Binder1

Big Read News

THE

P. 3-6

Fakery as a way of life

Interview

P. 10

We’ll increase prisoners’ N200 feeding allowance –Abba Morro

www.nationalmirroronline.net

Vol. 4 No. 27

Sunday, June 15, 2014

N150

Tambuwal begs Boko Haram for fresh dialogue

P. 8

YOU CAN’T AFFORD TO FAIL, JONATHAN TELLS EAGLES

Another crisis looms in Edo

P. 8

.... as House sits tomorrow

P. 9

P. 11

6, 277 homeless in Borno –NEMA

P. 8

Nigeria’s defender Juwon Oshaniwa (2nd left) and other players warm up during a training session in Campinas, about 100 kilometers from Sao Paulo, Brazil, ahead of tomorrow’s World Cup encounter with Iran.

Praise Worship E-mail:yemiolakitan@gmail.com

E-mail:cossyodi@yahoo.com

QUOTE It is therefore clear that giving is the gateway to a world of supernatural wealth. Also, note that God’s covenant of financial prosperity is as binding as His covenant of day and night.

– Dr. David Oyedepo

EDIFYING GOD Sunday June 15, 2014

Should Churches pay tax?

Ekiti guber poll Security agencies to deploy sniffer dogs, surveillance equipment P. 16, 58 Sensitive materials arrive Thursday Fayose’ll win, says Bode George ...as Ekiti NLC backs Fayemi

APC Presidential candidacy

Buhari, Kwankwaso, Atiku know fate Nov

How to prepare for divine visitation, by Pastor Muoka 24

News

The miracle of life 42

The place of soul-winning in Church growth,

by Prophet Oloruntimilehin

xxxxx

How Tinubu’s influence dominated party convention Aggrieved Ikimi, Jaja, Sylva, el-Rufai may defect

P. 7

41

Kidnappers abduct Briton in Plateau

P. 16

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

2

What’s new Politics

11

Seven Days TALKING POINTS OF THE PAST WEEK

Wellness

56

Nobody can stop protests over Chibok former member of House of girls –Court An Abuja High Court yesterday held that the police lacked the powers to prevent or stop rallies or peaceful processions being held in connection with the abducted students of the Government Girls Secondary School, Chibok, Borno State.

Justice Abubakar Talba, in a judgment yesterday, also declared as unconstitutional, the arrest of and assault on

Representatives, Hon. Dino Melaye, by policemen during the May 9 rally in Abuja.

The court judge subsequently ordered the Inspector- General of Police and FCT Commissioner of Police to “tender a written apology to Melaye as provided for under Section 35(6) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Promises fulfilled: Aregbesola’s revolutionary people remained unwavertouch in State of Osun the ing. The results can be seen

Causes and treatment of Vitiligo, by expert The real cause of Vitiligo, a disorder characterised by patchy loss of skin pigmentation had for some time deluded the human race. Many believe it can be caused by genetic or hormonal defects in the body. It has also been said that the disease could arise from chemical reaction on the skin due to bleaching.

The late American pop-star, Michael Jackson, was one of the notable figures who were diagnosed with vitiligo. This was confirmed by the autopsy report following his death in 2009. Others are Jon Hamm who it was reported developed stressinduced vitiligo while working on the series ‘Mad Men’.

Since the inception of the administration of Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola as the Governor of Osun State on Saturday, November 27, 2010, after lengthy rounds of litigation to reclaim his stolen mandate, the governor has left no one in doubt about his intention to develop the state as quickly as possible.

Even in the face of lean resources, Aregbesola’s passion to transform Osun into a state where government worked for

in the far-reaching impact of government activity and investments in key sectors of the economy today.

The shape of things to come were made clears as far back as 2005, with the establishment of the Oranmiyan Foundation, a political platform, by Governor Aregbesola and the launch of the Green Book that contained the planned programmes of the then Lagos State Commissioner for Works.

Lagos capitulates, reduces tuition in LASU The Lagos State Government has finally yielded to the clamour by students of the Lagos State University, LASU, announcing a 60 per cent reduction in school fees.

The announcement, which followed the resolutions of

the State Executive Council on the report of the ad-hoc committee on LASU, had it that the state government agreed that a reduction, ranging from 34 – 60 per cent across the different faculties and courses, were possible.

Confab: President, govs, others may lose immunity The president, governors and their deputies may no longer enjoy immunity clause as enshrined in the nation’s constitution if the recommendations by some of the committees of the ongoing national conference is eventually implemented.

As enshrined in the constitution, the clause protects the president and the governors from being prosecuted over certain crimes while in office. But only yesterday at the on-going national conference, votes were cast for the removal of the

clause.

Also voted against among others was the severance pay for political appointees. The decisions were made known in Abuja yesterday at a press briefing organised by the organised labour civil society and youth delegates at the national conference to ensuring that peopleoriented recommendations of the forum become adopted as national policy frameworks or legislation to ensure equity and justice for ordinary Nigerians in national affairs.

Pink Republic LAWYER/MUSICIAN

MON

Linda Francis is the CEO, Q8 Media Limited. This actress, who is the last child and only girl in her family, holds a degree in Theatre Arts from the University of Lagos. She unveils her lifestyle and how she came into acting in this interview.

down on domestic reforms to forestall the likely negative macroeconomic implications of the worrisome trend for the developing countries.

According to the World Bank’s Global Economic Prospects, GEP, report just released, the projected slowdown in growth rate in the economies was attributed to several factors.

After prayer at 4 a.m., I listen to news on TV till 6 a.m. I then shower and go to my office. I go to office today because I’m sure of having so many clients and visitors. I leave office for home at 2 p.m. to watch ‘Telemundo’ till 6 p.m. I go to jog for one hour or more in order to keep fit.

TUE

‘I don’t feel comfortable in style that shows my boobs’

The World Bank yesterday projected that developing countries might be in for a year of lower-than-expected growth.

It said that the first quarter weakness in the current year had delayed an expected pick-up in economic activity.

The bank, therefore, advocated the need for the

This is my baking day. I bake either cake, fry chin-chin or make a recipe for sauce.

WED

World Bank predicts slower growth for affected countries to double Nigeria, others

Oniyangi to the Appeal Court bench.

Justice Oniyangi was the trial judge earlier assigned to hear the case The rules of court provide that when a judge who is already seized of the facts of a case is unable to continue with the trial owing to factors, including transfer or elevation, the case has to start de novo before a new judge.

I do have meetings in my house today. Most times they are unconcluded Monday and Tuesday meetings. I seldom eat meat today. I eat vegetables. I can say that I’m a vegetarian only on Wednesdays.

THU

26

The Federal Government yesterday rearraigned former Chairman of House of Representatives Ad hoc Committee on Fuel Subsidy Regime, Hon. Farouk Lawan and its ex-Secretary, Boniface Emenalo, before an Abuja high court sitting in Gudu.

The trial commenced de novo (all over) yesterday before Justice Adebukola Banjoko of the Abuja high court following the elevation of Justice Mudashiru

I attend morning mass in my Catholic church. After that, I will help to tidy the environment. Before I leave the church premises, I discuss briefly with the priest.

FRI

Passion

cerns A state of emergency has been in force in the states for over 13 months due to sustained attacks by the Boko Haram sect.

NYSC authorities said that corps members who flouted the directive were on their own and should be ready to face the consequences of their actions.

I call this my Jollof rice day because it is the day I cook party-like Jollof rice, with sauce or stew, moi-moi, fried plantain and so on. I normally make it look like the day of a big feast.

SAT

Fresh tension in Edo, as House sits tomorrow

The National Youth Service Corps, NYSC, yesterday warned corps members not to report to any of the troubled northern states despite monetary inducements by the state governments.

The affected states are Borno, Adamawa and Yobe where further posting of corps members have been suspended over security con-

Alleged $620m bribe: FG re-arraigns Farouk Lawan, Emenalo

I play tennis in the club with my sisters or friends. But if there is a wedding to attend, I set off for it without bothering myself to play tennis.

SUN

Cash-for-defection saga:

Corps members lured to troubled states with cash

JUNE NE 15, NE 15,, 2 2014 014 01 4

I attend 8 a.m. mass. After mass, I go to Shoprite to do my shopping for the week. When I come back, I listen to classic music such as Mezat, Lucian, Pararoti to mention but a few. Some Sundays, I go out to unwind at Lacanpine Tropicana Beach. *By Adaeze Amos (0802 301 2293)

3

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

THE

Big Read SUNDAY SPECIAL INVESTIGATION June 15, 2014

Fakery as a way of life Over time, counterfeited or fake products have become the norm, despite orchestrated noise in officialdom that serious efforts had been made to standardise products that found their ways to the Nigerian markets. What have been the impacts of regulatory agencies, such as the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) and the Nigeria Customs Service?

So many casualties have been recorded arising from counterfeited drugs and other bad products. In this report, Tayo Adelaja, Head Special Investigations, reports on the havocs done to homes, no thanks to fakery, sub-standards and counterfeiting.

N

igeria has been a dumping ground for all kinds of goods from all parts of the world for a long time.

Our markets have become a haven for all manner of goods imported into the nation for sale. The majority of these products are not only substandard but fake.

It thus becomes extremely difficult for consumers to actually distinguish between fake or substandard goods from the supposedly original one. It is so bad that when car owners want to buy spare parts, they either engage the services of a technician or they go along with them to buy such parts in order to ensure that they are not shortchanged.

Reports have shown that among countries noted for massive importation of fake and substandard goods, there is overwhelming evidence that Nigeria ranks among the

world’s highest market for phony products and equipment. Proofs of the reports abound all over the place as you can hardly move around without seeing the shameful display of all kinds of poor quality goods and products that litter our open markets, shops, supermarkets, chemist shops and other retail outlets. These fake products extend across all classes and categories of items including drugs, electrical, electronic, household appliances and equipment, building materials, tyres and tubes, automobiles, machine spare parts, food and machines, to mention a few. Both the government and the citizens appear to have been so overwhelmed by this problem that they have almost given up, thereby allowing it to redefine our lives and mentality as well as reshape our culture and destiny.

It is no longer news or strange when a mechanic or gen-

‘FAKE ELECTRIC CABLES MOSTLY RESPONSIBLE FOR FIRE OUTBREAKS’

4

erator technician tells you that he will go for a “tokunbo” or fairly used parts instead of new ones because the socalled fresh ones according to them are fake.

According to reports, the reason these substandard goods have flooded our markets and shops is because some Nigerian businessmen ask their foreign partners to lower the quality of the goods imported into the country, so that they can be affordable. However, incessant reports of late from unsatisfied consumers, suggest that they do not get value for the money spent on most of these goods.

Apart from the imported or smuggled fake goods, some manufacturers in the country also deliberately push low quality products into the market either out of the inability to produce better ones or in order to make quick money.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 4

CHINESE, INDIANS LISTED AS MAJOR CULPRITS

6

4

The Big Read

Sunday, June 15, 2014

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Contraband: Seized bags of rice

‘Fake electric cables mostly responsible for fire outbreaks’ CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3 Others just reproduce existing products and move them into the market. In all these instances, the goods do more damage than good. Fake products have been attributed as the cause of many accidents in the country, be it fire, road or collapsed buildings.

One of the features of these counterfeit products is that they are cheap.

According to Madam Fadekemi Ojosu, a businesswoman in Lagos, “Nothing good comes cheap and easy; while this should serve as warning to consumers, reverse is the case as it is actually the major attraction. The result is that some of these products have become very popular with people. With the economy in comatose, literacy level nose-diving, the majority purchase these cheaper products without a second thought of the implications and effects. Traders also capitalise on the ignorance of consumers about some of these products by passing fake goods for genuine ones and getting paid accordingly.”

Reports had it that most of these imported substandard products come into the country illegally from the porous borders across the country and from the ports.

The battle to combat fake and substandard products led to the Mandatory Conformity Assessment Programme (MANCAP) which was put in place by Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) in 2006 to ensure that all manufactured products conform to the relevant Nigerian Industrial Standards (NIS) prior to sales in the markets or export. The scheme aimed at protecting genuine manufacturers against unhealthy practices such as production of sub-standard products, faking and counterfeiting as well as unfair competition in trade.

MANCAP was to provide consumers with confidence that products manufactured in the country are fit, safe and meet the intended use. It’s to also ensure that the environment is free from unnecessary wastes and pollution.

Products that are qualified under the scheme are issued with MANCAP certificates and NIS logos with unique identification numbers.

The broad objectives of the scheme, according to SON, include ensuring that manufactured products comply with the Nigerian industrial standards prior to introduction into the market; preventing of dumping of goods that are not safe and counterfeited products in our markets and providing reliable records for identification and traceability of all locally manufactured products in the country. Others are to promote investment and trade of Nigerian products through standardization and inspir-

ing confidence in consumers that products purchased will meet intended use.

They also include promoting quality awareness and hence wealth creation through reduction of waste in the form of substandard products; preventing the production and sale of sub-standard, and/or unsafe products to consumers thereby protecting lives and property; ensuring that products purchased by consumers offer value for money while guaranteeing safety of life and the environment. It is to provide confidence that only products that meet the minimum quality requirements are put for sale on the Nigerian market.

Product Certification, in general terms, is the process of certifying that a product conforms to the requirements stipulated in the relevant specifications or standards. In Nigeria (SON), Product Certification is carried out through conformity assessment which is an activity concerned with determining directly or indirectly that a process, product or service fulfils relevant requirements.

Conformity assessments in SON involve factory inspections, testing, certification, auditing and surveillance, among others.

The Product Certification Directorate is responsible for ensuring that locally manufactured products in the country give the required degree of satisfaction to consumers through compliance with government policies on standardisation and conformity assessment. The purpose is to promote global competitiveness among domestic manufacturers and encourage continual improvement on the quality of products in line with the statutory obligation of SON. The Directorate was created as an offshoot from the former Quality Assurance Directorate in July 2011. It consists of three units and six sections covering Food Technology, Chemical Technology, Textile/Leather Technology, Civil/ Building Engineering, Electrical/Electronic Engineering and Mechanical Engineering.

The general objective is to promote industrial/economic development by ensuring that made-in-Nigeria products meet the requirements of the relevant industrial standards with continual improvement on the quality of the products while collaborating effectively with all relevant stakeholders to build strong relationship for mutual benefits.

Director General of the agency, Dr. Joseph Odumodu, in a lecture at the Obafemi Awolowo University, in 2012 had expressed worry that the country ranked highest among countries patronising substandard products.

He stated that more than 85 per cent of products in the country’s market were substandard and added that about

80 per cent of these originated from China. He further revealed the complicity of some greedy Nigerian importers in saturating the market with cheap, fake and substandard goods; and the ugly situation is exacerbated by some local manufacturers of products that fall short of international or national set standards.

“Genuine local manufacturers have continued to groan under the strain of economic losses as a result of cheap and substandard products,” Timi Awoyemi, the managing director of TIMSOL Ltd, a packaging company based in Ota, Ogun State, lamented.

“Impacts of the fakery is not limited to economics but has led to threat to life and property. For instance, fake and substandard electric cables have led to deaths and loss of properties from fire outbreaks; and counterfeit mobile phones emit dangerous levels of radiation that are hazardous to human health and can cause injuries and death when they explode.

Awoyemi disclosed that, “Evidence abounds that fake and substandard products are still infiltrating the local markets through very structured and coordinated channels run by some local importers and foreign conspirators at the popular markets such as Alaba International, Trade Fair, Balogun and other markets in Lagos, from where they are distributed to other parts of the country.

Odumodu recalled that when he assumed office as the director general of SON, he “saw a system that was in disarray in terms of the level of substandard products” and subsequently stated that the agency had identified the problems and was handling them with the aspiration of reducing prevalence of inferior products from 85 per cent to 60 per cent in the first quarter of 2013.

He added that the agency aimed at reducing the scourge to 40 per cent by 2014.

The Nigeria Customs Service, not resting on its oars, had made a lot of seizures and arrests in 2012 and 2013. The Federal Operation Unit Zone `A’ Ikeja, Lagos, for instance, recently said it intercepted over N1 billion contraband in 2013. Nuhu Mahmoud, the Controller, Federal Operations Unit Zone ‘A’, of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) disclosed that the figure was about 50 per cent higher than 2012 in terms of duty paid value.

“Goods worth over N1 billion were seized in the 2013 by this unit. Generally speaking, we made 3,553 seizures of assorted prohibited goods valued at N1,294,211 with a payable duty of N227,073,983 and a duty paid value of N1,521,285 between January and December 2013.

“This figure represents a significant improvement CONTINUED ON PAGE 5

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Sunday, June 15, 2014

The Big Read

5

‘SON too should be at the ports’ CONTINUED FROM PAGE 4 from the report of the preceding year 2012. Comparatively speaking, it accounts for about 50 per cent in terms of duty paid value and other variables. It is important to say that consequent upon the ban on rice importation through the land borders, the command beamed its searchlight on some volatile areas, particularly the waterways, which have been identified as flashpoints, with a view to blocking all loopholes and supply chains,” Odumodu said.

He noted that a strategy was adopted in the case of foreign frozen poultry products and all of these strategies provided the unit the necessary impetus to raise the standard of the anti-smuggling over the period.

“Additionally, the zone recorded some landmarks in seizures, which include: 65,563 bags of parboiled rice valued at N327,815,000 with the Duty Paid Value (DPV) of N360,596,500. A total of 399 seizures of foreign poultry products with DPV of N270,591,600; seizures of general merchandise with DPV of N383,96,033.

“The zone also intercepted 24 used tyres with DPV of N29,761,825 and 408 of vegetable oil with the DPV of N66,207,500. The unit apprehended a total of 217 suspects in connection with the seizures during the period under reference. A good number of them are still being investigated by the legal unit while others have been prosecuted in line with legal requirements.

“This unit has re-strategised in its operation modalities to ensure remarkable result for 2014 in order to justify the confidence which the customs management reposed in us. We have, therefore, put all necessary measures in place for effective synergy with the critical stakeholders, including the host communities where we operate and other relevant security agencies for the actualisation of our operational goals and objectives,” he added.

Another unit of the Customs in their report also made progress in curtailing the activities of the importers of fake products and substandard goods into the country. The Federal Operations Unit (FOU) of the NCS, Zone ‘C’ in Owerri also recorded 200 seizures of contraband goods worth N1.88 billion in 2013.

The Controller of the zone, Victor Dimka, disclosed the figures while addressing newsmen in Owerri early this year, saying the zone made 56 seizures with duty paid value of N1.05 billion in 2012.

He explained that 31 arrests were made between January and December 2013, with17 cases still in court.

A breakdown of the seizures in the period under review showed that 2,801 bales of second-hand clothing worth N529.5 million, the highest so far in the zone, were seized.

Other items seized are 114 vehicles valued at N355. 3 million, 609 bales of printed wax worth N269. 8 million, 18,594 cartons of imported poultry products valued at N208.3 million and 3,619 cartons of vegetable oil valued at N97.78 million, 115,732 pairs of imported footwear with value of N155.9 million and 1,611 pieces of used tyres valued at N17.78 million, among others.

In his reaction to the staggering figure from just two units of Customs, Awoyemi said, “I’m not surprised at the figure quoted. It is better imagined when the grand total is collated. The figure is just for the unlucky ones apprehended; can you now imagine the numbers of fake and substandard goods in our system?”

“Until recently, fake drugs were almost everywhere in the country, sometimes sending people to their untimely death. NAFDAC under the able leadership of Prof Dora Akunyili launched a war against it and this has helped in reducing the prevalence of fake drugs in the polity.

“It seems that in order for government agencies to get results, they have to be very tough with those that don’t toe the line. The danger in substandard goods suggests that such steps are necessary. The Customs should step up their monitoring role because of the huge sub-standard products imported and brought in through the port.

People should be able to go to the shops and buy a product knowing that it is good, instead of worrying about fakes.

This was how it used to be, and it can still be so with more

(Up and down) Expired, contaminated drug items

efforts by the authorities,” Dimka added.

In explaining their relationship with NAFDAC in relation to speculations from different quarters that NAFDAC as a sister agency is more effective in their roles than SON, Odumodu said that NAFDAC is not really a sister agency to SON because SON’s mandate is primarily to elaborate standards and to ensure that those standards are enforced.

“We elaborate standards for everything including what NAFDAC regulates. NAFDAC is a regulatory agency, we have a two-step approach; we are a national standards body for Nigeria and anything that relates to standards comes directly under the auspices of SON,” he said.

Enunciating further, he noted, “However, because the law has empowered you to write standards, you must also be involved in enforcing those standards otherwise it will be difficult. For example, on standard for tyres, even if you buy a new tyre and put it in your house or maybe in your shop; after four years it expires and you cannot use it again.

“We work with NAFDAC when it comes to food and drugs because that is their specialty. Some people say there is overlapping of functions and I tell them “no, there is no such thing”. I give you an example: if my people go to Abeokuta and see a company that is brewing

snaps under a very clear unhygienic condition. Would you want them to come back first to inform NAFDAC that something is happening there? We seal it right away and inform NAFDAC to follow up because it is their job.

So, because we understand the technicalities and we are involved in enforcing standards, we can do practically everything.

“We work in collaboration with other government agencies such as NCC for telecoms, Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Agency (NERC) on generators, etcetera. We are everywhere because it is a very wide scope that we have to work in. Nigerians are poorly informed. Maybe, I should also say something about the Consumer Protection Council (CPC) because somebody may say we are doing CPC’s job or CPC is doing our job. In any system, you have the supply and demand end. We are responsible for the supply end of the economy, while CPC is responsible for the demand end. But we meet at a point. The market is where the exchange process takes place.

“For example, if you want to buy an electronic product, you go to the market. You pick up a product whether SON certified or not, CPC has informed consumers or not. So, at the end of the day, I also have a responsibility to the consumers because that is one clear way to meaCONTINUED ON PAGE 6

6

The Big Read

Sunday, June 15, 2014

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Chinese, Indians listed as major culprits CONTINUED FROM PAGE 5 sure whether Nigerians are appreciating the imperative of standardisation.

“Sometimes, I work into a shop and watch Nigerians shop. Have you ever observed that the average Nigerian does not read what he is buying? He takes even products that do not have expiry dates and keeps throwing them into the basket.

“But as you look on, maybe in a shop in Abuja, you see one coloured man, not even a European, maybe a Chinese or Indian.

He picks up a product and takes his time looking at the label as if he is going to take an exam on what he is reading. Why? He comes from an environment where people understand the imperative of standard.

The standard is that every product must have an expiry date, it must be so labelled, and the label must be clearly legible and so on.

“For example, there are bulbs that are meant to last for 100 hours; and then a Nigerian takes it and puts in his house. 100 hours is just about four days. Then after four days, it goes off. Meanwhile, the producer has met the standard because he already told you ‘this bulb will last 100 hours’. And you take it thinking it will last you for six months. Sorry; it is because you didn’t read the label. It’s about information and that is why we are going back to the basics.

“Today, I am happy that the awareness level for tyres is over 60 per cent. We may not run adverts on it for a while, only reminder adverts because everybody already knows. We do walks and we had one in Awka recently. We pick people with bad tyres and it is usually done with public transports. They tell you ‘we can’t afford new ones’.

“Talking about affordability; I saw an old woman trying to fix tyres to her car.

And I said ‘mama this tyre is not good’.

She replied, ‘my son, don’t worry God will see us through’. She went ahead to fix the tyres. I won’t drag her down out of the car, all anyone can do is to inform people but at the end of the day, the consumer is the one to take a decision. We as consumers are the ones who must take responsibility for our lives, for our safety and for the performance of the products that we buy.

Still on affordability, I also did a study with bulbs. I selected 20 consumers who do not live in the same part of the country. I asked each to designate a portion in their homes and go to the market, buy any type of bulb and put there. Anytime it burns just replace another. At the end of three months, I asked them how many times they had changed the bulb. Some bought bulbs that cost N100.

From the results we found Nigeria spends about N500bn annually on bulbs. A normal bulb may cost N500 and Nigerian standard allows for 1000 hours, which is three months.

We found out people actually double the amount they need on bulbs. We did not factor in the cost of travelling to buy them, just the inconvenience involved and even the accidents that could happen when you are trying to change. Substandard products do not cost any less, just that people are not informed. We need to do a massive advo-

Some seized fake tyres

Fake microphones

cacy on consumer rights, knowledge and most importantly, standards. If people do not understand standards, then we would be wasting our time,” Odumodu said.

Uche Joe Anigbata, a public affairs analyst based in Lagos strongly urged the Federal Government to reverse the decision in which SON was removed from the ports.

He said, “If government can really identify the gravity of the fake and substandard goods, estimate its size and multi-dimensional nature as well as correctly weigh its multiple socio-economic costs and effects on Nigerians and the economy, it would certainly discover the urgent need to return SON to the ports.”

The cankerworm called fake and substandard goods is seriously eating deep into the fabrics of Nigeria with major consequences. Lives and property are lost due to building collapse and fire outbreaks occasioned by substandard electrical and building materials. Substandard tyres and other fake motor spare parts have sent many people to their untimely graves.

“Nigerians are not getting value for their money because it is spent on substandard goods that cannot stand the test of time. On the average, Nigerians may be spending about five times more money and time maintaining these products because of their poor quality.

“Added to these, is the undue pressure that substandard goods bring to bear on the environment. As a result of the high frequency of replacements caused by the use of poor quality materials and considering the fact that we have a poor recycling culture, our environment is always littered and over-burdened with replaced and unusable parts. The chain effect of environmental pressure and pollution as a result of this problem as it relates to our farmlands, marine and aquatic life, blockage of our canals and drainage channels calls for serious attention on the part of government,” Anigbata explained.

He decried the rate of dumping substandard goods in the country, adding that it was creating a disincentive to production and investment, thereby negating the whole essence of the protection of infant industries.

He said many Nigerian businessmen and women who risk importing quality goods are fast closing down because they cannot compete with the fake products dumped in the country from Asia.

According to Anigbata, “a typical scenario is where a Chinese company manufactures a product for a Nigerian at a relatively fair quality and almost at the same time produces the same product for another Nigerian importer at a reduced qual-

ity. Due to low consumer awareness, these products get into the Nigerian market and sell at the same price, making the man that insists on bringing in quality goods to incur losses. In some cases, these foreigners play the role of importers, wholesalers, retailers and clearing agents at the ports, thereby jeopardising our national interest.

“Where lies the survival of Nigerian businesses if Chinese and Indians with their Nigerian collaborators are allowed to perpetually flood our markets with fake and substandard products at large, medium and small scale with impunity. SON has synergy advantage in the port. Other security agencies like the Police, Navy, Air Force, State Security Service are at the ports. The Customs, Immigration, Quarantine, NAFDAC and NDLEA are visibly at the ports.

“Bearing in mind the enormous problem posed by this growing economic ailment, SON needs to be present at the ports in order to nip these nefarious activities in the bud. It can also tap the advantage of their cooperation in the pursuit of its tasks at the ports by working closely with them.

Such cooperation is not the same when SON operates outside the ports.

“The geographical size of the country, the poor consumer awareness and the obvious security challenges make it difficult for SON to confront the problem in the open market,” he said.

Anigbata pointed out that though SON no doubt could have come under criticisms while at the ports due to poor quality performance, lack of integrity and transparency in the performance of its duties, the poor enlightenment and training on the economic importance of its task for the staff on how to achieve zero tolerance on the issue of fake and substandard products, especially on such life threatening items as electrical, tyres, building materials and other items were responsible for the apathy.

“Considering the circumstances of the Nigerian situation, system and environment, can SON achieve any reasonable measure of success in fighting this ill if it does not operate within the nation’s sea and airports? The answer is no. Government should therefore, as a matter of urgency, put the necessary law in place in order to return SON to the ports”, he insisted.

Barrister Clement Udegbe canvassed for more education on the purpose and objectives of SON when he said that, “The work of SON needs to be known by all and sundry through more education, campaign, and more information to the consuming public. The cooperation between SON and the consumer protection agencies needs to be enhanced in the interest of the people.

SON on its part cannot continue to treat symptoms by destroying the importers’ goods alone, which only impoverishes Nigerians.

“The battle must now be carried beyond our borders to China and Asia. Our President visited China with a very powerful delegation recently, and a top parliamentary official from China also visited Nigeria too. They should be telling themselves the truth about the need to start punishing exporters of fake and substandard products to Nigeria,”Barrister Udegbe counseled,

National News

Sunday June 15, 2014

7

APC Convention fallout: How Tinubu arm-twisted

Buhari, Atiku, northern governors

•Personally installed the entire executives •Aggrieved Ikimi, Jaja, Sylva, el-Rufai may defect OBIORA IFOH ABUJA

A

siwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, a former governor of Lagos State and foremost leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC) at the weekend made his towering influence to bear on the choice of candidates in Friday’s convention of the party.

His grip of the soul of the party came to fore at the weekend in Abuja during the maiden National Convention where he practically selected the entire executive and in so doing, arm-twisted other notable stakeholders including

former military Head of State, General Mohammadu Buhari (rtd), former Vice President Atiku Abubarkar as well as the northern governors.

Few weeks to the historic convention, the media was busy publishing stories of how the APC governors were planning to hijack the party from the hands of the duo of Gen. Buhari and Tinubu but what transpired shortly before the convention and at the venue showed the supremacy of former governor of Lagos State.

Checks show that most of the key offices of the party went to the Tinubu’s camp.

The chairman, Chief John Odigie Oyegun, the deputy chairman (North), Senator Lawal Shuaib, deputy chairman (South), Segun Oni, National secretary, Alhaji Tijjani Tumsa, Publicity Secretary, Alhaji Lai Mohammed and the National Legal Adviser, Alhaji Muiz Banire are all from Tinubu’s camp.

Although both Tom Ikimi and Timpreye Sylva were tipped to be the leading candidate especially the latter who was reportedly enjoying the support of the governors.

But crisis set in when Tinubu made it clear that with Sylva’s ongoing trial by the Economic and Fi-

nancial Crime Commission (EFCC), he would not support his candidacy.

Tinubu’s standpoint ran foul of the Northern Governors believe that the former Bayelsa governor will be the best option to checkmate President Jonathan’s political strength both in Bayelsa and the South-South.

According to an aide of one of the northern governors, “since the APC is already in the majority in Edo and Rivers states, it would have been politically expedient to also use Sylva to divide Jonathan’s expected votes in Bayelsa. His appointment as the chairman, the

Civil Liberties Organisation in Anambra State holding a peaceful demonstration over insurgency, kidnapping and insecurity in the country in Onitsha at the weekend.

APC Presidential candidacy: Buhari, Atiku, Kwankwaso know fate in November •I’ve not been zoned out –Atiku OBIORA IFOH ABUJA

L

ess than 24 hours after successfully conducting its maiden National Convention, the All Progressives Congress (APC) has said it would converge again in a special convention this November to pick its presidential candidate for the 2015 general election.

Senator Chris Ngige made the announcement on Friday night at the national convention of the party in Abuja.

Already, three top con-

tenders who had engaged in poster war at the convention over the weekend include former military Head of State, General Mohammadu Buhari (rtd), former Vice President Atiku Abubarkar and Kano State Governor, Rabiu Kwankwaso, have emerged.

It is also believed that the Speaker of the Federal House of Representatives, Aminu Tambuwwal, who is yet to defect to APC from PDP, could also be eyeing the top job.

Though, Senator Ngige, did not say the date in November but in the guide-

lines issued by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), all parties must hold conventions to pick their presidential candidates by December 11, 2014.

December 18 is the final day for the submission of the names of candidates.

Meanwhile, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has dismissed as “sponsored stories,” reports by a section of the media to the effect that APC had zoned him out of the presidential contest following a new arrangement.

A statement issued by

the Atiku Media Office quoted the former Vice President as saying at no time did the party’s Convention Planning Committee or its recently-dissolved Interim National Executive Council (NEC) discuss the issue of zoning of elective offices outside the positions of leadership of the party which he said, were filled at the highly successful convention held on Friday.

“As for the presidential ticket, the position of all organs of the party is that it is open to all Nigerians irrespective of where they come from,” Atiku said.

governors believe would have brought some parity of presence between the APC and PDP in the entire South-South.”

With the scheming out of Sylva, the road was cleared for Oyegun, who was not just a former Deputy National Chairman of the defunct All Nigerian Peoples Party (ANPP) but also its Vice Presidential candidate in the 2011 general election to emerge as the National Chairman of APC, though sponsored by the shrewd politician, Tinubu.

Ikimi on his part could not get the nod of Tinubu because of his independent-mindedness and received high-handedness especially his clash with Tinubu during the ACN days.

Tinubu camp had threatened to quit the APC if Ikimi emerged and one of the newly elected officers of the party even vowed to resign should Ikimi win.

“Let me tell you, Sylva is no more the problem but Ikimi is and should he win the election, I would not work under him’’, said a former ACN leader for the South-West.

There were some advertisements placed in a newspaper discrediting Ikimi. They recalled his days in the office as the former Minister of Foreign Affairs under the maximum ruler, General Sani Abacha. All these among other things forced him to quit the race.

As a result, Ikimi never showed up at the convention while Chief Sam Jaja, who was also touted as showing interest in the race, did not even purchase the nomination form as his leader, Governor Rotimi Amaechi too was consumed by high wire politics deployed by Asiwaju.

Party leaders had a night before the convention prevailed on Atiku, who was Ikimi’s major backer, to ask the ex-Foreign Minister to step down

for Oyegun.

Ikimi’s humiliation at the convention in spite of generous contribution during the formation of the party is believed to be the reason it is being speculated that he will soon dump APC for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), which has been making overtures to him.

“He has made his intention known to some of his colleagues but for the insistence of Atiku and ex-governor Sheriff who are urging him to remain in APC and work for 2015 presidency,” said a former interim executive member.

Chief Ogbonnaya Onu who was the last ANPP chairman was discouraged from running by Governor Rochas Okorocha of Imo State because of his perceived presidential ambition.

It was intrigues and high wire political horse trading and back stabbing that delayed the zoning arrangement for the election till 48 hours to the convention.

Another victim of the intrigues was former Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Mallam Nasir el-Rufai who was reportedly eyeing the National Secretary.

The zoning arrangement took the office to the North East in favour of the man who worked so hard as the interim National Secretary, Tumsah.

Alhaji Kazim Imam who had the support of some governors was forced out of the race. It was so difficult for him that it took former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, to announce his withdrawal from the race few minutes before the election began.

To compensate the North West for the loss of the Secretary, the Deputy Chairman North was given and it was unanimously given to another powerful force behind the APC in the zone, Senator Lawal Shuaib who was the National Secretary of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN).

8

News

Sunday June 15, 2014

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Tambuwal begs FG, Boko Haram to resume dialogue A ZA MSUE KADUNA

S

peaker House of Representatives, Hon. Aminu Waziri Tambuwal , yesterday, begged the Federal Government and Boko Haram sect to resume dialogue for peace and stability of the nation.

Tambuwal specifically appealed to the Boko Haram sect to sheathe their sword and embrace peace, as Muslims all over the world prepare for the month of Ramadan.

The Speaker advised government not to shut her doors against dialogue with the terrorist group, adding that the House of Representatives was ready to support any effort aimed at bringing about peace in the coun-

try.

Tambuwwal stated this in Kaduna at the National Conference on Practical Steps in Uniting the Nigerian Muslim Ummah and JNI Annual Pre-Ramadan Meeting.

He appealed to Nigerians to unite irrespective of their religious differences for the survival of the country.

He said: “We must not shut our doors. One of the most long standing disputes in the world today is the Israeli-Arab conflict or Israeli-Palestinian conflict. They still find their ways to dialogue and discuss how best to address their issues.

“Therefore, we including the insurgents, most of them that are probably identified are Nigerians.

First and foremost, we are not fighting war with another country; it is an internal war that we are facing. Therefore, dialogue is necessary.

“I have said this before in about two three years back and I am still maintaining my ground, we need to dialogue and discuss and ensure that we bring back those that

can be brought back. If they have any issue that can be addressed by the government, those issues should be looked into with the possibility of being attended to. And for those of them that feel all they need is to take up arms against the rest of us, we all face them squarely”, he said.

He also called on Is-

lamic preachers to always watch their words during their Ramadan Tafsir preaching and avoid inciting statements.

Earlier, the President General of Jama’atu Nasril Islam, JNI, and Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar, urged Nigerian leaders at all levels to fear Allah and ensure justice and equity.

The Sultan asked Muslims to desist from acts that will tarnish the Muslim Ummah, urging those at positions of leadership to also discharge their responsibilities with the fear of God. He stressed that once the fear of God is in place among the leaders and the led, Nigeria as a country will be better for it.

Insurgency: 6,227 homeless in Borno -NEMA

T

he North East Zonal Office of the National Emergency Management Agency, NEMA, says it has registered over 6227 displaced persons in Borno State.

Spokesman of the agency in the North East, Ibrahim Abdulkadir, who disclosed this in a statement in Maiduguri, said the persons were displaced as a result of the Boko Haram insurgency in their areas.

Meanwhile, the North East Coordinator of NEMA, Mohammed Kanar, said the agency was planning to “establish (a) central camp in Maiduguri for the (IDP’s).”

In a briefing with reporters, Mohammed Kanar said, ‘’the agency was still taking records of the displaced people, once this is done, (the agency) will set up a central camp for the people.

“As intervention, we have distributed relief materials to the people who are currently camped-out at the Dalori primary school,” Mohammed Kanar said. “As soon as we set up a central camp in Maiduguri, we will move them and other displaced persons to the camp, and provide them with all they need until they are able to go back to their villages,” Kanar added.

“New sets of internally displaced persons have been reported as a result of the recent attacks by the insurgents in some communities of Konduga, Jere and Gwoza local government areas in Borno State. The new influx of IDPs, have now, been identified at four locations within Maiduguri. Those locations are, Yarwa Practice Primary School, Jiddari Primary School, the

E.Y.N Church Wulari No.I, and Bama Motor Park,” the NEMA spokesman said in the statement.

“The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) North East zonal office carried out a ‘need of assessment’ for the aforementioned locations, to ascertain the situation of the IDPs. Relief items like: bedding, mosquito nets, blankets, and food items, will be provided to the IDPs as soon as registration formalities are concluded. The assessment was conducted in conjunction with the Red Cross, and other stakeholders,” he said.

During a visit to the Dalori estate primary school on the outskirts of Maiduguri during the week, hundreds of women, with some of them pregnant, as well as children, and elderly people, were seen at the camp. Many of the people there recounted their ugly stories to our reporter in graphic detail. Many had said they were from Yawuri, Mainari, Modumari and Gambari villages, stressing that they ‘had to flee’ following a series of threats by the Boko Haram insurgents Suleiman Adamu, 68, from the Koleri village said, “I have been here for more than 10 days after threats from Boko Haram. We cannot go back because we are afraid.”

He added that like many of his fellow displaced colleagues, that there is a great need for water and food, “as we don’t have (any) money with us.”

A woman, who identified herself as Falmata Umaru, said they are hungry and are sleeping (out) in the open.

L-R: Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu; Gen. Muhammadu Buhari; Chairman of Electoral Committee, Sokoto State, Governor Aliyu Wamako; new National Chairman, All Progressives Congress, Chief John Odigie Oyegun; former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar; Chief Ogbonaya Onu and Chief Tony MoPHOTO: ROTIMI OSASONA moh, during the National Convention of the party in Abuja, at the weekend.

Brazil 2014: You can’t afford to disappoint, Jonathan charges Eagles GEORGE OJI ABUJA

P

resident Goodluck Jonathan has appealed to the Super Eagles of Nigeria to be at their best as they begin their chase for glory at the 2014 World Cup tournament holding in Brazil.

Speaking through the Senate President, David Mark, who is the leader of the Federal Government’s delegation to the mundial, Jonathan urged the players to recreate the nation’s hard-fighting spirit by winning the Federation International Football Association (FIFA) organised 20th Soccer World Cup. A statement by Kola Ologbondiyan, Special Ad-

viser, Media and Publicity to the President of the Senate said Mark gave the charge in a goodwill message to the Eagles at the Campinas, Sao Paulo yesterday.

“The Super Eagles is our nation’s greatest unifying factor in the face of our current national challenges.

“You cannot afford to disappoint the nation because with your performance at this World Cup tournament, we can recreate a new image for our great country,” Mark, was quoted as saying on behalf of Jonathan.

He said, recalling the Super Eagles’ sterling performances at various tournaments in the past, President Jonathan maintained that the current team can relive such brilliant performances

in Brazil, “if you concentrate on the main objective of bringing the cup home to make Nigeria and Africa proud.”

Continuing he said: “I therefore urge you to win the first match against Iran in a way that will send a very clear message to the remaining teams in this tournament that you are in Brazil to win the World Cup. “You must keep the resilient Nigerian spirit with you, be patriotic in exhibiting your prowesses and go the extra mile to bring the cup home.

“Nigerians are eagerly waiting to celebrate you when you come home with the cup.”

Responding on behalf of the officials of the team, Coach Stephen Keshi, asked

Mark to, “assure President Jonathan that we will make Nigeria proud.

“We will exhibit the character of being a Nigerian and make the nation as well as Africa proud.

“We are very prepared and if it is possible to take the game right now, we are ready.”

Earlier, the captain of the team, Joseph Yobo, told the delegation that playing for the nation confers a huge responsibility on the team, noting however that, “it is a task we can achieve.

“We have come a very long way to be here but are prepared and more motivated having seen you to fight like lions. We will make our nation, our family and Africa proud,” Yobo assured.

Insecurity: Police intensify surveillance on football viewing centres in Benue HENRY IYORKASE MAKURDI

B

enue State Police Command in its bid to ensure adequate security of lives during the World Cup has taken precaution by intensifying surveillance around viewing centers with a view to ensure conducive atmosphere for spectators devoid of any molestation during the soccer fiesta and thereafter.

