Sustaining Democracy in A Dwindling Economy

By Mutiu Saheed Abiodun.

Ban Ki-Moon once said "Sustainable development is the pathway to the future we want for all. It offers a framework to generate economic growth, achieve social justice, exercise environmental stewardship, and strengthen governance."

Democracy, as defined in the Cambridge dictionary, is the belief in freedom and equality between people, or a system of government based on this belief, in which power is either held by elected representatives or directly by the people themselves. Democracy exists to provide a way for people to live and be together in a way that is beneficial to all. 

As a bird can't fly with a wounded feather, so it is going to be disastrous for any country to sustain her democratic system of government in a dwindling economy. This is because democracy and economic development go hand in hand clarification of their correlation are irrefutable. In other words, democracy is tied with economic series of growth like levels of education and lifespan through the improvement of educational institutions as well as healthcare. 

Democracy can not sustain in a dwindling economy because, for governance to go smoothly, it must have the revenue to manage its plans. People will request portfolios and this can't be run efficiently without revenue. Nigeria, her economy is a good example that has fallen in this menace. If her current expenditure has taken 70% in paying salary, now can 30% do the rest? And, if it goes like that; people will begin to lament that the serving government is not good enough. Imagine in a situation whereby, an Honourable member of House of Representative is expected to carry his constituency along and always be there for their quests, but when "water is more than yam flour", there is no way it can survive. Surprisingly, people will even expect him/her to be sharing money with every member of the constituency. 

The dwindling economy in a democratic government will lead to nothing but political instability, that is, what is expected of government to realize will not be realized and with these, there will be no improvement in the governance and instead of new things to be planned, the reverse will be the case. On this note is what describes sustainability as a culture which is enough for everyone's needs but not everyone's greed; he, therefore, governs best he who governs least.

It is important to note that the root of the economy itself is seen as a proverbial round table conference for home management and with the media as the best mode of operation. Centrally, it is like a round peg fit for a round hole. However, there is a dictum that says: "sustainability does not fly near the sun." For an economy which would not only take care of today but more of care for tomorrow, it must not fly too near the sun, refraining from living on what it cannot sustain. 

For instance, in the Nigerian context, our economy flies too near the sun by these following anomalies and absurdities: Feigning equal partnership with the advanced economy of Europe, USA and the tiger nations from where we imported 20 different goods at the proverbial border markets while we approach same with just one oil export commodity. We, the Nigerian governments and the governed fool ourselves thinking that we are on equal footing as we refer to ourselves as "Giant of Africa" when by this foolish act makes us over-dependent on other people's sweat. We run our economy too near the sun because anything artificial or gummy cannot stand the scorching sun. It is also like the case of the proverbial load carrier who spent his daily takings on imported bread, he is eating the scalps of his head without knowing it. Why is he not buying local foods which cost less and build his body better, health-wise and afford him the opportunity of saving a few coins for the raining day? 

Our economy flies too near the sun by working ourselves into needless debts and wasting loans on white elephant projects which do not benefit the future generation. Failure to give priority to education in our policy and budget implementation is another way of flying our economy too near the sun.

In the final reckoning, without a robust economy to implement serving government, democracy is not sustainable. In this regard, we think Democracy can be survived from the dwindling economy by the following three basic principles: 

Firstly, exploitation and conservation of natural resources, that is the use of natural resources to buttress its current source and utilizes in such a way that includes the consumption to achieve the principle of sustainability. 

Secondly, the Integration of environment into our economy and its programs. 

Lastly, the equitable use of the resources in a way to be of immense benefit to all and sundry. Democracy that encourages a level-playing ground would throw up the right leadership that regards stewardship as a platform for bringing benefits for the good of all and never for individualistic tendencies. 

Our verdict, therefore, is that there is no way democratic governance can be sustained in a country where natural resources are neglected or only one of them is dependent on, where budget implementation is not done accordingly, and where citizens are politically immature and illiterate. 

Sharan Leslie Burrow, former president of the Australian Council of Trade Unions, said in one of her quotes that "...no peace for the peoples of the world without the guarantees of sustainability." This entails that, today's status is a reflection of tomorrow.

Tertiary Institutes Remain Closed Even As FG Approves "Safe Reopening" Of Schools.

By Abidemi Olukanmi Abeeb 

Despite the school reopening in the next phase of lockdown ease, the tertiary Institutes across Nigeria are to remain closed as federal government urge graduating students preparing for final exams to go back to school.

The Federal Government has approved what is called “safe reopening” of schools nationwide in the next phase of the gradual easing of lockdown ordered to curtail further spread of COVID-19.

