CHAPTER XI
CHIEF MADU NDIGBA’S MEETING WITH MEMBERS
OF HIS ETHNIC GROUP IN SOUTH AFRICA
After his visit to Madiba, he met some influential member of his ethnic community. They recounted to him, the exploit of Nigerians from other ethnic group: they informed him that one Elopi, has been organizing awards for Nigerian Governors outside the shores of Nigeria. In one Award, a Nigerian Governor is invited to South Africa, to receive an Award on good governance. One of such governor was from North Western Zone, who came with a delegation of 52. South African premiers’ equivalent of Nigerian Governors had wondered the criteria used for the Award, when none of them was given the same award. He was informed that a governor from NNDC area, bought a house in South Africa. He was told how Governor Igbinedion brought in a delegation of about 300 to celebrate his father’s birthday in 2004. Another Governor from North Central area of Nigeria together with first ladies of a state in former Benue Plateau as well as one state in South West came with a large entourage to receive Awards in South Africa, meant for activities in connection with development in Nigeria. The invitees were ironically only Nigerians from Nigeria.
He was told that the governor of Beyelsa, Mr. Alam bought an expensive property in Cape Town and that it was auctioned at a quarter of the value, when Mr. Alam was charged for money laundering. Mr. Alam was a member of Chief Ndigba’s party. Mr. Alam’s community is still brooding over lack of development of his part of Nigeria Delta.
He also learnt that a governor of one of the South-South state went to Botswana through South Africa with an entourage of over fifty people to woo Botswana investors to invest in his state.
Another interesting report was that of a visit of a Governor from North Eastern Zone to South Africa on his way to Mauritius to view wildlife! All of these governors have Nigerian agents resident in South Africa, who arrange visits and tours for a commission. It is gathered that when the agents run in to problems, they request governors to ask the Nigerian Mission to intervene.
Sunday, November 30, 2008
Monday, November 24, 2008
Political odyssey of chief Madu Ndigba[a belief intotems by an African leader] An Allegory. Part14
CHAPTER X
CHIEF NDIGBA’S DISAPPOINTMENT
AS HE SAW NATURAL CROCODILE
Sun City Resort – Many Nigerians visiting South Africa would want to visit Sun City Resort, perhaps they do not know much about it. Apart from money, bags, the Resort is not for the poor. Deep in the rugged bushveld, in the heart of an ancient volcano, lays the world’s most unique resort. This is the internationally acclaimed Sun City. It features Adventure seekers and it has two incredible world-class, par-72 holes championship golf course.
Most importantly Sun International is a haven for gambling by people of 18 and above.
Sun City Resort has a unique heartbeat and an African rhythm of its own and is unlike any other Resort destination in the world. The resort is pure fantasy as every desire is met. There are four world-class hotels including the magnificent palace of the Lost City that glitters like a jewel beneath the African sun, brilliant in its rain forest surroundings and luxurious in its detail and design.
Adjoining the Resort, is the beautiful Pilanesburg National Park, which will delight game viewers as it is a malaria free zone and home to the Big Five – Lion, Rhino, Leopard, Elephant and Buffalo. There is also a pool where crocs could be viewed. This sight would please the Chief greatly but there are crocodiles that are in their natural habitat and has no myth attached to them. No sangoma’s abode can even be seen around the vicinity. Remember, it was a place that the apartheid promoters developed.
The Chief and companion joined others, mostly tourists, to revel in vanity and what Nigerians described in common parlance as “declaring surplus”, of course, most of their stay was in Johannesburg.
CHIEF NDIGBA’S DISAPPOINTMENT
AS HE SAW NATURAL CROCODILE
Sun City Resort – Many Nigerians visiting South Africa would want to visit Sun City Resort, perhaps they do not know much about it. Apart from money, bags, the Resort is not for the poor. Deep in the rugged bushveld, in the heart of an ancient volcano, lays the world’s most unique resort. This is the internationally acclaimed Sun City. It features Adventure seekers and it has two incredible world-class, par-72 holes championship golf course.
Most importantly Sun International is a haven for gambling by people of 18 and above.
Sun City Resort has a unique heartbeat and an African rhythm of its own and is unlike any other Resort destination in the world. The resort is pure fantasy as every desire is met. There are four world-class hotels including the magnificent palace of the Lost City that glitters like a jewel beneath the African sun, brilliant in its rain forest surroundings and luxurious in its detail and design.
Adjoining the Resort, is the beautiful Pilanesburg National Park, which will delight game viewers as it is a malaria free zone and home to the Big Five – Lion, Rhino, Leopard, Elephant and Buffalo. There is also a pool where crocs could be viewed. This sight would please the Chief greatly but there are crocodiles that are in their natural habitat and has no myth attached to them. No sangoma’s abode can even be seen around the vicinity. Remember, it was a place that the apartheid promoters developed.
