OPINION
TOP 4 Nigerian Musicians Known For Civil Rights Activism – ’Seun Adeogun
Published
8 years agoon
By
ReporterFela Kuti is King of political activism! Yes we agree. However, across the landscape of civic and political activism in Nigeria, only a handful of musicians and entertainers have made their mark. While some uncompromisingly used their microphones as megaphones for civil rights cum political activism, others are notably known to have actively participated in a number of civil protests.
Inspired by the renewed movement against poor governance and the controversies that trailed 2Face Idibia’s botched February 6, 2017 protest, FAB.NG, in a finical order presents 4 Nigerian musicians prominently known for political activism.
- Fela Anikulapo-Kuti
Outstanding in this category is the Afro-beat creator, music maestro and pan Africanist, Fela Anikulapo-Kuti. Fela is most famous for his strong stance against the powers that be and his musical activism. As described by Al Jazeera’s Massoud Hayoun, Fela’s music from time to time condemned the military and civilian government of his day.
Most of Fela’s songs ridicule mal-administration, corruption, abuse of power amongst the ruling class. Others accentuate civic rights and mental liberation from colonialism. Prominent amongst Abami-Eda’s critical songs are: Zombie, International Thief-Thief, Sorrow Tears and Blood, Authority Stealing, etc.
With his unwavering stance, Fela became a voice for Nigeria’s angst over poor governance, corruption and inequality. His music lyrics and tunes besides been sagacious; encouraged and taught people to be socio-politically aware.
Unknown to many, Fela being unsatisfied with his musical activism, established the Kalakuta republic in Agege motor road, Mushin. Kalakuta was an independent republic which housed Fela’s private residence, a free medical facility operated by his activist brother, Beko Ransome-Kuti, amongst other private buildings. Aside forming his political party – Movement of People (MOP) in the late 70s, Fela bought advertising spaces in daily newspapers in the 70s. He regularly featured his socio-political commentaries “Chief Priest Say” in the Punch and Daily Times using the title until the 80s.
Fela was jailed several times by the Military government of Gen. Olusegun Obasanjo, Gen. Mohammed Buhari and Gen. Sanni Abacha. Up until his death in 1997, Fela remained steadfast in the struggle, despite several threats, maltreatments and harassments from govt apparatus.
- Sonny Okosun
Sonny Okosun popularly referred as the Ozidi King, was one of the very few leading Nigerian musical activist and Pan-Africanist, prominent between the 1970s and 1980s. Just like Fela Kuti, Sonny is fondly remembered for his protest songs on issues affecting Nigerians and Africans alike.
Similarly, Apostle Sonny Okosun was equally known for his songs on pan-Africanism, freedom and songs against apartheid regime in South Africa. The Irrua Edo state born musician, who in the 70s teamed up with Fela Kuti’s Kola Lobitos, is known for featuring on the anti-Apartheid album ‘Sun City’ and releasing several songs to protest anti-apartheid regime in South Africa one of which included his 1977 song ‘Fire in Soweto’. He also released the album ‘Papa’s Land’ in the 70s, ‘3rd world’, ‘Which Way’ Nigeria, ‘Liberation’, and ‘Power to the People’ in the 80s. ‘Africa Now or Never’ and the popular ‘African Soldier’ in the early 90s. He took active part in the protests that greeted the annulment of June 12 Presidential elections in 1993.
- Femi Kuti
Coming from a background of social activists, Femi Kuti the son of Afro-beat creator and maestro, Fela Kuti, is a force to reckon with when it comes to musical activism in Nigeria and Africa. Femi Kuti no doubt shares the same enthusiasm for social and political activism with his late father and grandmother, Madam Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti.
Majority of Femi’s songs focused on pan Africanism, black emancipation, anti-neocolonialism, political corruption and deception, and widening poverty rate. From his albums ‘Shoki-Shoki’ to ‘Fight to Win’, ‘Day by Day’ to ‘Africa for Africa’, ‘No Place for my Dreams’ and ‘Sotan’; Femi with his positive force has been using his music as a tool for socio-political re-engineering. Femi has participated in a few protests against poor governance including the 2012 Subsidy removal protest.
- Charles Oputa
Charles Chukwuemeka Oputa aka Charly Boy can’t be left out on this list. Similar to Fela Kuti, Charly Boy is credited with using his music to criticise the military government in the 80s.
The Area Father as fondly called, is one of the controversial Nigerian entertainers best known for his androgynous and alternative ‘punk’ lifestyle. The Oguta-born song writer and TV producer is also known for his satirical media productions and political views.
