Flashback - Atiku Abubakar: Corruption Incorporated

CC™ Global News

Nigerian opposition presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar said he is willing to disclose his assets if compelled by law and denied a new corruption allegation against him ahead of the Feb. 25 election, the BBC reported on Tuesday.

Atiku, who was vice president from 1999 to 2007, is the main opposition People's Democratic Party's candidate and among the top three contenders to take over from President Muhammadu Buhari, whose final term ends in May.

The candidate, a 76-year-old businessman, has previously faced allegations of corruption, which he denies.

Atiku told the BBC he would disclose his assets if a law was enacted requiring it and that he would "take it in good faith" if he lost the election.

"The law doesn't provide that we should make it (assets) public. But if the law says we should make it public, I will make it public. I don't mind it," he said.

A ruling party official last week filed a motion with the High Court in Abuja asking it to order the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission and other agencies to arrest and prosecute Atiku over a leaked audio.

On the audio, which Reuters has not verified, someone who sounds like Atiku describes a plan to divert funds from government projects and cover up that the person received the money.

When asked to comment on the audio, Atiku told the BBC: "That voice has disclosed nothing new."

When pressed if it was his voice in the audio he said, "Nothing new."

"All what I know, all corrupt practices or corrupt allegations against me have been investigated in this country more than anybody else and nothing was found against me."

Atiku figured prominently in the corruption trial of former U.S. Representative William Jefferson, who was accused of trying to bribe Atiku in an effort to expand a technology business in Nigeria. Jefferson was convicted in 2009 and sentenced to 13 years in prison. His sentence was subsequently reduced.

Separately, U.S. Senate investigators in 2010 alleged that one of Atiku's four wives helped him transfer more than $40 million in "suspect funds" into the United States from offshore shell companies.

REUTERS

The Link Between the Modern day Yoruba and the Ancient Egyptians

Ooni of Ife 

CC™ HistoGraphy

By Reno Omokri

The ‘Yoruba’ people are some of the most spiritual people on Earth, (if not the most spiritual bar none). Sadly, however, a lot of Yoruba people do not know that there is absolutely nothing like Yoruba as a people or as a language. Yoruba is a modern creation, from a mispronounced Fulani word. The term Yoruba did not exist before the 19th Century. Yoruba is just like the English language, which was created as a mixture of several Germanic languages, including German, Danish and Dutch, when a mishmash of Saxons came to Britain in the 4th Century and mixed in with the Angle tribe that was native to Britain. When Samuel Ajayi Crowther was captured by Fulani slave traders from his village of Osoogun in 1821 at the age of 12, he reported that he could neither speak or understand the language of the villages they passed through on the way to Lagos. These were villages in present day Ogun and Oyo. Google it yourself. Don’t take my word for it. At that time, there was Egba language, Ijebu language, Owu language, Awori language, Ijesha language, Ondo language, etc. So how did Yoruba come about? When the Portuguese entered Eko and changed the name to Lagos, it became a big trading post and attracted a variety of Edekiri peoples (Edekiri is the actual name for the group of languages now referred to as Yoruba). Gradually, they evolved a mixture of their various dialects and thus began the origins of the modern language now known as Yoruba. As Lagos grew in importance under the British, so did the new language grow in vocabulary and spread. But if you understand the pure root Edekiri language, you will be able to understand bits and pieces of all languages spoken from modern day Kwara, to Kogi, to Edo, to parts of Delta, and to the Southwest states, and to Benin Republic.

