Sacked CAMAIRCO General Manager Under Strict Surveillance?

The former General Manager of CAMAIRCO is said to have been barred from leaving the country at the Douala airport. Reports say Nana Sandjon Jean Paul was last night stop from leaving the country on the instruction of hierarchy. Public opinion is pointing accusing fingers at Sparrow hawk, though the reasons have not been made public. It should be recalled that Nana Sandjon was dropped and replaced few weeks ago as CAMAIRCO boss. Analysts are already suspecting that he may have committed alot of management errors when he was GM at CAMAIRCO. He replaced Federic Mboto some two years ago.

Nana Sandjon it should be noted was formerly the mayor of Bazou.



 When News Breaks Out, We Break In. (The 2014 Bloggies Finalist)

CPDM Names Street at Bamenda University "Paul Biya Avenue", Tubah Mayor Threatens to Pull Down Billboard

Dr. Abety

Tongues are still waging as to why Dr. Peter Alange Abety took that decision to rename a street without informing the council. Yet, some critics suspect that even President Paul Biya may also think the decision is contradictory given that he (Biya) had warned that "Let politics be for politicians and schools for students". What is unclear is whether UBa authorities will implement the decision given the varied interpretations. To the mayor of Tubah, Dr. Abety always like to get people in projects that are illegal. He is quoted to have said that even the law naming streets was not respected and the procedure not followed. Besides, the mayor Tanjong Martin also added that his office received no application to that effect and threatened to pull down the billboard. He further explains that even the Fon of Bambili was not aware and did not even understand where the street Abety was naming was. 

The Mayor of Tubah Council, Tanjong Martin has frowned at Dr. Abety's decision to rename one of the streets at the University of Bamenda as "Paul Biya Avenue". This was the outcome of the joint CPDM Section conference that took place in Bambili last August 27, 2016, presided by Dr. Abety, Section President for Mezam V, Tubah.

The Anglo-Saxon University of Bamenda is the fruit of the collective effort of North Westerners and Cameroonians who believe in quality education. It is neither the property of Bambili people, nor Tubah nor CPDM. But Peter Abety thinks it belongs to Bambili people with him as custodian.

When News Breaks Out, We Break In. (The 2014 Bloggies Finalist)

NOWEFU Elections to Hold in November, Fon of Nkambe Tipped President General

Reports say the extraordinary and elective General Assembly of the North West Fons Union will hold in November. According to reports, the new constitution has been finalized pending adoption by the General Assembly. The Eye is aware that all would be over by November this year. It is alleged the new constitution has introduced the position of President of the General Assembly pending adoption and approval of the General Assembly. According to the new constitution, only a former President is eligible to be elected President of the General Assembly. Fon Teche, outgoing President we gathered has been tipped.

It is no more news that Donga Mantung Division would produce the next President General of NOWEFU. So far, HRH Fon Ibrahim Japbfu Nfor (fon of Nkambe) has been tipped as Teche's successor. He will become the pioneer President General under this new constitution. 

When News Breaks Out, We Break In. (The 2014 Bloggies Finalist)

Lesson from Nigeria: Dangote Plans to Generate 12,000MW of Electricity by 2018

 Nigerian billionaire and business mogul, Aliko Dangote is set to be producing thousands of megawatts of electricity in two years to come.

 The President, Dangote Industries, Aliko Dangote, has said his company should be able to generate about 12,000 megawatts of electricity for the country by 2018.

He also said that his business estate would start selling foreign exchange to the Central Bank of Nigeria by 2020.

Dangote, who spoke in Lagos on Monday at the Nigerian Economic Summit organised by Economist Events, an arm of The Economist of London, said, “We are looking at a situation that by 2020, we will be the one selling FX to the CBN. Our projects are mainly import substitution. We are working to be self-sufficient to grow about a million tonnes of rice over the next five years.
“Our gas project would have our gas pipelines on the seabed. The output should be able to provide about 12,000MW of power. We see a lot of transformation when we are done with most of our projects by 2018.
“We have 15 countries in the ECOWAS community that are duty-free. The export market is big and profitable if you have the capacity. Players in the manufacturing (sector) should be encouraged to export if they have the capacity. We must also meet local consumption.”
Dangote said the fall in crude oil price was not a curse and that the nation must use the opportunity to explore the potential in other sectors of the economy.

Credit: Punch

When News Breaks Out, We Break In. (The 2014 Bloggies Finalist)

Esu Land Crisis Turns Ugly as Gendarmes Block Over 10.000 Protesters from Trekking to Bamenda

 An atmosphere of uncertainty looms in Esu as an estimated 10.000 villagers stormed to the street to stage a protest march from Esu to Bamenda to express their anger over the arrest and detention of some youth leaders. According to a post on Facebook by the Esu Youth Development Association-LYDA, the villagers were on their way to Bamenda but were blocked between Esu and Weh by Gendarmes. It is alleged the villagers are accusing Aladji Baba Danpoullo for invading their land. To them, "Baba Must Go" away with his cattle.  

It also alleged that Alhadji Baba after acquiring land for ranching in Esu, expanded it to the point that the people claim they no more have enough farm land. However, they did not say whether the land has been expanded by how many hectares. Notwithstanding, it is not clear whether the cows have destroyed crops. (More details soon as we dig into the crisis)

Villagers blocked by Gendarmes

When News Breaks Out, We Break In. (The 2014 Bloggies Finalist)

Prepare to Die and Write Your Will If You're Going for Hajj in Mecca - Cleric Sends Warning to Muslims

An Islamic cleric has sent a rather stunning warning to all Muslims who are planning to go for the Hajj in Mecca.

Hajj pilgrims

 Sheikh Yahya Al-Yolawi, the Chief Imam of Area 10 Mosque, Abuja, has asked all Muslims to be alert as they go for the Hajj.

The cleric on Friday, reportedly advised intending pilgrims to settle their debts and leave their wills behind before traveling to Saudi Arabia.

According to DailyPost, the Abuja-based Islamic scholar, while delivering Jumma’at sermon titled ‘Essential tips for Hajj Preparations’, said the need to leave a will behind was because the journey to Holy land may be the final journey for some pilgrims.

