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Friday, January 6, 2017

Where is Prof. Ghogomu Paul, and the Ad-hoc Committee?



Prof. Ghogomu chairman of the adhoc committee

Thomas Sowell once said that "some of the biggest cases of mistaken identity are among intellectuals who have trouble remembering that they are not God.” But I will contextualize what Sowell said by adding that Cameroon has a plethora of people who have spent time thinking over nothing yet have assumed too much self importance to the point that they turn to abuse the term “intellectual". Maybe it is their ignorance and prejudices that is allowing false ideas and bad values to work in this country. However, when an intellectual is given the responsibility to do work, many have created the impression that society should not rely on Professors to get things right. I am wondering whether in Cameroon we can rely on some intellectual elite because theirs is to get things wrong.
Nevertheless, what very disturbing is the meaning of what it is to be an intellectual and to do intellectual work. The idea of having some thinkers in Cameroon today, or intellectuals has been proclaimed dead and done away with. So, the beginning of the end of the intellectual as someone puts it is already inhabited in the manner and time Professor Ghogomu Paul, the chairman of the Ad-hoc Committee to look into the grievances of Anglophone teachers,is taking to look into the problems of teachers. At its last meeting that ended in a deadlock, he presented the phenomenal and historic 11 points carved out after leaders of teachers trade unions stormed out of the meeting in Bamenda. He defeated the notion of scientific surveys when he talked about having met students and parents on the prevailing situation. Seemingly, Ad-hoc Committees are now places where opinions go to die.  
Leadership without conformity is very dodgy. After the first meeting in Bamenda, he (Paul Ghogomu) went on the state media to declare that if teachers don’t go back to teach, no meaningful dialogue will take place. Yet few weeks later he and his committee members including Prof. Fame Ndongo hurried to Bamenda without the teachers being in school. As bells ring for the start of second term after an epileptic first term, the need to know how far Prof. Ghogomu, and his adhoc committee have gone with the "frank dialogue" as reiterated by President Biya in his end of year continue to beg for answers. Where is Prof. Ghogomu
His crash is all the more incomparable, not just because of its atrociousness, but also for the fact that his two meetings flopped woefully. The most pathetic thing is that having achieved fame as Director of Cabinet (Rank of Minister), Paul Ghogomu should not be the one to ask questions about the Anglophone problem in Cameroon. And whether he did it with purpose and panache or not is not our problem for now.
I once read a book  titled "Think Big And Kick Ass in which the author outlined that “If you believe you can do something, other people will believe it too. Give off the attitude that you are important and worth listening to. If you value yourself, others will respect and value you.”
I am sure the author certainly lived by his own script. But the hard work now begins for Ghogomu to deliver to government the needed results to find lasting solutions to the Anglophone problem that has resulted to the problems of the Anglophones in order to reverse several policies of the Government of Cameroon. As the deadlock persists, Prof. Ghogomu and the adhoc are faced with a multifaceted challenge. The questions many have been asking is whether he has the gargantuan kindheartedness and an enviable tenet to give a listening ear to the fact that teachers want, such as the point that all those arrested and transferred to Yaounde be freed. One point has been met, that is the inclusion of trade union leaders of the South West on the list of Committee members.  Anglophones now look at Ghogomu with diversified views. Some see him as one who could serve as speed break to the Southern Cameroons Cause and to others; he is moving as a snail pace. But one thing is abundantly clear: That he may likely miss the golden opportunity that would have created influence, all his life. Even the most retarded imbecile cannot deny this fact. His failure is incredible in the light of the fact that he might have fallen prey to political manipulations. Teachers’ trade unions leaders recently rejected an invitation from Jacque Fame Ndongo to attend a meeting in Yaounde on December 30, 2016 on grounds that the invitation came late. Could this be emitting end signals for the Ghogomu led Committee?
The Bible teaches us that Prophets were just ordinary and imperfect men that God chose to use and eventually elevated them above the ordinary run of men. The Prophets of old were all involved in the statecraft of Israel; courageously speaking truth to power. A Prophet is a cheerful and powerful giver and God said he is unwillingly to do without such people. Amassing wealth is not part of the Kingdom principle. In Luke 12:33, Jesus said to his disciples: “Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has chosen gladly to give you the kingdom. Sell your possessions and give to charity; make yourselves money belts which do not wear out, an unfailing treasure in heaven, where no thief comes near nor moth destroys. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” This is among the hard sayings of Jesus. It is easier for a camel to pass through the eye of a needle than to hear a pastor preach on this. In another passage of the bible Jesus also told a rich young man, “If you want to be perfect, go, sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me." He never told him to bring the money to His ministry. When the Apostles recognized the grace that had been given to Paul, James and Cephas and John only advised him to always remember the poor. And Paul said this is the very thing that he was eager to do.  In Ephesians 4:28,Paul admonished Christians that anyone who had been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with their own hands, that they may have something to share with those in need.
 


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

Thursday, January 5, 2017

CONSORTIUM: STILL TERRIBLY APPREHENSIVE-AYAH PAUL

 By Ayah Paul
There is only one consortium with one head of the one executive. But Yaounde arrogantly decides, with the benediction of the one consortium , (methinks), to divide the consortium into one wing, (like a CPDM Section), holding talks with the government at Bamenda; and another wing holding talks simultaneously with the very government at Yaounde! Arh beg make una no vex: this is DIVIDE TO WEAKEN!
In the normal course of things, and in common sense, the executive of the consortium should make every talks conditional on the entire executive of the consortium being present; and conditional further on all the Anglophone leadership being present. In that event, Mr. Biya’s sly government would lack the basis to contend that the consortium has no jurisdiction to table political matters.
One is not a prophet of doom. But permit one to caution that the consortium is between the hammer and the anvil. They cannot disentangle themselves by themselves alone... Let us never ever lose sight of the fact that the blood of innocent English Cameroonians has been spilt!
Therefore do we do submit as per here above!