The Chief and companion joined others, mostly tourists, to revel in vanity and what Nigerians described in common parlance as “declaring surplus”, of course, most of their stay was in Johannesburg.
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Political Odyssey of Chief Madu Ndigba(a belief in totems by an African leader} An Allegory Part 13
After exchange of pleasantries, Chief Ndigba introduced himself as having come from the same region as Azikiwe. This introduction elicited the attention of Madiba who then probed further to know other things. At the end
Of his remarks, Chief Madu Ndigba observed that the Madiba was a simple man, full of wisdom and was still keen on good government. It is for this reason that he led the commonwealthleaders in Auckland, to call for expulsion of Nigeria from the Commonwealth, on account of the extra judiciary killing of Kenserowiwa by General Abacha. During the conversation Madiba must have stressed the need to quit when the ovation was loudest. He had become a living example of the advocates for ‘ Madiba option’.
Madiba option is a political lexicon which enables one to quit or vacate political position as when due. Ironically Chief Ndigba was perplexed by the concept of this principle having come from a country where some of her Heads of State stuck to power. It is pertinent at this point to recall how ‘the sit tight syndrome’ of Africa Leaders has affected Nigeria. But first, we note that late Hasting Banda of Malawi made himself life President. Felix Houphet Boigny ruled for thirty-three years, President Eyadema of Togo was president for over thirty years. Kenneth Kaunda of Zambia ruled for over twenty years. President Museveni of Uganda became President of Uganda in 1986. He has successfully changed the constitution in order to allow him to carry on.
President Omar Albert-Bernard Bongo of Gabon has been in power for an incredible over 38 years. In 2003, he changed the constitution of his country to allow him contest as many times as he pleases. By the time of writing he has just been re-elected for another seven-year term. In Burkina Faso, Blaise Campaore who seized power in a military camp, became president since 1987, now wants to remain in power indefinitely. He is allowed to serve another term. President Hosni Mubarak of Egypt has been in power since 1981.Col. Gadaffi has ruled Libya since 1969. In Cameroon, Paul Biya has been in power since 1982.In 2008,Mwai Kibaki’s insistence to rule Kenya by rigging the election for another term led to bloody unrest and civil insurrection. Dr.Robert Mugabi in our view has not been associated with any totem culture, but his long rule since independence of Zimbabwe was the most tragic in Africa as 5milion people were displaced and inflation rose to 11 million percent, thereby reducing a country that had been a ‘breadbasket’ to a beggarly nation.
In Nigeria, we had General Yakubu Gowon who postponed return to civilian rule twice until he was overthrown. Military President General Babangida continued his dictatorial rule until he was compelled to step aside. General Abacha had wanted to transform into life President until there was divine intervention which terminated his rule. Only General Obasanjo voluntarily handed over power in 1979 to President Shehu Shagari. However, recent revelations by his erstwhile right -hand man T.Y. Danjuma have raised doubts as to whether he actually handed over power voluntarily or was pushed out by hawks within the military . His aborted attempt to seek third term baffled political observers and confounded many Nigerians. General Abubakar saw no reason in elongating his stay as was necessary, in spite of pressures and gimmicks from even the judiciary, as prominent judges are known to have argued ferociously on the need for this extension. In support of the foregoing, former Chief of General Staff, Admiral Mike Akhigbe, in a press interview reported by the Sun on September 30, 2006, maintained that at a point in the tenure of General Abdul salami Ababakar’s regime when they decided it was time to go, they didn’t want to be prodded by Nigerians, as they set the process of civil rule. In this regard, three steps were noted. “Firstly, we had to agree that we would never want to sit down to spread among ourselves or appear as if we have come to struggle for position again; or to share positions.
Two, we should not arrogate to ourselves as if we are the only Nigerians who can run Nigeria. Three, we must in the shortest possible time, quicken the process of democratization. Therefore, we set our target January 3, 1999 on when to leave. Even when former Vice President Ekwueme, Chief Solomon Lar, Prof. Jerry Gana, Dr. Iyorcha Ayu came to see us; because of the experience they have had, it was more or less as if they were begging us as if we were foreigners. They said, ‘we want you to do so but we would allow you to stay for about 18 months’. Some of us said no ‘don’t beg us, because we are also Nigerians. We know how you feel. We would leave within nine months, just go and put your house in order. Go and put yourselves together and get a good candidate.” Thereafter, there was a consensus that General Obasanjo be released and pardoned. Thus, there was a clear indication by General Abdul salami Abubakar not to elongate the military dictatorship any longer. We know that even in General Obasanjo’s first term, the Madiba option, was employed in the political lexicon, when, it was argued that Chief Obasanjo should bow out like Madiba. Little wonder, therefore, that the Chief was shocked and perplexed that Madiba stressed the importance of Madiba option. He was greatly disappointed. This unexpected lesson would surely influence his political career in due course. In all, Madiba option is not a necessary tool for political ascent in Nigeria. To Chief Ndigba the totem option still has enormous attraction.
