Mubarak Mindset

31/12/2024

📌

When you are done shouting “I receive it” ten times in Church this night, remember:

-New Year does not end ignorance. Learning does.

-Crossover night vigils do not end poverty. Learning profitable skills. Strategic planning and consistent implementation are what ends poverty.

-Crossover night is just like every other night. Nothing will change in your life until you start working on yourself.

Last year I told you so, this year, I’m telling you again.

Don’t just clap, dance, pray, shout, sing, and ‘claim it.’
Come back home, sit in the quiet of your room, re-evaluate yourself, begin the process of fixing what needs to be fixed, become more intentional and ruthless in ex*****on. This is the best CROSSOVER NIGHT VIGIL and it’s the only one that births true positive change.

You don’t need more prayers, you need a mental reformation. You don’t need more laying of hands, you need a pragmatic mentorship.

2025, like every other year, will be better for those who learn how to do better, not those who learn how to believe better.

KAA

20/10/2024

Happy birthday Sir Dunamis Shiloh Okonwor.

You're an amazing person with fine and admirable qualities.

Knowing you has been one of life's greatest blessings.

Thank you for all you do.

Continue to wax in strength, grace and wisdom.

Do have an amazing age and year ahead and beyond.

God bless you.

01/07/2024

Understanding Naira Abuse: A Review of Currency Abuse Among Celebrities

People happy new month oooooo 😁

I say make I samma una with one beta gist.

Who dey mess with Naira anyhow? Make we yarn.

"Abuse" fit mean many things, but for here, we go talk how e mean to use or treat something wey go spoil am.

Naira na di official money for Naija, na Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) dey print am. E get different types of notes from ₦5 to ₦1000, with ₦1000 be di biggest. E also get coins from 50 kobo to ₦2. Kobo na di small pickin of Naira, 100 kobo go make 1 Naira.

So, for easy talk, Naira abuse mean say you dey use or treat Naira anyhow wey go damage am.

Naira Abuse Na Offense?

No forget say according to Section 36(12) for di Constitution of di Federal Republic of Nigeria (CFRN) 1999, as altered, any offense wey dem no write for law book and no get penalty no fit carry person go jail. So, Naira abuse na real offense as e dey for Section 21 (1), (2), (3), (4), and (5) of di Central Bank of Nigeria Act 2007.

Sections of di Law:

- Section 21 (1): If you tamper with coin or note wey di Bank release, na offense. Dem fit jail you for at least six months or fine you at least ₦50,000, or both.
- Section 21 (2): Coin or note don damage if e don spoil, dirty, or damaged by actions like stamping, engraving, mutilating, piercing, writing, tearing, soiling, squeezing, or any other kind of bad treatment.
- Section 21 (3): If you dey spray, dance on top, or step on Naira for party or anywhere, na abuse and defacing of di money, dem fit punish you under subsection (1).
- Section 21 (4): If you dey hawk, sell, or trade Naira notes or coins, na offense, punishable under subsection (1).
- Section 21 (5):
- "Matching" mean say you dey spread, scatter, or litter place with Naira notes or coins and step on dem.
- "Spraying" mean say you dey decorate or adorn people or things with Naira notes or coins, no matter di amount or intention.

Dis sections show clearly di different ways of Naira abuse and dia punishments.

Controversial Naira Abuse Cases Wey Involve Celebrities

FRN vs. Oluwadarasimi Omoseyin

On 1st February 2023, actress Oluwadarasimi Omoseyin, wey people sabi as Simi Gold, dem arrest am by ICPC because of one viral video wey show her dey spray new Naira notes for wedding for Lekki, Lagos State, on 28 January 2023, during money palava time. Dem later hand her over to EFCC on 2nd February make dem continue investigation.

Dem first arraign Ms. Omoseyin on 13 February 2023 by EFCC on two counts say she violate di Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Act 2007 on how she handle Naira notes. She first talk “not guilty” and dem grant her bail on 15 February 2023. But for di next hearing, she change her plea to “guilty” after she see di evidence against her. Her lawyer beg for leniency, say she be first-time offender, mother of one, she dey sorry, and dem beg for non-custodial sentence.

For judgment on Thursday, 1st February 2024, trial judge Chukwujekwu Aneke of di Federal High Court, Ikoyi, Lagos, sentence Ms. Omoseyin to six months imprisonment, with option of ₦300,000 fine to pay into di consolidated revenue account of di federation.

FRN vs. Idris Okuneye Olanrewaju (Bobrisky)

Idris Okuneye Olanrewaju, wey people sabi as Bobrisky, no need introduction. EFCC invite am come dia Lagos Zonal Command office on Wednesday, April 4, 2024, because of Naira notes abuse. After dem question am, dem charge am with four counts of Naira abuse and two counts of suspected money laundering.

