By ABEL JOHNGOLD ORHERUATA, mnipr

As concerns grow over Nigeria’s political trajectory edging towards a de facto one-party state, experts, academics, and civic advocates have converged to raise red flags over the implications for the country’s hard-earned democracy.

The warning was issued during the 2025 Feast of Barracuda, hosted by the National Association of Seadogs (Pyrates Confraternity) at the Anchor Point, Asaba, Delta State. The civic discourse, themed “How Political Defections in Nigeria Impede the Accumulation of Strategic Management Experience in Government” and “The Influence of Fiscal Autonomy on Good Governance at the Local Government Level,” served as a platform to reflect on 29 years of democratic rule and its current challenges.

The Feast of Barracuda, an annual signature event of the Seadogs, is dedicated to promoting civic dialogue, public accountability, and national development. It brings together scholars, policymakers, and civil society actors to brainstorm, analyze, and propose practical solutions to Nigeria’s most pressing sociopolitical and economic challenges.

In her opening remarks, the Chairperson of the event, Hon. Bridget Anyafulu, Member representing Oshimili South in the Delta State House of Assembly, applauded the Pyrates Confraternity for sustaining a tradition of civic engagement that speaks directly to the soul of the nation.

“This gathering provides an important platform to interrogate governance issues and deepen public understanding of the values that must underpin our democracy,” she said.

Also speaking, the Capoon of the Vito Corsica Deck, Comrade Michael Chuks Nwaidei, emphasized that the Feast of Barracuda remains a powerful expression of the confraternity’s founding principles—social justice, humanism, and egalitarianism.

Political Defections Undermine Governance — Prof. Oghojafor

The Keynote Address was delivered by Prof. Roberts Dode, on behalf of the Vice Chancellor of Dennis Osadebay University, Asaba, Prof. Ben Oghojafor. He drew a direct link between Nigeria’s instability in policy execution and the culture of political defections, which he said disrupts the accumulation of strategic experience in governance.

“The unending wave of defections weakens party ideology, breaks continuity in governance, and further erodes public trust,” Prof. Dode noted.
“To move forward, Nigeria must institutionalize meritocracy, strengthen party systems, promote policy continuity, and entrench civic education and accountability.”

Local Government Autonomy Key to Grassroots Development

On the second theme, Dr. Kelvin Obi Ezenyili, Chairman of Oshimili South Local Government Area—represented by Barr. (Mrs.) Ndidi Emmanuella Nwulu, Head of Legal Services—highlighted the transformative impact of fiscal autonomy at the local level.

He outlined its benefits, including greater transparency, enhanced infrastructure development, improved investor confidence, and deeper community engagement. However, he cautioned that the absence of a regulatory framework to shield local councils from undue interference, along with the lack of reliable population data for planning, remain significant challenges.

Celebrating Civic Excellence

The event climaxed with the ceremonial unveiling of the symbolic Barracuda fish, followed by the presentation of awards to Hon. Bridget Anyafulu and Prof. Ben Oghojafor for their outstanding contributions to democratic discourse and public service.

The 2025 Feast of Barracuda once again reaffirmed the National Association of Seadogs’ role as a beacon of civic consciousness, pushing for a Nigeria that is more accountable, participatory, and rooted in enduring democratic values.

By ABEL JOHNGOLD ORHERUATA, mnipr

In a royal gathering that celebrated heritage, leadership, and intellectual legacy, Dr. Terrumun Hembaor Gajir, Worldwide President of the University of Ibadan Alumni Association (UIAA), led the Association’s Executive on a landmark courtesy visit to His Royal Majesty, Oba Michael Aremu Adedotun Gbadebo, CFR, The Okukenu IV, Alake and Paramount Ruler of Egbaland.

The visit, held at the Alake’s palace in Abeokuta, was marked by heartfelt reflections, powerful symbolism, and a renewed commitment to the values of Nigeria’s premier university.

Welcoming the delegation with regal warmth, Oba Gbadebo—himself a distinguished alumnus of the University of Ibadan and a member of the UIAA Board of Trustees—fondly recounted his student activism days and his journey through the Nigerian Army. He described his time at UI as one of the most defining chapters of his life, proudly affirming that “UI was the best thing that ever happened to me and many others.”

