Events in Africa have continued to move at break-neck speed. The moment one is trying to catch up with the intricacies of a particular episode in one part of the continent, something that is completely out of the box breaks from nowhere at the other end of Africa. Just as most people felt the presidential election re-run in Kenya was the only major knot for political analysts to unravel, the Supreme Court in Liberia, from nowhere, threw its own spanner into the impending presidential election run-off in that country. We have reports on the dicey situation in the two countries.
But in the two scenarios above, the scape-goat is the electoral umpire – the government agency charged with the responsibility of organizing elections. That is why we decided to beam the searchlight on Nigeria’s electoral umpire, INEC, in one of our Spotlight slots. Incidentally, INEC officials are getting ready to roll their sleeves and take center-stage in Anambra state on the 18th of this month during the state’s gubernatorial poll.
President Muhammadu Buhari of Nigeria is not known for delay and laxity. As a soldier, he cultivated the image of a man who likes action. Action first, may be, stories later. But in this particular situation, he got everyone confused. As the outcry grew louder, the man finally did the expected. If you think we are speaking in parable, click on the report about Buhari finally swinging the hammer.
The Ivoirien leader, Allasane Ouattara, has been on the road for the better part of last forth-night. He has been to Guinea, Ghana and Nigeria, preaching regional peace and integration. News in Africa Online seems to have followed him closely. You will soon see why.
There are more women than men in Africa. But there are more men in the African work places. The reasons are obvious. What is, however, worrisome is that while some countries are working towards bridging the yawning gap, others seem satisfied with the status quo. One does not have to be a feminist to raise an eyebrow on the matter. Gender inequality in the work place is what we entitled our report.
African policy makers are appreciating the contributions of artistes and musicians to the cause of civilization. Our Personality Profile slot is creditably occupied by a foremost musicologist, Oko Drammeh of The Gambia. We are proud of his international accomplishments.
In Sports, the clock is ticking towards the time for CAF to name its 2017 African Footballer. Nigeria’s Victor Moses has been nominated. He is a strong contender. Many people feel it will be welcome for a Nigerian to win the highly coveted award. Michel Obi has been twice nominated but fell short of making it.
The regulars – Agriculture, Politics, ICT, Economy, Business, Crime, Entertainment, Health – are available as usual. Cheers.
Pat I. Chukwuelue
Editor-in-Chief
