Like most colonial atrocities, German crimes against humanity haunt Namibians

Germany refuses to pay reparations for its crimes in Namibia

In our series of viewpoints from African journalists, film-maker and columnist Farai Sevenzo asks why there are no memorials to those killed in Namibia during German colonial rule.

According to The Namibian newspaper, there was a 2.8% decrease in the number of tourists visiting Namibia last year while some 984,099 visitors had gone through Windhoek airport in the year of Africa's football World Cup in neighbouring South Africa.

When I read these figures, I assumed the slight decrease could only be due to the depressing global economic climate - for anyone who has seen the beauty of this stunning African nation would gladly return there were it not for the cruel fate of the gods of credit, who have ordered the tourists to stay at home instead of travelling to faraway lands.

After all, an elephant in the bush may look better in high definition television.

But as we were reminded in the last week, 107 years before this year's high definition nature programmes, a different kind of visitor had been in South West Africa - as Namibia was known before its independence in 1990 - in search of conquest, not elephants.

Between 1904 and 1908, German occupiers systematically massacred ancestors of the Herero and Nama people for daring to rebel.

Under the leadership of Lieutenant General Lother von Trotha, the rebelling groups were killed or driven into the desert, where thousands died of thirst - all normal practice at the time for conquering armies.

But it was what followed which has cast a century-long shadow over German-Namibian relations.

'Gruesome experiments'

Not content with mere conquest, the Germans placed the survivors in concentration camps, built their colony with slave labour and then shipped off thousands of heads belonging to the dead to Berlin - for the totally barbaric aim of proving the inferiority of the defeated Africans in dubious medical experiments.

Fast forward to free Namibia, which had been demanding the return of these skulls, lost to German storage units.

It is a fact of life that we all value our dead, that the living wish to honour the departed and the ruthless disregard for the humanity of the owners of these heads would weigh heavily on any African.

Much had been written about the parallels of the Namibian genocide with its gruesome experiments surrounding the African dead and the subsequent Nazi holocaust of World War II.

Modern German politicians were quick to offer their regret for the sins of their forefathers and claimed to accept "moral responsibility" for the genocidal crimes of the past.

But no reparations were to be paid to the Herero and Nama descendants of this bloody history.

Instead, the German government says it already pays through development aid and recently announced about $173m (£110m) in aid for 2011-2012.

'Prayer and anguish'

Despite the fact that the Namibian victims of this crime see it as genocide, Germany has never acknowledged it as such and the scars of the past remain fully visible in the present day.

Namibia is not a poor country - fish and beef exports, diamonds and uranium - should be supporting 2.1 million people.

Yet the legacy of German colonialism has left hundreds of thousands without land and German descendants still farm on land that was forcefully taken from the murdered.

It is not difficult to imagine how such a situation may end, particularly as a tiny fraction of the population continues to run the economy and the landless remain without land.

As 20 skulls from the thousands that were taken arrived in Windhoek last Thursday, many voices were raised in prayer and anguish and, Africans being as close to their dead as they imagine their dead are to them, a deep sense of gravitas seemed to overlay proceedings.

But no firm answers were given on the issue of reparations - nor when the Herero and Nama can expect the rest of their ancestors' heads to be returned.

And in present day Namibia, frequented as it is by hundreds of thousands of tourists - German and other kinds - there is no standing memorial to the Namibian dead, no plaque at Luderitz, Swakopmund or Shark Island to mark the sites of German concentration camps or the mass graves of those who died.

Why should such a story matter? For those of us with such short histories, the past is a permanent shadow, forever by our side or right behind us.

Just 27 years before South Africa's Nobel laureate Archbishop Desmond Tutu - 80 last week - was born, a German army commander was issuing orders, in writing, to exterminate Namibians, drive them into the desert and poison the wells.

There are volumes of records in the Windhoek Archives detailing the massacres and recording every death of enslaved laborers.