However, only graduating students will resume.

It has been gathered that the government equally lifted ban on interstate movement. This would be  effective from July 1, 2020, noting that only fifty percent of the passengers of the buses are allowed during travels.

The Chairman of the Presidential Task Force on COVID-19, Boss Mustapha, disclosed these at the ongoing daily briefing of the task force in Abuja on Monday.

He said the reopening of schools was meant to allow students in graduating classes resume preparation for examinations.

He disclosed that the latest developments were contained in the task force’s fifth interim report which was submitted to the President, Major General Muhammadu Buhari (retd.), earlier in the day.

Maintaining the current phase of the national response, for another four weeks in line with modifications to be expatiated by the National Coordinator;

“Permission of movement across state borders only outside curfew hours with effect from 1st July, 2020"

The PTF, however, reaffirmed the continuation of the nationwide curfew between 10 pm and 4 am adding that “travels are not expected at this period.”

Court Acquits Prof Elujoba

By Pelumi Hassan 

Around last month,  the media was blazing with the news of Prof. Elujoba;  the former acting VC of Obafemi Awolowo University. His bank account was frozen due to some investigation for an alleged fraud. The former acting VC and former acting bursar; Mrs Josephine Akeredolu were arraigned on seven- count charges of conspiracy, stealing,paying of earned and productivity allowance of N1.4 billion to the staff of the university without authority’s approval, illegal payment of furniture allowance, abuse of office and conversion of money belonging to the university.

However, An Osun State High Court sitting in Osogbo on Thursday 25th of June, 2020, discharged and acquitted the former Acting Vice-Chancellor of Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Professor Anthony Elujoba of abuse of office and financial misappropriation.

 The court also discharged and acquit the former Acting Bursar of the university, Mrs Josephine Akeredolu on allegations of fraud and conspiracy levelled against her by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission.

The prosecution team was led by Mr M. S. Usman who called three witnesses and tendered exhibit to prove it case.

Will Face Mask Really be Incorporated as Students' Fashion Trends?

By Aworinde Blessing

The evolution of face masks and how it has actually become a fashion trend has proved how life can change in the blink of an eye. It also shows how man adapts to change. Even though the face masks were seen to be a symbol of fear and insecurity, it has become a way people express themselves and has also provided an opportunity for the fashion industry as it has been recommended for all in order to curb the spread of Covid-19. Now that the country moves towards reopening and people are trying to get back to their normal lives, the Center for Disease Control has encouraged people to use the face mask to protect themselves. Face masks have now become a necessity, people are trying to keep safe at the same time with been fashionable by incorporating face masks with their outfits.

Recently, some state governments have allowed the reopening of worship centers and it is considered very important to make use of the face mask. Meetings are now allowed to hold only if there is strict adherence to wearing the face mask. The world has no single idea of what the future holds as no permanent solution has been found for the cure of the novel virus, so there is no doubt that masks are here to stay.

Even though governments have not given a precise date for the resumption of schools, it has given guidelines that students have to follow and among them is wearing face masks. Now that wearing of face masks have been made a necessity, students will also have to incorporate it into their fashion trends by wearing fashionable masks.

Many politicians, government officials, and entertainers are adopting the use of more stylish masks with different styles. Gone are the bland white and blue masks, people now wear face masks that match with their outfits. Amid the Coronavirus pandemic, many Nigerian celebrities turned up at the AMVCA wearing glittery jeweled face masks. Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike has been seen wearing varieties of designed masks to her news conference. Also, the Defense Minister Taro Kono appeared in a meeting wearing a designed mask. 

It has been made a compulsion to wear a face mask so it is only natural for students to incorporate the use of fashionable masks into their fashion trends. Especially if the government has to decide on reopening the schools. Even though it hasn't been proven that the wearing of face mask guarantees complete protection it is deemed necessary to wear it in public areas. Even though there may not be strict adherence to social distancing especially in large schools like Obafemi Awolowo University where there are a large number of students the only possible way to guarantee safe interaction is through wearing the face mask.

The president of the University of Arizona Robert Robbins said he will highly encourage mask-wearing at the university in order to protect both the students and teachers from the infection. Even if they have been controversies over the use of masks as parents believe that it may lead to choking or affect the way they breathe. it has been decided that schools, where social distancing can be maintained, may not have to make use of face masks. However, it is important to wear it in large populated schools where the shaking of hands and friendly hugs has become a normal form of greeting.

Also, the mask will give an opportunity to students to shows their creativity in terms of fashion. Obafemi Awolowo University has its own designed mask. In Canada, university students launched a stylish Canadian-made face mask company. Students have the habits of making something horrific look appealing so they can also do the same by incorporating fashion face masks into their trends.

