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The Endsars Movement May Not Be Relevant At the End

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5 years ago

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“Social change is political by its very nature and you cannot make social change without politics. ” ―Ebuka Onyekwelu

The Endsars movement is now making its second strategic and fundamental error, which will ultimately result in the group gaining almost nothing from its struggle. The first error was its demand for too much sudden change at the same time and now, it is making its second costly error, though, for the most part, it is not surprising because of the nature of the movement.

The group which started by demanding an end to SARS as a unit of the Nigeria police force quickly gained momentum yielding hundreds of thousands of followers across Nigeria and beyond, to the movement. So understandably, the government was rattled and the group’s request was granted after the government weighed its options and reconsidered its initial stance for reform of SARS. However, gradually, EndSars metamorphosed into diverse other credible demands which simply cannot be realized at once, still shrouded in the Endsars campaign. But this is not the making of the organizers of the group as they merely flowed in the direction the masses who matched across different cities in the country wanted. Here, again, is a demonstration of critical shortfall in the essence of organizations like this.

The challenge of populist movements is in the thinking that what inspired the movement will mainstream it, or maybe sustain it to be enthroned. Put differently, there is a fundamental error in the thinking of populist organisations that it can rely on populism to unseat a government and then institute its own government. This error is better appreciated when we consider that good governance is not necessarily about what the majority wants. In fact, a government that simply does what the people want can hardly do any good. What do Nigerians want for instance? Well, we can sum it up as “give them money”. That is; share the budgetary allocations to the citizens directly in cash. No matter how crazy this sounds, it is not far from what most Nigerians want. And so there is a particular challenge that is difficult to maneuver with movements like Endsars and that challenge is mostly about how to engage the state and the government. Hence, populist movements often run against cause, eventually getting into a war with the state and the government.

From the beginning, these movements out of their populist posturing and its nature to please “the people”, treat government as an enemy, instead of a partner and that’s why it is usually difficult for them to work with the government now or in the future. Typical, not just Nigerians, but many people around the world genuinely think government is their problem. So generally, any populist movement is first against the government and never willing to reconsider its stance because its whole essence is built around that singular narrative. We also see that most times, these movements are unable to mentally distinguish the state and the government, just about for the same reason Plato had regarded democracy as a mob rule. A mob does not have the capacity to think strategically.

 If anything, the Lagos experience is again that the movement ought to take and build on.

The rejection of the Endsars movement of the efforts by the Lagos State Government to placate the ugly and unfortunate Lekki Tollgate events of 2020, is a major strategic error. Aside from Lagos, there were tens of Endsars panels of inquiry in different states. In states where the panel has since ceased to sit or was not even set up at all, what has the movement done? Nothing. If they never sit till the end of time, what will the movement do? Nothing. Lagos is the only state where the panel not only completed its mandate but also where there are efforts to address real issues in connection thereto with the whitepaper, even if grossly inadequate. Nothing is heard of the other about twenty-six states whose panels of inquiry on police brutality are said to have completed their assignment.  If anything, the Lagos experience is again that the movement ought to take and build on. The report and even the whitepaper are clearly far from being perfect. But there are some gains. Accept the gains, go to the table and talk, then keep making further demands. Eventually, get into public office and do it yourself. Truth is, the experience of the Lagos government with the panel will shape the political behaviour of political actors in matters of this nature, moving forward, and it is a clear minus.

Social change is political by its very nature and you cannot make social change without politics. It is even worse when the changes you are demanding can only be made by political means. But again, this is the problem with populism, but as we know, the movement eventually begins to lose stem and only disappears over time.

If the Endsars movement is serious, it must work with what it has. This also applies to agitators for several rights and privileges.  You cannot make a lasting impression on the politics and governance of a state, how a society is organised and your stake in the scheme of things as a group or individual, without political means. Therefore, the strategic focus must be to take advantage of any foothold given as bait to mainstream and advance your purpose, as a group or individual.

The fact is that no government anywhere in the world will conform to too much demand for change at once. No group anywhere no matter the justice of their cause can have their way without mainstreaming their cause by political means. Until then, no serious government anywhere in the world will deal with a group or individual with the respect and dignity accorded to state authorities because, no matter the formidability of their followership, they are still non-state actors and cannot be duly trusted.

♦ Ebuka Onyekwelu, strategic governance exponent,  is a columnist with the WAP

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Houston

Membership Surge Continues as Dr. Nkem Ugwu Joins People’s Club

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2 days ago

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September 20, 2026

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Following a successful induction ceremony, the First International Branch continues to attract new members drawn to its tradition of friendship, service, culture, and community

SUGAR LAND, TEXAS — The Sugar Land People’s Club of Nigeria International (SLPCNI) is continuing its membership expansion following its recently concluded induction ceremony, with Dr. Nkem Ugwu becoming one of the latest community members to join the organization.

