Uncategorized

The futility of gender equality

Published

6 months ago

March 16, 2026

BY VICTORIA NGOZI IKEANO

Victoriangozii@gmail.com 08033077519

This month of March seems to be a special one for women. Last Sunday, the United Nations organisation (UN), a global body, comprising of all countries in our world marked International Women’s Day, This coming Sunday, the 15th of March, the church will mark ‘Mother’s Sunday’, a day set aside to celebrate mothers. For Muslim faithful, the 30-day period of fasting (abstaining from food, drinks and other ķ things from sunrise to sunset) continues in the month of March. During this period of Ramadan which rolls over to the month of March, Mustim women daily attend gatherings for lectures that are meant to make them understand more, the teachings of Prophet Mohammed (PBOH). For Christians, Lent also continues in this month of March. Lent is the period from Ash Wednesday to the day before Easter “during which ..Christians give up food or activities they enjoy in memory of Christ’s suffering”.

It is noteworthy that both Muslim and Christian faithfuls started their fasting periods same day this year, namely on February 18, 2026. While the Muslim fast will culminate in the Sallah festival on March 21/22, 2026, the Christian 40-day fasting will be rounded off with Easter celebration on April 5, 2026. The bottom line is that believers are at this time shifting their gaze from ephemeral earthly trifles and looking upwards in supplication to the Creator, We are inwardly seeking for lasting spiritual values at this period of Ramadan/Lent. There is reflection on life in general and we are beginning to ask the great questions of life: Why are we here, what is the purpose of life on earth; why is there so much turmoil, disharmony in our world from the small family unit to the larger environment, among countries, in big and small things? Questions, questions, If we genuinely seek in humility with an earnest longing (at these fasting periods and at all times) to be true human beings that radiate peace and blessing to our environment, irrespective of where Life places us here on earth, we shall find answers to these probing questions that assail our hearts. Not immediately, but gradually. It appears I am digressing….

Let us return to the specific topic ,of the status of women against the background of the searchlight being beamed on us on the occasion of the International Women’s Day, celebrated on the 8th of March every year. There are special gatherings, meetings to commemorate the day. At these events lectures, talks, speeches are presented from broad segments of the society. They all generally lament the sorry condition of women in Africa and other developing countries. And they end with a call to empower women socially, economically and politically. Truly, on the surface, the standing of women has improved generally; from centuries ago when they were viewed as ‘sub humans’ more or less, to what obtains now when they enjoy a number of rights that were formerly denied them in bygone days. For example, females now have access to education from kindergarten to university level. Harmful traditional practices against women have generally been eased off although the touchy issue of child marriages still persists in some parts of our country.

Marrying off girls at very young ages of when their bodies are not yet fully mature has negative consequences for both their physical bodies and souls. Apparently indulgence in sexual intercourse upon being married off, accelerates onset of menstruation in them enabling them to get pregnant. But such physical maturity is more or less artificial, setting in before its naturally due time. It is like a fruit whose covering is ripe while the fruit itself inside is not yet ripe. Such a fruit would have little nutritional value.   Children should be left to enjoy their childhood years. They should not be forcefully made to be mothers at a tender age when they are not fully conscious of their task. Nor should children be made to associate/mingle with adults because they both have different outlooks to Life. Nature’s law of homogeneity should be adhered to at all times.

   Economically, women are no longer locked up in the house 24/7. Many now go out to work as salary earners. The informal trade is populated by women. And not a few of them can now be found in boardrooms of local and international conglomerates and other companies. In the political field we have quite a number of women occupying high offices in this regard but women are still clamouring for more insisting that women are still marginalized a lot here. Overall, women say they still suffer a lot of inequality with men to this day. In fact in commemoration of this year’s International Women’s Day, the United Nations released a report that showed that gender equality is still a dream. “It is 2026 and as yet, no country has achieved gender equality. At the current rate of progress, it could take hundreds of years for women and girls to have the same rights and protections as men”, the UN stated.