Of course, there are those who say we must move on, we must close the chapters on tragic histories.

It is our lot on this continent to forever be urged to forget the past when such a past is so near and is as tangible as a four year old's skull in a medical laboratory far from African lands.

No amount of development aid could erase that.

Great African Civilizations Through History

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West African slave Onesimus taught America the science of vaccination (Video)

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In the 18th Century, Boston, which later became part of what is now called the United States of America experienced a deadly small pox epidemic.

The epidemic killed hundreds of people and there seemed to be no medical solution.

An African, known as Onesimus, who was shipped as a slave from Ghana, provided the therapy, by introducing the principle and procedure of inoculation.

According to what he taught his master, the inoculation worked by extracting the juice of small pox, from an infected person and then cutting the skin of an uninfected and putting a drop of the juice.

It worked.

Puritan minister Cotton Mather, who Onesimus told about this African therapy used this knowledge to advocate for inoculation in the population, a practice which eventually spread to other colonies.

According to Wikipedia, Mather's advocacy met resistance from those suspicious of African medicine.

Doctors, ministers, laymen, and Boston city officials argued that the practice of inoculating healthy individuals would spread the disease and that it was immoral to interfere with the working of divine providence.

Mather was also publicly ridiculed for relying on the testimony of a slave.

Nonetheless, a physician, Dr. Zabdiel Boylston, carried out the method Onesimus had described, which involved sticking a needle into a pustule from an infected person's body and scraping the infected needle across a healthy person's skin.

Dr. Boylston first inoculated his 6-year-old son and two of his slaves.

A total of 280 individuals were inoculated during the 1721-22 Boston smallpox epidemic.

The population of 280 inoculated patients experienced only 6 deaths (approx. 2.2 percent), compared to 844 deaths among the 5,889 non-inoculated smallpox patients (approx. 14.3 percent

Boston and London in 1726 and 1722, respectively, performed trials on citizens and, on average, decreased the mortality rate from 17% to 2% of the infected population.

In a 2016 Boston Magazine survey, Onesimus was declared number 52 on a list of the "Best Bostonians of All Time".

Onesimus's name cropped up recently on MSNBC in this Twitter post shared by a certain Osaretin Victor Asemota:

As the world searches for a vaccine to curb Coronavirus and its accompanying COVID-19 disease, let the world remember that an African pioneered a solution for health crisis of this nature ahead of western medicine.

How and why Argentina wiped out its Black (African) population

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Still on Constitutionalism: A wake-up call

Late Nigerian Dictator Sani Abacha

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By Abdulrazaq Magaji

Over the past several months, the restructuring debate has understandably been pushed to the front burner with opinions on the issue being as impassioned as they are divided. Expectedly, every Nigerian appears to have an idea on how, when and what to restructure.

That is the way it should be! But, with popular opinion in support of preserving the continued existence of Nigeria as one, united country, attention should be focused on restructuring to strengthen political structures. It is good that the ninth Senate has activated a nationwide debate on securing a people-oriented constitution.

It might not have been top on the agenda when then Head of State, General Sani Abacha, convoked the National Constitutional Conference in 1994, but, little did he know that he had surreptitiously set the country on the path of restructuring.  Had death not abridged General Abacha’s plans, it is safe to say that all the hot air over marginalization, more imagined than real, and some of the ills we are grappling with, would have been consigned to history.

Reference here is to stillborn report of the 1994/95 National Constitutional Conference. A review of salient provisions of the report shows that, had it seen the light of day, Nigeria would have transformed from a country of contending ethnic nationalities into a modern nation-state in a matter of thirty years! In a manner of speaking, the Abacha draft is the best effort at constitutionalism since independence in 1960.

Sadly, General Abacha died suddenly after holding the country together for five impossible years. Imperatively, survival instincts demanded that General Abacha be disowned by those who succeeded him. The national emergency then was to heal wounds and woo the aggrieved South-west geo-political zone back into the fold. It was, therefore, expedient for his stopgap successor, General Abdulsalami Abubakar, to distance himself as much as possible. The biggest casualty was the report of Confab ’94.