The visitor posed other questions on how Madiba ruled South Africa. Madiba recognized the need for budgeting. He was told that for annual budget to be effective as to yield dividends to the people, the budget must be passed at beginning of every financial year by parliament.
What of the need to change any part of the Constitution? asked Chief Ndigba. “O Yes, we do anticipate that because the new Constitution is aimed at reconciling and uniting all citizens,” replied Madiba. “However, he continued, the ANC has no power per se to tinker with the Constitution. It must have to pass through due process.”
Confirming the above assertion, President Thabo Mbeki once demonstrated that one cannot attribute this odd behaviour of sit-tight syndrome to the black race because one of the allies of ANC partnership, SACONF had proposed third term for President Mbeki. Most importantly President Thabo Mbeki, addressed the National Parliament on early February 2006, noted that he would not seek a third term after 2009. Speaking in a British Broadcasting Corporation programme, President Mbeki emphasized that he would not allow the allure of office and filthy lucre, push him to do the unlawful, immoral and indefensible.
The South Africa leader declared: “The ruling ANC would not use its two-third parliament majority to change the constitution to allow a third presidential term.” In a tone that left no room for boot lickers to threaten the health of the Polity of South Africa, with their dangerous gambit, Mbeki said. “By the end of 2009, I would think after 15 years, I should step down, in any case.” He maintained this stance when he resigned on september21, 2008 as the president of South Africa. Even though he is reported to have lobbied Gen. Babagida, Gen. Abubakar and some prominent PDP governors in Nigeria to allow Gen. Obasanjo to run for second term, he never supported Obasanjo’s third term.His respect for the rule of law and his careful management of South African Affairs in a post Mandela era are noteworthy.
Chief Ndigba drew Madiba’s attention on ANC’s attitude to corruption. Madiba reminded him that his former wife, Winnie Mandela faced the wrath of the party when she was guilty of corruption.
On the call by COSATU, youth wing of the ANC for Zuma to be reinstated, Madiba warned by recalling a stormy cabinet statement, issued after popular grandstanding outside Durban court during Zuma’s trial. “We wish to caution against activists that have the effect of our country’s laws, undermining the work of security agencies, and denigrating the offices of institutions of our democracy, including the Presidency.”Madiba had stood his grounds in defence of democracy.The fact of Jacob Zuma becoming ANC leader in2008 is another kettle of fish.
.
Of his remarks, Chief Madu Ndigba observed that the Madiba was a simple man, full of wisdom and was still keen on good government. It is for this reason that he led the commonwealthleaders in Auckland, to call for expulsion of Nigeria from the Commonwealth, on account of the extra judiciary killing of Kenserowiwa by General Abacha. During the conversation Madiba must have stressed the need to quit when the ovation was loudest. He had become a living example of the advocates for ‘ Madiba option’.
Madiba option is a political lexicon which enables one to quit or vacate political position as when due. Ironically Chief Ndigba was perplexed by the concept of this principle having come from a country where some of her Heads of State stuck to power. It is pertinent at this point to recall how ‘the sit tight syndrome’ of Africa Leaders has affected Nigeria. But first, we note that late Hasting Banda of Malawi made himself life President. Felix Houphet Boigny ruled for thirty-three years, President Eyadema of Togo was president for over thirty years. Kenneth Kaunda of Zambia ruled for over twenty years. President Museveni of Uganda became President of Uganda in 1986. He has successfully changed the constitution in order to allow him to carry on.
President Omar Albert-Bernard Bongo of Gabon has been in power for an incredible over 38 years. In 2003, he changed the constitution of his country to allow him contest as many times as he pleases. By the time of writing he has just been re-elected for another seven-year term. In Burkina Faso, Blaise Campaore who seized power in a military camp, became president since 1987, now wants to remain in power indefinitely. He is allowed to serve another term. President Hosni Mubarak of Egypt has been in power since 1981.Col. Gadaffi has ruled Libya since 1969. In Cameroon, Paul Biya has been in power since 1982.In 2008,Mwai Kibaki’s insistence to rule Kenya by rigging the election for another term led to bloody unrest and civil insurrection. Dr.Robert Mugabi in our view has not been associated with any totem culture, but his long rule since independence of Zimbabwe was the most tragic in Africa as 5milion people were displaced and inflation rose to 11 million percent, thereby reducing a country that had been a ‘breadbasket’ to a beggarly nation.