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

Confirmed! The Rescued Chibok Girl is No. 49 on Our List - BBOG Makes New Revelation


Following the widespread report of a Chibok girl who has been rescued alive with a baby from the dreaded jaws of Boko Haram, the BBOG group has issued a statement.
 
Members of the BringBackOurGirls (#BBOG) advocacy have said the newly rescued Chibok girl, Rakiya Abubakar Gali, is number 49 on their list.
 BBOG confirmed that the girl who was rescued on Thursday alongside her six- month old baby is one of the remaining 196 Chibok girls still in Boko Haram captivity.
 The group’s spokesperson, Sesugh Akume, said “Rakiya Abubakar Gali is #49 on our list.”
 


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

Press Release: Cameroon Parents Association Speaks Out

 Posted as Received


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

Technology: The Smartphone Accessory That Permits Partners to Kiss Creates Sensation

 A new technological innovation has emerged which allows people to kiss their partners even if they are far away from each other.

A woman demonstrating with Kissenger
 
Long distance relationships are always tough, and the lack of physical interaction is one of the main reasons for that. There’s no substituting human touch, yet, but rapidly-advancing technology already provides some intriguing alternatives. One such example is the Kissenger, a smartphone peripheral that allows users to kiss over long distances.
 The concept of long-distance kissing has been an intriguing research concept for over half a decade now. Back in 2012, we wrote about the Kissenger, a solution created by Dr. Hooman Samani, Director of AIART Lab (Artificial Intelligence and Robotics Technology Laboratory) in Singapore. It consisted of two internet-connected bunny-shaped robots with big silicone lips that could send the touch of human lips between each-other to (sort of) simulate a kiss between two human beings. Samani described it as a “a physical interface enabling kiss communication”.
 The Kissinger made international news headlines when it was originally revealed, but it never translated into an actual consumer product. However, the idea of transmitting human kisses over long distances remained popular, and, earlier this month, Emma Yann Zhang, a Computer Science PhD student at City University London, presented her own take on the idea, also called the Kissenger.
 
Kissenger
 
Derived from the words ‘kiss’ and ‘messenger’, the Kissenger works in a similar way as Dr. Samani’s Kissenger, but features a much more practical design. Instead of a cute robot connected to a computer, the Kissenger takes the shape of a smartphone cover, with a large, oval silicone “lip” at the bottom. All the user has to do is plant a wet one on this silicone pad and built-in high precision force sensors register a user’s lip movements, while miniature linear actuators replicate those movements on a second device used by the person being kissed.
The Kissenger aims to replicate romantic kisses, but as Emma Yann Zhang says, the device can also be used by parents to give their children a kiss on the cheek when they are away at work. The PhD student presented her invention at the recent Love and Sex with Robots conference, where she said that humans will inevitably become more intimate with A.I. or robots, and being able to share a kiss will play a big part in that kind of relationship.
 Zhang admits that her invention still requires a fair bit of work to create a lifelike kissing experience, but she is already working to improve it. She and her team are working on a way to build scent into the Kissenger, so that users can also get the authentic smell of the person they want to kiss. They also want to record data about blood pressure and heart rate to see if users are affected in the same way that they are by a real kiss.
 The Kissenger is still a long way from becoming a real consumer product, but the concept of long-distance kissing is definitely evolving.
 
***
Via Oddity Central


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

Press Release: Cameroon Angophone Civil Society Consortium Speaks Out in Release No 12 ( Operation Ghost Town)

 Posted as Received



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

Janet Jackson Gives Birth to a Bouncing Baby Boy

American singer, Janet Jackson has surprised all by giving birth to a bouncing baby boy at age 50.
Singer Janet Jackson and husband Wissam Al Mana
Singer Janet Jackson has at the age of 50 given birth to her first child, a baby boy, her publicist has confirmed.
 A statement said the musician and her Qatari businessman husband, Wissam Al Mana, were "thrilled" to welcome the infant, Eissa Al Mana.
"Janet had a stress-free healthy delivery and is resting comfortably," the publicist added.
 Speculation about her pregnancy surfaced last April when she postponed her Unbreakable tour.
 She posted a video on Twitter at the time in which she told fans that she was postponing the tour because "there's been a sudden change".
"I thought it was important that you be the first to know," she said, adding: "Please, if you can try and understand that it's important that I do this now."
 She said she wanted to focus on planning a family with her husband, whom she wed in 2012. Jackson had earlier been spotted in London shopping for baby essentials. 
 Janet Jackson is far from the only famous face to give birth later in life.
 Oscar-winning Halle Berry had her second child at 47, three years ago, and John Travolta's wife Kelly Preston gave birth to her third child at 48. Geena Davis - best known for her role in Thelma and Louise - became a mother later in life. Her first child, a girl, arrived when she was 46, followed two years later by twin boys.
 But these mothers - and Jackson - are all positively young when compared to the world's oldest new mothers. There are at least three women in India who claimed to have given birth when at least two decades older than the pop singer.
Courtesy-BBC



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

Tic Tac: Vivica Fox Makes Shocking Revelation About Her Ex-boyfriend, 50 Cent

Vivica Fox has admitted something very serious about 50 Cent which many didn't know about after their relationship crashed.
Vivica Fox and Rapper 50 Cent
 