 He explained that it was an invitation from Allah to the most famous acts of worship, adding that hajj was a unique and extra ordinary journey in the life time of all pilgrims.

 Al-Yolawi said, “An intending pilgrim should settle his debts and leave behind him a clear record as well as writing all his wills or what he intends to pass to his family.

“Journey to hajj requires high level of patience, because it was always accompanied with difficulties ranging from fatigue to physical and social abnormalities as well as intolerance from other pilgrims.

“One should not allow Shaitan (devil) to hijack him and spoil his hajj out of ignorance or annoyance. This emphasises on the importance of piety as first ingredient of one’s journey to Mecca, which means to maintain good relationship with your Lord by devoting yourself to obey him.”

 According to the cleric, the intention behind one’s journey to hajj must be for the sake of Allah alone as, whoever, performs any act of worship in order to please people or gain popularity has done wrong.

 While admonishing pilgrims that they should ensure that their sources of income are clean and legitimate as that would please Allah, the cleric said, “Prophets Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: learn your rituals from me, for I do not know whether I would be performing Hajj after this Hajj of mine,” (Muslim Hadith no 1297).”

 On taking photographs, Al-Yolawi warned that it was wrong to take photographs for whatever purpose while observing hajj rites, saying that such action could contradict pilgrims’ sincerity of performing hajj for the sake of Allah.

 He, however, prayed to Allah to continue to protect Islam and safeguard Nigerian pilgrims as they take off to Saudi Arabia, saying, “May the Lord accept their Hajj, prayers, grant their supplications and bring them back to us in peace and safety.”

When News Breaks Out, We Break In. (The 2014 Bloggies Finalist)

Man Who Was Arrested, Detained for Naming His Dog Buhari Freed

Finally, the man who named his dog Buhari has been released from police custody after a team of lawyers rallied around to get him off the hook.

 Joachim Foretemose Iroko Chinakwe who was arrested and detained by the police in Ogun State for naming his dog 'Buhari has finally been released from police custody.

 This was made public by Inibehe Effiong, Lagos based lawyer and human rights activist who along with others raised money for the man's bail.

 Effiong wrote: "Chinakwe is out of the Prison custody and is presently in his house with his family. I spoke with him few minutes ago.

The struggle continues."

 It has also been learnt that about 100 lawyers are being gathered to defend the man.

 Another lawyer, Barr. Richard Akinnola, revealed this when he said, "I am trying to network with a number of lawyers to see if we can mobilise at least 100 lawyers as defence team for the man charged to court yesterday in Abeokuta for allegedly naming his dog BUHARI.

 "It's a political trial and we should make the nonsensical case political. If that vexatious and embarrassing charge is not withdrawn before the next hearing, those of us who are supporters of this government would turn the case as a trial of the government."

When News Breaks Out, We Break In. (The 2014 Bloggies Finalist)

Looking Glass: Meet Mejamah Adamu Ibrahim, The Brain Behind Harmony Ventures & Co LTD

Aladji Mejamah Adamu Ibrahim: The Exemplary Contractor

Great people have come to their standing not simply by dreaming huge and doing extraordinary things in a common manner but above all, by their pragmatism, charisma, trustworthiness, and consensus building goals. The most accomplished people have been their own best ally in achieving their high standing because they do common things that command respect and admiration.

Mejamah Adamu Ibrahim is a visionary and charismatic businessman (contractor) who did not put too much stock in circumstances to ascend to celebrity. His spectacular successes in contract execution from a humble background underscore the point that the Chief Executive Officer of Harmony Ventures & Co Ltd is a lavender and perfect nation builder.

Harmony Ventures & Co LTD is a household name in the North West Region. In Donga Mantung Division, this structure is celebrated for building structures like hospitals, schools, market sheds and bridges as well as its endeavours to build strong communities from the ground up. What makes Harmony Ventures and Co LTD different from others is that it gives back to the communities where they work and live in by providing infrastructure for the benefit of all. In Ndu, the company has proven its worth with the construction of the Maternity Block of the Ndu District Hospital, a project sponsored by DANA Petroleum Co. Ltd thanks to the lobbying proficiency of Simon Tamfu (elite of the municipality working at SNH).

If we go by the popular saying that a spirit of ingenuousness builds trust, then Mejamah Adamu Ibrahim (the CEO of Harmony Ventures and Co LTD) embodies the values of strength, and hardwork. The employees have strong connections to these ideals, which has contributed significantly to the progressive growth, success and leadership of the company. They have helped to develop the solutions, systems and they bring innovation, quality and value to the projects the company delivers. The construction projects as well as supplies executed by this structure are pragmatic cases.  Of course, it’s much more complex than that. But we know that success begins and ends with the right approach to planning, specification, scheduling, choosing the right team, managing sub-contractors, liaising with all the project stakeholders, resolving issues as they come up… in other words: project management.

Early this year, Mejamah was honoured by World Echoes Newspaper for his outstanding approach. And from all indications, many more awards are on the way.

Aladji Mejamah rose up the ladder through his trustworthiness and the love he has for perfection and the fact that he does not leave what should be done today for tomorrow. In Donga Mantung, he is loved and cherished by everyone given his charitable manner. He is often likened to Farfrae in the Mayor of Casterbridge who is clutched with the God given charm that everything he “touches is bound to prosper”.

Flanked by Mayor of Ndu, Div. Delegate of Public works, others

When Henry Wadsworth Longfellow said: “Lives of great men all remind us, we can make our lives sublime, and, departing, leave behind us, footprints on the sands of time” he was talking about the likes of Mejamah Adamu. Thomas Carlyle complemented Wadsworth when he said that ‘Man is only truly great when he acts from his passions’. The name Mejamah Adamu Ibrahim has become a household name not only among the hard-to-reach and underserved segments of the population but also within political circles for his passion to add value to the assessment of life. This retired civil servant from very humble beginnings can be said to have done what Napoleon left undone especially in the domain of social change and social transformation. Aladji Mejamah has toiled  labourously to transform lives and build common frontiers for all segments of society especially Ntumbaw where he hails. In doing this, he followed the principle outlined by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow that ‘heights by great men reached and kept were not obtained by sudden flight but, while their companies slept, they were toiling upward in the night’ burning the midnight candle of work before making the difference in life. Mejamah could have decided like others to do the simple things, but because he believes like Lance Armstrong that ‘Greatness is not a measure of how great you are but of how great others came to be because of you’, he decided to work where he takes others up along with him. Like Bill Copeland he believes that ‘the trouble with not having a goal is that you can spend your life running up and down the field and never score’. Today, he is scoring because of that firm believe and hard work.

