Author: Osmund Agbo
In a world that often demands answers, the most profound wisdom lies in the simple act of singing our own song, irrespective of whether it holds the key to life’s mysteries. In a recent conversation, my good friend Joe posed what I believed was a thought-provoking question: “Why do you keep writing?” This interrogation, replete with profound connotations, subtly conveyed his conviction that expending substantial temporal resources on the lamentation of the world’s ostensibly insurmountable predicaments, stands as a notably futile pursuit. From his perspective, it becomes manifestly apparent that individuals like me, inclusive of those within the public intellectual…
Amidst systemic issues and a leadership vacuum, the public’s enthusiasm to embrace ostensible transformation underscores a collective craving for redemption. The applause extends beyond an individual’s professed reform to become an entreaty for a more luminous, virtuous future. The wearied public, acclimated to maladministration, proves a malleable audience, significantly lowering the threshold for commendable leadership The recent buzz in Nigerian news centers around the Betta Edu scandal – a 37-year-old doctor who, until her suspension, was the nation’s Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation. She diverted a staggering 585 million Naira meant for the society’s most vulnerable into a…
Pope Francis is at the helm during this pivotal moment in the intricate history of the church, grappling with one of the most formidable challenges of his tenure. His task is Herculean – to maintain unity among the faithful while navigating the complex web between the liberal and conservative factions within the church, each exerting potent forces in opposing directions. Last Sunday, as my family and I were engrossed in the the solemn liturgy of the Holy Eucharist at St. Mary Magdalene Catholic Church and recited “The Confiteor”, my contemplations were dominated by reflections on the Supreme Pontiff and the…
Externally, the public may perceive these individuals as trim or even skinny. However, beneath the concealment of clothing lies the reality of sagging skin, evoking comparisons to a deflated balloon. A veil of embarrassment shrouds these individuals, preventing them from revealing their bodies even to their partners, compelling a perpetual need for cover. In a serendipitous encounter, I crossed paths with an old school mate of mine, whimsically dubbed Fluffy Carol, back in those days. Famous for her arresting charm and infectious smile during our shared medical residency, she was, in many ways, the life of the party, if we…
“A Christmas Carol” explores several enduring themes, including the consequences of greed and selfishness, the power of redemption and change, and the importance of compassion and generosity. Dickens uses the character of Scrooge to criticize societal injustices and advocate for a more compassionate approach to life, particularly during the holiday season. In a rare departure from the familiar warmth of celebrating Christmas surrounded by my wife and kids, I found myself immersed in the vibrant chaos of Lagos, Nigeria – a sprawling mega-city pulsating with life. This also marked my initial experience observing the most significant Christian holiday in a…
When you venture to Lagos or Kano, strive for success—that’s commendable. We applaud your pride in your hard-earned accomplishments after years of sacrificing comfort and pleasure. However, it’s counterproductive to boast about owning sixty-five percent of Lekki or Sabin-gari, an assertion that, frankly is ludicrous. But even if it were true, how does it serve you to alienate your host community, creating an impression of a hidden territorial agenda? Lagos is located in a geographical space that belongs to the Yorubas and not the exclusive domain of the Ezeigbo of Epe or Ikotun Nigerian Millennials and Gen Zs probably have…
A noteworthy accomplishment during Tambuwal’s tenure as Speaker was the comprehensive review of the flawed 1999 constitution. Currently serving as a senator and appointed as the chairman of the Senate committee on housing on August 8, 2023, Tambuwal continues to contribute to legislative initiatives. Yet, despite his formidable credentials and substantial influence in Nigeria’s socio-politico-cultural landscape for over two decades, Tambuwal cannot entirely divest himself from culpability in a nation beleaguered by visionless and reckless leadership. If there are traits I share with my late father, I believe one of them is that we both don’t suffer fools…
By Osmund Agbo Religion, for many, is a deeply personal and spiritual journey, often intertwined with rituals, prayers, and adherence to sacred texts. However, the true essence of religious practice which goes way beyond mere observance of rituals to encompass a profound commitment to ethical living and compassionate actions, is lost to so many Not too long ago, I encountered a man at my workplace who thoroughly tested the boundaries of my patience with religion. Let’s simply refer to him as Sam for the sake of this essay. Sam is a man with an unwavering commitment to religious observances. He…
This piece is about a paradigm shift in how we perceive and approach life. It invites us to recognize that the journey itself is a vast ocean of experiences, and the pearls are not confined to a singular destination. By embracing the richness of the journey, being mindful of the present, and valuing the diverse pearls scattered along the way, individuals can cultivate a more profound and fulfilling life. Life’s journey is not just about reaching the shore; it is about savoring the pearls in every ripple and wave, creating a mosaic of experiences that define the true essence of…
In a nation’s mosaic, a tale untold, Where shadows dance, stories unfold. A dance of power, a capture profound, Yet, unnamed echoes resound. Oligarchs and magnates, a secret choir, They weave a web, fueled by desire. In corridors of influence, unseen strings, Manipulating the fate of unseen beings. Citizens caught in a perilous waltz, In the dance of deceit, paying the costs. A silent revolution, whispers on the air, Yearning for justice, breaking the snare. Osmund Agbo, “A Captive Nation’s Cry” In the mythical kingdom of Illustria, history is woven with some bright and dark chapters,…