• US has announces relocation of its Africa Command (AFRICOM) headquarters to Morocco.

    This strategic move aims to enhance U.S. engagement in the Sahel region, strengthening counterterrorism efforts and regional stability in partnership with Morocco, a key ally.


    US has announces relocation of its Africa Command (AFRICOM) headquarters to Morocco. This strategic move aims to enhance U.S. engagement in the Sahel region, strengthening counterterrorism efforts and regional stability in partnership with Morocco, a key ally.
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  • BREAKING NEWS: 92-years-old President of Cameroon Paul Biya Allegedly Overthrown From Office After 50 Years

    According to recent news reports, Paul Biya, the 92-year-old President of Cameroon, has been removed from power in a peaceful military takeover.

    This coup, described as one of the most and peaceful in African history, occurred on June 12, 2025, without any violence or bloodshed.

    The military operation was reportedly led by Brigadier General Arnaud Ambassy and Sergeant Didier Ekulay, who executed the plan with precision, replacing Biya’s presidential guards and locking down key command centers.

    The reasons behind the coup seem to be linked to Biya’s long-standing rule, marked by allegations of political repression, corruption, and security challenges.

    During his nearly five-decade presidency, Cameroon became heavily reliant on France, with French companies exploiting the country’s natural resources while many Cameroonians remained in poverty.

    The new military leaders have discovered financial documents showing billions of public funds diverted into foreign accounts in France, further fueling public discontent.
    BREAKING NEWS: 92-years-old President of Cameroon Paul Biya Allegedly Overthrown From Office After 50 Years According to recent news reports, Paul Biya, the 92-year-old President of Cameroon, has been removed from power in a peaceful military takeover. This coup, described as one of the most and peaceful in African history, occurred on June 12, 2025, without any violence or bloodshed. The military operation was reportedly led by Brigadier General Arnaud Ambassy and Sergeant Didier Ekulay, who executed the plan with precision, replacing Biya’s presidential guards and locking down key command centers. The reasons behind the coup seem to be linked to Biya’s long-standing rule, marked by allegations of political repression, corruption, and security challenges. During his nearly five-decade presidency, Cameroon became heavily reliant on France, with French companies exploiting the country’s natural resources while many Cameroonians remained in poverty. The new military leaders have discovered financial documents showing billions of public funds diverted into foreign accounts in France, further fueling public discontent.
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  • Bless Africa oh lord
    #Africa2025
    Bless Africa oh lord #Africa2025
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  • Yemen's Houthis call on all Muslim nations including in Africa to back Iran in its war with Israel.

    Your thoughts on this ...
    Yemen's Houthis call on all Muslim nations including in Africa to back Iran in its war with Israel. Your thoughts on this ...
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  • Bill Gates wants to vaccinate all livestock in the world starting from Africa

    Your thoughts on this …

    Bill Gates wants to vaccinate all livestock in the world starting from Africa Your thoughts on this …
    0 Commentarii 0 Distribuiri 139 Views
  • *SOME NIGERIAN NEWSPAPER HEADLINES+, 15/06/2025*

    Anger as suspected herders kill 100 in fresh Benue attack

    90 cheers for ‘Uncle Sam’ as dignitaries celebrate journalism icon

    IGP extends tinted glass permit deadline to August 12

    Soyinka to Tinubu: Unveil killers of Kudirat Abiola, Dele Giwa, Bola Ige

    Peter Obi betrayed me, says Kenneth Okonkwo

    National hospital faults NMA, denies sacking doctors

    Ogazi breaks 26-year record to win 400m NCAA title

    Israel-Iran: Trump, Putin hold talks

    Floods in DR Congo capital kill at least 19 – Minister

    Death toll in South Africa floods rises to 86

    US Senator, Rep shot inside their homes

    W’Bank allocates $40m loan to protect poor Nigerians

    Nigerians in Portugal to enjoy zero tax on foreign income

    Over 300 Nigerians seek asylum in Iceland

    ------------------------------
    *DID YOU KNOW?*

    * The world’s most translated author is Agatha Christie. Her books have been translated into at least 103 languages. She is best known for her detective novels featuring characters like Miss Marple and Hercule Poirot, and has sold over 2 billion copies of her books worldwide.

    * A group of flamingos is called a flamboyance.
    ------------------------------