Now, in my present pilgrimage to Egypt, a land that was known as Kemet by the original Black inhabitants who were pushed deeper into Africa by wave after wave of invaders, my Egyptologist guide kept on mentioning names that would sound familiar to anyone who is aware of the pure Edekiri language, before it was diluted in Lagos. One of such names is Tiye, wife of Pharaoh Amenhotep III and daughter of Yuya and Tuya. Tiye was Black. This is undisputed in Egyptology. You ought to research this, or at least Google it. Her DNA was tested. But the interesting thing is that the root word of Tiye’s name and the name of her parents (Yuya and Tuya) is Iye or Iya, which is the pure Edekiri word for mother. Do you still doubt me? Okay. Let’s go deeper. Tiye’s son, who succeeded his father as Pharaoh was Smenkhkare. Google it. That is a pure Edekiri name that is still being used as a name amongst the Edo of Benin (also called Bini). You have such similar names as Nosakhare, Nehikhare being used till today. Another of Queen Tiye’s son’s name, who also became Pharaoh is Akenaten. This is also a root Edekiri name that is still being used in Benin till this very day. In fact, the Binis had a king (Oba) named Oba Akenzua. You will also notice a strong similarity between the ancient Egyptians and the Edekiri people-they did not write their history in words. They carved it, in wood, stone, and metal, using symbols.

Now, let’s talk about the pyramids of Egypt (which are in reality the Pyramids of Kemet). They were built 4600 years ago. By who? Google the Groundnut Pyramids of Nigeria. They were built entirely by native Hausa people. They were not built under the direction of the British. Native Hausas built them just like Black people once built the pyramids in Egypt. Do you know that there are pyramids in Nigeria? Google the Nsude Pyramids. These are pyramids built by people of Igbo origin for their god, Ala. it is not known exactly when these pyramids were built, only that they are prehistoric.

I am still in Egypt, and I have a lot more I could write. But I often hesitate, because when I write these things (especially if I don’t step them down), I end up frightening, or shocking too many people and that is not my intention. So, let me stop here and also encourage my readers to not only read, but even more importantly, do their own thorough independent and unbiased research, just like I have done. I will also encourage my readers to read my earlier work ‘The Ijebu, The Yoruba and Their Influence on The Bible and Judaism’.

VIRTUE AND VALUE: THE TWO PILLARS OF A GODLY LIFE

CC™ PersPective

By Pastor Amos Dada

In a world obsessed with fame, wealth, and appearances, many have lost sight of what truly matters: virtue and value. These two elements form the foundation of a purposeful, impactful Christian life. While value speaks of what you carry — your God-given worth and contribution — virtue reflects how you carry it — the godly character that upholds and preserves your value.

What Is Virtue?

Virtue refers to moral excellence, goodness, purity, and strength of character. It is the visible fruit of inner transformation by the Holy Spirit.

“And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; And to knowledge temperance… godliness… brotherly kindness… charity.”2 Peter 1:5-7 

Virtue is not optional for believers — it is the first thing Peter says to add to our faith. Why? Because without virtue, our faith becomes empty profession.

Examples of Virtue: Integrity (Proverbs 10:9)Purity (Matthew 5:8).Patience (James 1:4).Kindness (Ephesians 4:32)

What Is Value?

Value is the unique worth and purpose God has placed in your life. You are not random. You were made to add something meaningful to the world and the Body of Christ.

“Ye are the salt of the earth… Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hid.”Matthew 5:13-14 (KJV)

This means your presence should preserve, brighten, and influence your world positively. To live a valueless life is to bury your God-given talent (see Matthew 25:14–30).

The more value you add to your self the more your worth. 

Example of value

Spiritual Gifts:Teaching, healing, prophecy, intercession, wisdom(1 Corinthians 12:7–11 )“But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal.” Are you a teacher, add more value be upgrading your knowledge daily. Learn something new daily not only in your area of expertise but in general knowledge.

God-Given Talents and Skills: Singing, writing, organizing, leadership, craftsmanship, hospitality(Exodus 31:2-5 ) God filled Bezalel with skill and ability to design for the tabernacle. Are you a singer? Keep composing until your song not only go viral but is rendered in every home around the world .

Experience and Wisdom:Life lessons, maturity, counsel, spiritual insight(Job 12:12) “With the ancient is wisdom; and in length of days understanding.” A you a pastor, come to the pulpit every time with a fresh revelation soaked in prayer. Bishop Oyedepo says where there is rain people will bring there bucket to fetch water. Don’t complain that people are leaving your church, add value to yourself and even those who left with return and you will attract fresh members daily- Acts 2:47. Don’t fake prophecy just stay more in God’s presence and you will have more heavenly, accurate prophecies to give to your parishioners. 

