REVISITING A MOVIE PREMIERE

The art of telling stories through motion pictures is unarguably the most interesting, yet effective way of conveying a message. STRAY is a movie with a serious story. Guests to its premiere in Buea last Saturday, affirm the producers and the actors who interpret the story, packaged it suitably enough. The rest of this assertion would be confirmed after watching the Palmer Ngale Mbua film. Five days after the official outing, we come back to the event through which STRAY was presented to the public for the first time. Apex 1 Radio picked up high moments of the Buea Mountain Hotel red carpet event and in a 30-minute package, we bring them to you. Join us on a special APEX SNAPSHOT (film version) edition as from 11am EST (5pm in Mukunda, Buea) on www.apex1radio.com – tunein app – Facebook Live at Apex 1 Radio-www.apex1radio.com – Take the appointment!

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SAVING MBANGO MOMENTS ON RADIO

Every year, an unaccountable number of movies are released and made to circulate within the African and global film markets. While many of these movies go through their market lifespan with little or no attention, a handful come a long with an amazing conspicuousness, leaving an indelible impact in the history books of seventh art industry. Reasons vary – story topic, storyline, cast, directing, impeccability of quality and above all, marketing campaign that accompanies the project. SAVING MBANGO as a film project is all of these, put in one, resulting in what has been described by pundits as a sumptuous package. The relevance of topic (cancer), the meticulousness in the way it is cinematographically presented plus the energy discharged in its promotion, make SAVING MBANGO (produced by Stephanie Tum and directed by Nkanya Nkwai) an excellent example of a successful project. This Saturday, at the movie’s maiden premiere, Apex 1 Radio beams the event into your homes live from the Canal Olympia Douala venue. Join the radio streaming as from 12:30 eastern time, 6:30pm in Mondoni at www.apex1radio.com – TUNEin (search Apex 1 Radio) – Facebook Live – Apex 1 Radio YouTube channel. Take the appointment!

JZyNo Takes Over Buckeye State with Explosive EP Debut

Columbus, Ohio – Liberian international sensation Jonathan Lee, better known by his stage name JZyNo, is set to electrify a sold-out crowd in Columbus, Ohio, on July 26, 2024. The performance, organized by DASH MEDIA and LICI, will commemorate the annual Liberian Independence Day celebrations.

JZyNo began his musical journey experimenting with rap before embracing the vibrant sounds of Afrobeats and AfroFusion. His career skyrocketed after relocating to Ghana, where he built strong connections with international artists, producers, and media. His mission to elevate Liberian music on the global stage is evident through his numerous collaborations across Africa, Asia, and the United States.

His hit song “Butta My Bread,” featuring Ghanaian vocalist Lasmid, has achieved a record-breaking 150 million streams on digital platforms within a year—the highest by any Liberian artist. The track has resonated globally, even being featured during the 2024 NBA playoffs halftime show by the Los Angeles Lakers.

JZyNo boasts a repertoire of hit singles and collaborations, including “Finally” from his EP “Liberian Boy,” “All You Want” from his debut EP “Brown Sugar,” “Kpan kpan Me” featuring Tedderide from Liberia, and “Eyes On You” featuring Camidoh from Ghana. His collaborations span continents, with notable tracks like “Kuku Kuku” by Kenya’s Willy Paul and “Need Some Wine” by Grammy-nominated Liberian-American soul singer Matt B.

Currently on his highly anticipated international tour, JZyNo is captivating audiences across Europe and America with his infectious rhythms and dynamic stage presence. His performance in Columbus, Ohio, is perfectly timed with Liberian Independence Day, where he will debut his latest EP “Liberian Boy” and his newest collaboration, “MOOD,” featuring Nigeria’s rising Afrobeat star Khaid.

JZyNo’s tour and his upcoming performance highlight his commitment to bringing Liberian music to a global audience, leaving fans inspired and eager for more.

Liberians in Columbus mark 176th Independence with cultural festival

On Saturday, July 22, 2022, the Liberians in Columbus Incorporated (LICI) brought the spirit of Liberia’s rich heritage to life as they hosted their fifth annual cultural festival in anticipation of Liberia’s 176th Independence Day.

The festivities took place at the Nafzger Park in Columbus, Ohio, drawing hundreds of Liberians and individuals from various nationalities who gathered to enjoy the celebrations of Liberian culture.

Since its inception in 2018, the cultural fusion festival has become a cherished tradition, celebrating the beauty of Liberian art, fashion, cuisine, and more.

This year’s event, like the ones before, served a dual purpose of promoting unity among Liberians residing throughout the city of Columbus.

The festival featured an array of talented vendors showcasing their traditional Liberian dishes, exquisite clothes, soulful music, and captivating comedy acts.

For the little ones in attendance, the festival offered much excitement with free face painting, toys, jumping houses, and other fun-filled activities.

The event was graced by Liberian comedian, Giant German Gina, fondly known as “GGG.” His hilarious anecdotes about Liberia left the audience in stitches and added an extra layer of joy to the already cheerful atmosphere.

Sports played a significant role in uniting Liberians, and the festival embraced this spirit by organizing a football match between the Mighty Barrow and the Invincible Eleven.

The friendly rivalry culminated in Mighty Barrow securing victory with three goals, while the Invincible Eleven scored one goal.

Despite the defeat, the team members of Invincible Eleven expressed their gratitude for participating in the sports match and being part of such a historic event.

As Liberians gathered to celebrate, they were filled with excitement to reconnect with fellow community members from various corners of Columbus, Ohio.

The festival showcased the growth of the Liberian community, which has rapidly expanded beyond Liberians and is now recognized as one of the fastest-growing New American communities in Ohio.

Proud of their cultural heritage, Liberians in Columbus proudly displayed their traditions and expressed immense pride in the impact and prominence their community has achieved.

Looking forward, today, July 28, Liberians will gather at the Villa Milano Banquet & Conference Center to officially commemorate Independence Day.

The occasion promises to be graced by several community members, state representatives, entertainers, and dignitaries, reaffirming the strength of the Liberian community’s bonds.

As Liberia’s 176th Independence Day approaches, the vibrant celebrations continue to echo the resilience, unity, and pride of the Liberian people residing in Columbus, Ohio.

MUSIC: Ko-C TO THRILL COLUMBUS

Columbus is bracing to play host to one of Cameroon’s most celebrated urban artists in the history of the country’s music industry. Ko-C arrives in Ohio’s chief city on June 17, 2023, for what has been described as the most anticipated music concert in the African community. This is the first time the highly talented and admired rapper will be performing in Ohio, and this comes against the backdrop of his current summer music tour of the United States.