American actress, Vivica Fox shocked everyone after admitting on Wendy Williams show on Tuesday (Jan 3) that she still loves G-unit frontman, 50 Cent.
 The duo had spent a better part of last year engaged in brutal fights after their relationship came to a dramatic end. 
“It is so time for this to be over, as far as beefing back and forth.” Fox shared during The Wendy Williams Show.
 Fox apparently called a truce when she ran into the 41-year-old Queens native at a New York Knicks game Monday (Jan. 2) night. “I walked over to him and I said ’Happy New Year,'” she explained. “I gave him a hug, we talked for a few minutes, and that was that.”
 Speaking further about their past relationship, Fox in an tearful voice said: “I will always have love for him, as much as we’ve been through,” continued the 52-year-old actress. “I’ve said that he was literally like my true love, I hated to have to beef with him but I don’t let nobody mess with me. I ain’t no punk.”
 She added, “I told him last night that I’ll always love him, we’re not meant to be together but I’ll always have love for [him].”


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

Defeated Gambia President, Jammeh Declares He is Ready for War

 Trouble is looming in Gambia as prepares for a showdown with defeated Gambian president Yahya Jammeh.


Defeated Gambian leader, Yahya Jammeh
 Gambian President Yahya Jammeh has said he is ready to defend his country against any aggression. This comes after he accused the West African regional bloc - Economic Community of West African States - of declaring war for demanding that he stand down following his defeat at the ballot box.
 The 15-member ECOWAS had warned Jammeh to step down as it would “take all necessary action to enforce the results” of the December 1 poll.
 However, an AFP report revealed that during his New Year's speech on Saturday night, Jammeh had said the ECOWAS summit decision was “totally illegal” as it violated the principle of non-interference in the internal affairs of member states.
“It is in effect a declaration of war and an insult to our constitution. It is therefore absolutely unacceptable,” said Jammeh.
“Let me make very clear that we are ready to defend the country against any aggression and there will be no compromise on this.”
 Opposition leader Adama Barrow was declared the winner of the ballot in the former British colony and Jammeh — in power for 22 years — initially conceded defeat.
 But he reversed his decision a week later, condemning “unacceptable errors” by election authorities and calling for a new election.
 The Gambia’s top court said last month it was adjourning until January 10 a case filed by Jammeh to annul the vote results.
 Jammeh’s stance has stoked international concerns about the future of the small west African country, with the UN joining African leaders in calling for him to allow Barrow to take the oath of office as scheduled on January 19.
 But the 51-year-old strongman has remained defiant.
 “Given the unjustifiable and unprecedented anomalies… what we are simply and rightfully asking for is to return to the polls and allow the Gambians to elect who they want to be their president in free and fair elections,” he said Saturday.


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

Nigerian Actress, Funke Akindele is Pregnant?

There are strong rumours that the executive producer of the popular sitcom, Jenifa Diary,is currently pregnant for her musician husband, JJC Skillz.

 
Funke Akindele and JJC Skillz
 
Nollywood actress and film producer, Funke Akindele Bello seems to have been blessed in double folds this New Year with the fruit of the womb alongside a beautiful house in Lagos.
 Hype Naija, a news blog is reporting that the popular comic actress, Jenifa is expecting her first child with newly married husband, singer and businessman, Abdul Bello who goes by the stage name JJC Skillz.
 According to a source, "she's the happiest woman on earth right now".
 It would be recalled that a few days ago, a Nigerian prophet and founder of Mountain of Blessing and Miracle Church of Christ, Dr. Olagorioye Faleyimu revealed in his 2017 prophecies that the Nollywood actress is destined to be wealthy and famous but not destined to have a child before she dies.
 There is no confirmation from the energetic Jenifa who recently celebrated her new house with public figures in Lagos.


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

Pastor Chris Oyakhilome Releases His 2017 Prophecies, Says 2017 is Year of Luxuriant Growth

 Influential cleric, preacher and founder of Christ Embassy Church, Pastor Chris Oyakhilome, has released prophecies for 2017.

Pastor Chris
 
While speaking on Sunday, the New Year's day, Pastor Chris Oyakhilome, of the Christ Embassy Church, reportedly released his prophecies for 2017.
 DailyPost reported that the cleric pointed out that 2017 would be a year of flourishing for all, even as he compared the flourishing to that of a palm tree which flourishes and grows irrespective of whatever season it is.
 
Below are some of the prophecies released:
 
1. The Year of Luxuriant growth
 
2. The Year of Significant attainment (News making attainments)
 
3. The Year of Persistent productivity.
 
“This Year has been seen from recent years and also the present time of the age.
“Wickedness is on the high rise, that even Al-Qaeeda had to disassociate itself from ISIS due to the very nefarious acts committed by the terrorist groups, but this year, God has decided to equip His kids more to be able to win more souls to God’s Kingdom; this year is full of many notable personalities being won to God.
“This year is going to see God’s children come out nourished even in the midst of seemingly difficult times.
“The gospel would go places this year, places of seeming horrors and turbulence and the more wicked the Devil gets this year, God has decided to even be much more gracious by increasing the grace on His children.
“There would be more wickedness this year as been seen in the world, but God’s kids who are the light of the world would be more equipped by God and shine by quenching every iota of wickedness,” he said further.


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

Lesson from Nigeria: 18-Year-Old Student Develops Alarm Footmat, Solar-Powered Mower & Grinder

 Nigeria could have a bright future in the development of cutting edge technology if people like this talented head are encouraged.

