The Pen.....Mightier than the Sword

My people, Im happy to be back here. Its been too long (yet I know I wasn't missed), however, it feels good to be back. The thing about "gist" blogging is that there is always "gist", someone is either suing someone else or doing something unthinkable. For those of us who have chose to go down this quiet, hardly ever traveled road of intellectual blogging- I pity us. However, if we are passionate enough, and we have the staying strength and NEPA and network permits us, we must strive to fulfill.

So, forgive me for my hiatus, I have a lot of people in my life to say that too, very dear to not so dear, yet, we do have responsibilities. So to those who have kept the faith and you know yourselves- I ask for your forgiveness, you are very appreciated. Its not much, but its something and its from me to you, so read these stories, enjoy them, mull over them and try in some way or the other to bring light, life and happiness to your home, your office, your neighborhood.   

There is so much strife in the land my brethren, I do not need to tell you. Bombs are still going off, people are still being shot, kidnapped, some Governors are still at the throat of the Presidency, Im not sure if ASUU has sheathed its sword yet. But, when it seems like the whole world is crashing down on you. Remember, yesterday is gone, today is still yours and tomorrow is for the taking. Peace and love children

Cross River State and the Inheritance of its Throne

“His Excellency, the Governor of Cross River State has announced that he will support a candidate from the Northern senatorial district to succeed him as Governor of Cross River State”. And so, pellmell to the Governors residence. The North of Cross River State (Obanliku, Obudu, Bekwarra, Ogoja and Yala LGAs) has had the misfortune of never producing a Governor of the State, yet, as a group they provide the largest number of votes. The people are simple, loyal and forward thinking, however, almost everyone from the North is a “big man”. The North has had quite a few shots at powerful offices in the past- deputy governor, speaker, minister and a host of commissioners, special advisers and board members to say the least. Due to these “big men”, it hasn't been easy fostering a unified front, candidate or policy. Somehow or the other, the masquerades of the North never really dance to the same tune.

At this juncture; let us call upon the drummer or drummers of the North, the pied pipers if you must. Among the big men, there are big men. There are those whose decisions sway even the most unlikely situations, there are those whose lips are ever lined with honeyed words and are planted firmly to the ears or is the it rear end of the puppet masters themselves. We ask these masquerades, these powerful men to please sheath their swords, put away their personal pipe lines and focus on the good of the people of Northern Cross River, nay Cross River itself. And let us produce someone of great character, a man of vision, of capabilities and network, a simple man, a man of good conscience and steel, who will lead this great state to greater heights.  You see, the North has great big shoes to fill, in the recent past we`ve had the mercurial visionary Donald Duke and the incumbent grassroots developer and stabilizing hand Liyel Imoke. Between these two men, Cross River State has been put and kept on the worldwide map as a tourist destination, investment haven and a rapidly developing State. Whoever comes after these two men has a herculean task set for him or her.

What manner of man or woman? How do we find you? If you are out there, and you know you have a desire to govern this Cross River State, that has been declared as promising, safe and secure, peaceful. You will have to get off your lofty horse or stool, you`ll have to submit yourself to the people of the North 1^st and then the people of the State. We have questions to ask you, and you must have answers for us. These people of the North and of Cross River are no fools, we have tasted the juices of good fruit, we can’t and won’t hand over such a lush vineyard to just any “big man”.  Enough said!!!

Of Space travels and all things earthly

Listening to the BBC recently, it came to my attention that India had just put another space craft into orbit, this time they were headed for Mars. Incidentally, the Indians managed to find water in some rocks on the Moon in 2008. There is something interesting about the year 2008 as it concerns successes and failures. It was in 2008 that the western world including most of Africa fell under a grueling financial meltdown, of which most countries are still struggling to come out from. Ask Greece, Spain, even America not to talk of Nigeria, where all the economic indicators are just numbers. Policies, personalities make things happen in Nigeria not grandiose economic plans and forecasts. Back to space travel: around 2007 China also sent an orbiter into space, to gather information etc, India (as I said) sent an orbiter into space in 2008, while the western world groaned and crashed, isn't there an omen here. Should we not look eastward these days? Is that not where the sun rises? The world power balance and finance table is turning, new super powers are emerging and they all seem to be coming from the east.

