Dr. Femi Babalola on Obama, Abortion & Gay Rights in America
Written by Paul I. Adujie
Lawcareer2007@aol.com
New York, United States
On Tuesday November 18, 2008, I read with considerable irritation and consternation, "The flip side of Obama" an article by one Dr. Femi Babalola, an Ophthalmologist and chorister in Nigeria’s federal capital territory, Abuja, an article in which he used the revered pages of The Guardian to ruminate ruefully about how his favorite political party in America, the Republican Party or Grand Ole Party (GOP) lost the elections, as he stated his blissful unawareness of how America works and or how he wish America should.
He attempted blithely to make some informed comments on President-elect Barack Obama and the very nature of American politics, roles played by the two major political parties, Democratic Party and the Republican Party respectively. He confessed rooting for the Republicans based on their arch-conservative social policy agenda which reeks of moral certitude.
He informed his readers that he was dismissive of Mr. Obama’s candidacy. But alas, the world now knows that Mr. Obama prevailed against sundry opponents and those who under estimated and were dismissive of the then junior senator from Illinois; The world now knows about the cynosure with brilliance beyond incandescence, the man who is admired for his self-discipline and unalloyed singular focus, which in turn, has given America a rebirth and redemption and an opportunity to look good again.
There is one thing that I could not understand, actually more than one thing that numbed me upon reading Dr. Babalola’s article. It is this, in the past couple of weeks disgraceful and more disgraceful stories have been emanating from Nigeria, there was the Uzoma Okereke, a young lady who was beaten into a stupor and stripped of her clothes, by uniformed men at the behest of and supervision by a Nigerian Navy Admiral! Many Nigerians at home and abroad, including myself, found the brutality most reprehensible.
It gave us and Nigerian image a new damage and black-eye
Then as if on cue, or almost simultaneously, there was this heart wrenching story reported from Akwa Ibom where innocent Nigerian children are arbitrarily and in summary manner labeled and castigated as witches, then murdered, maimed and scalded by the moronic adults in these children’s lives, amply assisted by money grubbing pastors, so-called Christians too!
There are these Nigerian public officials, also known as corrupt rogues, who have plundered and pillage Nigeria with impunity, especially in the recent years, while the EFCC is being emasculated in the most brazen of manner.
There is this pervasive abundance of abject poverty in Nigeria, and, children are the worst victims. No child asks to be born, and no child asks to be neglected or abused; in Nigeria, where there now exists, cases of abuse and extreme neglect of children, children who are here, right in front of our physical eyes, are unprotected from abuse and neglect and the crudity that seems to always rear its ugly heard in our Nigeria. I do not live in Nigeria, and still, I find every story from Nigeria very depressing, to the extent that I want leave my abode thousands of miles outside Nigeria to return to Nigeria with the hope that some us can make a difference or play a role in changing the way things are currently in Nigeria.
In this midst of all this bad news from Nigeria, coupled with extreme hardship, suffering and hopelessness permeating children in Nigeria, Dr. Femi Babalola is more concerned with retrograde abortion rules and the safety of unwanted fetuses; His 17th Century abortion logic is so egregious, and particularly so, when just a few days ago, a report emanated from Nigeria, in which helpless and hapless children were being reportedly maimed and or murdered soon after such children are ignorantly labeled and castigated as witches, all in the name of the Christian God
Where is the morality and religion in Dr. Femi Babalola’s Nigeria, a nation that ought to be the beacon and shinning light for all Africans and peoples of African descent including Mr. Barack Obama on whom Dr. Babalola commented extensively?
There were these plethora reports regarding children in Akwa Ibom and Cross Rivers States who were summarily and randomly branded witches and wizards, these children were branded like slaves or farm animals for the whole world to see! And as someone born in Nigeria, even though living thousands of miles away from Nigeria, I was embarrassed, ashamed and shocked to view the videos of these horrendous brutalities meted out to children in modern day Nigeria, Dr. Babalola’s Nigeria.
Dr. Babalola recounted how he did not wash his hands after a golden handshake from former President Bill Clinton, I recommend that he washes not just his hands, but remove the wax from his ears and wash his eyes; all this, just so, he can hear and see first hand, the extreme abuse and utter neglect of Nigerian children who are already here on earth, and while he should stop worrying about his rather romantic ideas about Nigerian, and for that matter, American fetuses!
Dr. Babalola betrays his blissful unawareness with his incongruous praise-like commentaries about the Republican Party, his Grand Old Party, GOP; as a result, I would like to remind him that the Republican Party, the party of former President Ronald Reagan, led the efforts that sustained Apartheid rule in South Africa and Southern Africa’s Angola, Mozambique, Namibia and Rhodesia-Zimbabwe, etc; Ronald Reagan called it constructive engagement, an apparent willingness to engage in dinner jokes with Apartheid oppressors while Africans in Southern Africa suffered endlessly!
Republican policy pursuits regarding Africa have been repugnant, repulsive and reprehensible! Africans should be unwilling to forget these quickly.
She was pro-apartheid... she advocated "constructive-engagement" she was President Reagan's arrow head for warped-twisted foreign policy that was anti-African, anti-liberty anti liberal ideals of freedom and a world free from dictatorships.
Africans should be reminded of how Reagan and his Republican Party supplied the lifeline oils which lubricated Apartheid South Africa, as America and Britain sustained Apartheid regime longer than was possible, through the warped policy known as constructive engagement. And this is the same Republican Party which Dr. Babalola is nostalgic about?
Africans should be reminded of how liberation movements labeled terrorists by the US and the UK, the US under Reagan and the UK under Thatcher wanted liberation struggles in Angola, Mozambique, Namibia and Zimbabwe defeated. Those anti freedom, anti progress and anti democratic movement were eventually defeated. Lancaster House Agreement intended to provide economic relief and land redistribution-re-appropriation slated for post independence Zimbabwe were not adhered to; which in my view constitutes the origin sin, before today’s troubles in Zimbabwe.
There is for me, a clear difference between advocating abortion rights and gay lifestyle compared with recognizing the rights of those who desire abortions and gay lifestyle, a reading of Dr. Femi Babalola’s rueful ruminations, establishes him as neither knowing nor caring about such difference. He is simply happy to mouth how it is so Yuk and ughhh and disgusting these rights of others are to him!