 
Tobi Ayanwoye in different photos
 
An 18-yr-old SS3 student of Federal Government College FGC Ogbomoso, Oyo state - Tobi Ayanwoye, developed an alarm footmat, solar-powered mower and grinder.
 His intelligence is currently being promoted on social media to encourage the boy and also expose him to technological experts who could in turn groom and refine him for futuristic purposes.
 "Nigeria has really got talents. This type of skill needs to be harnessed" an impressed social media user said. 
 
See more photos:
 



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

Ini Edo Allegedly Engaged in Sizzling Secret Romance with 'Oil Man'

 Akwa Ibom native and Special Adviser to governor Udom Emmanuel seems prepared to be a second wife if the developing rumours are to be believed.

Ini Edo
Multiple award winning actress, Ini Edo will be kicking off the year with a messy details about her romance with a married millionaire according to social media rumours.
 The Nollywood diva who has been flaunting an engagement all through the later part of 2016 is reportedly engaged to an oil magnate named Stanley Uzochukwu.
 
Stanley Uzockukwu
 
Although the actress didn't confirm the date but media sources claims she has been engaged since July 3rd last year and she will be settling down with her new boo soon.
 The only glitch in Ini's lovetale is that Stanley Uzochukwu is married to a northern socialite, Irene who has four kids for him, she first delivered triplets and another baby later on.
 This won't be the first time, Ini Edo who is currently on vacation in Dubai will be linked to a married man as she courted and married her first husband, Philip Ehiagwina while he was still married to another woman.


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

Wednesday, January 4, 2017

Press Release: North West Elite Call For Resumption Of Schools

 Here below is the Communique by North West Elite(s) in Yaounde calling for the resumption of schools in the North West and South West Regions of Cameroons.

       Press Release


"Mindful of the Head State's New Year Message to the Nation on 31st December, 2016;
Mindful of his strong condemnation of all acts of violence regardless of their sources and their perpetrators and his resolve to draw conclusions from the ongoing enquiries on all the allegations of the recent violence carried out in the North West and South West Regions;
Considering his reassurances that "all voices that spoke have been heard and most of the substantive issues cannot be overlooked because of their pertinence" and his resolve to find lasting solutions to all the problems posed through peaceful dialogue;
Mindful of his appeal urging the various parties concerned to participate without any bias in the various discussions and engage in frank dialogue within the framework of the two Ad Hoc Committees created to look into the Anglophone teachers' and lawyers' grievances;
Considering the Head of State's unwavering determination to continue the building of a united, inclusive and bilingual nation, embarked upon by all Cameroonians without exception, a legacy bequeathed by our founding fathers and national heroes;
Considering the Head of State's reaffirmation that the Cameroonian experience is unique in Africa and can be perfected as we listen to each other and remain open to constructive ideas within the framework of the laws and regulations in force in our country;
Considering the announcement by the Head of State to go the extra mile and put in place a National Entity tasked with proposing solutions aimed at maintaining peace, consolidating our country's unity and strengthening our resolve and our day-to-day experiences of LIVING TOGETHER;
Mindful of the Head of State's strong resolve to ensure that all Cameroonians live in peace, unity and harmony in ONE united and INDIVISIBLE Nation, Cameroon.
We, the North West Elite, Senators and Members of the National Assembly, pursuant to our communiqué of 4th December 2016 hereby:
Appeal for schools to reopen in the North West and South West Regions come January 9, 2017 and for peace and harmony to continue to reign in the two Regions;
Appeal to all teachers, teachers' syndicates, school proprietors, parents, the civil society, politicians, traders, economic operators, taxi men, motorbike riders, students, pupils and all citizens of good will, to ensure that schools effectively resume in the North West and South West Regions to save our children the already jeopardized school year and hence ensure their future;
Reiterate our total support for peace, stability and tranquility in our Regions;
Reaffirm our unflinching support for a One, United, Bilingual and Indivisible fatherland, Cameroon; and

Pledge our unflinching support to His Excellency President Paul Biya as he continues to find lasting solutions to all our challenges in view of consolidating our National Unity."
Done in Yaounde, on Tuesday, 3rd January 2017

Signed:

Atanga Nji Paul, Mbah Acha née Rose Fomundam, Fuh Calistus Gentry, Doh Jerome Penbaga, Shey Jones Yembe, Enyih Atogho, Abety Peter, Awanga Zacharias, Emma Eno Lafon, Dingha Ignatius B., Nji Fidelis, Njingum Musa, Fon Chafah Isaac, Doh Anderson, Roselyne Mutia, Melo Uphie Chinje, Fru Angwafor, Sammy Chumbow, Tan Paul, Baye Francis, Gabsa Wilfred, Nwana Sama Bernard, Kilo Asheri, Chi Asafor, Neba Bridget, Martina Baye, Doh Sama Finlay, Mbayu Felix, Moh Sylvester, Fongod Edwin, Fru Jonathan, Simon Tamfu, Akwa Patrick, Bungo Jean Paul, Sama Dudley, Jaji Manu, Adamu Musa, Makebeh John Bodih, Ndzo Celestine, Nuhu Sali, Yerima Peter Giyoh, Doh Victor, Tilda Kumichi Ndichia, Dom Anthony Chuavis, Foryang Godfred Fumbi, Isa Adamu, Abbas Mohamadou, Ngong Denis, Jumbuin Lawrence, Solange Yijika, Adriana Yenawuni W., John Kendem, Ngoran Austin Ntunyuy, Okies Johnson, Wango Francis, Tamungang Taka Justine, Jato Letisia, Yerlice Joy.



