The Lumine News

Category: Opinion

  • The King And The Weight Of The Royal Beads BY AGBA JALINGO

    The King And The Weight Of The Royal Beads BY AGBA JALINGO

    There is an African proverb amongst royalty that says that, “it is the one who wants to suffer for the people that accept the heavy weight of royal beads.”

    And truly speaking, royal beads are many and very heavy. Not just heavy in terms of responsibility but physically when measured on a scale. A complete set of royal dressing includes not just the beads but also several age long metals that carry a lot of weight on the scale. Part of the idea is to constantly remind the carrier of the huge responsibility he or she bears.

    With all its envied privileges, royalty confers even greater responsibility and denial. Because to lead, is to be in a position of advantage, in the first place amongst equals. To be a pathway, a leading light and bridge for others into a new destination; holding them by the hand to find their way from ignorance; shining as an example for them to follow.

    Talking about new destinations, if I were to be a leader, I would endeavour to build on the good things my predecessors did by thinking out new and improved methods of doing those same things for the good of the people.

    Assuming that my predecessors many years ago, bought hoes and cutlasses for our people who are predominantly farmers, Me, their new King, should be able to move it further and introduce our people to modern farming tools, to boost resources utilization and yield per hectare, as well as expanding economic opportunities. If they were given fishing nets, can we now explore the chances of giving them fishing boats?

    Bringing it down to political leadership, if our leaders distributed Okada to our people 20 years ago, dug boreholes for our people 20 years ago, distributed generators for our people 20 years ago, gathered our people under canopies and trees for health outreaches 20 years ago, campaigned with wrappers and rice, 20 years ago, etc, after two decades, isn’t there any new thinking to improve on, modify or do away with these methods after such a long period? Are we so bereft of innovating new initiatives to improve on executing these same programs by employing new ways of doing things? Or is there a deliberate ploy to perpetuate our state of being 20 years ago?

    The budget figures are scaling up yearly and changing rapidly, can the methods of implementing these budgets also change along? Can we intentionally decide to improve on our governance processes and discard this copy and paste model? Is our goal to develop our communities or just to share power? Can these thrones survive by keeping the people down perpetually?

    If the King must lead and enjoy the perquisites of the throne, he must not forfeit the sacrifice of appeasement, lest he falls.

    Yours sincerely,
    Citizen Agba Jalingo.

    Disclaimer: The opinion expressed in this article is strictly that of the author, Agba Jalingo, and does not represent TheLumineNews, its agent or the organization the author works for.

  • Re: Know Your Constituency Projects in 2025 Budget BY INYALI PETER 

    Re: Know Your Constituency Projects in 2025 Budget BY INYALI PETER 

    I commend Citizen Agba Jalingo for his unrelenting efforts in ensuring that our National Assembly members are accountable to the people whose mandates they hold on trust. By highlighting projects facilitated into the budget by them, he is not only equipping the people with more information on the activities of their representatives but also promoting the efforts of lawmakers.

    However, we must also sensitize our citizens to know that appearance of projects in the budget does not translate to funding of the project. This is important to avoid a situation where we’ll begin to harass our lawmakers for projects that the executive arm is yet to fund. The legislative arm only has appropriation power and not the authority to fund/execute projects.

    Currently, Nigeria is unusually running more than one budget. The 2024 budget is now running concurrently with the 2025 budget even though so many projects there are yet to be funded. Even though we expect that the Nass members who nominated these projects will follow up and lobby relevant authorities to ensure contracts are awarded and funded, people should be educated on where their power end.

    Also, some privileged Cross Riverians who are working in offices where they can make case for the funding of these items should help. The Nass members definitely need the support of everybody to ensure that their vision for these projects are actualized.

    I commend Honourable Peter Akpanke and Godwin Offiono for the overwhelming number of projects they’ve facilitated into the budget for their respective constituencies. As first timers and opposition lawmakers, this is a huge statement of intent. I encourage them to take their efforts further by lobbying to ensure that the projects are funded and executed.

    Once again, bravo Citizen Agba!

    Inyali Peter, Ph.D.