On April 5, court convict am on four counts of Naira abuse, while di two counts for money laundering dem cancel am.

- Count One: Bobrisky tamper with ₦400,000 by spraying di notes while dancing for party for IMAX Circle Mall, Lekki, Lagos, on 24 March. Dis offense dey punishable under Section 21(1) of di Central Bank Act 2007.
- Count Two: Between July and August 2023 for Aja Junction, Ikorodu, Bobrisky tamper with ₦50,000 by spraying di notes for party.
- Count Three: For December 2023 for White Steve Event Hall, Ikeja, Bobrisky spray and tamper with ₦20,000 while dancing.
- Count Four: Bobrisky spray and tamper with ₦20,000 while dancing for another party for Oniru, Victoria Island.

Bobrisky talk say e no sabi di law, but Justice Awogboro remind am say ignorance of di law no be excuse. Bobrisky beg for mercy and promise to use him platform educate him followers. Him lawyer add say Bobrisky go lead di crusade against Naira abuse, say him be employer and if dem jail am, him employees go suffer.

Based on wetin Bobrisky talk, Justice Abimbola Awogboro convict and sentence am to six months imprisonment, without option of fine, from di day dem remand am.

FRN vs. Pascal Okechukwu (Cubana Chief Priest)

Another controversial case of alleged Naira abuse by celebrity, though dem never prove am, na Pascal Okechukwu, wey people sabi as Cubana Chief Priest. EFCC arraign am on three counts of Naira abuse:

- Count One: On February 13, 2024, for Eko Hotel, Cubana Chief Priest dey accused of tampering with ₦500 notes by spraying dem for two hours during party.
- Count Two: For 2020, for Lagos, dem accuse am say he tamper with ₦500 notes by spraying dem for two hours during party.
- Count Three: For January 2024, for Lagos, dem accuse am say he tamper with ₦500 notes by spraying dem during party.

All dis offenses dey punishable under Section 21(1) of di Central Bank of Nigeria Act 2007.

On 17 April 2024, during arraignment, he plead not guilty to all charges. With di evidence no too strong, dem grant am ₦10 million bail and adjourn di case to later date.

Dis matter don cause serious debate on whether na EFCC or Police suppose dey prosecute Naira abuse offenders on behalf of CBN, some scholars dey reference di Supreme Court judgment for di landmark case of Nwobike v FRN (2022) 6 NWLR (Pt. 1826) pg. 293 and Section 46 of di EFCC Act 2004, wey state di functions of EFCC.

Conclusion

Sabi wetin be Naira abuse na serious matter. E good make we avoid am to prevent legal wahala. Future cases fit clear whether na EFCC or Police suppose dey handle Naira abuse prosecution.

You enjoy di gist? Abeg no go mess with Naira o! Di law no dey play.

Credit - Aliu Mohammed Mubarak

12/06/2024

Democracy Day Address.

Fellow citizens,

Today marks a significant milestone in our democratic journey as a nation. As we observe 25 years of uninterrupted civilian rule and the ushering in of the 4th Republic, let us continuously engage in activities that promote the advancement of our democracy—true democracy, which, in the words of Abraham Lincoln, is "the government of the people, by the people, and for the people."

Today also commemorates the June 12, 1993 elections, which Moshood Kashimawo Oluwale Abiola, popularly known by his initials M.K.O. Abiola, won by a landslide. However, he was denied victory, and the election was nullified by enemies of democracy. The June 12 election is considered the freest, fairest, and most peaceful election ever conducted in the history of Nigeria and possibly the globe. Unfortunately, subsequent elections have been marred by high levels of electoral fraud, malpractice, and violence. This once again signals the need for true patriots in positions of power and for all Nigerians to think of implementable, innovative ways to conduct free and fair elections where the results reflect the true will of the majority and are free from the influence and manipulation of any person or organization, no matter how powerful.

To those in positions of power and authority, be it in government institutions, private institutions, unions, and others, endeavor to deliver on your mandates to the absolute best of your capacity. Do not settle for the status quo and avoid mediocrity. As democracy suggests, put the interests of the general public first, and never engage in activities that jeopardize the welfare of Nigerians.

Finally, to all well-meaning Nigerians around the globe, friends of Nigeria, and all other parties, you are instrumental stakeholders in the growth and advancement of the nation. Please ensure that your actions reflect this responsibility.

Though methods may differ, together with intentionality, we will brainstorm, make inclusive contributions, and reach actionable compromises, all geared towards the betterment of our people and our nation.