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

NW Elite in Yaounde Call for Resumption of Schools, Consortium Replies with Call for Sit-in Strike


An atmosphere of confusion now looms in the North West and South West Regions of Cameroon as schools are expected to kick-start next Monday. North West elite(s) based in Yaounde today January 4, 2017 issued a communiqué in which they reechoed their call for peace and resumption of schools in North West and South West Regions. The communiqué signed by elite(s), Senators and Members of Parliament states that “Mindful of his strong condemnation of all acts of violence regardless of their sources and their perpetrators and his resolve to draw conclusions from the ongoing enquiries on all the allegations of the recent violence carried out in the North West and South West Regions;
Considering his reassurances that "all voices that spoke have been heard and most of the substantive issues cannot be overlooked because of their pertinence" and his resolve to find lasting solutions to all the problems posed through peaceful dialogue;
Mindful of his appeal urging the various parties concerned to participate without any bias in the various discussions and engage in frank dialogue within the framework of the two Ad Hoc Committees created to look into the Anglophone teachers' and lawyers' grievances;
Considering the Head of State's unwavering determination to continue the building of a united, inclusive and bilingual nation, embarked upon by all Cameroonians without exception, a legacy bequeathed by our founding fathers and national heroes;
Considering the Head of State's reaffirmation that the Cameroonian experience is unique in Africa and can be perfected as we listen to each other and remain open to constructive ideas within the framework of the laws and regulations in force in our country;
Considering the announcement by the Head of State to go the extra mile and put in place a National Entity tasked with proposing solutions aimed at maintaining peace, consolidating our country's unity and strengthening our resolve and our day-to-day experiences of LIVING TOGETHER;
Mindful of the Head of State's strong resolve to ensure that all Cameroonians live in peace, unity and harmony in ONE united and INDIVISIBLE Nation, Cameroon”, they appealed to the teachers, teachers’ syndicates, proprietors of schools, parents, civil society, politicians, traders, economic operators, taxi drivers, achaba riders, students, pupils and citizens of goodwill to ensure that schools reopen on Monday.
In reaction to the communiqué by North West Elite based in Yaounde, The Consortium has also issued a counter release calling for a sit-in strike on Monday. In Press Release No 12, The Consortium states that “Ever since Lawyers and Teachers of West Cameroon raised critical issues relating to their existence, government has not taken any concrete steps resolve them”. The Consortium argued that government has been trying to get school start without solving the problems raised. The Press Release states that “ The Anglophone Civil Society Consortium os calling on the general public of West Cameroon (North West and South West Regions) to stand up like one man and embark on a sit-in strike on Monday 9th January 2017”.  To them, the peaceful resistance must continue until the demands of Lawyers and Teachers are satisfactorily addressed.

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

NW Elite in Yaounde Calls for Resumption of Schools, Consortium Replies with Call for Sit-in Strike



An atmosphere of confusion now looms in the North West and South West Regions of Cameroon as schools are expected to kick-start next Monday. North West elite(s) based in Yaounde today January 4, 2017 issued a communiqué in which they reechoed their call for peace and resumption of schools in North West and South West Regions. The communiqué signed by elite(s), Senators and Members of Parliament states that “Mindful of his strong condemnation of all acts of violence regardless of their sources and their perpetrators and his resolve to draw conclusions from the ongoing enquiries on all the allegations of the recent violence carried out in the North West and South West Regions;
Considering his reassurances that "all voices that spoke have been heard and most of the substantive issues cannot be overlooked because of their pertinence" and his resolve to find lasting solutions to all the problems posed through peaceful dialogue;
Mindful of his appeal urging the various parties concerned to participate without any bias in the various discussions and engage in frank dialogue within the framework of the two Ad Hoc Committees created to look into the Anglophone teachers' and lawyers' grievances;
Considering the Head of State's unwavering determination to continue the building of a united, inclusive and bilingual nation, embarked upon by all Cameroonians without exception, a legacy bequeathed by our founding fathers and national heroes;
Considering the Head of State's reaffirmation that the Cameroonian experience is unique in Africa and can be perfected as we listen to each other and remain open to constructive ideas within the framework of the laws and regulations in force in our country;
Considering the announcement by the Head of State to go the extra mile and put in place a National Entity tasked with proposing solutions aimed at maintaining peace, consolidating our country's unity and strengthening our resolve and our day-to-day experiences of LIVING TOGETHER;
Mindful of the Head of State's strong resolve to ensure that all Cameroonians live in peace, unity and harmony in ONE united and INDIVISIBLE Nation, Cameroon”, they appealed to the teachers, teachers’ syndicates, proprietors of schools, parents, civil society, politicians, traders, economic operators, taxi drivers, achaba riders, students, pupils and citizens of goodwill to ensure that schools reopen on Monday.
In reaction to the communiqué by North West Elite based in Yaounde, The Consortium has also issued a counter release calling for a sit-in strike on Monday. In Press Release No 12, The Consortium states that “Ever since Lawyers and Teachers of West Cameroon raised critical issues relating to their existence, government has not taken any concrete steps resolve them”. The Consortium argued that government has been trying to get school start without solving the problems raised. The Press Release states that “ The Anglophone Civil Society Consortium os calling on the general public of West Cameroon (North West and South West Regions) to stand up like one man and embark on a sit-in strike on Monday 9th January 2017”.  To them, the peaceful resistance must continue until the demands of Lawyers and Teachers are satisfactorily addressed.