Ko-C will be served to the Columbus public thanks to 614 Kings, an Ohio-based entertainment promotion outfit run by Rex Mbouge, himself an ace promoter of arts and culture and a longtime renowned leader within the African community. “I cannot wait to have this great experience with my favorite artist – that Ko-C will be in Columbus, is one of the biggest things happening to me this year,” Marthe, a Columbus fan of the rapper said.

I’m super excited and cannot hold my anxiety – Ko-C is King and I just can’t wait to watch him perform live on the night of June the seventeenth,” Prina, another fan said.

Organizers of the concert including Papa Zaraa, Kenzo Dollar and Loyalty Market, have stated that the topnotch event will kick off at 7:59pm and have insisted that music lovers attending should dress to impress.

Since coming to the limelight in 2017, the rapper who doubles as songwriter and singer has been relevant not only in the Cameroonian music industry, but across Africa. He is currently trending, thanks to DUEX OEUFS SPAGHETTI, released in February 2023 with 6.6 million views (and counting) on YouTube. The track has been source of Tiktok content across different African online communities. Ko-C has won eight awards, including a Best Male Artist in 2019, Artist of The Year in 2021 and Best Urban Artist recognition the same year.

Ko-C comes to Columbus less than a year after Tzy Panchak, another trending urban artist in Cameroon. Other musicians such as Magasco, Mr Leo, Minks, etc, have previously thrilled the Cameroonian community in the city.

For more information, read the official poster for the event.

HALF HEAVEN in Cameroonian theatres soon

Cameroon, get ready for a cinematic experience like no other! Half Heaven, the highly anticipated movie from the studios of Checksense Production in association with Buhmerang Pictures, is finally coming to a theater near you on June 2nd, 2023.

This star-studded film boasts an incredible cast, including award-winning performances from Syndy Emade, Chidi Mokeme, Seehefer Roland, Malvis Anne, Mbeng Lilian and many more. Directed by Enah Johnscott, director of the Fisherman’s Diary.

Don’t miss your chance to see these talented actors light up the big screen with their unforgettable performances.

Douala at Genesis Cinema at Douala Grand Mall and Buea

Tickets available at 3,000 frs. To reserve your seats, contact 650211482 or 677645107 and be among the first to experience the excitement of Half Heaven on the silver screen.

“Half Heaven” distributed by FilmOne Entertainment

Accra, Columbus, fused in cultural jamboree

Over 10,000 people are expected to converge on Columbus from August 5-7 this year to witness and take part in the maiden edition of the Ohio Ghana Festival. The cultural and business event wrapped in the framework of a sister cities rapport between Ghana’s capital, Accra and Ohio’s chief city, Columbus, will be a meeting point for people from several nationalities, joining Ghanaian sons and daughters in savoring the cultural prowess of the West African nation.

Highlighting the scope of the festival to include culturally prone activities, entertainment and business interaction at the media launch which constituted the first phase of the festival, Saturday, the project manager, Rev. Samuel Sarkodee insisted that Ohio Ghana Festival will be mutually beneficial to Accra and Columbus. “Finding this common ground between our sister cities will create a better future for our younger ones,” he pointed out.

To the Executive Director of Sister Cities International, the marriage between Ghana’s capital and Ohio’s main city, which is not new, must be consolidated so that our children’s children can live it and enjoy every benefit that comes along with the relationship. Jayme Staley lauded Ghanaians in Columbus for showing an unrelentless commitment to this Accra-Columbus rapport. “I can’t wait to go with you come August the 5th,” she said, anxiously looking forward to being part of the event.

On his part, the Director of Regional Partnerships at the City of Columbus Mayor’s Office, Michael Schadek, speaking so emotionally, described Ghanaians living in the city as a special community. Schadek, who was conferred the name Ghanaian traditional name of Kwame by the assembly, and clad in a batakari, Ghanaian traditional regalia, invited the people of the West African nation to embrace Columbus as home.

Meanwhile, religious organizations, including over 50 churches operating in Columbus, have thrown their lots behind the Ohio Ghana festival. “We have been providing guidance and advice to the organizers of the festival because we cherish this relationship between Accra and Columbus and we think it is good thing for this long-awaited event to happen,” said Apostle Prince Bonsu. He continued: “The Church will continue to pray for the festival, so Ghana can bring its rich culture here and share it with the great people of Columbus.”

Successive speakers at the media launch of the maiden edition of the Ohio Ghana Festival mentioned the promotion of the overall black heritage, as a salient point in the holding of the cultural and business come-together. Trapped in an uncontrollable wave of emotions amid an irresistible display of unity among festival promoters and guests to the launch, the Chair of Milo-Grogan Recreation Center, venue of the event, Charles Thompkins, proclaimed his infinite love for the people of Ghana. “This is some great thing we’ve been missing,” said the African American, referring to the fireworks of singing, dancing, and use of the mother tongue, displayed in the hall. Thompkins, almost succumbing to tears, requested hugs from the people whom he insisted had been exemplary in soul-warming.

Speaking earlier, Dr Edwina Teye justified the project by explaining that it was normal that the Ghanaian community in Ohio, reciprocally embrace a country and city that have received them with open hands. “We understand the benefits of building great relationships,” she indicated.

Sponsored principally by Adonko Bitters Limited and placed under the theme; “Our Culture, Our tradition, Our Heritage, the Columbus Way”, the Ohio Ghana Festival 2023 will bring together musicians, traditional dance groups and choreographers, fashion designers, traditional food chefs, media practitioners, writers, and companies. It will comprise of a welcome night, symposia/investment forums, the grand festival, thanksgiving service and a tour of Columbus. The media launch was also powered by Afro614 MultiMedia, one of the sponsors of the festival, run from Columbus.

“We are expecting to see visitors to the event, start making trips to Ghana after the Ohio Ghana Festival 2023,” the coordinator of the media launch, Nana Ama Afrifah said.

CINEMATIC SUCCESS! REVIEWING Korto Davis’ EVIL LIVES HERE

 

One story, two effects! Yet, a completely told story! This best describes Korto Davis’ EVIL LIVES HERE and EVIL LIVES HERE 2, produced by Knock Knock Liberia/Mansa Entertainment.

If EVIL LIVES HERE and EVIL LIVES HERE 2 were going to be Korto Davis’ only works, then the film director would have obtained an exceeding score in her career. In the story, Korto cinematically plays with ingredients that are required to create an indelible impact on the viewer – images, sound, shots, signs, and symbols and above all, artists’ performance. But what the filmmaker stands out with is her ability to deploy cinematic language that pegs squarely in the respective phases of the story.

EVIL LIVES HERE

Though evil is the dominant theme in the story, the filmmaker reduces its impact in EVIL LIVES HERE (first part), perhaps to delay its occurrence and not to turn off subtle-hearted viewers. Could this be deliberate contrast? Otherwise, notice the opulence – status conferral cars, gorgeous attires, good times (party), highlighted in the movie’s first phase.