Ugwu, a Sugar Land resident originally from Nsukka, Enugu State, Nigeria, is an entrepreneur and mother of three sons, a mother-in-law, and a grandmother. She describes service to others, family, and community engagement as important parts of her personal and professional life.

Grand Patron Ide Obinna Nnanyelugo Mbachu addressing the September Conference of the Sugar Land PCNI

Her membership comes on the heels of the branch’s successful bi-annual induction ceremony, during which 16 new members were formally sworn in by PCNI National President Atty. Fidelis Onyebueke. The celebration attracted national leaders, patrons, and members representing branches from across the People’s Club network.

Photo from left: Hon. Chief Sir Michael Okeke; Hon. Anaeto Okakpu “Oranwezuluaku”; Grand Patron Ide Obinna Nnanyelugo Mbachu; Hon. Dr. Nkem Ugwu ; Hon. Prof. Chris Ulasi, Group Chairman; Hon. Chief, Sir Basil Mbuba; Hon. Chief Sir Dr. Uche Egbuchuam “Akudo World Wide.”

Ugwu said joining the organization provides an opportunity to develop meaningful relationships while contributing to its mission.

“I am truly excited and honored to join the prestigious People’s Club of Nigeria International, Sugar Land Branch. I look forward to getting to know fellow members, building lasting friendships, and becoming actively involved in this vibrant and welcoming community. I am especially drawn to the Club’s tradition of fellowship, service, and mutual support, and I hope to contribute my experience, energy, and passion for serving others to its continued growth.”

Grand Patron Ide Obinna Nnanyelugo Mbachu welcomed Ugwu, describing continued interest in membership as encouraging for the historic First International Branch.

Membership Chairperson Hon. Chief Udoji Achebe and Hon. Ndidi Chidume

“When people of accomplishment and community spirit continue to identify with our organization, it tells us that the values upon which People’s Club was built remain relevant. We welcome Dr. Ugwu and look forward to the experience and fellowship she brings to our family.”

Hon. Prof. Chris Ulasi, Group Chairman, said the branch’s recent induction helped showcase an organization that continues to combine Nigerian cultural heritage with community engagement in Houston.

“Our successful induction created tremendous enthusiasm, but our focus goes beyond ceremonies. We are building a stronger organization rooted in friendship, responsibility and service. Dr. Ugwu’s decision to join reflects that continuing momentum.”

One of the meeting hosts, Hon. Professor Keih George, introduces the co-meeting hosts.

Membership Chairperson Hon. Chief Udoji Achebe said the branch remains interested in individuals prepared to participate actively in its programs and fellowship.

“Membership is about belonging, but it is equally about participation and contribution. We are delighted to welcome Dr. Ugwu and other prospective members who share the principles and aspirations of People’s Club.”

For SLPCNI, the growing interest following its induction represents another chapter in the evolution of a branch with a special place in the organization’s history.

And for Ugwu, it marks the beginning of a new journey—one centered on friendship, community, and service.

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Houston

Membership Interest Soars After Sugar Land People’s Club’s Successful Induction

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2 weeks ago

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September 8, 2026

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Branch considers annual induction as August celebration of prestige, culture and comradeship inspires growing community interest

HOUSTON, TEXAS — Membership requests to the Sugar Land Branch of People’s Club of Nigeria International (PCNI) have risen significantly following its successful August induction ceremony, prompting the organization to consider making the event an annual affair.

Group Chairman, Hon. Prof. Chris Ulasi, confirmed the surge in interest, saying the branch has received numerous inquiries from prospective members since the ceremony that formally admitted 16 new members to the organization.

“The response since the induction has been remarkable. We have seen a significant increase in people asking about membership and how they can become part of the People’s Club family,” Ulasi said. “Many of them attended the event or heard about it afterward and were impressed by the fellowship, dignity, cultural pride, and genuine comradeship they witnessed.”

Ulasi said the development, including a possible change from the current bi-annual induction arrangement to an annual ceremony, would be discussed at the branch’s September general meeting.

The renewed interest in membership comes on the heels of an elaborate induction that attracted national officers, patrons, branch chairmen, members, and guests from across the People’s Club family.

National President, Atty. Fidelis Onyebueke, who presided over the swearing-in of the 16 inductees, described the event as a total success and commended the Sugar Land Branch, PCNI’s First International Branch, for what he called an exceptional celebration of fellowship, culture, service, and unity.

During the formal ceremony, each inductee was invited to the podium to take the membership oath and receive a certificate from the national president, who was assisted by PCNI Attorney Chukwuka John Ukadike.

Beyond the admission of new members, however, the event offered guests a public display of the traditions that have historically defined the People’s Club: prestige, love, service, and comradeship. Those characteristics were reflected throughout the ceremony, from the reception of national officers and interaction among members to the formal induction, cultural presentation, and extended social celebration that followed.

Grand Patron, Ide Obinna Nnanyelugo Mbachu, said the growing interest in membership was an indication that the organization’s values resonated with guests who experienced the event.

