News
The Painted Canvases: ‘Zero’ As Weak-Point!
By Tolulope A. Adegoke
“Everyone has a weak-point, which connotes ‘Zero’. In every Hero, there lies a Zero; just like, in every King lies a kid… We must always work on our loop-holes to become better, so as not to be drowned in the valley of life (doom). Therefore, to sustain your effectiveness, you must inculcate the habit of starving (silence) your weak-point(s) (Zero), so as to consistently develop the Hero (qualities) in you!” Tolulope A. Adegoke
Some individuals would be painted on the canvas of weak-point to describing how it limited them from sustaining their Heroic patterns and titles. This is not to spite anyone, but it is for us to learn from the events which surrounded them and how they reacted to it. Weakness is a quality or a feature that prevents someone or something from being effective or useful. Some carefully selected great men in the bible and the world today who were considered Heroes of their time, and eventually fell as a result of their individual weaknesses.
Moses
Moses, a good example was called by God to the lead the Israelites out of Egypt (from slavery). The exceptional grace on his life made him a HERO. The Lord used him to perform many miracles in Egypt and through him, God afflicted the Egyptians with the ten (10) plagues and the Lord also used him for great miracles in the wilderness and in parting the red sea (Exodus 33:22-23). Moses became so great a man and spoke to God mouth to mouth and was the only man to see God from behind. God Himself testified that he (Moses) was the meekest man on Earth, yet, it was ANGER (weak-point) that terminated his mission of leading the Israelites into Canaan land (the Promised land) Exodus 17, Exodus 32:19-20. The congregation of children of Israel journeyed from the wilderness of sin, after their journeys, according to the commandment of the Lord, and pitched in Rephidim: and there was no water for the people to drink. Wherefore the people did chide with Moses, and Moses said unto them, why chide ye with me? He went up to God, and tendered the complaints of Israelites; God instructed him to take the elders of Israel and his rod, to smooth the rock for water, but Moses struck the rock instead as result of anger and the water gushed out massively which killed many Israelites. Also, it came to pass, as soon as Moses’ anger waxed hot, and he cast the tables out of his hands, and brake them beneath the mount. At the end, Moses only saw the Canaan land from afar but didn’t get there.
Samson
Samson is another good example to be used here to describe the flaws of mighty individuals, in spite of his great strength, was later destroyed. Samson, a man born, destined to be a saviour to Israel (Judges 13), he was the most powerful man on Earth who could face 10,000 soldiers all alone, and he killed a lion with his bare hands. During his time, the Philistines were afraid of Israel. He was a man filled with power and the grace of God, but lusted after a strange woman (Delilah), which against God’s instructions led to his destruction. His power ended on the laps of Delilah when he revealed the secret of his power (his hair) to her (Judges 16); the great Samson became a toothless dog and a mockery of many.
Jose Mourinho
In the circular world Jose Mourinho, who is one of the most respected coaches in football history in history in his generation often called ‘the Special One’ won several titles for different clubs in different countries of the world among others are Porto FC, Chelsea FC, Inter Millan FC, Real Madrid FC, Manchester United FC. He is a coach with different /unique strategies and techniques, and one of the best coaches in the world; however, his styles/approach may not always be acceptable (applauded) in the mainstream of football management.
Jose Mourinho, a public figure, lacked something that stands as blemish on his white garment and loopholes on his outfit which can be regarded as “pride of the tongue” (he could not tame his tongue) and temperament, by belittling other people’s achievements, which is often called “mind game”. He accused Raniair of being incapable of winning any trophy, but when you compare him with Raniair (who was also a very good coach), Mourinho has more financial support, which gave him edge over Raniair. Recently, Mourinho appeared insecure with his desperation for respect from all quarters. He could be seen or heard moaning about lack of respect from the English Press that Arsene Wenger who had not won the League in 18years is far more respected than him who last won the Premier League 20months ago… He publicly pronounced Arsene Wenger as “Professional in failure”. Respect is earned, not commandeered!
Some football lovers across the world now disagree that Mourinho is not totally the ‘Special One’ because of the several factors of character failure surrounding his identity. Most especially, the incidence that happened between him and Chelsea FC’s Chief Medical Doctor, Eva Carneiro, while he was a manager at Chelsea FC, Jose Mourinho publicly insulted the doctor due to the fact that she was treating a player of team who went down on the pitch (Eden Hazard) when the Chelsea FC team were down by 3goals against Manchester City FC; this caused a commotion in the Chelsea team and made a lot of football lovers to refrain their respect for Jose Mourinho. This is why he couldn’t make an in-road back to Chelsea FC. I believe Jose Mourinho has realized his shortcomings, he is now trying to control his temperament and tongue.
Character counts, when it comes to issues of life! Character failure is a total failure!
After many failures in December, 2015, he was sacked as Chelsea FC’s manager and replaced by Guss Hindick because he could no longer meet up with desired expectations.
A successful person would always fit into a psychological pattern, the same goes for an unsuccessful person. The exhibition of character tells much about them all!
