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News News

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Tinubu’s mother, Abibat Mogaji dies at 96

Fashola, Aregbesola mourn

News

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Rivers 2015: Patience Jonathan dares Amaechi, endorses Wike

First Lady holds nocturnal meeting with anti-Amaechi lawmakers

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www.nationalmirroronline.net

Vol. 3 No. 27

Sunday, June 16, 2013

N150

Fresh crisis rocks PDP

...over plans to sack NWC members Jonathan, Jang summon governors to meeting Pro-Amaechi lawmakers vow to boycott Plateau governor’s parley

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BRAZILIANS DEMONSTRATE AGAINST CONFEDERATIONS CUP

Demonstrators protest in front of the National Stadium, some holding signs that read in Portuguese, “We don’t want stadiums, we want more hospitals,” and “We don’t need stadiums, we need education, health and security,” before the opening soccer match of the Confederations Cup between Brazil and Japan yesterday.

Photo: AP. See backpage for story

MEND begins fresh offensive 2015: Claims to have planted bomb on fuel tankers Wants Henry Okah, brother released Issues ultimatum to govt to sack petroleum minister Security beefed up in Abuja

News

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We’ll drag Buhari into race –CPC

Emir of Kano: I have forgiven all

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Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

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What’s new Politics

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Seven Days TALKING POINTS OF THE PAST WEEK JUNE NE 16, NE 16,, 2 2013 013 01 0 3

Mr. Anthony Sani is National Publicity Secretary of Arewa Consultative Forum, ACF. In this interview, he explains why the North is opposed to the Senate’s proposed single tenure for the president and governors in the ongoing constitution review, his stand on the pension fund scandal, management of the reports on petroleum subsidy, the late MKO Abiola and President Goodluck Jonathan’s mid-term performance, among others.

Passion

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Legendary highlife superstar, Rolling Dollar, bows out at 86 Fatai Olayiwola Olagunju, popularly known by his stage name, Fatai Rolling Dollar, aged 86, died in Lagos on Wednesday at about 9.00 a.m. in Maritol Medical Centre, Surulere.

His demise came barely

My life, dancing, relationship with Shina Peters and MKO Abiola –Tessy Yembra Fuji and juju music was the craze both in the 1980s and 1990s. What made the songs even more exciting was the crop of dancers the musicians had on stage to entertain the fans. Topping the ladder of Fuji dancers during the Sikiru Ayinde Barrister and Sir Shina Peter’s fame was Theresa Alero Yembra, better known as Tessy Yembra. She created the unique dancing styles that made Fuji music so popular, and this made the media to dub her the Dancing Queen. She spoke about her talent, failed marriages and the current men in her life.

and Publicity, Dr. Reuben Abati, noted that the committee considered suggestions, recommendations from different quarters and looked at 541 federal parastatals, commissions and agencies.

He explained that out of the number, the White paper drafting committee accepted 321, while some recommendations were rejected. He assured that government would soon release the White Paper on the exercise which he said was now being subjected to discussion and review at the FEC level.

five days after he had been discharged from Ahmadiyya Hospital, along Abeokuta Expressway, Lagos, where he was treated for pains in the leg which had rendered him temporarily immobile.

Nigerians’ll re-enact June 12 in 2015 –NADECO Twenty years after the historic June 12, 1993 presidential election, chieftains of the National Democratic Coalition, NADECO, has assured that Nigerians would re-enact the magic again in 2015.

The late Chief M.K.O. Abiola won the election, considered the freest and fairest in the nation’s history on the platform of the

defunct Social Democratic Party, SDP, but the military regime led by Gen. Ibrahim Babangida annulled the poll, for yet-to-be explained reasons. Abiola, who later declared himself president, was promptly arrested by the infamous military junta of Gen Sani Abacha and died in custody on July 7, 1998 under unclear circumstances.

The former Director of Music and Deputy Commissioner of Police, Pa Benedict Elide Odiase, is dead. He was aged 79.

Odiase, who composed the national anthem, died on Tuesday night at the Lagos University

Teaching Hospital, LUTH, after a brief illness. According to a family source, condolence register has been opened at his Kudirat Abiola Way, Oregun, Lagos home and that burial arrangements will be announced later.

FG uncovers 45,000 ghost workers, saves N118bn The Federal Government has said that it had so far eliminated 45,000 ghost workers from the federal payroll, saving N118bn.

The Coordinating Minister for the Economy and Minister of Finance, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, disclosed this in Abuja at her 2013 ministerial press briefing. She noted that the computerization of the public sector payroll system

had helped to plug leakages in personnel costs.

The minister said that with about 215 Ministries, Departments and Agencies, MDAs, captured so far in the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System, IPPIS, and Government Integrated Financial Management Information System, GIFMIS.

Shafar Cole CEO, SHAFCOLE USHRETTES

TUE MON

Why North is against the single tenure proposal –Sani

Indications has emerged that 220 agencies and commissions may be scrapped by the Federal Government as the Federal Executive Council, FEC, began deliberations on the recommendations of white paper committee on the Steve Oronsaye-led Presidential Committee on the Rationalisation and Restructuring of Federal Government Parastatals, Commissions and Agencies.

Speaking at a press briefing shortly after the weekly FEC meeting, the Special Adviser to the President on Media

from house to house, arresting suspected Boko Haram members and handing them over to the Joint Task Force, JTF. The youths were at the Government House, Maiduguri, where they held a closed-door meeting with Governor Kashim Shettima. It was learnt that the meeting centered on how the state government and the security agencies would support them in their quest to rid the state of the Boko Haram menace.

Odiase, national anthem composer, dies at 79

WED

FG to scrap 220 agencies

Some youths in Maiduguri, the Borno State capital, embarked on massive manhunt and arrest of members of the Boko Haram Islamic sect. The action of the youths, who are now being addressed as “Civilian JTF” was to rid the city of the menace of the sect members, who have killed hundreds of people in bomb and gun attacks over the past two years.

The youths have been moving

FRI THU

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anniversary celebration of the annulment to appeal to the Federal Government to pay the debts owed the business mogul.

The President made the remark at the inauguration of the board of the Police Service Commission, PSC, held at the Council Chamber of the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

I work with E star Television for Africa. On Mondays when I get to the office, I arrange the station’s movies schedule for the week.

On Tuesday, I usually do a voice over for soap opera introduction.

On Wednesdays, I do go to a movie location and get updates of the movie they are shooting for a segment on my show which is known as Nollywood-In-Check which I present everyday from 5 to 6 p.m. and every Sunday from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m.

I go for my celebrity one-on-one interviews.

Most Fridays, I go for movie premieres

SAT

Interview

President Goodluck Jonathan on Wednesday described June 12 as “a unique day that has changed the political history” of the country.

This was even as the family of the acclaimed winner of the June 12 presidential election, Bashorun MKO Abiola, used the opportunity of the 20th

Northern youths hunt Boko Haram members

On Saturdays, I record my show which I told you is Nollywood-In-Check. That is when interviews, movie location updates, premieres and new movies are reviewed.

SUN

Contending issues as Fayemi declares for second term

June 12 changed Nigeria’s political history –Jonathan

I go to church. From there I go to the office to ensure that the Sunday replay edition of my show is shown. I also try to gather contents for my show. *By Adaeze Amos (0802 301 2293)

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Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

THE

Big Read SUNDAY SPECIAL INVESTIGATION June 16, 2013

NIPOST HQ, Abuja (Inset: Baba)

Post office without letters: Dwindling fortunes of the Nigerian Postal Services Years back, the premises of Nigerian post offices used to be central points for organisations, families and schools to receive or send letters and other parcels. But, in the past 15 years, NIPOST has had to grapple with the challenges of ICT, forcing a paradigm shift from established modes of conducting business. What has been the effect of this intense competition from the new media? This is the focal point of this report by Head, Special Investigations, Isioma Madike

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time was, when a visit to the Nigerian Postal Service (NIPOST) offices across the country, was to be planned. This is because of the waiting time before being attended to. It was a time those, who patronise them had to be on a queue that stretches from the main halls to the outlying streets for hours. To buy just a postal stamp then, was exceptional tasking. But, not anymore!

Today, most of the NIPOST premises could be likened to a cemetery. What used to be hubs of activities are no longer so. Most of the ancient buildings, though not lacking in architectural aesthetics, now stand like gloomy edi-

fices. At the Ikeja General Post Office, located on Mobolaji Bank Anthony Way on Tuesday, June 11, there were just a pocket of people by a counter. Out of about five counters, only two had people in them. The others were empty. Even some of the attendants on the empty counters had their heads down, indication of staff that had nothing to do. The Special Delivery Service area where courier and other services are supposed to be taking place, were not any better.

No one could be seen to be buying the conventional stamps either. That section too, was devoid of any life.

Marina NIPOST, which is the territorial office, is equally lying in waste. The edifice is also gasping for salvation

‘POST OFFICES IN SHABBY, DISGRACEFUL CONDITIONS’

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as well as begging for renovation. The Security Post, where a visitor should normally register his presence, could only qualify as “lottery kiosk.” The elevators, which are of colonial mode, are equally out of order. The ones on each floor were shut; they appeared abandoned for years. It irritates that most post offices across the country are now in shabby and disgraceful conditions, particularly those belonging to private managers like the Postal Agencies and the Sub-Post Offices. This poor image of NIPOST may not only be due to the declining quality of its services but also as a result of the dilapidated state of its buildings, which now constitute an eyesore across the country; a pointer to the fact that post offices are becoming irrelevant.

However, Sunday Mirror’s request to speak with the Area Postal Manager, was not successful. By virtue of the civil service rule, he was not qualified to speak to the Press.

“My brother, only Abuja can talk to you,” he said.

But, other Nigerians, who have had the privilege of using post offices in the 1960s through the ‘90s, spoke. For instance, a 69-year-old resident of Oyingbo area of Lagos, who simply identified himself as Pa Jimoh, says, “when I CONTINUED ON PAGE 4

NEW TECHNOLOGIES, NOT A THREAT TO NIPOST –BITIYONG

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The Big Read

Sunday, June 16, 2013

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

‘Post offices in shabby, disgraceful conditions’

Bello

General Post Office, Enugu

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3 was growing up, our mail was delivered to a box at a street corner that was less than 10 minutes walk away from our home. So, it was a 20 minutes round trip to pick up mail and drop off mail at the same box.

“I think the problem is that we are now used to telephones, SMS and instant messaging with the invention of information technology where sending mail is getting faster all the time. It’s just unfortunate that the younger people now find the physical postal/courier business a great inconvenience. It’s not like post offices have moved outside of town, they’re in the same places. Though, for the last couple of decades, the classic urban post office has disappeared from many cities and has been replaced by privately run ‘postal outlets’ all across this Nation.

Here in Oyingbo, a small place around the post office, addressed as a Postal Agency is now three kilometres away in a pedestrian-unfriendly traditional area. The postal outlets that replaced it do not provide the equivalent services. For example, some do not accept postal stamps if not money order. Others do not have 24-hour access to mailboxes as the old post offices,” he affirmed.

Mallam Ahmed Jaji, public affairs commentator, who lives at Akute in Ogun State, also told Sunday Mirror that he last visited the post office 10 years ago. “These days, an average Nigerian makes use of the electronic media. I make use of my facebook page, my phone and the internet via my email. To me, NIPOST isn’t functioning hence, it should be scraped”, he suggested.

A retired nurse, Mrs Abike Balogun, could not equally remember sending a letter through the post office since the inception of the internet and social media. “I talk to family and friends via facebook, emails and l send text messages.

To be honest, the social media is not helping our children because they do not read and they can hardly write; they fail woefully in written examinations. We should learn to balance everything we do because it is wrong to forget a good habit because of a new trend in town that is not so healthy. Posterity wouldn’t forgive us if the negligence is left to go on this way. The government can make NIPOST to come alive again”, she said.

Another middle-age woman, Mrs Oluwatoyin Mordi, said, “I haven’t used the post office in my whole life, but l have made used of DHL. These days, l uses my phone to call my friends, family and loved ones all over the world. I

Uzoagballa

send text messages with my phone too. I use the internet to access my facebook page, my email, my twitter account and all that. I would be selfish to wish that NIPOST should be scraped because people living in the villages may not have this same opportunity to access the internet, hence they would need the postal agency,” Mordi said.

Indeed, the younger generations of Nigerians do not feel comfortable using the post office nowadays. Incidentally, the issue is not only that fewer people now visit the post offices but that NIPOST actually has less to offer them. The dawn of the 21st century witnessed the advent of super technology known as the Information Communications Technology (ICT). Thus NIPOST, which was turning a new leaf, had to grapple with the challenges of ICT, forcing a paradigm shift from established modes of conducting business. It brought in its trail, e-mail, internet facilities, computers and satellites, which have had tremendous impact on postal activities in the country. Many have argued that using the social media brings about intimacy and speed of sending messages. In developed countries, news breaks on tweeter and anyone, who is on tweeter, is sure of getting the story across to thousands at a time.

There is also the problem of mail pilfering in the Nigeria postal system. Some have likened sending of money or other precious items through the post office to giving an armed robber a house key. Others say letters get lost in transit or could come perforated, or torn to expose some valuable contents in them. The Post Clerks in some localities have also been accused of conspiring to ensure that letters do not get to their destinations. Lost in transit is the popular explanation for that.

A 70-years-old retiree from Enugu State civil service, Raymond Okonkwo, said that he started using the Post Office around 1960 when NIPOST was the only means of delivering letters and other parcels. He recalled that the services were very efficient at that time and people enjoyed it. He however, said that he does not use it any longer since the arrival of GSM. Okonkwo said he also jettisoned NIPOST when people started complaining of letters not getting to their destinations and dumping of mails at rubbish heaps. “That is why people stated going away from it.

I know it still exists but for over five years now, I can’t remember going to any post office. If I have an urgent mail now I go to DHL, which is faster in service delivery despite the fact that it is more costly,” he said.

Another Enugu resident, 68-year-old Adisu Uzoagballa, from Achi in Oji River local government area, said he owns and still operates a post office box in his community and receives mails from it, especially his share dividends letters.

He said he grew up to know about post office and started using it in his primary school days when it was being used to convey mails to families even in the village but that much of it is not in use today became of technological advancement, particularly the mobile phones and internet. “The post office is no longer as useful as it used to be in those days. Then, there was telex but today you can even discuss with somebody in overseas, he will be seeing you and you will be seeing him; it was not like that then,” he revealed.

For Madu Aja, a school teacher, “I can trace the modes of communication from when mails used to come through ships, limiting technology then to time frame. But, the new technology has drastically reduced that. Post offices are still relevant because there are some documents that have to come through it like the share certificates, publications and some other hardcopies. But then, even the cost of post offices has escalated and today, they are mostly located at urban areas. I think the impact is likely to be felt more in the rural areas. They should also look at the cost of owning a post box so that people in the village can afford and patronise it. If post offices can penetrate the 774 local government areas in the country, they will make great impact.

And if NIPOST wants to remain relevant, they should have facilities like their competitors,” Aja suggested.

Dr. Peter Emeka Katchy, associate professor of complementary and alternative medicine based in Onitsha, Anambra State has identified politics of managing public enterprises in Nigeria as one of the factors that led to the declining patronage of post office in the country. He noted that civil service attitude in serious lucrative ventures and institutions were instrumental to the declining patronage of post office. He added that obsolete method of postal service system and lack of adequate delivery vans pushed NIPOST into a disadvantaged position. According to Katchy, “no orientation and motivation to staff of NIPOST; Lack of fidelity and dedication from the staff, also caused the loss of public trust in the institution.”

He also identified the lopsided system of appointments at the apex management levels of NIPOST. He said, “picking old hands that is about to retire to revive the system, CONTINUED ON PAGE 5

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

The Big Read

Sunday, June 16, 2013

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New technologies, not a threat to NIPOST –Bitiyong Yacim Bitiyong is the Deputy Postmaster-General, Territorial Administration, Nigerian Postal Service (NIPOST). He told Marcus Fatunmole, that the emergence of modern technology is a positive development for NIPOST services.

How would you describe today’s NIPOST? The Nigerian Postal Service is a very strategic national infrastructure for development in the country. It is an infrastructure for commerce. It is an infrastructure for financial service delivery. It is an infrastructure for general communication. Indeed, it is an infrastructure that is supposed to be available to everybody and interconnects the country. But, it depends on other infrastructure. For instance, nature of transportation in this country affects the Nigerian postal service. The quality of transportation will affect the quality of delivery of mail service. The quality of electricity provision will affect the level of delivery of financial services through NIPOST. The quality of telecommunication will affect the quality of delivery of postal service.

office, we could be doing hybrid mail. There is something they call direct marketing, direct mailing. We can send hybrid mail if we have the electronic digital technology such that if there is a letter the government wants or the public wants to send to many citizens, just one mail can be distributed into people’s phone, once it is received at one point in the post office. It can be sent; post offices do that.

If anything, even in the most developed economies, in the economies where these technologies are most developed.

Post offices are also most developed. They collaborate with each other and grow together. The telephone was a means of communication; also the mail written by hand was a means of communication. Definitely, you see we worry for the country, the fact that people have reduced writing; handwritten mail is affecting our children today.

What about the challenge of private courier companies?

This is why NIPOST also decided to play into the courier industry and set up the EMS. Every country has EMS, (Expedited Mail Service), as part of the post office. That is why, if you notice, if you go to NIPOST EMS, it is cheaper than the private couriers because, deliberately, the intention is to create a category of products where the Nigerian citizen, who is not able to afford the price of the private courier, to be able to get courier service through the government national postal operator, which NIPOST is. As a regulator, it regulates the operations of the courier and sets standards for them. They must meet certain minimum standards. Otherwise, NIPOST will frown at them.

It turns out an irony that when they deliver mail in the urban area, people think that NIPOST is not contributing to that. So, in a way, we are performing very well in various areas and our customers have been the judge.

How? See how they fail in the compositions; in the essays, in various examinations such as Common Entrance, WASSCE and JAMB. See how they do so poorly. If not objective questions, hardly do people pass so much in WASSCE, particularly in English Language. Once you are no longer writing, you will be affected greatly, no doubt about that.

See how you get text messages. See the way our children write in their text messages. Hardly would you see a child or a young Nigerian today who is sending you a text message that is not abbreviating the contents of the message. I can’t abbreviate because I know how to write. I learnt how to write in my secondary school. That is why today, Nigeria has been lagging behind in international essay competitions that are put up every year. The highest we have been is seventh. We have brilliant children in this country.

But, because we have deceived ourselves and our children that once you have a phone, there is no need to write, it has affected our learning process.

How have the new communication technologies affected NIPOST? Do you see their emergence as a big blow?

It is not a big blow. If anything, emergence of modern technology is a positive development for every service, for every sector of the economy, except that it depends on how easily and how quick a sector is able to key into it. For instance, the news media today, we used to have newspapers and journals including books as the source of information.

With the emergence of technologies, newspaper houses took the advantage of technology and have keyed into it.

You will see that certain newspapers can send you messages, advertising their physical newspapers. They will still send you news through the electronic media because they are taking the advantage of that. In the same way the post

Given some of these competitions that you mentioned, what are the innovations NIPOST is putting in place to stay on top of the competitions?

In a number of ways, NIPOST has its innovations such as human resource capacity building. Starting from the late 1980s, NIPOST was going through transformation or reform. It has been struggling within the limit of its resources to re-orientate the staff of the organisation and to even bring in to the organisation people who would ordinarily not want to come by attracting ever-improving qualities and maintaining those quality staffing. That is not to say we have reached the land of glory yet in that

Bitiyong

area. In the area of digital technology, we have since the ’80s been progressively transforming by incorporating the technologies. We have evidence of this having set up what we call ICT Department. Remember, we are part of the Ministry of Communications Technology. Not only ourselves to use these technologies, but to encourage our customers to also use information and communication technology. Those are very key areas. And, we have been improving to participate in international fora that will bring more and more glory to this country and that will bring more and more postal service to this country, to the citizen as individuals and as groups.

You were largely affected by the 2006 downsizing policy of the Federal Government. How is your staff strength affecting your performance?

We have today a staff strength of about 10,000 plus. Now, if you know that this country has a population of about 170 million, l0, 000 is nowhere sufficient to go for street and village delivery of mails. So, definitely, even in terms of human resources, it is not sufficient. I can assure you the postal sector is one sector that government can use to generate employment. Between 1995 and 1996, the staff strength of NIPOST was, on record, 24,000. Now, with the government rationalisation, it dwindled to about 9,000 and has with difficulty grown to the 10,000. It was not that NIPOST wanted to remove the staff but that government policy changed overtime. And, you know, when the policy changes, a number of people, who should have been left but because they didn’t meet certain qualifications had to go and that affected NIPOST.

‘... it’s no longer relevant, it should be scrapped’ CONTINUED FROM PAGE 4 will promote lack of zeal and would produce nothing new in the system. Old, tired hands have also become part of the factors responsible for the declining patronage of post offices across the country.”

The Secretary-General of Anambra State Markets Amalgamated Traders Association (AMATAS), Chuma Eruchalu, however, went down memory lane and recalled that during his secondary and university school days, he relied so much on the post office to the extent that there was no week he did not write and post a letter to his friends and relations. Eruchalu regretted that the declining patronage of post office started in the past 15 to 20 years when people

NIPOST Office Secretariat, Kaduna

stopped posting letters and buying postage stamps. “That was about the time ICT took over. It is either you do an SMS through your mobile phone or through the e-mail that have lots of speed advantages over the postal service system.

I still have a post office box and still maintain it till date but it is now only for the collection of dividend warrant for shares. NIPOST staff contributed 80 per cent of the problem. Sometimes, you will not receive posted letters for six months, only to see some parcels discarded in refuge dumps and erosion sites; these eroded peoples’ confidence in the system. Courier service operators that are more efficient, took advantage of this situation as customers are more confident that their letters will get to their various destinations safe and in good time, even if it might cost them more to do so,” he said.

In Kaduna, only a handful of customers still visit the ancient colonial building that housed the general post office along Yakubu Gowon Way. When Sunday Mirror visited the NIPOST office on Thursday, June 13, few staff were seen offering skeletal services to customers, who were there to post or buy duty stamps. Many of them, who spoke to our reporter, noted that the advent of internet and the accompanying social networks like Facebook, Twitter, E-

mail, e-transactions and the GSM, have taken over the old system as postal services are no longer fashionable.

Elder John Fwah also narrated how the agency was in the 1960s and regretted its present status. “If I remembered vividly, before 1960 when we were in primary school, posting letters were cheap. We used British pounds and shillings then and just two penny stamps per letter. We used air letter card for six pence, just for you to write on it and send for air mail. That was very good for government in those days. Then NIPOST offices were mostly found in cities like Kaduna, Ibadan, Enugu, Kano and Lagos. But now, there is a drastic change; if you look at the method of letter delivery in those days, it was manual but fast. The letter postman used bicycles from street to street in uniform delivering letters with letter bags hanging on his bicycle. The street used to have a box and you are sure of getting your letter; there was no breaking of box. We also used telegram; it was faster than normal letter. But now, internet and GSM have taken over completely. Post offices are only surviving now because they are government agencies, if not they would have closed shop. Government should privatise NIPOST for efficient service delivery and proper CONTINUED ON PAGE 6

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The Big Read

Sunday, June 16, 2013

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

‘Post office now only useful for collecting dividends warrants’

Aja

Jaji

Protesting NIPOST retirees at HQ, Abuja

Fwah

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 5 revenue generation,” he suggested.

For Prince Bimbola Makanjuola, an Ibadan-based businessman, “sending or receiving letters through the post office was always a delight some years back such that whenever I had letters sent to me, I took delight in reading them.” Today, however, Makanjuola is lamenting the way and manner things have changed in that sector. “Post offices all over the country are no longer reliable to serve the people,” he said. According to him, as a secondary school student, he took it as a duty to write his parents at least twice in a month to let them know how he was faring, knowing full well that he would also get a reply from them.

“It was like a competition then among the students to be the one to write and send the highest number of letters as doing such contributed to their mastery of the English Language. This habit continued until I travelled abroad for my higher studies through to the time I returned back to the country in the early 1980s.

“I still believe that there is no best form of communi-

cation than through letter; through it, you will be able to decipher the depth of thought of the writer and during our school days, we had different kinds of writings, more so that writing was an integral part of the school curriculum then. On my part, I still have copies of letters written and received more than 20 years ago; I used them to relieve the old days.

Another Ibadan resident and retired soldier-journalist, Abiodun Afolabi, said most of the people in the late 1950s and early 1960s, will be happy to return to the days of writing and posting letters. Afolabi, who is meticulous in keeping documents, stated that most Nigerians, including himself do not patronise the post offices again because some postmasters have ruined the lives of many people. “I think it is no longer news that in the past, even before the introduction of ICT, we used to hear of letters dumped in streams all over the country. Rather than for the people employed as postmasters to do their job, they will pile the letters meant for people somewhere without delivering them to those they were meant for,” he said.

Another 73-year-old and retired military officer in Abeokuta, Pa Akinola Bello also recounted his experiences and familiarity with the Postal Service, which he described as not too good then. “During the civil war, I was writing letters to let them know that I was still alive. In those days, each time we write, there were officials in the Army that would take them to the post offices for postage. Then, if we send postal orders or money orders, our people will reply that they did not get the things sent. That usually took about 30 days and maybe it was due to the situation of the country then that was causing the delay and late delivery of letters. There were some dubious characters among the personnel of the postal service then, some of us, who hadn’t the experience, would enclose cash and it would just disappear. So, before the letter would get to our parents and wives, the officials of the postal service would have removed the cash. Even the postal order too; occasionally, they used to steal it,” Bello alleged.

Meanwhile, the Postmaster General of NIPOST, Mallam Ibrahim Baba, has said that modern technology has not been a threat to the operation of the agency. He believes that the advancement in technology such as internet, fax and e-mail had rather improved on service delivery to customers nationwide. According to him, postal service still remains relevant in spite of the ICT era. He sees information technology as a plus to NIPOST, adding that it only enhanced NIPOST service delivery. “Modern technology complemented the effort of the postal service globally; it’s not a threat. ICT should be seen as something that has enhanced activities not only in an organisation but to people.

You can go there and look at issues of medicine, issues of other area of endeavour. So, ICT is rather complementing our mail delivery rather than a threat,’’ he insisted.

He, however, noted that NIPOST of 21st century is quite different. “This is certainly because of the advent of the new technology. So, as far as we are concerned, we are not actually on the back seat, because we are providing different types of communication services. We are more of person to person, rather than those that you will just pick your phone and speak to a person and so on; ours is beyond that. We want to believe that we will always continue to be relevant as far as communication in this century is concerned,” Baba said.

Of all the departments that the departing colonial administration handed over to the new Nigerian government in 1960, the communications sub-sector was considered the most viable in terms of human and material resources.

The Post and Telecommunications/Telegraphs (P&T) started as a purely civil service department in the Ministry of Communications. On the attainment of independence in 1960, P&T, few years later in 1966 was given a quasi-commercial status.

It covered a little over 60 per cent of the Nigerian landscape. Then in the early ‘60s, the best medium of communication (letters on postage) with distant relations across the length and breadth of the country was the Post, which had the best potential for growth. The P&T even in the 1980s showed remarkable promise of business growth, which encouraged the Federal Government to carve out two agencies from it; the Nigerian Telecommunications Ltd (NITEL) and the Nigerian Postal Service (NIPOST).Thus in 1992, NIPOST became autonomous. The military administration, though, promulgated Decree 18 of 1987, barely two and half years of NIPOST, that act was not enough to bring about the desired change and impact needed to turn around the fortunes of postal services. Thus, the NIPOST management under Postmaster General, Nathaniel Zome, fought hard to lay a solid foundation for the agency, resulting in another Decree, (Decree 41 of 1992).

According to Zome, “the most fundamental and far reaching transformation of NIPOST took place between 1989 and 1993. NIPOST was thus launched into the league of billionaire government parastatals, through concerted effort to re-orientate staff in terms of ‘workshops, retreats, it was possible to forge a focus, direction, vision, mission and purpose for it, culminating in fashioning out of a corporate and perspective business plans, operating and marketing strategies.”

Incidentally, this brought about reforms in the sector and many staff were either retired or retrenched. However, several years after retirement, the staff affected are still fighting to get their full entitlements. It took several hours of appeals by Deputy Postmaster-General, Yacim Bitiyong, to pacify retirees, who stormed the institution’s headquarters in Abuja on Tuesday, June 11, to demand payment of their pensions, including gratuities and severance package allegedly owed them by NIPOST. The protesters comprised those who completed the 35 years of service stipulated by law and others who fell victims of 2006 downsizing policy of the Federal Government in the parastatal. Led by two Assistant-General Secretaries of Nigerian Union of Pensioners, Messrs Bunmi Ogunkolade and Ahmed Gazani, the protesters blocked the entrance of NIPOST headquarters, calling for urgent intervention from the institution’s leadership.

A former Chief Supervisor with the parastatal, Aminu Adamu, said the protest was as a result of backlog of arrears, harmonisation, and failure of payment of pension among others. “We have been on this issue since 2010. We are all retirees. Federal Government approved N1.7billion for NIPOST pensioners in February this year. There was a memorandum duly signed by the Post-Master-General that this money would be paid when the budget is approved.

Now, the budget has been approved and we did not hear anything. March came; they said we should wait till April.

April came; they said we should wait till May. May came; they are now telling us that there is a committee they set up. We are tired of all these. That is why we are here. We came here to remain until our problem is solved,” he told Sunday Mirror.

The Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) had recently threatened to embark on nationwide industrial action as a result of long-standing pension crises in the country. The threat was immediately handled by President Goodluck Jonathan as he ordered immediate release of fund for payment of the pensions. But not all pensioners have benefited from this directive.

Additional reports from Marcus Fatunmole (Abuja), Dennis Agbo (Enugu), Kemi Olaitan (Ibadan), Aza Msue (Kaduna), Nwabueze Okonkwo (Onitsha) and Femi Oyeweso (Abeokuta).

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Atiku commiserates with NANS over officials’ death

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ormer Vice-President, Atiku Abubakar, yesterday commiserated with the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) over the death of its Senate President, Donald Onukaogu, and four other officials of the association.

The former vice-president said in a statement by his media office in Abuja that the death of the NANS officials in a car accident in Abia State was a huge shock.

Atiku noted that it was unfortunate that this tragedy happened when the NANS is beginning to restore its dignity as a pro-student organisation, rather than being a tool in the hands of opportunistic politicians.

“I commiserate with the national leadership of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) over the death of Donald Onukaogu, its Senate President and four other officials of the body.

“It is unfortunate that this ugly incident is happening when NAN is reemerging as a strong body, standing to defend its members,” Atiku said.

He prayed that God grants the souls of the departed into eternal bliss and give the families they left behind the fortitude to bear their loss.

NEWS

Sunday June 16, 2013

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Fresh crisis in PDP over move to sack NWC members

• Fear of imminent midterm convention grips party ll is not well within the camp of the Peoples Democratic Party as the crisis which had engulfed the party since the inception of the present leadership of Alhaji Bamanga Tukur over a year ago is gradually gravitating to a parlous state.

Eighteen members of the party’s National Working Committee (NWC) have threatened to tear the party apart should they be sacked from the leadership of the ruling party.

A member of the NWC who spoke to Sunday Mirror recently said that evidence was overwhelming on the culpability of the National Chairman in the attempt to sack the 18 members of the NWC. The NWC member also said the fear within the party was that the National Chairman was pushing for a midterm convention where the 18 positions would be replaced in the guise of a valid election as the positions would have been made vacant by the courts.

The officers whose posi-

tions were to be vacated by the courts include Dr. Sam Sam Jaja (Deputy National Chairman), Bala Bawa Ka’oje (National Treasurer), Solomon Onwe (Deputy National Secretary), Umar Tsauri (Deputy National Auditor), Olisa Metuh (National Publicity Secretary), Bode Mustapha, Dr. (Mrs) Kema Chikwe (Women Leader), Victor Kwon (National Legal Adviser) and Anunakar Mustapha (National Organising Secretary) among others.

According to our source, “The National Chairman has all along been working for our ouster without us knowing. It shocked some of us when we noticed from the documents served us that he personally did some corrections with his own handwriting and the photocopied documents were given to us.

“Our only sin was that we demanded that the party structure be liberalised instead of the autocratic way it is being managed presently and that things should be done in a proper way in the spirit of equity and fair play which we have been preaching.

“Is it not obvious that the

Governor Jang has invited us to a meeting for Monday in Abuja,” the governor who belongs to the Jang faction said yesterday.

But it was learnt that most of the pro-Rotimi Amaechi governors have said they will shun the meeting called

by Jang.

“Governor Jang is not the recognised chairman of the NGF. So, he has no moral right to call for a meeting of governors. He only leads a faction. So, we won’t attend his meeting on Monday,” one of the opposition governors told Sunday Mirror.

It was learnt that most of the pro-Amaechi governors will proceed straight to the Presidential Villa for the meeting.

A source said that every governor will present his position as the NGF is divided.

The monthly meeting of the Federation Accounts Allocation Committee, FAAC was aborted on Thursday as the Minister of State for Finance, Dr. Yerima Ngama who doubles as its Chairman

failed to convince the State Commissioners for Finance on an acceptable terms for which the May 2013 allocations would be based which led to the state commissioners walking out on the minister.

The stalemate has the potential to affect most states with poor Internally Generated Revenue, IGR, as they stand the risk of not meeting their financial obligations.

Chairman of State Finance Commissioners Forum, Timothy Odaah, stated that the states boycotted the May FAAC session because of “the non-implementation of the decisions and resolutions taken in most FAAC meeting plenary sessions, especially the May 2013 resolutions which still remain inconclusive based on the fact that the arrears of February have not been paid.”

Also, he said the failure of the committee to pay augmentation of April allocation in line with the resolution mutually passed at the meeting was also responsi-

OBIORA IFOH ABUJA

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party is sinking or is this the PDP we all craved for?

The fact that the party has not been able to call for the NEC in nearly one year is worrisome. Even the ordinary NWC meeting hardly holds again and if you dare raise your voice, you will get into Baba’s trouble.”

The source said the court would have ruled against the NWC members and the party would instead of appealing the judgement rather go for midterm convention where a new set of NWC would be produced.

The hearing in the suit seeking to sack the NWC last week was stalled as an application for substitution forced the court to adjourn.

Three members of the PDP – Abba Yale, Yahaya Aruwa Sale and Bashir Maigudu – had approached the court for an order to nullify the election of Jaja and 17 others, as well as declare their positions vacant.

The plaintiffs claimed that the affected NWC members were not nominated and elected in accordance with the constitution and guidelines of the PDP and as such, should not continue to hold office.

They also premised their argument on the strength of a report said to have emanated from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) wherein, the electoral body was said to have faulted the March 2012 National Convention of the party, which produced the defendants.

Sunday Mirror investigation reveals that fear has gripped some members of the NWC over Tukur’s insistence of having a midterm convention to pave way for a new leadership.

Though, most of the NWC members were not willing to talk, one of them who volunteered to speak on the condition of anonymity said the development was unfortunate.

He said his colleagues in the NWC are prepared to pull down the roofs as everyone is equally guilty as charged.

He recalled that Tukur was not even the candidate of the North-East caucus during the primaries conducted in Bauchi State but he was allowed to assume the chairmanship after pressure from the Presidency.

“All I can say is that we

all know what transpired in Bauchi and how he eventually emerged. All I can assure you is that we were validly elected to serve four years and we will not be stampeded out of office, but if anyone thinks that he has the singular privilege of manipulating any funny games, then we will see. Don’t forget we are all politicians.”

It would be recalled that earlier in the year, 10 members of the NWC (excluding the former Deputy National Secretary, now acting National Secretary) had moved against Tukur over his position in the Adamawa PDP crisis. The chairman was quoted as saying hat he was betrayed by the action of the 10 NWC members.

The relationship between Tukur and his NWC members has since been strained with the chairman refusing to carry them along in most of the party businesses. Only last week, at the launch of ‘PDP Reloaded’, a brainchild of Tukur, created to pursue the Goodluck Jonathan 2015 Presidency aspiration, none of the NWC members was invited.

NGF: Jonathan, Jang summon governors AYODELE OJO

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resident Goodluck Jonathan has summoned the 36 state governors to an emergency meeting on Monday.

The meeting, which is scheduled to hold at the Presidential Villa by 9 p.m., according to a source, is to deliberate on the sharing of federal allocation which was stalemated on Thursday.

Also, Sunday Mirror reliably gathered that the Plateau State Governor, David Jonah Jang, has equally called for a meeting of NGF members, prior to the meeting with the President. A governor who pleaded anonymity told Sunday Mirror that Governor Jang at the weekend sent messages to all the governors informing them of the meeting.

“Usually, each time the President summons us to a meeting on national issue, we meet to take a definite position before meeting the President. In line with this,

L-R: (Back row) Chairman, Peoples Democratic Party, Alhaji Bamanga Tukur; Vice-President Namadi Sambo PHOTO: NAN and Katsina State Governor, Ibrahim Shema, at the wedding of Tukur’s son in Katsina on Friday.

ble for the walkout.

“Every month returns from the states accountant generals appear to be shabbier than the previous one.

And the state governments have taken a lot of disappointment from the administration of FAAC which by intents and purposes have

become templates of ineptitude,” Odaah lamented.

Sunday Mirror reliably learnt that the Monday meeting with President Jonathan may likely deepen the leadership crisis rocking the NGF. The umbrella body of the governors is polarised into factions - the Governors

Rotimi Amaechi and Jonah Jang factions.

To show the authenticity of its leadership, Governor Jang of Plateau State has summoned a meeting for 6 p.m. on Monday where the governors will take a position before meeting the President.

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News

Sunday, June 16, 2013

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

MEND resumes hostility, calls for minister’s resignation SAM OLUWALANA, PORT HARCOURT; OMEIZA AJAYI, ABUJA

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here are indications that the Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta (MEND) is set to make real its threat to resume hostilities, as the militant group issued a statement yesterday, threatening to begin to blow up fuel-laden tankers.

The group also demanded the resignation of Petroleum Minister, Mrs. Diezani Allison-Madueke, the immediate release of Henry Okah who is serving a jail term in South Africa, and the release of Okah’s brother, Charles.

But top police sources who preferred anonymity yesterday sneered at MEND’s latest threat saying there was no need to keep glorifying such threats. A statement pur-

portedly issued yesterday on behalf of MEND suggested that it had resumed hostility, code-naming it ‘Hurricane Exodus’, which it said began yesterday morning in the Federal Capital Territory.

The statement signed by the group’s spokesman, Jomo Gbomo, warned Nigerians to steer clear of vehicles laden with petroleum products, while also demanding for the removal of the Petroleum Minister, the release of its leaders, Henry Okah and his brother, Charles. The group also made other demands.

The statement read: ‘Hurricane Exodus’ resumed at about 00:05Hrs on Saturday, June 15, 2013, when field operatives from the Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta (MEND), stealthily attached portable military limpet explosives magnetically to two articulated tanker vehicles laden with

petrol in a queue outside the NNPC depot in Abaji, the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.

“The devices were timed to detonate simultaneously several seconds later. The outcome was predictable.

This segment of Exodus codenamed ‘Operation Touch and Go’ is targeted at the soft underbelly (downstream sector) of the oil industry in Nigeria.

“From today, every tanker vehicle we find distributing petroleum products including propane gas has become a legitimate target in our war against injustice, corruption, despotism and oppression. Drivers of tanker vehicles continue to drive them at their own risk.

“The public are hereby advised to maintain a safe distance from such vehicles as they can explode anytime and anywhere.

Harassment on these tanker vehicles would be sus-

tained until the following demands are met: • Henry Okah, his brother Charles and other innocent persons set up as scapegoats and held over the October 01, 2010 twin car bombings in Abuja be released unconditionally.

• That an unreserved apology be tendered by the Nigerian government to MEND for presenting a forged email letter threatening the South African government purported to have originated from us and used as evidence in the sham trial and conviction of Henry Okah.

• That a separate independent body outside Nigeria investigates the forged letter so as to ascertain its authenticity and make their findings public.

• That since our struggle has never been about a Goodluck Jonathan Presidency, nor about being beneficiaries of dubious pipeline protection contracts and other forms of bribery, a conference to address the injustice, underdevelopment, environmental degradation and outstanding root issues confronting the Niger Delta region must be fixed to hold within three (3) months.

• That the corrupt and inept…resigns as Minister of Petroleum.

But indications emerged last night that security agencies in the Federal Capital Territory might have scaled up efforts to forestall a likelihood of bomb attack on the territory following the

MEND threat.

However, multiple security sources in Abuja recalled earlier statements purportedly made by the group in which it threatened renewed attacks on critical national assets.

“MEND has this year alone made over 10 of such threats. I wonder why the media continues to glorify them by giving them such prominence.

However, we are always on the alert and there is no cause for alarm”, said an operative of the Department of State Service (DSS) who did not want his name in print.

Deputy Force Public Relations Officer, Frank Mba, could not be immediately reached for media enquiries.

Tinubu’s mother, Abibat Mogaji dies at 96 MURTALA AYINLA

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other of Asiwaju Ahmed Bola Tinubu, former governor of Lagos State and National Leader of the Action Congress of Nigeria, Alhaja Abibat Mogaji, is dead. She passed on yesterday in her home in Ikeja, at the age of 96.

The late Mogaji was the President-general, Association of Nigerian Market Women and Men. She was, this year, honoured with an honorary doctoral degree by the Ahmadu Bello University during its 50th anniversary. She was, on the occasion, honoured along with former military president, Gen. Ibrahim Babangida and former Chief of Army Staff, Lt-Gen. Theophilus Danjuma.