Though a son of a prominent former Nigerian Supreme Court Judge, Chwukwudifu Oputa of the famous ‘Oputa Panel’, Charly Boy released his most popular album in 1990. The album which generated mixed reviews caused a national controversy that resulted in a wide refusal to play the title track by most radio stations largely due to its anti-government undertone. The album title was a direct reference to the corrupt military junta in the 90s.
Just a little like Fela Kuti, Oga Charly Boy is an advocate for the masses. During General Sanni Abacha’s regime in the 90s, Charly Boy reportedly stood in the forefront on behalf of military pensioners, by marching to the Defence Headquarters in Abuja to press for the payment of their overdue pensions. Likewise, he was involved in campaigns for Nigerian widows and was very active during the 2012 Subsidy Removal protest at which he was arrested along side other activists for civil disobedience. On several occasions Charly Boy was tortured by the Nigerian Police and the Military for criticising the government.
Still much relevant today in political activism, Oga Charly Boy has lead 3 nationwide protests and he is presently championing a new activism movement with the hashtag #OurMumuDondo.
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As a Nigerian adult, you understand that December isn’t merely a festive season—it’s the ultimate billing battlefield. In this case, knowing how to avoid billing this December can be your financial lifeline.
The month transforms into an elaborate financial obstacle course where every social engagement becomes a potential wallet-draining experience.
Picture this: you’re suddenly expected to match expensive aso-ebi for your partner’s distant cousin’s wedding, shell out cash for elaborate office hangout festivities, purchase thoughtful gifts for an extensive network of friends and family, grab concert tickets for the hottest “detty December” events, and somehow maintain some semblance of financial sanity.
Each commitment is strategically designed to empty your bank account, with Sapa waiting eagerly in the wings to completely demolish your January savings.
The universe seems to have conspired with social expectations to orchestrate a complex financial challenge, transforming December into an unofficial billing Olympics where your wallet is the primary competitor.
But here’s the good news: you can become a strategic “shege survivor” by mastering how to avoid billing this December with calculated precision and smart financial manoeuvres.
In this comprehensive survival guide, we’ll explore tactical approaches to navigate the treacherous December spending landscape, ensuring you emerge victorious without sacrificing your financial stability or social reputation. Prepare to become the ultimate December financial ninja!
1. Always Complain Like It’s Your Birthright
Nobody wants to bill someone who complains every five minutes. If you consistently make a point of complaining about your financial situation whenever you get the chance, the likelihood of being asked for money will drop drastically.
The only exception is if you have people around you who are heartless and completely audacious—if that’s the case, there’s a solution in step two.
2. Trade Your Flashy Phone for a ‘Torchlight’
Do you see that iPhone 14 Pro Max of yours? That big phone that attracts unnecessary attention? It’s essentially a billboard screaming, “I’m open for billing!”
To avoid billing, sell it and invest the money in preparing for next year’s challenges. No one will suspect you of being a “billionaire in transit” if you’re using a humble Nokia torchlight or an old-school TECNO phone.
Picture this: someone asking you for money while you’re holding a phone that looks like it belongs in 2003. They might even feel sorry for you and give you some spare change.
The goal here is to avoid billing by making it clear you’re not the person with deep pockets.
3. Buy Okrika Clothes
As the saying goes at the “Okrika” stores, “na mumu dey go boutique.” Avoid billing by steering clear of designer clothes that scream wealth and immediately mark you as a target for requests.
Instead, buy “Okrika” (secondhand) clothes and proudly share how much you paid when people compliment you. Tell them, “You won’t believe how much this outfit cost; it was just 500 Naira!” and make sure to add, “I’m making do with the little I have…”
This strategy helps position you as the king or queen of thrift, ensuring that nobody dares to ask you for money or extravagant contributions.
4. Avoid Calls Like a Pro
Screen all your calls, and be strategic about who you answer. The call from your cousin in the village? We both know it’s not “Merry Christmas” they’re about to say—it’s more likely “I need money for the New Year.”
To avoid billing, activate your Do Not Disturb (DND) mode and only return calls from people who won’t ask for a handout.
If you must respond, use WhatsApp messages so you can carefully craft your excuses without feeling pressured.
5. Go Solo: Break Up With Your Partner
Let’s be real—being in a relationship is one of the major sources of billing in December. To avoid billing and enjoy some peace of mind, consider going solo this season.