Korto delays evil further with the conspicuous use of red, a color that represents love. It is not by chance that red dominates Kay’s (Sekou M. Sirleaf) middle-class living room where he dines with his love captive. Just one example!

Since the ugly head of evil is yet to protrude, the filmmaker courageously goes with bright lighting throughout EVIL LIVES HERE, making great use of exterior scenes in the process. This is another contrasting technique to delay the pending evil.

Perhaps, more dialogue than anything else characterizes this first phase of the story. It is either Kay, engaged in lengthy conversations with Eva Freeman (Ertamar Thompson) or Roda Freeman (Korto Davis) with Frank (George E. Dayocollins). It is either Frank in exchanges with Vera (Nesera Love Kamara) or Robert (Musa Sheriff) and Roda Freeman frantically trying to make it work to no avail. If for nothing else, the story’s visioner uses dialogue to lay a firm foundation for the ensuing revelation.

Meanwhile, the artists’ performance in EVIL LIVES HERE puts the story at the top. Notice Eva Freeman’s composure, Roda Freeman’s eye-twisting gestures, Kay’s admirable telegraphic movements as he revolves around his car to ferry his boss along, Vera’s comic, yet respectful servant gesticulations, etc. Record high, isn’t it?

EVIL LIVES HERE 2

Korto Davis wears her film directing garment in EVIL LIVES HERE 2 like never. She changes modes and moods and engages in a go-getting mission with her know-how.

The maiden flashback where Kay and his soulmate wrap up preps for the much-awaited wedding, is enough to explain why it should attract the gruesome elimination of Eva by her jealous ‘sister’. The director is going to use more of such flashbacking techniques which would lay the bricks of suspense (in a plot that could be deceptively revealing) throughout the story.

Notice Korto’s technique in effectively reflecting dialogue with creative acts and/or gestures. When Kay meticulously displays an admirable blend of laughter and cry (6.40m – 7.38m), it is a translation of the good and bad embedded in Dr Russ’ (Duke Murphy Dennis) revelation that excitement (positive) could cause death (negative). Also, no technique can be more effective than Roda Freeman’s willful release of flatus to paint disgust wrapped in Frank’s desperate attempt in puncturing her egoistic plans.

But hey, the filmmaker won’t let go signs and symbols that depict the movie’s environment – evil. Notice the sharp syringe and imagine the pain – the knife which is going to be Roda Freeman’s aide to face out (unsuccessful) out housemaid Vera – the sacrilegious/incestuous kiss with a to-be brother-in-law – the fatal liquidation of a husband! The symbol of Voice Mailing (VM) is perhaps Korto’s way of painting a veritable picture of modern-day communication where nothing seems to be hidden under the sun. Even when Vera’s recording is deleted, it has been backed up somewhere. Communication tech on display!

If EVIL LIVES HERE 2 is a cinematographic success story, it is largely thanks to the director’s awesome romance with shots. Korto pinches on long shots, plays so well with mediums, but her strength is clearly seen in close-up and extreme close-up shots. Check out Kay’s dingy mood 20.25m – 20.27m), Vera’s devastating posture (25.10m – 25.34m) Kay’s yelling (39.38m – 39.45m). Perhaps, Ansu K. Sirleaf’s (cinematographer) award-winning shot comes at the movie’s last scene (41.01m – 41.05m).

Other filmmaking techniques used in EVIL LIVES HERE 2, put the director on the high, including the originally composed sentimental sound tract that strongly bond with the somber moods that run across the story. This ties up with the solid dark costumes that characterize all scenes of the movie, except a few.

EVIL LIVES HERE is an urban movie that tells the story of a wealthy family’s adopted daughter who ruthlessly terminates her younger sister (and others in line), in protest of an unfavorable decision on their family company. Directed by Korto Davis, the movie is shot on locations in Monrovia, Liberia, starring Korto Davis, Ertamar Thompson, Sekou M. Sirleaf, George E. Dayocollins, Nesera Love Kamara and Duke Murphy Dennis. It was first released in March 2023 and is currently available on YouTube.

ABOUT THE WRITER

Ernest Kanjo is a USA-based Journalist and Writer with an interest in arts, culture, and entertainment reporting. He is founder of Apex 1 Radio – www.apex1radio.com and Editor-in-Chief of TIPTOPSTARS (online entertainment magazine) – www.tiptopstars.com. Kanjo has written extensively on the Cameroonian film industry and has several awards from his works in film reporting. He is currently undergoing training in film criticism.

Also find review of Nkanya Nkwai’s SAVING MBANGO (now streaming on Amazon Prime Video), produced by Stephanie Tum and Neba Lawrence’s TROUBLED KINGDOM, produced by Mairo Sanda and Fred Keyanti, at www.tiptopstars.com, written by the same author.

Ohio State Rep. Dontavius Jarrells advocates for Education

Ohio State Rep Dontavius Jarrells (D-Columbus) will return to his alma mater, Hiram College, to give the Commencement Speech on Saturday, May 13, 2023.

Only 34 years old, he will be one of the youngest speakers ever in the college’s 172 years of existence.

In early March of 2023, he spoke about his collegiate experience at the 2023 Independent College Day sponsored by the Association of Independent Colleges & Universities of Ohio. With five independent colleges and universities in House District 1, Rep. Jarrells enrolled at Hiram in 2006 and majored in political science with a minor in economics.

He grew up in one of Cleveland’s most challenging neighborhoods as a child. The road to Hiram College, the Ohio Association of County Behavioral Health Authorities, Franklin County Treasurer’s Office, and even the statehouse took work. However, through mentorship and persistence, he is now where he is today—paying it forward by inspiring other young and future heroes to do the same.

Having been elected as the Assistant Minority Leader of the House Democratic Caucus in his second term, he’s one of the youngest in the nation to hold that position. Rep. Jarrells has lived up to the hype and continued to use his platform to tackle some of the most challenging problems impacting Central Ohio and the state.

His district, House District 1, includes Berwick, Bexley, Bronzeville, Downtown, Franklinton, German Village, Milo-Grogan, and the South Side of Columbus.

Here’s what Rep. Jarrells said at the start of the 135th General Assembly:

“As we look forward… I’m committed to building a better Ohio for all of us. I envision an Ohio where everyone can access high-paying careers, not just jobs—an Ohio where a child’s zip code doesn’t determine the quality of their education. In Ohio, where our kids are safe from firearms, families don’t have to work two or three jobs to make ends meet. Simply put, I work for you.

He’s remained steadfast to that commitment. And so far, Rep. Jarrells has sponsored two primary bills. House Bill 96 would raise the minimum wage to $15.00 an hour, and House Bill 106, known as the “Pay Stub Protection Act.” The bill requires employers to provide their employees with earnings and deduction statements.

