of this.  

But this is not even the really scary part of the story.