In all what he does, he believes like Harry S. Truman that ‘we must build a world, a far better world - one in which the eternal dignity of man is respected’. In trying to build this world of respect and dignity, a people who are not only made in the image of (Allah) God but people who are only differently able. His input in the social domain and politics seeks to bring back human dignity into all of God’s creation.

Unlike many  Cameroonians who spend time today asking what Cameroon has done to them, Mejamah Adamu Ibrahim rather advise Cameroonians like J.F Kennedy that ‘Ask not what your country has done for you, ask what you can do for your country’. It is in this light that when he takes a job, he does it correctly.

He is one of the few Cameroonians who think it does not take the masses to effect change but conscience and character to perform the most outstanding feat. Like Rosa Park he is so passionate about it. Today others think he had effectively removed the mountain of poverty in the lives of most poor and disabled persons. Of course, he might have done that but as the Chinese proverb holds ‘A man who removes a mountain begins by carrying away small stones’. Mejamah started very small with a provision store, then established a warehouse in Nkambe where he reduced the long distances traders usual move to Bamenda to acquire goods for their shops and those who know him insist he has come a long way as he began from very humble beginnings. He only believed in the beauty of his dreams and had the courage to pursue them as Walt Disney put it: ‘All our dreams can come true if we have the courage to pursue them’. His was that courage and much more. And above all, his vision and action are two cardinal ingredients for success and as the Japanese proverb hold: ‘vision without action is daydream; Action without vision is nightmare’. He neither daydreams nor entertains nightmares.

A Role Model

Maternity Block Constructed at Ndu District Hospital sponsored by DANA Petroleum

Aristotle demonstrated that role models are people whose examples can be emulated. To say that Mejamah is a role model is to say that many a Cameroonian youth can look up to him. With the prevailing situation of moral decadence and bad behaviour from the elders, youths hardly have anyone to look up to. Donga Mantung before now has been the Eldorado of abandoned contracts. And with Mejamah sitting up the stairs as a model contractor, the tears poor contract execution and contracts abandoned have been eradicated. He has proven that the real opportunity for success is found within the person not only in acquiring the job. As a role model he has laid a foundation for a stronger and healthier hope that sustainable development comes through sustained actions. By all standards, he is a successful contractor whose deeds and actions continue to change lives.

As Sidney Greenburg puts it: ‘A successful man is one who can lay a firm foundation with the bricks that others throw at him’ thus making the difference people need in society. In trying to build a healthier society, he has not given in to detractors. As a veritable role model, he has used all the bricks that have been thrown at him to build rather than destroy. Having grown up from a humble beginning to the high ladders of life, Mejamah’s story is one of those interesting tales that would always attract public attention.

Aladji Mejamah remains a man of great spirits. As a man of great spirits, he is animated by the fact that life has two primary choices, which is accepting conditions as they exist, or accepting the responsibility for changing them. And he decided to be the exemplary game changer.

 TheRefined Politician 

With Shey Jones Yembe, Tamfu Simon and Adamu Musa

One of the characteristics of Mejamah Adamu Ibrahim is that he is a public speak and clutches with the magnesium that attracts people. It is not by error that he was elected CDPM Sub Section President for Ntumbaw. Meet him in the field talking politics and you will agree with me that he knows that politics is a game that unite people and not divide them. He is an advocate of the politics of love and tolerance. Even though a busy man, he is constantly in the field refreshing memories and winning more militants.

When two or more are gathered to talk positively about the CPDM in order to galvanize more support for President Paul Biya, he is always present. As a genuine politician, he has demystified the long established notion that politics is a systematic organization of hatred. As perfect as he is, he has made politics and development bedmates. He does not only preach politics of development but puts it in practice himself.  Aladji Mejamah is one of the pillars on which the CPDM can lean in Donga Mantung Division. The history of politics in Donga Mantung can never be completed if Mejamah’s name is not mentioned. To conclude, he is a force to reckon with and a great supporter of President Biya’s Vision 2035.

When News Breaks Out, We Break In. (The 2014 Bloggies Finalist)

10 Fundamental Reasons Why an Anglophone Must be Elected National President at the Upcoming CPDM elective Congress

1]-Poetic Justice: A vote for an Anglophone for CPDM Party Chairmanship in the upcoming elective congress would be an act of poetic justice on the part of francophone CPDM militants who have since the formation of the Cpdm party in 1985 and the CNU in the 60s, benefited from unflinching support from Anglophone party supporters in all major party electoral consultations. This would also compensate for the huge injustice unto Anglophones committed by incumbent President Paul Biya when he changed the pre-1984 rule of an Anglophone being his constitutional successor. Given the opportunity offered by the upcoming elective congress, Biya has a unique opportunity to right this wrong meted unto a people who freely joined the union as a state in its own right. By pushing for such a move at the helm of the ruling party, Biya would be paying great homage to Anglophone intelligence that was critical to fuelling and serving his life and Presidency during the 1984 coup plot of former President Ahidjo. Failure to do so, history will judge him.

2]-A Balancing Act: A vote for an Anglophone for CPDM party Presidency 2016 would be a balancing act after the 1985 plebiscite where Anglophone CPDM militants overwhelmingly voted for Chairman Paul Biya who took over the CNU from President Amadou Ahidjo. This, after Anglophone leaders voluntarily agreed to dissolve the parties they came with from former West Cameroon and merge with Ahidjo’s CNU. If 31 years after the creation of the CPDM, francophone militants also vote to sustain this union by jointly supporting an Anglophone for Cpdm party leadership, and eventually Cameroon’s President, it will enhance the hitherto heralded democratic leadership in the CPDM.  as well as the bond of brotherliness between the two peoples.