  • Reining In The Powers of Governors: The Rivers State Example BY OKOI OBONO-OBLA

    Reining In The Powers of Governors: The Rivers State Example BY OKOI OBONO-OBLA

    The Supreme Court of Nigeria made several damning findings against Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara in its two judgments delivered on February 28, 2025. These rulings arose from the prolonged political crisis that has engulfed the state since 2023. According to the Supreme Court, Governor Fubara presented a budget to only four members of the Rivers State House of Assembly, which they passed, and he subsequently signed into law.

    The Supreme Court condemned the Governor’s actions, stating that he behaved like a dictator, showing no respect for the Constitution, the rule of law, and principles of good governance. Furthermore, the Court held that Governor Fubara’s actions were those of a lawless individual, unbecoming of the office he holds, particularly given his order to demolish the buildings housing the Rivers State House of Assembly.

    The Supreme Court also found that Governor Fubara breached the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria ( 1999) (as amended), which he swore to protect, preserve, and defend. Additionally, the Court held that Governor Fubara prevented the Rivers State House of Assembly from convening to perform its constitutionally assigned role. The Supreme Court lamented that, effectively, there was no functioning government in Rivers State.

    Some pundits believe that Governor Fubara may face impeachment proceedings due to the Supreme Court’s findings, which constitute gross misconduct under the Constitution.

    Gross misconduct refers to a grave violation or breach of the Constitution or a misconduct that the House of Assembly considers serious enough to warrant removal from office. According to Section 188(11) of the Constitution, gross misconduct is subjective and determined exclusively by the House of Assembly.

    The procedure for removing a governor from office due to gross misconduct is outlined in Section 188(1-10) of the Constitution. Here’s a breakdown:

    Step 1: Notice of Allegation: A written notice signed by at least one-third of the House of Assembly members, stating the Governor’s gross misconduct.
    Step 2: Investigation: The House of Assembly resolves to investigate the allegation, requiring a two-thirds majority vote.
    Step 3: Panel Appointment: The Chief Judge appoints a seven-person panel to investigate the allegation.
    Step 4: Defense and Findings: The Governor defends themselves, and the panel reports its findings to the House of Assembly.
    Step 5: Removal: If the panel’s report is adopted by a two-thirds majority vote, the Governor is removed from office.

    It’s essential to note that the House of Assembly has the exclusive power to determine what constitutes gross misconduct, making it a subjective decision.

    The case of Governor Fubara may be a litmus test to curb the magisterial and unconstitutional manner in which governors in the country have been exercising their powers, incurring the wrath of Nigerians. It is left for the Rivers State House of Assembly to decide the best course of action to take against the Governor, whose relationship with the majority of the members has been greatly strained.
    @ Okoi Obono-Obla

  • This particular judgement of the Supreme Court does not require any analysis or analyst, it was in plain simple English BY MAGNUS ABE

    This particular judgement of the Supreme Court does not require any analysis or analyst, it was in plain simple English BY MAGNUS ABE

    This particular judgement of the Supreme Court does not require any analysis or analyst, it was in plain simple English;

    There can be no further litigation on the status of the Rivers State House of Assembly in any court in Nigeria.

    The issue of defection of the lawmakers was carefully considered by the Supreme Court and the court stated clearly that that argument will not even be considered by the court because by the date of the said defection, Governor Fubara was already acting in violation of the constitution and in contempt of the lawful order of a court of competent jurisdiction by his own admission.

    The Supreme Court was equally clear, not only is the CBN and the Accountant General of the Federation prohibited from releasing money to the state, but that the state government itself is prohibited from spending and making expenditures without a budget duly passed by the Amaewhule led assembly, which is to begin seating immediately and unhindered. The legal road has come to an expected end. The issue is over, finito, finished.

    I had advised earlier that the Governor should negotiate while there is still time, it may appear that window for negotiation is now very narrow, but it may not be completely closed;

    The Minister of the FCT already hinted at this when he said that he will not advise the house to commence impeachment proceedings against the Governor. That is a narrow window but too much analysis may close it.

    It is time for wisdom to prevail, not empty grandstanding.

    One thing is now settled in Rivers State: OCJ Okocha Esq., SAN, is a proven legal luminary!

    © Sen Magnus Abe

    Disclaimer: The opinion expressed in this article is strictly that of the author, Magnus Abe, and does not represent TheLumineNews its agent or the organization the author works for.