There is a difference, I think, between advocating abortions and or gay lifestyles, as compared with a recognition of the right of women to abortions and the right of gays to a sexual preference; Dr. Babalola does not seem to have any qualms in suggesting the elimination or decimation of these rights.
I am not a woman, and I am not gay, nevertheless, I find Dr. Babalola’s complete disregard of women and gay rights unacceptably offensive
The learned Dr. Babalola wrote that women who carelessly get pregnant should not have abortion rights! But everyone knows that it takes a man and a woman to get pregnant or to have sexual intercourse without necessary precautions; Dr. Babalola thinks it takes just a careless woman!
These moralizing puritanical preachments belies the failures President Bush wrought on America and the world with his moral certitude of the gut convictions. Conservatives are too quick to spout moral certainty about social issues, such as abortion, they worry so much about fetuses or potential and indeterminate life, instead of lives which are already physically present here with us on earth. A poignant case in point is the news reports and a series of articles in connection with children in Akwa Ibom state; innocent children who were tortured, maimed, mutilated and some even murdered soon after such children were incongruously labeled witches!
What is reported to have happened to Nigerian children in Akwa Ibom reminder of brutalities of the 17th and 18th Centuries reminiscent of Salem Massachusetts Witch Trials or the Spanish Inquisitions in parts of Spain colonial empire, it is a shameful and embarrassing that this is happening in modern Dr. Babalola’s Nigeria. Why does a Nigerian medical doctor, an educated man no doubt, a member of the Nigerian middle class perhaps, think he needs to cry the tears of aborted American fetuses, even though Nigerian children are being abused, killed, maimed and neglected in real time and under his nose?
Please Google: What Does President Reagan's Death Mean to Nigerians, Africans and Arabs?
Paul I. Adujie is a Nigerian lawyer resident in New York, United States and a member of the International Bar Association
Thursday, November 27, 2008
Monday, November 24, 2008
American African Policy & President Obama
American African Policy & President Obama
Written by Paul I. Adujie
Lawcareer2007@aol.com
New York, United States
With the recent election of Mr. Barack Obama as president of the United States of America, it is my view that America is finally living up to its constitutional promise of equality of her citizens; wither race, color or creed etc. America in doing so, has allowed herself, in Christian parlance, to be born again. America has now partially atoned for the enslavement of Africans, and complete disregard of a large chunk of her human capital.
America has, with this singular act of electing a person African descent, permitted itself of a rebirth and a renewal, and how wonderful it is, as it is happening regardless of the cynicism which have arisen as a consequence of the checkered history and plight or precarious predicaments of people of African descent in America; against all odds, and epochs of dashed expectations borne of harsh experience of African Americans.
Race or color of skin, have unfortunately been how life is lived in America, and racial terms and themes have been pervasive in America, but, a person of African descent is now slated to become the 44th president of the United States, and not a moment too soon, this, after these hundreds of years in America, by people of African descent. Mr. Obama until his election as president was the only senator of African descent, out of 100 US senators. Even though African Americans, constitute more than 13.4% or about 40.9 million out of the US total population of about 306 million, with Caucasians population of 221.3 or 74% of the US population respectively.
President-elect Barack Obama’s ascension is at once aesthetically pleasing; it has a very decorative value and a symbolism; as well as substance in relation to human progress in America and the entire world hence everyone is agog, over Mr. Obama’s election. As the world knows, Mr. Obama is a first generation American with an African immigrant father; this therefore fulfils the ideals of America as a melting pot and a land of infinite possibilities. America is fulfilling its promise and she is at the cusp of realizing her full potentials.
This progress is even perhaps more meaningful, above and beyond, for African Americans, continental Africans and all peoples of African descent, worldwide; It must be stated quickly though, that the advantages and dividends to these Africans, that is, African Americans and people of African descent , and to continental Africans remain to be evaluated. There is an inherent are-we-there-yet question, which must be answered.
Is a color blind world in sight? There those revisionists who are already asserting that with the election of Mr. Obama as president of the United States, people of African descent, continental Africans, and more particularly, African American should no longer seek Affirmative Action Programs etc, measures instituted to redress historical injustices and such enduring vestiges which have negatively impacted, and continues to impact African Americans. This sorts of thinking, is to say the least, jumping the gun!
Regarding continental Africans, it is the case that historically it has been fashionable, romantic and even sexy, for some in America, Europe and elsewhere outside Africa, to ostentatiously and conspicuously publicly analyze the human condition in Africa and of Africans and they proceed do nothing, even as they pompously and condescendingly present the beggar –charity-basket case as situations of Africa, and the savior role Americans, Europeans and other non-Africans must play to set Africa aright. But these have historically amounted to loud talk and no action.
Could Mr. Obama be the true lover of Africa, and a doer, who would speak softly and carry a big bank-wallet of ideas? Hence he has refrained from the usual loud but empty public proclamations about matters pertaining to Africa?
Africa has always been exploited and then neglected historically; Africa was variously exploited for her human resources during slave trade, then exploited for her natural resources post-slavery and during colonial period; Africa is now exploited for her bountiful natural and mineral and or energy resources and cheap labor.
Africans should be reminded of how Reagan and Thatcher supplied the lifeline oils which lubricated Apartheid South Africa, as America and Britain sustained Apartheid regime longer than was possible, through the warped policy known as constructive engagement.
Africans should be reminded of how liberation movements labeled terrorists by the US and the UK, the US under Reagan and the UK under Thatcher wanted liberation struggles in Angola, Mozambique, Namibia and Zimbabwe defeated. Those anti freedom, anti progress and anti democratic movement were eventually defeated. Lancaster House Agreement intended to provide economic relief and land redistribution-re-appropriation slated for post independence Zimbabwe were not adhered to; which in my view constitutes the origin sin, before today’s troubles in Zimbabwe.