The monarch echoed former President Goodluck Jonathan’s famous words that “every graduate in Nigeria is a UIte” because of UI’s far-reaching academic influence, particularly through the lecturers it has produced across Nigerian institutions. He also referenced Chinua Achebe’s Things Fall Apart, written by a UI alumnus, as evidence of the university’s cultural and intellectual penetration. “If you’ve read Achebe’s book,” he said, “then you’ve been touched by the spirit of UI.”

In a moment of reflection and recommitment, Oba Gbadebo pledged to become more active in UIAA affairs beyond his role as a trustee. “I want to do more than just bear the title,” he said, assuring the visiting team of his support for the association’s mission.

Addressing matters raised by Dr. Gajir, including key issues about the association’s growth and structure, the monarch promised to review the constitution and relevant documents and to respond after due consideration. He also expressed immense joy in hosting fellow UI alumni, saying their presence brought pride and renewed purpose.

Dr. Gajir, in his remarks, described the visit as strategic and symbolic, saying the Executive came to brief the Alake on the state of the UIAA and to seek his royal advice and blessing. He expressed profound appreciation for the monarch’s warmth and generosity.

“Your Majesty’s kindness reflects your deep-rooted generosity and inspires us to uphold the values of community, service, and excellence,” Dr. Gajir said, offering prayers for the monarch’s continued reign in peace, wisdom, and good health.

The visit not only reinforced the enduring legacy of the University of Ibadan but also deepened the bond between its alumni and one of the institution’s most illustrious sons.

By ABEL JOHNGOLD, mnipr 

The University of Ibadan Alumni Association (UIAA) Worldwide has expressed profound grief over the passing of one of its most illustrious members, Professor Jibrin Aminu, who died at the age of 85.

Dr. Terrumun Hembaor Gajir, Worldwide President of the UIAA, in a statement, described the late Professor Aminu as “one of the finest products of the University of Ibadan” and “a shining ambassador whose contributions have left an indelible mark.”

Born in August 1939 in Adamawa State, Professor Aminu’s academic journey began at the University of Ibadan, where he graduated in Medicine in 1965. He later earned a Ph.D. from the prestigious Royal Post-Graduate Medical School.

Professor Aminu’s career was a tapestry of excellence in academia, public service, and diplomacy. He served as:

• Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission (1975–79), shaping Nigeria’s higher education landscape.
• Visiting Professor of Medicine at Howard University, Washington D.C. (1979–80).
• Vice-Chancellor, University of Maiduguri (1980–85), guiding the institution through crucial years.
• Minister of Education (1989–90), where he championed educational reforms.
• Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources (1990–92), overseeing key developments in Nigeria’s oil sector.
• Nigerian Ambassador to the USA (1999–2003), fostering bilateral relations.
• Senator for Adamawa Central (2003–07), representing his people with distinction.

His leadership journey also included serving as Professor of Medicine at the University of Maiduguri (1979–95). In 2010, he was honored with the title “Bobaselu of The Source” by the Ooni of Ife, Oba Sijuwade, in recognition of his contributions to national unity.

“UIAA Worldwide will deeply miss Prof. Aminu,” Dr. Gajir remarked. “His dedication, scholarship, and statesmanship embody the values we hold dear. His legacy will continue to inspire generations.”

Inna lillahi wa Inna ilaihir Rajiun. May Allah (SWT) forgive Prof. Jibrin Aminu’s shortcomings and grant him Jannah Firdaus.

By Abel Johngold, MNIPR

Asaba, Delta State – The University of Ibadan Alumni Association (UIAA), Asaba Chapter, has paid a royal courtesy visit to the Asagba of Asaba, His Royal Majesty, Prof. Epiphany Azinge, SAN, OON, FNIALS, seeking his support for the association’s ambitious plans to build a new Secretariat and host its Annual Lecture.

The delegation, led by Chapter Chairman Jacob Iduku Kagho, Esq., extended warm congratulations to Prof. Azinge on his ascension as the 14th Asagba of Asaba. They also formally introduced the UIAA’s presence in the capital city and sought the Asagba’s royal blessings and patronage for upcoming initiatives.