Your Capacity to Solve Problems: The more problems you solve the more valuable you become. Joseph interpreted Pharaoh’s dreams. Pharaoh said to Joseph, “There is none so discreet and wise as thou art. He established the universal system of retirement. Daniel in Babylon, established the philosophy of self discipline. Esther in the palace, established the principle of purity and solving national problem .

The Relationship Between Virtue and Value

Your virtue sustains your value. Gifting and charisma may take you to a high place, but without godly character (virtue), you won’t last there.

“A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches, and loving favour rather than silver and gold.” Proverbs 22:1 (KJV):

This is why some rise fast but fall even faster — they had value but lacked virtue. A person of great value without virtue is like a powerful engine with no brakes — bound for destruction.

How to Add Virtue and Value to Your Life

Daily Devotion and the Word of God – (Psalm 119:9)

Fellowship with the Holy Spirit – (Galatians 5:22-23)

Learning and Personal Development (Proverbs 4:7)

Serving Others – (Mark 10:45)

Living with Eternal Purpose – (Colossians 3:2)

Keep in mind: God won’t anoint who you pretend to be; He empowers who you are becoming in Christ.

Conclusion:

In a world that celebrates outward success but often neglects inner substance, God is calling His people to a higher standard — one marked by virtue and value. Your value is what God has deposited in you to bless the world; your virtue is the character that protects and expresses that value with integrity. One without the other is incomplete. As believers, we must not only know our worth but also walk in holiness so that our impact will be lasting and our lives will truly reflect Christ.

Let us pursue both with diligence — building our lives on truth, walking in the Spirit, and being vessels of honor in our generation.

‘Buhari tried to kill me in 2021, but he’s dead now’ – Sunday Igboho

CC™ Viewpoint 

Yoruba Nation agitator, Sunday Igboho, has reacted to the death of former President, Muhammadu Buhari.

Naija News reports that the activist recalled the 2021 raid at his Ibadan home by security operatives under Buhari’s administration.

In a video shared on social media, Igboho expressed deep gratitude to God for preserving his life.

He said he was thankful to be alive today, while the former president, who allegedly ordered the deadly attack on him, had passed away.

Igboho recounted how, on the night of July 1, 2021, operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) and soldiers stormed his house in the middle of the night, in what he described as an attempt to kill him.

He described the late president as a “criminal Fulani man” and claimed some Yoruba collaborators helped in planning the attack.

He said: “I thank God for my life today. My people, Buhari don die. See life. The Buhari criminal man that sent the DSS and military to come and kill me middle in the night, in July 1st, 2021.

“He died today see life. my people we’re supposed to learn about this that criminal man Buhari. he don die see i’m alive today i thank god god thank you for my life today. Criminal fulani man with some stupid Yoruba people that he gang up and come to my house, middle of the night, that I tried to take my life, but God said no. If God said yes, nobody can say no. God said no. See life, he don die today. Thank God.”

Former President Muhammadu Buhari died in London on Sunday, July 13, 2025, at about 4:30 p.m., after a prolonged illness.

The resounding defeat of the Fulani at Ogbomosho and the Yoruba legacy of resistance against Fulanization cloaked in religion

Ooni of Ife

CC™ HistoryVille

By Staff

This is why they stopped teaching history in Nigerian schools. Why? The Fulani hegemony has always hinged its stranglehold over Nigeria on the ability it has always had to control the Nigerian narrative, from a socio-political and historical standpoint. 

The Fulani Jihad led by Usman Dan Fodio (the terrorist progenitor of the Sokoto Caliphate) swept through the house of kingdoms like a storm, toppling kings and replacing thrones with turbans. 

Ilorin had once been a Yoruba border town under the control of the Oyo empire, but fell to the advancing Fulani cavalry of terrorists due to internal strife and betrayal by one of its own, Afonja, the then Aare Onakakanfo (Supreme Military General) of the Oyo empire. 

The Fulani Jihadists have one singular vision - To dip the Quran and the sword into the sea, a euphemism instructive of a chilling metaphor for a campaign of total domination to overrun all of Yoruba land by force of arms, to Fulanize and Islamize every town, every village and every soul that stands in their path .