  • Illicit Mining in Agoi, Yakurr LGA: A Recipe for Chaos BY OKOI OBONO-OBLA

    Illicit Mining in Agoi, Yakurr LGA: A Recipe for Chaos BY OKOI OBONO-OBLA

     

    The recent arrest of scores of illegal gold miners in Agoi Ekpo, Yakurr Local Government Area of Cross River State, after a fierce resistance, highlights the growing concerns surrounding illicit mining in the region . This trend, which has seen thousands of illegal miners from the Sahelian region of West Africa flock to Agoi, bears an eerie resemblance to the 19th-century gold rush in South Africa.

    The Democratic Republic of Congo’s (DRC) experience serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of mismanaging mineral resources. The ongoing conflict between the government and Rwandan-backed M23 rebels is deeply rooted in illegal mining activities in Eastern DRC. Rwanda’s government is accused of backing the insurgency to exploit the DRC’s mineral wealth, perpetuating a cycle of violence, corruption, and instability.

    Similarly, in Agoi, the unregulated mining activities have led to tensions, environmental desolation, and concerns about the nexus between money laundering, corruption, human trafficking, and arms smuggling. To break this cycle of violence and instability, it’s essential to address the root causes of the conflict, including the mismanagement of mineral resources, corruption, and regional tensions.

    The people of Yakurr Local Government Area, known for their farming traditions and rich cultural heritage, are caught in the midst of this chaos. The influx of illegal miners has put a strain on local resources, threatening the very fabric of their communities.

    To mitigate this crisis, the government must take decisive action to:

    – Regulate mining activities: Ensure that mining is carried out in a responsible and sustainable manner, with adequate safeguards for the environment and local communities.

    – Address corruption and regional tensions: Tackle the root causes of the conflict, including corruption, money laundering, and regional tensions, to prevent further instability.
    – Support local communities: Provide adequate support and resources to local communities, ensuring that they benefit from the mineral wealth of their region.

    Only by addressing these underlying issues can we hope to break the cycle of violence and instability in Agoi, Yakurr LGA, and ensure a brighter future for the people of Cross River State.

    @ Okoi Obono-Obla.

     

    Disclaimer: The opinion expressed in this article is strictly that of the author, Chief Okoi Obono-Obla, and does not represent TheLumineNews, its agent or the organization the author works for.

  • Jarigbe Calls On Elected Officials To Concentrate On Delivering On Their Subsisting Mandates

    Jarigbe Calls On Elected Officials To Concentrate On Delivering On Their Subsisting Mandates

     

    The senator representing Cross River Northern Senatorial District, Sen Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, has called on all elected officials to concentrate on their subsisting mandates and noted that it was preposterous to waste so much time on conversations about 2027 general elections.

    Sen Jarigbe was reacting to the cacophony of voices that surrounds the recent controversy in the political landscape of Cross River State, with many pundits analyzing and permutating the 2027 general elections.

    Sen Jarigbe who acknowledged the sufferings of the people in the rural communities across the state, posited that those of them with various mandates, have a greater task in their hands. He stated that the major task is delivering on their social contract with their people and ameliorating the hardship being experienced by the people who voted for them.

    The law maker who took to his verified Facebook page, @Sen Jarigbe Agom, noted that “I strongly think it’s preposterous to waste so much time on conversations about 2027, when our people are suffering so much in our rural communities across the State. We should concentrate on delivering on the subsisting mandates.

    “For those who have ambitions for 2027, we should know that they have inalienable rights to express themselves. For those of us who hold various mandates, we have a greater task in our hands. The major task is delivering on our social contract with our people and ameliorating the hardship being experienced by the people who voted for us.

    “Let’s get busy! No one knows the next minute. The time is now! I refer us again to Lamentations 3:36 & 37”.

  • Four Years After, UNICAL Staff Employed By Past Admin Remain At Home BY INYALI PETER 

    Four Years After, UNICAL Staff Employed By Past Admin Remain At Home BY INYALI PETER 

     

    Four years after, majority of the people that were legitimately employed one year to the end of the past administration at the University of Calabar (UNICAL) are still at home as the current management has blatantly refused to allow them work or complete documentation. This is despite the fact that the same administration is being investigated for allegedly inputting names into the payroll.