In total contrast, we here in our beautiful country are weighed down by a N255million scandal, stories of “rebel” governors, no water, no light, bad roads and religious missions to Israel and Mecca and universities on strike. Everyone knows there are potholes on the streets of India, everyone knows that India is largely poor, however, the people and government have decided to make their mark on earth and even in the heavens. India produces its own steel, so they make their own cars, armored tanks, trains and railway lines. Their educational and medical standards are the stuff we dream about here in Nigeria. I’m not saying we, as a country should giddy up and head out into space, no! Don’t hang me yet. I just believe that the issues that weigh us down, bog us, permeate us, insult and embarrass us are too mundane and degenerate. I mean how can we still be getting promises of constant light at this time and age. All business and lifestyle depends on power, costs, maintenance etc all depend on power. Lets get it right as a people, let’s vote the right people into office and challenge them with clear and achievable milestones, if they don’t deliver, we kick them back into oblivion and look forward to a brighter day. After all we are in Africa, the sun lives here, we have no reason to visit the sun or his siblings. All we need is decent and sustainable living.

The Birth of a Prince

For nine months, the world press (at least those that cared) have speculated about and expected the child of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge. Would it be a boy or a girl, what style will he bear etc etc.

Well He that has been awaited has come and until his parents name him he will be "HRH Prince of Cambridge", this title will be the first in 194 years. He is (as if he knows) the son of kings and a king to be.

Its interesting to note that on the day he was born - 22nd July 2013,around 6.20pm my young cousin and I were watching the media blitz and wondering at what time she'll put to bed, little did we know she already given birth around 2 hours before. Its interesting to note that the announcement of the child's birth came almost 5 hours later. What really was going on in that time?

On the other hand, how in God's name do these royal mothers come out hours after giving birth looking so rosy and fresh and strong. Whats in their genes? Anyway welcome royal prince I'm sure your life will be magical.

Terrible Tuesday and the Rivers State Assembly Gladiators

So on Tuesday last week, the Rivers State House Assembly came under attack, massive attack in fact, from non-other but the members itself or shall I say gladiators. The stories that have come out are sketchy to say the least, however, one thing is for sure; there was a fight. Now, I’m not talking about abuse me, I abuse you, Im talking about grabbing the mace and bashing your colleagues head in with it. Talk about abuse of power……..

What scares me more is that, what if, like our friend Spartacus; these guys were armed with swords or worse still guns. The slicing and dicing or and the killing that would have followed ehn! Not a small thing oh! I mean if you had seen the gladiator oops sorry I meant the member of the house who ran in, grabbed the mace and proceeded to chase down two to three other members. The scape goat (I wonder why he could not run fast enough), got the full brunt of the members might as the mace came crashing down on his head. For those of you who watched the macabre show either live or via youtube or any other social media platform, would attest to the brutality and animalistic show of disgrace that was on parade at the arena, did I just say that, sorry, I meant the floor of the State house of assembly.

Sitting in my office, watching the video onyoutube I was screaming and jumping about as if my body was on fire. Why oh why? I kept asking myself. I needed clarification on the matter, still do. However, I heard (heard oh!) that five members of the Rivers State House of Assembly who are loyal to the Presidency proceeded to put motions in place to impeach the speaker of the house- to what ends?? Your guess is as good as mine. But how do 5 members impeach a speaker, are 5 members enough to form a quorum? Out of a possible 30 or is it 31?

