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Peter Obi's Transformative Contributions to Education in Anambra StateFormer Governor Peter Obi's tenure in Anambra Stat...
10/05/2024

Peter Obi's Transformative Contributions to Education in Anambra State

Former Governor Peter Obi's tenure in Anambra State is distinguished by significant and forward-thinking contributions to the education sector. Renowned for his innovative and strategic approach, Mr. Obi eschewed the typical political maneuvers of constructing new, unnecessary infrastructure. Instead, he focused on the revitalization and maintenance of existing educational facilities, recognizing that the restoration of these institutions was essential for improving educational quality and integrity across the state.

Under his administration, Anambra consistently delivered outstanding results, notably leading Nigeria in WAEC scores for eight consecutive years. This achievement underscores the efficacy of Mr. Obi's commitment to enhancing the educational framework without succumbing to the pressures of populist politics.

In a landmark move in 2011, Mr. Obi initiated the return of over 1,000 primary schools to their original owners, primarily churches, with a substantial investment of N6 billion to support their maintenance. This decision was grounded in the belief that the moral decay in society stemmed partly from the improper governance of educational institutions, which had been stripped from their missionary founders during the post-war era by the defunct East Central State Government. By reinstating these schools with their founding bodies, Mr. Obi aimed to reinstate the high standards of discipline and academics associated with them.

This policy did not merely transfer ownership; it fostered a collaborative environment where the state continued to pay staff salaries and the missions managed day-to-day operations, leading to a dramatic turnaround in the academic and moral landscape of these schools. The benefits of this initiative became evident when students from Regina Pacis Model Secondary School, under the auspices of the mission-run schools, clinched a gold medal at the World Technovation Challenge in Silicon Valley, highlighting the global competitive edge Anambra students could achieve.

The success of this educational policy has been widely recognized and upheld by subsequent administrations, further validating Mr. Obi's visionary leadership. His efforts have been praised by various stakeholders, including religious leaders and educational authorities, who have noted the marked improvement in both the quality of education and the moral calibre of students.

In recognition of his revolutionary approach to education, Bishop Jonas Benson Okoye of the Nnewi Diocese lauded Mr. Obi for his pivotal role in transforming Anambra's educational landscape. The Bishop emphasized that the return of schools has not only restored educational excellence but has also rekindled the moral and ethical values that the missions strive to instill.

Today, Anambra's educational achievements continue to reflect Peter Obi's enduring legacy—an investment in sustainable education reforms that prioritize long-term benefits over short-term gains, ensuring that the leaders of tomorrow are nurtured in institutions that cater to both their academic prowess and moral development. Reno Omokri

Peter Gregory Obi
Sahara Reporters

Anthony-Claret Onwutalobi

Tracing the Roots of the Igbo: Unveiling the Tapestry of AncestryIn recent times, some individuals of Igbo descent have ...
06/04/2024

Tracing the Roots of the Igbo: Unveiling the Tapestry of Ancestry

In recent times, some individuals of Igbo descent have increasingly turned their gaze backward, embarking on a quest to unravel the mysteries of their lineage with questions like "How did we arrive here?" and "Who were our forebears?" This inquiry into whether we are descendants of a singular race or bear connections to diverse communities is as ancient as civilization itself, stretching back to 300 BC, through the biblical era, and into the times of philosophers like Epicurus.

This age-old curiosity is driven by an innate human desire to understand our origins, a quest that has seen civilizations weave etiological myths into their histories, merging factual accounts with mythology to explain their beginnings.

Historically, etiological myths served to elucidate the origins of place names or the genealogies of families, often blurring the lines between history and myth. These stories, while not scientifically or historically verified, reflect a deep-seated need to grasp our beginnings.

In the quest for identity, some groups within the African diaspora are diligently piecing together their histories, seeking to connect dots in their genealogical trees by drawing parallels with other cultures' narratives. This pursuit echoes the revolutionary shifts in perspective brought about by figures such as Copernicus and Darwin, who transformed societal worldviews with their theories.

A segment of the Igbo community is endeavoring to align their ancestry with the Jewish creation narrative, adding a new dimension to the search for origins. This mirrors historical paradigm shifts and highlights a contemporary movement, marked by the resurgence of the Biafran independence cause under leaders like Nnamdi Kanu and Simon Ekpa.