Since designed masks are the current trends in fashion and there is an increased number of people using it as they try to go back to their normal daily routine. It is only natural for students to incorporate the face mask into their fashion trends if they eventually have to return to school.

History of OAU Buildings

By Emmanuel Dominic

Ever wondered how OAU got to be so beautiful and blessed with great architectural buildings? It is very joyful to savor the eyes with the landscape of such length and width, with an amazing love for nature green, the perfect synchronization of building, landscape, and amazing sight. We could but fall in love with the great architect and great minds behind the African most beautiful University. As we all know, OAU originated from University of Ibadan, before being given it freedom to be the University of Ife in 1967. Ife citizens gave the government 13,000 acres of land for the proposed university, imagine its largeness. After so many political issues, the University of Ife was approved in 1961. But due to the construction and all, they were made to be Ibadan campus. 

OAU was made to be an outstanding Institution. The best Architect in Israel by name Arieh Sharon placed in charge of the architectural plans, which was supposed to be a three community project. He was the best at that time, also joined by his son Eldar Sharon and A. A Egbor of Lagos. Arieh Sharon was an Israelite, Half Jewish, and an amazing Architect, that change the art of building in Israel with various amazing buildings artworks. 

He initiated Multi stories building in Israel and built a lot for the Government as at that time, he also won a Prize in Israel as the best architect. He made the first master plan for the University of Ife in 1961. As at then, he was building the Jewish Agency headquarters Tel Aviv. After this maser plan, he started off building the Faculty /Department Humanities, which was from 1963-1965, and in between built Halls of residence in 1964. In 1967 he started the building of the Library and ended in 1970, in between he built the Institute of Education and secretariat in 1968-1972. Later onto 1972 the great Oduduwa hall was built and finished in 1976. He designed the Civil Engineering building called Spider but was built artistically upside down. He designed in a rectangle form, Faculty of administration, law social sciences, Education, Humanities, Library Oduduwa hall, and so many others. He was the mastermind behind the beautification of Obafemi Awolowo University at the beginning of time. 

Judging from the pictures, we could pinpoint that there were 2 original Amphitheater, one which is at the back of Oduduwa hall, built by Eldar Sharon and Harold Rubin, and the other in front of the library, which is called Motion ground. Although the masterminds of the OAU Campus started with Arieh Sharon and his son, it didn't cease at his death in 1984 but was continued by numerous Amazing Architects, most of which are Nigerians. Patrick Ehinmowo and his firm Platform Concept Ltd Also design the National History Museum, and which is one the most notable museums in West Africa, known for its triangular roofing. Olajumoke Adenowo is also one of the architects responsible for the beautification of the OAU campus, she built the OAU Senate building, and so many others. But Arieh Sharon, Eldar Sharon, and Harold Rubin were most popular of all due to their amazing intellectual display of art, culture, and Futuristic value.

They weren't just builders or architect, he pointed Ife as a better location for the University, cause of the topography and landscape, and he (Arieh Sharon) featured Climate change into all of it building making it a masterpiece. And also interpreted the Yoruba Culture into its buildings, giving the western culture a voice through the artistic building, he also built a replica of the Oranmiya staff in front of the library. Arieh Sharon even went on to write a book on the Architecture of the University of Ife. Not just buildings make OAU the most beautiful campus, but the intentional Artistry of Aligning the Green grass and trees to those buildings. 

Anytime we have a view at this amazing structure and landscape, we could only praise the Legends / great minds behind this beauty. Now you know the history of OAU buildings.

Never Too Late for Self Discovery

By Adesina Ayomide Emmanuel

Have you ever sat down and this question keeps reverberating in your mind, “who am I?" You go out each day and you see people be the best of themselves, building a career in certain fields, putting faith to the test by stretching their capabilities, being confident in their own skin and you wonder who you are called to be. Of course, this happens to everyone. Is there also a better time to discover yourself than now?

 When we meet people for the first time, we assess them, scrutinize their clothes, actions, and words, and go on to interact with them based on assumptions we have made. It is pertinent to know who you are before all else. 

The Steps To Knowing Who You Are

Look deep in yourself to learn your core values

Your values are basic standards you stand for that influence your decision making. You have principles, know them. What do you fight for? What are you most passionate about? Are you living a life you’re proud of? Keep a journal to help you record your thoughts and emotions to know when they are positive or negative.

Know your strengths and weaknesses.

Examine your likes and dislikes; also, what you’re good at and vice versa. Mostly, the things we are not good at are our challenges. Knowing these things is important because from there, you decide which of them you need to improve on.