The Public Relations Officer of the command, Superintendent Daniel Ezeala

disclosed to Sunday Mirror at the weekend in Makurdi that adequate personnel have been deployed to comb nooks and crannies within the 23 local government councils to ensure that people exercise their civic rights by watching the World Cup without hitches.

He said men of the command have been designated to man the perimeter around the viewing centers and to use their sixth sense and stop any dubious character with the intention of causing mayhem or cart-

ing away belongings of the people while pretending to watch the fiesta.

Ezeala further warned miscreants that the police will be up and doing and appealed to them to steer clear of these areas or risk arrest and subsequent prosecution as the men are keeping their eagle watch on all activities during the World Cup. The police image maker advised those keeping late nights due to the timing of the matches to carry along with them identification as

or those in the remote areas should get a pass from their local chief identifying them of unblemished records.

“Most World Cup matches are being played at night time Nigerian time.

Hoodlums will also use the opportunity to carry out their nefarious acts,” he said, stressing that it is not possible as the long arm of the law will catch up with any person found to be guilty of wandering about at wee hours will be arrested”.

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

News

Sunday June 15, 2014

Desperate elite behind insurgency, says Aliyu PRISCILLA DENNIS MINNA

N

iger State Governor, Dr. Muazu Babangida Aliyu, said security challenges confronting the country are caused by desperate elite that are out at all cost to gain political advantage in the scheme of things.

He insisted that they engage their thugs to create serious security challenges in the nation.

Aliyu, who stated this at the Adesoye College Offa at the 22nd graduation ceremony, weekend, also

revealed how he prevented Boko Haram sect from having security base in Niger State by sacking the Darul Salam sect from their base in Mokwa area in 2009.

The governor explained that the proactive measure adopted in dislodging the sect in which, some key leaders of the dreaded Book Haram sect were once encamped, saved the state from being its base.

Stressing the need for state governors to take security issues seriously, he noted that as soon as the sect members made of Nigerians from various states

of the country as well as foreigners were sent packing from the state, after dislodging them, he insisted that it was the duty of their respective states (Nigerian sect members) to put them on security watch.

Said he: “We were proactive in managing Boko Haram insurgents from having a base in Niger State. Imagine having Boko Haram in the middle of Nigeria? A governor must at all times seek ways of protecting the lives and property of people in his state.

“Security challenges

therefore do not happen just like that, it takes the indulgence of some elite who are desperate in gaining political advantage. It is the thugs they engage that are causing the nation serious security challenge”.

Aliyu further called on leaders to imbibe the culture of practicing true democracy devoid of engaging thugs in the country.

He then urged schools to build future Nigerians with moral chastity by teaching them how to be goal- oriented aimed at inspiring good leadership in them.

Osun State PDP governorship candidate, Senator Iyiola Omisore (right) while paying homage to the Ede monarch, the Timi, Oba Muniru Adesola, in Ede, Osun State, at the weekend.

Jonathan jets out for Dakar summit

P

resident Goodluck Jonathan yesterday evening left Abuja for Dakar at the head of Nigeria’s delegation to the African Union’s Summit on Financing Infrastructure Development scheduled to hold in the Senegalese capital today.

According to a statement issued by Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Dr. Reuben Abati, the President whose entourage would include the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Dr. Ngozi OkonjoIweala and the Minister of Industries, Trade and Investment, Dr. Olusegun Aganga, would join other participating Heads of State and Government, representatives of the United Nations, the African Union, global finan-

cial institutions and leading investors in deliberations at the summit aimed at accelerating the implementation of key priority infrastructure projects within the framework of the African Union’s Programme for Infrastructure Development in Africa.

The President and other participants at the summit which has been convened under the auspices of the New Partnership for Africa’s Development (NEPAD) would also brainstorm on the mobilisation of domestic financial resources for infrastructure development, the creation of conducive policy environments to enhance investments in infrastructure development and the leveraging of Public-Private Partnerships for continental infra-

structure transformation.

The summit is expected to pay particular attention to the evolution of fresh strategies for the financing of high priority infrastructure projects such as regional road and rail networks, power supply and ports development.

Jonathan, who would also be accompanied by the Minister of Works, Mike Onolememen, the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Nurudeen Mohammed and his Special Adviser on NEPAD, Ambassador Fidelia Njeze, would return to Abuja at the conclusion of the summit today.

9

Nigerian women donate less than 25% of national blood need –Minister MARCUS FATUNMOLE ABUJA

T

he Minister of State for Health, Dr. Khaliru Alhassan, yesterday, said the attitude of Nigerian women toward blood donation was low.

According to him, women in the country donate less than 25 percent of blood needed in the country.

Addressing stakeholders at this year’s commemoration of World Blood Donor Day, Alhassan said: ‘’The total number of blood units needed by Nigeria each year is estimated at 1,336,000, representing 0.08% of Nigeria’s population (WHO). However, approximately 1,130,000 units of blood are collected annually through the various types of donations, leaving a deficit of over 206,000 units. This deficit results in numerous preventable deaths, especially amongst women and children.

“This can be avoided if only 2% of our adult population commit themselves to regular voluntary, nonremunerated blood donation...In the spirit of affirmative action, I also call on more women to embrace blood donation as available statistics reveal less than 25% of blood donors in Nigeria are women, a trend which needs to be reversed. Regular donation of blood three times for women and four times for men from only 1% of Nigeria’s population will establish the donor pool we need,” the Minister added.

He stressed that 10 percent the nation’s blood supply was from voluntary unpaid donors, while up to 60 percent came from commercial blood donors; and 30 percent from family replacement donors.

Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Health, Linus Awute, said blood transfusion had been identified as one of the nine key life-saving interventions for the management of pregnancyrelated complications as part of a comprehensive approach to maternal and newborn care that should be available in all facilities providing comprehensive emergency obstetric care.

He added that World Blood Donor Day provided a springboard for blood safety programmes and campaigns throughout the year, as well as wider activities to strengthen blood transfusion services.

According to him, the slogan for this year’s commemoration “Give blood for those who give life”, is “a campaign to save our mothers and womenfolk.

Those who lose their lives while giving birth through severe blood and blood products in a sustainable manner will definitely contribute to the reduction of preventable deaths, thereby lowering the maternal, and in fact, morbidity and mortality indices in Nigeria.”

In an address, Director, Hospital Services, Federal Ministry of Health, Dr. (Mrs.) Patience Osinubi said: “Every day, about 800 women die from pregnancy or child birth-related complications. Severe bleeding during delivery and after childbirth is a major cause of mortality, morbidity and long term disability.

“The goal of the campaign is to increase awareness about timely access to safe blood; and blood product is essentials for all countries as part of a comprehensive approach to preventing maternal deaths,” she added.

Emulate Akunyili, Ado Bayero, Justice Oputa, Methodist prelate tells Nigerians

P

relate, Methodist Church Nigeria, Dr. Samuel Uche, has implored Nigerians to emulate the sterling virtues of the late former Minister of Information, Prof. Dora Akuniyili, the late Emir of Kano, Ado Bayero, and the late Justice Chukwudifu Oputa, who had

registered their feet on the sands of time, with their tireless contributions to make the society and the nation the best to live in happily.

The Methodist Prelate who gave the charge in a statement made available to Sunday Mirror yesterday also charged Nigerians to

make the service to God and mankind the ultimate sacrifice to dutifully impact on the fortunes of the society and the nation at all times.

The cleric also enjoined Nigerians to embrace the characteristics of the Non Governmental Organisations, especially in the areas

of Time, Treasure and Talents, divinely endowed them to the utmost service of all.

“They came, they saw, and conquered, more importantly, Dora Akuniyili crusade against fake drugs nationwide” the Prelate, Methodist Church Nigeria concluded.

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

10

Interview ENCOUNTER WITH A NEWS MAKER JUNE 15, 2014

We’ll increase prisoners’ feeding allowance from N200 –Interior Minister Comrade Abba Patrick Moro is the Minister of Interior. In this interview with Abuja Bureau Chief, Ise-Oluwa Ige and Omeiza Ajayi, he speaks about the botched Immigration recruitment, feeding grant of prison inmates, the procurement of three border surveillance jets and other sundry issues.

Excerpts: What would you say are your achievements since you were appointed as minister?

We are running close to three years in office now and very soon, we will give a comprehensive explanation to Nigerians of our activities in the last three years. We hope that we will be able to complete the projects that we have on the ground. But, generally, we have attempted to put together a ministry that can properly and effectively discharge its mandate of providing internal security services to Nigerians and foreigners resident in the country. As I have said before, for the purposes of clarity, we came and met a ministry with staff whose morale were very low and whose commitment to service, by our estimation fitted into the general attitude of “government work is nobody’s job”. Our major task in the beginning was to raise the morale of the staff, recommit them to service of government and generally reposition the ministries and parastatals under it for a more effective and efficient service to the country.

We started with general welfare activities, commissioned cars bought by the activities of cooperative societies of the various services, launched a housing scheme that is under progress. But more importantly, we insisted that staff members who have worked must get promoted and so today, from the back log of promotions that led to the stagnation of staff for many years, we have a reasonable period and number of stagnated staff now.

What efforts have you made towards the reform and rehabilitation of our prisons?

If I take you through the memory lane of our activities in the various sectors of the ministry, I only came back less than 24 hours ago from Awka in Anambra State where we went to commission the Nnewi Medium prison. The interesting story

in Ahoada prison, have been moved to Bayelsa and the additional Bayelsans that are in Port Harcourt have also been moved to Bayelsa prisons. So relatively, the issue of congestion in these two prisons and the two states has reduced drastically.

Moro

ON PRISONERS’ FEEDING ALLOWANCE

AT THE MOMENT, THE ASSURANCE I CAN GIVE YOU IS THAT MR PRESIDENT HAS GRACIOUSLY APPROVED THAT THE PRISON ALLOWANCE OF

OUR PRISONERS BE INCREASED, BUT WHICH WILL BE CONTINGENT ON A PROPOSAL THAT WE ARE FORWARDING TO THE about the Nnewi prison is the fact that its contract was awarded in 1982 and literally abandoned. I visited the place against the backdrop of congestion in our prisons, and in the search for ways for ameliorating some of the challenges, I promised the people then who were very eager to have a Federal prison.

Immediately I came back and that was in 2012, we revoked the contract and re-awarded it to the new contractor and within five months, the contractor had completed it.

There are various other prisons that we have been able to initiate and complete in partnership with various stakeholders.

For instance, the Ekiti State Government

NATIONAL ASSEMBLY

relocated the Ado Ekiti prisons which we commissioned. In partnership with the Bayelsa State Government, we completed and commissioned the Bayelsa State command of the Nigeria Prison Service, the first of its kind in the state. Interestingly, you will recall that there was an attempted jailbreak in Ahoada prisons in Rivers State.

When I visited the place, I discovered that out of the 556 inmates, 356 were from Bayelsa State. In addition to constructing a two cell prison to accommodate the inmates, we also worked in collaboration with the Bayelsa State Government. Today, we have a full-fledged Bayelsa State command of the Nigeria Prison Service. The 356 prisoners

Are there other plans you have for the prisoners?

We have got the presidential approval to increase feeding allowance for our prisoners and by 2015, we will have done that. We have been embarking on training and retraining of our staff but more importantly is the fact that today, I can confidently tell you that the prison system is gravitating increasingly towards living up to its billing of being a reformation, rehabilitation and reintegration system in which case, incarceration is not necessarily a punishment but an attempt to reform the offender in order for the person to be properly reintegrated into the society at the completion of his term. In every of our prisons including the new one that we just commissioned in Awka recently, we have provision for vocational and skill acquisition institutes so that these prisoners will be able to acquire real skills and when reintegrated, they are well equipped to face the challenges of life.

Facilities are also provided for prisoners to be able to take advantage of our open educational system. Only last year, the prison was able to graduate about 48 prisoners in the first school leaving certificate and NECO exams, and in flying colours that can give them admission into any university globally. Late last year, the open university system graduated one of our prisoners and so, increasingly, we are getting to where we want to be in being a rehabilitation institution rather than a punishment institution.

How much specifically is the current feeding allowance for prisoners and how much is the intended increase?

At the moment, the assurance I can give you is that Mr President has graciously approved that the prison allowance of our prisoners be increased, but which will be contingent on a proposal that we are forwarding to the National Assembly. As at today, a prisoner s fed on N200 per day.

And going round the prisons, we found this unacceptable. I made a proposal to Mr President for a drastic increase in the prison allowance of our prisoners to conform to international best practices. I can tell you on good authority, that I have Mr President’s approval to increase the feeding allowance of our prisoners and if it is CONTINUED ON PAGE 55

11

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Ekiti: APC, PDP in lastminute crossfire

Politics PROVIDING FRESH PERSPECTIVES TO ISSUES JUNE 15, 2014

IT WAS EQUALLY WRONG FOR THE APC TO GO TO THE STADIUM IN EKITI STATE, IMMEDIATELY AFTER OUR RALLY TO SWEEP OFF OUR FEET. I WAS WORRIED ABOUT SUCH CONDUCT AND I DON’T KNOW WHEN MEN STARTED

12 & 53

CARRYING BROOMS

P 13

Briefly PDP leader to candidates: See election as popularity test

–Alhaji Adamu Muazu

Cash-for-defection saga:

Fresh tension in Edo, as House sits tomorrow •We’re battle-ready, say police

SEBASTINE EBHUOMHAN BENIN CITY

C

itizens in Edo State have increasingly become worried over the threats of violence from recent political clashes in the state, especially in Benin, the capital city.

Indeed, the past couple of weeks have seen increasing threats of violence from clashes between members of the Edo State House of Assembly and their supporters and thugs loyal to two contending groups of the legislative organ: the group of 15 lawmakers loyal to the state ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) led by the Speaker, Hon. Uyigue Igbe, and the group of nine lawmakers loyal to the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) led by the Deputy Speaker, Hon. Festus Ebea.

The bone of contention between the two groups of lawmakers that physically engaged themselves for three consecutive days during the week is the indefinite suspension of Mr. Ebea of Esan South East Constituency, who is still a bona fide member of the APC, and three other defected lawmakers: Hon. Friday Ogierhiakhi of Orhionmwon II Constituency, Hon. Jude Ise-Idehen of Ikpoba-Okha Constituency and Hon. Patrick Osayinmwen of Oredo East Constituency. The fourth defector to PDP, Hon. Abdulrazak Momoh of Etsako West Constituency, was not suspended, however.

The Igbe group, according to the House Committee Chairman on Information, Youths and Sports, Hon. Kabiru Adjoto of Akoko-Edo II Constituency, suspended the four lawmakers for “misconduct”.

But after Mr. Adjoto openly reported that the suspended lawmakers had been trying to lure him to PDP with N35m first instalment payment and N15m second instalment payment, and after the Majority Leader, Hon. Philip Shaibu, corroborated

Bauchi: 21 jostle for Yuguda’s job

A

Peoples’ Democratic Party,PDP chieftain, Hon. Opeyemi Falegan, hascalled on the candidates of the different political parties jostling for the Ekiti governorship seat in Saturday’s election to see the contest as a game of testing popularity rather than political war.

Falegan said that Ekiti people know what they really wanted and wouldnot succumb to deciet and propaganda of any politician that might betrying to lure them to sell their future because of a pot of porridge.

The PDP chieftain in a statement in Ado Ekiti also charged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to play unbaised andneutral roles before, during and after the poll, saying “what matters to Ekiti People now is free, fair and credible poll that will be aclear departure from the previous ones”.

He described the wide acceptance of the PDP governorship candidate, Mr. Ayodele Fayose, as a reflection of the change that the people desired, saying: “Fayose is the true and needed change that the people have been yearning for, especially at transforming the State in order toimprove its economy and infrastructure for a modern and virile Ekiti”.

Jalo tackles Rufai over comment on Gombe politics

T

Oshiomhole

Adjoto’s claim that Hon. Ise-Idehen reliably told him that he was given the same amount of N50m to defect from APC, a claim the accused lawmakers and their new party vehemently denied, it became clear that the House suspended them in addition to taking the House to court, for

financially luring other lawmakers on behalf of the PDP. The drama took a new dimension the following day, Tuesday, when the four suspended lawmakers and other five PDP CONTINUED ON PAGE 54

he Deputy Publicity Secretary of the People’s Democratic Party, PDP, Alhaji Abdullahi Jalo has called on the newly appointed political adviser to the president, Professor Rufai Alkali, to expatiate his claim that the PDP may lose the 2015 elections in Gombe State if the state government fail to carry some members of the party along.

Jalo said this at weekend during an interaction with our correspondent in Lagos.

He said the political adviser to the president made the statement in an interview he granted a national newspaper on June 1, 2014, saying he needs to expatiate on the statement so that PDP members in Gombe State will not misunderstand or misinterpret him.

Jalo said: “There is need for the professor to expand his statement for the benefit of PDP in Gombe State and Nigeria in general.

Now that the transformation agenda of Mr President, Dr Goodluck Ebele Jonathan have been manifesting in Nigerian Railway Corporation and other sectors, Nigerians should support PDP in 2015 and beyond for more dividend of democracy.”

12

Politics

Sunday, June 15, 2014

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

PDP out to create fear in minds of vot The Ekiti State governorship election comes up on July 21.

The gladiators are at work. While the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) accuses the All Progressives Congress (APC) of becoming jittery and attempting to deceive the electorate, the APC alleges that PDP is trying to create fear in the minds of voters. Abiodun Nejo reports: What is your take on the accusation by the opposition PDP that your party is plotting to hang on to power despite not being popular?

Let them wait until the day of the election. Politicians will say whatever they wish, the people will decide. We have always said that we are running this election on records. Ekiti people are no fools; they know those who have served them diligently and those who have not. The result of the election will judge.

They also said your party is jittery over the crowd at Fayose’s rally, hence the Sunday violence; what your reaction to this?

They don’t have a sense of history. This our symbolic sweeping is part of our own style. It is not just starting today. Wherever there is evil, you sweep it away with the broom. The visit of the President did not have anything to do with development in Ekiti State. When a President visits, he

comes to commission projects or make policy statements that will bring succour to the people, but the reverse is the case.

As a result, we cannot open our eyes and allow evil to spread and that was why we did the symbolic sweeping. We have already completed our assignment and were coming back when the agents of PDP descended on us and the police gave security cover to PDP agents, who unleashed orgy of violence on us and innocent people. Do you fight a war with broom? The people were mainly women. We did not do anything that is unconstitutional. It was done in Kano where Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso led the people. That of Ekiti was not the first time; we needed to sweep away the footprints of evil from our land. It was done in Lagos, ours is not the first time.

What type of rally did PDP hold that will make us jittery? Rented crowd from all over Nigeria? I know the number of buses that came from Ibadan alone, from Akure

and other places. Who were the political actors from Ekiti present at the rally?

Rented crowd have been paid and have gone back to their various destinations and that will not resonate in any election.

What happened on Sunday was an act of bestiality by the MOPOL commander.

But the PDP’s version of the violence is different; what actually happened?

We are in a democracy and one of the requirements for credible election is the ability of political parties to mobilise supporters. To sensitise our people, we decided to move round the state capital on Sunday morning, and as usual, we were clutching brooms and we had been to a number of places without any problem or hitch.

We were close to Ijigbo Junction when we saw the MOPOL commander in the state leading some armed policemen towards where we were. The police team was followed by two armoured personnel carriers. With me were Senator Babafemi Ojudu, Rep Oyetunde Ojo, Hon Sunday Ibitoye, among other leaders. When the police team approached us, we moved closer to talk to the commander. We were surprised when he said he had orders to disperse us. We wanted to engage him in dialogue, but he replied us with gunshots and he fired tear gas and one person was

Fayemi

killed. All these happened at Ijigbo Junction.

He pounced on our vehicles and badly damaged them; many people were injured.

Everybody ran helter-skelter, and it was in the midst of the confusion that some people put a call CONTINUED ON PAGE 53

APC jittery, threatened by people’s rejection What’s your reaction to APC’s comment that your recourse to violence is because your party is desperate to win Ekiti and Osun elections?

Do you see any sign of desperation in us in the PDP the way we conduct ourselves? We are not desperate. The only party that is desperate is the APC because losing Ekiti and Osun polls is the beginning of the end of APC in Nigeria.

The party has not met people’s expectation and has not improved the economy of an average Ekiti man. We are talking about a party that the leaders tell lies every day, a party that does not conduct its activities in the open; that is run like a cult. We are not desperate because we know that if election is conducted today, the PDP will win convincingly.

We will win by nothing less than 70 per cent and I can tell you that is going to be the position on June 21 this year.

But they accused you of haunting them with Police?

They are just redesigning their bunch of lies. The APC is a party of liars. They will be the one to attack political opponents and the first to cry to the police and use the media for their propaganda. In March last year, APC leaders shot dead two persons in Erijinyan Ekiti; they also killed another person in Emure last November; when the police and security agencies wanted to do their job thoroughly, they did everything possible to frustrate the police.

APC leaders, including their State

Chairman, Jide Awe, are still facing charges over the killings. Are they saying the police should watch and allow them to kill, maim and injure with impunity? The police will always do the job they are employed to do, that is to maintain law and order in society. We (politicians from different parties) have all met with the Commissioner of Police and he has always maintained that they would do their job without fear or favour and no matter whose ox is gored.

There has never been a situation that somebody commited an offence and the police said because he is a PDP member, they would not discharge their duty. No member of PDP under my leadership has taken the law into their hands, it is the APC people who feel they have the police in their grip and do whatever they like. They are the ones misusing the position they occupy in the state at present. This is very unfortunate. Our national leadership doesn’t place anybody above the law. It always tells us that whatever we want to do should be within the confines of the law. Because PDP members are law abiding, that is why no policeman is arresting us. I am telling you, PDP does not believe or show above the law attitude. We are carrying out our campaign according to the instruction given by INEC. Check all the states governed by the APC, it is violence everywhere, but in PDP, we know these people and we are up to their antics. We know

their background and their leadership, it’s about violence and fraud.

What’s your reaction to the accusation

by APC that PDP is planning to bomb the Govt House, Ekiti and some public places?

Let me assure you that the Government House, Ado-Ekiti will soon revert to the original owner, that is the PDP, then how can we destroy our property?

Who in his right senses would willingly destroy his own property? Come June 2014 when the election is held and which we will win, the place and other public places will be in our care. It is only in the imagination of the APC; they want to destroy the place themselves and put the blame on the PDP. PDP is the original custodian of the place and we cannot destroy it. I want to advise APC that they should change their strategy, the method of their propaganda. They have been using this type of propaganda all along and it does not work. The other time they said we wanted to kidnap people in the state, while they were the ones planning to do so. Their style is to first test the waters and feel the pulse of the people and when it doesn’t work they will change.

In the PDP, we are peace-loving. We cannot destroy something that belongs to us. I know that is the plan of APC, which by God’s grace will not work.

I want to call on security agents to keep vigil on them because they can do it and put the blame on the door-

Fayose

steps of the PDP. This coming election is in favour of PDP; we cannot spoil a great chance being presented to us by the great people of the state. We are the people holding raw egg in our hands and we are guarding it jealously. We will not allow the APC to destroy the chances we have in the coming election.

What about the accusation that your party hired people from neighbouring states and Lagos for CONTINUED ON PAGE 53

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Politics

Sunday, June 15, 2014

13

Bauchi: 21 jostle for Yuguda’s job EZEKIEL TITUS BAUCHI

A

s 2015 general elections draw near, about 21 persons in both the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the opposition All Peoples Congress (APC) are already jostling to replace Governor Isa Yuguda. The governor, who holds the chieftaincy title of Obasayero of Oyo Empire, will hand over the state’s affairs on May 29, 2015 after completing eight years in the saddle Already, those interested in succeeding Yuguda have embarked on underground campaigns within their political parties with the aim of seeking their respective parties’ tickets. So far, however, the PDP and the APC are most favoured for the hot contest.

Among the top contenders are the FCT Minister, Senator Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed; a former Secretary to Bauchi State Government, Barrister Ahmed Ibrahim Dandija; Barrister Ibrahim Zailani, a former house of representatives member; Senator Abdul Ahmed Ningi, Senate deputy majority leader; Senator Babayo Garba Gamawa, representing Bauchi North senatorial district; Senator Baba Tela, a former member of the upper house from Bauchi North; Dr. Musa Babyo, current chairman of TETfund; A-lamin Sani Mohammed, the current zonal publicity secretary, PDP North-East, among others.

This political development interestingly is giving Yuguda serious concern even at the twilight of his administration, aware of the political drama that produced him as governor in 2007.

For instance, his predecessor, Ahmed Mua’zu, the current PDP national chairman had fielded his introvert Secretary to the State Government, Barrister Mohammed Nadada Umar, and he lost to the ANPP then when Yuguda was forced to dump the PDP for the ANPP. Under the ANPP, Yuguda floored Umar who used to be his good friend but later dumped the ANPP two years after, returning to the PDP which earned him the wrath of his supporters across the state who saw the act as a betrayal of trust. Indeed, Yuguda was accused of political miscalculation, a development that made Mua’zu to lose his Bauchi South Senatorial ambition to Bala Mohammed the FCT Minister notwithstanding Mu’azu’s charisma and popularity.

However, recent political developments have indicated that Yuguda would now want to be elected as Bauchi South senator ahead of 2015. But it would seem that the governor is facing an uphill task as his people are said to have given him conditions apparently aggrieved with the alleged failure of the administration to put smiles on the faces of the electorate in areas like Bogoro, Tafawa-Balewa,Toro, and Alkaleri local government areas of the state, including Bauchi metropolis a development the APC is believed to be cashing in on.

…as gov’s senatorial ambition suffers hitches

Babyo

Yuguda

Lame

HOWEVER, RECENT POLITICAL DEVELOPMENTS HAVE INDICATED THAT

YUGUDA WOULD NOW WANT TO BE ELECTED AS

BAUCHI SOUTH

SENATOR AHEAD OF

2015. BUT IT WOULD SEEM THAT THE GOVERNOR IS FACING AN UPHILL TASK Gamawa

It was learnt that Yuguda had constituted a high-powered committee to consult the people of the constituencies with a view to declaring his senatorial ambition for 2015, but a member of the committee who confided in Sunday Mirror said the committee could not find it easy to sell the governor as an acceptable candidate as the aggrieved people of the areas gave conditions that pertained to speedy development of the neglected areas. Other conditions reportedly given the governor include that he should address religious, communal and political crises, alleged marginalization and what the locals described as the unconstitutional relocation of Tafawa-Balewa councilheadquarters to Bununu and subsequent suspension of the only female lawmaker from the area, Hon. Rifkatu Samson Danna, member representing Bogoro constituency as well as amends to Yuguda’s actions that forced Hon. Yakubu

Dogara to defect to the APC following mere political differences whenthe committee was solidly behind Jonathan/Yuguda’s victory in 2011 in their respective constituencies.

Another political difficulties that may be faced by Yuguda’ senatorial ambition in 2015 is not directly unconnected with the defection of Hon. Dogara Yakubu to the APC. He is a member representing Dass, Bogoro and Tafawa-Balewa federal constituency at the National Assembly. He defected alongside 36 others and he is being described as the ‘alpha and omega’ in the area when he allegedly single handed, financed the elections of Jonathan/Yuguda even when Yuguda could not extend PDP campaigns to the area.

As it is now, the APC is said to be popular in the areas following Dogara’s influence,though it appears the house member still respects the current PDPnational chairman, Ahmed Mu’azu, his

Mohammed

political mentor when the latter had since expressed worry, allegedly accusing Yuguda of allowing Dogara to defect to the APC. It could be recalled that in 2011 campaign period, Yuguda could not take his gubernatorial campaign team to some areas in the Bauchi South senatorial district to canvass for votes in his re-election bid, especially in Tafawa-Balewa, Dass, Bogoro and Alkaleri local government areas, the last being the home of the FCT Minister, Bala Mohammed.

Again, in view of the current security challenges in Bauchi State, keen watchers of Bauchi politics are of the opinion that Yuguda is left with no option but to apply tactics to determine who succeeds him while others said the emergence of the APC has put to rest, the issue of a successor as many aggrieved PDP members had left to form the opposition APC in the state.

14

Opinion

Sunday June 15, 2014

Uncensored U nc

Sheriff S Folarin

E-mail: sheffie2004@yahoo.co.uk 08094217972 (SMS only)

E

ach time June 12 approaches, there is only two things that come to mind: there has not been another MKO Abiola and certainly there can never be another election like the June 12 presidential elections. We as a people did not know what God did for us with those two factors: MKO and June 12 elections. We had experienced sixteen years of a huge sense of emptiness following the colossal loss occasioned by the demise of Obafemi Awolowo in 1987.

Awo, Western Nigeria’s first premier, an iconic figure and a deep man of ideas with a roadmap for Nigeria’s emergence as regional power, had lost elections in very controversial circumstances in 1979 and 1983.

Despite his well thought-out and robust agenda for Nigeria; despite his methodical approach to winning the war of 1967-70 for Nigeria using sound economic principles rather than barrel of the gun; in spite of his radical approach to repositioning Nigeria and probably bringing the country to the very platform of global economic leaders; and despite his soaring popularity and recording of more votes in the two elections (which have however been contended and disputed in some quarters), Awo never emerged as president. The only consolation he got was accolades such as ‘the best President Nigeria never had’, and it was those that worked against him, such as late Dim Emeka Ojukwu that pay such glowing tributes to him.

We as a country, have been known as the wasteful one. The cost of our aban-

Wanted: Another MKO doned projects alone runs into hundreds of millions of dollars. Massive buildings and super structures in disuse litter the neighbourhoods of Lagos, Abuja and everywhere in the country. Ships, planes, military hardware dysfunctional out of poor maintenance are all over the harbours, seashores, airports and barracks.

Farmlands and massive agricultural lands are left unexploited and hitherto prosperous farms, including the huge cocoa, palm and groundnut plantations have all been taken over by weeds and in some cases, insurgents. Most of our resources are left untapped and those tapped are underutilized.

Money running into billions and trillions of naira is frittered away on frivolities such as chattered flights, fleet of government official vehicles, housing estates for the rich, birthday and wedding bashes as well as endless foreign trips by the privileged elected officers.

The wastefulness resonates in the entirety of our way of life as a people. Music, movie, computer talents emerge out of selfhelp or divine intervention; there is no plan or programme to discover, nurture and turn out super starts from this abundant pool of talented Nigerians. Those who have made it waste away and die like paupers because of the lack of sustainable long-term programme, including financial and health insurance, auspicious environment to grow and general unconcern for the welfare of the citizens, which have led to all sorts of losses resulting from illness, poor medical facilities to cater for citizens’ needs, general insecurity, among others. Our talents die as unsung heroes and the incidences occur all the time. Wasted entertainers: Fela Kuti, Hubert Ogunde, Ade “Love” Afolayan, Ojo Ladipo, Duro Ladipo, Dento, J.T. Tom West, Francis Agu, Nnamdi Eze, Sam Loco Efe, Enebeli Elebuwa, Pete Eneh, Ashley Nwosu, Goldie, Keffee. Wasted sports personalities: Rashidi Yekini, Muda Lawal,

Sam Okwaraji, Thompson Oliha, Endurance Idahor, Adebayo Olufemi, etc. Wasted academics: Professor Festus Iyayi, Professor Yusufu Bala Usman, Professor Saburi Biobaku, Professor Olikoye Ransome-Kuti, etc. Wasted legal luminaries and jurists: Gani Fawehinmi, Justice Chuba Ikpeazu, Justice Chukwudifu Oputa, etc. Wasted social crusaders: inexhaustive list! It is not logical to say Nigeria killed these persons; but it absolutely makes sense to say the critical Nigerian condition drove most of these ones to death. And while alive, they were either underutilized or unused for national development.

The wastefulness is what makes the country not to appreciate certain special gifts, such as people and unique developments, like Awo, MKO and June 12. Awo departed not being given the chance to unveil and implement the much in him that he was willing to offer. It was such a bad loss. Years after, MKO emerged and had the golden opportunity to put in place another witty agenda that would place Nigeria where it should be. MKO was, based on the past, not the best of persons to govern; but antecedents to June 12 showed that he had switched from the camp of the super nouveau-riche and African compradors to the side of the hoi polloi; he was the people’s man and never had Nigeria had it so good. MKO was the personality that cut across ethnic and religious divides. He was the man that surprisingly, made all of us to forget- either consciously or unconsciously- our ethnic leanings or religious affiliations. We just went to the polls and voted for the man, a Muslim and his Muslim VP. It is now we realized what we did- that religion or Yorubaness or Hausaness did not occur to our mind when making that choice.

What, therefore, a special and unique experience and opportunity to seal it once and for all! We had a rare opportunity to right the wrongs of Lord Lugard and re-

A Rep’s gaffe on aviation projects EMMANUEL EMEKA

N

kriuka Onyeojeoka, who represents Isuikuoto/Umunneochi Federal Constituency is a charming politician. It is not for nothing that she has managed to keep her position of considerable influence over the past four years as Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Aviation.

But in the past few weeks, it appears Onjeojeocha is running out of steam but would only need to strive more. Smarting from her father’s funeral, Onyeojeocha recently visited familiar territory –the Ministry of Aviation and several aviation agencies under it, including the Federal Airports Authority, FAAN and Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, NCAA. She was on what appears to be the routine duty of performing her committee’s “oversight” functions, but as it turned out, there was nothing routine about her visits. She seemed to be on a self-appointed mission.

What was shocking to many observers was Onyeojeocha’s volte-face over the Aviation Master Plan and in particular, the Airport Remodelling project spearheaded by the immediate former Aviation minister, Stella Oduah.

Onyeojeocha now says she does not know anything about the Aviation Master plan, ditto for the Airport Re-modelling project. She has now ‘realised’ that the remodeling project did not follow due process. Yet it was common knowledge in Aviation and legislative circles

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

that our charming chairman of the Aviation Committee of the House of Representatives was carried along in the implementation of these laudable programmes.

And as a matter of fact, she eagerly participated and took a prominent position at the commissioning ceremonies of several of the remodeled airports round the country last year. Could Onyeojeocha only just have awakened from a midday dream? Or is she acting a script? Those who know her quite well say Onyeojeocha’s latest action is no more than deliberate.

They also say that with the 2015 general elections round the corner, a rattled Onyeojeocha, unsure of her political future, is on a mission for other forms of self-preservation.

This is the same airspace and airports she traversed every day and also participated in their commissioning ceremonies, contract signing ceremonies, among others, yet she now claims these were flawed. For the avoidance of doubt, the contract for the financing for the five new international airports under construction by CECC of China was a bilateral agreement between Nigeria and China which was signed during the state visit of President Goodluck Jonathan to China last July.

The financial package was signed by the Finance Minister, not the Aviation Minister. And before then, the contract package financed by the Chinese government had gone through all regulatory approvals, including that of the Federal Executive Council, FEC. So, how can

this be Oduah’s doing alone?

The Airport Re-modeling project surprisingly can defend itself against its detractors.

The benefits of the Airport remodeling project is so obvious for everyone to see that, it is the most widely acclaimed project lately carried out in the aviation sector. Definitely, all can see that the project has helped to improve the poor image of Nigerian aviation as a result of crammed, dilapidated and outdated aviation terminals built 30 to 40 years ago without any further improvement to their structure.

Onyeojeocha’s new stance can only lend credence to the belief that the lawmaker is serving certain interests who are determined to rubbish the laudable achievements of the Jonathan administration.

Even so, we need to restate that the financing for the airport remodeling project was duly budgeted for, necessary approvals were obtained and the required documentation was done. The financing was from multiple sources – Aviation ministry capital budget allocation, internally generated revenue and loans.

It is on record that the Oduah tenure increased government revenue generated by aviation agencies by more than 1,000 per cent that is 10 fold, which is unprecedented in the country’s Aviation history!

Only recently, Dr Daniel Tarka, special assistant to the former minister in a press statement dated June 4, 2014 dismissed what he called the “fabrication” of detractors who claimed that the ex-minister incurred debts

invent Nigeria. it was the most special of privileges to build a new foundation of United Nigeria and be on the course of true development as well as evolve the most accountable democracy. But as expected, we frittered away that monumental opportunity. General Ibrahim Babangida was the tool of satan this time in ensuring Nigeria did not fulfil its destiny.

It was another June 12 last Thursday and it is regrettable that only APC-led states recognized it. Even the date is unduly and stupidly politicized. What legacies do we then want to leave behind or what history do we want to teach coming generations if such things that shook the foundation of our abysmal existence and turned it around are discarded in the waste-bin of history? Are we only going to be telling stories of corruption, military coups, political instability and Boko Haram insurgency to our children?

Since the demise of Abiola- who, in fact was wasted by the military government in 1998- we have not been able to find another political figure or at least the head that can wear his magnificent cap. Tinubu’s head is not fit enough. Jonathan’s is extremely far from it. Obasanjo had a totally different head for the cap. Babangida was of course having the wrong head and wished he had something like Abiola’s, which was why he got rid of his mandate anyway. Shekau’s head is certainly the albatross and antithesis of what Abiola stood for: his is like a turban of time-bombs. And since June 12, credibility question has trailed our elections.

None has been free or fair. All have been critically rigged and marred by violence.

We therefore long and pray for another Abiola and June 12 in Nigeria.

• Dr. Folarin is the Head of Department of Political Science and Internatinal Relations at Covenant University, Ota, Nigeria. of over N174 billion to finance the airport remodeling project. Said Tarka: “Nothing can be farther from the truth.”

Curiously, the fake figure of N174 billion now being peddled looks close to and of course, higher than the N164 billion Aviation intervention fund allegedly embezzled by former aviation ministers precededing Oduah, who are standing anti-corruption trials over this. Is the latest evil plan by enemies to fabricate phoney debts allegations to tarnish the image of the innocent?

Onyeojeocha and her ilk have been trying to twist the recent statement made by Dr Ortom that government was finding it a bit difficult to continue to finance projects under the Aviation master plan, including the remodeling project. Clearly, the supervising Aviation minister never suggested that there was anything wrong or amiss with the financing of the projects under Oduah.

He only hinted that government may want to go on with these laudable projects at a slower pace going into an election year—2015. As Tarka pointed out in his press statement on behalf of Oduah, the various remodeling projects and others were not meant to be completed in 2013 when Oduah left the Aviation Ministry therefore, their implementation can be carried out, according to the pace that can be financed and suits the new helmsman of the ministry.

•Emeka, a public affairs analyst, writes from Isuikuoto, Abia State.

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

South News

Sunday June 15, 2014

15

Ekiti guber poll: INEC sensitive materials arrive Thursday ABIODUN NEJO ADO EKITI

T

he Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has said that sensitive materials for Saturday’s governorship election in Ekiti State will arrive the state on Thursday for onward distribution to the 177 wards in the state.

INEC Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) in the state, Alhaji Halilu Pai, who said the commission, had put in place necessary logistics to ensure hitchfree 2014 governorship election in the state, said 7,941 ad-hoc staff had been engaged for the exercise.

Out of the ad-hoc staff made up mainly of Na-

tional Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members and students of federal tertiary institutions, he said that 5605 were engaged as assistant polling officers, while 2195 would function as presiding officers.

Pai, who displayed the branded jackets that would be used by the ad-hoc staff, told journalists in Ado

Ekiti yesterday that the jackets and stamps for the 2014 governorship election arrived Ekiti on Friday.

This, he said validated the position of the commission that the jackets and stamps intercepted alongside some obsolete voting materials on Thursday had nothing to do with the 2014 election.

According to him, the distribution of permanent voter cards to eligible voters who registered during the continuous voter registration exercise in March which began yesterday across the state would end today as he appealed to those who participated in the exercise to go to their units for the cards.

He said that a total of 766,132 voters made up of those who registered in 2011, those who registered in March 2014 and those who transferred from where they registered to Ekiti State, could vote across the 2195 polling units in the state on Saturday provided they came with their permanent voter cards.

Fashola wants enough time for redress on electoral malpractices

L

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babatunde Fashola, SAN (middle), his Ogun and Osun states counterparts, Senator Ibikunle Amosun and Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola (right) respectively, former governor of Kwara State, Senator Bukola Saraki (2nd left) and former minister of State for Defence, Chief Demola Seriki (left) during the All Progressives Congress National Convention at the Eagle Square, Abuja, at the weekend.

Protesters shut rubber firm in Delta over insensitivity AMOUR UDEMUDE ASABA

P

rotesters numbering over 200 have shut operations at the Rubber Estates Nigeria Ltd (RENL), Utagba-Uno in Ndokwa West Local Government Area of Delta State over what they termed insensitivity on the part of the company to the plight of the host community.

The protesters which include both the oldest men and women, titled chiefs and the youths from the seven quarters of UtagbaUno, weekend, stormed the premises of the company as early as 5.30 am and stopped

work at the company as according to them, the management of the company failed to address issues raised by the Utagba-Uno community over the years.

Reading the protest letter signed by Chief G.I. Ilide, the Onotu-Uku of Ikilibi quarters on behalf of the seven Onotu-Ukus of the seven quarters of Utagba-Uno; Hon.(Sir) James Izah, Chairman, UtagbaUno Progress Forum; Chief Mathias Osogbue, Chairman, Community Development Council, Utagba-Uno; Prof. Andrew Ojie, Chairman, Community Relations (RENL and Utagba-Uno); and Mr. Augustine Okonye,

Secretary, Community Relations (RENL and UtagbaUno), to the management of the company, Prof. Andrew Orjieh, said nobody should work, to show the seriousness of the grievances of the community against the oil company.

“There should be no work today, we informed you about our coming but your head office chose to ignore us and sent a junior officer to receive us,” he said, adding, “we are not here for a parley. This community is peaceful but, not docile, we have written several letters but your managing director is hiding, at the right time, we will ferret him out.