Everyone has a weak point which connotes “Zero”. In every Hero, there lies a Zero…just like the saying that: “there is a kid in every king (vice versa). We must therefore, always work on our loopholes to be better personalities, so as not to be drowned in the valley of life (doom). Starve (silence) your weak-point (Zero) to develop the Hero (Giant) in you!
Learn and Apply. Thank you!
Watch out for the Book titled: “The Power of an Empowered Zero” (From Zero to HERO) by Tolulope A. Adegoke. Foreword by Dr Yomi Garnett (CEO/Chancellor, Royal Biographical Institute, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania U.S.A., U.K., Abuja, Nigeria.) Edited by Ola Aboderin.
News
‘He Died a Natural Death’ – Katsina Govt Announces Death of Gen Rabe Abubakar in Kidnappers’ Captivity
A Retired Major-General and former Director of Defence Information, Rabe Abubakar, is dead.
According to the Katsina state government, Abubakar died in bandits’ captivity.
The retired major-general and his wife were abducted in May while travelling through Katsina.
On June 6, a video showing Abubakar and his wife appealing to the Katsina government for the release of detained bandits and livestock surfaced online.
A statement on Saturday by Nasiru Mu’azu, commissioner for internal security and home affairs, said Abubakar died from complications of diabetes and hypertension.
“It is with profound sadness that we confirm the General’s death while in bandits’ captivity,” the statement reads.
“Despite the relentless and concerted efforts of the State Government and various Security Agencies to secure his safe release, the situation ended in this tragedy.
“The deceased Retired General died a natural death from complications of diabetes and hypertension.
“His abduction and subsequent death are not only a loss to his family and Katsina State but a monumental loss to the entire country.
“His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Katsina State Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, PhD, CON, extends his deepest condolences to the family of the late General and the country at-large.
“The Governor has described this incident as a “dark moment” and a reminder of the urgent need for a collective and intensified front against the criminal elements threatening the peace of our communities.”
The Katsina government added that it remains committed to working with the federal government and security forces to ensure that those responsible for the heinous act are brought to justice.
“We assure the citizens of Katsina State that our resolve to eliminate banditry and ensure the safety of all residents remains unshaken,” the statement added.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the bereaved family during this difficult time. May the soul of the departed Retired Major General Rabe Abdulakdir rest in eternal peace.”
By Henry Ukazu
Dear Destiny Friends,
The power in a name, or inspiration and influence they come with, when properly triggered and applied, cannot be overestimated. Influence and name are powerful, and run pari passu. This is because in the journey of life, there are certain heights one can’t attain even with their resources. And that’s where ‘names’ and influence come in.
One might have all the grades, skills, and knowledge, but getting an opportunity might be difficult. Imagine having a good grade in school, but can’t find a commensurate job. As a matter of fact, someone with less qualification and experience might get the job simply because a man of influence endorsed their candidacy. That’s why the saying; ‘a good name is better than riches’ is tantamount to a man with access to power is more influential than a man with knowledge but no access.
For one to succeed in our contemporary society, they need a helper who could either be a mentor, benefactor, an inspiration, or someone with influence, or all in one. All these refer to one thing – name. Names are powerful and open doors. A name can serve as an inspiration which can open doors of opportunity for anyone. I remember the day one of my mentors said to me that for his name to be on my resumè, I must earn it. That’s how powerful names can be.
To further buttress how powerful a name can be, let’s consider the following – In 2018, as a budding author, I reached out to one of my mentors, Chief Dele Momodu to give me a column to write in his online newspaper which is considered one of the biggest, if not the biggest online newspaper in Nigeria. He graciously agreed, advising me to be consistent.
Guess what, since that date, I haven’t missed a week. One may be wondering how I have been consistent,; well the answer is not far fetched, I couldn’t imagine failing Chief Dele Momodu. I couldn’t imagine producing articles that are below standard. In all sincerity, assuming someone else without a big name gave me the opportunity, maybe, I wouldn’t have taken it very seriously like I did for Chief Dele Momodu. This goes to tell you names are powerful.
Can you imagine working for the President of the United States of America or Elon Musk? One will almost be perfect. The same energy and detailed attention one pays to President Trump or Elon Musk will be different if given an opportunity to work for an elected council man or a businessman. This is because one would not like to risk a lifetime opportunity to serve with a man of influence.
The importance of inspiration in the life of a progressive man cannot be overemphasized. Everyone needs inspiration. Inspiration can come from various angles. It can be from a benefactor, mentor, teacher, parent, friend, a Minister of the gospel, or even one’s child.
Let me share a personal experience I had with another of my mentors – Dr. Joe Abah. In 2025, he organized #fitseptember physical exercise where he advised his followers to do a 30 push for the month of September. Again, in January, he organized #fitjanuary and I actively participated in it, and since then I haven’t missed one single day without exercising for at least ten minutes. Why is this analysis important? The name Dr. Joe Abah is a household name in Nigeria social-political space. Assuming it was a regular person who made the announcement on X, the comment wouldn’t have attracted the kind of attention that made it go viral.