She will be buried today, June 16, 2013 at the Ikoyi Vaults and Gardens in Lagos by 11 am.

Already, reactions have

been pouring in, following the news the nonagenarian’s death.

Governor of the State of Osun, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, lamenting the passage, described Alhaja Mogaji’s death as “a loss of a mother in a million.”

In a statement issued on his behalf by the Director, Bureau of Communications and Strategy, Mr. Semiu Okanlawon, Aregbesola said the death of the Tinubu matriarch would leave a big vacuum both in political and commercial sectors of not only Lagos State but Nigeria at large.

Aregbesola said Alhaja Mogaji led a life of substance, worthy of emulation.

“Mama Abibat Mogaji was a mother in a million.

We commiserate with her children, particularly Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu and others for the great loss.

Reacting too, the Lagos State governor, Mr. Babatunde Fashola (SAN) yes-

terday described as “a great national and personal loss, the passage of Mogaji.

In a condolence statement signed by his Special Adviser on Media, Mr. Hakeem Bello, Fashola said the mother of his illustrious predecessor in office, Asiwaju Tinubu, throughout her lifetime, was a forthright defender of the people and their right to economic empowerment, adding that this trait had been imbibed by anyone, who has had the opportunity or privilege to fall within the ambit of her influence.

According to the governor, this peculiar trait is evident in the personality of her illustrious son, Tinubu, a leader with the love of the people at heart.

The governor said Mogaji was a front-liner in the commercial development of Lagos State, particularly Lagos Island, which was formerly dominated by the Lebanese and Greek merchants.

2015: North’ll force Buhari to contest –CPC chief A ZA MSUE KADUNA

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he acting chairman of Congress for Progressive Change, CPC, Katsina State chapter and former gubernatorial candidate of the party in the state, Hon. Faruk Adamu Aliyu, yesterday declared that northerners would force former Head of State, Gen. Muhammadu Buhari, to contest the Presidency again in 2015.

Aliyu who was speaking as ‘Guest of the Week’ on a Kaduna-based radio, ‘Lib-

erty FM’ noted that though Buhari could decline to contest the next presidential election, his supporters would pressure him to the extent of making him change his mind.

Aliyu, a former Minority Leader in the House of Representatives, averred that at the moment, no one has the qualities of Buhari “to rescue the nation.”

According to him, “we wanted an alliance or merger because of the Presidency, because ACN does not need CPC or ANPP to win gubernatorial election

in the South-West of the country; they already have their governors. Then who among the conglomerate of the APC likely presidential materials such as (former Governor Bola) Tinubu, Buhari or (former Kano Governor Ibrahim) Shekarau, can garner sympathy of followers in Nigeria? I don’t think there is anyone like him (Buhari). I can tell you that when the time comes, Buhari shall put himself up for the president of this country. He did not want it but we will force him,” he affirmed.

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babatunde Fashola SAN (2nd right); Special Adviser to the Governor on Works and Infrastructure, Engr. Ganiyu Johnson (3rd right) and the Executive Chairman, Public Works Corporation, Mr. Gbenga Akintola (right) inspecting the Paving Stone Production Line shortly after its commissioning at the Lagos State Public Works Corporation, Ojodu Berger, Lagos, recently.

Emir of Kano: I have forgiven all AUGUSTINE MADU-WEST KANO

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he Emir of Kano Alhaji Ado Bayero yesterday announced he has forgiven those who might have offended him knowingly or unknowingly, in the spirit of his 50th anniversary.

Bayero said “Today marked a special day in my life for attaining a unique years of 50 on the throne, it’s indeed a day of great happiness for me, I want to use this unique opportunity to seek for forgiveness from all and sundry whom I may have offended directly or indirectly, as I have forgiven all’.

The emir in his special message to large crowd of friends, well-wishers, and other dignitaries during the Durbar at his palace yesterday to mark the 50th anniversary called on Nigerians to be God-fearing and abide by their religious tenets. “All praises are due to Allah for his mercy on us to witness this years. I received a large amount of support from

the people of the state and it’s wonderful and eventful to me”.

Welcoming the guests earlier, the Sultan of Sokoto Alhaji Muhammad Saad Abubakar thanked President Goodluck Jonathan for the enormous support he gave the Emir to function well and his immense contribution towards the success of the celebration.

He prayed for a lasting peace and stability in the three states under the emergency rule and the country in general.

In his address during the celebration, President Goodluck Jonathan, represented by Vice-President Namadi Sambo, while congratulating the Emir, urged for peaceful coexistence in the country.

Kim Kardashian gives birth

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im Kardashian has given birth to a baby girl on Saturday morning at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles .

Kardashian, 32, reportedly had Kanye West by her side as they welcomed their daughter into the world a month early.

Kim’s due date was July 11.

“Kim got sick last night and had the baby early,” a hospital source said. “They’re all doing great and amazing!”

West, 36, and Kim — both first-time parents — have been dating since April 2012. On December

30, 2012, West announced that his girlfriend was pregnant during his Atlantic City concert.

“Stop the music and make some noise for my baby mama,” West said on stage, pointing to Kim, who was in the audience.

The high-profile couple kept the gender of their baby quiet until June, when Kardashian revealed she was having a girl on the season premiere of “Keeping Up With the Kardashians.”

“Who doesn’t want a girl?” Kim said, adding that Kanye was hoping for a daughter as well.

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Tackle Ombatse cultism now, Group tells FG IGBAWASE UKUMBA LAFIA

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group in Nasarawa state, Gwandara Educational and Cultural Association, GWADECA, has called on the Federal Government to immediately nip in the bud, activities of Ombatse cultism before other ethnic groups in the area are forced to engage in self-defence President of the group, Ibrahim Kyari Yahuza, made the call at a press conference in Lafia, the state’s capital.

He noted that the cult group’s pronouncements were becoming provocative as “the use of violence is not the monopoly of any ethnic group.

“It has become a stock in trade of this primitive cult to kill, maim and destroy properties with reckless abandon, as shown by their actions of attacking several towns which include Agyaragu, Asakio, IGGAH, Burum-Burum, Yelwa-Bassa. Rutu, Akwere, Sakoto and Kwandere.

“The group said there was justification for taking innocent lives on lawful duty and as such, no amount of blackmail, falsehood or politisation should be allowed to bury this incident without subjecting the culprits to trial before a court of competent jurisdiction,” he said.

The GWADECA president, however, noted that the state governor, Umaru Tanko Al-Makura and the security agencies acted within their mandate of securing freedom of association and religion, protection of lives and property, and promoting public peace and harmony.

“But their sincere motive of ensuring communal peace has not only been grossly politicized, it has also been mischievously attributed to a nonexistent voodoo power for the sole aim of downplaying the criminal act and allowing the culprits go scot free,” he observed.

News

Sunday June 16, 2013

Agip gas leakage: Bayelsa community residents flee EMMA GBEMUDU YENAGOA

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high volume gas leakage from a rig belonging to the Nigeria Agip Oil Company, NAOC, at Ogboinbiri in Southern Ijaw Local Government of Bayelsa State at the weekend has caused indigenes of the community to flee their residence.

However, there is no incident of fire outbreak yet, at the rig.

It was gathered that the serious gas leakage erupted last Thursday from an ongoing site, forcing ap-

prehensive inhabitants of the coastal community to relocate to neighbouring communities.

Investigations by Sunday Mirror revealed that the cause of the gas leakage might not be unconnected with an operational failure.

It was learnt that the gas leakage from the Italian oil giant’s facility caused panic among staff members working in the rig, as they were immediately evacuated by the management of the firm.

A former Chairman of the Community Development Committee, CDC,

who simply identified himself as Mr. Newton, told our correspondent in an interview that the leakage lasted between Thursday and Friday, thereby creating panic among the people.

According to him, the offensive and choking odour of the gas polluted the air in the community.

As at press time, our correspondent reliably gathered that some indigenes had started returning in trickles, to the community, since yesterday.

Agip has a flow station at Ogboinbiri and has been operating several oil wells within the commu-

nity’s environment over the years, but aggrieved indigenes alleged that the company was not doing enough to develop the area.

They demanded that the company should construct a road to Ogboinbiri and other neighbouring communities as part of its corporate social responsibility.

Efforts to reach the spokesman of NAOC in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, were not successful, but a staff member of the company who pleaded anonymity, appealed to the community not to panic as the situation was under control.

L-R: Speaker, Delta State House of Assembly, Mr. Victor Ochei; National Publicity Secretary, Peoples Democratic Party, Chief Olise Metuh; Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives, Rep. Emeka Ihedioha and Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan, at the public lecture marking the second anniverPHOTO: NAN sary of the Fifth Assembly of the Delta House of Assembly in Asaba on Friday.

PDP crisis will soon be over –George AYO ESAN

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ormer Deputy National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Chief Olabode George, said at the weekend that the crisis rocking the ruling party, which has led to the suspension of two serving governor, will soon be over.

George who was speaking at an interactive session with journalists in Lagos, said the party had worse crisis in the past but

that he knew that the problem within the party was surmountable.

“As a former member of the management team of the party, I know we have had worse crisis than this and we surmounted them. We can’t pretend and say, ‘all is well.’ But are these problems fundamental? I don’t think so.

They are surmountable.

The founding fathers of the party are getting perpetually now on the front burner and soon, the crisis

will be over.”

George also said majority of Nigerians is worried about the crisis within the ruling party because according to him, “PDP is the only national party in this country.

“It is the only party that carries a coloration embraced from the swampy region to the savannah region. If the PDP collapses, Nigeria collapses.”

He appealed to “the committed members of the party”, saying they

should all be calm, assuring that at the end of the whole problem, there would be no winner or vanquished.

“This furnace is getting too hot and we should calm down and in the heat of it, the founders are still there. We are not saying that we cannot have political crises or differences, but we are sending wrong impression to the majority of the people who are not card-carrying members of the PDP”, he cautioned.

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MASSOB’s sit-at-home: Complaints trail exercise in Onitsha NWABUEZE OKONKWO ONITSHA

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arely a week after last Saturday’s bloody sitat-home order enforced by members of the Movement for the Actualization of Sovereign State of Biafra, MASSOB, public complaints and robbery accusations have continued to trail the exercise, just as MASSOB is counting its losses after the exercise.

Among those who claimed to have fallen victim of the robbery incidents during the exercise was an America-based Igbo man, Dr. Herbert Opara, who alleged that he and other passengers were robbed in a Lagos-bound bus by those he suspected to be MASSOB members at Obosi junction, along the Onitsha/Owerri dual carriageway.

Also, the Secretary-General of Anambra Markets Amalgamated Traders Association (AMATAS) and Secretary of New Auto Spare Parts Market, Nkpor, Chief Chuma Eruchalu, confirmed that some hoodlums suspected to be MASSOB members had invaded the market during that June 8 sit-at-home exercise and damaged some vehicles in a bid to enforce the order.

Eruchalu, who noted that the state government, through the state Commissioner for Information, Chief Joe-Martins Uzodike, had directed the traders to go about their normal businesses, wondering why the markets became so porous that the MASSOB members had a field day.

Dr. Opara who spoke in a press statement he issued yesterday in Onitsha, declared: “it’s unbelievable that my country home being the south eastern state of Nigeria shall allow group of armed robbers to operate in Igbo land in the name of MASSOB”.

NIGERIA IN BRIEF Group begins victimization survey

The CLEEN Foundation will tomorrow begin the 2013 edition of the National Crime Victimization and Safety Survey.

The survey which will cover the 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, is scheduled to end on Monday, July 8, 2013.

Speaking on the survey, Senior Programme Officer of CLEEN Foundation,

Miss Blessing Abiri, said during the survey, questionnaires would be released to gather information on respondents’ experience of criminal victimization.

She said the surveys provide rich data for understanding the distribution of criminal victimization and the socio-demoographic characteristics of victims and criminals, and the

offer information for better understanding of criminality and consequences of victimization and extent of fear of crime among different groups in different study locations.

She said 11,518 respondents would be interviewed in their homes, using personal face-to-face interview and multi –stage sampling technique.

Turn school counsellors to teachers -Expert A university teacher, Prof.

Mopelola Olusakin, has urged the three tiers of government to intervene in the use of school counsellors as teachers.

Olusakin, a professor of Counselling Psychology, Department of Educational Foundation, University of Lagos, made the appeal in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in

Lagos.

The professor said that the conversion denied students access to counselling.

Besides, she said that the National Policy on Education stipulates 250 students to a counsellor.

“But in most schools, there are over 1,000 students to a counsellor. ``The counsellor’s duty is

to encourage the students to be dedicated because some of them are not dedicated to their studies and their parents do not have time to counsel them. ``A counsellor is in school to counsel students and not to teach in classes.

“They are in school so that students can speak with them on issues they cannot tell their parents.

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

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Man in the News

Wamakko: Calling the party hierarchy’s bluff JUNE 16, 2013

AYO ESAN

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ast Wednesday, on his return from a trip to the Netherlands, the embattled Sokoto State Governor, Alhaji Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko, who was suspended by the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, early this month fired back at the leadership of the party.

Speaking while addressing his supporters that welcomed him back to the state from his weeklong trip, Wamakko denounced the National Chairman of the party, Alhaji Bamanga Tukur, as a political prostitute whose mission is to destroy the party and the North.

He urged the President to direct the National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting of the PDP to re-

Wamakko

move Tukur from his current position of chairman before he would destroy the party.

Wamakko gave the reasons to include Tukur’s incompetence, his running of the PDP from his private residence and his lack of wisdom to go round the country on a thank-you-visit to those who voted him into office.

He further urged President Jonathan to call Ahmadu Ali and Abubakar Kawu Baraje to come and salvage the PDP from collapse in the hands of the Tukur-led NWC. Wamakko also descended on the Special Adviser on Political Matters to the President, Alhaji Ahmad Gulak saying he should be removed from office on account of his incompetence as, according to him, he was incur more enemies daily because of his purported incompetence and arrogance.

Tukur on Thursday replied the Sokoto State Governor, saying he could leave the party if he wished, but as long as he remained a member, he must obey constituted authority.

Tukur, who spoke through his Special Assistant on Media, Prince Oliver Okpala, said, “If he has any agenda to leave the PDP, it is within his constitutional right and he is free, but as long as he remains within the PDP, he must align himself with discipline.”

On his suspension from the PDP, Governor Wamakko vehemently dismissed the development, saying he has no regrets and no apology whatsoever.”

Furthermore, he stressed, “I will never support Godswill Akpabio, the Chairman of PDP Governors Forum.”

The governor, who was flanked by the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Honourable Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, said, “When we took over PDP in 2011, the party had no single elected person from Sokoto State. Today we have won all the 234 seats of the councillors as well as all the 23 local government chairmen. We have won all the 30 members of the state

house of assembly, all the 11 members of the national assembly, all the three senators as well as the governor and his deputy, therefore the peoples of Sokoto State are ardent lovers and supporters of Aliyu, not PDP.” Wamakko didn’t stop his vituperation with attack on Tukur and Gulag, he also urged the President to call the former Federal Minister of Information, Chief Edwin Clark, to order, saying his utterances were capable of ridiculing the person of the President and Nigeria. Not done, he called on Jonathan to order the immediate arrest of Alhaji Mujaheed Asari-Dokubo and get him prosecuted over his recent press conference, which was widely circulated in the social media in order for Nigerians to be sure that no one was above the law in the country.

Wamakko, it would be recalled, was suspended by the PDP for what the party described as an act of insubordination on the part of the governor.

It was further gathered that his suspension had to do with his repeated refusal to respond to queries and honour the invitation of the party’s National Working Committee (NWC) over a comment he had allegedly made shortly after the establishment of the PDP Governors’ Forum. The party said the decision was taken after wide and exhaustive consultation and in accordance with the provisions of the party’s constitution.

Most governors who voted in support of the Rivers State Governor, Mr Rotimi Amaechi, at the recently concluded Nigeria Governors Forum were believed to have been penciled down for punishment by the PDP top echelon but Wamakko said he was not bothered.

Born on March 1, 1953 in Wamakko, Sokoto State, Wamakko spent five years (1968-1972) at the Sokoto Teachers’ College. After graduation, he worked as a teacher from 1973-1977 and later went to the United States where he earned his BSc degree in August 1980.

He was elected Deputy to Governor Attahiru Bafarawa in 1999, on the platform of the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP). He was re-elected Deputy Governor for a second term in April 2003. He resigned as Deputy Governor on March 15, 2006.

Wamakko ran successfully for Governor of the state in April 2007 on the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) platform, and assumed office on May 29, 2007.

Following an appeal, his election was annulled in April 2008 on the grounds that he was still a member of the ANPP when he won the PDP nomination. An acting governor was appointed between April 11 and May 28, 2008 while a re-run was arranged. It was said that the contest was not so much between Wamakko and Muhammadu Maigari Dingyadi of the DPP, as between Wamakko and his predecessor Attahiru Bafarawa, founder of DPP. Wamakko regained his seat in the May 2008 re-run.

He is currently on his second term in office.

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Politics PROVIDING FRESH PERSPECTIVES TO ISSUES JUNE 16, 2013

Two years of National Assembly

WHAT JUNE 12 POSSESSES IS EXACTLY WHAT MAY 29 OR ANY OTHER DAY LACKS. THE FORMER WAS A SPIRIT OF UNIFIED PURPOSE, THE LATTER SIMPLY AN EGOISTICAL APPROPRIATION OF THE GIFT OF THE FORMER –PROFESSOR WOLE SOYINKA

P 12, 13

Fayemi

Fayose

ADO-EKITI

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eclaration of Governor Kayode Fayemi on June 12, last week that he would run for a second term, has no doubt changed the face of politics in the state, ahead of the election which is about 12 months away.

Although before the governor’s declaration, political watchers had said nothing would stop the governor from picking the ticket of his Action Congress of Nigeria, ACN, especially against the backdrop of his endorsement for a second term by leaders of the party. These observers hinged their calculation on what they described as “his exceptional performance in office.”

However, so far, only a loud dissenting voice has come from the ACN against the governor’s endorsement by leaders of the party. The opposition came from a chieftain of the party and House of Representatives member, Hon Opeyemi Bamidele, who said the endorsement did not stop any interested member from contesting the primary against the governor. Bamidele has however, said he would make public

The contentious zoning arrangement Principal among the issues is the clamour for the zoning of the governor-

The National Chairman of All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Chief Victor Umeh, has urged members of the party to be truthful, and return APGA to the path of peace and greatness.

Umeh told journalists in Aguluzigbo, Anaocha Local Government area of Anambra State at the weekend, that returning to the path of peace would enable the members to work together for the forthcoming governorship election in the state.

He also said the crisis in the party resulted from some members’ desire to subvert the truth and disobey the party’s constitution. ``The person who is wrong is the person doing things that are contrary to the party’s constitution. We have to respect the party and the decision of the courts. ``What I am saying in effect is that I want everybody to come together under one leadership that made APGA what it is today. ``As for the coming election, I am calling on all those who are rebelling against the party to return and let’s work together to produce the next governor in Anambra. ``Truth is imperishable; anything anybody does in life that infringes on truth is wrong, so people should go and search their conscience and examine whether what they have done is wrong or right,” he said.

Umeh

Contending issues as Fayemi declares for second term ABIODUN NEJO

Umeh sues for peace among APGA members

Bamidele

Ekiti governorship:

his intention in the 2014 election public at the appropriate time.

Before now, there has been an array of governorship hopefuls on the platform of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, just as Accord Party and Labour Party in the state have stepped up activities with boasts to produce the governor of the state in 2014.

Today, as the Supreme Court has dismissed the suit by former Governor Olusegun Oni of the PDP against the October 15, 2010 Appeal Court verdict that removed him from office and declared Fayemi the duly elected governor, the distraction and anxiety over the outcome of the case have gone to the dustbin of history as the coast is now clear for a 2014 governorship election.

However, among the two leading political parties in the state, the ACN and the PDP, there are certain contending issues, the resolution of which are expected to affect the emergence of a winner in the 2014 election.

Briefly

ship slot to the South Senatorial District in 2014. Proponents of zoning arrangement said the remaining two districts – North and Central – had produced governors each while the South is yet to produce since the creation of the state about 17 years ago.

The issue of zoning gains ground in the opposition PDP where no fewer than 27 governorship hopefuls have emerged.

The advocates are saying it is the turn of the Southern Senatorial District to produce the next governor of the state.

Although some candidates of the party from Central and Northern districts are against the position, the agitation appears to be gaining ground by the day.

While adherents said the agreement on zoning was subscribed to across political party lines, the leadership of ACN said its party was not part of such an agreement and that the party’s focus is, fielding competent and visionary candidates for elections, who could deliver the good, and as well meet the yearnings and aspirations of Ekiti people.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 14

Fasehun flays N’Assembly over new wage The founder of the pan-Yoruba Group, Oodua Peoples Congress, OPC, Dr Fredrick Fasehun, has condemned the principal officers of the National Assembly who passed a law that will make them enjoy salaries for life, describing their act as immoral, dishonest and selfish.

Speaking in Lagos, Fasehun said, “We understand that principal officers of the National Assembly will henceforth enjoy salaries for life.

This is an immoral, dishonest and selfish provision. Everywhere in the world, one of the basic principles of law-making is that the lawmaker will not make a law, which, in every intent and purpose, is designed to benefit him.

“This was why, when in 2001, President Bill Clinton signed a new $400,000 salary for the President of the United States in place of the old $200,000 (which had been in place since 1969), Clinton himself could not benefit from the new pay. The salary took effect only with his successor, President George Bush.”

He said Nigerian lawmakers “have refused to be guided by such lofty precedents.

“Instead, they behave like they are a law unto themselves and are only in office to service their own interests. The only place you can allocate salaries and perquisites to yourself is in a oneman business, and government business is hardly a one-man business”.

He added that the legislature must submit itself to external discipline and control.

“As at now, it is the only Nigerian institution that defies the institutionalised checks and balances. The National Assembly has become absolute in power; and absolute power corrupts absolutely. Beginning with their jumbo paypackets, to the secrecy surrounding their remunerations, members of the National Assembly have demonstrated that they lack any modicum of interest in the welfare and wellbeing of the Nigerian people but they are in office first and foremost for their own selfish interests”, he said.

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Sunday, June 16, 2013

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7th Senate: Learning process, lack of GEORGE OJI

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n June 6, 2011, the national assembly was inaugurated. For the two chambers, it was a time of learning as most of the lawmakers, especially at the senate were now. Two years down the line, we take a look at both chambers of the national assembly to see how they have conducted the business of lawmaking and acting as checks and balances in the polity. Incidentally also, the week marked the 14th year of uninterrupted democracy since the current dispensation came on board in 1999.

The 7th Senate, expectedly, opened with great expectations and promises from the lawmakers; pledges to bring about fundamental changes; to be great change agents both in lawmaking and as checks to the executives for the purposes of ensuring accountability and bringing about necessary development and improvement on the lives and wellbeing of the electorate.

For the Senate, this past two years has been a great admixture of learning and grappling process. It is instructive however to note that most of the lawmakers, indeed, more than half of them that made it to the red chamber were largely greenhorns.

They had no previous law-making experiences. The result was that there was limited number in their rank that possessed sufficient institutional memory to benefit the process. Thus, the lawmakers spent the greater part of the initial period (especially the first year) as learning period.

Indeed, one of the major initial challenges that the lawmakers had to grapple with was the issue of negative perception by the electorate. Before then, there was the general belief among Nigerians that associated the National Assembly as a bastion of corruption. There was also the perception, rightly or wrongly, that the lawmakers were muzzled by the executives to the point that the principles of checks and balance had taken flight out of democracy.

Besides, previous lawmakers were accused of using the platform of the National Assembly to advance personal rather than collective interests of the citizenry.

Perhaps, the first test of the will of the lawmakers to redress those negative perceptions was in the emergence of the leadership of the National Assembly. While in the Senate, such expectations did not excite with the emergence of David Mark and Ike Ekweremadu as the Senate President and Deputy Senate President respectively. In the House of Representatives, the emergence of Aminu Tambuwal and Emeka Ihedigbo as Speaker and Deputy Speaker respectively against the choice of the candidate of the leadership of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Mulikat Akande, was a positive sign that true democracy was at work.

Over the past two years, while the Senate has functioned more as stabilisers of the polity, the House on the other hand has carried on more as the arm with the bark and bite on the executive. Nonetheless, the Senate has within this period demonstrated enough sparkle to show that all hopes are not lost. For instance, it had initiated and carried out a number of probes and investigations that exposed the wrongdoings in the country.

It was the Senate that sounded the initial alarm that exposed the corruption and embezzlements that were perpetrated through the fuel subsidy scam, which cost

the country trillions of naira of taxpayers’ resources. It was through a motion sponsored by the former governor of Kwara State, Senator Bukola Saraki, that the entire nation was alarmed that from the appropriated N245 billion for petroleum subsidy in the 2012 Budget act, the figure had jumped astronomically to N1.2 trillion by October of the budget year. This resulted in the setting up of the Senator Magnus Abe-headed joint committees on petroleum (downstream and upstreams’) investigation of the allegation before the House jumped into the fray by also constituting the Faruk Lawan-headed joint committees of the House that also investigated the same matter.

It was the Senate also that blew the trumpet on the massive corruption that was perpetrated in the nation’s pension funds. Through an investigation that was ordered by the Senate, Nigerians were woken to the expose that over N250 billion of the pension funds, including another N195 billion from the Police Pension Office and the Military Pension Board, Customs, Immigration and Prison Pension Office (CIPPO), had been stolen by some Nigerians in whose care the funds were kept for administration to the beneficiaries.

Before then, the first public investigation that was conducted by the 7th assembly upon inauguration was by the Senate.

The 14-member ad-hoc body, which was headed by Senator Ahmed Lawan probed the privatisation of all the enterprises privatised from 1999 till 2011. At the end of the investigation, which involved public hearing, collation of memoranda from the public and on-the-spot visits of the affected enterprises, the committee came up with 42 recommendations that were later extensively debated and accepted by the Senate.

The inquest exposed a number of wrongdoings by well-placed government officials who conducted the privatisation exercise.

Most recently, the Senate had also exposed the scams that were perpetrated by government officials in the employment and recruitment of people into the nation’s civil and public services. In what had since been dubbed job-for-money scandals, the lawmakers had exposed the irregularities that were perpetrated by individuals, syndicates and officials of government, that led to the abuse of the processes of job placements in the country.

In its mediatory roles, the Senate was instrumental to the resolution of what would have been one of the most devastating industrial actions in the country when a coalition of the organised labour and the civil society organisations had planned a complete shutdown of government through a nationwide strike in January 2012 to protest the planned full removal of fuel subsidy in the country. However, through the roles of the Senate leadership headed by Mark, the lawmakers were able to at the end of disagreement, negotiated a middle of the road position, which saw the Federal Government conceding to partial deregulation of the fuel imports, while labour had to back down on the planned action. Along this same line, it was the upper chamber that also broke the deadlock that was generated by the proposed introduction of the N5,000 single note by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor, Mallam Sanusi Lamido Sanusi. The Senate made it clear that it was convinced that the policy was an ill-digested one and that would strike a debilitating blow on the na-

Mark

Ekweremadu

tional economy. Based on the stand of the Senate, reason prevailed and the idea was shelved.

It is also to the credit of the lawmakers that within these two years, they had been able to deliberate on quite a number of motions and arrived at far-reaching resolutions on them aimed at addressing press-

ing national and international issues. The Senate through resolutions, intervened in more than 26 topical issues affecting the nation.

It has had to take a number of hard and painful decisions in the interest of the country. Very prominent among this was the deployment of Nigerian troops in Mali

House of Representatives: TORDUE SALEM ABUJA

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ike the sixth Assembly anchored by Speaker Dimeji Bankole, Tambuwal’s House was ushered in despite a stern opposition by the Peoples Democratic Party(PDP) hierarchy.

The position of the Speaker had been zoned to the South-West by the PDP and Hon. Ajibola Muraina (PDP-Oyo) was tipped by PDP Board of Trustees to take the slot.

In the Presidency, however, the candidate of choice was Hon. Mulikat Adeola, also from Oyo State in the Ogbomoso district.

The campaigns were fierce on all sides, but at the end a dark horse emerged in the name of Aminu Waziri Tambuwal from Kebbe in Sokoto State. Tambuwal had risen from a mere floor member in 2003 to a Minority Leader, from where he defected to PDP to emerge as Deputy Whip of the House in the 6th Assembly.

While he served as principal officer, he built a formidable network of friends and won the friendship of redoubtable and erudite lawmakers like Hon. Emmanuel Jime (PDP-Benue), Hon. Yakubu Dogara (PDP-Bauchi) and Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila who had sold his candidacy to other members against all odds.

PDP faithful like Hon. Leo Ogor(Delta) and Hon. John Enoh and several others would later join the bandwagon when it became clear that hurricane Tambuwal would coast to victory with majority of lawmakers, mostly Northerners for him.

A notable opposition man from the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP), Abdulrahman Suleiman Kawu, was one of the financiers of Tambuwal’s campaign for the seat. Kawu had even predicted that Tambuwal would be the Speaker, at

a time such faith sounded insane to the ears.

With majority of lawmakers across parties on the side of a man whose legislative journey began on the opposition platform, Tambuwal became unstoppable and got a humiliating landslide against the anointed man of the party, Hon. Muraina.

But because of the circumstances that threw him up, the Sokoto-born lawyer began to pander to the opposition and other interests and he ended up appointing several square holes to round positions.

He gave key positions like Finance, Gas, Petroleum Upstream and other key committees to members who did not really have track records of thoroughness and probity, but based on their loyalty and patronage. Tambuwal within the two years under review, did not also put in place a serious monitoring team to keep committees in check, leading to scandals, prominent of which was the subsidy funds probe anchored by Hon. Farouk Lawan (PDP-Kano).

Tambuwal

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Politics

Sunday, June 16, 2013

13

institutional memory mar effectiveness

Ndoma Egba

and the authorisation of the proclamation of the state of emergency in three states of Yobe, Borno and Adamawa in the northeastern part of the country.

These were in addition to the discharge of the constitution provisions, which the lawmakers had received and confirmed a

Solomon

number of statutory appointments from President Goodluck Jonathan, including the screening and confirmation of ministerial nominees. As part of its function to deal with petitions from Nigerians, the upper chamber within this period received a total of 50 petitions. It had treated quite a

number of them while a few are however still undergoing consideration.

Besides, the 7th National Assembly has in the past two years intensified their oversight activities on government Ministries, Departments and Agencies. These oversight functions even though may have been criticised by some Nigerians as avenues for the lawmakers to enrich themselves, they have nonetheless paid off in many respects.

In their primary area of lawmaking, the lawmakers have no doubt acquitted themselves creditably. So far, the bill progression chart shows that the 7th Senate has so far passed 31 bills. In this regard, a total of 110 bills were read for the first time while 36 bills scaled the second reading.

In the area of its relationship with the executive arm of government, it has not all been tales of successes. There had been very challenging and trying moments for the lawmakers. The issue of budgeting, its monitoring and implementation as well as over-sighting the ministries, departments and agencies of government is one that has threatened cordiality of the two arms of government. Indeed, 2012 posed the greatest challenge to the lawmakers in this regard. The insistence of the lawmakers for the full implementation of the 2012

Journey from a revolutionary tone Lawan. a cognate member of the House, had got himself under the watch of Tambuwal in one of the biggest scandals in the history of the National Assembly when he allegedly took a $620,000 bribe from Femi Otedola, owner of Zenon Oil, one of the recipients of the petroleum products subsidy funds from the presidency. Lawan’s report had earlier accused Zenon of swindling government of huge subsidy funds, but later dropped the company from the list. The case is still in court, and it has since rubbed off on the Tambuwal House.

Though the Speaker came on board with dreams of imposing discipline, transparency and accountability, his convivial personality allowed closer allies to go to extremes and put the reputation of the Green Chamber to question.

However, the two years under review have seen several bills passed and resolutions made, Tambuwal has shown a worrisome notoriety for lateness to plenary.

Though the time for sitting was moved from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., Tambuwal throughout the two years under review,

came to plenary behind schedule, most times starting sitting by 12:00 noon.

The House has also not kept to its promise of transparency and probity.

For example, it did not in two years declare publicly the salaries of members of the House, sundry allowances and has failed to allay the suspicion of the public that the bulk of overheads in annual budgets go to lawmakers.

The negative perception of the lawmakers by the public had to be underscored by human rights lawyer, Mr. Femi Falana (SAN) on Thursday.

The radical lawyer urged members of the national assembly to declare a total of their monthly salaries and allowances to the public or continue being accused of plundering the country’s resources.

Delivering a paper on “Public Perception of the 7th House of Representatives”, he said this would erase the widely held view among Nigerians that the lawmakers are not only the highest paid in the world but that they earn unjustifiably jumbo pay package to the detriment of Nigerians.

The lawyer argued that doing so would help Nigerians assess why N150 billion would be budgeted for the entire workers and members of the national assembly as against N300 billion voted for the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) with far less workers and responsibility in the same period.

Falana had earlier questioned the constitutionality of a huge pay for lawmakers and CBN and also wondered why members of the national assembly would hurry to the court of appeal to challenge the judgement of a high court in LEPAD vs National Assembly which ordered the disclosure of the details of their salaries and allowances.

He said such attitude was capable of worsening the relationship of the National Assembly and the public and making the assembly estranged from the public and deepening the perception that politicians and government officials are irredeemably corrupt, self-centred and unresponsive to the yearnings of the citizenry.

Falana said though lawmakers were

Ihedioha

Farouk

Adeola

Budget act by the executive was one issue that generated a lot of heat in the polity last year.

For the greater part of the year, the Finance Minister, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, was a constant guest to the National Assembly because the lawmakers insisted that she must provide full details of the budget implementation. This degenerated to a situation where there was serious strain in the relationship between the executive and the legislature as the lawmakers had to issue subtle threat of impeachment of the president if the budget was not fully implemented.

The altercation spilt over to 2013 and led to the late signing of this year’s appropriation act because of the uncompromising stand of both the lawmakers and the executive. What later turned out to be a momentary truce, which led to the late signing of the budget by the executive was achieved following the intervention of the leadership of the ruling party, the PDP and other well-placed Nigerians.

As the senators resume full legislative work upon their resumption from a threeweek break, all eyes will expectedly be on them to continue to offer leadership and insist that the electorate got value for their investment in democracy. hamstrung by inexperience and incompetence of their support staff, the 7th House of Representatives has lived up to expectations in the exercise of its oversight functions.

Urging members of the House of Representatives not to relent in their efforts to stem the plunder of the country’s resources, Falana referred to the resolve by the House to ensure full implementation of the budget, a bill seeking to compel the CBN to submit its annual budget for vetting, the endorsement of the state of emergency in Borno, Adamawa and Yobe states as landmark decisions that would enhance accountability and probity and good governance in the polity.

He however worried over the “grinding poverty” and unemployment situation in the country, as he called for the enactment of a law that would ensure the payment of stipend to jobless graduates in the country.

Falana also took a swipe at government’s claim that it had cut down poverty, stating that: “ Out of a population of 167 million people, 11.6 million live on less than N170 a day; 120 million live in darkness while 55 million cannot read or write; the majority of the 50 million youths are unemployed.

He said, “Yet the manipulators of the kalokalo economic system continue to reel out figures of growth in the face of excruciating poverty. If states that are at very bottom of the statutory allocation table can pay monthly stipends to thousands of unemployed youths and senior citizens, the House should sponsor a social security law without any further delay. This can be partly funded from the hundreds of billions of naira generated annually by the MDAs but which are never paid into the federation account.”

The House though has received some kudos, it must do better to build a better reputation in the remaining two years.

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Nigeria needs caution to escape doomsday –Kalu AYO ESAN

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ike a matador set to subdue a domineering bull, former Governor of Abia State, Dr Orji Uzor Kalu, exuding an unusual confidence, mounted the dais. Venue of the event was Excellence Hotel, Lagos where crème de la crème in the Nigerian society gathered to mark the 20th anniversary of the annulled June 12 1993 presidential election.

He came determined to speak the truth to power. First, Kalu lamented that there is prevalence of injustice in the country, adding, “There are corruption and inequality while unemployment is a time bomb.

“There is impunity and ethnic cleavages are stronger now than at any time in the history of the country” He also said that there is a lot of dissatisfaction in the polity.

“If we are not careful, Nigeria may fail in a matter of months, not years and thus fulfill doomsday prophecies, which had put that eventuality at the year 2015.”

Kalu‘s statements came at a lecture titled “20 years after June 12: Options for survival” packaged by the Gani Adams – led faction of the Oodua People’s Congress, OPC, in Lagos.

He said that there were many options available to Nigeria, if it wanted to become a true nation. But according to the former governor, three of the options are crucial and he listed the three, to be “social justice, fashioning out of a workable electoral process, and nurturing democracy.”

On the need for social justice, Kalu said Nigeria as a country was built on injustice

and inequity and according to him, the country continues to trudge on with that faulty foundation.

“No attempt has been made to rebuild the foundation or correct the faults in the sub-structure”, he lamented.

He said though Nigeria as a country consists of more than 300 ethnic groups, it is today only classified into majority and minority groups. Of the majority, the Igbo, Yoruba and Hausa are predominant. But he observed that a citizen of Igbo extraction has occupied the Presidency of Nigeria for just six months and 13 days in about 53 years of independence. He thus asked, “What is social injustice, if this is not?

“Of course, not only the Igbos have been victims of social injustice in Nigeria. We know what was happening in the Niger Delta region which led some of the people to bear arms against the state through acts of militancy.

“Social injustice pervades every part of the country, creating a large army of dissatisfied, disgruntled people. In fact, this large army can become the army of Armageddon, which may one day precipitate the end of Nigeria, if we are not careful.

“If the rich get richer and the poor get poorer, then it is a time bomb waiting to explode. If the rich oppress the poor, and the poor have no recourse to redress, one day, the rich himself will be in jeopardy, when the poor will rise in anger”.

“If government is not responsive to the yearnings of the people for good life, for access to healthcare, to gainful employment, to a decent retirement, to accessible and qualitative education, decent housing, and they see government officials luxuriating

in plenty, on e day, not even all the armies in the world will be able to contain the anger that may be unleashed on people in government”, he forewarned.

As panacea, he advised that social justice is the way to go, if Nigeria will evolve as a true nation, and continue to exist as one country.

Kalu said another option available to Nigeria to become a true nation-state, is the option of free and fair election, saying it is an irreducible minimum for the progress and development of the country.

He said though Nigeria had conducted so many elections, “ironically, one election in Nigeria has been progressively worse than the other, except the one held on June 12, 1993. ” Successive elections in the country, whether organized by FEDECO, NEC, NECON, or INEC have always ended in great controversies. In fact, one election is usually worse than the other,” he said.

He thus once more suggested that another solution to these irregularities in Nigeria is for all elections to hold in one day, except in states where circumstances have forced them to have staggered elections because of the terminal dates of incumbent governors.

“Why must we shut down the whole country for three to four consecutive Saturdays, simply because we are holding elections? This has grave economic and social consequences. Many countries of the World go to the polls on the same day”.

“The best global practice today is to hold all elections in one day, and Nigeria should adopt that option. It will be cheaper ultimately for the country,” he said.

He also said that to ensure a free and fair election, it is also fair to provide a platform for Nigerians in the Diaspora to vote “after all, every Nigerian citizen who is 18 years and above is by law allowed to decide his or

Kalu

her representation at democratic governance at all levels through voting.”

Kalu further said that the voting mechanism must be accessible and convenient to all citizens as much as possible and practicable. He urged the lawmakers to amend the Electoral Act to provide for the holding of all elections in one day.

On the nurturing of the country’s democracy, Kalu said politicians must uphold and promote internal democracy in the way they do things.

“Non-democratic tendencies must be jettisoned, and democratic tenets upheld; whether it pleases the powers-that –be or not. Democracy must be nurtured, if it would continue to grow and flourish,” he stressed.

“Never again must we return to the tyrannical era. But then, it is not automatic.

We must nurture our democracy. We must groom it, prune it, fertilize it, so that it will bloom.

“At the individual level, political party level, ward, local government, state and national levels, let democratic ethos thrive and flourish, and we will see our democracy waxing stronger and stronger. It is the only option”, he said.

Contending issues as Fayemi declares for second term CONTINUED FROM PAGE 11 This, however, remains a time bomb. Political analysts have expressed fears of the possibility of zoning affecting the outcome of the forthcoming election in the state. According to them, the possibilities are there that all may not be well in the opposition PDP if at the end of the day, the candidate of the party emerges from a senatorial zone other than South.

The analysts are also of the view that conversely, the emergence of PDP candidate from the South Senatorial District may affect the fortunes of the ruling ACN negatively, especially that the contenders for the ticket of the ruling party, Fayemi and Bamidele are from the Northern and Central senatorial districts respectively. This school of thought foresees people from the Southern district across party lines rallying round a candidate from the area.

How party candidates emerge Another contentious issue that is likely to shape the 2014 governorship election in Ekiti State is how the candidates of the two leading parties emerge as history is replete with a gale of defections and other anti-party activities that had always attended discontent with party primaries.

For the PDP to remain intact to pursue its dream of reclaiming power through the election, how it chooses its candidate among the 27 contenders jostling for the ticket matters.

State PDP Chairman, Mr. Makanjuola Ogundipe, minces no word at any point in time in assuring the aspirants of level-playing ground in the build-up to and conduct of the party’s shadow election.