One of the committees hurriedly assembled by the new administration to explore the way forward was led by an eminent jurist, late Justice Niki Tobi. The Committee appeared to be in a haste to deliver; after all, it had its briefs well spelt out. The Committee took one hasty look at the Abacha Report and dismissed it offhanded as ‘anti-people’. Remarkably, the eminent jurist rationalized the decision to throw away the Abacha document by claiming it was the ‘product of a disputed legitimacy’. In its place, the 1979 constitution was lazily window-dressed and closed shop!

As things stand today, Nigeria continues to grope partly due to the lethargy with which the Abacha document was handled. The nation’s official six geo-political zones remains an enduring legacy of General Abacha. In any case, the zones were meant to be the building blocks for the fundamental changes envisaged by the 1995 draft constitution which made provision for the offices of president, vice president, senate president, house speaker as well as the position of prime minister and deputy prime minister. A five-year single-term for political offices. Public office holders were restricted to a five-year single-term tenure.

The ‘Abacha document’ had something for everybody. Had political exigencies not prevailed on General Abubakar into literally throwing away the baby with the bathwater, Nigeria would, by now, have experimented with the Abacha formula for twenty-two   of the ‘thirty-year transition period’ which aim was to ‘promote national cohesion and integration’, after which merit and competence would replace rotation in determining who gets what.

In strict adherence to the principle of rotation envisaged by the Abacha document, at no point in time would any of the six geo-political zones have cause to complain of marginalization since there was always going to be one ‘juicy’ office to be vied for by each of the zones every five years. What this means is that, in 2018, the fifth of the six zones would have produced a president for the country and, by 2023, all six key political offices would have gone round the six geopolitical zones on rotational basis.

Of equal importance is that the unique provision eliminates the incumbency factor and its attendant abuses. Since the draft envisaged its replication at state levels, the president and other principal officers as well as state governors and stand disqualified from standing election for the same office during their five-year single term incumbency!

More than two decades after ‘throwing away the baby with the bath water’, Nigerians are still playing the ostrich instead of sobering up and still living in denial.  overgrowing the prejudices of the Abacha era. As a matter of fact, the Abacha document was so comprehensive to have anticipated the untenable and wrong-headed agitations across the country and the hollow talk of marginalization that comes with it. Now, can and, should Nigerians continue to play the ostrich and allow lawlessness to dominate the political scene? Are we to allow a rambunctious few to continue to stampede us and dominate national discourse in the face of quick-fix solutions?

Of course, the talk of dissolving Nigeria is hot air that lacks substance. Yes, there is need to restructure and this should not be mistaken for a breakup as some have been programmed to believe. We need to restructure in a way every section of the country will, at all times, be appropriately represented in governance. The ‘Abacha document’ took care of these and more. The document suggested a five-year single-term for elective posts. To restructure in a way that lawmaking will be inexpensive and effective, the draft made provision for part-time lawmaking!

Of course, Nigeria should restructure in a way that treasury looters will not get dubious clean bills from regular courts or be shielded from prosecution. It may interest Nigerians and their elected representatives that there is no proclamation for the much-abused immunity clause for any public office holder in the Abacha draft for the president and vice president as well as governors and their deputies. The pestiferous eighth Assembly that canvassed for a dubious immunity for its principal officers was not expected to look at the document; it didn’t!

Nigerians should give the thumbs-up to the leadership of the current Senate for taking the bull by the horn. To achieve desired results, Nigerians must begin to look beyond General Abacha and ditch the prejudices that characterized his days. The task ahead may seem insuperable but it is not invincible. 

The task will be made easier if we tinker with report of Confab ’95. 