The representative has co-sponsored ten bills, including House Bill 52, now in the Senate Committee. Bill 509, passed during the 134th Assembly, to restore law related to emergency medical services training and continuing education programs and EMS and fire instructor certification. The bill would reverse House.

Rep. Jarrells’ unwavering support for Central Ohio residents, particularly immigrants and refugees across central Ohio, is undeniable.

He played a critical role in the election of the State Representatives Ismail Muhamed (D-Columbus) and Munira Abdullahi (D-Columbus), the first Somali-American male and female Muslims elected to the Ohio State House of Representatives. He also collaborates with various immigrant and refugee communities to celebrate their achievements and advocate for changes affecting their communities.

While Rep. Jarrells is typically the one giving commendations to celebrate the achievements of those across his district, his service and advocacy have been noticed. He has received several recognitions, including:

* 2023 Healthy Food Access Legislative Champion from Produce Perks Midwest
* 2022 NAMI Legislator of the Year
* 2022 Legislative Champion Award from Mental Health America
* 2022 Small Business Advocate of the Year from the Council of Smaller Enterprises (COSE)

Growing up in Cleveland, he was significantly involved in his high school STEM program. He attended East Technical High School and was part of the school’s FIRST® (For Inspiration Recognition in Science and Technology) robotics team. As one of the first all-Black teams in the nation, the students worked with organizations like NASA and other engineering companies committed to fostering well-rounded leaders. It is one of the reasons why Rep. Jarrells works so hard to improve the lives of youth through policies he fights for in the General Assembly.

As a member and leader of the team from 2002-2006, he credits robotics with changing his life. That’s why in January of 2022, he paid it forward by meeting members of Team #3324, the Metrobots. The team is sponsored in part by the Past Foundation, which also aims to inspire young minds to change the world of education through science and technology.

In an interview with FIRST in April of 2018, Rep. Jarrells stated that “his involvement with the East Tech’s robotics team saved his life…to have an opportunity like this to be told that you can be anything you put your mind to and have a place of refuge after school where you’ve got people who love and care about you to see you through. It’s an amazing opportunity.”

Rep. Jarrells’ natural affinity for working with the leaders of all institutions to advocate for positive change and empower the next generation is truly an admiration to those who see him serve his district and state. And that’s an Ohio he believes we all deserve.

SERVICE CHIEFS: Why insecurity persists despite Irabor and co efforts — Wisdom, retired US Army colonel

 

Wisdom Osagiede Ogbeowemwenkon Osemwende is a retired officer who served in the United States (US) Army for over 29 years. Born and bred in Benin City, Wisdom rose to the rank of colonel in the world’s strongest military before retiring. But in retirement, Osagiede says he is not tired as he wants to lead Nigeria if elected the President in 2023.

In this interview, the retired colonel explains his mission to Nigerians, explaining how he thinks this venture is possible for a Nigerian who has spent most of his working life abroad.

He also speaks on why insecurity persists in Nigeria despite efforts by Service Chiefs to contain terrorists, bandits and kidnappers.

Retired Colonel Wisdom M. Osagiede Ogbeowemwenkon Osemwende isn’t a person substantially known to Nigerians? Who is he?

I grew up in Lagos where I went to primary school. I later went to secondary school in Benin City. After I travelled abroad, I obtained a Bachelor of Science in Business, Master’s of Arts in Mass Communication and I will finish my PhD in Public Policy and Administration in March 2022.

I spent the bulk of my working years in the US military. In fact, I got into the US military in 1987 and retired in 2016. During my time there, I journeyed across the field with countless leadership positions and operations across the world. Some of my most significant assignments in the US military were the expeditions in Iraq and my trips to several places around the world for humanitarian services.

I also joined in the efforts to rebuild Iraq after the war. I worked in the US diplomatic missions in Uganda, the Central African Republic, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

I was the first US officer to train the National Emergency Management Agency, known as NEMA in Nigeria when I was with the US Africa Command in Germany. I trained senior Nigerian military officers and senior civilian executives on disaster relief and pandemic response. As a civil affairs officer within the US military, I travelled across the world providing social services to populations.

These trips took me to orphanages and highly needy communities. I piloted the project for a network of Non-Governmental Organizations that converged on Iraq for post-war development efforts. I trained Iraqis on local governance.

You have lived most of your working life abroad – how much of Nigerian do you know?

I have virtually lived all my working life abroad like you mentioned. However, I have always been actively present in Nigeria, as far as everything is concerned. Since I relocated, I have kept in touch with my country by visiting Nigeria every single year. I do not only travel home annually, I also make trips to different parts of Nigeria during my visit home. Nigerians know me, I have friends everywhere in the country and I have family here.

I read Nigerian papers regularly, listen to Nigerian news on the radio and watch it on TV. I am abreast with the happenings in my country. Most importantly, I have always been involved in the development of Nigeria and have made frantic contributions to the social and economic growth of the country.

I personally provide support to many families by way of paying school fees and the provision of some basic needs. I have always donated working tools to hard-working individuals to help grow their businesses, especially at the subsistence level.

For how long have you nursed the ambition of running for President in Nigeria?

As a little boy growing up quite close to my father, he emphasized the importance of education. He never failed to do so. My father was a civil servant in the colonial era. This probably explains why he was an unrepentant lover of education.

He would explain to me that with a sound background in education, I could easily become the number one executive officer in Nigeria. This encouragement stemmed from my interest in governance which I expressed each time I saw a member of the Nigerian government riding across the city. I soon noticed myself not only becoming familiar with these people but also nursing the ambition of getting into a position of leadership someday. However, it is after I had served in other capacities and retired that I decided to run for office for the first time.

Nigeria has a history of being run by military leaders – first, what is your take on having uniform people in power?

The military is not designed to rule or be in power. Its responsibility is to protect the territorial integrity of the country against enemy forces, both internally and externally. That does not, however, mean leaders who have military backgrounds are incompetent. Rather, military personnel have a strong foundation in administration.

The United States military is a great example of excellence in administration. If there is one thing I have benefitted more from the US military, it is good administration. While we are still serving, we are not meant to run for political office and get in power, even with great administrative skills. So, having retired from the military with these skills, I think the right place to exercise them is at the helm of the Nigerian administration.

In your own understanding, how would you describe Nigeria 50 years after independence?

Fifty years after independence, Nigeria still has a long way to go. The country has made frantic efforts in every area of life, including democracy. The fact that Nigeria can organize and run elections where the people elect their leaders and life moves on is a great achievement.

That Nigeria is the biggest economy on the continent is a fact we cannot take for granted. That we can point at some great road infrastructure and modern bridges is something to be proud of. In the past three decades, Nigeria has produced an amazing number of intellectuals, thanks to the country’s enviable universities.

