The Rape of Democracy

 By Dr Austin Orette

Of all kinds of governments, the most difficult kind of government is constitutional democracy. This is because it requires full participation of the citizens.

 

 When practiced according to the norms, it is antithetical to a military dictatorship. Military dictatorship is a top down, and one size fits all approaches, and the whims of the leader rule the day. A democracy requires deliberation and a bottom-up approach, and the wishes of the people are carried through.

 

 This is the reason why participation in a democracy requires deliberation and   mandates the periodic assent of the voters. This is a sine qua non.  It is a duty and a right in a democracy to have the opportunity to remake the country anew. Elected leaders must submit themselves for revaluation by the voters. This is mandatory and sacrosanct in a healthy democracy. To deprive citizens of this solemn responsibility is criminal.

 

 A land where the people are afraid of their leaders is a hallmark of dictatorship, where power is maintained through fear, intimidation, violence and the suppression of basic liberties. A land where the leaders are afraid of the people is a democracy.

 

 The popular sentiments often attributed to Tomas Jefferson show that a healthy democracy relies on mutual trust and accountability rather than sheer fear from either. 

 

 Ours is not a healthy democracy and is the reason some parties impose candidates on the people through automatic tickets. This should never be tolerated.

 

 In a democracy, those elected must go back to the voters to renew their mandates. It is a dictatorship when top party officials impose candidates on the citizens. It is our right to have the opportunity to look into the records of those we elected and decide whether they were worthy of our initial trust.

 

 This singular duty of the voter if not respected should be the end of that party. We are not in a military regime where governors and other officials are appointed. Our constitution clearly states that every four years we shall re-elect leaders.

 

 Imposition of candidates without voting is unconstitutional. We can understand a candidate going unopposed. You can never be unopposed when the challengers are ham-stringed by criminal imposition of high fees of entry for challengers and primary elections are abrogated.

 

 Why should those who aspire to serve be made to pay astronomical fees that cannot be explained by any income metrics in Nigeria? This is an exclusionary gimmick. This is what has turned our politics to a marketplace that has attracted only desperados instead of refined citizens with ideas. This is a violation of our constitutional order.

 

 Any party that engages in this practice deserves to be voted out of power. No elected official should place himself above the voters and the constitution. Nigeria is no longer a military dictatorship where the government is the estate of military generals. 

 

 Any politician who cannot go back to the voters and renew his mandate should go and practice politics in North Korea. The President of North Korea was just re-elected by 99.9 percent. The one percent that did not vote for him is being prosecuted for various crimes.

 

 We are a constitutional democracy. No one has the right to impose candidates on the citizens.  This practice is vile and unjust, and it is nothing but the rape of democracy. No one has a right to automatic mandate in a democracy.

 

Dr. Austin Orette,  a Delta South Senatorial Aspirant, Writes from Owhelogbo In Isoko North Local Government Area

 

 

Orette Joins NDC, Decries Undemocratic Practices in APC

A Texas-based Family Medicine Physician, Dr. Austin Orette, has joined the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC).

 

Orette, a founding member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Delta South senatorial aspirant, told newsmen in Lagos Tuesday how the APC sidelined the founding members in Delta State.

 

“The All Progressives Congress (APC) wants the incumbent to hold the position without primary elections. In this wise, I can say I did not leave the ruling party. It was APC that left me.”

 

He said defectors made the environment unbearable to APC founding members in Delta State’’

 

“I love President Bola Tinubu. I wish him well.”

 

The senatorial hopeful described the 2027 election as a battle of ideas.

 

He urged Nigerians to put the best and brightest minds in the Senate.

 

“The Senate is the engine house of democracy. It is a place for the debate of ideas. In Nigeria, people who are not intellectually sound are allocated tickets in National Assembly elections.” 

 

Orette narrated how shortage of medical personnel resulted in the death of a woman in his hometown.

 

He promised to change the narrative of leadership, create an enlightened citizenry and tackle unemployment through skill acquisition.

 

“I believe I can serve my people. I have been in this journey for long. I will make the people rich. I will attract a lot of foreign investments to the area. I will train the citizens to be of service to others. I will retrain artisans with modern tools. I will open offices in all the towns and villages in Delta South. I will transform Ogbe-Ijoh Market.”

 

Orette pledged to focus on creating jobs by teaching youths to be entrepreneurs.

