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Afrocentric colonialism: The new face of African oppression

Nkrumah argues that “her (Africa’s) earth is rich, yet the products that come from above and below her soil continue to enrich, not Africans predominantly, but groups and individuals who operate to Africa’s impoverishment”.

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9 months ago

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By Kingsley Akam

Afrocentric colonialism represents a troubling and insidious form of oppression within Africa-one that is orchestrated not by foreign powers but by African leaders themselves. Despite the continent’s struggle for independence and the subsequent narrative of neo-colonialism, the root cause of Africa’s persistent challenges lies within its own leadership.

This idea, which I have explored in both public and academic forums, calls for a reassessment of the true sources of Africa’s underdevelopment. The argument that Africa’s challenges stem from historical colonialism and neo-colonialism, as proposed by figures like Kwame Nkrumah, remains influential. Nkrumah argues that “her (Africa’s) earth is rich, yet the products that come from above and below her soil continue to enrich, not Africans predominantly, but groups and individuals who operate to Africa’s impoverishment”.

However, after decades of independence, it is clear that the primary obstacles to progress are rooted in bad governance and the exploitation of resources by African leaders themselves. These leaders, who pretend to be democrats, have created a system that perpetuates poverty and injustice, often with devastating consequences for their citizens. In my recent work, including my PhD thesis, a conference paper titled, ‘The Politics of Afrocentric Colonialism and Corruption Codification in Edosio’s The Governor (2016) and Adetiba’s King of Boys (2018),’ which I presented at the 32nd International Screen Studies Conference at the University of Glasgow, and my forthcoming paper titled, ‘Gendered Power Dynamics and Afrocentric Colonialism in Nollywood…,’ I argue that Afrocentric colonialism is a major contributor to Nigeria’s poverty, underdevelopment, and social strife.

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The ongoing protests across African nations are a direct response to this internal form of colonialism. Afrocentric colonialism is characterised by the exploitation of Africans by their leaders—individuals who, rather than serving the public good, are driven by greed and self-interest. These leaders misappropriate public funds, abuse their power, and perpetuate a system of misrule that mirrors the worst aspects of traditional colonialism. While the legacy of external colonial powers is undeniable, the current plight of Africa is more closely tied to the failures of its own rulers.

At this point, it is imperative to state that Afrocentric colonialism is closely related to patrimonialism and prebendalism, which revolve around the cartel mentality of “big men/women” in government and business, who steal and distribute public resources among themselves (see Richard A. Joseph, Democracy and Prebendal Politics in Nigeria: The Rise and Fall of the Second Republic,1987 and Paul Ugor, Nollywood: Popular Culture and Narratives of Youth Struggles in Nigeria, 2016).

Afrocentric colonialism is broader in scope, embodying all the characteristics of traditional colonialism, including exploration, exploitation, imposition, oppression, bias, injustice, and the killing of Africans by a few colonial masters during the colonial era. For instance, during the Aba Women’s Protest in 1929, colonial forces killed about 50 unarmed women, and about 20 women were killed during a similar protest in Abeokuta in 1947 (see Max Siollun, What Britain Did to Nigeria: A Short History of Conquest and Rule, 2021). These elements of colonialism, now perpetrated by many Nigerian rulers who show no regard for human lives and dignity, are clearly visible in the current situation in Africa. African rulers, who are themselves Africans, exhibit the same traits of the colonial masters(traits of being killers, explorers, and exploiters).

In contemporary Nigerian society, there have been numerous instances of killings across the country by Nigerian security agencies and ethnic militias. Examples include the Odi Massacre on November 20, 1999; the Zaki-Biam Massacre (Operation No Living Thing) from October 20-24, 2001; and the genocide/massacre of unarmed Nigerian youths during the peaceful EndSARS protest on October 20, 2020.

It is unfortunate that Nigerian rulers and exploiters have not learned from past experiences, including the recent events in Kenya. In Kenya, citizens were beaten, injured, and killed by Afrocentric colonialists and their agents for simply demanding good governance. The same wave of protests is currently spreading across other African countries as people demand an end to Afrocentric colonialism. In Nigeria, there was #EndBadGovernance peaceful protest from August 1 to 10, 2024, in which Nigerian citizens called on the government to reverse the fuel subsidy removal, stop the floating of the Naira, cut the cost of governance, address electricity bills, implement electoral reforms, end insecurity, end hunger, curb corruption, reduce unemployment, and more.