“RENL has since 2013, neglected, and or refused to relate with the said new Board of Trustees of 14 members and this was a big shock to Utagba-Uno community because RENL and its predecessors who have been in Utagba-Uno for over 40 years, know that the seven OnotuUkus of the Seven quarters of Utagba-Uno are the altarego of Utagba-Uno Community. We have presented the new Board of 14 member Trustees to RENL on 27th November 2013 to take charge of all aspects of community relations with RENL. But they have refused to deal with members of the Community’s Board of Trustees.”

agos State Governor, Mr. Babatunde Fashola (SAN), has called on the National Assembly to review the electoral law limiting to 180 days the time for seeking redress over electoral complaints, saying it would tantamount to an injustice to the complainant if the avenue to seek justice was constricted by time.

Fashola, who spoke at the handing over of Gbagada Housing Estate which he renamed Ajibola Adewale Omojola Housing Estate in Honour of the late foremost Human Rights Activist and former Chieftain of the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO), said those who suffered any electoral fraud should be given enough time to seek redress adding that doing otherwise would deny such people justice.

He noted that access to complaints about electoral malpractices was as important as respect for the rights to cast a vote adding that part of the process of securing and protecting the votes was where the vote was interfered with the right of the complainant to seek redress “must not be limited to 180 days”.

“By doing so, we seem to encourage those who are intent on subverting the process to say ‘I will subvert the process and I will frustrate

you in court’”, the Governor said adding that the National Assembly must act fast to make the amendment in order to protect the nation’s democracy”.

Acknowledging that the reason for the 180 days time limit could be in order to ensure that the cases are concluded on time, Fashola argued that where there are clear dangers of sacrificing substance for time and therefore occasioning injustice, the law should err on the side of Justice.

The Governor paid glowing tribute to Pa Omojola whom he said was among the men and women of honour who stood up to defend and uphold the spirit of Democracy as depicted by the election of June 12 1993 adding that one of the reasons for dedicating the Housing Estate in his honour was to leave a legacy to remind coming generations of Lagosians about the sacrifice he made to sustain democracy.

He recalled Baba Omojola’s last outing during last year’s June 12 anniversary saying the late NADECO Chieftain, who was the Chairman of the anniversary’s committee, made a very inspiring speech in which he urged Nigerians to be very vigilant as “the enemies of our democracy are gathering but they are not as many as we are”.

Lawmaker accuses Presidency of fuelling Oyo PDP crisis TAYO ADELAJA

I

t may be difficult to end the crisis rocking Peoples Democratic party in Oyo State unless President Goodluck Jonathan and the leadership of the party at the National level cautioned some prominent members of the party who are championing the course

of the parallel secretariat and executives in the state.

This was the submission of a Federal lawmaker, Honourable Segun Dokun Odebunmi representing Surulere/Ogo Oluwa federal constituency at the National Assembly in an interactive session with journalists in Ibadan last week.

According to him, the

major issue hindering the reconciliation is the refusal of the parallel executives to align with the terms of the reconciliation. He said that this might not be unconnected with the support of the FCT Minister of State, Oloye Jumoke Akinjide and others who are strongly backing the parallel executive committee led by Chief Kunmi Mustapha against

Hon. Yinka Taiwo, who is the leader of the recognised executives in the state.

Odebunmi maintained that: “I am sure presidency is in support of what they are doing, if not, I wonder why the party leadership did not take appropriate measure to checkmate the activities of the parallel secretariat in the state, knowing full well that everybody is working for the

interest of the party”.

Adding that, “to my little knowledge of politics, anybody that is against the constitution of the party should be sanctioned, this people in the parallel executives deserves to be sanctioned.

They should be sanctioned for even holding a parallel congress against the directives of the party.

It seems that their backers are assuring them that all is well due to their direct link with the presidency”.

Reacting to the call for the dissolution of the party executives by some members, Odebunmi said, “those calling for the dissolution of the party executives because of harmonisation are not interested in the success of the party.

16

North News

Sunday June 15, 2014

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Kidnappers abduct Briton in Plateau •Berom community decry attacks by gunmen JAMES ABRAHAM JOS

T

he Special Task Force (STF) in-charge of internal security in Plateau State yesterday confirmed the abduction of a foreign national in the state by suspected kidnappers.

This is even as the Berom community in the state yesterday expressed fresh concern over incessant attacks by gunmen suspected to be Fulani herdsmen in the state.

The abducted victim identified as a British national working with Rick Rock Construction company was declared missing in Langtang North Local Government Area of the state.

Media and Information Officer of the STF, Captain Ikedichi Iweha, who confirmed the unhealthy development, noted that the incident occurred on Saturday morning, stressing that the Task Force had commenced intensive search for the foreigner in the area.

According to him, efforts are on top gear with other law enforcement agents to search the entire area so as to yield desired result.

Sunday Mirror gathered that the Nigerian Police Langtang Division and soldiers last night invaded the LGA at about 8pm in search of the missing victim but were yet to make locate his whereabouts as at the time of filling this report.

Meanwhile, the Berom community in the state yes-

terday expressed fresh concern over incessant attacks by gunmen suspected to be Fulani herdsmen in the state.

The gunmen, they said, are daily stationed in the mountains and rocks from where they launch attacks on identified Berom communities.

The National Caretaker Chairman of Berom Youth Movement (BYM), Mr. Rwang Dantong, in a statement issued in Jos yesterday, maintained that the aim of the attacks which he noted had led to

the killing several people and destruction of property was aimed at forcefully ejecting the residents from their ancestral homes.

The statement alleged that the most worrisome aspect of the attacks was the involvement of security agents who connive with the attackers to unleash mayhem on the communities.

He listed some of the communities which had been taken over by the gunmen to include Rakok, Kubong,

APC Convention: Presidency, PDP congratulate Oyegun OBIORA IFOH ABUJA

T

L-R: Registrar, College of Agriculture, Bauchi, Alhaji Muazu Iliyasu; former Provost, Prof. Ladan Shehu and Bursar, Alhaji Lamaran Gidado, at the PHOTO: NAN 2013/2014 matriculation of students of the College in Bauchi, yesterday.

Bauchi PDP chieftain, 15,000 supporters defect to APC EZEKIEL TITUS BAUCHI

F

ormer Bauchi South Senatorial aspirant and chieftain of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Barrister Muhammed Abubakar, has finally dumped the party and defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC) alongside 15,000 of his supporters in the state.

The occasion which took place recently at Pali Suites, Bauchi, attracted large turn-out of APC

supporters, youths, women and political groups chanting Sai Kayi Gobna, meaning ‘You must succeed Yuguda’, while others carried placards with the inscription ‘APC means change’.

During the political gathering, hundreds Okada riders and taxi drivers caused serious gridlock while jubilating in support of the APC and as a demonstration to effect change come 2015.

Speaking on the occasion, Barrister Mu-

hammed Abubakar, declared that he was forced to dump the PDP following injustice and absence of internal democracy and expressed delight that APC remains a panacea to the present predicament of Nigerians.

“I have come to testify before you in my personal capacity. As lawyer of over 35 years experience, after exhaustive consultation at all levels, henceforth, I have decided to dump the PDP and defected to the APC .

“With this political

permutation, I have now joined the train of APC to nurture the party vibrantly ahead of 2015 and I am not coming to contest except if my people solicit for me to represent them in any political office,” Abubakar said.

The former PDP bigwig lambasted Governor Isa Yuguda administration for failing to consolidate on the gains of democracy and charged him to emulate Gombe State governor for transforming the young state.

Dogo, Gyo, Pwa-Beduk, Rantis and Sharu in Barki Ladi Local Government Area of the state. Others, according to him, include Mase, Shong 2, Rakweng and Kampwas in Riyom LGA. While expressing the helplessness of the people to confront the gunmen, the statement called on the Federal Government to intervene in the situation so as to prevent further loss of lives in the affected communities.

he Special Adviser to the President on Political Matters, Prof.

Rufai Ahmed Alkali, has congratulated the new National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Chief John Odigie-Oyegun and other members of the executive committee on their election.

In a statement in Abuja, Prof. Alkali applauded the APC for the successful conduct of its first national convention and election of officers that will steer the affairs of the party in the next few years.

He said their election is coming at a very critical period in the nation’s political history when the country is preparing for elections and urged the new leadership of the party to use their position to strengthen democracy and douse tension associated with electoral contest.

According to him, a very robust and constructive opposition political party that puts the interest of the country above every other consideration is what Nigeria needs and

urged the new APC leaders to ensure peace and development of Nigeria tops their agenda.

Also the ruling party, the PDP congratulated Chief Oyegun, National Publicity Secretary, Alhaji Lai Mohammed and other newly elected officers, charging them to ensure a vibrant opposition devoid of bitterness, desperation and divisive tendencies.

PDP National Publicity Secretary, Olisa Metuh, in a statement yesterday also told the new leadership to “ensure an issue based opposition that will purposefully and constructively engage and challenge the PDP with decency and maturity as prescribed by democratic tenets and principles.”

Stating that Nigerians deserve a vibrant and patriotic opposition driven only by the national interest, the PDP charged the new APC leadership to “put the unity and welfare of Nigerians ahead of other considerations and jettison all divisive tendencies including unguarded statements that overheat the polity and pitch Nigerians against one another”.

Anglican bishop makes case for religious tolerance INUSA NDAHI MAIDUGURI

B

ishop of the Anglican Communion and Leader of the Northern Christian Forum (NOSCEF), Bishop Emeritus Emmanuel Kana Mani, has called on the government of Borno State, lead-

ers of thought and the traditional institution to work towards ensuring peaceful co-existence between the adherents of the two great religions in the country.

The Bishop made the appeal during his speech at the palace of the Shehu of Borno, Alhaji Abubakar IbnGarbai Elkanemi, when he

led delegation of members of the Northern Christian Forum (NOSCEF) on a courtesy visit yesterday.

Speaking during the courtesy visit, Bishop Mani said the group was in the palace to pay homage and also to console and condole the royal father as the deputy Chairman of the

Nigerian Muslim Ummah as well as the Christians in Borno Emirate Council over the death of the Emir of Kano, Sarkin Ado Bayero, the Emir of Gombe, Alhaji Usman Abubakar and the Emir of Gwoza, Alhaji Idrissa Timta, as well as several other Muslims and Christian clerics who

passed away recently.

He said, as a group, their heart is still grieved and they remain shocked by the non-rescue of the over 200 Chibok school girls abducted by the Boko Haram sect members.

According to him, for over two months now, the families of the abducted

Chibok schoolgirls, their relations, Borno State, and the entire people of Nigeria as well as the International Community are pained by the incident and hoped that government will double its effort in the search and rescue of these innocent girls and bring them back to their parents.

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

17

Sunday, June 15, 2014

A PUBLICATION OF GLOBAL MEDIA MIRROR LTD BARRISTER JIMOH IBRAHIM OFR PUBLISHER All the Facts, All the Sides KAFILAT OGBARA

MANAGING DIRECTOR/CEO

BANKOLE MAKINDE

DEPUTY MD/CEO

SEYI FASUGBA

DAILY EDITOR

GBEMI OLUJOBI

SATURDAY EDITOR

KAYODE FASUA

ACTING EDITOR, SUNDAY

AYO OLESIN

GENERAL EDITOR

BEN MEMULETIWON

GENERAL EDITOR

DOZIE OKEBALAMA

COORDINATOR, EDITORIAL BOARD

CALLISTUS OKE

EDITORIAL PAGE EDITOR

ISE-OLUWA IGE

ABUJA BUREAU CHIEF

FIDELIS LEMCHI OWOAMANAM

REGIONAL DIRECTOR, S/SOUTH

KING ODODORU

HEAD, GRAPHICS

For Dora Akunyili, our tribute I t is no longer a breaking news item that former Director-General of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), and ex-Minister of Information, Professor Dora Nkem Akunyili, has joined her ancestors.

She died of cancer, in an Indian hospital where she was receiving treatment, June 7. Akunyili was aged 59 when she finally left the world.

Available reports say she was born in Makurdi, Benue State, brought up in Nanka and was married to an Agulu man, all in Anambra State.

She started her educational career in Saint Patrick’s Primary School, Isuofia, Anambra State in 1966, left with distinction; and proceeded to Queen of the Rosary Secondary School, Nsukka, where she also left with a distinction in her West African School Certificate (WASC) exams in 1973.

Her excellent performance earned her the defunct Eastern Region’s post primary school scholarship and, later, Federal Government’s undergraduate scholarship.

She got her first degree in Pharmacy (1978) and had her Ph.D in 1985 from the University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN). Akunyili, in her life time, had several exploits, academically and managerially to her credit, locally and internationally, so numerous to chronicle in this short piece.

But her innate potentials blew open when she was appointed as the Director-General of NAFDAC in April 2001. She had, on taking the job, chosen as her top priority the eradication of counterfeit drugs and unsafe food nationwide. But her greatest undoing was her own people. Like she wrote in her book: ‘The War Against Counterfeit Medicines, My Story’: “Too many people tried to use my relationship with them to get me to compromise in the process of taking tough decisions.

Sometimes, it was difficult for me

because most of the counterfeiters come from the South-Eastern part of Nigeria where I come from. But I was able to remain unwavering in all my regulatory responsibilities.”

In the said book she also wrote: “First, former President Olusegun Obasanjo appointed me to the position (of D-G, NAFDAC) despite stiff opposition from the political class.

He believed in my ability to do the job following my performance in my former job at PTF. I am also mindful that many families have lost loved ones because of the effects of fake drugs, an experience my family shared with the loss of my favou-

EVEN IN DEATH, DORA AKUNYILI DESERVES BEING CELEBRATED. SHE IS AN UNCOMMON WOMAN rite sister, Vivian. In addition, I felt that my appointment was an opportunity to give back to the country that had given so much to me… My entire education from high school through to university, to doctorate and post doctoral studies in London, was possible due to government scholarships. Finally, against the barrage of criticisms, I was determined to succeed, to prove my critics wrong and to remain uncompromising in my job…”

It is public knowledge that containing fake drug barons is not a small task. She also confessed thus: “When all their efforts at bribery failed, the criminals resorted to intimidation, harassment, blackmail and threats. They deposited fetish objects in our office, which included blood-stained feathers, African beads and a tortoise. They also threatened my husband and me on phone. When they still did not succeed, they resorted to physi-

cal and arson attacks against our personnel.”

Indeed, in August 2001, six armed men laid ambush at her home and waited for two hours. But she embarked on an impromptu trip to NAFDAC’s Lagos office and, in the process, escaped from the assassins’ bullets. Another attempt was made on her life on December 26, 2003 when she attended the chieftaincy title award ceremony of a member of NAFDAC’s governing board in Orlu, Imo State. She was in Enugu from where she first visited her mother-in-law in Agulu, Anambra State, when yet another group of assassins trailed her convoy. She said: “On our way back to Enugu from Orlu, I decided to stop at Agulu once again to say goodbye to my motherin-law. A few meters from the village house, my driver overtook the pilot car to prevent the driver from driving past the road to my motherin-law’s house because he was not informed that we were going to stop to see my mother-in-law again. At that point, we suddenly heard loud bangs, which I thought were sounds from Christmas fireworks. The bangs were actually from gunshots.

Within a split second, there was a painful bang on my head, which made my scalp hurt badly. A bullet had just shattered the rear windscreen of my vehicle, pierced my headscarf, burnt my scarf like hot water and gone through the front screen.”

If death is reasonable, such a woman that is so resolute, significantly morally upright; and is bent on giving back to the nation, ought not to have departed the way she did. But here we are! She braved all the odds in the process of rendering service to the nation, but cancer, they say, has unceremoniously sent her ‘home’. Yet, even in death, Dora Akunyili deserves being celebrated. She is an uncommon woman.

Reminiscences JUNE 15 IN HISTORY 2010: Landslides kill 53 in Bangladesh

Landslides caused by flooding in Bangladesh killed at least 53 people, while many more remained missing. The landslides caused by heavy rain and flooding buried many houses and buildings under mud.

2005: Microsoft criticised over censorship

Microsoft encountered criticism for censoring Chinese blogs. The censorship involved Microsoft’s MSN service, in which Chinese bloggers were blocked from using such words as “demonstration”, “democracy, “human rights”, and “freedom”.

1965: American planes bomb North Vietnam U.S. planes bomb targets in North Vietnam, as part of Operation Rolling Thunder, launched in March.

1966: UK - World’s first Hovercraft Show opens

The world’s first Hovercraft Show has opened to promote export sales of hovercraft for ferry operators, and military craft.

2005: Alabama teenager disappears

Two weeks after Alabama teenager Natalee Holloway disappeared while on a spring break vacation in Aruba, Southern Caribbean, police begin a detailed search and investigation into her disappearance.

1985: Soviet Union orders U.S. envoy to quit

An American envoy has been ordered to leave the Soviet Union following being arrested on espionage charges by the KGB in the continuing tit for tat expulsions

by USSR and the United States.

2013: Iranians celebrate presidential election Iranian citizens celebrated in the streets of Tehran at the election of Hassan Rouhani as the president of Iran.

Rouhani was elected with over 50 per cent of the vote and did not have to face a run-off election.

1920: Mob lynches African-American alleged rapists

A mob of 5,000 people lynched three African-American men in Duluth, Minnesota, who were jailed for the alleged rape of a 17-year-old white woman.

1999: Mass killings alleged against Serb forces

As Yugoslav forces pull out of Kosova as part of the agreed NATO peace plan, more evidence emerges of the mass killings committed by Serb forces on ethnic Albanians in Kosova.

18

Sunday, June 15, 2014

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

19

Praise Worship E-mail:yemiolakitan@gmail.com

E-mail:cossyodi@yahoo.com

QUOTE It is therefore clear that giving is the gateway to a world of supernatural wealth. Also, note that God’s covenant of financial prosperity is as binding as His covenant of day and night.

– Dr. David Oyedepo

EDIFYING GOD Sunday June 15, 2014

Should Churches pay tax?

How to prepare for divine visitation, by Pastor Muoka 24

The miracle of life 42

The place of soul-winning in Church growth,

by Prophet Oloruntimilehin 41

xxxxx

20

Praise & Worship

From the Pulpit

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

The

Chorister’s World Sunday June 15, 2014

Choristers are soul winners, not entertainers –Samuel Atundaolu YEMI OLAKITAN

S

amuel Atundaolu is a trained pianist, musicologist and choir leader. He is a songwriter and producer who has contributed immensely to the development of Gospel music in Nigeria. Born in Ebute-Metta, Lagos, Samuel Atundaolu holds a Master’s degree in Music from Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU).

He came from a music family.

His father was a chorister and a tenor singer, so he grew up with music around him.

Speaking about this, he said: ‘‘I grew up knowing my father was a chorister. He promised to enroll me in the choir, a promise he never kept until his death. I became attracted to the choir when I saw choristers dressed in their black robes.

I was glued. It was a scene that I can never forget. I decided I would join the choir at all costs. So, I was taken to the choir practice, after the day’s football match. That was the beginning of my romance with

Priesthood House with Pastor Bola

2

Bello

Timothy 2:19-20 says: “Nevertheless, the foundation of God stands sure, having this seal, the Lord knows them that are His. And, let everyone that names the name of Christ depart from iniquity. But in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and of silver, but also of wood and of earth; and some to honour, and some to dishonour”.

The Church of Christ is a great house. A massive house built for those who have confessed the Lordship of Jesus Christ with capacity to contain all. However, like any great house, there are contained in this house, various vessels. Some are made of pure gold; having gone through fire, they possess gold nature. Some, silver whose process is not like the gold but still useable for good works. While some are wood, who are unturned and cannot stand fire and process from the Holy Spirit.

These kinds of vessels cannot produce good works acceptable unto God. Their products are of the earth and they possess earthly hope not heavenly. Though they are all are vessels in the same house but they are vessels of dishonor.

Matt 13:24-25 says: ……”The

music’’.

On his early days in the choir, he said: ‘‘When I was growing up, I performed in many concerts, as I was trained as a concert pianist by the likes of Pa Latunde-Dada, Dr. Uzogwe, Dr. Omojola, Mr. (now) Prof Godwin Sadoh as a church musician and I decided to focus on choir training for which I got additional certifications. I also did my first degree also at Obafemi Awolowo University. I have excelled in the area of choir administration and training exceedingly. First, my school choir won the maiden edition of the Shell/Choral competition, and the Dayo Dedeke choral competition in Kuto, Ogun State.

My choirs in other schools also won so many laurels. Before I voluntarily resigned my appointment at Williams Memorial Methodist Cathedral, my choir was adjudged the best in the whole of the Lagos Archdiocesan competition.’’

When Samuel was a youngster, after the death of his father, his mother allowed him to attend Apostolic Faith with friends. It was

Atundaolu

there that he first saw a female organist playing a pipe organ with full pedal! It made a big impression on him, and it was the first source of inspiration for him to try and play the organ. These experiences, joining the choir and seeing a fe-

male organist inspired and attracted him into music so much.

On how he has been able to combine music and family life, Samuel said since he had been in music, he has included his family in his music and does not find it difficult

Church as God designed it (4) kingdom of heaven is likened unto a man who sowed good seed in his field: But while men slept, his enemy came and sowed tares among the wheat, and went his way”.

“Tares” is a degenerate kind of wheat, or the darnel-grass growing in the wilderness where nutrient is deficient. In its growth and form, it has a strong resemblance to genuine wheat; but it either produces no grain, but that of a very inferior and hurtful kind. It is extremely difficult to separate it from the genuine wheat, on account of its similarity while growing. This is the nature of some of the present day Churches.

They have their names as Church but dissimilarity in operation of the Church of Christ. Their products are vessels of wood and of earth whose mind gazes on earthly things alone. Though their doctrine looks like gospel but it is a doctrine which could not produce gold-nature of believers but earthly nature who is nurtured with earthly things alone.

In his description of such believers, Paul called them canal Christians. They do not mind the things of the spirit but the things of the earth. Rom 8:5-8 speaks of such as “they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; …….For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.

Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to

the law of God, neither indeed can be. So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God”.

This scripture paints a picture of people who are supremely devoted to the gratification of their own desires, and not God’s desires. Their teaching is based on what gratifies them, family and Church members without the consciousness of how to grow godliness in people and build them as God’s house. The main essence of Church is to graft the gentiles and the Israel into one single stem where God can eternally express His kindness to humanity.

Ephesians 2:12-13 states that Church was planted on covenant.

You and I are the Church. What grows the Church is covenant and covenant is what sustains her. The demand of God in covenant is commitment to God and submission to His bids. Church was an arrangement of God the Father for the Jews.

His purpose of inaugurating the Church is to bring acquaintance of Elohim (God the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit) to the Jews for disclosures to the world. Gentiles were initially strangers to this polity.

They were estranged from the sixfold privileges until Church was inaugurated. Rom 9:4 says: “Who are Israelites; to whom pertaineth the adoption, the glory, the covenants, the giving of the law, the service of God and the promises”.

However, when Church was inaugurated, the Gentiles were grafted into these privileges of adoption, glory, covenants, the giving of the law, the service of God and the promises.

The foundation of the Church was based upon this six-fold privileges and the seal of that promises was the gift of the Holy Spirit.

The intention of God is to completely include the entire earth into the blessing of Abraham where all will come to the knowledge of God and possess His nature. Church is like a tree or a house. Every house has its foundation. The standing and the shape of a house is determined by the foundation. The way the foundation is framed is the way the house is shaped. There are three fundamentals that shape the Church.

Ephesians 2:20-22 says: “And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and the prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the Chief corner stone; in whom all the building fitly framed together grows into an holy temple in the Lord”.

We can only grow and become the Holy Temple, a habitation of God if we allowed ourselves to be shaped by the life of the Apostles of the Church.

Our roots are in these apostles. Their stem is where we were engrafted so as to bear wheat as fruits not tars. If we are truly grafted, we bear similar fruits not different from theirs. If our fruits are different from theirs, we

as he organised his time well. According to him, his music career complements his choir ministry as a church musician.

Speaking on his involvement with the choir, he said: ‘‘As a musician, I have always been involved in many choirs either as a keyboardist or as a trainer. I was a keyboardist to many parishes of the Redeemed Christian Church of God as well as many churches. I was Organist and Choirmaster at Williams Memorial Methodist Cathedral, Ago-Ijaye. I am presently a Music Director of Methodist Musical Society.’’

Samuel has a vision for music which is that during ministration, souls will be won for Christ. ‘‘This is the level everyone in the church music must aim at. We are not entertainers. We are ministers. So, if our music has not served as a healing balm in which people listen to and they cry to the Savior for salvation, then we have not started, we have something to aim at.’’

Speaking on how the choir has helped him, he said, ‘‘being in the choir had been helpful.

are not yet grafted or we have pulled off from the stem. Their lives typified the Church and how our lives should be mirrored. They represent the intents of God on the earth for His Church. The first Apostle of Church was Abraham – the inheritor of God. He was the heir of God. Gen 15:1-2 says: “After these things the word of the Lord came unto Abram in a vision, saying, fear not, Abram: I am thy exceeding great reward”.

After Abram’s victorious exploits in battle, he manifested the strength of God against many nations in battle. He refused the spoilt from the war and yet gave tithes to Mechizedec. The rewards of his effort were God himself. The word “I am” conotes – the author of all existent, the one and the only one who manifest himself to man and the performer of promise. What God gave to Abraham was Himself, not gold, not silver. What God is still giving to man is Himself not material world as we are being promised by the leaders of the Church-John 6:3. Abraham’s example should illustrate the demand of God to Church. Our inheritance is much more valuable than what the world offers. I trust God to do a quick work in the Church where all would be reconfigured, recalibrated and reformed to heed the actual calling of the Father. God bless the Church!

Contact Pastor Bola Bello on 08033704564; Email: bolabelo@gmail.com.

21

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

FEEDBACK

Re: Falling under the anointing: Is it Biblical?

Sunday June 15, 2014

Theatre as religious experience BAMIDELE JOHNSON

W

ay back in 1991, a girl I dated got converted to Pentecostal Christianity and decided it was the way I also had to go. She, as expected, frenziedly began selling me the munificent benefits of that strain of Christianity, warning against my continuous stay in the Baptist Church, which she considered less spiritual than her new experience. As part of her efforts to get me on the Pentecostal train, she visited me in the company of five of her friends. The purpose of the visit was to invite me to a fellowship she had started attending.

Reluctantly, I went with them, got a warm welcome that was accompanied by the trademark claim that my presence was not by accident. It couldn’t have been since I didn’t stray into the school hall that was the venue of the fellowship. Inside, it was exuberant singing, frenzied praying and all other elements of Pentecostal worship. Having been raised in the solemn Baptist way, I found the raucous atmosphere less to my taste.

But that was a minor irritation compared to something that I would later experience. Sometime during the service, about 12 of us were called to the front of the hall for prayers. I do not remember if we were all first timers or not. A man elected to pray for us.

He began by praying for all of us at once before doing it one by one. It was during the prayers for individuals that I noticed people were shrieking, falling over and were quickly held to ensure they didn’t smash their heads on the concrete floor.

When it was my turn, the man offering the prayers placed his hand on my forehead. He expected me to collapse into a shrieking heap, with my body jerking as though I had a fit. I did not. He made an attempt to push me down. I resisted before keeping my legs apart as Cristiano Ronaldo famously does when taking free-kicks. The guy then stuck two fingers in my ears and shouted: “Release him”, covering my face in a rain of spittle. I was seething. My eyes had narrowed into menacing slits. He sensed my irritation and left me for the next person. I walked out immediately.

When the session ended, those who invited me could no longer find me.

As there was no mobile telephony at that time, they couldn’t call to find where I had gone. They had to come looking for me at home, where they met me. I explained I had to leave because I could no longer cope with

A scene at a Church service

what was going on at the fellowship. I narrated what I went through. They found it funny that I couldn’t understand that it was the Holy Spirit that was making people topple over. Holy Spirit? I asked for a better explanation, but they stuck to the one they had given. Good. I asked for Biblical example of one person who fell when a hand was laid on him. They couldn’t provide any and launched into some funny ramble similar to what was given to National Mirror in its report of the practice.

Years later, I started getting into debates with those who believe that falling down when hands are laid on them is a genuine spiritual experience. I have continued to demand textual validation for this practice and what I have been given bears no resemblance to the theatrics I see at Pentecostal services. Before I go into what is commonly presented as textual

validation, I will offer a few I raise when I meet those who think falling down when hands are laid is a genuine spiritual experience. First, if the Holy Spirit makes people fall when hands touch them, I am convinced it would not require co-worshippers to prevent them falling dangerously. The Holy Spirit is certainly capable of designing a process through which it could be experienced without injuries or fatalities. The second one is a question: Why would the Holy Spirit want to make women fall, especially where wrappers and skirts are worn, and have them expose sensitive parts when they lose consciousness? The Holy Spirit, I am convinced, has no such inclinations. The third: Why is it that those transmitting the spiritual power do not fall? The power of God should be stronger they are.

Whenever I raise these points, the default response is: You need more

understanding. I believe that what they mean is that I should develop the skills to compare apples to pawpaw, not apples.

Now to the attempt at providing textual validation.

Pentecostal Christians like to narrate the account in Chronicles of the dedication of Solomon’s temple when God manifested His presence and all the priests fell down-at once. Apples must always be compared with apples. I expect that I should have been provided with an evidence of a Pentecostal gathering where every worshipper fell under the power of God at the same time.

Another one is the account of the transfiguration in Matthew 17. Jesus took Peter, James and John to the mountain top and transfigured before them. The account is conspicuously without any reference to the apostles falling down unconscious and being held from smashing their heads.

What is recorded? “They fell on their face, sore afraid”. It suggests that their action was voluntary and out of fear, not on account of a sovereign act of God. The Holy Spirit, as the Bible shows, delivered no knockout punches.

In the accounts of Mark and Luke, the action of falling down went unrecorded. They were simply said to have been afraid.

Also frequently used is Paul’s Damascene experience. In Acts 9, Paul encountered the Lord on the road to Damascus and fell off his horse. The men with him on the journey were speechless, heard a voice and saw no one. But they did not fall down.

The temptation to present this as a validation is a product of deliberate ignorance. No hand was laid on Paul, as the Bible shows, and this was by no means a frequent occurrence in his ministry. Also, Paul was not unconscious, as he spoke clearly and rationally to God. All through his life, the Bible has no account of Paul laying hands on people and getting them in a daze. Advocates of the practice also like to refer to Matthew 28:4, which records the experience of the guards at Jesus’ tomb; John 18:6, which records how soldiers sent to arrest Jesus fell; and Revelation 1:17, which has John falling “like a dead man” when he beheld the divinity of Christ, who laid His hand on him to soothe him.

People fell in Biblical times, but not because hands were laid on them.

Falling down when hands are laid, therefore, has no scriptural validation whatever its advocates may claim.

Johnson writes from Lagos

22

Cover

W

hen the subject was raised at the ongoing National Conference, delegates reportedly voted that religious bodies should pay tax to the government, although, this can only become possible if the recommendation is passed into law by the National Assembly. The delegates said that religious leaders are super rich and that church founders owned private jets and universities.

A delegate representing the Nigeria Guild of Editors, Isaac Ighure, said pastors and heads of churches made too much money and should pay tax. He said, ‘clerics buy private jets when people in their churches are living in poverty”.

When the matter was put to vote, the delegates overwhelmingly voted ‘yes’ in support of the motion that religious bodies should pay taxes.

Barrister Abayomi Oyebola, a lawyer and Senior Partner at S.A Oyebola Chambers, opined that churches should pay taxes because most of them are not registered as charities. ‘‘They make the mistake of merely incorporating the name of their churches, so they can be taxed,” he said.

Speaking further, Oyebola said individuals who collect salaries or income from the church should pay taxes. “If the churches engage in businesses that generates profits, these can also be legitimately taxed by the government. Taxes are very essential to the economic advancement of the nation,’’ he said.

A search through the scriptures revealed that our Lord Jesus Christ paid tax. He was recorded to have instructed Peter, one of his prominent disciples, to pay taxes for both of them. In Mathew 17: 27, the Bible says, ‘but so that we may not cause offence, go to the lake and throw out your line.

Take the first fish you catch; open its mouth and you will find a four-drachma coin. Take it and give it to them for my tax and yours.”

In Mathew 22: 15-21, it states: 15.

Then the Pharisees went out and laid plans to trap him with his words.

16They sent their disciples to him along with the Herodians. “Teacher,” they said, “we know that you are a man of integrity and that you teach the way of God in accordance with the truth. You aren’t swayed by others, because you pay no attention to who they are. 17 Tell us then, what is your opinion? Is it right to pay the imperial tax to Caesar or not?” 18 But Jesus, knowing their evil intent, said, “You hypocrites, why are you trying to trap me? 19 Show me the coin used for paying the tax.” They brought him a denarius, 20 and he asked them, “Whose image is this? and whose inscription?”21 “Caesar’s,” they replied. Then he said to them, “So give back to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s.”

According to the encyclopedia Britannica, ‘‘taxes are the most important source of governmental revenue.

Taxes are compulsory levies and are unrequited—i.e., they are generally not paid in exchange for some specific thing, such as a particular public service, the sale of public property,

Sunday June 15, 2014

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Should Churches

Naira Notes

The extravagant lifestyle of religious leaders particularly Christian clerics has led opinion leaders to conclude that churches should pay taxes since they are making so much money from the people. Only recently, delegates at the ongoing National Conference voted overwhelmingly that religious bodies should pay taxes. Senior Correspondent, YEMI OLAKITAN examines the issue through biblical texts and Christian views. or the issuance of public debt. Taxes are collected for the welfare of taxpayers.’’ If taxes are used for the welfare of the people, shouldn’t churches pay on the basis of what the taxes are to be used for?

Deaconess Shola Abimbola of Global Church of the Living God said no, although she agreed that the Bible commands Christians to pay taxes as individuals.

According to her, it is wrong to ask churches to pay taxes as a body because the church is not selling anything. ‘‘The monies that are generated by the churches are voluntary donations from members who have already paid income tax. Churches are meant to be charity organizations, it is not heard of anywhere in the world for a government to tax religious organizations, so churches cannot pay taxes. It is unethical, mischievous and corrupt.

If the government collects taxes from the church, that means that they have turned the church into a business entity so unscrupulous individuals can be justified if they turn the church into a money making venture,’’ she said.

In another chat with Emmanuel Onoja of Hope of Life Evangelical

Pastor Adeboye

WHOSE IMAGE IS THIS? AND WHOSE INSCRIPTION?”21 “CAESAR’S,” THEY REPLIED. THEN HE SAID TO THEM, “SO GIVE BACK TO CAESAR WHAT IS CAESAR’S, AND TO GOD WHAT IS GOD’S.

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Cover

Sunday June 15, 2014

pay tax?

Church, he said churches should not pay taxes because churches are not profit making entities. ‘‘What is the difference between the government and the churches? They both serve the people. What the church should do if they make more money is to serve the people more through charity work. They are spiritual organizations. Individuals in the church can pay taxes; even Jesus paid tax according to the scriptures. If churches are taxed, it is tantamount to double taxation because the monies that are collected are donations from members who have already been taxed.

The church is not an organization that the ownership is been separated from the individuals. If the churches are making a lot of money, they should be encouraged to carry out some social responsibilities such as road construction, provision of water, building of schools and so on in their various communities,’’ he said.

Speaking further, Onoja said: ‘‘Men of God should not live like paupers because some people are poor in the church. If God blesses the pastor, we cannot stop the pastor from enjoying the blessings. Take the Redeemed Christian Church of God, for example, members bought a private jet for the General Overseer, Pastor Adeboye, in order to ease his traveling schedules. If he has to visit five countries in a month, he can do so without having to queue at airports, he can do so with comfort and ease. This will help his work immensely. If the church has the money to buy a private jet that will help the work of God, it will be wrong to say they should not. Don’t forget that some of these churches have branches in nearly all the countries of the world’’.

Pastor Orjuma Daniel of the Redeemed Christian Church of God opined that the church must live up to its responsibility. ‘‘If the church is doing what it is told to do from the scriptures, no one will ask the church to pay taxes because churches are not supposed to pay taxes. Individual Christians should pay taxes because Jesus paid tax as an individual and not as a church, so churches are not supposed to pay taxes because they are not a profit making organisations, they are not set up to make money. Churches are not business outfits, how can we tax them? It is wrong and inappropriate but the churches themselves should clean up their acts and rise up to their biblical responsibilities. The Bible says the church should take care of the poor, the widows, the orphans but what we see today is churches building edifices and buying private jets. The Bible says that we will always have the poor among us, so if we have

23

A Church building: Does it deserve taxation?

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE GOVERNMENT AND THE CHURCHES?

THEY BOTH SERVE THE PEOPLE. WHAT THE CHURCH SHOULD DO IF THEY MAKE MORE MONEY IS TO SERVE THE PEOPLE MORE

THROUGH CHARITY WORK.

THEY ARE SPIRITUAL ORGANIZATIONS. INDIVIDUALS IN THE CHURCH CAN PAY TAXES; EVEN JESUS PAID TAX ACCORDING TO THE

SCRIPTURES. IF CHURCHES ARE TAXED, IT IS TANTAMOUNT TO DOUBLE TAXATION Pastor Kumuyi

the poor amongst, the church should help them,’’ he said.

Elder Theophilus Ajibola of the United African Methodist Church, (UAMC) said it is wrong to ask churches to pay tax.

“The church should not be asked to pay tax. If the state collects taxes from

the church, that means the church has become a beer seller or recharge card seller. The church’s role is to turn men to God and not to make money. Not all men of God live fabulous lives. Pastor W.F Kumuyi is an example, so you cannot use the lifestyle of some men of God to make decisions on everybody else. If other

non-profit organizations do not pay tax, how can the government ask the churches to pay taxes? It is wrong. However, If the government decides that the church must pay tax, the Christian churches do not have any choice but to pay because the Bible urges Christians to be obedient to constituted authorities,’’ he said.

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

24

From the

Pulpit Sunday June 15, 2014

How to prepare for divine visitation, by Pastor Muoka General Overseer of the Lord’s Chosen Charismatic Revival Ministry, Pastor Lazarus Muoka, in this piece, teaches on how to prepare for divine visitation. Excerpts:

T

he time has come for the glory of God to appear upon His people. There shall be no equal to such divine visitation.

Therefore Sing, O heavens; and be joyful, O earth; and break forth into singing, O mountains: for the time to favour Zion has come, the time when the enemies of the Children of God shall submit has come. As God intervenes in our situation, the tinge of sorrow, grief and mourning that have dominated our minds in this present time will become a story of the past.

By this divine visitation yokes shall be broken; diseases shall be cured, sicknesses shall be healed and the afflicted shall be delivered. Now having gotten the knowledge of this outstanding visitation that will cause our enemies to submit, what then shall be your preparation?

Amos 4:12 says, “Therefore thus will I do unto thee, O Israel: and because I will do this unto thee, prepare to meet thy God, O Israel”.

Whenever it falls on us to receive any visitor in our homes or offices, there is something we always do and that is preparing ourselves for the visitation. We all know that the level of our preparation is always according to the regard we have for the expected visitor such as our seniors, bosses, kings, Governors, and Presidents. In all these classes of people, the measure of preparation for each is determined by our expectation, feeling of love, respect and admiration which we have for the expected guest.

If a president is scheduled to pay a visit to somebody, it is expected that the person will be better after the visit. This is because it will be very unethical for a President to pay a visit to a hungry person without meeting him at the point of his need. The only essence of the visit of the superiors to the minors is to give hope. And because superiors are expected to give succour to the minors, the degree of preparation for their visit is always done magnificently.

But if this grand preparation is meant for a mortal man, what then will be our preparation when the visitor is no other person than the Almighty God, the Lord of Hosts? It is expected that the preparation will be grandiose by nature because there is every belief that the divine visitation will definitely bring succour to as many that are prepared for the visit and actually participated in the happening.

I am very sure that as He comes, He will

Muoka

bring our enemies to submission.

But before we get to know the type of preparation that should be made for our God, it is very prudent we have the knowledge of His nature to enable us be conventional to Him and have Him bless us.

Lev. 19:2 says, “Speak unto all the congregation of the children of Israel, and say unto them, Ye shall be holy: for I the LORD your God am holy”.

The way of preparation to receive God in the old as well as in the present time has never been in doubt but open to all that seek the face of God. The principle is that He who wishes to receive the intervention of the Lord in his life time must be holy and separated from all the known defilements, and entirely consecrated to God in essence and obedient to all His laws.

1Peter 1: 15-16 says, “But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation; Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy”.

We should remember that God is not a man. While men have sinful nature, God has a holy nature. He is pure and holy and thus no unholy person can be allowed to be in His presence. So, for us to be among those He is coming to address their problems and bring succour to their needs, we must prepare to be holy. If you desire to benefit from this visitation, you must be holy. If you want your enemies to submit to you,

you must be holy to be able to receive from the Almighty God the power to subdue your enemies. If your case is disappointment and lack of promotion, and you want to experience favour, you must prepare to be holy in all manner of conversation in order to be allowed in His presence. The qualification to be at His presence is that you must be holy. You must form your character in accordance with His. You will regard what He regards and learn to practise freely what He is supposed to approve.

If you are a pertinacious sinner and you are looking for mercy, you must sanctify yourself like King David and ready to do restitution like Zacchaeus who climbed the Sycamore tree in order to see Jesus and did restitution when he met Him. Heb. 12: 14 says, “Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord”.

No soul can be fit for heaven or God’s presence that has not suitable dispositions for His presence. God is the embodiment of peace, so without making peace with your neighbour, you cannot see Him. He that hates his brother is a murderer and no murder can see God or expect any good thing from Him. So you must follow peace through all places, trace it through all winding circumstances and have it with all men with a good conscience. You must detach yourself from the world and all its lusts. Without such detachment and sanctity, no man shall enjoy His presence in the world of blessedness. God is pure and only

the pure in heart shall see Him. Matt. 5: 8 says, “Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God”.