 

“I’ll address perennial problems in Delta South. I will address electricity, healthcare and agricultural challenges. I will provide modern equipment and support agricultural extension services.”

 

He criticized the ‘’no-go-areas’’ in the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria.  

 

Orette advocated reforms to decentralize power from the federal government to local level.

 

“Uniformity does not build a country.”

 

He called for the reorganization of the society in view of keeping the dreams of young people alive.

 

“We must build a community of love. There must be a standard of how we treat our neighbours.”

 

The medical expert reflected on Nigeria’s trajectory during and after major military regimes, attributing the country’s problems to the prolonged incursion of the military into politics and the obnoxious decrees.

 

He highlighted subversion of internal democracy, military mentality in civilians, impunity and abuse of power, centralization of power, political intolerance and blurring lines between public office and private interest

 

“The military brought Nigeria to this state. The military destroyed all our institutions. Today, the political actors exhibit behaviors akin to military rule. We need to demilitarize the brain of the political leaders.”

 

He also canvassed reserve army and a six month military training for youths in the country

 

“The country should have trained and ready youths to be mobilized during national emergencies, war or disaster. The NYSC should not be mandatory but voluntary. The individual should be given the right to choose a state for his primary assignment.”

 

He also highlighted a rise in authoritarian trends, a decline in democratic principles, executive arrogance, citizen’s apathy and legislative incompetence.

 

Credit: Henry Ovie

 

Chief Oby Lauds Those Championing the Creation of ‎Anioma State

An investigative Journalist, Publisher and President of a nongovernmental organization - Citizens Quest for Truth Initiative, Chief Oby Christie Ndukwe, has lauded the moves for the creation of Anioma State, adding that "is the beginning of a non kinetic approach to the Igbo struggle for reparation, political integration."

 

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‎According to her, "the cause has been on since the 8th Senate but will become a reality under the 10th Senate led by His Excellency, Godswill Akpabio and championed by Distinguished Senator Ned Nwoko."

 

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‎Chief Ndukwe in a Facebook post recalled that at the APC South South Congress held yesterday in Delta State, the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio had this to say:  “Only one new state will be created in Nigeria and it will be Anioma State. Asaba will serve as the capital of Anioma State, while Warri will become the new capital of Delta State Anioma will be zoned to the South-East, making it the 6th state in the region."

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Continuing she wrote,  "this is a strategic move by the President, His Excellency, Bola Ahmed Tinubu to challenge the status of quo of imbalance in state creation which has kept the South East dominated by the Igbos with the least number of states, thereby reducing their representation at the National Assembly amongst other issues affecting political representation. "

 

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‎"It may not sound interesting to those who have long pushed for secession, but it is the beginning of a new thing for the marginalized Igbos of the South East" she noted

 

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‎"The benefits are huge and space won't permit me to state what this means. Apart from the additional state to upgrade the South East to Six, which other zones enjoy aside the North West, Delta State would now have their long dream of a capital in Warri. Recall that when General Ibrahim Babangida created the state with a capital in Asaba, it raised a lot of dust! But that was actually a starting point for the Igbos of Delta State. "

 

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‎"I do not see any reason why anyone would oppose this idea except for selfish and ignorant reasons, even though it is not expected that everyone would applaud the National Assembly and the President for this timely decision. What remains is when the new state would come on board to enable those who would occupy political offices to participate in the elections. Who knows? "

 

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‎"For now, I say kudos to all those who have been part of this quest, including yours truly!", she finally commended

Foundation Calls Ernest Ikoli Crusader of Truth, Symbol of the Struggle against Discrimination

....Lauds First Editor Of Daily Times For Ending External Rule In Nigeria, Mentoring Journalists, Politicians, Teachers 

 

A Nigerian politician, nationalist and pioneering journalist, Chief Ernest Ikoli, has been described as a crusader of truth and a symbol of the struggle against oppression and discrimination in Nigeria.

 

“Chief Ernest Ikoli was a reformer, politician and a great journalist.  He campaigned for the birth of the Second Republic and departed, saying his work was done with the attainment of the country's political independence.”

 

The former assistant editor of Lagos Weekly Record, first editor of the Daily Times of Nigeria and publisher of African Messenger was also praised for helping to create the Marcus Garvey Universal Negro Improvement Association, People’s Union, Nigeria Youth Movement and the Action Group.

