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How Over 360 Pro-Government Groups Sprang Up Under Buhari, Hinder Constructive Criticisms – Study

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4 years ago

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The report stated that of the number given, about 90 per cent began operating in and around the capital, Abuja, since 2015.

A study has revealed that there are presently about 360 pro-government non-governmental organisations in Nigeria who thrive on government funding to champion illiberal causes and stop calls for reforms.

The study was conducted by Matthew Page, a non-resident scholar with the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace.

It separated mainstream NGOs — those that seek to advance democratic values and defend human rights — from pro-government NGOs that defend corrupt, insensitive, or abusive acts.

The study said such groups are now over 360 under President Muhammadu Buhari’s government.

It, however, explained that many unregistered NGOs also do important work, deriving legitimacy from their local impact or niche focus.

The study said, “In the run-up to Abacha’s 1998 self-succession bid, more than 150 other such groups sprang up all across Nigeria, including the National Mass Movement of Nigeria, 21st Generation, Vision ’98, the National Movement for Peace and Stability, and the Northern Elders Forum.

“These pro-Abacha groups were also said to have attacked potential dissenters and played a prominent role in blunting grassroots opposition to authoritarian rule.

“They acted as a counterweight to pro-democracy NGOs like the Civil Liberties Organisation, Constitutional Rights Project, and the Transition Monitoring Group, many of whom were sustained by international support.

“However, after the Abacha regime, some of Nigeria’s pro-government NGOs lost both their reason for existing and their source of financing. Most groups evaporated overnight; others tried to reinvent themselves as the country’s political power networks rapidly realigned.”

In Nigeria’s early stages of democracy, it said, the activities of pro-government NGOs reached a low ebb particularly under presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and Umaru Yar’Adua.

However, since the Buhari regime, pro-government NGO activity is said to have skyrocketed with more than 360 pro-government NGOs.

The report stated that of the number given, about 90 per cent began operating in and around the capital, Abuja, since 2015.

“This surge is unlikely to be coincidental, given that pro-government NGOs rely on senior officials—albeit often indirectly—for guidance and funding.

“It may also be the result of a deliberate but unspoken strategy on the part of a handful of the ruling party and military elites to resuscitate a familiar political tool, used during previous periods of democratic retrenchment to dilute civil society and international criticism.”

The study alleged that the Independent National Electoral Commission has always been ready to accredit little-known groups as official domestic election observers without a proper research.

Page noted that these NGOs tend to target a similar set of perceived adversaries such as “Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch for their work on human rights abuses in Nigeria; Transparency International, especially its annual Corruption Perception Index, in which Nigeria consistently ranks poorly; international media organizations such as CNN, the BBC, and Reuters; and anti-government groups such as the Islamic Movement of Nigeria and the Indigenous People of Biafra”.

The study said Ali Abacha, the younger brother of former dictator Sani Abacha, has been identified as one of Nigeria’s most seasoned pro-government NGO leaders.

He is said to be linked to at least five such groups, one of which is the Northern Patriotic Front (NPF), which still operates 23 years after it first made headlines by advocating in favour of Sani Abacha’s self-succession bid.

Page suggested that media houses verify the status of NGOs before covering such events.

Culled from the Sahara Reporters

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Houston Gets a Taste of West Africa at Chef Kavachi’s ‘Art of Fufu’ Show, August 8

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2 months ago

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July 30, 2025

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When it comes to international culinary gems and cultures across the United States, the city of Houston is counted among one of the best places to experience an authentic taste of every corner of the world.

 On the evening of Friday, August 8th, Houstonians will have a chance to engage all of their senses into the world of real West African flavors at Grubido’s ‘Art of Fufu’ Food & Art Show, a free culinary and art experience taking place at Flatland Gallery (1709 Westheimer Rd.) in Montrose.