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

PEATU President Looks at the Stakes and Implications of President New Year Message

 Afu Stephen, the President of The Presbyterian Education Authority Teachers’ Trade Union, PEATTU has
Afu Stephen
again made another critical analysis of President Biya's New Year Message to Cameroonians in relation to the Anglophone Problem. In his analsysis, Sir Afu Stephen wrote that 
"Sources close from the Oracle opine that the present impasse rocking the state has pushed the Head of State,in his end of year address to indicate that. "Besides the bodies that I have instructed the Government to set up which are already at work, we are ready to go an Extra Mile. We are willing to move in the footsteps and spirit of the architects of Reunification,and put in place a national entity which will be tasked with proposing solutions aimed at maintaining peace, consolidating and strengthening our resolve and our day to day experiences of living together. "
Stakes.
1.Two State Federation.
SWR will not vote for it, given that they are already insinuating that the NWR will marginalize them.We feel sad.The proposed Constitution of Drs Munzu,Anyangwe and Barrister Ekongtang Elad had given solutions to circumvent this..Who is at the centre of these manipulations ?
2.10 State Federation will be the next options.And government will be comfortable with this as a better option.Reason,?Other Regions are muting too that they equally are marginalised. Reference is made to the Memorandums from the other Regions,North,South,West etc.
3.Complete implementation of the decentralisation process .
All these positions would be put to vote.And by the fact that representation will be made cutting across Mayors, MPs, Senators, Political leaders, Trade Union leaders. By the numbers, the Anglophone will be out numbered in the votes.
Faced with these eventualities,What ways forward ?It is time thinking has to be extended far out of the box.


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

Tuesday, January 3, 2017

7 Ways to Become a Better Version of Yourself in 2017

As everyone goes into the New Year with high hopes and resolutions to be better versions of themselves, here are some tips to help you become a better person.
File photo
 
To have a successful, productive and fabulous year, you might need to drop some habits and pick up new ones.
 
Here are 7 tips that will help you in 2017.
 
1. Stop procrastinating
 
Virtually everyone is guilty of this, irrespective of age group. Procrastination is a deep grave where destinies are buried.
 
In 2017, be more assertive and prompt with whatever decision you make.
 
You plan to take fitness classes? Go for it. You want to learn how to drive? Don’t procrastinate. Do it.
 
2. Get off social media… live a little
 
Smartphones, gadgets, social media and the internet control the world’s attention and Nigeria is no exception
 
In the coming year, look for other hobbies/interests that would help develop your skills.
 
Away from social media, you can use your free time to add value to yourself in many ways.
 
3. Be positive; compliment yourself
 
Compliment yourself occasionally for the great things you do rather than constantly worrying about your shortcomings.
 
See the good in yourself, have a sense of purpose and keep your dreams alive; and above all, do a daily evaluation of your life.
 
4. Stop using ‘busy’ to ignore everyone
 
In the coming year, no matter how busy you may be, create time for your loved ones. Don’t let your job take their place; they would always be there when the job is no more.
 
In 2017, reply their text messages and pick up their calls.
 
5. Don’t compare yourself with others
 
Life is in phases and where you are at the moment was once experienced by others, so, don’t compare your life with theirs.
 
Focus on yourself, believe in your potentials and don’t hate on anyone’s pace.
 
6. Don’t overwork yourself
 
Money must be made but that doesn’t mean you have to overstretch yourself all the time.
 
Try your best to find a balance between work and life.
 
7. You aren’t always right
 
Take corrections in love in 2017. They’ll take you far.
 
When you’re corrected, heed to corrections and accept responsibility for your actions.
 
Credits: TheCable


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

How the Men of God Goofed in 2016

At the beginning of the year, popular men of God are known to make prophecies of things that will happen all through, however there were some prophecies about 2016 that were off the mark.
 
Many Nigerians are not going to forget the prophecies reeled out by some Nigerian prophets last year. This is particularly because many of the spiritual predictions, apart from generating controversies, did not also come to pass.
 
I saw a woman win US election — T.B Joshua
 
The General Overseer of The Synagogue Church Of All Nations, T.B Joshua, got the world talking when he predicted a win for Democratic Party candidate, Hillary Clinton, against Republican candidate, Donald Trump, during the November 8 presidential party election in the United States.
 The man in the Synagogue, as Joshua’s teeming followers love to address him, had stated during a Sunday service that he got a vision that a woman would emerge as the US’ 45th President.
 He said to an estatic audience, “I want to share with you what I saw in a vision 10 days ago. I saw the new president of America with a narrow win. That was 10 days ago. In a vision, it was a man that would have won the election. The Lord said narrowly 99 per cent voted for this woman and the woman narrow win (sic). I saw her facing challenges… It was in a vision. They were telling me that 10 days ago. There are a lot of visions and prophecies on the Internet. The men of God saying opposite things, maybe they saw it 15 days ago. They saw a man. I saw a woman 10 days ago because of two straight lines that came together. I want to salute the opposition.’’
 He also said the major challenger (Trump) of Hillary Clinton should be awarded after the election for putting up a good fight. However, the emergence of Trump as the US President-elect threw a spanner in the works of the prophecy.
 The Sunday after the Tuesday election, T. B Joshua told the congregation, ‘‘We were at a controversial service last Sunday. The prophecy itself was not controversial. The prophecy caused uproar to many who gave it different meanings and interpretations. The prophecy I gave, thousands of people in the US cried to God. They called and sent me emails. They said they heard my prophecy and prayed to God to change it.’’
 