But what exactly do we mean by gender equality’? Does it mean that we should be equal to men in all respects, that we should rub shoulders with them in all ramifications? This is a tall dream, impossible and can never happen for the simple reason that men and women are different in nature. They are cut out for different kinds of activities/roles by Nature. This is evident from their physique — men with their muscular build and women with their supple, broad hips. Thus women are suited to fine, negative kinds of activities and men coarse, hard, positive (gra gra) types. Should a woman for example be engaged in a man’s kind of activity she would not be able to perform it as good as a man and vice versa. For instance a woman deployed as an infantry soldier, that is being in the war front as a foot combatant soldier to defend the country against its enemy of whatever kind, cannot excel in that job because of her nature, Instead a man with his coarse nature will do a better job of it. Should a female indulge in a male kind of activities over a long, long period then she will gradually coarsen her natural feminine qualities; and overtime she becomes a distorted soul. That is, a woman with male features. This also applies to men that overtime undertake feminine kinds of activities. Such distorted souls whether male or female, are the origins of LBGQT (Lesbian, bisexual, gay, queer, transgender) persons.

   Women and men are split species, so they complement each other; they do not compete against each other. In performing activities assigned them by Nature and for which they are thus naturally suited, both of their activities being complementary become a complete whole that is then of full value. Thus a woman does not literary speaking stand before or behind a man but BESIDES the man, working and walking hand in hand, complementing each other’s work/activities to produce what is complete which is then of full value to the society. Therefore, gender equality in the true sense of the word is a mirage.

Uncategorized

Gov AbdulRazaq Lauded Over Conferment Of Sadauna Of Ilorin Title

Published

13 hours ago

September 16, 2026

Our Reporter

Stephen Olufemi Oni, Ilorin

Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has been hailed for the conferment of the prestigious Sadauna of Ilorin Emirate title on him by His Royal Highness, the Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji (Dr.) Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, CFR.

Giving the commendation on Tuesday in a statement in Ilorin, the state capital, Alhaji Yakubu Garba Gobir, who is the Sarkin Gobir and Madawaki of the Ilorin Emirate, described the recognition and honour on Governor AbdulRazaq as well deserved, timely and apt, giving his huge contributions to the growth and development of Ilorin Emirate and Kwara State as a whole.

Gobir specifically commended the Emir of Ilorin for conferring this distinguished title in recognition of the qualities and contributions of the new Sardauna, noting that it is a solemn call for greater responsibility, leadership, loyalty and devoted service to the Emirate and its people.

He added: “The title of Sardauna occupies a position of profound significance in the history, heritage and traditions of the Ilorin Emirate. I commend His Royal Highness, Alhaji (Dr.) Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, CFR, the Emir of Ilorin, for conferring this distinguished title in recognition of the qualities and contributions of the new Sardauna.

“The title embodies courage, leadership, loyalty and devoted service to the Emirate and its people. Your elevation is therefore not merely a mark of honour; it is also a solemn call to greater responsibility and continued service.

“As a fellow title-holder in the Ilorin Emirate, I am particularly delighted to welcome you into this distinguished circle of traditional leadership. I am confident that you will bring to the office the same qualities of leadership, dignity and unwavering commitment to public service that have distinguished your tenure and career.

“At a time when our Emirate and our State require men and women of character, wisdom and courage to advance the interests of our people, I am certain that you will make a meaningful contribution to the enduring unity, progress and development of the Ilorin Emirate.”

Gobir offered prayers for a successful, impactful and enduring tenure for the new Sadauna, adding:
“May Almighty Allah grant you wisdom, sound health and strength, and may He make your tenure as Sardauna of Ilorin a source of lasting honour to you, your family and the entire Ilorin Emirate.”

Uncategorized

FG Commissions KWASU ICT Centre To Enhance Graduates Employability

Published

14 hours ago

September 16, 2026

Our Reporter

Stephen Olufemi Oni, Ilorin.