 

“Chief Ernest Ikoli saw all Africans as one. There was no Igbo, Hausa, Yoruba or Ijaw. There was only one Nigeria, one Africa and one destiny.”

 

The commendation was showered on the patriot, nationalist and educationist by the Ernest Sisei Ikoli Foundation.

 

The Ernest Ikoli Foundation in a birthday statement Wednesday hailed the foremost journalist for facilitating the exercise of virtues in politicians and labour leaders, creating good journalists in the country, changing lives and advancing the struggles for the independence of Nigeria from British colony rule.

 

“Chief Ernest Ikoli was endowed with exceptional powers and qualities. He was a good man, a courageous man and an inspiration to many.”

 

The statement celebrating the life of a great Nigerian citizen was signed by the Executive Vice Chairman of Ernest Sisei Ikoli Foundation, Chief Anthony George-Ikoli (SAN).

 

The statement applauded the frontline political leader and great journalist for advocating steps towards the emancipation of the people, arguing strongly for an end to colonialism and imperialism, creating a number of fantastic networks and influencing the political class in a more egalitarian direction.

 

The foundation also extolled Ernest Ikoli for putting forward a programme for the development of Nigeria, opening of government to a wider social circle, ending external rule and improving the conditions of workers and institutions through protests and legislations.

 

“Chief Ernest Ikoli wanted a united, industrialized and economically self-reliant nation.”

 

The statement highlighted Ikoli's eclectic interests, vision of harmonious future, organizational strength, intellectual depth, stable leadership, Christian principles of love of God and man.

 

“Chief Ernest Ikoli was a bright, amiable and undaunted fellow.”

 

The statement emphasized the magnificent oratory and sense of moderation of the prolific writer of politics, economics and social history.

 

“Chief Ernest Ikoli was firmly committed to representative democracy and open government.”

 

The statement also underscored his extraordinary courage, wisdom and generosity.

 

Chief Ernest Ikoli was one of the activists of Nigeria's political history that fought alongside great nationalist leaders like Herbert Macaulay, Nnamdi Azikiwe, Obafemi Awolowo and Ahmadu Bello in the struggle for the political independence of Nigeria.

 

Born on March 25, 1893 in Nembe, the patriot, nationalist and political thinker died on Friday, October 21,1960 at the age of 67 and was buried at Ikoyi Cemetery.

 

 

 

 

Orette Postpones Town Hall Meeting

Delta South All Progressives Congress (APC) senatorial hopeful, Dr Austine Orette, has announced that a scheduled Town Hall meeting to discuss the way forward for the senatorial district has been postponed.

 

The town hall meeting was scheduled for March 27, 28, and 29 in Owhelogbo, Ozoro, Oleh and Patani.

 

In a statement on Tuesday morning, Dr. Orette said the postponement was necessitated by the ruling party’s national convention and other activities this weekend.

 

“While the leaders and critical stakeholders are eager to discuss the way forward, we recognize the need for them to attend the ruling party’s national convention and other events.”

 

He expressed deep regret for the postponement.

 

“A new date will be announced soon.”

 

Orette declared his intention to contest for the Delta South Senatorial Seat in the 2027 National Assembly Elections on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC) early 2026.

 

He outlined a vision focused on using his professional skills to empower constituents and reform governance.

 

He promised a more active, service-oriented leadership, a new constitution that decentralizes power from Abuja and empowers local citizens and the introduction of modern equipment and extension services to make the senatorial zone self-sufficient in food production.

 

His platform includes setting up digital libraries, retraining artisans (welders, carpenters, and mechanics) with modern tools, and encouraging vocational education.

Okpe Union Inaugurates New BOT

The Okpe Union has inaugurated a new board of trustees (BoT).

 

The event was held on Sunday at the Okpe Union headquarters in Lagos, the nation’s commercial capital.

 

Top Okpe leaders, including the President General of Okpe Union, Prof Igho Natufe, attended the inauguration.