Instead of responding as a true democracy would, the government chose to exhibit the true attributes of colonial masters by using state power to attack peaceful protesters who were exercising their constitutional rights. The protests, which called for reforms and better governance, were met with brutal force by the state, resulting in the deaths of 22 protesters, according to Amnesty International. Besides the deaths, many were injured, and properties were destroyed across the country.

This response highlights the disconnect between the government and the people, and the extent to which Afrocentric colonialism has taken root in African politics. This internal misgovernance is evident in the actions of leaders who, rather than investing in their nations’ development, engage in corrupt practices, exploitation, and victimisation that undermine their countries’ potential. It is pertinent to show further how Afrocentric colonialism, as a system in which African leaders emulate the exploitative practices of former colonial powers, continues to oppress their own people, with Nigeria as a focal point and some specific examples:

Corruption(Embezzlement), and Resource Mismanagement: Many Nigerian leaders have been implicated in large-scale corruption and embezzlement of public funds. For instance, former military ruler Sani Abacha was reported to have looted billions of dollars from the Nigerian treasury. The same corruption is ongoing during the democratic era, and corruption has eaten deep into the fabric of the Nigerian state. Corruption in Nigeria comes in different forms, such as budget padding and mismanagement of foreign loans and aid, which have trapped the country in a cycle of perpetual underdevelopment.

The International Monetary Fund, IMF, projected that “the Nigerian government may spend nearly 100 percent of its revenue on debt servicing by 2026”; the World Bank warned that the country’s debt, while seemingly sustainable, is “vulnerable and costly”; and government officials have borrowed and spent to satisfy their needs without any positive impact on the citizens, as the level of poverty and hardship keeps rising. Regarding budget padding, a serving Senator, Abdul Ningi, said over N53 billion worth of projects in the 2024 Appropriations Act are without specific locations.

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Global Affairs

Iran–Israel War Escalates: Today’s Attacks, Trump’s Warning & Biblical Insights

The Iran–Israel conflict has surged into a full-fledged air war with growing humanitarian tolls. Trump’s evacuation call adds urgency and affects global stability.

Published

2 hours ago

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June 17, 2025

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Iran–Israel War Escalates in today’s Attacks

Latest Developments

  • Israel’s Operation Rising Lion launched coordinated airstrikes targeting Iran’s nuclear sites (Natanz, Isfahan, Fordow), key IRGC commanders, and missile infrastructure—including in Tehran—claiming “total air superiority” (theguardian.com).
  • Iran retaliated with over 300 missiles and drones, landing in Tel Aviv, Haifa, and other regions (apnews.com).

Current Casualties & Damage

  • Iran: Health Ministry reports 224 killed, ~1,277 injured; independent sources suggest up to 400+ deaths, many civilians, with extensive damage to city infrastructures—water, power, hospitals (theguardian.com).
  • Israel: Official sources confirm 24 civilian deaths, ~60–500 injured from Iranian strikes (apnews.com).

Official Statements

President Donald Trump

  • Urged all Tehran residents to vacate right away; left G7 early to address crisis (reuters.com).
  • Pushed for a “real deal” nuclear agreement with Iran, denying ceasefire claims (reuters.com).

Israeli Government (PM & IDF)

  • PM Netanyahu stated the operation will persist “as many days as needed to neutralize the threat”—emphasizing hits on nuclear/scientific and missile facilities (understandingwar.org).
  • The military claims destruction of 120 missile launchers (~1/3 of Iran’s stockpile) and “total air superiority” over Tehran (theguardian.com).

Iranian Response

Humanitarian Impact & Civilian Exodus

  • Over 100,000 Tehran residents have fled northwards to Mazandaran, Gilan, and Alborz provinces (en.wikipedia.org).
  • Reports of fuel shortages, hospital strain, internet blackouts, and psychological distress are emerging (en.wikipedia.org).

🔮 What’s Next?

  1. Further military escalation — Iran may strike U.S. or allies if intervention continues (understandingwar.org).
  2. Nuclear diplomacy in limbo — Iran paused talks pending Israeli ceasefire; Trump supports negotiation .
  3. Broader regional ripple effects — Proxy groups, including Hezbollah, Houthis, and Iraqi militias, could escalate (en.wikipedia.org).
  4. Global economic disruptions — Oil prices spiked after Tehran warnings; airlines diverted flights (en.wikipedia.org).

