Gists in Nigeria

There seems no end to Manchester United and Alex Ferguson's woes at the moment. Just a few days after their total annihiliation by Barcelona, a player that epitomises United's tradition has hung up his boots. Ferguson knows really that the time would come, but it feels horrible watching a son leave you, without coming back. It feels like death. The only consolation is that Scholes would remain in United's coaching staff.
I must admit I've never read a thing on the 'paper about Scholes, that has nothing to do with football. That tells all about him. While most people would credit it to Ferguson, who knocks every of his players to near-morality, it also takes one who shies away, rather than loathes, controversy and the limelight, to achieve this.
We must pay tribute to a man who gave his all while putting on the jersey. His all-action style is much more admirable, considering he's asthmatic.
He says he retired because he felt ''it's the right time''. We would debate about that for long.

It was bombs galore all the way in the country, just after the inauguration of president Goodluck Ebele Jonathan. There were bombs in Bauchi, bombs in Zaria, bombs in Zuba and more bombs, unsurprisingly, in Maidugari. Lots of people were either killed or badly injured. What is happening? Why all the bombs, and how would the country tackle this new demon?
"The matter is sensitive." a source from the presidency rattled. "we have reviewed the situation and we can no longer treat those behind these explosions with levity."
What? Are you kidding me? Were those animals treated in such manner before, while they killed scores? And do they (government) really know them (bomb experts)?
"The government has decided to take very strict, co-ordinated and concerted action against the perpetrators...the blast is a threat to national security.
We will be decisive and civil, but, unfortunately, when we take drastic steps, the media will be the first to criticise us."
Really? They don't need media criticism, even when they go astray? And they are sure to receive more criticisms. To nick this bomb saga in the bud, drastic, even if not civil, action needs to be taken. Okay, that seems wrong. But we're in desperate situation. The killings are getting out of hand, and the devils seem to do more, since the government either do not know how to or isn't ready to stop them. This is a problem, a big mountain for every Nigerian to climb. As Chief of Army Staff, Gen. Azubuike Ihejirika put it, and I couldn't agree less, "it is an act of terrorism, a challenge you must face.", these are not the best of times. But I'm confident. No Boko Haram, no terrorist would destroy this country. We pray.

I'm trying so hard to like Governor T.A Orji. Prior to the election, my support for him was at zero level. It never mattered,anyway. When he won, I resolved to give him 100 per cent encouragement. However, he is discouraging me. We already know his aides are not experts at refining one's image. What I didn't know much, was the extent of his ability to do that, until now.
While in Kirikiri in 2007, in detention, 20million naira was needed for his release. Orji Kalu, then governor, refused to provide that. According to T.A Orji, he asked whether 20 million naira was too much for Orji Kalu to pay for his release.
Of all statements ever credited to him, this ranks up there amongst the dumbest and most unnecessary. It never, in any way, made any meaning.
I want to advise governor Orji to concentrate on the huge task ahead of him. A lot of work needs to be done to return Abia to what it used to be, and should be. Unnecessary statements, ones that rightly or wrongly reinforce preconceptions, aren't needed at all. We, even myself included, want him to do well this time. This statement is a distraction, and wouldn't fill people like me with confidence.

Ex-governor and 'ikiri' of Imo State Ikedi Ohakim is missing. Nobody knows where he's gone to. While people were busy talking about Otunba Gbenga Daniel's escape (or travel) abroad, Ohakim allegedly sneaked out of the country, probably to escape EFCC's long knife. So assured was whoever started the rumour, that s/he swore that he was seen at the airport.
But his commissioner for Information said Ohakim was still in the country with us
"...the man lost the election, and he took it in good faith. He has handed over. Why don't they leave him in peace?" he asked rhetorically.
We're sorry to disappoint you, Sir. Nobody would leave him in peace. He just left office and, as alleged, he has lots of questions to answer.
But then, the campaign against this man is getting too much. If only they would give him a few days off, to rest.
But this is a lesson. There is no crime in doing good. Arrogance, in now way, is a recipe for respect. As we have seen, the result could be bruising.

No actress in Nigeria divides opinion the way Mercy Johnson does. Unfortunately, not for her acting prowess (the opinion division, I mean), but for her personal life. Some think she's nice, and every bad press she gets is a result of jealousy on  the part of her colleagues. Others think she is just a wayward, uncaring young girl who loves grabbing headlines at every opportunity she gets. She thinks people judge her wrongly, and  should not believe what they read. She once admitted, ''I could be in my house and a journalist would call, saying I was seen in a particular place...even when I confirm I was at home, they go ahead to publish what they want...''
Now, she has the chance to stop them, even if a little bit. On August, she revealed, she would get married (she said the same thing last year, and we were left waiting). And I feel this would do her image every good. Her image, in my opinion, is in tatters. Marriage would help her keep hold of what is left of it.
Forgive me for being so poor on writing on Nollywood. But no matter how bad I am, I sure know this young lady, alleged to have called Ngozi Ezeonu names, exchanged words with Patience Ozokwor, used the 'F' word on Mike Ezuruonye, involved in juju scandal with Oge Okoye and Ini Edo, etc, would lead a more mature life, after her wedding.

Now we can all see a team Fergie cannot beat. That's Barcelona. He had been so bullish and confident, prior to the final at Wembley. And all Man United supporters had hope. That has always been his way, anyway. But when the match started, and United went on the backfoot, it was all going to end in a predictable manner. For once, we now know Fergie can be beaten,and lightening could actually strike twice, even when he, or anyone for that matter, is involved. This is indeed a very bitter pill for him, and United players, and indeed myself, to swallow. But we would take to heart the fact that we lost to the best team in the world (so hard for me to admit...).
When Barcelona scored their third goal, Fergie felt so down. I have never seen him so down. Nobody likes losing, especially when you are Fergie.
Nani was bullish. He said United would beat Barcelona next season. Fergie now has a motivation to stay on at United. Knocking Barcelona ''off their f****** perch'' would be that motivation. No matter how impossible that looks, United would be confident 'impossible' never exists in Fergie's world.
Despite the demoralizing loss, Man United would consider this season a success. Heck, they won the league and went all the way to the final.
"This is the best team I've ever lost to in my career," Fergie said, committing the sin of understatement, "but being the second best team in the world isn't a consolation for losing to the best team in the world." he philosophized.
Man United and Fergie know how well to bounce back. You ''can bet your life on that."