Take a personality test

Know your personality; if you’re choleric or sanguine, phlegmatic or melancholy. Learn when you’re at your best or when you’re feeling depressed. Know what makes you feel better; is it the movies, reading books, writing, playing music, etc. Sometimes, you may need to see a clinical psychologist.

Ask and know others’ assessment of you

Such answers should be gotten from close friends and family of course. Also, be aware that their opinions of you could be drawn from a particular encounter with you which may not describe you in totality. Compare their assessment with what you’ve written earlier in your journal. Ponder on them and ask yourself if you were surprised or upset at their opinion of you. If you’re not satisfied, you work out ways on how to improve.

Know if you’re an introvert or an extrovert.

Although no one is 100% introvert or extrovert, rather we lean on one or the other under certain circumstances. An introvert describes someone who gets energy from focusing primarily on their own thoughts, feelings, and memories. They enjoy solitude and are reserved; spending time more on themselves. Meanwhile, an extrovert is someone who gets energy from being in the external world.

With these steps, you would have begun a journey on getting to know who you are, since, as humans, we are constantly changing and because society’s values often conflict with ours. What have been the meaningful events of your life? You may discover clues to your hidden identity, to your career and to your life satisfaction.

Know your personality; if you’re choleric or sanguine, phlegmatic or melancholy. Learn when you’re at your best or when you’re feeling depressed. Know what makes you feel better; is it the movies, reading books, writing, playing music, etc. Sometimes, you may need to see a clinical psychologist.

Turning Pandemic and its Effects into Advantages as a Learner

By Jodekss Gloatkenf 

The usual routines as we were used to them have taken a new shape today worldwide check. These days, almost all sectors of life have been paralyzed due to the outbreak and the rapid spread of Coronavirus, which is abbreviated by the World Health Organization (WHO) as Covid-19. The viral disease began in the Wuhan of China. A city that could be compared to the Lagos of Nigeria due to its population and diverse forms of commercial activities that go on therein on a daily basis. The deadly disease had been able to spread outside the shores of China all world continents, and it had been claiming thousands of life with millions infected and a few thousand cured of different treatments. Ever since the disease became a pandemic, different sectors around the world have been put on hold, and one of them is the education sector. Learners at different levels have been forced to be on compulsory holidays for months with no hope of resuming soon. Institutions with better sophistications have managed to make use of e-learning to meet up, but not all institutions could efficiently afford that. Everything looks hopeless now for those learners whose institutions cannot use e-learning. But, earnestly, should there be hopelessness for any learner at this point due to the pandemic and its effect? Should there be any need to worry way too much as if that is the end of the world?

Further, life would always present even learners with the least could expect at most times. The reason is that learners are humans too, and they directly and indirectly not exempted from the heavy blows life or nature could throw at will. Hence, the best understanding ever for all learners is, being able to leverage whatever situation presented them and make the best out of it. Even in this state of dilemma, even when the center or the government could not hold things together, there are still minds who are making ace by reasoning on the way out.

More so, this moment should not come and go just like that for any reasonable learner without actually learning in whichever way possible. This moment is not a moment when a student would only sleep, see movies, gist, gossip, engage in immoral practices, stop researching for new knowledge, trying new inventions, and the like just because the world is on lockdown. Meanwhile, a reasonable learner would have the understanding based on the status quo and fact that even though everything seems on lockdown, one thing is not on lockdown, and that is the Internet and all its paraphernalia characteristics its capable of offering users such as learners.

In continuation of the above, learners should leverage on using the Internet to learn new concepts about anything as almost everything is on the Internet these days. A learner could try and read up academic concepts not clear before using the Internet and get it right. And economically speaking, even while at home, a learner should try and invest limited resources in learning different skills such as how to make use of sophisticated software like MS Word, Corel Draw, Photoshop, and others there are. With just elementary knowledge, a little creativeness, and using the same Internet’s social network to market the service in question, the learner could be earning at least sufficient resources. “Half a bread,” they say, “is better than no bread.”  The more a learner committedly learns any concept, the more such learner would understand how to manipulate the concept for whatever end. The worst thing ever would be that, at the end of the pandemic, the news that a learner could share the peers is that he or she learned nothing tangible.

Consequently, we all are learners whether you are an instructor or a student. In this dire time in which almost everybody is complaining, we should try and continue to yearn for new information. And information is power indeed, but it remains just dormant when the information is not into practice. We should all find a way around and make the best use of this time when we have to make use of social distancing to become closer to innovation and invention by considering the relevance of technology.