It is inevitable that we all shuffle off this mortal coil one day and much as we go about our day, hustling and making ends meet, we know in our hearts that not all of us will live to a ripe old age.

God is in control,” remarked Gboyega Okegbenro, the passenger beside me on the plane from Abuja. “Ah!” I replied not daring to commit myself as to my belief one way or the other. The statement of profound faith from Gboyega, who was then the Sports Editor of The Daily Times some thirteen years ago, was provoked by an announcement by the pilot. It came after two futile attempts to land at the Ikeja Airport.

I pledge to Nigeria my country, to be faithful, loyal and honest. To serve Nigeria will all my strength, to defend her unity, uphold her honour and glory, so help me God.”

IN this column a fortnight ago, I asked whether the ‘Amalgamation of 1914’ was a mistake. The feedback was that judging by the present state of events in Nigeria, the step taken by Lord Lugard, though helpful to Britian, was not in the best interest of the country.

IF it were possible, I’d really like to avoid using the word “tragedy”- not only because it’s trite and over-worked, but also because, in this instance, the term is woefully inadequate.