    It’s sad to see the level of vindictiveness displayed by the current administration, which seems to be targeting the former Vice Chancellor, Prof. Zana Akpagu. But 99.9% of the affected staff are not related to the former VC and are innocent victims. Why not wear a human face and allow them complete documentation and commence work? These people will be paid with government funds not anybody’s personal resources.

    Besides, this administration is winding down already. A new Vice Chancellor will be appointed in the next ten months. Why not bring them now to work after all, if you consider them liabilities, your administration have escaped the liabilities for four years?

    Till date, UNICAL remains the only university in Nigeria with this problem. For those of us who understand the context of the recruitment when the federal government insisted on IPPIS, we will never understand the explanation on why they were stopped from working even though their appointment letters are valid.

    Nevertheless, despite the efforts of the management to get the former governing council to invalidate the appointment letters, the Chairman insisted that such recruitment happened across all universities including Northern universities. Therefore, he couldn’t in good conscience, preside over a session that would take such wicked decision against innocent people. Yet, the management has maintained its stance that these people must remain at home!

    What level of inhumanity is this? It is really unfortunate that this iniquitous action is being meted on innocent Cross Riverians by a fellow Cross Riverian.

    I appeal to the Vice Chancellor or those who have her ears to persuade her to end on a more positive note than she started by inviting these innocent people who are only victims of vendetta to complete their documentation and resume work. Even if payment will be delayed till the end of her tenure, let it be that government’s owing them.

    Similarly, because the majority of those affected are Cross Riverians, I urge Governor Bassey Otu to invite the Vice Chancellor for a discussion with a view to resolving this issue. This is what we see happening n other states. Our leaders should not turn a blind eye to this situation since it is a federal institution. If there’s a breakdown in law and order from this situation now, it’s the state that’ll be the most affected.

    The VC needs all the help now to end her administration in a way that posterity will judge her aright.

    Inyali Peter, Ph.D.

    Disclaimer: The opinion expressed in this article is strictly that of the author, Inyali Peter, and does not represent TheLumineNews, its agent or the organization the author works for.

  • Unmasking The Truth: A Rebuttal To Cultural Misappropriation BY CECY OGBECHE

    Unmasking The Truth: A Rebuttal To Cultural Misappropriation BY CECY OGBECHE

     

    The certificate you see there was given by CAC for the registration of a personal business name and not for the Yala People. Stop spreading false information to the fragile youths.

    Because i have taught some people about this before and another argument is arising ignorantly, I must confess that I am compelled to address the blatant disrespect and ignorance displayed by some individuals who claim that the Ebira Cultural Attire, specifically the itinochi, itokwete, or itinoguntoro, was registered in Yala. I am want to put the argument straight!

    Who registers cultural attire of a people? Is it not a clear case of cultural misappropriation? The certificate in question is not for the Yala People, but rather a business registration certificate from the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) to lylys Arena, dated 2021.
    I question the motives of those who claim to believe that cultural attire can be registered. What is the meaning of patent, and how does it apply to cultural heritage? Why haven’t you taken steps to stop the Ebira People, the original owners of the Ebira Cultural Attire, from producing and using their itinochi?

    Your inability to conduct the sub quashoic ceremony of the Ebira Cultural Attire in Abuja is a clear indication of your fear of being intimidated by the Ebira People, tomb up if it’s a lie. Who is deceiving who?

    To those who have been paid or hired to defend this certificate trying to convince people that’s it’s for the Yala People, I ask: what is your motive? Who is your teddy? Where have you seen a cultural attire being registered? The intimidation of the registration was on until we got to discover this certificate, we are still waiting for the certificate of registration up till today. Do You think that are dealing with a passerby in Education or civilization?

    The social penalty of not wearing your cultural attire is a loss of identity and cultural heritage. It’s appalling that some of you have never made a point since the misappropriation of cultural attire began in Yala rather you have be hiding and being neither here nor there.

    Today, because the Yala Local Government Chairman was lured into using the Ebira Cultural Attire, some of you now have the audacity to talk in support of those who seek to damage the tradition of the Yala People. Some also now have the immunity to post old pictures of them in itinochi , you see the level of ignorance.

    The black and white colors of the Yala People, which represent the traditional colors of the Yala People, were disrespected and replaced with the Ebira Cultural Attire. How do you justify this clash?