In Nigeria, we had General Yakubu Gowon who postponed return to civilian rule twice until he was overthrown. Military President General Babangida continued his dictatorial rule until he was compelled to step aside. General Abacha had wanted to transform into life President until there was divine intervention which terminated his rule. Only General Obasanjo voluntarily handed over power in 1979 to President Shehu Shagari. However, recent revelations by his erstwhile right -hand man T.Y. Danjuma have raised doubts as to whether he actually handed over power voluntarily or was pushed out by hawks within the military . His aborted attempt to seek third term baffled political observers and confounded many Nigerians. General Abubakar saw no reason in elongating his stay as was necessary, in spite of pressures and gimmicks from even the judiciary, as prominent judges are known to have argued ferociously on the need for this extension. In support of the foregoing, former Chief of General Staff, Admiral Mike Akhigbe, in a press interview reported by the Sun on September 30, 2006, maintained that at a point in the tenure of General Abdul salami Ababakar’s regime when they decided it was time to go, they didn’t want to be prodded by Nigerians, as they set the process of civil rule. In this regard, three steps were noted. “Firstly, we had to agree that we would never want to sit down to spread among ourselves or appear as if we have come to struggle for position again; or to share positions.
Two, we should not arrogate to ourselves as if we are the only Nigerians who can run Nigeria. Three, we must in the shortest possible time, quicken the process of democratization. Therefore, we set our target January 3, 1999 on when to leave. Even when former Vice President Ekwueme, Chief Solomon Lar, Prof. Jerry Gana, Dr. Iyorcha Ayu came to see us; because of the experience they have had, it was more or less as if they were begging us as if we were foreigners. They said, ‘we want you to do so but we would allow you to stay for about 18 months’. Some of us said no ‘don’t beg us, because we are also Nigerians. We know how you feel. We would leave within nine months, just go and put your house in order. Go and put yourselves together and get a good candidate.” Thereafter, there was a consensus that General Obasanjo be released and pardoned. Thus, there was a clear indication by General Abdul salami Abubakar not to elongate the military dictatorship any longer. We know that even in General Obasanjo’s first term, the Madiba option, was employed in the political lexicon, when, it was argued that Chief Obasanjo should bow out like Madiba. Little wonder, therefore, that the Chief was shocked and perplexed that Madiba stressed the importance of Madiba option. He was greatly disappointed. This unexpected lesson would surely influence his political career in due course. In all, Madiba option is not a necessary tool for political ascent in Nigeria. To Chief Ndigba the totem option still has enormous attraction.
The visitor posed other questions on how Madiba ruled South Africa. Madiba recognized the need for budgeting. He was told that for annual budget to be effective as to yield dividends to the people, the budget must be passed at beginning of every financial year by parliament.
What of the need to change any part of the Constitution? asked Chief Ndigba. “O Yes, we do anticipate that because the new Constitution is aimed at reconciling and uniting all citizens,” replied Madiba. “However, he continued, the ANC has no power per se to tinker with the Constitution. It must have to pass through due process.”
Confirming the above assertion, President Thabo Mbeki once demonstrated that one cannot attribute this odd behaviour of sit-tight syndrome to the black race because one of the allies of ANC partnership, SACONF had proposed third term for President Mbeki. Most importantly President Thabo Mbeki, addressed the National Parliament on early February 2006, noted that he would not seek a third term after 2009. Speaking in a British Broadcasting Corporation programme, President Mbeki emphasized that he would not allow the allure of office and filthy lucre, push him to do the unlawful, immoral and indefensible.
The South Africa leader declared: “The ruling ANC would not use its two-third parliament majority to change the constitution to allow a third presidential term.” In a tone that left no room for boot lickers to threaten the health of the Polity of South Africa, with their dangerous gambit, Mbeki said. “By the end of 2009, I would think after 15 years, I should step down, in any case.” He maintained this stance when he resigned on september21, 2008 as the president of South Africa. Even though he is reported to have lobbied Gen. Babagida, Gen. Abubakar and some prominent PDP governors in Nigeria to allow Gen. Obasanjo to run for second term, he never supported Obasanjo’s third term.His respect for the rule of law and his careful management of South African Affairs in a post Mandela era are noteworthy.
Chief Ndigba drew Madiba’s attention on ANC’s attitude to corruption. Madiba reminded him that his former wife, Winnie Mandela faced the wrath of the party when she was guilty of corruption.
On the call by COSATU, youth wing of the ANC for Zuma to be reinstated, Madiba warned by recalling a stormy cabinet statement, issued after popular grandstanding outside Durban court during Zuma’s trial. “We wish to caution against activists that have the effect of our country’s laws, undermining the work of security agencies, and denigrating the offices of institutions of our democracy, including the Presidency.”Madiba had stood his grounds in defence of democracy.The fact of Jacob Zuma becoming ANC leader in2008 is another kettle of fish.