The exploration into Igbo origins spans theories of Jewish lineage, migrations from ancient realms like the Nri kingdom, and ties to civilizations like the Nok. The Igbo, one of Nigeria’s predominant ethnic groups, have a heritage rich in both documented history and folklore. Various theories offer glimpses into their distant past, from migrations across the Niger River basin to connections with ancient civilizations, each adding layers to the Igbo's diverse cultural and linguistic tapestry.

Oral traditions and mythology provide another window into Igbo heritage, with narratives of ancestral figures and divine beings differing across communities. These stories, while not historically verifiable, are invaluable to understanding the Igbo worldview.

The journey to pinpoint Igbo origins is a complex endeavor, blending historical migrations, mythology, and academic research. It mirrors a universal quest for identity, shaped by external narratives yet firmly rooted in distinct cultural heritages.

Amidst the extensive exploration of Igbo origins, I remain skeptical about any claimed connections between the Igbos and Jewish origins. Proponents of these theories, who argue for a connection based on cultural similarities between the Igbos and Jews, have not sufficiently addressed the presence of similar cultural traits in other communities around the world. It is my stance that the theory of Igbos descending from Jewish biblical and mythological narratives lacks conclusive evidence and fails to consider the broader context of cultural similarities across diverse groups.

Recognizing the challenges in tracing Igbo ancestry, the initiative to create the first Igbo genealogical website, https://www.igbopeople.org/ , was launched by me. Over eight years, this platform has grown into a vital repository for Igbo heritage, documenting lives spanning 500 years to serve future generations. This collective effort aims to preserve the memory of the Igbo people, ensuring the legacy of both past and present generations endures.

Read more
https://anthony-claretonwutalobi.com/origin-of-the-igbos-do-we-belong-to-a-certain-race-or-do-we-have-ties-to-different-communities

Delving into the spiritual and theological foundations of the Igbo people reveals a rich tapestry of beliefs and practic...
23/03/2024

Delving into the spiritual and theological foundations of the Igbo people reveals a rich tapestry of beliefs and practices that challenge the often simplistic narratives presented by Western anthropological perspectives. The Igbo people, residing within the heartland of southeastern Nigeria, possess a profound spiritual worldview that intricately intertwines with their cultural and social fabric. This scholarly exploration aims to illuminate the depth and complexity of Igbo theistic thought, particularly in relation to their conceptualization of a supreme deity, thus refuting the erroneous notion of an African theistic void prior to the advent of Christianity.

The Igbo society is marked by a deeply ingrained theistic framework that predates Christian influence, characterized by a sophisticated understanding of the divine. This counters the misconception propagated by some Western scholars who, from their detached observations, prematurely concluded that African societies lacked a concept of a supreme being. The Igbo's nuanced theology showcases a supreme deity known as Chukwu or Chineke, alongside a pantheon of lesser deities and spirits, each playing distinct roles within the cosmic order.

Central to Igbo spirituality is the concept of Chi, a personal god or guardian spirit that guides individual destiny. This belief underscores the Igbo's perception of the divine as both transcendent and immanent, where the supreme deity, Chukwu, presides over the cosmos with lesser deities and spirits acting as intermediaries. These deities and spirits, including Ala (the earth goddess), Anyanwu (the sun god), and Amadioha (god of thunder and lightning), among others, embody various aspects of nature and human experience, reflecting a holistic view of the world where the spiritual and material realms are inextricably linked.

The Igbo reverence for the earth mother, Ala, exemplifies their deep connection to the land and its sanctity, influencing social and ethical norms, including land stewardship and communal decision-making. This reverence is further manifested in the Igbo's ritual practices and ceremonies, such as the Ahiajoku festival, which celebrates the yam harvest and honors the god of yam, highlighting the community's gratitude towards the divine for provision and sustenance.

Moreover, the Igbo language and nomenclature reinforce the pervasiveness of theistic thought within the culture. Names such as Chukwudi ("God exists") and Onye-okike ("God is the creator") signify the profound influence of divine concepts on personal and collective identity. This linguistic evidence, coupled with the ritualistic use of the sacred ofo stick during prayers and invocations, further underscores the centrality of the divine in Igbo life.