It wasn't unexpected. Former Ogun State governor, Otunba Gbenga Daniel (OGD, Dare to be a Daniel, Daniel in a lion's den, bla bla bla) has escaped, or rather as his aide put it, travelled abroad. Whether he escaped or travelled, the fact remains that OGD is actually no more in Nigeria. And what better time not to be here than when his immunity clause has deserted him.
OGD is a clever man. He knew ACN, who described his 'trip' abroad as ''serious security lapse'' were out for him. The best way to dock the 'passing carousel', a la Sir Alex Ferguson, was to leave. And he did.
His aide said he left, but didn't run. Afterall, even the SSS was with him and he left via Murtala Mohammed Airport dressed as he should, not the river dressed like a woman. That's not surprising. Even SSS accompanies criminals.
EFCC warned that no wanted public office holder would escape them, yet OGD did. They say four ex-governors are being watched, but OGD ran. I'm beginning to lose faith in EFCC. I doubt they would do anything to the ex-governors they want. Yet other former governors they indicted are moving free. In any case, OGD didn't need to escape (or travel) abroad. Nothing would have happened to him.
Meanwhile, when Ikedi Ohakim handed over 48 hours to the hand-over date, I thought he would be the first to run. How wrong I was!

As we welcome another political dispensation, there are still fears amongst the people. Any sensible individual in Borno State, for example, knows that coming out to witness the inauguration of the sweet-named new governor Kassim Shettima is tantamount to suicide.With 'Boko Haram' seeking every chance in the world to tell how serious they are, bombs not exploding in the capital city would be considered a rarity. And innocent people, not the governor or other politicians, are always the casualties.
In Kwara State, as the ex-governor Bukola Saraki held his valedictory service, people were busy being stampeded. At the last count, 20
people have been confirmed dead by The Nation newspapers! 20 people who would no more witness Saraki hand over the baton, 20 peopld who would no more be seen, 20 people who would have done better being at home.
Therefore, if I were from Borno state, or living there, not even money, not even butterflies singing in my ears, would make me come out. Life is precious...even terrorists know that. Osama would have testified!

Every talk on election and how it was conducted, who did what the other did not do and how it was done, who was killed and who wasn't killed, would be forgotten (I say this tongue-in-cheek.A lot of them are in court,anyway). But what would not be forgotten at the end of the day is how they make good or bad use of their position. The manner Imo State's Ikedi Ohakim got into office in 2007 was a bit controversial, yet what would be discussed in years would be how he beat up a priest, how he insulted education, how he made himself an 'alpha and omega', how he always boasted, how he impoverished Imo, etc. The same applies to the others.
Therefore, as the elected public office holders assume office tomorrow,the only thing on their minds should be how to consolidate on what they had started, how to right their wrongs and how to better what their predecessors have already done, depending on the situation they find themselves.
President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, for example, has to find a solution to the madness in the north. Tougher measures should be put in place, so no useless people kill others who have things to offer. Nobody wants to be a hero in death.At least I don't want to.
I congratulate those who would be inaugurated tomorrow,especially my governor Dr T.A Orji. There is a lot of work to be done.So let's not dwell on the inauguration!

It is not everyday one gets to meet humble musicians. Some of them are perceived to be arrogant and unfriendly. So it felt like fresh air meeting one with so much smiles. Getting to speak with LastBorn was no easy feat,but at the end it was worth it. Despite his busy schedule, the handsome dude was all smiles.
''I'm sorry I kept you waiting.'' was his unbelievably first statement.With his friendly attitude, anyone could afford to wait longer. But that never stopped me from asking what his teeming fans always wanted to know
''LastBorn. Why the name?Are you the last kid in the family?''
''Funny enough, no.'' he replied,giggling. ''I come from a family of 7, and I am the 6th.You see, when I first gained admission to University of Nigeria Nsukka, I arrived late at my lodge. All my lodge mates were in final year. I was the only one in first year.They all started calling me last born,and it stuck.''
Asking about his background was the next,and he was glad to answer.
''Well,as you know,my name is Otito Jeff.I am in my twenties.I was born and raised here in Enugu.But I'm actually from Orlu,in Imo State.I did Public Administration in UNN...''
Why Public Administration.Why not Music?
''Singing is a talent,'' he cut in, ''I always had that talent at childhood.It has always been in me.''
Indeed,why not?For one who started collabo work since 2000, and performed in lots of shows,even while in Secondary school,it is pretty hard to debate it.
''I did my first song in 2005.Meanwhile,I had worked with Lemar before.I worked with Johny fins on a reply track to SOTI(malaria).We called it anti-malaria.Then with b-stone in Okamsije, and a couple more.I've performed alongside 9ice,2shot,Durella,Psquare,etc.I shot my first video(my angel) in 2007.I also had another thirteen-track album tagged HYPERBIC.
''I'm actually working on my next album.It would be out soon.
''I just returned from Kaduna,where I went on a production.
''You asked earlier why I always smile.Why wouldn't I?Must I be arrogant to be a successful musician?I love being cheerful,and I see nothing changing that.''
So who does LastBorn want to perform with in future?
''If I perform with Keri Hilson and Tray Songs,it wouldn't be a bad idea,would it?But here in Nigeria,without a shadow of doubt, Djinee remains the one.I would love to perform with him someday.''
We expect it to be sooner,than later.

Trying to be objective in football is such a difficult quality, one I may be guilty of not possessing. Obviously, everyone now knows I am a Manchester United fan (what else,since Bayern 'FC Hollywood' Munich aren't in the champions' league final?). But that could be slightly misguided.I support Manchester United as long as they don't hurt my beloved Bayern Munich. And since, apart from 1999, they've never managed to get one better than the Bavarians in a major event, I logically am a super fan of the red devils. Only a few people would rival the extent of my love for United, two of them Paul Scholes and Ryan Giggs.
Well, why not, when they've spent 73 years between them,supporting United. They also play for them, and I don't.
Saturday,however,might be their final hurray in a champions' league final. The last time they appeared there,they came back not smiling. Barcelona scared them stiff. Barcelona ended their dreams. If they fail to get it right this time,also against Barcelona, they would regret it all their lives. That, in itself,is enough incentive.Not getting Fergie angry is another.Then,not getting me disappointed is yet another...

President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan,who just should be happy for winning re-election,must be a worried man.Not because the CPC took him to court.I do not see them a threat.But he must be wondering how to make tough decisions,without stepping on toes.
Just as he revealed,a lot of lobbyists have been fronting people for a position in his ministerial cabinet.The sad thing,however,is that only 10% of those people are doing it for national interest.This means,in simple arithmetic (even if Mathematics gives me headache),that 90% of them are out for material and selfish interests.
It's not like we don't know this already. Nigerian political godfathers only care about what they would gain.
Jonathan's worry must be enormous.The mob that constitute the 90% must be people who helped him during the election.Now,he has to be grateful,even if it goes against national interest.
In my opinion,this is the most significant decision he has to make.Do the right thing and refuse the money-conscious mob,and he has set a stage to being his own man and letting people know he is the main man.Do otherwise,and he has set the stage for non-performance.The choice would be entirely his to make.
But since we don't know who the 90% people are, how do we know when he makes the decision.Time,we believe,would tell.
Hmn,Nigeria!