.
Monday, November 17, 2008
Political Odyssey Of Chief Madu Ndigba-( A belief in totems by an African leader) An Allegory Part12
We do meet politicians and successful leaders in meetings and many places but I must confess that it is difficult to discern their private belief. I do respect your feeling, but please bear in mind that I do not subscribe to totem culture. The baobab tree in my estate has been there since time immemorial before I moved in here. I consider it a natural tree.
Other South Africans have their thinking on the tree, for instance, Limpopo tourist brochure reveals that baobab is regarded as the largest succulent plant in the world. The baobab is steeped in a wealth of mystique, legend and superstition whenever it occurs in Africa. There is tale that tells how God planted the baobab upside-down and many people believe they actually grow upside-down. The baobab is a tree that can provide food, water, shelter and relief from sickness. The biggest and one of the oldest, baobabs in the whole world is found in Limpopo, it is 24 meter high and 39 meter wide. The hollow stems have been used as houses, pubs, storage barns and even a bus stop. The flowers are white and sweetly-scented and last only 24 hours. They are pollinated by fruits bats. The inside of the fruit, an off-white powdery substance provides a refreshing drink when mixed with water. This is also used to treat fevers. This tree is slow-growing, mainly due to the low rainfall it receives…” the baobab represents strength, resilience and steadfastness of the people of Limpopo. In your visit, I recommend that you visit Sun City and other parks where you will see different species of crocodile in their natural habitat. Know that crocodile meat is a favourite delicacy in Southern Africa, South Africa, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Namibia. I must admit that this part of conversation is important and interesting for I would have not learnt what you have revealed from my brother president. In the course of discussion, I would let you know my own stand on political leadership.
Other South Africans have their thinking on the tree, for instance, Limpopo tourist brochure reveals that baobab is regarded as the largest succulent plant in the world. The baobab is steeped in a wealth of mystique, legend and superstition whenever it occurs in Africa. There is tale that tells how God planted the baobab upside-down and many people believe they actually grow upside-down. The baobab is a tree that can provide food, water, shelter and relief from sickness. The biggest and one of the oldest, baobabs in the whole world is found in Limpopo, it is 24 meter high and 39 meter wide. The hollow stems have been used as houses, pubs, storage barns and even a bus stop. The flowers are white and sweetly-scented and last only 24 hours. They are pollinated by fruits bats. The inside of the fruit, an off-white powdery substance provides a refreshing drink when mixed with water. This is also used to treat fevers. This tree is slow-growing, mainly due to the low rainfall it receives…” the baobab represents strength, resilience and steadfastness of the people of Limpopo. In your visit, I recommend that you visit Sun City and other parks where you will see different species of crocodile in their natural habitat. Know that crocodile meat is a favourite delicacy in Southern Africa, South Africa, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Namibia. I must admit that this part of conversation is important and interesting for I would have not learnt what you have revealed from my brother president. In the course of discussion, I would let you know my own stand on political leadership.
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
Political Odyssey of Chief Madu Ndigba( A Belief in Totems by an African leader) An Allegory. Part 11
vI shall tell Madiba, that we are united as the breaking of this kola has revealed. Our current problem in Nija is how to maintain, promote the unity of our dear fatherland.
When they exchanged pleasantries, Madiba was attracted by his attire and was compelled to make curious remarks. He did not belabour the point as why he was gorgeously dressed as it was obvious that he must be in appropriate attire to meet the ‘ICON’. Madiba curiously asked him whether those who carved the walking stick were the same people who weaved the hat. He went on to tell him, that he noticed the crocodile carving as well as the crocodile image on the hat. Chief Madu Ndigba paused for a few seconds, as he was taken aback by the penetrating remarks. Chief Ndigba also wondered whether he should reveal his secret immediately or say it at the end of the meeting as s summary. In order to keep Madiba guessing, he said.
“Great Madiba, I greet you. I have traveled by river, land and plane to meet you in the Republic of South Africa, because you are a great African Leader. Like St. Paul in the Holy Book, I have come to sit at Gamaliel’s Feet and drink from your wisdom and experience. I am in my complete regalia because that method of dressing must be in tune when visiting a man of your caliber. My ancestors ordained that I must submit to a ‘totem’. I am convinced that the ancient used totem to advance socially. My grandfather owned several bans of yams, herds of goat, chicken and virgin farmland which contained raffia palms, as well as distillery for producing ‘Kaikai’ or gin. This belief in totem did not fail him, as he was wealthy within our community. My own belief in totem has been reinforced by what I saw my grandfather do. I have therefore acquired crocodile as my totem and have since ensured that the picture or image should be seen in the dress or painted as a tattoo on my body.