    Part-Time Parliament Will Affect Nigeria’s Democracy – Senate

    Reps summon finance minister, CBN gov over Fiscal Act breach

    Rep member Isiaka installed Seriki Adinni of Yewaland

    S’Court debunks allegations of justice’s political trip

    Lagos court jails man for assaulting govt worker

    Nigerian Army recruits over 6,000 soldiers to boost national security

    Civilian safety top priority in our operations – NAF Chief

    N200b Bodo/Bonny road project now open to traffic

    Tuggar seeks collaboration with China to deepen food security

    FG Condemns Israel’s Attack On Iran, Calls For De-Escalation

    FG plans review as 11,000 register for Safe Schools project

    Amaechi’s attack on Tinubu about power grab – Presidency

    Awaiting trial inmates exceed 53,000 – Report

    NNPCL records N5.89 trillion revenue

    Nigerians imported N1.67tn food, drinks in three months – NBS

    Firewood exports hit N65.85bn

    Nigeria closer to exiting FATF grey list – NFIU

    Agric ministry denies prayers for food security, cites staff deaths

    FCT ground rent payments surge 24 hours to deadline

    64,000 students sit for common entrance exam into federal colleges

    NECO conducts common entrance exams as Benin, Togo participate

    UNICAL clinical lecturers down tools over new VC selection

    First Lady commissions resettlement city for IDPs in Nasarawa

    Osinbajo urges youths to engage in politics for national transformation

    N/Delta ex-agitators declare unwavering support for Tinubu, Tompolo, Otuaro

    Over 129,000 young brides in Nasarawa now using contraceptives — SFH

    Bible didn’t forbid women’s trousers, bishop backs Abel Damina

    Trump earned $57m from crypto coin sales

    Nigeria’s female workforce participation hits new high – WEF

    Discos decry 5,500MW power generation amid huge gas reserves

    Lagos plastic ban not against profit – Marketers

    2027: Succession storm brews as 10 govs exit

    Anambra guber: Moghalu unveils running mate, reaffirms Obi’s support

    Obi allies flay Kenneth Okonkwo over betrayal comments

    PDP writes INEC as party holds NEC meeting June 30

    Eno, Oborevwori will face defection backlash in 2027 – PDP NEC members

    Defection: PDP, NNPP warn against politicising anti-corruption agencies

    Soludo approves N15m for mass burial of crisis victims

    Gombe gov endorses Tinubu for 2027

    Delta Assembly moves to enact law over rising house rents in Asaba, others

    Gombe perm sec, four others die from electrocution

    Ondo declares war against cocoa adulteration

    Heavy rainfall: Lagos warns residents against flash floods

    239 Jigawa teachers denied salaries over absenteeism

    Oto-Awori LCDA boss Ashafa dies at 68

    Police arrest 182 suspects in Kaduna raids

    Two arrested for abducting siblings in Anambra

    Sanmi Michael plans US tour with view to elevate African sound on global stage


    ------------------------------

    *TODAY IN HISTORY*

    * On this day in 1667, the first human blood transfusion was administered. Jean-Baptiste Denys, physician to King Louis XIV of France, transfused sheep blood into a 15-year-old boy. He survived, most likely due to the relatively small amount of blood used.

    ------------------------------

    The most exhausting activity is pretending to be what you know you aren’t. – Rick Warren

    Happy Father’s Day

    *Compiled by Hon. Osuji George [email protected], +234-8122200446*
    *SOME NIGERIAN NEWSPAPER HEADLINES+, 15/06/2025* Anger as suspected herders kill 100 in fresh Benue attack 90 cheers for ‘Uncle Sam’ as dignitaries celebrate journalism icon IGP extends tinted glass permit deadline to August 12 Soyinka to Tinubu: Unveil killers of Kudirat Abiola, Dele Giwa, Bola Ige Peter Obi betrayed me, says Kenneth Okonkwo National hospital faults NMA, denies sacking doctors Ogazi breaks 26-year record to win 400m NCAA title Israel-Iran: Trump, Putin hold talks Floods in DR Congo capital kill at least 19 – Minister Death toll in South Africa floods rises to 86 US Senator, Rep shot inside their homes W’Bank allocates $40m loan to protect poor Nigerians Nigerians in Portugal to enjoy zero tax on foreign income Over 300 Nigerians seek asylum in Iceland ------------------------------ *DID YOU KNOW?* * The world’s most translated author is Agatha Christie. Her books have been translated into at least 103 languages. She is best known for her detective novels featuring characters like Miss Marple and Hercule Poirot, and has sold over 2 billion copies of her books worldwide. * A group of flamingos is called a flamboyance. ------------------------------ Part-Time Parliament Will Affect Nigeria’s Democracy – Senate Reps summon finance minister, CBN gov over Fiscal Act breach Rep member Isiaka installed Seriki Adinni of Yewaland S’Court debunks allegations of justice’s political trip Lagos court jails man for assaulting govt worker Nigerian Army recruits over 6,000 soldiers to boost national security Civilian safety top priority in our operations – NAF Chief N200b Bodo/Bonny road project now open to traffic Tuggar seeks collaboration with China to deepen food security FG Condemns Israel’s Attack On Iran, Calls For De-Escalation FG plans review as 11,000 register for Safe Schools project Amaechi’s attack on Tinubu about power grab – Presidency Awaiting trial inmates exceed 53,000 – Report NNPCL records N5.89 trillion revenue Nigerians imported N1.67tn food, drinks in three months – NBS Firewood exports hit N65.85bn Nigeria closer to exiting FATF grey list – NFIU Agric ministry denies prayers for food security, cites staff deaths FCT ground rent payments surge 24 hours to deadline 64,000 students sit for common entrance exam into federal colleges NECO conducts common entrance exams as Benin, Togo participate UNICAL clinical lecturers down tools over new VC selection First Lady commissions resettlement city for IDPs in Nasarawa Osinbajo urges youths to engage in politics for national transformation N/Delta ex-agitators declare unwavering support for Tinubu, Tompolo, Otuaro Over 129,000 young brides in Nasarawa now using contraceptives — SFH Bible didn’t forbid women’s trousers, bishop backs Abel Damina Trump earned $57m from crypto coin sales Nigeria’s female workforce participation hits new high – WEF Discos decry 5,500MW power generation amid huge gas reserves Lagos plastic ban not against profit – Marketers 2027: Succession storm brews as 10 govs exit Anambra guber: Moghalu unveils running mate, reaffirms Obi’s support Obi allies flay Kenneth Okonkwo over betrayal comments PDP writes INEC as party holds NEC meeting June 30 Eno, Oborevwori will face defection backlash in 2027 – PDP NEC members Defection: PDP, NNPP warn against politicising anti-corruption agencies Soludo approves N15m for mass burial of crisis victims Gombe gov endorses Tinubu for 2027 Delta Assembly moves to enact law over rising house rents in Asaba, others Gombe perm sec, four others die from electrocution Ondo declares war against cocoa adulteration Heavy rainfall: Lagos warns residents against flash floods 239 Jigawa teachers denied salaries over absenteeism Oto-Awori LCDA boss Ashafa dies at 68 Police arrest 182 suspects in Kaduna raids Two arrested for abducting siblings in Anambra Sanmi Michael plans US tour with view to elevate African sound on global stage ------------------------------ *TODAY IN HISTORY* * On this day in 1667, the first human blood transfusion was administered. Jean-Baptiste Denys, physician to King Louis XIV of France, transfused sheep blood into a 15-year-old boy. He survived, most likely due to the relatively small amount of blood used. ------------------------------ The most exhausting activity is pretending to be what you know you aren’t. – Rick Warren Happy Father’s Day *Compiled by Hon. Osuji George [email protected], +234-8122200446*
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  • Iran has a right to defend itself from a genocidal Nuclear USA backed Israel regime. Africans are in support of that view. Self defence is not aggression

    Iran has a right to defend itself from a genocidal Nuclear USA backed Israel regime. Africans are in support of that view. Self defence is not aggression
    0 Commentarii 0 Distribuiri 70 Views
  • Title: My Arranged Marriage
    Episode 1: The Day My Bride Brought Her Ex to Our Wedding

    I always knew my family was chaotic, but I didn’t know they were diabolical until the day I walked into my own wedding and nearly fainted. Not because of cold feet — but because the bride, the woman I was supposed to marry, was sitting on the stage laughing with her ex-boyfriend, whom she brought along like a plus-one.

