Mid-way into November, we seem to have suddenly realized that Africa will not remain in slumber forever. Complacency may reign supreme but it will only last for a while. Let us start from Nigeria. President Muhammadu Buhari was fond of the saying – To whom less is given, less should be required; meaning that he could shun the Southeast zone permanently because the Igbos voted against him in 2015. But can he? Is he not the President of the entire Nigeria? And an important election is afoot tomorrow in Anambra State. So, he had to climb down from Aso Rock to politic in Ebonyi and Awka. That is the way it should be. News in Africa Online is right on the money.
Want more on complacency? Yes, we turn to Zimbabwe, where the unthinkable is now happening. One of Africa’s longest-serving dictators, Robert Mugabe, is receiving the shock of his life. The 93-year old war veteran is under house arrest. Young soldiers who had stood for decades in awe of their Commander-in-Chief are telling the big boss that it is time to step aside. Mugabe has been in power since 1980 when the former Southern Rhodesia became independent under the new name, Zimbabwe. He tends to believe that God ordained him to lead Zimbabwe forever. We captured this earth-shaking development.
The unfolding event in Zimbabwe is likely to cause ripple effects in neighbouring Uganda. Opposition groups have taken to the streets in defiance of the forces of regression who want President Yoweri Museveni, in power since 1986, to transmute to a life president. Let the remaining sit-tight rulers in Africa take heed. The tanks are coming.
The UN marks two major health issues in November. First, there was World Pneumonia Day and later, World Diabetes Day. Africa can benefit immensely by reflecting on the rationale for establishing the two days. It is simply to draw global attention to the scourge of the health conditions to humanity, especially in the developing world. Browse through our report on pneumonia.
Ordinarily, it makes sense that Africans should be able to travel to countries in their continent without entry visas. Many groups are concerned about bringing this about, and they are expressing their views. We zeroed in on the issue.
Defence pacts and military alliances are not bad, per se. But the motives for joining them should be clear and positive. World War 1 and 2 were caused by the intricacies involved in the blind pursuit of alliances. So we raised questions on the expansion of the EU Military alliance in Europe. If it is only to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with NATO, the world should better watch it.
Italy is a football giant. No doubt about it. Those who say that the World Cup is a two-horse race between Europe and South America, actually have Italy (as well as Germany) in mind, on one hand, and on the other hand, Brazil and Argentina. Italy has won the trophy a record four times, but Italy will not be in Russia 2018. Wonders shall never end. Little known Sweden denied her the chance. The times are exciting.
Be sure to see our regulars as usual. Ours is a one-stop shop. Feel at home.
Pat I. Chukwuelue
Editor-in-Chief