I hope Mr. President you are not embarrassed or scandalized by what I am saying. We have heard of past African leaders who were immersed in the totem culture. I must confess that I am a Christian, and an ‘elder’ in my church and despite my enviable education, I still court the power of the totem to progress politically.”
Madiba, in his reaction, thanked him for his comments. He went on to explain that his remarks were strange, because this was a modern era, where Christianity is the order of the day. As you will discover during your brief visit to South Africa, you must have heard of sagoma, who are herbalist or fetish persons, who I understand can use magic, in counteracting other evil forces, witchcraft, or preparation of ‘love portion’ to credulous couples, or football team. I am not aware of sangoma’s who promote political influence or mobility
When they exchanged pleasantries, Madiba was attracted by his attire and was compelled to make curious remarks. He did not belabour the point as why he was gorgeously dressed as it was obvious that he must be in appropriate attire to meet the ‘ICON’. Madiba curiously asked him whether those who carved the walking stick were the same people who weaved the hat. He went on to tell him, that he noticed the crocodile carving as well as the crocodile image on the hat. Chief Madu Ndigba paused for a few seconds, as he was taken aback by the penetrating remarks. Chief Ndigba also wondered whether he should reveal his secret immediately or say it at the end of the meeting as s summary. In order to keep Madiba guessing, he said.
“Great Madiba, I greet you. I have traveled by river, land and plane to meet you in the Republic of South Africa, because you are a great African Leader. Like St. Paul in the Holy Book, I have come to sit at Gamaliel’s Feet and drink from your wisdom and experience. I am in my complete regalia because that method of dressing must be in tune when visiting a man of your caliber. My ancestors ordained that I must submit to a ‘totem’. I am convinced that the ancient used totem to advance socially. My grandfather owned several bans of yams, herds of goat, chicken and virgin farmland which contained raffia palms, as well as distillery for producing ‘Kaikai’ or gin. This belief in totem did not fail him, as he was wealthy within our community. My own belief in totem has been reinforced by what I saw my grandfather do. I have therefore acquired crocodile as my totem and have since ensured that the picture or image should be seen in the dress or painted as a tattoo on my body.
I hope Mr. President you are not embarrassed or scandalized by what I am saying. We have heard of past African leaders who were immersed in the totem culture. I must confess that I am a Christian, and an ‘elder’ in my church and despite my enviable education, I still court the power of the totem to progress politically.”
Madiba, in his reaction, thanked him for his comments. He went on to explain that his remarks were strange, because this was a modern era, where Christianity is the order of the day. As you will discover during your brief visit to South Africa, you must have heard of sagoma, who are herbalist or fetish persons, who I understand can use magic, in counteracting other evil forces, witchcraft, or preparation of ‘love portion’ to credulous couples, or football team. I am not aware of sangoma’s who promote political influence or mobility
Monday, November 10, 2008
Political Odyssey Of Chief Madu Ndigba{ A Belief in totems by an African Leader} AN Allegory Part 10
CHIEF MADU NDIGBA’S DISAPPOINTMENT:
IMAGINED MEETING OF CHIEF NDIGBA AND MADIBA
IN QUEST FOR RATIONALE OF MADIBA OPTION
The appointment to see Madiba was not easy as the former President has at then excluded himself from public engagement. However, some South Africans who were in exile in Nigeria, used their contracts to ensure that Chief Madu Ndigba was granted audience by Madiba. No record of meeting was available to the public, but we imagine that a meeting took place; we can also speculate that on arrival Chief Madu Ndigba announced that he was the Secretary General of the largest political party in Black Africa. The chief approached the residence of Madiba with dignity. He was wearing traditional Nigerian attire, which included long bead of assorted colour hanging around his neck. He was also holding his walking stick which had the carvings of a crocodile. He also wore a black hat with a silver image of a crocodile, which glittered in the sunlight. As he entered the gate, he did an unusual thing by entering with his back. His dress and style of entering the premises was immediately noticed by Madiba’s valets and others around the premises.
When he was ushered into the waiting room of Madiba, he felt relaxed as he snuffed. Before opening the snuff cup, he muttered few words of incantations like ‘utaba, anwuru’ and called it, ‘the tonic for a clear head’. Madiba’s servant was amused by the incomprehensible utterances. Within a few seconds, tears dripped from his eyes as a result of the stimulant of the brown powder. He also brought out a white Kola nut and involved in a similar ritual in praise of the wonder ‘nut’. The wonder nut has brown or black pod. It is revered in the eastern part of Nigeria, it is widely eaten in the North, it is adored and produced mostly in western Nigeria. He didn’t stay long in the waiting room because Madiba was ready to receive him. When he was seated, he looked around the parlour and was impressed by the decorations of mainly of Zulu artifacts and various souvenirs collected by Madiba, before and during his Presidency. The sound of Koa, Koa, while chewing the nut also attracted the attention of the waiter as he also muttered;
“This kola has three pods, in Imo Basin area of Nigeria.
