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FROM HUMILITY TO HOPE: A SUNDAY REFLECTION ON FAITH AND SERVICE – MacDonald Ebere, PhD, KSJI

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As I reflect on the Mass readings for today, June 9, 2024, the Tenth Sunday in Ordinary Time, I am struck by their profound relevance to our journey, both personally and collectively, especially in our roles as leaders and servants of the people.

The First Reading from Genesis 3:9-15 brings to mind the pivotal moment of humanity’s fall, where Adam and Eve’s disobedience led to a fracturing of their relationship with God. This passage reminds me that as leaders, we are not immune to the temptations that lead to pride and disobedience. It calls us to recognize our vulnerabilities and the consequences of our actions, both on a personal level and in our communities. It is a powerful reminder that humility and accountability are essential in our roles.


Psalm 130 continues this theme of humility, as it is a heartfelt cry for mercy and redemption. “Out of the depths I cry to you, O Lord; Lord, hear my voice!” This resonates deeply with the struggles we face in our political and social endeavors. It reassures us that even in our darkest moments, God’s mercy is ever-present, and His love offers us hope and redemption. As we lead, we must also be open to seeking forgiveness and extending mercy to others.

The Second Reading from 2 Corinthians 4:13-5:1 speaks of the transient nature of our earthly life compared to the eternal glory that awaits us. St. Paul’s words remind me that our efforts and struggles here are but temporary, and our ultimate goal should always be aligned with the eternal perspective. This encourages us to lead with integrity, knowing that our true reward lies beyond this world. It calls us to focus on building a legacy that transcends our temporal achievements.

Finally, the Gospel reading from Mark 3:20-35 challenges us with the reality of opposition and misunderstanding, even from those closest to us. Jesus faced accusations and rejection, yet He remained steadfast in His mission. As leaders, we too may face criticism and resistance, but we must stay committed to our purpose and values. Jesus’ redefinition of His true family as those who do God’s will is a powerful reminder that our allegiance is to a higher calling, and our community extends to all who share in that mission.

In conclusion, today’s readings offer us a roadmap from humility to hope. They call us to lead with compassion, integrity, and a focus on eternal values. Let us embrace these lessons as we strive to serve our community with love and dedication, always keeping our eyes on the greater good that lies ahead.

Happy Sunday….

-MacDonald Ebere, PhD, KSJI

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Kaduna: Juji residents cry out over abandoned bridge

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Residents of the Juji community in Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna State have raised fresh concerns over the abandonment of a bridge project linking the town to Ungwan Gimbiya, warning that the situation has worsened with the onset of the rainy season.

The bridge, which has remained incomplete for several years, is now severely affected by erosion and stagnant floodwaters, leaving it nearly impassable and posing serious risks to residents.

Speaking with reporters, locals described how heavy rainfall often renders the route unusable, disrupting daily life.

“Each time it rains, children can’t get to school, and many parents are unable to leave for work,” a resident said. “We are cut off completely. The waterlogged path is dangerous to cross.”

Community members say the abandoned infrastructure has left them stranded and exposed, especially schoolchildren and traders who rely on the route.

They are calling on the Kaduna State Government and the Kaduna State Roads Agency, KADRA, to urgently resume and complete the project.

“This is no longer a minor complaint, it’s affecting our survival,” one resident added.

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Nigeria has regressed to electoral autocracy – LPPMC

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The Liberal Progressive & Patriotic Members Congress, LPPMC, has observed with dismay that Nigeria has regressed to electoral autocracy and needs constitutional disobedience to reset the system.

In a communiqué issued by the National Coordinator of LPPMC, Dr. Kingsley Okundaye, on behalf of 21 other leaders, the Congress stressed the need for an immediate biometric audit of INEC’s voter register, blockchain-based voting systems to prevent tampering, and live streaming of all results collation.

The meeting stated that when courts legitimize electoral heists, democracy becomes tyranny, and resolved to pursue a constitutional amendment to punish judicial officers who subvert electoral justice and impose a 90-day limit for election petitions.

The communiqué stated that 25 years of democracy have not addressed northern marginalization and called for constitutional recognition of power rotation between regions and religions.

On grassroots mobilization, LPPMC says it would launch “Democracy Literacy Campaigns” in all 774 LGAs, assuring that it would reserve 40% of leadership slots for women and youth (per gender policy debates).

LPPMC said, “The 2023 elections showed rigging is now institutionalized. We must act now or lose Nigeria completely.”

It alleged that Labour Party’s hijacking proves the need for new safeguards against political predators and called for the formation of a 37-state Coalition for Electoral Integrity by July 1.

It gave INEC an ultimatum to clean the voter register by August 30 and commence mass voter education by September 12.

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Apo mechanic village traders to shut shops for President Tinubu’s visit, project commissioning

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Traders, mechanics, and shop owners in Abuja’s Apo Mechanic Village said they will temporarily close their businesses on Friday, June 13, to welcome President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

This is as he commissions a major road project in the area. This is contained in a statement signed by Lere Olayinka, the Senior Special Assistant, Public Communications and Social Media on Thursday.

According to him, the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has  announced that the newly constructed Left-Hand Service Carriageway of the Outer Southern Expressway (OSEX) Stage II — from Ring Road I (RRI) Junction to Wasa Junction — will be officially commissioned by President Tinubu at 2:30pm.

As part of the arrangements, the Apo-Wasa road will be closed to vehicular movement from 11:00am to 4:00pm to ensure a smooth ceremony and adequate security, the statement added.

He said motorists are advised to use alternative routes during this period.

He said, “Also, traders, mechanics and other shop owners in the Apo Mechanic Village have offered to close their shops tomorrow, to enable them give President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, a rousing welcome, and participate in the commissioning of the road project.”

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