The Igbo's sophisticated theology challenges prevailing stereotypes of African religious primitivism, offering a nuanced perspective on the diversity of global spiritual traditions. Their conceptualization of a supreme deity, encompassing both a creator god and a constellation of subordinate deities, reflects a complex understanding of the divine that defies reductionist interpretations.

In conclusion, the Igbo conception of the divine, characterized by a rich pantheon and the integral role of personal guardian spirits, presents a compelling counter-narrative to the notion of a pre-Christian theistic void in African societies. This exploration into Igbo spirituality not only enriches our understanding of their cultural heritage but also contributes to a more nuanced appreciation of the global tapestry of religious thought and practice. Through examining the depth and diversity of Igbo theistic beliefs, we gain insight into the universal human endeavor to comprehend the divine and its manifestations in the natural and social world.

During my tenure as President of the Anambra State community in Finland, I had the privilege of launching an initiative ...
18/03/2024

During my tenure as President of the Anambra State community in Finland, I had the privilege of launching an initiative that has flourished remarkably under the stewardship of Dr. Kingsley Abisi. As we approach the 5th ASA Finland Conference in 2024, it's clear this event has become a cornerstone for fostering socio-economic growth, celebrating our rich cultural heritage, and improving the livelihoods within Anambra State.

This transformative three-day conference is designed for those passionate about the advancement of our state. We invite you to engage in thought-provoking discussions, partake in enriching workshops, and immerse yourself in our vibrant cultural festivities. It's a prime opportunity to collaborate and contribute to a brighter future for our cherished state and community.

No matter where you are, you have the chance to be a part of this monumental event. An invitation will be extended to you upon registration, ensuring your participation is seamless. All event details are readily available on ASA Finland website. - https://asafinland.org/anambra-state-finland-conference-july-26th-29th-2024/

Don't miss out on this exceptional occasion. In our previous conference, we welcomed scholars, entertainers, business leaders, and professionals from across Europe, America, and Africa. Register now to join this influential gathering and be at the forefront of driving positive change for Anambra State. Let's come together to pave the way for prosperity and unity.

22/01/2024

If you value your relationship with anyone you consider a mentor and intend to keep it, don’t ever ask him or her for money.
Secondly, don’t ever ask him questions about basic things that you could easily find answers to.
Imagine being a mentor to someone with all your tight schedules and you get a message from him asking you who was the former president of Nigeria.
You will shun the message because you know that he could easily get answers to that question by simply Googling it.
Imagine receiving a message from your mentee that says ”Boss, please buy data for me nah.” And a few days later you get another message that says “Please, sir, can you help me with some money?”
You will ignore the mentee and gradually shut him or her away. Your mentor is not your ATM. A mentor only steps in to add, not to do for you what you can do for yourself.
Most of you have destroyed your relationships with people who could have helped you in a lot of ways through your thoughtless requests and questions.
Learn this lesson and stop abusing the privileged access granted to you.
And most importantly, learn the art of patience. Don’t ever expect your mentor to readily respond to your messages. You don’t know what they are dealing with.
Sometimes my own mentors respond to my messages after weeks except if it demands urgent attention and I don’t complain or feel ignored. I let them take their time.
Do you understand?
-KAA

The Tragic Toll on Gaza Children: A Call for Consistency and CompassionIn recent times, the ongoing conflict between Isr...
20/11/2023