 

“We are gathered here today, at the National Headquarters and Registered Office of the Okpe Union, No. 65, Moshalashi Street, Obalende, Ikoyi, Lagos State, to appoint new Trustees for the Incorporated Trustees of Okpe Union, as ordered by the Federal High Court, Lagos. On behalf of the National Executive Council (NEC) of the Okpe Union, it is my profound pleasure to welcome you all to this historic event, which opens a new page in the glorious History of the Okpe Union; the oldest registered Ethnic Union in Nigeria. The Trustees we are appointing today will fill the missing page in the governance structure of the Okpe Union” President General of Okpe Union, Prof Igho Natufe said during the inauguration.

 

Those inaugurated include Dr. (Mrs.) Rose Atarhe-Abuh as Chairperson and Barrister Felix Orere as secretary.

 

Mr. Bernard Adibor, Ms. Dora Omuvwie, Mr. Patrick Akpotor, Mrs. Florence Oseragbaje, Mrs. Mary Johnson, Hon. Patrick Ovwile, Chief Remi Rita Onomakpome, Rev. Frank Ojogwa Ekejija and Dr. Evans Igho Akpo were also inaugurated as members of the Okpe Union Board of Trustees.

 

Natufe commended Okpe nationals, including those not formally members of the Okpe Union, in Nigeria and the Diaspora, for their strategic advice and selfless financial contributions which have sustained the union in its advocacy for good governance and the rule of law in Okpe Nation.

 

“Together, we are a united force for the growth and development of the Okpe Nation. And together with other indigenous ethnic nationalities in Nigeria, we will define the restructuring of Nigeria’s federalism where each ethnic nationality exercises its sovereignty in a truly Federal Republic of Nigeria.”

 

He said ‘’On April 30, 2024, the Federal High of Nigeria sitting in Abuja (Suit No FHC/ABJ/CS/395) vacated its earlier order which was surreptitiously obtained by the illegal group of the Okpe Union and ordered the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) to expunge their names from the CAC’s records.

 

“The order granted us, the legitimate Okpe Union, the authority to appoint new Trustees for the Okpe Union. The ruling of the Federal High Court Abuja is consistent with the earlier judgement of the Federal High Court sitting in Lagos (Suit No. FHC/L/CS/603/2022), which had declared the leadership appointed by HRM, Orhue l, Orodje of Kingdom, on October 3, 2020, as illegal on January 19, 2023.”

 

While the judgement of the Federal High Court Lagos had already nullified and voided the illegal group’s Board of Trustees, the ruling of the Federal High Court Abuja pointedly paved the path for the legitimate leadership of the Okpe Union to appoint new Trustees for Okpe Union.

 

On October 27, 2025, the National Executive Council (NEC) of the Okpe Union filed a motion before the Honourable Justice Bogoro of the Federal High Court, Lagos, praying the Honourable Court to grant Okpe Union leave to appoint new Trustees for the Incorporated Trustees of the Okpe Union.

 

At the Federal High Court of Nigeria in the Lagos Judicial Division on Wednesday, the 14th day of January, 2026 before his lordship Hon. Justice Y. Bogoro, via Suit No. FHC/L/MISC/1153/2025, leave was granted to the Okpe Union “to convene a meeting and appoint new Trustees for the Incorporated Trustees of Okpe Union in line with the Provisions of the Companies and Allied Matters Act, 2020” and for “the Corporate Affairs Commission to register the Trustees to be appointed by the Applicant upon satisfaction with the Provision of the Companies and Allied Matters Act”.

 

In her acceptance speech, Dr Atarhe-Abuh described the inauguration of the Board of Trustees as a defining chapter in the continued growth and strengthening of the Okpe Union.

 

“I stand before you today with a deep sense of honour, humility, and responsibility, following the successful inauguration of our Board of Trustees at this meeting today Sunday, the 22nd of March, 2026, held here at Okpe House, 65 Moshalashi Street, Obalende, Ikoyi, Lagos. This moment is not merely ceremonial; it is a defining chapter in the continued growth and strengthening of the Okpe Union. I am profoundly grateful for the confidence reposed in me and my fellow members of the Board of Trustees. Your trust is both inspiring and humbling, and we do not take it for granted.”

 

She expressed her appreciation to all members of the Okpe Union worldwide.

 

“Your unwavering support, encouragement, and commitment to the ideals of our Union have made this day possible. Your dedication to preserving our heritage, fostering unity and advancing the welfare of the Okpe people remains the bedrock of our collective success.”

