OPINION

TOP 4 Nigerian Musicians Known For Civil Rights Activism – ’Seun Adeogun

Published

7 years ago

March 2, 2017

Fela 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 Kuti

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

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, ‘3^rd 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

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.

Charly Boy

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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LIFESTYLE

Body Languages: How To Look More Confident And Assertive

Published

3 hours ago

May 18, 2024

Adaeze Okechi

Body Language: Look More Confident And Assertive | Fab.ng

Being confident is about more than just putting on a facade of strength or making a lot of noise to announce your presence. It’s about projecting an air of confident body language, assertiveness and self-assurance, even when you may not necessarily feel confident on the inside.

One effective way to achieve this is by mastering the art of body language. It can significantly influence how others perceive you. By learning and implementing certain body language, you can enhance your charisma and appear more confident in various social and professional situations.

1. Maintain strong posture

One of the most fundamental aspects of confident body language is maintaining a strong posture. Stand tall with your shoulders back and your head held high.

Avoid slouching or hunching over, as this can convey insecurity and lack of confidence. By standing upright and taking up space, you’ll appear more self-assured and assertive to those around you.

2. Make eye contact

Eye contact is a powerful tool for conveying confidence and establishing rapport with others. When speaking to someone, maintain steady eye contact to show that you’re engaged and attentive.

Avoiding eye contact can be perceived as shyness or insecurity. So make a conscious effort to connect with others through your gaze. However, be mindful not to stare excessively, as this can come across as intimidating or aggressive.

3. Use open body language

Open body language signals approachability and confidence. Avoid crossing your arms or legs, as this can create a barrier between you and others.

Instead, keep your arms relaxed at your sides or use expressive gestures to emphasize your points. Face the person you’re speaking to directly and lean in slightly to show interest and engagement in the conversation.

4. Speak clearly and confidently

Your verbal communication also plays a crucial role in projecting confidence. Speak slowly and clearly, and avoid using filler words such as “um” or “uh,” which can undermine your message.

Practice speaking with conviction and authority, even if you’re unsure of yourself internally. By delivering your words with confidence, you’ll command attention and respect from those around you.

5. Genuine smile

A genuine smile is a superpower! It tells everyone around you that you’re friendly, approachable, and confident. But ditch the fake grin – it can come across as insincere.

Here’s the trick: Look for ways to smile naturally. Maybe there’s something funny about the room, or perhaps you strike up a conversation with someone interesting. If nervousness hits, try finding a distraction.

Focus on something positive in your surroundings, or strike up a conversation with someone you find interesting. This can take your mind off your anxiety and help a real smile emerge.

6. Firm handshake

A handshake can speak volumes. A firm handshake shows confidence and respect. Here’s how to avoid sending the wrong message:

Too soft? Shy signal: A limp handshake might make you seem shy or uninterested.
Too hard? Hold back: A super strong handshake can come across as aggressive.

The key is to find a happy medium. Shake hands firmly, but not bone-crushingly so. Here’s a tip: imagine shaking hands with someone you respect, but you don’t want to hurt.

Another trick? Initiate the handshake from your elbow, not just your wrist. This gives a more natural and controlled movement. Finally, try to match the other person’s grip strength – no need for a handshake arm wrestle.

By incorporating these body language tricks into your interactions, you can project charisma and confidence, even in situations where you may not feel entirely sure of yourself.

Remember that confidence is not just about how you feel—it’s also about how you present yourself to the world. With practice and awareness, you can develop the skills to exude confidence and make a positive impression in any setting.

If you liked this article, read more here.

BUSINESS

10 African Countries Where Cryptocurrency Is Restricted

Published

7 hours ago

May 18, 2024

Adaeze Okechi

Cryptocurrency: 10 African Countries Where It Has No Use | Fab.ng

Cryptocurrency transactions remain banned in some African countries, despite the potential for regulatory frameworks to support their development.

According to Chainalysis, Africa is one of the fastest-growing crypto markets globally, with Kenya, Nigeria, and South Africa having the highest number of users in the region.

Many governments are wary of digital assets due to concerns over money laundering, illicit activities, tax evasion, and financial fraud, as cryptocurrency transactions can be hard to trace.

In 2021, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) ordered banks to close all customer accounts involved in cryptocurrency transactions. However, this ban was lifted in December 2023.