What is new? Now, Obama is certainly not Reagan or Thatcher, so let us see? In some perverse sense, those like Reagan and Thatcher etc, with known aversion to fashioning humane and intelligent policies toward Africa and those apparent sworn aversion to happiness in Africa can be understood, as Africa is often said not to posses any national security or strategic interest to America and Europe, and needless to say then, therefore, Reagan, Thatcher etc or Sarah Palin, Governor of state of Alaska, vice presidential candidate for Senator John McCain, she it was said, who knew no distinctions between country and continent, when it comes to Africa, some make it plain that they have no stake in the outcome, or whatever become of our continent. So, what will Mr. Obama do differently?
The truth of the matter however, is, what affects Africa affects the world, whether it is an issue such as global warming, or Somali Pirates, the increasing costs of energy to power global economy or a genuine fight against extremism and terrorism, it is wiser to have a policy of all-for-one and one-for-all, a world of shared interrelationships and interconnectedness. It is hoped that people will stop seeing Africa as the inconvenient part of the global scheme of things
All eyes and ears are open regarding what would be President Obama US-African Policy; when Mr. Obama visited Berlin, Germany to the thunderous applause more than 100,000, I was elated that he, a person of African descent was receiving all the accolades and attention, which his campaign garnered here in the United States, and then, abroad as well. But, this was tempered by my wonder about where he stood on matters Africa.
President-elect Obama formally announced his run for presidency of the United States on February 11, 2007 and his African Policy remained nonexistent or terse at best, whereas, he was professorial and esoteric on Israel, the economy and Mr. Bush’s two foreign wars in Afghanistan and Iraq respectively. At the conclusion of the elections and Mr. Obama’s world acclaimed historic victory, led to more policy pronouncements on his part, and on the parts of those, with direct and indirect involvement Mr. Obama’s cabinet and White House staff selections.
And, former US Congressman and savvy political hand, tough political operative and tactician Mr. Rahm Israel Emanuel was selected by Mr. Obama to be his chief-of-staff, and Mr. Emanuel’s father in an unguarded statement, asserted that his son, will, as a matter of course, deeply influence a President Obama’s American-Israel policy; This led to a firestorm of criticisms, as part of the statement was pejorative of Arabs and, while creating the appearance that Mr. Obama will be hostage to his chief-of-staff regarding Israel Mr. Rahm Israel Emanuel was recently described by JTA.ORG as an
Attack-dog, policy wonk, enforcer and committed Jew
This incident is led me to revive what have been my publicized worry and wonder about President-elect Obama’s unstated/understated and generalized, or hazy stance, regarding what will be his US-African Policy, and what exactly in real or specific terms, his forthcoming administration’s African Policy would be or put in another way, why exactly was that not apparent or spelt-out, during the campaigns, as were other policies repeatedly mentioned in contemplation for a would be the United States African Policy during President Obama’s administration?
Should Africans and people of African descent just assume that the Africa and the Caribbean would receive better or favorable attention, and treatment, unlike what has been the case in the past? Should continental Africans and peoples of African descent have reasons now, to heave sigh of relief? Would this lead to more expectation fatigue?
Should very public demands be made? Should we be upfront like every other interest group? Or discreet lobbying is preferred? This puts in context, the Rahm Emanuel’s father’s statements regarding what would be America Policy in relation to Israel.
During the campaigns, Senator Obama, as he then was, visited and toured Europe (Berlin, London and Paris etc) He then visited Israel etc all well and good; but no visit to any part of Africa and no mention of what would be his US African Policy.
During the campaigns, I was enthralled and enthusiastic about Mr. Obama’s candidacy and the positive ramifications; when Mr. Obama won, I cried tears of joy, I entered euphoria and trance-like state and I remain ecstatic about the endless possibilities for America and the, all inspired by Mr. Obama victory and eventual governance; even still, I recognize that enormous economic and political challenges lay ahead, I recognize as well that color and racism in America have not suddenly ended or died and so, it not time just yet to go ahead on, to a fishing vacation.
During the campaigns leading to the elections, I can understand at the time, if some thought Africa was a delicate or even inappropriate distraction for candidate Obama, an issue that could have been amply exploited by his opponents and detractors. But, elections are over now, the Obama presidency policy-positions are being set on crucial issues; and besides, the candidate was emphatic about Israel, just as emphatic and matter-of-factly like the senior Mr. Emanuel
I am wondering whether there is a pattern here or why is Israel recurring? As it were during the campaigns and now, soon after the elections as well. The Reverend Jesse Jackson is not Mr. Obama’s father; he was not part of Mr. Obama’s campaign nor was he Mr. Obama’s Foreign Policy guru! And yet, a scathing and scalding article was published in the New Post Newspapers, in which the Reverend Jesse Jackson was portrayed as giving interview insight into what will be Mr. Obama’s scaled-down American most favorite-nation status in matters Israel. This, even though, Mr. Jackson was not part of Mr. Obama campaign apparatus or spokesperson for Mr. Obama except of course that the Reverend Jackson is a person of African descent, and had in the past made flippant statements about New York Jews. During the campaigns, it did appear as if there were attempts to label and portray certain persons in particular ways, in order to defeat Mr. Obama at the polls, Mr. Obama weathered the avalanche and the unrelenting storm and they rest, as it were is now history!
Mr. Obama will become the 44th president of the United States come January 20, 2009!
It is really nice to have the symbolism of President Obama as a person of African descent as president of the United States of America; he certainly must not be docile regarding Africa and beyond that, It will be really even nicer still, to begin to know what President Obama would do differently regarding the African continent, and Jamaica, Trinidad/Tobago, Haiti, Antigua, Cuba, Guyana and all the Islands and Caribbean nations etc which brims with peoples of African descent, AND, if not during an Obama presidency, when? When will the lot of Africans and peoples of African descent fare better in terms of US Foreign Policy?
I am aware of course, that Mr. Obama has in the past, visited Kenya, Ethiopia and I think Chad; but well before he declared his presidential ambition; It is also gratifying to note that while this article was already being written, Mr. Obama telephone President Yar’Adua, to discuss American-Nigerian bilateral issues, as well as, multitudes of issues concerning the African continent. This is a start, baby-steps perhaps, but a start nonetheless.
The world is keenly watching Mr. Obama with boundless optimism as he has motivated and inspired America and the entire world. He has demonstrated beyond words that he qualified, competent, disciplined and focused. He is clearly good for America and the world. There are of course extraordinary challenges ahead for his presidency.