3]-Peace, Unity and Stability: A majority francophone support for an Anglophone for Cpdm party leadership during the upcoming elective congress would be a vote for the fostering of the bonds of brotherliness between the two peoples. It will also be a true translation of the much talked about peace, unity and stability of the Country. Such a gesture would also dose off perceptions of second class citizenship that has been demonstrated in triumphant detail over the years at the level of the party’s Central Committee where the Secretary General and assistants as well as Communication Directors and assistants are all Francophones and where no Anglophone holds any decision-making position.

4]-Fundamental Democratic Principles: By supporting an Anglophone for Cpdm party leadership 2016, francophone militants would be demonstrating in triumphant detail their attachment to a fundamental democratic value- that of respect and support for minority rights. The Cpdm would have no choice but to support an Anglophone candidate as there is enough jurisprudential evidence to the effect that in the run up to the 2013 twin elections, the party sponsored the policy of 30% chances for women, youths and other minorities in each list, and in the process, unrepresentative lists were effectively rejected. In the same light, we expect that any list for positions in the National bureau that is not headed by an Anglophone should be out-rightly rejected by the scrutiny committee of the CPDM Central Committee.

5]-Politic na Njangi Notion: By supporting an Anglophone for Cpdm party presidency 2016, francophone militants would be voting for an exemplary and inclusive Cpdm where both Francophones and Anglophones enjoy the same rights and responsibilities and where Rt. Hon Achidi Achu’s notion of ‘politic na njangi’ is translated into concrete reality. It could not be otherwise given that since creation, an Anglophone has been 1^st Vice President and should naturally move on to the Presidency.

6]-Common Wealth: A majority support by francophone CPDM militants of an Anglophone Candidate for party leadership would be an added advantage for them to enjoy the real Anglo-Saxon values of transparency, accountability, respect for Presidential term limits and the common wealth as well as the standardization of procedures in doing political business.

7]-Consolidation of Party Reorganization Gains: If there was any one message the base sent to CPDM party hierarchy during the just ended across-the-board reorganization of its basic organs, it was that a change of leadership was also needed at the top. To most CPDM militants, there was no reason for an across-the-board overhaul of basic structures of the party to come again and keep old guard at the helm. The quality of leadership that the base produced at the helm of its various Sections was signal that the party needed new and energetic leadership to cross over 2018. Such aspirations from the base would only be met by an Anglophone being elected CPDM Chairman and by extension, its flag bearer for the 2018 Presidential elections.

8]-Dignity and Respect: By supporting an Anglophone for Cpdm party Presidency 2016, the majority francophone Cpdm militants would be voting for dignity and respect by the rest of the political parties that dot the Cameroon political landscape and the international political arena given the central role respect for minority rights by the majority play in international politics.

9]-Proof Positive of a Diversified Cameroonian Society: A vote for an Anglophone for CPDM Party leadership would be proof positive that Cameroon is a society full of diversity. It would also be enough proof that Cameroon’s diversity is an asset and not a liability as obtains in other societies. This will usher in the Anglo-Saxon political system where free political debate and transparency is the rule and not the exception as now obtains in Cameroon. Such a healthy political debate forms the building blocks for a decent life and society free of rampant corruption, embezzlement and political victimization and sycophancy.

10]-Concrete Demonstration of Advanced Democracy: By voting for an Anglophone for CPDM Party leadership and by extension, Cameroon’s Presidency, the majority francophone CPDM militants would not only be going back to the roots, since the CPDM was birthed in Bamenda in 1985, but would be proving beyond all reasonable doubts that it remains an avant-gardist political party. This, in a country where nearly all political parties that people the political landscape have never thought of changing its leadership. This laudable move by the CPDM leadership in the upcoming elective Congress, we hope, would mark the beginning of rotatable party leadership in major political parties in Cameroon. It would be a fulfillment of incumbent President Paul Biya’s long standing and express wish  to be remembered as having brought democracy to Cameroon through the ruling Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement, CPDM.

N/B: As usual, I already hear some Cameroonians asking who that Anglophone capable of replacing President Paul Biya would be. To that, I tell them they do not come in short supply, beginning with: Yang Philemon, Peter Mafany Musonge, Akere Muna, Prof Elvis Ngole Ngole, Dr. Dione Ngute, Fai Yengo Francis, Mbella Moki, Hon. Lifaka Monjua,  Shey Nfor Musa, Fru Jonathan and you name them. It’s all a debate for another day. For now, let the voting for party leadership begin. 

Done this day in Bamenda 24/08/16

Gwain Colbert

Spokesperson for Campaigners for Anglophone 4 Presidency 2018

When News Breaks Out, We Break In. (The 2014 Bloggies Finalist)

10 Fundamental Reasons Why an Anglophone Must be Elected National President at the Upcoming CPDM elective Congress

1]-Poetic Justice: A vote for an Anglophone for CPDM Party Chairmanship in the upcoming elective congress would be an act of poetic justice on the part of francophone CPDM militants who have since the formation of the Cpdm party in 1985 and the CNU in the 60s, benefited from unflinching support from Anglophone party supporters in all major party electoral consultations. This would also compensate for the huge injustice unto Anglophones committed by incumbent President Paul Biya when he changed the pre-1984 rule of an Anglophone being his constitutional successor. Given the opportunity offered by the upcoming elective congress, Biya has a unique opportunity to right this wrong meted unto a people who freely joined the union as a state in its own right. By pushing for such a move at the helm of the ruling party, Biya would be paying great homage to Anglophone intelligence that was critical to fuelling and serving his life and Presidency during the 1984 coup plot of former President Ahidjo. Failure to do so, history will judge him.

2]-A Balancing Act: A vote for an Anglophone for CPDM party Presidency 2016 would be a balancing act after the 1985 plebiscite where Anglophone CPDM militants overwhelmingly voted for Chairman Paul Biya who took over the CNU from President Amadou Ahidjo. This, after Anglophone leaders voluntarily agreed to dissolve the parties they came with from former West Cameroon and merge with Ahidjo’s CNU. If 31 years after the creation of the CPDM, francophone militants also vote to sustain this union by jointly supporting an Anglophone for Cpdm party leadership, and eventually Cameroon’s President, it will enhance the hitherto heralded democratic leadership in the CPDM.  as well as the bond of brotherliness between the two peoples.