It is driven by an inordinate ambition cloaked in religion but rooted in imperialism and ruthless expansionism. 

The resounding defeat of the Fulani at Ogbomosho by the combined forces of Ogbomosho and Ijaye is one of the many lessons of history that must be taught our children and generations to come. 

The Fulani (still under the cloak of religion with the Sultan of Sokoto) are masters of the long game, and must NEVER be trusted!

VIDEO CREDITS: BATTLEFIELD AFRICA

In leaked audio, Atiku allegedly admits to setting up channels for corruption

CC™ Politico

The former presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and stalwart of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Atiku Abubakar, has been accused of complicity regarding bribery and misappropriation of public funds.

This came to light in a viral audio shared by Atiku’s former aide, Michael Achimugu, where the former vice-president allegedly admitted to having collected N100 million bribe from Mr Joshua Dariye, a former Plateau State governor, which was paid directly to Marine Float, one of the three firms he registered.Play audio 

In the audio recording which Achimugu claimed was with Atiku, the former Vice President is heard explaining how he set up an ‘SPV -Special Purpose Vehicle’ to receive monies from corruption-related dealings.

During his tenure as governor from 1999 to 2007, Dariye was found to have stolen N2 billion in public funds. He was found guilty of criminal misappropriation and criminal breach of trust.

“When the governor sent donations, he sent it to Marine Float. It stayed in Marine Float. One of the subscribers of Marine Float was Otunba Fasawe. That was where the N100 million went to. It did not go to Atiku Abubakar. It went to Marine Float. Marine Float was a special-purpose vehicle,” Atiku revealed in the YouTube phone recording.

Atiku said the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission had afterwards “very thoroughly” investigated Marine Float accounts but had still not “discovered anything” connecting him to the company’s fraudulent practices.

The former vice president also described how he was in charge of establishing onshore shell companies to operate as a conduit for taking large sums of money from public works contracts for himself and former President Olusegun Obasanjo.

He said, “What happened was when we came into office and I advised the president against open corruption.

“I told him to give me three people you trust and I will prepare three companies in which they will be subscribers or rather the directors.

“So that if there is any contract that we give they will act like consultants and they are given a fee. That fee is what we use to fund the party.”

Atiku was accused by Nigerian senators in 2007 of misusing more than $100 million (£51 million) in taxpayer money for personal gain.

A Senate investigation suggested that Atiku be prosecuted for diverting funds to businesses he was associated with.

After the then-president, Obasanjo, transmitted accusations made against Atiku by Nigeria’s anti-corruption agency, the Senate opened the investigation.

The investigative panel acknowledged in a report given to the Senate that it concurred with the conclusion that Atiku had abetted in the transfer of $145 million from Nigerian government accounts to banks.

The panel’s research and conclusions, though, had no effect.

The demonisation of the Orisas: Colonialism, religion and cultural misrepresentation

CC™ PersPective

By Samira Bello

Throughout history, the Orisas (divine entities in the Yoruba spiritual system) have been misrepresented, demonised, and vilified, particularly in the wake of colonialism and the spread of Abrahamic religions. This distortion of indigenous African spirituality has had lasting effects on cultural identity, religious freedom, and the perception of traditional beliefs. 

The Orisas are revered as intermediaries between humanity and Olodumare, the Supreme Creator in Yoruba cosmology. Each Orisa embodies specific natural and metaphysical forces. For example, Ogun is the Orisa of iron and war, Yemoja represents motherhood and the ocean, and Sango embodies thunder and justice. These deities govern aspects of existence and serve as guides for adherents of the Yoruba faith. 

Unlike the binary worldview in some monotheistic traditions, Yoruba spirituality embraces duality and balance, acknowledging that divinity manifests in multiple ways. Worship of the Orisas is rooted in ancestral veneration, community cohesion, and a deep relationship with nature. 