I am eagerly anticipating his African Policy formulation and implementation
All eyes and ears are open regarding what would be President Obama US-African Policy.
.
Paul I. Adujie is a Nigerian lawyer, resident in New York, United States and a member of the International Bar Association
Google: Adujie/Obama for commentaries through the US presidential elections
http://thecaucus.blogs.nytimes.com/2008/07/24/obama-in-berlin/?scp=1&sq=Obama%20in%20Berlin%20Adujie&st=cse
http://www.nypost.com/seven/10142008/postopinion/opedcolumnists/the_o_jesse_knows_133450.htm
Written by Paul I. Adujie
Lawcareer2007@aol.com
New York, United States
With the recent election of Mr. Barack Obama as president of the United States of America, it is my view that America is finally living up to its constitutional promise of equality of her citizens; wither race, color or creed etc. America in doing so, has allowed herself, in Christian parlance, to be born again. America has now partially atoned for the enslavement of Africans, and complete disregard of a large chunk of her human capital.
America has, with this singular act of electing a person African descent, permitted itself of a rebirth and a renewal, and how wonderful it is, as it is happening regardless of the cynicism which have arisen as a consequence of the checkered history and plight or precarious predicaments of people of African descent in America; against all odds, and epochs of dashed expectations borne of harsh experience of African Americans.
Race or color of skin, have unfortunately been how life is lived in America, and racial terms and themes have been pervasive in America, but, a person of African descent is now slated to become the 44th president of the United States, and not a moment too soon, this, after these hundreds of years in America, by people of African descent. Mr. Obama until his election as president was the only senator of African descent, out of 100 US senators. Even though African Americans, constitute more than 13.4% or about 40.9 million out of the US total population of about 306 million, with Caucasians population of 221.3 or 74% of the US population respectively.
President-elect Barack Obama’s ascension is at once aesthetically pleasing; it has a very decorative value and a symbolism; as well as substance in relation to human progress in America and the entire world hence everyone is agog, over Mr. Obama’s election. As the world knows, Mr. Obama is a first generation American with an African immigrant father; this therefore fulfils the ideals of America as a melting pot and a land of infinite possibilities. America is fulfilling its promise and she is at the cusp of realizing her full potentials.
This progress is even perhaps more meaningful, above and beyond, for African Americans, continental Africans and all peoples of African descent, worldwide; It must be stated quickly though, that the advantages and dividends to these Africans, that is, African Americans and people of African descent , and to continental Africans remain to be evaluated. There is an inherent are-we-there-yet question, which must be answered.
Is a color blind world in sight? There those revisionists who are already asserting that with the election of Mr. Obama as president of the United States, people of African descent, continental Africans, and more particularly, African American should no longer seek Affirmative Action Programs etc, measures instituted to redress historical injustices and such enduring vestiges which have negatively impacted, and continues to impact African Americans. This sorts of thinking, is to say the least, jumping the gun!
Regarding continental Africans, it is the case that historically it has been fashionable, romantic and even sexy, for some in America, Europe and elsewhere outside Africa, to ostentatiously and conspicuously publicly analyze the human condition in Africa and of Africans and they proceed do nothing, even as they pompously and condescendingly present the beggar –charity-basket case as situations of Africa, and the savior role Americans, Europeans and other non-Africans must play to set Africa aright. But these have historically amounted to loud talk and no action.
Could Mr. Obama be the true lover of Africa, and a doer, who would speak softly and carry a big bank-wallet of ideas? Hence he has refrained from the usual loud but empty public proclamations about matters pertaining to Africa?
Africa has always been exploited and then neglected historically; Africa was variously exploited for her human resources during slave trade, then exploited for her natural resources post-slavery and during colonial period; Africa is now exploited for her bountiful natural and mineral and or energy resources and cheap labor.
Africans should be reminded of how Reagan and Thatcher supplied the lifeline oils which lubricated Apartheid South Africa, as America and Britain sustained Apartheid regime longer than was possible, through the warped policy known as constructive engagement.
Africans should be reminded of how liberation movements labeled terrorists by the US and the UK, the US under Reagan and the UK under Thatcher wanted liberation struggles in Angola, Mozambique, Namibia and Zimbabwe defeated. Those anti freedom, anti progress and anti democratic movement were eventually defeated. Lancaster House Agreement intended to provide economic relief and land redistribution-re-appropriation slated for post independence Zimbabwe were not adhered to; which in my view constitutes the origin sin, before today’s troubles in Zimbabwe.
What is new? Now, Obama is certainly not Reagan or Thatcher, so let us see? In some perverse sense, those like Reagan and Thatcher etc, with known aversion to fashioning humane and intelligent policies toward Africa and those apparent sworn aversion to happiness in Africa can be understood, as Africa is often said not to posses any national security or strategic interest to America and Europe, and needless to say then, therefore, Reagan, Thatcher etc or Sarah Palin, Governor of state of Alaska, vice presidential candidate for Senator John McCain, she it was said, who knew no distinctions between country and continent, when it comes to Africa, some make it plain that they have no stake in the outcome, or whatever become of our continent. So, what will Mr. Obama do differently?
The truth of the matter however, is, what affects Africa affects the world, whether it is an issue such as global warming, or Somali Pirates, the increasing costs of energy to power global economy or a genuine fight against extremism and terrorism, it is wiser to have a policy of all-for-one and one-for-all, a world of shared interrelationships and interconnectedness. It is hoped that people will stop seeing Africa as the inconvenient part of the global scheme of things
All eyes and ears are open regarding what would be President Obama US-African Policy; when Mr. Obama visited Berlin, Germany to the thunderous applause more than 100,000, I was elated that he, a person of African descent was receiving all the accolades and attention, which his campaign garnered here in the United States, and then, abroad as well. But, this was tempered by my wonder about where he stood on matters Africa.
President-elect Obama formally announced his run for presidency of the United States on February 11, 2007 and his African Policy remained nonexistent or terse at best, whereas, he was professorial and esoteric on Israel, the economy and Mr. Bush’s two foreign wars in Afghanistan and Iraq respectively. At the conclusion of the elections and Mr. Obama’s world acclaimed historic victory, led to more policy pronouncements on his part, and on the parts of those, with direct and indirect involvement Mr. Obama’s cabinet and White House staff selections.