In any society you find yourself,just pray the media are for you rather than against you.If they don't remember you,all well and good.But if they do,disaster beckons.
During the election,I observed a few politicians were unfortunately on the wrong side of media scrutiny,deservedly or not.And it affected them.
Speaker Dimeji Bankole was hassled and pushed by the press.The result was failure.Governors Ikedi Ohakim of Imo and Adebayo Alao-Akala of Oyo had all manner of media knocks,and they fell by the way-side.Even Presidential aspirant Muhammadu Buhari wasn't particularly covered in media glory.The result was obvious.As a matter of fact,ACN's recent domination over others and their massive conquering of the South-West saw the light of day,with the media playing important roles.So,in politics,the media play very vital role,whether good or bad.
The travails of Ohakim after his defeat by Rochas Okorocha is becoming pathetic.Every single day,some self-acclaimed politician or elder in Imo State must decry how he has syphoned Imo's money and call him names.At the moment,he has been made to look like a devil...which is unfortunate.Arrogant he may be,but does it mean he has done absolutely nothing for four years?The media think so.This campaign against him has become so bad,that I wish his haters would restrain,and afford him a moment respite.His loss is enough punishment.
The same for Adebayo Alao-Akala.Every minute of the day,his soon-to-be successor says one wrong thing or the other he has done.I just wish they let him be.
How could I forget Otunba Gbenga Daniel?That man would never recover from the media lashes he's had so far.Expect more when he leaves finally.
As for the media,I wish we continue the way we've been...good,but never bad.The pen is mightier than the sword!

Why must the people who say they are our security fight among themselves?I read with dismay how a DPO and DCO were murdered in Lagos by soldiers,because the police beat up their man.
Unbelievable!What differentiates those soldiers from armed robbers?The police may have their many faults and may not be well-liked by the people,but that still shouldn't stop people according them their respects.
Even during the period of excessive kidnaps in Aba,where the governor invited the soldiers,it was alleged the soldiers shamelessly flogged the policemen they felt did anything wrong.In the public!
Time has come for the supremacy war to end.When two elephants fight,the grasses suffer.The people are the ones in trouble.Who would secure them when those meant to do that are fighting themselves?

When,by divine intervention,Hon Dimeji Bankole,as young as he was,became the Speaker of the House of representative,nobody cried foul.Afterall,he was taking over from Madam Patricia Olubunmi Etteh,who had various cases of misappropriation of funds hanging over her shoulder. Little did we know we were set for a roller-coaster ride.Indeed,Etteh's tenure must be considered less controversial.
From cases of arrogance towards the members of the House to his obvious exchange of blows with the equally enigmatic out-going Ogun State governor Otunba Gbenga Daniel,it was clear this young man either rejected the fact people get reward for whatever they do or he didn't know at all.
Whenever we do wrong,we seek a second chance to right them.If we don't,we would forever be judged by that wrong.It is the same in politics.Just see what is set to become of Ikedi Ohakim and Adebayo Alao-Akala.
Bankole did wrong,but would not have the chance to either right or consolidate on the wrong.
As he leaves the lower house in shambles,much unlike his colleague in the upper house Senator David Mark has done,he must be wondering what else to do.He got a chance on a platter of gold,but lost it in shame.Ironically,Etteh would leave with head held high,and must be indirectly thankful to Bankole.His many controversies have dumped her sins to distant memory.
Goodbye Mr Controversy.The house would not miss you.

Sir Alex Ferguson has spent the whole week answering questions on how to stop Lionel Messi.That is dangerous,because Pep Guardiola has been relaxing in his cushion,and isn't asked how to stop any Manchester United player.Not that he isn't bothered.
The manner Barcelona dismissed Manchester United in 2009,where the latter were considered favourites,should send shivers down the spines of United fans.But Ferguson loves challenges.
When his team lost that game,it was clearly forgotten that United beat Barcelona in a two-legged tie the previous season without conceding a goal.Well,that was Frank Rijkaard's team,with Ronaldinho,rather than Messi,the main man.
On Saturday,Man United would be more depleted than they were in 2009,after losing Carlos Tevez and Christiano Ronaldo,while Barcelona would be more complete than they were in 2009. However,counting off United would be more than disastrous.Wayne Rooney and Javier Hernandez 'Chicharito' pose a great threat,though United should be more concerned stopping Barcelona than attacking them.That makes it even better.Getting past Nemanja Vidic and Rio Ferdinand is so similar to pouring water on a rock.But then stopping David Villa and Lionel Messi is just as similar as stopping a moving horse.
In my opinion,beating Barcelona is easy.Stop Messi the way Real Madrid did in the Copa del Rey and you're done.Beating United is equally easy.Stop Rooney and there is trouble.But how possible would these be?Only Saturday would tell.Needless to say,anyone who performs better of the two,gives his team a huge chance.
I wouldn't want to predict the winner,but I think Barcelona would start as favourites,which may or may not count in their favour.
When,after Ferguson lost to Barcelona in 2009,he admitted,
"I can't understand how it all happened...I would want to meet them again,to right that wrong..."
Well Fergie,your wish has been granted.

For a typically patriotic Igbo man,watching DSTV is becoming such a nightmare.Nay,seeing African Magic has become annoying.Not because they don't show any nice and interesting movies. But one very glaring thing is that you have African Magic 'Yoruba and African Magic 'Hausa,devoted to the two of the three majority tribes in Nigeria.The obvious question is,where is African Magic 'Igbo? That is a question we're yet to,and do not expect to,get answers to.But how did it go this bad?
I remember clearly,with due respect to the other tribes,what is today known as Nollywood started with an Igbo producer with Igbo actors bringing out an Igbo movie,Living In Bondage.At the moment,Igbo producers abound and Igbo actors are everywhere.But where are the Igbo movies?
Ngozi Nwosu,one of the stars in Living In Bondage,decried this when she suggested Igbo people in Nollywood were disunited.Uche Jombo once said Yoruba stars were unfriendly.Why wouldn't they be?They have a family,and they are united.You people aren't.I find it harder to take that Hausas have even got together in an industry they came into so late.
One of the Igbo entertainers,I gathered,said African Magic English is for the Igbos. Unbelievable and idiotic!!
A lot of Igbo viewers want Igbo movies back.It even helps teach the kids our language,culture and tradition.I remember,with nostalgia,the likes of Nkem Owoh from Enugu,Amaechi Muonagor from Anambra,Ngozi Nwaneto from Imo and Nnenna Nwabueze from Abia showcasing their various dialects.It helps a lot,at least to know our dialectal differences and how to approach them.
We yearn for the days of Taboo,Evil Passion,Betrayal and Beyond the vow.Let the Igbo producers,especially,come together.I'm sure Igbo actors,even Genevieve Nnaji,would want to take part.It doesn't make sense taking part in Yoruba movies while your culture dies - a case of chasing a rat outside while your house burns...don't call me tribalistic.I'm just being patriotic.