    Yes, her ex. To our wedding.

    Let me start from the beginning.

    It began two months ago when Mama burst into my room like a hurricane dressed in Ankara and holy anointing.
    "Obinna, your bachelorhood is a spiritual attack!"
    She clutched her Bible and her phone, scrolling through WhatsApp pictures of potential wives like it was Tinder for African mothers.

    I was 29, a civil engineer in Lagos, and deeply single—not because I couldn't find love, but because the last girl I loved used my rent money to buy a Brazilian wig and disappeared with a sugar daddy who sold building materials.

    So, when Mama insisted on arranging a marriage, I laughed. Until Papa added his voice.
    “If you don’t marry before July, forget your inheritance. We will donate your land to the church!”

    July was two months away.

    That was how I met Amaka.
    Photos first. Then video calls. She was pretty. Soft-spoken. From Enugu. A nurse. And, according to her mother, a virgin. (My cousin Ugochi whispered, “Aunty, check that thing well. These days, even calculators reset.”)

    I agreed to meet her. She smiled, giggled, and spoke gently. But something felt... rehearsed. Like she was playing a role.

    Still, the wedding date was fixed. Invitations printed. Cow bought. Church booked. DJ paid. Mama danced every night to Flavour’s songs as if the wedding was her own.

    And then the big day came.

    The hall glittered with decorations. Guests arrived in gele and agbada. My friends teased me “Obinna, you go finally chop life!”

    Then I saw her. Amaka. Dressed in white. Gorgeous. Smiling. Until I noticed the man sitting beside her, whispering in her ear and holding her hand.

    I frowned.
    “Who is that?” I asked my brother.

    My brother squinted. “I think he came with the bride.”

    “Came with the"

    Before I could finish, Mama appeared beside me, all smiles and sweat. “You look handsome, my son. Now go and smile at your bride.”

    “I will smile after I know who that guy is.”

    Mama hissed and walked off.

    So, I marched up to Amaka, heart racing. “Who is this?”

    She blinked, calm. “Oh! Meet Chuka. My best friend. He’s like… family.”

    Chuka stood, extended his hand, smiling like a goat that just chewed your exam script. “Nice to meet you, bro.”

    Bro?

    I ignored his hand. “Can we talk privately?”

    Amaka sighed, dragged me aside, and said the thing that nearly made me remove my agbada and run home in boxers.

    “I invited him because... well... he’s important to me. We dated for six years. He’s the one who taught me how to love. But my parents didn’t approve. So I had to settle for this... arrangement.”

    I stood still, blinking.
    “Settle?”

    “Yes,” she said. “But you’re kind. You’ll understand.”

    Ladies and gentlemen, I did not understand.

    My uncle, who saw me shaking like a leaf, whispered, “Is it heartbreak or hunger? Should we bring you small jollof rice to calm your nerves?”

    I wanted to run, but the hall was full, the gifts were stacked, and the caterers were serving. A pastor was waiting. A crowd was watching.

    Then I remembered what my grandmother once said:
    “If you must embarrass the devil, do it with boldness.”

    So, I climbed the stage, grabbed the mic, and said:
    “Ladies and gentlemen, I want to thank you all for coming. But I just found out that I am not the main actor in this wedding. I am an extra.”

    Gasps.

    Chuka choked on his zobo. Amaka’s face turned pale. Mama tried to grab the mic, but I raised my hand dramatically.

    “This wedding is cancelled. But don’t worry there’s plenty of food. Eat, drink, and take selfies. Just know that Obinna has left the chat!”

    I walked out, head high, heart free. That night, I ate the wedding jollof alone in my boxers and watched Nollywood movies till 2 a.m.

    A week later, I met Adaeze, my neighbor who had always lent me pepper without asking for it back. She knocked on my door with a plate of hot rice and a smile.

    And guess what?
    Title: My Arranged Marriage Episode 1: The Day My Bride Brought Her Ex to Our Wedding I always knew my family was chaotic, but I didn’t know they were diabolical until the day I walked into my own wedding and nearly fainted. Not because of cold feet — but because the bride, the woman I was supposed to marry, was sitting on the stage laughing with her ex-boyfriend, whom she brought along like a plus-one. Yes, her ex. To our wedding. Let me start from the beginning. It began two months ago when Mama burst into my room like a hurricane dressed in Ankara and holy anointing. "Obinna, your bachelorhood is a spiritual attack!" She clutched her Bible and her phone, scrolling through WhatsApp pictures of potential wives like it was Tinder for African mothers. I was 29, a civil engineer in Lagos, and deeply single—not because I couldn't find love, but because the last girl I loved used my rent money to buy a Brazilian wig and disappeared with a sugar daddy who sold building materials. So, when Mama insisted on arranging a marriage, I laughed. Until Papa added his voice. “If you don’t marry before July, forget your inheritance. We will donate your land to the church!” July was two months away. That was how I met Amaka. Photos first. Then video calls. She was pretty. Soft-spoken. From Enugu. A nurse. And, according to her mother, a virgin. (My cousin Ugochi whispered, “Aunty, check that thing well. These days, even calculators reset.”) I agreed to meet her. She smiled, giggled, and spoke gently. But something felt... rehearsed. Like she was playing a role. Still, the wedding date was fixed. Invitations printed. Cow bought. Church booked. DJ paid. Mama danced every night to Flavour’s songs as if the wedding was her own. And then the big day came. The hall glittered with decorations. Guests arrived in gele and agbada. My friends teased me “Obinna, you go finally chop life!” Then I saw her. Amaka. Dressed in white. Gorgeous. Smiling. Until I noticed the man sitting beside her, whispering in her ear and holding her hand. I frowned. “Who is that?” I asked my brother. My brother squinted. “I think he came with the bride.” “Came with the" Before I could finish, Mama appeared beside me, all smiles and sweat. “You look handsome, my son. Now go and smile at your bride.” “I will smile after I know who that guy is.” Mama hissed and walked off. So, I marched up to Amaka, heart racing. “Who is this?” She blinked, calm. “Oh! Meet Chuka. My best friend. He’s like… family.” Chuka stood, extended his hand, smiling like a goat that just chewed your exam script. “Nice to meet you, bro.” Bro? I ignored his hand. “Can we talk privately?” Amaka sighed, dragged me aside, and said the thing that nearly made me remove my agbada and run home in boxers. “I invited him because... well... he’s important to me. We dated for six years. He’s the one who taught me how to love. But my parents didn’t approve. So I had to settle for this... arrangement.” I stood still, blinking. “Settle?” “Yes,” she said. “But you’re kind. You’ll understand.” Ladies and gentlemen, I did not understand. My uncle, who saw me shaking like a leaf, whispered, “Is it heartbreak or hunger? Should we bring you small jollof rice to calm your nerves?” I wanted to run, but the hall was full, the gifts were stacked, and the caterers were serving. A pastor was waiting. A crowd was watching. Then I remembered what my grandmother once said: “If you must embarrass the devil, do it with boldness.” So, I climbed the stage, grabbed the mic, and said: “Ladies and gentlemen, I want to thank you all for coming. But I just found out that I am not the main actor in this wedding. I am an extra.” Gasps. Chuka choked on his zobo. Amaka’s face turned pale. Mama tried to grab the mic, but I raised my hand dramatically. “This wedding is cancelled. But don’t worry there’s plenty of food. Eat, drink, and take selfies. Just know that Obinna has left the chat!” I walked out, head high, heart free. That night, I ate the wedding jollof alone in my boxers and watched Nollywood movies till 2 a.m. A week later, I met Adaeze, my neighbor who had always lent me pepper without asking for it back. She knocked on my door with a plate of hot rice and a smile. And guess what?
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  • THE VILLAGE OF THE TWO HUNDRED EYES
    An African Folktale of Communal Wisdom
    by
    Linda Somiari - Stewart