And, former US Congressman and savvy political hand, tough political operative and tactician Mr. Rahm Israel Emanuel was selected by Mr. Obama to be his chief-of-staff, and Mr. Emanuel’s father in an unguarded statement, asserted that his son, will, as a matter of course, deeply influence a President Obama’s American-Israel policy; This led to a firestorm of criticisms, as part of the statement was pejorative of Arabs and, while creating the appearance that Mr. Obama will be hostage to his chief-of-staff regarding Israel Mr. Rahm Israel Emanuel was recently described by JTA.ORG as an
Attack-dog, policy wonk, enforcer and committed Jew
This incident is led me to revive what have been my publicized worry and wonder about President-elect Obama’s unstated/understated and generalized, or hazy stance, regarding what will be his US-African Policy, and what exactly in real or specific terms, his forthcoming administration’s African Policy would be or put in another way, why exactly was that not apparent or spelt-out, during the campaigns, as were other policies repeatedly mentioned in contemplation for a would be the United States African Policy during President Obama’s administration?
Should Africans and people of African descent just assume that the Africa and the Caribbean would receive better or favorable attention, and treatment, unlike what has been the case in the past? Should continental Africans and peoples of African descent have reasons now, to heave sigh of relief? Would this lead to more expectation fatigue?
Should very public demands be made? Should we be upfront like every other interest group? Or discreet lobbying is preferred? This puts in context, the Rahm Emanuel’s father’s statements regarding what would be America Policy in relation to Israel.
During the campaigns, Senator Obama, as he then was, visited and toured Europe (Berlin, London and Paris etc) He then visited Israel etc all well and good; but no visit to any part of Africa and no mention of what would be his US African Policy.
During the campaigns, I was enthralled and enthusiastic about Mr. Obama’s candidacy and the positive ramifications; when Mr. Obama won, I cried tears of joy, I entered euphoria and trance-like state and I remain ecstatic about the endless possibilities for America and the, all inspired by Mr. Obama victory and eventual governance; even still, I recognize that enormous economic and political challenges lay ahead, I recognize as well that color and racism in America have not suddenly ended or died and so, it not time just yet to go ahead on, to a fishing vacation.
During the campaigns leading to the elections, I can understand at the time, if some thought Africa was a delicate or even inappropriate distraction for candidate Obama, an issue that could have been amply exploited by his opponents and detractors. But, elections are over now, the Obama presidency policy-positions are being set on crucial issues; and besides, the candidate was emphatic about Israel, just as emphatic and matter-of-factly like the senior Mr. Emanuel
I am wondering whether there is a pattern here or why is Israel recurring? As it were during the campaigns and now, soon after the elections as well. The Reverend Jesse Jackson is not Mr. Obama’s father; he was not part of Mr. Obama’s campaign nor was he Mr. Obama’s Foreign Policy guru! And yet, a scathing and scalding article was published in the New Post Newspapers, in which the Reverend Jesse Jackson was portrayed as giving interview insight into what will be Mr. Obama’s scaled-down American most favorite-nation status in matters Israel. This, even though, Mr. Jackson was not part of Mr. Obama campaign apparatus or spokesperson for Mr. Obama except of course that the Reverend Jackson is a person of African descent, and had in the past made flippant statements about New York Jews. During the campaigns, it did appear as if there were attempts to label and portray certain persons in particular ways, in order to defeat Mr. Obama at the polls, Mr. Obama weathered the avalanche and the unrelenting storm and they rest, as it were is now history!
Mr. Obama will become the 44th president of the United States come January 20, 2009!
It is really nice to have the symbolism of President Obama as a person of African descent as president of the United States of America; he certainly must not be docile regarding Africa and beyond that, It will be really even nicer still, to begin to know what President Obama would do differently regarding the African continent, and Jamaica, Trinidad/Tobago, Haiti, Antigua, Cuba, Guyana and all the Islands and Caribbean nations etc which brims with peoples of African descent, AND, if not during an Obama presidency, when? When will the lot of Africans and peoples of African descent fare better in terms of US Foreign Policy?
I am aware of course, that Mr. Obama has in the past, visited Kenya, Ethiopia and I think Chad; but well before he declared his presidential ambition; It is also gratifying to note that while this article was already being written, Mr. Obama telephone President Yar’Adua, to discuss American-Nigerian bilateral issues, as well as, multitudes of issues concerning the African continent. This is a start, baby-steps perhaps, but a start nonetheless.
The world is keenly watching Mr. Obama with boundless optimism as he has motivated and inspired America and the entire world. He has demonstrated beyond words that he qualified, competent, disciplined and focused. He is clearly good for America and the world. There are of course extraordinary challenges ahead for his presidency.
I am eagerly anticipating his African Policy formulation and implementation
All eyes and ears are open regarding what would be President Obama US-African Policy.
.
Paul I. Adujie is a Nigerian lawyer, resident in New York, United States and a member of the International Bar Association
Google: Adujie/Obama for commentaries through the US presidential elections
http://thecaucus.blogs.nytimes.com/2008/07/24/obama-in-berlin/?scp=1&sq=Obama%20in%20Berlin%20Adujie&st=cse
http://www.nypost.com/seven/10142008/postopinion/opedcolumnists/the_o_jesse_knows_133450.htm
Thursday, November 13, 2008
All eyes and ears are open regarding what would be President Obama US-African Policy
All eyes and ears are open regarding what would be President Obama US-African Policy
This incident is leading me to revive my worry and wonder about President-elect Obama’s unstated/understated and generalized or hazy stance regarding on what exactly would be his African policy; or put in another way, what exactly will be the United States African Policy during President Obama’s administration?
Should Africans and people of African descent just assume that the United States would receive better or favorable attention and treatment, unlike what has been the case in the past?