The aspirants are not pretending as well as they do not hesitate to say that they would cooperate with the eventual winner of the primary “provided he emerges in a free, fair and credible primary.” This, perhaps, is the reason some observers are of the strong opinion that the PDP will not remain a united house after the primary, saying that will be the undoing of the party in the election.

The ruling ACN is not free as well. With just an inkling that Bamidele will contest the primary against the incum-

bent who the leadership and a cross section of the party have endorsed for a second term in office, the House of Representatives member and his supporters have experienced series of attacks allegedly in the hands of party members loyal to the governor.

Although, Bamidele, an ACN founding member, is yet to declare exactly what he wants and under which political party he will pursue his ambition, especially as his party members see him more as a stranger, analysts have doubted the possibility of free and fair primary in the party, especially that the party leaders, including the state chairman, Chief Olajide Awe, have endorsed the governor.

Pundits are of the view that the opposition Accord Party and Labour Party will be the beneficiaries of the fallout of dissatisfaction with the outcome of the primaries of the two major parties, if not well handled. This is why they say it is too early in the day to write off other political parties in the state yet, as they are being repositioned as the “beautiful bride” for politicians willing change base.

Conflict management and resolution Another thing that will either make or mar the different political parties in the state and by extension, have impact on the 2014 election is the manner the parties handle their internal conflicts. Although the PDP in the state recently denies existence of factions in its fold, it is apparent that is far from the situation on ground.

The crisis thrown up by the state congress of the party which produced the incumbent State Executive Council has defied resolution and the party still operates along factional lines with key leaders such as former Governor Oni and his men on one side and others including former Governor Ayo Fayose and Police Affairs Minister, Navy Captain Caleb Olubolade on the other. The factions become more visible with the different aspirants jostling for the ticket of the party.

The ruling ACN also has its share of internal conflict, which experts say has to be resolved once and for all before the party goes into the election. Apart from the frequent clashes between party members loyal to the governor and those loyal to Bamidele’s supporters, there are pockets of discontent among some party members, whose complaints had been that they did not get what they deserved

from the party which they laboured for and as well denied themselves to put in place. Political analysts said the party should watch out for such members and resolve the crisis to prevent further defections as the one at Erijiyan-Ekiti which brought about attacks.

Campaign issues The issues that the parties will line up for campaign to garner votes remain another factor that will shape the 2014 governorship election in the state.

While the ruling ACN will showcase the achievements of the present administration of Governor Fayemi at the state and local government levels, using what they have done as the foundation for further ones, the opposition PDP, as its aspirants have already been doing while stating why they wish to administer the state, will point out the perceived inadequacies of the government and as well highlight the achievements of the previous PDP administrations in the state.

As the political parties prepare for the elections, how they craft their campaign issues will go a long way in enabling them sway the interest of the electorate to see the need to vote for this party and not that party.

The candidates The pedigree and credibility of the candidates presented by the contending political parties are also vital issues in the forthcoming governorship election as the people would always want somebody who they are convinced will take the state to higher heights. This is the especial reason none of the political parties should take quality and competence for granted in the choice of their candidates.

At present, some of the aspirants willing to become candidates of their respective parties are, Dr Kayode Fayemi and Hon Opeyemi Bamidele for the ACN and Barrister Kole Ajayi for Accord Party.

Those of the PDP include former Police Affairs Minister, Navy Captain Caleb Olubolade; former governor, Fayose; former deputy governors, Chief Abiodun Aluko, Mr Bisi Omoyeni and Mrs Biodun Olujimi; Senator Gbenga Aluko; Senator Ayo Arise; former House of Assembly Speaker, Hon Femi Bamisile; Prince Dayo Adeyeye; and Dr Peter Obafemi, among others.

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Interview ENCOUNTER WITH A NEWS MAKER

Why North is against the single tenure proposal –Sani JUNE 16, 2013

Why is Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) opposed to the single six-year tenure proposed in the ongoing constitution review?

The opposition is based on principles that single tenure for every incumbent lacks incentives to motivate them for excellent performance, since all occupants are the same. As a result, the only incentive would be to pillage the public treasury. But in the multiple tenure, there is incentive of working hard in order to be re-elected. In a single tenure, there is nothing like that. Also, if the fear of the multiple tenure is that of rabble-rousing attendant to democracy, I don’t see how such can reduce in a single tenure.

As regard the need to remove power of incumbency using the single tenure, I wish to say incumbents would still work for their parties anyway. In any case, why put the electorate through the purgatory of having to tolerate feckless incumbents for six years? But one way of reducing abuse of power of incumbency is to allow multiple tenure which should not be consecutive, like in Chile where no incumbent conducts an election in which he is a candidate.

Mr. Anthony Sani is National Publicity Secretary of Arewa Consultative Forum, ACF. In this interview with Aza Msue, he explains why the North is opposed to the Senate’s proposed single tenure for the president and governors in the ongoing constitution review, his stand on the pension fund scandal, management of the reports on petroleum subsidy, the late MKO Abiola and President Goodluck Jonathan’s mid-term performance, among others. Excerpts:

What is your position on the choice of May 29 instead of June 12 as Democracy Day? Do you think the late MKO Abiola should be declared former president?

I look at them indifferently because true democracy based on liberty, justice, common decency and sanctity of elections, has nothing to do with dates but with our values and attitudes. In what ways will declaring Abiola ex-president enhance the growth of our democracy? I think the media are dwelling too much on former things, which is unhelpful, going by Isaiah 43:18.

Do you think the reasons for June 12 annulment will ever be known to Nigerians?

How would knowing the reasons help us in this country now? In the first place, we are unlikely to be under the watch of military regime again. We may not experience the same situation again. What is more, there have been reports that some factions of the then military establishment did not want to serve under MKO; and that such elements overwhelmed the helmsman who yielded and the elections were annulled. I think it is not wise to lay our hands on the plough and still be looking backward at the same time.

How does ACF plan to fix the economy of the North?

The responsibility of fixing the economy lies with the governments and the people, and not with ACF which does not have the means to do so, beyond suggestions on how best those with the mandate can go about it for performance.

Is the Democracy day worth the celebration?

Yes, I think Democracy Day is worth the celebration precisely because democracy has come with freedom and liberty to enable Nigerians make judicious use of their rights and elect our leaders by making votes to count. In a democracy, both the leaders and voters hold themselves responsible for performance of the government, since voters make decisions on Election Day. This is not a small value. That we are yet to reach the Promised Land is not

Sani

to suggest that it is not worth celebrating.

The administration of President Goodluck Jonathan has given itself a pass mark for its efforts in the last two years. What is your impression?

There are areas the administration has tried and improved. For example, there have been improvements in supply of energy and power. Electricity supply has improved just as uninterrupted supply of petroleum products as well as in railways, since trains are plying some routes now. On the whole, if we are to go by the figures given about the macroeconomics, we would say the gov-

ernment has tried. To that extent one can say “well done”.

But real performance of government policies and actions are measured by how much they affect the standard of life of the people. This is to say, effects on unemployment figures, reduction of poverty level, in infant and mortality rates, in illiteracy and improvement in life expectancy.

On the whole, socio-economic indices that include Misery Indices and Human Development Index should also be made public before a realistic appreciation of the effects of the Transformation Agenda can be ascertained.

I want to say that good as figures on the macroeconomics CONTINUED ON PAGE 16

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Interview

Sunday, June 16, 2013

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NGF election: ‘Democracy yet to take root in Nigeria’ There is the need to rewire the politics, reengineer our sense of justice. There is need to make mercy smarter and to make hope more strategic in the polity. The starting point is for the people to make judicious use of their democratic rights and make their votes count. It is only when leaders know that votes count that they would be accountable to the people.

Sani

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 15 may appear, there is a need for appropriate balancing between macroeconomics and microeconomics.

It may well be that the administration has tried in its campaigns against corruption. But the pension scandals and management of the reports on petroleum subsidy and reports by Ribadu Committee do not give cause for cheers. More distressing is the manner the judiciary delivers more of technical justice than substantive justice. There is need to reform the judiciary

in favour of substantive justice. Democracy may differ in forms, but when it comes to its elements of liberty, justice and common decency, it does not differ. Those who are redefining the three elements of democracy can as well reinvent the wheel or redefine the truth. That is why we say fullfledged democracy with strong institutions is yet to take root, given the prevailing “strongman” or “big man” syndrome and ethnic nationalism that threaten to supplant party politics.

What then should be done?

What is your take on the controversy surrounding the ballot of the Nigerian Governors Forum?

The controversy demonstrates the wisdom of those who submit that democracy is yet to take root in Nigeria. If 36 governors cannot democratically elect their leader, then imagine the problem when 73 million Nigerian voters are to produce their leaders democratically. So I plead with the governors to appreciate their place in the order of things and together with Mr. President enthrone democratic ethos in the polity. This is because they are expected to act as both lodestars and bellwether.

What is the position of ACF on the state of emergency declared in parts of the North, considering the continuous opposition to it by the Northern Elders Forum?

For purpose of clarity, most members of the Northern Elders Forum are members of the ACF, but the two fora are not one and the same thing. That is why our positions on issues of national importance are not necessarily the same. Please note that ACF had earlier advised against the imposition of state of emergency on grounds that

force and dialogue are not likely to be effective, if applied concurrently. But since the government told the nation that parts of the country were under effective political control by the sect, and the government needed emergency rule to reclaim them, ACF has since declared support for the emergency with proviso that dialogue and force would run concurrently, and the armed forces would keep within the rule of engagements in order to avoid undue collateral damage and civilian causalties.

It is, therefore, my considered view that both those opposed to dialogue and those opposed to state of emergency should please give the government a chance, since matter of national security is a collective responsibility of both the government and the governed, and certainly not by a divided people. This is one issue that must be confronted in unison across the country.

What is ACF’s reaction to the mayhem caused by the Ombatse cults in Nasarawa State?

As far as ACF is concerned, there cannot be grievances that could justify the killings of those security agents.

The dastardly act is therefore condemnable by all those who fear God and have core values of humanity. The incident should therefore be investigated and retribution inflicted on offenders.

There should be no room for generalisation. We should stick to what we know and avoid encouraging people to use religion or ethnicity as shield when they perpetrate heinous crimes against humanity

Rivers 2015:Patience Jonathan dares Amaechi, endorses Wike SAM OLUWALANA PORT HARCOURT.

I

n a subtle endorsement of the Minister of State for Education, Nyesom Wike, for the 2015 Rivers State governorship elections, the First Lady, Dame Patience Jonathan, has presented the junior minister as the unifying factor of the state.

Speaking at the wedding reception of a member of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Evans Bapakaye, Dame Jonathan in a 22-minute speech which dwelt mostly on praising the former Chief of Staff to Governor Amechi, said Wike is one individual who has been able to bring together all the members of all the various political factions in the state, She added that he had been a major asset to the political landscape of the state. ‘’Wike has been a major unifier for the state; it is him that has made it possible for me to be here today. We need peace in the state; if not for Wike, I wouldn’t be opportuned to be here today. It is good to be good. Wike, I doff my hat to you.’’

Dame Jonathan later spoke on the importance of peace in the state.”I am from Rivers State and I

grew up in Rivers State, I am overwhelmed by this reception today; I am humbled and I shall always be loyal to you my people. The people who can move and shake the state are here today and we have all agreed to speak with one voice and one movement.

“We are talking about Rivers State; nothing can separate us as we come together to make sure that Rivers State move forward.”

The first Lady also took a swipe at the Governor Rotimi Amaechi’s administration, even though, subtly. “I remember during the time of our father, Rufus Ada George, and during the administration of Peter Odili, people came from all over the world to Rivers State and it was then called Garden City. I pray that it will go back to Garden City.”

Those present on the occasion include three former governors of the state: George, Odili and Celestine Omehia; while wives of the Governors of Bayelsa State, Rachael Dickson; Cross Rivers State, Obioma Imoke; Abia State, Nkewe Orji and Anambra State, Margaret Obi were also present.

The event was also graced by the Minister of Internal Affairs, Abba Morro; former Managing Director, Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, Timi Alaibe; a former member of House of Representatives, Austin Okpara; Senator George

Wike

Sekibo, and Abiye Sekibo.

The Governor Amaechi was absent at both the church wedding ceremony and the reception, as he was said to be away on official assignments.

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Sunday, June 16, 2013

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Power outage and sale of NIPPs R ecent reports had it that the Minister of Power, Professor Chinedu Nebo, has given a number of reasons for the significant drop in power generation from the peak of 4,517 megawatts attained on December 2012 to 3, 443 megawatts, penultimate Tuesday.

Among the explanations advanced by the Power Minister for the sharp drop was the shutdown of Chevron’s gas plants in Omotoso, Ondo State; and Olorunsogo, Ogun State, for the routine maintenance of gas pipelines which, by design, had to be carried out from time to time. He added that the shutdown was necessary to prevent further damage to the entire system.

In another breath, however, Nebo attributed the disruption of power supply in states like Bayelsa in the South-South and Kebbi, Sokoto, and Zamfara in the North-West geopolitical zones; and even Niamey, the capital of Niger Republic, to “severe tropical rain storms” which damaged some units of 330kv towers. He said the “drop in service delivery on May 24 on the main 330kv transmission lines in the South-West axis of the national grid” led to a huge loss of transmission capacity and necessitated the eventual system collapse.

A probable reason for the system collapse, which the Power Minister also hinted at, was possible sabotage by technical systems managers, which might not be unconnected with unresolved labour issues, such as the contentious terminal and severance benefits of workers of the Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN), a deadlock that has slowed down the ongoing power sector reform process. The Power Minister gave the assurance that while routine maintenance was in top gear to restore normal electric-

ity supply nationwide by the end of June 2013, PHCN workers’ terminal benefits would be finally settled by the end of this year. He likewise stated (sabre-rattling, indeed) that the sort of negligence and sabotage that resulted in the sharp drop of electricity megawatts being presently experienced would no longer be tolerated, even as the sale of National Independent Power Plants (NIPPs), such as the Afam Power Plant and Kaduna Distribution Companies, are being intensified to facilitate the sourcing of N544 billion he said was required to generate and evacuate 20,000 megawatts of electricity by 2016.

While the assurances, promises and optimism of the Power Minister could be flattering, especially in official circles, what Nigerians now want to witness in practical terms is regular and uninterrupted power supply after 14 years of democratic rule under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)-led government. Certainly not the harvest of excuses for power outages, especially of the ludicrous type being offered by Professor Nebo – that severe tropical rain storms which resulted in the collapse of some units of 330kv power towers were responsible for the dramatic drop of over 1, 074 megawatts of electricity in the last few weeks. Have Nigerians ever experienced any respite in power drops in recent decades, even without rain storms?

This brings us to the minister’s indication that a whopping sum of N544 billion would be needed to generate 20,000 megawatts of electricity. Haba, Mr. Minister!

Nigerians have tolerated enough of the absurdity that the more of tax-payers’ money spent by government on electricity, the greater the drop in the megawatts of electric-

ity generated and supplied. The populace is scarcely impressed with the government’s delay in handing over the GENCOs and DISCOs to new power sector investors to commence real electric power production and distribution activities to buoy economic and industrial activities in the country. All the shenanigans about 40,000 casual workers to be issued letters of appointment so they could dubiously benefit from the severance benefit package of PHCN workers being plotted by labour unions, with the possible cooperation of the Minister of Power, can only further entrench corruption and prolong the agony of Nigerians indefinitely, power supply-wise.

The President Goodluck Jonathan government should act decisively now on the power sector, not complaining about rain storms.

Countries that are ravaged by heavy rainstorms and flooding do not have their Power Ministers spinning a yarn about rainstorms causing damage to power facilities and a significant drop in power generation. Nearby Ghana records heavy annual rainfall and rainstorms, but hardly posts any drop in electricity supply. The government should sincerely figure out what exactly has gone wrong with the country and the entire leadership of the power sector. A power minister that nearly succeeded in getting labour out of the way to achieve a successful handover to the new power sector investors was conspiratorially booted out of office on a very flimsy excuse. When would the country get regular and uninterrupted power supply right? Jonathan and his current Power Minister should give the nation electricity now or forget it because Nigerians are really fed up with endless official excuses.

Reminiscences JUNE 16 IN HISTORY 1958: Leader of anti-Soviet uprising hanged

The leader of the anti Soviet uprising in Hungary Imre Nagy against Soviet Rule was hanged for treason after The Soviet Union took back control of the country in the preceding November after sending in 200,000 troops and 2,500 tanks to regain control.

1976: Violence erupts in Soweto

Violence erupted in a number of South African townships including Soweto with violent clashes between black demonstrators. The violence was triggered by a march by 10,000 students carrying banners and slogans, saying “Down with Afrikaans” and “Viva Azania” (the name given to South Africa by black nationalists).

1978: Movie Grease opens in United States

The Movie Grease, starring John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John opened.

1992: Controversial book published about Princess Diana

A controversial book was published about Princess Diana entitled “Diana: Her True Story”. The author Andrew Morton insisted that he has reliable sources for the book including claims about her attempted suicide on several occasions over the last decade.

But Buckingham Palace said Princess Diana did not cooperate with the biography in any way whatsoever.

1999: India, Pakistan shelling creates more refugees

Increased artillery shelling and mortar fire between India and Pakistan along the Line of Control, in the disputed territory of Kashmir created an increased number of refugees who fled the area.

2007: Abductors free 10 Indian hostages

Abductors freed 10 Indian nationals that were held hostage for two weeks. The release came a few days after a former militia leader was released on bail, and a week after several other hostages were set free.

2008: U.S. - Honda releases cars run on hydrogen

Honda delivered the first of 200 Honda FCX Clarity’s which run on hydrogen and electricity, emitting only water vapour. They are only available on lease and in California where there are a few hydrogen fuelling stations.

2012: China sends first woman to space China launched its latest space mission that included the country’s first woman astronaut. Liu Yang, a 33 year old military pilot, was a part of the crew aboard the Shenzou-9 capsule that spent a week at the Tiangong space lab to test systems and conduct experiments.

18

Opinion

Sunday June 16, 2013

Uncensored U nc

Sheriff S Folarin

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

H

ow on earth can I forget June 12, 1993? If I do, then that means a vital part of my existence is erased. It will mean deletion of a crucial phase of my youthful life, and that makes me an incomplete human being. If life is a teacher and history is a book of chapters on human existence, then every chapter makes the whole and the whole is the very essence of living.

Different people and groups remember June 12 for different reasons: for some, it is the political (democratic) significance; for some, it represents a milestone in the long quest for unity in Nigeria. Yet, for some, the date offers the platform and momentum for sober reflection on the plethora of wasted opportunities and bungled privileges to soar as a nation; and yet others regard June 12 as the very factor in the myriads of socioreligious crisis in which the country is now marooned.

Generally, June 12 is a symbol of democracy. A perspective is that it marked the beginning of New Nigeria; but the flip side is that it represents the beginning of the end of the “nation”. For Soyinka, the Nobel Laureate, June 12 is a spiritual thing without which the very essence of our national existence is lost.

For me, June 12 means a lot. It means a career, it means public-spiritedness, and it means a good student of History. First I remember how it all started: the build-up to the elections. Babagana Kingibe, a Muslim and respected public speaker, had been nominated by the Social Democratic Party (SDP) as the running mate to Bashorun Moshood Kashimawo Abiola, also a Muslim and famous philanthropist, newspaper proprietor and Pillar of Sports. It was a Muslim-Muslim ticket that many, including me did not pay attention to until the reality

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June 12,1993: Reminiscences

of annulment dawned on all of us from June 23, 1993. The duo were going to be confronting Alhaji Bashir Tofa and Sylvester Ugoh of the National Republican Convention (NRC) in what was considered at the time an unprecedented election, in view of the social-welfarist bent and elitist persuasion of the SDP and NRC (the Babangida-invented “Little to the Left, Little to the Right” Nigerian political spectrum) respectively, and the all-Muslim contest that was downplayed by a most excited Nigerian populace.

The campaigns lit up the political space and the entire atmosphere was simply electric. SDP’s radio and TV jingles seemed to be leading all the way because of the dint of creativity and use of popular catchphrases and pedestrian appeals: “Na im go make our country better, he’s the man o…MKO, he’s our man o…Na im be our only HOPE o… he’s the man o”. The SDP then made every one go wild with the “best-seller”: “Many people tawku say make Nigeria better; me I say, who go make am better o? Na you, and me, my papa and my mama o. Rise up, make you raise Nigeria; get up, vote for progress; oya Social Demo, Social Democratic: SDP!”.

That particular one “clobbered” me as it did many persons, particularly the apathetic “political animals”. I taped the jingles and still keep those tapes to date. It was very apparent that Abiola-Kingibe/SDP was ahead in the jingles and broadcast presidential/ vice-presidential debates. With the masses already won by soul-lifting jingles and the elite captured by the depth of understanding of the Nigerian situation by Abiola/Kingibe as exhibited in the debates, we had gained an insight into what the outcome of the elections would be. We were not surprised therefore that on Saturday, June 12, 1993, Bashir Tofa (the prophet of doom who now asks us to forget the June 12 date) was walloped in Kano and even in his backyard ward!

However, with the rearing of the ugly head of the Abimbola Davis and Arthur Nzeribe-led Association for Better Nigeria (ABN) few days to the election and the cancellation order by a High Court in Abuja on June 10, and a counter order by another High Court in Lagos for Humphrey Nwosu’s beleaguered electoral commission

to proceed with the June 12 date, one could perceive the perilous times ahead. The two conflicting court orders churned out from the same judicial factory have been well described by Soyinka and other political wordsmiths of the time as “comedy of errors”.

The confusion and annulment that followed led to a series of cataclysmic episodes: born-fires, media clampdown, illegal government, military take-over, Abiola arrest and endless trial, June 12 apostles becoming “born-again” Abacha federal ministers (Kingibe, Babatope, Onagoruwa, etc), and all what-shouldn’t-be.

In the course of this brazen act of political robbery and social injustice, the student movement gained momentum. June 12 gave us a voice and a rare opportunity to be loud and relevant in the scheme of things.

NANS rallies held at every point and the University of Ibadan was particularly in a frenzied mood all through the years. Buoyed by our motto, “Injustice to one is injustice to all” (paraphrased: injustice anywhere is injustice everywhere), we led the south-west student movement in fighting the cause of the June 12 mandate. We went to Abuja and partook in the open demonstration (which sadly turned out bloody) outside the courtroom where Abiola was being tried. We used campuses as “revolution” grounds and like the French Revolution, we engaged in constructive mobilization through ideas, and in the course of that, gained the leadership of NANS. One sore point however was our overzealous reaction on November 17, 1993 which led to the infamous collision course with the Ibadan polytechnic students for most of the last quarter of that year.

Our (UI) proactive disposition did not mean we were all “Napoleon and no Robespierre”; some of our “trusted” comrades abandoned or betrayed the cause of the political Puritanism while still paying lipservice to it, just like their benefactors who left Abiola for Abacha in the name of “fighting the cabal from within”. Such students became Abacha’s eyes, ears and bootlickers on campus while still parading their poor consciences as pro-democracy activists.

I remember that it was then I took over from ‘Major’ (now Dr.) Adedoyin as Presi-

dent of the Union of Campus Journalists (UCJ), a campus prototype of the NUJ: UCJ was a strong force with about 43 ‘rabid’press clubs and over 300 campus journalists at the time. We began to send press releases to the national dailies; we were on television to express our concern for June 12. We would trek from UI toMokola andDugbe because there were no commercial vehicles in the course of the endless breakdown of law and order.

I remember how I became more agitated and by extension more inspired to write for the dailies. I remember how I met my best friend, Jide Ojo at the Sketch and came under the tutelage of the late quintessential editor, Nosa Osaigbovo. I can recall how Jide and I began to compete for space in other national dailies and I recall the master-piece of Chris Ogbu, “To Keep Hope Alive”, a tribute to the June 12 struggle in The Guardian, which spurred me and Ossai Ossai (now Dr. Edmund Ndudi Ossai) to intensify our writing.Just as I handed over as UCJ President, my supporters spurred me on to have a shot at campus politics and I was elected Acting Speaker of the Students’ Representative Council of the Students’ Union.

So how can I forget June 12? Tofa was utterly wrong to have asked us to dump June 12 in the dustbin. In fact, why should Tofa himself forget June 12? That was the day he was beaten pants down by a Yoruba man in his own very family house in Kano! That was the day he could not find his voter’s card and could not even vote for himself even as NRC’s presidential flagbearer!!

June 12 has symbolisms for me, and like me, it may mean a lot for different reasons, for so many other people. It built me as a public-spirited person. It shaped me as a writer; my first career was journalism, thanks to June 12. It helped me to increase my sense of history, which helped my academic career. Soyinka might therefore be right, that for some, June 12 is a spiritual thing.

•Dr. Folarin is a Senior Lecturer and Head of Department, Political Science/International Relations, Covenant University, Ota, Nigeria

Who takes care of the aged in Nigeria?

K ABIRU IBRAHIM

M

rs Maryam Muhammad, a 76-year-old woman, lives in an old people’s home in Kado Estate, Abuja.

The old woman is suffering from two life-threatening diseases -- diabetes and hypertension.

Muhammad concedes that it is somewhat unusual for old folks like her to stay far away from their kindred, adding that she, however, has no other option than staying in the home.

She says that she lives in the home, courtesy of Amazing Grace Foundation, which provides shelter, food and medication for aged people in the home.

Muhammad recalls that the management of the home picked her from the street, saying that she has since been enjoying the basic things of life without any consideration for extraneous factors such as her religion and ethnicity. ``But then I often wonder if the government, its agencies and other corporate individuals have structured plans for the elderly; if they had, I would not be here in the first instance,’’ she says.

Sharing similar sentiments, another woman in the home, Mrs. Patience Musa, 80, calls for the integration of old persons into the society for better living.

As part of efforts to draw global attention to the problem of physical, emotional, and financial abuse of elders, the United Nations (UN) has designated June 15 of every year as the World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. The day offers an opportunity to governments, people and all stakeholders to reflect on the challenges facing elderly persons in the society and the opportunities available for them.

The day’s celebration is aimed at bringing together aged people, caregivers, governments, academics and the private sector to exchange ideas on how to assuage the plight of the aged.

Unfortunately, the UN Working Group on the Rights of Older People is somewhat constrained by the absence of a general consensus among majority stakeholders to draft a new bill in that regard.

Nevertheless, the Global Alliance for the Rights of Older People believes that although there is no general consensus on the matter, the case has not been closed. ``The working group will continue its process of discussion on how to advance the rights of older people, in spite of differences of opinion among the states,’’ it said at third session of the Open-Ended Working Group on the Rights of Older People in New York, the U.S., in 2012.

In the light of this, concerned observers have been drawing the attention of various

stakeholders to some UN statistics which indicated that the global population of persons above the age of 60 would exceed the number of younger persons by 2050.

They state that research has shown that elderly abuse, neglect, violence, and exploitation are one of the biggest issues affecting old people across the world nowadays.

They note that since the existing commitments on older people’s rights are not enshrined in existing human rights treaties, governments have no legal compulsion to implement them.

They argue that a new UN convention on the rights of older people is necessary to provide governments with a legal framework to guard and protect the rights of older people. ``Our rights do not change as we grow older; sadly, the perceptible change is that older women and men are considered to be inherently less valuable to society,’’ said Mrs Sarah Hong, a retired civil servant.

She cited an ongoing campaign by the Age Demands Action (ADA) in support of a new UN convention on older people’s rights, saying that more than 32,000 people from over 130 countries had signed the petition.

Hong said that she hoped more people would still the petition so as to propel governments across the world to know the importance of the aged in the society. ``I don’t know if Nigeria is one of countries where such signatures are being

collated but what I am sure of is that all things being equal, the UN convention will be implemented here. ``As a retired civil servant, there are some things which the government and people are doing to us -- the aged -- and these somewhat constitute an abuse of the elderly,’’ she said.

All the same, Hajia Ramatu Haruna, a civil servant, said she would never concede to any plans to take her elderly relations to the old people’s home under any guise whatsoever.

Several people share Haruna’ sentiments; insisting that they prefer to live with their aged parents, irrespective of any consideration, since they are the ones who nurtured them from infancy to adulthood.

They add that living with the aged will also enrich their wisdom since old people are the repertoire of knowledge.

Reflecting the minds of aged persons like Hong, UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said in 2012 that research showed that abuse, neglect and violence against older persons, both at home and in institutions, were still prevalent in the society. ``The World Health Organisation (WHO) estimates that between four and six per cent of older persons worldwide have suffered from a form of elder abuse including, physical, emotional and financial.

•Ibrahim is of News Agency of Nigeria

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E-mail:titusanyanwu.2012@gmail.com

EDIFYING GOD

QUOTE

Your destiny is at the mercy of your relationship with the Holy Spirit. That is why nothing happens by accident to a child of God. –Pastor Olusore

Sunday, June 16, 2013

Biggest Lagos Anglican Church for dedication

Briefly Pope, Archbishop of Canterbury in first meeting

…costs N400m

Pope Francis

The new church building

KAYODE FASUA

A

ll is now set for the commissioning and dedication of a new massive church building adjudged as the biggest Anglican Church in Lagos.

The new building, St. Paul’s Anglican Church, Kirikiri Industrial Estate Lagos which was begun in July 2005, has cost over N400 million upon completion.

It will be dedicated on Sunday, June 23, this year.

Archdeacon of cum Vicar of the church, the Venerable Levi Opara, who disclosed this in a statement made available to Sunday Mirror yesterday, said commendation must be given to the untiring efforts of the Bishop of Lagos and Dean Emeritus of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), Most Rev. (Dr) Ephraim Ademowo, for stirring up contributions from well-meaning Nigerians and church members.

“The church building…has an inbuilt modern chapel, two sizeable conference rooms, a spacious Vicar’s office and secretary’s office, an imposing gallery at the west end, and another two, flanking the sanctuary.

“It also has curates’ offices, stores, stewards’ offices, vestry, sachistry, an imposing tower and massive three-piece

You can prosper the godly way –Pastor Samuel 20

Archbishop Ademowo

Ven Opara

swivel doors, among others.”

Opara, in the statement, added that the new edifice was adorned with state-of-theart mahogany altar, altar railing, reading desks and a modern first-class pulpit, font and well designed pews. He said the entire edifice is fully air-conditioned.

Expatiating, a spokesman for the Kirikiri vicarage, Elder Ola Campbell said credit must be given to a prominent member of the church, Evangelist (Mrs.) Folorunsho Alakija, whose donations to the church

building “stood out.”

According to him, other eminent Nigerians who donated handsomely towards the church building include former Abia State governor, Dr. Orji Uzor Kalu; former Lagos State deputy governor, Dr. Femi Pedro; Peoples Democratic Party chieftain, Chief Olabode George, and Chief Uzor Okafor.

Campbell particularly praised five major groups in the church for their “innumerable contributions” towards the church building.

How to achieve greatness,

by Pastor Okereke

The Archbishop of Canterbury has met Pope Francis for the first time since the pair became leaders of their respective Churches in March.

The Most Reverend Justin Welby’s visit to Rome has been described as brief and informal, allowing the two Church leaders to become acquainted.

Pope Francis said they shared a common desire for economic and social justice.

The Catholic leader in England and Wales, Archbishop of Westminster Vincent Nichols, was also on the visit.

BBC’s Rome correspondent, Alan Johnston, said the Pope had spoken of the need to listen to “the cry of the poor”, and ensure that they were not abandoned to the laws of the markets.

The Vatican has praised Archbishop Welby, who has spoken out against plans to allow same-sex couples to marry, for working with Catholic leaders in Britain to “safeguard” marriage and other Christian values.

The archbishop became leader of the Church of England - and leader of the worldwide Anglican Communion - in March, days after Pope Francis was inaugurated as the Supreme Pontiff of the Catholic Church.

The Pope said this was a “particular reason to support one another in prayer”.

But in his Vatican address, the Pope described the relationship between the two Churches as “long and complex, and not without pain”.

He touched briefly on tensions that arose when his predecessor set up a structure that helped unhappy Anglicans defect to Catholicism.

Sunday Mirror/Babcock University Bible Quiz: • Current and past winners can collect their prizes from the office of the Editor, Sunday Mirror, 151/161 Broad Street, Lagos anytime from Monday to Friday.

Participants should always indicate their names when sending their entries.

The character of Holy spirit,

by Pastor Olusore 22

45

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Praise & Worship

Sunday June 16, 2013

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

You can prosper the godly way –Pastor Samuel

E

arly Pentecostals used to regard riches’ desire as a sin that must not be found in a true Christian. As time went on and more sophisticated understanding of the word began to be unveiled, prosperity teaching started gaining prominence in churches. So much so that some men of God carried it to the extreme; many now believe that prosperity preaching in churches has been overemphasised to the detriment of sound doctrine.

Today, we want to say that it is God’s good pleasure that His children become prosperous. It is also imperative to point out some biblical truth about godly prosperity. Your intention is to ensure that children of God do not miss out on acquisition of the goods of the land nor miss heaven while in pursuit of material wellbeing.

Apostle Paul, speaking in 3rd John 2-3, is explicit on the mind of God concerning godly prosperity. “Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in good health, even as thy soul prospereth. For I rejoice greatly, when the brethren came and testified of the truth that is in thee, even as thou walkest in truth.”

Speaking in the same vein, Ephesians 1:3 acknowledges God’s prosperity plan for his children: “Blessed be the God and father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ.” And the book of 2Chorintians 8:9 explains further; “For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ that though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich.”

The truth is; poverty is a curse. We see this in the book of Proverbs 14:20.

The poor is hated in his own neighbourhood. But the rich has many friends.

Riches and affluence attract multitude of friends while poverty separates the dregs of the earth from their neighbours, even relations. Proverbs 19:7 captures this aptly: “The poor are shunned by all their relatives— how much more do their friends avoid them!

Though the poor pursue them with pleading, they are nowhere to be found.”

It can be very frustrating when an able-body person cannot provide his basic needs. Many who have passed through this terrain in life understand very well what I am talking about. The value side of life has actually made many children of God to become hopelessly senseless.

But hear this. The curse of poverty was broken on the cross of Calvary, over 2000 years ago, when Christ said; “it is finished. That Adamic curse that brought thorns and thistles into our lives and daily struggles, had been broken. Now we can sow and reap. This is part of the rest He promised us in Mathew 11:28.

However, the gospel of prosperity will only be beneficial when it is mixed with faith and revelation. In Hebrew 11:4, we see that by faith, Abel offered to God a sacrifice more acceptable than his brother, Cain, did. By that excellent sacrifice, Abel obtained witness that he was righteous. God himself testified to his gift.

“By it, he, being dead yet speaketh,” the scripture declares. The Book of Romans 1:17 asserts, “For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith, as it is written, the just shall live by faith.”

Faith in this context is revelation. The amount of revelation you have pertaining to a thing determines your increase in that given direction. Now, you need

Presiding minister of Global Grace Church, Pastor Samuel Daniel, gives recipe for godly prosperity.

Excerpts:

mocked for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap; for he that soweth to his flesh shall of flesh reap corruption, but he that soweth to the spirit shall of the spirit rap life everlasting. And let us not be weary in well doing form in due season we shall reap, if we faint not. As we love therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith.”

Notice also that Ecclesiastics 11:1-6 spells out how one can unlock the well of supernatural riches just by developing the habit of giving. “Cast thy bread upon the waters, for thou shall find it after many days. Give a portion to seven and also to eight for thou knowest not what what evil shall be upon the earth. He that observeth the wing shall not sow; and he that regardeth the cloud shall not reap.

The author of the book of Ecclesiastics insists: “In the morning sow thy seed, and in the evening withhold not tine hand; for thou knowest not whether shall prosper, either this or that or whether they both shall be alike good. A brother, sowing into the life of people is one golden rule for prosperity. Cultivate a generous heart of giving to others and watch yourself step onto the high way for the prosperous.

The law of favour

Samuel

to gain relevant wisdom if you desire to prosper the godly way. As a believer, you cannot desire to prosper like the people of the world do; because blessing outside God comes with plenty of sorrow. But God maketh rich and adds no sorrow. Here are the basic prosperity principles you must apply and enjoy

your financial freedom without sorrow:

Law of sowing and reaping

The book of Galatians, speaking in chapter 6, verses 6-10 says, “Let him that is thought in the word communicate unto him thast teacheth in all good things. Be not deceived, God is not

The second golden rule for prosperity is expatiated in Matthew 7:12, “therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them; for this is the law and the prophets. Also Luke 6:38 says; “Give and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over shall men give into your bosom for with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again.” The book of proverbs 3:9-10 underscores the essence for which men must seek to honour God with their substance or gifts. “Honour the Lord with thy substance and with thy first fruits of all thine increase: so shall thy barn be filled with plenty, and thy presses shall burst out with new wine.

A new wine here could be rightly interpreted to be new idea that is capable of yielding more wealth. When you give remember to give what you need such as money, love, favour, joy, peace, happiness and so on.

Look at this scripture in Proverbs 11:24, “There is that scattered, and yet increaseth; and there is that witholdeth more than is meet, but it tendeth to poverty. The truth is that you cannot be a giver and lack; unless you are a sin. (See proverbs 28:13 and 14: 34). All unrighteousness is sin, and one cannot prosper in sin so declares 1John 5:17. However, 1 ohn 1:9 points out the way out of the barrier posed by sin in the life of a believer.

“If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness for a prayer of a sinner is an abomination before God. If you sin, bible says let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help I time of need. And to close this topic, if you want prosperity, you must in addition to the other prosperity nuggets endeavour not to sin and when you fall into sin, confess that you may obtain mercy and move with life. God bless you.

•For counseling contact Pastor Samuel Daniel via email globalgracechurch@ ymail.com , www.globalgracechurch.org or phone:08060143296, 08164392405

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Praise & Worship

Sunday June 16, 2013

Overcoming the champions,

by Pastor Adewunmi Do you desire to overcome your powerful enemies? Then you must take the right approach like David did when dreaded Goliath threatened the armies of Israel. Pastor Segun Adewunmi of House of Prayer Ministries has the victory method: “You must fight from the position of strength.” Excerpts:

T

his week, I am expected to continue the message on Spiritual Slavery illustrated with the pit of Joseph as promised, but due to numerous enquiries of how one can be delivered from various bondages, I have chosen to release a prayer strategy for overcoming what people call problems which in actual facts are mere challenges.

There are three champions in the Bible and these exist in the life of every man.

They are Physical Champions, Intellectual Champions and Spiritual Champions. A champion is the undefeated individual at a given time. The Biblical Physical Champion before David dethroned him was Goliath. We also have the Intellectual Champion as Ahitophel whose counsel was like that of God. “And the counsel of Ahithophel, which he counselled in those days, was as if a man had inquired at the oracle of God: so was all the counsel of Ahithophel both with David and with Absalom.” (2nd Samuel 16:23).

Yet we have the Spiritual Champion as Balaam, whoever he cursed was cursed.

“Come now therefore, I pray thee, curse me this people; for they are too mighty for me: peradventure I shall prevail, that we may smite them, and that I may drive them out of the land: for I wot that he whom thou blessest is blessed, and he whom thou cursest is cursed”. (Numbers 22:6) I will today address the physical giants and champions that are in your life and today as David defeated his Goliath, you will defeat your giants.

The most common physical giant is terminal sickness. Terminal sicknesses are those sicknesses that are medically incurable. The most prominent of such sickness is AIDS. There are other champions like those things that constitute hindrances to your progress and good lives. Most times, we are unable to determine what happens to us but at all times, we are in control of how we handle these situations. It is our action or inaction that people interpret as our personality.

In the case of Goliath, the leadership of the church represented by King Saul, the elders of the church represented by the Army Officers of Israel chosen to engage mercenaries who would fight Goliath for them. For forty days that Goliath boasted, no one could volunteer to face him. Same today, believers are busy seeking prayer contractors from camp to camp, church to church and mountain to mountain. Saul was the tallest man in Israel, he had the special anointing to prevail in all encounters, yet he ran into hiding each time Goliath called just as you run to Prophets, Herbalists, Alfas, e.t.c. whenever you are facing any challenge.

“And the Spirit of the LORD will come upon thee, and thou shalt prophesy with them, and shalt be turned into another man.

And let it be, when these signs are come unto thee, that thou do as occasion serve thee; for God is with thee”. (1st Samuel 10:6-7) Brethren, I wish to release to you the five stones of David so that you can send one unto the mathematical centre of the head of your Goliath. This will release you from the bondage of obscurity that

Adewunmi

the small lad David was in. He had killed the lion and the bear with his hand, but he recorded no glory for them until he killed his Goliath. He had a profile that was ten times that of King Saul. Moreover, David is still keeping the remaining four smooth stones till today. He is a very dangerous man for the enemies. You readers must collect your five stones even though you need only one to flatten out and destroy your enemy forever.

Fighting from the position of strength

The first approach in spiritual encounter is self introduction as he that has dominion. Warfare prayers are not prayed up but prayed down. You, as true believers are spiritually taller than your enemies which means you only need to knock them off from your height. You can as well kick them out of your sight, if you consider the ratio of the power that was available to Moses and Aaron to what the magicians of Egypt had. While Moses and Aaron were able to wrought ten plagues, the magicians could not exceed plague number 3. It follows that your spiritual height is ten feet as against that of the enemy which is three feet. Moreover, the enemy has surrendered in Exodus 8:19 that yours is the finger of God. “Then the magicians said unto Pharaoh, This is the finger of God: and Pharaoh’s heart was hardened, and he hearkened not unto them; as the LORD had said.” (Exodus 8:19) With this mindset, your option in all spiritual encounters remains that of the victorious. The Bible says, “And they shall fight against thee; but they shall not prevail against thee; for I am with thee, saith the LORD, to deliver thee.”

