Wednesday, May 20, 2015
Dark Feel
Wednesday, April 01, 2015
#NigeriaDecided
Thursday, December 18, 2014
WHAT IS CORRUPTION? HOW DO I CONTRIBUTE DAILY? IS IT EXPEDIENT TO LEAVE ERADICATING IT TO POLITICIANS?
The corruption menace is greater than any one citizen can fix, it is a foreign culture that our forefathers adopted, a mindset that is nurtured in the entire development process of the Nigerian system, at home, school, places of worship, society, and workplace. Even the holiest saint finds ways to justify allowances for corruption as God's favors. We continue to whitewash corruption instead of take responsibility and nib it in the bud.
I think a genuine effort in finding lasting solution might lie in defining the various forms of corruption that exist in our society, only afterwards should the ones without sin can cast the first stone. It appears that for many, corruption is only bad when it does not benefit them directly; if the benefits trickle down to them then it is interpreted otherwise.
Most of my respondents who are distressed by the current trend even acknowledged that if given the opportunity, they would also steal a little of public funds but cover up their tracks with phantom projects, etc.
We can wait another 30 years for Buhari, or any other saint, to attempt to tackle the stronghold of corruption in Nigeria but it will be a wasted effort until we recognize the role that all the stakeholders, especially the common citizen in Nigeria, plays in nurturing our celebrated corruption culture.
Attacking corruption from the ground up will yield most manageable and sustainable results. All the various forms of corruption must be highlighted in our early development stage and tackled to build character. There is more to corruption than the political or fiscal aspects.
With the power structure in Nigeria's democracy, even the best solo efforts to eradicate corruption will face legal/illegal frustrations by power-brokers. Our politicians thrive most in these corrupt setting, they are not the best guys to expunge it.
If we are serious, the power to fight corruption must rely on the common man, our institutions and the law to define and drive the fair change we seek.
Friday, December 12, 2014
Forward Nigeria?
Are they more interested in a mere power shift/status-quo salvation or do they genuinely have something different to offer? I am yet to be convinced.
PDP's performance under Jonathan may be less than satisfactory but there is one thing they seem to be doing right - focusing on sustainable gains rather than resort to quick fixes(sharp-sharp attitude) Nigerians are addicted to. Rebuilding a shaky foundation, like Nigeria will take considerable efforts and discomforts.
I have always maintained that Nigeria's current bottlenecks is a function of the poor/unsustainable foundations our fathers built on and we stubbornly continue the trend, praying for miracles/messiahs to keep the house from falling. We are part of that foundation and our values, customs, perspectives have to be realigned and empowered by the absolute truth.
The task of rebuilding Nigerian values is enormous; presidents/politicians alone cannot be entrusted with such responsibilities so we have the people, the grassroots, the agencies, the institutions, the constitution, etc as a more sustainable means of leadership.
Nigeria will be much better when we shun finger-pointing at those we carelessly surrender our power to and realize that the REAL power is in our hands - We as a people are the KINGMAKERS.
Individually, we can sow seeds to eliminate the 'Nobody' stigma and make every citizen proud to be included as a valuable stakeholder in the Nigerian commonwealth. You can be a palm wine tapper but if you also wish and apply yourself, you can become the president or influence it adequately.
Until I am otherwise convinced, I support Jonathan not because he is PDP; but because he best identifies with my current realities and the hope of the common Nigerian - a symbol of hope and equal opportunities for all citizens regardless of their ethnic, economic or social status. I best identify with his message, mistakes, and seeming slow progress rather than that of those who merely seem committed to preserve the status-quo and ignore inputs from our rich diversities.
Jonathan may not be Nigeria's best offering, but if we choose a tired, old, former military dictator as the only credible alternative then, we need to ask ourselves tougher questions about our resolve to move forward.
Friday, November 07, 2014
Money Trees – Shine Your Eyes!
Wednesday, November 05, 2014
Be Yourself - Grow Dependently, Change Independently
Sunday, November 02, 2014
No Promises
Friday, January 31, 2014
Human vs. Cultural Rights
Saturday, January 25, 2014
The First Time
Thursday, January 23, 2014
LGBT
Until recently, I have come to realise that I inadvertently delay judgement in order to cope with the increasing pressure to bow to controversial populist views of the status-quo; or empathize with victims of marginalization.
On the issue of the recent anti-gay legislation in Nigeria, once again, I delay my judgement.
However, I wish to remind those openly supporting or disavowing the polity, to be aware of the risk that this law might pose to the freedom of the many other minorities that make up Nigeria.
Because it seems to be a popular legislation, does not mean that we should sacrifice other hard-earned civil liberties alongside it. Everybody must be carried along.
It can be argued that there are other equally popular views in Nigeria that are yet to be legislated, or enforced, but seem to be blatantly ignored, why this one...why now?
For the absolute 'rule of law' to prevail in our democracy, populist, or any segmented views or interpretations must be secondary.
If we refer to the constitution as base for our laws, we must refrain from celebrating, or condoning any misplaced, or contradicting laws that serves only to promote political, religious, and/or cultural views and agenda while; rubbishing the basic constitutional and human rights of Nigerian citizens.
2015 seems too soon, It appears that we have given up our right to decide our fate, as a democratic nation. We also stand a risk of eventually losing a lot more!
Popular guys with misplaced priorities, who gamble with the basic needs of the majority and; seem oblivious to the importance of protecting the rights of the minorities, must not win this war.
It is high time that well meaning, new-generation Nigerians be actively involved in managing the diversity of cultures, religions, and all the complexities that makes up Nigeria.
Stop sacrificing your rights and freedom to popular theories and mediocre politicians.The risk of being mere observers and complainers, as we often come to realise, is too far too severe to be ignored!
Saturday, January 18, 2014
Praying-Mantis - Oh My God!