The wife of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has commissioned a TETFund/Renewed Hope Initiative-backed ICT Experience Centre at the Kwara State University (KWASU), Malete.

It would be recalled that KWASU is one of the six tertiary institutions selected for the pilot phase of this intervention, with one institution representing each of the Nigerian six geopolitical zones.

Represented at the commissioning on Tuesday by the wife of the Vice-President, Nana Shettima, Tinubu said the project is a testament to the federal government’s commitment to advancing education, digital inclusion and enhancing graduate employability.

“The TETFund/Renewed Hope Initiative ICT Experience Centre we are commissioning today represents opportunity, innovation, knowledge, and the future of young people in Kwara State and beyond.

She said: “This initiative aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the administration of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, which places emphasis on youth empowerment, education, innovation, and economic transformation. Mr President is committed to creating opportunities that will equip Nigerian youths with knowledge and skills required to thrive in a modern and competitive world.”

Senator Tinubu said the facility was designed as a modern technology centre equipped with ICT laboratory, interactive digital display, conference facility, and exhibition spaces, adding that it would be an environment for learning, creativity, research, and technology advancement.

According to her, the ICT centres had been commissioned at the Ekiti State University on May 28, University of Cross Rivers State on September 4, Anambra State Polytechnic on September 10, adding that the Centres at Kaduna State University and Taraba State Universities would be commissioned soon.

“The next phase of this intervention will cover 15 institutions in Adamawa, Bayelsa, Borno, Delta, Edo, Enugu, Imo, Katsina, Nasarawa, Niger, Ondo, Osun, Rivers, Yobe, and Zamfara states which construction is currently ongoing. This expansion demonstrates the administration’s commitment to ensuring that more Nigerian youths, irrespective of their locations, have access to digital learning opportunities,” she said.

She encouraged the students to take ownership of the facility, maximise the opportunity it provides, and use technology positively to enhance their lives, community, and the nation.

In his speech, the Executive Secretary of Tetfund, Architect Sonny Echono, said the centres are being established across selected Universities, Polytechnics and Colleges of Education, with the Kwara State University, Malete proudly hosting the facility in the North-Central Zone.

“Through practical training and digital skills acquisition, TETFund seeks to enhance graduate employability, foster innovation and position Nigeria to participate more effectively in the global
technology-driven economy,” he added.

Echono also said that the ICT Experience Centre is designed to equip students and lecturers with critical digital skills in Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, Robotics and Software Development.

He added: “The Centre being commissioned today is one of the foremost ICT Experience Centres being delivered across the country, and the third to be commissioned this year. The Centre is equipped with modern digital devices, Computer systems and relevant software to facilitate training, practical learning and skills development. The facility is appropriately furnished and
fully air-conditioned, with supporting power and municipal infrastructure.”

Also speaking, the Vice Chancellor of the University, Professor Shaykh- Luqman Jimoh, said the new facility represents vision, belief, and an investment in the Nigerian youth to better shape the future of our
nation.

The Vice Chancellor described the ICT Experience Centre as an investment in human capital, in innovation, in entrepreneurship, and, most importantly, it is an investment in the future of Nigeria.

“This Centre will provide opportunities for our students to develop practical digital skills and engage with contemporary technologies. Importantly, it is our hub for interdisciplinary engagement.

“This ICT Experience Centre is therefore a timely, critical, and strategic infrastructure that will definitely enhance research, teaching, learning, entrepreneurship, and community service. This intervention is at the core of what this university seeks from partners and donors: synergies that add value and impact on today and the future,” he started.