Biblical Perspective

  • Operation Rising Lion invokes Isaiah 31:4 (“As a lion… roars!”), reinforcing Israel’s belief in its God-given resolve (newarab.com).
  • Some Christian prophecy scholars see this as part of eschatological build-up (Ezekiel 38, Isaiah 17)—though cautioned by others to avoid hasty conclusions (forums.crosswalk.com).
  • Biblical themes abound: calls for justice, divine defense, and the lament over cities under siege echo Psalms and prophets (e.g., Lamentations 2:1; Joel 3:2). Prayer for peace and wisdom is urged.

Key Takeaways

  • The Iran–Israel conflict has surged into a full-fledged air war with growing humanitarian tolls.
  • Trump’s evacuation call adds urgency and affects global stability.
  • Expect continued conflict, potential negotiations, and regional escalation.
  • Many believers are interpreting the events through biblical lenses—prayers for peace are critical.
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Global Affairs

Israel-Iran Conflict: History, Latest Impact & Solutions–Trackingtimes

This opposition has led to covert operations and battlefield skirmishes across Syria, Lebanon, Iraq, and Yemen.

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23 hours ago

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June 16, 2025

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Trackingtimes News & Politics

Historical Background

Since Iran’s 1979 Islamic Revolution, tensions with Israel have grown over Iran’s nuclear ambitions and support for proxy militias like Hezbollah. Israel has consistently opposed any perceived existential threat. This opposition has led to covert operations and battlefield skirmishes across Syria, Lebanon, Iraq, and Yemen. These conflicts are mostly orchestrated from the shadows. This rivalry has rarely escalated into full-scale war.

Most Recent Updates & Casualties

🛑 Israeli “Operation Rising Lion” (Started June 13)

  • Targets hit: Over 100 Iranian sites—including Natanz and Isfahan nuclear facilities, IRGC bases, missile production plants, Tehran’s Ministry of Defense HQ, and oil/fuel depots near Tehran (english.mathrubhumi.com, theguardian.com, en.wikipedia.org, wsj.com).
  • Casualties in Iran: At least 78–224 killed (including 20+ senior commanders such as Maj Gen Mohammad Bagheri, Gen Hossein Salami, Gen Gholam Ali Rashid, Gen Amir Ali Hajizadeh); 6–14 nuclear scientists killed; hundreds wounded; many civilians among victims (theguardian.com).
  • Notable death: Brigadier Gen Mehdi Rabbani and his family were killed in one strike (en.wikipedia.org).

🇮🇷 Iranian Retaliation

  • Missile & drone attacks: Waves launched at Tel Aviv and Haifa; 65 ballistic missiles and scores of drones fired (theguardian.com).
  • Casualties in Israel: At least 14–24 killed and ~390 injured; critical infrastructure—including a power plant and U.S. Embassy wing—was damaged (theguardian.com).

Official Statements

Iran – Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei

“Israel opened its wicked and blood‑stained hand… will receive a bitter and painful fate… severe punishment awaits.” (thedailyguardian.com)

Israel – Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu

“We acted pre‑emptively to prevent Iran’s nuclear bomb… we’ll do what we need to do. Regime change is possible.” (ft.com)

USA – President Donald Trump

“We were aware of the impending Israeli operation… working behind the scenes on a deal… vetoed Israeli plan to kill Iran’s Supreme Leader… unprecedented retaliation if Iran targets the U.S.” (theguardian.com)

🌍 Regional & Global Impacts

Middle East

  • New proxy wars erupt across Syria, Lebanon, Iraq, and Yemen.
  • Oil markets surged, then stabilized—global energy remains vulnerable .
  • Gulf and NATO countries deploy military to deter escalation amid high tensions (theguardian.com).

USA

  • Supports Israel’s missile defenses and may deploy naval vessels.
  • Oil price fluctuations could worsen inflation.
  • Diplomatic pressure mounts with vetoes and summit-level interventions .

Africa

  • Rising oil prices strain developing economies.
  • Cargo and shipping risks impact African trade.
  • Diaspora populations in Africa may intensify local debates or protests via spiritual and cultural channels.

📖 Historical & Biblical Lens

  • Biblical parallels: Books like Ezekiel (chapters 38–39) discuss invasions from the North targeting Israel. Some interpret modern Iranian threats through this prophetic narrative.
  • Spiritual implications: Maxwell Nnawuihe’s teachings on justice, fearlessness, and faith echo strongly amid this crisis.
  • Economic ties: Faith & Fortune Finance’s messages on biblical stewardship and fiscal resilience are directly relevant as nations and individuals face uncertainty.