Monday, July 26, 2010
Happy Birthday
Happy birthday
Throughout every lunar year
Happy birthday
This is my turn to hear
Happy birthday
How beautiful the charm,
the thrill a two word can bring,
the two worlds that bridge;
in spite of distance, of differences,
of hardships, and silence.
The awareness that certain angels
though plagued by countless commitments,
are keeping tabs on you
and always remember to recite -
as religion or ‘facebook’ requirement,
“Happy birthday”!
Every month of every year,
Only because we are so dear
©Ub Matthews - 260710
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
Marc Residence for Sale
First of all, to own any of such properties with such proximity to KLCC, one must be prepared to fork out a substantial amount of money so; it is not a project for the lower or middle income earners.
Marc Service Residence is one of those sprawling new projects delivered by a local developer, Beverly Tower Development. Although the developer might not be a household name, track record has proven their ability to deliver such projects with a high degree of success.
Aside from the exorbitant cost of owning a unit in the Marc Residence, there are other salient or obvious factors that one using to purchase such properties may consider.
Traffic
Except one works or has business within walking distance from the Marc Residence, traffic issues that KL is almost always burdened with might be a major turn-off to owning a property there. Of course, there are many alternative transportation solutions like the KLCC Light Rail Train that is 5 minutes away by foot and other shuttle systems that are available. One just has to know beforehand the accessibility and transportation options available.
Noise
KL is almost close to being dubbed as the city that never sleeps and this might pose major discomfort to Marc Residence Owners depending on their lifestyle. Noise that comes from the buzzing traffic; from the Glomac Tower construction site – which on completion will block the view from some Marc Residence units; the numerous Pubs and Clubs that adorn the area; the numerous business and human activities that are present in this area; could make owning the Marc Residence a very un-pleasurable experience. For investor with a primary need for serenity, peace and quiet Marc Residence is certainly not a good investment option.
Aside from the few setbacks caused by the above named factors, Marc Residence is still a choice residential property for many reasons. Visit http://www.propwall.my/klcc/marc_service_residence/classifieds to find out the many privileges of being one of the proud owners of the Marc Residence.
Wednesday, January 06, 2010
Now
There was a then, that’s just how things were
There is a now; I do things a li’l bit differently
There was a season that I held unto reason
Most were hidden but still, they were reasons
There were times I worried about things I could or couldn’t change;
Believed in the possibility of countless possibilities
There were times that I wanted and got
The other times I needed and naught
There were times I ‘massed, there were times I maxed
There were many times, there were merry times
This time, if only for this moment,
I will only enjoy this now, and do just nothing!
©Ub Matthews - 060110
Friday, January 01, 2010
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Disguised
Once she comes, the wanton bird,
She clings to many-many handsome men,
She brings her fairy god-mother’s tale,
And clips the wings of hapless men.
Once he comes, the worthless man,
He blinds her eyes with shimmering bling,
He clothes her mind with seemingly bliss,
And strips her soul of dignity’s piece.
Once she comes, the wanton bird,
She plays the ’Hail Mary’ medley piece,
She sings until she breaks her bill,
And flies away to other means.
©Ub Matthews - 261009
Thursday, September 24, 2009
the boy or girl
You are a boy in a funny shirt
And, I wear my skirts rolled, twice at the waist
We are at odds, but we must have our reasons
We are strangers with contrasting views
We sit two at a table of four
We talk loud, but no one hears each other
It isn’t arrogance or deniable truth
It isn’t anything that ever was, and will be
It is fact that there are two empty red, plastic chairs by the corner
I confess, on some days,
I tug at these strings more anxiously than I should
With more desire than I would dare loose on you
I wait breathless to feel the air suck me close to you
I wait for time that comes and ensnares me dearly
I pray for a table, the one with the two red, plastic chairs
I might just be a crazy girl with trembling arms
Holding up both ends of the rope
I might just be living a two man’s life,
But, if you are what you love and not what loves you back
Then maybe, I am the boy who likes funny shirts
And you, fold your skirts twice at the waist.
©Ub Matthews et Anis Syahirah – 240909
Saturday, August 01, 2009
The Life
The sky changed its mood again and blackness colored the once cherry sun.
The distant chime of midnight sways with the wind,
Carrying along whispered prayers to the night.
Once again a day bows in exit,
I lie awake; my mind wanders, lost in the galaxies,
A thousand bright eyes staring down on me
Did they awake just to watch me sleep?
Are the angels really watching over me?
With eyes wide shut, I begin to slip
Deep, deep into oblivion…
One time went by, and two is almost done
Tomorrow merges with the past, and,
Once again I am caught, gathering up pieces of a life
One that passes as swiftly as the evening shadows
Leaving only warm memories as company by nightfall
The good life – I think, the good life – I think
The Good One I thank for the good life I’ve lived.
©Ub M - 010809
Saturday, June 27, 2009
A tribute to Micheal
….you lived, you died, now you’ll just live in our hearts, may more men like you be born.
Friday, June 12, 2009
June 12th
Most Nigerians and perhaps West Africans would be familiar with this date. Something to do with democracy, elections and Moshood Abiola, the stupendously rich bloke that could have been Nigeria’s democratically, free and fairly elected president after long years of military rule.
Who knows what path Nigeria would have taken if that happened? Maybe we could have been better off with him or perhaps, running in circles still, we’ll never know!
The elections was held no doubt, peaceful and un-rigged, first of it’s kind in Nigeria, he probably won, but he was never president for one day! He was mapped!
Couldn’t care the less about politics just yet, it’s just that I needed to post something here today just to tell myself that I tried and my dormant head reminded me of a date that I haven’t thought about in more than 5years.
Couldn’t be bothered using my head today,if it needs to time-out, let it rest all it wants!