(Jeremiah 1:19) “There shall not any man be able to stand before thee all the days of thy life: as I

was with Moses, so I will be with thee: I will not fail thee, nor forsake thee.” (Joshua 1:5) “I will declare the decree: the LORD hath said unto me, Thou art my Son; this day have I begotten thee. Ask of me, and I shall give thee the heathen for thine inheritance, and the uttermost parts of the earth for thy possession. Thou shalt break them with a rod of iron; thou shalt dash them in pieces like a potter’s vessel.” (Psalm 2:7-9) Warfare Prayers are not done on our kneels but we must stand against the enemy. You do not call on God to come and do the fight but fight the enemy with His name. Power has been surrendered to you; it only requires you to move with courage.

“Thou therefore gird up thy loins, and arise, and speak unto them all that I command thee: be not dismayed at their faces, lest I confound thee before them.” (Jeremiah 1:17) What the above means is that you must live your Christian life with confidence and courage. Do not begin to see the army of Syria like Gehazi but the army of God like Elisha.

“And he answered, Fear not: for they that be with us are more than they that be with them.” 2nd King 6:16 Do not run from your Goliath like Saul did, but pursue him like David. It is an insult to your position as a Christian for you or anybody to believe someone can attack or hinder you. A believer is he, who has the Holy Spirit. Holy Spirit is God in man. 1st John 4:4 says “Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world.” You are therefore, not expected to fear, if indeed you have Christ living in you.

•For counselling, contact Pastor Segun Adewumi on 08039425631 Email: past orsegunadewumi@gmail.com

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Court to rule in trial of CAC pastors, others KEMI OLAITAN IBADAN

Three leaders of the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC), including the immediate past President of the General Executive Council of the church, Pastor Elijah Olusheye, will on July 9 know their fate on the no-case submission they filed in a forgery case instituted against them by the Federal Government.

Others standing trial with Olusheye at a Federal High Court sitting in Ibadan are Pastor Gideon Okegwemeh, the General Secretary of the church; Pastor Ayo Olabisi, Oyo State Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and a senior officer of the Corporate Affairs Commission, Mr. Abdul Hammed Mohammed.

At the resumed hearing of the case, counsel to the accused persons, Barrister Olugbenga Olatunji, urged the court to uphold the application for no-case submission and discharge his counsel.

But counsel to the prosecution, Barrister Kareem Salawu, urged the court to dismiss the accused persons’ application for lack of merit.

He said the accused persons had no application before the court, stating, “the accused persons’ application for no-case submission was based on the old charge which had been withdrawn and substituted by the new charge.

“So my lord, the accused persons’ application for no-case submission currently before the court is baseless , nullity and should be dismissed with immediate effect.”

The presiding judge, Justice Abimbola Adejumo-Obaseki then reserved ruling on the application till July 9th,2013.

It will be recalled that during the last adjourned date, the first prosecution witness, Pastor Moses Ayantoye, while being led in evidence by the prosecutor, Salawu, told the court that the litigation filed by the prosecution against the accused persons in 2002 was struck out due to fake medical report presented by the accused persons through their counsel.

He told the court that the suit FAC/IB/ CR/35/2002 was struck out by the trial judge when the then seven accused persons, including present fouth accused, secured a fake medical report that they were sick, admitted to the same hospital the same date when in actual fact they were not living in the same town.

He declared that the accused persons presented 45 fake medical reports which were signed by Dr. S.O. Ola and Dr. J.K. Fagbo, a member of CAC General Executive Council through their counsel at different court sittings, which eventually led to the striking out of the case.

Pastor Olusheye

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Praise & Worship

Sunday June 16, 2013

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

How to achieve greatness, by Pastor Okereke General Overseer of the Global Success Ministry, FESTAC Town, Lagos Pastor (Dr.) Emmanuel Chima Okereke in this sermon harps on what it takes to be the head, quoting copiously from the Bible. Excerpts:

D

euteronomy 28:13 states, “And the LORD shall make thee the head, and not the tail; and thou shalt be above only, and thou shalt not be beneath; if that thou hearken unto the commandments of the LORD thy God, which I command thee this day, to observe and to do them”. Being the head is a sign of upliftment; it means you are at a greater height; from grass to grace, from nobody to somebody, from poverty to riches.

You may not be satisfied with what you are presently and want to move to another level. God will lift you to your expected position or stage and beyond, in Jesus’ name.

Now some people do not study deeply, the word of God for better understanding, which can enable them to stand and speak the word as it is written and it will begin to work for them in their lives.

For example; you will be saying ‘I am the head, God has made me the head’ but you don’t understand what God has said completely about you being the head. Yes, you are the head but only if you keep unto the commandment of God. God never said if you keep confessing or speaking it, that is how you will become the head; but if you hearken unto his command, you shall be the head but if not; No matter how you speak it, the fellow will remain at the tail level. This is a principle which you should apply if you want to be lifted up. Now let’s look at some biblical references of the people that God lifted up in the past.

In the book of Esther 2:5-17; Esther was an orphan girl, a niece to Mordecai who was a slave in that land where he lived; when he heard about the plan to gather all the fair young virgins for the king to make his choice among them to replace Vashti; Mordecai brought Esther whom he took as his daughter after the death of her parent to the kings palace and Esther joined other virgins and they were kept in the custody of Hegai the king’s chamberlain, who took care of all the virgins with all the thing for purification; until the time for the king to make his choice among them came. After the 12 months for purification was over, came every maiden that had undergone the purification unto the king. When it got to the turn of Esther, the search ended because Esther found favour with the king and she was crowned the queen; Esther 2: 17-18 “And the king loved Esther above all the women, and she obtained grace and favour in his sight more than all the virgins; so that he set the royal crown upon her head, and made her queen instead of Vashti. Then the king made a great feast unto all his princes and his servants, even Esther’s feast; and he made a release to the provinces, and gave gifts, according to the state of the king. I want you to understand this that Esther received an unmerited favour that caused her uplift. And the position she occupied caused celebration in that land. I pray for you reading this sermon that God shall lift you in such a way that there will be celebration for your sake in Jesus’ name.

I don’t know what is going on in your life right now; what matters is that God who did it for Esther, the Ancient of days, unchangeable changer will turn your life around, that his name will be glorified in Jesus’ name. In the book of Genesis 41:144, we saw the story of Joseph, who was

accused by the master’s wife of attempting to rape her; and he was thrown into the prison and there in the prison is the beginning of his uplift.

While Joseph was in the prison, he interpreted Pharaoh’s officers dream and it happened that Pharaoh the king of Egypt a dream and called for all the magicians and wise men of Egypt, told them the dream; but there was non of them that could interpret the dream to him; then none of the men whom Joseph had interpreted his dream told king Pharaoh about Joseph and how he had interpreted two of their dreams and Pharaoh ordered that they bring him and when Joseph came before Pharaoh, Pharaoh narrated the dream to Joseph; so Joseph interpreted the dream and gave solution to the interpretation.

And Pharaoh was amazed at the wisdom of Joseph and from that day everything about Joseph changed; and Joseph was lifted from prison to second in command to the king and also incharge of all the land of Egypt according to the book of Genesis 41:41-43 “And Pharaoh said unto Joseph, See, I have set thee over all the land of Egypt. And Pharaoh took off his ring from his hand, and put it upon Joseph’s hand, and arrayed him in vestures of fine linen, and put a gold chain about his neck; And he made him to ride in the second chariot which he had; and they cried before him, Bow the knee: and he made him ruler over all the land of Egypt. And Pharaoh said unto Joseph, I am Pharaoh, and without thee shall no man lift up his hand or foot in all the land of Egypt”.

Now there is something in Esther and Joseph that made God to uplift them in such way. When it got to Esther’s turn to meet the king, she refused to use all those things other maiden where using and she went into the king’s presence natural and behold, she became the chosen one who took the crown of the queen. Look at the life of Joseph when he was in the prison, he was able to interpret the dream of other people; and those people became his point of contact to the king. From this you will know that there are certain things that answers to principles and not to prayer and fasting. Back to our first scriptural quote, how can you be the head and not the tail, how can you be lifted to be at the top and not beneath? It is only when you obey God’s command. How do you obey God’s command? It is only when you love God for He said in the book of John 14:15 “If ye love me, keep my commandments”. Now how do you know that you love God? It is by living according to the book of John 13:34 “A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another”.

When you love God; He gives you wisdom that will make you excel no matter the situation you find yourself. Look at the case of Solomon in the book of 1King 3: 3 “And Solomon loved the LORD, walking in the statutes of David his father: only he sacrificed and burnt incense in high places”; because of the extent of love Solomon showed to God, He appeared and granted Solomon’s request and gave him wisdom.

Through wisdom, you can be rich, through wisdom you will get direction, wisdom can preserve your life. There are many areas of life you need God’s uplift-

Okereke

ment. In this sermon, we shall speak briefly on FINANCIAL UPLIFTMENT because of our space. Let’s use this two category of people to illustrate on the need for financial uplifment; people that wish to be rich and the ones that are already rich. The Bible says that Isaac sowed and became great and went forward until he became very great. So many people are aspiring to be rich or wealthy in life but the truth is that some people have wishful thinking about riches; that means; they just sit and think without putting it to work, inorder to get result; and there are also people who are rich and felt that the level of their riches is enough for them; yet there are people who are rated as the world’s richest.

The book of Genesis 26:12-13 say “Then Isaac sowed in that land, and received in the same year an hundredfold: and the LORD blessed him. And the man waxed great, and went forward, and grew until he became very great: For he had possession of flocks, and possession of herds, and great store of servants: and the Philistines envied him”. There are some unique characteristics you can learn in the life of Isaac, he sowed and waxed great, he went forward and became very great; it means that Isaac worked, he got wealth but was not satisfied with the level of his

riches and he kept on working until he became the most recognized rich man in the land; almost the greatest, like some of the world’s richest people of today. Let’s consider some principle you can apply to become financially uplifted no matter the level of your financial status. Like I said earlier; it is not everything that answers to prayers and fasting, certain things answers to application of principles. Isaac sowed, he did not go into the land and waited for God to come and sow in that land for him neither did he pray that the land should give him something in abundance but he sowed and God bless him; and he continued to work until he became very great. Now you too can also apply this principle and it will result to an outstanding success in your financial status.

•For more enquiries; please send text messages or call the following numbers: 07038638984, 08101597149 for prompt attention You can watch us on our own Television station as you scan your MITV decoder to Success TV; you can also watch us on our IPTV platform with your Android, PC, IPhones and IPads; Log on now to www. globalsuccesstv.org follow us on face book page: www.facebook.com/globalsuccesstv.

Briefly GSM storms South Africa again for Holy Ghost Crusade General Overseer of the Global Success Ministry, FESTAC town, Pastor (Dr.) Chima Emmanuel Okereke is set to storm South Africa for a four-day, Holy Ghostinspired Power packed crusade after the unprecedented miracles that was record at his earlier crusade in country about two months ago.

This time round, the man of God will be staging the four days crusade in two cities

of South Africa. The first two days of the crusade will be holding at Pyramid Conference Centre, Ellof Street, EXT VILLAGE DEEP, JOHNESBURG, on Sunday 16TH and Monday 17TH, 2013, from 3pm on 16th and 9am on 17th while the second crusade holds at 217 first Advenue, Greyville opposite Game City, Durban, by 6pm daily, with Pastor Dr. Emmanuel Chima Okereke ministering

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Praise & Worship

Sunday June 16, 2013

23

Day Ondo community dedicated church HAKEEM GBADAMOSI AKURE

“‘U

nless the Lord builds the house, its builders labour in vain,’ says the Bible in Psalm 127:1. God gave this place of worship to help us worship Him in spirit and in truth. Our worship in this place must not be hypocritical, we must make adequate preparationboth spiritually and physically before we approach God in this place, we must prepare our hearts, mind and spirit to meet God and our prayer must be sincere and our commitment must be total”

These were the words of the Bishop of the Diocese on the Coast, Church of Nigeria (Anglican) Communion, Rt. Rev. Joshua Ogunene, during the dedication ceremony of St. Paul’s Anglican Church in Erekiti - Lawoye in Okitipupa local government area of Ondo state.

The Bishop called on the people of the Erekiti to see the building of the church as a new form of dedication to their creator and appreciated all those who contributed towards the archdeaconry of Erekiti, urging the people of the church to take the advantage of the new church by using themselves as an instrument towards propagating God’s word to the unbeliever.

He said, “This is the beginning of good thing in this town, more good is still coming to the town of Erekiti, all I have to tell you is to make your service to the Almighty God count, abstain from sins, have a new heart and all your prayers shall be answered.”

Ogunene said the church being new, all the people of the town should embrace new life in Jesus for new things to happen in their lives. He said “ you are worshipping in a new church; you will experience new things, new life. A new life must come into this church of God. Abstain from sins in order not to waste your service before God “You must be born again in order to enjoy all the promises of your creator, God abhors sins, fornication, adultery, uncleanliness, inordinate affections, evil concupiscence and covetousness as all affect spiritual growth.”

The Bishop urged the people to live within themselves in peace with no discrimination, irrespective of their political lineage or differences in and outside the church, in order to usher in development to the town and the church. He pointed out that the presence of other churches from the town signifies the ties and cordial relationship between the church and other denominations within the town and urged all religious leaders to work towards gaining more souls for

the house of the lord.

In his final remarks, he called on the people “worshipping here to show the beauty and glory of God and let the glory of God shine in you as you worship in the church. Abstain from sins to avoid the wrath of God. Embrace a new beginning as the new church is being inaugurated in Erekiti today for the beauty of God to show in us” The Vicar of the Church, Rev. Canon Noah Akinlawon, said his joy knew no bounds, saying the day marked the beginning of a new thing in the land.

Akinlawon, who explained that though he had been in the town for about five years, appreciated the Almighty God for the feat achieved through him in the area.

He said, “I did not see myself as a gladiator but I thank and commend the efforts of our past vicars for laying a very solid foundation upon which I worked. Today’s dedication and inauguration therefore proves that their labour is not in vain.

My God will continue to support them and the ministry in the name of Jesus” The Vicar said the church had witnessed tremendous growth in the last few years and said about four churches had been put under the church to make the Erekiti church an archdeaconry, adding that the church had witnessed spiritual growth with members’ population growing from a parish church to archdeaconry He thanked the people of the town and other churches: “I thank you all for your support; I still expect more from you by gaining more souls into God’s fold and also by moving the church of God forward. I pray we shall not be found wanting.

“I congratulate all Erekiti people for this great achievement. This great house of God still needs our financial support to become the glory of the community. I believe today’s dedication will mark good things in our community and the glory of Erekiti will definitely shine in the name of Jesus.”

The church choir however treated the people to different tunes while donations were made by some dignitaries towards the development of the church.

The mustard that metamorphosed into St. Paul Anglican Church, ErekitiLawoye came into being in 1903 through the effort of Ajihinrere Lofe Band, led by the late E M Lijadu, which was established as St. Paul Western African Episcopal Church. The church which was under Igbotako Parish before it was granted a parish in 1998, appointed its first crop of church chiefs who were installed in April, 1995.

Rev Akinlawon

THIS IS THE BEGINNING OF GOOD THINGS IN THIS TOWN, MORE GOOD IS STILL COMING TO THE TOWN OF EREKITI. ALL I HAVE TO TELL YOU IS TO MAKE YOUR SERVICE TO THE ALMIGHTY GOD COUNT, ABSTAIN FROM SINS, HAVE A NEW HEART AND ALL YOUR PRAYERS SHALL BE ANSWERED

Bishop Ogunene dedicating the church

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Praise & Worship

You’ll forget your problem instantly when God intervenes –Pastor Chidi Pastor Chidi Anthony of Kings in Christ Church tells the story of a truck pusher to underscore how someone can forget his problem instantaneously when God remembers him. Excerpts:

Chidi

Sunday June 16, 2013 The Bible says when Jesus came to the vicinity of Bethsaida pool, he asked the impotent man, would thou believe that thou would be made whole? The man answered, I have no man; when the pool is troubled, and before I could enter, another person would have entered.

In one of my programmes, God picked out a young man from the congregation.

It came in form of prophesy on a Sunday morning: “Hear me very well, within three days, I will change your life.”

The young man could not believe what he was hearing. He was rolling on the ground, crying and saying thank you God. “This is over eight years since I have been a worker in this church. And I tried to be a faithful worker but the more I tried to be a good worker, the more I became one of the poorest people around.

Reverend Chidi Anthony; I am grateful that your God has remembered me,” the young man said.

The young man concerned was just an ordinary truck pusher. On Monday morning, the young man remembered the previous day’s prophesy. And picking up his truck, he kept singing, “Lord I thank you; Lord I thank you; Lord I thank; Lord I thank you.

He kept reflecting on that prophesy that had been by the servant of the Lord; and was deeply happy that God had remembered him. In his happiness, the young man didn’t know when his truck hit somebody’s ‘baby boy’ car. One of the lights of the choice car got broken; and this young man shouted as he wondered what he could do. In the first place, the young man was not sure of how he could buy himself the next meal and now he had broken the light of the expensive car.

Deeply troubled by the damage, the young man explained that he did not hit the car intentionally but that was to no avail. He parked his truck and rushed to the front of the expensive car and lay flat out in the mud, not minding muddy ground. He said, “Oga I did not do it intentionally. Casting his mind to the prophesy, he cried; “God, if this is the miracle, please I don’t want this kind.”

While he cried and rolled in the mud, traffic hold up began to build and elongate beyond imagination as oncoming traffic got stuck in the grid luck. People joined the young man to beg the baby boy owner to forgive the truck pusher but he vehemently refused. The traffic build-up had lasted over four hours from the time the accident happened. And there was this man in a clean jeep who had a very important business to attend to, and who after being detained in the hold-up for 30 minutes, decided to find out what the cause of the gridlock was.

Getting to the spot, he saw a man rolling in the mud and crying profusely. At first, he thought it was an accident. He was not pleased that people were just watching the man on the ground without making any attempt to get to where he could get medical attention. “You people are very wicked. Do you want this man to die here? Oga help me; let’s get this man to the hospital where he can get medical attention,” he added.

Then someone from the crowd said to the man, “Oga; this is not hospital matter.” “What then is the problem?” He enquired. The people explained that the man in the mud had hit the other man’s expensive car with his truck and had been begging for forgiveness which the car owner refused to grant. You mean he hit someone’s vehicle? Is that why he wants to died? Did he do it intentionally?

The people answered ‘no.’ The man said, “But it can happen to anybody. Is that why he wants to die,” he asked again.

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“My friend stand up,” he ordered the poor truck pusher.

Hear me readers, when you time comes, somebody will take over your battle. This man ordered the truck pusher to stand up. The owner of the baby boy car was mad. “How dare you say that? Do you want me to leave this truck pusher and deal with you,” he asked. Before you know it, the Baby boy driver brought his GSM and called the police. When the police arrived, the car owner pointed at the truck pusher. Church you know how Niger police dey behave. If you be police abeg no vex. But una character sometimes na dotty. The security agents wanted to seize the truck pusher but the other man harassed the police saying, “Don’t touch that man otherwise I will deal with you.

There is how you talk to the police that they will mellow down knowing that somebody is talking.

The inspector who was about to make the arrest decided to cool down and said; “Excuse me sir, can we know you?” And man turned and asked the police officer if he wanted to know him. The officer replied, ‘Yes.’ The man just turned and one hefty man who carried his briefcase walked briskly to his boss. He opened the briefcase and brought a complementary card and handed it to the police inspector.

When the policeman sighted the card, he shouted ‘shon.’ Stamping his feet hard on the ground, the inspector froze in attention as he gave complement to the mediator. Can I prophesy to you the way I feel? In the days of your challenges, men will salute you, in the name of Jesus.

And the man said to the Inspector, “Now you know who I am. Can you tell that man to take that thing out of the road?” The inspector turned to the car owner and said, “Oya take that thing out of the road now. The mediator took few steps to where the Babyboy owner stood and said to him: “Young man; how much did you buy this your car that makes you want to kill this young man? The humbled car owner replied that he bought the car at the cost of N1.7 million. “N1.7 million? Is that why you want to kill that young man? And he turned. The hefty guy bearing his brief opened the bag and held out a cheque book to his boss. He took the cheque book and wrote a cheque of N1.7 million and handed it to the car owner. Turning to the inspector, he told the police Inspector, “Inspector, I know your number and your name. Follow this man to Diamond Bank and cash the cheque. Again he turned to the car owner and said to him, “Young man; can you give me the particulars of that vehicle?”

The humbled car owner replied. “But what I have here is the photocopy.” “Yes, bring the copy and the car key he said.

Then he told the Inspector to follow the humbled car owner to his house after he had cashed the cheque. “Bring the original particulars to my office for change of ownership,” he ordered. The man obediently handed over the car’s keys and the particulars to the superior man as ordered. Taking the keys and the particulars, the other man walked up to the truck pusher who was still lying in the mud and looking like someone from another world, he said to him, “Your God has remembered you.” The truck pusher was still on the ground, paralysed and moping as if he was confused. Picking his cheque book again the man wrote out a cheque of N250, 000.00 in favour of the truck pusher; and said to him, “Go and change your life.” Instantly, the truck pusher forgot his truck there. And I prophesy to anyone following this message that you will forget your problems instantly, in the name of Jesus.

PASSION A Lifestyle Magazine

Sunday June 16, 2013

My ideal man must help me make heaven –Benita >>27

My life, dancing, relationship with Shina Peters and MKO Abiola –Tessy Yembra

Battling with fears of childbirth >>35

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Passion

Sunday, June 16, 2013

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My life, dancing, relationship with Shina Peters and MKO Abiola –Tessy Yembra

Fuji and juju music was the craze both in the 1980s and 1990s. What made the songs even more exciting was the crop of dancers the musicians had on stage to entertain the fans. Topping the ladder of Fuji dancers during the Sikiru Ayinde Barrister and Sir Shina Peter’s fame was Theresa Alero Yembra, better known as Tessy Yembra. She created the unique dancing styles that made Fuji music so popular, and this made the media to dub her the Dancing Queen. She spoke with Vanessa Okwara about her talent, failed marriages and the current men in her life.

When did you start dancing?

I would say I have been dancing right from my mother’s womb. I dance to all manner of music right from when I was a child. But a lot of people know me today as the person that introduced the Ijo Shina dance step. The first person I danced for was the late Barrister Fuji Garbage. I also introduced the dance step. That is why in those days, the media people made me the celebrated dance queen. In fact, it was Dele Momodu that wrote it in his paper and called me the Afro Juju queen. They saw me as the pioneer of the Afro Juju dance step and collectively gave me that name. I didn’t crown myself; they felt I deserved the name.

How do you see the dancing steps of today such as Azonto, Alanta compared to the ones you were doing in your days?

What we used to do then was very energetic because the body was still young, unlike now. If you want me to come and do the Azonto dance now, I will not be able to do it like the children of nowadays. These days I dance mature dances with lots of respect put into it because I’m now a grandmother. But, if I’m on stage doing my work, I’m somebody else. I dance professionally and put my age aside. If you see Sunny Ade enter the stage, he still performs, you will not even believe he is 70 years old and that is the same thing with me.

What has dancing contributed to your life?

Dancing made me what I am today. I have met a lot of top personalities in our society. I had danced with people like MKO Abiola. My fame in Sikiru Ayinde Barrister’s

Tessy with Sir Shina Peters on stage

Fuji Garbage and Sir Shina Peter’s hit track, Ace, was a great experience that is unforgettable. The way the media rated me makes me really happy up till now. The honour brought a lot of recognition and respect for me and till today, I am still being rated as a pioneer. Dancing professionally brought me out to stardom.

Can you recount some of the good experiences you had in those days of your career, when you were still a hot dancer?

In those days, before I enter the stage to perform Sir Shina Peter’s hit track, Ace, everybody will be waiting.

A lot of people come from America, the United Kingdom and other parts of the world just to come and watch me perform with Shina Peters. They’ll say they want to see that Tessy that shake her booty and boobs when dancing ‘Omoge show me your back’. Some of my friends even went to the extent of collecting money from people with the promise that they will help them to meet me after the show. I’ll be angry with them and ask if they want to sell me off to those people. Once I’m through with my dance, I go back stage immediately. I needed to respect myself because once you dance on stage and shake your booty; all men want to do is to sleep with you.

How did you manage the advances for sex from your fans in those days? And did the man in your life at the time not complain about your dancing styles?

Shina Peters protected me from them and I am very grateful for his help. After the show, I will go back stage immediately. Shina will not allow me to meet anyone from the audience again till we close. It was only his very close friends that he allows to come back stage. The man I married then knew I was a show biz personality. He understood it was all about entertainment and nothing else. He took me the way I am.

Who is he; are you still together? Why didn’t you stay married to him?

I have two men in my life. The first is Tayo Okupe. He is currently living in Washington DC. I had my first child for him. The second is Segun Berkeley. He is the younger brother of Yemi Fawaz, the top model in those days. She was the one that even encouraged me to go and do the dance in the first place.

My dear, I don’t want to disclose my private life in the media. As I said before, the first one was in America. I had a child for him. He jilted me and married another woman over there. The second man I married also started misbehaving and we had to quit the relationship but we have a grandchild together now. I just decided to face my children and build my career. I started a dancing school which is called Tessy Turner Dancing Academy. I have groomed so many girls in dancing at the academy. Big artistes like Charly Boy and Wasiu come to my school to pick models for their shows and music. I also teach choreography and costume to the girls for shows.

From the experiences you gathered from the two failed marriages, what do you have to say to other women who may be in similar situation or experiencing heartbreak?

Failed marriage is not the end of the world. We have a lot of single parents in our society. There are some married women who are under the roof of a husband who are only pretending to be happy but they are not. There are so many women who go through a lot of pains in their marriage but they will not come out openly to say it. They are afraid of what people will say; so they endure all manner of abuses from the men. I am not one of them. I do my work and make my money. I have a shop where I sell wine in wholesales. I also sell jewellery and clothes in front of my house. I make money as a Master of Ceremony which I use to build my business. I have no regrets at all because CONTINUED ON PAGE 27

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Passion

Sunday, June 16, 2013

27

‘My ideal man must help me make heaven’ ADAEZE AMOS

B

enedicta Iyere-Okojie, known as Benita is a gospel singer. Although she started singing when she was young, her passion for singing has not diminished.

“My passion for singing is still waxing strong because I’m a child of God and quitting music is not in my agenda because gospel music is the ministry that God has called me into,” she emphasised. She says she intends to fulfil her purpose in the music ministry by going round the world until Christ comes. “There’s a lot to be done and this is not the time to quit but the time to be active. The gospel of Christ through my ministry must get to everyone regardless of age, class or creed. So, I still see myself as a gospel artiste, brand ambassador and proud Nigerian,” as she smiled warmly.

Benita has not been singing now for a long time after graduating from the university. And her fans have been wondering why. “Many have asked why I have not been singing. Well, by God’s grace, new singles and videos are coming soon, as well as stage plays in collaboration with friends and family. New things about me would be unveiled soon,” she assured.

To some of her fans who feel she has been in the cooler for some time, she said, “I want to make it categorically clear that I have not been in the cooler. But the truth is that I’ve been attending functions, ministering here and there. The only difference is that I have not released new songs since 2009. I have started working hard on my new songs; soon they would be released and that would be before the end of this year. I know that my fans have been very patient and I want to thank God for their lives. They are such wonderful people. It’s been a while but soon they will hear from Benita and by God’s grace it will be worth the wait.”

Benita relived her childhood with ease. “My childhood was fun but I really enjoyed my children’s choir days. I had lots of fun going for competitions with other churches. I won a couple of times. Those times always felt like I was on top of the world. Schooling as a child was also fun.

I would go home with my friends and gist with them. No one really knew me then so it was fun to just hang out and have fun with friends. Those were priceless moments.”

Has she any regrets? “I have no regrets whatsoever. I thank God for calling me into the music ministry. I have had experiences that have molded and sharpened me to be a better person. I would never have learnt some things if I did not start when I did. I’ve also been blessed to go to places that I never in my wildest imagination thought I would go. It’s been an amazing journey and I bless God for everything,” she said, a surge of triumph running through her.

This gospel diva is considering marrying very soon.

“I hope to settle down and have a beautiful family. Who wouldn’t want to get married? I have not done that all these while because I’m waiting on God’s time. As soon as that time is close. I will let my fans know about it,” she assured.

Her ideal man, no doubt, must have some qualities.

“My ideal man is the one that God has created just for me; one that loves God, supports my ministry and will support and encourage my spiritual life. And also help me make

Iyere-Okojie

heaven.”

Benita says she owes her father a lot in life. She gives her reasons for saying so. “My dad is a blessing. He supported me so much when I started and even till now. In fact, he is my number one fan. I appreciate and love him.

He knows this. In short, every member of my family has all been there for me. He now advises and makes very helpful suggestions for my music ministry and he is always there to tell me what to do and what not to. He is loaded with experience,” Benita said, grinning.

‘My relationship with Shina Peters’ CONTINUED FROM PAGE 26 I am a happy woman. These women should not lose hope.

If the man is treating you well, stay with him, if not, move out and on with your life.

Currently, who is the man in your life that is making you happy?

I have Senator Adeleke, the first governor of Osun State. He is a friend, a brother as well as a godfather. He is always there for me. Anytime I see him, I feel happy because he supports me. Somebody that pays my daughter’s school fees, is he not enough? There is also a Kabiyesi I

met recently, Olu of Itori. I have known him for a long time but we just became closer friends recently. He is a God sent too. He is going to do his 10 years anniversary early next year. He asked me to be among his committee of friends to organise his 10th year anniversary. I am in good terms with his wife also. These are the people that make me happy. They want my progress and not necessarily sleep with me. Friends that make you happy are not always those who want to make love to you.

you had some personal problems with Shina Peters.

What is your relationship with him today?

No, of I haven’t because love is fun. If I want to have fun I will go ahead and do it. If I want to make love, I don’t have to make noise about it in the media that I’m having fun.

Shina Peters is my friend and brother. We still relate very well. I go to his family house and anytime he’s celebrating, I make sure I’m in attendance. He’s like my family. I don’t have problems with him.

Are you saying you have closed the chapter of love completely in your life? Sometime ago, it was rumoured

What is your life philosophy?

My motto in life is live and let live.

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Perfect Cut

Sunday, June 16, 2013

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Floor-length sequined outfits ANGELA DAV AVIES

S

himmeri himmering, jazzy and eye-catching sequins ns are one sartorial bling here to stay. Many fashionistas usually reserve sequined that is h outfit, especially the floor-length for style out or glamorous events especially when th they intend to become the cynosure re of all eyes.

The classic sequined gowns are traditionally ly worn as evening wear.

However, to st stand out, you should opt for colours urs like black, gold, white, bronze silver if you want to make a stylish b onze and sil br h impact.

Since sequ sequins makes for an instant glitz, always remember to go minimal on yo your accessories and make-up as you don’t want to take the focus away fro from your dress.

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Sunday, June 16, 2013

Perfect Cut

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Adorn your wrists with charming bracelets Completing your look is all about accessorising with bracelets in a variety of styles, colours and materials that make it easy to complete any look.

From an elegant and formal look with diamonds to totally casual beaded bracelets, chunky gold bands and thin bangles are just a few of the options to select from to adorn your wrist.

You can go bold with a diamond or crystal piece or create a complete look with a seed pearl bracelet and matching necklace when it comes to formal look as they glow on the wrist.

For casual look, you could create fun with bolder materials, contrasting colours and wider chains on the wrist. For a more classic look, stick to gold chains in a variety of link patterns.

So from casual to formal and every look in between, it is necessary to complete every look with bracelets.

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Sunday, June 16, 2013

Pregnancy Talk with

Adaeze Amos

Single’s Bliss with

Akpomiemie …a peep into the world of a seriously searching sister!

I’ve hit another jackpot and…

Models

Battling with fears of childbirth When Ngozi Ilokwoba (not real names) became pregnant, she was indeed joyous for two reasons. The first reason was that the pregnancy was her first and she loved the bodily changes she was observing.

Also, she didn’t have to wait for a long time before she became pregnant unlike her immediate elder sister who waited for years and her in-laws had to call her names before she could take in. But as her pregnancy advances, so are her fears of childbirth.

It was for this fear that Ngozi spent some money on books, magazines and journals that dealt specifically on pregnancy and delivery. “There was no book that I didn’t read just to calm my fears. I asked my mother so many questions pertaining to labour and delivery and how my unborn baby with its big head can pass through my cervix and vagina when I’m asked to push. It got to the extent that my questions started getting on the nerves of my mum. But she still answered me even when I woke her up from sleep at the wee hours of the night.”

When Ngozi’s pregnancy was 36 weeks and the foetus was supposed to have turned head down, her fears increased. “It was after my doctor had examined me and discovered that the position of my baby was breached, that I became jittery. He also said that if the position continued that way till the 38th week or 40th week, chances are that I would have to deliver by caesarian section because the baby was very big. The doctor said I should start getting my mind ready for that. My mother couldn’t sleep well because of my numerous questions which she provided some soothing answers to. Mama has six children, so her experiences she shared with me were calming me psychologically, but not totally” Ngozi said.

Despite her mother’s positive stories, she was still remembering some ugly ones she heard from friends: how a woman couldn’t wake up after having a caesarean section; how another woman didn’t have enough strength to push her baby and she eventually had a still birth and how another had tears in her private part while pushing her baby and how the tears were painfully sutured immediately after delivery. “So many thoughts were running through her brain

such that my books, magazines and mother’s advice couldn’t calm me. To pray was difficult. At a time I became confused on what to pray and how to present it to God,” she retorted.

Ngozi definitely is not the only pregnant mum battling with fears of childbirth. It has become a modern day epidemic among expectant women who are frightened about birth and what would possibly go wrong.

Ask any woman heavy with child why she feels that way, you would get the same reasons: fears that things would go wrong during delivery, inability to cope with labour pains and fear of death.

Given that these are very common fears among pregnant women, it is therefore imperative to reveal some things that pregnant mums dread most. The first is the fear of episiotomy. Episiotomy, according to a medical experts, is simply “what is usually done to hasten birth in an emergency, especially when the unborn baby or mother is becoming distressed or the perineum is so tight that it is delaying the birth.”

The second fear is death of the baby during birth. No woman would wish to have a still birth after enduring to carry it till term. This fear still torments some pregnant mums even as you read this. If you happen to be one of them, it is better to jettison it and occupy your mind with positive things about carrying your bundle of joy at last. When you become obsessed with fear of losing your baby at birth just because it is common in your family, then you are limiting what God can do.

The third dread is prolonged labour. Just because Agnes your good friend had a long dry labour does not mean you too would experience same. So, keep your mind at rest.

Don’t have sleepless night over this. Why not wait until you get to the bridge before thinking of how to cross it?

The fourth fear is operation. Having a caesarean is another shocker in this part of the world. But if this is the only way you can have your baby, what is wrong in that.

What you should be concerned with is your safety and the safety of your baby. Cheers!

To be continued next week.

Let me start by alerting you that I’m yet to go on the now famous all expenses paid vacation to the Bahamas and any other two countries of my choice.

My schedule has been quite tight and I’m now yearning to take off. But be rest assured that you’ll be in the know when it’s time for me to leave.

I’ve got great news for you! Another organisation from nowhere cropped up and is sponsoring me on a training course to South Africa! Yes, I know that it is an African country but it is something worth the while as it is all expenses paid as well and it would be at one of South Africa’s prestigious universities.

Wondering how I hit the ‘jackpot’?

Well, the organisers of the course say they’ve been quite impressed by my performance on air and thus picked me alongside four other youths to go for the programme. Na wa o! Ever since the news hit town, my phone has been so busy to the extent that I now avoid my calls…as usual, most of my callers have been members of the opposite sex!

Let’s talk about my vacation. There’s a long list of guys who are interested in accompanying me on this trip but I can only take a person with me. Sincerely speaking, my heart is with Desmond my real bobo but Alex has been monitoring me seriously and I really need him as my every time ATM! These are the two contenders for this ‘interesting’ position to be filled. Please, if you were in my shoes, who will you pick? Desmond, but risk losing ATM Alex or Alex, and lose a cool-headed loving guy like Desmond.

Who do you advise that I go for?

Before you start making all the analyses, please bear in mind that Alex promised and bought a house for me in my name and I’m about moving into it while Desmond wants to rent an apartment for me also on the Island, here in Lagos. Alex has got the money and doles it out to me very well while Desmond doesn’t have like Alex’s kind of income but is very loving. Yes, I know Alex is married while Desmond is not but kindly take note of all sides before you tell me which way to go. Biko!

Lest I forget, I have one other question to ask o! Why do some, if not most, Nigerians love to enslave themselves?

Yesterday, a lady who lives in my neighbourhood walked up to me when I was about driving into my premises. When I stopped to pay her audience, it turned out that she needed some assistance. I have no problem with that, if not, what

are neighbours for? But that which really made me speechless was her disclosure.

Mrs. Johnson wanted me to help her with any amount to buy food in the house, and would not mind if it were just the foodstuffs I could give to her. According to her, her husband is a journalist with a Lagos-based newspaper but has not been paid any wage for the past 13 months. Unbelievable! I was speechless and had my eyes out of their sockets.

I knew she couldn’t be lying as I’ve heard all manner of wonders happening in this country, especially Lagos, but one big question that kept ringing in my head was: if you’re being owed more than two months salary, shouldn’t wisdom tell you to sit at home and seek another job? Doesn’t such a person consider itself abusive when he or she continues borrowing money to go to such a place, yet, nothing as wages is forthcoming and he or she is given all manner of shit? Many were the questions hitting my mind but I simply tried listening to the young, frail looking woman.

I could see through her that she is a very beautiful woman but untold hardship is snatching that glow in her eyes and suppleness of her being. I really felt for her as I understood quite well that it must have taken her much courage to have walked up to me requesting such assistance.

Well, I allowed her into the house, gave her some foodstuffs as well as money and couldn’t hold my emotions back when she burst into tears. She kept repeating “thank you so much, God will bless you” amidst sobs. I never knew that emotional aspect of me still existed. I equally wept but still can’t tell exactly why I did that. Maybe because her four children in the past three days had been drinking garri just in the evening; leaving them to ‘fast’ from morning till when they break the supposed fasting with garri towards night time and drink much water to fill their stomach. Perhaps, my tears could have been as a result of the fact that this woman has mistakenly taken in again, while the future is very bleak.

My tears, I guess, was most likely as a result of the fact that I am busy giving much attention to the things I don’t have and taking for granted the enormous one I have. I really can’t tell why I wept; all I know is that something within me ruptured but I still can’t tell exactly what it was.

36

Sunday, June 16, 2013

Connecting with

Vanessa

Vanessaonsunday@yahoo.com

Work on being married before the act Are you ready for marriage? I’m sure your answer will be a definite “YES”, especially when you look at your age. Also, when you see your friends work down the aisle in the arms of their lover, you get desperate and also want to get hooked up immediately but marriage is a lot more than that. It must be worked at consciously if you want to make a good success of it. For you to do that, you must first work on yourself to be that man or woman that would be regarded as marriage material by an equally good spouse.

Love indeed is a beautiful thing, but make sure you are ready both physically and mentally for the responsibilities that come with it. The best time to work on your marriage is before it even begins or before you find the spouse. Being single is just the best time for you to build yourself into that man or woman that will make a good husband or wife. There are important traits you need to cultivate in the present to pre- Models pare for a strong future.

If I may ask you, what exactly do you know about marriage? Do you belong to the school of thought that believes it’s all about having sex and going into the labour room nine months after? You couldn’t be more wrong as a lot of people have made a shipwreck of their marriage by filling it with quarrels and fights that make all sexual desires they may previously have for each other fly out of the window.

I ask again, you that desire to be married, how many books on marriage have you read? Have you taken a conscious effort to make enquiries about what makes a good marriage? If you were lucky to have parents who made a good success of their marriage, have you sat down with either your mother or father to find out the secret to that success? Conversely, if you witnessed a horrible marriage between your parents, have you taken out time to find out exactly what NOT TO DO? If your heart’s desire is to marry a good husband or wife, first of all work at being that good woman or man that a good husband or wife will be attracted to. You should not desire a caring or godly person when you

have not cultivated such traits for yourself.

Attitude they say is everything and some people’s own just stinks! A lot of men complain about coming across a beautiful woman they instantly want to make their wife. Unfortunately, that very thought simply flies out of the window the minute she opens her mouth or brings out her cantankerous attitude.

Ladies listen, your beauty may attract a man into your life but it is your character that makes him want to stay by your side. Beauty fades but a good character and a positive attitude endure forever and that is what will sustain a marriage.

As a man, before you even think of getting married, do you consider yourself a responsible person? Marriage comes with a lot of responsibility for the man. Do you know what it really means to take care of a family? You need to get trained on how to be understanding and tolerant. Study what it takes to please a woman both in the bedroom and out of it.

You must also understand the basic things women want and know how to respond to those needs such as showing affection, in conversation, honesty, openness, financial support, and family commitment.

For the women, you need to learn about the typical needs of a man and know how to fulfil them. Go and get understanding on things that will hold the interest of your man and how to sustain that interest. Men basically need a woman who will respect and submit to them, be a recreational companion, have a physical appearance they will always admire, be domesticated and a very good cook and finally give them sexual fulfilment.