Those whose souls are not delivered from all sin, through the blood of the covenant, can have no Scriptural hope of ever being with God or receive from God except they repent. Those whose minds, motives, and principles are pure, who seek not only to have the external actions corrected, but who desire to be holy in heart shall see God. It will be a miserably mistake for one to expect to see God here or in the world to come if he refuses to repent.

Still on what should be our preparation? Exodus 19: 10-11 says, “And the LORD said unto Moses, Go unto the people, and sanctify them today and tomorrow, and let them wash their clothes, 11 And be ready against the third day: for the third day the LORD will come down in the sight of all the people upon mount Sinai”.

In the days of Moses, whenever God proposed to visit the children of Israel, He must direct Moses to sanctify them to conform to His nature of holiness. This is because without holiness, no eye shall see the Lord. Moses accordingly would cause them to cleanse and prepare themselves. The outward washing of clothes commanded was a sign of the inward cleansing of the heart from sin, which God required of every one. During those Bible days, two things particularly were prescribed as instances of their preparation.

First, in token of cleansing of themselves from all sinful pollutions, they must wash their clothes. Not that God regards their clothes, but while they were washing their clothes, He would have them think of washing their souls by repentance. It behooves us to appear in clean clothes when we wait upon great men; so clean hearts are required in our attendance when preparing for the coming of our God. Secondly, in token of their devoting themselves entirely to spiritual exercises like evangelism, fasting and prayers upon this occasion, they must abstain even from lawful enjoyments during these two days, and not even come near to their wives. In so doing, the Lord visited as He promised and blessed them.

If you are barren, prepare to be fruitful in this visitation. He has given us promises to encourage us to prepare, we must therefore prepare to meet Him. He said, “Come unto me, all ye that laCONTINUED ON PAGE 41

PASSION Sunday June 15, 2014

A Lifestyle Magazine

Applause Though worth $2.9bn, Oprah Winfrey enjoys the little things of life >>27

Dude Style Blakemon: I express myself the way I dress >>29

‘I don’t feel comfortable in style that shows my boobs’ >>26

25

26

Passion

Sunday, June 15, 2014

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

‘I don’t feel comfortable in style that shows my boobs’ Linda Francis is the CEO, Q8 Media Limited. This actress, who is the last child and only girl in her family, holds a degree in Theatre Arts from the University of Lagos. She unveils her lifestyle and how she came into acting in this interview with Adaeze Amos.

How did you become an actor?

I first started with the famous TV soap opera called Shallow Waters which was produced and directed by Tope Idowu. Then I went ahead to participate in the TV reality show called AMBO and was the last girl standing. That exposed me to more TV series like ‘Living for Tomorrow’, ‘Us’, ‘Friends’, ‘Yours Faithfully’ and ‘GRA Women’.

Is it only soap operas that you had featured in?

No, I also featured in movies such as ‘Golden Jewel’ with Clarion Chukwurah, ‘Caught in the Middle’ with Richard Mofe-Damijo and Dakore. Those are the few I can remember now.

My mum didn’t spare the rod at all. I was flogged very well then (laughs). So, I’m not spoilt. I had a great childhood with my mum and I became very close to her because when my brothers went to school, two of us would remain at home. We are so close now that we wear same things most times. My childhood was humble because my mum and Lord Jesus did all the work in bringing me up.

What

Aside from acting, what other things do you do?

Apart from acting, I’m into events planning, advertising, making calendars for companies, corporate gift items and concept development. I run an event company called Q8 Media Limited. It is an advertising event solution company driven by the desire to design and deliver world class events, constantly creating platforms that seek a balance. Not only providing entertainment but also delivering palpable value. We are about to go into movie production very soon.

What exactly does fashion mean to you?

Fashion means comfort and a little bit of spice, knowing your body type and sticking with things that suit your body structure. I always wear things that complement my body structure and give me comfort. Because I’m comfortable with myself, I exude happiness which stands me out. I always try to dress for the occasion, not to be over-dressed or under-dressed.

Where do you think some Nigerian ladies are getting it wrong in fashion?

I think some of them get it wrong in fashion when they don’t wear things that fit their body.

They just dress because it is in vogue and not because it fits them. Most Nigerian women are always over-dressed and too loud in their dress sense. I believe in simplicity. It speaks volumes.

Another thing I would like to chip in here is that our women should be modest in their dressing. Exposure is not sexy.

What is that fashion item you won’t be seen in?

No matter the craze for boobs flaunting or revealing, I won’t feel comfortable in it. I don’t feel okay in any fashion that has to show my boobs.

But what part of you wouldn’t you mind flaunting?

I don’t mind flaunting my legs.

As the only girl in your family, were you not pampered and spoilt?

I was never pampered. My mum was very strict.

The Bible says spare the rod and spoil the child.

makes you happy as a woman?

What makes me happy as a woman is being able to make heads turn.

When do you think wedding bells would toll for you? And what are the qualities of your ideal man?

Wedding bells would toll when it is God’s time. My ideal man has to be Godfearing, benevolent and possess the ability to make me laugh at all times.

What is your impression about our country, now going through trying times?

Insurgency would come to an end. This has been my regular prayer. God has plans for our nation.

She has a date with change and it would be a fresh change. I will fulfil my purpose here, in our country.

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Sunday, June 15, 2014

Applause

Though worth $2.9bn, Oprah Winfrey enjoys the little things of life

S

he may be a media mogul with a estimated net worth of about $2.9billion, but Oprah Winfrey seems to enjoy the little things in life.

The 60-year-old former talk show host is on the latest cover of O, The Oprah Magazine and in it she admits she is already thinking about the feast she will have to celebrate the American holiday Independence Day. In the ‘Upgrade your life!’ theme issue Oprah said: ‘Fourth of July is always a fun day because it’s a big decision: will I do a cheeseburger, a veggie burger or a hot dog?’

Last July, Oprah made light of her plight as she a picture onto Instagram of herself holding two burgers: one vegetarian and the other beef.

She captioned the image: ‘Moo or veggie? Happy 4th! We love the U.S.A.’ In the magazine the media mogul also touches on more serious topics including books she is excited about and how she upgrades her life.

As she topped Forbes list of ‘most powerful celebrities’ last year, its hard to imagine how she can even think of upgrading her life but she said she does it every way she can.

Oprah said: ‘Every Oprah Show I ever taped, every magazine article I published, every Lifeclass and Super Soul Sunday I’ve done – they all originated with the intention to upgrade.’

Despite already being successful she explained: ‘Don’t get me wrong: I feel blessed to have the life I’m living. Several times a day I look around in awe of how someone like me, born in apartheid Mississippi, got to where I am. It’s still a wonder to me.’

On the cover of the publication, The Color Purple star dons a summery ensemble featuring a patterned maxi skirt, yellow long-sleeved top, and orange Tory Burch sandals.

She accessorised the look with a fedora with a yellow band over her curly locks and a pair of dangling white earrings.

Though she seemed to be quite cheery for the pictorial, her next project will have a much darker tone as she has signed up to take the role of freedom fighter Annie Lee Cooper in Selma.

The movie will focus on Martin Luther King’s civil rights movement, The Wrap reports.

Oprah is producing the movie along with Brad Pitt and filming has already started in Atlanta.

She recently recieved rave reviews for her role as Gloria Gaines in last year’s Lee Daniels’ The Butler.

Source: Daily Mail

27

28

& Faces Events

Celebrity

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

June 15, 2014

2Face, Tiwa Savage, others light up Star Music Trek finale Comic duo, Gbenga Adeyinka and Laff Up, hosted the over eight-hour event and they lived up to prime billing as they effortlessly entertained the eager audience with their eclectic styles.

Pop legend, 2Face Idibia, gave Lagos fans an unforgettable experience from his royal entrance to the phenomenal live performance of his hit singles including ‘True Love’, ‘Nfana Ibaga’, ‘If Love Is A Crime’, ‘African Queen’, among others. His duet with gyration master now lawmaker, Hon. Tony One Week on ‘Ife Di Nma’ had the audience wild with excitement.

Star Music Trek 2104 only female headliner, Tiwa Savage, made another grand entrance on a power bike to the amazement of thousands of music enthusiasts.

Mr Mayd

Mr Mayd 2Face and Tony One Week

2Face Entrance

Harrysong

Kcee and Marvelous Ozorochi

Kcee’s dancing competition

L-R: Laff Up, 2Face and Gbenga Adeyinka

Phyno and Olamide

Phyno

Sean Tizzle

Tina Savage dancing with her group

Tiwa Savage and Traffic

Tiwa Savage greeting her fans

L-R: Tiwa Savage, Reekado Banks, korede Bell

Tiwa’s stage entrance

ADAEZE AMOS

S

tar Music Trek’s 10 weeks, 10-city pan-Nigeria concert has ended on a spectacular note with super star artistes, 2Face,Tiwa Savage, Olamide, Phyno, and many others in attendance.

The grand finale which held at Eagles Club, Surulere, Lagos saw some of Nigeria’s best artistes such as Wande Coal, Kcee, Harrysong, Sean Tizzle and May D mounting the stage for the final time this year and thrilling thousands of music fans who thronged the venue to watch scintillating performances from their favourite stars.

Kcee grooving

Olamide

Wande Coal

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

29

Sunday, June 15, 2014

Dude Style Blakemon: I express myself the way I dress Mosope Adebayo, aka Blakemon, is a talented musician who has set out to cut a niche for himself in an industry loaded with superstars. He runs through the mills as a complete entertainer, rugged buff, full of derring-do in all departments of music, arts and dance. He speaks with Victor Udoh. Excerpts: Can you tell us more about yourself?

My name is Mosope Adebayo, alias Blakemon. I am a recording artiste, songwriter and performer. My genre of music is R&B, with a fusion of African contemporary sounds. I hail from Ijebu North in Ogun State though I live in Lagos. I hold a bachelor’s degree in Economics from Lagos State University, LASU. How did you become a musician?

It started basically as a hobby when I was in secondary school. I used to mime other people’s songs at social nights. After schooling in 2000, I couldn’t go to the university in the next two years. That was when I started mastering the art of music; learning how to discover my own sounds and interest. I started writing my songs and improving on my hobby. Indeed, I started music professionally in 2002 when I began going to the studio to record my own songs.

How can you describe yourself?

I will say that I am a simple person to a fault. I am very calm, reserved and focused. I try to be good and effective in all that I do. I am a go-getter. I love chalfocu lenges and I try to motivate the people around me. My mode of dressing is very leng important to me because I like to be addressed appropriately. I tend to express imp myself the way I dress. I like to be simple and classy. I love tee-shirts, jeans and mys sleek foot-wears. I also like to wear native attires, and sometimes corporate wears. slee like wristwatches, bracelets and my dark eye glasses.

I lik Have you been embarrassed on stage before?

Hav Every artiste has his bad or good moments. I have been embarrassed on stage E before. Normally, I always go to events with a back-up plan. I usually go to shows befo with more than one CD. Thus, if the DJ has a problem with one, he can use the other. But on this particular day, I did not go prepared, so right there on stage, othe with the microphone on, my CD refused to play. The crowd became impatient and started booing me. It was a crazy experience. I had to brace up so as not to break star down on stage. I left the stage. This was a long time ago. I can say that I have outdow grown the experience. grow What is that thing you can’t be caught wearing?

Wha I don’t like studs (earrings) and tattoos. I also don’t fancy big and lousy necklaces/dog chains, no matter how many carats of gold or even diamonds. I don’t lace like to sag on my jeans.

Who is your mentor?

I can’t say I really have a mentor; but I know that I tap on a lot of people, especially the successful. In music, for example, we have a lot of successful models to ciall emulate to evolve the best on my own brand and style. I tap on the originality in emu the sound of 2face Idibia, coordination and class of P-Square, business sense of P-Square, Dbanj; the class and purpose of Banky W and Dbanj. I tap from here P-Sq and there because everybody has their unique style of music. Although no music unique, identity can be. I gather all these to make my own sound and create my is un brand. bran Where do you see yourself in the next five years?

I see myself as successful and a ‘major’ in the next five years. By the grace of God, my brand, Blakemon, will be known and acknowledged all over the world. I pray that my record company ‘Bigg Bimmy Ent.’ will not just be one of the major labels in Africa, but in the world at large. In five years, my second or even third album should be in the market, and doing well. I expect many endorsements from professional and business establishments, awards and recognitions for my music and brand. I have a lot of dreams and goals I intend to achieve. God keeping my life, I see myself achieving them within and after five years.

What’s your philosophy of life?

My philosophy is very simple. I believe there is God and that my destiny is in my hands. I do all that I can, and leave the rest for God to take charge. I open my mind to opportunities and go for them. I give out without expecting anything in return, but for God’s sake. This life is only for a while, so all I can do is to make a lasting impact on people around me.

30

&

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Weddings Engagements CELEBRATING THE JOY IN MARITAL BLISS JUNE 15, 2014

You have a story to tell us about your wedding/engagement, or your new born baby.

You can call this line 08062704002

Toju and Dami: Celebrating love that dates to dormitory

T

oju and Dami’s love story started right from the University of Lagos. Toju who was in her second year in the university just moved into a private hostel. Unfortunately, her roommate was not around when she was to move in, so she was left stranded and this was when Dami came to her rescue. Dami who lived in the male wing of the hostel, offered her his mattress for the night. Initially, Toju was hesitant to accept the nice gesture, as she said she never knew him before that day.

After that incident, they grad-

ually became close and overtime, their relationship blossomed.

The rest is now history.

Speaking about their proposal, the groom explained that he was on official duties to Nigeria from the United Kingdom, but had to tarry awhile to pay attention to love. This decision thus calibrated in his having to make the stylish proposal of ‘close your eyes, open them…’ And then, a wedding ring offer. They had a lovely proposal at the Oriental Hotel in Lekki, Lagos.

On the day of their wedding which was held at the House on

the Rock Cathedral, Lekki, it was very colourful and lovely, as the bride wore a lovely white lace mermaid dress while her groom wore a blue suit with pink tie. The reception was held at the Havilah Events Centre in Victoria Island, Lagos. It was also lovely as the setting was dimly decorated to show baby-pink colour. The bride later changed into a beautiful pink sequin dress while her groom changed into a deep navel blue suit. The joy of the couple was quite infectious as they danced and showed how much they were in love.

BABIES OF THE WEEK

B

aby Ayomikun was born recently at Ogo Oluwa Hospital in Abeokuta, Ogun State. Despite having some complications after birth, she was declared fit to leave the Hospital days later. Her elated mother who spoke to Sunday Mirror said initially she was scared when she was told she and her baby would have to remain in the hospital.

She was however glad when she was told that her baby had fully recovered and was healthy enough to be discharged, a few days after.

Mrs. Idowu, a trader, described her pregnancy period as not stressful.

This, she attributed to the nature of her job. According to her, her job entails that she is constantly

A groom’s confession: I’m shy, unlike my wife

T

olulope Adanne and Toluwani Ajose got married recently, amid pomp. Their wedding took place at the Catholic Church of St. Jude in Ajah, Lagos. The couple who spoke to Sunday Mirror, said they met while at the National Orientation Camp in 2010.

According to the groom, when he saw his bride, Tolulope, he was not keen on having conversation with her or anyone at all. The reason for this is because he was not happy at being posted to the East, as he had wanted to remain in Lagos State for his service year.

Asked what changed his perception, he said when he heard that the lady who would be his wife also bears the same name as his, he then picked interest in the youth corps service posting as he was already falling in love with her.

The groom described his wife as an easy person who can blend with any situation, fast. According to him, ‘’one of the reasons I decided

I wanted this woman in my life, was because she can easily adapt to any environment whatsoever.

And that for me is good, because I am the shy type. So it complements me that my wife is not shy at all.’’

The bride, who looked stunning and radiant in her flowing

gown, described her husband as very funny and caring and said it was his gentle sense of humour that attracted him to her.

The reception was held at the Ruby Place in Lekki, Lagos and friends and family members were there to grace the event with lovely aso ebi embroidery.

moving from one place to the other, which means she is always active and she believes this was good for her.

Speaking on what she enjoyed doing and eating during pregnancy, she said she enjoyed eating rice and fish a lot. She also enjoyed when she is not sitting in a place, because she noticed anytime she is in a place, her legs starts swelling. Mrs. Idowu described her baby as gentle; this is because she hardly cries except she is hungry. Speaking on the choice of name, she said it was the decision sher and her husband jointly took and that Ayomikun means ‘My Joy is full’. Mrs. Idowu said she and her husband wished that their daughter become someone important in future.

T

he family of Barrister and Mrs. Okoro of 14, Temitope Abu Close in Ketu, Lagos on Sunday June 1, 2014 welcomed their daughter whom they named Elizabeth Chidinma Okoro. Sunday Mirror which was there at the christening of baby Elizabeth spoke to the excited mother about her baby and pregnancy period.

Speaking about her pregnancy period, Mrs. Okoro told Sunday Mirror that it was a smooth and easy process for her. The body change she experienced was mainly swollen feet and this prevented her from wearing certain shoes.

She also said she reacted to oily foods and had to stay of any type of food that had lots of oil.

Mrs. Okoro said the only thing she didn’t like was that she normally felt uncomfortable sleeping at night, especially during her last trimester.

Speaking about her daughter, Mrs. Okoro described her as ‘handful’; this is because she

always keeps her mother busy.

According to her, ‘I am always doing one thing or the other. Either I am feeding her, or changing her pampers or even trying to pet her whiles she cries.’’

Baby Elizabeth was born at Tam West Memorial Hospital in Ketu and weighed 3.39KG at birth.

31

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

What to wear …to movie academy awards JUNE 15, 2014

ADAEZE AMOS

I

t is indeed good to be current with fashion so as to know what is in vogue. Being aware of this; you won’t be caught committing style blunder. If you have a glamorous award ceremony to attend, and have been cracking your brain on what to wear to stand out, check out what actress Ivie Okujaiye wore to the African Movie Academy Awards that took place recently. Ivie is also a movie producer, scriptwriter, dancer and singer. This winner of Amstel Malta Box Office, a reality TV show, looked stunning on that occasion.

If you want to blend it with red, it isn’t bad too.

32

Perfect Perf fect C Cut ut

Sunday, June 15, 2014

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Enliven your style with white dress and red accessories ADAEZE AMOS hen you are in a dull mood, you can enliven your sprit by wearing two bright colours.

Therefore, revamp your poise by dressing in colours that would get you noticed in any gathering. We’ll try white and red this week white dress and red accessories.

There is something special about a white dress – it’s pristine and sassy. It fits all complexions. Join the bandwagon of ladies who treat these two bright colours as special.

Don’t forget that white stands for sanity and red symbolises love. Try these colours and stand out. But remember to pay adequate attention to those mundane things: your fingernails and lipstick.

W

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Sunday, June 15, 2014

Perfect Cut

33

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

34

African Look JUNE 15, 2014

Native print dresses, dominant in fashion runways ADAEZE AMOS

I

n today’s fashion shows and exhibitions, scarcely would you see styles that are not made from African prints. This goes to show that these native cotton fabrics are versatile for all styles you can think of. Amazingly, Nigerian fashion designers are churning out hot styles using these home-made fabrics. Now, take a look at this simple yellow bohemian African print dress that this model is rocking on the runway. Cute is the right word!

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

35

Sunday, June 15, 2014

Pregnancy Talk

Naughtiest Thing

with

The naughtiest thing I’ve ever done

Adaeze Amos

Odey Ajiri

08023012293 (SMS ONLY)

‘Good to eat cooked carrots when pregnant’

T

he nutritional food value of carrots changes depending on whether you serve them cooked or raw. While raw carrots provide you with many of the same antioxidants found in cooked ones, there is one major difference. Studies have found that cooked carrots actually contain more of the antioxidants than raw ones. This is because cooking carrots releases these antioxidants.

However, it’s important to remember that carrots in any regard are known to contain powerful antioxidants and, in many cases, raw carrots are given to young children as a substitute for snacks that are high in sugar. They can also be used in your diet as a convenient snack that can be cleaned and eaten almost immediately. So while cooking carrots may be slightly better for you, the convenience of raw ones is what makes them a great addition to your diet.

Vitamins: Regardless of how you eat carrots, they provide the essential vitamins and nutrients that are necessary for your body to function properly, especially when you are pregnant.

Here are some of the key vitamins and nutrients that come from raw carrots: Its health benefits Because of all the vitamins and nutrients contained in carrots, your body will benefit from eating more of them. For starters, carrots contain pro-vitamin A carotenes, and they are the greatest vegetable source. The powerful antioxidants found in carrots help protect your body from cardiovascular disease, as well as cancer, and they’re also great for helping your vision due to the high levels of beta-carotene

(which is converted to vitamin A within your body). As a result of the increased levels of vitamin A, carrots can also help prevent postmenopausal breast cancer and also protects your body from other forms of cancer in the bladder, colon, larynx and prostate. They can even cut your risk of lung cancer by up to 50 per cent.

Aside from doing these, carrots help in some of the body’s basic functions too. For instance, they aid to regulate the blood sugar in your body. They also help those who may be deficient in vitamin A because of the carcinogens found in cigarettes. Overall, carrots provide your body with the necessary amount of vitamin A to function fully.

Adding it to your diet: Just one carrot every day could help to keep you healthier than ever before. When purchasing them, you should look for those that are firm and bright orange. These are guaranteed to contain all the vitamins and nutrients you’ll need to get the biggest benefits from eating them. Carrots also typically stay fresh for much longer than other vegetables. There are also a variety of ways to prepare and serve them.

Though you should look for healthy dips, carrots are great addition to any dip platter and also work well within a salad. Try adding more carrots to your diet to increase the amount of vitamin A you have in your body. It’s a simple addition that could help you live longer.

Its juice is a nutritious beverage that offers a variety of health benefits. It is rich in vitamin A. Now that you are heavy is when you need all the vitamins you can think of to be healthy and strong for the day you would be asked to PUSH!

T

‘I hid meat in my trouser’

he naughtiest thing I have ever done still makes me laugh. I still wonder why I should be that naughty. When I remember that it was poverty that made me do what I did, I try not to blame myself much.

However, it happened in 2001 when I was in JSS 1 in secondary school. On that day, the school had a special visitor who came to see how the students were faring.

The visitor was the Commissioner of Education. I was the one the school authority chose to sit on the high table with the commissioner as the representative of students. Maybe, I was chosen because I was always very clean. You can never see any dirt on my school uniform.

When the honourable commissioner spoke to us, we all listened gladly, especially when we noticed there would be some refreshment immediately after his career talk.

He even advised us to desist from being naughty. He sounded as if he knew what I was going to do some minutes after his talk.

During the time for refreshment, I was happy. All the students, yours sincerely inclusive, were served a plate of well prepared and garnished rice with a full chicken lap on it.

I was astonished because, in my family, I hadn’t eaten that type of meal before. I came from a poor home; the chicken lap in my plate of rice alone could be used to cook a pot of soup for the whole family.

I couldn’t eat it all at once. I needed to prove to my siblings at home that I was served a full chicken lap.

When the activities were going on and no one was watching me, I put the chicken lap right inside my trouser pocket. When I stood up to go, the chicken lap had left some stains on my trouser. But I didn’t mind.

That was one naughty thing that I did which I would never forget.

Odey Ajiri Princewill is a comedian –ADAEZE AMOS

36

Sunday, June 15, 2014

T

alking with Yemisi SEX Adeniran

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Heart-throb

...Find your soul mate here

Send text only to 08023012293

In need of a serious relationship/marriage I’m Adeyemi, 23 years old, dark and pretty. I need a guy of any age to love and care for me. And if it is God’s wish, we could get married –07052829584.

I’m Gabriel, 42 years old, 5.8 ft tall, a Christian, dark-complexioned and I live in Magboro, Ogun State. I need a single Yoruba lady, between 23 and 40 years old, preferably a nurse or fashion designer, for a romantic relationship that would lead to marriage –09095346133.

I’m Louise, 27 and a graduate from ABU, Zaria. I’m from Benue State but live in Abuja. I need a lady who is God-fearing and it reflects in her lifestyle. She has to be ready for serious and committed relationship –08098904380.

I’m Kunle, 43 years old, living in Ibadan, Oyo State. I want a romantic relationship with a lady who is between 42 and 50 years old. She should be living in Lagos or Ibadan –08050709034.

My name is Paul, 50 years of age, a businessman from Akwa Ibom State. I need a lady, between 25 and 40 years old, for marriage –07030809667.

I’m Oyinloye, plump and fabulously sexy. I need a rich man, between 50 and above; could be a sugar daddy, I wouldn’t mind. He must be living in Lagos –08146466215.

I’m Dennis by name and I’m 25 years old. I live in Abuja and I’m working. I need a lady, between 20 and 23 years old, for a serious relationship that could lead to marriage –09030465717.

Models

A tour of woman’s major erogenous zones

E

rogenous zone is the name given to the areas of the body that are very sensitive to sensual touch. The zones are described as parts of the body where you have a concentration of nerve endings, such that when given a sensual touch, the woman, like the man, gets some sweet sexual feeling. Although there are other areas, most men know just one or two; majorly, they know of the woman’s breasts and her clit.

I’m not looking at those two areas mentioned above.

Rather, the focus today is on the zones, otherwise described generally as secondary erogenous zones. The reason for the focus on this is the role they play in the game of sex. They are very key to having real fun and therefore cannot be overlooked.

However, let me say that the fact that those particular parts of the body appear very sensitive to one person does not mean that they do to another. But to a great extent, there are some areas that are certainly common to majority in terms of the feeling they give when they are touched. So, to give your woman that sweet feeling before sex, you cannot afford to ignore these zones.

Lips: Even the uninitiated would tell you that the lips are very sensitive to touch. Apart from kissing the lips, you can lightly brush your partner’s with your own and make her to open them wider. From that end, you can go on by licking her upper and lower lips until she allows you to go further and explore more.

Wrist: The inner side of the wrist gives you an opportunity to excite your woman. With the sensitivity of the layer of skin in that area of the body, you are bound turn her on. You may gently nibble on the inside of the wrist and cause her to be excited.

Neck : The nape of the neck is very sensitive. Because the skin around the area is very tender, it can be easily stimulated. Kissing the back of the neck or licking it with the tip of your tongue will certainly do some magic. The touch has to be very light for you to achieve the kind of sensation you desire. You could also massage the area in readiness for lovemaking.

Feet: Not many people consider the feet as very sensitive. However, it has been proved that a light stroke

on the ankles can make a woman feel quite excited. It can be particularly pleasurable when you trace the contour of her leg with your finger. It would also not be a bad idea to carry out some massaging. You may need a light aromatic oil to use gently in order to moderate pressure to mould her feet till she purrs with pleasure.

Knees: With the amount of nerve endings at the back of a woman’s knees, she is bound to be very sensitive to touch in that area. Caress the back of her knees and lick the area with the tip of your tongue. You can even nibble it lightly.

Inner thighs: The inner thighs would send a woman exceedingly excited with pleasure any day. It is an area which needs to be concentrated upon during foreplay.

You can do this with your finger tips or the edge of your tongue. If well done, you would leave the woman shivering with excitement in wait for the next action.

Butt: This is considered to be one of the most erogenous zones in the body of the woman. You could caress or fondle them. Because of the denser muscle mass in the area, some pressure could cause some excitement. You are bound to turn your babe on if you do the needful.

Breasts: This is probably the clearly obvious area in a woman’s body that any man would bet could make her squirm with excitement if well touched. To achieve the desired result, you must resist the temptation to go for the nipples, which can be very attractive. Stroke or caress down the collarbone or upwards from the ribs. Using semi circular stokes in the same direction as you go nearer the breasts will do wonders. While gently squeezing and fondling the breasts with your hands, you should lick the nipples with your tongue. You could also nibble on the nipples and watch her shiver with pleasure.

With the fore-going, it is important to take your time to discover your woman’s most sensitive parts and capitalize on it. On the other hand, partners should also go the extra mile to guide each other through their sensitive zones. Don’t forget that not everyone responds to touch in all the parts of the erogenous zones the same way. You would be adequately guided by the response of your woman as you explore the different parts of her body. So, go ahead and explore.

Sunday is my name, dark in complexion, 35 years old and 6ft tall. I’m a civil servant from Ondo State. I require a God-fearing lady, between 25 and 32years old. She has to be a working-class lady from any part of the world –07031151927.

My name is Agbamue Samson, 27 years old and I’m a working class-man. I need a sugar mummy that is between 30 and 40 years of age –08061540752.

I’m Michael, a graduate and I’m gentle. I need a romantic, mature and understanding lady for serious relationship. She has to be sexy, caring and a loving sugar mummy –09037415634.

Gabby is my name, 45 years old, a media officer in Makurdi, Benue State. I need a mature lady of 55 years and above for companionship –08178717095.

My name is Joy, 30 years old, and I need a God-fearing man for serious relationship that could lead to for marriage. I’m in my final year in the university and I’m a businesswoman from Benue State –08123493530.

My name is Bolaji, 23 years old, from Akure in Ondo State. I’m in need of a mature and intelligent lady to date and share ideas with –07064337898.

I’m Sam, 35 years old, tall, fair and good-looking. I live in Lagos. I need a supportive and caring woman of 45 to 50 years of age for a serious relationship –07042692768.

Bimpe is my name, 42-year-old mother of one who seeks a husband. He has to be a bachelor and a serious man who is ready to settle down –08099384270.

Taiwo is my name. I’m a 29 year-old graduate. I live in lbadan, Oyo State and I need a responsible and God-fearing man of 31 years old above for a serious relationship –08090810838.

My name is Luxury, a medical doctor. I’m 28 years old from Nnewi, Anambra State but I live in Enugu, Enugu State. I need a good Chrisstian for wife –07034617994.

Sony is my name, 25years old. I’m an Electronics Electrical Engineer in Enugu, Enugu State. I need a sexy, busty, pretty woman for marriage –08039463255.

I’m Sony Texas, I’m simply irresistible guy that is living in Enugu. I need an extremely pretty woman to love and care for –08030887308.

I am Mido by name, 27 years old, living in Lagos. I’m working and also going to school. I need a sexy, rich woman between 25 and 40 years old to take care of me –07088574530.

I am Opeyemi Abeeb, 28 years old, living in Kubuwa, Abuja. I require a lady, between 18 and 25 years of age, for a relationship –08163150040.

Chris is my name, 32 years old, fair in complexion, a graduate living in Akure; I am sexy and caring. I need a divorced woman for serious relationship –08105047616.

I am Femi from Ondo State, 33 years old, strong and caring. I want a sexy Yoruba lady of any age for a serious relationship that will lead to marriage –09091784925.

My name is Chinedu, 33 years old, 6ft tall, single and livingin Lagos.

I need a serious relationship with an understanding Christian and humble lady, between 29 and 40 years old –07036074537.

Uche is my name, a businessman in Enugu State. I need a lady for marriage –08028922937.

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Celebrity

Sunday, June 15, 2014

Day top artistes graced Grandmaster Show VICTOR UDOH

I

t was an evening of fun, dance and music recently as Comedy Plus Magazine anchored The Grandmaster Show. The event which took place at Shell Hall, Muson Centre, Lagos saw top entertainers such as Seyilaw, Koffi Nuel, YQ, Princewill, Cornel Udofia, Mc Ayanfe, Seyi Ewi, Pencil, Danny B, Laff Doctor, Jimboi among others, making the event thick.

Bamstey

DJ Femmedy of City FM

Jimboi

Seun (left) and Princewill

Laff Doctor

Seun (left) and Danni B

Alablaze dance crew

Dflex (left) and Richie young

Dr Nell (left) and Pencil

Femi Edward (left) and Koffi Nuel

Seun (left) and Base 1

Seun (left) and Seyilaw

Seun (left) and YQ

Princewill

Seun (middle) and Ablaze dance group

Seyi Law

Seyi law (left) and Femi Edward.

YQ Live on stage

37

38

Sunday, June 15, 2014

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

& ovies M usic M Edited by Adaeze Amos 08023012293 e-mail: adaezeamos@gmail.com

My music can appeal to everyone irrespective of age –Charles Granville Charles Granville is a top gospel artiste who is making waves in music. An Electrical Engineer by profession, he says he took to secular music because of passion. In this interview with Victor Udoh, he speaks about his music and lifestyle.

Why did you take to music having studied Electrical Engineering?

I wanted to be a doctor and I had the brains for it too.

But I also later discovered that I had the talents for entertainment. I told my mum that I wanted to study Theatre Arts but she would not let me. I ended up studying Electrical Engineering and how that happened is still a mystery to me till date. Music is my first love.

What were the challenges you faced?

I had financial challenges when I started but I decided to take a regular job rather than wait for money. That way, I was able to fund my dream. I also had challenges with finding the right team because I was doing all the work alone. I wasn’t afraid to trust people with some responsibilities even though a few of them just took money without delivering. All in all, I’ve learnt from all the challenges I have had in life.

Why did you choose gospel music?

It is because of the less lucrative nature of our genre of music. However, in my case I’m not in music for money. I won’t mind being paid N10 million for every appearance but not at the cost of ruining souls. Message and lyrics are important because music is food for the soul. I feel sad when I see children singing and dancing to it and the seductive moves they make. Let’s not forget that we are mentors to the next generation and when we shoot videos where naked girls dance seductively, we give them bad examples in life. For me, it’s not about money, it’s about morals; making good quality gospel music and videos that can equally entertain, educate and enrich people’s souls. I have longed to use my talent to praise and glorify God who has blessed me abundantly. That is what I’m doing.

What makes your music unique in the industry?

I do new school gospel music that can appeal to everyone irrespective of age and tribe. My music cuts across religion. I have a lot of Muslim fans as well and I appreciate them. My music is fun, entertaining and life-changing What really motivates you in life?

God, the creator of heaven and earth, motivates me! In fact, God brought me from nothing to something. I’m also motivated by success. Also, for the fact that my music has helped many people all over the world go through struggles is a motivating factor for me.

How did you carve a niche for yourself in the industry?

I have been told repeatedly that I’m the most stylish artiste in Nigeria, and I believe them. My style is simple. I try

to keep it simple but ensure that I maintain a certain level of class. I enjoy the respect I draw from other artistes, both secular and gospel because as much as I’m available, I always try my best to support everyone’s dream. I am always there for them whenever they need me. I’ve read a couple of media reviews where I was said to be one of those with the best voice in the country. I’m grateful to God for all these positive comments. But I must say that I work hard enough. I combine many responsibilities as an engineer, musician, song writer and peace/tourism ambassador.

How do you see the future of gospel music in Nigeria?

I think it is growing. A few of us are working hard to change the face of gospel music. Also, with people like Kefee, Frank Edwards, Nikki Laoye, Anny, Henrisoul, Pita and some others who try to release world-class songs with great videos. People like Dj Gosporella, Kingsley OMoefe, X2D, Club X, Bola Mogaji and so on are working behind the scene to help make the industry grow. There is hope in Nigeria gospel music!

How was your growing up?

Not so good. I was raised by a single mother with three other brothers. She did her best; I love and appreciate all she did and still does for me. Sometimes, I wished I had a father figure in my life but God has been playing that role.

Do you see any of your colleagues as rival?

I’m not in competition with anyone. Of course, I respect the works of my colleagues and I’ve mentioned a few of them. Their works encourage me to do more and I know we watch one another and work to maintain the standard.

I always try to do better than my last achievement.

What new thing are you coming up with?

I’m working with ID Cabasa and PHilkeys on new songs. I’m also working on a Nollywood music project and some music for movie soundtracks.

I was recently informed that I would be receiving ‘Career Motivation Award’ on Nelson Mandela day by Art Kingdom International. They have also invited me to join their team and you will hear more about that soon.

How do you handle your female fans?

I love and appreciate them! There are a lot of haters out there so if people love you, you should not treat them like pests. You should love them back, but make them understand and respect boundaries.

Does your family support your career?

Of course they do! My biggest fan is my mother and my family always listens to all my songs before I release them.

I call my kid brother the litmus. He must approve a song before I even allow others hear it. If he feels it, I know it is good enough. I love them all! My friends are mostly from the entertainment industry and one way or the other, they support me too. I love them all!

Some artistes are known to be extravagant, what’s about you?

Not really, I’m not very good at managing my resources though. But I don’t think I’m extravagant. I spend more on my brand, family and charity than on myself.

What inspired the name Granville?

I don’t know! I was born with the name. It is actually my surname. I know many people think otherwise, but my first name is Charles and surname is Granville; I’m proudly 9ja!

What is your definition of style?

That’s a bit tricky. A person’s personal style is roughly equivalent to his or her fashion sense. Some people are highly conscious of their style, which may be detailed and planned out, including certain brands, patterns, and designers. I simply have an emergent style, which I may not be able to articulate, but subconsciously use to select clothing. It’s not about what I wear, it’s how I carry myself that does the trick.

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

39

Sunday, June 15, 2014

How do you handle fame?

I don’t see myself as famous. As much as possible, I actually don’t like to be noticed. I can’t help it though. I can hardly walk into any place without being noticed even when I make conscious efforts to be invisible. I consider that as a blessing.

At times, I try to change my looks, lock my hair so as not to be recognised, but it still doesn’t work. Now, I’ve given up (laughs).

Marlon Wayans prays for Chibok girls at MAMA 2014

A

ward-winning comedian and host for the MTV Africa Music Awards 2014, Marlon Wayans gave a touching tribute on the Nigerian girls kidnapped in Chibok during the awards.

“This is for the young girls in Chibok, Nigeria who were kidnapped… my heart goes out to them and I pray they return home safely and in good health.” Wayans said before he got back into the order of the show.

Wayans who made a triumphant entry with a blinged rickshaw, gave guests an unforgettable experience with his hilarious jokes and comedy skits.

The event, which held at the International Conference Centre in Durban, South Africa recently saw Nigerian nominees take home six MAMA awards. Winners include Davido, Flavour, Tiwa Savage and Clarence Peters.

Performers for the night included Fally Ipupa, Michael Lowman, Dbanj, Don Jazzy, DJ Clock, Beatenberg, DJ Kent, Big Nuz, Toofan, DJ Vigi, DJ Tira, DJ Buckz, Burna Boy, Sauti Sol and Ice Prince.

Others are Sarkodie, The Arrows, Khuli Chana, Dr Sid, French Montana, Miguel, Trey Songz, Davido, Uhuru, Mafikizolo, Oskido, Professor, Tiwa Savage, Flavour, Diamond, Phyno and Yuri da Cunha.

–Adaeze Amos

What is the most remarkable thing that has ever happened to you?

Wow! I’d need a moment to think of this one. I would say finding God! Though some people would think that is cliché. The fact is that I was a lonely young boy who felt like life had nothing to offer until I found God, and my life changed. Not only do I have hope, I’ve given hope to many people as well.

What is your comment about Nigerian music?

Nigerian music is on another level!

Nigerians usually prefer things from outside. We wear foreign clothes, perfumes, hair, and so on even foreign food. We used to prefer foreign entertainment but now, because of the way we love our own local entertainment, it has become one of our biggest exports.

All Africans look to Nigeria for their entertainment and the music is leading, especially in quality. This should encourage other sectors of the economy not to cut corners in their products but release products that Nigerians will be proud to consume.

The industry has its challenges as I mentioned before but all in all, I am proud of our achievements.

…nominees give fans biggest road to Mama Concert in Lagos

A

host of MAMA nominees spoke about their hopes for the awards, and their career aspirations at a press conference held before the Road to MAMA party at The Marquee, Federal Palace Hotel. Hosted by MTV’s VJ, Ehiz, the event was attended by Alex Okosi, Senior Vice President of Viacom International Media Networks (VIMN) Africa, Phillip Sithole, CEO, Durban Tourism and Akintayo Akinseloyin, Brand Manager, Absolute Nigeria.

Also, MAMA nominees and performers included Tiwa Savage, Dr Sid, four-time MAMA 2014 nominee, Davido, Mafikizolo, Chidinma, KCee, Burna Boy among many others.

Exciting performances from some of Nigeria’s hottest acts like Davido, Chidinma, Olamide, Phyno, KCee, the Mavin crew featur-

ing Tiwa Savage, Dr Sid, Afrodija and Korede thrilled guests as they danced and partied into the night.

There was also a surprise performance from Dbanj who performed alongside Burna Boy as well as pulsating performances from the South African duo, Mafikizolo.

Featuring contemporary artistes and music that are making waves across the continent, Road to MAMA Nigeria criss-crossed the continent in the build up to the MAMA awards.

Previous editions have visited Durban, South Africa and Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Making sure that the evening’s proceedings went with a bang were star MTV Base “Mixology” DJs, DJ Humility and DJ Caise, and top turntablists DJ Spinall and DJ Obi. –Adaeze Amos

What is your most expensive and cherished asset?

I have a few of them but I have learnt a few lessons from cherishing assets.

They lessons are: do not buy anything you cannot immediately replace. Do not cherish any asset so much that you cannot do without it. However, my most expensive and cherished asset is my relationship because, that’s the only one I can’t replace nor do without.

What are your likes and dislikes?

I like the truth undiluted and I dislike lies and deceit. I like to see good things happen to good people including the deprived or less privileged. I hate to see people in need, deprived or oppressed.

I like to travel and visit new places.

Funny enough, when I do I confine myself to my hotel room because I’m an introvert and I’m beginning to hate that these days.

I like to see hard work resulting in success.

I hate to see anyone fail. I like to share a laugh among friends and sometimes I like to be alone. I don’t have a favourite meal but I’m sometimes adventurous with meals.

What is your life philosophy?

