On this Democracy Day, I had intended to rest my pen. I wanted to leave the fate written on the walls of history to speak for itself. I thought perhaps the sacrifices of those who fought for democracy were enough testimony. Yet, in the final hour, a thought stirred within me, compelling me to write a message to all of us who have come together to form this sovereign nation called Nigeria. My message is particularly for those who believe that the business of Nigeria lies in the hands of a powerful few. Perhaps they are influenced by what the German sociologist Robert Michels described as the "Iron Law of Oligarchy" ,the tendency for power to concentrate in the hands of a small elite. Looking at our politics, our institutions, and our economy, one may be tempted to believe that the destiny of Nigeria is determined only by those who occupy powerful offices and influential positions. But history tells a different story. Nigeria does not belong to any president, governor, politi...
Ukraine refused yesterday to renew an agreement that allowed the country’s territory to be used as a corridor for Russian gas to travel to Europe, according to officials in both countries, NYT reports.
The move is part of a broader campaign by Ukraine and its Western allies to undermine the ability of Russia to fund its war effort, but there are risks. Moscow could retaliate by bombing Ukraine’s pipelines, a vast network that has been largely spared over the past three years of conflict.
Europe was prepared for the move, so analysts expect little effect on gas prices there. Hungary, Austria and several Balkan countries still use Russian gas delivered through Ukraine, but experts say that existing stockpiles and alternative supplies should prevent cuts to electricity and heating in those countries.
Slovakia, which is still heavily dependent on Russian gas, threatened to retaliate against Ukraine.

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