Finally, get to know your good and ugly side and the values you hold in high esteem. Your values are your guiding principles. If you try to live with someone who has a different set rules, it’s not going to work. Spend time in this singlehood to fully understand what you value most and why. That way, it will help you to quickly decipher who is the rightful partner you could make a successful married life with. Approach your love life as intentionally as you do your work. Choose who and what you want in a relationship rather than just making it work with whoever chooses you.

RESPONSES

Re: ‘What would you do if your lover comes with a baby?’

Aunty Vanessa, Thanks a lot for this timely write-up. There was a man that proposed to me last year but he has two kids with another woman and I have been confused whether to accept his proposal or not. But after reading about it in your paper, I could now make a decisive decision on it.

Thanks again.

Ijeoma, Awka, Anambra State.

Re: ‘Negative influence can destroy your relationship’ Dear Vanessa, My marriage was almost packed up because of bad friendship. I didn’t know my girlfriend of many years envied my home because she and her husband were always quarrelling. She started giving me wrong advices when I confide in her on certain issues in my home. She even went to the extent of sending text massage to my husband about me. It’s a long story my dear. All I can say here is to advise other women to be careful who they call their true friends.

Mrs. Abimbola, T. Lagos State.

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

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38

Sunday, June 16, 2013

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

& ovies M usic M Stories by Olumide Segun-Oduntan 08189418761 e-mail: lumidezy@yahoo.com

Helen Paul, Uche Jombo, Gordons, others dazzle in comedy flick With several award-winning movies between them and commendable performances that have spanned over two decades, celebrated Nollywood actor and award-winning actress, Desmond Elliot and Uche Jombo are coming together to produce what they both called the ‘biggest movie project’ of their career - The Place; Chronicle of the book.

The Place, a comedy flick written by comedian, Mr. Patrick, is the story of a book stolen from ‘the Place’ by an evil man. It needs to be retrieved before the evil man destroys the world.

Who will save the world from destruction?

Two unlikely heroes, Bishop Imeh and Mr Patrick decide to be the heroes; the unfolding plots, dialogues and special effects form the basis for

the ‘biggest comedy movie in recent times’ according to producer and director, Desmond Elliot.

It was produced under joint production of Uche Jombo Studios and Denziot Production.

Speaking on the movie, Desmond said the combination of resources and expertise leads to what he called, ‘exciting outcome’.

“I am excited about this project, so excited that I can’t wait for a cinema date, I have to release to DVD direct. In over a decade of being in the industry, I’ve done a number of movies but this stands out. It’s a classic comedy with rights element, dialogue, characterisation and special effect. Without prejudice to any of my past works, this movie is the biggest I’ve done and with all due respect, it should be the biggest

comic movie out of Nollywood in recent times”.

Uche Jombo, who doubles as the producer and executive producer of the forthcoming movie, said, “putting the movie together was a business risk we hope will pay off. When I got the script from Mr. Patrick, one thing was clear, the story will be like eating rice without stew if the special effects are not done right so we went all the way. The special effect is something people should watch out for and I’m also proud of the story, very funny, the fact that a comedian wrote it must have influenced it a great deal.”

The Place stars Desmond Elliot, Uche Jombo, Gordons, Mr. Patrick Onyeka, Bishop ImeUmoh, Jude Orhorha, Ruth Kadiri and Helen Paul.

Paul

Students win big as Cliqfest storms OAU

Biguesas

Motamma and Anabel

Big Brother: The Chase: Who goes home tonight?

The heat is on and the battle lines have been drawn on Big Brother: The Chase. Last Monday night’s nomination show saw Diamond’s Annabel and Biguesas and Ruby housemates; Pokello, Neyll and Natasha fighting it out for viewers’ votes during the week.

The Diamond housemates who picked up the most nominations were Bolt with five followed by Biguesas with contrasting reasons.

A number of housemates who nominated the Sierra Leonian labelled him “arrogant” and “bossy”, while Biguesas picked up nominations for his reserved demeanour.

Melvin, Motamma, Feza and Beverley all felt that Biguesas had yet to make his mark in the house, three weeks into the game. Bolt then received a reprieve for a second consecutive week when Diamond Head of House, Melvin, saved him and put Annabel up for eviction in his place.

The Ruby nomination sessions were tense affairs – when the dust had settled, Pokello and Natasha led the pack with five nominations apiece, followed by Oneal with three.

No doubt, many of the housemates have grown tired of Natasha’s gossiping ways, while others feel Pokello is “loud” and “bossy”.

Ruby Head of House, Selly made a somewhat surprising decision in opting not to save her friend Pokello from possible eviction. Instead she

decided to take Oneal out of the firing line and put Neyll up in his place.

It is all up to the viewers now… You need to vote to keep your favourite housemate in The Chase.

Voting opened immediately after last Monday night’s nomination show and closes at 06:00 CAT this Sunday morning.

There are three ways to vote to keep your favourite housemate in Big Brother: The Chase - via web, SMS or mobile site, and you can win amazing prizes in the process.

In the meantime, it seems that the chemistry between boss lady Selly and Zambia’s Sulu has been evident from the word go. Never mind that Sulu is the House clown, Selly has been patient with him and laughs at all his jokes.

In this week’s court drama, Oneal exposed Sulu’s game plan of hooking with someone in the House as part of his strategy but it seems the Zambian has changed face as he relentlessly refuted the claim.

Well, the ‘couple’ has received conflicting reviews from all over Africa. One could be fooled into thinking that the two also play a lot, hug a lot and there is no doubt that they really enjoy each other.

However, if the image received on Twitter is anything to go by, then Selly has friends back home that resemble Sulu.

Telecommunications company, Etisalat Nigeria, recently thrilled the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ife, community with the Easycliq seminar laced with entertainment, tagged Cliqfest. During the two-day campus activation which took place recently, many students smiled home with several prizes including the grand prize of a car.

Cliqfest is an Etisalat youth educational, entertainment and customer reward initiative that has set several campuses agog in Nigeria, with seminars, concerts and football tournaments, giving students opportunities to identify with the Easycliq brand, have fun and also win prizes.

Commenting at the event on the desire of the company to keep developing the Nigerian youth, Manager, Youth Segment, Etisalat Nigeria, Idiare Atimomo made it known that Etisalat is committed to creating maximum opportunities

Students at the Etisalat seminar at OAU, Ife.

to give an all-round development to Nigerian undergraduates in order to help them achieve their potentials.

“Cliqfest is designed to connect with users of our youth package, Easycliq, a product that makes them stand out from the rest and become ‘cooler’ than their peers because of its unique selling points of fun, friendship and youthfulness. Etisalat’s Cliqfest is a combination of entertainment and knowledge acquisition that enlightens and encourages students to identify their personal strengths, while building their career in life,” Atimomo said.

The high point of the two-day event was when Etisalat rewarded students who participated in a raffle draw with different prizes, including the star prize of the day, a brand new Kia Picanto car which was won by Fisayo Animashaun, a 500-level student of Mechanical Engineering.

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

39

Sunday, June 16, 2013

X.O Senavoe returns with brand new single, Beautiful

Sophy Aiida exhibits lyrical prowess with Break It Down The sexy and talented singer, Sophy Aiida has finally released her single entitled Break It Down. And judging by the responses the song has already garnered, it seems Sophy will be in fans’ faces for a while.

Aiida is currently signed to the B.Y.G Music record label and her career as a presenter, event host, actress and singer/ songwriter is on the rise.

Aiida’s raw talent as a songwriter and singer with her unique and captivating voice is already attracting the attention of many fans both local and international.

Interestingly, Aiida has starred in various movies, one of which is a Hollywood/Nollywood production Unwanted Guests as one of the main characters (Ify). The film was nominated for the African Movie Academy Awards (AMAA) and earned Aiida a nomination for ‘Best

Actress’ at the Nollywood and Africa Film Critic Awards (NAFCA).

She was also a presenter at the Africa Football World Cup in 2010 and also co-hosted the Afrotainment Museke Awards in 2011 and the Nigerian Entertainment Awards in 2012.

Break It Down is a fusion of electro pop and African rhythms resulting in an explosive melodic cocktail.

In her own words, “Break It Down is a feel good song, a summer jam destined to get the youth in good spirit, dancing and having fun. The song is about a girl coming home from a work trip and just wanting to relax and have a good time with her girlfriends!”

The wait is finally almost over, stay tuned for her debut single, written and performed by Aiida, and produced by Melvitto.

After keeping fans in suspense, Africa’s most anticipated lyrical genius X.O Senavoe is back on a Beautiful note.

Since the ground-breaking release of his Taxi Music video, which continues to enjoy tremendous rotation on Pan-African and international television, X.O has been preparing the way to kick-off his takeover year.

Beautiful, X.O Senavoe’s brand new single taken from his forthcoming XPoint0 Intro Tape, was produced by DJ Juls, Adey and X.O Senavoe himself.

The emotive opus sees Senavoe in his signature poignant story-telling mode over resounding piano chords, commanding drum patterns and a deft string arrangement which culminates into a sound for all moods. Fans will discover that it’s a beautiful piece of music.

This new single serves as the precursor to the release trail leading to the long-awaited XPoint0 EP/Tape and as X.O puts it, “For me, Beautiful is about celebrating everyone’s uniqueness. Remaining who you are, and making the best of all you’re given, is what true beauty is.”

After Beautiful, X.O is gearing up to take things a notch higher with the release of two brand new singles in the coming weeks. It’s “X.O Senavoe Season.”

Aiida

JMilla back on the music scene with new hit After taking many radio stations, music channels, clubs and venues by storm with his freestyle, Real Speech, JMilla is back on the music scene with a new hit entitled Pose.

If Real Speech took you back through JMilla’s darkest days before becoming one of the most talked about promising music creator on the Nigerian music scene, Pose is definitely a form of transition to a greater place.

In this new single, JMila is celebrating his free-spirited life, the power hidden behind something simple as taking a photo.

Committed taking the GRIP Movement to a new level, JMilla showcased his originality and creativity by summarising his catchy lyrics in four letters P O S E just like his favourite word G R I P which stands for Gathering Royalty Initiating Possibilities.

Besides being known as the genius behind Ice Prince Zamani’s latest singles VIP and Gimme Dat Chopstix, he has also produced Pose and many of the Grip Boiz hits such as Dash Me Da Ting , Is It You, Bad Bad Bad, 48, Red Rose.

JMila did not hesitate to take his mastered skills to a level many are yet to discover. Pose has already received a lot of praises at several private listening gatherings.

JMilla

Pius Marcus emerges as Mr. Universe Nigeria 2013 On Saturday June 1 at the prestigious Scintilla Events Place, Lekki, history was made again when young Marcus Pius was crowned the new Mr. Universe Nigeria 2013.

At the star-studded event attended by over 2,800 affluent guests, it was glitz, glamour and paparazzi as the 34 finalists for the event dazzled in various outings, including traditional attire (meant to interpret their cultural heritage), in swim pants (to show physical fitness and body formation) as well as in evening

Marcus

wear (showing charm, charisma and presentation)

15 of the total 34 made it through the first cut and then another 10 made through to the 2nd round and eventually, the top 5.

After being drilled on various questions to test the intelligence of the contestants, it was Marcus Pius who carried the day by emerging Mr. Universe Nigeria 2013.

The New Mr. Universe Nigeria went home with a brand new Honda Accord. He would also represent Nigeria at the upcoming Mr. Universe Model Pageant in Dominican Republic.

Senavoe

Obiora Obiwon makes a come-back statement with Testify

Obiwon

If you have not heard from him lately and you are wondering where he has been, well, rest easy. He is finally here with a new vibe that is likely to make you hit the dance floor.

Yes, R&B cum gospel singer, Obiora Obiwon has finally returned to the music scene with a brand rhythm. In what has been described as a response to questions from music fans and lovers of his music, Obiwon has come out of the studios

with a techno-infused Hip-hop single titled Testify.

When you listen to this new music effort from Obiwon, you would get touch of gospel music which is the handiwork of Mike Abdul of the Midnight Crew, who assisted Obiwon to adds a fuji-flavoured cameo to the already electrifying vibe. On the production, Obiora continues to synergize with Phat-E – credited with Obi Mu O the original version and the re-

mix and the inspirational F.a.t.h.e.r 2.0 single.

The result is an undeniable jam filled with zest and celebration over strongly spirited but yet simple faith-based lyrics.

You would recall that Obiwon announced a full-time gospel music ministry five years ago.

And since then, talented singer has steadily impacted the gospel music and Christian events scene nationwide.

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

40

Lessons of Life

ANGELA DAVIES lessonsoflife2@yahoo.com 08023342083

TRUE LIFE STORY ON MATTERS OF THE HEART JUNE 16, 2013

‘My Muslim husband insists I must convert’ We conclude the story of Ellena who, against her father’s advice, married Bakare, who now wants her to convert to Islam against their understanding prior to their marriage.

W

eeks later, I invited Bakare to my house and my family received him coldly. When my father asked him why he would prefer to marry a Christian woman instead of someone from his religion, he told him he loved me very much, I made him very happy and that religion was not a barrier for him. “I love your daughter and I promise that I will not force her to change her religion. She is free to practise Christianity. I am a free-spirited Muslim. When we have kids, they are also free to worship where they want,” he assured. He revealed that though his parents were core Muslims, they are liberal at heart.

When my parents saw that I was bent on marrying Bakare, they gave us their blessings. “Ellena, I can see that your mind is made up about Bakare so I give you my blessings. However, whatever you see in that marriage, you will bear it alone. I have no problem with him but his family,” my father explained angrily. A year and two months later, we got married in church and started a beautiful life together. We also started a business together which he was fully in-charge of.

Bakare allowed me go to church, wear and do what I liked. We lived in love and harmony for about two years before things began to change.

Four months after I gave birth to our son, Habeeb, my father-in-law began to visit our house regularly. Most times, I am not allowed to stay where they are having their conversation.

But I noticed something. Whenever his father visited and left, he became angry. This went on for some months, though he refused to disclose what the problem was. When I pressurised him, he opened up that his father wanted him to become a staunch Muslim and behave like one because they are thinking of making him an Imam in

the nearest future. He added that he also complained about my dressing.

“My father wants me to be more serious with my religion. He thinks as a couple; we must worship in the same place and not differently. He also feels I am giving you too much freedom to do whatever you like, especially your dressing. He thinks as my wife you should be always covered to honour me as your head. He wants you to stop wearing all these mini, fitted clothes and shorts you put on every day,” he emphasised. I looked at him and asked, “Do you want the same thing for me?”

“No, but I think in some areas he is right but don’t worry, everything will be sorted out very soon,” he assured.

But as the pressure from his father mounted, his attitude towards me started changing. First, he ordered me to stop going to church and think of converting to Islam. This caused a big quarrel between us. Then he started complaining about my dressing, which initially was one of the reasons he got attracted to me. Also, whatever I did now irritated him. It was very hard for me to believe because that was not the promise he made to me and my family. With all these, I knew my marriage was at the verge of collapse.

Before I could say Jack Robbinson, he brought out all my shorts and skimpy clothes which I wear in and around the house and burnt them. He then bought different colours and designs of jalabiha and hijab and insisted that I should begin to properly cover up. I felt so used and disappointed.

I told him I had no problem wearing the jalabiha but I cannot use the hijab.

He did not only stop me from going to church, he seized my Bible and also refused to allow my church members to visit me. Thank God for Blackberry, I downloaded Bible which I read and studied once he leaves the home.

To show that he was serious about my conversion, he employed someone who would teach me the Qur’an and other things I needed to know about Islam. But I showed no interest and this made Bakare really angry. “I have done everything to convert you to a

RESPONSES

Re: ‘My sister wants me dead for marrying her heartthrob’ Dear Brenda, Thank God for exposing Edna on time or she would have succeeded in her evil mission. Let her rot away in detention. She is a black sheep. Be more prayerful.

Apeji Onesi, Lagos – 08060504740.

Please forgive your sister, even God forgives.

08031909865.

God knows everything about what happened but please forgive your sister.

Kenny Iyiola iyiolakenny@yahoo.com It is interesting that you still love and has forgiven your sister. This is a lesson to sisters, not to be envious, when your younger sister gets married before you. Envy is a demon and must be eliminated.

Patrick Adiasor, Surulere – 08033452087.

Muslim so that I will not take a second wife but your mind is made up. But whatever you see in this house, please don’t blame me,” he warned.

The worse was that he stopped sleeping in our bedroom and moved into one of the other rooms. To crown it all, he stopped eating my food and employed a cook to prepare his meals.

When I asked him why he brought in a cook without first discussing it with me, he told me he was tired of eating my food and wanted a change.

That day, I wept all through the night and regretted ever marrying Bakare.

“O God, I wish I had listened to my father,” I sobbed. It was then I understood the saying, ‘what an old man sees sitting, even if a child climbs the highest tree, he will not see it’. Bakare continued to treat me like nobody in my matrimonial home.

One evening, I knelt before him in tears and poured out my heart. “My love, this was not the life you promised me. Why are you doing the opposite of everything you promised? You are a man; please do not allow your family come in-between us. The truth is that I cannot convert to a Muslim,” I said.

“I am seriously thinking of becoming an Imam in the nearest future; if you truly love me as you claim, you must

convert and make me happy because I would need a woman who shares the same beliefs with me,” he demanded.

“But I warn you, don’t think of filing for divorce because I will not grant it to you,” he added.

Their final decision is that it is either I convert to a Muslim and be happy in my husband’s home or he would take a second wife, while I will be relegated to the background. Also, I have been threatened that my son, Habeeb, would be taken away from me to be raised by my mother-in-law or even Bakare’s second wife. However, all these will depend on my decision.

When I told my parents about it over the telephone, my father specifically told me I was warned so I should carry my cross. I cannot bear to see my husband with another woman because it will kill me. This was not how I planned to live my life but the pressure keeps mounting every day. If I convert to a Muslim, will I be happy for the rest of my life? It wasn’t as if I was desperate for a husband at the age of 27 when I married Bakare. What do I do?

Please send your advice to the phone number or e-mail address above. No calls, please.

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Praise & Worship

Sunday June 16, 2013

41

Keep the best for the last Family FORA wit Pastor N. C with

Amaefula

E-mail: familyfora@yahoo.com Phone:08060315052,

“T

wo days later Jesus’ mother was a guest at a wedding in the village of Canna in Galilee, and Jesus and his disciples were invited too. The wine supply ran out during the festivities, and Jesus mother came to him with the problem…

When the master of ceremonies tasted the water that was now wine, not knowing where it had come from (though, of course, the servants did), he called the bridegroom over.

“This is wonderful stuff !” he said. “You’re different from most. Usually a host uses the best wine first, and afterwards, when everyone is full and doesn’t care, then he brings out the less expensive brands. But you have kept the best for the last!” John 2:1-10 The importance of life issues are rated according to its value and worth. The marriage institution is one of those issues that are held in high esteem judging from the credence and priority Jesus gave to it during his earthly ministry. The beginning of a thing is to me as important as the ending. The reason is that there will be no ending without a beginning. And the beginning of a thing guarantees the possibility of an ending. Jesus began his ministry by accepting an invitation to a wedding ceremony. This authenticates his approval of the institution.

The story of this marriage event is typical of every marriage here on earth and as such we will look at it critically to find out what lessons we can draw from it. The first thing we need to understand from this portion of the scripture is that a wedding bell rang, the invitees gathered for the feast but alas they ran out of supply. Wedding events which initiates marriage is never done without preparation.

Every bridegroom prepares for the event according to his capacity which in turn determines the number of guests for the feast. The success of such events is more often than not determined by the organization and ability of the groom to satisfy his guests. Therefore, nothing would have been more embarrassing than telling the bridegroom in the midst of his guests that his supply has finished.

However, suffice it to say that every marriage runs out of supply from time to time.

This notwithstanding, it is not the shortage of supply that determines continuity of such relationship. Rather, it is the attitude of the partners and those who they have involved in their marriage that decides the way they face. Some develop the right attitude by involving the right persons for the right results while others damn their attitude and part ways, thereby including themselves in the statistics of failed marriages. Yours by virtue of the knowledge from this piece will never be included in the wrong census.

You must know that one of the strategies of the enemy in this end times is to finish the families. Hence he causes many homes to run out of their supply and instead of patiently waiting for the renewal of their supply from the right source, they quickly call it quits. This indeed is a perpetual embarrassment to them and their guests. (Witnesses to their marriage vows and ceremony) However, I assure you under God, that the devil cannot finish you because God has not finished with you.

Furthermore, there are principles that ensure the prompt refill of your supply in times of shortage. This will indeed guarantee the blissfulness of your marriage union thereby sustaining the best for the last.

Firstly, is invitation of the right guests?

The quality and value of those you allow into your home and marriage determines the level at which you will keep the best for the last.

Jesus, his disciples and Mary the mother of Jesus were carefully chosen by the bridegroom and they were properly invited. And

you could see from the story that the presence of Jesus in their marriage waved an embarrassment from them. Also, Mary with the disciples played a helpful role as right counselor and personnel that sustained the feast. The question you must sincerely answer is who is the guest in your marriage union? What role do they play to make your relationship work?

Jesus provided the best wine when their own finished. What a reliable friend in a time like this? You too can depend on him when there is shortage of love, submission, care, forgiveness etc in your marriage. His divine presence can refill your relationship and keep the best in you to the last.

Secondly, is on time booking/alert to the right source. Knowledge is power so you must book and alert the right source as at when required. The bridegroom was unaware of the embarrassment facing him but he had people like Mary who were capable of reading the red alert and taking the right action to the right direction.

When you are confronted with issues that need prompt attention, or adjustment in your life and marriage, how do you react? More often than not we receive alerts before any shortage of supply in our marriage. However, some of us turn deaf ears to them until the centre can no longer hold. Mary eschewed familiarity with Jesus and alerted him on time. She paid for the booking by her faith. This made her to instruct his disciples in lieu of time.

Always take steps that will stabilize your feet in times of shortage supply. Make sure you respond to the areas that need attention. It could be in your character, or your spouse may need a little out of your time. Please sacrifice it. Do anything good to sustain your wine since there is assurance of giving you the best for the last with Jesus in your marriage.

Thirdly, provide empty pots for your refill in times of shortage. The provision of empty pots made it possible for a quick refill. Therefore you must be open to knowledge from God’s word and experienced God fearing people who are good examples in marriage.

This ensures your refill in times of shortage. If you are saturated and satisfied with yourself and your knowledge, how will you experience the miraculous provision of God in your times of shortage in supply?

Fourthly, be willing to act without doubt and be ready to go the extra mile. Your willingness to follow Godly counsel according to God’s word without doubt is a step to avoidance of embarrassment when you run short of supply. When you are ready for the extra mile, unnecessary querying, reasoning and comparison of thoughts and actions are avoided. Your watch word should be to salvage your marriage and nothing else should be paramount than this. The disciples did not only fill the pots with water, they filled it to the brim. When you are saturated with the reality of God’s word in your marriage, you are not permitted to run dry.

Finally, you must present your faith for the now miracle. Jesus asked his disciples to draw from the pot of water and give to the master of ceremonies. They knew that it was wine that was needed and not the water they were commanded to draw. They would have as well reasoned thus: we filled the pot with water, the occasion needs wine, and Jesus asked us to draw from the pot. Which is which? Are we drawing water or wine?

Yet their simple obedience gave birth to this wonderful miracle of the best for the last.

Beloved, you must accept by faith that your spouse is God’s provision and will not mar in your hands.

In the journey of faith with Christ, there is no room for logical reasoning. For the flesh cannot comprehend the things of the spirit.

Trust your marriage into the hands of Jesus Christ, you will never be wrecked and you are sure of the best until your life is over. It is possible with Christ.

•For Counseling and Prayers: Email: nneomamaefula@yahoo.com or call +2348060315052, +2348187464031, +2348052157173

Multi-aspects of marriage (I) Many believe that marriage contract involves man and wife. But get it right. Three people are actually involved - man, wife and God. “The hard truth is, if husband and wife do not have a sound relationship with God, nothing about them, including their marriage, will be sound, says Reverend Chukwudebelu Izuchukwu, minister in charge of Assemblies of God Church, FESTAC (ii), Lagos. Excerpts

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arriage is an emotional fusion of two distinct personalities having different attitudes, reasoning, lifestyle, background, disciplines, ideas, views and opinions which are expected to be in accord known as holy matrimony. Marriage is a covenant between a man and woman (not boy and girl), that requires responsibility on both sides. A proper understanding of marriage goes a long way in its stabilization. Marital crises and woes as evidenced in the global community are consequences of lack of understanding of what marriage entails.

No fault divorce, polygamy, infidelity and other marital vices are no longer Western problem; they are with us here. The Media and Nollywood industries have not spared gospel ministers who were caught in this web.

Marriage has multi-aspects and the good exploration of them will do good to the intending and those already in marriage. Everything about marriage according to God, the author is good. Any aspect that is not good is human fault. As I show you diverse aspects of marriage through this article, without mincing words your marital healing cum stability are embedded therein.

Marriage is spiritual: God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth. John 4:24.

Man is a tripartite being made up of spirit, soul and body. Among the three, the spirit takes the lead while others follow. God who instituted marriage is Spirit and the scriptures enjoined us to worship Him in Spirit and truth. For a godly marriage to succeed in this techno-political age it has to be spiritually founded. The vices that are subduing marriage today such as divorce, same sex marriage, legalization of abortion, lesbianism and homosexuality, infidelity, polygamy and polyandry are clear indicators that a spiritual angle of marriage has been grossly eroded.

Beloved, the hard truth is that when one does not have a sound relationship with God nothing about him including his marriage will be sound. In every marriage union, contrary to conventional opinion; three instead of two persons are involved – God, husband and wife. It is like a triangle or inverted pyramid. God is at the apex of the vertical line while husband and wife are at both ends of the horizontal line. Except the husband and wife relationship with the vertical where God is positioned, is solid and balanced all marriage success laws, ideas, rules, tips, principles and strategies will be mere exercise in futility. In line with John 15:5, without Him, you can do nothing.

Every effort by husband and wife without the solidity of their personal relation-

ship with God the Father of all Spirits, shall amount to waste. So, in the school of marriage, the horizontal where the husband and wife are is at the mercy of the vertical where God is. To build and develop a strong and balanced relationship with God, His word is the pacesetter. Spiritual relationship is enhanced through the constant taking in of God’s words in all areas particularly in marriage.

The foundation of marriage was founded on the spoken word and it will take same word to sustain it. There is nothing about marriage which is not in God’s word.

To further draw from God’s word the individual husband or wife who intends to build a marriage on spiritual platform should make quality use of literatures by marriage counsellors, attend marriage seminars, take part in pre and post marriage courses. Much as we appreciate tradition and customs, they should not be given room to gain prominence over the word of God. In African system, tradition and customs are highly revered at the detriment of God’s word. Look out around you and observe individuals who gave room to tradition and customs above the word of God, you will see that are of all married persons most miserable.

Marriage is cultural: And there came a voice to him, Rise, Peter; kill, and eat. But Peter said, Not so, Lord; for I have never eaten anything that is common or

Rev Izuchukwu

unclean. Acts 10:13-14.

Peter though heard the voice of the Holy Spirit, refused eating a four-footed beast as shown him in his trance consequent upon the culture of his people. Everyone came from a cultural background and it influences several things including marriage.

Hess (1998) sees culture as a map of living of a group whose member share a territory and language, feel responsible for one another and recognise their shared identity.

The things that make up culture are therefore created by man. Culture means a set of idea, belief and ways of behaviour of a particular group of people. It could also be said to be a societal way of making a living which include language, belief, religion, family, politics and ways of sharing leisure time.

•Presiding Minister, Assemblies of God FESTAC 2, Plot 268A&B, 4th Avenue, FESTAC Town, Lagos. izuchukwudebelu@yahoo.com +2348028390885, +2348056027044, +234704414424.

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Praise & Worship

Sunday June 16, 2013

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Pastor Muoka

Line-up of instant testifiers during the crusade

...And yokes broke at Lord’s Chosen crusade RICHARD EGHAGHE

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he last crusade of The Lord’s Chosen Charismatic Revival Ministries held at the expansive revival ground of the ministry at Ijesha, Lagos penultimate week titled, “That yoke must break,” lived up to expectation of the people as all manner of yokes were broken, and those in bondage of one affliction and the other were delivered.

The General Overseer of The Lord’s Chosen, Pastor Lazarus Muoka who ministered live at the crusade promised that every participant would experience the power of God in a dimension that had never been experienced and true to his words, yokes were broken. The afflicted were delivered and sorrow was turned to joy. At the impartation of the word of God, challenges of humanity, including physical, spiritual, financial and academic challenges were eliminated.

The theme of the crusade which was derived from the Book of Isaiah 10:27 says, “And it shall come to pass in that day, that his burden shall be taken away from off thy shoulder, and his yoke from off thy neck, and the yoke shall be destroyed because of the anointing.” Pastor Muoka asserted that according to the word of God no problem would escape the anointing of God in the crusade.

He said so many people are going through terrible situations in life and have come to a point that others are asking them ‘where is their God?’ They have done so many things humanly possible to be freed from such ugly situations without success; instead of solution, the problems are getting worse and multiplying.

He said, “It is also possible that your womb may have been cut off or blocked by fibroid or other things and many have told you that you will never be able to conceive let alone have babies. I want you to understand that God is here to intervene and that yoke must break.

Also, you may have been doing well in life before but somewhere in the witchcraft coven they have locked you up and are making caricature of you, I tell you that your freedom has come and you are coming out and will begin to do well again in life.

The man of God confidently announced to the participants that their day of deliverance has come, even as they were hearing him and the God who saw others through their ugly experience in life shall see them through also

in Jesus’ name. As he was still preaching, people started jumping for joy as deliverances came their way.

Among those that received the touch of God was Bro Marcus, a 38-year-old man who received salvation as the yoke of sin was broken in his life. Prior to that, he was an ardent smoker and drunkard right from his teens. According to him, the journey into this chronic sinful act started when he was taken to a native doctor after he took ill and the native doctor gave him a concoction which he drank. But immediately he drank the portion, the urge to smoke and drink alcohol came upon him and that turned him into a chain smoker and a drunkard. All efforts made to resist that urge were in vain and for more than 20 years he was under the bondage of influence of alcohol and cigarette smoking until he came for the crusade and the yokes were broken.

He said that before the pastor started deliverance prayer on the first day of the crusade while sitting in the auditorium, the urge to smoke came on him heavily and at a point when he couldn’t resist it any longer, he made up his mind to go out of the church to get himself satisfied; but not quite long, the pastor came to the pulpit and made a declaration of freedom to all those living under the bondage of sin and affliction, and immediately the urge ceased. And he automatically developed hatred for alcohol and smoking.

In the case of Solomon Ajani who was assisted to come to the crusade ground by his son, he had one side of his body paralysed since five years ago as a result of stroke. He has gone to many specialists’ hospitals for solution to no avail, even numerous prayer houses have tried to offer prayers on his behalf when his case defied medical solution but they ended up receiving no answer to their prayers. Thus, he was left without hope but when he heard about the crusade and its theme –THAT YOKE MUST BREAK- he concluded that he must attend the crusade since his sickness has became a sort of yoke, perhaps God will intervene in his situation.

His faith and decision became the centripetal force on which his blessing came. As the Pastor was ministering deliverance to all the participants and commanding yokes to break, Bro Ajani said he felt a cool breeze blew over his system and before he knew it, strength came over him and all the painful symptoms of pain disappeared, lo and behold he saw himself lifting up his clutches walking freely

toward the pulpit without any assistance and praising God. He said it was like a dream to him as he never expected sudden deliverance after been attended to by all known medical experts in his state for five years without result.

The yoke of poverty was also instantly broken in the life bro Osita Okeke as he received on his phone a bank credit alert of N8 million being payment for contract executed since 8yrs ago of which the company was owning him.

Bro. Okeke was extraordinarily happy when the alert came. He said an Oil Company that awarded contract to him in 2002 gave him mobilisation fee of N4 million, remaining the balance of about N 8milion. According to him, he approached a bank for a loan to enable him complete the project, although the bank obliged but latter changed mind and gave him only 30% of the money required and this made him to source the balance from friends and relations. And when all the money he borrowed could not still complete the project, he resorted to selling almost all the properties he acquired in life to complete the project.

But on completion of the contract and while awaiting for the firm to pay him, the youth from the host community disrupted all the activities of the oil company, and as a result the company suspended all payment to contractors. That development was a big financial blow that devastated Bro Okeke who at that point said he instantly became bankrupt.

“Not quite long after that, my creditors started harassing me and some took me to court laying claim to anything they knew that belong to me and court granted their application and all my properties were confiscated and auctioned, thus, stripping me naked financially,” Bro Okeke narrated. He said his journey into poverty began earnestly from that time and he was almost in a state of despondency as he could no longer provide for his family talk-less of paying school fees. His situation became so bad that he started consulting sorcerers but no solution came his way.

When he became fed up with sorcerers’ deceit, he resorted to prayer houses; still all were in vain until someone invited him to the crusade. Initially, he was very reluctant to honour the invitation but not until he was convinced that it was not going to be the same experience he had in the other programs he attended which had hitherto discouraged him from honouring further crusade invitation.

On the first day of the crusade, bro Osita only prayer was that God should touch the heart of the management of the oil company

to pay him. Same prayer was made repeatedly on the second day and before you knew it the yoke was broken. According to him, during the ministration, Pastor Muoka prophetically mentioned his case and declared that the yoke has broken in the life of the man who was owed a lot of money by an oil company. Bro Okeke said, he knew the prophecy was for him and he claimed it, behold, instantly his phone vibrated, but he thought it was his daughter that accompanied him to the crusade that may be needing attention. When he brought out the phone, lo and behold it was a credit alert and looking closer to the text message he discovered it was from the oil company, then he screamed and joyfully ran out for testimony.

Many others including the paralyses, lame, deaf and dumb, etc received the deliverances.

Among the dignitaries that graced the programme was the President of the Republic of Ghana who was represented by that country’s Consulate General in Lagos. His Excellency, Abdulai Amadu Abukari.

Addressing the congregation, the Consulate said that his presence in the crusade was of great importance and spoke volume of the religious tolerance existing in Ghana. “I am a Muslim but today standing in the midst of Christ people, the Chosen people. This shows there is a lot of peaceful co-existence between Christians and Muslims and other religions in Ghana. That is why I said my presence is a great significant” Diplomat Abukari stated that the first time he came in contact with the ministry was when they applied for consular assistance as they were preparing to hold a crusade in Ghana early this year. “And when they came and told me of the number of buses going to Ghana, I was amazed because I could not imagine that such a large congregation would be going to Ghana for a crusade.

But at the end, I gave them consulate consent and the crusade became a huge success as it brought soul awakening and life transformation to the people of Ghana. You were able to win souls for Christ as well as heal the afflicted, particularly, I was told there was a lady who was afflicted with insanity for the past 15 years and very known. When she was brought to your church, she had her healing.

Let me say that we in the consulate general of Ghana in Lagos are very grateful to you. This is the beginning of the relationship we have with you, may God bless you. Continue to do your good job and may the Lord bless all of us,” Abukari affirmed.

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Praise & Worship

Sunday June 16, 2013

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Embrace positive transformation, says Pastor Oloruntimilehin

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he world exists within two opposing forces, the good and the bad. People are either born alive or dead and they are born either good or bad. Everything is two, a good luck person and a bad luck person, a male and female. People can be transformed to goodness or to destruction. I pray that people’s life will not be destroyed in the name of Jesus.

The transformation of a 2poor person is good and desirable. A person is responsible for the transformation of his or her life for better. If one decides to become better in the society, then he or she should be serious with his or her studies and acquire university education. If the person is unable to get the necessary sponsorship, then such a one should be ready to learn a trade or profession.

If the person does not get a guarantor for the learning of the trade, then the person must be ready to do menial jobs and ensures he or she becomes great. In all these, the person would have touched his or her life positively and become great if God has mercy and show the person favour. It is not only education or learning of trade that can make people great in life.

People can become great if they are ready and determine to succeed. God’s mercy is always available to make people great.

People can become great by transforming their lives in a manner that portrays greatness. What is required is to make up your mind, then try to associate with people that have the trait of greatness, behave like a great person, ready to work hard without stealing or being dubious.

Some people desire to succeed in life but they do not behave like great persons.

They do not struggle and work hard or learn a trade; all they do is to be hopeful that God would do it for them. In fact some people are working and the work is not yielding and good result. The thought of moving forward would not come to their mind they are stagnant in that position.

These people do not want success and

Founder of Omnipotence Mission of God, Ipaja, Lagos, Pastor Joshua Daramola Oloruntimilehin, emphasises that individuals are indeed responsible for whatever state they find themselves in life. Excerpts: greatness because they failed to take the steps that would make them great. For instance a graduate that has written many applications to various organisations need not to wait only for responses from the organizations but should approach his or her uncles, friends to assist in getting a job for him or her. It is some time necessary for the person to make personal contacts with the organization or companies because waiting for responses might not work out. So such a person had made the move to succeed in life.

Some people would put their hopes on their children to provide for them. Later their hopes are dashed because the children might have turned against their father or mother by the principalities of the world or the mother, father, husband or wife.

A woman in my home town asked me to prevail on her son, whom she struggle so hard until he obtained a university degree, to have a change of mind toward her. Her son had turned against her some years back; he did not want to relate with his mother again. When he visited home recently, I told the young man to see me.

Unknown to the woman, the boy had bought a car, he came to me in his car and I invited the mother.

Immediately the boy saw his mother, he said he did not want to see her. The poor woman knelt down and begged him to mention what she had done wrong to warrant the hatred. He blatantly refused to say anything. Frowning at his action, I asked him to mention what she did to him.

He told me that his mother prevented him from securing a job in Abuja. I burst into laughter and told him that his mother is not a witch. If she is a witch I would have

Oloruntimilehin

told him. Later I was able to convince him that it was the wicked people that turned him against his mum. He started crying and the relationship was restored.

Few days ago, the woman called and informed me that her son gave her N25000 and bought her a mobile phone. Imagine the transformation that occurred within some hours. It is my fervent prayer that wicked people would not turn your children against you in the name of Jesus. I implore sons and daughters to disallow their wives or husbands to turn them against their parents. Children, take care of your parents very well so that your life

can be better. The reward that was for the boy’s mother was being enjoyed by another person.

The story of Samson in the Bible is an example of transformation caused by selfinfliction. Samson was born a special child.

The book of Judges 13 verse 3 – 5 says “… because you will conceive and give birth to a son. No razor may be used on his head, because the boy is to be a Nazirite…” As Samson was growing, he met an alien woman. It was the relationship with the woman that led to his destruction because he disobeyed the instruction not to marry an alien woman.

Brethren, there are many alien things that whenever they cast a spell on people, bad transformation would set in. These alien things could be money, woman, man, child and other things that cause calamity and disaster to people’s life. Similarly an exhead of police force was transformed from grace to grass. He was dishonoured, disrespected and disgraced by his self-inflicted transformation because he was not careful.

In the same vein, an ex-President was condemned to death by a military junta and was about to be executed when overnight, God saved him and transformed him to rule over the country for eight years. God had been kind to children born out of sorrow. He always made them great. Imagine, Esther who was an orphan got favour from God and became great by becoming the king’s wife. Esther 2 verse 3 – 5 states, “…because she had neither father nor mother…” verse 15 – 18 “…Now the king was attracted to Esther more than to any of the other women, and she won his favour and approval more than any of the other virgins, so he set a royal crown on her head and made her queen instead of Vashti…” God transformed two women, one to disgrace and destruction, the other to greatness and glorious life. May God Almighty transform everybody to goodness and the principalities of the world should not transform us to destruction in the name of Jesus. Amen.

‘Christian pilgrimage fares may drop this year’ Executive Secretary, Kogi Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board, Mr Samuel Egwuda, has said fare to Jerusalem may drop this year as Federal Government enters a bilateral air travels pact with Israel.

Egwuda told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lokoja at the weekend that President Goodluck Jonathan was in the process of signing the pact with Israeli.

He noted that presently, no Nigerian plane was allowed to fly pilgrims directly to the Holy land and stressed that the pact would reverse the situation.

He said the board had arranged pilgrimage to Israel into three stages per year, adding that Kogi State Board had keyed into the programme.

The phases, according to him, are February-March (Easter Pilgrimage); July-August edition (Family Pilgrimage); and October-December Christmas slot.

He said that though Kogi did not participate in the Easter edition this year, over 3,000 Nigerian pilgrims performed the religious rite.

Egwuda urged religious bodies and pilgrims to regard pilgrimage as a personal religious obligation aimed at spiritual rejuvenation and not wholly responsibility of government.

He described government intervention as a social responsibility and called for synergy to make it worthwhile and said that government alone could not sponsor every one to the holy land.

The Executive Secretary said for ease of payment, intending pilgrims could pay the fare in instalments but should only ensure that payments were completed before date of departure to the holy land.

He added that different fares were being charged for Jerusalem; Jerusalem/Italy and Jerusalem/Greece pilgrims.

He said pilgrims for the July 7 to August 31 (family pilgrimage) would pay N77O, 147.20 per couple.

He assured that although each pilgrim paid N422, 000 for the last October-December pilgrimage, the fare would be reduced this year after the bilateral pact with Israel.

Ekiti State Deputy Governor, Prof. Modupe Adelabu, and Osun State Deputy Governor, Mrs. Titi Laoye-Tomori, during a church service at the Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries in Lagos, recently.

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Praise & Worship Desti Destiny Hour with Pastor Femi

Lanre-Oke

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decree exemption from evil this week for you in Jesus name. Where others are saying there is a cast down you will testify of a lifting in Jesus name. Where evil visits everyone around, your lineage will be preserved in Jesus name.