Everything in life has got its time and season. Work smart, build relationships, be loyal, respect all colleagues whether they are above or beneath you because no one knows tomorrow. Invest in yourself improvement, find a mentor and serve under him while learning the trade.

2Face makes royal entry at Star Music Trek finale

I

f there were doubts about his status as the African King of Pop, 2Face quelled them with his phenomenal entrance at the Star Music Trek 2014 stage for the grand finale, which held at Eagles Club Surulere,Lagos recently.

Dressed in shimmery royal regalia with a gold-studded crown on his head, he majestically walked onto stage amidst screams of excitement from fans to confirm his status as the king of African pop music.

He began by performing ‘Spiritual Healing’, thrilling fans with hit after hit including ‘True Love’, ‘Nfana Ibaga’, ‘If Love Is A

Crime’, ‘African Queen’ among others.

Multi-talented entertainer-turned lawmaker, Hon. Tony One Week, joined him on stage to give fans an electrifying gyration performance.

Their duet on ‘Ife Di Nma’ was well received by fans who sang along during the performance.

2Face capped the performance at Star Music Trek 2014 with ‘Iheneme’ to join his wife Annie who was waiting in the wings and cheering excitedly all through his performance.

–Adaeze Amos

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

40

Lessons of Life

ADAEZE AMOS Adanneamos@gmail.com 08023012293 (sms only)

TRUE LIFE STORY ON MATTERS OF THE HEART JUNE 15, 2014

‘Help, my second husband is impotent!’

We conclude Felicia’s captivating story started last week. Her mother now lives with her fifth husband because she has not been lucky in her marriage. Felicia detests this.

But with the happenings in her life, it appears a similar fate awaits her.

M

“

y problem is my marriage,” she said sadly. “I married Godwin who nearly battered me to death.

I tried all I could to stay in my first marriage and never to follow my mother’s footsteps, but to no avail.

“When Godwin started punching me, I had to flee at the right time for dear life.

Then Edwin, my second man who provided a shoulder to lean on came just at the right time. He accepted me the way I am, not minding that I already had a son, Ambrose, from my first marriage.

But my fear now is that he is impotent and I’m contemplating leaving him. But leaving him would take me back to what my mother did. It makes me sick to remember that the man in whose house my mother is putting up is her fifth husband. I feel ashamed to say this before my friends, but if I’m not careful, it would happen to me,” said Felicia angrily.

While Edwin and Felicia were dating, he never made love to her.

“I admired his self control not knowing that it was a ploy to cover up his weakness,” Felicia revealed.

They lived together for months before marriage and that was “when Rosa left and her cousin who came to live in the same apartment couldn’t accommodate me and my son. Edwin was there for me. Before I agreed to marry him even when he proposed, I told my mum that he hadn’t asked me for sex since six months I moved into his apartment. But my mum looked at me with disdain as if I was a prostitute that had been starved of sex for years.

“She didn’t understand the point I was trying to make. She only told me to ‘close your legs for once Felicia my child. Sex is not running away. At the right time you would have enough of it’.

“I laughed uncontrollably and she still persisted. ‘I never knew you had veracious appetite for sex. You used to mock me for marrying five husbands, as if you are a saint. If not for Ambrose your son, you would have claimed to be a Catholic virgin nun. So, don’t bother Edwin for it until he repays your bride price to that brute you call Godwin your first husband’. When I got tired of listening to her stories, I had to cut her short and left. Mama was good at stories just as her own mother, my granny in whose house Dorothy my elder sister accepted as a safe haven when her husband threw her out.”

When Felicia was eventually married, she discovered that Edwin was incapacitated somehow.

“That reminded me of what Doro-

Models

thy my elder sister said when I told her what I observed. After telling my mum about what I noticed concerning Edwin even before we got married, I went home to confide in my elder sister. The first thing she asked me was if he was an ardent Christian. When I told her no, she paused, looked at me and said ‘maybe he is having problem with his erection.

You never can tell. Most men who walk about in trouser with broad shoulders and husky voices are incapacitated when it comes to sex. Some are even impotent, unable to perform. But that shouldn’t deter you from marrying him; after all you already have a son from Godwin your first husband. Your condition is even better than mine that is still childless.

Since he is caring, marry him! Love and respect him but if the situation warrants someone to help you give him a child/ children, then do so’.

She paused, looked at me to see my reaction. When she noticed I was confused, she hit the nail on the head: ‘You can stray a bit, but don’t follow Mama’s footstep’. When I was shocked that my elder sister was encouraging me to have an extra marital affair, she only said ‘okay, let me keep mute. There are some wacko problems that require wacko solutions. When the time comes, you would remember what I have told you. I rest my case’. But, with what is happening to me now, my elder sister’s words have started flashing back in my mind,” she recalled.

In the first month of their marriage, Edwin “hid under the euphoria of being excited. I tried to believe him but still wondered why he was too excited for a lady who had lived with him for months before marriage. I asked if excitement could affect his erection so badly that it only lasted just for a few seconds. Can excitement also cause weak erection so

much that sometimes I try to aid him right inside of me although that’s a daunting task? When it continued that way, I resorted to another style. I didn’t want to believe that my man was impotent. I started making extra efforts to create a conducive and cozy environment for both of us, if that would help. I didn’t want to make him feel I was worried and concerned about what I had observed. I hearkened to my elder sister’s second advice of preparing his favourite ‘peppersoup; which we were taking together over some bottles of chilled beer.

That couldn’t help much. Though the alcohol helped to arouse him, yet the erection didn’t last up to a second. Even before I could blink twice, he was done and tired,” she bemoaned.

The newly married couples lived that

way for a year and there was no improvement.

“I started getting worried because I actually wanted to start getting pregnant for my husband so as to give him children. He is a good man. He loves, cares and respects me. I wouldn’t want to hurt him in any way. I didn’t want to try what my elder sister said about straying because that would mean cheating on him. But what am I going to do?

I raised this with him and he told me to give him more time, that things would be okay with him. I agreed, after all it wasn’t his fault that he found himself in such a situation. According to him, his ex-girlfriends jilted him because of same problem. He said he didn’t tell me about it before marriage because he was scared I too would jilt him. I took pity on him. But the truth is that I love Edwin my husband but I’m worried about the problem he is having. Though he said he had started receiving some medical treatment, I wouldn’t know if he was truthful about that. He is keeping the whole thing to himself. And when I try to start romancing him, he feels somehow scared. I noticed he is no longer himself. I don’t know if in the nearest future I would hearken to my elder sister’s advice just to give Edwin children.

My mother feels less concerned. She too said the same thing my elder sister said.

‘If it means scoring goals from outside to keep your marriage, do so but don’t let him know. If you love him enough, make him a father but don’t let him see you because he would be hurt.’

“But I wonder why my mother and sister could think that way. I don’t have the stamina now after just four years to start cheating on my husband. What do I do?

Should I remarry? I’m in dilemma,” she lamented.

•Readers, what should Felicia do?

RESPONSES

Re: ‘Irene weeps as Lloyd gets son by another woman’ Dear Irene,

Surulere, Lagos -08033452087.

I want to assure you that daughters are valuable and indispensable in the home.

The President of America, Barack Obama, has two daughters; I have three daughters only and very proud of them.

Lloyd told you specifically about his past relationship with Lynda, who got married to someone else but lost her husband, she now has a son for your husband.

I would advise you to remain in the marriage and ensure that you give your daughters the best education and training. They are great assets and you will later in life discover that they will take great care of you. Experience has shown that daughters are more caring to their parents than sons.

Irene dear,

Patrick Adiasor

Know that children are true gifts from God. Since you cannot have everything in this life, you make do with what you have and cherish them. Remember girls of today are shaking the world. Apply wisdom here and stick to your dear husband. He loves you but he is acting out of frustration. Bear with him and let God take control. You concentrate and work on what you have, after all the doctor says you still have hope. So, why develop high blood pressure? Just let the doctor guide you while you also pray to God. Apeji Eneyeme Patience.

Badagry.

07044446660

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

From the Pulpit

Sunday June 15, 2014

41

The place of soul-winning in Church growth, by Prophet Oloruntimilehin General Overseer of Omnipotence Mission of God, Prophet Joshua Daramola Oloruntimilehin, in this admonition, explains the place of soul-winning in Church growth. Excerpts:

T

he God Almighty does His work and He does it miraculously. It is the work I implore the people of the world particularly Christians to do. The Bible says in the Ecclesiastes 3:1-8: “To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven: A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted; A time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up; A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance; A time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing; A time to get, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away; A time to rend, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak; A time to love, and a time to hate; a time of war, and a time of peace”.

Therefore, there is time for everything but I would like us to focus and look at the time of planting and time of harvesting.

What is the meaning of harvest? Harvest is what Cain and Abel observed and they were the first set of people to embark on livestock and rearing of animals and planting of food crops. Cain and Abel brought to the Lord as offering some of the fruits of the soil and fat portions from some of the firstborn of his flock respectively. The Lord favoured Abel and his offering more than Cain. So Cain was very angry (Genesis 4:2-5). God favoured Abel because Cain did not offer God tangible fruits from his harvest. Harvest started with Cain and Abel because they were the first set of people that Adam and Eve had.

Harvest and Tithes started with people when annually they offer to God part of the proceeds from their farm product or work.

All that I have narrated concern livestock and farm products but my major concern is on human beings. How many

souls have you won for Jesus into the ministry? My errand for the followers of Jesus is to commence winning souls for Christ. How many people have you won their souls into your ministry? Pastors, Patroness, Deacons, Deaconess, church workers and Choirmasters are expected to ensure that the ministry where they worship or serve God do grow in population by winning souls for their respective ministries. The Shepherd in-charge of a ministry must be a respectable, kind, loving and disciplined person that the members are proud of and a person that has firm control of man, material and money of the ministry. All these people are soul winning persons for the ministry.

Soul winning is the harvest of all members of the ministry. Soul winning can be done in various ways. For instance, you can win souls when you see people that need food to eat and you are providing for them. You see people that need clothes and you provide clothes for them or render help to people that are troubled. If you talk and invite these people to be worshipping with you in your church, they will oblige.

Similarly, people’s souls can be won through patience. A female member of my ministry in Headquarters won souls by being patient and generous. She is the Iya-loja general of one of the markets in Lagos. She was a staunch member of Islamic religion. Her soul was won when she brought a medically certify dead body of her first daughter to me. God Almighty revived the dead body and she came live through me. Subsequently, she became a member of my ministry. By this miracle, many people became members of the church. Prior to her being follower of Jesus Christ and born-again, she was a tough woman that no one could over-ride easily. She became a different person after

Prophet Oloruntimilehin

I counselled her to be patient and enduring.

One of her tenants slapped her when an argument ensued between them. She did not take revenge but cried to me that I caused her the embarrassment by counselling her to be patient and enduring. I pacified her and she went back home.

In fact, many people thought she would revenge by engaging thugs and area boys to deal with the tenant who had already fled with his family. Instead, the woman went in search of them, settled the matter with them and brought them back to her house. She preached the word of God to them. She did not allow the spirit of anger to take control of her. To the glory of God,

‘How to prepare for divine visitation’ CONTINUED FROM PAGE 24 bour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest” (Matt. 11: 28). Those who will remain in their state after His visit will have themselves to blame.

This we ought to do now that God has remembered us and has promised to visit and cause our enemies to submit and turn our sorrow to joy. For we are very sure His visit will change our lives and make us better, because when He comes into a situation, there is always a solution.

Jer. 29: 11-14 says, “For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end. 12 Then shall ye call upon me, and ye shall go and pray unto me, and I will hearken unto you.13 And ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart. 14 And I will be found of you, saith the LORD: and I will turn away your cap-

tivity, and I will gather you from all the nations, and from all the places whither I have driven you, saith the LORD; and I will bring you again into the place whence I caused you to be carried away captive”.

The Lord will give you in this His coming, not the expectations of your fears, or the expectations of your fancies, but the expectations of your faith in preparation. The various packages of blessing He is coming to deliver to us will not depend upon our merits, but upon His own mercy, and kind thoughts and purposes He has for His Chosen people.

Our required preparation and example of old Amos 4: 12 says, “Therefore thus will I do unto thee, O Israel: and because I will do this unto thee, prepare to meet thy God, O Israel”.

Everybody must be in attention to receive God’s blessing in this divine visitation when our enemies shall be submitted.

There is no doubt that after that day, our

lives shall never be the same again. The dumb shall speak; lame shall walk, blind shall see and the afflicted delivered. If we could honour human beings, the honour we have for God should be higher. If we believe that God is higher than the President, we must therefore prepare to honour Him in a special way.

We must not come alone as that will amount to greediness. Evangelical holiness is required here which is a proof of a humble, growing, progressive and self-denying holiness, and such holiness towards God attract blessing and healing. So, we must all go out to invite people that are deaf, insane, blind, afflicted, etc. When we invite them with faith and believe that God will heal them, I’m assuring you my God will give answer to their problems in Jesus name.

It is no longer in doubt what our God can do. This is because testimonies are everywhere to attest to what He can do.

Mt 9:32 -33 says, “As they went out, behold, they brought to him a dumb man possessed with a devil. 33 And when the devil was cast

this woman is now gentle and generous to the extent of that she helped a lot of female members of my ministry to secure shops where she was the Iya-loja general.

Therefore, let people emulate this woman. Be friendly and help your neighbours who need help. My message is for people to go on a soul – winning exercise by spreading the good news. The Bible says in the book of Mark 16:15-16: “He said to them, go into all the world and preach the good news to all creation.

Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned”.

out, the dumb spake: and the multitudes marvelled, saying, It was never so seen in Israel”.

In the Scripture above, it was very clear that wherever our Lord Jesus Christ went during His earthly sojourn, He was always greeted with multitude of afflicted people and He healed them. Those that have knowledge of His visitation went about inviting people to come and the people they invited did not regret honouring the invitation.

Likewise, you are expected to go about inviting people for this visitation as a matter of preparation. And in so doing God will see your good work and bless you.

Rev. 22: 12- 13, “And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be. 13 I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, the first and the last” Christ is talking to you! He says He is coming to establish comfort and support for His followers. So take advantage of this visitation and do the will of God and prosper.

42

From the Pulpit Learn with Kunle

Macaulay Email: profkunlemacaulay@ yahoo.com (08023032698, sms pls)

L

ife is a miracle because it is created by God and it is a gift from God to man. The life we are talking about is not the one created by man through his human ability but the one given by God which is a miracle and cannot be scientifically assessed or proved. It can only be experienced.

Christianity is all about miracle and this requires the knowledge of the Word of God and personal experience. Miracle is what we experience everyday but do not appreciate.

The rise and fall of the sun, the change of day from morning through afternoon to evening time, the pregnancy of a woman to the birth of a baby, the scientific discoveries are all miracles revealed by God but we do not recognise them neither do we appreciate them.

We respect and glorify scientists and their discoveries instead of glorifying God who reveals the extra ordinary findings. The Bible said, ‘’The secret things belong to the Lord our God but the things revealed belong to us and to our children forever…’’Deut 29:29.

Almost three months now, more than sixteen powerful nations of the world with all their scientists, technologists, scientific expertise and sophisticated gadgets have not been able to locate the lost aircraft that belongs to Malaysia. It is because God has not revealed that.

You will all agree with me that a healthy, vigorous and spiritual mind rejects anything that is unspiritual and unbiblical and it is capable of dealing with the temptations, the sins and the setbacks of spiritual life. Christians are called to a life of spiritual character.

To experience miracle, there must be a freshness and vigour in our spiritual outlook. We must act in faith when God speaks to us and

Let’s go

BIBLE with Favour

Tioluwani Email: letsgobible@gmail.com

I

’ve had the opportunity of attending a lot of seminars, teachings and workshops about Singles but am yet to get what l want. Therefore, l want to ask you Ma, can you help with some prayer points. I think maybe what l need now are prayers.

A very special area that l love so much and am highly comfortably with is Prayer. So if you can seriously pray the following prayers, if possible with 3 or 7days fasting, combined with all the knowledge you’ve acquired from your seminars, am sure you will have instant result.

Starting from the source: 1. O Lord, every evil carryover from my ancestors that will disgrace my marital life, send your fire into the foundation of my life and consume them in Jesus name.

2. Every generational curse or covenant working against my marital life, l cancel with the blood of Jesus. I will not follow any evil family pattern in my marriage in the name of Jesus.

3. In the name of Jesus, I ask for forgiveness for the sins of my ancestors,

Sunday June 15, 2014

The miracle of life must not revise our decision to follow him and walk in his way always. The only aim of life is that the Son of Man may be manifested in our flesh; therefore, if we submit to God’s will, he will work through us what he wants.

When we are rightly related to God, life is full of spontaneous, joyful uncertainty and expectancy. The nature of spiritual life is the nature of uncertainty. The nature of spiritual life is that we are certain in our uncertainty. Certainty is the mark of the common-sense life while gracious uncertainty is the mark of spiritual life. We are certain of God but we are uncertain of what he will do next. Jesus said, ‘’Believe also in Me’’ and not believe in certain things about Me. When we believe in God, we may not know what he will do or how he will do it but it is gloriously uncertain that he will do something. Christianity is not about dos or don’ts; it is not about setting some standards or following some particular doctrines rather it is about the presence of God in man.(II Cor 5:17). When the presence of God is in man, he will start to live according to the will of God without being conscious of it. People who observe this change will know that his new life is being controlled or directed by God in him. The fact is that when we carefully observe the life of spirit-led and spirit-controlled people, we are always amazed at some disinterestedness of a particular way of life. It is an evidence of the presence of God controlling what is right and discarding what is evil.

The characteristic of spirit-led life is spontaneity. Man becomes an outlet or instrument for God to use. The power of miracle is in God and not in man. It is therefore ridiculous to look for God in our hearts naturally. The presence of God is in us only if we accept Jesus as our Lord and Savior. It is a promise to all who believe in Jesus.

Men and women of God do certain things according to the spontaneous nature of God

in them. They can live the life of God which manifests itself in a spontaneous way. Spirit-led men and women of God are normal people and not angels. They have the human ability to function in this world and when necessary, they are inspired by God to prove his presence. God is in his people all the time and he speaks or performs miracles when he desires. Jesus said, ‘’ And surely, I am with you always, to the very end of the age’’- Matt 28:20. The Bible said that the disciples went out to preach the Word but God who was with them performed the miracles. So miracles are not performed by man but through man.

A man who believes in God and who knows that God lives in him is not interested in the things of the world. He is devoted to God because he knows that everything he does or achieves is energized by God. Men and women of God nowadays are spiritually relaxed.

They run after the things of this world. If we have the inspiration of the vision of God, then we are richly blessed.

Whenever we step back from identification with God’s interest and shift our interest to the beauty of the world, the vital connection with God is disconnected. Christians are completely and entirely identified with the interest of God. Any interest in the things of the world surely indicates that we deliberately substitute God’s interest for our natural desires. Motivational speakers teach us to plan our lives but King David said that his life was in the hands of God like a bow and arrow in the hands of an archer.

God is looking daily for people who will not love this world more than him, people who will love him personally, compassionately and devotedly. People who will seek the kingdom of God and its righteousness first (Matt 6:33) and not people who proudly claim to have the largest congregation or the biggest auditorium in the world. Many people claim to have power to perform miracles

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

and they take the glory that belongs to God. Many people move from one church to another looking for miracles but Paul who understood what we are discussing now said to the people who marveled at the miracles he performed, ‘’ What you see here is not done by me but by he that is in me’’. I believe that this ‘’he ‘’ is in you too if you believe in God through his Son Jesus Christ. Jesus gives freedom of access for any one direct to the throne of God, so, miracle should be a normal day to day event to those who believe.

Christians do not look for miracle because it is part of their existence. Jesus performed miracles to prove his superiority over nature and evil and it has since then become part of people who believe in him.

Nobody can work for God rather we are called to work with God. Our call is to obey the master always. Anytime we go to God with a long list of demands, we are reminding him of something he has not taken into account. God created us and he knows the needs of everybody. The Bible says, ‘’ Trust in the Lord and do good…..delight yourself in the Lord and he will give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the Lord, trust in him and he will do this’’. Ps 37:3-5. We are not asked to believe the Bible, but to believe the God whom the Bible reveals - John 5:39-40.

Bible confirms specifically the promises of God when it reveals,’’ I (God) will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go.

I will counsel and watch over you” - Ps 37:8.

People should try to understand this message and they should demand that God should guide their thoughts, actions and movements according to his plans for them.

• Prof. Kunle Macaulay is the Director of Studies of United Bible University, Lagos.

Phone : +447448533586; email: profkunlemacaulay@yahoo.com

Using prayer to change your single status parents, acquaintances, and myself, which gave the enemy and his cohorts the legal rights to work against my marriage.

4. I take authority in the name of Jesus, and I cancel all satanic covenants, agreements, vows and promises for wealth, health, fame, protection, power, influences, etc. which have brought the curse of being single in my life.

5. With the blood of Jesus, l break every covenant l had with spiritual husband. Every evil spiritual engagement, dowry, and wedding conducted on my behalf, be dissolved by the blood of Jesus.

6. I pull down every family altar that serves as an entry point for demons to seclude me from marriage. I annul every marriage and tie to family idols and I call on the fire of God to destroy every visible and invisible token of such marriages. l therefore speak destruction to the root of oppression and affliction in my marital journey in the name of Jesus.

7. Every demon assigned from my family lineage to delay my getting married, l bind you and cast you out of my life in Jesus name. Any power, spirit, demons, wickedness of the wicked that says that I will not settle down in marriage, die by fire in the name of Jesus.

8. Lord, let mercy triumph over every judgment from my generation decreed against my marital life.

9. My divine partner, with the blood

of Jesus, l buy you back and l command that anywhere you are locate me by fire in Jesus name. l command the release of my spouse from every form of homosexual oppression, financial hardship and shame, and from witchcraft and drug influences.

10. All character traits and stigmas in my family that oppose my attraction and permanent attachment to my partner, by any spirit on assignment, are destroyed in the name of Jesus. I destroy the influence of such foul spirits and entities overseeing this wickedness; I break their hold off my life.

Personal prayers: 1. Every finished work of hatred l cancel with the blood of Jesus. l break every curse of disfavour, lack of fulfillment, and want for all things.

2. For every sin that l have committed (fornication, abortion, immorality, disobedience, etc) that is speaking and standing against my settling now, Lord have mercy and forgive me.

3. Thou power of error in choosing the right partner be disgraced in the name of Jesus.

4. Holy Spirit, open my eyes to my divine opportunities, in the name of Jesus.

5. You the strongman in charge of marital failure in my family, be exposed and disgraced, and die by fire, in the name of Jesus.

6. With the anointing of the Holy

Ghost, l break every yoke of failure attached to my marital destiny in the name of Jesus.

7. I declare that by the blood of Jesus, I am cleansed and set aside; chosen for joyful, secure, and blessed relationship with my spouse.

8. My divine partner, with the blood of Jesus, l buy you back and l command that anywhere you are locate me by fire in Jesus name. l command the release of my spouse from every form of homosexual oppression, financial hardship and shame, and from witchcraft and drug. I declare that no good thing shall be withheld from me. Marriage is a good thing, and by the word of God, I declare that I shall not lack in marriage; it is released to me now.

9. I disengage myself from every ungodly soul tie. I present myself to be found, and partnered with my God-given spouse.

10. I counter the power and effects of spirits assigned to snatch my God-sent partner.

There are more areas to pray on, but l will want you to start with these, l believe the Lord will answer you.

•You can send in your QUESTIONS and the Holy Spirit will be set to give you the ANSWERS. Barr. (Mrs.) Favour Tioluwani Tel: 08050272259 or 07062738213. Email: letsgobible@gmail.com

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Rapture is coming

with Pastor

Ade-David

Rapture Expectant Ministry Email: jacobpastordavid@yahoo.com

A

cceptable year of the Lord”- Isaiah 61: 1, 2. They read how he would ‘set judgment in the earth.”How the isles should wait for His law;’ how the Gentiles should come to His light, and kings to the brightness of His rising - Isaiah 42:4; 60:3.

The dying words of Jacob filled them with hope; “the scepter shall not depart from Judah, not a lawgiver from between his feet, until Shiloh come”- Genesis 49: 10. The warning power of Israel testified that the glory of His reign over an empire which should succeed all earthly. While few understood the nature of Christ’s mission, there was a widespread expectation of a mighty prince who should establish his kingdom in Israel, and who should come as a deliverer to the nations.

The fullness of the time had come, humanity, becoming more degraded through ages of transgression, called for the coming of the redeemer. Satan had been working to make the gulf deep and impassable between the earth and heaven. By his falsehoods, he had emboldened men in sin. It was his purpose to wear out the forbearance of God, and to extinguish His love for man, so that He would abandon the world to satanic jurisdiction.

Satan was seeking to shut out from men knowledge of God, to turn their attention from the temple of God, and to establish his own kingdom. His strife for supremacy had seemed to be almost wholly successful. It is true that in every generation God had His agencies. Even among the heathen, there “

From the Pulpit

Sunday June 15, 2014

The fullness of time (2)

were men through whom Christ was working to uplift the people from their sin and degradation. But these men were despised and hated many of them suffered a violent death. The dark shadow that Satan had over the world grew deeper and deeper.

Through heathenism, Satan had for ages turned men away from God but he won his great triumph in perverting the faith of Israel. By contemplating and worshipping theory won conceptions, the heathen had lost knowledge of God and had become more and more corrupt. So it was with Israel .The principle that man can save himself by his own works lay at the foundation of every heathen religion; it had now become the principle of the Jewish religion. Satan had implanted this principle, wherever it is held, men have no barrier against sin.

The message of salvation is communicated to men through human agencies, but the Jews had sought to make a monopoly of the truth which is eternal life. They had hoarded the living manna, and it had turned to corruption. The religion which they tried to shut up to themselves became an offense. They robbed God of His glory, and defrauded the world by a counterfeit of the gospel, they had refused to surrender themselves to God for the salvation of the world, and they became agent of Satan for its destruction.

The people whom God had called to be the pillar and ground truth had become representatives of Satan. They were doing the worst that he desired them to do, taking a course to misrepresent the character of God and cause the world to look upon Him as a tyrant. The vey priest who ministered in the temple had lost sight of the significance of the service they preformed. They had ceased to look

‘Where is my birthright?’

beyond the symbol to the thing signified. In presenting the sacrificial offerings they were actors in a play. The ordinances which God Himself had appointed were made the means of blinding the mind and hardening the heart God could do no more for man through these channels. The whole system must be swept away.

The deception of sin had reached its height. All the agencies for depraving the souls of men had been put in operation. The Son of God looking upon the world, beheld suffering and misery. With pity he saw how men had become victims of satanic cruelty. He looked with compassion upon those who were being corrupted, murdered, and lost. They had chosen a ruler who chained them to his car captives.

Bewildered and deceived, they were moving on in gloomy procession toward eternal ruin to death in which is no hope of life, toward night to which cometh no morning. Satanic agencies were incorporated with men. The bodies of human beings, made for the dwelling place of God, had become the habitation of demons. The senses, the nerves, the passions, the organ of men, were worked by supernatural agencies in the indulgence of the vilest lust. The very stamp of demons was impressed upon the countenances of men. Human faces reflected the expression of the legions of demons with which they were possessed. Such was the prospect upon which the world’s Redeemer looked. What a spectacle for infinite purity to behold. Sin had become a science, and vice was consecrated as a part of religion. Rebellion had struck its roots deep into the heart, and the hostility of man was most violent against heaven. It was demonstrated before the universe that, apart from God, humanity could not be uplifted. A new element of life and power must be impacted by Him who

Prophet Lai Bamidele, General Overseer of Christ Glorious End-time Evangelical Ministry, Abule-Egba, Lagos, in this exhortation, teaches on how to recover lost inheritance.

Excerpts:

L

isten to me! Very shortly from now, I will be taking you on a mission on how a great many destinies lost their birthright. Do you know that there are some people who lost their birthright and inheritance due to their ignorance? What is supposed to be yours, you have lost it? Do you know that it is your connection that determines your collection? I want you to know that there are some people today, when God created you, He created you good; He has destined you to be great, but one wrong step that you took made you lose your position, your inheritance, and your birthright.

Your birthright is your inheritance; it is in your position. Some first-born children have become like servants in their family just because they took one wrong step or the other. It is not mandatory that the first-born child in a family will be the one to succeed or be the light in the family. Just like I said earlier, it is your connection that determines your collection. It is the level at which you are connected to God, that will determine what you can get or collect from Him. There are some people who through foolishness have lost the position that God has created for them. God has destined a great assignment for you but because of your foolishness you have lost your position and you missed it and found yourself at the back. But I tell you this day, if I be a prophet of God, anyone today reading this message that has found himself in such situation, God will restore you to your position in the name of Jesus. Amen.

Let us go into the scriptures and look at someone who lost his birthright; his inheritance. Reuben, the first-born of Israel lost his

birthright due to his ignorance; because of his carelessness, instead of him to be fulfilled in life, he lost his destiny, and he lost his position when he slept with his father’s wife. There are so many people who one way or the other just like Reuben has offended their father and this is affecting them and they are suffering for it. If I be a prophet of God, after reading this message today, if you have been affected by such suffering, you shall be free of all of it and you shall recover your lost inheritance in Jesus name. Amen.

Reuben lost out when he did what was wrong in the sight of God. If you are like Reuben and you are planning to take a wrong step and people are warning you, you better heed to the advice so you do not fall into the same trap as he did.

It so happens in some families that as the elder when people see you do not have anything, they automatically put your younger ones over you.

This also happened to me in my family. But I tell you this day, I was determined not to remain that way and you too must take a step to recover your lost position.

In Reuben’s case, even if his father did not curse him, but due to the enormity of his crime, he was not able to achieve all the good things that God planned for his life. Genesis 49 gives an account of what God had in stock for Reuben, where his father Jacob elaborated God’s plan for his life, but because of what he did, he was told he would not excel and truly he did not excel. Hear me today, you are reading this message and have been cursed by your father or mother via your disobedience, via your carelessness, via your ignorance, but after today’s ministration, every yoke of curses, I decree that they shall be

Pastor Bamidele

broken in Jesus name, Amen.

At a point in my life, I asked God ‘how can I be serving you and I will become a slave to my younger ones and they are commanding me.’ As I kept saying this and never relented, God heard my cry and in due time, He elevated me to my rightful position.

You may not have slept with your father’s wife, but there is something unpleasant which you are doing and people have been warning you about this bad act of yours; if you do not desist from this evil act of yours fast enough, I pray that you do not become slaves to your younger siblings. How nice do you think it would be for you to have a younger brother or sister return from abroad and you will be the person whom it falls upon to go to the airport and help carry his bag and luggage down to the house? Upon this you will be celebrating because of the things you would be getting from them. This is somewhat shameful, because you should be the one giving your younger one things and not the other way round. If I be a prophet of God, I tell you what-

43

made the world.

With intense interest, the unfallen worlds had watched to see Jehovah arise, and sweep away the inhabitants of the earth, and if God should do this, Satan was ready to carry out his plan for securing to himself the allegiance of heavenly beings. He had declared that the principles of God’s government make forgiveness impossible. Had the world been destroyed, he would have claimed that his accusations were proved true. He was ready to cast blame upon God, and to spread his rebellion to the worlds above. But instead of destroying the world, God sent His Son to save it.

Though corruption and defiance might be seen in every part of the alien province, a way for its recovery was provided. At the very crisis, when Satan, seemed about to triumph, the Son of God came with the message of divine grace. Through every age, through every hour, standing the perversity of men, the signals of mercy had been continually exhibited, and when the fullness of the time had come, the deity was glorified by pouring upon the world a flood of healing grace that was never to be obstructed or withdrawn till the plan of salvation should be fulfilled. Satan was exulting that he had succeeded in debasing the image of God in humanity.

Then Jesus came to restore in man the image of his maker. None but Christ can fashion anew the character that has been ruined by sin. He came to expel the demons that had controlled the will. He came to lift us up from the dust, to reshape the married character after the pattern of His divine character, and to make it beautiful with His own glory.

•Your Steward: Pastor Jacob Ade-David can be reached at No. 54/56 Okesuna Street, Lagos Island Lagos. Tel: 08023535110, 08023539857,, 08034078158, Email:jacobpastordavid@yahoo.com Rapture Expectant Ministry

ever it is that has made you lose your position, whatever it is that has made you lose your inheritance, after today, there shall be reversal in your life in the name of Jesus, Amen.

Reuben lost his position via his carelessness.

Some of you, you say you want to marry and your parents can see more than you can see and advise you against the step you want to take maybe for one bad thing or the other they have noticed in the person you chose. But because of the beauty of the lady, or the love you believe you have for her, you do not listen. You went to your pastor and he told you same about the step you are about to take and you insist you will do it.

When the results come to the fore, you will be the one to bear your cross all alone. Listen to me: if you are reading this message this day, the path that will lead you to destruction after today’s ministration, God will deliver you from that evil in Jesus name, Amen.

Reuben lost his position because he did what was evil in the sight of God. Reuben’s right was taken from him; he lost his right, he lost his position and someone else took it. What he lost, Joseph took. Everyone reading this message today, whatever you have lost, you will get them back in Jesus name, Amen.

I have seen cases where people are advised to stop drinking because it is harmful to them.

By the time they drink and get drunk, younger people around them will begin to mock and ridicule them. When this happens, such persons are bound to lose their positions and most likely their birthright in the process. Listen to me! I decree concerning someone today, every satanic machination manipulating your life, manipulating your destiny and have been blocking for you to be in that position which has been destined for you; if I be a prophet of God, from today, God will cause separation between you and that force in Jesus name, Amen.

Every position you have lost via sin, God will restore you back to it. Amen.

•For Counselling, contact: Pst_lai@yahoo. com. Phone: 0807448415, 08027502864 and 08161285586

44

From the Pulpit

T The Voice of wisdom o

with Dr. David

Oyedepo

T

his week, we shall be furthering our teaching of Walking in the Realm of the Miraculous by focusing on Engaging the Mystery of Tithing for Financial Fortune. We must understand that God’s prosperity agenda is a covenant, not a promise. Financial fortune is real and there is a wealthy place for every child of God in redemption. For instance, the Bible says Christ was made poor that we through His poverty might be made rich (2 Corinthians 8:9).

It is also written that God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work: (2 Corinthians 8:9). This is further validated by the epistle of Peter, saying, God has given us all things that pertain to life and godliness (2 Peter 1:3). God has richly given us all things to enjoy, but He never forces anything on any man in the Kingdom. We live in a Kingdom of choice; it is a “whosoever” kingdom, where each one finds his place and makes his choice.

(Deuteronomy 28:1-13, Luke 16:16).

We cannot fast or pray our way into it.

There is a part we must play before we can commit God to do His part. Therefore, until our part of the covenant is fulfilled, we cannot commit God to bless us.

As it is written,

Sunday June 15, 2014

Engaging the Mystery of Tithing for Financial Fortune!

But thou shalt remember the Lord thy God: for it is he that giveth thee power to get wealth, that he may establish his covenant which he sware unto thy fathers, as it is this day (Deuteronomy 8:18).

From the above scripture, God has a covenant in place that empowers us into realms of financial fortune. It is not the doctrine of a church but His covenant.

But, what is Covenant?

The covenant of abundance is based on giving and receiving. The giving covenant is the master key to a world of fulfilment. This covenant provides access to life at its best (John 10:10).

For instance, through the covenant we are enriched in everything to all bountifulness.

He which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully.

Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver...Now he that ministereth seed to the sower both minister bread for your food, and multiply your seed sown, and increase the fruits of your righteousness;) Being enriched in everything to all bountifulness, which causeth through us thanksgiving to God (2 Corinthians 9:6-7, 10-11).

It is therefore clear that giving is the gateway to a world of supernatural wealth. Also, note that God’s covenant of financial prosperity is as binding as His covenant of day and night.

While the earth remaineth, seedtime and harvest, and cold and heat, and summer and winter, and day and night shall

not cease (Genesis 8:22). It is also written, … If ye can break my covenant of the day, and my covenant of the night, and that there should not be day and night in their season; Then may also my covenant be broken with David my servant, that he should not have a son to reign upon his throne; and with the Levites the priests, my ministers (Jeremiah 33:20-21).

As long as the covenant of the day and night is in place, God’s covenant of abundance remains in force. It is, therefore, an ever reliable and dependable covenant.

We must understand that the giving covenant is as much a New Testament phenomenon as it is the Old Testament covenant. As it is written, Now ye Philippians know also, that in the beginning of the gospel, when I departed from Macedonia, no church communicated with me as concerning giving and receiving, but ye only.

But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:15, 19).

But giving does not only meet our financial needs, it meets all other needs.

While the giving covenant has so many channels such as worship offering, giving to the poor, giving to parents etc., we discover that the anchor channel of this covenant is TITHING. What is it all about?

It is a commandment that opens to us the windows of heaven for the showers of God’s blessings. There are scriptures that establish the place of tithing:

We only need 1G

i

Phone has taken the world by storm!

Some of them are as expensive as the diamond-encrusted version from London jeweler Amosu costing 20,000 pounds ($39,600). That is still cheaper than the 8800 Arte from Austrian designer Peter Aloisson, a luxury Nokia phone featuring designer ringtones and wallpapers and an 18-karat white gold finish, encased in more than 680 pink and white brilliant-cut diamonds, all at the staggering price tag of 85,000 Euros ($134,000), the price of a university education abroad. Vertu phones range from $4,000 to $300,000 because they are crafted using scratch-proof sapphire glass screens, titanium frames, ruby bearings (for minimal wear and tear), fine leather and, in some models, gold and platinum.

Whether it is the common cheap phones from makers like Nokia, Samsung and Motorola or the high-end luxury phones from fashion firms and automakers like Amosu, Peter Aloisson, Christian Dior, Tag Heuer, Porsche, Lamborghini, and Ferrari, people are hooked on cell phones. I have seen people owning and using phones in awkward remote places. Even those who cannot afford three square meals still carry cell phones. With all kinds of advertisement gimmicks, like free calls at midnight,

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Africans have discovered a new way of staying in touch.

Technology has greatly improved so much so that a cell phone can have the gigabyte capacity of a laptop. People now own 4G phones with 16G memory, computers with 4G-processor and 1000G hard drive, and iPod with 64Gb capacity.

The interesting reality is that, no matter their costs or fancy, none of these would last a lifetime! Permit me therefore to introduce a different product to you: ONE G! In life, we only need 1G: ONE GOD! God has a timeless warranty, an unlimited memory, boundless capacity, and infinite love. “For there is one God and one Mediator between God and men, the Man Christ Jesus” (1 Tim 2:5). “There is no other God but one . . . One God, the Father, of whom are all things, and we for Him; and one Lord Jesus Christ, through whom are all things and through whom we live” (1 Cor 8:4, 6).

Prophet Malachi retorts: “Have we not all one Father? Has not one God created us? (Mal 2:10).

Paul reiterates this oneness: “One body and one Spirit . . . one hope of your calling; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all” (Eph 4:4-6).

I came across a thought-provoking piece, indicting this generation for cherishing our cell phones above our Bibles. “What if we carried it around in our purses or pockets? What if we turned back to go get it if we forgot it? What if we flipped through it several times a day? What if we used it to receive messages from the text?

What if we treated it like we couldn’t live without it? What if we gave it to kids as gifts? What if we used it as we traveled? What if we used it

in case of an emergency? What if we upgraded it to get the latest version?” The Bible is the operation manual for 1G. The Bible is your indispensible companion for life.

You can enjoy 1G, infinitude. You can call on God at any time, in any place and in every situation. By the way, PLEASE Call HIM, It’s Free! “Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything; tell God your needs and don’t forget to thank Him for His answers. If you do this, you will experience God’s peace, which is far more wonderful than the human mind can understand” (Phil 4:6-7, TLB). Whatever is worth worrying about is certainly worth praying about. If you are ever going to get to the next level you, must first take your prayer life to the next level. God is never more than a prayer away from you. When you feel overwhelmed or swept off your feet, get back to your knees.

James H. Potts posits: “there is no substitute for prayer. Praise is excellent, and good works are noble, but prayer is indispensable.”

Corrie Ten Boom said: “The devil smiles when we make plans, He laughs when we get too busy, but he trembles when we pray.” Prayer provides power, poise, peace and purpose for our purposes, plans and pursuits. The most powerful energy we can generate is prayer energy. Satan is glad when we are too busy to pray! We become easy prey for the enemy of our prayer-starved souls. When we have a lot to do that is when we cut back on our prayer time.

We get too busy that we forget to pray. We are good at strategizing but very poor at the business of prayer. I like the title of a book: Too Busy Not to Pray. Martin Luther testified: “I have so much to do today. I shall spend the first three

And all the tithe of the land, whether of the seed of the land, or of the fruit of the tree, is the Lord’s: it is holy unto the Lord (Leviticus 27:30). The Bible further states, Thou shalt truly tithe all the increase of thy seed, that the field bringeth forth year by year (Deuteronomy 14:22).

We shall continue this teaching on Engaging the Mystery of Tithing for Financial Fortune next week. I shall be teaching you the meaning of tithe and how effective it is for you as God’s children to position you to walk in the miraculous.

Friend, you can walk in the miraculous and indeed manifest Signs and Wonders, only if you will take the first bold step into the realm of the miraculous, which is by giving your life to Christ Jesus. That first step is to be born again.

Do you want to be born again? It does not take you more than this prayer of faith and determination to remain in Him: Lord Jesus Christ, I come to You today.

I am a sinner. Forgive me of my sins. Today, I accept You as my Lord and Saviour.

Thank You, Jesus, for saving me! I will continue this teaching next week. May God bless you!

I know this teaching has blessed you.