Three pods is a symbol of unity,
That is why we have Umenneato, Umunnato, Mbato,
To symbolize unity of families, clan or village
IMAGINED MEETING OF CHIEF NDIGBA AND MADIBA
IN QUEST FOR RATIONALE OF MADIBA OPTION
The appointment to see Madiba was not easy as the former President has at then excluded himself from public engagement. However, some South Africans who were in exile in Nigeria, used their contracts to ensure that Chief Madu Ndigba was granted audience by Madiba. No record of meeting was available to the public, but we imagine that a meeting took place; we can also speculate that on arrival Chief Madu Ndigba announced that he was the Secretary General of the largest political party in Black Africa. The chief approached the residence of Madiba with dignity. He was wearing traditional Nigerian attire, which included long bead of assorted colour hanging around his neck. He was also holding his walking stick which had the carvings of a crocodile. He also wore a black hat with a silver image of a crocodile, which glittered in the sunlight. As he entered the gate, he did an unusual thing by entering with his back. His dress and style of entering the premises was immediately noticed by Madiba’s valets and others around the premises.
When he was ushered into the waiting room of Madiba, he felt relaxed as he snuffed. Before opening the snuff cup, he muttered few words of incantations like ‘utaba, anwuru’ and called it, ‘the tonic for a clear head’. Madiba’s servant was amused by the incomprehensible utterances. Within a few seconds, tears dripped from his eyes as a result of the stimulant of the brown powder. He also brought out a white Kola nut and involved in a similar ritual in praise of the wonder ‘nut’. The wonder nut has brown or black pod. It is revered in the eastern part of Nigeria, it is widely eaten in the North, it is adored and produced mostly in western Nigeria. He didn’t stay long in the waiting room because Madiba was ready to receive him. When he was seated, he looked around the parlour and was impressed by the decorations of mainly of Zulu artifacts and various souvenirs collected by Madiba, before and during his Presidency. The sound of Koa, Koa, while chewing the nut also attracted the attention of the waiter as he also muttered;
“This kola has three pods, in Imo Basin area of Nigeria.
Three pods is a symbol of unity,
That is why we have Umenneato, Umunnato, Mbato,
To symbolize unity of families, clan or village
Sunday, November 2, 2008
Politcal Odyssey of chief Madu Ndigba-(a belief in totems by an African leader) An Allegory part9
CHAPTER VIII
CHARACTERISTICS OF MANDELA,
WHAT DO WE KNOW OF HIM?
The publication, “Becoming a Leader”, which he obtained on arrival at the airport was very instructive as excerpt summary indicate. In the publication, ‘Becoming a leader’ by Nelson Mandela Foundation, in its contribution for the Madiba Legacy Series, many heroic involvements were highlighted. Mandela left the rural village of Mvezo, Eastern Cape to far away Johannesburg to avoid early marriage after the death of his father. He found that miners worked long hours in dangerous conditions. While wives and children remained in rural areas, sustaining traditional homesteads, workers earned barely enough to send money back home. This also meant that children grew up without their fathers.
As he rejected the mining job, he arrived at Walter Siulu’s office and indicated that he wanted to continue his Law Studies by correspondence. Mandela couldn’t believe that Sisulu had only a standard six education and he was further told that Sisulu had graduated from the University of Life – the streets of Johannesburg. Mandela was employed as a clerk at the firm of Witkin, Sidelsky and Edelman. He rented a room in Alexandra Township, called Dark City because there was no electricity. Even though he had a job, he was not exempt from the laws and conditions that applied to all Africans pass laws, curfews, high transport costs, separate poverty stricken communities, high crime, and no facilities as he read to complete his degree with candle light. He noticed that in the office, there was separate treatment for Africans, as they drank tea in kitchen with one cup; while whites drank their own tea in the office with different type of cups.
In 1943, Mandela graduated with his B.A. degree in Fort Hare. Even though ANC was founded in 1912, Mandela and his group, after 1943, vowed to make the movement purely African Orientation to fight their cause in non-violent manner. Thus, at the annual ANC Conference in Bloemfontein in 1949, the inner group, AP MDA, Walter Sisulu, Oliver Tambo and Nelson Mandela emerged as the new kingmakers.