Enjoy your money without worrying about shared expenses, and enter the New Year without emotional or financial baggage. You deserve it!
When you want to avoid billing in December, it isn’t just about saving money—it’s about preserving your sanity and entering January without the financial hangover.
These strategies will help you avoid billing and ensure a peaceful, financially secure holiday season. When you’re sipping zobo in the comfort of your home instead of crying over debt recovery meetings, remember to thank me.
If you found these tips helpful and want more, visit here. And remember not to fall in love this December!
OPINION
11 Ways To Build Emotional Connection With Your Woman
Published
3 weeks agoon
December 1, 2024Building a deep emotional connection is crucial for lasting romantic relationships. Understanding how to build an emotional connection with a woman requires genuine effort, empathy, and consistent communication.
Building a strong emotional connection with your woman is more than just physical attraction or shared interests. Emotional intimacy is the glue that holds couples together.
Here are eleven practical ways to foster this deep connection:
1. Prioritise Quality Time
How to build emotional connection with a woman? One of the most effective ways is to prioritise quality time together. This means putting away distractions like phones and focusing on each other.
Engage in activities you both enjoy, whether it’s a shared hobby, a simple conversation, or a romantic dinner. These moments create lasting memories and strengthen your bond.
2. Active Listening
To truly understand your woman, you must listen actively. This involves paying full attention, asking clarifying questions, and reflecting on her feelings. Active listening goes beyond merely hearing words.
Avoid interrupting or formulating your response while she’s speaking. When learning how to build emotional connection with a woman, focus entirely on her when she speaks. Show that you value her thoughts and emotions.
Maintain eye contact. Put away digital devices. Avoid interrupting. Reflect back on what you’ve heard to demonstrate understanding. Show genuine interest in her experiences.
Ask follow-up questions that reveal you’re truly engaged. Validate her feelings without judgment. This approach creates a safe emotional space where she feels heard and respected.
3. Express Gratitude and Appreciation
Show your appreciation for your woman through words and actions. A simple “thank you” or a heartfelt compliment can go a long way.
Recognise her efforts, both big and small, and express gratitude for her presence in your life. This positive reinforcement strengthens your emotional connection.
4. Physical Touch and Emotional Affection
Physical touch is a powerful way to connect with your woman on an emotional level. This doesn’t necessarily mean intimate acts.
Simple gestures like holding hands, unexpected hugs, and gentle touches on the arm, hair, and neck can convey love and affection. These physical cues deepen your bond and create a sense of emotional security and intimacy.
Understanding how to build emotional connection with a woman involves recognising her unique affection preferences. Some women appreciate frequent physical contact, while others prefer occasional, meaningful gestures.
5. Open and Intentional Communication
Open and honest communication is essential for a healthy relationship. Share your thoughts, feelings, and fears with vulnerability. Create a safe space where she can express herself without judgment. By being open and honest, you build trust and intimacy.
Communication is the cornerstone of emotional intimacy. Learn her communication style. Some women prefer direct conversations, while others appreciate subtle emotional nuance.
When discovering how to build emotional connection with a woman, communicate regularly and meaningfully. Share your thoughts, feelings, and daily experiences. Create moments of genuine conversation beyond surface-level interactions.
6. Surprise Her with Thoughtful Gestures
Small acts of kindness can have a significant impact on your emotional connection. Surprise her with a thoughtful gift, plan a romantic getaway, or simply leave a heartfelt note.
These unexpected gestures show that you care and are thinking of her.
7. Celebrate Milestones Together
Celebrate life’s milestones, both big and small, together. Whether it’s a birthday, an anniversary, or a personal achievement, these moments create shared experiences and strengthen your bond.
8. Express Vulnerability
Emotional connections deepen when partners share authentic feelings. Men often struggle with vulnerability, but it’s essential when understanding how to build an emotional connection with a woman. Share your fears, dreams, and personal challenges.
Demonstrate emotional intelligence by opening up about your inner world. Talk about your insecurities and past experiences. This transparency invites her to connect more deeply and builds mutual trust.
9. Show Consistent Emotional Support
Support goes beyond physical assistance. This means you have to prioritise her emotional landscape. Be present during her challenging times.
Offer comfort without attempting to fix everything. Listen empathetically. Validate her emotions. Demonstrate that you’re a reliable emotional anchor she can depend on during difficult moments.
10. Cultivate Shared Experiences
Shared experiences create emotional memories. Plan activities that allow genuine connection. Try new experiences together. Take classes, travel, or explore mutual interests.