Write and share your testimony with me through: Faith Tabernacle, Canaan Land, Ota, P.M.B. 21688, Ikeja, Lagos, Nigeria; or call 7747546-8; or E-mail: feedback@lfcww.org •I know this teaching has blessed you. Write and share your testimony with me through: Faith Tabernacle, Canaan Land, Ota, P.M.B. 21688, Ikeja, Lagos, Nigeria; or call 7747546-8; or E-mail: feedback@lfcww.org

hours in prayer.”

Unlike your cell phone, this 1G can never be disconnected for non-payment because Jesus paid the bill with His own lifeblood once and for all. Jesus paid it all. All to Him we owe! This story was told by a man who begged on the street: “For one year I begged on the streets as a tramp and one day I tapped a man on the shoulder and said ‘Mister, could you please give me a dime?’ As soon as I saw his face, I realised it was my father. He threw his arms around me and said ‘I have found you. All I have is yours!’ I had stood there begging my father for ten cents while he had been looking for me to give me all he had.”

This 1G is your Father! He’s got the whole world in His hands. Why do you approach God like a stranger on the street, begging Him just to help you get by? You are His child by creation and re-creation. If you have accepted Christ as your Savior, He is no stranger to you. He is your Father, waiting with open arms, ready to embrace you in love and offer you everything He has. You are a cherished child of 1G! Ask Him to help you develop a healthy Father/child relationship. Jim Elliot asserted: “God is still on His throne and man is still on His footstool.

There’s only a knee’s distance in between.” All you need for life and eternity has been provided: 1G! You will never need to upgrade to the latest fashion. None can satisfy your longing like Him. Embrace 1G today. STAY CONNECTED!!!

•Tunde Ojewole, PhD, is the Babcock University Pastor in charge: Division of Spiritual Life. Get your copy of the newly released book: GOD’S FOOTPRINTS. For enquiries, contact: ojewolea@babcock.edu.ng or call/SMS 08058299434/08060376577.

Note: Quiz will resume shortly.

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Chapel of Holiness and Testimony with Pastor K. I.

W

Bona

e observed some characters in the life of them that have Holy Spirit at the receiving level. These characters should not be encouraged in the life of Christians because it makes Christians’ faith epileptic. Those who possess these characters are not rooted strongly in the word of faith. If they remain like this until the day of rapture, they may be disappointed. Reason being that it is the Holy Spirit in you that will enable you hear the sound of the trumpet. Any person without the Holy Spirit will not hear the trumpet sound.

Common characters of those at the receiving level Unfortunately, many Christians today stop growing at the receiving level. It is the level of accepting Jesus into one’s life. At this level, the Holy Spirit comes into one’s life as a comforter, advocate, intercessor, helper, or strengthener after having convicted that person of sin. At this level, the Holy Spirit is not yet rooted in that person’s life. We discovered that at this level, there are common characters among them that operate in this level. a.

Christians at this level rise and fall in faith -Matthew 4:18-22, Luke 5:1-10 b.

Christians at this level easily drop their conviction- Gal. 3:1-4. It says: “O foolish, who have bewitch you that you should not obey the truth, before whose eyes Jesus Christ hath been evidently set forth, crucified among you? This only would I learn of you, received ye the Spirit by the words of the law, or by the hearing of faith? Are ye so foolish? Having begun in the Spirit, are ye now made perfect by the flesh? Have ye suffered so many things in vain? If it be yet in vain”. c.

Christians at this level behave as babes in Christ – I Cor. 5:1-3. It says: “It is reported commonly that there is fornication among you, and such fornication as is not so much as named among the Gentiles, that one should have his father’s wife. And ye are puffed up, and have not rather mourned, that he that hath done this deed might be taken away from among you. For I verily, as absent

From the Pulpit

Sunday June 15, 2014

The power region (IV) in body, but present in Spirit, have judged already, as though I were present, concerning him that hath so done this deed”. d.

Christians at this level display a lot of carnalities in their life styles – 1 Cor. 3:3-4.

It says: “ For ye are not carnal, for whereas there is among you envying, and strife and divisions, are ye not carnal and walk as men? For while one saith, I am of Paul: and another, I am of Apollos, are ye not carnal”. e.

They are still friends of the worldJames 4:4. It says: ”Ye adulteresses, know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? Whosoever therefore will a friend of the world is the enemy of God”. To be friend of the world is to be interested with what the world is interested with. f.

They still conform to wordily patterns. Dressing like the world, marrying like the world and things that look like these- Romans 12:2. It says: “And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect will of God”. They are equally yoked with unbelievers – 2 Cor. 6:14. It says: “Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers. For what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? And what communion hath light with darkness?”

The Indwelling level Our access into our God-given destiny and fulfillment is the spirit power working in us. Your unique purpose on earth cannot be realistic except by the working of spirit power. That is why the Bible says it is not of him that willeth nor of him that runneth, but of God who shows mercy. You may have all the principles, techniques and wisdom, but you still need the power region to make it happen. However, no one could experience Baptismal level of the Holy Spirit unless you have the indwelling experience. The Baptismal level is the level of authority and dominion while the indwelling level is the level of fullness of the Spirit presence. At the Indwelling level of the Holy Spirit, he does two distinct works. These works are evidenced through his manifestation. a).

He manifest as the Spirit of Truth - John 16:13-15. It says: “Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth; for He shall not speak of Himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that

shall he speak; and He will show you things to come. He shall glorify me; for He shall receive of mine, and shall show it unto you.

All things that the Father hath are mine; therefore, said I, that He shall take of mine, and shall show it unto you”. As the spirit of truth, He produces the fruit of the Holy Spirit in Galatians 5:22-26. It says: ”But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance against such there is no law. And they are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with affections and lusts. If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. Let us not be desirous of vainglory, provoking one another, envying one another”. b).

He controls our social life: At this level, He searches out our hidden potentials, refines them and uses them to publish our glory. Many believers think that the benefit is only spiritual. They are wrong; the benefits of the Holy Spirit are both spiritual and social. Jesus, who is the author and finisher of our faith, while on earth, He was filled with the Holy Spirit without measure, but He did not only go about healing and delivering people. He lived a very comfortable life, well respected and honoured life.

In Matthew 3:13-17, He left His home town in Galilee, after thirty years of non achievement, went to be baptized in Jordan River.

After baptism, the Holy Spirit in a dove shape lighted on Him and a voice from heaven, saying “This is my beloved Son in whom I am well pleased”. Having received the baptism of the Holy Ghost, after emersion baptism in Luke 4:14, the Bible says that Jesus returned in the power of the Spirit into Galilee and there went out a fame of Him through all the region round about. Can you see beloved that, this same Jesus, who left Galilee in shame and disgrace without achievement, after having identified Himself with a power region, returned back to Galilee with great fame and honour. Today, I prophesy in your life if you identify with the power region through this message, you will be announced this year in the name of Jesus.

Prophetic words of the week 1.

There is someone reading this message, something tells you that your work will soon stop. The Lord said I should

PFN seeks concerted effort to stem insecurity ODINAKA URUAKPA

T

he Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria, PFN, has charged the Federal Government and other relevant agencies incharge of security in the country to see to it that they put in more effort in tackling the upsurge of criminality and terrorism by the Boko Haram insurgents so as to stem the tide of insecurity that is fast eating into the fabric of the nation.

The group made this appeal in a statement made available to newsmen in Lagos during the week at the end of an emergency meeting of its National Advisory Council and National Executive Council held at the Christian Pentecostal Mission (CPM) International Believers Cathedral, Ajao Estate, Lagos.

According to the National President of PFN, Rev. (Dr.) Felix Omobude, PFN is appalled that despite persistent calls and appeals from all over the world for the immediate release of the young school girls who were kidnapped from Chibok, Borno State, almost two months ago, the perverts

45

behind this criminal abduction are still holding them.

He added that the group condemns in the strongest terms possible, the callous abduction of innocent children by this gang of criminals who claim to be motivated by a desire to foist on Nigeria their own perverted ideology, demanding for their immediate and unconditional release.

He said: “The Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria is alarmed at the increasing upsurge of criminality and terrorism by this group. We note the efforts being made by the government to address the challenges, but we call on them to do more in stemming the tide of insecurity in our land. We also call on both the federal and state governments to increase their level of cooperation, as it is a battle that

ask you, why are you concluding when I have not? The Lord said I should tell you that the work is there for you and nothing will terminate it in Jesus name.

2.

There is someone reading this message, there is this celebration, either you will be hosting it or attending it, you are afraid of being charmed or how the occasion will go.

The Lord said you should not be afraid, that He has taken charge of the occasion. Please call my number for prayer.

Prayer points of the week 1.

Say, Oh Lord, my God, that power waiting for me on the high way of success/ breakthrough to pull me down again, I command be roasted by fire in Jesus name.

2.

Say, my Father, that satanic muscled /flexed hand waiting to snatch my upliftment this week, be roasted by fire in Jesus name.

Testimonies Stomach problem wiped away 1.

I am testifying on what God did for me through the prayer of the man of God. I have been having stomach problem for a long time, so someone directed me to the church. On my way going there, I missed my way but God in His infinite mercy took me there. When the man of God was praying, he mentioned my case and I came out. He prayed for me with water; after taking the water, the stomach stopped automatically.

Praise the Lord!

Sister Glory.

2.

God averted eye problem I thank God for what He did for me.

Before I came to the church, I could not stay without my medicated glasses or stay under the sun. At night, I seldom stay where there is light. So my sister brought me to the church for deliverance.

The man of God placed me on a prayer.

Before the end of the prayer, I was healed from this infirmity. I have thrown the glass away because it ached me the last time I put it on. Now, I walk under the sun and stay where there is light. Praise the Lord!

Sis. Tessy’s sister •Pastor K. I. Bona is General Overseer of Chapel of Holiness and Testimony Ministries, 6 David Egbetuyi Street, Fagbile Ijegun, Ikotun, Lagos.

Tel:08038206508, 08023404926

can only be won when we are all united.

“We salute the courage of the Nigerian Armed Forces, some of whom have made the ultimate sacrifice in the process of fighting terror. We enjoin them to rededicate themselves to this cause, and expedite action ensuring the safe return of our girls. We challenge them to continue to stand as one, maintain unity of purpose and ensure that the proper chain of command is maintained at all times. We have faith in their capacity and dedication to safeguarding the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Nigeria.”

Christians urged to participate in choice of political leaders AYO ESAN

C

hristians across Church denominations have been called upon to be involved in the various political processes that lead to the emergence of political leaders in their communities.

Making this call recently is Rev Solomon Adegbolagun, the National President of Centre for Righteous Living (CRIL), a Christian faith based Non-Governmental organisation at the formal Inaugural Lecture of the Lagos Centre Division of the body in Lagos recently.

Delivering his speech titled “Because we Are Involved”, the Christian leader was of the view that even though the church must not be involved in partisan politics, there must be the criteria of “who they would vote for based on the faith, attitude, capability, reliability and background of the candidates”.

He said past records of achievements, and performance is what must be looked into before anyone is endorsed.

“Money must not be allowed to play a role in the process, and anyone who spends too much money must be disqualified, and leaders must not accept gift from candidates and politicians must not be invited to the churches to donate

money,” he explained.

Adegbolagun, who is also the Chairman of Lagos State Pilgrims Welfare Board, however, expressed his stand against campaign for a Christian governor in Lagos, but urged the church as a group to do her home work and come out with well screened and adopted candidates which they could recommend to political parties.

On why he stood against the idea of the campaign for a Christian Governor, the cleric pointed out that the danger in that is that the parties could just pick any Christian and the result might not prove the worth of disciples in governance.

46

From the Pulpit

Peace Tabernacle International with Pastor Sola

Aderibigbe

O

nly the living can praise the Lord.

Glory be to God for the gift of life and the privilege of meeting with you again. For you to still be alive, there is hope for a living dog than a dead lion. This is the fourth in the series of “Maturity for Mandate Fulfillment.” So far, we’ve discussed the real image which is God’s desire for our lives without shadows. We’ve also discussed the difference between a child and an adult (spiritually and physically). We’ve also been able to establish that it’s only a matured person (spiritually) that would understand and take action in pursuit of the real image of God rather than shadows.

We’ve also had the privilege of examining the truth that maturity is not a function of age.

Progressively, today we would be examining the truth that God wants to and has always handed over power of amazement to a matured person.

Analysis has been previously made in the column that a physical child of twelve year (12), if given the gift of car, could eventually result to the source of such child’s death. He doesn’t possess the maturity to utilize that car effectively. It would eventually lead to misuse.

In the same vein, God cannot hand over the power of amazement/mandate fulfillment to a spiritually immature person. Such a person might possess Metusellaic age but without any spiritual growth into maturity, any power

Maturity for Mandate fulfilment (4) given to such a person would be misused.

Though Apostle Peter was matured in age physically but for a long period of time, he had been living a life of rising and falling. Peter promised heaven and earth to Jesus. Let’s see Luke 22:33. “And he said unto him, Lord, I am ready to go with thee, both in prison, and to death”.

However, he denied Christ. Let’s examine Matt. 26:69 – 74. “69. Now Peter sat without in the palace: and a damsel came unto him, saying, Thou also wast with Jesus of Galilee 70.

But he denied before them all, saying, I know not what thou sayest. 71. And when he was gone out into the porch, another maid saw him, and said unto them that were there, this fellow was also with Jesus of Nazareth. 72.

And again he denied with an oath, I do not know the man. 73. And after a while came unto him they that stood by, and said to Peter, surely thou also art one of them; for thy speech bewrayeth thee 74. Then began he to curse and to swear, saying, I know not the man. And immediately the cock crew.”

Oh! That was the Peter that was meant to show kings and powers -that-be in society the power of Jesus works wonders. That was a Peter that was expected to cast out demons, rebuke every satanic appearance, heal the sick and deliver people from their oppression.

He could not be bold to face only a maid. No wonder within that period, he could not perform wonders and fulfill mandate; No wonder, he went back into fishing. However, after the Holy Spirit came upon him in Acts 2, maturity came in, he became bold. You also need that maturity and boldness of the Holy Spirit if you would fulfill mandate and perform spiritual wonders and amazement.

The aftermath of Peter’s receipt of the

Holy Spirit was explosion. He exploded to manifest mandate. He became matured that he could defend Christ anywhere contrary to the scenes of his denial of Christ before just a maid. That was the moment God handed over the power of amazement to him. Therefore, part of the package that comes with spiritual maturity is spiritual power for amazement and mandate fulfillment. Peter began to perform wonders. An example is in Acts 3 where he healed the lame man at the Beautiful Gate.

Even his shadows alone wroth miracles. In Acts 3:12-13 and other passages of the Bible, we can see Peter boldly defending and promoting Christ.

“12. And when Peter saw it, he answered unto the people, ye men of Israel, why marvel ye at this? Or why look ye so earnestly on us, as though by our own power or holiness we had made this man walk? 13. The God of Abraham and Isaac, and of Jacob, the God of our fathers, hath glorified his son Jesus; whom ye delivered up, and denied him in the presence of Pilate, when he was determined to let him go.” He was imprisoned and beaten many times for Christ sake because of his maturity level.

Though Mark 16”15-18 shows that the power for amazement and mandate fulfillment is to be handed over to every believer who followed the instructions of evangelism, yet there is the need for spiritual maturity to sustain such power. This also happened to Peter.

In Luke 9, Christ sent his disciples out (Peter inclusive) to towns, cities and villages around to preach the gospel and perform healing and deliverances. In verse 10, they returned with great testimonies. This has helped us to establish that Peter had performed miracles before.

But lack of spiritual maturity could not allow

The art of mentoring (2) 12.

Send them into the ministry.

11.

(The Coach) P Pastor Moses A Omogbehin M

Continued from last week Twelve ways to reproduce yourself in others: Read the following scriptures: Matt.

10:1, 5 – 12, 42, Prov. 27:23, 2 Tim. 2:1 - 2 1.

Be practical in your dealing with your followers ii.

Lead by example 3.

Be a father 4.

Be a Pastor 5.

Be a teacher of the word.

6.

Be a friend 7.

Let your feedback be strong never allow lack to communication gap.

8.

Do not always count on your followers’ weakness but always build and develop on their strength.

9.

Be tolerant and meek.

10. Rule by righteousness and in the fear of God. 11. Expose them to the challenge of ministry, why? Ministry is very challenging but very interesting. Therefore, expose them on daily basis; experience teaches you what a hundred years of schooling cannot.

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Sunday June 15, 2014

Fifteen signs of becoming a godly leader (mentor and father) “Now these be the last words of David. David the son of Jesse said, and the man who raised up on high, the anointed of the God of Jacob, and the sweet Psalmist of Israel, said, The spirit of the LORD spake by me, and his word was in my tongue. The God of Israel spake said, the Rock of Isreal spake to me, He that ruleth over men must be just, ruling in the fear of God” - 2 Sam. 23:1 – 3.

Read the following Scriptures: 2 Sam. 22:1 – 3, I Chron. 11:10 – 26. Titus 1:4 – 8.

1.

A godly leader trains his followers.

2.

A godly leader is practical 3.

A godly leader leads by example 4.

A godly leader uses himself as an example both the good and sometimes the bad ones.

5.

A godly leader says what he be lieves.

6.

A godly leader has a genuine concern for his followers 7.

A godly leader has a genuine love 8.

A godly leader does not give ex cuse for his failure, mistakes or error.

9.

A godly leader is often contro versial 10. A godly leader is not motivated

12.

13.

14.

15.

by money.

A godly leader makes great sac rifice for his beliefs and vision A godly leader inspires A godly leader has emotion but does not allow his emotion to control and dictate the affair of life and destiny.

A godly leader is truthful and sincere.

A godly leader says what he be lieves.

Fourteen areas to stay ahead as a mentor (Father, G.O., father, etc.)

• One of the greatest thing that make a mentor, father, G.O, father, etc, is the ability to always stay ahead your followers. Who is a leader? Someone who is ahead or a step ahead is follower.

Jesus Christ was a good leader. He sacrificed more than His disciples did. He preached, taught, prayed among other things.

• A leader must have visible and invisible area in which he must stay ahead but it must be more of invisible rather than visible. It is his leadership in these invisible areas that make him a true leader.

1.

Stay ahead in positive thinking.

2.

Stay ahead in study.

3.

Stay ahead in sacrificing to God and to man.

4.

Stay ahead in the area of giving to God and man.

5.

Stay ahead in holiness living 6.

Stay ahead in the love of God

him to sustain the power. He began to rise and fall until his maturity could handle the power.

Therefore, you also as a child of God might have performed miracle in the name of Jesus at one point or the other, yet you have to grow into spiritual maturity in order to be able to sustain it. If you don’t, the power would be withdrawn. It is such withdrawal of power that makes some men of God resort into using fake power from the kingdom of darkness.

They might have performed miracles before, they committed errors but they don’t want to retrace back their step and they don’t want people to know that power had been taken from them; they now resort into consultation with darkness. May that not be your portion in Jesus name.

To show spiritual maturity, you have to show high sense of discipline. You must discipline your thoughts, your utterances, your appetite, your association, etc. Part of discipline is to be able to fast and pray as Christ said “this kind cannot be done except by fasting and prayer.”

Also, you must not serve God because you want to collect something from Him but because he is God. That is unconditional service.

That would lead to continual thanksgiving to God (unconditional) as written in Habakkuk 3:17-18 “Although the fig tree shall not blossom ……….. Yet I will rejoice in the Lord …”

Next week, you would know about God’s dream and image for you. Shalom!

• For testimonies, comments, enquires, counseling or prayer, don’t hesitate to contact me at: Peace Tabernacle Int’l (Power Palace) Between FRSC and Atiba Police Barracks Oke-Ebo, Oyo, Oyo State. Or08067142127 Or bunmichristy75@yahoo.com

7.

8.

9.

10.

11.

12.

13.

14.

and man Stay ahead in your relationship with God Stay ahead in fasting Stay ahead in mediation Stay ahead in worshipping Stay ahead in your service unto God Stay ahead in leading by exam ple Stay ahead in reading Christian books Stay ahead in listening to tapes.

Things you must do to stay ahead as leader (mentor, father, G.O.) 1.

Fast regularly 2.

Have a daily 3.

Study the Bible everyday 4.

Pray for hours everyday 5.

Learn to adapt to a change Rewards of staying ahead 1.

You will make heaven 2.

God will bless you 3.

Men will also bless you 4.

You will be honoured and respected by men 5.

You will become a celebrity in Christ Jesus.

6.

You will have followers.

•I know this teaching has blessed and imparted you. Please, write and share your testimony with me through: Covenant and Fulfillment Ministries 10, Onuwusasoigwe Close, Hostel Bus Stop, Egbe, Ikotun, Lagos.

Email: omogbehin31@yahoo.com or Call: 08034980921, 08054120540

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Desti Destiny Hour with Pastor Femi

Lanre-Oke

I

want you to understand that the entire universe is connected and held in place by the word of God. If the question is asked as to what makes up the things we see around us, the raw materials or the ingredients of things we see and touch, I guess the answers will border on water, sand, wood, etc. However, all these things are held together by the word of God. This is made clear in Hebrews 1:3 which states:“Who being the brightness of his glory and the express image of his person and upholding all things by the word of His power”.

What else convinces me that the word of God is the sustaining power of the universe; the Bible said in the book of Joshua 10:12-13, that Joshua commanded the sun to stand still and it did. Joshua was operating on the platform of one sent on an assignment by God, therefore, God backed him up and the sun did not go down. This ultimately means that the reason why the sun has not consumed the earth or the planets in its system is the word of God. Furthermore, Genesis 1 gives a quick illustration of how God brought the earth out of a void and chaotic situation to a place of peace and order by His word. Genesis 1:3, 6, 9, 11, 14, 20, 24, 26 and 29; all these scriptures had one

The bride voice with Pastor Moses

Alu

A

t another time, a lion came, took a sheep and David still went after the lion; a man went after a lion and saved a sheep!

Somebody who can risk his life for his father’s animal, the Lord looked at David and said to Himself, ‘If I commit anything into his hand, he will be dedicated’. The Bible says, ‘If you are committed to another’s business, so shall other be committed to yours’.

Some of us serve a God we do not even understand. There was a minister that was with us; throughout the time he was working with us, he was never committed or straight forward. He came to me voluntarily that he was leaving the ministry. With all the ministers, we joined hands and prayed for him. After he left, he started saying a lot of things about me.

He even sent me a text which I shared with some of my church members. There was nothing he did not say against me. And recently, I heard that he is now pasturing somewhere. I sent him a message that the greatest joy I have now is that he has become a pastor. I asked him if he knew why. I told him that the way he served while he was with me, the same service will be rendered to him by people who are going to work with him. I was not cursing him.

The last thing I will do is to lay curse on somebody that has offended me. I will never curse anyone. But I am telling you about a principle that must work. Even if he comes back and asks me to forgive him, I will open my mouth and forgive him, but it is a principle. Jacob defrauded Esau; didn’t Laban do the same to him? How did he marry two daughters of the same man? He served Laban for seven years so as to marry Rachael but the

From the Pulpit

Sunday June 15, 2014

47

The potency of the Word of God thing in common, “and God said”. The earth moved from a chaotic state to a state of order because God said.

Let us move on to some more interesting things: Genesis 1:6; God’s word is the reason why the earth has not being swept away by water, He is the reason why we still have dry land. Genesis 1:11; we have vegetation, trees and plants because God commanded them to appear. Genesis 1:20-25; God’s word is the reason why we have animals, sea creatures birds of the air and read this carefully, God’s word is the reason why they are fruitful and are multiplying and procreating. This ultimately means if God’s word should lose its capacity; sea creatures will be gone forever, animals will return to dust, vegetation will disappear. In fact, fruitfulness, multiplication, procreating and replenishment will stop. GOD’S WORD IS THE POWER BEHIND THE FUNCTIONING OF THE UNIVERSE AS WE KNOW IT. Without the word of God, everything on earth will be chaotic and meaningless. If God’s word should cease to be powerful, animals will return to dust, birds will return to water and you and I who are creation of the fruitfulness mandate will cease to exist - Genesis 1:28.

THE WORD OF GOD IN CONTEMPORARY TIMES Now, there are people who believe that the word of God is outdated and old schooled just like the King James English. They are of the school of thought that the world as it was in the days of Adam, Noah, Abraham, Jesus and the Apostles has drastically changed and it is now smarter, wiser and things work differently but may I point out just 2 of the numerous

topics of the Bible that are still pulling weight in these contemporary times.

Understand that what makes the Bible relevant in contemporary times is not the age of the text but its current applications by the Holy Spirit. Why is this crucial, The Holy Spirit is Omnipotent, Omnipresent and Omniscient, meaning, He’s all powerful, everywhere at the same time and knows everything. Therefore, the Bible written millennia ago was written by the inspiration of the Holy Spirit who knew what the demands of this age will be. You can therefore say old text but current application.

Remember, the Bible says in 2 Corinthians 3:6, the letter killeth but the spirit gives life. This means trying to understand the relevance of the issues discussed in scriptures without the help of the Holy Spirit is expressly signing up for confusion, fallacy and errors.

May I submit to you that the un-regenerated man will never understand the life in the scriptures and he will therefore till kingdom come fight its truth, its opinion, its reality and its relevance.

What are some of the issues discussed in the Bible which are still relevant today?

1.

The issue of depravity of the mind of man is the root cause of homosexuality and bestiality among other things. This is expressly explained in the book of Romans 1:2528.

25 Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed forever. Amen.26 For this cause God gave them up unto vile affections: for even their women did change the natural use into that which

The faith that moves God (6) night he was to be given Rachael, Leah was handed over to him. He was later told that in their culture, the junior cannot marry before the senior. Why didn’t they tell him from the beginning? Jacob was only paying for his sins against Esau.

He was told to first marry Leah and if he still wanted Rachael, he could then serve another seven years. So he ended up serving another seven years, making it fourteen years just to marry Rachael. Why would that happen? He cheated Esau. There was no peace all around him. And that was why when that opportunity came and he saw that angel, he knew it was not an ordinary angel and he therefore said, “I will never let you go unless you bless me.” Bless me” here means, ‘all the troubles around me, remove them because I have suffered enough.’

He was suffering because of what he did to Esau, but God was still pleased with his action. So he was qualified to keep the twelve foundational elders and tribes of Israel that came through him. Why? Because he had respect for birthright! And talking about birthright, so many of us do not have respect for birthright! It is your birthright to receive all good things. You are looking for a job? It is your right.

What is the meaning of birthright? It is the rights that go along with you as a family member. I was sharing my testimony/story with the deacons sometime ago. I said that I had always known my right wherever I am. People look at me as a stubborn person, but God looks at me differently. I know my rights. In all the churches I have worshipped, their greatest challenge was dealing with me because if you are not straight-forward as a pastor in your conduct and messages, I will tell you straight.

And if you ask me why, I will give you instances. I don’t go behind to talk about my pastors, I go straight to them, unlike many people that

are cowards, who will write something in the suggestion box, but will not put their names.

I won’t write letters, but will meet my pastors face to face and tell them their faults.

I was telling the deacons that when my father died, I come from a polygamous family with my father marrying 13 wives. He was a king and it is a small thing for kings in the north because many of them marry as many as they want. We were therefore many and I have elder brothers that have children that are even older than me. And some of them are big people in the government. I was in Lagos when my father died. He died on a Friday and on Saturday morning, I was already at home.

By the time I arrived, I got to know that my father was buried that Friday because some of us are Christians and most Muslims.

Before my father died, he became a Christian. At that time, I was neither a Christian nor a Muslim. I was just living my life anyhow.

I went to my elder brothers and asked them what right they had to bury my father without allowing me to see his corpse. I insisted they bring him out from the grave. The trouble took the whole day. Why? It was my birthright to see my father’s corpse. I told them they could not take it from me. He was their father as well as mine. I told them we had the same right over his corpse and that we must all be involved in the planning for his burial. I was ready to foment trouble, give money to area boys to disrupt everything and create confusion.

My mother tried to intervene, but I told her that while the man in question was her husband, he was also my father. Praise the Lord.

It took the pleading and intervention of elders in the town before I allowed the matter to rest.

What am I saying? My birthright! And this is the right that goes along with me a member of the family.

By one spirit are you baptized into the body of Christ, we have our birthrights. He has

is against nature:27 And likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust one toward another; men with men working that which is unseemly, and receiving in themselves that recompense of their error which was meet.28 And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient; The Bible in the passage above expressly state that using one’s body for any other form of affection contrary to man with woman as God has stated in the beginning is not convenient and it only appears when people refuse to give God His rightful place in their lives.

They lose their mind and begin to burn with passion for persons of the same sex and for things such as animals and inanimate objects. There is biblically a natural use of the mind and it is scripturally given that anything contrary is born of a reprobate and corrupt mind. This is a contemporary issue and the Bible is expressly clear about it.

Next week by the grace of God, we shall continue and look at other contemporary applications of the word of God but until then reignite your love for the word of God this week and every chaotic situation in your life will turn around for a testimony in Jesus name.

•For further prayer & counseling Please contact: Pastor Femi Lanre-Oke Jesus Praise Evangelical Ministries International, Ibadan, Oyo State +2348030752799, +2348053695097; Email: femi_lanre01@yahoo.co.uk

blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places -Eph. 1:3. The earth is the Lord’s and its fullness thereof. The whole of this earth belongs to our heavenly father. You don’t give me conditions; sister, let no man give you conditions that he must first sleep with you, you have sold your birthright if you oblige him. If you don’t get that job, or if the man refuses to give you that job because of your principles, it means God has not ordained that job for you. Leave him and look for another one.

It is because you don’t know who you are!

I am just using this as an example. That is why God hated Esau but loved Jacob.

The faith that moves God! Before we end for this week, let us see another example. Remember the three Hebrew children and even Daniel? You want to imagine that they were sentenced to death just like they would have done to Paul and Silas. They sentenced them to death and in the case of Daniel, they sentenced him to death. Why? Because of his faith! They took him to the lions’ den. They made those lions to be so hungry, looking for food, so that before Daniel would even land in their midst, they would have devoured him.

And you will wonder, all these because of standing for righteousness? If you were the one, what would have been going on in your mind would be ‘will God allow the enemy take me this far?’

During one of our vigils, I was exhorting the brethren on the last minute God. At the last minute, God can intervene.

But I am looking at Daniel now. God stood watching until they threw Daniel into the lions’ den.

•Pastor Moses Alu; The Bride Assembly, Odofin Park Estate, OshodiApapa Expressway, Ijesha Bus stop 08033524903 : Email: pastormosesalu@yahoo.com

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

48

Vineyard

Briefly Father’s Day celebration 2014 at Agape Worship Center

A

gape Worship Center will today hold a one-day Father’s Day Celebration for 2014 at 9.00am. It is billed for No. 6, Zion Close, off Kosoko Road, Ojodu, Berger Bus-stop, Lagos. The programme has “Fatherhood, the Home and Nation’ as theme.

Pastor Emeka Obiora speaking on behalf of the Men’s president of the church, Deacon Ibe Onyeukwu ,said Father’s Day is a global event initiated very many years ago in United States of America by a little girls when development had eluded them, adding that they had a caring father at home which affected the community and nation at large.

This programme is expected to bring out the best o fatherhood positively both at home, families, community and nation, Nigeria, in general. Special ministration is by Apostle & Rev. (Mrs.) David Odi (Senior Pastors – Host).

Celebration Sunday June 15, 2014

Bishop marks golden jubilee in style

Lagos Church holds special programme

A

ll is set for this month’s programme of New Birth Ministries International tagged; ‘Hour to Receive.’ It is scheduled to hold at No. 1, Abiodun Jagun Street, off Ogba Bus-Stop, Ikeja, Lagos, on Thursday, at 5 p.m. It will continue on Friday, at 11.00 p.m. till dawn.

The programme’s theme is “Grace For Greatness”. Speaking about the programme, Senior Pastor and Chief host, Bishop Francis C. Anunobi, said this vision is an inter-denominational miracle session given to him by God and which comes up every third week of the month, between Thursdays and Sundays.

It is set apart for total salvation, healing, deliverance, blessings, joy, and testimonies for all who attend.

Consuming Fire Prayer Ministries holds Vigil

A

ll is set for a five-day vigil at Consuming Fire Prayer Ministries, aka Transformation Home, at No. 66, Ijaiye Road, opposite Area ‘G’ Police Command, Ogba, Lagos, beginning tomorrow, through Friday, at 11.00 p.m.

The programme has “God has not given me up to untimely death but longevity”(Ps. 118:17–18) as its theme.

The Chief host who doubles as the General Overseer and Presiding Minister, Pastor Celestine Ndu, speaking ahead of the programme said God will protect all his children, urging everyone to attend.

Sunday Mirror/Babcock University Bible Quiz Winners can collect their prizes from the office of the Editor, Sunday Mirror, 151/161 Broad Street, Lagos any time from Monday to Friday. Paticipants should always indicate their name when sending their entries

L-R: The Lord Bishop, African Church, Lagos Mainland Diocese, Rt. Rev. Samuel Adelagun Ajayi; his wife Adenike; Justice Olanrewaju Mabekoje; Lord Bishop, Lagos Central Diocese, Rt. Rev. Julius Abbe and ex-Tell reporter, Rev. Gbenga Gbadebo, during the 50th birthday anniversary of Bishop Ajayi at the African Church Cathedral Salem, Ebute-Metta, Lagos, recently.

ODINAKA URUAKPA

A

ll roads led to the African Church Cathedral Salem, Ebute-Metta, Lagos last weekend when the Bishop of African Church, Lagos Mainland Diocese, Rt. Rev. Samuel O. A. Ajayi JP, celebrated his 50th birthday in style.

The event was graced by people that matter in the Church, including the Primate of African Church, His Eminence, Emmanuel J. Udofia, the Bishop of Enugu Diocese, Rt. Rev. S.O. Sogbamu, an array of Bishops and ministers of the church and royal fathers from within and outside Lagos.

In his sermon, Primate of the African Church, His Eminence, Emmanuel J. Udofia, charged the celebrant as well as those present at the event to seek knowledge, academically and scripturewise so as to know God more and grow in bounds when they establish a good relationship with God and people around them.

He listed righteousness as one of the virtues needed for one to have good relationship and growth in the Lord, adding that greed is one vice that has eaten deep into the fabric of most Nigerians and thus has led them especially those in public offices to embezzle and squander money as they like.

He said: “When you live a righteous life in accordance with the will of God, you would be content with whatever position or condition you find yourself. When you are in a comfortable position, you wouldn’t go about building and acquiring property and estates all over the place, you would give to the needy, support church programmes and show mercy to the poor. As long as you do these and focus on the Lord, you will never be disappointed nor lack anything.

Stay where God has put you, don’t involve

The Lord Bishop, African Church, Lagos Mainland Diocese, Rt. Rev. Samuel Adelagun Ajayi (middle); Lord Bishop, Lagos Central Diocese, Rt. Rev. Julius Abbe (2nd left); Lord Bishop, Ijebu Diocese, Rt. Rev. Augustine Odufuwa (right) and Rev. Gbenga Gbadebo during the 50th birthday anniversary of Bishop Ajayi at the African Church Cathedral Salem, Ebute-Metta, Lagos, recently.

yourself in politics or any other profession that is not your calling just because you see others making money there because if God does not support it, you are bound to fail there.”

While congratulating the celebrant, the Primate urged him not to relax at this point of his 50th birthday which he referred to as the peak of his (celebrant) life, but to continue to do more in the vineyard of the Lord through service to God and care for humanity which he stressed is the ultimate goal for which the Lord has called him.

The cleric who spoke on the efforts being made to rescue the abducted Chibok schoolgirls, commended the Federal Government for doing all it could to see to the safe return of the girls, especially its call for international assistance to nip the problem of insurgency in the bud.

He further called on Nigerians individually and collectively to aid the effort of the government by praying for God’s intervention and restoration of peace in the country, adding that what the nation is passing through is momentary and with the right approach, God will surely see the nation through and bring it out of the

problem it is currently facing.

While thanking God for granting him the grace to celebrate his 50th birthday and achieving all that he had at that age, the celebrant said God has been very supportive of him and he appreciates all the things that the Lord has done in his life.

He admonished other clerics especially the younger ones to spend their lives in the true service of God, and working towards making heaven, adding that they should make God their refuge by all standards.

He said: “Fifty is not an easy age to achieve, so I thank God for His special grace in my life that has continued to radiate in all that I do and making me feel younger and stronger in the service of God. I have allowed God almighty to use me the way He likes and by His grace I’m always there to give myself to him. Whenever he calls me, I have no option but to let myself go, that is one of the things I believe I have done to make me what I am today.”

The celebrant also enjoined all to be fervent in prayer so that to the glory of God almighty, through the efforts of the government and intervention of international bodies, the abducted Chibok schoolgirls will be freed in record time and returned to their families.

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

GROWING UP with

Growing Up

Sunday, June 15, 2014

49

SPOT THE DIFFERENCE

Aunty Ayo

Hello Children, How are you? I believe thyat you are preparing for your third term examination. As usual, we have interesting stories, cartoons and other educative articles for you. Please, don’t forget to send in your questions and comments.

ANIMAL FACTS

Once upon a time

Three sons and a bundle of stick

O

The Pigeon

• The pigeon is the world’s oldest domesticated bird. Mesopotamian cuneiform tablets mention the domestication of pigeons more than 5,000 years ago.

• Noah’s dove was a pigeon. The bird’s message of subsiding waters, and thus new beginnings and hope, lent the pigeon its role as Bird of Peace.

• Pigeon droppings were once considered a semi-precious commodity. In ancient Egypt it was highly prized manure, and for centuries in England pigeon feces were declared property of the Crown.

• Pigeons are athletes of the highest caliber:.

• Pigeon racing is an internationally popular sport that can count the Queen of England among its enthusiasts. Winning birds can bring home millions of dollars in prize money and fetch tens of thousands of dollars at auction.

• Pigeons don’t nest in trees, but prefer nesting on rocky ledges (although a window ledge will do just fine). They mate for

nce upon a time, an old man lived with his three sons in a village. All his three sons were hard workers. Still, none of them agree with each other and quarrelled all the time. The old man tried a lot to unite them but he failed. While the villagers surprised at their hard work and efforts, they also made fun of them on their fights.

Months passed by and the old man fell sick. He talked to his sons to stay united, but none of his sons heard his words. So, he decided to teach them a practical lesson so that they can shed off their differences and stay united.

The old man called as his sons. He told them, ‘I will give you bundle of sticks. Separate each sticks and you will have to break each stick into pieces of two. The one who breaks the sticks quickly will be rewarded more.’

All sons agreed.

The old man gave a bundle of 10 sticks to everyone of them and asked to break it into pieces. All the sons broke the sticks into pieces in minutes.

life.

• Pigeons populate every continent on Earth, with the exception of Antarctica. In America alone, you’ll find them in the arid deserts of Arizona and the frigid climes of Alaska. Pigeons do not migrate but rather adapt to their chosen location year-round.

• Pigeons are now routinely poisoned, and tormented with caustic gels and electrical devices. Tens of thousands are poached and sold to gun clubs for use as live practice.

•The pigeon’s eyes function much better with stationary images and therefore as the pigeon takes a step forward the head is temporarily left behind. The next step jerks the head forward again and so on. This allows the bird to correctly orient itself.

• Pigeons have flown in many wars, including both WWI & WWII. They have saved countless lives.

• Pigeons are the only bird in the world that do not have to lift their head to swallow water.

Children, you can send your contributions and pictures through this email address Ayoweke@gmail.com or call telephone number: 08024694990

And again they started to quarrel among themselves as who came first.

The old man said, ‘Dear sons, the game is not over. Now I will give another bundle of sticks to all of you.

You will have to break the sticks as a bundle, not as separate sticks.’

The sons agreed and began to break the bundle of sticks. Unfortunately, they cannot break the bundle.

They tried very hard but failed to complete the task.

All sons said to father about their failure.

The old man replied, ‘Dear sons, see you can easily break the single sticks into pieces, but you were not able to break the bundle! The sticks were same. So, if you stay united, nobody can make any harm to you.

If you quarrel every time with your brothers, anyone can easily defeat you. I request you to stay united.’

The three sons understood the power of unity and promised their father that whatever may be the problem, they would all stay together.

Moral: Unity is strength

50

Sunday, June 15, 2014

POP

WHO INVENTED WHAT? The FIFA 2014 World Cup

DID YOU KNOW?

“You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself any direction you choose. You’re on your own. And you know what you know. And YOU are the one who’ll decide where to go…”

TONGUE TWISTER

RIDDLES

I

One-one was a race horse.

Two-two was one too.

One-one won one race.

Two-two won one too.

YOUNG FASHION

The Jelly Foot-wears

The rainy season is a time when you really do not want any of your precious clothing to get wet and spoilt. Your shoe is the most important part of your wardrobe that you don’t want spoilt. What better way to protect those shoes than to wear cute jelly foot wears that will not get spoilt. There are various types of Jelly wears out there depending on which you would love and prefer. Enjoy the Lookbook below.

Jelly Sandal 2

QOUTE OF THE WEEK

• The largest flower in the world, the rafflesia arnoldi, weighs 7 kg (15 pounds) and grows only on the Sumatra and Borneo islands of Indonesia.

• The oldest living thing on earth is a flowering shrub called the creosote bush, found in the Mojave Desert.

• The Great Pyramid of Giza is the only one of the Seven Wonders of the World that still survives.

• During the 6th Century, it was customary to congratulate people who sneezed because it was thought that they were expelling evil from their bodies.

Opening ceremonies in pictures.

f you missed the opening ceremony of the present world cup, not to worry as we have pictures of the highlights of the ceremony.

Enjoy the Look-Book below.