3]-Peace, Unity and Stability: A majority francophone support for an Anglophone for Cpdm party leadership during the upcoming elective congress would be a vote for the fostering of the bonds of brotherliness between the two peoples. It will also be a true translation of the much talked about peace, unity and stability of the Country. Such a gesture would also dose off perceptions of second class citizenship that has been demonstrated in triumphant detail over the years at the level of the party’s Central Committee where the Secretary General and assistants as well as Communication Directors and assistants are all Francophones and where no Anglophone holds any decision-making position.

4]-Fundamental Democratic Principles: By supporting an Anglophone for Cpdm party leadership 2016, francophone militants would be demonstrating in triumphant detail their attachment to a fundamental democratic value- that of respect and support for minority rights. The Cpdm would have no choice but to support an Anglophone candidate as there is enough jurisprudential evidence to the effect that in the run up to the 2013 twin elections, the party sponsored the policy of 30% chances for women, youths and other minorities in each list, and in the process, unrepresentative lists were effectively rejected. In the same light, we expect that any list for positions in the National bureau that is not headed by an Anglophone should be out-rightly rejected by the scrutiny committee of the CPDM Central Committee.

5]-Politic na Njangi Notion: By supporting an Anglophone for Cpdm party presidency 2016, francophone militants would be voting for an exemplary and inclusive Cpdm where both Francophones and Anglophones enjoy the same rights and responsibilities and where Rt. Hon Achidi Achu’s notion of ‘politic na njangi’ is translated into concrete reality. It could not be otherwise given that since creation, an Anglophone has been 1^st Vice President and should naturally move on to the Presidency.

6]-Common Wealth: A majority support by francophone CPDM militants of an Anglophone Candidate for party leadership would be an added advantage for them to enjoy the real Anglo-Saxon values of transparency, accountability, respect for Presidential term limits and the common wealth as well as the standardization of procedures in doing political business.

7]-Consolidation of Party Reorganization Gains: If there was any one message the base sent to CPDM party hierarchy during the just ended across-the-board reorganization of its basic organs, it was that a change of leadership was also needed at the top. To most CPDM militants, there was no reason for an across-the-board overhaul of basic structures of the party to come again and keep old guard at the helm. The quality of leadership that the base produced at the helm of its various Sections was signal that the party needed new and energetic leadership to cross over 2018. Such aspirations from the base would only be met by an Anglophone being elected CPDM Chairman and by extension, its flag bearer for the 2018 Presidential elections.

8]-Dignity and Respect: By supporting an Anglophone for Cpdm party Presidency 2016, the majority francophone Cpdm militants would be voting for dignity and respect by the rest of the political parties that dot the Cameroon political landscape and the international political arena given the central role respect for minority rights by the majority play in international politics.

9]-Proof Positive of a Diversified Cameroonian Society: A vote for an Anglophone for CPDM Party leadership would be proof positive that Cameroon is a society full of diversity. It would also be enough proof that Cameroon’s diversity is an asset and not a liability as obtains in other societies. This will usher in the Anglo-Saxon political system where free political debate and transparency is the rule and not the exception as now obtains in Cameroon. Such a healthy political debate forms the building blocks for a decent life and society free of rampant corruption, embezzlement and political victimization and sycophancy.

10]-Concrete Demonstration of Advanced Democracy: By voting for an Anglophone for CPDM Party leadership and by extension, Cameroon’s Presidency, the majority francophone CPDM militants would not only be going back to the roots, since the CPDM was birthed in Bamenda in 1985, but would be proving beyond all reasonable doubts that it remains an avant-gardist political party. This, in a country where nearly all political parties that people the political landscape have never thought of changing its leadership. This laudable move by the CPDM leadership in the upcoming elective Congress, we hope, would mark the beginning of rotatable party leadership in major political parties in Cameroon. It would be a fulfillment of incumbent President Paul Biya’s long standing and express wish  to be remembered as having brought democracy to Cameroon through the ruling Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement, CPDM.

N/B: As usual, I already hear some Cameroonians asking who that Anglophone capable of replacing President Paul Biya would be. To that, I tell them they do not come in short supply, beginning with: Yang Philemon, Peter Mafany Musonge, Akere Muna, Prof Elvis Ngole Ngole, Dr. Dione Ngute, Fai Yengo Francis, Mbella Moki, Hon. Lifaka Monjua,  Shey Nfor Musa, Fru Jonathan and you name them. It’s all a debate for another day. For now, let the voting for party leadership begin.

Done this day in Bamenda 24/08/16

Gwain Colbert

Spokesperson for Campaigners for Anglophone 4 Presidency 2018

When News Breaks Out, We Break In. (The 2014 Bloggies Finalist)

Boko Haram Leader, Abubakar Shekau Fatally Hit by Military Airstrike in Borno

The Nigerian military has hit a milestone in its bid to end Boko Haram insurgency with key leaders of the sect killed in a recent air raid.

Acting Director Army Public Relations, Colonel Sani Kukasheka Usman has released a recent statement about a successful airstrike that has taken out several terrorists with the sect's factional leader, Abubakar Shekau injured on his shoulder.

 

Read the recent statement below:

 

In what one could describe as the most unprecedented and spectacular air raid, we have just confirmed that as a result of the interdiction efforts of the Nigerian Air Force, some key leaders of the Boko Haram terrorists have been killed while others were fatally wounded.
The air interdiction took place last week Friday 19th August 2016, while the terrorists were performing Friday rituals at Taye village, Gombale general area within Sambisa forest, Borno State.
Those Boko Haram terrorists commanders confirmed dead include Abubakar Mubi, Malam Nuhu and Malam Hamman, amongst others. While their leader, so called “Abubakar Shekau”, is believed to be fatally wounded on his shoulders.

Several other terrorists were also wounded.

 

Thank you for your kind and usual cooperation.

When News Breaks Out, We Break In. (The 2014 Bloggies Finalist)

Man Who Named His Dog 'Buhari' in Hot Soup

A resident of Ogun State who named his dog after President Muhammadu Buhari is set to face criminal charges in court over allegations of 'public nuisance'.