“What people witnessed was the character of People’s Club—the love among members, respect for one another, willingness to serve, and the comradeship that brings us together,” Mbachu said. “Prestige is not simply about appearance; it is about how we conduct ourselves and how we treat people. When the community sees those values demonstrated, it is understandable that others would want to become part of the organization.”

The cultural presentation was among the most visible features of the evening. Women members and associates appeared in coordinated traditional attire featuring red-pinkish blouses with matching head ties and white wrappers bearing the PCNI logo. The men wore all-white outfits complemented by customized PCNI cap pins and distinctive PCNI sashes worn as neckpieces.

The coordinated appearance created a colorful expression of Nigerian cultural identity while reinforcing the sense of unity that characterized the gathering.

As the formal program concluded, the ceremony transitioned into an extended social celebration. Members, inductees, and guests shared food and drinks before taking to the dance floor, with music and festivities continuing into the early hours of Sunday.

The presence of members and officials from different branches also gave the ceremony broader significance for Sugar Land, whose status as the First International Branch places it prominently in PCNI’s history outside Nigeria.

For Ulasi, however, the strongest indication of the event’s impact came afterward, as inquiries from prospective members continued to reach the branch.

He said that while the organization welcomes the increased interest, prospective members would be expected to understand the responsibilities and traditions associated with belonging to the People’s Club. “Membership is about much more than attending social events,” Ulasi said. “It is about service, friendship, responsibility, and commitment to one another. Those are the values we intend to preserve as the branch continues to grow.”

The September meeting is expected to consider how the branch will respond to increased membership interest and whether the success of the August ceremony provides sufficient grounds to move to an annual induction schedule. For the Sugar Land Branch, the aftermath of the August induction may prove as significant as the ceremony itself: 16 members entered the People’s Club that evening, but the celebration appears to have inspired many more to seek a place within its ranks.

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Houston

People’s Club Sugar Land Celebrates Landmark Induction of 16 New Members

Published

4 weeks ago

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August 24, 2026

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National President Atty. Fidelis Onyebueke hails First International Branch for a spectacular celebration of culture, fellowship and service

HOUSTON, TEXAS — The Sugar Land People’s Club of Nigeria International (PCNI), the organization’s First International Branch, has been declared a total success following a spectacular bi-annual induction ceremony that brought together national leaders, branch chairmen, patrons, members, and guests from across the People’s Club family.

National President Atty. Fidelis Onyebueke, who presided over the swearing-in ceremony, commended the Houston branch for delivering an outstanding event that reflected the organization’s enduring traditions of friendship, fellowship, service, and community.

Hon. Prof. Chris Ulasi, SLPCNI Chairman, leads the grand entrance of the national leadership during the induction ceremony, followed by National President Atty. Fidelis Onyebueke and his wife.

“The Houston branch has once again demonstrated what People’s Club represents at its very best. This was a beautifully organized and highly successful event, rich in culture, fellowship, dignity, and unity. I commend the leadership, members, and entire Houston family for an exceptional celebration worthy of the First International Branch.”

The ceremony witnessed the formal swearing-in of 16 new members, each of whom was individually invited forward to receive a certificate of membership from the national president. Onyebueke was assisted in administering the oath by PCNI Attorney Chukwuka John Ukadike.

Group Photo: Women Members and Associates of SLPCNI

The inductees joined an impressive gathering that reflected the diversity and strength of the People’s Club community. Members and guests traveled from various branches across the United States and beyond, transforming the Houston ceremony into a truly international gathering.

The cultural elegance of the occasion was equally striking. Women appeared in colorful, coordinated traditional attire, featuring red-pinkish blouses and matching head ties paired with white wrappers prominently designed with the PCNI logo. The ensemble created a distinctive and dignified traditional look. Men complemented the occasion with elegant all-white outfits, customized PCNI cap pins, and special PCNI sashes worn as neckpieces.

Among those in attendance were Grand Patron Ide Obinna Nnanyelugo Mbachu; Hon. Prof. Chris Ulasi, Group Chairman; patrons and chairmen from various branches, and People’s Club members representing chapters across the globe.

The formal proceedings eventually gave way to an extended celebration of friendship and camaraderie. Food, drinks, music, and dancing carried the festivities well beyond the scheduled program, continuing for hours into the early morning of Sunday.

For the Houston branch, the celebration represented more than the admission of new members. It reaffirmed the historic importance of the First International Branch and demonstrated the continuing strength of People’s Club as a transnational fellowship rooted in Nigerian identity, friendship, service, and mutual support.

The successful ceremony also underscored the organization’s ability to bring generations and branches together while preserving the cultural traditions that have sustained its membership across continents.

By the end of the celebration, Houston had delivered more than an induction. It had delivered a memorable demonstration of unity, culture, friendship, and organizational excellence—an event that fully embodied the People’s Club spirit.

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