We have discussed by the Spirit of God over the last three weeks the mystery of the blood that puts a re-generated man on top of the miseries of life. We have talked about the fall of man, God’s solution to man’s inability to save himself and last week we discussed the ability of the blood of Jesus to speak good things into our lives and also exempt us from all evil.

This week, we shall discuss heaven’s given ways of keying into the mystery of the blood of Jesus. You are blessed in Jesus name. Amen

How do you key into the covenant in the blood of Jesus

•Salvation Graphically, salvation is snatching a helpless and a powerless person from the point of destruction. Man was doomed to die a spiritual death, followed by a physical death and a final everlasting destruction of the soul but the blood of Jesus came to redeem the three phases of life from destruction.

The bible says with the heart man believes and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation Romans 10:10, therefore believe in your heart that Jesus shed His blood of “you” (it is a personal thing) and confess with your mouth “Jesus shed His blood on the cross for me, I am washed from sin, death and destruction by the blood of Jesus, the new life of Jesus is infused in me today and I am saved in Jesus name” Amen

Sunday June 16, 2013

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The mystery of blood covenant (4) •The communion Luke 22:19 – 20 and he took bread, and gave thanks, and brake [it], and gave unto them, saying, this is my body which is given for you: this do in remembrance of me.

Likewise also the cup after supper, saying, and this cup [is] the new testament in my blood, which is shed for you.

The communion infuses us physically and spiritually with the life of Jesus. It connects us to the Zoe life which is the life of God in Jesus Christ. This empowers us for supernatural living. When you take the communion continually your spirit man grows, your soul is renewed and your body is empowered for health and strength. It cuts us off from all ancestral links Scripturally we have been commanded to take the communion because it reminds us of Jesus and His coming.

Secondly, when fasting, persons complain of feel weaknesses in their body or suddenly feeling a sort of de-motivation in their soul hence, they are unable to continue. Understand this today that before you start a fast and all throughout the fast it is imperative to take communion for physical and inner. The life of Jesus we speak of is infused in us by the Holy Spirit therefore, when you take the communion the infilling of the Holy Spirit is multiplied upon your life. So the question is, how much of the in-filling of the Holy Spirit do you want? This will dictate how often you take the communion. How often do you want your mind renewed in the image of Christ?

This will tell to how often you should take the communion.

How do you do the communion, the Bible told us Jesus sanctified bread and drink and it became His blood and flesh.

Meaning as children of God we can sanctify same in the name of Jesus and believe it represents the blood and flesh of Christ.

Therefore go ahead and do this for you and your family. Make it continuous thing in your house every day. It will boost your spirit, bodily and soul’s health.

•The continuous pleading and sprinkling The blood Hebrews 12:22 - 24 But ye are come unto mount Zion, and unto the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to an innumerable company of angels, to the general assembly and church of the firstborn, which are written in heaven, and to God the Judge of all, and to the spirits of just men made perfect, and to Jesus the mediator of the new covenant, and to the blood of sprinkling, that speaketh better things than [that of] Abel.

We must carry the consciousness of blood flowing every time you enter into the presence of God because it will go a long way in ensuring that you plead it over your life. Realize since Jesus died and rose again, His blood has been flowing and it has not reduced in the strength of the flow or in the power, the same order of miracles and blessings enjoyed and experienced by the fore runners of the faith and other anointed fathers we read about such as Smith Wigglesworth, Kenneth E. Hagin and many more can still be experienced in the presence of God today. The type of revivals experienced all over the world as we have read them can still be experienced because the blood that speaks healing, revival, deliverance, hope and so much more is still flowing in Zion, still flowing in the presence of God. Therefore, don’t go into God’s presence whether in Church or in your personal place of prayer anyhow, while the worship is going on, or the praise or announcement or testimonies or ministration, the blood is flowing and a consciousness of this can give you blessings, miracles, deliverance at any time. The blood flows and it speaks good things. Be sensitive in God’s presence, the Holy Spirit can just minister to your heart to pray about a particular issue, please go ahead because the blood of Jesus is available.

The sprinkled blood of Jesus creates a boundary which the enemy cannot cross, sprinkle the blood on your children on

your home, your place of work, business and everything connected to you. Speak no more loss in Jesus name. The same way you have sanctified drink for communion, put same in a bowl and sanctify it as the blood of sprinkling then sprinkle over everything and everyone that is associated with you.

The level of victory a child of God will experience in life will be determined by the mastery gained over the mysteries of life. The blood of Jesus is a covenant that speaks as long as you are a child of God and all you have to do is understand its efficacy and continually key into it, hide under it and be renewed by it. Don’t let the devil and his cohorts make you fret again, chase him out of your family, your life, your business, career and every aspect of your God given life. Let the blood speak for you and it shall be well with you in Jesus name. Amen Having said all these, the blood of Jesus can ONLY work for a child of God. if you have not given your life to Jesus, the process is simple: •Believe in your heart that you are a sinner and cannot save yourself.

•Believe in your heart that Jesus died on the cross of Calvary paying the price for your sins and rose from the dead the third day to establish your victory •Confess with your mouth that Jesus is lord and saviour.

•Repent of all sins before the Lord and forsake them.

•Welcome into God’s family.

Please locate a bible believing church and share you new birth experience with the church leaders.

For further prayer & counseling Pls contact: Pastor Femi Lanre-Oke Jesus Praise Evangelical Ministries International, Ibadan, Oyo state 2348030752799, 2348053695097 Email: femi_lanre01@yahoo.co.uk

The power in the blood of Jesus Shepherd Life with Bishop Kingsley

Enakirerhi The generality of believers today mention the blood of Jesus without really knowing the efficacy of the blood of Jesus.

To them, it has become religiously fashionable to shout ‘blood of Jesus!’ under certain conditions. Today, I want to expand to us the Power that the blood of Jesus makes available to believers.

The spiritual implication of the use of blood dates back to the Garden of Eden when the first man sinned. The scripture records that man saw his nakedness and decided to sew figs leaves to cover his nakedness. But because nothing can really cover or make atonement for sin, God had to kill an animal and used the skin of the animal to cover the nakedness of man. It must be stated clearly that the killing of the animal is not just for the physical covering of man, but because God was only fulfilling a spiritual truth which says that without the shedding of blood there is no remission of sin.

This was the reason why in the Old Testament, whenever anyone sins and needs to make atonement, an animal must be slain and the blood sprinkled before the

altar. In Leviticus, chapter 4 and 5 we see how God instructed the Israelites to shed the blood of animal whenever anyone is making atonement for sin. Hebrews 9:2022 makes it clearer when it states “... this is the blood of the testament which God hath enjoined unto you. Moreover he sprinkled with blood both the tabernacle, and all the vessels of the ministry. And almost all things are by the law purged with blood, and without shedding of blood is no remission”.

However, we understand from the scripture that the blood of bulls and goats could not take away the sins of the people. Hebrews 10:4 says “for it is not possible that the blood of bulls and of goats should take away sins”. It was because of this imperfection that necessitated the shedding of Christ blood.

From the above discussion, it is very clear that the blood of Jesus not only cleanses sin, but it takes away sin so that God no more remember the sins. What the blood of bulls and goats could not do for us, the blood of Jesus has done for us.

It not only cleanses us from sin, but also takes away the guilt of sin thus leaving us with a pure conscience.

Another thing that the blood of Jesus does is its redemptive power. In 1Corinthans 6: 20 we are told “for ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s”. Before now we (believers) were in bondage. The first man sold mankind

to the devil and he was doing with us as he pleases. But when Christ died on the cross He redeemed us by purchasing us back from the devil. By this redemption, we have been delivered from every form of satanic captivity.

Colossians 1:13-14 says “who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear son: in whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins”.

This is the reason why we can boldly declare to the devil that we belong to God and he should let go of whatever belongs to us as we are no more under his control. We have been redeemed through the blood of Jesus. We are now God’s property and so we are expected to enjoy His protection and care. What a privilege.

Another thing that the blood of Jesus does is that it is a defence to us. Just as the Lord used the blood of the Passover lamb to protect the Israelites when He smote the first born of the Egyptians, the same way the blood of Jesus who is our Passover Lamb preserves and protect all those who apply it for protection. Whenever, you are faced with danger, plead the blood of Jesus as a protective covering and you will be shielded against every attack of the evil one. An occultic man who repented was narrating how they were on a mission to attack a man of God preaching in a crusade. According to him, as they approached the man of

God, they discovered he was enveloped in a pool of blood and they couldn’t come near him. This is one of the greatest defenses that a believer has against the attack of the enemy.

Also when you sense disaster coming towards you, you can plead the blood of Jesus and that evil will pass by without getting to you.

Another way we can enjoy the power in the blood of Jesus is when we partake in the Holy Communion. The Holy Communion also known as the Lord’s Supper was instituted by Christ in Matthew 26:26-29.

Many think that the Holy Communion is just a meal. But I want to let you know that it is not just a meal hence those who abused it in the Corinthians church experienced some judgments. In fact in 1 Corinthians 11:30 Paul said “for this cause many are weak and sickly among you, and many sleep”. Just as the Holy Communion has the power to kill those that partake of it unworthily, it also has powers to give healing and life to those who partake in it with knowledge. There are many testimonies of those who have been healed when they partook of the Holy Communion. I encourage you to partake in the Holy Communion regularly and you will enjoy divine health.

The blood of Jesus can only work for you if you apply it with faith. Remember, without faith, we cannot enjoy the benefits of God’s kingdom.

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Praise & Worship 45

Sunday June 16, 2013

Understanding the master key to exploits! (3) T The Voice o of wisdom

with Dr. David

Oyedepo E-mail: bishop@davidoyedepoministries.org Phone: 7747546-8

W

elcome to your regular column.

Last week, we studied the Pathways To Revelation and How to Engage Spiritual Understanding for Exploits.

This week, in continuation of our series, we shall be considering, Exploring the Pathways to a World of Exploits.

A discovery of your picture from the mirror of the Word is the key to actualizing your glorious destiny. You must find who you are from scriptures, and use that discovery to react to anything contrary to the will of God in your life; and then you can secure your glorious destiny in Christ. So, being able to discover your picture from the scriptures is what establishes your glorious future.

Pathways To Light:

•Commit To The Study Of The Word You can’t find what you don’t seek.

Ask and it will be given to you; seek and

you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you (Matthew 7:7).Commit to the study of the Word with a determination to find light. It is committed study that makes Christianity profitable. Study until you find the light; and after you have found it, receive wisdom to apply appropriately, your findings; doing that will get you out of shame and reproach.

er what is out of place.

•Engage The Blood Because there is a war against your access to the Word, you must engage the Bloodof Jesus in battle against the blindfolding forces of hell.Satan is particularly involved in blocking our access to light.The only weapon that subdues him, supernaturally, is the Blood (Revelation 12:11).

•Engage In Target Study

• The Force Of The Communion

There might be a particular issue you are struggling with,engage in target study to find light for that situation.

Maybe it is the negative company you keep that is the cause. You can’t prosper in the wrong company (Psalm 1:1-3).

How to Engage in Target Study

• Study with a determination to find what is out of place:do this in order to discover how to put things back in place and to generate the change you desire.

There must be a thirst; you need some good degree of desperation to access revelation (Isaiah 55:1).

•Search for materials that will enhance your study: Go on a search for materials that will enhance your access to the light required in that area. So, look for those materials and you will discov-

When embarking on a spiritual research to deal with any issue in your life, engage the Blood in battle, by literarily engaging the Communion prayerfully for the opening of your spiritual understanding (Luke 24:30-31).

• The Force Of Prayer Prayer is a non-negotiable force in your quest for light. Access to light begins with prayer. The secret things belong to God and He chooses what to reveal and reveals only on request (Deuteronomy 29:29). We must call on God to reveal to us, becauseuntil God reveals, we cannot access.So, prayer is a vital factor for accessing the light of the Word.

What Is The Proof That You Have Found It?

Rest:Rest, both internally and externally, is one of the proofs of true revelation. Revelation is the cure for anxiety, uncertainties and fears. We must labour in the Word to find light and when we find it, faith comes alive and that gives us rest (Philippians 4:7).

Friend, the power to engage the pathways to light, is the privilege of God’s children. You become a child of God as you confess your sins and accept Jesus as your Saviour and Lord. If you are set, please say this prayer: Lord Jesus, 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, for saving me! Now, I know I am born again! I willcontinue this teaching next week.

I invite you to come and fellowship with us at the Faith Tabernacle, Canaan Land, Ota, the covenant home of Winners. We have four services on Sundays, holding at 6.30 a.m., 8.30 a.m., 10.30 a.m. and 12.30 a.m. respectively.

•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

The character of Holy spirit,

by Pastor Olusore Pastor Israel Olusore of Livinglight International Church, Lekki, Lagos, urges Christians to seek Holy Ghost empowerment instead of seeking secret prophets from one place of worship to another.

Excerpts:

G

od is on the throne. But His spirit is everywhere. Before Jesus came in the flesh, God the father was custodian of the air. He was the one coming around. Then He sends His spirit to whoever, once in a while. He then said to the son, now let’s go and teach them how to actually live, how to relate with us, how to work with us.

He sent Jesus to go and be the example.

Jesus came down to earth in flesh and blood and showed the way. Like the scripture shows, he declared “I have come to fulfil the law and completed it. There is no more law. That was why when he died the veil of the temple split into two. Hear me; you don’t need any secrete Prophet. From now, I see your prayers being answered. I see your struggles coming to an end, in the name of Jesus Christ.

The Holy Spirit knows everything. He sees everything and the Holy Spirit has feelings just as we have feeling. He can be hurt. The Bible says in Ephesians 4: 30; “Don’t grieve the Holy Spirit;” because if you grieve Him, you hurt the one that preserves you. The Holy Spirit can take decision on His own. The same way Jesus says that if anyone sins, the son has the right to forgive sin. See Luke 5.

And when He was preaching in John 20: the Bible says “And He breathes on them and said, as the father sent me I have send you.” And from now anybody’s you forgive is forgiven. And anybody’s that you do not

forgive is not forgiven.” What an authority? Look at verse 22. “And when he had said it, he breathe on them and said receive you the Holy Ghost. By the spirit of God, anybody’s sin you forgive is forgiven.

Anybody’s sin you do not forgive is not forgiven.”

That is why with God, we beat anyone that is working in malice; because you can forgive by faith. Say to yourself I can forgive by faith. And the Holy Spirit has that ability in us. In this present dispensation, the Holy Spirit has a duty to empower us.

If you look at Acts 10:13, the Bible says how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with Holy Ghost and with power, who went about doing good, healing all those that were oppressed by the Devil and God was with Him.” And He said the same way the father sent me I have sent you. That is to say, the spirit that the father gave to me that helped me; receive now, because I don’t need right now. Me; I am leaving, but receive that spirit and begin to do things the way they ought to be done. Continue where I have stopped.

He went about doing good works. He was noted for good. So, He moved. And the Bible says He said to them in Acts 1:8, “And you will receive power after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you and you will be my witness.” That means you will give proof that I am alive. Two, you will give proof that I can do what you are saying, a demon-

Olusore

strator of the power of God and a regulator of the person of Jesus. And they took knowledge of them that they have been with Jesus.

From now holy boldness shall be said concerning you. When the sick come around you they shall be healed, in the name of Jesus. Now if the Holy Spirit has these attributes, the n it means that the Holy Spirit speaks. Acts 13:2 says, “And the spirit spake and said, separate for me Barnabas and Paul for the work that I have commissioned them to do. The Holy Spirit is our helper. That power takes our weakness and empowers us. Romans 8:26 states, “He takes our infirmity,” so that we can do good works. Somebody that is given to cursing can easily say ‘Oloshi’, ‘oloriburuku’ (curses). When he is filled with the Holy Ghost, the next time he wants to say ‘Oloshi’, ‘Oloribruku’, a cuff will just come in. Then he will start praying in tongues. Just like something choke you. How many of us have seen such a

thing? He is trying to help us. At the end of the day, the Holy Spirit will warn, “If you try that next time, I will make you dumb. That is who the Holy Spirit is.

He testifies about Jesus. He guides us into the truth. He says, Iwill instruct and teach you on the way you should go and I will guide you with my eyes-Psalm 32:8. In John 16:13 he says he will guide you into all truth. He will into how much truth? He doesn’t guide you in falsehood.

Look at John 16:13, “When the spirit of truth comes, He will guide you into all truth. For He shall not speak of Himself, but whatsoever ye shall hear, thou shall he speak for he shall show you things to come. Your destiny is at the mercy of your relationship with the Holy Spirit. He will show you things to come. That is why nothing happens by accident to a child of God. •For counseling contact email: info@livinglightng.com or phone 08028425555

46

Praise & Worship

Sunday June 16, 2013

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Creeping compromise People talk a lot about the power of positive thinking and correct beliefs. It is not so much the power of positive thinking but the power of positive living that the world needs today. Persons are to evidence a right relationship to God by the good things they do as well as by the bad that they do not do. Believers with the set of correct doctrines live their lives by a different set of worldly parameters. Many have thrown Christian standards about dressing, reading, music, social life, drinking, entertainment, amusement or general lifestyle to the winds. They label such standards as offending, judgmental, legalistic, holierthan-thou, pharisaic, fanatical, odd, singular, extremist, and improper. They allege that such border on salvation by works or a denial of justification by faith. They want Jesus to be their Savior but not their master. “I want Jesus but not His commands.”

Such creeping compromise!

Ellen White warned: “Satan will insinuate himself by little wedges, which widen as they make a place for themselves.” [Selected Messages, 2:21]. She continues: “the work of the enemy is not abrupt . . . it is a secret undermining of the strongholds of principle. It begins in apparently small things.” [Patriarchs and Prophets, 718].

The devil ensures that all the steps of compromise are very small and seemingly insignificant: “minute degree of digression.”

One of the devil’s tactics is the common argument: “Everyone else is doing it!” The Bible says: “Do not follow the crowd in doing wrong” (Exod 23:2). God does not carry out an opinion poll to determine right and wrong! The Bible is the standard, not culture or tradition or people

Holy Inquiry with Pastor Paul

Nkirukah E-mail: pstpaul11@yahoo.com

Dear servant of God, Please, may I know what on earth will make somebody to say that he is God? My friend used to say he could do what God can do. When I ask him whether he is God, He would answer me ‘yes.’ Man of God, can this be true? Can a human being be God? Ndubusi from Abuja.

Dear reader, Are you born again? Do you use to read or study your Bible very well? Because if you do, you will not be asking this type of question; this question is something you suppose to be able to answer by yourself.

However, with the help of the Holy Spirit, an understandable answer shall

or parents or pastor or Oprah or political correctness. Paul lamented about Demas who abandoned him to follow worldly popularity (2 Tim 4:10)! What a classic result of deadly compromise.

The devil has ensnared many with the hellish argument that “a little bit is all right!” The TV programs show only a little bit of violence, obscene scenes, and foul language. What we behold changes us, sometimes imperceptibly (See 2 Cor 3:18).

Thoughts are produced by what a person sees. Thoughts shape your character and destiny: “for as he thinks in his heart, so is he” (Prov 23:7). In this way, television, movies, and the internet can be detrimental to the Christian life. If we cannot set media time limits, discriminate on programming, and properly control our media use, it may be much better to dispense with them rather than let them run, rule, and ruin our lives!

The mind creates mental pictures and predisposes the body to act. Talking about lustful looking and adultery, Jesus taught that we are held accountable for what we permit our minds to dwell upon just as if we have already performed the act! (See Matt 5:27-28). “Through the vast nerve communication system, the brain sends the message for hands, feet or other physical organs to go into action” [Joe Crews, Creeping Compromise, p.87].

“Just a little alcohol wouldn’t hurt,” you retort. Yes, it will! “Wine is a mocker, and strong drink raging, whosoever is

deceived thereby is unwise” (Prov 20:1).

Your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Cor 6:19-20; 2 Cor 6:16). Do not drink, sip or use alcoholic beverages, tobacco, drugs, or narcotics. Do not keep it at home. No social binging. It’s not cool, it kills! “It is not for kings to drink wine, not for rulers to crave beer, lest they drink and forget what has been decreed, and deprive all the oppressed of their rights. Let beer be for those who are perishing, wine for those who are in anguish!” (Prov 31:4-6). The Bible pronounces “woe” on those who serve alcohol to their guests or neighbors according to Habakkuk 2:15.

Music is a universal language, cutting across boundaries of language, culture, and religion to affect more lives than almost any other social force. Good godly music inspires pure, noble, and elevated thoughts and enhances fine character.

On the other hand, debased worldly music “destroys the rhythm of the soul and breaks down morality.” Christ’s followers must shun music with suggestive lyrics (Rom 13:11-14; 1 Pet 2:11). Similarly, Christians cannot embrace all forms of literature. There are too many evil literatures containing wild adventure, moral laxness, witchcraft; resulting in distaste for noble, honest, and pure Christ-like lifestyle.

Music has conscious and subconscious power over our emotional responses, moods, and behavior. “Actual tests have proved that music has a direct influence on pulse rate, blood pressure, the nervous

Answer these questions and win a prize 1.

True or false? The name Joseph means “may He add.”

2.

Which Prophet said Solomon should be named Jedidiah?

3.

Which wicked man was buried at the Valley of Achor?

•Please, be informed that the first correct entry via text message wins the prize.

See next week’s column for answers to the quiz. Send your answers with your names to 08054238905. Gifts: courtesy Babcock University.

system, digestion, muscles, and glands of the body. . . The incessant themes of illicit sex, drugs, and rebellion have been dinned into the brain, creating an emotional attitude of acceptance toward these aberrations of conduct.” [Joe Crews, Creeping Compromise, pp. 105, 107]. Thus, Satan bypasses the mental and spiritual barricades of intelligent reason to directly control the mind, translating the sensual musical impressions into physical actions!

Worse still, many of the popular worldly musicians have confessed their addiction to drugs, spiritism, and devil worship! Yet Christian youths consume their garbage and hero-worship them!

He who controls the music controls our future! Christians must NOW abandon all degrading music forms for they are Satan’s tools of corrupting and destroying. “For that which is highly esteemed among men is abomination in the sight of God” (Luke 16:15).

I challenge you to be faithful in little things. Stop cutting corners at your job and with your taxes. Do not master the art of deceiving the government, and cheating your employees in the name of capitalism. Abandoned projects litter the Nigerian landscape! Beware of all forms of creeping compromise in every aspects of your personal and business life. God is watching you! No more creeping compromise! Stand firm on biblical standards.

To be continued…

Tunde Ojewole, PhD, is the Babcock University Pastor in charge: Division of Spiritual Life. For enquiries, contact: ojewolea@babcock.edu.ng or call/SMS 08058299434/08060376577

Answers to June 9, 2013 Quiz 1.

Grace.

2.

City of Refuge.

3.

Simon.

Can someone be called god?

be given to you. But before I proceed, I want to ask, “Can a dog give birth to a goat? Or can a sheep give birth to a cat?

Neither will man give birth to deer?

Well, as you know that we cannot do without the word of God, so let’s carefully examine the word of God below, for a better understanding.

Psalm 86: 6 – 7 reads, “I have said, ye are gods; and all of you are children of the most high, 7 But ye shall die like men, and fall like one of the princes.

John 10 : 30 – 36 also state, “I and my father are one, 31 Then the Jews took up stones again to stone him, 32 Jesus answered them, many good works have I shewed you from my father, for which of those works do ye stone me? 33 The Jews answered him, saying, for a good work we stone thee not, but for blasphemy; and because that thou, being a man, makest thyself God, 34 Jesus answered them, is it not written in your law, I said, ye are gods? 35 If he called them gods, unto whom the word of God came, and the scripture cannot be broken, 36 Say ye of him, whom the father hath sanctified and sent into the world, thou blasphemest:

because I said, I am the son of God? The scriptures above have said it all, or who do you think the scripture above in Psalm 86 and John 10 is referring to?

It is you and me, if you don’t know, know it now.

Permit me to ask, do you believe that whosoever that is born again is a child a God? If yes, can whosoever that is born of God not be called god? Like I said earlier, that Lion gives birth to lion, then if lion gives birth to lion, what will God give birth to? I strongly believe God can and will give birth to god, and that is why the scripture says, ye are gods, and all of us that are born again are the children of the most high. So if one is born of God, he or she can be called god without mistake.

John 3: 6 further reads, That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.

According to the scriptures above, we know that God is a Spirit so if God is a Spirit, a child or children of God must also be spirit, so we are not just only gods, but we are also spirits, your friend did not make any mistake or blaspheme

when he said he is god or that he can do what God can do, don’t be confused, if you are genuinely born again, you also can do what God can do, not only that, you also will become spirit or god, because God gives birth to god, as spirit can give birth to spirit[s] .

John 14 : 12 reads, “Verily, verily, I say unto you, he that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also, and greater works than these shall he do, because I go unto my father.

According to the scripture above, it is very obvious and evident that your friend did not make any mistake or blaspheme when he said he could do what God can do, because the mandate, power, and authority have been given to him through the scripture above. Or don’t you believe that Jesus is God? Read John 1: 1.

You can also do what God can do if you truly believe in God from the bottom of your heart, not only with your mouth.

So the answer to your question is, yes, human being can be god but only those that believe in God, according to the scripture.

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

I

Opinion

Sunday June 16, 2013

47

Requiem for the NANS Five

t is with heavy heart that one mourns the passage of five officers of National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) who died in a finish-up auto crash on the Umuahia-Ikot Ekpene Road on Thursday.

The accident reportedly involved a truck and a mini-bus conveying the NANS leaders. The crash occurred at Ariam Ndioru Junction in Ikwuano Local Government area of Abia State.

The road mishap, regrettably, decimated the ranks of the NANS, young Nigerians and budding intellectuals still learning the ropes of governance on the stump of education institutions’ apex union.

In all, five officers of the NANS lay dead. Those who died include NANS Senate President, Mr. Donald Onukaogu; Mr. Abdulaziz Oladimeji, a candidate for the National President of the union from the University of Ibadan; Mr. Japhafa Duru, Zone B Assistant General Secretary, and Mr. Jerry Sorkar.

For each disaster really, there is grief; but in the case of these be-gone student union activists, fond memories from devastated parents, other family members, fellow students, lecturers and authorities of their various institutions, can only evoke patent feelings of agonies of variegated dimension. Their parents particularly are naturally to be marooned in some form of emotional breakdown or the other. But bearing in mind that human existence itself can, at times be akin to a flower bud in the orchard, which will

blossom luxuriantly in the lush of a swaggering spring, and then, suddenly wither, there is as such the urge for courageous self-placating.

That dove-tails into a critical view of the attitude of most Nigerians on the road, especially citizens imbued with seemingly militarised power. From the NANS’ galloping speed of the ‘aluta continua’ genre, to the derring-do of armed forces men, especially the braggadocio common with riot policemen handling the pilot and escort vehicles in politicians’ convoys, the denouement of such impossible character has been trails of blood, consumed in road crash fatalities.

Only last year, some student union leaders from the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA) in Ondo State perished on the Owo-Akure Road in what eyewitnesses described as a case of break-neck speed-turned awry. Other students across the country, either through excesses at moments of riots or through dangerous driving in the heat of rage or excitement, had crashed somehow, to become casualties, leaving their parents, siblings and other beloved ones to mourn.

The policemen in the convoy of governors, ministers and even a President are the worst culprits, as many of them usually egg on pliable civilian Government House drivers to speed as would overshoot vehicles’ speedometer, and riotously too.

Besides, even the civilians driving the politicians can at times swing in powerdrunkenness of the type that “Oh, I am

above the law; I drive in a governor’s convoy.’

I recall, without prejudice to any actor or victim of the era, my experience while a Media Assistant to Governor Adebayo Adefarati of Ondo State, of blessed memory. The incident occurred in March 2003, in the heat of our campaigns for the governor’s second term ambition, which was not realised anyway. We were returning from Lagos where we had attended a book launch for an illustrious Ondo State indigene, Alhaji Mohammed Jobi-Fele, also now of blessed memory.

As we made to exit Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, Hassan, driver of the press crew car which I boarded with other journalists, found that one of the windshield’s wipers had suddenly turned wonky, amid a midday drizzle.

He hurriedly parked to adjust it; but while back on the road, he increased his speed to a frightening level. I cautioned him but he merely smiled, saying I was afraid of death because of chumminess of political appointment. His comment drew laughter from everyone, but amid the jocosity, my warning persisted. He kept on the deadly speed anyway. But as he made to overtake the governor’s car to take his protocol-arranged Number Two position in the convoy, the right, fore tyre of our car coursed a sharp object and behold, our driver lost control and the car kept sommersaulting. I think it sommersaulted five times and I had a feeling at that fleeting moment that I was almost

Kayode de Fasua ua

kayodefasua@nationalmirroronline.net (08034101207; SMS only, pls)

‘crossing over’, if not fatally wounded.

But I miraculously escaped unhurt while some journalists and Hassan were seriously wounded. Unfortunately, Hassan gave up the next day at a private hospital in Ibadan.

Though most Nigerian roads are deathtraps owing to bad leadership which is an abiding Nigerian disease, some road users themselves are in most cases the architects of their misfortune, through disobedience to road signs, overspeeding and bare regard for other road users, especially the pedestrians.

It is, therefore, incumbent on government’s law enforcement agencies like the Federal Road Safety Commission and the transport section of the Nigeria Police, to deploy modern vehicle monitor devices that are in vogue not only in the western world but in some West African countries like Benin Republic and Ghana, to track down traffic offenders.

Perhaps, if we were committed enough to safety on the roads, the NANS Five would have been alive.

A catalyst for integration and cultural awakening OYINTILOYE OLATUNBOSUN

B

esides the sheer enjoyment of learning about dramatic events and stories, history shapes one’s mind, creates a sense of direction and helps process information sensibly.

People of all lands and climbs boast of their history and the exploit of their ancestors, It is pathetic that such no longer exist as the power of history has been jettisoned and its illuminating dynamics relegated to the background.

Amidst the madding crowd of modernism, modernistic value, approaches and methodologies there are few entities who appreciate the power of history, such men though very rare but their actions in relation with history sparks new consciousness provokes new thoughts and animate new possibilities.

The governor of the state of Osun, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola can best be described as one of this rare breeds whose passion, empathy, drive for development, restoration of Omoluabi ethos and promotion of invaluable heritage cannot be faulted.

Choosing the Yoruba nation was not an accident, it was a deliberate way of using a platform blessed with rich cultural heritage and a people of virtue and dignity, inherent among the descendant of Oodua while the choice of Osun was predicated on the fact that it is the origin of all Yoruba people whether at home or in the Diaspora.

The convergence of the sons and daughters of Yoruba on 27th of May 2013 in Osogbo city stadium, the capital of the state of Osun which was dubbed Oodua World Children Day, an event with unusual colour, glamour, participation and beauty are indeed a renaissance of history.

Skeptics who have a shallow sense of history and little depth of thought consider the up scaling of traditional May Day to Oodua

World Children Day as a mere youthful gymnastic and void exercise.

The event though now part of emerging modern history has no doubt left traces of indubitable possibilities and strike the cord of greatness and oneness.

A gathering which brought together de la crème of Yoruba race, foremost traditional rulers, over eighty beads and crowns from across the country, Benin republic, Cuba and the Caribbean is indeed a significant one.

A gathering which for the first time in history attracted school Children of Yoruba extraction from Oyo, Ondo, Ogun, Lagos, Ekiti, as well as Yoruba speaking states of Edo, Delta, Kwara and Kogi in a jolly mood and an intellectually stimulating occasion is indeed epoch making.

A convergence that provided platform for school children to demonstrate team spirit, discipline, diligence and endurance in callisthenics that dazzles the world is indeed a brilliant page in history.

It is basically an investment in children, in their psyche and harnessing the valuable component of Yoruba culture. It provided a pedestal for magnification of Yoruba language, celebration of its dance and dress, and invocation of its music and mythology.

Oodua World Children day indeed fulfilled its promise in rejuvenating cultural value, oneness of a people, the dream of a race and enterprising in human resourcefulness and capacity.

It not only provided leverage for integration, cultural awakening and youth development but a path to self discovery and strengthening of affinity Considering the fact that children are the epicentre of the event and driven by conviction, vision and sense of mission, the Governor of the State of Osun, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola submitted that ‘the realisation of the socio-cultural and economic integration of the Yoruba race can be greatly enhanced by imparting that vision into our children.

Indeed, such a cultural renaissance

agenda cannot succeed without including the children, for they are a key factor in its success. The Yoruba cultural integration can only be meaningful if the children, who would carry on the culture are properly socialised into it, along with the inculcation of its value underpinning’.

The visioner, The governor of the state of Osun affirmed that ‘the Yoruba race constitutes a significant part of the global population, with civilised and dynamic culture, and the potential to become a powerful force in the world if we could get our acts together and forge a common and united front. We can begin right from here, the cradle of the Yoruba race, to plant the seed that may germinate into something that will in time surpass the wildest dream of the brains behind the idea. The world renowned Roman Empire rose from a collection of shacks, huts and settlements built by shepherds on the Tiber River hills in Italy about 3,000 years ago. If this was done by ancient Romans, how much more contemporary Yoruba people that were already a nation-state before colonisation.

In the State of Osun, we have decided to embark on this small beginning, with the hope that it will eventually grow into a global Yoruba consciousness and socioeconomic and cultural integration’.

Impression of foremost Yoruba Obas and their voices at the occasion lend weight to the vision of a better tomorrow. The Ooni of Ife and the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Okunade Sijuade and Oba Lamidi Adeyemi were of the view that the vision of the governor is a possibility if stakeholders keyed into it with sincerity and purposefulness.

Ooni opined that if it is possible to bring all the monarchs together, making them believe in the noble idea would be easier than thought by many cynics. He however, stressed the need to extend the vision of Yoruba in countries like Argentina and other Latin American Countries.

The Alaafin reasoned that bringing monarchs from some West-African countries is a step in the right direction, saying it allows their counterpart from Nigeria to know the challenges they confront regularly and share ideas on how to achieve a cohesive platform for progress.

They challenged other prominent personalities of Yoruba origin to support the vision of lifting the black race, using the Yoruba nation as platform to achieve such objective.

The erudite Yoruba scholar, Professor Akinwumi Isola who stimulated the events with his deep intellectual discourse stressed the need for a strong cultured Yoruba generation as a means of achieving the set vision, believing that the strength of the race lies in its ability to make its younger generation appreciate and embrace the totality of its culture.

The scholar maintained that monarchs have major roles to play in preserving the language from extinction.

The leader of (OPC) Oodua Progressive Congress Otunba Gani Adams reiterated the need for a horse race in the bid to revamp the culture of Yoruba and the challenge to liberate the black race from suffering globally. He added that the initiative is long due if the task must be achieved, then all hands must be on deck and difference put aside for the greater good.

It is clear that the gathering was a huge success, a big plus for Nigerians and Yoruba race in particular. The custodian of culture realized their roles in the process, also the children, who are the fulcrum on which the vision lies, exhibit a lot of enthusiasm for the project. This is a clear indication that with the right leadership, no matter how complex a project appears, it can be actualised.

•Olatunbosun is Assistant Director ( Community Forum) Bureau Of Communications and Strategy, Governor’s Office, State of Osun.

50

Wellness

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

YOUR HEALTH AND HEALTH RELATED ISSUES JUNE 16, 2013

Scientists identify new genes that trigger short-sightedness VANESSA OKWARA

E

arlier this year, the optical world received the great news that genetic discoveries had been made concerning possible causes of short-sightedness or myopia. With scientists finally identifying as many as 24 genes which have the potential to cause this particular eye disorder, people afflicted with short-sightedness can now hope for better treatment in the future.

This discovery was made by an international team of scientists led by King’s College London. These findings, published in the journal Nature Genetics, reveal genetic causes of the trait, which could lead to finding better treatments or ways of preventing the condition in the future.

Short-sightedness is a very common eye condition that causes distant objects to appear blurred, while close objects can be seen clearly. Myopia is the medical term for short-sightedness.

Chris Hammond, professor of genetic epidemiology at the King’s College London, who led the study, said: “We already knew that myopia or short-sightedness tends to run in families. But until now, we knew little about the genetic causes.”

The researchers, who all belonged to the Consortium for Refraction and Myopia (CREAM), collected data from over 45,000 people across 32 different studies.

They analysed their genetic and refractive error data to identify any genes responsible for the disorder. They identified a total of 24 new genes linked to myopia and confirmed two previously reported genes. The genes they found were responsible for eye development, eye tissue signalling and the structure of the eye. They were associated with a high risk of myopia, potentially increasing a person’s risk tenfold.

The eye experts said a combination

of genetic predisposition and environmental factors significantly increases the likelihood of developing myopia.

Environmental factors include reading, limited outdoor exposure, a higher level of education, and living in urban areas.

However, how these factors actually cause the disorder remains a mystery. Further investigation by the consortium is necessary to fully understand these links.

“This study reveals for the first time a group of new genes that are associated with myopia and that carriers of some of these genes have a 10-fold increased risk of developing the condition,” adds Hammond, the journal Nature Genetics reports.

Speaking on the issue, an optometrist who has been practising for the past 18 years and currently the secretary of the Optometrist Association of Nigeria, Lagos Chapter, Dr Chara Adekunle, says being short-sighted is fairly common and can even be inherited. “If you have parents that are short-sighted, then there is a likely chance of you also being shortsighted”.

Scientist all over the world concur that myopia is heritable, however, little was known about the genetics behind it until

Restaurateurs not adhering to healthy practices –Health officer An environmental health officer in Osun State, Mrs. Ayoade Ogungbenro, has alleged that operators of local restaurants known as ‘buka’ are not adhering to healthy practices on food preparation.

Ogungbenro made this known in an interview with newsmen in Osogbo recently.

He said that the ‘buka or

mama put’ operators made it difficult for sanitary officers to ascertain the state of animals, like goats, they slaughtered for public consumption.

The officer, who is the Treasurer, Osun State Environmental Health Officers Association, said that most of them slaughtered their goats before the arrival of sanitary inspectors

now. With the discovery of these genes, scientists believe this is very promising and could finally be the basis for future treatment of the disorder.

Short-sightedness is an ailment that can affect both the young and the old. In young children it can be detected as early as three years. Dr Adekunle said it affects people of all ages but the problem in developing countries like Nigeria is that it is not diagnosed on time because people do not visit their eye clinic as often as they should.

Early diagnosis of near-sightedness is important, because a child can suffer socially and educationally by not being able to see well at a distance. Dr Adekunle emphasised the need for parents to take the eye health of their children seriously. “A child can start failing in school and no one will be able to understand exactly the problem. This can be a traumatic experience for that child. And it might just be that the child is not seeing the blackboard properly in school. This is why it is important you take your child to do a comprehensive eye check early, especially if either the parents are already shortsighted. There is a likelihood that one of your children would have inherited it,”

to their premises.

“They virtually make it difficult for us to carry out our inspection as they are in the habit of slaughtering goats for consumption without inspection.

“This does not mean that we have stopped our routine inspection, it is just that many of the food sellers do not follow the procedures,’’ Ogungbenro said.

she counselled.

There are several treatment options available for individuals suffering from myopia. They include Glasses which is the most common and simplest treatment. Contact lenses also provide similar results as glasses and they are meant for mature people who can keep them clean always. Surgery is another option that is gaining popularity in recent years. There are presently different types of surgical operations designed to treat short-sightedness. The most popular is the LASIK or laser-assisted surgery. However, this kind of surgery has not been fully integrated in the country but it is gaining popularity in developed countries.

Dr Adekunle explained that there are no drugs that can cure short-sightedness.

“There is no way to prevent near-sightedness for now, but with this new discovery, I believe that there is hope for that in future. For now, short-sightedness is something a person lives with and manages for life. The only cure is for you to go and see your eye doctor often for examination and correct prescription of glasses suitable for the kind of myopia you have,” said the medical expert.

HEALTH NEWS Chickenpox can be fatal, says paediatrician A paediatrician at the University of Abuja Teaching Hospital, Gwagwalada, Dr Mamman Ibrahim, has said that chickenpox was a common illness which appeared harmless but could be fatal.

Ibrahim told journalists in Abuja that though

chickenpox was most common in children, adults could also contract it.

According to him, people get chickenpox at some point in their lives, if they have not had the vaccine.

He said chickenpox can

cause problem for pregnant women, newborns, teens, adults and people with low immune system.

Ibrahim advised that mothers should ensure their children were fully immunised and also ensure they were separated from those infected.

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Wellness

Sunday, June 16, 2013

Know your organs

The Pancreas

The pancreas is a fish-shaped spongy grayish-pink organ about six inches (15 cm) long that stretches across the back of the abdomen, behind the stomach.

The head of the pancreas is on the right side of the abdomen and is connected to the duodenum (the first section of the small intestine). The narrow end of the pancreas, called the tail, extends to the left side of the body.

Its functions The pancreas makes pancreatic juices and hormones, including insulin. The pancreatic juices are enzymes that help digest food in the small intestine. Insulin controls the amount of sugar in the blood.

The pancreas has digestive and hormonal functions: The enzymes secreted by the exocrine gland in the pancreas help break down carbohydrates, fats, proteins, and acids in the duodenum. These enzymes travel down the pancreatic duct into the bile duct in an inactive form.

When they enter the duodenum, they are activated. The exocrine tissue also secretes bicarbonate to neutralise stomach acid in the duodenum. The hormones secreted by the endocrine gland in the pancreas are insulin and glucagon (which regulate the level of glucose in the blood), and somatostatin (which prevents the release of the other two hormones).