When Carlos Tevez swapped Manchester United for the blue rivals Manchester City,not only the fans at Old Trafford were unhappy.Indeed,two Red devils were the worst hit.
Patrice Evra and Ji-Sung Park were left to rue the departure of their close pal. Never in the history of football have three players been this close (OK.that's an exaggeration). But teammates wondered genuinely how the two were going to cope on Tevez's departure.
Darren Fletcher wondered how the three could be that close,since they were from very different environment.Rio Ferdinand,in 2009,also couldn't understand it
"Carlos is Argentinean and doesn't speak English," he revealed, "Ji-Sung is South Korean and barely understands English. And Patrice is French and can only speak broken English."
No wonder Fletcher wondered how they spoke to each other.Rio further revealed,
"They do everything together.They train together,eat together and even shower together.Ok,that's a joke."
With Tevez's departure almost sealed in the summer of 2009,there were suggestions he moved to City so he could be close to his pals...prompting a writer to name them 'Jitevra',a coinage from their names.
When Evra scored his first and only goal this past season,it was fitting he got the assist from Park.The ball,probably realising who it was supposed to go to,overtook everyone and landed straight at Evra,who later said
"I got a pass from my best friend.What do I buy for him?"
With everyone interested in on-field matters,we fail to realise football's greatest objective is in the off-field matter.It brings the world together.Even if you were European/African(Evra), Asian(Park) or South American(Tevez)!

''At Enyimba,we've always had one hunger.That is to win trophies.But now,another hunger has been added to it.That is hunger of the stomach...''

Tonnex Chukwu,former spokesperson of Enyimba FC,two-time CAF Champions' League winners,made this statement.As funny as it sounds,that's the fact.
Every moment of the day,a self-acclaimed football analyst or two,would invade our TVs,decrying the extent people patronize foreign leagues and fail to show up at the local league match venues.Well,the reason is simple.Nobody would love to watch players trade tackles on a sandy rock,that even makes a potato field look beautiful.Nobody would love to watch a visiting team denied countless goals,and the home team awarded a penalty in the 102th minute.Nobody would love to watch managers and players exchange punches with referees,and nobody would love to watch the fans subsequently beat up the players and referees.Nobody would want to watch a player get injured,and while not having the best of medication as a result of confused physios or even none at all,would be allowed to go back to his village and try traditional medicine.I could go on and on until the reasons are a million and one.In all,only one thing is wrong.The government have no business with football management in Nigeria.
They do not give attention to clubs and when they do,they appoint their friends or political pals,who know absolutely nothing about even 'four-a-side' football,as football administrators. And pray you have a governor who likes football.
Remember Enyimba's exploits in 2003-2004?Well,they had a governor who loved football and saw it as a unifying tool,but who also unfortunately used it as a political tool,one used to count achievements.Nonetheless,it worked and everybody was happy.Anyone who wanted to do anything bad and remembered God might get angry and fail to answer his prayers(which usually centered on the clubs victories) would think twice.When a new governor came,it was clear he never knew how a goal was even scored,to talk of loving football.The re

"The actual cost is N830 million, to be specific. Our initial budget was N1.3 billion; it was reduced to N830 million. Now, it may reach the figure of N1bn plus or minus, but no more. I will want you to follow it up after the event,"

This were the exact words of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Yayale Ahmed. And,in case you feel your state is set to be rewarded with such figure to repair your dilapidated roads,or to take care of the incessant power failures,or to provide pipe-borne water for your village,or to tackle the erosion malaise in the South-East, or finally turn the airport in Enugu international,or to apprehend the lunatics who caused mayhem in Bauchi,or reduce the unnecessary powers of Boko Haram in Borno,or even reform the already collapsing system of Education in the country,please think further. Sorry for the disappointment. Such huge figure is to be used for the inauguration of president Goodluck Ebele Jonathan.
I do not have problems with him being inaugurated.But spending such outrageous amount, to me,is terrible.The amount is absolutely offensive. And imagine the manner the SGF said it with such aplomb.
I have come to the conclusion,even if so fast,that there are no messiahs in Nigeria at the moment.Let them keep wasting the money.Our generation, may be myself, would do better.
The last time this type of amount was wasted,lives were lost(remember October 1). We hope it would be different this time.

Arsene Wenger,we all know,is a bad loser.Stoke City manager Tony Pulis once said ''a particular manager'' rejects post-match drinks with fellow managers whenever he loses.We actually needed no prophet to tell us whom that 'particular' man was.Arsene gets lots of knocks from fellow managers,many of whom he accuses of playing hard and 'anti-football' on his sleek players.One of them is Alex Ferguson's protégé,Alex McLeish.
Birmingham under McLeish play it the hard way.And whenever they play Arsenal,a red card or notable injury seems imminent.And then,in a most bizarre fashion,they beat Arsenal in th carling cup final to further prolong Arsene's six-year wait for a trophy.How elated Arsenal would have been to see them go down on Sunday!But how did it go wrong?
This was meant to be their best season,had they avoided the drop.Well,it wasn't to be.
But Arsenal,and indeed Arsene,would be glad to see them go.But hey Emirates,Stoke City,Wolves,Blackburn and whoever Sam Allardyce decides to join next season would be out for you.If those clubs make Arsenal not to win titles,then Arsene has years to wait.If those clubs go down,Allardyce won't.
But at least,Arsenal can enjoy the moment.Birmingham has been relegated.

''We're not talking about a ball game,or marriage,or graduating from college.We're talking about the end of the world,a matter of being eternally dead,or being eternally alive,and it's all coming to a head right now."

89-year old Harold Camping got me,and a lot of people,scared.That I write this at the moment is as a result of my recovery.I remember while in school,I once fell ill.It was bad I collapsed.While a friend tried dragging me to the clinic,I thought I would give up.In fear,I revealed all my secrets.When,thankfully,I survived,I went back to my friend to find out any of my sins he actually heard my confess.Giggling,he said ''None!".I was glad he lied.
Seriously,I do not understand this.Even the bible proclaims it.We do not know when He would come.So anyone saying Jesus would come at any time must either be deluded or just kidding.
Camping,who has failed on this prediction before,even suggested 2% of the world population would go to heaven.Enough said.
I must admit I got scared over this.God forgive me.
However,I see positives from this false alarm.It gives opportunity for sober reflection.Where would we have been if Uncle Camping were right?

Since he lost in his re-election bid,Oyo state governor,Otunba Adebayo Alao-Akala has been enmeshed in one controversy or the other.
At the moment,eleven of his commissioners are under probe for mismanagement of a mere 8.2 billion naira.
“We got five petitions against the Oyo State government and we decided to invite the commissioners in charge of the ministries.'' said a source from The Nation
“Many of the petitions have to do with mismanagement of Excess Crude Funds and state resources to the tune of over N8.2billion.
“We also asked the commissioners to make a list of all projects awarded in the state from 2008 to date; the minutes of the State Tenders Board, all payment vouchers, and list of companies that got contracts.
“But, instead of appearing before the commission, they started giving excuses. We learnt that the Secretary to the State Government, Chief Olayiwola Olakojo, asked them not to report to the ICPC because the scope of investigation was not well-defined in the invitation letter.
“From the look of things, we will have no choice but to arrest the commissioners, if they don’t report before Friday.
“We have reports that some of them may relocate abroad before the May 29 handover date.”
Surely,Alao-Akala would be fearing the worst at the moment.
Also,the Alaafin of Oyo has called for his arrest once he leaves office.
I feel for Alao-Akala.He has a lot of people to contend with.Now I understand truly that failure has no brothers.