On May 6, 2024, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) increased restrictions by delisting the naira from all peer-to-peer (P2P) platforms. The Director-General of the SEC, Emomotimi Agama, mentioned that the government is drafting new regulations for the crypto sector, following the advice of the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

10 African countries that have banned cryptocurrency

Here are countries in Africa where crypto transactions or digital currencies has no use:

1. Tunisia

Tunisia is one of the African countries taking a particularly cautious approach to cryptocurrency. Back in 2018, their central bank made headlines by actually criminalising the use of cryptocurrencies.

They issued a strong statement warning people against using any digital asset that the Tunisian government did not officially approve. This strict stance shows just how seriously some African countries are taking the potential risks associated with cryptocurrency.

2. Sierra Leone

Sierra Leone has been very cautious about cryptocurrency. In 2019, their central bank took a strong stance against it. They shut down two cryptocurrency companies and made it clear that they wouldn’t be granting any licences to businesses or banks that wanted to deal with cryptocurrency deposits or trading.

This shows that Sierra Leone is concerned about the potential risks involved with cryptocurrency and is taking steps to limit its use in the country.

3. Republic of Congo

The situation regarding cryptocurrency in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is a bit unclear. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) reports that the Congolese government has completely banned cryptocurrency.

However, a 2018 study by Ecobank suggests the opposite. They found no official statements from either the Congolese government or the Central Bank regarding cryptocurrency’s legality or use.

This lack of clear communication from Congolese authorities makes it difficult to say for sure what the official stance is on cryptocurrency. However, from the IMF reports, it is assumed that the government does not accept its use.

4. Ghana

Ghana is another African country taking a wait-and-see approach to cryptocurrency. The Ghanaian government has completely banned crypto transactions within the country.

Despite the ban, the government is still interested in the underlying technology behind cryptocurrency, blockchain. They’re currently studying how blockchain could be used to improve Ghana’s payment systems.

This cautious approach is evident in their actions. In 2022, they reaffirmed the 2018 ban on using cryptocurrency for any financial transactions in Ghana.

5. Algeria

Algeria has a strict ban on cryptocurrency. Back in 2018, their parliament passed a law that completely restricted digital currency activity in the country. This law prohibits Algerians from buying, selling, using, or even just owning cryptocurrency.

6. Lesotho

In 2018, the country’s central bank raised a red flag about cryptocurrency. They issued a statement warning people against promoting or investing in crypto because it wasn’t regulated or officially licensed by the government. This suggests they’re concerned about the potential risks involved.

7. Morocco

Morocco’s relationship with cryptocurrency has been a rollercoaster. In 2017, the Ministry of Economy slammed the brakes on crypto transactions, fearing they violated the country’s exchange regulations. This meant a complete ban on buying, selling, or trading cryptocurrency in Morocco.

However, things seem to be changing. In 2023, there was a positive shift. Morocco’s central bank announced they were working on drafting new regulations specifically for crypto trading. This suggests a move towards a more controlled and monitored crypto market in Morocco.

8. Tanzania

Tanzania is another African country where cryptocurrency exists in a bit of a grey area. There aren’t any written laws or regulations specifically about cryptocurrency transactions in Tanzania.

However, the Tanzanian central bank has taken a cautious approach. They issued a public statement advising people against trading or using virtual currencies like Bitcoin. The bank made it very clear that the only official currency recognised in Tanzania is the Tanzanian shilling.

9. Cameroon

Cryptocurrency is a hot topic in Central Africa, but there are no clear rules yet. Cameroon, for example, belongs to the Central African Economic and Monetary Community (CEMAC). This means they use the Central African CFA franc, managed by the Bank of Central African States (BEAC).

Right now, the BEAC hasn’t set any regulations for crypto trading. This might seem surprising considering the growing popularity of crypto. However, the good news is that the Cameroon government is working on it. They’re currently reviewing new rules to create a framework for cryptocurrency use in the country.

10. Egypt

Things are complicated when it comes to cryptocurrency in Egypt. In 2018, a major Islamic legal authority called Dar al-Iftai issued a religious decree. This decree said that trading Bitcoin goes against Islamic law (Sharia Law). They basically classified it as forbidden, which is the meaning of the word “haram.”

This was followed by a move from the Egyptian Central Bank in 2019. They announced plans to create a new law. This law would make it illegal to create, trade, or even promote cryptocurrency without a special licence.

So, while using digital currency isn’t completely banned, it seems Egyptian officials are cautious about it and want to regulate it very closely.

For more articles like this, visit here.