President Muhammadu Buhari

 According to a recent statement credited to the Ogun State Police Command, events have taken a new turn for the Nigerian man - Joe Chinakwe, 30, who named his dog after President Muhammadu Buhari.

 The attention of the police was called by his neighbour, Halilu Umar from Sokoto State who accused him of naming his dog "Buhari" to taunt him because he shares the same family name with the All Progressives Congress national leader.

 Premium Times reveals that the spokesperson of the police in Ogun, Abimbola Oyeyemi has announced a concluded plan to charge him to court for an action capable of causing a breach of public peace.

“The Ogun State Police Command has resolved to charge the suspect to court on Monday to forestall breach of public peace which the suspect’s action may likely cause,” Mr. Oyeyemi, an Assistant Superintendent of Police, said.
“His action is a provocative one and that is why the suspect will be charged for conduct likely to cause breach of public peace,” he added, saying a one-count charge would be filed.
The accused Mr Chinakwe was arrested and confined to a police cell in Sango Otta, Ogun State, for three days last week after a neighbour complained that he named his dog Buhari.
The accused told a reporter that he named his dog ‘Buhari’ out of the personal affection he has for President Muhammadu Buhari.

When News Breaks Out, We Break In. (The 2014 Bloggies Finalist)

The Other Side of Buhari Many Don't Know

This interesting article written by an Abuja-based public affairs commentator seeks to portray the many sides of President Muhammadu Buhari which many people don't know.

President Buhari

 

For so long, many Nigerians have been attempting to study and decode President Muhammadu Buhari, using different lenses. Some only had a modicum of clue on who he may be, counting on the code of information they obtained from the media when he first romped into global limelight as the Nigerian head of state in a military garb. 

 During that military era, Buhari occurred to a section of expectant Nigerians as a no-nonsense dictator with brazen disposition to power. Pairing in leadership with the late Brigadier Tunde Idiagbon, adjudged as restless, hardworking and unsmiling made the Buhari’s regime almost a nightmare for Nigerians who took business as usual all through the period he reigned as Head of State. 

 Nonetheless, many perceived and saw Buhari as a Messiah with the military government he presided over. Nigeria was in rot when he took over in 1983. Indiscipline and corruption were in great synergy to incinerate the glory that Nigeria carried from independence. The sacked civilian government presided over by former President Shehu Shagari operated recklessly. Cabinet members acted like heists with moral bankruptcy while being less patriotic in the judgement of many. 

 When the Buhari’s military regime came on board, frustrated Nigerians troop to the streets in wild celebration. The reproach thrown up by the rising tide of social vices in all parts of the country after the collapse of Second Republic made the War Against Indiscipline (WAI) launched by his government very compelling. Nigerians were remolded by WAI in conduct and character while the government enforced discipline all through. From then on, Buhari struck gold in popularity that lingered with him till he got elected as president in May 29, 2015. 

 For President Buhari, history appears to be on re-hearse, as the throwback of mismanaged opportunities, which Nigeria suffered under the government of Shagari, seems to be on display again. In simple terms, the government of former President Goodluck Jonathan offered Nigerians mirrors of infractions, excesses and lack of focus akin to what political players exhibited in the Second Republic. 

 Nigeria gravitated towards the precipice under the government of former President Jonathan. In that government, acts of corruption ballooned uncontrollably, leading to growing terrorism, insecurity and other heinous social vices. Then battered Nigerians electorate craved for emergence of a Messiah. Again, Buhari emerged to play the role. 

 For President Buhari, however, saving Nigeria from imminent collapse entails a fight against corruption, terrorism and the need to re-grow the economy. He also needs to engage the swarming army of the unemployed in Nigeria in the productive sector. These are daunting challenges, which he needs to address in a short time. Yet, Nigerians appear unprepared to appreciate the enormity of the challenge and dilemma that the Buhari’s government faces day and night in efforts to correct the ills of the past, while taking off with the Change mantra. 

 It is not in doubt that the President has fully addressed his mind to bring about the changes that Nigeria needs. Those who work closely with him attest to his desire and determination to take Nigeria out of the woods. The aggregate view is that the reigning Nigerian President is a man to be fully understood by Nigerians who want to know where he aims to take their country. 

 Buhari, is said to start his day, leaving no one around him in doubt that the ‘change’ that he preaches must start from his own office. The President leads by example. He is said to be desirous of building up institutions that will outlive him. He is also said to depend on his protocol department to operate hitch free standards on crowd control in the seat of government. 

 The president is a stickler   for time with perceived determination to change the poor attitude of Nigerians on time matters. He attends events on schedule, gradually sweeping off all elements on time wasting that had for years led to waste of public funds. Under him, guests at events are never kept waiting for hours in a manner they were used to with past Presidents and leaders. 

 By his body language, President Buhari appears not keen on living the opulence that the presidential power offers. His close aides attest to the fact that the President eats moderately, dons moderate attires, rides in official cars, while he most eagerly avoids any act likely to generate a scandal. 

 Although, there have been hues on the long list of foreign travels he had made so far, only a few knew that President Buhari, all along, has not been collecting allowances, or rather estacodes, contrary to insinuations. He is said to be content with arrangements made for his comforts by host countries. Buhari is also noted to have pruned down the number of officials in his entourage on every trip as a means of saving cost. 

 Before Buhari came to power, successive President’s saw nothing wrong in subjecting Abuja residents to long grueling hours of discomfort in traffic gridlocks with roadblocks to ease their movements in and out of Abuja. President Buhari has put a stop to that, offering a relief by flying in helicopter to his destinations, most especially to free the traffic along the airport road. 

 President Buhari once went to an open eid-ground in Abuja for prayers and surprisingly found himself surrounded by more than a mammoth crowd of admires, all surging to catch a glimpse of him. The stampede which ensued in the process reportedly touched the President who immediately resolved to limit his spiritual exercises to the Presidential Villa. 

 For Nigerians who crave to understand the President better, Ministers and heads of governments have been having the free will to display initiatives while not being emasculated. According to reports, President Buhari only acts as an enabler, a guide for ensuring that the plans by his government to re-invent Nigeria works in the long run. The desire by the President to allow institutional growth and development is the reason he hardly meddles in the affairs of the other arms of government; the legislature and judiciary, which he felt have the internal mechanism to make adjustments each time they erred.