On the other hand, in 1948, The Afrikaner National Party under Dr. Francois Malan came to power. Afrikaner Nationalism was a powerful political and social force. It was determined to destroy what he saw as its greatest enemies – African Nationalism, Communism and White Liberalism. By 1st May 1950, government banned all gatherings. But for Mandela the struggle had become consuming. His sympathy was not only confined to main ANC Movement but also to the Young Wing and Women Wing. For instance, on his return, to Jo’burg, a third ban was served on him. The year 1956 was marked by the Women’s Campaign against pass laws. Mandela had many meetings with Lillian Nyoyi, a leader of the Federation of South African Women. 9th august 1956, biggest protestation by women against pass laws as 20,000 women marched to the Union Building to deliver petitions to Prime Minister STRIDJOM. On 2 December 1952, Mandela and other leaders were banned under another unjust law, the Riotous Assemblies Act, of which people were banned from attending meetings, talking to more than one person at a time, or leaving the area where they lived. In the end, he was charged for treason, arrested and imprisoned in the Old Fort, deprived of basic human dignity and threatened with death penalty and finally banished to Robin Island.
He was greatly disappointed that Madiba did not court ‘power of totem’. He thereafter queried the rationale for making the trip to see Madiba. It started to dawn on him that the environment where he grew and started politics was quite different from the apartheid environment that Madiba operated.
This development speaks volume as to whether Chief Ndigba Madu was prepared to learn from this historical development of Madiba, his life, as well as his struggle to eradicate apartheid.
CHARACTERISTICS OF MANDELA,
WHAT DO WE KNOW OF HIM?
The publication, “Becoming a Leader”, which he obtained on arrival at the airport was very instructive as excerpt summary indicate. In the publication, ‘Becoming a leader’ by Nelson Mandela Foundation, in its contribution for the Madiba Legacy Series, many heroic involvements were highlighted. Mandela left the rural village of Mvezo, Eastern Cape to far away Johannesburg to avoid early marriage after the death of his father. He found that miners worked long hours in dangerous conditions. While wives and children remained in rural areas, sustaining traditional homesteads, workers earned barely enough to send money back home. This also meant that children grew up without their fathers.
As he rejected the mining job, he arrived at Walter Siulu’s office and indicated that he wanted to continue his Law Studies by correspondence. Mandela couldn’t believe that Sisulu had only a standard six education and he was further told that Sisulu had graduated from the University of Life – the streets of Johannesburg. Mandela was employed as a clerk at the firm of Witkin, Sidelsky and Edelman. He rented a room in Alexandra Township, called Dark City because there was no electricity. Even though he had a job, he was not exempt from the laws and conditions that applied to all Africans pass laws, curfews, high transport costs, separate poverty stricken communities, high crime, and no facilities as he read to complete his degree with candle light. He noticed that in the office, there was separate treatment for Africans, as they drank tea in kitchen with one cup; while whites drank their own tea in the office with different type of cups.
In 1943, Mandela graduated with his B.A. degree in Fort Hare. Even though ANC was founded in 1912, Mandela and his group, after 1943, vowed to make the movement purely African Orientation to fight their cause in non-violent manner. Thus, at the annual ANC Conference in Bloemfontein in 1949, the inner group, AP MDA, Walter Sisulu, Oliver Tambo and Nelson Mandela emerged as the new kingmakers.
On the other hand, in 1948, The Afrikaner National Party under Dr. Francois Malan came to power. Afrikaner Nationalism was a powerful political and social force. It was determined to destroy what he saw as its greatest enemies – African Nationalism, Communism and White Liberalism. By 1st May 1950, government banned all gatherings. But for Mandela the struggle had become consuming. His sympathy was not only confined to main ANC Movement but also to the Young Wing and Women Wing. For instance, on his return, to Jo’burg, a third ban was served on him. The year 1956 was marked by the Women’s Campaign against pass laws. Mandela had many meetings with Lillian Nyoyi, a leader of the Federation of South African Women. 9th august 1956, biggest protestation by women against pass laws as 20,000 women marched to the Union Building to deliver petitions to Prime Minister STRIDJOM. On 2 December 1952, Mandela and other leaders were banned under another unjust law, the Riotous Assemblies Act, of which people were banned from attending meetings, talking to more than one person at a time, or leaving the area where they lived. In the end, he was charged for treason, arrested and imprisoned in the Old Fort, deprived of basic human dignity and threatened with death penalty and finally banished to Robin Island.
He was greatly disappointed that Madiba did not court ‘power of totem’. He thereafter queried the rationale for making the trip to see Madiba. It started to dawn on him that the environment where he grew and started politics was quite different from the apartheid environment that Madiba operated.
This development speaks volume as to whether Chief Ndigba Madu was prepared to learn from this historical development of Madiba, his life, as well as his struggle to eradicate apartheid.
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