During the campaigns, Senator Obama, as he then was, visited and toured Europe (Berlin, London and Paris etc) He then visited Israel etc all well and good; but no visit to any part of Africa and no mention of what would be his US African Policy. http://thecaucus.blogs.nytimes.com/2008/07/24/obama-in-berlin/?scp=1&sq=Obama%20in%20Berlin%20Adujie&st=cse
http://www.nypost.com/seven/10142008/postopinion/opedcolumnists/the_o_jesse_knows_133450.htm
During the campaigns leading to the elections, I can understand at the time, if some thought Africa was a delicate or even inappropriate distraction for candidate Obama, an issue that could have been amply exploited by his opponents and detractors. But, elections are over now, the Obama presidency policy-positions are being set on crucial issues; and besides, the candidate was emphatic about Israel, just as emphatic and matter-of-factly like the senior Mr. Emmanuel
It really nice to have the symbolism of President Obama as a person of African descent as an American president, he certainly must not be docile regarding Africa. It will be really even nicer still, to begin to know what President Obama would do differently regarding the African continent, and Jamaica, Trinidad/Tobago, Haiti, Antigua, Cuba, Guyana and all the Islands and Caribbean nations etc which brims with peoples of African descent, AND, if not during an Obama presidency, when? When will the lot of Africans and peoples of African descent fare better in terms of US Foreign Policy?
All eyes and ears are open regarding what would be President Obama US-African Policy.
Most sincerely,
Paul I. Adujie
New York, United States
This incident is leading me to revive my worry and wonder about President-elect Obama’s unstated/understated and generalized or hazy stance regarding on what exactly would be his African policy; or put in another way, what exactly will be the United States African Policy during President Obama’s administration?
Should Africans and people of African descent just assume that the United States would receive better or favorable attention and treatment, unlike what has been the case in the past?
During the campaigns, Senator Obama, as he then was, visited and toured Europe (Berlin, London and Paris etc) He then visited Israel etc all well and good; but no visit to any part of Africa and no mention of what would be his US African Policy. http://thecaucus.blogs.nytimes.com/2008/07/24/obama-in-berlin/?scp=1&sq=Obama%20in%20Berlin%20Adujie&st=cse
http://www.nypost.com/seven/10142008/postopinion/opedcolumnists/the_o_jesse_knows_133450.htm
During the campaigns leading to the elections, I can understand at the time, if some thought Africa was a delicate or even inappropriate distraction for candidate Obama, an issue that could have been amply exploited by his opponents and detractors. But, elections are over now, the Obama presidency policy-positions are being set on crucial issues; and besides, the candidate was emphatic about Israel, just as emphatic and matter-of-factly like the senior Mr. Emmanuel
It really nice to have the symbolism of President Obama as a person of African descent as an American president, he certainly must not be docile regarding Africa. It will be really even nicer still, to begin to know what President Obama would do differently regarding the African continent, and Jamaica, Trinidad/Tobago, Haiti, Antigua, Cuba, Guyana and all the Islands and Caribbean nations etc which brims with peoples of African descent, AND, if not during an Obama presidency, when? When will the lot of Africans and peoples of African descent fare better in terms of US Foreign Policy?
All eyes and ears are open regarding what would be President Obama US-African Policy.
Most sincerely,
Paul I. Adujie
New York, United States
Thursday, October 23, 2008
Media Coverage of Obama Versus McCain Presidential Campaigns
Media Coverage of Obama Versus McCain Presidential Campaigns
Senator Obama inspires and motivates the electorate. He has portrayed a cool and calm demeanor during these campaigns. He has tried hard to stay above the fray.
Senator Obama inspires the best of us in this diverse nation and world. It is, as if, he keeps saying keep your chin up… even in the midst of all the challenges that we face and may still face … BUT …
Senator McCain and Governor Palin conversely, have resorted to labeling their opponent, castigating him in tone and language of which the public has repudiated.
The Republicans seem to excel in dirty tricks driven campaigns of the Lee Atwater and Karl Rove types.
The Republicans cannot run on the issues… they appear clearly bereft of ideas. They know that if they run on the issues of national importance, the Republicans will lose hands-down. Think of the two wars that are not going well in Iraq and Afghanistan.
Think of the American economy in a meltdown mode, despite the bailout.
Think of the bungling in the government reaction to the hardship/suffering wrought upon American citizens in the Gulf Coast after Hurricane Katrina.
Every where one looks, one finds policy failure stacked higher than the World Trade Center! All of these are occurring during Republicans’ watch or reign.
So, the Republicans knowing that they cannot win on the issues, the Republicans therefore, have resorted unfortunately, to very corrosive and toxic campaign methods. They have recycled non-issues against their opponent. The Republicans have regurgitated old garbage against their opponents to no effect.
The public have in effected rejected and repudiated the Republicans… based on the horrible adverse effect Republicans’ 8 years in the White House have had on all of us. They have committed havoc and they are unable to effectively deceive the public any longer
The Republicans are unable to put a lipstick and perfume on their dirty pig! It is their pig and it is pungent… more pungent than rotten eggs!
Most sincerely,
Paul I. Adujie
New York, United States
Senator Obama inspires and motivates the electorate. He has portrayed a cool and calm demeanor during these campaigns. He has tried hard to stay above the fray.
Senator Obama inspires the best of us in this diverse nation and world. It is, as if, he keeps saying keep your chin up… even in the midst of all the challenges that we face and may still face … BUT …
Senator McCain and Governor Palin conversely, have resorted to labeling their opponent, castigating him in tone and language of which the public has repudiated.
The Republicans seem to excel in dirty tricks driven campaigns of the Lee Atwater and Karl Rove types.
The Republicans cannot run on the issues… they appear clearly bereft of ideas. They know that if they run on the issues of national importance, the Republicans will lose hands-down. Think of the two wars that are not going well in Iraq and Afghanistan.
Think of the American economy in a meltdown mode, despite the bailout.
Think of the bungling in the government reaction to the hardship/suffering wrought upon American citizens in the Gulf Coast after Hurricane Katrina.
Every where one looks, one finds policy failure stacked higher than the World Trade Center! All of these are occurring during Republicans’ watch or reign.
So, the Republicans knowing that they cannot win on the issues, the Republicans therefore, have resorted unfortunately, to very corrosive and toxic campaign methods. They have recycled non-issues against their opponent. The Republicans have regurgitated old garbage against their opponents to no effect.