God bless our democracy. God bless the Republic of Nigeria.

01/03/2024

Qui tacet consentive videtur
"He who is silent is deemed to Consent"

22/02/2024

"Ignorantia legis non excusat"

Ignorance of the law is no excuse.

25/10/2023

Forward Ever Backward Never,

Glory To God For Everything,

I Am +1 Today,

Happy Birthday To Me.

25/08/2023

Happiness is a choice.

20/08/2023

Tips For Having Great Health.

R-est
E-xercise
D-iet

20/08/2023

Education is necessary but skills are more pivotal.

Your degree/certificate can not make you wealthy especially when you rely on it. Your degree simply certifies that you are knowledgeable in a particular field. Moreover, so many students are studying wrong courses like Library science (no offence please) etc. The truth is that in this age we're in, those kinda wrong courses are definitely set backs and waste of time and resources because, reading these courses has no real life application, they are obsolete. The world has moved far beyond some of these courses you study in the university. So after the 4 yrs spent in the University plus extra 2-3yrs of ASUU strike, you become frustrated in the labour market with your Almighty Degree. But this tragedy can be averted by simply learning a SKILL.

"I'm a student"

This is the response so many students/youths give whenever they're asked, "What do you do?" Being a student is not a job!

These days, so many youths are going beyond their certificate to acquire wealth for themselves. Skills like Crypto, Affiliate Marketing, Digital Courses, Amazon KDP, Online Surveys and Test, Tech Courses, Copywriting, Blogging, Software Development, etc.

Learning high income skills empowers you with a unique set of capabilities that sets you apart from the labour market competition. It's like having a golden ticket to financial independence! You can't be owning a smartphone and laptop, and still be depending on urgent 2k from your peers or loan apps. There are so many ways you can be earning online with these devices you have. You need to see the massive results people are pulling from these online business by seating in the comfort of their homes. PEOPLE ARE NO LONGER WORKING HARD BUT WORKING SMART!

"But I have been scammed before, yen yen yen."

So you won't do anything serious with your life again because there was a time you were ignorant enough to get scammed. Just like saying, "I won't bath again because I bathed and got dirty." Whatever excuse is stopping you from joining an online business, please hold it tight. Poverty and hunger has a special way of dealing with those your excuses.

© Debbie Paul

08/08/2023

My Thoughts On The Alleged Nigerian-Nigerien War

It's funny how you've not quenched the fire in your house and you are getting involved with another.

Some days ago I woke up to the news of Nigeria wanting to get militarily involved in Niger Republic, what some experts have described as an 'attempt to invade Niger'.

In the words of Kwame Nkrumah, he said; only as United Africa can we beat the shackles of imperialism and become a truly prosperous world power one that would be built on the pillars of hope and love for humanity.

Looking closely at the series of coup d'etats in African countries such as Sudan, Mali, Guinea, Burkina Faso and just recently Niger republic, shows how any democracy embedded with high levels of bad governance and poor government delivery results in; 'the people rejoicing over their countries being taken over by the military'.
The popular opinion is that the citizens of the countries involved in these coups are happy that their countries were taken over by the military including Nigeriens.

In as much as a military government is not palatable in any way because it is built on the principles of absolutism and non democratic values, meaning that there is a high tendency for the abuse and neglection of human rights and privileges because the constitution meant to safeguard these rights is suspended, not recognized or rendered invalid.
Well the core battle should not be against military governments and its citizens but against corruption, mismanagement and incompetent power-hungry corrupt leaders/ power holders.

Even in countries that uphold the principles of absolutism such as the Gulf countries which mainly are absolute monarchies, have recorded significant progress governing-wise and in other areas like having thriving economies, countries such as Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Oman, Bahrain, Jordan and Kuwait etc.

There have also been what can be considered successful military regimes in Africa as well, such as the Thomas Sankara military regime of Burkina Faso which brought about good governance to Burkinabes and the Jerry Rawlings military regime of Ghana which brought about the elimination of corruption and corrupt power-hungry politicians. Though these regimes were military and autocratic in nature they still achieved immense success in the governing of their people.

In summary all I am saying is that, democracy and democratic systems of government are the best because the people have a say unlike it's autocratic counterparts were few power-holders dictate the affairs of the people and were the opposition is met with swift and strict responses including human rights abuses, illegal destruction of properties and unjustified loss of lives.

The recent coups in Africa should serve as a wake up call to remaining democracies to deliver to its fullest good governance for its people.

Nigeria getting involved in a war with Niger Republic from whatever angle you want to look at it would be a very bad idea. It will make us no different from the Western powers who use divisive tactics such as intimidation and war to effect its imperialist traits.