In a heartfelt welcome, the Asagba lauded the University of Ibadan as Nigeria’s first university, hailing its proud legacy and impact on the country’s development. “UI has produced some of the best and brightest minds in this nation,” he said, urging the alumni to rekindle the institution’s spirit of excellence in Asaba and beyond.

Expressing concern over the dwindling number of Asaba indigenes enrolling at the University of Ibadan, Prof. Azinge encouraged the chapter to inspire younger generations. “We must not let this tradition of excellence fade away,” he noted. He also underscored the importance of upholding the university’s high standards, particularly in medicine, surgery, and human capital development.

In his remarks, Kagho emphasized the chapter’s significant contributions to national development. “UI alumni have impacted every sector of our society for nearly seven decades,” he said, recalling how the Asaba Chapter was founded 34 years ago by visionary leaders including Hon. Chief Uso Onianwa, Chief Dr. Dianne Maduemezie, and Prof. B.A.C. Okobi.

Kagho recounted the chapter’s efforts to secure land for a permanent Secretariat, lamenting past frustrations due to government inaction. However, he expressed renewed hope that with the Asagba’s backing, the project would finally become a reality. “We believe that with your royal support, our dream of a permanent Secretariat will soon be achieved,” he affirmed.

The chapter also extended an invitation to the Asagba to serve as Royal Father of the Day at its forthcoming Annual Lecture in honour of their former Chairman, Sir Okey Ofili.

Prominent alumni who attended the visit included Prof. Job Akpodiete, Prof. Uchenna Uzokwe-Igbadi, Chief Eghwrudjakpor Irikefe, Dcn. Emmanuel Dudu, Abel Johngold, Sir Fidelis Ashuikeka, Mike Ofili, Mrs. Wendy Odor, Psalm Owhojite, Mrs. Angela Nwaomu, Hon. Chief Ambrose Nnamdi Okakwu, Mr. Ralph Ebi Nkeze, and many others.

The Asagba expressed his deep appreciation for the visit and assured the delegation of his unwavering support for their noble efforts, promising to consider their requests and lend his royal blessings to their initiatives.

By ABEL JOHNGOLD ORHERUATA, mnipr

The National Association of Seadogs (NAS), widely known as the Pyrates Confraternity, has strongly criticized the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) for the late delivery of examination papers, which compelled students in Asaba and other regions to sit for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) under inadequate and unsafe conditions.

In a press briefing held in Asaba, Comrade Michael Chukwuma Nwaidei, Capoon of the Vito Corsica Deck (covering Aniocha/Oshimili and Ika federal constituencies), expressed deep concern over the incident, labeling it a “national disgrace” and calling for immediate accountability from WAEC and relevant authorities.

“What transpired that night is utterly unacceptable,” Nwaidei stated. “It is inconceivable that students and their guardians were kept in schools well past 10 p.m. in areas like Asaba, where public transportation becomes scarce after that hour. This situation is not only unfair but also hazardous.”

He further emphasized that secondary schools are not equipped for nocturnal academic activities, unlike boarding schools or tertiary institutions. “Forcing students to take exams late at night compromises their safety and well-being,” he added.

The Pyrates Confraternity also questioned WAEC’s preparedness for transitioning to computer-based testing, given the logistical challenges evident in the current examination process.

“WAEC’s plan to shift to computer-based examinations raises concerns, especially when considering the infrastructural deficits such as inconsistent electricity supply and internet connectivity,” Nwaidei remarked.

In response to the incident, WAEC’s Acting Head of Public Affairs, Moyosola Adesina, acknowledged the challenges faced during the examination period. In a statement, she noted that the Council is committed to addressing any logistical shortcomings to ensure the integrity and smooth conduct of its examinations.

The Pyrates Confraternity urged both WAEC and the Federal Ministry of Education to issue a public apology, hold those responsible accountable, and implement necessary reforms to prevent future occurrences.

“When political agendas overshadow the fundamental right to quality education, our students suffer the consequences,” Nwaidei concluded. “It is imperative that we prioritize the welfare and future of our youth.”

This incident which came to limelight with the viral social media video of students of Government Model College, Asaba, writing their WAEC Examination with torch-lights, has sparked widespread concern among stakeholders, highlighting the need for systemic reforms in Nigeria’s education sector to safeguard the rights and well-being of students nationwide.