    In the heart of the green valley of N’nika, where hills rolled like the backs of resting lions and baobab trees whispered secrets to the stars, a child was born on a moonlit night.

    Her name was Zoya, which means “peace after longing.” Her mother, Amina, had wept for many seasons, her womb quiet like an abandoned fireplace. Her father, Kwaku, had prayed by rivers and planted trees that never bore fruit. But when Zoya arrived, laughter returned to their home like rain after drought.

    Now, in many places worldwide, a child is considered the property of the parents. “My daughter,” “my son.” But in N’nika, a child belongs to the people. There, they say, “A child is birthed by four eyes, but nurtured by two hundred.”

    And so, Zoya was not only the joy of her mother and father, she was the moonbeam of the village. Her first laugh echoed from hut to hut like festival drums. When she took her first step, an elder carved the memory into wood. When she said her first word—"Maji" (water)—the village griot sang it into the evening fire.

    Each villager played their part. Old Mama Binta, whose eyes had dimmed but whose spirit saw clearly, taught Zoya riddles and proverbs. Uncle Sefu, who shaped clay like it was born in his palms, showed her how to mold earth into beauty. Auntie Dede, swift-footed as a gazelle, taught her to dance on the drum’s breath. Even Blind Baba Chikere, who never saw her face, listened to her soul and reminded her, “You are more than what eyes can see.”

    One day, when the rains were late and the air cracked with dryness, Zoya, now a child of seven seasons, saw a brilliant green butterfly flutter past. Her eyes widened. She remembered Mama Binta's tale: “The butterfly that glows like emerald flies toward old magic.” Curious, fearless, Zoya followed.

    She wandered into the forest, past the watchful iroko tree, into the thick silence where children were told not to stray.
    Hours passed. Shadows lengthened. The sun bowed out.

    Panic rose like smoke in Amina’s chest. Kwaku’s hands trembled. But before their fear became thunder, the village moved.

    Mama Binta said, “She spoke of butterflies this morning.”

    Uncle Sefu recalled, “She asked me about the old stone under the iroko tree, the one shaped like wings.”

    After pausing her grinding, Auntie Dede added, “I saw her head toward the bush path near the river bend.”
    No one said, “Not my child.”
    Because Zoya belonged to all of them.

    The drum was sounded - not in alarm, but in unity. Two hundred eyes awakened. Old legs and young feet marched. Voices called her name not angrily but with love braided into every syllable.

    They found her just as dusk kissed the sky. She sat peacefully beside a stone shaped like wings, humming a song she had learned from Baba Chikere. When asked if she was scared, she said, “No. I knew someone would come. Someone always comes when someone is lost.”

    That night, under a sky heavy with stars and the smell of roasted maize, the village held a feast - not just for Zoya’s return, but for the power of many eyes, hands, and hearts.

    Zoya grew into a woman of many talents. She became a healer, a teacher, and a singer of old songs. When she had her own child, she did not build a wall around them. She opened her door wide.