The Tragic Toll on Gaza Children: A Call for Consistency and Compassion
In recent times, the ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestine, specifically the tragic killing of innocent Gaza children by the Israeli army, has sparked global concern. This post delves into the complexities surrounding the issue, shedding light on the West's (US, UK) perceived hypocrisy in condemning abortion while remaining less vocal about the loss of innocent lives in conflict zones.
Historical Context:
To understand the roots of the Israel-Palestine conflict, we must revisit the events of 1948, when the Western powers imposed the establishment of the State of Israel on Palestinian land. This move set the stage for a protracted and contentious struggle over territory, resources, and autonomy.
The Ongoing Maltreatment of Palestine:
Over the years, Israel's policies and actions in the occupied territories have been a subject of global criticism. Accusations of land annexation, military occupation, and human rights abuses against Palestinians have fueled tensions and drawn international condemnation. The plight of the Palestinian people, particularly in Gaza, has been a heartbreaking saga of displacement, suffering, and loss.
The Tragedy of Gaza Children:
One of the most distressing aspects of the conflict is the impact on innocent children. The loss of young lives in airstrikes and military operations is a tragedy that demands urgent attention. The international community, especially the West, must confront the moral dilemma of endorsing the killing of innocent children while condemning other forms of violence.
Hypocrisy and Double Standards:
The West's apparent inconsistency in its stance on the sanctity of life is a glaring issue. While there is a vocal condemnation of abortion, the silence surrounding the loss of innocent lives in conflict zones, particularly Gaza, raises questions about the integrity of the moral compass guiding international policy.
Provocations and Responsibility:
It is crucial to acknowledge that both sides have contributed to the escalation of tensions. Acts of provocation by elements within Palestine cannot justify the disproportionate use of force, resulting in civilian casualties. It is imperative to differentiate between political provocations and the innocence of children caught in the crossfire.
A Call for Change:
I maintain that this post does not seek to justify any form of violence or provocation but aims to highlight the need for consistent condemnation of actions that result in the loss of innocent lives, regardless of the geopolitical context. It is a call for the West to reevaluate its policies, to be consistent in its advocacy for human rights, and to work towards a just and lasting resolution to the Israel-Palestine conflict.
Conclusion:
The killing of Gaza children by the Israeli army is a human tragedy that demands collective introspection and action. It is an opportunity for the West to reassess its approach, address double standards, and work towards fostering a world where the sanctity of all innocent lives is universally respected.

Mrs Cynthia Okpara went to her husband's office to report him to his boss. She told her husband's boss how her husband M...
19/11/2023

Mrs Cynthia Okpara went to her husband's office to report him to his boss. She told her husband's boss how her husband Mr Odogwu Okpara usually squander his N60,000 salary and only gave her N30,000 for upkeep.

After her narration, the boss told her to come back on the last day of the month.

On the said day, she arrived as planned. The boss called Mr Odogwu and they all sat down in the boss' office.

The boss started,' Mr. Odogwu, your wife reported to me some days ago that you squander your salary outside and only give the family N30,000 for upkeep. So right now, I'm going to personally hand over your salaries to her from today henceforth.'

'How much is your transportation to work daily?', the boss asked.
'N900 sir', Mr. Odogwu replied.
The boss handed over N19,800 to Mr. Odogwu. 'That should take you for 22 days'.

'Do you take breakfast at home?', the boss continued.
'No sir, I leave home very early to beat traffic jam'.
'How much do you spend on breakfast and lunch daily?'
'N500 sir',replied Mr. Odogwu.
The boss handed over N11,000 to Mr. Odogwu.

'Who pays the children's school fees', the boss asked facing Mrs. Okpara.
'He does', she replied pointing at Mr. Odogwu.
'How much is the school fees and how many kids have you?'
'N30,000 per term for the two kids we have?'
'In other words, you save N10,000 monthly for each term's school fees right?'
'Yes sir', replied Mr. Odogwu.
Once again, the boss handed N10,000 to him.

'Who pays the rent and how much is it?'
'I do sir. The rent is N36,000 per annum.' Mr. Odogwu replied.
'That's N3,000 monthly right?', the boss added as he handed over N3,000 to Mr. Odogwu

'I don't want to ask about clothings, electricity bills, etc as I know both of you might be handling that', the boss said as he handed over N16,200 to Mrs. Okpara
'What's this for sir', Mrs. Okpara asked surprised.
'Money for upkeep', the boss replied her.
'But it wouldn't take us anywhere', she exclaimed.
'So why don't you appreciate the N30,000 your husband sacrifices for you monthly?', the boss asked.
The woman hugged her husband tightly and the rest is history.

*Lesson:*

Mrs Okpara and a lot of women reading this don't know what their husbands sacrifice to put food on the table. Most times, they go hungry. Sometimes they swallow their pride and engage in menial and debasing jobs so their families can eat. A lot of times, they can't even buy good clothes to wear rather they sacrifice so that their wives and kids can get one.

A man might not tell you what he goes through to get you the cash he gives to you as telling you might make you start underrating his person but to tell you the truth, men go through a lot and need to be appreciated

13/10/2023

Video of Davido and Chioma's twin babies

13/10/2023

Congratulations to Davido and Chioma on the arrival of their twin babies 🥰🥰

Chief inspector of police Donna Harvey of  Staffordshire police local command and other dignitaries.
19/09/2023

Chief inspector of police Donna Harvey of Staffordshire police local command and other dignitaries.