  Curated by Grubido founder and Culinary Cultural Curator Kavachi Ukegbu, the annual celebration of west African cuisine and artistry will once again open its doors to patrons to witness the delights of creating and eating Fufu (a starchy, dough-like food that is a staple in many West and Central African countries), and its delicious and diverse pairings of soups and stews that originate from various parts of the continent, and uniquely compliment the beloved food staple as a complete meal. The event will also celebrate the observance of National Fufu Day  in the United States on August 11th.

  From the process of how different types of fufu are grown and manufactured, to the careful guidance on properly preparing the fufu to be eaten, the ‘Art of Fufu’ Food & Art showcase will give patrons a full circle perspective and appreciation for the food staple that has gained global popularity on social media and in many countries around the world.

  Attendees will be treated to fufu and soup samples, live Afrobeats music, an impressive display of fufu inspired artwork and collectables from over the years, and the opportunity to purchase Grubido food products, t-shirts, and the official The Art of Fufu cookbook. Originally published and released by Chef Kavach in 2021, “The Art of Fufu is a fascinating and informative guide to fufu, one of the most delicious and beloved staple foods of West Africans.” All cookbook purchases at the event will be signed by Chef Kavachi.

Entry for this event is free to all guests, but RSVP is strictly required in advance. To RSVP for the upcoming Art of Fufu Food & Art show, please visit the official website online at www.TheArtofFufu.com, or contact Grubido at (832) 818-6847.

The Art of Fufu Cookbook is a culinary treasure that explores the flavors, techniques, and cultural significance of fufu. It is a testament to the artistry of West African cuisine and serves as a guide for those seeking to immerse themselves in this beloved dish.

For more information, please visit www.theartoffufu.com & www.artoffufu.com

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Video: Omambala Cultural Association in Houston Celebrates Motherhood with Joyous Igbo-Inspired Mother’s Day Event

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4 months ago

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May 11, 2025

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Omambala Association in Houston Celebrates Motherhood with Joyous Mother’s Day Event

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4 months ago

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May 11, 2025

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HOUSTON, TEXAS – May 5, 2025 — The Omambala Cultural Association in Houston hosted a vibrant and heartfelt Mother’s Day celebration on Sunday evening at the Igbo Catholic Community Hall on Creekbend. The event brought together families and community members to honor the enduring strength, love, and sacrifices of mothers within the Igbo community.

Led by the association’s president, Ichelle Awkuzu, the Isaaka of Igboland, the gathering featured prayers, cultural music, dance, and speeches dedicated to celebrating motherhood. Awkuzu described the event as a moment of reflection and appreciation for mothers, emphasizing their central role in shaping families and preserving cultural values.

The association’s president, Ichelle Awkuzu, the Isaaka of Igboland, addressing the group.

 

Celebrants celebrate at the Omambala Cultural Association’s Mother’s Day celebration on Sunday evening at the Igbo Catholic Community Hall in Houston.

 

Celebrants

“Mothers are the heartbeat of our homes and the foundation of our culture,” Awkuzu said, urging attendees to honor and support mothers every day, not just on special occasions.

The celebration included lively performances of traditional Igbo music and dance, homemade meals prepared by members, and the presentation of thoughtful gifts to each mother in attendance. Vice President Chief Ugochukwu Chukwuka, known as Omemma Igbo, also delivered remarks, recognizing the vital role of mothers in nurturing future generations.

Photo from left_ Vice President of the group, Chief Ugochukwu Chukwuka – Omemma Igbo, and the President, Ichelle Awkuzu, the Isaaka of Igboland.

The evening was filled with laughter, music, and shared memories, reinforcing the communal spirit that defines the Omambala Cultural Association. Elders and youth alike participated in storytelling sessions and interactive cultural activities, creating a multigenerational experience that underscored the importance of preserving Igbo heritage. Several attendees expressed appreciation for the sense of belonging and cultural pride the event fostered.

The Omambala Cultural Association Inc. is a community-based organization representing people from the Old Anambra Local Government Area in Anambra State, Nigeria. It remains committed to promoting cultural education, unity, and socio-economic development for Igbo people in the diaspora and beyond.

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