These shared moments become emotional touchstones in your relationship. They create opportunities for deeper understanding and mutual growth when learning how to build emotional connection with a woman.
11. Practice Emotional Empathy
Empathy transforms relationships. Put yourself in her emotional shoes. Understand her perspective without judgment. Recognise her emotional triggers and respond with compassion.
When mastering how to build emotional connection with a woman, emotional intelligence becomes your greatest asset. Validate her feelings, even when they differ from your perspective.
Conclusion
Building an emotional connection requires continuous effort, patience, and genuine commitment. These strategies provide a roadmap for creating deeper, more meaningful romantic relationships.
Remember that every woman is unique. What works for one might not work perfectly for another. Stay adaptable, communicate openly, and approach emotional connection with sincerity and respect.
By implementing these strategies consistently, you’ll create a profound emotional bond that transcends surface-level interactions, fostering a relationship built on trust, understanding, and genuine love.
If you found this article helpful, click here to check out more.
Arguments in relationships test every couple’s communication skills. They reveal deeper emotional dynamics. Healthy partnerships transform conflicts into opportunities for understanding.
Navigate arguments in relationships with strategic approaches. Stop escalation before it destroys the connection. Recognize that disagreements happen naturally. Your response determines relationship quality.
These relationship arguments require emotional intelligence. Listen actively. Control reactive responses. Use compassionate language. Avoid accusatory statements. Show genuine respect.
Understand that arguments in relationships aren’t battles to win. They’re conversations to understand. Each disagreement offers a chance to strengthen bonds. Develop mutual empathy.
The final key to managing arguments in relationships involves staying calm. Take deep breaths. Pause when emotions run high. Focus on solutions, not problems.
Successful couples treat arguments as growth opportunities. They communicate openly and respect each other’s perspectives. They commit to mutual understanding.
Choose connection over being right. Transform conflicts into moments of intimacy and trust.
Below are 6 tips you can use to de-escalate arguments in relationships:
1. Take a Break
Arguments in relationships can quickly spiral out of control. When conversations become heated, take a strategic timeout. Step away from the intense moment.
Give yourself space to reset emotionally. Take a walk to clear your mind. Listen to calming music. Practice meditation techniques. Breathe deeply and center yourself.
The goal of taking a break during arguments in relationships is emotional regulation. Return to the conversation when both partners feel calm and rational. This approach prevents saying hurtful things in the heat of the moment.
2. Active Listening
Mastering active listening transforms arguments in relationships. When your partner speaks, give full attention. Silence your inner defensive voice. Avoid interrupting or preparing counterarguments. Focus entirely on understanding their perspective.
Ask clarifying questions. Repeat what you’ve heard to ensure comprehension. Show genuine interest in your partner’s feelings. Demonstrate that you value their emotional experience.
3. Use “I” Statements
Language matters in arguments in relationships. Replace blame with personal vulnerability. Instead of accusatory statements like “You always ignore me,” express your feelings directly. Say, “I feel lonely and disconnected when we don’t communicate.”
“I” statements reduce defensiveness. They invite empathy and understanding. They transform potential conflicts into opportunities for a deeper connection.
4. Avoid Personal Attacks
Arguments in relationships should never become character assassinations. Stick strictly to the current issue. Avoid bringing up past mistakes or criticizing your partner’s personality. Focus on resolving the specific problem at hand.
Maintain respect. Treat your partner with kindness, even during disagreements. Your goal is collaborative problem-solving, not winning a battle.
5. Find Common Ground
Every argument contains potential for understanding. Look for areas of agreement, no matter how small. Acknowledge shared feelings or goals. Build a bridge of mutual understanding.
Collaborative approaches transform arguments in relationships from confrontations to conversations. Work together as a team. Seek solutions that satisfy both partners.
6. Seek Professional Help
Persistent communication challenges require professional intervention. A qualified therapist can provide:
- Objective communication strategies
- Tools for emotional regulation
- Insights into underlying relationship dynamics
- Personalized conflict resolution techniques
Professional guidance helps couples break destructive communication patterns. It provides skills for healthier, more understanding relationships.
Transforming Conflicts
Arguments in relationships are growth opportunities. They test and strengthen emotional bonds. By approaching conflicts with empathy, respect, and strategic communication, couples can turn challenges into moments of deeper connection.
Disagreements are normal. Respect is essential. Love is a continuous journey of understanding.
Click here to read more articles on relationships.
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