    And when strangers from far lands encounter her versatility, they would ask, “Who taught you such wisdom?” She would say: “The eyes that watched me were many.
    The love that raised me was village-wide and deep.”
    And so, dear friend, learn this: The natural order is not to raise any child alone. Whether in Nairobi or New York, Lagos or London, an authentic village is not made of huts and fences - but of hearts willing to see, hands willing to hold, and spirits willing to lift. Please do your best to return the natural order to our neighborhoods and villages.
    THE VILLAGE OF THE TWO HUNDRED EYES An African Folktale of Communal Wisdom by Linda Somiari - Stewart In the heart of the green valley of N’nika, where hills rolled like the backs of resting lions and baobab trees whispered secrets to the stars, a child was born on a moonlit night. Her name was Zoya, which means “peace after longing.” Her mother, Amina, had wept for many seasons, her womb quiet like an abandoned fireplace. Her father, Kwaku, had prayed by rivers and planted trees that never bore fruit. But when Zoya arrived, laughter returned to their home like rain after drought. Now, in many places worldwide, a child is considered the property of the parents. “My daughter,” “my son.” But in N’nika, a child belongs to the people. There, they say, “A child is birthed by four eyes, but nurtured by two hundred.” And so, Zoya was not only the joy of her mother and father, she was the moonbeam of the village. Her first laugh echoed from hut to hut like festival drums. When she took her first step, an elder carved the memory into wood. When she said her first word—"Maji" (water)—the village griot sang it into the evening fire. Each villager played their part. Old Mama Binta, whose eyes had dimmed but whose spirit saw clearly, taught Zoya riddles and proverbs. Uncle Sefu, who shaped clay like it was born in his palms, showed her how to mold earth into beauty. Auntie Dede, swift-footed as a gazelle, taught her to dance on the drum’s breath. Even Blind Baba Chikere, who never saw her face, listened to her soul and reminded her, “You are more than what eyes can see.” One day, when the rains were late and the air cracked with dryness, Zoya, now a child of seven seasons, saw a brilliant green butterfly flutter past. Her eyes widened. She remembered Mama Binta's tale: “The butterfly that glows like emerald flies toward old magic.” Curious, fearless, Zoya followed. She wandered into the forest, past the watchful iroko tree, into the thick silence where children were told not to stray. Hours passed. Shadows lengthened. The sun bowed out. Panic rose like smoke in Amina’s chest. Kwaku’s hands trembled. But before their fear became thunder, the village moved. Mama Binta said, “She spoke of butterflies this morning.” Uncle Sefu recalled, “She asked me about the old stone under the iroko tree, the one shaped like wings.” After pausing her grinding, Auntie Dede added, “I saw her head toward the bush path near the river bend.” No one said, “Not my child.” Because Zoya belonged to all of them. The drum was sounded - not in alarm, but in unity. Two hundred eyes awakened. Old legs and young feet marched. Voices called her name not angrily but with love braided into every syllable. They found her just as dusk kissed the sky. She sat peacefully beside a stone shaped like wings, humming a song she had learned from Baba Chikere. When asked if she was scared, she said, “No. I knew someone would come. Someone always comes when someone is lost.” That night, under a sky heavy with stars and the smell of roasted maize, the village held a feast - not just for Zoya’s return, but for the power of many eyes, hands, and hearts. Zoya grew into a woman of many talents. She became a healer, a teacher, and a singer of old songs. When she had her own child, she did not build a wall around them. She opened her door wide. And when strangers from far lands encounter her versatility, they would ask, “Who taught you such wisdom?” She would say: “The eyes that watched me were many. The love that raised me was village-wide and deep.” And so, dear friend, learn this: The natural order is not to raise any child alone. Whether in Nairobi or New York, Lagos or London, an authentic village is not made of huts and fences - but of hearts willing to see, hands willing to hold, and spirits willing to lift. Please do your best to return the natural order to our neighborhoods and villages.
    Love
    1
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  • The leader, Cyril Ramaphosa, of the biggest Economy in Africa departs for Canada, no Airports charades or an entire cabinet lining up for Fake smiles.
    The leader, Cyril Ramaphosa, of the biggest Economy in Africa departs for Canada, no Airports charades or an entire cabinet lining up for Fake smiles.
    0 Commentarii 0 Distribuiri 71 Views
  • Death Toll In South African Floods Rises To 86
    Death Toll In South African Floods Rises To 86
    0 Commentarii 0 Distribuiri 60 Views
  • Bishop David Olatunji Abioye:
    The Pastor of Generals

    By Daniel Breakforth

    In the year 1983, a new church called the Living Faith World Outreach Centre was commissioned by Pastor Enoch Adeboye in Ilorin, Kwara State of Nigeria. Shortly after the commission date, the Church moved by divine instruction to Kaduna instead of the initial plan to start off at Jos, Plateau State. The new Church was led by Pastor (later Bishop) David Oyedepo. Oyedepo was not a stranger to Kaduna. In the year 1973, he had attempted to join the Nigerian Air Force at the age of 19 through the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) just after the Civil War. Now a young pastor, he sometimes visited his military friends at the NDA as well as other collocated units within the massive Ribadu Cantonment. However it appears that God had other plans for Oyedepo. In 1987, one of his young pastors, David Abioye who had joined the Church as a staff at the end of his National Youth Service Corps period was sent to Maiduguri to open up a new branch. Shortly after this, by 1988, Living Faith was considered the largest Pentecostal Church in northern Nigeria. In 1989, Bishop David Oyedepo announced to the 3000 members that the Church intended to build Garden of Faith-the largest Church auditorium in Northern Nigeria. The Church opened up a new branch at Iyana Ipaja in 1989 called Winners' Chapel in response to a divine call to Oyedepo-Get down to Lagos and raise me a people.

    That was not all, in his own words, Bishop Oyedepo explains the change of baton that soon transpired.

    THE CHANGE OF THE KADUNA CHURCH PASTORATE

    "In view of the enormous work on ground at Kaduna in the early days of the Lagos church, I was shuttling between Lagos and Kaduna; Lagos this Sunday, Kaduna next. I was always in Kaduna anytime I had any outreach up north.

    On a particular day in May 1990, concluding a seminar in the city of Jos on Saturday night, I started racing down to minister at the Sunday service in the Kaduna church. Suddenly, I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, ‘When you were the Pastor of the Kaduna church’. Immediately, I questioned, ‘Were?’ I did not have the patience to listen to what followed; I shouted, ‘Who then is the Pastor?’ And God said, ‘Send for my servant, David (Abioye), he shall be the shepherd of the flock’. While I ministered at the church that Sunday morning, in my characteristic manner, I shared with the congregation exactly what the Lord told me, and that was how the pastorate of the Kaduna church changed hands by divine order. From that very day, I ceased to see myself as the Pastor of that church. The good news is, there was no rethink or regret but testimonies of growth and expansion. Today, the Kaduna church is a beauty to behold".

    Pastor David Abioye was then transferred from Maiduguri to Kaduna in the early days of the Living Faith Church’s national expansion. This seemed like a routine ministerial reassignment. However, what followed was not just a chapter in church growth—it was the quiet unfolding of a legacy that would deeply influence Nigeria’s military elite.

    Kaduna is home to several of Nigeria’s most critical military institutions, including the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), Armed Forces Command and Staff College (AFCSC) Jaji, Infantry Centre and School Jaji, Headquarters 1 Division Nigerian Army, Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Base, Training and Tactical Group (TTG), other NAF units, and the famed Depot Nigerian Army in Zaria, among others. Into this unique military atmosphere, Pastor Abioye was posted as resident pastor of Living Faith Church Barnawa—popularly known as the Garden of Faith. He was then consecrated Bishop in 1993 at the age of 32. He remains the youngest to be consecrated Bishop of a mainline Church globally Humorously, Abioye just like Oyedepo had also previously attempted to join the military from Kaduna.