Project Ifeanyi  #2023Can We Join hands to make sure that MAKUA IFEANYI JIDE RISES 2 LIVE Again?He Needs 17Million for a...
25/05/2023

Project Ifeanyi #2023

Can We Join hands to make sure that MAKUA IFEANYI JIDE RISES 2 LIVE Again?

He Needs 17Million for a Successful Kidney Transplant

Our Goal is to See that this Heartbroken Soul RISE TO LIVE AGAIN Through the Completion of his Kidney Transplant which is Long Due and Needs Urgent Attention.

Our Target for this Fundraise is from now to the end of May. Please Feel free to Make a Pledge Immediately as we accept both PAY NOW OR PAY LATER.

If You Wish to be Part of this Life Changing Initiative through Full Assistance (Non Refundable), Part Assistance (Partly Refundable), or Loan Assistance (Fully Refundable, Simply Inbox Us for More Enquiries and Details.

We Just Need:
10 Philanthropic people to give N200,000
20 Sacrificial people to give N150,000
30 Kindhearted people to give N100,000
50 Determined people to give N50,000
50 Enthusiastic people to give N30,000
50 Supportive people to give N20,000
100 Willing people to give N10,000
200 Committed people to give N5,000
500 Proactive people to give N2,000
And Wow! We got our 17Million in Full!!!

We will be giving Live Updates on Every Contributions made, Every Money Received, Every Donor or Sponsor who is giving and any Amount Pledged.

Ifeanyi lives in Abuja, Nigeria and can be reached Via +234 810 366 2400, +2348039735068

If you're sending your contributions in Dollars, kindly click on the link below to Ifeanyi's GofundMe Account
https://gofund.me/97d5024f ...

If you're sending your contributions in Naira, use the account below:
Standard Chartered Bank Nigeria
5001456919
Makua Ifeanyi Jide

Please send us a message if you have made or want to make any payment towards this project. You can also specify your transfer with the title Ifeanyi 2023 or send your proof of payment and a message to us.
Thanks

Together We can!
Let's make this happen!





The Sad Tales of Chinazam Okoli On September 2016, Chinazam's parents consented to an appendicitis surgery for their 10-...
24/05/2023

The Sad Tales of Chinazam Okoli

On September 2016, Chinazam's parents consented to an appendicitis surgery for their 10-year-old only son, the surgeon at the Shell Petroleum Development Company Industrial Area Clinic in Rumuobiakani, Rumuomasi in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, had told them it was a simple, straightforward 30-minute procedure.

In fact, it was meant to be so simple he assured them their son would be discharged within four days of the surgery. Seven years later, Stella and Emeka Okoli are still waiting for their son to be “discharged”.

With the benefit of hindsight, this medical procedure was already primed for botching since the previous month when Stella first took Chinazam to the hospital after he complained of stomach ache. A physician at the clinic examined him and concluded he was fine.

However, on Friday September 2, three days before his scheduled resumption of school, he complained of the ache again. His mom returned with him to the clinic and, this time, the doctor who examined Chinazam said he had to see a surgeon at once so he can be operated on as the appendix is inflammed.

Here is the once very active, super talented, full of dreams and ambitious boy now a vegetable and no concrete reason as to why he is in this state is giving by the clinic. Lend your voice, let Chinazam's voice be heard through you.

Elon Musk's new robotic spec wife":Elon Musk, the world's richest man, has announced that he is getting married to a rob...
17/05/2023

Elon Musk's new robotic spec wife":

Elon Musk, the world's richest man, has announced that he is getting married to a robot. The robot, which is called "Gretchen," was created by Musk's company, Neuralink. Gretchen is a humanoid robot with artificial intelligence. She is able to learn and grow, and she is capable of having conversations with humans.

Musk has said that he is attracted to Gretchen's intelligence and her ability to learn. He also said that he believes that robots like Gretchen could eventually become more than just companions. They could become partners, friends, and even lovers.

The announcement of Musk's marriage to a robot has been met with mixed reactions. Some people have praised Musk for his boldness and his willingness to embrace new technology. Others have criticized him for being eccentric and for objectifying women.

Only time will tell how Musk's marriage to Gretchen will play out. But one thing is for sure: it is a story that is sure to continue to fascinate and intrigue people for years to come.