KWASU Vice Chancellor also assured that the ICT Experience Centre would be put to maximum use for the benefit of students, researchers, and the University
community, adding that the “KWASU community would engage with the facilities in this Centre, we will use it. We will explore, experiment, learn, and innovate in i

Uncategorized

2027: Violent ;Kaduna as ADC, APC Supporters Trade Accusations….APC Calls For Police Investigation into the Vandalisation, attacks on its Office

Published

14 hours ago

September 16, 2026

Our Reporter

By Hassan Agboola

Tension is mounting in Kaduna State ahead of the 2027 general elections, following renewed exchanges between supporters of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and groups backing the administration of Governor Uba Sani.
The latest development came on Tuesday when ADC governorship candidate, Isa Ashiru, addressed supporters in Kaduna and, according to an account of his remarks, declared that the party was prepared to respond to attacks against its members.
Ashiru was also quoted as saying that it was Governor Uba Sani, rather than President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who was responsible for the continued detention of former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai.

However, available public records show that El-Rufai’s detention followed proceedings before the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), with the commission stating that his continued custody was based on a court-issued remand order.

The controversy over El-Rufai’s detention has nevertheless become a major political issue in Kaduna and beyond. The ADC has repeatedly criticised the handling of the former governor’s case and alleged political persecution, while other political actors have made different claims about the circumstances surrounding his detention.
Rising political temperature

Ashiru’s emergence as the ADC governorship candidate has added another dimension to the political contest in Kaduna. He defeated other aspirants at the party’s governorship primary in May 2026 and is now preparing for another governorship contest after previously representing the PDP in the 2019 and 2023 elections.
The political atmosphere has been further complicated by disagreements within the ADC and accusations from different groups over the party’s leadership and candidates.

A Southern Kaduna political group, for instance, recently questioned Ashiru’s candidacy and the choice of his running mate, allegations rejected by an ADC official.
The situation has also produced incidents involving ADC supporters and security personnel. In one recent incident, police dispersed an ADC solidarity walk in Kaduna, while the party subsequently accused opponents of attacking its members and warned that political violence could escalate ahead of the 2027 elections.

The former governor remains an important factor in the emerging political contest. El-Rufai was taken into custody in February 2026 after responding to an invitation from the ICPC. His family subsequently demanded his release, while the anti-graft agency maintained that his detention was authorised by a court.
Since then, the issue has increasingly featured in political statements by the ADC and its supporters, with the party accusing the Federal Government of political persecution and calling for the former governor’s release.
The development has created a new political fault line involving the ADC, the APC-led Kaduna State Government and supporters of the former governor.

While allegations have been exchanged over who is responsible for political violence in Kaduna, the competing narratives should not be confused with established findings. The ADC itself has recently rejected the suggestion that it has a monopoly on political violence and accused unnamed opponents of introducing thuggery into the 2027 political process.

With the 2027 election campaign yet to fully commence, the increasingly combative language from ISA Ashiru and his supporters has raised concerns about the possibility of further confrontation.
The immediate challenge before the political parties, security agencies and community leaders is therefore to ensure that political disagreements do not degenerate into violence, particularly in a state with Kaduna’s history of politically and communally sensitive conflicts.
As at the time of filling tid report the All progressive congress, APC , Kaduna state in a statement has condemned the attacks on its office and called for police investigation
Certainly. I’ll retain the substance of the report while correcting grammar, tightening the structure, and presenting it as a clean newspaper hard-news story.
Writing
APC Condemns Violent Attacks on Members, Party Offices in Kaduna
The Kaduna State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has condemned alleged violent attacks on its members and the vandalisation of party offices and properties in the state.
The party also called on the police and other security agencies to investigate the incidents and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.
In a statement, the Kaduna State APC Publicity Secretary, Sani Dan-Azare, alleged that some of the party’s members and supporters had been attacked, while some party and support-group offices were vandalised.
He also alleged that vehicles belonging to some party members were damaged during the incidents.
The APC described the attacks as unacceptable and urged security agencies to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding the incidents.
The party called on its members and supporters to remain calm and law-abiding, stressing that they should not resort to retaliation or take the law into their own hands.
The APC said it remained committed to peaceful political engagement and urged all political actors in Kaduna State to conduct their activities within the bounds of the law.
It further appealed to security agencies to strengthen security around party offices and other sensitive locations to prevent further incidents.