🕊️ Pathways to Peace

  1. U.N.-mediated ceasefire with verified arms monitoring to halt further strikes.
  2. Inclusive regional security framework involving Gulf states, Iraq, and Syria to reduce proxy aggression.
  3. Faith-driven diplomacy: Interfaith councils (Christian-Muslim-Jewish) promoting reconciliation, trust-building, and shared economic ventures.
  4. Economic resilience programs: Channel resources into reconstruction and economic stability—aligning with themes from Faith & Fortune Finance’s “Kingdom Wealth” strategy.
  • Faith & Fortune Finance’s content tied to economic resilience:
  • “Biblical Wealth Under Crisis”
  • “Kingdom Finances When Markets Shake”

Maxwell Nnawuihe’s video on prophetic motivation and fearless leadership:

“Courageous Voices Precede Peace”

Conclusion

This Israel–Iran conflict marks a historic escalation, with devastating strikes, high-profile casualties, and global political impact. Blending historical, biblical, and economic insight provides deeper understanding—and grounds your YouTube channels in relevance.

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Biafra

Tinubu Refused To Honour Our Agreement To Release Nnamdi Kanu After Election– Kanu’s Brother

Disclosing that the meeting had the blessing of the president, Emmanuel, however, lamented that Tinubu has refused to honour the pact by releasing his elder brother and the IPOB leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu from the DSS dungeon in Abuja, Nigeria.

Published

5 months ago

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January 3, 2025

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Emmanuel Kanu, younger brother of the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, Nnamdi Kanu, has said they had an agreement with President Bola Tinubu for the release of his elder brother, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.

Emmanuel disclosed that he had the pact with Tinubu’s son, Seyi, in Abuja before the 2023 presidential election.

Disclosing that the meeting had the blessing of the president, Emmanuel, however, lamented that Tinubu has refused to honour the pact by releasing his elder brother and the IPOB leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu from the DSS dungeon in Abuja, Nigeria.

According to him, it was agreed that IPOB would not bycott the polls on the condition that Tinubu would release Kanu if elected President.

Prince Emmanuel expressed disappointment that nearly two years after the emergence of Tinubu as President, his brother (Kanu), has continued to languish in detention despite the fact that the presiding Judge, Justice Binta Nyako, had since recused herself from the matter.

He said it was disappointing that those who claimed to be honourable, failed to keep their words.

The statement read:”Before the last election, I received a message from an ex-governor that Seyi the son of President Tinubu wanted to see me. I agreed to meet with him on the condition that the overriding priority and hence the fulcrum of our discussion will be the release of my brother. The meeting was held in Abuja in the presence of another individual whom I asked along to witness the deliberations and if need be provide independent verification should the need arise.

“Seyi confirmed to me that his father sanctioned the meeting and that I should consider any agreement we reach as binding on the then candidate Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

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“In good faith we agreed that I shall relay the outcome to my brother to reinforce the long held tradition of IPOB not interfering with the conduct of elections, either through boycott or any other form of civil disobedience. This understanding was duly communicated to my brother and he reaffirmed his commitment not to stop the elections or order any boycott.

“When President Tinubu as a candidate visited Owerri during his campaign, he too reiterated his commitment to facilitate the release of my brother if elected. We took his public statement as a tacit reaffirmation of the understanding I reached with his son Seyi.

“At the end, IPOB did not call for election boycott despite having the capacity to do so. IPOB also made sure that discordant voices urging election boycott were overcome because election boycotts would not reflect well on the reputation of a global movement that prides itself on adherence to democratic tenets.

“It therefore, defies logic that nearly two years after President Tinubu assumed the mantle of leadership in Nigeria, my brother is still in detention despite not having any charge against him. It’s been over three months now that Justice Binta Nyako recused herself from the case yet no new judge has been assigned the case.

“This is on top of the fact that Appeal Court had earlier discharged him of the sham charges and ordered his release which the previous regime of Buhari declined to obey.

“Supreme Court determination that his bail ought not to have been revoked has been ignored by the courts and the government. The latest insult is that Abuja courts of all persuasion are no longer willing to determine the case of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu on merit but are rather relying on ludicrous and inapplicable technicalities to stall the timely determination of his cases.

“The truth is that Nigerian courts cannot, will not and do not have both the substantive and procedural jurisdiction to try him. His detention is without the backing of any known law in Nigeria or elsewhere in the world.”

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