    At a time when spiritual depth and moral guidance were quietly sought by many gentlemen officer cadets of the NDA and in fact, many young and seasoned officers alike, Bishop Abioye’s life and message stood out. His disciplined lifestyle, gentle demeanor and commanding yet humble pulpit presence drew men and women in uniform to the church in large numbers. For almost two decades, the Garden of Faith remained the largest megachurch in northern Nigeria and one of the most spiritually influential.

    NDA was, very tough...to say it very nicely. Consequently, week after week, cadets from the NDA having endured grueling training sessions all week, would find refuge and refreshing on Sundays at the Barnawa church. Midweek services were an unaffordable luxury! For the gentleman officer cadet, 'Heaven at last' was simply not enough as the daily sufferings and challenges otherwise known as Punishment Tutorials Endurance ( PUTTEE) always stretched them physically and spiritually to the limits. They needed reassurance, they needed words of Hope, they needed encouragement and they needed a purpose to stay alive. The Catholic Church is known to be very disciplined with time. Service times are fixed and start and end promptly. However majority of Christian cadets at the time were either non Catholics or at least did not attend the Barracks Catholic Church. Imagine a situation where a Rev Father complains during mass of sounds of 'up, up, up, up up...while voices under duress were counting...33, 34, 35...101, 102 etc behind the Altar (Very few, will understand this). The only other church which had the combined qualities of timeliness and promptness at the time was 'Living Faith'. The cadets could not afford a church that had no respect for time. Time was of essence and the time to come out through Abakpa, Equitation, Kurumashi or Silver Jubilee Gate was not fixed. With the 3 services at Garden of Faith which was the only Living Faith Church at the time, one could always find an early or late morning service that would fit into their 'Up' plans and Bishop Abioye was always on hand and bellowing... There is Hope for you!

    At the time Bishop Abioye took over in Kaduna, members of the NDA 37RC were passing out cadets. General Gwabin Musa would have been a 4th termer and gradually transforming from 'Kati Kati' to Acting Period. Also by the time Bishop Abioye was moved to Abuja in 2004, the members of 55th RC were second termers. This implies that Bishop Abioye oversaw about 18 Academy (Regular) courses (asides various short service courses) as the longest serving Living Faith Church pastor over Garden of Faith.

    Bishop Abioye’s messages were not only encouraging—they were stabilizing. They offered hope, moral clarity and spiritual courage, reinforcing the discipline instilled during military training but anchoring it in godly values. His altar call would always begin with... Say with me Dear God...

    Beyond the cadets, officers stationed across military formations in Kaduna and beyond—AFCSC, ICS, NAF Base, Depot NA Chindit Barracks/NASMP Zaria and even more remote military units—made it a routine to worship under his leadership. His consistency, integrity and rare ability to relate the gospel to leadership and purpose earned him the respect and loyalty of Nigeria’s rising military brass.

    In 2002, he was invited to minister at the Fellowship of Christian Cadets within the NDA. That service made history: For the first time, the NDA’s garrison protestant church auditorium was filled to overflowing. Cadets, officers, administrative staff and even civilians came en masse to hear him minister—a moment that solidified his role as a spiritual compass to many within the armed forces. Though eventually represented by one Pastor Victor Olafisoye, the message he personally sent was well received.

    Over the years, many of those cadets have risen through the ranks to become 1-star, 2-star, 3-star and even 4-star generals in the Nigerian Armed Forces and many other countries within Africa. Yet, they continue to hold Bishop Abioye in the highest esteem—not just as a preacher from their youth, but as a father in the faith whose words and character deeply shaped their journey. Some regularly consult him for prayer and counsel; others simply draw strength from his continued presence, teachings and landmark example of stewardship and loyalty.

    The Transfer of Bishop David Abioye to Abuja

    Bishop David Abioye was transferred from Kaduna to Abuja during a period of rapid church expansion and reactions as well as to douse some inflammable situations that had arisen. At the time, the Church was transitioning from a regional ministry centered in northern Nigeria to a national and international force and strategic placement of senior leaders was essential.

    Bishop David Oyedepo, founder and presiding bishop of the Church, needed to solidify the church's presence in Nigeria’s new Federal Capital Territory and neutralise efforts at rebellion in some quarters. He appointed Bishop Abioye to lead the growing work in Abuja, a move that proved to be both strategic and transformative.

    Upon arriving in Abuja, Bishop Abioye began pastoring at Durumi which was then the only branch in Abuja. This would eventually lead to him pioneering the Church work in the suburbs at Goshen City, the church’s massive 700 acre mission headquarters in the northern region which was built within 13 months with no assistance from the International headquarters and broke the record of Garden of Faith, Kaduna as the largest Church facility in northern Nigeria by 2010 However, even before the establishment of the Goshen facility in 2010, Abioye’s ministry had already gained deep roots in Abuja. His influence in the city, particularly among military officers and senior civil servants, began to grow in a quiet yet profound way.

    This rise in influence among military personnel can be attributed to several factors. First, Abuja is not just Nigeria’s administrative capital—it is also home to major military installations, including the Defense Headquarters, Army, Navy and Airforce Headquarters, National Defence College and numerous officers’ quarters. The proximity of Abioye’s ministry to these centers meant his church was physically accessible to officers seeking spiritual direction and balance amid the demands of national service. After his move to Goshen, they were also willing to do the 30km+ drive out of Abuja metropolis to Goshen on Sundays.

    Second, and perhaps more critically, Bishop Abioye’s personality and leadership style deeply resonated with military culture. He is known for his calm demeanor, disciplined approach to ministry and unshakable loyalty to his spiritual leader, Bishop Oyedepo. These traits mirrored the military’s values of order, hierarchy, loyalty, and self-control—values that often determine who an officer chooses to follow or confide in.

    Abioye’s messages frequently emphasized honor, service, integrity, and responsibility—not only in spiritual matters but in daily life and leadership. His teachings avoided controversy and remained grounded in scripture and character development. For many officers, this was both refreshing and reassuring. He did not pander to status or power but modeled consistency and humility, which earned him long-term trust.

    Moreover, the structure of the Living Faith Church itself—with its protocol-driven services, cell systems and clear chains of authority—created an environment that felt orderly and familiar to those from military backgrounds. It’s no surprise that over the years, many high-ranking officers not only became members of the Abuja church but developed close spiritual affiliations with Bishop Abioye himself.