As pancreatic juices are made, they flow into the main pancreatic duct. This duct joins the common bile duct, which connects the pancreas to the liver and the gallbladder. The common bile duct, which carries bile, a fluid that helps digest fat, connects to the small intestine near the stomach.

Its feature The pancreas is known as a compound gland. It is “compound” in the sense that it is composed of both exocrine

and endocrine tissues. The exocrine function of the pancreas involves the synthesis and secretion of pancreatic juices. The endocrine function resides in the million or so cellular islands (the islets of Langerhans) embedded between the exocrine units of the pancreas. Beta cells of the islands secrete insulin, which helps control carbohydrate metabolism. Alpha cells of the islets secrete glucagon that counters the action of insulin.

Because the pancreas is a storage depot for digestive enzymes, injury to the pancreas is potentially very dangerous. A puncture of the pancreas generally requires prompt and experienced medical intervention.

Pancreatic cancers Pancreatitis, a condition causing inflammation of the pancreas, can come on suddenly and without warning.

Your stomach may become swollen and tender. It is common to experience nausea and vomiting. It is also likely that you will run a fever, a sign that your body is trying to heal itself.

Pancreatic cancers, particularly cancer of the exocrine pancreas, remain one of the most deadly cancers, and the mortality rate is very high.

Cause of diabetes Diabetes mellitus type 1 is a chronic autoimmune disorder in which the immune system attacks the insulin-secreting cells in the pancreas. One cause of diabetes mellitus is insufficient insulin. Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas. In some people these insulin-producing cells die off for no apparent reason. In other cases, the pancreas produces sufficient quantities of insulin but the body seems unable to actually use the insulin. In both cases, the body is not able to process glucose properly. This is what causes diabetes.

Benola urges food, drug manufacturers to identify with victims of Cerebral Palsy A non-governmental organisation, Benola, has called on companies involved in production or marketing of pharmaceuticals, food, beverages, toiletries and sanitary products to support initiatives aimed at alleviating the sufferings of those living with Cerebral Palsy in the country.

Speaking at a business lunch with health editors of major media houses held at Peninsula Hotel and Towers, Lagos, the founder of Benola, Air-Vice Marshal Femi Gbadebo (rtd), implored these companies to join forces with Benola to make the lives of those living with this condition better, since they are major users of their products.

“Benola is a Cerebral Palsy Initiative committed to change and progress for persons living with this condition. It is also committed to keeping the families, friends, health care professionals, care givers and others abreast of current trends and options available for better management of Cerebral Palsy. Having lived with our child who has the ailment, 17 years to be precise, we appreciate the enormity of work that lies ahead if we are to make a success of this initiative. We therefore draw the attention of companies and organisations, government and well meaning Nigerians to identify with Benola in this noble cause to help make life better for an estimated 650,000 persons in Nigeria living with Cerebral Palsy and the other 13.5 million Nigerians who are closely connected to a child or adult living with Cerebral Palsy,” he said.

Cerebral Palsy is a term used to describe a group of chronic conditions affecting body movements and muscle coordination. It is caused by damage to one or more specific areas of the brain usually occurring during foetal development or during infancy. It can also occur before, during or shortly after birth.

Vice Marshal Gbadebo bemoaned the fact that very little is known about the prevalence of the condition in most parts of the country, resulting in wrong or late diagnosis of the condition. “When little or nothing is known about a medical condition as serious as Cerebral

L-R: Mr. Bashar Dankaro, AVM Femi Gbadebo, Dr Tunji Funsho and Mrs. Alaba Gbadebo at a business lunch with Health Editors of major media houses in Lagos

Palsy in a country, it is often followed by a delayed acceptance by the parents. The result of course is that such parents waste valuable time searching for a miracle cure for their child. The case is further compounded in a country like Nigeria where inadequate facilities and lack of trained manpower often make it difficult for parents to find reasonable and affordable options for managing such children, resulting in a high infant mortality rate and untold hardship to parents who lack proper understanding of the condition. The reason for this in Nigeria as in most parts of Africa is stigma, social and cultural pressures as well as religious beliefs.

It forces parents who can afford proper care and management to hide such children from public view, while those who can ill afford it, abandon such children or use them as tools to beg for alms,’’ he said.

He, therefore, solicited the support of the media in getting the right message about Cerebral Palsy across to the people. “This is because that is the only way that we can get both government and the private sector to give Cerebral Palsy in Nigeria, the right attention that the condition deserves,” Gbadebo added.

51

Your

BONE Health

with Dr. Olatunji Idowu

Plantar Fasciitis Plantar fasciitis is a common, painful foot condition.

Patients, and sometimes doctors often confuse the terms plantar fasciitis and heel spurs. Plantar fasciitis refers to the syndrome of inflammation of the band of tissue that runs from the heel along the arch of the foot; a heel spur is a hook of bone that can form on the heel bone (calcaneus). About 70% of patients with plantar fasciitis have been noted to have a heel spur that can be seen on X-Ray. Who gets plantar fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is most often seen in middle-aged men and women, but can be found in all age groups. Plantar fasciitis is diagnosed with the classic symptoms of pain well localized over the heel area of the bottom of the foot.

Often the pain from plantar fasciitis is most severe when you first stand on your feet in the morning. Pain often subsides quite quickly, but then returns after prolonged standing or walking.

Plantar fasciitis is sometimes, but not always, associated with a rapid gain of weight. Plantar fasciitis is also sometimes seen in recreational athletes, especially runners. In these athletes, it is thought that the repetitive nature of the sports causes the damage to the fibrous tissue that forms the arch of the foot.

Could something other than plantar fasciitis cause this pain?

Plantar fasciitis can be confused with a condition called tarsal tunnel syndrome. In tarsal tunnel syndrome, an important nerve in the foot, the tibial nerve, is trapped and pinched as it passes through the tarsal tunnel, a condition analogous to carpal tunnel syndrome in the wrist. This may cause symptoms similar to the pain of a plantar fasciitis.

There are also other less common problems such as nerve entrapments, stress fractures, and fat pad necrosis, all of which can cause foot pain. Finally, several rheumatologic conditions can cause heel pain. These syndromes such as Reiter’s syndrome and ankylosing spondylitis can cause heel pain similar to plantar fasciitis. If your symptoms are not typical for plantar fasciitis, or if your symptoms do not resolve with treatment, your doctor will consider these possible diagnoses.

Why did I get plantar fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis occurs because of irritation to the thick ligamentous connective tissue that runs from the heel bone to the ball of the foot. This strong and tight tissue contributes to maintaining the arch of the foot. It is also one of the major transmitters of weight across the foot as you walk or run. Therefore, the stress placed on the this tissue is tremendous.

When a patient has plantar fasciitis, the connective tissue that forms the arch of the foot becomes inflamed (tendonitis) and degenerative (tendinosis)--these abnormalities cause plantar fasciitis and can make normal activities quite painful.

Symptoms of plantar fasciitis are typically worsened early in the morning after sleep. At that time, the arch tissue is tight and simple movements stretch the contracted tissue. As you begin to loosen the foot, the pain usually subsides, but often returns with prolonged standing or walking.

Rest Avoiding the precipitating activity; for example, take a few day off jogging or prolonged standing/walking. Just resting usually helps to eliminate the most severe pain, and will allow the inflammation to begin to cool down.

If you have any problem or question about your musculoskeletal system (bones, joints and muscles) do send me a mail at tunjiidowu@live.com for advice.

Meanwhile, your comments and feedback on the issues discussed are highly welcomed.

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

52

STORIES THAT TOUCH YOU JUNE 16, 2013

Fatai Rolling Dollar: Story of a life of perseverance •My relationship with him –Ebenezer Obey OLUMIDE SEGUN-ODUNTAN

H

e did not find the kind of wealth that many presentday young Nigerian music stars have found, but he did find fame. Yes, highlife icon, Fatai Olayiwola Olagunju, famously known as Fatai Rolling Dollar was not a rich man as at the time he passed on at a hospital in Lagos a few days ago, but he found fame through his dexterity at the guitar and his captivating lyrics.

So good was he at his chosen genre of music – highlife – that he was well appreciated by young and old music lovers. However, before he became widely known, the late Rolling Dollar had his fair share of the struggling life.

Though he was born on July 22, 1926 in Lagos as prince of the royal family of Fatai Olayiwola Olagunju, originally from Ede, a Yoruba town lying on the Osun, the river famously linked to Yemoja, the river goddess, he became drawn towards music at an early age.

After leaving school, struggling and suffering so hard, young Fatai learnt to play the highlife musical instrument called Agidigbo from the Ilajes. In fact, he learnt how to play the string instrument better than the people from whom he learnt it.

After he lost his job at the Nigerian Railway Corporation, NRC, things became so tough for Rolling Dollar that he had to depend on his Agidigbo and lots of exciting lyrics to survive.

Interestingly, the late artiste, who started his musical career in 1953, played his highlife using his Agidigbo box to thrill European music lovers at the then Island Club which was dominated by the whites.

In 1957, he formed an eight-man band called Fatai Rolling Dollar and his African Rhythm Band, and they recorded numerous seven-inch singles for Phillips West

Africa Records.

Among Rolling Dollar’s group was a young budding star, Ebenezer Obey, who he mentored among other musicians who later became music icons. He and his Afri-

can Rhythm Band had some hits with Phillips, then they moved to Jofabro/EMI where they recorded over 150 singles and had many hits for the company including Sisi Jaiye Jaiye and Won Bumi. Rolling Dollar and his African

CONTINUED ON PAGE 53

Maritol Hospital, Ikorodu, Lagos, where he died

Pa Rolling Dollar

Rolling Dollar being buried in front of his uncompleted building in Ikorodu

A father’s lamentation: How policemen shot my AYO ESAN

A

s he woke up last Thursday, nine-year-old Timilehin Ebun, a Basic 3 pupil of Royal Scholars International School, Ikorodu Lagos was bubbling with life.

Later in the evening, he persuaded his father, Mr Olusegun Ebun, who had said he would not follow him and his mother to the airport to welcome his elder brother who was to arrive from abroad that day. Because of the affection he has for him, the father agreed to take him along to the airport. Not knowing that death was lurking in the corner for him later that night, Timi as he was fondly called by his dad, picked his phone and fondled with it. As they were coming from the airport back to their Ikorodu home in his father’s car, an argument ensued between him and his father. Timi, enjoying a game on his phone, was told by his father that he should be a medical doctor in future. But he disagreed. He rather said he wanted to be a footballer. Because the traffic was heavy, there was enough time for the argument. The father was persuading him to first of all enter the university for Medicine before he could take to football.

However, they had no premonition that both Timilehin’s dream and that of his father would eventually come to naught a few minutes later. As they left Ketu and were approaching Kosofe, there was a loud bang. When Mr Ebun composed himself and put on the car’s inner

light, he saw a lifeless Timi in the pool of his own blood.

Timi sat in the middle of the Pathfinder Jeep while the mother who sat with the father in front of the car was also soaked in blood.

The incident according to Mr. Ebun occurred at Kosofe after Ketu at about 9 p.m. in the evening.

Narrating the incident, his father recalled, “We were on our way from the airport and traffic was moving slowly. We got to Ketu, before Mile 12, the traffic was a bit thick there. On getting to Kosofe bus stop we heard a loud bang. At that point I was shaken. Then the vehicle stopped suddenly. By the time I said ‘let me put on the inner light’, I saw Timilehin, a 9-year-old boy in a pool of blood, then the mother too. On the other side of the road, to Ketu, there was this Nigeria Police vehicle parked and they wanted to escape. The Area Boys wanted to stop them because they actually shot the gun. I think they were trying to extort money from a commercial driver.

It was during that process that they shot at us. Very unprofessional in the way they handled the gun. It was a direct shot at our vehicle. The bullets came from the windscreen.

“That was how they killed my son; the boy died on the spot. When I carried him, the people around the area took me to a nearby hospital so as to see whether he could be revived but the doctor said he was dead.”

Describing how the boy died, Ebun said, “The bullet pierced through the windscreen into his eyes, and right

into the brain. He was sitting down in the middle of the car, a Jeep Pathfinder.”

Ebun said in his confused, he went to the police vehicle which was on the other side of the road leading to Ketu and told the police to kill him since they have killed his son, but they quickly drove off in their vehicle.

They later traced the police vehicle to the Ketu Police Station where it was parked.

“We were there for about four hours but the DPO refused to appear to us but we saw the vehicle that carried the team. I couldn’t finger out the person that fired the shot because it was a team. They were blaming themselves silently immediately the incident happened. At the station they asked me to point to the person that killed my son, which was impossible. I don’t know who among the team. My wife made statement at the Ketu Police Station because I was not composed. The DPO didn’t want to make himself available.

I took my wife to Ajayi Medical Hospital Ikorodu, Lagos. We slept there because of the wound she sustained and also my son that we had gone to pick at the airport.

They treated her, the bruises and the pellets were removed from her body. We left the car at the Ketu Police Station.”

“We are a family of five, myself, my wife and the three children but being the last child, he likes sitting in the middle of the car. The area boys even stole my phone.

At Ketu Police Station I created a scene; I put his body

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

SM Extra

Sunday, June 16, 2013

53

Rolling Dollar: His life and times CONTINUED FROM PAGE 52

Rhythm Band also recorded songs for UAC that came in from Ghana.

Eventually, Ebenezer Obey left with six members of the band to form his own group with its own fresh style, adding more instruments including talking drums and slide guitar. Fatai thereafter reformed and renamed the band Fatai Rolling Dollar and his New Millennium Band.

But in the late sixties, a sweeping change was going through the Nigerian music scene. A new corps of Nigerian musicians appeared on the scene and took the country by storm as the fortune of musicians like Rolling Dollar came down.

In order to still be in the music business, he decided to start a musical equipment rental service. Obey, on his return from touring abroad, actually helped him by giving him some musical equipment to add to his own stock.

However, the infamous invasion of the surrounding area of Fela Anikulapo’s Kalakuta Republic and the consequent inferno that ravaged the lot had devastating consequences for Rolling Dollar whose means of livelihood was largely destroyed. Looters also took advantage of

Rolling Dollar at the hospital before his death

whatever could be salvaged of the equipment.

After losing his means of livelihood, Rolling Dollar moved with his wife and five children to a single room in Mushin. At this low point of his life, he lost all five children to illness within three months and his wife worked herself to the bone, finally succumbing to exhaustion and death. For 20 years, he remained in abject poverty and depression, eventually finding a job as security man at the stadium.

But after years of struggling to make ends meet and by what has been described as Rolling Dollar’s perseverance, the amazing singer and performer bounced back and he became a phenomenon on the block after the French Cultural Centre, in Lagos, initiated his return to limelight.

Rolling Dollar became the ultimate come-back music legend when record company, Jazzhole Record, released his song, Won Kere Si Number Wa (his major hit) among other songs which became instant hit. From then on, Rolling Dollar garnered a huge fan base at home and abroad.

Perhaps, this was why Governor Rauf Aregbeshola of Osun State described the late icon as a “testimony in perseverance and hope”.

Rolling Dollar also got a higher lift through Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, while as Lagos State governor. He was given a house in one of the low-cost housing estates in New Oko Oba, Lagos.

A dynamism of his music career is that Fatai’s voice sometimes demonstrated a deep, throaty, rich quality and at other times a falsetto tone as in Sisi Jaiye Jaiye and Saworo.

And while he may have lacked money in his later years, Rolling Dollar was a ladies’ man. He did enjoy the company of women and, in fact, he once confessed

...With Ebenezer Obey in one of their shows together

that women were his problem. He was also reported to have married a younger wife a couple of months ago.

But there is no doubt that Rolling Dollar loved to perform for his numerous fans. In fact, he was reportedly on music tour of the United States when he took ill and had to return home and admitted to a hospital where he later died.

His last performance which was on March 14 was on Nigerian Idol Season 3 stage, where he performed one of his all-time classic Won Kere si Number Wa. He was later joined on stage by a group of contestants.

After his performance, Rolling Dollar said, “I love what the young artistes are doing. They have a good message for the young crowd out there, and I absolutely love it.”

There is also no doubt that it is not only the three wives and 16 children that he left behind that would miss him, obviously, his numerous fans and the Nigeria music industry have lost a great stage performer and music icon. His memories and kind words will forever remain in his fans’ hearts. They would miss him greatly.

As Orits Wiliki puts it, Rolling Dollar lived well as a musician. “Even though his death remains a big loss to the industry, he would be happy that members of the young generation are taking highlife music to the next level,” he said.

And Fatai’s former protégé, Obey says, “I’ve lost my boss, my friend and my mentor. And I know the country has lost a talented singer. He was one of the greatest musicians that ever lived. He was a multi-talented instrumentalist who can play all percussions and guitar.

He was a very gifted person. He had a very good voice. ” Obey, who is also a multi-instrumentalist, said he met the late Rolling Dollar in the 60s when he (Obey) was trying to master the Agidigbo used in J.O. Araba’s album. He later discovered that it was Rolling Dollar that played the Agidigbo.

He then realised that while other musicians at the time used one or two fingers to play the string instrument, Rolling Dollar used all five fingers to play it, which reflected his versatility. So he asked to be introduced to the young Fatai and that was how they became friends. Their friendship led to the forming of a band.

When it was time for Obey to form his own band, he left Rolling Dollar.

According to Obey, he had a cordial relationship with Rolling Dollar even after he left the band. “My relationship with him was very cordial. Even when he was in the hospital before he died, we spoke on phone. We loved each other till he died. He was a nice guy and I have respect for him,” Obey said.

9-year-old son dead on their counter and told them to eat it and they all ran out”.

Describing Timi, Ebun said he was a lovely person.

“He has love for people. We were arguing inside the traffic. I said you have to become a medical doctor. He said he wanted to be a footballer. He likes watching football and cartoons. In this house, I don’t know how to operate the television. I don’t know how to turn the video; it is Timilehin that does all that. He is the engineer in this house.

If NEPA took off light, he is the one that would change to generator. Though he is nine years old, he is more mature than a 17 years old boy. He was born abroad and carries Irish passport. He is an Irish citizen by birth.”

Ebun called on the government to ensure that those who killed his innocent son do not go unpunished. “The people that perpetrated the act should face the music.

Those that killed my son, an innocent boy, should be made to face the law. We have adequate law in Nigeria.

The DPO knows the police officer involved. They are just hiding him,” Ebun lamented.

All efforts to get the reaction of the police to the story proved abortive as the two lines of the Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO, Ngozi Braide, a Deputy Superintendent of Police were switched off. Also, the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Umar Manko did not pick his calls while a text message sent to his line was not responded to.

The late Timilehin

Father of the deceased, Olusegun Ebun

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Sunday, June 16, 2013

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55

Business FRESH BUSINESS NEWS AT YOUR FINGERTIPS Sunday June 16, 2013

Environmental hazards: World Bank now to the rescue … votes $2.07bn to Vision 20:2020

Nweke Jnr

Robert Zoellick, World Bank Chief Executive

TOLA AKINMUTIMI ABUJA

S

everal years after the Koko toxic waste dump and other environmental hazards that occurred subsequently, including the floods that swept through the national landscape with devastating impact on lives and property in 2012, the issue of environmental protection in Nigeria may have been more of political sloganeering than deliberate and sincere efforts by governments to protect the people and guarantee a safer environment for future generations.

Yes, Nigeria is a signatory to the 1972 Stockholm Declaration and several other international and local environmentspecific legal agreements, treaties, conventions and policy instruments locally and internationally the brutal fact is that the country remains lagging in making these legal instruments to bear positively on the environment still.

This is particularly even worrisome when analysed within the context of the climatic and nature-triggered as well as man-made environmental risky adventures in business and the domestic spaces that today the potential threats of such unguided productive engagements are more real in the country than the situation was about 20 years ago.

In spite of the provisions of Section 20 of the 1999 Constitution, the Water Resources Act 101 of 1973, the Oil Spillage Regulations 2009, the Associated Gas Re-Injection Act 1969 and the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency’s (NESREA’s) Act 2007, the tell tales signs are that Nigeria’s climatic conditions have continued to give stakeholders serious concern in view of the tons of hazardous toxic wastes that are discharged through industrial and domestic activities on a daily basis.

Apart from the unquantifiable life expectancy damages the mindless discharge of harmful wastes mainly from anthropogenic source are causing Nigerians, it has also been established by researchers and productivity experts that Nigeria is losing up to 2.5 per cent of her GDP growth potentials

to the problems of pollution on a yearly basis.

It is, therefore, against the worrisome background and future threats to the socio-economic wellbeing of the country that the World Bank, in furtherance of its Country Partnership Strategy programmes in Nigeria, has offered to provide knowledge-based instruments in the area of climate-resilient, low-carbon development of the country.

Arguably the biggest donor partner to Nigeria with over N320 billion ($2.07bn) committed to Sustainable Development programmes under its current 2010-2013 Country Partnership Strategy alone, the multilateral financial institution published two Reports which ordinarily should serve as a navigational guide to the country in the journey through increasingly dangerous climatic altitude to sustainable national development.

Edited by Oxford trained environmental economist, Dr. Raffaelo Cervigini, the two books, namely ‘Toward Climate-Resilient Development in Nigeria’ and ‘Low Carbon Development’ catalogued the environmental and climatic conditions of Nigeria and the implications for attainment of the much cherished and well crafted broad policy objectives of the Vision 20:2020 Blueprint.

Drawing from country’ historical climate records in water, land, air and other environmental bodies and the level of preparation by Nigeria to mitigate climate change impacts, the books listed three reasons why the country should act now on the climate-resilient development imperative, in view of the prevailing climate conditions, in order to ensure the realisation of the Vision’s goals.

Specifically, the Bank listed actions that will reinforce long-term climate resilience and reduce vulnerability to current climate swings, investment decisions on long-lived infrastructure and building the knowledge, capacity, institutions and policies to deal with the climate of the future as key to guaranteeing a sustainable, well managed climate for Nigerians.

Similarly, the Bank also identified 10 ways Nigeria can explore to enhance climate resilience by 2020. These include, defining priority adaptation actions; harmonisation of policies and legislation related to water resources;

launching a dedicated programme of applied research on climate-smart agriculture (CSA) and defining and Action Plan for strengthening extension services to farmers.

Others are, preparation of planning tools for CSA; defining Action Plan for strengthening the hydrometeorological system; and preparation of guidelines for designing climate-smart water infrastructure.

On the investments and resource mobilisation measures, the World Bank canvassed the inclusion in government’s Agricultural Transformation Agenda (ATA) as a programme of CSA demonstration projects; piloting the use of robust decision making techniques in the feasibility studies of irrigation and hydropower projects; and putting in place in a few states integrated watershed management and monitoring plans.

In addition, the Bank, while noting that a number of challenges, including inadequate information needs, technologies, institutions/regulations and financing could serve as barriers to Nigeria’s efforts aimed at making lowcarbon development a reality, also sets 16 short and medium term cross-sector and sector-specific recommendations for the government to implement in order to remove the hurdles.

The cross-sector recommendations include, elevation of decision making on low carbon strategies to the Economic Management Team (EMT) level, completion of Nigeria’s National Appropriate Mitigation Plans; improving data collection and analysis by NBS in collaboration with relevant MDAs; increasing awareness on the benefits of low carbon development and formulation of Nigeria’s position paper on the reforms of carbon markets and its presentation to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCC).

Briefing the media on the importance of the projects at the book launch in Abuja, the Bank’s Country Director for Nigeria, Marie Francoise Marie-Nelly, said the books were amongst other initiatives of the Bank to complement government’s efforts aimed at reducing to the barest minimum, the risks of green house gas emission and other pollutants to Nigeria’s productivity and life sustainability.

She said: “The World Bank is privileged to have a strong partnership with the Government of Nigeria, and I am pleased that our latest collaborative effort takes a close look at climate change and its potential impacts on Nigeria, Africa’s second largest economy “You heard the National Minister of Planning when he spoke that Nigeria has set its vision, the Vision 20:2020, as we call it, which is aimed at making the country among the top 20 developing countries by year 2020. It is a vision and not a prediction.

“I think that what we try to do with these two books is to see how climate change could affect this government ambition and secondly, how this aspiration could be materialised within a climate change environment that is positive and also by reducing green house gas emissions”, Marie-Nelly said.

The Coordinating Minister for the Economy and Federal Minister of Finance, Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, said the 2012 floods in Nigeria were stark reminder of the vulnerability of the country’s communities, infrastructure and economy to climate-induced natural disasters, adding that the books will help inform decision-making across key sectors and levels of governments so that the economy becomes not only more productive but also more climate-resilient.

The Director-General of the Nigeria Economic Summit Group, Dr, Frank Nweke Jnr, described the World Bank projects as timely and a welcomed development to collective efforts to creating cleaner environment for people and businesses, adding that the organised private sector (OPS) is doing its best in the implementation of laws and regulations on effective control emission of effluents and other wastes.

The question however is. Will Nigeria take advantage of the two resourceful navigational tools for effective climate change to improve the development of her environment? As the saying goes, only time will tell.

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Sunday June 16, 2013

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Insurance industry records N250bn income T he insurance industry recorded N250 billion Gross Premium Income in 2012, the Commissioner for Insurance, National Insurance Commission, NAICOM, Mr Fola Daniel, has said.

Daniel made this known at the Chartered Insurance Institute of Nigeria (CIIN) 2013 Annual Dinner on Friday night in Lagos.

The event featured the Investiture of Mr Fatai Kayode Lawal as the 45th President of the institute.

Daniel said that the increase from N157 billion in 2010 to N250 billion was due to the implementation of the Market Development and Restructuring Initiative (MDRI).

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the MDRI, introduced NAICOM, is the industry’s roadmap to achieving Vision 20:2020.

“The realities of the past three years show that the number of those insured increased from 500, 000 to 1.5 million in 2012.

“This shows that the number of the insuring public tripled within three years.

“Foreign equity ratio also increased from three in 2010 to 10 in 2012, while capacity in the oil and gas sector, which was less than 10 per cent, increased to 40 per cent in 2012,” Daniel said.

According to him, in spite of these achievements, the industry has a long way to go to meet up

with developed countries including South Africa.

The NAICOM commissioner urged the new CIIN president to ensure that his administration would build on the success of the initiative.

He said that the CIIN was in the best position to bring the industry players together to chart the way forward.

He urged that the institute should have a think tank to deliberate on national issues and advise accordingly.

Daniel gave the assurance that the commission would continue to take corrective steps to move the industry forward as part of its regulatory mandate.

He said that the commission’s

disciplinary actions were designed to develop the insurance industry.

The Chairman of the occasion, Mr Akintola Williams, urged insurance operators to provide the best way to tackle risks in the face of threats to businesses.

Williams, a former President, Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria, urged all professionals to be in the vanguard of tackling the nation’s problems.

He said that professionals were aware of the Federal Government’s good intentions through its transformation agenda.

Williams hoped that the insurance industry pool of funds would help operators to tackle emerging risks as well as provide

a platform to check foreign invasion of the industry.

The immediate past CIIN President, Dr Wole Adetimehin, urged Lawal to keep the institute’s flag flying.

He urged members of the institute and the media to cooperate with Lawal to make his tenure successful.

In his acceptance speech, Lawal promised that his administration would hasten the construction of the College of Insurance and Financial Management.

NAN reports that Lawal was a former Chairman of the College of Insurance and Financial Management Board.

He was also a Chief Examiner of the CIIN.

Global finance bodies boost ATA with N356bn –Minister TOLA AKINMUTIMI ABUJA

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he Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, at the weekend disclosed that Nigeria’s Agricultural Transformation Agenda (ATA) has attracted funding support of over N356billion (about $2 billion) from Global Financial Institutions over the past two years.

Giving the hint while presenting his Ministry’s mid-term report at the ongoing 2013 Ministerial Platform in Abuja, the minister said the ATA had received overwhelming support from diverse investment partners, including development institutions such as the World Bank, African Development Bank (AfDB), International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD)and United States Agency for International Development (USAID).

Others that had shown commitment in terms of investments are, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, among others.

The Minister said the supports were indication of the endorsement of the ATA by the global financial institutions.

Adesina said: “Development

partners have rallied around the agricultural transformation agenda with commitments totalling $2 billion, including the World Bank with $ 1 billion, the African Development Bank with $500 million, USAID with $100 million, the International Fund for Agricultural Development with $100 million, DFID, UNDP and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.”

On the key achievements of the ministry the years under review, the minister said over 2.7 million farm jobs had been created under the ATA and projected that by 2015, a total of 3.5 million jobs would have been created in the sector While restating government’s determination to ensure that Nigeria becomes self-sufficient in rice production by 2015, he said about 690,000 metric tonnes (mt) of rice were produced during the rainy season compared to the about 1.1million mt produced and added to domestic food production during the dry season.

According to him, the introduction of dry season rice farming has injected about N77 billion into the economy of the 10 participating Northern states with the concomitant increase in the income of farmers in these states

by N32 billion.

Oil spill: Commnuity blames SPDC for slow response T

he Ikarama Community in Yenagoa Local Government area of Bayelsa State, has blamed Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) for the slow response to oil spill that occurred in the community on June 4.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) quoting a report on the spill obtained from SPDC yesterday said that the spill discharged some 447 barrels of Bonny crude stream into the environment.

SPDC also estimated that 379 barrels of the spilled crude oil remained in the environment while 67 barrels had evaporated.

NAN also reports that the spill which occurred within Shell’s onshore oil field from the firm’s Okordia-Rumuekpe crude pipeline was caused by activities of vandals.

The preliminary report of the Joint Investigation Visit (JIV) probing the cause of the spill stated that the spill was caused by sabotage by suspected oil thieves who compromised the integrity of oil pipelines.

The JIV report said that the vandals left a 200 millimeter hacksaw cut on the Okordia-Rumuekpe crude pipeline.

L-R: Chief Executive Officer, Spinlet Group, Mr. Neil Schwartzman; Director, Business Segments, Etisalat Nigeria, Mr. Lucas Dada and Director, HHP, Samsung Electronics West Africa, Mr. Emmanouil Revmatas, at the Etisalat Spinlet Music App Launch Concert in Lagos on Friday.

RMAFC revs up economic diversification campaign

TOLA AKINMUTIMI ABUJA

T

he Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) has intensified its campaign for enhanced revenue generation and sustainable development at all tiers of government in the country.

The campaign, which is kicking off today in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, as part of the agency’s Zonal Advocacy Workshop on Economic Diversification and Enhanced Revenue Generation for the South-East Zone, is targeted at reducing over dependence on oil revenues by the three tiers of government is in furtherance of the..

According to RMAFC Chairman, Engr. Elias Mbam, said in Abuja that the three-day workshop with the theme, ‘Economic Diversification for Sustainable Development’-the fifth in the series being organised by the Commission in the geo-political zones of the country-was designed to sensitise governments at all levels and other critical stakeholders on the urgent need to broaden

the economic base of the nation by diversifying the sources of revenue in order to meet the increasing expenditure requirements of governance and development.

Mbam said: “At present, oil and gas resources drive the nation’s economy, these hydrocarbon resources are exhaustible, non-renewable and vulnerable to international price volatility and politics. Therefore, we must diversify in order to ensure sustainable means of funding our national development and reduce the over-dependence on oil and gas revenue”.

He expressed the hope that these Workshops would provide the opportunity for Governments and stakeholders in each zone to share experiences and explore strategies of exploiting and developing the various peculiar resource endowments available in their respective States to enhance their revenue profiles.

According to him, the imperative of diversifying the nation’s economy cannot be underestimated in order to guarantee the actualization of the various

socio-economic development programmes of government, particularly, the transformation agenda of the present administration.

To fulfil the national aspiration, the RMAFC boss urged the three tiers of government and other stakeholders to shift focus to the real sectors of the economy particularly, agriculture, solid minerals, manufacturing and tourism whose contributions to the nation’s Gross Domestic Product had declined significantly over the years.

Specifically, Mbam identified states in the South-East Zone as having huge productivity and income earning potentials for agricultural, solid minerals, tourism and industrial development all of which, he said, were only waiting to be harnessed.

It would be recalled that the Commission had similar outing in Minna, Niger state for the North Central Zone, Abeokuta, Ogun State for the South-West Zone, Asaba, Delta State for the South-South Zone and Kano, Kano State for the North-West Zone respectively”.

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

SOUTH EAST

NWABUEZE OKONKWO ONITSHA

T

hree accused persons standing trial at an Onitsha Magistrate Court on a seven-count charge of conspiracy, kidnap with arms, using personal violence on their two victims and extortion of N38.6million from them have been sent back to the Onitsha prison custody because the court did not seat.

The accused persons, Onuorah Chukwunonso 23, Jideofor Madubueze 24 and Kelechi Aneke 25, who had been remanded in the prison custody at Onitsha since April 18, without taking their plea, are standing trial for allegedly kidnapping one Chief Daniel Okeke and one Okoye Onyebuchi Ikechukwu.

The prison had brought them to the court on a Black Maria but when the case could not be mentioned because the presiding Mag-

News

Sunday June 16 2013

Kidnap suspects Lagosians appeal back to prison as to LASG, CBDM on court fails to sit railings istrate, Mrs. V. I. Udedike, had just been transferred to Awka Magisterial Division, a new date had to be taken and the prison officials returned them back to custody.

Barrister Mike Ikebudu, who is holding a watching brief for the complainant, Daniel Okeke, a younger brother to chairman of G. U. Okeke Transport Limited, Chief Godwin Okeke, said that he would apply for the Attorney-General’s fiat to prosecute the accused persons, as soon as information is filed at the High Court.

According to Ikebudu, “the magistrate is on transfer and we suppose to report to the magistrate that the case file has been sent to the state Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) to file information against the three accused persons.”

The police prosecution, Inspector Abugu, had told the court that the accused persons and others now at large on January 28, 2013 at Amobi Street, Onitsha, did conspire among themselves to commit felony to wit: kidnapping.

The prosecution further told the court that the trio and others still at large had on the same date and venue, armed themselves with gun and other offensive weapons and unlawfully kidnapped Okeke, adding that on February 8, 2013, they allegedly collected the sum of N38 million to effect his release.

The prosecution also told the court that the accused persons had on December 9, 2012, along the Enugu/Onitsha road in Onitsha, conspired among themselves and allegedly kidnapped one other Okoye Onyebuchi Ikechukwu, using personal violence on him and at the same time, collecting the sum of N600, 000 as ransom to effect his release.

The offences, the prosecution stated, were contrary to sections 495 (a), 315 (2) (a) (b) and (c) of the Criminal Code, Cap.36, Vol. II, Revised Laws of Anambra State of Nigeria, 1991, and the Amended Laws of Anambra State of 2009.

IFEANYI EDUZOR

L

agosians have appealed to the Lagos State Government and the Central Business District Management to come to their aid and find a lasting solution to the destruction of government property in the state.

In a chat with our correspondent, some residents of the state lamented the rate at which motorists and some Nigerians wreck havoc on the railings meant to beautify Lagos and its environs, especially at the Outer Marina.

“We have constantly noticed the rate of accidents either as a result of drunk-driving or excessive speeding, which is now a common occurrence at the Outer Marina.

“The aluminum pedestrian walk way railings that has significantly beautified as well as serve as obstacle to those who constantly refuse to use the pedestrian

bridge , now suffers damage as a result of accident by various vehicles.

“We want the state government to act now and fast,” said Demola Freeman.

Another Lagosians, Yinka Pearse, urged the state government to give stiffer punishments to those that deliberately destroy government property.

“Those who destroy government property should be seriously dealt with so that efforts by the state to use tax payer’s money and turn Lagos to a mega city will not be jeopardized,” said Pearse.

It will be recalled that on June 7, a trailer belonging to a construction company with registration number YA 654 EPE vied off the road and destroyed the installed railings of about 50 meters.

Though, the trailer was removed immediately by LASTMA officials, the driver of the truck remains on danger list at the General Hospital, Lagos Island.

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SOUTH WEST

When contacted on the development, site engineer of the construction company handling the railings, Akin Ogunbiyi of Konsult Elektroteqnic Limited, said the company is worried at the huge amount of money the state government has committed to the projects, which has not been appreciated by some motorists.

Ogunbiyi lamented that damaged railings had continued to be replaced with new ones at the company’s expense just to keep up with its image and to reassure the government of its preparedness to complete the project on time.

“But with these constant destructions arising from accidents, it has eaten deep into the company’s finance as a result of replacements of damaged railings thereby slowing down completion and handover of the project,” he said.

Anambra to increase benefits of media pensioners

A

nambra government has promised to shore up the pension benefits of pensioners in the stateowned Anambra Broadcasting Service (ABS).

The Commissioner for Information, Chief JoeMartins Uzodike, made the promise in Ihiala, Anambra State on Saturday.

Uzodike stressed that government would shore-up

the benefits to give retirees hope and reward for their labour in contributing to the development of the state.

He also said that government would look into the welfare packages of serving staff with a view to improving on them.

He said the government had paid the contractor handling the new ABS complex in Awada, Ide-

Okorocha’s wife donates bungalows to widows T he wife of the Imo State Governor, Mrs Nkechi Okorocha, on Saturday handed over six newlycompleted and furnished two-bedroom bungalows to homeless widows.

Three of the beneficiaries hail from Isiala Mbano, Ihite Uboma and Obowo while the others hail from Ahiazu Mbaise, Aboh Mbaise and Ezinihitte Mbaise Local Government Areas.

The buildings were handed over to the women, who are beneficiaries of

the governor’s wife’s “She Needs a Roof Project” (SNARP), her pet project.

At the handover ceremony in Owerri, Mrs Okorocha re-echoed the need to identify with the underprivileged in the society.

She thanked the people of the area for their moral and financial support to the programme.

She urged the women to always look unto God as their helper and source of livelihood and to train their children to be re-

mili North LGA, adding that the complex would be inaugurated in July.

He assured that a state-ofthe-art digital studio would be installed to complement the existing studio. ``The governor would be dropping a number of goodies for the ABS in the next few months and would put smiles on the faces of staff, pensioners and their relatives,’’ he said.

sponsible citizens.

The governor’s wife appealed to traditional and religious leaders to ensure the security of lives and property of indigent widows in their communities.

Earlier, the Commissioner for Finance, Mr Chika Okafor, and Sole Administrator of Ihitte/ Uboma Local Government Uche Okoronkwo thanked Mrs Okorocha for her ``life-changing” gesture, describing it as ``love-inaction’’.

L-R: Lagos Sector Commander, Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Mr. Nsebong Akpabio; Principal, Redeemer’s High School, Pastor Gabriel Odetayo; Deputy Corps Marshal, Mr. Boboye Oyeyemi; Principal, Junior High School, Mr. Amos Adelugba and a student, Master Isaac Olatunji, at the decorating of students with reflective jackets and armbands to the students as part of the FRSC Children Accident Prevention Initiative at the Redemption Camp in Ogun State, recently.

Fayemi congratulates Kano Emir on 50th coronation anniversary

E

kiti State Governor, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, has congratulated the Emir of Kano, Alhaji Ado Bayero, on the 50th anniversary of his ascension to the throne.

The governor in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Olayinka Oyebode, described Bayero as a bridge builder and a committed figure to the unity of the Nigerian federation.

Fayemi noted that the Kano monarch is a highly

detribalised Nigerian, who has used his position to assist governments at various levels to ensure stability in the polity, especially when the corporate existence of the country was threatened.

He pointed out that Kano city has witnessed tremendous socio-economic development under the Emirship of Bayero and has assumed a pre-eminent importance in Nige-

ria and Africa as a whole.

Fayemi also praised the Emir for bringing his diplomatic skills to bear on his royal duties, noting that Kano has become a melting pot for Nigerians and other Africans of various descents.

The governor further described Bayero as a selfless servant of the people of Kano Emirate and a compassionate philanthropist, who is ever ready to assist the less privileged.

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Zonal News

SOUTH SOUTH

SAM OLUWALANA PORT HARCOURT

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ome legislators in Rivers State reportedly met till midnight yesterday, in continuation of what looks like a plot to remove the state governor, Rotimi Amaechi, as the feud between Port Harcourt and the Presidency continues.

However, competent sources revealed that only five anti-Amaechi lawmakers were at yesterday’s meeting, which was held in the Portharcourt residence of the First Lady, Dame Patience Jonathan.

“At the moment, the other 27 pro-Amaechi legisla-

Sunday June 16, 2013

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Impeachment: First Emergency rule: Lady holds nocturnal Normalcy returns to meeting with anti- Damaturu Amaechi lawmakers tors are with the Speaker, Otelemaba Amachree. This is a strategy by the Amaechi faction to prevent sabotage,” the source informed.

But another source close to the anti-Amaechi group said the governor could be impeached all the same, despite a subsisting court case on the issue, “as the priority from the top now is to first of all get him out of office.”

Over the weekend, however, Dame Jonathan was in the state, during which she attended many functions where she publicly pilloried the Amaechi administration.

However, the governor stayed away from all the functions where the First Lady was present.

Amaechi’s perceived dis-

agreement with President Goodluck Jonathan has lasted over a year with officials from the Presidency and the governor exchanging brickbats.

At a stage, moves, believed to have been influenced by external forces were made to oust the governor through impeachment, which came to no avail.

The crisis came to a head recently when Amaechi, against all expectations, won for the second time as chairman of the Nigeria’s Governors Forum, NGF, defeating Governor Jonah Jang of Plateau State, believed to be the President’s candidate.

Ever since, however, controversies have marred the affairs of the NGF.

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conomic and social activities have resumed in Damaturu, the Yobe state capital, amid the state of emergency declared on the state by the Federal Government.