The worst kept secret in the world of football was finally revealed on sunday.Chelsea boss,Carlo Ancelotti,was fired.Even the double he won the previous season couldn't save him.I'm utterly dismayed and gutted owner Roman Abramovich took such decision.
Here was a man,aside winning the double in 2010,is(or was) well loved by his players and the demanding fans.Never had any Chelsea manager been so loved since Jose Mourinho left.
This is what we get when we have a very obssessed,but inconsiderate,owner.Does Abramovich have football advisers at all?Isn't the hiring and firing syndrome going to put any new manager under pressure from the start?Unbelievable! And which world class coach is available at the moment?As I said before,any new manager would fill Man United's Alex Ferguson with confidence.
Ancelotti would surely get another job this summer.I'm sure that club's gain would be Chelsea's loss.

Osaze Odemwingie feels he has arrived.Afterall he scored a whopping 15 goals in this season's English Premier League for title-chasing and Champions' league team,a team greater than Samuel Eto'o's Inter Milan,stronger than Didier Drogba's Chelsea and richer than Emmanuel Adebayor's Real Madrid,isn't it?No wonder these modest African players,yet to achieve what Osaze has,are humble and honour their national team calls.
I don't know why I don't like Osaze.Is it that I'm jealous he's a rich footballer,and I'm not?Or that he's better looking than me(that's open to debate)?Whatever it is,I just don't like him.Does that mean I felt happy he was dropped by the national team coach,Samson Siasia?Yes and no. Yes,because the man I dislike is getting knocked.No,because it is further evidence our players are over-rated,not-so-fantastic footballers.Cameroon,Ghana and Ivory Coast legends play in top top leagues.Even Mali,Togo and South Africa can boast of having established players in established clubs.Nigeria?Their 'best' player plies his trade at a very poor West Brom.Others are either languishing on the bench at Chelsea,playing at hot Fenerbahce,suffering in the sidelines at Birmingham or defending at Kuwait! So why would they feel big?
Osaze left camp during a friendly with Kenya.Hear Siasia,
"He broke camp rule by leaving without seeking permission during our last match.Until he comes back to explain why he did that,the national team doors are not open to him.It was an act of indiscipline..."
Siasia was spot on.Until these average players shun unnecessary pride and do the right thing,Siasia's statement should be repeated to them.Even to 15-goal 'lord' Osaze.Since Drogba,Adebayor,Eto'o and Kanoute have never achieved such feat,who is Osaze if he fails to show his pride?

Remember that wrestler of those days called Macho Man?That wrestler who always had several run-ins with Hulk Hogan and Rick Flair?That wrestler that always came to the ring with pretty girl(s)?Well,I was terrified to hear he died recently.He was involved in a car crash,aged 58.
What a pity! His customary shout 'ooh-yeah!' still reverberates on my head.But what is it that always makes these wrestlers die in controversy?In 2007, Chris Benoit committed suicide after killing wife and kid.He was 40.Eddie Guerero died of heart attack in 2005 after series of drug and alcohol problems.He was 38.Curt Hennig popularly called Mr Perfect,in 2003,and at 44,died of cocaine overuse.In 1999,33-year old Owen Hart died after he fell from an apparatus in a ring.
Macho Man(whose real name is Randy Savage) would surely be missed,as always.May his soul rest in peace,Amen

Wherever he goes,there is silence.Whenever he talks,people listen.Wherever he steps into,there is trepidation.Nobody wants to get him angry,because as a devout Catholic,he finds it ''very difficult to forgive people.''
Any Governor that appoints a 'baby' actor as Special adviser,gets 'baby advise' and Olu Jacobs ''destroys Igbo culture'' in his movie roles.Whatever he says,stands true.So a friend asks, ''Why hasn't he joined politics?Surely,he would win any position he contests for.'' I almost agreed.
But as a man who gives no margin for errors,who wants to be the Numero Uno,who has zero tolerance for failure,I doubt he would want to tow that path.Nigerian politics is ''very soiled'' for him.No wonder.
But then,if we don't tap from his political wisdom,surely we would enjoy his oratorical prowess.We would do that.

''We are strongly against Nigerian constitution.We are also strongly against democracy being practiced in Nigeria.That is why we are fighting.It is irrational for us to accept the proposal of the new governor who was elected under the provision of the so-called constitution.As we have said repeatedly,what we want is strict adherence to the Islamic sharia which is the only vibrant option that would guarantee peace,justice and equity.We will continue fighting until we achieve a virile society.''- Abu Dardam,Boko Haram spokesperson

A few weeks ago,when I said governor-elect Kassim Shettima faced a next-to-impossible task to stop the heinous and barbaric activities of the Boko Haram,I did so tongue-in-cheek.But when he suggested amnesty for the hoodlums(''they are human beings and family members like us,with wives and children''), I realised I may have been right afterall.
First,I do not consider them human beings in any way.They are just devils.Anybody who takes delight in rendering people childless and turning children to orphans,is not fit to be called human at all.Recently,they were on a shoot-out,for hours,in Maidugari,killing and injuring many.
Again,when kidnapping was at its worst in Abia state,the government suggested amnesty.It failed to work,woefully.We all know how it was settled.
What are they fighting for?Against democracy?Against the constitution?And you grant them amnesty,huh?I think we're beginning to get this wrong.
On the part of Boko Haram('Western Education is a sin', kwo?), do they feel maiming and killing innocent people would satisfy their agitation?For one,they should know that he who throws a stone at the market square knows not who it would hit.
I may not know the enormity of their problem.I may not know what they are fighting for,covertly.But I know violence and killing has no justification.Or does it?

Phil Neville,the ex-Manchester United defender and current captain of Everton,said something significant.
He opined that Ryan Giggs,or his brother Gary,is the best choice to replace Alex Ferguson whenever he decides to retire.The likes of Pep Guardiola,David Moyes and especially Jose Mourinho have been touted as possible successors.But Phil thinks a successor who knows the club tradition and how it is run,like Barcelona's Guardiola,remains the best for the club.Any outsider,he feels,would be under immense pressure straight-away to impress,in what would be the most difficult job on the planet once Fergie leaves it.Rather,if a club legend takes over,he would not be hassled by the fans,even if he would be expected to produce results.In this case,he would be with less pressure.
I totally agree with Phil.Ryan Giggs,who has been studying for his coaching badges on Fergie's advise,would be a commonsensical consideration.But,it would be much more reasonable,in my opinion,to consider Gary Neville.He,with Paul Scholes,also has been studying for his badges.
Gary is just a younger version of Fergie - cool-headed when expected to,very volatile when the hairdryer is needed,an expert at mind games and also very tactful with journalists.Nothing suggests Giggs and Scholes do not possess these and more,but nobody epitomises Fergie than Gary.Hey,he also hates Manchester City and Liverpool the same way Fergie does.Who would stoke up pressure in these games the way Fergie does,like Gary?Nobody,I dare say.
But then,let's not think about who replaces Fergie yet.If he,one day,pits against Wayne Rooney on the dug-out,who would it surprise?Not me!