Anyway, gangangan!!! Enter the “boss” or is he the “actor”? (tell me please), as I was saying, enter Hon. Chidi Lloyd. He dashes in, grabs the mace, and proceeds to bash his “enemies” breaking of the top of the mace in the act. Dear readers on this issue alone ehn, I need help, please let me know what this hullabaloo is about. What’s the real motive? What’s the real agenda?

How do you want it sir?

“In fact, you’ll like anything you eat there”, those were the words that led me to Adrian’s Restaurant on MCC road, Calabar. No truer words have ever been uttered. I have never been disappointed by Adrian`s, the quality, taste and general “home feel “of their cooking always brings me back.

I have never been a fish person (still not), but out of long throat ventured to taste my cousins` fisherman soup and promptly fell in love, to think that fish and okro- which I do not like too- are major ingredients for this soup, yet I fell so hard. Matters were made worse when the kind lady waiting on us noticed I didn’t eat the fish and promptly offered to have the kitchen serve me the soup with beef if I could not eat the fish, I could have hugged her.

There is sadly a negative part to this story, if you’re mad hungry and are at the point of fainting, please go to any of the street side fish spots (there is a story there too- the growth of the Calabar street food industry) because Adrian`s will give you a service time of 30 minutes and serve you in an hour. The food is a la carte, and so you must wait the full duration of its preparation. However, for those who know, you can call ahead and order your food, so that as you arrive you are served. On the other hand, if you have to suffer the one hour wait, remember these words “you`ll like anything you eat there”.

* For the quality of their food, the taste and presentation. For the clean and nice smelling environment – 4 pats

Driving Tourism from Calabar, Nigeria

Tourism is the new frontier for a lot of people; at this moment only the brave dare play in this field. Some say it’s the new “in” thing, some others know the deal. Taking into consideration; the financial and medical strides India is achieving through medical tourism, while Miami makes its money and reputation from hospitality tourism the UK economy has a substantial contribution from educational tourism, it’s safe to say there are many opportunities in the tourism industry.

Enter Alvasta Travel & Leisure Company, a company set up by young minds in Calabar to drive the cause of tourism as a tool for career and entrepreneurial development. The company offers services in hospitality consultancy, travel and tours, as well as events management and a lot more. It’s a good thing to see young people take their destinies in their hands by taking opportunity of their immediate environment. Good luck guys. We will be watching your progress.

A Bright Light at the End of the Tunnel

Calabar was agog with news of the impending ground breaking ceremony of General Electric`s $1bn service and manufacturing facility right here in the city.

Yes, it did happen. Vice-President Namadi Sambo ably represented President Goodluck Jonathan, with support from Governor Liyel Imoke, his cabinet and members of the Federal Government contingent. An equally able team of GE management led by the Global Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of GE, Mr. Jeff Emmelt was on hand to receive the vice president and his entourage.

The service and manufacturing facility will provide opportunities for over 2, 000 jobs over the next five years. Hmm!!! Look at us Calabar oh! Fifteen years ago we were referred to as a “civil servant” state, now we play host to companies like UNICEM (cement production), WILMAR (palm oil) and now GE on the way. We are now the go-to Tourism State, we throw the biggest party in Africa and we aren’t satisfied yet. We have Senator Liyel Imoke and his predecessor Mr. Donald Duke to thank for the lofty heights we have attained so far.

Like joke like play, the State government is doing everything right to bring in more investors and it is working. There is hope; finally we begin to see the light at the end of the tunnel.

* 5 Pats

Telling the Painful Truth and Running like Hell

The world of western espionage was torn open with the leaking of US & UK details on top-secret mass surveillance programmes by Mr. Edward Joseph Snowden, a former technical contractor for the NSA and CIA. 

The whistle blower leaked information on top-secret programmes like PRISM (a clandestine national security electronic surveillance programme of the US government) and Tempora (British equivalent)). Snowden who told the world of the US and UK governments use of these programmes to tap telephone lines and access email accounts of its citizenry without permission of any kind is now seriously on the run- and why shouldn’t he? With the might of the combined powers of the US and UK bearing down on him running and hiding have become second nature.