    The whole world knows that the attire in question is the Itokwete, itinochi, Itinoguntoro of the Ebira People. Your tetra-headed definitions and confusing language will not change the fact that this is a stolen cultural attire.

    I urge you to respect the prestigious cultural attire of the Yala Ode Idoma People and stop using disrespectful languages on our Ode Idoma Cultural Attire. Come home to Yala and learn about your own cultural heritage! It is not all about making noise from outside the home .

    Agbo Onyeche Ogbeche ( Õtiyinü ërõr êh tāpiōñï) of Okuku Yala.

    Disclaimer: The opinion expressed in this article is strictly that of the author, CECY OGBECHE, and does not represent TheLumineNews, its agent or the organization the author works for.

  • The Nigeria Facing You And I, And Something For You In 2025 BY RICHARD INOYO

    The Nigeria Facing You And I, And Something For You In 2025 BY RICHARD INOYO

     

    The Nigerian sense of reality is dictated by what Nigerian leaders are pretending does not exist. If you are avoiding reality how then would you face it? If you don’t visit the ghetto, how would you know what is going on in the minds of Nigerians living there? How then would you know what people are facing and how then can you get their suggestions on how to tackle their problems?

    I heard a song said, wake the pretenders sleeping. Nigerian political and corporate leadership must come to terms with the fact that they along with some religious leaders are the reasons why millions of NIGERIANS are suffering and yet failing to find the legal action and extralegal inspiration to fight back through any means necessary.

    Deliberately and systematically, the Nigerian government is living in denial and simultaneously eroding access to anything good for the poor, and part of the strategy is the development and application of draconian laws, corrupt judicial decisions, and policy hikes on communities and the systematic engagement of propaganda and disinformation to confuse and weaken popular uprising.

    In Abuja, Wike_ the unfortunate Minister of F.C.T is actively and busily targeting and destroying the houses of Nigerians that are not in power and who are not politically connected to this regime.

    But then, that isn’t all, all attempts by the masses to resist the atrocity of this government is being met endlessly with either police brutality or army’s trademarks, sorrow, tears and blood in the word of the Great Fela Kuti.

    Yet I must say, the tools to fight back have not totally lost their efficacy and it is important I stress this_ Protesting, investigating, court filing, petitioning, picketing, revolting against irrational government excesses and naming and shaming those responsible for our collective socioeconomic misfortune, these legal work tools are as potent as they have always been, only if the Left is willing to press on with them.

    Year 2025 should be one year where all dissatisfied Nigerians should think about the possibility of marching towards to and occupying all government institutions and the public residence of all current serving politicians responsible for the major problems in the country; from NNPCL HEADQUARTERS to Nigerian Energy Commission to Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) up to the both chambers of the National Assembly as well as the official residence of the president in Aso Rock, and those of the Vice President, the Senate President, his deputy, the 36 governors and their deputies, I doubt if anything good can come out from just online outrage_ which is watery and soft resistance without on ground action with the death warrant of saying we are ready to end all the bad governance in the country_ through marching to and occupying those institutions and residence that serve as symbols of mass oppression and poverty, yet if taken on can be transformed via thick resistance into fundamental overhaul for a new NIGERIA.

    At this juncture, it is important I stress that the burden of protest and the yoke of resistance shouldn’t be left on the NLC and TUC alone, it is instructive that civil society and the forces of conscience should realign and join hands together to find the alternative demographic to reject this current system that only seeks to extend poverty to all households in the country that refused to identify with this callous regime.

    In closing I wish to remind us that as long as there is no arm resistance for ethical defence, no political program, and no organisation for rejection of rigged polity and socioeconomic systems, Nigerian masses needlessly feel that the ruling class will somehow improve things for good, must be asked to wake up from such deep sleep.

    What 139million Nigerians facing multidimensional poverty need is a rethink and realignment of forces to emancipate themselves, and you can’t leave such burden to just TUC and NLC alone, two institutions whose combined membership is less than 7million people.

    As we flip the calendar to 2025, I wish to ask that you think about the possibility of visitation and occupation of key public residence of top government officials and institutions responsible for our collective national misfortune as a critical, yet untried step that may force Nigeria to change its ways.