    Essentially, Bishop David Abioye’s transfer to Abuja was a pivotal moment in the growth of the Living Faith Church in Nigeria’s capital. His personal integrity, disciplined leadership and spiritual consistency made him a natural magnet for military officers and government elites alike. Today, he remains one of the most respected spiritual voices in the region—both within and beyond Pentecostal circles.

    Remarkably, his influence has grown beyond church walls. Bishop Abioye has ministered and lectured at the National Defence College in Abuja, addressing elite military officers from Nigeria and across the world. He continues to engage actively in both physical and virtual fora where military personnel seek spiritual and ethical guidance.

    Recently, Nigeria’s only serving 4-star general was spotted worshipping at the Living Word Conquerors Global Assembly, the new phase of Bishop Abioye"'s ministry—an unassuming but telling sign of how enduring and respected Bishop Abioye’s pastoral role remains within military circles.

    Yet, in all of this, he has remained profoundly humble. Never one to boast or seek titles, Bishop Abioye continues to walk with quiet dignity, reflecting the servant leadership he has modeled for about 4 decades. His life is a testament to the truth that divine influence is not always loud—but it is lasting.

    Indeed, his posting to Kaduna and later Abuja was more than a church assignment; it was a divine deployment. In the process, Bishop David Abioye became, almost inadvertently, the Pastor of Generals.