We first encountered Snowden hiding out in Honk Kong, giving interviews and singing like a canary until the pressure mounted on the Chinese Government was too much to bear coupled with his passport being revoked by the US government, he fled. Fast forward to the Moscow airport transit space where Snowden is stuck in limbo waiting for the right opportunity to try to beat the security network closing in on him. The Governments of Ecuador, Russia or Venezuela have invited Snowden to apply for asylum, and there is little doubt that it would be granted.

The wow factor here is that, Mr. Snowden crept out of Hong Kong on a revoked passport to boot and flew half way across the world to the warm embrace of the Russians. How? Who does that? Anyway as we wish Mr. Snowden bon voyage to the country of his choosing, here is advice for all you would be whistleblowers: a) Make sure you have friends in VERY powerful places who can make you disappear, b) Ensure that the piece of information you want to give out will make one or two powerful countries snigger in private and be willing to grant you asylum even if it’s just to prove a point against the country you are selling out on, c) if people like Julian Assange are not friends of yours- forget it.

Well now, we know it; there are systems and programmes in the world capable of breaking the private sanctity of our email accounts and private lines. So the next time you hear me or any other conspiracy theorist telling you about the “eye in the sky”, think am oh!

* Our jury is still out

A Palace Coup and An Abdication – The Qatari Story

The tale of 2 Emirs

Two weeks ago the world woke up to story of the abdication of the throne of Qatar by the Emir: Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, 61 for his son Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani after an eighteen (18) year rule. It is important to note that His Highness The Father (as he is referred to now by his son the new emir) took over power from his own father in a bloodless coup in 1995.

Following this palace coup Sheikh Hamad (let’s leave it at that, shall we?) went on to build the economy of the State of Qatar into what it is now; the richest country on earth (Forbes listing). In a Country of just 250, 000 citizens and a man of just 61 years, one wouldn’t find it difficult to see reasons why he shouldn’t perpetuate himself in power, especially considering the kind of work, energy and time he must have put in to making the emirate what it is now. Alas! The man isn’t on the same frequency as we mere mortals, because without any known illness or constraint he did abdicate his thrown handing over to his 33-year-old son, saying that this marks the "beginning of a new era in which a young leadership will hold the banner".

In his first online reaction to his father’s abdication as Emir of Qatar, the new Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani thanked his father and said he kept his word when he promised to make Qataris the happiest people in the world. Sheikh Tamim commented on his twitter page to recent statements by the outgoing Emir Sheikh Hamad who had said “I will make sure everyone in the world will wish to be a Qatari”. “You turned your words into deeds…you kept your word…thank you our father, our leader and our nation,” Sheikh Tamim said.

Qatar has the world`s highest GDP per capita and apparently their leaders keep their word.

Excerpts from www.emirates247.com

* 5 pats 

Starting off

Greetings world, welcome to Madd Customer. I have always believed that the service industry needs some kind of watch dog, who not only watches, but barks and if need be bites. That being said, its not enough to call out only bad behavior, we also have to celebrate the good that we encounter, in so doing encourage these services, personalities or products and give reason for emulation. Cross River State, Calabar (to be precise) - the city in which I reside is touted and referred to as the tourism hub of Nigeria. I say nay! Not just tourism, but service as well. So I would say Calabar is a service hub, but of course I’m a few steps ahead- it’s called vision.

I’m one to put my hand to the plough, grab a paddle and row, whichever way you see it and so voila…Madd Customer. The blog that gives us the opportunity to vent our disappointments, anger and frustrations. The blog that allows us celebrate services, businesses, policies and people. If you are not here to vent or celebrate you can relax and glean as much information as possible. We will talk about any and everything as long as it will further the cause of our world, our vision and mission, giving old school ratings such as knocks (on the head) and pats (on the back). We will be fresh in our reporting routine; we will be satirical and witty, fun and infectious, while always being informative. Welcome again one and all.