    Signed

    Richard Inoyo,
    Country Director,
    Citizens’ Solution Network

    As long as we fail to do this and make this a priority

  • Effective Representation: The Role Of UKALU Sons And Daughters In High Places BY ANIASHIE AKPANKE PhD.. Being A Paper Presented At The Ukpe, Alege, Ubang (UKALU) Summit

    Effective Representation: The Role Of UKALU Sons And Daughters In High Places BY ANIASHIE AKPANKE PhD.. Being A Paper Presented At The Ukpe, Alege, Ubang (UKALU) Summit

    EFFECTIVE REPRESENTATION: THE ROLE OF UKALU SONS AND DAUGHTERS IN HIGH PLACES
    A keynote speech presented at the 2024, Ukpe, Alege and Ubang (UKALU)
    Day Celebration On Saturday December 28, 2024

    By.
    COMRADE ANIASHIE AKPANKE PhD
    Language Unit, Department of General Studies Education,
    Federal College of Education, Obudu

    INTRODUCTION 
    It is with immense gratitude and a deep sense of honour that I stand before you today as guest speaker for the cherished 2024 Ukalu Day celebration. The invitation to be part of this important event came at a time when I was already committed to several engagements scheduled for the same period. However, my profound respect and admiration for Ukalu inspired me to shelve some of my earlier plans in order to honour this invitation. This decision is not only a reflection of my regard for this esteemed community but also an acknowledgment of the critical importance of today’s theme.
    Ukalu undoubtedly holds a special place in my heart, not just as a neighbouring community to my own, but as a hub of rich cultural heritage, unity, and resilience. Though I hail from Bendi in Obanliku, a neighboring Local Government Area to Obudu, I feel a deep connection to your community. Our histories, challenges, and aspirations intertwine as we share cultural and geographical bonds. It is in this spirit of solidarity and mutual progress that I hereby humbly offer my thoughts bald as they may appear, on this important topic. Over the years, I have been privileged to develop cherished friendships with people from Ukpe, Alege, and Ubang—the vibrant communities that together form the soul of Ukalu. These connections have deepened my understanding and appreciation of the values that make Ukalu truly exceptional.
    The topic of my speech, “Effective Representation: The Role of Ukalu Sons and Daughters in High Places,” resonates deeply with me. It speaks to a subject that is both timely and timeless—the responsibility of leadership and the critical impact of representation in shaping the future of a community. As we delve into this discourse, I hope to not only share my thoughts but also inspire meaningful dialogue on how we can collectively chart a path toward a more prosperous and united Ukalu. Let us use this auspicious occasion to write a new chapter of history for Ukalu, one defined by purpose, vision, and action. I am convinced that in an auspicious occasion such as this, we owe ourselves nothing but the truth, in strict conformity with the scriptural injunction in St. John’s Gospel 8:32, which admonishes that “And ye shall know the truth and the truth shall make you free”.

    MY PERCEPTION OF UKALU 
    With a deep sense of modesty, may I declare that I am here like one of the legendary six blind men who went to see the elephant. Each of them presented a different account of the nature of the animal, which was correct to a reasonable degree. So, I may be wrong, I may be right. Howbeit, kindly hold me excused if my view of Ukalu is contrary to your own.
    My perception of Ukalu is therefore that it is a community of Promise and Potential. The only option opened to us as a people is to harness our potential in order to appropriate our promise. Indeed, Ukalu is a unique community synonymous with resilience, unity, and ambition. From your lush landscapes to the dynamic energy of your people, Ukalu represents a beacon of hope and potential. Historically, you have been known for your industriousness, rich cultural heritage, and communal solidarity. Ukalu has been the food basket of our time. As we navigate the complexities of the modern era, we must boldly ask ourselves whether we are maximizing the opportunities available to us.
    To the glory of God, your sons and daughters have risen to prominent positions in government, business, academia, and other fields. This is a testament to the talents and values nurtured within this community. However, with great privilege comes great responsibility. The assertion is a profound truth that resonates across cultures, histories, and generations. It encapsulates the idea that positions of privilege, influence, and authority are not merely opportunities for personal gain or comfort; they are calls to service, duty, and accountability. For Ukalu sons and daughters in high places, this statement should be seen as both a challenge and a guidepost. To drive home the point succinctly, there is need to make a few comments on privilege and responsibility.