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British Citizen Phil Craig Seeks To Carve Out Western Cape As Independent White Homeland From South Africa

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The Best Rendition of Nigeria’s True National Anthem

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Fulani militias kill more than Boko Haram – Expert

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By Kareem Azeez

Fulani militias have emerged as Nigeria’s deadliest non-state armed group, eclipsing Boko Haram and ISWAP in civilian deaths, yet remain largely overlooked by global terrorism monitors, a security expert has warned.

This is according to security expert Steven Kefas who cited preliminary data from the Observatory for Religious Freedom in Africa (ORFA) showing that between October 2019 and September 2024, Fulani Ethnic Militias (FEM) were responsible for 47 per cent of all civilian killings in Nigeria — more than five times the combined death toll of Nigeria’s jihadist groups.

ORFA’s figures are stark: 36,056 civilians killed, 13,437 incidents of extreme violence, and over 29,180 abducted with kidnappings rising from 1,665 in 2020 to 7,648 in 2024 . Up to 3.4 million people have also been internally displaced, mostly from Nigeria’s Middle Belt.

Yet despite the rising toll, Fulani militias have vanished from international terror rankings like those published by the Global Terrorism Index (GTI). According to Kefas, their violence is mis-categorised as communal or ethnic conflict, making it invisible to international security frameworks and humanitarian aid.

Their methodical, low-profile campaigns where 79 per cent of attacks are land-based raids on farming settlements focus on abduction, killings, sexual violence, and arson. Recent atrocities include the June 13–14 Yelwata massacre in Benue State, where more than 150 mostly women and children were reportedly slaughtered, and the Agatu killings in early 2016, which claimed up to 500 lives .

“In Agatu in 2016 and again in Yelwata in 2025, these militias targeted farming communities in their sleep,” Kefas said. “This isn’t random violence; it’s systematic ethnic cleansing aimed at reshaping demographic landscapes.”

He criticises the GTI’s narrow focus on spectacular jihadist violence, which overlooks slow-motion genocide by groups like FEM. This mislabelling has real-world consequences, Kefas warned, diverting international aid and counter-terrorism assistance away from some of the most afflicted regions .

Beyond civilian deaths, the destruction undercuts national food security. As Christian farming communities are emptied, local agricultural production suffers, deepening economic distress across the region.

Kefas urged security analysts and global institutions to expand their definitions of terrorism to include systematic cartel-style militia violence. “These are fathers, mothers, children whose lives were cut short while the world’s gaze remained elsewhere,” he said. “Without recognition as terrorism, there’s little hope for resources, accountability or justice.”

International attention, Kefas concluded, must shift, terrorism is not only the flash of a bomb, but the silent erasure of entire communities.

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National Disgrace - How former dictator and Fulani irredentist Muhammadu Buhari died in a £4000 a day private clinic in London

Late Buhari and his cows

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By Staff

The London Clinic, following the death of Nigeria’s former President, Muhammadu Buhari, has come under public scrutiny over its reputation as one of the United Kingdom’s most exclusive private hospitals.

Buhari passed away on Sunday, July 13, 2025, at the Harley Street-based hospital after reportedly suffering a relapse just hours before his anticipated discharge.

According to Buhari’s nephew, Mamman Daura, the former President was in high spirits on the eve of his death and was being prepared for discharge when his health suddenly deteriorated.

“I left him about 9 pm on Saturday in high spirits and promised to see him on Sunday afternoon. He was looking forward to his doctor’s visit on Sunday morning. But around midday, he started having breathing challenges and doctors rushed to his side to try and manage it. But unfortunately, around 4.30 pm, he gave up the ghost,” Daura stated..

Although the exact cause of death was not made public, Buhari had a history of recurring health issues. His former spokesperson, Garba Shehu, announced the death on Sunday.

“The family of the former president has announced the passing of the former President, Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, this afternoon in a clinic in London. May Allah accept him in Aljannatul Firdaus,” Shehu said.