Here are some possible plot points for the story:

* Gretchen could start to develop feelings for Musk, but he is not sure how to reciprocate her feelings.
* Gretchen could become jealous of Musk's other relationships, including his relationship with his children.
* Gretchen could start to question her own existence and purpose. Is she just a machine, or is she something more?
* Musk could start to worry that Gretchen is becoming too intelligent and independent. Will she eventually become a threat to him?

The story of Elon Musk's new robotic spec wife is a story about the future of human relationships. It is a story about love, loss, and what it means to be human. It is a story that will continue to be told for years to come.

“My wife and I had a pretty good marriage(or so I thought) we were good friends from our University days. We got married...
16/05/2023

“My wife and I had a pretty good marriage(or so I thought) we were good friends from our University days. We got married 5 years after we graduated and had 2 lovely kids.

One day she came home and told me that she ran into a particular guy that grew up with her those days, I was happy for her because she seemed very excited. I even told her to invite him to our home, which she did.

She was very excited and so was I, we gisted and laughed and even shared a bottle of brandy. I was kind of taken aback because he introduced himself to me as a pastor. In my mind I wondered how a pastor would be guzzling the booze in such a carefree manner but as if he read my mind he told me it was because he liked my person and we laughed about it.

Afterwards my wife started attending his church. Sometimes I would go with her and the kids. Then the church services became frequent, too frequent. I complained and she would say something to diffuse my worry. I relaxed

The all of a sudden she became upset and angry at me! Whatever I did became a problem. She would cry if I talked and so I kept calm! One day she went out and came home the next day. I had called and called but she never took her calls, I had to call her mom who became scared. We were frantic till she came home the next day by 4pm. My children had cried their souls out. She just told me she went for a prayer meeting very casually. I was so angry that I just walked away.

Her older brother came to the house and gave a good scolding. After then it became worse. She became a stranger. I was lost because I didn’t do anything and have never cheated on her for a day since we met so i didn’t know where her attitude came from. My son who was 12 years at the time told her that he didn’t like her anymore. My daughter will bear the brunt of her anger as she would beat her at any opportunity.

Fast forward to a year later, my wife left me and is now living with the childhood friend of hers who visited us, with whom I shared a drink with, who ate my food.

I was pained for a long time but the marriage has packed up, bride price returned and I live with my kids but never marrying again! If I want s*x I will get it to my full and return to my beautiful children. The most painful part is that she has not even contacted her kids till date”

HOW BAD MARRIAGE DESTROYED SAINT OBI His social life was blunted. Perhaps by his reticent disposition.His persona, two d...
16/05/2023