Speculation are rife that president Goodluck Jonathan does not intend to consider former governors and soon-to-be former PDP Governors for the so-much anticipated ministerial posts.Indeed,a lot of them have,covertly and overtly,jostled and lobbied for the post.We all cannot forget how Ikedi Ohakim of Imo State practically begged to be considered.
I do not see how he and the likes of Olusegun Agagu,Segun Oni,Oyinlola,Gbenga Daniel,Adebayo Alao-Akala(even him?),Akwe Doma,etc,would make any impact in GEJ's government.These men did absolutely next to nothing as governors.I wonder the impact they would make now.
In Imo,nobody would ever want to hear that Ohakim would be considered.The same,I believe,for the others.
I think GEJ would do better than put people who have nothing to offer around him.He has to get it right this first time.I expect him to.There are more than a million and one people who could do better than these men.Nigeria would be great.

With the spate of violence witnessed frequently in the northern part of the country and with casualties,mostly innocent people,witnessed every moment,there is need for caution.With Boko Haram releasing bombs almost everyday in Borno state and some northern touts instigating riots,even corp members fall victims.It is clearly painful for a parent to spend hard-earned money to train his child,and when he/she goes to serve his/her country,he/she gets killed by an uncaring and clearly illiterate mob.The recent events in Bauchi are still fresh in our memories.To forestall this ugly trend,many people have called for a reformation,or even total stoppage,of NYSC.However,I view it differently.
Every northerner who goes to the East on NYSC is guaranteed optimum security and acceptance.Every Easterner who goes to the South West gets the same treatment,I believe.The ideas of fostering unity and learning the culture and traditions of other tribes are usually achieved.It seems the north is clearly the problem area here.The actions of some useless never-do-wells cannot stop a fantastic idea.If the NYSC were to be stopped,wouldn't those animals feel proud of a 'job well done'?
Rather than stopped,I would suggest the NYSC postings be done in a way people are posted where their securities are guaranteed.And,if they were not to be,security of the corp members should be looked into.They are the future of the nation.
But,stopping NYSC entirely is clearly not the best of ideas,in my opinion.

As a big critic of the Abia State governor,Chief T.A Orji,I remember promising myself to support and praise him if he managed to win the election(by whatever means).Well,it is no longer news he won.What I cannot,however,understand is why he keeps making further mistakes.
Just this week,he promised to tackle the issues of security,social services,health,rural development and housing in the state.I must admit the future would be a far brighter one for the state,if these promises are fulfilled.As an optimist,I do not count against that happening.And knowing how enthusiastic my governor is,I trust him to succeed this time.But,then,I disagree with his claims
"...I will build on the super structures I have built in the state in the areas of education,health,road construction...",he quipped confidently.I do not doubt he would do these,but saying he had built before is purely not true.Do we need to stress further how bad education has gone in the state,that private schools now call the shots?Hey,doctors went on strike for almost a year in the state.And,boy,do I need to tell how much of death traps our roads are at the moment?
He said Abia 'voted' for PDP because of the performance of the administration in the last four years.I totally disagree.Those who voted for PDP did so,because they had no better alternative and also they wanted to give the government a second chance.Does that sound puerile and jejune?That's the fact,nonetheless.
Lastly,the governor described himself as a 'silent worker'.Are you kidding me?For the past four years,the government of the state used propaganda as a chief tool.The little knowledge I have tells me silence and propaganda are strange bed fellows.
Let us not dwell on the soon-to-be past administration.It was catastrophic.Let's deal on the present.I trust my governor to do better this time.He's a nice man.I trust him.

All good things,they say,would always come to an end.If anything,Manchester United would surely realise it this summer.Edwin Van Der Sar would leave.Replacing him,we hope,would not be impossible.But then,barring any miracle,Paul Scholes would join him.That would be a double blow.
In 1994,teenagers like David Beckham,Gary and Phil Neville,Nicky Butt,Ryan Giggs and Scholes came to the scene.Beyond all expectation,they won the league,after Alex Ferguson endured much criticism(''you would never win anything with kids").Seventeen years on,they are set to lose the last of those 'kids' left...wait a minute,37-year old Giggs is still there.
Nobody at Old Trafford wants him to leave.But in truth,his body language suggests he wants to.Then again,he doesn't feature much.But Ferguson wants him to stay and help develop the younger ones,even for a year more.
The man,who would be remembered more for his precise passing skills than his tackling,has been begged by everyone to stay.Gary Neville,who himself retired earlier in the seasen,has begged his close pal to stay(remember Gary planted a huge kiss on Scholes' lips when he scored that last minute goal against Manchester 'noisy neighbours' City).
We may not know whether he would stay.But we know,for sure,he would surely be missed if he leaves.
If he does,he would have left the way he has always been - in silence,out of the limelight.Why do all good things come to an end?Ask Nelly Furtado.Ask Paul Scholes!

FC Porto and FC Braga,both of Portugal,could be forgiven for feeling a little bit hard-done-by,seeing almost everyone seems not to notice they have a final of a major competition to play.Indeed,the UEFA Champions' league final between Barcelona and Manchester United has clearly dwarfed this Europa league final.The question is,why is it so?
Harry Redknapp of Tottenham said he felt Europa league was a distraction.Martin O'neill,then of Aston Villa,sent out a weak team to lose in the cup.Steve Coppell said he would do so if his team,then Reading,qualified.Arjen Robben said he would ''never play'' in ''that'' competition.Frank Ribery of Bayern Munich said it was ''rubbish''.Martin Jol didn't appear to feel so bad when his then Tottenham team lost the quarter final to Sevilla. So,why would it be so?
People feel the thursday fixture is a distraction.By the time a team travels from England to Turkey and goes back on friday for a match on saturday,fatigue is meant to set in.And why would a team like Chelsea consider a game against Hapoel Tel Aviv of Israel competitive?
I think UEFA has to make the Europa league popular.They maybe,should change the thursday fixture to a more convenient time.They may also have to add an incentive - probably make two Europa league finalists eligible for the next season's Champions' league.
All said,FC Porto and Braga FC would be chasing the cup.History beckons for them...and heck,it's a cup final!!

I heard that President Goodluck Jonathan,just like the out-going administration did,is planning to include the opposition parties in his administration,in the much touted and so-called Government Of National Unity(GNU). I think it's absolute rubbish,to say the least.Good enough,ACN and CPC are not interested,or so it seems.
I think the government needs the opposition.Without an opposition,the government could go astray.The opposition is not just there to criticise the government's every move or call them unprintable names.No.
As a matter of fact,I think with the opposition in place,a particular government would do better.They alert the people on where the government must have erred,and the government takes correction,does the right thing,and takes the glory.Believe me,the success of Babatunde Fashola of Lagos state is down,not just to his brilliance alone,but also what the opposition has accused him of.Whatever the opposition must have said he never did in his first administration,he would now do.Who takes the glory?Himself.
I therefore urge Dr Goodluck Ebele Jonathan to shelve any such plans,for his own good.As expected,the opposition must talk.That's why they are the opposition.That would drive him to do better,rather than make him fear.