Furthermore, it is worthy of note that there are five kinds of authority when it comes to principle of power in a name. They are; Revealed knowledge, empirical knowledge, rational knowledge, intuitive knowledge and authoritative knowledge. The focus here is on authoritative knowledge.
One may be wondering what authoritative knowledge is. This is a kind of knowledge reserved for those who have expertise on a particular issue or subject matter expert. When such a person speaks, their words are like law.
Let’s talk about men of influence. Men of influence are priceless. According to Apostle Joshua Selman, there are four kinds of destiny helpers: Divine Connectors, Men of Influence, Gifted People, and Burden Bearers. For the sake of this article, I will focus on men of influence. These are gatekeepers, mentors, or established experts with high credibility. Their endorsement or advocacy can override limitations, grant you access to closed doors, and elevate your trajectory.
In summary, honor men, but fear God because men are vessels God uses to bless people and humanity.
Henry Ukazu writes from New York. He works with the New York City Department of Correction as the Legal Coordinator. He’s the founder of Gloemi. He’s a Transformative Human Capacity and Mindset coach. He is also a public speaker, youth advocate, creative writer and author of Design Your Destiny Design and Unleash Your Destiny . He can be reached via info@gloemi.com
The Senate, on Thursday, directed the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies to intensify efforts to track, identify and arrest bandits and terrorists, who openly flaunt their activities and wealth on social media platforms.
The upper chamber said the growing trend of criminal groups operating openly online and displaying proceeds of crime without fear of arrest poses a serious threat to national security and undermines public confidence in the authority of the State.
The resolution followed a debate on a motion sponsored by Senator Sunday Karimi (Kogi West) on the worsening security situation in Kogi West Senatorial District and other parts of the country.
Contributing to the debate, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (Kogi Central) expressed concern over what she described as the increasing boldness of bandits and terrorists, alleging that some criminal groups now use social media platforms to showcase their operations and distribute large sums of money.
According to her, suspected bandits recently conducted a giveaway on TikTok, allegedly distributing more than N100 million within 30 minutes through their social media accounts.
She argued that such activities provide security agencies with sufficient digital footprints and intelligence leads to identify and apprehend the perpetrators.
“Bandits and terrorists who carry out these activities live on their social media handles,” Akpoti-Uduaghan said.
“Two days ago on TikTok, bandits conducted a giveaway, distributing over N100 million within the space of 30 minutes through their social media handles.
“I wonder why the Cybercrime Unit and the Police Force generally cannot track these activities and apprehend them since they are on social media.”
Her proposal that the Nigerian Police Force National Cybercrime Centre and other relevant agencies should intensify surveillance of social media platforms and prosecute criminals who openly advertise their activities online received overwhelming support from lawmakers and was seconded by Senator Osita Ngwu (Enugu West).
Responding, Senate President Godswill Akpabio condemned the public display of criminal exploits and huge sums of money on social media, describing it as a direct challenge to the authority of government and security institutions.
“The DSS should be able to track their movements and arrest them because this is a show of impunity, as if there is no law at all,” Akpabio said.
He noted that the online display of cash and criminal activities was designed to ridicule government efforts and create the impression that security agencies were powerless.
“I do not see why we should not have control over the social media space. That idea of showing themselves, showing the cash collected and displaying it is a way of challenging government,” he added.
Akpabio urged heads of security agencies to treat the issue as a major national security concern and take immediate action against those involved.
He further warned that the Senate would demand explanations from relevant authorities whenever individuals who openly reveal their identities and activities online are not apprehended.
The debate arose from Senator Karimi’s motion drawing attention to the escalating wave of terrorist attacks, kidnappings and killings across communities in Kogi West Senatorial District.
Karimi lamented that armed groups had turned several communities into theatres of violence, forcing residents to flee their homes while disrupting economic, social and educational activities.
He cited the recent attack on Iluke-Bunu in Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area, where gunmen reportedly invaded a secondary school and attempted to abduct students writing the Senior Secondary School Certificate Examination.
According to him, the attack claimed the lives of the school’s vice principal, a teacher and another resident.
The senator also recounted a series of kidnappings and killings across Kabba/Bunu, Ijumu, Yagba West, Lokoja and Kogi local government areas, warning that insecurity in the district was worsening and required urgent intervention.
Following deliberations, the Senate adopted a series of resolutions aimed at tackling the deteriorating security situation across the country.
The lawmakers called on President Bola Tinubu, the Inspector-General of Police and the National Assembly to urgently work towards establishing an appropriate legal framework for the creation of state police.
The Senate also urged the Federal government and the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to strengthen the implementation of cashless transaction policies as part of efforts to curb ransom payments and other criminal financial activities.
It further called on the Federal Ministry of Interior and the Nigerian Immigration Service to tighten border security and surveillance to stem the influx of arms and the movement of terrorists and other criminal elements into the country.
The upper chamber equally advised State governments against negotiating or entering peace agreements with terrorists and armed bandits, maintaining that such arrangements have often failed to produce lasting solutions and, in some cases, emboldened criminal groups.