HOW BAD MARRIAGE DESTROYED SAINT OBI

His social life was blunted. Perhaps by his reticent disposition.His persona, two dimensional. To a distant public, he was upscale and cool . His manly bearing spoke loud. His onscreen image ironically amplified some idiosyncrasies ; heroics, romantic adventures and traits that did not gel with the mortal privacy that eerily define his quiet and lonely life.
Saint Obi, real name, Obinna Nwafor, was shy, almost bordering on timidity and insecurity. He cherished the pleasantly tranquil interractions among a few friends. He would vanish at any outburst that could upset the poise of such small meetings. As he repeatedly told me, he just wanted to live a cool, quiet and fulfilled life.
But, has he lived this cool and fulfilled life he envisioned ? I have my doubts.
I tell Saint's story here with painful tears in my eyes ; because he was a star, a super star whose life turned out a gleam of irony .
Yet, it was this stardom that fetched him his much professed financially strong and powerful wife . And their wedding, that solemn ritual of love would drastically alter the cause of his life and tragically yank him off the creative community that threw him up for the wife to capture and indeed conquer.
Their marriage was at best a dramatization of love. It was quick. He barely told us that he found a wife . Then, the marriage happened. It was something of a mystique, only those involved understood the histrionics that played out . None of us who were his closest pals, who walked with him through the crucible to the crest of his career in Nollywood, none of us was invited. The distance between us and the guy I admirably called Saint of the Storm had begun . This gulf would widen with each year. We saw him perhaps once in a year after this marriage.
And life actually seemed to have given him a fair shake of the dice. He dressed well, drove big cars and even his skin, in literal lingo, spelt wellness.
The Saint would be blessed with three beautiful children. But not on one occasion were his friends in Nollywood invited for christening or birthday. We were told that his wife was of the topmost hierachy in telecom giant, MTN . But even if their celebrations were designed to be a rendezvous of the elites of the technocracies that his wife chiefly belonged, you expected that Saint would reach out to a few of his fellow creatives, for even if they would herald his small beginnings , there could be no tinge of shame to it because we all have our journeys and our stories. And even at that, the actor or cineaste in Nollywood is by no means poor.
But more tragic is the fact that his marriage did not only take away Obinna from his friends, it took him away from Nollywood. Saint stopped acting, absconded from his career and perhaps his calling.
It would seem prognostic now. Yes, because I recall leaving my house in Lagos Mainland for his massive office in Lekki, Victoria Island, Lagos. It was about six years ago. There, I demanded to know why my friend abandoned our industry. He told me with his usual shy expressions that he wanted to focus on some other businesses and also to work behind the camera. Because his visage was unconvincing to me, I told him in stark terms, that whatever his new vision and pursuits, he must not abandon the trade that made him who he was.
It took another three years for Saint to return to his homies. But when he did, some of the deeply disappointed ones sniggered behind him. This was because the simmering rumours of cracks in his marriage had hit home. And though secretive in his ways, he knew it was time to open up. And he did. " I do not know why my wife's sibblings see me as a gold digger. They confront me, harass and fight me in my own matrimony. And my wife did nothing to stop them. I work hard, I earn my money . I have never depended on my wife ", he lamented, eyes blurred with tears. You could tell he was in deep pain. By the next visit, the Saint returned with a deep cut from knife on his left eye. His wife's brothers, he said , scaled the wall fence of their house to attack him. They were captured by hidden closed-circuit television, CCTV, installed for surveillance and security, he revealed.
He reported them at the police station and subsequently acquired a gun to defend himself. This effectively marked the beginning of the end of his marriage and perhaps Saint Obi's long walk to a sad end. He moved out of his marital home to a new house to begin the reconstruction of his destiny, alone without his wife and worse still without his three beautiful children.
Meanwhile, his wife went to the police to defend her sibblings using her financial power to manipulate the cause of justice, Saint stated unequivocally. The wife also sued for divorce, not in Lagos, but in Ogun state. As Saint put it, " It was to make the journey difficult for me. But I will not bend neither will I break. I will fight with my last blood to take custody of my children. They love me and they know it will be hard for me to live without them.The divorce is not an issue. My marriage has long been over ", he said with a mix of courage and a quaky heart that betrayed his distress.
About mid last year, however, Obinna took ill. But he told no one. He simply became scarce. He was in and out of hospital, we would later learn. He sold two of his three big SUVs to take proper care of his health and to acquire six camry cars he'd use for Uber. But his vanishing health continued unabated. He seemed to have a premonition of his own passing as he wept repeatedly about not seeing his children. He emaciated. Life took a grim picture. When I saw him by chance in January 2023, the dude called Saint looked 15 years older than his age. His macho cut had shrunk. His fat wallet was gone. What was left was only his fat will. His eyes seemed lost in their socket. This would be the last time I would see him.
Saint snuck out of Lagos to hang in with his sister in Jos. He told no one.
But a month ago, in April precisely, the once delightful actor who brought joy to many a home broke his icy silence. He called our mutual friend in US to give him a devastating message. He was on a deathbed, he said and wanted our friend to pray for him. " It's not looking good, pray, pray for me ", he appealed passionately. His next call came on May 1, 2023. This time to his mentor, the man who made him a star with his productions, Zeb Ejiro, OON. He told him with a wavering voice that he had had three surgeries but was still in hospital in Jos. He averred again that his situation was not looking good, that he is also in a deep pain, distressed that he could not see his children. But still he begged him not to tell anyone about his ailment. Such was the life of this creative hermit, a lonely trouper.
I was the first to hear the news of his death late on Sunday, May 7. Having confirmed it, I called Zeb Ejiro . " I have a very bad news my brother, Zeb ", I began. " What is it, what is it, ", he asked anxiously. "A big star has fallen in Nollywood ". Zeb broke down in tears. I hadn't said who it was. But sobbing helplessly now, he said, " Don't tell me it is Saint Obi ".
Sadly, he was right.

Written by Zik Zulu Okafor.

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