That should make every Nigerian a happy man. With a film industry that has helped to employ Nigerians and standing tall as the second employment sector, one can only raise their thump up. I can go on and on.

However, Nigeria has not had the score we would have expected since gaining independence. We still have development issues such as poor farms to market roads, inadequate health infrastructure, poor maintenance culture and lack of classrooms and other learning materials in our schools. Socially, Nigeria still swims in poverty, unemployment, diseases and many other things I will be addressing in my campaign.

These issues you have raised, and perhaps more, have been highlighted by every presidential hopeful over the years. Yet, victorious ones have come to power, governed, and left without properly solving them. Why do you think there is stagnation?

The refusal to share notes is the root cause of stagnation. By that, I mean successive governments have preferred to start things all over and only implement their plans rather than continuing from where their predecessors ended.

When you operate that way, you are indirectly rubbishing some good works already done. It is not everything about a previous administration that is bad. Governance and development are continuous – you simply continue from where your predecessor ended and your successor will go on from where you stopped.

Isn’t it one country, made up of one person, with one dream? America and other great nations believe strongly in the system of sharing notes – you explain what you have done, where you ended and hand over the tools for me to continue. I can start implementing my plans when I would have completed the work you didn’t complete at the time you were leaving. That is how a country should be run.

You have declared your intention to contest for the presidency of Nigeria in 2023. Do you have the financial muscle?

Not yet! I will declare that soon, but for now, I would want to say God will provide the finances required to take up and complete this journey. At this juncture, I can confidently say I’m the most experienced aspirant in the race based on my experience in international interactions through the United States government.

On which platform do you want to actualize your aspiration, and have you registered as a member of the party?

I would like to contest under the All Progressives Congress, APC, which is currently in power. I am joining APC because of the party’s stability. Also, the party has been noted for bringing forth the necessary change that Nigeria had longed for. APC has righted the wrongs of the past and that inspires me a great deal.

What do you say about the mode of selecting parties’ candidates, direct or indirect primaries?

It’s difficult to monitor direct primaries, unlike the indirect. I’m however very comfortable with direct primaries because everyone takes part in the process. It is more democratic.

How do you assess the defence & security situation of Nigeria against the backdrop of the fact that our Service Chiefs are one year old in office?

The security situation in Nigeria, from every indication, is a great concern of the current administration. The Chief of the Defense Staff, General Irabor, is a man of great honour – a gentlemen and hard worker. He is a defence professional I have trailed him since the days of Boko Haram. He put up a great performance in north-eastern Nigeria.

I must applaud his good work and commitment to see the security situation of the country improve tremendously by the day. By the way, I would retain him when I get in the office. Nigeria is vast and to have the country’s security under total control requires much work.

However, what I would say with sincerity is that there is still much work to be done. The Nigerian military deserves far more than what it currently has. There is need for great motivation in terms of salaries and welfare package. That means pay rise needs to be an urgent assignment for the next administration.

Secondly, the military in Nigeria needs to be equipped with up-to-date working tools. Thirdly, Nigeria needs a properly trained military, ready to deploy within 24 hours. Also, a high degree of discipline needs to be buttressed in the ranks of the military, plus other reforms. To achieve these, the military budget needs to be handsome. My years of experience in the world’s most advanced and equipped military give me the audacity to make reforms in Nigeria.

Nigeria is faced with insecurity problems with Boko Haram, banditry, kidnappers holding sway in different parts of the country.  As a retired United States military officer, what is your advice to the Federal Government?

The Federal Government should modernize the military and security agencies. This can be done by recruiting more personnel as the strength of every military is also the number of men and women in the force. The military should be restructured. Also, by providing adequate and more strategic training, the men in uniform could handle these crises in a more apt manner. The Nigerian military should be furnished with state-of-the-art equipment. It would certainly perform better with an improved welfare package. The security budget also needs to be inflated.

The Federal Government recently acquired the American made Tucano fighter jets. Do you think this can change the tide of the war?

I’m quite familiar with the Tucano which is also known as A-29. It uses a turbo engine. It flies low and aims at its target. It can operate two missions – as a fighter jet and conducting reconnaissance operations. The Tucano is excellent on rough terrains. You know, Tucano can only provide the results if the soldiers using it are adequately trained. So, Nigerian soldiers need to be trained to the extent whereby a private soldier can request air support from the mission station and the former will not be referred to the higher headquarters. In the U.S, a private soldier can request air support during combat operations and get it within five minutes at the grid coordinate.

Tell us about the Nigeria Police and your vision.

A country with a strong internal security setup is a successful country. The Nigeria Police, I would say, are far more advanced than those of other countries in Africa, but it is not where it should be today. There is a dire need for a lot of improvement. First, the Nigeria Police need pay rise as a matter of urgency.

Most of the problems that have pinned this corps to the ground stemmed from inadequate pay. The police should not appear as a beggarly corps. It is not only a respectable profession, but officers are men and women who should feel proud to protect the citizens of their country. For them to function properly, they need to be motivated with a better welfare package. Also, and most importantly, I will abolish the barracks and implement community policing. That is my vision for the Nigeria Police.

Nigeria’s economy has been reliant on the petroleum sector for a while. Is that where your heart beats more?

Surprising no! My focus will be agriculture.

Nigeria has not exploited this sector sufficiently, whereas it is potentially the country’s economic solution. We need to get back to the farms and produce food and cash crops. Nigeria has the soil, and we can cultivate crops that can be exported with a comfortable return on investment for the country’s economy.

We will embark on mechanized agriculture as well and provide financial and material support to farmers. My administration will encourage the South-East region to get fully involved in manufacturing agricultural machinery.

Tell us about your plans to improve the health sector.

We will start by working assiduously on health infrastructure. We will set up health centers in most villages across the country. There will be centralized clinics for small communities. The existing infrastructure will be improved upon. My administration will introduce a well-organized and affordable health insurance policy across Nigeria.

There will be free medical treatment for Nigerians who cannot afford it. I will leverage this from my experience in the United States.

Nigeria, just like other African countries, is made up of different ethnic groups. It is not all the time that these groups interact peacefully. In fact, the country has witnessed some ethnic clashes in the past, some of which have been bloody. What is your provision for ethnic division?

First, I will organize a high-level summit for leaders of the three major tribes in Nigeria, the Yoruba, the Igbo, the Hausa and Fulani. Discussions at this summit will focus on ways they can live together convivially. My administration will encourage patriotism and let people know they are Nigerians and only belong to Nigeria.

They must have the country at heart. It is by loving each other that they will love Nigeria. We want Nigerians to see themselves as Nigerians and not as Yoruba, Igbo, Hausas and Fulani.

What will be your major areas of focus if elected President?

I will be very strong on defense and security. I plan to organize an economic and security summit with the United States government if elected. At this summit, we will request the United States’ help in modernizing livestock which will be beneficial to the Fulani. This would replace the nomadic way of grazing that appears to cause a lot of security problems.