  By now critics should be aware that the success President Buhari has been recording in the fight against terrorism and corruption, the process of regenerating the economy through diversification as well as his cost saving initiatives, are a testament that his government is on the right track towards bringing back hope for the citizens. 

 

About the Author:

Folusho Daniel is an Abuja-based public affairs commentator and a columnist for Vanguard Newspaper


When News Breaks Out, We Break In. (The 2014 Bloggies Finalist)

SDF Launches Campaign For Enthronement Of Limbe Paramount Ruler Before AFCON

 By Aminateh Nkemngu in Limbe 

Godden Zama: SDF District chairman

About two months to the Female African Cup of nation, to be hosted in part by the seaside resort town of Limbe, the Limbe I electoral district of the SDF has launched a campaign to for a chief to be enthroned before the continental jamboree.

In a letter dated 13 August 2016, signed by the electoral District Chairman,Ndenge Godden Zama and addressed to the Prime Minister, the SDF notes that “ It has been more than a decade since the passing away of HRH Chief Ferguson .Billa  Manga Williams. Ever since then the great city of Limbe has suffered due to the lack of a traditional and cultural leadership.  Now, the city of Limbe is on the verge of hosting a major football competition and it would be a sacrilege to the good people of limbe if an event of such magnitude comes to town without a traditional ruler”.

The letter continues that “it is not new to you that the vacancy in the 1^st Class Chiefdom of Limbe has led to numerous problems and conflicts of interest. It is improper for administrative procedures to hold hostage the traditional needs of an entire peoples that is why we recommend that you use your high office to make the dreams of the people of Limbe come to reality. This move would awaken the gods and bring about an outburst of joy of momentous proportions that would give the African nations cup the colour, pomp, gusto and pageantry it deserves.”

It should be recalled that ever since the death of Chief Ferguson Billa Manga Williams in 2005,Limbe has not had a traditional ruler. Prolonged consultative talks between and among the ruling families of Limbe have not yielded fruits. Internal wrangling have continued to crop up ,leaving the 1s class chieftaincy stool vancant.

During the official opening of the Limbe Omnisport stadium by the Minister of Sports and Physical Education, Pierre Ismael BidoungMkpatt,it is the 3^rd class chiefs of the many small villages in Limbe that took part in the pouring of libations  for the opening of the stadium. This absence of a chief has left many of the city’s denizens worried that it would be an abomination for the city of Limbe to host the continental soccer dance without a chief  The  SDF goes further to say “ that is why we are initiating a people’s campaign to have a new Paramount Chief of Limbe before the start of the Female African Nations Cup”.

In July 2016,one of the contenders to the throne, Prince Jerry Manga Williams in a correspondence addressed to the administration  sought the authority incharge of 1^st class Chieftaincy in Fako to commission warrant kingmakers.

In his correspondence, he intimated that the commissioning of warrant kingmakers and a Chieftaincy Advisory Committee will ‘demise the long and lingering stalemate regarding the succession of the last Paramount Chief of Limbe’ and shall be ‘in accordance with the Bakweri tradition of Chieftaincy succession and in recognition of the Cameroon Chieftaincy Law’

The SDF letter which comes to add to these earlier calls is also addressed to the administrative authorities of Limbe in particular and Fako in general as well as elite and politicians in different political parties.

When News Breaks Out, We Break In. (The 2014 Bloggies Finalist)

Why Genevieve Nnaji Dumped Me - Actor, Okechukwu Joseph

 Following a failed romantic affair with the delectable actress, Genevieve Nnaji, recently returned actor, Okechukwu Joseph now reveals what went wrong.

Okechukwu Joseph(L), Genevieve Nnaji (R)

Determined to make a difference, Okechukwu Joseph ventured into the movie industry but after about a decade, the actor believed that he had not made the desired change. and so he travelled to the United States where he enrolled at the New York Film Academy. The result of this is a soon-to-be released movie entitled, Second Chance.

 In an interview with Christian Agadibe of The Sun, Joseph talks about his new film, aborted romance with star actress, Genevieve Nnaji and his plans for Nollywood.

 On his failed romantic affair with Genevieve Nnaji, Joseph said:

"I had no difficulty mingling. What I had issues with was entangling- copulating. And like I said earlier, I wasn’t ready because I was a virgin and I didn’t want to tell anybody. I was always making excuses about why I couldn’t ‘get down.’ In fact this is one of the reasons my very short relationship with Genevieve was such a disaster. This is the first time I am admitting this publicly. Genny and I met and became friends on the set of Mark of the Beast.

 "Of course in her very early days. It was as though we were in some type of experiment. But I learned a lot about her within that short period. Two unforgettable moments- the day she introduced her little brother to me and the day she told me literally everything about herself. She trusted me that much. My mind was racing like crazy and I kept wondering how so little people knew about this young Amazon who was out to play the Esther for her family and did she? She felt like family to me.

 "Unfortunately, we couldn’t go further because of my funny little ‘virgin’ secret. Not that she solicited or asked for anything but of course, my body language was downright repulsive to that effect and it didn’t take anything for any woman with brains to figure it out. She was so full of pragmatic energy and so on-the-go- like woman on a mission. Never ready to play around with stuff she couldn’t put up with. I hope she’s still that way. She has got an incredible story to her glory."

When News Breaks Out, We Break In. (The 2014 Bloggies Finalist)

Matters Arising from Drimp Regional Youth Forum Nkambe: The Stakes and Implications of the Call to Boycott that was Boycotted

Cross section of the youths at Nkambe community hall

There was euphoria in Nkambe where over 500 youths participated in a youth forum organized by Rogers Nforgwei. Drimp Regional Youth Forum that took place at the Nkambe Community Hall on August 19, 2016 has gone into history as luminous test of the political hate that looms large in (Wi)mbum land. Although the event was seen by Rogers Nforgwei’s own CPDM elite(s) as a stage setting for his political aggrandizement, the rampant phone calls calling for boycott fell on deaf ears.

Present at the Nkambe Community hall were Fons of Nkambe, Kup, Sah, Bih, Kungi, Bongom and others sub chiefs who were buried in the crowd.