The public have in effected rejected and repudiated the Republicans… based on the horrible adverse effect Republicans’ 8 years in the White House have had on all of us. They have committed havoc and they are unable to effectively deceive the public any longer
The Republicans are unable to put a lipstick and perfume on their dirty pig! It is their pig and it is pungent… more pungent than rotten eggs!
Most sincerely,
Paul I. Adujie
New York, United States
Senator Obama Has A Very Robust World View
Senator Obama Has A Very Robust World View
And I strongly believe that this is a consequence of his expose to wide ranging diverse and multifarious culture. Hawai, Indonesia, New York, Chicago etc
He is broad-minded and possesses a limitless horizon regarding the many things which bind the human race... as opposed to the us versus them mantra of some of our so-called leaders.
The world essentially holds America in awe. President Obama is the sorts of president who would speak softly despite having a big stick or having the American armament or military wherewithal to conquer all enemies.
It does America a lot of good to have strength... economic, military and strategic... without behaving as a bully in the world arena. Most people can smell arrogance and unilateralism from 10,000 miles!
America in a President Obama administration will foster world peace, unity and development. President Obama, in view will eschew the arrogance of power as seen under President Bush.
Unbridled use of military force should be seen for what it is... bullying! War mongers should not have unfettered opportunities or stranglehold of American foreign policy.
The world will respect America more... when America stops cuddling dictators such as President Musharaf of Pakistan... as he was. America has managed in the past to be strange-bedfellows with autocrats and dictators.
America's foreign policy will be better served if America jettison and expunge policies that are informed by short term expediencies.
America will do well under President Obama because he has a robust and very vibrant understanding of the world and how the world view America.
A President Obama will represent an American foreign policy which would redeem America in the eyes of the entire world. The world actually waits for America’s leadership. The world is at awe with America. The world only gets disappointed when America acts badly.
I have always and still hold the view that winning hearts and minds worldwide is easier and painless through education and cultural exchange.
The world love everything America and everything American, except of course, some American policies espoused by some American “leaders” such as President Bush with his wrong-headed policies. An instance is the Iraq invasion and occupation which was fueled by go-it-alone unilateralism.
America is at her best when the focus is on science, technology and the arts… Yes, the arts!
American music, American movies and American arts generally, have done more to sway the world in favor of American ideals… much more than any atomic, nuclear or chemical weapons!
American Jazz… Louis Armstrong, Duke Ellington, Coltrane… Dave Brubeck, Miles Davis etc endears America to me whereas no cluster bombs or bunker-bursting bomber could intimidate me to respect the USA the way American arts, ingenuity, creativity and talents have.
• I am a New Yorker, growing in Nigeria, every good thing that I admired about America, I learned from Sesame Street created by Jim Henson. Every American that I have interacted with is fair-minded and would not run a foreign policy such as the Bush White House; especially, if the average American has all the facts. And understands the adverse impact on the world
I have said to say this: Education, the arts etc are more powerful than any precision bomb, cluster-bombs or bunker-buster bomb that is yet to be made! For America to “Winning the hearts and minds” America has to demonstrate the worthiness of America’s systems of government and way of life through educations, just as American music and movies has influenced a great many persons in diverse populations worldwide.
Any Nigerian who had contact with the American Peace Corps Volunteers 40 years ago, still have fond memories of the particular American Peace Corp Volunteer and America itself. Nigerians had indelible and favorable memories the American Peace Corps. Those were the gold old days of inspiring American ideals, unlike these days of hegemonic war exports!
If I was president of the United States, acting with the US Congress, I would give more money to the Education Department than the Defense Department. Education “wins hearts and minds” permanently. Education makes superior arguments for America than any precision guided missile or arsenals. No US Armada has swayed my mind the way American Jazz or Sesame Street has!
Most sincerely,
Paul I. Adujie
New York, United States
And I strongly believe that this is a consequence of his expose to wide ranging diverse and multifarious culture. Hawai, Indonesia, New York, Chicago etc
He is broad-minded and possesses a limitless horizon regarding the many things which bind the human race... as opposed to the us versus them mantra of some of our so-called leaders.
The world essentially holds America in awe. President Obama is the sorts of president who would speak softly despite having a big stick or having the American armament or military wherewithal to conquer all enemies.
It does America a lot of good to have strength... economic, military and strategic... without behaving as a bully in the world arena. Most people can smell arrogance and unilateralism from 10,000 miles!
America in a President Obama administration will foster world peace, unity and development. President Obama, in view will eschew the arrogance of power as seen under President Bush.
Unbridled use of military force should be seen for what it is... bullying! War mongers should not have unfettered opportunities or stranglehold of American foreign policy.
The world will respect America more... when America stops cuddling dictators such as President Musharaf of Pakistan... as he was. America has managed in the past to be strange-bedfellows with autocrats and dictators.
America's foreign policy will be better served if America jettison and expunge policies that are informed by short term expediencies.
America will do well under President Obama because he has a robust and very vibrant understanding of the world and how the world view America.
A President Obama will represent an American foreign policy which would redeem America in the eyes of the entire world. The world actually waits for America’s leadership. The world is at awe with America. The world only gets disappointed when America acts badly.
I have always and still hold the view that winning hearts and minds worldwide is easier and painless through education and cultural exchange.
The world love everything America and everything American, except of course, some American policies espoused by some American “leaders” such as President Bush with his wrong-headed policies. An instance is the Iraq invasion and occupation which was fueled by go-it-alone unilateralism.
America is at her best when the focus is on science, technology and the arts… Yes, the arts!
American music, American movies and American arts generally, have done more to sway the world in favor of American ideals… much more than any atomic, nuclear or chemical weapons!
American Jazz… Louis Armstrong, Duke Ellington, Coltrane… Dave Brubeck, Miles Davis etc endears America to me whereas no cluster bombs or bunker-bursting bomber could intimidate me to respect the USA the way American arts, ingenuity, creativity and talents have.
• I am a New Yorker, growing in Nigeria, every good thing that I admired about America, I learned from Sesame Street created by Jim Henson. Every American that I have interacted with is fair-minded and would not run a foreign policy such as the Bush White House; especially, if the average American has all the facts. And understands the adverse impact on the world
I have said to say this: Education, the arts etc are more powerful than any precision bomb, cluster-bombs or bunker-buster bomb that is yet to be made! For America to “Winning the hearts and minds” America has to demonstrate the worthiness of America’s systems of government and way of life through educations, just as American music and movies has influenced a great many persons in diverse populations worldwide.