HEALTHY LIVING

These Gym Equipments Are Dirtier Than You Think

Published

11 hours ago

May 18, 2024

Adaeze Okechi

These Gym Equipments Are Dirtier Than You Think | fab.ng

The gym is a hub of activity, a place where people from all walks of life come together to work out, improve their fitness, and boost their overall health. But amidst the hustle and the clanging of weights, a hidden enemy lurks: germs.

A surprising 2017 study conducted across three different gyms shed light on a shocking truth: certain gym equipment can harbour more bacteria than a toilet seat, especially if proper cleaning protocols aren’t followed. This is because this equipment endures a constant barrage of use throughout the day.

Multiple people come into contact with the surfaces, leaving behind a not-so-friendly cocktail of sweat, skin cells, and other bodily fluids.

While working out is undeniably good for your health, it’s important to be aware of the potential germ hotspots you might encounter. So, let’s take a closer look at the top germ offenders at the gym and how you can take steps to protect yourself from these microscopic menaces:

1. The weight bench

How to Use a Weight Bench to Build Muscle Faster

The weight bench might seem like a harmless slab of metal and padding, but it can be a prime breeding ground for bacteria. Imagine this: you’re about to perform a set of chest presses. You adjust the bench, settle in, and grip the barbell. But unknowingly, you might be coming into contact with a layer of germs left behind by the previous gymgoer who used the bench without wiping it down.

The combination of sweat, dead skin cells, and even fleeting coughs or sneezes can leave a microscopic residue on the surface. This is especially true for adjustable benches that see a lot of daily traffic.

2. The free weights

Pros & Cons: Free Weights vs. Machines - Simply Gym

Free weights are a popular choice at the gym, but they can also be a breeding ground for bacteria. Here’s why:

High traffic: Many people use free weights throughout the day, and with each person comes the potential for germs. Sweat, dead skin cells, and even fleeting coughs or sneezes can leave a microscopic residue on the weights.
Uncertain hygiene: We can’t always be sure how clean everyone’s hands are at the gym. This lack of certainty increases the risk of bacteria spreading from person to person through contact with the weights.

This is a concern because certain types of bacteria can cause health problems. The study mentioned gram-negative bacteria, which have been found on free weights. These bacteria can be responsible for:

Pneumonia: This is a serious lung infection that can cause difficulty breathing, fever, and chills.
Skin infections: These can range from mild (think minor cuts or rashes) to more serious (like cellulitis).
Blood infections: In rare cases, bacteria from contaminated equipment can enter the bloodstream and cause a potentially life-threatening infection.

What can you do? Here are some tips to help you stay safe:

Wipe down the weights before and after use: Most gyms provide disinfectant wipes for this purpose.
Wash your hands thoroughly: Do this both before and after your workout, especially after using free weights.
Bring your own workout towel: You can use this to create a barrier between your skin and the equipment.

By taking these simple precautions, you can minimise your risk of encountering germs at the gym and enjoy a safe and healthy workout.

3. Treadmills

What You Should Know About The 12-3-30 Treadmill Workout, 43% OFF

Treadmills might be a popular choice for cardio at the gym, but they can also harbour surprising amounts of germs. This is because:

Many people use treadmills throughout the day, and with each person comes the potential for sweat, skin cells, and even respiratory droplets to land on the machine. This constant barrage can create a breeding ground for bacteria.
Just because you can’t see dirt on a treadmill doesn’t mean it’s clean. A study revealed that treadmills can have 74 times more bacteria than a typical bathroom sink faucet! That’s a significant difference, considering how often we wash our hands with soap and water at the sink.

What can you do?

Wipe down the treadmill before and after use. Focus on areas like the handrails, control panel, and belt.
Bring a workout towel. Use it to absorb sweat and create a barrier between your skin and the machine’s surface.
Wear clean workout clothes and shoes. This helps minimise the transfer of germs from your clothes or shoes to the equipment.

4. The elliptical bike

Elliptical vs Running: Is This Machine Good for Cross Training?

Elliptical trainers, like free weights, can become germ magnets. Multiple users throughout the day leave behind sweat, skin cells, and other potential contaminants as they grip the handlebars and navigate the pedals. This constant contact can create a breeding ground for bacteria.

The good news is that protecting yourself is simple. Most gyms provide disinfectant wipes or spray bottles specifically designed for cleaning equipment.

Before you hop on the elliptical, take a quick moment to wipe down the handlebars, seat, and any other surfaces you’ll be touching during your workout. This small step can significantly reduce your exposure to germs and help keep the equipment clean for everyone who uses it.

By wiping down the equipment before and after use, we can all help create a cleaner and safer workout environment for everyone at the gym.