This and many more I would do with the US will improve and strengthen the relationship between both countries. Every Nigeria shall be free to move about and carry out their duties. This can only happen when there is total security.

To that effect, security will be my major focus. I will face security head-on and make it difficult for intruders to beat the system. To fight against terrorism, I will erect a wall along Nigerian borders. There will only be a one-way in and a one-way out of Nigeria. This, I believe, will make things difficult for terrorists who move out of the country, train, and return to wreak havoc. Rest assured that Boko Haram will cease to exist once I get in office. My inspiration here is General Collin Powell’s war doctrine which will be forced on terrorists and bandits.

You can refer to my July 14, 2013 interview with Vanguard newspaper. I will pay very close attention to defence. I will be very involved in the defence of Nigeria. My administration will combat poverty by introducing programs that will eliminate suffering. We will also focus on education by providing free schooling at the primary and secondary levels. Identification of Nigerians is primordial, so we will ensure that everyone has an ID card.

We will support those who cannot afford it. Meanwhile, we will create a national database for identification cards where biometric fingerprints will help us detect criminals.

BY GABRIEL ENOGHOLASE

Vanguard News Nigeria

“I’m Who Nigeria Needs Most” Osagiede Ogbeowemwenkon Osemwende 2023 Presidential Aspirant

Osagiede Ogbewekon Wisdom is a retired military personnel who served in the United States Army for well over 29 years. Born and bred in Nigeria, the firmly educated soldier from Benin City, rose to the rank of Colonel, after climbing the ladder with a heavy bag of experience hanging on his shoulder. After almost three decades in studying and experiencing leadership within the world’s most enviable and strongest military, including successful operations with the United Nations system, Osagiede has resolved it is time to give back to his country, Nigeria. To the Nigerian who says his lifetime ambition is to turn the West African nation into the world’s most enviable democracy and most sought-after destination, changing Nigeria would be best implemented from Aso Rock. The USA-based son of Benin City is therefore aspiring for a flag which he hopes to bear to the 2023 Presidential elections. Before the primaries from where Osagiede hopes to emerge, the ex-soldier, now civilian, is tasking himself to clearly explain his mission to Nigerians, so they can see sufficient reason why they should give him a mandate to carry their aspirations to where they are aiming. In an interview prior to the official declaration of his willingness to run for the Nigerian presidency, Osagiede explains why he thinks the destiny of Nigeria between 2023 and 2027, at least, for the first term, should be entrusted in him. He also explains how he thinks this venture is possible for a Nigerian who has spent most of his working life abroad. The Houston, Texas-based presidential aspirant spoke to international Journalist, Ernest Kanjo of Apex 1 Radio and Gabriel Enogholase of The Vanguard. Excerpts!

Ernest Kanjo: Could you tell us more about retired Colonel Wisdom M. Osagiede Ogbeowemwenkon Osemwende?

Osagiede Ogbeowemwenkon : Absolutely! I grew up in Lagos where I went to primary school. I later went to secondary and high school in Benin City. When I travelled abroad, I obtained a Bachelor of Science in Business, Master of Arts in Mass communication and recently finished my PhD in Public Policy and Administration. I spent a bulk of my working years in the U.S military. In fact, I got into the U.S military in 1987 and only retired in 2016. During my time there, I journeyed across the field with countless leadership positions and operations across the world. Some of the most significant assignments in the U.S military were the expeditions in Iraq and my trips to several places around the world for humanitarian services. I also went back to rebuild Iraq after the war. I did same to many other countries that had been destroyed by war. I worked for the US diplomatic missions in Uganda, Central African Republic, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. I was the first US Officer to train the National Emergency Management Agency, known as NEMA in Nigeria. I trained senior Nigerian military officers and senior civilian executives on disaster relief and pandemic response. As a civil affairs officer within the U.S military, I travelled across the world providing social services to populations. These trips took me to orphanages and highly needy communities. I piloted the project for a network of Non-Governmental Organizations that converged on Iraq for post-war development efforts. I trained Iraqis on local governance.

Ernest Kanjo: You have lived most of your working life abroad – how much of Nigerian do you know?

Osagiede Ogbewekon: I have virtually lived all my working life abroad, like you mention. However, I have always been actively present in Nigeria, as far as everything is concerned. Since I relocated, I have kept in touch with my country by visiting Nigeria every single year. I do not only travel home annually, but I make trips to different parts of Nigeria during my visits there. This has been going on since I moved abroad. Nigerians know me, I have friends everywhere in the country and I have family there. I read Nigerian papers regularly, listen to Nigerian news on radio and watch it on TV. I am abreast with the happenings in my country. Most importantly, I have always been involved in the development of Nigeria and have made frantic contributions to the social and economic growth of the country. I personally provide support to many families by way of paying school fees and the provision of some basic needs. I have always donated working tools to hard working individuals to help grow their businesses, especially at subsistence level.

Ernest Kanjo: For how long have you nursed ambitions of running for president in Nigeria?

Osagiede Ogbewekon: As a little boy growing up quite close to my father, he emphasized the importance of education. He never failed to do so. My father was a civil servant in the colonial era. This probably explains why he was an unrepentant lover of education. He would explain to me that with a sound background in education, I could easily become the number one executive officer in mighty Nigeria, why not. This encouragement stemmed from my interest in governance which I expressed each time I saw a member of the Nigerian government riding across the city. I soon noticed myself not only becoming familiar with these people, but nursing ambitions of getting into a position of leadership someday. However, it is after I had served in other capacities and retired, that I have decided run for office for the first time.

Ernest Kanjo: Nigeria has a history of being run by military leaders – first, what is your take on having uniform people in power?

Osagiede Obgewekon: The military is not designed to rule or be in power. Its responsibility is the protect the territorial integrity of the country against enemy forces, both internally and externally. That does not however mean leaders who hail from a military background are incompetent. Rather, military personnel have a strong foundation in administration. The United States military is a great example of excellence in administration. If there is one thing I have benefitted more from the U.S military, it is good administration. While we are still serving, we are not meant to run for political office and get in power, even with great administration skills.  So, having retired from the military with these skills, I think the right place to exercise them is at the helm of Nigerian administration.

Ernest Kanjo: In your own understanding, how would you describe Nigeria 50 years after independence?