Details About The Hospital Where Buhari Died

Founded in 1932, The London Clinic has long been recognised as a haven for global elites seeking world-class medical care. It is situated in London’s medical district on Harley Street and has served members of the British royal family, world leaders, and affluent patients from around the globe.

The facility is best known for its expertise in cancer care, digestive health, orthopaedics, robotic surgery, and intensive care.

Its 2021 financial report revealed that the hospital sees over 120,000 patients annually and operates with more than 900 surgeons and physicians. The hospital houses 13 intensive care beds, 10 operating theatres, five Macmillan Cancer Support Centres, and offers advanced robotic surgical technology including the da Vinci Xi and Excelsius GPS systems.

The hospital’s reputation for excellence comes at a significant financial cost. UK-based Nigerian doctors familiar with the clinic revealed that consultations range from £100 to £750, CT scans cost around £500, and major surgeries start at £10,000 and can reach £13,000, depending on their complexity.

Accommodation charges are equally steep. A standard room costs between £1,000 and £1,800 per night, while luxury or VIP rooms range from £1,800 to £2,500 per night. Admission to the Intensive Care Unit can cost up to £3,500 per night.

A 2023 study by the National Institutes of Health estimated that general ward bed spaces at the hospital cost an average of £586.59 per day, excluding other potential charges tied to individual treatment plans.

Speaking to reporters, a UK-based Nigerian doctor familiar with the hospital’s operations, described it as one with advanced facilities, a high-profile clientele, and world-class medical expertise.

According to him, patients pay between £100 and £750 for consultations, depending on the complexity of their case.

The Nigerian doctor, who stated that he knew two fellow Nigerian doctors who had once worked at the hospital, mentioned that a Computed Tomography scan (CT Scan) at the hospital costs approximately £500, while major surgeries range from £10,000 to £13,000.

He said, “In terms of accommodation, the pricing structure is also tiered. A standard room goes for £1,000 to £1,800 per night. Luxury/VIP room is between £1,800 to £2,500 per night; while the Intensive Care Unit admission costs about £3,000 to £3,500 per night.

“The clinic is known for its advanced equipment, specialist services, and highly qualified professionals. It’s a facility designed for complex and high-risk cases.”

The doctor said the two respected Nigerian specialists who used to work at the hospital were an orthopedic surgeon and a respiratory consultant.

According to the female doctor, the clinic primarily caters to the super-rich, noting that patients are charged thousands of pounds daily for specialised services, particularly in intensive care and private suites, where discretion, luxury, and top-tier medical attention are guaranteed.

“It is the best and largest private clinic in the United Kingdom. It deals with surgery, robotic surgery, ENT surgery, plastic surgery, and the best in specialised services,” she said.

She added that the hospital is equipped with advanced da Vinci Xi, ExcelsiusGPS, and NAVIO robotic surgical technology, a 3 T Siemens MRI, multiple CT scanners, a PET-CT, ultrasound, digital mammography, and other cutting-edge diagnostic systems.

In terms of staffing and expertise, the doctor said, “The clinic boasts an impressive roster of professionals with renowned specialist consultants, many of whom are Fellows of the Royal College of Surgeons and hold additional high-level certifications.”

However, according to a study by the National Institutes of Health, the cost of a bed space at the general ward is around £586.59 per bed day.

“These costs may not include other potential fees or charges associated with your specific treatment plan,” the report noted.

According to the hospital’s website, its ICU boasts a Standard Mortality Rate of 0.7, one of the best in the UK, and has consistently maintained low death rates.

The hospital wrote, “Our Standard Mortality Rate averages around 0.7, which the Critical Care Peer Review states ‘would put the unit in the top 10% of the country’ and has consistently maintained low death rates, all of which are reviewed at Mortality and Morbidity Meetings within the clinic.

“Patient Experience feedback continues to demonstrate 95-100% satisfaction with their treatment across the MDT with numerous comments and compliments mentioning excellence in staff attitude, caring, compassionate, along with recognition of speciality surgical support and rehabilitation.”