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

– Dr. Seuss

JOKE

Q. How do you fix a broken tomato?

A. Tomato paste!

Q. Why did the banana go to the doctor?

A. Because it wasn’t peeling well.

Q. What has a face and two hands but no arms or legs?

A. A clock!

Q. What is the easiest way to double your money?

A. Put it in front of the mirror of course!

Q. What has a thumb and four fingers but is not alive?

A. A glove.

Q. What has to be broken before you can use it?

A. An egg.

Q. What has a neck but no head?

A. A bottle.

Q. What gets wetter as it dries?

A. A towel.

Q. What goes up and doesn’t come back down?

A. Your age.

Q. What belongs to you but is used more by others?

A. Your name.

FAIRY PUZZLE

Jelly Sandal 1

Jelly Sandal 3

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

In the Patio

Kayode Fasua

kayfasua@yahoo.com (08034101207; SMS only, pls)

N

igeria is one land of one oddball too many. It’s a country that moves on giddily without a roadmap, or one that sails on tempestuously without com-

pass. Were it not so, had the country’s leaders honoured wisdom enough by slating various elections for between now and 2015 when they actually intend to draw up an entirely new constitution?

It’s one quandary to which the unwary public is sentenced.

Assumedly, the role of the National Conference currently haggling on the way forward in Abuja is to draw up a new constitution considered to be the people’s real document, denoting the terms and conditions for the mutual stay of all the ethnic nationalities that form the country. The national confab-as it is best famed, by its terms of reference is empowered to determine a new system of government which if accepted either through referendum or an adoption of the National Assembly, could extirpate the ensuing presidential system.

Provided the 490-member confab is not an attempt to keep the army of Nigeria’s restless intellectuals ‘busy’ and ‘patently succoured’, it cannot be safely assumed that the coming June 21 and August 9 governorship elections in Ekiti and

Opinion

Sunday June 15, 2014

51

Nigeria and its sticky oddballs Osun states respectively, will not become invalid, months after winners would have emerged. Again, the other nationwide elections, which include presidential, governorship, national and state Assemblies’, have been fixed for February next year. Clearly, if I were a President whose re-election was uncertain or had been rendered kaput already by the outcome of election, I could chummily rely on the recommendation of a confab, that Nigeria should go parliamentary, and thus dissolve the entire presidential system. And then continue in office.

That’s possibly the mischief theory.

But to court an immediate reality is to posit that once winners emerge in Ekiti and Osun elections, the confab which hopefully would have wound up, could have recommended that the existing six geo-political regions in the country should be the federating units and that the existing 36 states be dissolved. If that proposal is passed into law, it would only mean that all the resources spent to conduct the two elections had been wasted.

And for the winners of the governorship election, it would have amounted to a sort of unmitigated disaster in having to crash out of power in the national interest.

While all these postulations are still neither here nor there, one other funny concern has to also do with the attitude of the confab members themselves, fuelling the fear that they may be unable to come up with any position paper even as their extended mandate burns off any moment hence.

While the key issue of ‘what kind of Union shall Nigeria be?’ gathers mucous

moist, the conferees are rather obsessed with other issues largely considered as mundane, in the face of the fact that, in less than eight months, a large portion of the nation would go to poll to start off another political dispensation.

At the confab’s committee sessions, for instance, it’s somehow obfuscating that precious times were wasted on debates such as grazing reserve for Fulani nomads and whether or not to honour the acclaimed winner of the June 12, 1993 presidential election, the late Chief M.K.O Abiola. This seemingly delay tactics may have lent credence to the Yoruba adage that ‘if three years had been devoted to a dress rehearsal on how to go mad, when then is the real madness going to take place?’

The oddball plaguing this beleaguered country has in no way ended with the confab members’ hoopla, people whose conducts appear to be time and money wasting. How about the inchoate wellbeing of the over 200 Chibok secondary school girls from Borno, who are still with their Boko Haram abductors?

To soothe the pall of nationwide anguish and concern over the wrenching state in which the hapless girls have found themselves, foreign troops led by the United States of America (USA) reportedly whooshed in recently, to assist in freeing the girls and putting down the terrorist group’s insurrection. But one month after the touted arrival, and surveillance choruses, nothing inspiring is being heard any longer, aside from the now commercially viable rallies of #Bring Back Our Girls which the socalled non-governmental organisations,

relying on government or international bodies’ sponsorship, have gleefully cashed in on. These rallies are the alter ego for the various anti-HIV/AIDS rallies from which many have become sudden millionaires.

Without having to flog a dead horse, it is still apposite to restate the fact that the US will never put its mouth where its money is not available. It is probably still to be determined what constitutes the interest of America in the current Nigerian plight to clearly see if help should be expected from Uncle Sam. In the first place, if the US stands to profit from a balkanised Nigeria, save from helping to negotiate out the freedom of the seized girls, it is unlikely that it would do anything to contain Boko Haram. Also, if Nigeria comes up with offers to promote American business and investment interests, the US would naturally be on an even keel, to expressly state its willingness to render assistance that will lead to the release of the girls.

Recall 1993, after the annulment of the June 12 election, when Abiola ran to the US, wanting the American government to help force out then military President, General Ibrahim Babangida, and restore the former’s electoral mandate. After Abiola, fondly described in western media circles as ‘Nigerian opposition leader’, paced up and down, ‘blowing grammar’ and ‘doing Aluta,’ all he got was vain assurance of help.

The Americans cleverly looked the other way. Observers said Abiola failed to concede certain things to the Americans.

These oddballs…plaguing Nigeria.

Bogoro in ETF: A sign of good things to come FATAI IBRAHIM

T

oday’s monograph will begin with a candid missive from Philip Armour, “no general can fight his battles alone.

He must depend upon his lieutenants, and his success depends upon his ability putting the right man in the right place”.

President Goodluck Jonathan came into power. On the pledged transformation agenda aimed and directed consciously by conscientious leadership at repositioning our great country on the path of enduring, sustained economic posterity, built on an independent but dependable self reliant economy. It is in the light of this that the appointment of Professor Suleiman Elias Bogoro as Executive Secretary, Tertiary Education Trust Fund, is wholesomely seen as another bold step in the right direction. A round peg in a round hole.

In the first place, permit me to say that this renowned Professor of animal science is known universally as an intellectual Giant.

Born at Bogoro, in Bogoro Local Government Area of Bauchi State, some 56 years ago, to the distinguished Bogoro family, he received very sound primary, post-primary and University education, after which he entered into the noble teaching profession as an Agric Science master, Oroke High School, Akungba–Akoko, Ondo State, in 1981/82. Between 2005 and 2007, he became the Chairman, Governing Council, Federal

Polytechnic, Nekede, Oweri, Imo State and a member, NBTE committee and Bauchi State planning committee with great distinction.

It is worthy to sate at this junction that as an NBTE committee member, he was part of an excellent team charged with the responsibility of fashioning modalities for the removal of GL 14 Ceiling for HND Holders in Nigeria.

Beyond his excellent career in the Educational sector, Suleiman Elias in his sojourn through life has contributed his quota in the development of our great nation in the following capacities: • Executive Board member, Gymnastics Federation of Nigeria (2001 – 2005).

• Member, Board of Directors, Bauchi State Water board. (1994 – 1995) • National Consultant/Team leader UNDP “Fourth country Programme for Nigeria, 1992 – 96 (Livestock sub – sector)” • Consultant on the Federal Ministry of Labour & Productivity on job creation and poverty reduction Acton plan of Nigeria’s NEEDS/SEEDS program Bauchi/Gombe States (2004) • Member ETF Committee on Research Grants (2009-?)

• Member, Technical Committee on PostGraduate College of Animal Science, Nigeria Institute of Animal Science (NIAS) (2009?).

While working as a collaborating scientist to the Raw Materials Research and development Council (RMRDC), Abuja, he

contributed immensely to teaching and research. His research activities produced over 45 scientific publications in journals, provincials and conference proceedings, in addition to a rumen fermentation model as scientific innovation. He is versatile and also a celebrated journal reviewer to many journals including, NEC Journal and Nigeria Journal of Animal Production and Science Forum.

As a peacemaker and a peace-loving fellow, he is former first Vice President, Society for Peace Studies and Practice (SPSP), current executive chairman, National Association for Peaceful Election in Nigeria and in addition, an amiable consultant and project team leader to the World Bank, UNDP, USAID Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR) in Nigeria.

A pensive look at Professor Elisa’s antecedent and impeccable character would conspicuously and evidently reveal that, singleness of purpose, indomitable optimism and a can-do-spirit are qualities that are intrinsically endowed in him.

As a vibrant, staunch and dedicated orator of ATBU University, Professor Elisa would never succumb to frustrating situations or discouraging circumstances in the course of perpetuating what he knows how to do best-academic excellence. His commitment and attachment to his job would not let him yield to unfortunate or disappointing cause in his career.

James Garfield once said that, “next in importance to freedom and justice is popular

education, without which neither freedom nor justice can be permanently obtained”.

It is at this pedestal of discourse that I wish to commend our amiable president over this weighty appointment. I entreat this erudite professor, (Popularly called “The Ekwueme” of Aboh – Mbaise) meaning, a man of his words, truth and honesty. A title he earned in 2006 for the remarkable transformation of the Federal Polytechnic, Nekede, Owerri, within the 12 months as a fellow of the polytechnic, to bring his wealth of knowledge to bear on his new appointment.

To employ his acumen in the distribution of the ETF intervention funds to further enhance infrastructural and qualitative advancement of the tertiary sector, I dare say that much is expected of him especially in the face of on–going challenges in our tertiary education. He should as a matter of exigency see his new appointment as yet another clarion call to justify the confidence reposed in him. And as J.F Kennedy put it: our progress as a nation can be no swifter than our progress in education. The human mind is our fundamental resources. Mr. Professor, at the palm of your hands lie another rare opportunity to replicate your successes and justify your appointment to your new office.

To end this monograph, I wish to recall a recent comment by Amos Sawyer, “Public office is an assignment. It is a privilege not an entitlement. It is time bond; we enter, we serve, and we exit. It is a trust.”

•Ibrahim is a public affairs analyst

52

TOLA AKINMUTIMI ABUJA

T

he Federal Government and its development partners have agreed to strengthen their collaborative approach on development programmes’ implementation. Both parties said this would address the challenges of unemployment and poverty in the country.

Making the promise at the 2014 Dialogue Forum of the National Planning Commission and International Development Partners held in Abuja, the Supervising Minister of National Planning, Ambassador Bashir Yuguda; the Resident Representative/Coordinator,

Sunday, June 15, 2014

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

FG, devt partners to strengthen ties on Nigeria’s devt agenda United Nations System, Mr. Dauda Toure; and the World Bank Country Director for Nigeria, Marie-Francoise Marie-Nelly, vowed to work together to consolidate on the nation’s Transformation Agenda. They noted that his was in order to alleviate poverty and achieve inclusive growth of the economy. In his interactive session with the media at the sidelines of the forum, the Minister said the Federal Government was committed to using effective planning as the bedrock

of national development programmes with a view to ensuring that socio-economic programmes impact positively on the lives of ordinary Nigerians and that opportunities created by the stable macroeconomic environment are translated to national competitive advantage in the global economic system.

Yuguda expressed his optimism that after the dialogue, the Federal Government and the development partners would be able to chart a common course

for implementing various programmes on which the country continues to enjoy aids and grants from the partners.

He said: “We believe that after this dialogue, we should be able to tell Nigerians in clear terms what we have been able to do with our development partners.

Foreign aids come in different forms but if you take the total aggregate, it is less than two per cent of our annual budget. So, Nigeria like other countries, is not donor-dependent, certainly

not Nigeria.

“We cherish what they are doing but that is not to say that we depend on aids or grants coming from our development partners. It is sign of friendship, it is a sign of partnership and that is the whole essence of having these international donors around the world”, Yuguda added.

In his remarks, the UN system Coordinator expressed his satisfaction with the impact of UN

Czech Republic promises job creation REGINA OTOKPA ABUJA

T

L-R: Newly appointed Permanent Secretaries, Dr. Babatope Ajakaiye; Mrs. Binta Lami Adamu-Bello and Mr. Nanpon Danjuma, taking oath of office PHOTO: NAN before President Goodluck Jonathan at the Federal Executive Council meeting in Abuja at the weekend.

Ebonyi earmarks N100m for completion of World Trade Centre ALIUNA GODWIN ABAKALIKI

E

bonyi State Government at the weekend revealed that it has earmarked N100 million for the completion of the World Trade Center in the state.

The 10-storey Trade Centre was one of the gigantic projects inherited by Governor Martin Elechi’s administration but had continued to suffer some setbacks in its completion.

Speaking to journalists,

the state Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, Dr. Ifeanyi Ikeh, disclosed this in Abakaliki, at a seminar organised by World Bank with Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment and Corporate Affairs Commission, Abuja, in collaboration with the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Ebonyi State.

Ikeh said all efforts was in top gear to ensure that the project was completed before the end of Elechi’ administration, noting that the contractor, Edon Nige-

ria Ltd, has promised to go to site with his fund pending when government will release funds for the project.

He said: “I talked with Edon Nigeria Ltd on the need for this place to be completed for it to be commissioned by the governor before the end of his administration. He told me that by next month, July, he will start work. In fact, he has promised to start work with his own money to ensure that the project is completed”.

The commissioner said “ the governor has earmarked N100m for the completion of the building. It was defended in the council during budget presentation”.

The commissioner, who said the essence of the programme was to sensitize the people on the need to register their businesses, also warned that they would deal decisively on any person caught collecting money from unsuspecting members of the public for shops to be allocated to them at the new international market.

agencies’ interventions sectors of the Nigerian economy, adding that although the quantum of funds being provided by the agencies might not be much when analysed within the context of the country’s yearly budgets, the UN systems would continue to add value to Nigeria’s development by ensuring that international norms and standards are reflected in whatever programme design they are supporting.

he Federal Government and Government of Czech Republic have concluded plans to align their efforts targeted at ensuring practical development as module for job creation in the country.

Giving the hint when a delegation of the Czech Republic, led by country’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Pavel Mikes, visited his office in Abuja, Minister for Youth Development, Boni Haruna, expressed the country’s enthusiasm to partner Czech Republic to bolster current efforts targeted at youth empowerment and reducing unemployment rate in the country.

While expressing optimism in the transfer of skills, technology and technical know –how from the industrial developed country to Nigerian youths as a result of the alliance of both countries, the minister however appealed to the Government of Czech Republic to help in supporting Nigeria’s youth development centre projects.

The Minister said: “We fully know that you have paid your dues in terms

of industrial development and we as developing country are very much eager to partner with you especially in youth development and other areas that will be help us create jobs and employment for our youths” “Our special area of interest will be partnership on how we can equip our youth development centres and am sure if we partner with you, you will be able to help us to equip them and transfer some of the technology and technical know-how and add value to the general national development of Nigeria”, Haruna added.

In his remarks, the Czech Ambassador, Pavel Mikes, said his country was willing to partner Nigeria in her youth development programmes, adding that one of the areas his government would be ready to support Nigeria is in vocational training for Nigerian youths According to him, given the level of collaboration between both countries, youths in the country will receive adequate training to enable them work effectively and efficiently with the new industrial companies in the country.

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Politics

Sunday, June 15, 2014

53

ters –Ekiti APC chairman, Jide Awe WE WERE CLOSE TO IJIGBO JUNCTION WHEN WE SAW THE MOPOL COMMANDER IN THE STATE LEADING SOME ARMED POLICEMEN TOWARDS WHERE WE WERE.

THE POLICE

TEAM WAS FOLLOWED BY TWO ARMOURED PERSONNEL CARRIERS

Awe

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 12 across to Governor Kayode Fayemi, who arrived about 45 minutes later. When the governor came, the MOPOL commander, Gabriel Selenkere, forcibly got hold of one of the security aides of the governor to disarm him. Rep Ojo who wanted to

intervene was assaulted and he narrowly escaped being shot. The MOPOL commander engaged the governor in an altercation and the governor had to call the Commissioner of Police who arrived later.

What we saw has confirmed that the PDP would use brutal force on us. We call on the President and the Inspector General of Police not to allow the police to cause trouble in the state. If we can no longer campaign, it will be too bad. The CP and MOPOL commander should be redeployed from the state within 24 hours or what happened in Ado-Ekiti will go round the state. The people’s army is greater and more powerful. If we are witnessing this now, what would happen on election day?

They cannot tackle Boko Haram but can face defenceless civilians. Their plan is to create fear in the minds of the people so that they would be afraid to come out and vote and defend their votes, but that will

not happen.

But, why Governor Fayemi’s presence at the scene, especially as he had not been going to similar violent scenes?

The one that happened under his nose in the state capital, a few metres, not up to a kilometre to the Government House? They expected that a reasonable governor will just sit down and fold his arms while the state is burning, especially at this election period. He had to respond quickly. It is part of his duties to respond quickly even if not a political issue.

There was fracas in Ado-Ekiti during Niyi Adebayo’s regime, at Okeyinmi area of the town. Though it was a chieftaincy matter, Niyi Adebayo literally went there in his night gown to rescue the situation. If PDP does not know how a governor should behave, they should go and learn. In actual fact, that is why up till today, the Presi-

dent cannot categorically tell Nigerians the number of girls abducted in Chibok, Borno State, running to three months now.

He has not deemed it fit to visit the place, while President Barack Obama flew all the way from America to Afghanistan because of one American soldier. The President of Nigeria has not been to Maiduguri, so they are expecting the same thing to happen to Fayemi. As the chief security officer of the state, he must react. If not for Fayemi’s intervention, scores of people would have been killed because I know that MOPOL commander was drunk and was acting the script given to him.

What of PDP’s allegation that your party wants to be treated with kid gloves by security agents?

We are children of struggle. APC as a party sprang from a combination of ACD, AD and others. We don’t pretend that we are children of struggle, who are expected to be treated with kid gloves. For threeand-a-half years we were in the trenches until the last minute that we retrieved our mandate from the powers that be. If we had expected to be treated with kid gloves, we would not have engaged ourselves in that struggle. We know that the agents of state are not friendly to Nigerians. We have fascist security agencies in the country and they are behaving to type.

–PDP chairman, Makanjuola Ogundipe OUR NATIONAL LEADERSHIP DOESN’T PLACE ANYBODY ABOVE THE LAW. IT ALWAYS TELLS US THAT WHATEVER WE WANT TO DO SHOULD BE WITHIN THE CONFINES OF THE LAW.

Ogundipe

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 12 penultimate Saturday’s Fayose rally? Is there any link between the rally and the crisis on the following day?

That is only for lack of what to say. Everybody knows APC is a group of liars. The APC is jittery over what they saw, especially on realising that they were genuine Ekiti PDP members who had and flaunted their voter cards when our candidate asked them to show the cards. We had a very successful rally at the

BECAUSE PDP MEMBERS ARE LAW ABIDING

Oluyemi Kayode Stadium, Ado-Ekiti on Saturday, June 7. The turnout of people was unprecedented and Peoples Democratic Party leaders, including President Goodluck Jonathan, VicePresident Namadi Sambo and others were present and impressed with what they saw. Vice-President Sambo was holding a stakeholders’ meeting with PDP leaders on Sunday morning, a day after the rally, when reports came that APC members led by the State Chairman, Jide Awe, were going about town attacking anybody wearing anything relating to PDP and our candidate, Dr Ayo Fayose. They started with commercial motorcyclists and hacked many people and also burnt down more than 10 okada. Our candidate, Fayose, only on Monday replaced six out of the motorbikes and paid the medical bills of the injured riders. The irony of it is that the APC people were the first to go to the media and begin their usual propaganda. Even they

said Taiwo Akinola that was shot dead by one of their thugs called Agbara, was their member. It is clear that the APC is only being jittery and they felt threatened by what they saw on Saturday. It is obvious that the people of the state have rejected them and their government. In the first instance, their government came in through the back door and now the people of the state will on June 21 legally and democratically send them packing from the Government House in Ado-Ekiti.

Do you think the Police had done well, especially with the attack on Gov Fayemi’s convoy?

It is just unfortunate that the Governor could descend so low and ridicule the Office of the Governor. As far as we are concerned, APC thugs went about fomenting trouble. They maimed, injured and killed innocent people and yet Governor Fayemi still used his position to provide cover for

his thugs. We know that they imported thugs from nearby states of Osun, Lagos, Kogi and Oyo. The situation called for concern. We thank the police for rescuing some youths from Fayemi’s thugs. We are all praying for a violentfree poll in the state. If Fayemi feels he is losing, as he is going to, he can honourably resign and throw in the towel.

I don’t know why a governor should personally supervise such a heinous crime. Those who are justifying Fayemi’s presence in Ijigbo area of AdoEkiti should answer these questions: Where was Fayemi when APC leaders were killing Ayo Jeje and Madam Adewumi in Erijiyan-Ekiti? Where was the governor when his goons shot and killed Foluso Ogundare in Emure-Ekiti? Those killed, were they not Ekiti indigenes? Is Fayemi the governor of only APC members? Remember that APC leaders and members, including their State Chairman, Jide Awe, are facing trial over these killings.

54

Politics

Sunday, June 15, 2014

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Police battle-ready, as Edo Assembly crisis worsens Igbinedion added, “I am a lawyer and I have been a member of the Assembly before. So, I know that the Assembly has inherent powers to suspend any member for misconduct. If you are the Speaker of an Assembly and one of your members tells you how he is being lured with financial inducements by some other members, what will you do? Will you fold your hands and look?”

“What is wrong is wrong and what is right is right. There is a process for any suspended member of an Assembly to prove his case and have his suspension lifted. Instead of the suspended lawmakers to take the necessary process to redress their suspension, they resorted to lawlessness and illegality to constitute a rival Assembly and pronounced suspension on their elected leaders. I won’t be surprised if the state Attorney-General soon presses with a criminal case against them at the ends.”

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 11

lawmakers in the Assembly broke with the aid of a fire extinguisher, the door leading into the chamber and quickly pronounced suspension on the elected Speaker, Majority Leader and four other lawmakers in a 10-minute hurried sitting that lacked the legislative authority of a Mace, presence of Sergeantat-Arms, Clerk and other legislative authorities.

The drama took yet another twist the following day, Wednesday, when the two factions took seats in the plenary after an early morning exchange of physical blows in the chamber, which was though quelled by the state police boss, who prevailed on them to enter dialogue, instead of engaging in violence.

The deadlock was finally broken at about 6.30pm when the Assembly formally deliberated under the leadership of the Speaker on a ruling entered same day by Edo State High Court in Benin City. The Speaker, Igbe; Majority Leader, Shaibu and Edo State House of Assembly instituted the case against the Assistant Inspector-General of Police for Zone ‘5’; Edo State Commissioner of Police; Hon. Festus Ebea; Hon. Patrick Osayinmwen; Hon. Jude Ise-Idehen; and Hon. Friday Ogierhiakhi.

In the suit marked: B/70/OS/2014, Justice V. O. Eborieme ruled, “An Order of Interim Injunction is hereby given restraining the defendants by themselves or agents, assigns, privies or other persons acting for, through or by the defendants from forcibly gaining entrance into the premises and Legislative Quarters of the 3rd claimant or howsoever interfering with sitting activities and other functions of the third claimant pending the determination of the Motion on Notice.”

Mr. Ferdinand Orbih (SAN) represented the defendants while Mr. Gabriel Oladejo represented the claimants before her Lordship, who adjourned the case to June 23, 2014 for hearing of the Motion on Notice.

Suffice to say that even as the suspended lawmakers denied knowledge of the injunction before barking down, their political party, the PDP, had already filed an appeal against the court ruling same day. It was not surprising to observers, therefore, that the APC lawmakers accused them of criminally breaking the Assembly door, entering illegally and making use of stolen mace to conduct plenary.

Indeed, while the past weeks had witnessed the violent attacks of lawmakers on fellow lawmakers inside the chamber of the Assembly, the situation had also degenerated to the extent of political thugs of the factions openly engaging themselves amidst frantic attempts to seize the Assembly itself.

Particularly, the situation resulted in the destruction of doors and other facilities at the Assembly, firing of gunshots at Ring Road and Legislative Quarters, unleashing of teargas to disperse protesters, injuring of passers-by and law abiding citizens including 15 pregnant

Ebea

THE SITUATION RESULTED IN THE DESTRUCTION OF DOORS AND OTHER FACILITIES AT THE

ASSEMBLY, FIRING OF GUNSHOTS AT RING ROAD AND LEGISLATIVE QUARTERS, UNLEASHING OF TEARGAS TO DISPERSE PROTESTERS, INJURING OF PASSERS-BY AND LAW ABIDING CITIZENS INCLUDING 15 PREGNANT WOMEN women that reportedly fainted during the pandemonium, total closure of roads leading into and out of Kings’ Square with resultant economic losses etc.

Until now, personnel of Edo State Police Command personally led by the Commissioner, Mr. Foluso Adebanjo, have been having running battles inside and outside the Assembly with thugs and lawmakers, successfully prevailing on the latter to engage in a day-long dialogue on Wednesday in order to prevent an outbreak of more violence. The result is the arrest and prosecution of perpetrators of violence.

According to Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Noble Uwoh, “Some political thugs besieged the House with a view to gaining entry into the Assembly complex. Policemen deployed at the House to maintain law and order arrested thirtyseven suspects with five cutlasses, one long axe, large quantity of broken bottles and stones used as missiles. The suspects were arraigned in Magistrate Court 1 in Benin City on last week for offences ranging from conspiracy, riotous acts, and unlawful assembly to wit conduct likely to cause the breach of the peace and have been remanded in prison custody.”

The command further used the occasion to deny the allegation that it was aiding and abetting the political crisis by allowing a faction of the Assembly to gain illegal access into the chamber.

In spite of the effort of police, the days ahead do not portend good for law abiding citizens in Edo State with threats that the restrained faction is preparing to forcefully enter the Assembly on Monday against the order of a court of competent jurisdiction that is yet to be lifted.

Addressing a press conference, the four legislators insisted that nobody can stop them from entering the complex on Monday.

Supporting the legislators’ stand, Chairman of Edo PDP, Chief Dan Orbih said the court order was not binding on them. Orbih, who lambasted the judge and judiciary in Edo State, urged the government to stop meddling in the affairs of the legislative organ. Also supporting the lawmakers’ decision at a live media programme, PDP flagbearer for the last Esan North East council poll, Mr. John Yakubu, ridiculed the court ruling with derogatory remarks.

Yakubu’s utterances drew the ire of a lawyer and former state legislator, Mr. Dele Igbinedion, who took exception to the politician’s derogatory remarks about the judge and judiciary.

Igbinedion said, “I take exception to his statement describing the ruling as a black market injunction. It is the ruling of a court of competent jurisdiction. As such, the PDP should appeal and lift the order or stay its execution. As at this time none of these two has been done.”

In his response, Edo State AttorneyGeneral and Commissioner of Justice, Mr. Henry Idahagbon, revealed that he was in receipt of a petition from the House of Assembly. “I have a petition from the Speaker of the Assembly copied to the police alleging criminal offences against the lawmakers, which I am studying right now. If it is proven that the suspended lawmakers actually committed criminal offence, we will not hesitate to press criminal charges against them,” he said.

It is in the light of the above analysis that Edo State police boss, Adebanjo, raised the alarm on Friday of arms build-up ahead of Monday, June 16 plenary.

Adebanjo said, “It has come to the knowledge of the Edo State Police Command that the crisis rocking the Edo State House of Assembly is yet to be resolved. In the last few days, the Edo State Police Command has done its best to contend with the crisis without loss of lives.”

“From the information available, politicians are heating up the polity by making provocative and unguarded utterances which are creating unnecessary tension in the state.”

He stated further, “Information from undisclosed sources revealed that political stalwarts are arming thugs with offensive weapons for a complete showdown at the Edo State House of Assembly on Monday 16/6/2014. The Edo State Police Command therefore is using this medium to warn all politicians, party supporters and political thugs to have a rethink and desist from making unguarded statement capable of creating chaos at the Edo State House of Assembly or any part of the state.”

Adebanjo concluded, “The command wishes to warn and advise politicians to follow due process through the courts or political solution in resolving their observable disagreements amongst themselves,” before warning that the command will not tolerate any act of hooliganism and violence by any person or group of persons in Edo State.

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Interview

Sunday, June 15, 2014

55

‘Deceased Immigration applicants won’t die in vain’ CONTINUED FROM PAGE 10

What would you say are the causes of jailbreaks in recent times?

We have had one or two incidents but unfortunately, our people have lumped everything about escape from prison as jailbreak. Part of the so-called jailbreaks that we have had in this country had been for the fact that hoodlums attacked our vulnerable prisons, to set free their colleagues. The attack on Koton Karfe prisons, for instance, was the result of a desperate attempt of criminals on the loose, who perceived that their colleagues were then incarcerated in that prison. They broke into that prison and freed some of their colleagues. Luckily, we have been able to apprehend some of the inmates although there are a few others that we are still on their track. In Sagamu, we had the unfortunate incident of laxity on the part of prison officials and some prisoners escaped. Unfortunately, we have not been able to arrest some of them. Though I agree with you that we have had some challenges, however, there have been a lull in the menace of prison breaks within the period under review.

approved by the National Assembly, I will have a beautiful story to tell you.

What have you done about the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps?

The Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, has metamorphosed into a very formidable security organisation because of the determination of the leadership to ensure that we have a para-military organisation that is well positioned and capable of increasingly contributing to the security of this country. Within the service today, we have the kennel section that is essentially dedicated to maintain sniffer dogs that will help to identify crimes and criminalities. We have within the NSCDC, the anti-chemical weapons unit that is dedicated essentially to ensuring the early detection of chemical weapons and their usage. We have within the NSCDC, the anti-terror unit that has been working very assiduously with the military and getting our men and women trained in anti-terror activities, to complement the work of the Nigeria Police.

Within this period under review, we have able to transform the NSCDC, from a purely docile civil conflict resolution outfit to a formidable paramilitary institution, spread across the country. The Corps today has a segment that bears arms and they have very easily integrated into the larger Nigerian security system that they now participate in virtually all activities in the country. They are very effective because they are involved in intelligence gathering as they are spread in the nook and cranny of this country and they are also discharging their duties of curbing the menace of vandalism of critical public infrastructure.

We have just commissioned the College of Peace and Conflict Resolution of the NSCDC in Katsina State; we have been able to commission the College of Disaster Management In Abeokuta and many others.

How has the Nigerian Immigration Service fared?

The success story in the Nigerian Immigration Service is also not hidden, notwithstanding the tragic incident of March 15, 2014. We have been able to identify our borders and the routes. We are in the process of ensuring that these borders are properly patrolled. The constraint of finance is holding us back but I have just signed a proposal that we are going to send to the Ministry of Finance, seeking for an alternative mode of funding, for the construction of border control plazas. We are almost there in the procurement of 11, fourwheel Mantrac vehicles for the patrol of our borders. We are on the verge of getting approval to procure three border surveillance aircraft from the Republic of Czech and of course, the newly established border patrol corps have been deployed in our various border patrol posts. We hope that a combination of further introduction of a technology hub that will aid other surveillance, equipped completely with satellite system, we should be able to monitor our borders and hope that the level of insurgency and movement across our borders will be drastically reduced. We have also

Moro

What about the activities of the Federal Fire Service?

The Federal Fire Service is gradually assuming its pride of place in the fight against fire disasters. We have a fire alert system that triggers itself with the detection of any smoke that can cause fire disaster. We have a national fire safety code now that will be enforced throughout the country and to which every builder must comply with. In the past, the Federal Fire Service had been pushed about from the Ministry of Works to that of Lands, Housing and Urban Development, but now properly domiciled in the Ministry of Interior because fire disasters constitute one of the greatest threats to internal security. It may interest you to know that by the time I assumed office, the Federal Fire Service was at the verge of being reduced completely to a regulatory agency that is apparently supposed to regulate fire stations and activities that it did not have.

Today, minus the administrative block that is remaining, we have the Federal Fire Academy in Sheda, where many officers and men are being trained.

prison?

As at today, with the addition of Nnewi prison, last week, we had 238 prisons across the country. Globally, I do know that the crime rate of a community determines the number of prisons and the location of such prisons. In Ikoyi, the commercial hub of Nigeria in Lagos where crowd is very high, we have the maximum prison where high profile prisoners find accommodation. We have the Maximum in Kuje here, because we expect that Abuja the political capital of Nigeria, will certainly be home to all manner of crimes and criminalities.

I want to think that the founding fathers of the Nigerian prison system must have taken into consideration the rate of crimes and the number of prisoners in a particular place before locating them. That is not to say that there is no possibility of political patronage in the location of prisons, but outside the superficial attraction of little work here and there, I do not think that any political leader would wish that prison is the social benefit that he would want to take to his community. But generally, I want to say that crimes and crime rate would determine the number of prisons to be located in a place.

What factors do you consider in siting a

ON THE DEAD IMMIGRATION JOB APPLICANTS

MR PRESIDENT ON THE COURSE OF REFLECTING ON THE BOTCHED IMMIGRATION RECRUITMENT, GAVE PRESIDENTIAL DIRECTIVES AND SOME PALLIATIVES, TO PROVIDE SUCCOUR FOR THE VICTIMS OF THAT EXERCISE AND IT IS BEING PROCESSED built an annex passport office in record three months; a project that was literally abandoned before I assumed office but for which I insisted must be done. Hopefully,

by the time we put all of our acts together before the end of this year, the Immigration Service should be properly equipped to tackle the issue of our porous borders.

What are those things on your agenda that you have not been able to achieve?

The ministry as it is has a mandate and that is essentially to provide complementary internal security services to Nigerians in the fostering of good governance and citizen integrity. There is no aspect of the mandate of the ministry that you can throw away and be at peace. Generally, we set out to ensure that we secure Nigeria for Nigerians by playing our role very effectively but because every organisation requires total commitment of its work force, I had promised myself that if raising the standard of self commitment and spirit of patriotism of the workers of this ministry, to focus on achieving results in line with the mandate of the ministry is the only thing that I was going to do, I was going to achieve that. I think that the major problem that we have today is the lack of patriotism and the loss of touch with our core values. While this government may not be able to do everything for Nigerians, it is my belief that we are on the right track and we have laid a solid foundation for the growth and development of this country.

What is the update on the botched recruitment into the Nigerian Immigration Service, especially regarding the President’s promise of compensation to some candidates?

Let us say that we are talking about March and May and Mr President on the course of reflecting on the botched recruitment, gave Presidential directives and some palliatives, to provide succour for the victims of that exercise and it is being processed. Mr President specifically charged no less a person than his Chief of Staff to coordinate the implementation of his directives and that is exactly what we are going to do. The only thing I can say at this point is to ask for the understanding of the ordinary person on the workings of the system but definitely, Mr President’s directive on automatic employment for the victims of the exercise will be implemented.

56

Sunday, June 15, 2014

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Wellness YOUR HEALTH AND HEALTH RELATED ISSUES JUNE 15, 2014

Causes and treatment of Vitiligo, by expert ODINAKA URUAKPA

T

he real cause of Vitiligo, a disorder characterised by patchy loss of skin pigmentation had for some time deluded the human race. Many believe it can be caused by genetic or hormonal defects in the body. It has also been said that the disease could arise from chemical reaction on the skin due to bleaching.

The late American pop-star, Michael Jackson, was one of the notable figures who were diagnosed with vitiligo.

This was confirmed by the autopsy report following his death in 2009. Others are Jon Hamm who it was reported developed stress-induced vitiligo while working on the series ‘Mad Men’. UFC fighter, Scott Jorgensen, suffers from a particularly aggressive form of the disease and has received the unofficial nickname ‘Spotty’ as a result of the appearance it causes his skin to have. In 2012, Jorgensen claimed to have allowed the disease to “pretty much take over” and as a result give his skin a uniform colour.

According to Dr. Bernard Ogu, a medical practitioner with Good Hope hospital, Ikate Surulere Lagos, vitiligo is a condition that causes de-pigmentation of parts of the skin and occurs when melanocytes, the cells responsible for skin pigmentation, die or are unable to function. The cause of vitiligo, he said, is unknown, but research suggests that it may arise from autoimmune, genetic, oxidative stress, neural or viral causes.

His words: “The incidence worldwide is less than one per cent. There are two main types of vitiligo, namely idiopathic and chemical. Most vitiligo is idiopathic; however in cases where it is triggered by skin bleaching or other substances, it is said to be chemical. The most notable symptom of vitiligo is de-pigmentation of patches of skin that occurs on the extremities. Although patches are initially small, they often enlarge and change shape. When skin lesions occur, they are most prominent on the face, hands and wrists.

“De-pigmentation is particularly noticeable around body orifices, such as the mouth, eyes, nostrils, genitalia and umbilicus. Some lesions have hyper-pigmentation around the edges. Patients who are stigmatised for their condition may experience depression and similar mood disorders. A Black light (also referred to as a UVA light, Wood’s lamp, or simply ultraviolet light) can be used in the early phase of this disease for identification and to determine effectiveness of treatment. When skin with vitiligo, is exposed to black light, it will glow yellow, green or blue, in contrast to healthy skin which will have no reaction to the light.”

Dr Ogu said in non-segmental vitiligo (NSV), there is usually some form of symmetry in the location of the patches of de-pigmentation and new patches also appear over time and can be generalised over large portions of the body or localised to a particular area.

He added that the case where little pigmented skin remains is referred to as vitiligo universalis, adding that NSV can come about at any age unlike the segmental vitiligo, which is far more prevalent in teenage years.

He stressed: “Non-segmental vitiligo comes in classes which include Generalised Vitiligo which happens to be the most common pattern, wide and randomly distributed areas of de-pigmentation, Universal Vitiligo where depigmentation encompasses most of the body. Focal Vitiligo has one or a few scattered macules in one area and is most common in children. Acrofacial Vitiligo is found around the fingers and periorificial areas, and Mucosal Vitiligo is de-pigmentation of only the mucous membranes.

Segmental vitiligo (SV) differs in appearance, etiology and prevalence from associated illnesses. Its treatment is different from that of NSV. It tends to affect areas of skin

Michael Jackson (right) and another victim of Vitiligo

that are associated with dorsal roots from the spine and is most often unilateral. It spreads much more rapidly than NSV; it is much more stable or static in course and is not associated with auto-immune diseases. He said it is a very treatable condition that responds to topical treatment.

“In one case, the gene TYR, which makes the melanocyte more susceptible to the immune system in vitiligo, also makes the melanocyte more susceptible to the immune system in the skin cancer malignant melanoma.

Therefore, people with vitiligo caused by the TYR gene are less likely to have malignant melanoma. TYR encodes tyrosinase, which is not a component of the immune system, but is an enzyme of the melanocyte that catalyses melanin biosynthesis, and a major autoantigen in generalised vitiligo. The major alleles of TYR are associated with vitiligo, and the minor alleles are associated with malignant melanoma. Vitiligo-associated 402R tyrosinase may be more efficiently presented to the immune system.

Melanoma-associated 402Q may fail to be identified by the immune system,” the medic explained.

Vitiligo is sometimes associated with autoimmune and inflammatory diseases, commonly thyroid over-expression and under-expression.

A study comparing 656 people with and without vitiligo in 114 families found several mutations (single-nucleotide polymorphisms) in the NALP1 gene. The NALP1 gene, which is on chromosome 17 located at 17p13, is on a cascade that regulates inflammation and cell death, including myeloid and lymphoid cells, which are white cells that are part of the immune response.

NALP1 is expressed at high levels in T cells and Langerhan cells, white blood cells that are involved in skin autoimmunity. Polymorphisms of CD4 were shown to be associated with the vitiligo and other autoimmune diseases like type I Diabetes Mellitus.

Among the inflammatory products of NALP1 are caspase 1 and caspase 7, which activates the inflammatory cytokine interleukin-1 Interleukin-1 is expressed at high levels in patients with vitiligo.

“Some compounds inhibit caspase and interleukin-1, and so might be useful drugs for vitiligo and associated autoimmune diseases.

“In one of the mutations, the amino acid leucine in the

NALP1 protein was replaced by histidine (Leu155->His).

The original protein and sequence is highly conserved in evolution, and found in humans, chimpanzee, rhesus monkey, and bush baby, which means that it is an important protein and an alteration, likely to be harmful.

“Addison’s disease (typically an autoimmune destruction of the adrenal glands) may cause vitiligo,” said the expert.

While listing treatments for vitiligo which include applied steroids and the combination of ultraviolet light in combination with creams, the medic said that due to the higher risks of skin cancer, the NHS suggests phototherapy only be used if primary treatments are ineffective.

“Phototherapy which entails exposing the skin to UVB light from UVB lamps is the most common treatment for vitiligo. The treatments can be done at home with a domestic UVB lamp or in a clinic. It is important to control the exposure time so that the skin does not burn from overexposure. Treatment can take a few weeks if the spots are on the neck and face and if they existed not more than three years. If the spots are on the hands and legs and have been there more than three years, it can take a few months.

“In a clinic, the treatments are done two to three times a week, and at home every day, which makes the home treatments more effective. Spots on a large area of the body may require full body treatment in a clinic or hospital. Both UVB broadband and UVB narrowband lamps can be used.

“However, these treatments are unreliable at best.

There is no treatment that totally re-pigments the skin.

Adding a psoralen, a photosensitizer, or an immunomodulant that increases the effect of the UV light can aid in partial repigmentation. Previous reports suggest that combining vitamin B12 and folic acid supplements with sun exposure caused re-pigmentation in 52 per cent of cases.

“In cases of extensive vitiligo, the option to de-pigment the unaffected skin with topical drugs like monobenzone, mequinol, or hydroquinone may be considered to render the skin an even colour. The removal of all the skin pigment with monobenzone is permanent and vigorous. Sunsafety must be adhered to for life to avoid severe sun burn and melanomas. De-pigmentation takes about a year to complete,” he emphasissed.