A northern group’ll recreate CPC — Ayodele
 
The founder of INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church, Primate Elijah Ayodele, is no stranger to prophecies. In fact, he reels out prophecies every New Year. Believed to have made many spiritual prophecies that came to pass in the past, some of the ones made in 2016 did not materialise.
 Ayodele prophesied that “A northern party will emerge. CPC (Congress for Progressives Change) is not yet over. A group from the North will recreate the CPC with a northern person in charge.’’
 In the nation’s political space at least last year, no group from the North has recreated the CPC which merged with the Action Congress of Nigeria and two other parties to form the ruling party, All Progressives Congress. If anything, apart from the 40 political parties in the country, about 60 fresh applications for party registration are currently before the Independent National Electoral Commission.
 
“Nigeria’s economy’ll shock the world”
 
The General Overseer of Abundant Life Evangel Mission, Apostle Eugene Ogu, reportedly predicted that the country’s economy would improve despite the global drop in oil prices, adding that the naira would gain strength in the first quarter of 2016.
 He said, “Nigeria’s economy will shock the nations of the world. 2016 is a year of divine promotion by the will of God. No man or political party will ever toy with the destiny of Nigerians again. Those who dug the pit of corruption will fall into it.”
 In reality, Nigerians complained of hard times throughout the year as the country’s economy entered recession while the naira had since fallen to its lowest in decades against the US dollar.
 
Buhari ’’ll perform well in 2016 — Abidoye
 
Also, the Spiritual Head of Cherubim and Seraphim Movement, worldwide, Most Reverend (Dr.) Samuel Abidoye, predicted that President Muhammadu Buhari would perform creditably well in the year 2016 and surprise Nigerians with an improved and better government
 Although the military recorded key victories against insurgency in the North-East, including the capture of the dreaded Sambisa Forest, Nigerians are groaning under economic hardship and the current recession.
 
‘Peterside will be Rivers governor’
 
Presiding cleric, Christ Apostolic Church, Ori-Oke Irapada, Omu-Aran, Kwara State, Prophet Christopher Owolabi, said the Peoples Democratic Party’s Governor Ayodele Fayose of Ekiti State would be removed from office in 2016 unless he prayed fervently against it. He also said the APC would win the governorship election in Rivers State.
 “Fayose should pray very hard to overcome an imminent impeachment from office in 2016… I can also see, as it was revealed to me, the APC candidate in the Rivers State re-ordered fresh governorship election, Dakuku Peterside, being declared the winner of that election,” the cleric, who reportedly predicted the emergence of Bukola Saraki as Senate President, was quoted as saying.
 Removal from office could be said to be the least of the troubles Fayose battled in 2016. He ensured that the tenure of the 19 APC lawmakers ended without achieving their aim to remove him from office. Once the state House of Assembly became populated with members of his party after the legislative election, he heaved a sigh of relief.
 It was the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission and the Department of State Services that tasked his political and physical strength. Besides, his open and continued criticism of President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration became one of his major focuses in 2016.
 It is not also contestable that Governor Nyesom Wike of the PDP is still in charge of Rivers State.
 
Buhari may be killed – Father Mbaka
 
Controversial Catholic Priest, Reverend Fr. Ejike Mbaka, warned of the possibility of some masterminds of corruption killing President Muhammadu Buhari in 2016.
 Mbaka spoke while delivering his prophetic messages at the Adoration Ground, Enugu State.
 He said, “Many people are planning, as it is revealed, to kill Buhari. There are many plans on how to eliminate his life so that corruption, embezzlement will continue.” But throughout 2016, there were no reports of plots to kill the President. So far, the President is hale and hearty. Also, the cleric said the President would expose names of looters.
 He said, “By the end of this year, Buhari will expose the names of the people who looted money meant for our roads. What we are suffering now is the resultant effect of the last malignant administration that was intrinsically corrupt. What we are suffering now arose from past administration. But the Lord says there is hope. Many people are going to suffer. We should all get ready. But after the suffering, we will all smile.”
 Last year, President Buhari did not reveal names of those who looted the country’s funds. Many Nigerians had expected the President to reveal the identities of public officials from whom stolen public funds were recovered. Instead, Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo explained that the government did not name the looters because doing so would jeopardise ongoing investigations.
 
Osinbajo may go missing after a meeting — Kasali
 
Like other clerics, the General Overseer of the Hour of Mercy Prayer Ministry, Prophet Muyideen Kasali, unveiled some of his prophecies for the year 2016, on January 10.
 Kasali, who is a blind prophet, prophesied that Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo would go missing after leaving a meeting.
 He said, “Pray for Nigeria’s vice-president so that the enemies would not triumph over him, and that he won’t get missing after leaving a meeting.”
Nothing of such happened to the vice-president. In fact, many Nigerians have described Osinbajo as a workaholic.
 In 2016, Osinbajo travelled round the country and attended several meetings on behalf of the President. There were times he travelled to two or three states in a day. He also went on many foreign trips.
 Not on one occasion was Osinbajo reported to have gone missing after leaving a meeting.
 Also, the cleric said the All Progressives Congress would split into four groups last year.
He warned the party against mismanaging the electoral success it at­tained in the 2015 general elections. According to him, the APC after becoming too proud and drunk with success, will eventually crumble at the federal level and split into four groups.
 He said, “This year, 2016, will be a year of many political crises. APC will split into four groups, and there will no longer be unity among them. They will be over bloated; too much success will destroy the party.”
 Though there was crisis within the party, the party did not split into four groups throughout the year 2016.
 