    UNDERSTANDING PRIVILEGES 
    Privilege refers to the access to opportunities, resources, and platforms that many do not have. For those in high places—whether in government, business, academia, or any other field—privilege often comes in the form of power, influence, and the ability to make decisions that affect the lives of others. To be privileged is to be entrusted with a unique position that allows you to shape the present and future.
    For Ukalu sons and daughters, this privilege is a reflection of the community’s collective hopes and dreams. Your achievements bring pride to your people, but they also place upon you the weight of expectation. It is a privilege that should inspire gratitude, humility, and an unwavering commitment to the greater good.

    RESPONSIBILITY: THE HEART OF PRIVILEGE 
    Responsibility is the counterpart of privilege—it is the moral and ethical obligation to use your position to make a difference. With privilege comes the expectation that you will:

    i. Serve Selflessly: Use your influence to uplift your community, create opportunities, and address challenges. Your success should not isolate you from your roots; instead, it should empower you to serve them.
    ii. Act with Integrity: Responsibility demands honesty, fairness, and the courage to make decisions that align with justice, even when they are difficult.
    iii. Inspire Others: As a beacon of hope and achievement, you have a responsibility to mentor and motivate the next generation, showing them that success is possible with hard work and dedication.
    iv. Be Accountable: Recognize that your actions—or inactions—affect more than just yourself. Your choices reflect on the entire community and its values.

    THE MEANING OF EFFECTIVE REPRESENTATION
    Effective representation is not simply about occupying a position of power or influence. It requires a deeper commitment to:
    i. Visionary Leadership: Developing and executing a clear vision for the betterment of the community.
    ii. Advocacy for Collective Interests: Standing boldly to champion the needs of Ukalu with integrity and urgency.
    iii. Accountability: Ensuring that decisions and actions taken in high places positively impact the grassroots.
    iv. Mentorship and Empowerment: Actively nurturing the next generation to prepare them for leadership roles.
    v. Collaboration: Recognizing that no individual achieves greatness in isolation. Building networks and alliances is essential for sustained progress.

    CHALLENGES FACING EFFECTIVE REPRESENTATION 
    Despite the commendable achievements of many Ukalu sons and daughters, there are challenges that hinder the full realization of effective representation:
    i. Disconnect from the Grassroots: A significant challenge is the tendency for those in high places to lose touch with the community’s everyday struggles and aspirations. Even communal norms and values have been discarded while morals have either paled into insignificance or jettisoned.
    ii. Internal Divisions: Unity within the community is paramount. Divisions weaken your collective voice and reduce the effectiveness of advocacy efforts.
    Short-term Focus: Representation often becomes an avenue for personal gain rather than a platform for long-term community development.
    iii. Lack of Preparedness: Leadership is not accidental; it requires deliberate preparation and skill-building.
    iv. Immorality: Some people use their privileged positions to promote immorality and crime.

    THE ROLE OF UKALU SONS AND DAUGHTERS IN HIGH PLACES 
    I beseech all Ukalu sons and daughters in high places to understand that your positions of influence are not yours alone—they belong to the collective aspirations of your people. Whether you are a leader in politics, a professional in the corporate world, or an academic at the pinnacle of your field, your success carries the weight of responsibility to represent your community with excellence and to give back meaningfully.
    In practical terms, this could mean advocating for development projects in Ukalu, providing scholarships for promising students, mentoring young talents, or simply being a voice that champions the interests and welfare of the community. It also means fostering unity among Ukalu people, ensuring that divisions and discord do not hinder collective progress. To overcome the challenges highlighted above, I propose a framework for effective representation centered on commitment, competence, and community engagement.
    i. Be Advocates for Development: Those in high places must lobby for infrastructure, education, and health projects that directly benefit Ukalu. They must use their influence to attract investments and initiate impactful programs.
    ii. Prioritize Education and Capacity Building: Education is the foundation of societal progress. Your representatives should champion initiatives such as scholarships, mentorship programs, and the establishment of modern educational facilities.
    Promote Economic Empowerment: Job creation, skill acquisition programs, and access to financial resources should be key priorities. Economic empowerment is essential to reducing poverty and ensuring community prosperity.
    iii. Foster Community Engagement: Effective representation requires regular interaction with the community. Platforms like town hall meetings and community forums provide opportunities to hear from the people and address their concerns.
    iv. Model of Integrity and Service: Leadership is about setting an example. Representatives must demonstrate integrity, transparency, and a commitment to selfless service.