Osagiede Ogbewekon: Fifty years after independence, Nigeria still has a very long way to go. The country has made some frantic efforts in every area of life, including democracy. The fact that Nigeria can organize and run elections where the people elect their leaders and life moves on, is a great achievement. That Nigeria is the biggest economy on the continent, is a fact we cannot take for granted. That we can point at some great road infrastructure and modern bridges, is something to be proud of. In the past three decades, Nigeria has produced a amazing number of intellectuals, thanks to the country’s enviable universities. That should make every Nigerian a happy man. With a film industry that has helped to employ Nigerians and standing tall as the second employment sector, one can only raise their thump up. I can go on and on. However, Nigeria has not had the score we would have expected since gaining independence. We still have development issues such as poor farm to market roads, inadequate health infrastructure, poor maintenance culture and lack of classrooms and other learning materials in our schools. Socially, Nigeria still swims in poverty, unemployment, and disease and many other things I will be addressing in my campaign.

Ernest Kanjo: These issues you have raised and perhaps more, have been highlighted by every presidential hopeful over the years. Yet, victorious ones have come to power, governed, and left without properly solving these problems. Why do you think there is this stagnation?

Osagiede Obgewekon: The refusal to share notes is the root cause of this stagnation. By that, I mean successive governments have preferred to start things all over and only implement their plan, than continuing from where their predecessors ended. When you operate that way, you are indirectly rubbishing some good work already done. It is not everything about a previous administration that is bad. Governance and development is continuous – you simply continue from where your predecessor ended and your successor will go on from where you stopped. Isn’t it one country, made up of one people, with one dream? America and other great nations believe strongly in the system of sharing notes – you explain what you have done, where you ended and hand over the tools for me to continue. I can start implementing my plans when I would have completed the work you didn’t complete at the time you were leaving. That is how a country should be run.

Gabriel Enogholase: You have declared your intention to contest the presidency of Nigeria in 2023. Do you have the financial muscle to do so?

Osagiede Ogbewekon: Not yet! I will declare that soon, but for now, I would want to say God will provide the finances required to take up and complete this journey. At this juncture, I can confidently say I’m the most experience candidate in the race, based on my experience in international interactions through the United States government.

Gabriel Enogholase: Which of the major political party do you want to contest, and have you register a member of the party?

Osagiede Obgewekon: I would like to contest under the All-Progressive Congress, APC which is currently in power. I am gunning for APC because of the party’s stability. Also, the party has been noted for bringing forth the necessary change which Nigeria had longed for. APC has righted the wrongs of the past and that inspires me a great deal.

Gabriel Enogholase: What will you say about the mode of selecting our leaders, direct or indirect primaries?

Osagiede Obgewekon: It’s difficult to monitor the direct primaries, unlike the indirect. I’m however very comfortable with direct primaries because everyone takes part in the process. It is more democratic.

Ernest Kanjo: How would you assess the Defense & Security situation of Nigeria?

Osagiede Obgewekon: The security situation in Nigeria, from every indication, is a great concern of the current administration. The Chief of Defense Staff, General Irabor is a man of great honor – a very dignified gentlemen and hard worker. He is a defense professional I have trailed since the days of Boko Haram. He put up a great performance at the Northeastern region of Nigeria. I must applaud his good work and commitment to see the security situation of the country improve tremendously by the day. By the way, I would retain him when I get in office. Nigeria is vast and to have the country’s security under total control requires much work. However, what I would say with sincerity is that there is still much work to be done. The Nigerian military deserves far more than what it currently has. There is need for great motivation in terms of salaries and welfare package. That means pay rise needs to be an urgent assignment for any next administration. Secondly, the military in Nigeria needs to be equipped with up-to-date working tools. Thirdly, Nigeria needs a properly trained military, ready to deploy within 24 hours. Also, a high degree of discipline needs to be buttressed in the ranks of the military, plus other reforms. To achieve these, the military budget needs to be handsome. My years of experience in the world’s most advanced and equipped military, give me the audacity to make these reforms in Nigeria.

Gabriel Enogholase: Nigeria now is faced with insecurity problems with the Boko Haram, banditry, kidnappers holding sway in different parts of the country.  As a retired Untied States military officer, what is your advice to the Federal government?

 

Osagiede Ogbewekon:

It would first say the Federal government should modernize the Nigerian military and security agencies. This can be done by recruiting more personnel, for, the strength of every military, is also the number of men and women in the force. The military should be restructured. Also, by providing adequate and more strategic training, the men in uniform could handle these crises in a more apt manner. The Nigerian miliary should be well furnished with state-of-the-art equipment. It would certainly perform better with an improved welfare package. The security budget also needs to be inflated.

 

Gabriel Enogholase: The Federal government recently acquired the American made Tucano fighter jets. Do you think this can change the tide of the war?

Osagiede Obgewekon: I’m quite familiar with the Tucano which is also known as A-29. It uses a turbo engine. It flies low and aims at its target. It can operate two missions – as a fighter jet and conducting racon operations. The Tucano is excellent on rough terrains. You know, Tucano can only provide the results if the soldiers using it are adequately trained. So, Nigerian soldiers need to be trained to the extent where a private solider can request air support from the mission station and the former will not be referred to the higher headquarters. In the U.S, you may like to know, a private soldier can request air support during combat operations and get it within five minute at the grid coordinate.

Ernest Kanjo: Tell us about the Nigerian police and your vision towards this corps.

Osagiede Obgewekon: A country with a strong internal security set-up, is a successful country. The Nigeria police, I would say, is far more advanced than those of other countries in Africa, but it is not where it should be today. There is a dire need for a lot of improvement. First, the Nigerian police needs pay rise as a matter of urgency. Most of the problems that have pinned this corps to the ground, have stemmed from inadequate pay. The police should not appear as a beggarly corp. It is not only a respectable profession, but officers are men and women who should feel proud to protect citizens of their country. For them to function properly, they need to be motivated with better a welfare package. Also, and most importantly, I will abolish the barracks and implement community policing. That is my vision for the Nigerian police.

Gabriel Enogholase: Nigeria’s economy has been reliant on the petroleum sector for a while. Is that where your heart beats more?

Osagiede Ogbewekon: Surprising no! My focus will be agriculture. Nigeria has exploited this sector sufficiently, whereas it is potentially the country’s economic solution. We need to get back to the farms and produce food and cash crops. Nigeria has the soil, and we can cultivate crops that can be exported with a comfortable return on investment for the country’s economy. We will embark on mechanized agriculture as well and provide financial and material support to farmers. My administration will encourage the Southeast region to get fully involved in manufacturing agricultural machinery.

Gabriel Enogholase: Tell us about your plans to improve the health sector.

Osagiede Ogbewekon: We will start by working assiduously on health infrastructure. We will set up health centers in most villages across the country. There will be centralized clinics for small neighbouring communities. The existing infrastructure will be improved upon. My administration will introduce a well-organized and affordable health insurance policy across Nigeria. There will free medical treatment for Nigerians who cannot afford. I will leverage this from my experience in the United States.

Ernest Kanjo & Gabriel Enogholase: Nigeria, just like other African countries, is made up of different ethnic groups. It is not all the time that these groups interact peacefully. In fact, the country has witnessed some ethnic clashes in the past, some of which have been bloody. What is your provision for ethnic division?