Mayor of Nkambe, Ngabir Paul Bantar in a welcome speech called on the youths to dream big in order to be productive tomorrow. Ngabir Paul Bantar, used the opportunity to urge other elites to emulate the example of Rogers Nforgwei to encourage youth empowerment.

Rogers addressing youths of Mbuwarr at Awafy Hotel

However, we gathered that the few misguided CPDM elite (names withheld) maneuvered in the dark for the event to flop but their call for boycott was extremely boycotted by the population who on the contrary showed proof of their independence. This obnoxious plan to frustrate Drimp Regional Youth Forum we were reliably informed was masterminded by a handful of elite based in some big cities. They made rampant phone calls threatening that those who would dare will be sacked from the party. “I am sure this man is after something” one local official told this reporter. “Nkambe is like not free for all. We have just observed that some of our local party officials are so arrogant that they turn to challenge hierarchy. It is regrettable”, one councilor who preferred not to be named told us. This extremely mind bugging call for boycott failed woefully as majority Mbuwarr youths after learning of the scary attempt turned out massively to participate. However, many Wimbum people of goodwill and conscience have been asking whether something is not wrong with some of their elite. To many, the funny story of asking people to boycott a youth empowerment forum on alleged political aggrandizement is an unfathomable and a joke of a very bad taste. Nevertheless, since the success of any event of such magnitude depends on the personality who organizes, Abanda Marcel defeated his detractors by showing that he is exceedingly an intelligent mobilizer and a proactive youth leader and not king of youth with three followers. Since conventional wisdom holds that when you transform neglected things into an enviable art, others will want to dislodge you to reap the fruits of what they did not plant; Rogers’ involvement in politics we gathered is creating panic within the ranks of the CPDM. The unadventurous loom is to charge the politicians and tacticians for this dreaded odium politicum. If truth be told, the unfortunate is the fact that in Nkambe, citizens don’t care to look inward a little. Whether or not they want to admit it, political hate is a demand-driven happening. Rumour monger sell high and the politicians are creating a big market for it. What is curious is that these drummers are people who society look at them as models but yet they carryout obnoxious practices to kill dreams. In raising eyebrows, giving the integrity and public credibility that politics is a good game but played by bad people, history had it recorded that all plans to frustrate Drimp Regional Youth Forum did not only flopped but sent warning signals to the detractors who are being unmask one after another. The truth is that those who have been ardent militants of the CPDM in Nkambe confirmed that Rogers Nforgwei was even the lone person who in the past was supporting local party activities. In 2011, he made the Section proud when he doled out FCFA 8 million during the fundraising in Bamenda in support of President Biya’s candidature. “He is and has remained loyal CPDM” one of his followers told us in a chat.

What was however as fiasco, was the Drimp Youth Soccer Championship. The football tournament was marred by poor organization, planning. In fact everything was poor executed.(details soon)

When News Breaks Out, We Break In. (The 2014 Bloggies Finalist)

Nigeria Wins Bronze Medal in Men's Football at Rio Olympics #Rio2016

The despair of leaving the Rio Olympics without a medal was finally overcome as the men's football team were able to make Nigerians smile with a medal in the game.

 Nigeria finally came through to winning a medal at the on-going Rio 2016 Olympics as the Men's soccer team scored a bronze medal for the country.
The game which went down on Saturday, August 20, saw the Dream Team winning Honduras on a score line of 3-2.
The bronze medal winning match saw Aminu Umar scoring in the 34th and 49th minutes of the game.
In the 56th minute, Sadiq Umar scored a goal making giving Nigeria a decisive lead of 3-0 against Honduras.
Honduras began climbing back with Anthony Lozano scoring a goal in the 71st minute and Marcelo Periera scoring in the 86th minute making the score 3-2.
The bonze medal is being coined by some as the “Golden Bronze” referring to the fact that it is the only medal won by Team Nigeria so far at the 2016 Rio Olympics.

 Nigeria last won a medal at an Olympic Games in 2008, and this Bronze will bring the country’s overall tally to 24 medals won, with football now winning all colours of medals: GOLD in 1996, Silver in 2008, Bronze in 2016

When News Breaks Out, We Break In. (The 2014 Bloggies Finalist)

International Leadership Conference: Hon. Awudu Mbaya Leads Cameroon Delegation

The International Leadership Conference organized by the Universal Peace Federation was in reaction to the present-day challenges facing the world. Hon. Awudu Mbaya Cyprian who led Cameroon delegation to Ouagadougou upon returning back to Cameroon has declared that there is a pressing need to empower leaders of the world to meet the growing challenges such as peace, security, . Hon. Awudu Mbaya who doubles as Questor at the National Assembly cum President of Pan African Parliamentarians Network on Climate Change said during the conference of August 8-10, 2016 brought together leaders from 28 African countries to reflect on the theme: Addressing the Critical Challenges of our Time: The Role of Governments, Civil Society and Faith-Based. Participants included current parliamentarians, along with religious leaders, women leaders, civil society leaders and media.

He continued that the Conferenceis part of a series of Regional ILCs that are an outgrowth of an ILC that was convened in Korea on February 12-16, 2016, involving more than 800 participants from around the world, and including approximately 150 current parliamentarians from 40 nations.

Besides, participants at the Burkina Faso Conference focused on the search for innovative solutions to some of the critical issues on the local, national, regional and global levels, from climate change to the rise of extremist ideologies, humanitarian disasters, and conflict as well as strategies to strengthen marriages and build strong families for peace and sustainable development.

Hon. Awudu Mbaya said that one of the innovations was the creation of an International Association of Parliamentarians for Peace, which will serve as a platform for parliamentarians to bring their experience and wisdom to bear in the search for solutions to our world’s critical problems. Hon. Awudu Mbaya it should be noted was charged to present the final Declaration of the African Regional Chapter of Parliamentarians for Peace and Conflict Resolution.

Worthy to note that The Universal Peace Federation was founded by Rev. Dr. Sun Myung Moon and Dr. Hak Ja Han Moon with vision rooted in universal spiritual and moral principles that apply to all areas of human endeavor, including the family, society, government, religion, business, academia, media, arts, and sports.

When News Breaks Out, We Break In. (The 2014 Bloggies Finalist)