It is a common yet flawed assumption that children belong to their parents. Many, particularly in African societies, operate under the illusion that biological connection equals ownership. But let us pause for a moment and reflect – who among us can claim ownership of another’s soul? Who among us chose their own entry into this world? The truth is as old as time itself: we do not own our children; they are God’s, lent to us for a time, to be raised and nurtured, not possessed and manipulated. The Divine Custodianship of Parenthood Children are not commodities to be controlled, coerced, or commanded at will. They are gifts from the Almighty, entrusted into our care for a fleeting season. Psalm 127:3 reminds us, “Lo, children are a heritage of the LORD: and the fruit of the womb is his reward.” The language is clear: they are a heritage, not an acquisition. Parents are custodians, not owners. In Genesis, when God blessed humanity with the ability to multiply, He did not ...
THE TYRANNY OF GODFATHERS: HOW WIKE’S ALLEGED GRIP ON RIVERS’ TREASURY EXPOSES NIGERIA’S CORRUPT POLITICAL SYSTEM
The political landscape of Rivers State has been embroiled in controversy, with allegations surfacing that former Governor Nyesom Wike demanded substantial financial kickbacks from his successor, Governor Siminalayi Fubara. These claims have ignited debates about the pervasive influence of political godfathers in Nigeria, and the societal attitudes that enable such corruption to persist. Allegations of Financial Demands Reports indicate that Wike insisted on receiving a significant portion of the State's monthly allocation. Specifically, he allegedly demanded 25% of all State allocations, a sum that would severely constrain the State's developmental initiatives. Additionally, Wike purportedly sought ₦ 2 billion from the ₦ 5 billion palliative funds intended to cushion the effects of fuel subsidy removal. These assertions were highlighted by activist and lawyer Chetam Thierry Nwala, who emphasized the detrimental impact such demands could have on the State's prog...