Osagiede Ogbewekon: First, I will organize a high-level summit for leaders of the three major tribes in Nigeria, that is, the Yurobas, the Igbos, the Hausas and Fulanis. Discussions at this summit will focus on ways they can live together convivially. My administration will encourage patriotism and let people know they are Nigerians and only belong to Nigeria. They must have the country at heart. It is by loving each other that they will love Nigeria. We will want Nigerians to see themselves as Nigerians and not as Yorubas, Igbos, Hausas and Fulanis.

Gabriel Enogholase: What will be your major areas of focus if elected president?

 

Osagiede Ogbewekon: I will be very strong on defense and security. As soon as I am elected, I plan to organize an economic and security summit with the United States government, if elected. At this summit, we will request the United States’ help in modernizing livestock which will be beneficial to the Fulanis. This would replace the nomadic way of grazing that appears to cause a lot of security problems. This and many more things I would do with the US, will improve, and strengthen the relationship between both countries. Every Nigeria shall be free to move about and carry out their duties. This can only happen when there is total security. To that effect, security will be my major focus. I will face security head-on and make it difficult for intruders to beat the system. To fight against terrorism, I will erect a wall along all Nigerian borders. There will only be a one-way in and one-way out of Nigeria. This, I believe will make things difficult for terrorists who move out of the country, train, and return to cause havoc. Be rest assured that Boko Haram will cease to exist once I get in office. My inspiration here is General Collin Powell’s war doctrine which will be forced on the terrorists and bandits. You can refer to my July 14, 2013 interview with The Vanguard newspaper. I will pay a very close attention to defense. I will be very involved in the defense of Nigeria. My administration will combat poverty by introducing programs that will uplift suffering. We will also focus on education by providing free schooling in the primary and secondary level. Identification of Nigerians is primordial, so we will ensure that everyone has an ID card. We will support those who cannot afford it. Meanwhile, we will create a national database for identification cards where the biometric fingerprint will help us detect criminals.

Michigan upsets Ohio State 42-27

Originally Posted by: , November 27, 2021

By Jessie Dingess

Who was hungry enough to go to the Big Ten Championship? The Big Blue showed up ready to eat and pulled through a major upset. No. 5 Michigan swept No. 2 Ohio State, 42-27, ending the Wolverines’ eight-game losing streak to the not-so-popular Buckeyes while giving Harbaugh his first win over Ohio State as coach at Michigan.

This big win also clinches the Big Ten East title for the Wolverines, appearing in the Big Ten Championship Game since 2011 they’re first.
Michigan, which had a split half of the Big Ten East back in 2018, is also seeking its first Big Ten title since 2004.

Although the Wolverines were the better team from start to finish, they pulled and held 75 yards on the game’s opening run to take a 7-0 lead and never looked back. The Buckeyes briefly took the lead during the second quarter, but the Big Blue erased it quickly.
One of the primary keys to the game was Michigan’s rushing attack, led by Hassan Haskins, who crushed the day with 169 yards rushing and an astounding five touchdowns. Aidan Hutchinson swept the load for the Michigan defense, picking up three sacks, setting a brand new single-season program record of 13 takedowns.
Garrett Wilson (10 catches, 119 yards) and Jaxon Smith-Njigba (11 receptions, 127 yards) both had huge days for the Buckeyes offense, but it just wasn’t good enough to pull off a win.

Was it a case of Michigan catching a break or two that decided the game or Ohio State having a bad day? When the buckeyes tried to show up and seemed to get a hold of the game, Michigan answered. Michigan showed they were the better team from the jump and never took its foot off the pedal.
Even when Ohio State needed a stop on defense, the Wolverines took to their offensive line and running backs to keep the game alive. It was pretty amazing how often the Wolverines were able to turn around, hand the ball to Haskins or Blake Corum to keep moving the chains, and they delivered effortlessly every single time.

The Wolverines showed they were also the more disciplined team on this big day. In the first quarter, an interception from McNamara killed an entrance chance to go up two scores, but the only blemishes were two penalties for 20 yards. Compared to Ohio State, which never turned the ball over but lost 66 yards on ten penalties. There were several false starts on the Buckeyes that hurt the offense, and on one defensive possession, they gave away to the Wolverines with first downs thanks to an offsides call and pass interference.
As talented and dangerous as Ohio State is, you must play a nearly perfect game to win against them. On the big game day, Michigan showed up and did just that, and they are going to the Big Ten Championship in Indianapolis because of it.

Ohio State had difficulty staying on schedule, but Michigan showed up. Doing the simple things helps you win football games, and Michigan was much better at them than Ohio State. The Wolverines converted 5 of 8 third-down attempts in the game to keep drives alive, and the biggest reason was their performance on first and second downs. The average distance Michigan needed to get on third down in this game was 3 yards. Ohio State needed an average of getting 7.3 yards on its third-down attempts, which explains why they were only 8 of 18, but still pretty impressive.
With the Wolverines showing they were far more effective on first down, picking up 278 yards on 33 first down plays, they rounded to an average of 8.4 yards per play. Ohio State managed only 5.1 yards on first downs, and there aren’t many defenses you want to face less in third-and-long situations than this Michigan defense, which is why the Wolverines were able to sack Buckeyes QB C.J. Stroud four times and get eight tackles for loss.
Ohio State’s defense didn’t have a single tackle for loss in the game. Michigan’s offensive line better not have to buy a meal on campus for the rest of the year.
Could this cost Stroud the Heisman Trophy? He became the favorite for the award last week after tearing Michigan State apart, but the lack of a Big Ten Championship Game appearance could hurt his candidacy, as does losing this game, even though the loss was not Stroud’s fault. Stroud completed 34 of 49 passes for 394 yards and two touchdowns without a turnover, but it wasn’t enough. The race was very close with too many contenders.
The downfall was Ohio State’s defense. Early in the season, when OSU lost to Oregon, it outmuscled. Oregon rushed for 269 yards and three touchdowns that day, averaging 7.08 yards per carrying. On Saturday, Michigan rushed for 297 yards and six touchdowns, averaging 7.2 yards per carrying.

Deserves of this one is Harbaugh: Think back around to this time last year. Harbaugh was a dead man walking, and even when he restructured his contract, seen as a lame-duck entering the 2021 season. Instead, he’s just completed his best regular season as the coach at Michigan and beat Ohio State for the first time.
Many coaches could be willing to accept a pay cut to stay at a job, instead preferring to move on and start fresh elsewhere. But with a decision that showed it wasn’t about his pride or his ego, Harbaugh came through. He showed he loved the school and wanted to restore a football program that had fallen on hard times when he returned to Michigan. He made the changes necessary for it to happen and will see rewards for it.