 

The BOT Chairperson promised to discharge her duties with integrity, diligence, and fairness

 

“On behalf of my colleagues on the Board of Trustees, I hereby formally accept this appointment. We do so with a full understanding of the responsibilities entrusted to us and with a firm resolve to discharge our duties with integrity, diligence, and fairness. We are committed to upholding the constitution of the Okpe Union and safeguarding its values for present and future generations.”

 

She also pledged to work harmoniously with the National Executive Council and all Stakeholders.

 

“We recognize that the progress of our Union depends on collaboration and mutual respect among all its organs. In this regard, we pledge to work harmoniously with the National Executive Council and all Stakeholders. Together, we shall strive to strengthen the structures of our Union, promote transparency and accountability, and ensure that our programmes and initiatives truly reflect the aspirations of the Okpe people.”

 

Her words: ‘’At a time when unity and purposeful leadership are most needed, we must rise above individual differences and focus on our shared vision. The Okpe Union must continue to serve as a beacon of hope, cultural pride, and socio-economic advancement for our people. We are determined to contribute meaningfully towards this noble cause. Let me also acknowledge the efforts of those who have served before us. Their dedication and sacrifices have laid a solid foundation upon which we now build. We are inspired by their legacy and committed to sustaining and surpassing the standards they have set’’.

 

She called upon every member of the Okpe Union to remain actively engaged and supportive.

 

“The strength of our Union lies in our unity, and together, there is no limit to what we can achieve. I assure you that we shall serve with utmost sincerity and in the best interest of the Okpe people at all times” she added.

 

Under Tinubu, Nigeria is now the Preferred Destination for Global Capital, says Francis Shoga, DG City Boys Movement

.....Reacts to Historic £8.1bn UK-Nigeria Trade Milestone‎

 

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The Director General of the City Boys Movement, Mr. Francis Oluwatosin Shoga arrived at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja today after participating in the historic UK-Nigeria trade mission.

 

Speaking with reporters and digital creators upon his arrival, Mr. Shoga said the atmosphere in London during President Bola Tinubu’s State Visit was "the definitive turning point for Nigeria’s industrial future." 

On the £24 Million Ovaltine Factory in Lagos, Shoga stated, "It is not just a rumor; it is a landmark reality. I can confirm that Twinings Ovaltine has committed £24 million to build its first-ever African manufacturing plant right here in Lagos. This isn't just about a malt drink. It’s about a global British giant saying, 'We trust the Nigerian environment enough to move our production here.' This will create hundreds of direct jobs and turn Lagos into a supply hub for the entire West African sub-region."

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‎Speaking further, the DG of City Boys Movement explained the $496 Million Integrated Dairy Deal: "One of the most transformative agreements signed was the $496 million Integrated Dairy Deal. For too long, Nigeria has spent billions of dollars annually importing dairy. This deal is the game changer. We are bringing in UK expertise to build climate-controlled mega-dairy farms and high-tech processing plants. This isn't just about cows; it’s about a complete value chain—from bovine genetics that will increase milk yield by over 400% to cold-chain logistics that ensure fresh Nigerian milk reaches every dinner table without spoiling. We are moving from being a nation of consumers to producers, creating thousands of rural jobs in the process."

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‎On the £746 Million Port Modernization Deal, he said, "This is the one that should excite every industrialist and oil and gas professional. A £746 million deal was signed to refurbish and modernize the Apapa and Tin Can Island ports. We are talking about state-of-the-art quays and digital border systems. This will end the bottlenecks that have frustrated our exporters for decades. The City Boys Movement is proud to see the President’s vision for infrastructure manifesting in such a massive, externally funded way."

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‎Mr. Shoga further highlighted the key point of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s State Visit, which is the

record £8.1 Billion Trade Volume. He said, "For the first time in our history, bilateral trade with the UK has hit £8.1 billion annually. This is the result of deliberate, ‘Renewed Hope’ diplomacy. We saw agreements spanning fintech, agriculture, and energy. When you see Zenith Bank opening branches in Manchester and firms like Moniepoint expanding in the UK, you realize that the bridge between Lagos and London is no longer one-way. It is a partnership of equals."

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‎"I am returning with a clear message for Nigerians: the world is betting on us again. The President has opened the doors; now it is up to our local industries to step through them. The City Boys Movement remains committed to advocating for policies that bring direct foreign investment to our doorstep.

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‎This is why we support the continuity of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Renewed Hope Agenda."