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

57

STORIES THAT TOUCH YOU Sunday June 15 2014

Oh, Branama crooner is gone!

ADAEZE AMOS

I

rekefee Obareki fondly known as Kefee, an inspirational/gospel artiste, otherwise known as Branama crooner, passed on in the early hours of Friday, thereby throwing her friends, fans and most especially Nigerian divas into mourning mood.

She died barely a year and four months after the death of her friend and colleague, Goldie, who died on last year’s Valentine’s Day. Kefee was one of those that reacted over Goldie’s death and how she would miss her. Not knowing that just after 16 months, she too would be gone.

The news of her death actually broke just as Nollywood practitioners and entertainers were getting set to arrive Ndiuche, Arondizuogu in Imo State for the burial of fiIm maker, Amaka Igwe, who passed away on April 28, 2014.

It is no doubt that the death of this Delta State-born musical icon has made celebrities and artistes wonder at the alarming rate of death in the entertainment industry. Fears whether she would make it soared when last week, news went viral on the social media that Kefee, who was pregnant, collapsed while on a flight to Chicago in the United States of America. The plane was forced to make an emergency landing and she was rushed into intensive care unit of a hospital in Los Angeles. Sources said she later went into coma and Teddy-Don Mommoh, her husband, flew there to see things for himself.

It was what he saw of her that made him tweet that she needed prayers for her to survive. Unfortunately the diva who started singing at a tender age of eight, couldn’t make it.

In torrents, however, artisetes, grieving over the death, have been reacting. Heare are some of their comments: D’Bling, a gospel artiste: “Goldie died last year. Zara died early this year and now, Kefee.

This is scary. The rate of death in this our industry is alarming. But thank God for my life (looking sad), me I don run leave them. I just finished my pastoral Bible class and came out with

•Artistes cry over Kefee’s death …recall her virtues

Kefee’s various appearances distinctions. Glory be to God for that. I’m graduating in August.

Then I will be Pastor Ambassador Lindsay/D’bling.

Koffi, comedian: What I know too well is that legends don’t die, they only transit. Irekefee, your brief sojourn made an indelible mark.

Thelma O’khaz, actress and musician: Honestly, I’m speechless. Where do I start from? So many questions and no answer.

I’m still in shock. I thought she was going to make it when she was in coma and I kept pinging and pinging on my black berry constantly because I wanted my message to be the first she would read. I’m so sad. The last time I saw Kefee was in Branama Kitchen, her restaurant somewhere in Maryland; she told me she would be going to America and would be there for a while. She encouraged me about my music and told me that my next single should be a more danceable style and that is

what I’m working on now. Kefee is one of the most down-to-theearth and liberal lady I know.

Very hardworking and charming.

I will miss her so much.

Anita Joseph, actress: Kefee dead? Oh death, where is thy sting? Oh my God! I find it difficult to believe that this is true.

She has left a big vacuum in Nigeria gospel music.

Alex Okoroji, actress: My heart was literally ripped in pieces. To think the warm, vivacious, energetic and talented Kefee could allow death cheat her of her vision! But God knows best. I will remember her for her music and kind of accommodating spirit. Always warm, friendly, and humble.

She used her talent to influence us positively and glorified God. I know she is in a better place now, singing with angels. Gone too soon, Kefee. But you lived a meaningful life and I’m glad you were loved. Rest easy, Angel.

Vicky dancer: Hmm Kefee, oh my dear Kefee, you were such a lovely friend. I had known her for a long time, right from her very first video Branama. I hate to remember she is no more. She was one artiste I enjoyed working with. So energetic, always smiling even in pains. Oh, I still remember vividly how we used to talk over issues and with smiles, she would say ‘Vicky, life is beautiful.

I’m too young to worry over some certain things’. I still remember how we used to go for stage performances together, video shoot, she was always full of life. I will always remember her confidence.

Such confidence is not common.

Pink Republic, a musician: Kefee was someone I admired a lot. I cried a lot throughout yesterday when I heard of her death.

And this morning, I prayed to God to guide her gentle soul to heaven.

I will miss her lovely smiles.

Dara, gospel artiste: Kefee was gifted and so talented. Very

hardworking. The little I know of her is encouraging. I love her music. I pray for God’s peace in her family. May her testimony never die.

Princess Ann Inyang, gospel artiste and United Nation’s Peace Ambassador: Oh death, death, death, why have you forcefully taken our angelic voice Kefee away from us so soon? God I’m so shocked. I still cannot believe you are gone.

I’m still hoping that it’s a rumour. When you joined us in the gospel music scene, you brought in a breath of fresh air with your sonorous voice and energetic dance steps. Kefee darling, you promised to buy me sugar-free chocolate on your return, so there is not going to be a return? Ah! I will miss you. The body of Christ will miss you. Nigerians generally miss you. May God grant your husband and your family the fortitude to bear the loss.

58

Politics

Sunday June 15, 2014

EKITI 2014 GOVERNORSHIP

ABIODUN NEJO ADO EKITI

T

he Nigeria Securities and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has said that it will deploy surveillance-equipped camera vehicles and sniffer dogs for the Ekiti State governorship election billed for Saturday, for monitoring.

NSCDC Commandant General, Dr Ade Abol-

Civil Defence to deploy sniffer dogs, surveillance equipment

urin, said that would be in addition to the full deployment of personnel from its various units to monitor the election, to ensure protection of lives and property and ensure free, fair and credible poll.

Abolurin, who spoke to journalists yesterday after addressing men

and officers of the security agency at the NSCDC State Command, said its intelligence team was already in the state for intelligence gathering ahead of the election.

He warned that any officer or man of the agency that solicited or received logistics from the state government or politicians would face the

music, adding that the agency had put in place all logistics to ensure efficacy and efficiency of his men and officers during the election.

The NSCDC boss said the agency would work handin-hand with other sister security agencies to ensure hitch-free election since all of them were working as bodies of government to

NLC endorses Fayemi, cautions against imposition ABIODUN NEJO ADO EKITI

T

he Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) yesterday endorsed the Ekiti State governor and All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for the 2014 governorship election in the state, Dr Kayode Fayemi, for a second term in office.

NLC President, Comrade Abduwaheed Omar, who said the labour body arrived at that following assessment of the governor’s strides, however, cautioned against imposition of unpopular person against the wish of Ekiti people.

Omar, who spoke during a courtesy call on Governor Fayemi after a meeting of NLC Central Working Committee (CWC) in Ado Ekiti, said Fayemi’s scores were very high as assessed by the people on ground.

“This is an election in which we believe Ekiti people do not need any dictation or imposition. Our prayer is that the election will come and go peacefully if the powers that be allow Ekiti people to make their choice,” the labour

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Ekiti PDP governorship candidate, Mr Ayo Fayose (left) and PDP National Chairman, Alhaji Adamu Mu’azu, acknowledging cheers from PDP supporters during the formal presentation of the party’s flag to Fayose at Oluyemi Kayode Stadium, Ado-Ekiti, recently.

leader said.

Omar, who said the organised labour would always identify with those who identify with labour movement, told Fayemi: “Your antecedents in the labour movement and the struggle are not hidden.

We are Nigerians and we are identifying with Governor Fayemi because he has

done well.

With this, we have every reason to do so.”

This was as the organised labour in the state under the leadership of state NLC Chairman, Comrade Ayodeji Aluko, and his counterpart in the Trade Union Congress (TUC), Comrade Kolawole Olaiya, held an endorsement rally

for Fayemi at the Oluyemi Kayode Stadium in the state capital.

Governor Fayemi praised the NLC for agitating against electoral violence, adding that he had been able to make Ekiti the destination of choice for patriotic leaders because of the sustainable peace in the state.

ensure protection of lives and property.

Earlier while addressing men and officers of the Ekiti State Command, Abolurin charged them on the need for “neutrality, transparency and to conduct themselves in manners that show they are not bias”.

While urging them to live above board, he said: “we don’t want to be seen

to behave in ways unethical in nature. You have to be an example to others. We are not to harass, we are not to molest anybody. The citizens need to be protected”.

He advised Ekiti people to play their part in ensuring free and fair poll by coming to the aid of government by providing information that could be of assistance.

PDP’ll win this election -George A YO E SAN

F

ormer Deputy National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Chief Olabode George has said that Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, will win next Saturday’s gubernatorial election in Ekiti State.

Speaking at an interactive session with journalists in Lagos yesterday, George said the party had done so much campaign and anybody that visits the state would realise that PDP will win the election fairly and without any rigging.

George who said the election would be a repeat of the 2003 election “which the PDP won without any violence or rigging” added that the party is really on ground.

He said that at the last mega rally, the governorship candidate of the party, Mr Ayodele Fayose, urged thousands of youths at

the campaign ground to raise up their voter cards which they did to prove that the crowd was not a rented one.

He said the party in government, the All Progressives Congress (APC) had failed the people as he said it had increased the people’s suffering by increasing the children’s school fees, saying, “how can you increase school fees and say you are a descendant of Awolowo?

“I pray Ekiti state election should be peaceful but I am sure that the PDP will win fairly under a one man, one vote, one woman, one vote and one youth, one vote. Ekiti people should not be muscled.

We will win fairly and after four years the electorate will assess our government, that is the beauty of democracy.

“I pray for peace, that all will go well but I urge all the players to play the game according to the rule and ensure that the election is peaceful,” he stressed.

Parties in last-minute effort to translate crowds to votes ABIODUN NEJO ADO EKITI

B

y this time next week, the much-talked about June 21 governorship election in Ekiti State on which so much energy has been dissipated by stakeholders would have held, leaving in its trails joy for the victor and sorrow for the vanquished.

There is no doubt that the three leading political parties in the governorship tussle – the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Labour Party (LP) attracted large crowds during their campaign rallies and mega shows in the capital city and other council headquarters.

The seeming large supporter bases of the candidates of the three parties – Governor Kayode Fayemi (APC), former governor, Dr Ayodele Fayose (PDP), and House of Representatives member, Hon Opeyemi Bamidele (LP) make the election more interesting.

The crowds of supporters at the events of the three political parties

leave observers in difficult situations to predict who is likely to emerge victorious in the election if the multitudes are to vote for the candidates.

For the APC, PDP and LP, the crowds that had graced their functions since March 23 when the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) lifted the ban on

political campaigns in the state had confirmed the popularity and acceptability of the parties and their flag-bearers across the state.

Among well-attended rallies and political events that will linger for some time in the memories of the people are the the Fayemi campaign first rally at Oluyemi Kayode Stadium

and his presentation of flag/ manifesto at the same venue.

Others include Fayose’s return to Ekiti State after his emergence as PDP candidate and his campaign flag-off rally attended by President Goodluck Jonathan at Oluyemi Kayode Stadium; and Bamidele’s mega rallies at Ajitadidun, Ado Ekiti and Moshood/Post Office area of Ikere Ekiti.

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

59

Sport

Mark, Danagogo urge Eagles to win World Cup in Brazil P. 60 KEEPING YOU ABREAST OF SPORTING NEWS

KESHI: Tactical discipline, bane of African P. 61 teams

June 15, 2014

Keshi in dark over Iran threat Super Eagles coach Stephen Keshi. INSET: File copy of Iran’s national football team.

ANDREW EKEJIUBA WITH AGENCY REPORT

S

uper Eagles coach, Stephen Keshi, has acknowledged FIFA World Cup opponents Iran are something of an unknown quantity ahead of their Group F opener on Monday.

Keshi revealed that avoiding defeat against Carlos Queiroz’s men could prove vital in avoiding an early exit from the Mundial, and added that he is in the dark as to what threat the Iranians will pose in that cracker.

Iran have never made it out of the group stage at a World Cup but the Nigerian coach is mindful of the experience of their coach and the danger possessed by some of their players.

“We have to go out with everything that we have. They have a very good coach and I’m sure they also have some quality players,” Keshi said.

“We don’t know Iran very well, but we’ll see them on Monday.”

Quieroz has managed a host of nations including South Africa and Portugal as well as a stint as coach at Real Madrid.

This kind of know-how is something that Keshi believes will stand Iran in good stead when both countries clash in Curitiba.

“I think an experienced coach is their biggest weapon. He’s well experienced, he knows the game well,” Keshi added.

“For the Iran game we have to be focused.

We have to concentrate and do our job.

We’re not going to take Iran lightly because

they’re not going to take us lightly.”

Meanwhile, John Obi Mikel is aiming to be a leader for the Super Eagles in future despite the 2014 FIFA World Cup being his first.

Nigeria’s failure to qualify for Germany 2006 and a knee injury that forced him out of the South Africa edition four years ago mean the Chelsea midfielder has never previously appeared in the world’s biggest football tournament.

However, he is one of the senior players in the Super Eagles and he aims to make a splash in Brazil having been drawn alongside Argentina, Bosnia-Herzegovina and Iran in Group F. “This is my first World Cup,” he said. “I want to make sure we achieve something coming here. We don’t just want to come and make up the numbers; we want to do well.

“I have to make sure I lead by example.

We are all driving in the same direction.

We all know what we want and hopefully we will have a good tournament.”

Sunday Mirror gathered that Mikel is set for his first taste of the showpiece in Brazil having been part of the Nigeria side that won last year’s African Cup of Nations. ‘‘We know we’re the African champions and people expect us to do well, to represent the African continent. ‘‘That’s a bit more extra pressure but its pressure that we love. We love to be African champions,” Mikel concluded.

... As Dzeko tips Ar gentina f or glor y B

wpiece event show ked their place at the boo b eDz in Ed r ike Greece in Group osnia-Herzegovina str ing finished ahead of hav F p ou Gr on re . ko has heaped pressu FA section of qualifying they can G in the UE ing im to the cla te a, tin rou en gen Ar als go rivals Dzeko netted 10 Cup. d to rld ne Wo mi A ter FIF de the is n d wi go on to World Cup finals an eerz a-H sni Bo ntina, Nigeria World Cup debutants lp his team past Arge he ign pa cam n maide ockout rounds. govina kick-off their d Iran, and into the kn an . ay tod o eir Jan de here,” the Managainst Argentina in Rio “It’s our first time es rit ou fav the “But our target Argentina are one of ester City striker said. ch ich wh l, azi Br p in xt round and we’ll to win the World Cu is to try to go to the ne st fir d an al tot in ieve that. would be their third rything to try and ach 6 in Mexico. do eve 198 in y would be ph nd tro rou the xt ing ne since lift “To go into the rcu F p ou Gr t for us and the Speaking ahead of the amazing achievemen an sta ali rn Jo io tad tain raiser at the Es untry.” d an Argentina co sai o ek Dz , ho Fil Mario ssi were odds-on to team with Lionel Me tournament. progress deep into the rites, not just in “Argentina are favou go a long way in our group. They can d Dzeko. the competition,” sai player in the “They have the best ir chance to win world and it will be the uth America.” this because it’s in So tipped to enWhile Argentina are rnament in South joy a successful tou rzegovina are also America, Bosnia-He ance to surprise at seen as an outside ch Cup. their first-ever World o became an inBosnia-Herzegovina, wh after breakago rs Dzeko dependent nation 22 yea Yugoslavia, r me for the m fro ay ing aw

60

Sport

Sunday June 15, 2014

Knockout IFEANYI Eduzor with

08055829770 ifeduz24@yahoo.com

Glasgow 2014: Boxers lament shoddy preparation “It is unfortunate that few igerian boxers have exweeks to the commencepressed dismay at the N ment of the Games, the lack of adequate preparations ahead of the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games slated to kick off from July 23 to August 3.

Some of the boxers who spoke to our correspondent on condition of anonymity described as unfortunate a situation where no attention is being paid to their preparation for the Games which they said would have a negative impact on their performance in Scotland.

“We are really worried about the shoddy preparation being put in place by the NSC towards the country’s participation at the Games.

Commission has not come out with any clear programme for the athletes and this could lead to Nigeria having their worst performance at the Games, “he said.

According to them, many countries of the Commonwealth who are desirous to win medals at the Games started their preparations two years ago, warning that unless the country’s sports administrators do away with fire brigade approach in preparing athletes for major competitions, the country should forget about winning medals at such competitions.

Ehindero calls for regular boxing tournaments tors return to the drawing boxing coach, Nosa board the pugilist game will Ehindero, says that A continue to suffer. there is the need for the Nigeria Boxing Federation (NBF) in conjunction with that National Sports Commission (NSC) to organise regular boxing tournaments in order to keep pugilists in form ahead of major international competitions.

The coach who is the proprietor of “Golden Child Boxing Club”, Okokomaiko, Lagos, noted that unless sports administra-

“It’s time sports administrators in the country re- introduce national championships on quarterly basis as that is the only way to arrest the sudden decline in boxing.

“When these championships are re-introduced, it will enable the coaches be in a better position to assess the boxers as well as keep the athletes in good shape,” Ehindero said.

Mayweather named highest-paid athlete record-breaking bout against oxing superstar Floyd Canelo Alvarez and his most Mayweather has once B recent fight against Marcos again been named the highest-paid athlete in sports by Forbes.

Mayweather, who made $105 million net revenue from September 2013 to 2014 calendar year, also topped the list in 2012 with $85 million, ousting Tiger Woods who had held the distinction from 2001-2011.

His $105 million earnings follows two extremely successful fight promotions in the past year ; his September 2013 pay-per-view revenue

Maidana in May. Woods is the only other athlete that has earned over $100 million in a year’s time, a feat that Mayweather achieved with no endorsements.

While this marks Mayweather’s second time topping the Forbes list, he was named highest-paid athlete by Sports Illustrated in 2012 and 2013 as well as the highest-paid athlete

by ESPN Magazine in 2012 and 2013.

Mark, Danagogo urge Eagles to win World Cup in Brazil ANDREW EKEJIUBA

S

enate President David Mark has charged the Super Eagles to exhibit the never-say-die spirit typical of a Nigerian to win the 2014 World Cup trophy in Brazil.

Speaking during a visit to the players at the Victoria Hotel, in Campinas, Brazil, where they were initially camped, ahead of their first match against Iran tomorrow at Curitiba, the Senate President said with the quality of players and the experience of the coaching team, Nigeria has what it takes to win the trophy in Brazil.

He appealed to the players and the coaching crew to put aside any distraction at the moment and focus on the task of winning the trophy.

He reassured them of the determination of President Goodluck Jonathan to give them the necessary support to excel at the Mundial.

“The quality of people here led by myself, will show you that Mr. President and the over 170 million Nigerians have hope in you that you will make us proud in Brazil,” stressing that Nigerians were not expecting anything less from the players.

Minister of Sports, Dr. Tammy Danagogo in his own brief remarks congratulated the Super Eagles play-

Sports Minister, Dr. Tammy Danagogo (left) putting heads together with Senate president, David Mark to give the Eagles all the support they need to succeed in Brazil.

ers and the coaching crew for the efforts they have put in so far to get to where they are and urged them to do everything possible to make an impressive outing at the tournament.

“Football is one sport that brings every Nigerian together irrespective of tribe or religion and you have to do your best to make us proud. We know you can do it and we are expecting the best from all of you,” he said.

Coach of the team, Stephen Keshi assured the delegation of their best and pledged to lead Nigeria to victory at the Mundial.

“Sir, after we listened to you, we are motivated and if you look at the eyes of the players now, they are ready right now

to kill. We assure you sir that we will do our best for the country,” he stated.

Thereafter, the Senate President and members of the delegation held a meeting behind closed doors with the players and the coaching team.

A source at the meeting lambasted the Aminu Maigari-led Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) for refusing to pay the players their due allowances and urged the NFF leadership to ensure that the players and coaching crew were paid what is due to them.

At the end of the meeting, Maigari signed an agreement with the players on how much they would be paid from the proceeds from the football governing body FIFA.

NOC assures on Commonwealth Games IFEANYI EDUZOR

T

he Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC) has expressed confidence that Nigeria would do well at the forthcoming Commonwealth Games holding next month in Glasgow, Scotland.

Secretary General of the NOC, Hon. Babatunde Popoola, expressed this optimism while assessing the performance of the country’s athletes at the just concluded Golden League held in Warri, Delta State.

Popoola told our correspondent that if the record of performance in Warri ahead of the Commonwealth Games is anything to count on in terms of winning medals in Glasgow, then there is hope for Team Nigeria at the Games.

He submitted that Nigeria has talent that can stand the test of time and even defeat the best opponents in the world, but identified the improper positioning of these talent coupled with lack of proper administration as the bane of the country’s sports development.

He further appealed to sports administrators in the country to wake up to their responsibilities by shying away from tribalism and favoritism in appointing coaches as well as ensure that only the best technocrats are appointed to manage Nigerian sports.

The NOC scribe therefore charged sports commissioners and Directors of sports to emulate the Nigeria Olympic Committee drive for excellence by constantly organizing both local and international administra-

Popoola

tive/technical courses for their staff in tune with modern trend.

NTDC storms Brazil to cheer Eagles TAYO ADELAJA

T Floyd Mayweather (left) in action against Marcos Maidana during their WBC/WBA Welterweight unification fight at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in May.

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

he Director General of Nigeria Tourism Development Corporation (NTDC), Sally Mbanefo landed in Brazil yesterday with her contingents to cheer the Super Eagles to victory as the national team battles their Iranian counterparts tomorrow.

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and Nigeria Tourism Develop-

ment Corporation (NTDC) recently have sealed an agreement to promote and market Nigeria’s vast tourism products and potential within and outside the country.

Under the terms of the agreement, the NTDC shall endorse NFF as a sports tourism partner for domestic and international sports tourism, grant NFF reasonable rights to branding of NTDC events, publicise NFF during NTDC tour-

ism events and promote sports tourism at all local and international football matches, starting with the 2014 FIFA World Cup finals in Brazil.

Before her departure, the NTDC DG in a chat with Sunday Mirror said, “Sports tourism is huge, and football is the king of all sports. Nigerian football is presently high domestically and internationally, and we are happy to be going to the Mundial to cheer our team to success.”

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Sport

Sunday June 15, 2014

61

KESHI: Tactical discipline, bane of African teams The Brazilians did not forget Stephen Keshi and his Super Eagles after the men in or the FIFA Confederagreen swooped down to South America’s biggest country for emselves through an extions Cup last year. Though they were unable to navigate themselves a America holders Uruguay, amining group including world champions Spain and Copa air-obsessed locals. That was they did give a good account of themselves and thrill the flair-obsessed mpinas, where innumerable evident when the Nigerians arrived at the team hotel in Campinas, w with FIFA, Keshi reveals his animated fans were on hand to greet them. In this interview e believes football should surprise at that memorable welcome, discusses the way he be played, outlines what has let African sides down in the past, and weighs in on Iran, gn against in Curitiba on whom Nigeria will commence their FIFA World Cup campaign Monday.

Y

ou got such a great reception when you got to the team hotel. How pleased were you?

Very pleased! Very pleased because it was something that we were not expecting. And we came so late in the morning and they were still waiting for us just to give us a welcome back. It was good.

Are you satisfied with Nigeria’s level or can you still improve?

We can be much better. This squad is probably a yearplus old, it’s a new team. Most of the players are young.

We’re still in the process of getting much better at what we do. In two years’ time we can be much better.

What can the team achieve under you?

I don’t know. My dream is to build a strong team for Nigerians and give these players a reason to be footballers. And to show the many players that are coming up behind that they can become somebody in football.

That’s my dream and that’s it.

How important is the team’s unity?

It’s very important because I think that most of the teams that I played for in Europe, in Africa, always had this unity, this oneness. I think it’s a great weapon to have in your team because everyone is there, fighting for one another, playing for one another, which is a great thing. I’ve known this all my life as a football player, and now as a coach I’m experiencing the same thing. This is the way we got to qualify.

Togo also qualified for the World Cup in 2006 because we were united. We had more spirit moving forward. It was the same thing in Mali when I was there as well. I think it’s working so I just keep on.

What’s Stephen Keshi’s football philosophy? What can we expect from a Stephen Keshi side?

I like attacking football. I don’t believe you need to sit back and load behind. You’ve got to be open and make the people come to the stadium. They spend so much money – they need to get value for it. Good, attacking football is what I like. Of course there must be purpose and discipline and togetherness to make the good football work.

Pele once said that an African side would win the World Cup by the end of the 20th century. Do you think African football is now on a par with Europe and South America?

I think so. If you look at most of the African players that are playing now for the African teams – the five African teams that have qualified for the World Cup – most

of them are playing in Europe, playing against the same players as European n players and South American players. I think it’s the same ame thing.

The only problem, m, the only difference I think is the lack of concentration on and the lack of discipline on the field. Tactical discipline, pline, that is. If we could pay attention to our game plan an and concentrate, I think we could do it because this is the same team that we play against week in, week out in Europe. Nigeria haven’t won a World Cup game for a while. Why do you think that is? I mean, we’ve always had such great players. It’s because of a lack of tactical discipline and concentration.

Keshi

You have a wealth off experience in the squad squad. How will this help you progress?

You can’t buy this sort of experience. I pray that Vincent Enyeama, Joseph Yobo, John Mikel Obi will bring all their experience. Youth is good, but if we can combine youth and experience that will be great for us.

First up for Nigeria are Iran, whose coach has a good deal of experience. What are your views on the Iranians?

I think an experienced coach is their biggest weapon, because he’s well experienced, he knows the game well.

For the Iran game we have to be focused. We have to concentrate and do our job. We’re not going to take Iran lightly because they’re not going to take us lightly. So we have to go out with everything that we have. They have a very good coach and I’m sure they also have some quality players. We don’t know Iran very well, but we’ll see them on Monday.

MY DREAM IS TO BUILD A STRONG TEAM FOR NIGERIANS

AND GIVE THESE PLAYERS A REASON TO BE FOOTBALLERS.

TO SHOW THE MANY PLAYERS THAT ARE COMING UP BEHIND THAT THEY CAN BECOME SOMEBODY IN FOOTBALL.

THAT’S MY DREAM AND THAT’S IT.

FOR THE IRAN GAME WE HAVE TO BE FOCUSED. WE HAVE TO

CONCENTRATE AND DO OUR JOB.

WE’RE NOT GOING TO TAKE IRAN LIGHTLY BECAUSE THEY’RE NOT GOING TO TAKE US LIGHTLY. SO WE HAVE TO GO OUT WITH EVERYTHING THAT WE HAVE. THEY HAVE A VERY GOOD COACH AND

I’M SURE THEY ALSO HAVE SOME QUALITY PLAYERS.

AND

Keshi

62

Sport

Sunday June 15, 2014

th

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

WORLD CUP

JUNE 12 - JULY 13

Ribery-less France still deadly, says Shaqiri

Shatov confident of strong Russia showing

S

O

leg Shatov believes progression from the group stage is the least Russia can expect to achieve at the FIFA World Cup. Fabio Capello’s men start their campaign on Tuesday against South Korea at the Arena Pantanal in Cuiaba.

Russia have not made it to the knockout rounds of a World Cup since the break-up of the Soviet Union. However, they will feel they have a good chance of qualifying from Group H, which also contains Belgium and Algeria as well as South Korea.

Despite losing captain Roman Shirokov to a knee ligament injury last week, midfielder Shatov remains confident that Russia can impress.

“I expect a good performance from the team,” Shatov said.

“I do not want to think about the bad things, I want to think only about the good and look ahead with optimism.

witzerland midfielder Xherdan Shaqiri said the absence of Franck Ribery will not affect France at the FIFA World Cup. The Swiss meet the French in their second match in Group E on June 20, after opening their campaign against Ecuador today.

Ribery was ruled out of the World Cup earlier in June, after he was unable to be treated for pain in his lower back due to his fear of injections.

But Shaqiri said the absence of his Bayern Munich teammate from Didier Deschamps’ outfit would not disrupt France.

Ardiles

Argentina lacks good defence –Ardiles

F

Shatov

BRIEF Del Bosque defends Casillas over poor show

S

pain manager Vicente del Bosque has defended goalkeeper Iker Casillas over poor show as the inquest into the FIFA World Cup holders’ 5-1 drubbing by the Netherlands continued. The Dutch claimed emphatic revenge in Salvador for their defeat to Spain in the 2010 World Cup Final in South Africa with Robin van Persie and Arjen Robben both claiming two goals each on Friday as Spain needs to beat both Chile and Australia to keep alive dreams of defending the title.

“France are still France,” Shaqiri said.

“Of course Franck Ribery was the key player of this team and a lot of things depend on him but there are other players who can play this role.

“There won’t be a big change.”

Shaqiri said France’s final warm-up match for Brazil - an 8-0 friendly win over Jamaica which included braces from Blaise Matuidi, Karim Benzema and Antoine Griezmann - displayed their depth.

“France still plays the same kind of football,” the 22-year-old said.

ormer Argentina midfielder Osvaldo Ardiles believes a weak defence could be the country’s undoing at the FIFA World Cup. Alejandro Sabella’s men are among the favourites to lift the trophy in Brazil, and begin their campaign with a Group F fixture against Bosnia-Herzegovina today.

However, while praising Argentina’s considerable attacking threat, Ardiles - part of the 1978 World Cup-winning side - questioned the team’s rear guard.

“Going forward, Argentina

have the best team in the world right now with Angel Di Maria, Sergio Aguero, Gonzalo Higuain and Lionel Messi,” he said.

“But the team is a little unbalanced and our defence could be our Achilles heel, so we will have to wait and see.”

Despite his doubts about the Argentine defence, Ardiles feels they are among a number of leading contenders for the title.

“I would say Argentina will reach the semi-final at least,” he added. “I believe the winner will be a team that has already won the World Cup, so I’m looking at Argentina, Brazil and Spain.”

Postecoglou laments over slow start

A

nge Postecoglou was proud of his beaten players and felt Australia could have taken something from their 3-1 loss to Chile on Friday.

The Socceroos made a rocky start and went 2-0 down within the first 15 minutes of their FIFA World Cup opener in Cuiaba, but pulled a goal back through talisman Tim Cahill and they had Jorge Sampaoli’s men worried throughout much of the second half.

A third goal from substitute

Jean Beausejour made the result safe for Chile in the Group B clash at the Arena Pantanal.

But Postecoglou and his players have every reason to hold their heads high, having pushed the South Americans all the way despite being written off before the game.

“If anything I thought if we got the second we’d go on with it,” he said.

“It’s disappointing for the players. After a rusty start, which

is understandable, I thought we were well in the game.

“They’ve got some quality players and at the start they were at their sharpest. We probably just gave them a little bit too much respect.

“I think once we got the first goal we got a bit of belief in ourselves and started pushing on a bit more. We kept the ball a little bit better although I thought even there we just lacked a bit of composure at times.

Ribery

FIFA WORLD CUP TABLES GROUP A Pos

Team

P

PTS

1

Brazil

1

3

2

Mexico

1

3

3

Cameroun

1

0

4

Croatia

1

0

Pos

Team

P

PTS

1

Netherlands

1

3

2

Chile

1

3

3

Australia

1

0

4

Spain

1

0

GROUP B

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Sport

Sunday June 15, 2014

th

63

WORLD CUP

JUNE 12 - JULY 13

Corluka

Croatia duo blast ref

V

edran Corluka and Dejan Lovren have vented their fury after Croatia’s controversial defeat to Brazil on the opening night of the World Cup. Croatia were defeated 3-1 by the tournament hosts in Sao Paulo, but were left disappointed with Japanese referee Yuichi Nishimura over a series of key decisions.

Neymar was given an early yellow card after using his elbow to fend off Luka Modric and went on to score twice, including a penalty after Fred fell to the ground following the slightest contact from Lovren.

Croatia had a second goal disallowed when they trailed 2-1 and Corluka has criticised Nishimura’s performance, insisting that another major problem was the official’s lack of English skills.

“If this continues then noone should play against Brazil,” said Corluka. “We should just give them the World Cup and everyone can go home. I think it is embarrassing.

“I have never seen a referee in a World Cup that doesn’t speak English. He was trying to speak to the players in Japanese. It is ridiculous.”

Asked if Nishimura favoured Brazil, Corluka said: “Everyone saw that, not just Croatian players. Every 50/50 decision went to Brazilian players and I think Neymar elbowed Luka. After that, he gives the penalty. We scored a goal, he disallowed a goal.

Robben proud of Dutch display

We are ready to battle Brazil –Ochoa G

G

team’s only going to get stronger and we’re on the up and up.

“So we’ll be going into the game in a happy frame of mind and ready for the challenge.”

With another tough game against Croatia also ahead, it was important Mexico started with a victory.

The result proved the very least they deserved, with former Tottenham forward Giovani dos Santos having two goals controversially disallowed for offside.

Mexico were the more enterprising side throughout and their lively front pair of Peralta and Dos Santos justified their

selection ahead of Manchester United’s Javier Hernandez.

Ochoa, who plays for French club Ajaccio, said: “Our opponents made it a tough game and the conditions made it even harder.

“When you get rain like that it makes life difficult for goalkeepers, but I’m happy with the result.”

Ochoa was making his World Cup debut after being an unused squad member in the last two tournaments.

He had little to do throughout the game but produced a good save in injury time to keep out a Benjamin Moukandjo header and preserve the three points.

Ramos backs Spain to recover from Dutch defeat

has experience and has been through some bad times.

“It’s been able to come back from setbacks like this and that’s what makes it great.

“We can’t sit around feeling sorry for ourselves. We need to start thinking right now about beating Chile.”

One of the setbacks suffered

by Spain, who have won their last three major tournaments, was a defeat by Switzerland in their first game at the 2010 World Cup. With Chile beating Australia in their first game, the pressure is now on Spain once again - and Fernando Torres accepts there is little room for error.

The Chelsea striker said: “It’s pretty clear that the situation is a whole lot trickier after this defeat.

“You have to win and your opponents know you have to win.

You can’t even afford to draw and they’ll try to make the most of any anxiety we might be feeling.”

oalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa feels Mexico are now ready for the challenge of hosts Brazil after beating Cameroun in their World Cup opener.

Oribe Peralta struck in the second half as Mexico overcame the African side 1-0 in heavy rain in Natal.

The win took them joint top of Group A alongside Brazil, who now lie in wait in Fortaleza on Tuesday.

It is a formidable task but Ochoa is full of confidence: “We’re not nervous about it at all.

“In fact, getting a start like this has calmed our nerves. The

S

Ramos

ergio Ramos has urged Spain not to feel sorry for themselves after being routed by Holland in their World Cup opener.

The world and European champions were torn apart as they crashed 5-1 to rampant Holland in a remarkable Group B encounter in Salvador on Friday night.

Spain had arrived in Brazil again among the tournament favourites while Holland were thought to be facing a tough fight to reach the knockout stages from a group that also includes Chile.

The result at the Arena Fonte Nova sent shockwaves around the footballing world and Ramos knows Spain, who faces Chile in Rio de Janeiro on Wednesday, must respond.

The 28-year-old centre-back told FIFA.com: “This team

oalscoring hero Arjen Robben heaped praise on his Netherlands team-mates after they stunned FIFA World Cup holders Spain on Friday.

Robben scored two goals in the second half as the Netherlands came from behind to trounce Spain 5-1 in Group B at the Itaipava Arena Fonte Nova in Salvador.

The Bayern Munich speedster was at his blistering best against the defending champions but he preferred to congratulate the team, who gained some revenge for their 2010 World Cup final defeat.

“It’s a fantastic feeling to have scored those goals,” Robben told FIFA.com after netting his seventh goal in his last seven international appearances for Louis van Gaal’s side.

“I have to say, I’m just so proud of my team. It’s always nice to score a couple of goals but I’m far prouder of the side.

“I’m proud of our performance because that’s what really matters.”

The result saw Spain concede five goals in a match for the first time since losing 6-2 to Scotland in 1963.

It was also only the second time Spain had shipped that many goals at a World Cup, having previously been on the receiving end of a 6-1 defeat to Brazil in 1950.

But despite the magnitude of the performance, Robben urged his Dutch team-mates to remain focused ahead of clashes against Australia and Chile.

Robben

N7

Vol. 4 No. 27

Sunday June 15, 2014

N150

I N

F I G U R E S

N170

million. Amount chief Edem Duke the minister of Culture, Tourism and National Orientation paid to Antiquities Vendors.

University curricula and the global job market

Back Page

Comment

E-mail: nwaunah@yahoo.com Unah is Professor of Philosophy at the University of Lagos

with Jim Unah

T

www.nationalmirroronline.net

N I G E R I A

billion. Amount the Cross-Rivers state has lost in the last 20 month.

he question of the relevance of university course offerings to the needs of industry and society has been in the front burner, in the last couple of years, and even dates back to the early 1950s when CP Snow attempted to accentuate the presumed gulf between the sciences and the humanities. Thomas Huxley and Herbert Spencer, two 19th century evolutionary biologists, had earlier attempted to establish the perking order of relevance and worthwhileness of the disciplines in university curriculum by demonstrating that the way to establish the worthwhileness of a course of study in the university is to show how it benefits human life; in terms of how it enriches, preserves or saves life; in such a way that courses like nursing and medicine came to be adjudged to be more relevant than engineering, and that courses like philosophy, history, language studies and the fine arts are luxuries that can be discarded without loss.

These are contentious issues indeed, and they have been hotly contested by

scholars in one form or another. In 2008 and 2012, for instance, we debated the issue extensively at the Oxford Round Table Conference, in Oxford, England.

Thereafter, several well argued papers were published in first rate journals in England and America, and even beyond to discountenance the project of the perking order of courses in the university. But that did not ease the tension of the crisis of relevance of the course offerings of the universities to the needs of industry and society. The debate has shifted to the gulf of difference between what is taught to the students in the universities and the job requirements of employers of labour in corporations that engage the services of university graduates.

First, we need to be clearly conversant with the issues at stake before we can mediate and proffer enduring solutions to the problem. On the one hand, university education provides knowledge that is theoretical, analytical and generic in nature, while on the other hand, employers of labour in industry require skills and competences of practical nature from applicants that they wish to engage their services. The universities have responded, in developing societies such as Nigeria, by integrating General Studies Courses like Entrepreneurship Studies, Industrial Attachment programmes, and the Students Industrial Work Experience (SIWES), etc.

But employers of labour contend that these remedial courses and programmes are sheer tokenisms and thus cannot induct university graduates properly into the world of work. They also aver that they spend so much to provide new graduates with internships and induction courses which invariably increase their overhead. The Federal Government of Nigeria tried to address the problem by encouraging universities, polytechnics and colleges of education to pursue their mandate and objectives, introducing new courses that endow skills and competences necessary for proper adjustment of individual graduates in industry and society. Unfortunately, due to policy summersault and inconsistency, the same Federal Government has upgraded the polytechnics and colleges of education to degree awarding institutions; thereby obliterating the skill endowment capacity of these middle level manpower institutions.

In the first place, there is a confusion and conflation of the roles of the different levels of tertiary education in the country. Secondly, there is also confusion in the perception of the role of the universities by employers of labour.

The middle level manpower tertiary schools originally had the mandate to train graduates with practical skills and competences for a category of national manpower need—the middle level category. The universities, as else-

where, were to provide the highest level manpower needs of the country. This can be evidenced from the differences in the curricula of the two categories of tertiary education. To throw more light on this, it may be necessary to revisit the mandate of the universities vis-àvis that of the middle level manpower institutions. It should be stated from the onset that differences in mandate in no way intends the products of the polytechnics and the colleges of education to be inferior or of lower value than graduates of the universities.

Now, what is the original mandate of the universities? To what extent and how have the universities responded to the needs of industry and society in terms of the social and practical relevance of their course offerings?

First, there is the original mandate of the universities to liquidate ignorance, dispel illusions and cultivate the intellect. In this mandate is encapsulated the responsibility of the university to itself. In this regard, curriculum is designed for the pursuit of excellence in theoretical, analytical and generic knowledge—knowledge, not necessarily for its own sake, but knowledge of broad general nature to ground and provide the basis for practice. In one breath it is knowledge for its own sake and knowledge to guide practice.

TO BE CONTINUED

Brazil 2014: Colombia in flying start, stuns Greece 3-0 Keshi in dark P. 59 over Iran threat

C

olombia made an impressive start to their Group C campaign at the ongoing FIFA World Cup in Brazil yesterday, as an early Pablo Armero strike set them on the way to a comfortable 3-0 win over Greece.

The Napoli defender rolled in Juan Cuadrado’s fifth-minute cut-back to set the stadium aglow with a classical finish.

Teofilo Gutierrez, leading Colombia’s attack in the absence of the injured Radamel Falcao, then touched in from a James Rodriguez corner after the break to score Colombia’s second goal of the day.

Theofanis Gekas headed Greece’s best chance against the bar, before Rodriguez steered in a late third goal to seal victory for Colombia.

It was a very solid showing

from Colombia, who are looking to progress beyond the last 16 of a World Cup for the first time after finishing runners-up to Argentina in

South American qualifying.

But the pressure was on the attacking talent such as Gutierrez and Rodriguez to produce goals after Monaco

forward Falcao, their ninegoal top scorer in the qualification campaign, was ruled out of the tournament with a nagging knee injury.

BRAZIL 2014 RESULTS

Colombia 3-0 Greece Uruguay 1-3 Costa Rica Today’s Matches Switzerland vs Ecuador 17:00 France vs Honduras 20:00 Argentina vs Bosnia and Herzegovina 23:00 Monday, June 16, 2014 Germany vs Portugal 17:00 Iran vs Nigeria 20:00 Ghana vs USA 23:00

Printed and Published by Global Media Mirror Ltd. Head Office: 155/161, Broad Street, Lagos. Tel: 08034101207, Abuja Office: NICON Insurance House, Second Floor, Central Business District, Area 10, Abuja. Tel: 08070428249, Advert Hotline: 08098305995, e-mail: mail@mirroronline.net Acting Editor: KAYODE FASUA. All correspondence to PMB 10001, Marina, Lagos.

Printed simultaneously in Lagos, Abuja and Ondo State. ISSN 0794-232X