Nigeria cannot afford a war now, judging from statistics, our economy is in shambles, a war definitely require sponsoring, one that would affect our already strained economy.
Judging militarily we've not been able to completely secure our nation and this war would require us sending our troops, on that we are already militarily short-staffed.
Talking of "war gains", we are on the losing side, since a war is a multi-billion dollar industry, we have no weapon(s) producing firms to even start with, I mean we buy our weapons, so it will be stupidity on our part.
With regards to international law, a war with Niger would mean non-diplomatic interference in the internal affairs of another state, in other words trespassing or an invasion, which is a violation and one morally not right and unethical.
With regards to our reputation, a war would definitely lead to loss of lives and properties which in turn would give us a negative impression and damage our diplomatic relationships with some of our neighbors and probably set Africa backwards.
And finally going to war with a country that has not exerted any provocative acts against us, is reason enough to halt this war/invasion attempt.

I don't know the forces advising the president to take Nigeria to war against Niger but two things are for sure, it's either they are daft or they don't mean well for Nigeria and Africa.
I'd advise the president of Nigeria and the chairman of ECOWAS, you have two responsibilities, one as president of Nigeria and the other as chair of ECOWAS. Please be wise enough not to contradict these positions. As president of Nigeria, putting Nigeria first should be a priority and as chairman of ECOWAS I'd advice that you, the entire ECOWAS and all stakeholders involved take diplomatic approaches in form of dialogue, actionable compromises and mediation to respond, with an aim of resolving the conflict in Niger. To see to it that the country transitions to democracy in the soonest of time. To work with the government in ensuring investigations of past and present leaders/power holding officials and to take necessary persecutory steps in line with the outcome of the investigations. To take steps aimed at depoliticizing the military and to mediate the establishment of a government that will deliver good governance to its people. If need be, strike a deal with them, can be in form of a step by step removal of economic/trade embargos or trade partnerships and some other benefits as they progress in the agreed plan to transition to democracy.
Although it won't be easy and may take time but would be better than taking Nigeria to war.
Through this part everyone wins, which will translate into progress for Africa and leave our founding fathers proud where ever they are.

In conclusion I'll leave you with these words, "As Africa and Africans divided we fall, United we stand in the pursuit of achieving greater heights.

My name is Aliu M Mubarak, an enthusiastic human, a patriotic Nigerian and a hopeful African.

God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria,
God bless Africa and Africans,
God bless humanity.

11/07/2023

If not for the fear of condemnation (hell) , the reward of heaven or the benefits of serving God, most people will not be as religious as they are, but thanks to that we all have to an extent a safe world.
Just imagine a world with no religious limitations where everyone did as they pleased, the world would be a very brutal place.

05/07/2023

Being good is way different from being stupid,
Let the wise relate.

22/06/2023

Having a kind heart is a beautiful trait to possess. It means that you have the capacity to love and care for others, and to treat them with empathy and compassion. In a world that can often be cruel, having a kind heart can help to make the world a better place. However, it can also leave you vulnerable to being taken advantage of by others. So, how can you have a kind heart in a cruel world without being taken advantage of?

One way to protect yourself from being taken advantage of is to set boundaries. It's important to be clear about what you will and won't accept from others. This doesn't mean you have to be unkind or unfriendly, but rather that you have a clear sense of your own worth and what you are willing to tolerate. When you set boundaries, you are giving yourself the power to control how others treat you, and you are less likely to be taken advantage of.

Another way to avoid being taken advantage of is to be discerning about the people you allow into your life. Not everyone is worthy of your kindness and trust. It's important to be aware of red flags and to trust your instincts. If someone seems too good to be true, or if they ask for too much too soon, it's okay to say no or to take a step back.

It's also important to remember that being kind doesn't mean being a pushover. You can be kind and assertive at the same time. If someone is treating you unfairly, it's okay to speak up and let them know how you feel. You can do this in a respectful and compassionate way, while still standing up for yourself.

Finally, it's important to practice self-care. Taking care of yourself is not selfish, it's essential. When you prioritize your own well-being, you are better able to show up for others in a healthy and sustainable way. Self-care can mean different things for different people, but some examples include getting enough sleep, eating well, exercising, spending time in nature, and engaging in activities that bring you joy.

In conclusion, having a kind heart in a cruel world is possible, but it requires balance. By setting boundaries, being discerning about the people you allow into your life, being assertive when necessary, and practicing self-care, you can protect yourself from being taken advantage of while still making the world a better place with your kindness. Remember, your kindness is a gift, and it's up to you to decide how and when to share it.