It is not dispoutable that Owelle Rochas Okorocha,the governor-elect in Imo state is a man of the people and is so well-loved that everyone rallied around him during the last election..That he is generous is beyond question.That he would work in Imo is sure.However,he got carried away recently.
I do not see the wisdom in freezing the account of the state even while Ikedi Ohakim is still in noffice.It is illegal.The federal government didn't need to say it before we,and Rochas,realise it.
As a big fan of his,I would advise Owelle not to get overwhelmed by the euphoria that still greets his victory.Caution is the word for him.I expect hgim to adhere to it.

Enigma.That's the only word to describe football icon and Argentinian legend,Diego Armando Maradona.He talks.He acts.
After taking Argentina to the 2010 world cup in South Africa,where he was disgraced by the Germans,he had been searching for a job.He practically linked himself with every premier league club outside the top four.I doubt anyone wanted his trouble.
However,due to his relationship with the Middle East,he just got compensated with a job.Al Wasl of Dubai decided to make him their manager,and waste £3 million a year on him.I'm sure Al Wasl already knew their fate before appointing him.
Now,Maradona can concentrate.No more girlfriend.No more booze.No more politics with Ahmadinejad,Chavez and Castro.No more run-ins with Pele(''I have no time for a man whose first sexual encounter was with a man.'',he once said about Pele).It's time to work.But I know him.He wouldn't last a year there.
Well,even if he doesn't,there are many jobs in wait.Manchester United maybe!

Gen.Muhammadu Buhari has been saying much since the presidential election.Don't blame him.He loves Aso Rock a great deal.So he could afford to say anything,as long as it makes him happy.Remember Niger State governor Babangida Aliyu told him Nigeria wasn't his village.
I hear CPC blasted president Goodluck Jonathan for inaugurating a 22-member panel to probe the violence in the North during the general election.Why?The panel was illegal,CPC said.
Buhari knows a few truths would be told and a few damning things revealed.If not,why fear?
A chieftain of the Arewa Consultative Forum(ACF),Alhaji Mohammed Abdulrahman,said the CPC made inciting statements prior to the election that may have caused the mayhem,and I couldn't agree less.He also said what I consider spot on
"...Buhari won in Katsina,Kano and Kaduna.I do not know the reason why they would riot in those places..."
I just wonder.Buhari claims the states in South-East and South-South rigged the presidential elections.If the Northern states he won didn't rig theirs,why on earth did they riot for him in those places?Or did they just want violence for the fun of it?And what structures did CPC build in the South-East?None.
I don't think he has a case.I advise he saves the little money he has left,and not give them out to lawyers who would be so happy to take them.
I advise president GEJ to ensure he gets to the root of this matter.We want to know who the perpetrators are.We need to.

Ok,close your eyes.Tennis could be as boring as reading Chemistry textbook,guys.But I love Chemistry,so...

Uneasy lies the head the wears the crown,they say.Rafael Nadal is realising this,thick and fast.
The man ranked No.1 in world tennis is in danger of losing his spot to second seed,and the newest sports tsunami,Novak Djokovic.He could do that before,or immediately after,the French Open later this year.
We could say the Spaniard is getting a dose of his own medicine.He it was that dislodged former No.1 Roger Federer.
Djokovic is on a 37-game winning streak.Six more,and he would surpass an already set record of 42-0.
With his current form,Djokovic could achieve that.He has beaten Nadal in four finals this year,even on Nadal's favourite clay(a terrific achievement,considering Nadal's form on clay).
We're watching.

It is difficult to believe the zoning issue that threatened to stop every other activity in the country,as long as it is debated,has merely been a People's Democratic Party(PDP) talk.While we could argue they are the ruling party,I always forgot each time that other parties like ACN,ANPP,APGA and CPC were never part of it.
The conclusion we got from PDP on zoning was that it was no more an issue.It had died a natural death.People would no more occupy a position based on tribe,but on capability.
I was therefore bemused to hear that the position of Senate president had been ZONED to North-Central,Speaker to South-West and Secretary To Government of the Federation to the South-East.While,as an easterner,I feel slighted on what has been zoned to us,it would be a case for another day.
My problem is,why zone these positions?Why not leave a level playing field for the best to be put there?Even if whoever gets the position due to zoning were to be the best,it all amounts to double standard saying zoning was dead then.Well,I am not surprised.Nigeria never says a thing and sticks to it.
Talking about double standard,Gen.Ibrahim Babangida,while accusing the PDP of the same crime,committed it himself.The 'rattle snake' of Nigerian politics said with the way things were going, "the nation may have to wait for another generation to get things right."
what?Are you kidding me?Was he not the same man who said,when he wanted to contest the presidential election,that the next generation was not ready to move Nigeria forward?Double standard indeed!

There are days football fans always dread to see,which they know is inevitable anyway.No,not the day they would lose a game they ought to win.It's not the day they get relegated from a particular championship.Rather,the day they lose a great asset in a team comes to mind.
People keep wondering if Manchester United 'keeper Edwin Van Der Sar is truly 40.With the kind of displays we've seen from him all season,we could be forgiven for thinking(or wishing)he was 25.He has been so excellent,and from 2005 when he was acquired from Fulham,he has gotten better every game.Sir Alex Ferguson once said, "I hope it wouldn't be impossible replacing him".
Sir Alex knows what he went through the last time a goalkeeping legend,Peter Schmeichel,left the club.Fabian Barthez,Tim Howard,Roy Carroll and more struggled to fit in. Only Van Der Sar did fit in.
While he admits his teammates have urged him to play on,he is determined to end his career on a high.Wembley represents a great chance for that,and Barcelona,a perfect club to do that against.
No doubt,replacing him is impossible.There would be nobody like him.Man United have to manage a goalkeeper close to his best,maybe Schalke's Manuel Neuer(if his agreement with Bayern Munich fails at the last minute) or Ajax Armstadam's Martin Stekelenberg(who also succeeded Van Der Sar at the Dutch national team) or Atletico Madrid's David De Gea(who's just 20).
None of these people would ever be Van Der Sar.Nobody can ever be.Manchester United are in a fix.

