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Abba Kyari: The trouble with Nigerian Police

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By Kene Obiezu

SIR: Nigeria is not exactly a police state but it is perilously close to being one because the police wield so much power and act with so much impunity. The EndSARS protests which erupted out of nowhere and  sent chills down the corridors of power last year were a telling testament to the depth of the frustration which average Nigerians feel  towards the Police.

The protests which shook the country to its core forced the government to act, and the police authorities to critically examine its ranks and modus operandi. But for all its gains, many Nigerian feel a deep sense of loss over the protests as there have been very little fruits, but especially as innocent blood was let at the Lekki toll gate killings.

Because Nigerians regard the police with more suspicion and even outright disgust than affection, news involving police officers, even when they are perilous are often met with muted celebrations. For  a whole lot of Nigerians, each time a police officer runs into a professional hazard in the course of duty, there is cause for celebration.

The sad irony of the whole situation is that while a cross-section of sensible Nigerians loathe the Police for their high-handedness and lack of professionalism, there is also a good number of Nigerian criminals who would rather the country is unpoliced and citizens left  without any form of security. This is because in spite of their many failings, the police keep criminals on their toes. The police still do its bit no matter how little in seems in a country engulfed by insecurity like a hurricane.

It is also public knowledge that the rampant corruption which seems to infect the rank and file of the Nigeria Police like uncurable leprosy is in no small measure fuelled by the appallingly atrocious  apathy with which successive administrations in Nigeria have treated police welfare. It is pretty common knowledge that once a police officer in Nigeria falls in the line of duty, their family is mostly left to its own devices with very few exceptions.

Nigerians have recently been inundated with the predicament of Abba Kyari, a Deputy Commissioner of Police  nicknamed “ supercop” for his exploits and antics. The iron irony of  one who on countless occasions declared others now being wanted himself by no less than the American Federal Bureau of Investigation has not been lost on many.

Abba Kyari has been suspended by the Nigeria Police pending the outcome of investigations. While the threat of looming extradition hangs over his neck like the sword of Damocles, Nigerians have been sharply divided into two camps of those who baulk at the attempts by the United States of America to “whittle” down  the sovereignty  of Nigeria, the largest black country on earth; and those who have no doubt  that it is the chickens that have come home to roost for Abba Kyari,  long accused of a litany of  brutalities against Nigerians.

When Hushpuppi an internet fraudster and hero to countless young Nigerians left with nothing to look forward to but the promise of a big pay day from internet fraud was arrested and put on trial in the United States of America, Nigeria‘s long suffering  image  went into another round of  trial.  Now that Abba Kyari, one of the more popular faces of the Nigeria Police, has been dragged into Hushpuppi‘s hell on allegations of receiving proceeds of fraud to set the law in motion against a perceived enemy, Nigerians know that the other shoe  has dropped.

As Nigeria continues to struggle to live up to its limitless potentials, Nigerian institutions, long fingered as the harbingers and hosts of corruption, have done irritatingly little to show that they are up to the task of nation building. Kyari’s predicament puts  Nigeria‘s Police Force firmly in the eye of the storm and confirms the worst fears of those who believe that the Police in Nigeria employs many insufferable ingrates  who would rather rob Peter to pay Paul. Nigeria is truly an Augean stable. Even Hercules will quake in his boots at the prospect of cleaning it.

Culled from the Nation News Nigeria

 

Houston

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

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

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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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