The Queen of England may die — Iginla
 
In January 2016, the General Overseer of Champions Royal Assembly, Prophet Joshua Iginla, an Abuja-based pastor, released his predictions for the New Year. Unlike other clerics, Iginla’s predictions cut across various countries. Many of his predictions about Nigeria were correct. In fact, he warned that the country would experience economic recession and that is the current situation in the county now. But on his foreign predictions, one of the most controversial of them was that the Queen of England may die.
 He said, “The Queen of England should pray for her health. I see strong challenge and should pray to see the end of the year.”
 Apart from a cold during Christmas, the Queen had a spectacular 90th birthday celebration in the year.
 Similarly, Iginla also said a major stampede at a religious gathering in Zambia would claim lives.
 He said, “I see a major stampede in a major programme that will be held by a major man of God in the country of Zambia. It will claim lives. The prophet should work on his crowd control unit so that he won’t be accused of using people for rituals while his hands are clean.”
 Last year, Zambia did not record any ‘major’ stampede at a religious gathering. Instead, it was in India that a major stampede at a religious gathering occurred.
 
El-rufai should revoke preaching law or die — Suleiman
 
Following the furore that greeted the proposed religious preaching bill by the Kaduna State Governor, Mallam Nasir el-Rufai, Apostle Johnson Suleiman of the Omega Fire Ministry declared that the governor should revoke the bill or die.
 Though Suleiman’s pronouncement could not be classified as a prophecy, its weight made it controversial since it amounted to a spiritual decree. It also generated a lot of reactions on social media.
 During a service, Suleiman expressed distaste over the bill, noting that such amounted to suppressing the freedom of religion.
 He said, ‘‘I am not against sanitising the state. But you say people should get licence for preaching, it is not applicable in Nigeria. Even a herbalist does not get a licence for practising herbalism. When you say licence for preaching, you are standing against the constitution that gives freedom of worship. There are certain laws that cannot happen in this country. Not when Nigeria is under God. If need be, heaven will intervene over this matter. I am saying this to the Executive (Governor) of Kaduna State, revoke this law or die.’’
 In his reaction to the declaration, the governor said he was sure to die someday but challenged the cleric to name the day he would die.
 The governor noted, “I have not seen anyone talking about Islam actually. Most of the people that say I would die, as if I would not die, are people who call themselves Christian clergymen. Of course, I will die. If that apostle is truly an apostle, he should mention the day I will die.’’
 The state government has not revoked the bill though the noise over it has abated. But el-Rufai is still living despite non-revocation of the bill.
 Among his predictions last year, Suleiman predicted that except Americans prayed, President Barack Obama would seek third term with a likelihood of the presidential elections not holding.
 The cleric said, ‘‘If Americans don’t pray, there will be no election in 2016 as Obama wants a third term.”
 Clearly, there was no such case of desire for tenure elongation by Obama. The presidential election held and a winner emerged in person of the Republican Party candidate, Donald Trump.
 Obama did not only concentrate on smooth transition of power, he also campaigned for his party’s (Democratic Party) candidate, Hillary Clinton, who lost to Trump. At no time, before or during the electioneering was any issue about seeking third term in office raised.
 
New STD to emerge — Adeboye
 
The revered cleric and General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Enoch Adeboye, on January 1, also gave prophecies for the New Year.
 About Nigeria, he said things were likely to get tougher before they got better but things would get better before the end of last year. He also said international natural disasters, floods, fires, earthquakes were likely to get progressively worse, until governments realised that these were part of divine judgments against those who pass ungodly laws.
 Aside prophesying that a major war would be averted this year, Adeboye added that a new sexually transmitted disease would surface in 2016.
 Last year, there were no reports of any new sexually transmitted disease. The only virus which made headlines last year was Zika virus.
 Zika virus is a mosquito-borne flavivirus first discovered in Uganda in 1947 in monkeys through a network that monitored yellow fever. It was later identified in humans in 1952 in Uganda and the United Republic of Tanzania. Outbreaks of Zika virus disease have been recorded in Africa, the Americas, Asia and the Pacific.
 On social media, several reactions trailed Adeboye’s prophecy on new sexually transmitted disease. There were arguments about whether or not the prophecy came to past.
 An anonymous person wrote, “It’s almost the end of the year and we are yet to see the newly minted sexually transmitted disease that Daddy G.O promised us. And no, Ebola doesn’t count. Ebola has been sexually transmitted in Africa for years.”
 
Besides, things were tough in 2016 for Nigerians as the country faced an economic recession.
 
 
****
Compiled by Punch



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

Monday, January 2, 2017

Ni John Fru Ndi Expresses Disappointment Over President Biya's New Year Message


Fru Ndi
Ni John Fru Ndi, Chairman of the Social Democratic Front-SDF( leading opposition party) in Cameroon has said that in his New Year Message, President Biya proposed no solution to the problems of the English-speaking part of the country. Ni John Fru Ndi expressed disappointment and added..."I do not expect anything from this speech. He did not say anything about the young people who were killed ... He did not say anything about the return of Anglophone students to school. Whether Anglophone students go back to school or not, it does not matter, whether schools reopen or not, it's not his problem ... " Fru Ndi also wondered whether Biya could not say sorry to the lawyers, Teachers and English-speaking students who, in his opinion, only defended their rights to freely express themselves.
It is worth noting that President Biya did not spare the protesters who rose in the Anglophone part of the country. He did not hesitate to call them "extremists, manipulated and instrumentalized". "Cameroonians have lost their lives; Public and private buildings have been destroyed; The most sacred symbols of our nation have been profaned; The economic activities were temporarily paralyzed. All this, you will agree, is UNACCEPTABLE" hammered Paul Biya. He promised to draw all the consequences of the various investigations in progress on this subject. Yet reiterated that he could go an extra mile.





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