Many shops that were closed to business due to attacks by insurgents have re-opened, with customers thronging markets, boutiques and provision stores.

Alhaji Abdullahi Bego, Special Adviser to Yobe State governor on Media and Information, had at a public function, urged the people to continue praying for peace and provide security operatives with useful information. ``We are grateful that for the past nine months, we have not had any

breach of the peace in Damaturu,” he had said.

In appreciation of the peace in Damaturu, the government relaxed the curfew imposed on the state capital, with a new time starting from 9p.m. to 6 a.m. as against the initial time of 6p.m to 6a.m.

It observed that the relaxed curfew had also led to increased business activities as shops, tea and roasted meat joints conduct businesses up to 9p.m., a development inconceivable a few months ago.

Similarly, banks have been rendering services to customers from 9.00a.m to 1.00p.m, while schools are in full session.

Alhaji Ali Usman, a civil servant and resident of Damaturu, expressed

NORTH EAST

delight over the improvement in the security situation in the state, especially the capital. ``We thank God for the improvement in the security situation and the cordial relationship existing between security operatives and civilians in Damaturu,” he said.

Buba Kkaku, a student in Damaturu also said that ``normalcy has returned such that we are even able to organise a football competition among the wards in Damaturu. ``We appreciate the federal and state government’s efforts in restoring peace to the state,” he added.

UN to partner Bayelsa on flood management EMMA GBEMUDU YENAGOA

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he United Nations has said it was prepared to partner with the Bayelsa State government on flood management and other related environmental problems to mitigate the effects of the impending flood.

UN Under-Secretary for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator, Baroness Valerie Amos, disclosed this at the weekend in Yenagoa during her two-day working visit to the state.

Amos regretted the ravaging effects of last year’s flood that rendered many people homeless, saying that there was need for a speedy response for flood

victims in the state.

Accompanied by top UN officials, the UnderSecretary said she was in the State to assess the flood situation and see how the UN could assist to the affected victims.

“I am here in Bayelsa to see for myself the impact of the devastating flood of last year.

“I have had the opportunity to talk to the ordinary people and the Post Flood Management and Response Committee on the efforts they made in the provision of food, shelter and other relief materials.

“There are lessons to be learnt and we would like to work with the state government and federal authorities to support and

partner in strengthening of preparedness activities and look at ways in which we can assist with technical support,” she promised.

The envoy assured that the UN was willing to collaborate with the state to identify technical expertise to support the people in the event of a recurrence of the flood.

“I am aware that funds are required to rebuild infrastructure but that is not within my powers in the United Nations.

“But, I have undertaken to work with the state to see if we can identify areas where funding may be made available,” the envoy said.

Earlier, the Bayelsa State Governor, Seriake Dickson bemoaned the magnitude of last year’s flood.

Group lauds activities of NDDC EMMA GBEMUDU YENAGOA

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he board of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), has been lauded for alleviating the plights of the people of Niger Delta since it was inaugurated.

It was observed that the agency has built schools, hospitals, constructed urban and rural roads, provided electricity and transformers, including other projects and

services to several communities in the Niger Delta.

A group, Niger Delta Youths for Positive Attitude and Progress (NDYPAP), made the disclosure in a statement signed by its President, Enisuo Emmanuel, at the weekend after an independent assessment of the board and management of the commission.

Emmanuel particularly commended the Chairman of the board, Dr. Tarila Tebepah, whose

leadership had steered the board to its present feat that has been devoid of rancour and acrimony.

“We also appreciate the tremendous positive service of the Executive Director of Projects, Engr.

Edikan Eshiet, to the interventionist agency.

“Eshiet has demonstrated an astute administrative acumen and skill in the management of staff and resources in the commission,” part of the statement read.

L-R: Bauchi State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Sani Malami; Governor Isa Yuguda; Country Representative of the Netherlands Leprosy Relief, Dr. Thomas Uzim and his colleague, Dr. Judith Edoboer, at the inauguration of the leprosy wing of the Infectious Disease Hospital at Bayara in Bauchi on Friday. PHOTO: NAN

Gombe earmarks N3bn for 39 schools G ombe State Governor, Alhaji Hassan Dankwambo, has approved the construction and renovation of 39 secondary and technical colleges in the state at the cost of over N3 billion.

The State Commissioner for Education, Hajiya Aishatu Ahmed, who disclosed this, said five Almajiri (Tsangaya) schools would be constructed, two technical colleges while the five existing technical colleges in the state would be upgraded preparatory for accreditation by the Board of Technical Education.

The commissioner spoke at the end of an ex-

ecutive council meeting and explaining that the government has selected 27 secondary schools across the state for the turn around renovation.

According to her, the dilapidated state of the schools attracted the renovation of the schools just as a substantial number of these schools had no roofs as students were receiving instruction under the hot sun.

She explained that the administration which had given priority to education “because education is a right of every child in the country.”

She stressed that Presi-

dent Goodluck Jonathan had made it mandatory for every child to access education in two phases, western and Tsangaya for Almajiri’s roaming the streets while begging.

She explained further that in its bid to take western education to the doorsteps of the Islamic Alaramas (scholars), the state’s Ministry of Education carried out advocacy visits to the Alaramas’ Tsangaya schools in the state in every local council,during which both Alaramas and their children were enlightened on the importance of the government move.

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

NORTH CENTRAL

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he Federal and Nasarawa State governments have been called upon to ensure that killers of policemen and other security operatives in the state were brought to book.

The Gwandara Educational and Cultural Development Association, Nasarawa State chapter, made the call at a news confer-

Association wants Kano partners NITT killers of policemen to tackle illiteracy, unemployment tried ence in Lafia on Saturday.

President of the association, Alhaji Ibrahim Kyari-Yahuza, who addressed the press, condemned the killing by the Ombatse cult at Alakyo. ``This act is not only primitive, archaic, wicked, barbaric and criminal but condemnable. ``No amount of blackmail, falsehood or politics should be allowed to bury the ugly incident. The culprits must be tried before a court

of competent jurisdiction.”

The association urged the people of the state to allow peace, unity and tranquility to reign for Gov. Tanko Al-Makura to achieve his transformation agenda. ``We must as a matter of national responsibility condemn the recent killing of security operatives on lawful duty of protecting their fatherland,” the group said.

Kyari-Yahuza condemned the attempts by some leaders and ethnic groups to downplay the unfortunate incident.

Four foreign investors to visit Plateau

I

nvestors from Brazil, South Africa, India and the U.S. will soon be in Plateau State to invest in agriculture, health and ICT, Gov. Jonah Jang, said on Saturday.

Jang said at a news conference in Jos that the coming of the investors showed that peace had returned to the state. ``The ICT Department in the University of Louisiana is coming to help in developing our ICT sector while Apolo Hospital in India is coming to develop the health sector. ``A Brazilian firm is also

Zonal News

Sunday June 16, 2013

coming to set up a Cassava Processing Plant while the investor from South Africa will build shopping malls at the burnt Jos Main Market,” he said.

The governor said that the German International Cooperation had also pledged to assist in wooing investors to the state.

He added that Plateau was no more a security risk but a safe haven.

According to him, no nation can do without the private sector, which drives the economy and brings about the desired development and growth.

Jang said that Nigerian banks were only trading in money and not deeply involved in encouraging investment in the Nigerian economy. ``If a bank gives you a loan it will take you ages to repay the loan. ``It’s an abnormal way of banking; until this interest rate gets down to one digit and stays there to develop the private sector will be a mirage in Nigeria,`` he said.

Jang said that the character of our banking sector often distorted the nation’s GDP.

L-R: Plateau State Commissioner for Information and Communications, Pastor Abraham Yiljap; Deputy Governor, Mr. Ignatius Longjan and Governor Jonah Jang, at a briefing on the mid-term review of his administration in Jos at the weekend.

PHOTO: NAN

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MSUE KADUNA

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ano State Governor, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has pledged to address the high rate of unemployment and illiteracy in the state via the introduction of a youth empowerment and skills acquisition scheme aimed at making the people more productive and self-reliant.

In a statement issued

by Chief Public Relations Officer of Nigerian Institute of Transport Technology (NITT), Zaria, Paul Ali, and made available to journalists in Kaduna, quoted the governor as saying that the Amana Luxury Taxi Drivers Scheme in Kano would modernise the transport system by bringing together Nigerian graduates for self reliance.

According to the statement, the governor commended the role of NITT

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he Bauchi State Commissioner for Health, Dr Sani Malami, has expressed concern over the transmission of leprosy among children in the state.

Malami said at the inauguration of the new leprosy wing of the Infectious Disease Hospital, Bayara, in Bauchi State on Friday that the development was a setback in the effort to eradicate the disease.

“Though, we have witnessed a dramatic reduction of cases in Bauchi State in recent years, we

UGUSTINE

Fulani and Tiv crises had defied solutions.

The governor warned that his administration would take extreme measures to stop the incessant attacks on Benue communities.

Suswam said that children and women had been victims of the attacks and as such the government would have no choice than to take extreme measures to deal with the situation.

technologies in vehicle and infrastructure design.

Aminu urged the drivers to justify the confidence and trust reposed in them by the state government so that the purpose for which the scheme was introduced would be achieved.

He added that NITT as a training provider in Transport and Logistics was ready to collaborate with government and private organisations to train and retrain their staff to enable them cope with managerial and operational challenges.

The statement noted that Kano State is the first state in the Federation to kick-start the scheme, which is aimed at providing employment to graduates from different fields of human endeavour.

are not unaware that a lot remains to be done as these successes could very well be reversed.

“We are concerned that transmission is still going on among children, who accounted for seven per cent of all new cases in 2012,” he revealed.

The commissioner said that another disturbing development was that patients with visible disability report late for treatment.

He said the setback notwithstanding, the prevalence of leprosy in

the state in 2012, dropped to 0.26 per 10,000 persons, which was the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) elimination target.

In his remark, Bauchi State Governor, Malam Isa Yuguda, expressed delight that the WHO target on the eradication of leprosy had been met.

“On our assumption of office in 2007, there were close to 100 leprosy patients on admission here.

As at today, only nine patients are on admission,” he said.

Kwankwaso destroys illegal drugs worth over N2bn KANO

and the destruction of lives and property in the areas.

The governor said the two governments were adopting strategies to ensure that clashes along their boundaries were eliminated.

He said it was regrettable that in spite of the huge resources invested by the state governments to tackle security challenges in the communities, the

NORTH WEST

Transmission of leprosy disease worries Bauchi Govt

Benue, Nassarawa plan surveillance A along boundary communities O G ov. Gabriel Suswam of Benue said on Saturday that the state government was collaborating with its Nassarawa counterpart on ways of conducting security surveillance along their boundaries.

Suswam made the statement when he briefed newsmen in Makurdi, explaining that the measure was aimed at checking insecurity at the boundaries

in training the graduate drivers in the state.

The statement pointed out that NITT role was imperative in view of the fact that each new Toyota Corolla buses purchased

by Kano State Government costs N4.4million, while each of the 250 graduate drivers enjoyed a 35 per cent subsidy, which requires the graduates to pay back N2.8million only within two years.

Also speaking at the launching, the Director General and Chief Executive of NITT, Dr. Aminu Musa Yusuf, who was represented by the Registrar, Mal. M.S Jimada, stated that the training was designed to equip the drivers with the necessary safety and security tips for Defensive Driving, adding that they had been taught new techniques of basic vehicle maintenance, driving laws and traffic regulations as well as emerging

59

MADU-WEST

ver N2.3 billion worth of adulterated and expired drugs have been confiscated and destroyed in Kano since the present administration in the state launched a proactive war against drug abuse and sale of illegal drugs and medical consumables in the state.

The state Governor, Rabi’u Kwankwaso, made this known while setting ablaze a huge consignment of drugs and medi-

cament worth N996, 036, 100, the biggest catch so far, at Farawa, a suburb of Kano city.

The confiscated illicit medicines include antibiotics such as Augmentin and forte tablets, palliatives, assorted paediatric syrups, anti-malarias’, creams, eye/ear drops, injections and energy drinks.

Kwankwaso said despite efforts by the government to stop the sale and consumption of fake drugs, some bad people are bent on engaging in the illegal business for

personal gain, not minding the harmful consequence of such ventures.

“It is unfortunate that these things (counterfeit drugs) are being sold to innocent people, who instead of getting well end up being harmed physically or mentally or even killed because of the wickedness of fellow man.

“We can also see how such drugs are being sold to children, who end up becoming nuisances to themselves and the larger society,” the governor lamented.

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Sport

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Sport

FIFA Confed P. 62 Cup: Eagles will have a great tournament, says KEEPING YOU ABREAST OF SPORTING NEWS Efe Ambrose June 16, 2013 FIFA Confederations Cup

Brazilian soccer star, Ronaldo cautions P. 63 Balotelli

Brazil not up for the Cup –Pele

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razil’s current side is not good enough to win the FIFA Confederations Cup, legend Pele says.

Brazil is on a hiding, as the 2002 World Cup-winning coach Luiz Felipe Scolari looks to shrug off some recent poor showings which left it a modest 22nd in the FIFA rankings.

And Pele says Brazil currently is just not good enough, even with starlet Neymar on board.

“There are some very strong teams here, such as the European and world champions, Spain and also Italy whose football are currently at very high level,” Pele said.

Pele said he saw a lack of creativity in midfield and something missing between midfield and attack even if Brazil’s defence is better.

Tahiti national team looking set to battle Super Eagles tomorrow at the ongoing FIFA Confederations Cup in Brazil. INSET: Tahiti coach Eddy Etaeta

Tahiti coach counts on luck to overrun Eagles ANDREW EKEJIUBA

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oach of Tahiti, Eddy Etaeta, says he will be counting on luck when his team confronts Nigeria in tomorrow’s FIFA Confederations Cup Group B cracker at the 62,000 capacity Estadio Mineirao, Belo Horinzonke, Brazil.

According to Etaeta, it is true that they are coming into the competition as under dogs, his team has character and will not be intimidated by the Super Eagles whom he believes are beatable.

“It is true that we are going into the June 17 clash as under dogs, considering that this is our first appearance at the world stage, but we will not be intimidated by any team because my players have character and luck being on our side, we can turn the game against Nigeria,” he said.

The side, which qualified for the tournament after winning the Oceania Nations Cup, faces a Super Eagles team that is surrounded by controversy, and only arrived Brazil two days before the match.

Nigeria’s participation was brought into question after some players refused to get on the plane from their hotel rooms in Namibia on Thursday following disputes over match bonuses.

The players have requested $US10, 000 in cash as winning bonus and threatened to strike when this was turned down.

However, with the issue now resolved, the Stephen Keshi-led squad arrived Brazil yesterday to begin preparations ahead of its second Confederations Cup outing.

And it is believed that Tahiti will face a tough task when it comes up against Nigeria, as the Africa Cup of Nations champion has gone unbeaten in its past three games, registering two draws against Namibia and Mexico and a 1-0 away win over Harambee Stars of Kenya in a FIFA 2014 World Cup qualifier.

With the Super Eagles seemingly struggling for goals, Tahiti will hope to limit them with its strong defence – which includes star player Nicholas Valler – and potentially grab a goal on the break.

Mata P. 63 denies Chelsea exit talk

Tahiti’s veteran Marama Vahirua – a former France under-21 international – joined up with his country for the first time and manager Eddy Etaeta will be hoping his decision to select the Nancy striker pays off.

The Oceania champions will also be looking up to another star player, Chong Hue, who scored their winning goal against New Caledonia in the OFC Nations Cup to upstage the Super Eagles.

Meanwhile, Super Eagles forward, Brown Ideye, who scored 21 goals for Dynamo Kiev last season, could be key to Nigeria’s success at the FIFA Confederations Cup, as AFCON top-scorer Emmanuel Emenike, Chelsea’s Victor Moses and Ogenyi Onazi are all unavailable due to injuries.

Thus Keshi will be counting on AFCON hero, Sunday Mba, Nnamdi Oduamadi, John Mikel Obi, Joseph Akpala, Michael Babatunde, Mohammed Gambo and Anthony Ujah amongst others to emulate the 2009 Flying Eagles who recorded an impressive 5-0 bashing of Tahiti at the FIFA U-20 World Cup in Egypt.

Messi overtakes Maradona’s Argentina tally L

ionel Messi has overtaken Diego Maradona in the Argentina goalscoring charts following his hat-trick in Friday’s 4-0 international friendly win over Guatemala.

The Barcelona star opened the scoring after 15 minutes of play with his 33rd goal for the Albiceleste, before equalling Maradona on 34 when he converted a spot kick shortly before the half-time whistle.

His second-half goal made it 4-0 to Argentina and saw him overtake the 52-year-old in the all-time goalscoring charts with his 35th strike.

Nevertheless, Messi has remained calm following his latest achievement and has down played the significance of surpassing Maradona.

“Having overtaken Maradona is not important. The main thing was to end this friendly well as a team, which isn’t easy ahead of the holidays,” the forward told reporters.

Messi’s hat-trick saw him move to joint second spot in the Argentina goalscoring charts alongside Hernan Crespo, but he still has a long way to go if he is to become the national team’s all-time leading goalscorer as Gabriel Batistuta sits atop with 56 goals.

Navas backs Pellegrini

Coloccini staying at Newcastle

P. 63

P. 63

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Knockout IFEANYI Eduzor with

08055829770 ifeduz24@yahoo.com

Ubah to bankroll Emenogu’s title defence O il magnet, Chief Ifeanyi Ubah has promised to bankroll the World Boxing Organization (WBO) light middleweight title defence of current holder, Davidson Emenogu and his Egyptian opponent, Abdoumonem Said, slated for July 26 in Abuja.

Nigeria’s King Davidson Emenogu is expected to defend his world title on the new date which has been sanctioned by the world boxing body.

According to the Chief Executive Officer of Capital Oil, he is totally committed to supporting the dream by bringing the fight to Nigeria in order to put the country in the world map in boxing.

“Emenogu deserves the support of all Nigerians, to enable him have a successful defence of his title and I am going to assist him morally and financially to make sure the fight holds in

Emenogu

the country,” the business mogul said.

Emenogu is currently WBO International light middleweight champion, Australian Light middleweight champion, WBO Africa light middleweight champion, Pan Asia Boxing Association (PABA) light middleweight champion as well as IBF Pan Pacific light middleweight champion.

Afolabi plays down loss to Huck

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ormer WBO Interim Cruiserweight champion, Ola Afolabi says that his last loss to WBO Cruiserweight champion, Marco Huck will not deter him from seeking for more glory in the cruiserweight division.

Marco Huck last weekend at Max- Scheling –Halle in Berlin, Germany defeated Afolabi by points to retain his title. The fight made it the third time the two boxers are meeting with the champion recording a split point decision in their first encounter,

while their second fight ended in a draw.

According to the Britishbased Nigerian boxer, the defeat is a temporary setback that will spur him to prepare well ahead of future fights, with a promise that he will soon be back to winning ways. “ I have taken the defeat in good faith, but I want my fans to know that it is a temporary setback and very soon, I will be in top form and get back to winning ways,” Afolabi said.

Ola Afolabi (left) battles Marco Huck in their last fight in Berlin, Germany

Rios vows to knock out Pacquiao Resort, Macao, China, face

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anny Pacquiao’s challenger in his November 23 fight, Brandon Rios (311-1, 23 KO’s) has expressed happiness at being picked by the Filipino promoter, Bob Arum as the champion’s next opponent, and promised to knock him out.

34-year-old former eight division world champion, Manny Pacquiao (54-5-2, 38 KO’s) will on November 23, at the Cotai Arena, Venetian

Sport

Sunday June 16, 2013

the 27-year-old Rios, in his first fight since suffering a brutal 6th round knockout loss to Marquez last December.

Speaking on the fight, Rio said it is an opportunity he has been looking for to knock him out.

“I’m going to win that fight.

I’m not going to have mercy on him rather, I will be going for the kill and knock him out which will tell him that his days are over,” Rio said.

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Eagles arrive Brazil National Stadium Lagos to receive for FIFA Confed Cup attention

ANDREW EKEJIUBA

–Elegbeleye

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frican champions Nigeria flew into Sao Paulo just before midnight yesterday – the last team to arrive at the 2013 FIFA Confederations Cup tournament in Brazil.

The team was earlier scheduled to arrive on Thursday, but the trip was delayed following a stand-off with Nigeria football authorities on match bonuses.

The Sports Minister, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, immediately contacted the Presidency, and despite his pledge to personally bring the balance of the money to Brazil, but the players insisted they would only leave Namibia if the money arrived in the southern African nation.

Sunday Mirror gathered that yesterday, a first batch from Windhoek to Johannesburg inexplicably missed their flight, but Team Administrator Enebi Achor, who was inthe second batch, worked hard to ensure that the batch eventually arrived in Johannesburg early enough to retain seats on the connecting flight to Brazil.

The delegation flew aboard a South African Airways flight SA 224, Airbus 340-600 from Johannesburg to Sao Paulo, before boarding a connecting flight to Belo Horizonte. On board were 22 players and 10 officials.

Nigeria will play Tahiti, champions of Oceania at the Estadio Mineirao in Belo Horizonte starting from 4pm Brazil time on Monday, which is 8pm Nigeria time.

IFEANYI EDUZOR

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Keshi

Coach Stephen Keshi said yesterday that the team would have an official training session today, hours after their arrival.

After tomorrow’s clash with the Oceanians, the Eagles train moves to Salvador, where they clash with South American champions Uruguay at the Arena Fonte Nova at 7pm Brazil time (11pm Nigeria time) on June 20.

On June 23, the African champions will take the pitch at the Estadio Castelao against world and European champions Spain – one of the most anticipated games of the group phase. That match starts at 8pm Nigeria time.

Hosts Brazil, five-time world champions, head Group A that also has four-time world champions, Italy, Mexico and Japan.

The final match will come up at Estadio do Maracana in Rio de Janeiro on Sunday, June 30.

he Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Gbenga Elegbeleye has revealed that the main bowl of the National Stadium, Surulere, Lagos will soon receive a facelift just as he promised staff of the commission of his determination to pay priority attention to their welfare.

He told our correspondent during his first official visit to the stadium that he has taken records of all the needs of the stadium and will work towards ensuring that it regains its lost glory.

According to him it is unfortunate that such a national edifice has been allowed to deteriorate over the years with a declaration that his tenure will ensure that facilities at the stadium receives a facelift.

“My visit has given me the opportunity to see for myself the true state of the stadium and very soon I will put logistics on ground to tackle most of the problems.

“I also discovered that the tartan tracks at both the main bowl of the National Stadium and the NIS practicing pitch needs replacement and we are going to take it as a top priority.

“The visit to the NIS also enabled me to find out whether it is still the same world class institute we have before or not. On getting there, I saw an improved library and a very neat environment but it is not what it is supposed to be and we are definitely going to do something urgent about the institute, “he said.

FIFA Confed Cup: Erico charges Eagles to beat Tahiti F ormer Super Eagles goalkeeper trainer, Joe Erico, has urged the Super Eagles to score as many goals as possible when they meet Tahiti in tomorrow’s FIFA Confederations Cup match.

He told our correspondent that with the present form of the Super Eagles, the island nation will not pose any serious problem to Coach Stephen Keshi-tutored side, with a warning that their opponents should not be underrated.

“There is the need for the Super Eagles to score many goals against Tahiti to put them in a better position in their group before they play Spain and Uruguay.

“The team should also avoid approaching the match with over confidence because doing so might give their opponent undue advantage over them.

“They should play their normal game and stop wasting scoring chances as has been the case in their recent matches,” he said.

Erico while expressing confidence that the Super Eagles will win Monday’s match, noted that the recent disagreement between the players and NFF on the issue of match bonus will not affect the team.

Elegbeleye

Oriss Sports International set to lift Osun sports ANDREW EKEJIUBA

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othered by the slow pace of sports development in Osun State, Oriss Sports International has reiterated its plan to complement the efforts of Osun State government in reviving sports in the state.

The organisation who affirmed its readiness to fish out budding sporting talent reasoned that Osun State is endowed with abundant talent and should occupy the foremost position in the nation’s sports scene.

Spokesman of the sporting body, Olan-

rewaju Alimi, disclosed this at the opening ceremony of a table tennis and snooker competitions organized by the body.

“After this table tennis and snooker competitions, we will commence Under-17 Unity Cup Tourney for grassroots clubs in Osun State, while many sports tournaments instituted in the names of prominent monarchs and spirited individuals would also be staged to complement what our state government is doing in area of grassroots sports development.

“The identified future stars would be groomed, nurtured and equipped with modern competitive skills through first class training and coaching,” Alimi said.

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Sunday June 16, 2013

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

FIFA Confed Cup: Eagles will have a great tournament, says Efe Ambrose No matter what happens at the FIFA Confederations Cup, Efe Ambrose will look back on this season as the best of his career. And no wonder.

It has, after all, been something of a fairy tale year for the 24-year-old centre-half, who has scaled dramatic new heights with both club and country. The highlight, of course, was winning the CAF Africa Cup of Nations in February and ending Nigeria’s 17-year wait for a major trophy.

Yet it has also been a momentous season in his club career, encompassing a move to Scottish giants Celtic and the capturing of his first silverware since relocating to Europe in 2010. Better still, the former Ashod defender enjoyed his first extended foray in the UEFA Champions League, qualifying for the last 16 at the expense of Benfica and Spartak Moscow. There was even an unforgettable victory over Barcelona en route and it is that shock result – allied to the Super Eagles’ unexpected triumph at the Cup of Nations – which leaves Ambrose believing that the surprises, and the success, can continue at Brazil 2013.

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fe, how would you describe your feelings about playing in the FIFA Confederations Cup? I see it as a big opportunity. This is one of these tournaments you might get the chance to play in only once in your lifetime, so I am very excited. It is a dream come true really. To be playing in a great football country like Brazil, in a Confederations Cup - it is the kind of thing you dream of when you first start playing football.

It is a huge achievement for me and also for this team and my country. This tournament is special because we know we are representing the whole of Africa, and that gives us extra responsibility and extra pleasure too. And we deserve to be here. We showed at the Cup of Nations that our teamwork and our ability is deserving of that trophy. Now we want to make sure that we represent not only Nigeria but Africa in a good manner against the best teams in the world.

Was that Cup of Nations success all the more satisfying as you had not been among the pre-tournament favourites?

It’s true that we were not the favourites but I think football has changed a lot in recent years and those things are not so important anymore. At every tournament you will have a team that has the best players, but

“I’M NOT SAYING WE WILL WIN THE CONFEDERATIONS CUP BUT WE BELIEVE IN OURSELVES, WE TRUST IN GOD, AND WITH THE RIGHT ATTITUDE I AM SURE WE WILL HAVE A GREAT TOURNAMENT.”

Ambrose in action

it is important to remember too that aspects like teamwork, determination, unity and physical preparation count lot. No-one gave us a chance at the Cup of Nations because they thought we were too inexperienced, but we knew that we could do great things if we stuck together.

You now approach another tournament in which few expect Nigeria to go all the way. Can you cause an upset again?

I think so. I’m not saying we will win the Confederations Cup but we believe in ourselves, we trust in God, and with the right attitude I am sure we will have a great tournament. When you have the right ingredients, nothing is impossible. That’s the way I feel about this tournament.

Are Nigeria realistic contenders to win the trophy?

As I say, nothing is impossible. You have to believe.

First up, of course, is your opening match against Tahiti.

I imagine that you will see three points from this one as a necessity if you are to go through?

That is the way I see it, yes. The most important thing of all for us is to focus on this match. It is a match we know we need to win and, to do that, we need to be fully concentrated. We cannot afford to take any chances. Big shocks have happened before in this kind of tournaments and we don’t want to be the victims this time. We know we need to get the three points to give ourselves a good chance of qualifying for the next stage.

Your group also includes the European and world champions, Spain. In facing such a team, will you take confidence from your experience with Celtic this season,

beating Barcelona in the Champions League?

I think that game was a lesson for everyone. It proved exactly what I said about football being all about teamwork and playing together as one. No-one gave us a chance against a team with Messi, Iniesta, Xavi and all the rest. Barcelona are special, and so are Spain. But Celtic proved it can be done; that these teams can be beaten. If Nigeria can do the same – play as a team, stay united – we have a chance in any match we play. We are the best team in Africa and I think there is no reason for us to fear anyone.

You arrived at the tournament fresh from having won a league and cup double with Celtic. How have you enjoyed your first season in Scotland?

It has been wonderful. The whole experience of playing for a big club like Celtic, winning the league and the cup, has been a massive achievement for me. This has been the best season of my career so far, I have no doubts about that. To come to Celtic, win trophies, compete in the Champions League, and also win the Cup of Nations with Nigeria, I could not have asked for any more and I can only thank God for everything I have been given.

What about the future for club and country? How do you see both teams evolving?

I think the future for both teams is very good. Celtic have a young team with a lot of talent, and I think it will only get better. When you have a young team like this, it can achieve a lot. Nigeria is the same. We have mainly young players and I think that everyone has yet to see this team’s full potential. I am very excited about what the future holds.

Culled from FIFA.com

Sunday Mirror www.nationalmirroronline.net

Sport

Sunday June 16, 2013

Brazilian soccer star, Ronaldo cautions Balotelli B razilian soccer star, Ronaldo, believes the plight of Adriano should serve as a warning to Mario Balotelli not to waste his talent. He warned the striker to focus solely on football rather than on his activities off the pitch after the controversies which have dogged the Italian.

The Italy international has arguably made the headlines more for his behaviour off the pitch than on it and Ronaldo has not forgotten about what happened to his former Brazil team-mate.

“We have all done some stupid things at some point in our life, but it’s important to realise when it’s time to quit. I remember the example of Adriano, although that is not necessarily related to Balotelli’s situation, because it’s a bit different.

“Adriano had crazy skills and a fantastic physique. He could do whatever he wanted on the pitch. However, at some point he simply couldn’t do it anymore. So the only advice I can give Balotelli is to focus on his football and not to throw away his talent.

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Navas backs Pellegrini J esus Navas has backed new manager Manuel Pellegrini to be a big hit at Manchester City. Navas, who completed a £14.9m move from Sevilla this week, knows all about the Chilean, having contested a string of La Liga games with his former Malaga and Villarreal sides.

Pellegrini

Ex- Arsenal midfielder rejoins Sao Paulo F

ormer Arsenal midfielder Denilson has rejoined Sao Paulo on a permanent deal after being released by the Gunners, the Brazilian club have confirmed.

The 25-year-old arrived at the Emirates Stadium as a teenager in 2006 and made 108 appearances in all competitions, but never managed to hold down a regular first-team place.

Mario Balotelli (right) being shown a red card in his recent outing for Italy

“Balotelli has a certain talent, the way he strikes the ball and scores goals. He’s not there yet, though. He can still improve and has plenty of time to do just that. But his age must not become an excuse.

“Balotelli has everything to become great, but he must win titles first. The difference between be-

coming a champion or just a good player is whether you win important trophies,” the retired Selecao legend said.

The 22-year-old will be looking to add his first piece of silverware with Italy’s senior side to his trophy cabinet this summer as they take part in the Confederations Cup.

Denilson

Schurrle out to make Pellegrini vows to lift Man City Mata denies impact Chelsea exit talk N A ew Manchester City manager Manuel Pellegrini has promised the club’s supporters they will enjoy watching their team in action next season.

The Chilean has been appointed as Roberto Mancini’s successor on a three-year contract with a clear instruction to play better football and win trophies after they missed out on silverware last term.

Pellegrini said: “Everyone knows if you arrive at a club like Manchester City you need to win titles.

“I think Manchester City have invested a lot of money to improve the squad every year and try, every year, to win titles.

“They were not successful in winning some titles but I am sure we are going to win - maybe the Premier League, the Champions League. We will try to win a lot.

“My first message is to tell all the supporters they will enjoy the season. I am sure they will enjoy the way our team will play. We will play an attractive, offensive football.

“I think Roberto did a great job here in Manchester. It is not easy to win the title after 44 years.

“But I think we are starting a new cycle, a new style of club, adding to what Roberto has done over the years.

“I hope Manchester City will start another way of playing football.

“I am sure we have the best squad in the Premier League. We have wonderful players and can win important titles in the next three or four seasons.”

Pellegrini has more than 25 years’ of managerial experience in South America and Spain and is renowned for his man-management ability.

Coloccini staying at Newcastle F abricio Coloccini has declared that he will respect Newcastle’s desire to keep him and stay at St James’ Park for at least another season.

Coloccini’s future was plunged into doubt in January when it emerged that he was keen to return to Argentina for family reasons and go back to former club San Lorenzo.

Newcastle did not allow the defender to leave but it remained unclear what would happen in the summer as San Lorenzo kept tabs on the situation.

Coloccini has considered the matter carefully and has now given Newcastle a huge boost by pledging to repay manager Alan Pardew for the faith shown in him.

“I’m a grateful person and Newcastle have given me the opportunity of playing in the Premier League,

ndre Schurrle is looking forward to working with Jose Mourinho and has no fears about struggling to establish himself in the Chelsea side. Schurrle became Chelsea’s first signing since Mourinho returned as manager at Stamford Bridge when a deal was confirmed earlier this week to bring in the forward from Bayer Leverkusen.

Mata

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helsea playmaker Juan Mata has denied suggestions he is surplus to requirements at Stamford Bridge.

Mata was named the club’s player of the year last season but some media reports had suggested returning Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho might have no place for him in his squad.

Spain international Mata, who is in Brazil with his country as they prepare for the Confederations Cup, insisted he was unaware his future at the club might be in doubt and insisted he will speak with Mourinho directly rather than rushing to conclusions.

“Nobody at Chelsea has told me that Mourinho wants me out,” he said.

“When I finished the season I was told that they were very happy with my performances and with the two years I’ve spent with the club.”

Schurrle

Ox targets more goals A

rsenal’s Alex OxladeChamberlain is determined to add more goals to his game after taking advice from his father. Oxlade-Chamberlain finished off the season in style by scoring for England during their 2-2 draw against Brazil in the Maracana.

Oxlade-Chamberlain

Amorebieta stands by Fulham switchBasque-raised defender ernando Amorebieta a four-year deal at Fhas insisted a desire to inked Craven Cottage in April push himself on a sporting level was the driving force behind his transfer to Fulham. The Venezuela-born,

after he rejected the opportunity to renew his contract with Athletic Bilbao.

Aspas not out to replace Suarez I Coloccini

which is the elite of football, so I will stay at Newcastle,” he said.

“I have talked many times with San Lorenzo about moving back with them.

“My desire is to move back but that’s not going to happen next season.

ago Aspas does not want to be viewed as a replacement for Luis Suarez at Liverpool ahead of his expected arrival at Anfield.

The Celta Viga striker is set to complete a £7million move to the Premier League next week after a deal was agreed in principle.

It has been suggested Aspas will have to fill part of the void left

by Liverpool superstar Suarez, who wants to quit the club after becoming unhappy in England.

“Liverpool are one of the biggest clubs in the world and I am going there to take an important step in my career, not to be a replacement for anyone.

“I think it is time for me to take the next step in my career and Liverpool can help me do that. I have confidence in my ability to move forward and to grow as a player.

“I described the move as emotional for me because it is

such a big club and it means I’ve reached another level.

“But I am calm because I feel I am ready. I want to show that I am capable of playing at the level of this huge club.

“I am excited to be going to England. I want to play in the Premier League. And I hope I will be helped to settle there by all the Spanish speakers at the club, including Luis Suarez,” Aspas said.

N I G E R I A

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Vol. 3 No. 27

Sunday, June 16, 2013

www.nationalmirroronline.net

I N

F I G U R E S

85,

bn, amount the coordiage at which highlife nating minister and Minmaestro, Fatai Olayiwoister of Finance, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo- la Olagunju aka Rolling Dollar, Iweala, said FG saved from ghost died on June 11.

N150 workers on federal payroll.

The GEJ condition for the 6-year single tenure

Back Page

Comment

E-mail: nwaunah@yahoo.com Unah is Professor of Philosophy at the University of Lagos

with Jim Unah

A

n intriguing aspect of the recommendations of the constitution review committee is the one that pertains to the six-year single tenure for president and vice and governors and deputies; to be found in sections 135 and 180, respectively; which stipulates, inter alia, that once a person has served in that capacity, whether by direct election as president or governor or by inheritance as vice or deputy, such a person would automatically be disqualified to run for the same office in future elections. Following from this is the recommendation that persons currently holding those positions are disqualified from contesting for those offices when the single tenure dispensation kicks off eventually. Which is to say that President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan—GEJ, his Vice, Mr. Namadi Sambo, and all the serving governors and their deputies are barred by the new constitution, when it comes into force, from running for those positions in the six-year single tenure regime.

The latter recommendation has provoked a reaction from the sitting President—GEJ—to the effect that the six-

year single tenure would commence in 2019, by which time the president and governors doing their first term now would have completed their first and second terms as allowed by the present constitution. The President’s concern about commencement date appears fair to all concerned; but pundits have averred that it would shortchange first term governors that would emerge hereafter and president and his vice should there be a change of guards in Aso Rock, God forbid, come 2015.

The worry is not with the six-year single tenure for some of us. The worry is that there appears not to be a sufficient constitutional safeguard against abuses in the operation of the single tenure political culture. The concern of the President that serving officers in the capacities under consideration should run their terms as permitted by existing law is well taken. But should the six-year single tenure be foisted on Nigerians without adequate checks and balances to ensure that while we save cost and gain peace in the new dispensation, the Nigerian people are not inflicted with dead wood and spent forces whose favourite pastime would be the pillaging of the nation’s treasury?

The nation’s state actors do not painstakingly think out the problems before adopting strategies for their resolutions. A single tenure system is not to be adopted merely because of cost and rancour incidental to running the multiple tenure system pro-

vided by existing law. It must carry adequate safeguards to guarantee good governance and transparency in government. It must task political parties and their leaders to present their best possible candidates to compete for elective public offices. The dispensation must produce men and women, nay, state actors that are less terrible than tigers, who can be trusted to deploy public treasury for public good and public welfare.

A six-year single tenure that does not provide stringent guidelines to obstruct the emergence of a tyrannical, garrulous, profligate and corrupt magistrates of state cannot hope to overcome the pitfalls of the multiple tenure system that it seeks to replace. A single tenure system should be tied to achievable programmes and deliverances for public inspection and approbation, periodically, say, every two years; to ensure that elected president or governors do not just sit through their tenure without achieving tangible results incremental to the wellbeing of the people. There has to be a constitutional yardstick with which to measure the performance of government. A single tenure system will not produce any magic for the people if the constitution does not task presidents and governors with fundamental economic rights actionable by the people whenever they feel shortchanged by government.

There should be an Infrastructure and National Development Commis-

Brazilians protest against Confederations Cup A

t least 500 protesters complaining against the high cost of staging the World Cup rallied yesterday in front of the National Stadium in Brasilia just hours before Brazil played Japan in the opening match of the Confederations Cup. Riot police were called up to keep demonstrators from getting too close to the stadium as thousands of fans arrived for the inaugural match in the nation’s capital.

There was no confrontation, but a few tear gas bombs were thrown by the police to try to control the protesters as they moved near the venue.

Protesters carried banners saying that too much money was being spent on the Confedera-

tions Cup and next year’s World Cup while the majority of the population continued to struggle.

“We are demanding more respect to the population,” said 21-year-old Vinicius de Assis, one of the protesters. “They are building these overpriced stadiums and are not worrying about the situation of their own people.”

The demonstrators also shouted against FIFA, saying that football’s governing body doesn’t have the right to make demands on the Brazilian government. “FIFA, go away,” they chanted.

The protesters said they are being excluded from the tournaments because of the high prices of match tickets.

“This is a shame, this is our money that they used for these tournaments,” said demonstrator Jaisson Peres. “Millions and millions spent and we don’t get anything in return.”

The local government said only about 200 demonstrators participated in the protest. It said in a statement that police used “progressive force” to keep the protest under control but said they would take action if needed to keep the demonstrators away from the stadium.

“Authorities will not allow any disturbance of public order or any threats against the match,” the government said.

“It’s guaranteed that fans have complete access to the stadium.”

sion working with human rights associations to list programmes and projects for political parties to adopt and use to canvass for votes to win the electorate over by articulating how they plan to execute them; since political parties are totally bereft of ideologies for social and political action and material deliverables for the people.

These, in addition to checks against abuse of power, are the necessary constitutional ingredients to make the single tenure system work differently from the multiple tenure system.

The haste to get the single tenure system off the ground has not provided ample time for considerations of incentive to effective leadership in the first outing of a president or governor, especially one that mounted the saddle at a relatively young age. The constitution should make allowance for an effective president to seek re-election for the same position at a future date, say after 12 years of exit from power. That would be an incentive to good governance and effective leadership; for those who seek reward for excellent performance.

President Goodluck Jonathan should not just be concerned about a fair deal for the sitting president and governors and their lieutenants. He should equally be concerned that the new system should provide lasting solutions to the problems of mediocre performance of elected public officers and the scourge of graft in the corridor of power.

FIFA Confederations Cup

Tahiti coach counts P. 60 on luck to overrun Eagles FIFA CONFED CUP FIXTURES Today’s Matches Mexico v Italy 16:00

Spain v Uruguay 19:00 WORLD CUP QUALIFYING RESULTS

Zambia 1-1 Sudan Congo 0-1 Burkina Faso FIFA WORLD CUP QUALIFIERS

Today’s Matches Tanzania v Ivory Coast 14:00 Ethiopia v South Africa 15:00 FIFA CONFED CUP RESULT Brazil 3 - 0 Japan

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