The just concluded penultimate round of English Premier League fixtures has given much questions than answers.Okay,Manchester United confirmed their league victory,Chelsea ensured they would surely finish second,and that's because Arsenal contrived to disappoint again.It also reinforced my preconception,and that is 'when you appoint an interim coach,let him remain so.Give him the job permanently and he starts losing'. I may be wrong,but Liverpool's king Kenny Dalglish did a lot to prove me right.
Aside the above,I have only questions.Which team would get relegated?And which stays up?The three B's(Blackburn,Birmingham and Blackpool) and W's(Wolves,Wigan and West Ham) each has a chance of getting relegated to the second division.Aside West Ham(who got relegated and fired manager Avram Grant.Makes no difference.They're still down),the others are refusing to give up,yet they are losing games.
Too bad.Of the five in danger,I need none down.But two must.
If Blackburn go down,I would miss seeing manager Steve Kean who would be dismissed the Sam Allardyce way.If Wolves go down,I would miss the no-nonsense Mich McCarthy's pre-match talks.If Birmingham go down,I would miss Glasgow gentleman Alex McLeish.If Wigan go down,I would miss Roberto Martinez.That Spaniard that praises his team's efforts,even if they were rotten.Lastly,if Blackpool go down,I would miss Ian Holloway's constant use of metaphor and entertaining football.
Well,only time would tell which of the two would go down.
But I'm sure I would be sad if any went down.

How could I have forgotten this,fellas?It was actually the funniest thing I ever saw...this week,I guess.
John Demjanjuk is 'just' 91-years old(or young,if you wish)but that didn't stop him from appearing in court for a crime he allegedly committed in March 1943.While a guard in a Nazi-concentrated camp in Sobibor,about 28,060 people,mainly Jews,were gassed to death with ''toxic mix of carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide''.
The court in Munich sentenced him to five(!)years imprisonment,but told him to go home,pending on appeal which could take months.It looked funny when I saw it,not because it felt unreasonable but, because it was just funny.
Demjanjuk,at 91,should be closing up on the dreaded 'Mr Death' and was,and still is,in bad shape.
"His health has been questionable during the entire trial.He has spent much of it on a stretcher in court",said an observer,who also added "...as the judge read the verdict,he was in a wheel chair.He showed no apparent emotion."
And why would he?A man who has seen it all and worked under the great Hitler shouldn't be worried over mere court cases.Afterall,what would they do to an old dying man?No wonder the Ukrainian,who spoke(did he ever talk?)through an interpreter had only one word to say all day...''No!!''
A real Hitler.

Entertainers now love politics.Before,nobody ever looked their way.They were seen as unserious people,at best.As a matter of fact,they were viewed as a set of empty-headed never-do-wells,who took to entertainment just to justify their immoral acts and hide their inefficiencies.That,lately,has changed.
These days,they have turned to politicians' right hand persons.Ejike Asiegbu(Abia),Okey McAnthony 'Bakassi'(Imo), Hanks Anuku(Delta),Richard Mofe Damijo(Delta),etc,have served their states in a few capacities.Even the likes of Kanayo O. Kanayo,Clem Ohameze and Andy Ike have tried to contest elections at some points.
Remember how Nollywood stars endorsed Charles Soludo for Anambra State governor,and even President Goodluck Jonathan.Ikedi Ohakim had many nollywood stars during the flag-off of his campaign.
Recently,Tony 'One Week' Muonagor won election to represent Idemili North 1 constituency in Anambra State House of Assembly.
If we remember Julius Agwu saying years ago that Governor Chibuike Amaechi always felt he was out to joke whenever he(Julius) had a proposal for him,then we understand how fast things have changed.
In all,it speaks well of the entertainment industry.Entry into politics,alongside giving the people the best entertainment that makes meaning,is a major way to foster growth in the industry...Long may it continue.

When I heard president Goodluck Ebele Jonathan may have gone on a cold war with PDP Governors over ministerial appointments,I was not surprised.The reason is quite simple.The governors have their men,whom they would want to fix there.In fact,some of the governors even want to join the Federal Executive Council.Governor Ikedi Ohakim of Imo state,set to relinquish his seat,has even presented his CV for a position.So,it wouldn't be a surprise if they ran into a collision with the president.
First,however,I doubt the president would want to be told what to do.He would want the best people around him...not just anyone.So he would be forgiven if he took his time.
And what makes most of these people think the president would want them?In fact,beer parlour grapevine has it that president GEJ indirectly backed Rochas Okorocha of APGA against Ohakim,knowing how ineffective he was.So,how would he,if the gossips are true,take the same inefficient person as a cabinet member?
Well,one thing is sure.We are here to watch their every moves...

It is no longer news that Austrian-born actor and former governor of the state of California,Arnold Schwarzenegger,announced his separation with his wife of 25 years and a Kennedy,Maria Shriver.What is,however,news is the fact that he looks to be going the Tiger Woods way.Remember him?
That former No.1 golfer,who looks so cool inside,but is a wolf when it comes to women affairs.Remember how it affected him financially and psychologically when those lorry-load of women revealed their many bedmatics!
Well,63-year old Arnold was recently exposed after the announcement.

Gigi Goyette,who was allegedly paid £20,000 to shut up when in August 2003 Arnold announced his intention to become a governor,recently came out to say something,
''I knew Arnold since I was 16...I don't think our affair caused the break-up...there were more than 13 other women who have come out of the woods...''

Arnold,who it would be unfair to be compared with serial divorce-specialists and unrepentant 'remarrying' colleagues like Eddie Murphy and Nicholas Cage,is said to want to concentrate on relaunching his movie career.But this once known 'saint' would have been hit badly by this revelation,even if not as much as Tiger Wood was.
Returning to the movies would do him a world of good.He and his fans would find fulfilment there.

The last time Arsene Wenger's team won a trophy,Manchester United went trophiless.And Arsene's gain was Ferguson's loss.It was an F.A Cup final Arsenal clearly deserved to lose.He was branded 'the professor'.Six years on,Wenger would watch United win titles upon titles.
Six years must be considered ages for a team like Arsenal to remain trophiless.Yes,they qualify for the Champions' league every season,but nothing could make up for that emotional sense of fulfilment whenever trophies are lifted.
While Wenger cannot be rivaled in the art of bringing up youths,what differentiates him from his counterpart Alex Ferguson,is the mixture of youth with experience.Wenger feels he has the best philosophy.No crime in that.But what he has to consider is what exactly he wants.

If the aim of Arsenal is to make profit yearly,then Wenger is doing a super job at it.But that would be against what the long-suffering fans want...
With the way things are going,I'd not be surprised if a section of the fans call for his removal.While it would sound silly,it would send out a clear message!

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni was just sworn into office again in his native Uganda,amid fanfare.Even Nigeria's Goodluck Jonathan was there.
Museveni has been ruling the country since 1986,a mere 25 years! Even Museveni himself is no baby.At just 67,surely he would stay a lot more years to take Uganda to the promised land(that must be a far place,if 25 years isn't enough to get there).
African leaders are mere clowns,at best.Only in Africa would a leader stay that long.We could argue as long as things are being handled well by them,age isn't a big deal.But then the likes of Hosni Mubarak of Egypt,Ben Ali of Tunisia,Robert Mugabe of Zimbabwe,and Laureant Gbagbo are bad examples.
As Museveni celebrates his re-swearing in,let us pause and wonder how bad it might be with the young generation.