With the arrival of European colonisers in West Africa, indigenous spiritual systems came under attack. Missionaries and colonial administrators labelled traditional African religions as “paganism” or “witchcraft,” portraying them as primitive and diabolical. The Orisas, once revered, were systematically demonised as evil spirits. This was part of a broader colonial strategy to undermine African identity and establish religious dominance (I’ll speak more about this in future articles).

Forced conversions to Christianity and Islam led many Africans to abandon or conceal their traditional beliefs. Sacred groves, shrines, and spiritual practices were destroyed, and practitioners of Ifá and Orisa worship were often persecuted. This ideological warfare severed many from their ancestral spiritual heritage, leading to generational amnesia regarding the Orisas’ true nature.

Despite the violent suppression of their faith, enslaved Africans carried their spiritual traditions to the Americas, where they adapted them under new conditions. In Brazil (Candomblé), Cuba (Santería), Haiti (Vodou), and other parts of the diaspora, the worship of the Orisas persisted, often syncretised with Catholic saints to evade persecution.

For example, Sango was linked to Saint Barbara, while Yemoja was associated with the Virgin Mary. These adaptations ensured the survival of Orisa worship but also introduced misunderstandings that further complicated perceptions of these deities.

Modern media continues to reinforce negative stereotypes about African spirituality. Films, television shows, and literature often depict Orisa worship as dark, malevolent, or associated with sorcery and black magic. Characters who practice Yoruba spirituality are frequently portrayed as villains, reinforcing the colonial-era narrative of the Orisas as demonic beings.

Furthermore, some evangelical movements in Africa and the diaspora actively campaign against indigenous religions, spreading misinformation that frames Orisa worship as devil worship. This further alienates young Africans from their spiritual heritage, deepening the historical erasure of their traditions.

In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in Yoruba spirituality, both in Africa and the diaspora. Scholars, traditional priests (babalawos: ‘father of secrets’), and cultural advocates are working to reclaim the true essence of the Orisas, challenging centuries of misrepresentation. Social media, books, and academic discourse are helping to demystify these spiritual entities and educate people about their profound philosophical and ethical teachings.

Celebrities and public figures have also played a role in reviving Orisa worship, embracing traditional African spirituality as a source of empowerment. Artists, musicians, and writers are incorporating Orisa imagery into their work.

The demonisation of the Orisas is a direct result of colonialism, religious intolerance, and cultural imperialism. However, the enduring nature of Yoruba spirituality demonstrates its resilience and adaptability.

In an era of decolonisation and cultural revival, the truth about the Orisas must be restored. They are not demons or forces of evil but sacred beings who guide, protect, and enrich the lives of those who seek their wisdom. Understanding and respecting this rich spiritual tradition is a step toward healing the wounds of the past and embracing a future rooted in cultural authenticity and self-determination.

Business Day

Samira Bello is a young Nigerian writer exploring Yoruba history, African spiritual traditions and wellness. samiradbello@outlook.com

NGUGI WA THIONG'O: A COMPENDIUM OF A LITERARY LIFE WELL SPENT!

CC™ PersPective

By Yahaya Balogun

The journey of reading is a perpetual one. And it's awe-inspiring to witness how a simple arrangement of words can evoke such deep feelings and an ejaculation of wisdom within us or our willing souls!" - Yahaya Balogun.

The continent of Africa has lost another cerebral literary juggernaut. As Wikipedia aptly described him, Ngugi wa Thiong'o, originally named James Ngugi, graced the world from January 5, 1938, until May 28, 2025. Renowned as the premier novelist of East Africa, he emerged as a pivotal voice in the landscape of contemporary African literature.

The passing of our illustrious African son, the literary giant and prolific writer Ngugi wa Thiong'o, has deeply affected our hearts. Ngugi wa Thiong'o, a gifted author and scholar, has now joined his contemporary African ancestors, just a few days before his 87th birthday celebration.