Any Nigerian who had contact with the American Peace Corps Volunteers 40 years ago, still have fond memories of the particular American Peace Corp Volunteer and America itself. Nigerians had indelible and favorable memories the American Peace Corps. Those were the gold old days of inspiring American ideals, unlike these days of hegemonic war exports!
If I was president of the United States, acting with the US Congress, I would give more money to the Education Department than the Defense Department. Education “wins hearts and minds” permanently. Education makes superior arguments for America than any precision guided missile or arsenals. No US Armada has swayed my mind the way American Jazz or Sesame Street has!
Most sincerely,
Paul I. Adujie
New York, United States
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
Senator John McCain is an opportunist without core beliefs
Believing anything John McCain and the Republicans say now... after their eight years of blunders ... requires that we all disregard our collective experience and common sense!
I am almost certain that John McCain and his cohorts cannot spin-doctor their way out of the huge mess thrust upon Americans during the preceding eight years of the President Bush administration... supported avidly by Senator McCain.
The President Bush administration (the Republicans), have forgotten a basic principle cause and effect.
The Bush administration and the Republicans have lectured us with preachments of minimum government... also known as deregulation...
The economic crisis which is upon us is a consequence of such environment that has aversion for rules and regulations! Why are we surprised at the resulting tumult?
We now have Senator McCain hijacking "change" as his new mantra? Just as he frequently repeat his new song about the greed on Wall Street (which is why the rest of us clamored and still demand rules and regulations)!
John McCain has become the master manipulator and an unapologetic opportunist!
I now wonder whether John McCain has any core beliefs... He is too fleeting... and I guess that is the new meaning of being a Maverick?
I am almost certain that John McCain and his cohorts cannot spin-doctor their way out of the huge mess thrust upon Americans during the preceding eight years of the President Bush administration... supported avidly by Senator McCain.
The President Bush administration (the Republicans), have forgotten a basic principle cause and effect.
The Bush administration and the Republicans have lectured us with preachments of minimum government... also known as deregulation...
The economic crisis which is upon us is a consequence of such environment that has aversion for rules and regulations! Why are we surprised at the resulting tumult?
We now have Senator McCain hijacking "change" as his new mantra? Just as he frequently repeat his new song about the greed on Wall Street (which is why the rest of us clamored and still demand rules and regulations)!
John McCain has become the master manipulator and an unapologetic opportunist!
I now wonder whether John McCain has any core beliefs... He is too fleeting... and I guess that is the new meaning of being a Maverick?
Thursday, September 25, 2008
John McCain: Presidential Debates are no entertainment or comedy!
Presidential Debates are for serious national issues, such as the economic mess and the Financial Markets being in a tailspin.
Note to John McCain: Presidential Debates are not entertainment or comedy!
Presidential Debate on Friday is not inappropriate... it is not like comedy or entertainment which might be considered inappropriate at times like these.... in a national economic emergency or, say, in a time of national mourning.
Times like these make presidential debate crucially relevant!
AND, what about that John McCain campaign manager being in the same bed with Bankers and Mortgage companies for $15,000.00 a month while the mortgage meltdown was going on?
How about that Mr. McCain? It is not time to hide or spin the usual Republicans spin on serious issues
Let us have a national debate and let us have a presidential debate and let the Republicans "claim" full "credit" for the bungling of the American economy!
Mr. McCain has always been Siamese and Symbiotic with Bush and Bush policies for the preceding 8 years
And Bush is the epitome of DEREGULATION and deregulation is what has brought the conflagration on Wall Street Financial Markets upon us!
Republicans allowed Bookies to write the "rules" and encourage observance in the breach of the "rules"
NOW? Bush seek unfettered powers again, in the name of regulations and reforms for Wall Street!
The Republicans only know how to campaign, but certainly do not know or care about governance!
Mr. McCain is attempting to spin this national economic emergency for his political advantage... I predict that his spin and Republican spins will spin out of control soon enough, unless Mr. McCain does a rethink and shows up dramatically... in the last minute to debate Mr. Obama on Friday!
Republicans created this mess....just like the mess in Iraq and they can put all the perfumes on their pungent pig, it will still smell from Washington to New Orleans and to Baghdad! And oh! They can put lipstick on the pig too! It remains their self-inflicted PIG!
Most sincerely,
Paul I. Adujie
New York, United States
Note to John McCain: Presidential Debates are not entertainment or comedy!
Presidential Debate on Friday is not inappropriate... it is not like comedy or entertainment which might be considered inappropriate at times like these.... in a national economic emergency or, say, in a time of national mourning.
Times like these make presidential debate crucially relevant!
AND, what about that John McCain campaign manager being in the same bed with Bankers and Mortgage companies for $15,000.00 a month while the mortgage meltdown was going on?
How about that Mr. McCain? It is not time to hide or spin the usual Republicans spin on serious issues
Let us have a national debate and let us have a presidential debate and let the Republicans "claim" full "credit" for the bungling of the American economy!
Mr. McCain has always been Siamese and Symbiotic with Bush and Bush policies for the preceding 8 years
And Bush is the epitome of DEREGULATION and deregulation is what has brought the conflagration on Wall Street Financial Markets upon us!
Republicans allowed Bookies to write the "rules" and encourage observance in the breach of the "rules"
NOW? Bush seek unfettered powers again, in the name of regulations and reforms for Wall Street!
The Republicans only know how to campaign, but certainly do not know or care about governance!
Mr. McCain is attempting to spin this national economic emergency for his political advantage... I predict that his spin and Republican spins will spin out of control soon enough, unless Mr. McCain does a rethink and shows up dramatically... in the last minute to debate Mr. Obama on Friday!
Republicans created this mess....just like the mess in Iraq and they can put all the perfumes on their pungent pig, it will still smell from Washington to New Orleans and to Baghdad! And oh! They can put lipstick on the pig too! It remains their self-inflicted PIG!
Most sincerely,
Paul I. Adujie
New York, United States
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