THERE is an on-going struggle for the soul of Brazil, the world’s fifth largest country which has become a model of how to rescue millions from abject poverty. The battles may well turn bloody because it is not strictly a fight over constitutionalism, corruption or the economy; it is primarily, a struggle of the social classes.

Nigeria has been a failing state for decades. And we’ve become accustomed to philosophically coping with its myriad problems and disappointing leaders. But things are particularly bad at the moment and Nigerians are extremely angry.

ONCE beaten twice shy. Like the Word of God, history is forever settled and the sooner we begin to live by its tenets, the better for humanity.

THESE are the worst of times! The past week has brought into sharp focus the danger that institutions of a democratising society can become in the hands of over-ambitious individuals. This fact has become clearer, especially in the week that has been filled with controversy about the 2016 budget and matters arising therefrom.

WHAT would it take for a politically exposed Nigerian politician to resign from office in protest of his or her averred honour? If ten trillion naira looted from the treasury was found stashed in his private vault? To stem the tide of public outrage following her purchase of five bullet-proof Bentleys purportedly for the comfort and safety of very important visitors to her ministry?