Ngugi wa Thiong'o, a prolific literary figure and author, has an impressive portfolio of more than 34 published works. Ngugi wa Thiong'o's fictional contributions include seven remarkable novels: "Weep Not, Child" (1964), "The River Between" (1965), "A Grain of Wheat" (1967, 1992), "Petals of Blood" (1977), "Caitaani Mutharaba-Ini" (also known as "Devil on the Cross," 1980), "Matigari ma Njiruungi" (1986), "Murogi wa Kagogo" (or "Wizard of the Crow," 2006), and "Kenda Muiyuru: Rugano Rwa Gikuyu na Mumbi" (2018), which was published in Gikuyu. Ngugi wa Thiong'o's talent is evident in two collections of short stories: "A Meeting in the Dark" (1974) and "Secret Lives and Other Stories" (1976).

Ngugi's memoirs are a testament to his unique journey, which includes four significant titles: "Detained: A Writer's Prison Diary" (1981), "Dreams in a Time of War: A Childhood Memoir" (2010), "In the House of the Interpreter: A Memoir" (2012), and "Birth of a Dream Weaver: A Memoir of a Writer's Awakening" (2016).

In addition to these, Ngugi wa Thiong'o has enriched the literary landscape with thirteen essay collections and nonfiction works, such as "Homecoming: Essays on African and Caribbean Literature, Culture, and Politics" (1972), "Writers in Politics: Essays" (1981), "Education for a National Culture" (1981), "Barrel of a Pen: Resistance to Repression in Neo-Colonial Kenya" (1983), "Decolonizing the Mind: The Politics of Language in African Literature" (1986), "Mother, Sing For Me" (1986), "Writing against Neo-Colonialism" (1986), "Moving the Centre: The Struggle for Cultural Freedom" (1993), "Penpoints, Gunpoints, and Dreams: The Performance of Literature and Power in Post-Colonial Africa" (1998), "Something Torn and New: An African Renaissance" (2009), "Globalectics: Theory and the Politics of Knowing" (2012), "In the Name of the Mother: Reflections on Writers and Empire" (2013), and "Secure the Base" (2016).

Moreover, Ngugi has brought to life four compelling plays: "The Black Hermit" (1963), "This Time Tomorrow" (1970), "The Trial of Dedan Kimathi" (1976), and "Ngaahika Ndeenda: Ithaako ria ngerekano" (translated as "I Will Marry When I Want," 1977), along with three enchanting children's books: "Njamba Nene and the Flying Bus" (1986), "Njamba Nene and the Cruel Chief" (1988), and "Njamba Nene's Pistol" (1990).

From 1984 to 1985, I studied "Weep Not Child" in English Literature at Igbemo Community Comprehensive High School, Igbemo-Ekiti. It was a great memory for us to read Ngugi's poignant story, penned in his novels in Kikuyu, and he undertook the translations himself; however, he initially crafted "Weep Not Child" in English. Within its pages, one can discern the subtle influence of the Kikuyu language—the rhythm and straightforwardness of its formal prose and erudition. This interplay creates a vibrant echo of Kikuyu life, allowing the essence, mood, and hues of that culture to flow into the English text, imbuing the novel with a profound African spirit.

The death and words of Ngugi wa Thiong'o, our cerebral and literary giant, will continue to resonate and inspire us all! This renowned author, Ngugi wa Thiong'o, will be celebrated as a transformative influence, particularly for his steadfast dedication to liberating the African psyche from colonial remnants and neocolonialism. His eloquence, foresight, and scholarly bravery will continue to motivate budding authors and countless future generations throughout Africa. May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace.

Source and credit: Book titles and collections from Brittle Paper's tribute to Ngugi wa Thiong'o on his 82nd birthday.

How America’s Legacy of Racial Terror Still Affects Black Wealth

CC™ VideoScope

Flashback: The GOP and the dearth of true conservatives

Reagan takes oath of office

Editor-in-Chief 

--- Boyejo A. Coker

This piece was written (ahead of the 2012 U.S. general elections) as a sequel to a preceding piece titled "Whither the GOP and true conservatism." Both pieces served to profess a prelude to the emergence of both Barack Obama and Donald Trump on opposite sides of the political spectrum. The article continues below.....

In an article I wrote a few years ago, I touched on the debilitating frailties of the GOP as presently constituted and how they may have led to the election of Barack Obama as the 44th President of the United States.