    A CALL TO ACTION FOR ALL UKALU SONS AND DAUGHTERS

    Effective representation is not the responsibility of a few but a shared obligation of all. While those in high places have unique opportunities, every son and daughter of Ukalu has a role to play in building a prosperous and united community.

    To the Elders: Your wisdom is a treasure. Guide and counsel the younger generation to ensure they remain anchored in the values that have defined Ukalu for generations.
    To the Youth: You are the torchbearers and trustees of tomorrow. Equip yourselves with the knowledge, skills, and character required to lead effectively.
    To the Women: Your contributions to the family and community are invaluable. Let your voices and perspectives enrich the leadership process. Women form the greatest percentage of voters in every community.
    To politicians: It is regrettable that in recent times, politics has become an unbearably volatile venture, to the extent that some people have even adopted the inglorious indulgence of hiring dastardly fellows to kill political opponents in broad day light. Some people even parade themselves as toughies along streets hanging guns like neckless. This is shameful and ridiculous. It may be intended to pave the way for some people to continue to impose themselves on the polity, even when rejection stares them in the face, because they may have squandered the glory of their past opportunity. I sincerely appeal that such a dangerous trend should never be allowed to gain a foothold in Ukalu land. Let us sustain the glorious culture that has been the hallmark of our existence, in which the people we offer the golden privilege to represent us in all high places, emanate from a process that is endorsed by the majority of our people, without intimidation and manipulation. This, is to me, the gateway to ensuring that those with leadership position shall be conscious of their accountability to the generality of the people.

    CONCLUSION
    Effective representation is a means to an end. In our circumstance, our end is to achieve an Ukalu that thrives in unity, development, and progress. Let us, therefore, support our representatives while holding them accountable. Let us foster a culture of excellence and shared responsibility.
    To the Ukalu sons and daughters in high places, I challenge you to rise to the occasion. Your community’s hopes and aspirations rest on your shoulders. Use your positions to leave a legacy of impact and progress. Ultimately, the true measure of privilege is not how much you personally acquire but how much you give back to the community, for which you are an ambassador. When your time in high places comes to an end, your legacy will not be judged by the titles you held or the wealth you amassed but by the impact you made, the lives you touched, and the progress you inspired.
    To all Ukalu sons and daughters in high places, note that; you carry the torch of this great community. May you bear it with dignity, honour, and a deep commitment to the responsibility that comes with your privilege. Together, let us ensure that your influence becomes a force for transformation, progress, and unity in Ukalu and beyond.
    Before I go, permit me at this juncture to refer us to the poet Joe Ushie, who aptly captures it thus in his evergreen poem titled “Popular Stand”:
    If we harness our faint voices into a shout
    If we join those faint fists into a punch
    If we collect these tear trickles into a pool

    Our cry the gods will echo
    Our echoes will shake that hill
    Our might will crush that clown
    Our bid will daze the leopard
    Our flood will cleanse the land

    Our fate lies, here, in our faith
    Here at this oven-hot popular stand, not
    THERE..

    He further notes, and we should also note that:
    We came here as to a market place
    And arrived at different times
    And, as from the market place,
    We leave at different times;
    But at the end of the day
    We all must leave
    Whether we sold at a profit or loss

    It is my fervent prayer that this generation of Ukalu sons and daughters, should be remembered for selling at a profit and not loss.
    Let me end this brief speech by wishing you a very successful and remarkable celebration. My fervent prayer is also that our good God should continue to protect, shield and direct all Ukalu sons and daughters in high places as they serve Him, community, state, nation and humanity with passion and commitment. May He, the source of all wisdom, authority and power, through His unfailing mercy and compassion, grant us the grace to love and stand for one another as Jesus Christ commands us to do. I wish us a happy and prosperous new year.

    Disclaimer: The opinion expressed in this paper is strictly that of the author, Mr Aniashie Akpanke, and does not represent TheLumineNews, its agent or the organization the author works for.