    #ChurchGist
    Bishop David Olatunji Abioye: The Pastor of Generals By Daniel Breakforth In the year 1983, a new church called the Living Faith World Outreach Centre was commissioned by Pastor Enoch Adeboye in Ilorin, Kwara State of Nigeria. Shortly after the commission date, the Church moved by divine instruction to Kaduna instead of the initial plan to start off at Jos, Plateau State. The new Church was led by Pastor (later Bishop) David Oyedepo. Oyedepo was not a stranger to Kaduna. In the year 1973, he had attempted to join the Nigerian Air Force at the age of 19 through the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) just after the Civil War. Now a young pastor, he sometimes visited his military friends at the NDA as well as other collocated units within the massive Ribadu Cantonment. However it appears that God had other plans for Oyedepo. In 1987, one of his young pastors, David Abioye who had joined the Church as a staff at the end of his National Youth Service Corps period was sent to Maiduguri to open up a new branch. Shortly after this, by 1988, Living Faith was considered the largest Pentecostal Church in northern Nigeria. In 1989, Bishop David Oyedepo announced to the 3000 members that the Church intended to build Garden of Faith-the largest Church auditorium in Northern Nigeria. The Church opened up a new branch at Iyana Ipaja in 1989 called Winners' Chapel in response to a divine call to Oyedepo-Get down to Lagos and raise me a people. That was not all, in his own words, Bishop Oyedepo explains the change of baton that soon transpired. THE CHANGE OF THE KADUNA CHURCH PASTORATE "In view of the enormous work on ground at Kaduna in the early days of the Lagos church, I was shuttling between Lagos and Kaduna; Lagos this Sunday, Kaduna next. I was always in Kaduna anytime I had any outreach up north. On a particular day in May 1990, concluding a seminar in the city of Jos on Saturday night, I started racing down to minister at the Sunday service in the Kaduna church. Suddenly, I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, ‘When you were the Pastor of the Kaduna church’. Immediately, I questioned, ‘Were?’ I did not have the patience to listen to what followed; I shouted, ‘Who then is the Pastor?’ And God said, ‘Send for my servant, David (Abioye), he shall be the shepherd of the flock’. While I ministered at the church that Sunday morning, in my characteristic manner, I shared with the congregation exactly what the Lord told me, and that was how the pastorate of the Kaduna church changed hands by divine order. From that very day, I ceased to see myself as the Pastor of that church. The good news is, there was no rethink or regret but testimonies of growth and expansion. Today, the Kaduna church is a beauty to behold". Pastor David Abioye was then transferred from Maiduguri to Kaduna in the early days of the Living Faith Church’s national expansion. This seemed like a routine ministerial reassignment. However, what followed was not just a chapter in church growth—it was the quiet unfolding of a legacy that would deeply influence Nigeria’s military elite. Kaduna is home to several of Nigeria’s most critical military institutions, including the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), Armed Forces Command and Staff College (AFCSC) Jaji, Infantry Centre and School Jaji, Headquarters 1 Division Nigerian Army, Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Base, Training and Tactical Group (TTG), other NAF units, and the famed Depot Nigerian Army in Zaria, among others. Into this unique military atmosphere, Pastor Abioye was posted as resident pastor of Living Faith Church Barnawa—popularly known as the Garden of Faith. He was then consecrated Bishop in 1993 at the age of 32. He remains the youngest to be consecrated Bishop of a mainline Church globally Humorously, Abioye just like Oyedepo had also previously attempted to join the military from Kaduna. At a time when spiritual depth and moral guidance were quietly sought by many gentlemen officer cadets of the NDA and in fact, many young and seasoned officers alike, Bishop Abioye’s life and message stood out. His disciplined lifestyle, gentle demeanor and commanding yet humble pulpit presence drew men and women in uniform to the church in large numbers. For almost two decades, the Garden of Faith remained the largest megachurch in northern Nigeria and one of the most spiritually influential. NDA was, very tough...to say it very nicely. Consequently, week after week, cadets from the NDA having endured grueling training sessions all week, would find refuge and refreshing on Sundays at the Barnawa church. Midweek services were an unaffordable luxury! For the gentleman officer cadet, 'Heaven at last' was simply not enough as the daily sufferings and challenges otherwise known as Punishment Tutorials Endurance ( PUTTEE) always stretched them physically and spiritually to the limits. They needed reassurance, they needed words of Hope, they needed encouragement and they needed a purpose to stay alive. The Catholic Church is known to be very disciplined with time. Service times are fixed and start and end promptly. However majority of Christian cadets at the time were either non Catholics or at least did not attend the Barracks Catholic Church. Imagine a situation where a Rev Father complains during mass of sounds of 'up, up, up, up up...while voices under duress were counting...33, 34, 35...101, 102 etc behind the Altar (Very few, will understand this). The only other church which had the combined qualities of timeliness and promptness at the time was 'Living Faith'. The cadets could not afford a church that had no respect for time. Time was of essence and the time to come out through Abakpa, Equitation, Kurumashi or Silver Jubilee Gate was not fixed. With the 3 services at Garden of Faith which was the only Living Faith Church at the time, one could always find an early or late morning service that would fit into their 'Up' plans and Bishop Abioye was always on hand and bellowing... There is Hope for you! At the time Bishop Abioye took over in Kaduna, members of the NDA 37RC were passing out cadets. General Gwabin Musa would have been a 4th termer and gradually transforming from 'Kati Kati' to Acting Period. Also by the time Bishop Abioye was moved to Abuja in 2004, the members of 55th RC were second termers. This implies that Bishop Abioye oversaw about 18 Academy (Regular) courses (asides various short service courses) as the longest serving Living Faith Church pastor over Garden of Faith. Bishop Abioye’s messages were not only encouraging—they were stabilizing. They offered hope, moral clarity and spiritual courage, reinforcing the discipline instilled during military training but anchoring it in godly values. His altar call would always begin with... Say with me Dear God... Beyond the cadets, officers stationed across military formations in Kaduna and beyond—AFCSC, ICS, NAF Base, Depot NA Chindit Barracks/NASMP Zaria and even more remote military units—made it a routine to worship under his leadership. His consistency, integrity and rare ability to relate the gospel to leadership and purpose earned him the respect and loyalty of Nigeria’s rising military brass. In 2002, he was invited to minister at the Fellowship of Christian Cadets within the NDA. That service made history: For the first time, the NDA’s garrison protestant church auditorium was filled to overflowing. Cadets, officers, administrative staff and even civilians came en masse to hear him minister—a moment that solidified his role as a spiritual compass to many within the armed forces. Though eventually represented by one Pastor Victor Olafisoye, the message he personally sent was well received. Over the years, many of those cadets have risen through the ranks to become 1-star, 2-star, 3-star and even 4-star generals in the Nigerian Armed Forces and many other countries within Africa. Yet, they continue to hold Bishop Abioye in the highest esteem—not just as a preacher from their youth, but as a father in the faith whose words and character deeply shaped their journey. Some regularly consult him for prayer and counsel; others simply draw strength from his continued presence, teachings and landmark example of stewardship and loyalty. The Transfer of Bishop David Abioye to Abuja Bishop David Abioye was transferred from Kaduna to Abuja during a period of rapid church expansion and reactions as well as to douse some inflammable situations that had arisen. At the time, the Church was transitioning from a regional ministry centered in northern Nigeria to a national and international force and strategic placement of senior leaders was essential. Bishop David Oyedepo, founder and presiding bishop of the Church, needed to solidify the church's presence in Nigeria’s new Federal Capital Territory and neutralise efforts at rebellion in some quarters. He appointed Bishop Abioye to lead the growing work in Abuja, a move that proved to be both strategic and transformative. Upon arriving in Abuja, Bishop Abioye began pastoring at Durumi which was then the only branch in Abuja. This would eventually lead to him pioneering the Church work in the suburbs at Goshen City, the church’s massive 700 acre mission headquarters in the northern region which was built within 13 months with no assistance from the International headquarters and broke the record of Garden of Faith, Kaduna as the largest Church facility in northern Nigeria by 2010 However, even before the establishment of the Goshen facility in 2010, Abioye’s ministry had already gained deep roots in Abuja. His influence in the city, particularly among military officers and senior civil servants, began to grow in a quiet yet profound way. This rise in influence among military personnel can be attributed to several factors. First, Abuja is not just Nigeria’s administrative capital—it is also home to major military installations, including the Defense Headquarters, Army, Navy and Airforce Headquarters, National Defence College and numerous officers’ quarters. The proximity of Abioye’s ministry to these centers meant his church was physically accessible to officers seeking spiritual direction and balance amid the demands of national service. After his move to Goshen, they were also willing to do the 30km+ drive out of Abuja metropolis to Goshen on Sundays. Second, and perhaps more critically, Bishop Abioye’s personality and leadership style deeply resonated with military culture. He is known for his calm demeanor, disciplined approach to ministry and unshakable loyalty to his spiritual leader, Bishop Oyedepo. These traits mirrored the military’s values of order, hierarchy, loyalty, and self-control—values that often determine who an officer chooses to follow or confide in. Abioye’s messages frequently emphasized honor, service, integrity, and responsibility—not only in spiritual matters but in daily life and leadership. His teachings avoided controversy and remained grounded in scripture and character development. For many officers, this was both refreshing and reassuring. He did not pander to status or power but modeled consistency and humility, which earned him long-term trust. Moreover, the structure of the Living Faith Church itself—with its protocol-driven services, cell systems and clear chains of authority—created an environment that felt orderly and familiar to those from military backgrounds. It’s no surprise that over the years, many high-ranking officers not only became members of the Abuja church but developed close spiritual affiliations with Bishop Abioye himself. Essentially, Bishop David Abioye’s transfer to Abuja was a pivotal moment in the growth of the Living Faith Church in Nigeria’s capital. His personal integrity, disciplined leadership and spiritual consistency made him a natural magnet for military officers and government elites alike. Today, he remains one of the most respected spiritual voices in the region—both within and beyond Pentecostal circles. Remarkably, his influence has grown beyond church walls. Bishop Abioye has ministered and lectured at the National Defence College in Abuja, addressing elite military officers from Nigeria and across the world. He continues to engage actively in both physical and virtual fora where military personnel seek spiritual and ethical guidance. Recently, Nigeria’s only serving 4-star general was spotted worshipping at the Living Word Conquerors Global Assembly, the new phase of Bishop Abioye"'s ministry—an unassuming but telling sign of how enduring and respected Bishop Abioye’s pastoral role remains within military circles. Yet, in all of this, he has remained profoundly humble. Never one to boast or seek titles, Bishop Abioye continues to walk with quiet dignity, reflecting the servant leadership he has modeled for about 4 decades. His life is a testament to the truth that divine influence is not always loud—but it is lasting. Indeed, his posting to Kaduna and later Abuja was more than a church assignment; it was a divine deployment. In the process, Bishop David Abioye became, almost inadvertently, the Pastor of Generals. #ChurchGist
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