As we get into the decisive months of presidential politics in the U.S. general elections, one sees the same pattern beginning to unfold once again, as the GOP-led Congress (at least on the House side) would much rather play side-bar politics, that could ultimately re-energize the left to turn out in solidarity of what most observers perceive to be an under-performing president.

There is no question that the president is vulnerable and worse-still is the fact that he seems unsure of what he needs to do, in order to get the economy moving again.

For independent voters (they hold the "swing votes" in key elections), the two choices for the White House would seem to be a replay of 2008 all over again.

Then, most independents seemed to initially lean towards John McCain, as they respected his service to country as well as his penchant for reaching across the aisle, to get the business of the nation done, when it was absolutely necessary.

The fringe right of the GOP was however cool to the McCain candidacy and they eventually forced his hand into choosing someone that many felt became a liability to both his candidacy as well as the poignant message true conservatives were trying to send to the American people.

Key political watchers would argue that true conservatives never warmed up to Sarah Palin the minute they realized there was nothing behind the looks or between the ears.

For all the so-called Tea Party would like most Americans to believe, conservatism is not defined by a resentment for a sterling educational pedigree or impeccable intellectual acumen. Rather than see those with the preceding qualities as snubs, a true conservative views the composite as an invaluable asset; one that typifies a sense of ambition, responsibility and ultimately speaks to the crux of the conservative message of a commitment to excellence.

The reality is that this president is way in over his head, but the GOP leadership in the House of Representatives has consistently giving him a way out by stalling and styming his feckless efforts aimed at "reviving" the American economy.

And when they are not styming the president's "well intended efforts" they are busy issuing subpoenas to the Attorney General of the United States for a program that was actually started under a Republican president; it was then called Operation Wide Receiver and it was the first known ATF "gunwalking" operation to the Mexican drug cartels, beginning in early 2006 (under the Bush White House) and ran till late 2007.

Not to digress onto this matter, but what makes the Darrell Issa-led over-reach even more laughable and at best mis-directed, is the fact that under the Bush administration, there were no known reviews by either the DOJ or the Congress at the time. In fact, it was not until Barack Obama took office in 2009, that the Eric Holder-led DOJ started an intensive review into Operation Wide Receiver, with arrests and indictments subsequently made, as a result of the investigations.

Rather than focus on the key issues that continue to affect the generality of the American people, the ECONOMY, ECONOMY and the ECONOMY, key GOP leadership and their surrogates, would much rather play divisive politics and once again, give a much needed opening and life-line to a struggling presidency.

True conservatives are not blinded by their parochial and ideological idiosyncrasies, but are instead committed to espousing the true values and ideals of transparency, accountability and responsible governance; doing so with dignity and firmness, as well as a sense of cordiality that belies their resolve and determination.

The message of individual responsibility, self-determination, personal discipline and accountability must not be lost in the abyss of incendiary vituperations laced with jingoistic redundancies.

The American people deserve much better this time around, than a default presidency as that may ultimately lead to a couple of plausible scenarios that could eventually obtain here. The first is that Barack Obama's "third term" is ensured (4 years from now) by the lack of purpose and direction currently being exhibited by the core GOP establishment. The other scenario is that an anti-establishment candidate may arise out of the ashes of the impending GOP establishment's implosion. That person would then become an unlikely but much welcome voice (to the far right) of parochial irredentism that may change the political landscape of the United States forever.

Chief Editor's commentary: The 'anti-establishment candidate' I predicted almost a decade ago, in this piece, turned out to be Donald J. Trump. Four years of his chaotic presidency has turned American democracy on its head and January 6, 2021 was indeed a defining day in the history of the United States of America. Let no one be fooled here either by the incendiary posturing of some GOP fringe stalwarts of the disgraced former president, as it relates to Putin’s invasion of Ukraine. 

The facts are that Donald Trump was first impeached for withholding military aid to a friendly nation in exchange for a purported favor from that nation (Ukraine) against a potential opponent (Joe Biden) of his, in the upcoming presidential elections, at the time. Trump’s feckless presidency and rudderless leadership strengthened Putin’s hand politically, as it relates to the former Soviet Republics, Ukraine especially, from a strategic standpoint, geopolitically.